This Week in the Mercury
Friday, January 27, 2012
Shopping Guide R.A.W. Sample Sale
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Fri, Jan 27, 2012 at 12:29 PM
I've written many times of the virtues of R.A.W. lingerie: the textiles designed and naturally hand-dyed by designer Rio Wrenn, the romantic silks, vintage laces, and crochet details. There's a rare opportunity to snag yourself a pretty little something from the collection just around the bend: R.A.W. will be hosting a sample sale during the month of February (the 2nd to the 23rd, open Thursdays and by appointment) with 30-50% off. [Insert reminder about Valentine's Day here.]
Shopping Guide Not Even Halfway: Cold-Weather Scores from Siljan and Beyond
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Fri, Jan 27, 2012 at 11:29 AM
I've settled into a pattern with buying fall and winter clothing. I don't actually buy them when they first come to stores in early fall, since my resources basically exclusively go to fund gift buying from September through December. And because you need your sweaters, your rain coats, your wool stockings and trousers and your boots at least intermittently through the month of May (meaning we're not even halfway through it), it's perfectly reasonable to delay thinking about sprucing things up on the inclement end of your closet until after the New Year. And, it's arguably shrewder to wait, since retailers are desperately bailing out the stores of this merchandise in preparation for spring. Siljan has joined the ranks of Portland based shops that're having winter sales, announcing discounts on their Scandinavian-centric merchandise for men and women, including some excellent choices for staple items like boots and coats. Shop online, or make an appointment at the studio.
- Siljan
- Hope Field Boot in Wine
Stay tuned to MOD for ongoing news of other sales happening around town.
Fashion / Event Fade to Light: A Multidimensional Fashion Event
Posted by Kayla Rekofke on Fri, Jan 27, 2012 at 10:24 AM
Mark your calendars for February 29th MOD’ers, you don’t want to miss the Fade to Light fashion event. Taking place at the Crystal Ballroom, this show has encouraged designers to step outside the box in terms of their runway presentation. Fade to Light will feature some of our local faves: Ms. Wood, Solestruck x Black Milk Clothing, Studio SKB by Bryce Black, Chicago Harper by Joshua Buck, and Clair Vintage Inspired. Producer Elizabeth Mollo aims to deliver a different kind of fashion event that truly captures the essence of each designers specific aesthetic, leaving the viewer “with a solid understanding of each designer and the collections being shown.” In addition, local band Blouse (fresh from their European tour!) will hit the stage for a dreamy live pop performance. Now the real question, what to wear to such a fab event? Tickets are on sale now click here to purchase.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Gossip Fashion Star
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Jan 26, 2012 at 3:59 PM
Yet again the icy hand of reality fashion TV has touched our shoulder. Don't worry, there isn't a Portland resident competing on NBC's Fashion Star—it's not that bad. But Seattle contestant Lizzie Parker is closely associated with Portland Fashion Week, where she has often shown her spring collections, although she didn't in 2011. If she returns, she'll be helping to fill out an increasingly large contingent of reality fashion show vets, joining ranks with the Seth Aaron-led Project Runway contingent. I'm gonna go ahead and sit this one out, but I'll be keeping an eye out for news on how she does. She is at least a competent if practical designer whose work is mainly easily wearable, simple and efficient separates. Best of luck to her.
Hosted by supermodel Elle Macpherson, Fashion Star features celebrity mentors Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie, and John Varvatos. The series will premiere Tuesday, March 13, at 9:30 p.m. with a 90-minute episode. Following that, Star’s hour-long episodes will air at 10 p.m. on Tuesdays.
- John Russo/NBC
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Men's Blackbird Semi-Annual Designer and Clearance Sale
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Jan 26, 2012 at 12:20 PM
If you've been holding out, now's the time to strike: Blackbird's big annual sale just entered its final phase of markdowns. Nearly everything in the stores and online is now 40-80% off! And, if you purchase live and in person, you can buy three sale items and get the fourth free. Regardless of the apparel industry's schedule you and I both know there's plenty of wintry, autumnal weather ahead, so grab the gear while you can.
