There are very few places in Lake Oswego that can truly accommodate every budget. That’s not to say they aren’t all tre chic, the problem lies in the coins, and with this economy a girl must be penny practical. Yes the economy is starting to recover, but that doesn’t mean we needlessly go back to our wasteful and extravagant ways. Thankfully we have fiscally responsible boutique owners like Sandy Varzarschi who know how to buy merchandise that allows us to shop with reckless abandon while simultaneously avoiding serious spiral into a guilt laden comma.  And I know that you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Silkwood - Pearl District

Silkwood is truly an inviting, comfortable, and whimsical environment. Sandy’s apparel is all about style and comfort, but heavy emphasis on style. She’s careful to choose flattering fabrics, think careful coverage to areas with… dare I say it… texture! The whole concept of each boutique is clear, abundant elegance with timeless pieces that will gracefully carry you through the day and into the evening.

Outside of her keen eye and buying prowess, her private line of carefully crafted Silkwood design is truly wearable art. Now I don’t mean art like bright colors and enough LSD to fully integrate into an Andy Warhol painting. Her design line is perfectly romantic, where old meets new in a royal fantasy. If Marie Antoinette were alive today, and she were on the cover of Vogue (Paris edition of course), she would be wearing this line. Think dreamy details, wearable tapestry, organic silk, and an air of pampered privilege paired with economy. Silkwood is truly a unique butterfly that can only be witnessed through one’s own eyes.

Silkwood - Lake Oswego

One thing that I had to have, and I highly suggest you make the trip to one of the locations for this. Silkwood carries the perfect summer cover-up. Long and short, and in a multitude of designs, and the best part is that no two are alike. These beauties can be worn in 15 different ways…. Yes darling you read that right… 15! And for the best part, they are $39!!!

So now that you’re committed and in a tizzy over all of these fabu items, you’ll need to make your way to their Lake Oswego location, or to the new Pearl District store between Lovejoy and Marshall on 11^th. Visit the website at www.silkwood.us for more information.

Happy shopping darlings…

Written By: Daphney Couture

The sailor look appeared more than 200 years ago as a simple uniform issued to French seaman. The Breton sweater, commonly known in the fashion industry, made a play for the runway thanks to the brilliance of Coco Chanel. While traveling on the coast she noted this simple frock and decided to take women from corsets to the seas of comfort.

Thankfully,  well-developed fashion savants have taken us from unpretentious sweaters to a full wardrobe fit for a French submarine crew, or a fabu  yacht in Monaco! I prefer the latter!  Simply put, you can’t blink an eye without seeing blue and white striped shirts, dresses, and skirts on some adorable trend setter this season. However, I would rather make the trend my own and add a few unique touches or accessories and I’m guessing you read FFPDX for a little inspiration to pair with your exceptional style. Well…. I shall not disappoint!

Minimalism is sometimes best, and for the sake of being elegant and stylish I say wear this lovely pattern as one piece that stops traffic. If you’re a dame with legs, and in the NW with all these desirable running trails it’s difficult to avoid them, opt for the short, boat-neck, mini dress. Since this is a fairly plain print you can go heavy with the color to accessorize. Perhaps a bright red pair of wedge shoes, or a yellow strappy sandal will do the trick. If you prefer a something a bit more polished and classic, add a loafer, something classic white or a casual Top Sider. 

If you’re feeling chilly and need something casual and stylish for the evening, try pairing the boat-neck top with a loose fitting menswear silk pant, much like Coco did in her day. Try to pick pants that hang straight down to the top of the foot, lower than the ankle. If they are too high you run the risk of looking like you work on the boat instead of owning it! Another great look, I know you were waiting for me to integrate my favorite item here, add a pair of leggings and espadrilles! Throw a cardigan around your neck and a white straw hat, preferably a Fedora style, on your well groomed head. The bravura vividness of your versatile fashion will be sure to turn heads.

