Thread + Seed is a contemporary store offering modern clothing with a bohemian twist. Store owner Melanie Michaud shares that she carries a mix of timeless pieces along with on-trend styles and accessories. One of the store’s big sellers is denim. Customers appreciate the shop’s high-quality selections offered at moderate prices.

When I asked Michaud what the name Thread + Seed signifies, she explained that “Thread” is for the textiles and the clothing while “Seed” symbolizes plants and their brand’s connection with nature. Michaud is a forward thinker who embraces technology to simplify the human connection ultimately saving the customer time.

This concept store offers two key time-saving features for its customers. The first one is the Style Palate. Customers can take a quiz to discover their body type. Instead of using traditional terms like “hourglass” and “inverted triangle,” Michaud has created, nature-inspired categories such as “Dewdrop” and “Butterfly.” The second part of the quiz helps customers identify their color profile and preferences. Next, the store curates a personalized collection just for you. Customers can also book an appointment with a stylist for a one-on-one session to receive help with their curated picks.

The second time-saving component is the build-a–box allowing the customer to create their own gift box with a variety of selected items, including chocolates, bath products, and body care. Some favorites are items with great-smelling scents such as candles. They even have a custom scent titled “La Jolla Shores.” These gift boxes are perfect for special occasions, with Mother’s Day being one of the store’s busiest times.

Michaud is not a newcomer to fashion, beginning her career as a director for fashion in retail stores and then transitioning to working with an advertising agency. Fourteen years ago, she opened Graffiti Beach in South Park. That store has evolved into Thread + Seed, which now includes a second location in Bankers Hill.

The new La Jolla store opened just before the holidays and is located at 7863 Girard Ave, Suite 101. For more information, check out their one-on-one style sessions and learn more about the style palette at www.threadandseed.com or on Instagram @threadandseed.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, March, 29 – Razkal Market from 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m. at Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center with a market of 40 vendors and a fashion show. For tickets: https://bit.ly/3DuqExQ.

Thursday, April 10 – 14th annual Fashion  Redux: A collaboration between Mesa Fashion students and the San Diego History Center. The event will feature the gallery opening, live modeling of the top four student garments and a discussion panel with the student designers. The event is 6-8 p.m. at the San Diego History Center in Balboa Park. Tickets at: https://sandiegohistorycenter.ticketing.veevartapp.com/tickets/view/list/fashion-redux-2025-student-reveal.  

Saturday, April 26 – Spring Showcase – Fashion Week San Diego (FWSD) will show a preview of the fall runway show at the Living Room La Jolla from 4-6 p.m. For tickets: https://bit.ly/4kO7rrP.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and podcaster at www.dianacavagnaro.com.