Beyond Threads opens a Pioneer Square retail shop to drape you in stylish warmth for fall

Looking for a perfect fall wrap? How about one that's cozy but not bulky, made from natural, sustainable fibers, drapes well on a variety of body shapes, comes in several great styles and colors, and is affordable? You'll find it at Cristina Dioguardi's new retail shop, Beyond Threads.

An energetic designer and entrepreneur, Dioguardi has been in business for 16 years, selling her Beyond Threads label to hundreds of boutiques and major retailers throughout the United States and Canada, and at her wholesale outlet in Pioneer Square. Demand and Dioguardi's desires to have the complete collection in one spot prompted her open a shop exclusively devoted to the label.

The Peruvian native travels several times a year to Peru to work with the small cottage industries, female artisans and manufacturers who help create the line. The shop is inspired by Dioguardi's travels and features richly colored bamboo flooring, spicy red curtains, handcrafted Peruvian furniture and a mural that replicates the of ceiling of a Peruvian mansion.

Almost every piece of clothing and soft accessory in the store is made from fine alpaca fiber and pima cotton. Designs range from contemporary to sophisticated. Dioguardi's styles are sleek and simple with standout details like puffed cuffs, versatile shawl collars, and hand stitching.

Colors include a range of soothing and spot-on neutrals and saturated jewel tones, such as garnet, emerald, amethyst and sapphire. I'm always on the lookout for great travel pieces, and the softness and drape of Alpaca makes for easy packing. Among my favorites are a long, Missoni-style knit wrap, a cowl-collared short jacket, a ruffled duster-length sweater and a trench-style coat.

Prices are reasonable for such high quality craftsmanship and timeless appeal. They range from $120 to $150 for simple pullovers and cardigans; $170 to $250 for sweaters; $250 to $300 for jackets; and $400 to $500 for coats. Scarves and hats are $120 to $150.

With her new store, Seattleites will have the advantage of seeing Dioguardi's new designs and styles first. The designer plans on using the shop as a testing ground for new creations. The wholesale outlet will continue to offer great past-season deals, sample sales and small runs of items.

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