Happy shopping darlings…

Written By: Daphney Couture

Designer Michelle Wright

If I were going to take side saddle riding to a whole new high, off the horse and onto the runway, I would do in Michelle Wright’s fabu collection of well tailored pants. Stunning pockets and extra details made this fashionista tremble in anticipation of availability. Her ready-to-wear fashions are the perfect mix of understated elegance and comfort.

Audrey Brown took country club chic to a whole new level. The delicate fabrics gracefully draped her models bodies, but also clung to the desirable parts of their curves. I was particularly drawn to a wrap dress reminiscent of early Dian von Furstenberg, but enhanced with delicious fabric and perfectly placed details.
Now if one falls down the rabbit hole in Portland and needs a fun and playful outfit that’s fit to party with a mad crowd… Hayley Fexer’s line is the perfect fit. Bright colors mixed with pail hues and lots, and lots or delightful layers. Truly something Portland chic!

Designer Audrey Brown

Suppose you need to embrace a regal look for a very formal event, something slightly edgy, but with a hint of sophistication! You’ll find just what you’re looking for in Kristina Tasyuk’s looks. If you are a bride to be and quite possibly vomit just a bit in your mouth at the thought of a boring white silk dress plastered in appliqués, you need to be seeking advice from this line. Beautiful designs that throw convention to the wind and make a statement, assuming you want to be the envy of everyone in the room? And truly, what woman doesn’t want to be the most beautiful bell of the ball at her wedding.

Designer Nina Nguyen

Nina Nguyen displayed cleaver craftsman ship with her flirty yet slightly in-your-face line. Think lots of luscious black, torn layers, and mind-altering uniqueness! I imaging her type of buyer as the sensationally dressed woman at a bar who would let you buy her a drink and then slap you for buying it. Hmm… actually I think this is the perfect line for today’s modern feminist. Now if you take Nguyen’s line and make it a bit more casual, you’ve landed right on Kelly Thompson’s line. Breathtaking shapes and bold lines make this line a sure win, especially in Portland’s fashion scene.

On the whole I can say without a question of doubt that this year’s fashion show full of brilliant design and fabu creations. There are several other designers not mentioned in this article who showed creativity, thoughtfulness, and an exceptional approach in their designs. I highly suggest you take a look at the workings of these fashion savants at www.mycitydesigners.com.
Enjoy…

Written By: Daphney Couture

Sheer bravery also describes this sign. A muse that characterizes this best is Sarah Jessica Parker’s character, Carrie, in the Sex in the City series. Never afraid to step out in bold, and often times – questionable, fashion, she epitomized fearless trendsetting. Although not everything worn grabs editorial fashion attention, each look definitely requires a double take. “Outside the box” takes an entirely new meaning when seen through the eyes of a confident fashionista – aka. an Aries in heels.

As mentioned before, not every look worn is trend-worthy. Due to their impatience and emotional vulnerabilities, choices are often made quick and haphazard. Purple tutus paired with t-shirts could be Monday’s go-to look, while Tuesday could be vintage tuxedo blouses and a-line skirts. Predictions remain incognito when it comes to an Aries. Spur of the moment decisions make them the gorgeous divas that they are one day and the what-not-to-wear icons of another.

All in all, we all look up to Aries. Whether we know it or not, they are the people who become the best of emerging designers, supermodels, fitness trainers, executives, music artists, comics and A-list celebrities. Elle Macpherson, Reese Witherspoon, Mariah Carey and Conan O’ Brien complete just a handful of the lengthy list of famous persons, whom just happen to be Aries.

Of course one does not have to be an Aries to channel the amazing courage and determination they exhibit when making decisions about fashion. The biggest way to exhibit this is simply knowing one’s personal style and being fearless about showing it off, in every possible way.  Don’t let current trends or peers determine what is fashionable; after all we know that’s not what an Aries would do.

Written By: Jennifer Wiglesworth

Imagination, something few adults carry, is priceless in the fashion world. Many designers, photographers and various other artists are Pisces, and fittingly so. They allow their imaginations to become realities through their artistic vision. In fashion, they are the ones that push boundaries, creating the garments that today seem questionable and tomorrow become the next big trend.

