Marjorie Skinner
THERE ARE a couple of things that helped make last Saturday's Alley 33—the annual ready-to-wear showcase hosted by Altar—so popular. Being outside with a bar in August certainly helps. Even more so is that this show consistently focuses on clothing that's manufactured in the city and typically available in size runs at shops (as opposed to the one-of-a-kind or bespoke pieces that contribute more dramatic moments on runways). Alley 33 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 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-size 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, you'll find some of the looks that struck me most on this page. Unlike the "you had to be there" aspect of most runways gone by, you could consider it window-shopping.
• Proof that Portland's hipster breeding programs are booming, the amazing children's boutique Black Wagon is celebrating its ninth anniversary. The Original Photo Booth, refreshments both kid-safe and unsafe, and giveaways will all be involved. Black Wagon, 3964 N Mississippi, Thurs Aug 13, 5-8 pm
• As part of the Metro-commissioned Glean art show/residency, textile artist and natural-dye master Rio Wrenn of R.A.W. Textiles is presenting a fashion performance to relay "the results of gleanings," called Spiritual Warrior. Disjecta, 8371 N Interstate, Fri Aug 14, 6:30 pm
• When Adam Arnold opens his studio once or twice a year for a sample sale, you'd better look alive. This weekend is one of the special ones, with "substantially reduced" prices on men's and women's clothing, fabrics, and Arnold's spirit animals/soft sculptures, "snooks." Cash, check, and cards accepted but "if you don't use a card, it's even less expensive!" Adam Arnold Studio, 338 SE MLK, Sat Aug 15, 10 am-3 pm
