Blake is Great and He Knows It

A few weeks back a friend invited me to attend the grand re-opening of Portland’s designer denim destination – Blake. The store had been a staple on Portland’s famous 23rd Ave until this summer, when Blake shut down and moved shop to a bigger location off the main drag.

The store (owned by yup, you guessed it, Blake) is the place in Portland to get hard-to-find jeans.  Blake stocks his shelves with only the best of the best (True Religion? Blasphemy!). From Rich and Skinny to AG, if you can’t find it elsewhere odds are Blake has it. The store now has room to stock more, including tees, jackets, dresses, even socks.  Blake also stocks one-of-a-kind antiques – all available for purchase – which is one reason I had to stop by and check out the opening.

See the new store for yourself:

Be sure to check out the store and owner Blake’s blog.  Sure, he’s  little full of himself (his clothing is vastly superior to H&M, obviously), but at least he tells you like it is. He’s refreshingly knowledgeable  about denim. And that is why the people of Portland love him.

Up in the Air – Portland’s Got Style

When you think of stylish cities in the states Portland isn’t exactly on the top of the list. But that is what Karin Vitt of website PDX Neat Sheet is out to change. Since launching last year the site has become the number one source of fashion news, events and sales in the Portland area (and one that I frequent daily).

Friday night was the official launch party for the site, hosted by Crave Portland. Held at the top of the beautiful Hotel DeLuxe, the party featured a who’s who of Portland fashion insiders, including a fashion show and shopping booths featuring local designers. The night benefited Willamette Riverkeeper, a local non-profit committed to keeping the Willamette safe and clean.

My friend and I arrived a half hour after the event started and the rooftop was already packed. The crowd was buzzing with the excitement of the event, the clear skies and, of course, the free drinks. We made our way around, grabbing drinks and purchasing raffle tickets to benefit the charity. We were both excited to browse the booths featuring local jewelry designers, artists and authors.

One booth in particular caught my eye – Pasteesh, an affordable jewelry line developed by Carrie and Bette of Portland. The pieces were beautifully displayed on top of vintage books and artifacts (you know I’m a sucker for vintage). The colorful pieces are each made by hand, making each one as much of a treasure as the pieces with which they were displayed.

A number of other jewelry designers were on hand, including Sahlia.

And, of course, my friend Melissa couldn’t resist trying on these fun hats!

There was also a fashion show, featuring Portland boutiques like Mabel & Zora and Oh, Baby.

It was a great event, and I am thrilled I was able to attend. It appears that Portland fashion has made it’s mark, and it’s not going anywhere.