Through compassion, they allow others in, creating a powerful inner circle. It is rare to see a Pisces turn a friend away. That same attitude they have for people also plays out in fashion. Wardrobe selections may not always be on par, because they want to try everything, giving every trend ‘a chance’ to work itself to its fullest. Of course, repercussions of this trait can go either way. Thanks to their impeccable intuition, worst dressed lists can usually be bypassed.

Unfortunately, more often than not their idealism and weak-will get in the way of making decisions, even when it comes to pulling a look together. Idealism creates a bar that no-one can reach, no matter how stylish. With weak-will, as mentioned prior, everything presents itself desired. With these thoughts warring inside, putting together a descent outfit presents itself impossible.

All in all, the positive Pisces out-styles the negative, which presents a truly creative force. Well represented by the sign, in both character and fashion, is Drew Barrymore. Always presenting personal style in the most creative way, she is an innovator, a selfless soul, a Pisces.

Written By: Jennifer Wiglesworth

Bohemian is the first word that comes to mind when I think of an Aquarius. Often, this immediately harnesses thoughts of hippies wearing psychedelic prints and hemp jewelry, but that’s not always the case. Although it is easy, comfortable, and what usually makes sense to someone who over-analyzes everything, it can also be completely fashionable.

Unique begins bohemian styling. Finding a piece with a creative pattern or distinct color tells a story that others tune into. It doesn’t need to be tie-dye or zebra patterned, but it should be distinct enough to be worthy of bohemian.

Garments cannot enter bohemian category without being loose. Current looks have been nothing but, so many have been channeling this style without even knowing it.  Although loose is in, it still needs to fit. Referring to body type is important here.

This style wouldn’t be complete without jewelry. True bohemian rocks anything natural and wearing less than three pieces is a definite style crime.

A leather belt is the perfect accessory to complete most bohemian looks. Wrapped, and often times tied, around the waist gives the look a natural, modern twist.

Being an Aquarius doesn’t mean one has to style self bohemian, but I will put all bets on the fact that it makes the most sense- right?

Written By: Jennifer Wiglesworth

No-one does it better than Tommy Hilfiger. His spring 2011 collection glamorized this style in colors like daffodil yellow, spring green, robin’s egg blue and powder pink. Ultimate pieces that truly showed off the 2011 prepster included jumpsuits, hip-length trench coats and spaghetti-strapped, cinch-waisted, mini-dresses. Staples to watch out for, however, remain to be collared blouses, plaid patterns, and over-the-shoulder sweaters. Bow-ties, striped belts, and shades are must-have accessories that will work this style to completion.

For color, follow the master and pick a color that speaks ‘spring’. Along with those listed above, basics include lilac and marigold. If confused, use spring flowers as one’s muse. To avoid overpowering the overall look with too much color, choose one piece as inspirational. Whether an entire dress, a pair of shorts or a large accessory, make a statement by singling out what needs to get noticed.

Where style is concerned, bring the ‘neo’ to the ‘prep’ in loose-fitting garments. Although never wanting to take away from body-conscious areas, such as the waist, the overall look should speak, ‘easy, breezy’. Tommy’s jumpsuit perfects this look to a‘t’. Exemplifying loose in both the top and wide-leg palazzo pants, while still highlighting the waist, shouts neo-prep at its best. This look not only represents the style, but flatters a women’s body.

To truly be considered prep, each look must have identifying pieces signifying this style. Some of these include staples, such as those listed above. Over-the-shoulder sweater looks obviously speak to this style. Unfortunately, although this look works great on the runway and on television, it is kind of annoying for an everyday look. I suggest working on finding the best pair of 80’s, vintage shades one can find. Ray Ban also makes an excellent pair, if actual vintage cannot be found. Not only do shades represent style, but they also have amazing universal appeal. Complimenting every outfit and lasting all season long, who can say ‘no’ to purchase at least one of these amazing identifying accessories.

So maybe the actual, preppie, styles of childhood crush, Zach Morris, aren’t back, but the modern take in what is now neo-prep, is more popular than ever. In fact, today I am crushing on these styles. They are the perfect pairing of the best of what was and is, today. Celebrate for shopping for a favorite 80’s accessory today.

