Heart of Glass

The first album we ever bought with our allowance was Blondie’s “Parallel Lines.” It was more than just a record, though. It was a statement of independence. Hey, guess what, Mom & Dad—we can handle ourselves in that great big world. And further, we can look cool when we’re out there.

Or so we thought. Seriously, probably not that cool. But we had good taste in music. (That album still holds up!) And isn’t it funny how a retail store as cool as Parallel—recently ensconced in new digs downtown—can remind us of our first musical love? Must be because the clothes they carry are “our kind” of rock-n-roll. Comfy, stylish Rag & Bone tunics (with pockets!); sassy dresses by Tart that can take us from office (with leggings) to date (with boots); perfectly soft, organic-cotton tees by 88 Orange. And of course, accessories to match, all with that chic-yet-understated, citified cool that we long for in our wardrobe.

Stop into Parallel’s new location to hook yourself up with an outfit that’ll break hearts… and make Debbie Harry proud.

Parallel
1016 SW Washington St.
Portland, OR 97205
503.274.8882
www.parallelportland.com

Funny Business

Our good sense of humor has seen us through some pretty dumb mistakes: cheap tequila, harem pants, and that drama-filled college romance (to name a few). Oops. Thank goodness we can laugh about it.

We’ve learned that a little lightheartedness goes a long way. That’s why we love the sartorial sense of humor at Stand Up Comedy on East Burnside. Owner Diana has a curator’s eye when it comes to apparel and accessories. Her compact shop is packed with refined separates and accessories with a European flavor and tongue-in-cheek flair. Apparel from Acne, Back, Bodkin and Ffixxed shares space with dreamy shoes (we fondled the perfect ivory patent oxford) and gorgeous bags. You must pop in to see the four-sided Birkin bag (an engineering marvel), sleek and simple Tyvek carryalls, and the cool Longchamp Le Pilage bag by BLESS. We tried on every piece of covetable jewelry: rings by Kat Seale, Saskia Diez’s amazing chains, and Autoctona’s silver-and-cord creations. Even Stand Up Comedy’s extension cords (by BLESS) are super-cool!

We continue to make mistakes, and our sense of humor is becoming pretty sophisticated. If only there was an easier way to be so darn hilarious.

Stand Up Comedy
811 E Burnside St.
Portland, OR 97255
503.233.3382
www.shopstandingup.us

A Date With Denim Destiny

We have high standards for both dating and denim. Our friend keeps reminding us that we would greatly improve our dating odds by visiting places where quality prospects are in abundance. That’s good advice, but it sounds like a lot of work—so we usually just go shopping instead. It turns out the same principle works for finding that elusive, fits-like-a-glove pair of pants: go where the jeans are.

Meringue Boutique is just such a place. This is where savvy shoppers come to find “the one” (or “the two” or “the eight”) from a towering wall of neatly folded premium brands like William Rast, Citizens of Humanity, and Seven for All Mankind. The ample yet carefully selected inventory includes myriad fits, washes and sizes. We rounded out our spree with a Michael Stars top, a Hobo International clutch, and some sparkle from the jewelry case.

Even once our “sig-o” luck changes, Meringue will keep us marching fashion-forward into the next chapter… they have scads of fabulously stylish maternity wear and baby gear!

Meringue Boutique 
385 1st Street
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
503.635.1063
www.meringueboutique.com

Huge Sale at Bonnet

Love wearing hats? Bonnet’s hats are the best ever. Fedoras, caps and beanies for guys, knit caps, sexy floppies and gorgeous cloches for the girls. Bonnet only has two sales a year, so score that cute winter hat you’ve been eyeing. Many items 1/2 off! Take 15% off wool cloches and scarves! Hurry, hurry!

What: Bonnet’s half yearly sale!
When: Friday, 1/27–Monday, 1/3; 11am–6 pm
Where: 412 NW 11th Ave.
Call: 503.954.2271
Visit: www.bonnetboutique.com

Bargain Hunting

Occupy Fashion Show