This Week in the Mercury
Event
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Shop / Event Malia Mills
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Nov 19, 2009 at 10:02 AM
Habitués of Lille Boutique are familiar with Malia Mills, whose remarkably flattering bathing suits were available at the store this past spring and summer. For December's First Friday soiree (Dec 4), she will be coming to Lille for a trunk show of her new styles for Spring/Summer 2010, as well as the debut of her lingerie! At the meet-and-greet event she'll be talking about the philosophy behind the brand, too, which you can get a sense of through her blog. Sunny days will be here again, so make sure you're covered with a suit you love (and that loves you back).
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Event PDX Says Party at saysay boutique
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Wed, Nov 18, 2009 at 3:48 PM
saysay boutique is having a sipping, snacking, and shopping event this Friday, November 20th, from 4-8pm, featuring several local designers. Among the goodies provided are cupcakes by bliss and coffee by Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters, and the featured designers include Nora Catherine, Plume jewelry, Skyler Stainless Steel Cuffs, and Sue Bradbury. Check it!
- Brass Leaf Earrings by Nora Catherine
- Bird pin by Plume Jewelry
Event Lulu's Vintage Shopping Bonanza and Benefit
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Wed, Nov 18, 2009 at 3:11 PM
If you like animals and vintage clothing, don't miss out on Lulu's Vintage Shopping Bonanza and Benefit, which starts today at 23 NW 4th Ave. Although now mainly an online presence, Lulu's Vintage and Shop Vintage Online will be opening a pop-up shop to sell an array of vintage clothing and accessories, with 20% of the proceeds donated to DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital.
Here are the days you can catch the sale, from 11am-7pm:
November 18-21
November 24-25
November 27-29
- Vintage Blue Lace Dress from lulu'svintage.com
- Dog.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Fashion / Accessories / Event Experiment No. 1
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Nov 17, 2009 at 3:02 PM
Mercy Studios (537 SE Ash #25) is the new, communal 2,000sf studio of Andy Lifschutz, Janeane Marie, and Nialls Fallon, jewelry designer, apparel designer, and artist respectively. This Friday, starting at 6 pm, they're breaking in the space with a grand opening party, "Experiement No. 1," and I'm already looking forward to "Experiment No. 2" because A) I will be out of town on Friday and B) they are pulling no punches here: Lifschutz, who I met for the first time at Content, is supremely talented—he has just been asked to participated in Berlin Fashion Week, so you might want to pick some of his work up at Local35 before he blows up and out of your price range. Or better yet, he'll be selling at Friday's party at 25% off. And, if you haven't familiarized yourself with Janeane Marie, she is one of the most rapidly rising stars on Portland's apparel scene (you could get me her "gravity dress" for Christmas if you want). Fallon, meanwhile, is a gifted photographer who has shot everything from warm portraits of pretty girls in bed to stark documentation of Hurricane Katrina. If that's not enough they've also hooked up live painters and modern dancers, music starting at 10 pm from DJ Hanukkah Miracle and Doctor Adam, food from Clyde Common and Olympic Provisions, and lots of donated drink-ables. Please go and enjoy it on my behalf.
Shop / Event Flurry's Grand Opening Party
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Nov 17, 2009 at 2:10 PM
If you've yet to check out the new downtown holiday pop-up shops, here's another excuse to: In the wake of last week's soft openings comes the grand opening party for Flurry (at SW 4th & Morrison, 7-11 pm), the larger of the two in-operation locations, spearheaded by May Tee and the Portland Fashion Synergy group. Here's the crew posing with the mayor, who headed up ribbon cutting duties last week:
Monday, November 16, 2009
Event Junk to Funk Roundup
Posted by Sarah Mirk on Mon, Nov 16, 2009 at 3:30 PM
The 4th Annual Junk to Funk recycled fashion show last Saturday night was a pretty swank affair for fashion show celebrating trash.
Here's the idea: Thirty local designers pieced together original clothes from trashed goods, like traffic cones, six-pack rings, bubble wrap and Sytrofoam. For one night only, the clothes are displayed on a stunning catwalk at the Crystal Ballroom at a fashion show MC'd by Mayor Sam Adams and our own Marjorie Skinner, who are forced to wear a top hat and vest, respectively, fashioned from old CDs. The whole thing raises awareness about the waste we create. It's a great idea and a great cause.
Before the show, hundreds of Portlanders packed the Crystal Ballroom, hot-gluing DIY corsages courtesy of SCRAP and generally having a good time. The live band was great, the fashion show set pieced together from giant Styrofoam blocks was stellar.
But once the show actually got going... eh. Marjorie and Mayor Adams were given WAY too long of scripts to read, filling the time between clothing sets with long minutes of forced banter that the audience quickly learned to tune out. It was an example of what should be the number one rule of hosting events: KEEP IT SHORT!