Written By: Jennifer Wiglesworth

One would assume that the title would tell it all, delivering a logical reason for one to assume the content of the show. Fit 2 Print, it seems simple enough, but AI never fails to take you on an adventure into the vastness of the fashionably creative and let you dance on the clouds of ingenuity. The opening act took onlookers through a print portal, away from the drab of laying in the sun flipping through the dozens of magazines we pine over each month. One can find more than just photos of models in stagnation on glossed pages, and why not revel in reckless abandon? Why not move from the dot matrix print to a stunning dot matrix dress? Or perhaps show off your skills while peacocking as…well a Portland Monthly Peacock! Who knew that Portland Monthly could be even more entertaining than its well-versed journalists?

Inspirational Mod took on a whole new look in Janine Ellenbeck’s collection. Frocks boldly bolstered with Mother Nature’s own color pallet made me want to find my inner Twiggy and head for the runway. High waist skirts, short hemlines, and perfect tailoring worked in rhythm, embracing every curve and highlighting the most beautiful features of the female body. Her collection was beyond swell or even noteworthy of…dare I say…groovy!

By designer Becky Ross

If GI Joe and Grace Kelly were to meet and conceive a fashion line it would embody the true magnificence of the Becky Ross collection. A delicate dance of sophistication with bold fabrics and enough army green to send a shock wave all the way back to the runways in Paris. One by one her models moved her art down the runway in sexy puffed sleeves, bewitching suits, silhouette enhancing dresses, and the perfect outdoor accouterments.  The brilliant theme behind her line was the accessibility of her collection. One could easily take her line from the runway to the streets of Portland.

By designer Kilee Vangundy

Kilee Vangundy brought back that famous grunge wear look that the NW became so famous for back in the mid-90s. However, this time it took a bit of a spin through the fab cycle, and this collection will make you go straight from wash to wear. This wasn’t your average use of flannel, although it’s hard to tell the fabric from the rafters with the rest of the press. Kilee paired plaids with crisp leggings, long bare legs, and skillfully shredded denim. Kurt Cobain would be proud to see his uniform resurface with such smartness.

By designer Tony Peniche

Now menswear inspiration was a hit and a hit with Tony Peniche’s collection. Although his name should really be Tony Panache! This collection of well-tailored jackets, pants, and form fitting tops made every girl in the room question her date and every man question his style choice for the evening. His pallet was as dark as the night and yet the details in his pieces were refreshingly arousing.

Want more??? Well darlings stay tuned for a recap of the second act, and trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Stay tuned for Part II!!!

To view video footage of the designers above visit www.mycitydesigners.com

Written By: Daphney Couture
Photos By: Michael Zaugg

J Brand Jeans

Look #1: Versatile works style best. Begin with a well-fitted, dark rinse that will take looks from day to night, like a breeze. Take reinvented 70’s style to the max by sporting a pair like J Brand’s Love Story ($179, J Brand). The wide waistband provides comfort, while the fit and flare harness the best of the trend.

Salmon sweat by Souchi

A ¾-length, bamboo sweater speaks comfortable day-wear, when paired with this denim. A working transitional piece, from winter to spring, this piece can practically be worn all year long. Choose colors that brighten, like this salmon option, by Souchi ($340, Souchi). Pair with a cotton camisole, with built in support ($12.99, Target). Take the look from day to night, by grabing another top, like this corset white tank, by Nic and Zoe ($86, Mabel and Zora).  Layer with a fitted jacket, like this denim, military style, by Kensie ($135, Anne Bocci).

Work this look with a pair of nude, peep-toe, stilettos ($59.95, DSW). Complete the look with oversized, bohemian, drop-style earrings, like these amazing Layla leaves, by Amy Burgess ($42). Pair with a unique, natural-style cocktail ring, such as this square, silver and turquoise one, also by Amy Burgess ($25, both at Ecovibe Apparel). Last but not least, grab a natural clutch, like this one by Franchi ($118, Nordstrom).