- Blackbird
- Hope parka
Inspiration / News Adam Arnold Designing Costumes for Upcoming OBT Performance
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Jan 26, 2012 at 8:59 AM
Apparel design watchers, prepare yourself for an evening at the ballet. Although he dropped a big hint on Facebook (a photo of a backstage sign notifying dancers that he is "designing costumes for Matjash's new work" and would be "sketching classes and rehearsal"), Portland designer Adam Arnold says he's "been totally hushed up" about the details of the project. This much we know: The work is a new piece by Matjash Mrozewski, a Canadian dancer choreographing for Oregon Ballet Theater's spring program, Chromatic Quartet, and Adam says it will premiere in mid-April. Mrozewski has said of the endeavor:
“I’ll be choreographing with local Portland designer Adam Arnold for costumes, OBT Resident Lighting Designer Michael Mazzola, and music will be an original electronic score by Vancouver- based Canadian composer Owen Belton, who I’ve worked with on a few commissions over the years. The work will be no longer than 20 minutes and at the moment it looks like I’m going to do a quintet. Because of the amount of duet work in the program already, Christopher asked if could avoid much pas de deux work, so I accept the challenge. I’m going to base the ballet around 5 solos, though I think it will branch off into many different arrangements among the quintet. I want the work to have a very contemporary feel, but as usual with me (and with Adam too) there will be some kind of nod to the past. There might be something ghostly about the piece, atmospheric. If at all possible, I want the ballet to be ghostly, sexy, mysterious, earthy, pedestrian, graceful, and if I’m on a roll, even a bit witty. But hey, anything is possible.”
This will be the second time Arnold and OBT have teamed up, after he dressed dancers for an advertising campaign several years back. Dance-inspired styling has a special place in my heart, so I'm especially excited to see what they come up with. Stay tuned as more details become available.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Shop plainMADE Make Way Sale!
Posted by Jessie Drake on Wed, Jan 25, 2012 at 3:37 PM
plainMADE is having a winter sale to clear out their remaining merch and make way for Spring. All the knits and wraps and scarfs that haven't found a loving home yet are on sale for 35-40% off retail. I'm sure these lovelies are going super fast, so get shopping and prepare yourself for plainMADE's Spring 2012 collection.
Shop / News Animal Traffic's Expansion into Downtown
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Wed, Jan 25, 2012 at 11:59 AM
Frances May really doesn't have to worry about getting lonely anymore. After the closure, in rapid succession, of both Narcisse and Covet, the shopping hub known as the West End was starting to look a little lean, but things are picking up again with just-opened new neighbors Pinkham Millinery and Parallel. And now, N Mississippi vintage/Western shop Animal Traffic has announced that they too are coming to the neighborhood with a second location at 429 SW 10th. According to owner Tom Erikson, "The new location will feature vintage along with modern items from Pendleton, Forage, Duluth Packs, Minnetonka, and many more. There will be a strong focus on classic Americana styles and Made in America brands from footwear to apothecary, as well as locally made goods."
Get your first peek at the February 18 soft opening, and an official grand opening slated for the evening of March 1.
- One of the shop's many, many pairs of vintage boots.
Hair Chic Rainy Day Hair
Posted by Kayla Rekofke on Wed, Jan 25, 2012 at 8:59 AM
- elle italia
One of the hardest parts of dealing with Portland’s rainy winters has got to be dealing with a wet, frizzy mop on the regular. I consulted my go to hair gal Jami Kenna at Red Magnolia Salon for some much needed guidance.
Here’s the scoop:
If you have curly locks don’t fight it, rock it! Kenna recommends using a humidity resistant product like Relaxing Fluid by Davines to keep the frizz at bay, and let your natural texture do its thing. For straight hair, spritz Hair Resort spray by Kevin Murphy after blow-drying. Next, twist your hair up into a high top knot style bun and once you arrive to your destination, take out the bun and shake it out. Hair Resort spray gives your hair awesome beachy texture that won’t be ruined by the rain. Lastly, Ms. Kenna suggests skipping the hot irons if you’ll be exposed to the elements and saving your hair from the heat damage. Instead try a messy side braid, or my go to move, a giant wide brimmed floppy hat. All products are available at Red Magnolia, and to book an appointment with Jami Kenna click here.
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Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Inspiration / Fashion / Shop La Jeune Reine
Posted by Kayla Rekofke on Tue, Jan 24, 2012 at 12:46 PM
- Nicholas Peter Wilson
Check out this enchanting editorial entitled “La Jeune Reine” shot by Nicholas Peter Wilson, which features the beautifully whimsical wardrobe by Holly Stalder. Ms. Stalder designs gowns that dreams are made of, undoubtedly original, and breathtaking. To shop the looks click here.
Just... DON'T Fuze It
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Jan 24, 2012 at 9:59 AM
Danger danger! Warning warning! Don't let this terrible-sounding event that just came across my desk happen to you!
Firstly, it's called Fuze It.
It appears to be one of those vague, awesomely out of touch monstrosities that occasionally bursts forth from Los Angeles on a nationally touring rampage of ridiculous claims. This one purports to be "The Ultimate Fashion, Art, and Music Experience," and seeks to cull together/exploit naively aspiring artists, models and musicians from the Portland area. "For participants, the event serves as a stepping-stone to either jump-start their aspiring career or make their existing career shine," etc, etc. The participating suckas are, of course, TBD, but the lady who emailed me the press release has helpfully informed me that "the fashion show will feature some of the latest looks from Forever 21." Tickets to attend? $20.
Yeah... no.
Event Oscar Party at Eclexion
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Jan 24, 2012 at 8:59 AM
It's over a month away, but it's not too soon to start making plans for your Oscar-viewing festivities. The awards may be self-congratulating, rigged, and irrelevant, but it's still one of the best excuses of the year to spend the whole day parked on your ass, snacking drinking while commenting on the appearances of the professionally perfect. Take things up a notch this year and get dressed up with Eclexion, who're hosting a viewing party/hair and makeup show. Models will be on hand demonstrating MUAH styles, but if everyone turns out in their finery they won't be the only ones turning heads. 3-9 pm on Sunday, Feb 16! Be there or be elsewhere (I'll be in LA!).
- WireImage
- Florence Welch at last year's event.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Fashion / Event A Novel Romance: 2012 Edition
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Jan 23, 2012 at 11:59 AM
Yet another diversion from nacho-binging on Sunday, February 5th! The English Dept. has announced the date for the 2012 edition of their annual bridal fashion show, A Novel Romance. Wedding season is in full force, and The English Dept. has handily established itself as the source for cool, sensible, tasteful brides to find their dresses, accessories, and—with the addition of Lille Trousseau next door—their block is a one-stop for lingerie, shoes, and tons of spirit-calming recommendations for flowers, photographers, and all the other many overwhelming details that go into such a production.
In addition to new collections from shop favorites Nicole Miller, Jenny Yoo, and Ivy & Aster, this is the one chance per year to see new work from proprietress Elizabeth Dye, whose own bridal and bridesmaid designs are typically some of the biggest show-stoppers (I gotta pour some out in remembrance of the days when Dye was still making regular womenswear... I wish she had four hands so she could still do both), often replete with tasteful literary references.
This year the show will return to its favorite digs at the Ace Hotel Cleaners Sunday Feb 5 at noon. $10 tickets available right here.
Shopping Guide Super Sales
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Jan 23, 2012 at 10:14 AM
The gender-prescribed notion that women need an alternative activity while the guys are at home watching the Super Bowl is worn and creaky at best, but at least we can capitalize on tradition: Radish Underground is hosting their third annual Super Sale on Feb 5 from noon-5 pm, with fall and winter pieces priced 15-30% off (including stuff that usually never goes on special), and 15% off Thundies and Yoga Jeans (don't ask). And, because the ladies behind Radish, Gina Morris and Celestial Sipes, are adorable and throw some of the best retail parties in town, there will be yard lines marked throughout the store, an end zone, and very likely dance parties in the dressing rooms.
Make a whole afternoon of it while you're at it, because just a few blocks away at the Crystal Ballroom Bargain Hunting 101 will be in full swing during the same hours. The bi-annual group clearance sale features price-slashed merch from a variety of retailers and independent vendors, including samples and one-offs of clothing, furniture, and more. Scout the full list of vendors here, then go eat a bunch of nachos with beer, belch openly, scratch your groin, etcetera.
- Radish Underground
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Crafty New Alexander Henry Fabrics Heat Things Up
Posted by Jessie Drake on Mon, Jan 23, 2012 at 8:59 AM
The grey months are officially upon us, but you can fight the gloom by working with these new color drenched, spirit lifting fabrics from Alexander Henry. Shop for them at Bolt Fabric Boutique at 2136 NE Alberta.
