Hello, Year of the Rooster!

Torn Tissue Rooster by Toni Yuly

On January 28, the world will greet the Lunar New Year of the Rooster — the Fire Rooster, to be specific. This feisty creature heralds a dynamic, high energy year wherein people will practice lessons in temperance and politeness. Folks born in the year of the Fire Rooster are known for their loyalty, trustworthiness and popularity.

The Wing Luke Asian Museum will kick things off on Saturday, January 28th from 10am to 5pm. ringing in the New Year with fun activities for the whole family. Lunar New Year games, arts and crafts, a stuffed animal petting zoo and much more! 

On Sunday, January 29th from 11am to 4pm, Seattle’s Chinatown-International District will continue the festivities in the heart of the ID. Sunday's celebration will be something to crow about with lots of cultural entertainment, including lion and dragon dancers, and drummers. And for the 7th year, check out the Adult and Children's Costume Contest and Parade, sure to be packed with creative cuties. More info available here.

For the foodies out there, there will be the famous $3 Food Walk (view menu here). Get 5 stamps from participating restaurants and enter for a chance to win prizes from Delta Airlines and Steven’s Pass Mountain Resort! 

And do visit your local shops (especially Momo!) while you’re in the neighborhood. You never know what New Year treats you might find.

Are you a Rooster? Here's a fun little chart that Momo Girl Angela found!

Momo ❤ Local: Sarsen and 8telier

Momo would like to introduce you to two of our newest local designers: Sarsen and 8telier. Both are not only nascent at Momo, but also as their own brands of professional clothing design. We’re really excited to be one of the first (of many, no doubt!) boutiques to have their clothing grace our racks, and to be supporting local talent.

The creative mind behind Sarsen is Heather Blanchard. A visual merchandiser for Anthropologie, she has a keen eye for harmonious balance and attention to detail. Her takes on outerwear are both functional (think dense wool blends, cozy plush cottons) and feminine, with details like pointed cuffs and romantic oversized hoods. Heather was featured in the Bellevue Collection’s Independent Runway Show in 2013 – we’ll undoubtedly see her work on the runway again.

A visit from Sarsen's Heather Blanchard.

Sarsen’s “Rider” coat. Little Red Riding Hood for grownups.

Husband and wife duo Jean and Craig are the masterminds behind 8telier. Their tagline is “Elevated Essentials” and it’s obvious how their clothing reflects this philosophy. Many of their pieces can be worn multiple ways for entirely different looks. Convertible clothing: perfect for the practical-minded Seattleite. You'll find a capsule collection of our favorite styles here at Momo. If you’re craving a peek at their full collection, check out their brand new (opening today!) store on the first floor of Pacific Place. Congratulations!

Craig + Jean = 8telier

8telier’s “Anouk” jacket worn two ways for two distinct looks.

Make a trip to the ID for a delicious meal, then pop by Momo to check out some terrific newcomers to the Seattle fashion world. We promise you’ll be as delighted as we are!

An Accidental Exhibitor

For nearly seven years, we’ve curated an eclectic collection of clothing, accessories and other finds, including omiyage, the perfectly presented gift. But never did we aspire to be an art space. Yet lucky us, we’ve become an accidental exhibitor, thanks to the largess of a few local artists. Please visit and enjoy!

‘Japan’ by Roger Shimomura, 2012

Last Friday, we were floored and flattered when Greg Kucera and assistant Guy, walked over Roger Shimomura’s kawaii — and impressively large painting, ‘Japan’. How did we come to be so endowed? One day Roger strolled into Momo and noticed our Hello Kitty affinity, then suggested that he loan us his painting (it can be yours for $25,000). Look carefully and you’ll see Roger himself in the midst of the fun.

The work of Bryan Yeck

We’re also fortunate to display the art of Bryan Yeck, proprietor of Zeitgeist Coffee. Bryan, who helped design/build Momo thought one of his paintings would hang nicely at Momo. He was so right. And Bryan’s received more than a few inquiries but so far, hasn’t bitten — thank goodness.

Fowl play from Shelli Markee

The third artist to grace our shop is Shelli Markee, silversmithy, hair and makeup artist, and mother of two boys. Long before her birds landed, we sold her hand-hammered jewelry, so when she offered to install her flock, we said of course! Her wire sculptures are lighter than air — each fastened with a single brad. Admirers have taken home a bird of their own for $120 a pop.

