presenting
  PORTLAND PICKS
  life + style to you: every Friday
Oct 28, 2005
Looking back at college photos there are some I could definitely burn. Particularly the photos with my back-to-school asymmetrical hairdo. The hairdo in question would not have been as absurd if I had not packed on the Freshman 15…nearly all in my face.

Having just arrived at school, and on my own for the first time in my life, I naively rebelled. I didn't realize that indulging in my private stash of Costco's Gallon size Skippy Creamy Peanut Butter would result in such severe poundage so quickly. That and late night visits to 7-11 for pizza rolls. Okay, that and living in a sorority where one day a week it was Potato Night. Okay, okay, that and sneaking into the walk-in freezer at the sorority and stealing whatever frozen sweets or carbs we could get our hands on. Alas, I was living large.

However, if you worry about this with your own college student, you can send them a regular care package so they don't starve...or steal. You can even control its contents and send healthy and organic food items with www.CollegeGiftBox.com (see below!) Times have definitely changed, but your “starving student” needn't starve, thanks to you.

       
 

Portland Picks:

 
  1

Open-Air and Imp All Over

This is Portland, people, and now is prime time for being outside. The leaves are falling, the air is crisp (at times), the weather is right for rambling. And we found the perfect new place to wander into…you won’t even feel like you’re inside.

Imp – open just 4 1/2 months – is a sweet little shop that’s open to the air on one side. It’s completely wonderful and bright and girly and full to the rafters of the most delightful treasures. We found ourselves positively gushing over their jewelry collection, some of it from Great Britain, some by local designer Lily Lambert. Their collection of bath products and skin care from around the world are also wonderful, with packaging as gorgeous as the smells. You won’t want to hide this stuff away! It’s for display, for sure!

And there are yarns – fabulous yarns! Ozark Handspun is their supplier, and these are decadent, opulent offerings of mohair and wool, handspun. Imp’s owner even spins some herself into scarves that she sells in the store. If that’s not enough, there is an incredible bedding selection from Pinecone Hill and Designer’s Guild – they even do custom orders.

Oh, Imp! You are a saucy one.

Imp
1422 NE Alberta St.
Portland, OR 97211
503.282.7467
www.imponalberta.com


imponalberta.com


imponalberta.com

       
  2

Making the Grade

There are two little words that make a college student’s heart pound. No, they’re not “fire drill” or “free beer” – they’re “care package.” When the call goes out that a box has arrived, it’s like Christmas and a birthday all at once. And since the holidays are coming, what better way to tell your college student “We Miss You” than with a care package?

Ah, the care package…it can be the most glorious thing ever, especially at this time of year, when thoughts of home are abounding. But the care package is an art form, and not everybody has the knack – or the time – to make it truly special. (True story: We had a friend whose mom sent care packages with turtlenecks in them. To this day, she and her mother have a strained relationship.)

Thinking of sending a little something someone’s way? Don’t worry yourself with driving to the store, making sure you’ve packed it all correctly and then shlepping to the post office – make it easy, fun and affordable by shopping online with www.CollegeGiftBox.com! They give you clever options like gift cards to Blockbuster and Pizza Hut, Mardi Gras beads, green tea, Burt’s Bees chapstick, highlighters, even dice and soy nuts! (And of course, there’s the down-and-dirty straight-candy option, which is always sure to please.)

If you don’t have time to customize a basket, choose from their selection of pre-selected items in themes like Movie Buff, March Madness, You Health Nut, Game Night, Exam Survival, Freshman 15, and even Get Well Soon!

Visit www.collegegiftbox.com today to make your collegian’s heart pound tomorrow.



collegegiftbox.com


collegegiftbox.com

       
  3

Punk-Rock Haircuts

If you know this city, you know Bishop’s. You’ve seen their shops around town – the bright white, orange and black color scheme is hard to miss. Now there’s a new location on Alberta. Perfect for a stop-in (no appointment necessary).

“Get your damn haircut” is their motto, and it totally fits the vibe. No pretensions, just scissors and you, baby. Short hair? It’s $19. Long hair? $24. If you’re down for a buzz cut it’s 10 bucks, and a beard trim (oh boy, we hope that’s not for you) is only $5.

The Alberta location boasts a citified upstairs space. Keep a sharp eye for the door on the street – it’s easy to miss – and head up the orange staircase for your shearing. The shop showcases a cool collage and funky, enormous pictures of downtown Portland landmarks to keep your eyes busy. They also sell KMS haircare products for everyone, and Sharp’s shaving products for men.

