Further proof that the independently owned retail world in Portland is doing just fine:

Exhibit A. Tender Loving Empire has announced the opening of a third location, in addition to the original in the West End of downtown, and one on Hawthorne, where the paint is barely dry. The newest one is headed to 525 NW 23rd, and is due to arrive in August. In the meanwhile here’s a rendering of what the space will look like once completed, by Fieldwork Design and Architecture:

11728804_1185745198117679_2444166351347549317_o.jpg
  • TLE via Facebook

Exhibit B. Branch Birdie is also opening a new, second location, also on NW 23rd: Le Souk Le Souk is due in September at 820 NW 23rd, and will be “inspired by Marrakech market style.”

An early-peek product shot from Le Souk Le Souk
  • Le Souk Le Souk via Instagram
  • An early-peek product shot from Le Souk Le Souk

Marjorie Skinner is the Portland Mercury's Managing Editor, author of the weekly Sold Out column chronicling the area's independent fashion and retail industry, and a frequent contributor to the film and...