- Alexander Henry Fabrics
- Matchstick 1798A
- Alexander Henry Fabrics
- African Butterfly (Turquoise) 1799B
- Alexander Henry Fabrics
- Diamond Zig Zag (Tea) 1801A
Friday, January 20, 2012
Fitness / Beauty New Year Specials To Help Keep Your Resolutions
Posted by Kayla Rekofke on Fri, Jan 20, 2012 at 8:59 AM
The post holiday period is tricky. If you’re like me, you may have overindulged with lots of parties, home cooked meals, and yummy cocktails. Here’s a few local spots to help you on your path to overall wellness in 2012:
- Sprout
Sprout Health located on SE Hawthorne offers health coaching, affordable yoga classes, cooking classes and a wide variety of workshops and programs. I’d love to try their 21 Day Anti-Inflammation Group Cleanse, which involves 3 weeks of education and active anti inflammation cleansing. After unsuccessfully trying the trendy “Master Cleanse” last year, this option seems much healthier and realistic. Another interesting option is the Pantry Clean Out and Grocery Store Run Through. A wellness expert will come to your house and scour the cupboards to see what’s lurking, sounds scary but awesome! For more information about all of Sprout’s classes and programs click here.
- Loyly
Loyly has a cleansing New Year Package- $85 per person or $159 for two: 45 minutes in the sauna and steam, followed by a renewing 45 minute massage, then 45 more minutes in the facility. Also includes a sparkling Voss water, cleansing tea, cleansing clay mask and body salts. Sounds like the perfect way to sweat out all those toxins. Click here to see Loyly’s other specials and to find out more information about their beautiful steam/sauna facility.
- SKOGG
Get a free introductory week to the SKOGG Gym located in the Pearl. If you’re feeling up to a fun, fierce, and intense workout, this would be a great program to try. The SKOGG system combines cardio, conditioning, and kettlebells in a one-hour class that is sure to tone your bod in no time. For more deets click here.
Treat yourself to a Spa Retreat with Dosha salon. The package includes a full body massage, spa pedicure, spa manicure, and shampoo and styling of the hair for $165. If you need a little maintenance and relaxation this is sure to do the trick. Also noteworthy, their steam room, soaking pool and showers are complimentary with services such as massages, facials, and body treatments. Dosha has a few locations in the area so click here to find the one closest to you.
- Yoga Shala
Yoga Shala is offering a new student special: $20 for two weeks of unlimited drop-in classes plus 20% off your first 10-Class Package or 10% off your first 5-Class Package. Yoga Shala has a NE and SE location, click here for more information and their class schedule.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Fashion Reif: S/S '12
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Jan 19, 2012 at 5:01 PM
Reif started off 2012 off right, with a web site redesign featuring lookbook shots from her latest collection for spring, "Rituals," to be available for purchase through the site beginning in March. Check out her latest work and pick out the favorite pieces you'd save up your lunch money for—I'm partial to the gauzy, sheer stripes on this blouse. Something about springtime makes me gravitate even more to black. Click over to MOD for a couple more favorites.
- Reif
Art, Cats, and Clothes at Lulu's Vintage
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Jan 19, 2012 at 11:43 AM
Lulu's Vintage is gearing up for a triple whammy with their February art show of pet-themed paintings by Amelia Opie and a month-long fundraiser for DoveLewis. Here's the steez: Ten percent of all purchases during the month of February will be donated (in addition to vintage clothing and ephemera for men and women they also have vintage sewing supplies, valentines, lingerie, and appropriately, cat and dog collectibles), and on Friday's it'll be 20 percent. Opie will also be contributing a portion of her painting sales. It'll kick off on February's First Thursday (that'd be Feb 2) with an opening reception. Meow.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Men's / Fashion The Good News Is, You Survived The Polar Exploration...
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Wed, Jan 18, 2012 at 4:11 PM
... The bad news is, Vivienne Westwood wants you to leave the icicles on for her F/W '12 menswear collection.
Menswear season is the best. Follow all the shows here. Via.
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Shoe Yes Or No: Nike Sneaker/Ballet Flats
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Wed, Jan 18, 2012 at 10:59 AM
Yet again innovations in sneaker design have scrambled my brain:
- Highsnobette
What we've got here is one-part minimalist classic sneaker, and one part flexible aqua sock-heeled ballet flat. Firstly, an elastic-heeled shoe always looks slightly fetal unworn, so this is not the most flattering product shot. On the foot they would essentially just look like a simple pair of exceptionally lightweight sneakers that you wouldn't have to bother tying—inoffensive. On the other hand, choices motivated by laziness are only fashionable in extremely rare cases. What say ye? (Another view is after the cut.)