  
Before opening Momo, Lala has always believed that form must have function. And after experiencing the uplifting energy that art lends to our atmosphere, she now appreciates that inspiration, in itself, is a worthy purpose. Thank you, Roger, Bryan and Shelli, for making Momo truly a happy • lucky • life.

Momo Loves Moms

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and at Momo, we’re here to help you let Mom know you appreciate her. Every little thing we carry is imbued with affection — and remember, we’re always happy to wrap!

Sterling silver necklace by Sarah Park.

Hugs and kisses from Shelli Markee and Tiny Fat Bird.

Circles of love from Flora and Fawn.

Happy Sou Sou scarves from Japan come in their own
sweet cotton drawstring bag. 

And, nothing says “I love you” like a practical pocket pen.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Momo Moms out there. Thank you for all that you do.

One Size Fits Most (Really!)

One of the things that we really strive for at Momo is providing clothing that is both stylish and versatile, easily mixing in with your already existing wardrobe.

Today we are featuring three brands that we feel truly epitomize this ethos: Metalicus, AMB and (new to Momo!) Vigorella. All meet at the intersection where fashion and function collide. They really are one-size-fits-most (honest!), utilizing comfortable fabrics with stretch. Not only do they fit a multitude of body shapes and sizes, but they’re lightweight, exceptionally easy to layer, low maintenance and excellent for travel.

New for spring from the ever-popular Australian brand Metalicus:

The Bronx Drape tank dress has super cute tucked detailing on the sides.

This is the Dash tunic (also available in heathered grey)
with the Bronx cardigan (also available in black/white).
We love the deep pockets on this dress.

The playful Ziggy tank dress with the Port cardigan.

AMB tops come in a rainbow of colors.

AMB tops are ideal for a base layer. They’re snug, soft, slightly sheer and provide lightweight arm coverage. Momo has a plethora of colors and patterns to choose from.







We’re so excited to introduce Vigorella. Like Metalicus, Vigorella is made in Australia and employs a mix of high-tech fabrics and renewable textiles like bamboo. The simple shapes are designed to be layered and layered, without bulky binding. So right for Seattle!

Vigorella’s A-Line tank is deliciously soft thanks to a blend of bamboo and cotton.

Long cami dresses by Vigorella can be worn under a tee as a skirt:
classic black, cheerful spring greenand a summery blue.

Repurposed with a Purpose

“Repurposing” and “up-cycling” are becoming an ever-increasing theme in many independent designers’ work these days. A rising concern for reducing waste, taking a step back from being a throw-away society and an appreciation for the beauty an object acquires over time — all of these are merging to create a new approach to design.

One of our favorite re-purposers is Chemical Wedding. Jon and Tracy use a combination of new and recycled leathers, factory seconds and post-industrial scrap to construct handbags that are gorgeous, unique, durable and functional. Momo-girl Angela has the “Devon” cross-body bag and she can say, with zero hesitation, that is the most intelligently designed purse she has ever owned.

New to Momo is designer Katherine Ragghianti from Poulsbo. Katherine’s bags are constructed from up-cycled Japanese fabrics that started out life as kimonos, yukatas and obis, with some hand-painted silks and lamb suede added for good measure. We love the juxtaposition of traditional textiles with more contemporary styles.

Both the Katherine and Chemical Wedding messenger bag have adjustable straps.

Here are two takes on the classic messenger bag. in the left is a Katherine bag made of kimono, obi and yukata fabric, with a lamb suede back. On the right is “Reiko” by Chemical Wedding. Both have adjustable straps and can be worn as a shoulder bag or cross-body bag.

Unique and wonderfully diverse versions of the classic shoulder bag. 

The “Dian” shoulder bag features inset diamonds of slate blue and grey leather and a line of eye-catching whipstitching. Katherine’s hand-painted silk take on the same style is lined with the sweetest red and white polka-dot fabric.

Tiny and Tote! The wee little Chemical Wedding “Kiko” has a long strap for cross-body versatility with the petite build and weight of a wallet. Katherine’s roomy tote offers lots of space to store your essentials without a lot of weight. Delicate yukata fabric gives this highly practical tote an elegant look.

Wallet-purse and spacious tote — both ends of the spectrum!

