Last weekend saw the opening of not just hotly anticipated boutique
Frances May (1013 SW Washington), but also a quieter opening of
doors around the corner at Covet (429 SW 10th), the papered-over
doorway of which has been promising its own unveiling for some time
now. Covet’s merch is a mix of high-end basics (Citizens of
Humanity denim, Michael Stars tops and leggings) plus
dressier separates from lines like Tibi; a small but well-chosen
and well-priced selection of jewelry; and most excitingly (to this
fashion writer at least), accessories by California’s Calleen
Cordero—a handmade line of leather accessories out of
California that’s heavy on flat stud embellishments. The line’s belts
are already in store, with shoes and bags on the way. With the
simultaneous arrival of these two excellent stores on the same block,
one can only imagine what other chic businesses will be drawn to the
Ace Hotel’s irresistible proximity.
Event-wise, this week brings us Flourish, an annual fashion
show for the N Mississippi crowd: Stores Sameunderneath (915 N
Shaver; 806 NW 23rd), Blue (3753 N Mississippi), Gypsy
Chic (3966 N Mississippi), Black Wagon (3964 N Mississippi),
Pin Me Apparel (3705 N Mississippi), and Phlox (3962 N
Mississippi) will all show their wares. Of note is that Phlox owner
Barbara Seipp is also launching her new line, Isaac Hers,
at the event, with a launch party in the store to follow the runway
show. The show itself is a benefit for Escuela Viva Dual
Language School, and will be emceed by the Mercury‘s own
Wm. Steven Humphrey. (Mississippi Ballroom, 833 N Shaver,
Thurs April 10, 6 pm, $5 suggested donation)
Meanwhile, the art museum is hosting Power of the Purse,
which teams local personalities with handbag designers. The co-designed
results are auctioned off to benefit Girls Inc., which provides
empowerment programs to school-age girls. In addition to those on the
auction block, a “boutique” of original designs from still more handbag
designers will be set up on the premises, with still more buying
options that will contribute to the cause. (Portland Art Museum,
1219 SW Park, Thurs April 10, 5 pm, $125)
This weekend is also the Buckman Art & Sell, a two-day
craft exposition and sale benefiting the Buckman Elementary
School. The weekend kicks off with a party at the Jupiter Hotel
(see My What A Busy Week!, at left), and the sale—featuring 120
regional artists and craftspeople—runs through Saturday.
(Buckman Elementary, 320 SE 16th, Fri April 11, 5-9 pm, $5, Sat
April 12, 10 am-5 pm, $2)