Everything, All the Time

We totally missed our “New York City-girl” window. These days we’re a little too old to make the City’s compromises: tiny living quarters, super-expensive everything, and crowds at every turn. We want the cachet without the compromise.

Anytime we need an NYC moment, we pop in to Machus on E Burnside. Owner Justin Machus moved from his former shop, Local 35, to a sleek, refined space and a sleek, refined inventory.  His new direction is all about a downtown-cool collection of clothing and accessories. The city girl in us loves Alexander Wang, and Machus has a delectable selection; the soft, asymmetrical T-shirt from Anna Catherine will look stunning paired with a pair of dark-wash jeans from Nudie; and we couldn’t keep our hands off the beautifully cut pants and jersey dresses by Kai Akkmann. Spring will bring more fabulous labels to the racks, including styles from Won Hundred and Black Crane. You can’t be a city-girl without killer accessories, and Machus has you covered. Industrial-chic necklaces and rings from Killer Collection share space with cheeky baubles by In God We Trust.

So we missed out on NYC in our 20’s, but in the end, Portland’s reality is better than the New York fantasy.

Machus
542 E. Burnside
Portland, OR 97214
503.206.8626
www.machusonline.com

Shake and Bake

In most cities, pizza for dinner means either so-so chain delivery options or eating a slice while standing in a cramped, brightly lit space. Drink options usually include a do-it-yourself soda fountain or maybe a watery beer. So, uh, remind us again why we as a nation love this food so much?

Oven and Shaker brings Portland the pizza experience it deserves. This Pearl District, casual-Italian pizzeria features spacious banquettes, an even more spacious bar (at a monstrous 45 feet long, there’s plenty of elbow room for toasting and sipping) for the mixing of expertly prepared cocktails—including some fruit-forward masterpieces—and of course, fantastic pizza. Wood-fired, featuring a number of fresh and locally sourced ingredients, this new addition to the PDX restaurant scene reminded us why pizza is our favorite food. The pies are far from being the only stars here: fried chickpeas, lamb lollipop, polenta crostini and housemade gelato also demanded our tastebuds’ attention.

And starting tomorrow (February 18), the lunch crowd will also get to revel in the salty, cheesy, meaty goodness. Hooray!

Oven and Shaker
1134 NW Everett St.
Portland, OR 97209
503.241.1600
www.ovenandshaker.com

So Into It

Okay, organic cotton lovers. Holla back, you hemp groupies. There’s a new kid on the natural-fiber block and the fabrics are so gorge that we’re thinking of upholstering our sofa in it, cuddling up, quitting our job, and never letting go of the remote. It’s that good.

Tinctoria Designs just opened in a little space off Alberta, and the cozy showroom is a treasure trove of the softest, plushest cotton clothes you have ever touched. Seriously—cotton pants so delicious you want to spread them on toast & eat them! We fell hard for their eco-conscious collection—all hand-dyed just down the street—and the simple styles (easy short- and long-sleeved tees, adorable short skirts for layering, simple leggings, classic tunic dresses, and the aforementioned delicious pants) will surely become wardrobe staples.  Natural fibers meet natural dyes, and the result is a dusky rainbow of easy-to-wear colors that stand out without screaming. We are smitten.

Easy clothes for easy days, and classic shapes to mix with any wardrobe… we’re totally into it.

Tinctoria Designs
1627 NE Alberta St.
Portland, OR 97211
503.810.9232
www.tinctoriadesigns.com

40% Off at Porch Light Mississippi!

The Mississippi neighborhood sheds a tear since Porch Light is moving to their Pearl store, but why cry when you can save 40% off everything that’s in the Mississippi shop? Tablecloths, vintage glassware, soaps, pottery, candles, jewelry, furniture, rugs, children’s toys and more. Save 40% off til Tuesday, then 50% off til the 29th!

What: 40% off at Porch Light Mississippi
When: Through Feb. 29
Where:  3972 N. Mississippi
Call: 503.288.8773
Visit: www.porch-light.net

Get Hip at Home!

Hip Furniture’s Anniversary Sale is this weekend, and everything is on sale from their 19 stylish lines, including super chic organic accessory line 18 Karat. Whether you’ve been wanting a new sofa, new dining table, or just a few key pieces to make your homestead pop, Hip’s Anniversary Sale is happening now—get in on it!

What: Hip Furniture Anniversary Sale
When: Now through Feb. 26
Where: 1829 NW 25th Ave.
Call: 503.225.5017
Visit: www.ubhip.com

Find Your Magic with Portland Picks!

Portland Picks & Macy’s bring you the ultimate fashion face-off! Lucky audience contestants will style models for different scenarios, and the winners will take home a $100 Macy’s Gift Card! During the event, enjoy yummy sips and sweets while getting top style tips for spring. Mention Portland Picks as you’re seated for a $10 Macy’s gift card!

What: Fashion Face-Off
When: Saturday, March 10, 2 pm
Where: Macy’s Washington Square, Misses Department
Cost: Free!
Visit: www.macys.com