It’s hard to believe that only four years ago Local35 first
opened its doors at 3556 SE Hawthorne. Back then, the arrival of a
store catering to the streetwear needs of Portland’s hipsters was a big
deal—it predated the influx of independently minded boutiques and
the ensuing range of options that we’ve since grown accustomed to. And
while back then their focus was heavier on stylized T-shirts and
hoodies, Local35 today is the result of its ability to evolve in tune
with its environment, honing its identity in an increasingly
competitive market.
One of the frontrunners in supplying interesting, casual options for
Portland men, Local35 has broadened the scope of its collections with
increasing sophistication. Likewise, the selection for women has grown
drastically, with an edited blend of local lines alongside imports from
around the globe. In part to reinforce the development of its identity,
Local35’s anniversary will also launch a new logo for the store, a
visual shift that underscores how far their concept has come.
Copy will be performing a live set, and multimedia darlings the
Pander Bros. will contribute live painting in the store, also
celebrating the launch of their new graphic novel, Accelerate.
The store will be closed during the day, and will open at 7 pm for the
party, which will go late. Additionally, the event kicks off Local35’s
anniversary sale, with markdowns through Sunday—the perfect
opportunity to check out how far an old favorite has come. (Local35
anniversary party, Local35, 3556 SE Hawthorne, Thurs Nov 8, 7 pm,
free)
Meanwhile, on the other side of town, Julia Barbee will be
celebrating the opening of a retail space for her Frocky Jack
Morgan line, housed inside Flutter (3948 N Mississippi). One
of the first lines to be found at Seaplane (827 NW 23rd), the
longstanding unofficial headquarters of local fashion design, Barbee’s
collection of apparel and accessories is distinct. Intricately
embellished and idiosyncratically feminine, her fanciful, sprite-like
dresses are a perfect complement to Flutter’s magnificent jumble of
antiques, taxidermy, and other found treasures. Though her designs will
remain available on the Westside at Seaplane, this will be Barbee’s
home base on the Eastside, also serving as her studio. This is yet
another great acquisition for the Mississippi neighborhood, whose range
of retail offerings has been steadily and rapidly
improving—onwards and upwards. (Frocky Jack Morgan grand
opening party, Flutter, 3948 N Mississippi, Thurs Nov 8, 5 pm, free,
w/Djangophiles)
Movin’ on up: marjorie@portlandmercury.com