Some of the clothing pieces were cool, but nothing knocked me out and I got tired of the lack of variety—almost every piece in the show was either a wide, fluffy dress or a tight, sexy dress.
I also learned an important lesson: I suck at fashion photography. Below are a couple of the better photos I took of the pieces I most enjoyed, so you can at least get a gist of what went down.
- Old safety vest, maybe?
- Coffee filter and scrap ribbon dress — Adrienne Duckrow
- "Sunkissed" - beanbag and old screen-made dress from Kristin Olson-Huddle
- Bubble wrap jacket and old ticket hat
- Hooves for humans!
Fashion / Event Holiday Party Dress Fashion Show
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Nov 16, 2009 at 1:57 PM
You may as well keep your calendars out, because they just keep coming...
Bubble Boutique is kicking off the holiday party season this Thursday evening with a fashion show of holiday party looks from Karen Zambos, Susana Monaco, and Kyumi. Come by early for snacks and bubbly beginning at 6, with the show scheduled to begin at 7. (RSVPs are nice but not required.)
Shopping Guide / Accessories / Event Anah Claire and Talitha at Soho
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Nov 16, 2009 at 1:09 PM
It's definitely shopping-event season, and things are starting to heat up all over town and the calendar. This Saturday at Soho Boutique (1605 NE Broadway), the store is hosting a dual trunk show with Anah Claire's colorful jewelry and Talitha leather accessories from noon-4 pm, plus all clothing will be 20% off, one day only.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Shop / Event Local35's Sixth Anniversary: Tonight!
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Fri, Nov 13, 2009 at 2:53 PM
The past couple years in Portland we've seen our fair share of indie boutiques shutter. Local35—which was one of the pioneering establishments in a now-populous category—is not one of them. Nimbly adjusting their merchandise to accommodate fluctuations in local culture and economics, the Hawthorne Blvd institution has forged ahead, tonight celebrating having made it to another finish line with their sixth birthday:
Come out and party!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Event It's Happening Tomorrow: Private Shopping Event at Blush Beauty Bar
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Wed, Nov 11, 2009 at 12:14 PM
Blush Beauty Bar is hosting an event tomorrow night (November 12th) from 6-9 pm, and here's what to expect:
-Receive Blush certificate equal to 10% of purchase
-New holiday products & our famous holiday gift sets
-Special deals throughout the store
-Tasty treats
-Free gift wrap
-Swag bag with purchase(while supplies last)
-Meet BareMinerals Regional Artist, Learn about the latest Skincare gadget "The Beam" from the creator, Get tips and tricks from one of Seattle's beauty insiders...
Apparently there's limited availability at this thing, so call 503.227.3390 to reserve your spot now!
Event Oh Baby Corsets and Cognac Party
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Wed, Nov 11, 2009 at 11:59 AM
The sexiest store in town is having a party! Yep, Oh Baby will be hosting its annual Corsets and Cognac party at its Broadway location on Friday, November 20th, from 6-9 pm. Plus there's a new line by Toute La Nuite in stores now, so you can get a little number like this:
Don't miss it!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Event Art of Weddings 2010
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 3:08 PM
It's a little ways down the road, but something to note in the calendar is the upcoming Art of Weddings event scheduled for January 7th at the Portland Center Stage Armory. The 2010 edition will, as in the past, feature businesses providing everything from catering to stationary to photography to flowers, but of course I'm most interested in the fashion show portion of the evening, with looks from Amai Unmei, Sarah Seven, Magnifique Boutique, and Duchess' menswear.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Inspiration / Accessories / Event Temple St. Clair
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:04 AM
This is just for fun, at least for me and mine in this income bracket, but Temple St. Clair has a trunk show coming up on Friday, November 20th at Marios downtown (833 SW Broadway, 10 am-5 pm). Inspired by far-flung references to exotic cultures and classical portraits of the kings and queens of yore, her pieces look like they came right out of trunks of pirate treasure. If I had the power I would wear these cuffs up and down both arms.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Shop / Event Holiday Charity Event at Garnish
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Fri, Nov 6, 2009 at 3:08 PM
Local women's clothing boutique Garnish is getting in the holiday spirit. They're partnering with Hope Dolls, a local non-profit that gives toys and clothing to abused and neglected children, and will kick off a three-week charity event with a party on Thursday, November 19th from 6:30-8:30 pm.
There will be live music, food, and drinks! During the party Garnish is offering 20% off your entire purchase with the donation of a gently used clothing item. Additionally, Garnish will donate 10% of your purchase to Hope Dolls! Be there to make a difference, shop great new styles, and enjoy some partying fun!If you can't make it to the party, don't fret, you can still donate and receive a 10% discount on any regularly priced item in the store through December 10th! Garnish will also donate 10% of the sale to Hope Dolls. We hope to fill the entire front window with donated clothing!