Stop by for a bang trim, and tell them Portland Picks sent you!

Bishop’s
NE Alberta & 22nd
Portland, OR 97211
503.546.4171
www.bishopsbs.com


bishopsbs.com


bishopsbs.com

       
  4

East West Fusion

We have rejected the notion of acting like grown-ups, but have longed to live like them. With grown-up things. Grown-up art, grown-up furniture and chachkis to warm our home. But we need help. We’re not that good at putting it all together, and we want others to believe we have a good eye, a "flair for these things." And now we can. We just have to buy up everything at East West Fusion.

East West Fusion is a sight to behold...it's an eclectic mix of Asian antiques with a Western influence of modern pieces, and just what the [interior] doctor ordered.

Oooh, how we would impress with their lime Murano glass vases, their silver antiques, their orange lambswool throws. You would think we were so in-the-know with their lamps, their gorgeous jewelry, their velvet handbags, and Luxe soap and candles. This is indeed Zen for your home!

East West Fusion
408 NW 11th Ave.
Portland, OR 97129
503.248.6806
eastwestfusion@teleport.com


Email


Email

       
  5

Boxwood & Blooms

If we were incredibly wealthy (e.g. if we had won that Powerball like we had intended), and we could afford hired help, we would have a Martha Stewart-type wife to be us, like a body double. We need a wife to do the things we secretly wish we could dabble in....but frankly have no talent, patience or time for. It's the only way we could possibly achieve “perfect”...which of course we still aspire to.

Remember our motto? Delegate! Even though nobody (except a husband) has a whole wife, we can still parcel out certain tasks to the various experts and then claim credit. For example, for the perfect first impression pay attention to those planters. Sigh...if only our planters were picturesque, but that takes time and creativity, and then care...constant care! (We'd have to water them!)

Of course, there are things to attend to other than our plants, like those piles of papers we still have to go through and those meals we have to cook and going to the gym. But what if someone took care of our pots so it looked like we did it, but we really didn't have to do it?!? It would be a dream come true. Stop dreaming. Call Boxwood & Blooms and Shannon will create stunning pots and planters that will be the envy of all your friends. And you can just put those not-so-green thumb to other, more important uses, like getting a manicure.

Boxwood & Blooms
Shannon Duffy
Designer
Containers & Small Gardens
503. 799.3229

       
  6

Treats for You

With all this talk of Halloween treats, we can't forget treats for us. Sure a Reese’s is fine and all, which is why we pilfer those and Twix from our kids’ treat bag, but you deserve something a little more refined, decadent, something more complex for your discriminating palate.

DePaula Confections is a locally owned and operated small business here in Portland that creates and produces superior filled chocolates in the Belgian style, with novel designs and flavors evoking classic elegance with a contemporary, playful flair.

The chocolates from DePaula Confections are exceptional due to their outstanding appearance, remarkable flavor balance, melding of artful originality and classic refinement, as well as the use of fresh, organic ingredients. Inspired recipes make the best use of fresh Pacific Northwest produce like Oregon hazelnuts, and seasonal berries and fruits, and are readily enjoyed with your favorite Oregon wine.

These chocolates will add years to your life and a bit of heaven to the moment. Indulge!

www.depaulaconfections.com


depaula confections.com


depaula confections.com

       
  7

Design Within Reach

When I was a baby, my dad would just toss me in the back of the Oldsmobile station wagon. Actually, to his good thinking, he put me in a playpen back there and I would just roll around. When I got a little older I would stand up on the little hump between the two seats and lean over into the front so I could chatter up close in my parents’ ear. Of course, that was before seat belts, carseats and, um, laws. It's truly amazing how far we've come.

Last weekend Design Within Reach launched their designs for kids. The line, called DWRjax, is smart and durable, and way cool for your astute tots.

We love their modern classic, the Danish Pedal bin, now ready for the modern nursery (it sure beats the Diaper Genie) and just fine for the kitchen and the rest of the house. They have ultra modern and durable kids’ furniture like their chalkboard table, their wooden mountain bike, their DottiLicious Wall Candy, and their stroller and play cave (we want a play cave!)

Their Pearl studio is a gorgeous modern space, their largest in the country, located in the Wieden + Kennedy building. Boasting 8,000 square feet of modern art, Portland's Design within Reach (and their new kids’ line) is a definite must on your next shopping trip.