Cap Sleeve by Trinity @ EcoVibe

Look #2: Statement pieces work fashion like nothing else. Show real distinction in a nude-colored, cap-sleeved, loose blouse, by Trinity ($55, EcoVibe Apparel). The lace detail, lightweight material and scoop-neck design makes a statement. Pair top with a bright color or neutral denim, above-the-knee dressy short or skirt. Nanette Lepore’s “Catch Me” skirt makes no mistakes, celebrating tiered ruffles and side pockets on distressed black denim ($248, Nordstrom).

Over-the-knee boots @ Zelda's

Stop traffic by completing the look with amazing, camel-colored, over-the-knee, and heeled-boots. ($ 470, Zelda’s Shoe Bar). What better way to top of the look than with amazing jewelry, by local designers. A favorite piece is the Camillia Rose ring, by Nora Catherine ($129, Anne Bocci Boutique). The gold showcases brilliance, while the flower design maintains a natural quality. Finish with an original, neutral-toned, tote handbag, by local designer, Clark & Mayfield ($98, Sublime Clothing).

Both looks offer versatility and style – what more could you want.

Written By: Jennifer Wiglesworth

Organic Cotton Dress by Souchi

Look #1: Nothing speaks fashionable comfort like an organic cotton dress, by Souchi ($318, Souchi). This year’s neutral t-shirt dress is heavenly and suitable for all skin types. Layer it over a simplistic, monochromatic tank, such as the self-bra camisole by Gilligan & O’Malley ($12.99, Target). Ornament the dress perfectly with a one-of-a-kind Art Deco, drop-necklace, designed by Anne Bocci ($130, Anne Bocci Boutique). Its marigold glass beads paired with an ornate bohemian design bring rich flavor to the dress. Snag a pair of amazing shoes from Ether boutique, to complete the look. Offering original designs at unbeatable prices, a maroon pair of espadrilles will be the amazing pop of color this outfit needs, ($19.99, Ether). When all is said and done this is an original look others will pine for, and there is still $19 left to spend!

Ruffle top at Ecovibe

Look #2: If elegance is one’s style, ruffles clearly demonstrates it best. Adorned in cascading silk ruffles, tops like this heather tank blouse, by Trinity, is what to look for when dressing up, simplistically ($58, Ecovibe Apparel). Pair with a trendy pair of fuchsia, mid-rise, skinny leg jeans, by J Brand ($176, J Brand). Not only does this bring out the ‘wow’ by flattering every woman’s body type, but the color also brings the ‘now’ in today’s trends. Adding an original Raindrop bag, by local Portland artist Nate Bagley, adds dramatic color in a comfortable, over-the-shoulder style ($185, Mink Boutique). Slipping on a neutral shade of leather dress sandals, especially when designed by Italian shoemaker Ikia, is the perfect complement to this look, ($49.95, DSW). Complete the look with a natural statement piece, like a silver cuff adorned with a large turquoise stone, large cocktail ring or unique hair clip ($12.99-19.99, Target).

Chie Mihara Emir Cork Platform @ Lille Boutique

Look #3: Chie Mihara’s marigold, suede, ankle-strap platforms provide the inspiration for this entire look ($360, Lille Boutique). Although seemingly spendy for one pair of shoes, Chie revolutionizes footwear by pairing real fashion with surprising comfort. This means they will last and be desired to be worn, over time. Bring out the color by pairing shoes with a bold printed skirt, or dress, such as Veronica M’s strapless mosaic ($118, Mabel and Zora). Earth tones of blue and green, with faint hints of yellow, complement the shoes perfectly, without going over the top. Last but not least, finish with a large pair of tear-drop earrings, by Mudd ($14, Khol’s). With intricate design detail and accents of gold jewels, they bring out the understated style desired to complete the look. And, $8 is leftover to celebrate with a friend.

Don’t allow keeping a budget to detract from the goal of looking fabulous. With these looks, we can check both of the ‘list’.

Written By: Jennifer Wiglesworth