- Styles found at Garnish
Hope Dolls aims to help at-risk youth, teaching independent life skills and offering job skills training, among other services. Support them and your wardrobe, and stop by Garnish for some good holiday giving.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Accessories / Event Fine Wine, Fine Design
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Nov 5, 2009 at 11:55 AM
It's come to my attention via several members of the medical community that I've developed the unhealthy ability to function on a daily basis with high levels of stress. I don't know whatever it is that they could mean, but I am already totally freaking out about getting my Christmas shopping done, aren't you???! I find the best way to find the time (I'm to avoid sharp rises in adrenaline levels, such as those that occur when you wait until the last minute) is to attend some of the many shopping events that start to sprout up on the calendar around this time of year. So mark this one down in the interest of the women in your life who have everything, but who appreciate the lovely things in life, like jewelry. Tomorrow, from 6-8 pm at Jane Currin Studio (828 NW 23rd) there will be wine a'flowing (that helps too) as well as the chance to meet with some of the jewelry artists the studio works with, such as Nora Catherine. And, speaking of tomorrow, don't forget about this!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Shopping Guide / Event A Fortes Design at Pin-Me
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Nov 3, 2009 at 10:58 AM
Thursday's calendar of trunk shows and other store events continues to mount! Now you can add Pin Me Apparel to the mix, where from 5-8 pm they are holding a trunk show for Portland designer Janessa Bautista's A Fortes Design line. The cute, sturdy pieces for women are made out of durable fabrics like hemp and are produced entirely within the city limits. You'll be able to check it out over the requisite drinks and snacks, and anyone who shops during the event will be entered in a raffle to win a gift certificate. Here's my favorite piece from the fall collection. The orange buttons are what seals the deal for me:
Monday, November 2, 2009
Home / Event Local Goods
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Nov 2, 2009 at 9:50 AM
Although I feel like the voice of a ghost from the 19th century announcing the arrival of general stores, Local Goods has established itself as the eastside answer to Seven Planet, selling mostly local sundries from soap to toilet paper to jewelry to toothbrushes. If you've yet to peruse the 21st Century's version of the old-timey theme, come check this phenomenon out—they're having an art opening this First Friday for Amaren Carosi and Sarah Cruse from 5:30-8:30 pm. (The modern general store is surprisingly swanky.) Just leave your pistols at the saloon.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Fashion / Event Book Signing and Release Party at Mabel and Zora
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Fri, Oct 30, 2009 at 1:55 PM
Mark your calendars for next Thursday, November 5, from 6:30-8:30 pm: Pearl Disctrict boutique Mabel and Zora is having a Portland release party and book signing for Winona Dimeo-Ediger's debut book "Closet Confidential - Style Secrets Learned the Hard Way." Dimeo-Ediger, a Portland native, writes the popular fashion blog Daddy Likey, and the event sounds like a good time:
Winona will be available to sign books, answer questions, compliment your shoes, dispense fabulous fashion advice and magical fairy dust—and she will also share her "go-to" outfit picks from the Mabel and Zora winter collection.
Bubbles and cookies will be served. Giveaways, and a 15% discount on one Mabel & Zora item per person will be offered. Cocktail wear is encouraged. We hope to see you there!
Bubbles AND cookies? These people know what they're doing.
Shopping Guide / Event First Friday with Molly Maine, MothLove, and AK Vintage
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Fri, Oct 30, 2009 at 10:12 AM
Now that you're all booked up for next Thursday it's time to move on down the row of "Firsts" to Friday. Lille Boutique pretty much always has something going on, and their First Fridays are a good excuse to get your monthly check-in with their constantly refreshing inventory. The art this month is a show called "The Stare's Nest" by Molly Maine, paintings of birds and feathers emerging from an inky background:
There will also be a joint trunk shpw between habitual collaborators Gretchen Jones of MothLove and Anna Korte of AK Vintage, fresh off their success at Content '09. Jones is creating holiday exclusives of her pieces in rose and black bamboo jersey (yum):
My favorite AK Vintage pieces are those that employ leather salvaged from vintage gloves. I'm especially feeling leather for necklaces:
Come to the shop from 6-9 pm and meet all these lovelies yourself.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Shop / Event Varnish & The Holiday Collective Show at Radish Underground
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 4:43 PM
It's never to early to start planning your social agenda as far as I and my dog eared planner are concerned. Next (first) Thursday is fillin' up mighty quick-like, and here's another one to add to the list: Radish Underground just had their birthday blow-out, but that's not stopping them from heading straight into another event with a return to their customary monthly shebang. This month's installment features the Portland line Varnish, as well as a group art show and sale they're calling the Holiday Collective Show. They've commissioned seven artists to produce works priced under $100, including painting, photography, sculpture, and ink drawings. And they will no doubt have the best spread south of W Burnside! Stop by a week from today, 5-9 pm to enjoy.
