There are a couple things that help make Alley 33—the annual ready-to-wear showcase hosted by Altar—so popular. Being outside in the alley on 33rd and Hawthorne with an al fresco bar in August certainly helps. Even more so is the fact that this show is the only one to consistently focus on clothing that's manufactured in the city (as opposed to the one-of-a-kind or bespoke pieces that contribute more dramatic moments on the runways) and is typically available in size runs at shops around the city—it also features a number of the in-house lines designed at boutiques like Folly, Amelia, Mink, and of course Altar.
If you think buying locally made clothing means spending hundreds on one item and several fittings, Alley 33 is proof of the fact that there are many alternatives to that model. Many. It's a big show: This year there were 20 designers represented, including a little bit of plus-fashion and a little bit of menswear. I don't usually go into this thing looking for showstoppers or event-wear so much as solid, versatile staples. Given that, here are three lines that stood out the most:
Laurs Kemp
A Portland newcomer who recently took up as the in-house apparel designer at Backtalk West—a fantastic place to begin getting acquainted. It's simple in the best way, easy wearing but thoughtful. Down for whatever.
Piper Dalton
Remember Souchi? The luxury cashmere line used to have a boutique on NW 23rd where you could find all manner of yummy, soft sweaters, scarves, leggings, dresses, bikinis... Piper Dalton brought me back with these gorgeous, clingy pieces for lounging and layering.
Emma Salz
I've never heard of Emma before, but her lovely tailored dresses in wonderful, unexpectedly nubby textile choices should come around more often.
Plus these details/moments:
