Faconnable recently celebrated the opening of its Bellevue location with a bit of a shindig (I know, the 50’s called, they want their slang back). Located on the first floor of Bellevue Square, right outside Nordstrom, the new store hopes to demonstrate Faconnable’s “new concept” in store design and “lifestyle component” of the brand. I don’t know what either of these things means to be entirely honest, but I DO know that the clothes are really quite sharp. The brand might best be described as a more European, upscaled Banana Republic. A bit pricey but, as with all other Nordstrom staples, you will definitely get your money’s worth. But I digress; you’re likely here because you want to know about the party.
Despite the event being on the first floor of a major shopping mall, Faconnable managed to create a feeling of exclusivity by rolling out the blue carpet (one of the brand’s signature colors) and flanking the store entrance with “human mannequins”. Inside, the event was pleasantly packed with a range of celebrity guests and media mavens. While I wouldn’t necessarily call the event star studded, there were plenty of notable, and far more importantly, awesome folks around. Mr. Conrad Lee, the Mayor of Bellevue was present, and excited to talk about his vision for the city’s growth. (I expect that you’ll be hearing more from me on this subject sooner rather than later!) Larissa Long, the wonderfully energetic and incredibly friendly editor of Poshy Magazine, was also present and introduced me to Mariners legend Edgar Martinez and his good friend Gene Juarez (yeah, that one). Former Miss Washington Jacquie Brown was also present, and has a new webshow, details about which will hopefully be forthcoming! Lastly I had the good fortune to meet LB Dutchess of Socially Savvy, who I look forward to working with in the future! Music was provided by noted Hollywood DJ Michelle Pesce. And if having a DJ playing top 40 hits seemed a little out of place, it certainly did not detract from the overall experience!
Faconnable hosted the event to benefit The Bellevue Youth Theatre foundation, which strives to provide young people with the opportunity to grow through theatre regardless of ability or income. Hopefully, the event and the publicity it generates will aid the foundation as it breaks ground on a new location. I would definitely say that this is a brand that knows how to host a party, and here’s hoping a few more stores in Bellevue will follow their example!
