Myra: Andaluz = Missing Piece to Rainier Valley Fashion & Gift Puzzle

Myra Myra on the Wall is a semi-regular column written by a hip, Rainier Valley 20-something who seeks to uncover all the fantastic happenings happenings in Southeast Seattle for those of us who don’t necessarily equate going downtown with having a good time. Email Myra with your favorite south-of-I-90 hang-outs, upcoming events or random observations about hidden south-end spots.

Gift giving is the ultimate expression of love, happiness and encouragement. Nothing could make a new mom happier than receiving a gift basket full of pampering bath and body treats, and when your best friend broke up with his boyfriend, it was the thoughtful and funny gift you brought that cheered him up.

Andaluz in Columbia City ensures that we will never run out of fun, loving gift ideas for the special people in our lives.

It’s the missing piece to the Rainier Valley fashion and gift puzzle. Walking into the store for the first time is an overwhelming experience for the senses.

Andaluz boasts dozens of unique and cute clothing items that you won’t see at any other store in Seattle, and you’ll never have an easier time finding the perfect cocktail dress.

Wander over to the jewelry section and represent your neighborhood with a “Columbia City” necklace. Every corner of the store is filled with items that your family and friends must have.

But my favorite part of the store is the bath and body section. I almost passed out in pure joy when I smelled the Kai fragrance and body line with exotic smelling body oils, perfume and body butter all made from natural oils like cucumber extract and Shea butter. This fragrance happens to be one of Oprah Winfrey’s favorite things, and once you smell, it will be one of your favorite things as well. In addition to the Kai line, there are tons of body butters, salt scrubs and lotions destined to make you smelling sweet and feeling smooth.

All of the fun items at Anadulz will have you bowing in thanks to owner Karla Esquival. Knowing the Rainier Valley was in desperate need of a fun and unique gift store, she opened Andaluz in 2005. Walking around the store is a visual tour of Karla’s ideas and inspirations. From the geisha doll umbrellas to the man shaped knife holder, all of the items are a piece of Karla’s vision and style.

Stop in and browse the hundreds of unique items that will evoke feelings of laughter and delight from your peeps.

We need more stores like Andaluz in the Rainier Valley.

Andaluz is located at 4908 Rainier Avenue South in Columbia City. Photo/Myra Myra on the Wall

More from Myra:

• Myra Falls for Rainier Health & Fitness & You Will, Too (3/18/09)
• Myra’s Crazy About Chef Jemil’s Po Boys (3/12/09)
• Myra’s Back With Amorcito Lounge on Beacon Hill; Just in Time for the Weekend (2/27/09)

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