New York City is abuzz after kicking off the first of the
major fashion weeks (featuring ready-to-wear collections for
spring/summer ’08), and the enthusiasm seems to have rippled our way. A
cluster of fashion events is going down this week in
Portland—albeit a distinctly mellower schedule of runway to-dos.
While it should be noted that Portland has carved out a place for
itself on the greater fashion circuit, with Portland Fashion
Week picking up the baton after LA’s fashion week concludes next
month, Portland’s typical runway event is more party than industry. In
contrast to traditional shows, for which designers spend extravagantly
to present their collections to editors, buyers, and clients, here you
will more than likely pay an admission, with the understanding that a
fashion show is entertainment, or at least spectacle.
This week, you can get a good look at the fall offerings of seven
boutiques along N Mississippi at Flourish, a fashion show taking
place as part of the monthly Mississippi Social event. With the
diverse lineup of stores, chances are high that you’ll find something
that suits your style. Presenting are Phlox (a very feminine
boutique, carrying lines like Corey Lynn Calter, Tibi,
and Three Dots), Gypsy Chic (bohemian, international
pieces made for the backpacking world traveler), Sameunderneath (sharp, casual streetwear for men and women), Pin Me Apparel (a
mix of classic and trendy womenswear and accessories; Pin Me always has
a treasure trove of comfortable and flattering pieces), Blue (an
eclectic mix of casual Ts and sneakers, plus some vintage and local
lines), Amalee (a gratifyingly inexpensive selection of on-trend
womenswear), and Black Wagon (kids’ clothes for cool parents).
Accompanied by Mr. Mu Mu acting as DJ, and the Mercury‘s
own Wm. Steven Humphrey acting as emcee, the event’s proceeds go
to the Historic Mississippi Business Association and Albina Youth
Opportunity School. (Corner of N Mississippi & Beech, Thurs Sept
13, 6 pm, $2 suggested donation)
Meanwhile, Lindsay Garcia and Heidi Parsitt of Ziva
Salon have put together a fashion show to benefit local
conservation organization Ecotrust they’re calling the Eco Style
Fashion Show. Using it as an opportunity to show off their
hairstyling skills, Ziva will feature removable extensions dyed with
natural temporary hair dye on models sporting looks from the ubiquitous
Sameunderneath, Someone Clothing, and Le Rouge, as well
as Art Institute of Portland graduate Diana Pingul. Aside from
Sameunderneath’s bamboo fiber clothing, sustainable catered food, and
the natural hair dye, the production isn’t super sustainable, but it
should bring in a good haul for the environmental champion it benefits.
Oh, and another motivation? Your ticket price includes a $50 gift
certificate to the salon! (Billy Frank Jr. Conference Center, 721 NW
9th, 2nd Floor, Sun Sept 16, 6 pm show, doors and refreshments, 5 pm,
$25)
The third and final show happening this week is the Mario’s
Fashion Gala (833 SW Broadway). Benefiting the Portland Art Museum,
this is your chance to see the big names in fashion on a catwalk
without leaving town. The production values and hobnobbing
opportunities come at a price, however. (Portland Art Museum, 1219
SW Park, Wed Sept 19, 6:30 pm, $175-275)
Off the runways, Bishops is celebrating the opening of its
brand-new salon (with nail services and a cocktail bar!). It’s a
White Party, with attendees encouraged to come dressed in white,
and serving white food and drinks—this is definitely a place and
a party to check out. (Bishops, 1011 NW Everett, Thurs Sept 13, 7-10
pm; w/afterparty at the Chesterfield, 1101 E Burnside)
Finally, if you’re looking to snap up some end of summer deals, do
not miss the annual PDX Collective Warehouse Sale. Participating
boutiques will be offering 50-70 percent off, so get there early,
because it’s going to be a madhouse. Two stores located in Hood River
(Parts + Labour and Jewelry by Cari) join locals
Shoefly, Nolita, Physical Element, Bubble
Boutique, Pin Me Apparel, Phlox, and Moxie.
Happy hunting. (Apotheke, 1314 NW Glisan, #2A, Sat Sept 15, 11 am-6
pm)
Keeping busy in the boonies: marjorie@portlandmercury.com