THIS WEEKEND marks the first-ever Summer Style in the Pearl, a two-day fashion show series. Launched by producer Jillian Rabe, it's the only runway event focused specifically on highlighting the clothing boutique culture of the Pearl District.
With two nights of merchandise on the runway and plenty of boozing and schmoozing, this will be a little more of a sales-driven event than your average designer fashion show—even, of course, for the neighborhood's many dogs. "I am just excited that dogs are included in this event," says Suzanne Hein of LexiDog (416 NW 10th, lexidog.com). "Dogs are a big part of the Pearl District, [and] this showcases our never-ending love of dogs, all dogs, whatever their style!" Summer Style in the Pearl, Pure Space, 1315 NW Overton, Fri July 12 & Sat July 13, 8 pm, $44 nightly
Below, some of the event's more traditional participants share their favorite pieces of the season:
"I'm super excited about stripes. They are always a favorite of mine and there are TONS of them this summer. This maxi dress from Saint Grace in mixed stripes is one of my favorites. It's flattering on a lot of body types even though it's stripes, because of the colors, low neckline, and side slit—they all draw your eye around, and it's just a fun dress in great colors! All the maxi skirts in stripes are really great too, and also, surprisingly, look great on most women!"—Tiffany Bean, Mabel and Zora, 748 NW 11th, mabelandzora.com
• "[We currently have] a great selection of bright summer dresses in classic American styles with feminine florals and attention to detail. This early 1960s dress by Sergio Valente takes a classic wide bodice and slim skirt and combines it with a fun Hawaiian floral print. [We're bringing] fun and classy together in vintage pieces that transcend generations."—Ellen Hsu, Vintalier, 412 NW 13th, vintalier.com
• "I'm excited about a line coming in for 'fall transition' from a new designer. This cocktail dress perfectly illustrates a nice segue from the crisp black-and-white graphic statements of summer into the sophistication of fall palettes to come. This is a softer story of high contrast—delicate ivory and black."—Jo Carter, Physical Element, 416 NW 12th, physicalelement.com
• "This unique cropped pullover sweater from Texture Clothing of Bellingham, Washington, is made from a soft, textured organic cotton fabric that is fully lined with fine pinstriped organic cotton, adding shape and interest to the garment. It's excellent for layering for year-round wear. The cowl neck and dolman sleeves make it a standout piece. It will be featured in the fashion show, and we will also be receiving more in the fall in new colors."—Andrea Allen, EcoVibe Apparel, 921 NW Everett, ecovibeapparel.com
• "I love the romance of this silk dress: light and airy and special."—Sarah Bibb, Folly, 1005 NW 16th, follypdx.com
• "Dresses are one of our main focuses at FlairWalk, and this dress by Tracy Reese is one of our favorites this season. Tracy Reese is also worn often by the first lady herself, and we love the fact that Michelle Obama wears American designers, and ones that are priced under $500 rather than over $5,000! This dress is a standout with the bright blue and touch of black. It goes with just about any sandal, flat, heel, or platform. The design incorporates multiple fabrics and the off-centerexposed zipper in the back just screams flair."—Sara Weinstein, FlairWalk, 1023 NW 11th, flairwalk.com
• "Eden's summer inspiration comes from the opulence of beaded embellishment, luxurious textures, and lavish adornments. We offer you the magic of bygone eras, distant places, and decadent periods in time. Time to dazzle, dance, and party!"—Cindy Rokoff, Eden, 221 NW 11th, edenportland.com
• "Perfect summer dress for all occasions that you can easily wear from day to night. What more screams 'summer' than a hot pink dress?"—Anna Storino, Leanna NYC, 402 NW 12th, leannanyc.com
• "This conveys the feeling of our fall collection: edgy and urban, but also accessible."—Erica Lurie, Garnish, 404 NW 12th, garnishapparel.com