Happy Lunar New Year!

2014 brings us the year of the Wood Horse. According to Momo’s handy-dandy book of Chinese horoscopes, the year of the Horse is a fast-paced one. Filled with periods of hectic activity and high-spirited adventure, it will be exhilarating, sometimes frustrating, but ultimately rewarding and profitable.

To  kick off the start of this exciting year, the Chinatown/International District will be hosting a neighborhood celebration  this Saturday, February 1st, starting at 11 a.m. at Hing Hay Park. Lion and Dragon dances, taiko drumming, children’s costume parade, scavenger hunt, $2 food walk — these are just a few of the festive events you'll find! Bring your friends and family and enjoy a unique, fun-filled cultural experience.

Message from Momo: Happy Lunar New Year!

Get ready for a wild ride in the auspicious year of the horse. The speed of the steed
will find us traveling the world and engaging in new adventures, possibly including unexpected trysts! Brave, energetic and powerful, the noble stallion champions both business and personal pursuits. In this fortunate year, harness your luck to bring about long-awaited change. Follow your hunches, be decisive — take swift action and your goals will be within reach.

Winter is Coming

Seattle’s predicted low is 39 degrees tonight. That is seven small degrees above freezing. Freezing! Lucky for you, Momo has just received some delectable knits from Beagle House N.Y., Japanese designs via New York. Durable and comfortable, the adorable accessories are also enticingly affordable ($32-$49). Fresh for you, via Momo:

•  knit beanies, made in Japan. 100% cotton, these hats are densely woven and are sure to keep your noggin toasty. An easy fit for men or women.

Perfectly sized for a slouchy look and a tight, fine knit for warmth!

•  infinity scarves, also knit in Japan. Made from a blend of fibers, they are lightweight yet surprisingly insulative and feature a sweet pattern reminiscent of traditional Norwegian sweaters.

We love the soft colors of these infinity scarves.

• knit arm warmers. Cable-knit sweaters for your arms! They have a handy thumb-hole to keep them on your hands, and are woven with spandex to help them stay up your arms. 

Available in black, taupe, pale grey/beige and chocolate brown. 

A Good Scarf is a Good Friend

It’s that time of year again — scarf season is upon us and new scarves have been flooding into Momo. We have an enticing array of styles, colors and fabrics to choose from, ranging from affordable acrylic  to lovely linens and cozy cashmere.

Our favorite acrylic is the multipurpose Vivi button sweater-scarf. Not only is it perfect for folks with wool/cashmere sensitivities, it’s also the most versatile accessory imaginable. It can be worn as a halter (in two ways), a long-sleeved shrug, a vest, a poncho, a scarf ... whatever strikes your fancy.

Always a classic, Momo has a fresh batch of St. James “Pucker” scarves. We love the distinctive texture, as well as the ease of use (simply pull one end through the opening on the other end).

A rainbow of St. James from France.

Unique “Pucker’ scarf.

Some folks are still operating under the notion that linen is a textile that is limited to summer wear. We at Momo won’t say that they’re wrong ... but they’re wrong! Linen is one of the most durable fibers on earth (literally). Our Fog Linen scarves from Japan are thickly woven, elegant and warm. Available in solids, stripes or checks.

Fog Linen from Japan. 

Thick, shimmering linen is both elegant and comfortable.

Cashmere is, of course, the winter classic. Soft and toasty, timeless cashmere will always fend off the chill of a winter day. Momo’s new cashmere features a palette of soft greys, blues and taupes — perfect for men and women alike.

Soft-as-a-cloud cashmere.

A great scarf, like a great coat, is invaluable in the cool Pacific Northwest winter — both you'll wear every day. Why not ensure that you’ll stay warm while looking good? Come visit our scarves and find your neck’s new best friend!

Promise

Every spring, a minor miracle occurs at Momo: our orchids bloom anew. Gifted to us by thoughtful customers when we opened in 2007, year ’round the tropical plants revel in the shy Seattle sun as they warm in our windows. Nurtured with reverent neglect, they reward us with brilliant blossoms that last for many weeks. Traditionally, orchids represent love and beauty, both of which we feel abundantly blessed by. We see them as symbols of perseverance and renewal — that at Momo, as we carry on, we might bring a bit of hope, happy ... and Hawai'i, into your world.