Fashion / Shopping Guide / Event "Safari Dreams"
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 12:09 PM
Next Thursday, November 5, from 4-8 pm, Maytee will have a trunk show of her latest Spring 2010 collection, "Safari Dreams" hosted by Parallel. If you missed the runway debut of the collection at FUSE, the entire collection will be in-store for a close look and of course to purchase. (The store will actual have it there through November 8).
Event What Does Sustainable Design Mean to You?
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 11:27 AM
Next Thursday, November 5 (7-9 pm, 718 SW Alder, free for members and students, or $5), AIGI is hosting a salon to discuss the meaning and practice of sustainable design. AIGI is primarily geared to design professionals, and speakers include representatives from Pinball Publishing and Wieden + Kennedy, so be prepared for a discussion that's more geared toward print/web issues and "green office renovation" than sourcing organic fabric or recycling craft supplies. Nonetheless, with the increasing importance of a web presence for designers and small boutiques to do well, it seems likely that anyone engaging in creative enterprise could come away with something useful. Plus, free beer! Seating (and beer) is limited, so it's wise to RSVP.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Shop / Accessories / Event Kevia Jewelry Sale
Posted by Ali "the Intern" Reingold on Wed, Oct 28, 2009 at 1:38 PM
It's more than two weeks away, but mark your calendars now for the Kevia Jewelry Holiday Sale, going down Friday November 13th, from 6-9 pm at the Historical Overlook House. The Kevia line is featured in many national magazines and around the world, and the sale will include wholesale prices, plus $5-20 sale bins.
- Kevia ring from the Bamboo collection
Kevia designer Kevia Jeffrey-West was an undergrad at Lewis & Clark College (what what!) studying in Zimbabwe when she first started designing her collections. The line really took off once she moved to SoCal, and now it's a pretty big deal, but I think we all know it was the Portland air that got her going, right? She has cited the Pacific Northwest as a source of inspiration and incorporates sustainable and fair-trade practices into all aspects of her production.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Event Trish Grantham at Land
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Tue, Oct 27, 2009 at 9:49 AM
The art of Trish Grantham is to me a quintessential piece of Portland's visual culture. Not only is it publicly visible on the Fresh Pot sign, and on the walls of many a local collector, but her animal themes are also probably at least partially responsible for the animal-portrait obsession still prevalent as an art and design theme. (Birds! So many birds!) Now she's bringing us "The Secret Society of Our Hearts," and exhibit of new work on vintage paper and wood. It's taking place at Land, the new Buy Olympia brick 'n' mortar at 3925 N Mississippi, Friday Nov 6 at 6 pm, and will be up on the walls until December 6.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Inspiration / Shop / Event Portland is Obsessed with China
Posted by Marjorie Skinner on Mon, Oct 26, 2009 at 1:59 PM
First there was the FUSE international fashion show of Portland and Chinese designers. And now that PAM has the China Design Now exhibit (Have you seen it yet? It's running through January 17, and you can read my write-up about it here) there are related events (and blog posts) springing up all over town. The one not to miss is OFFICE PDX's forum/party on Wednesday night (7-9 pm at the Froelick Gallery, 714 NW Davis). Says OFFICE's Kelly Coller:
In short:
The first part of the event is a moderated panel discussion on trends, design, consumer insights, culture and collaboration with 3 pretty amazing design leaders, all of whom have extensive experience working in China: Greg Stobbs | Retail Director for Nike, Doug Cooke | Co-Founder of Tinder Lab: A design research company, Greg Mitchell: Sr Project Manager/Design for LRS Architects, which just opened an office in Shanghai.
The 2nd part of the event is a networking/shopping party: complimentary cocktails, networking, shopping, art viewing, etc. We have selected a nice grouping of all new and cool design books about China that will be for sale that evening (shown below and online now) along with our usual 20% off portfolio sale, which we reserve just for events.
Per usual - it's free - RSVP not required but kindly requested to shop@officepdx.com - there's still room to attend the panel discussion, too.
I've seen the list of questions the panelists will be fielding, and they encompass everything from recommendations of design inspiration (take notes for your next vacation) to comparisons of the office culture in both countries. Plus the books on Chinese design look gorgeous, and New Deal Vodka will be splashing out free cocktails—holla!
(And don't forget to see the exhibit first so you have a sense of context, okay?!)
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