THERE'S NO DOUBT that this week's big fashion event is the Mercury's Open Season fashion show (see Feature). And I'm not just saying that because this marks the sixth year of my life in which I've produced the event. I'm saying that because the lineup of talent is formidably exciting, and you should all totally go. However, there are a few other happenings this week that are also worth looking in on.... 

Lille Boutique (1007 E Burnside) is known as a hotspot for lingerie, but if you haven't let them introduce you to the swimwear of Malia Mills, allow me to insist that you pop into the store this week for a two-day trunk show of her work. Her swimwear makes it seem like other swimwear must be designed and manufactured by woman haters. Mills' suits are flattering and comfortable, don't cut you across your curves, and come in timeless styles and fabrics, including retro references that are glam but not campy or too literal. She uses non-tropical solid colors and lovely, dignified prints (why is it that swimwear prints have to be almost universally terrible?). I have a pair of her high-waisted, tap pant-style swimsuit bottoms, which actually make me feel good about myself, are nice and elongating, and even cover up the crappy tattoo I got when I was 16. Win, win, win. Mills is taking private appointments while the New Yorker is in town, but they're filling up fast. If you manage to get one you'll get a $50 discount on your purchase, so hop to it if you're serious about finding a flattering suit with Mills' expert guidance. She'll also be doing a meet and greet as part of First Friday, from which you will be able to seamlessly segue your evening across the street for Open Season at the Bossanova. (Thurs May 6, 11 am-6 pm, Fri May 7, 2-9 pm, info@lilleboutique.com for an appointment)

This first Thursday Parallel (1022A NW Johnson) will also host a trunk show, for Portland jewelry maker Christen Abernethy. Abernethy's back after a four-year hiatus, and her hammered metals and antique coins are perfect for summery travels and frisky prints. (Thurs May 6, 6-8 pm) Downtown shop Small Victories (328 NW Broadway, #117) is having their very first trunk show event on Saturday, as part of a two-day sale in honor of Mother's Day—they're calling it "YR MOM." Look for giveaways and other treats at the store on Friday, with ceramist Heidi Sowa featured on Saturday. (Fri May 7, 4-7 pm, Sat May 8, noon-3 pm trunk show.

Get the scoop on more Portland fashion and shopping at mod.portlandmercury.com