The independent writer/consultant life often lends itself to days spent in lounge clothes or sweatpants. So when I had two fancypants fashion events to attend last Thursday, I definitely turned up the style dial. 

The day began with an intimate breakfast for Seattle media at Barneys New York. Barneys illustrious creative ambassador at large, Simon Doonan, and Fashion Director Tomoko Ogura were in town to host an event benefiting The Parkinson's Project the evening prior. They spent the morning sharing Barneys' vision for fall offerings, highlighting designer collections exclusive to the store.

I'd gone shopping with my girl Dana of Sustalux earlier in the week and scored this gem of a vintage maxi dress. I never go for all-over prints like this, but I am also always down to do something different! The fit and shape of the dress along with the flow of the skirt were irresistible. Since Simon Doonan makes it a point to wear a floral print shirt, I figured he might appreciate another floral print in the house :) A simple low bun, a red lip and some gold accents finished my look:

Vintage maxi dress / Zara heels / DogEared Jewelry earrings c/o Lucky FABB conference / vintage Christian Dior belt

Barneys prides itself on concise editing of what they offer, often selecting upcoming designers' "big ideas" or pieces that are more for the fashion risk takers than the style conservatives. Greg Lauren (son of Ralph Lauren), British Columbia native Raif Adelberg, Zero Maria Cornejo, and Shinola watches are among the exclusives you'll see at Barneys now. 

With Tomoko Ogura. Need that jacket!

As far as fall trends go, Doonan and Ogura drew attention to black and white Saint Laurent heels and Dries van Noten jumpers; Margiela sneakers/flats; duffle bags from Alexander Wang and Narciso Rodriguez; and big clutches from Beth Oren. Barneys also has a soft spot in its heart and buying portfolio for Japanese designers, being one of the first American retailers to embrace Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Commes des Garcons. Chitose Abe of Sacai has some stunning classic pieces with laser cut detail and feminine flair.

With Simon Doonan. Loved his Adidas with the floral shirt :)

I had a great time at the event; it's not often that we get time to speak with and learn from the likes of Doonan and Ogura in Seattle. Now that Barneys has completed their Seattle store renovation, I'm sure there'll be a lot more fun events there in the future!

Stay tuned for part 2 of A Stylish Seattle Thursday: Nordstrom Designer Preview recap!