News Supportland's Growing Network
Posted by Kayla Rekofke on Wed, Jan 18, 2012 at 8:59 AM
- Supportland
Supportland, first mentioned here, is a steadily expanding program, which offers incentives for buying local. The brainchild of Michael and Katrina Scotto di Carlo, these Portlanders saw a need for one card to take the place of all those pesky punch cards. Each time you shop at one of the participating businesses (101 of them!), you earn points. With these points you can purchase specific products or services offered by the participating businesses. An Iphone App with a map of the Supportland network is currently in the works, in the meantime you can set-up an account here, or pick up your very own free Supportland card at any of the participating businesses. Earn 15 points for patronizing a new business and 5 for hitting up your usual faves. The Supportland family includes boutiques, restaurants, classes/events, and services. Cargo, Crafty Wonderland, Food Fight! Grocery, and Common Ground Wellness Center are all a part of Supportland, just to name a few. For a complete list and for more information about Supportland click here. If you are a local business owner interested in joining click here.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Gossip / Fashion Ferreting out Pendleton's 2012 The Portland Collection
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 11:59 AM
After the successful 2011 debut of Pendleton's The Portland Collection—wildly good press, serious customer demand, and a dollop of controversy that got everyone thinking about cultural appropriation in fashion (if you haven't already, read this excellent piece on the subject by Lisa Hix)—the company has reinvested in its line featuring Portland designers John Blasioli, Rachel Turk, and Nathaniel Crissman. The Fall 2012 collection is much larger, with more home items, and I hear, more color. The lookbook has not been released as of yet, and Pendleton's doing a good job of teasing the curious masses. The only photo that has been released:
- The Portland Collection
Naturally, fashion bloggers are scrambling to get as many early peeks at it as possible—love it or hate it, it's going to be everywhere when the complete photos finally drop. See here and here for some additional visuals, and keep your eyes peeled for the pending official release.
Inspiration / Fashion Now Trending
Posted by Kayla Rekofke on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 9:11 AM
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1. COATT is a family run design studio, each piece of Morse code jewelry is handcrafted here in Portland. The designers find inspiration in science, education, and communication. Definitely quirky, and cute COATT can even make custom necklaces and bracelets with whatever word/phrase your heart desires. Shop the collection here.
2. Although I am (and always will be) a huge fan of a simple shiny black mani, this unexpected twist is a fresh take on the black polish trend. An edgier version of the French manicure, this geometric style is sure to turn heads. Steady handed MOD’ers may want to attempt a DIY effort, but for a sure bet head to your favorite nail salon and treat yourself to some fancy mitts.
3. Lille Boutique is stocked with tights worth splurging on. Patterns pack a punch, and brights make the rainy days a little less grey. Add a pair of sassy stockings to your closet and mix and match with your favorite skirts and dresses for a whole new look. Extra points for layering cute socks over your hose’ and pairing with an open toed pump. Shop the look here.
4. Heritage is so hip lately; duck boots are making swift come back. The most famous being the LL Bean “Bean” boot, which has been produced in Maine since about 1912. A staple for the hiking/outdoorsy type, duck boots have hit the mainstream fashion scene. Perfect for our Portland climate, I’d pair with jorts, black tights, thick winter socks and warm jacket for a practical day outfit.
5. Native Union’s Pop phone is the latest techie gadget I’m obsessed with. A longtime lover of the landline, I was ecstatic to receive a Pop phone for Christmas. Compatible with Iphone and Ipad, this telly lets you chat in style and get less radiation to your noggin. Click here to purchase.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Inspiration / Event Call to Artists: Modified Style
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Jan 16, 2012 at 9:43 AM
One of Portland's most feel-good fashion shows, Modified Style has just put out the call seeking artists to participate in the 2012 edition, accepting submissions through February 15. Established in Portland in 2009 as a benefit for local charities (this year's beneficiaries are The Pixie Project, Sisters of the Road, and CHAP), it encourages all comers to take a whack at designing a showstopping look. Whether you're a professional or experienced designer (probably the event's most notable alumni is Ms. Wood, who went on to become a major force in the local industry), a first-timer, or an artist who typically works in another medium, you're invited to participate.
This year the event will go down on May 6 at Staver Locomotive, hosted by mayoral candidate Jefferson Smith and with DJ Hot Biology. Email them ASAP for more info on participating—models and volunteers too!
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