1200 NW Everett St.
Portland, OR 97209
503.220.0200
Fax: 503.220.0201


dwr.com


dwr.com

       
  8

Local.35

What do you get when you mix art and fashion? Oh darn, a math question. Oh, but this one is easy. You get Local.35. Local.35 is a funky boutique on SE Hawthorne that carries tons of casual shirts, pants, and accessories for him and for her from independent designers. They also regularly feature fabulous artwork by local artists.

We love their Incase ipod & laptop cases, their Modern Amusement clothing and sunglasses, as well as designs by Cardboard Robot, Salt Denim, and Evil Genius, just to give you an idea what duds they dabble in.

Pay them a visit on Second Thursday, Nov. 10, from 7-11 for their exhibit of "Vans On the Wall." This is a group art show on Vans and skatedecks. DJs will spin all night and drinks will be poured. (And there should be lots of cute boys for a fun mix and mingle!)

And don't miss their Second Year Anniversary Sale, beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 25-27. Hours are 11-8 all weekend. Make sure you add it to your holiday shopping list.

Local 35
3556 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland, OR 97214
503.963.8200


local35.com

       
  What We're Seeing Now:  
   
  • The Metallic Stiletto
  • Silk and Shiny
  • Square-toe pumps (with buckle)
  • Tuxedo shirts and accents
  • Trench coats
  • Cords
  • Cardigans with jewels and adornments
  • Western sequins and studded belts
  • The little black dress
  • Boots
  • Velvet
  • Blouses
  • Vintage beaded clutch purses
  • Fur shrugs and shawls
  • Colin Farrell
  • Frilly dresses
  • Pea coats
  • Shorter suede or cord jackets
  • Corduroy jackets
  • Natural nails
  • Kicky, long, layered hair
  • Layers
  • Gauchos
  • Animal prints
  • Tweed trousers


saksfifthavenue.com


nordstrom.com


jcrew.com

       
  Halloween Costume Ideas:  
    It’s okay, you don’t have to thank us.
  • Leafblower: Wear a baseball cap with a leaf dangling down in front of your face. When someone asks what you are, blow on the leaf.
  • Voodoo Doll and Victim: One person dresses as a voodoo doll and carries a large sharp stick. When the voodoo doll sticks themself, the victim feels the pain (i.e., voodoo doll sticks arm and victim grasps arm and acts like it hurts).
  • Spartan Cheerleaders from Saturday Night Live: Wear red and black Spartan cheerleader outfits and carry pom-poms.
  • Kevin and Britney: Self-explanatory, but funnier if you’re dressed as barefoot-and-pregnant Brit. Or your date is! Whoever goes as K-Fed wears a fedora hat, "wife-beater" shirt, etc.
  • Substitute Teacher: Dress conservatively like a teacher (hair up in a bun, skirt and sweater, glasses on a chain around your neck). Then, stick a paper airplane in the back of your hair, put a note that says "Kick Me" on your back, cover your hands and face with chalk, and put chalk eraser prints on your clothes. Attach staples and paperclips to your clothes, with broken pencils sticking out here and there.
  • Cat with Litter Box: Dress like a cat (black clothes, cat ears and tail). Carry a new cat litter box, filled with the following mixture: rolled oats and granola cereal mixed together, Tootsie Rolls (softened with water), and dabs of chocolate icing. Offer to your friends. Gross... but delicious!
  • Have You Seen My Lost Doggy?: Wear XXLarge clothing, and use padding to make yourself extra "hefty." Glue or sew a small stuffed dog into the "butt crack" area. Carry a "Lost Dog" sign.

For other last minute ideas: www.costumeideazone.com


buycostumes.com
       
  Chick Picks:  
  1 A Rock and Roll Fantasy

When I was in High School, I went to The Who concert in the Seattle Kingdome (what were my parents thinking?!?) I started out in the nosebleed section with my friends, but in no time with my iron will and expert stalking aptitude, I was down in the very front, up close and personal to this iconic band. Never mind I was being squished nearly to death, I had eye contact with Roger Daltrey! Our eyes met and locked...and we shared a special moment that I know he will never forget.

So you can imagine my excitement when I learned about the Rock N Roll Fantasy camp in Hollywood this President's Day weekend. And guess "WHO" will be there? Roger Daltrey. He will be so surprised to see me.

And now YOU can live the fantasy and jam with stars like Roger Daltrey, Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, and other legends. You will even perform at the House of Blues in your own band. And good news: you don't even have to have talent (think Milli Vanilli). We'll be on the tambourine.


rock and roll fantasy camp.com
       
  2

Are You an Innie or an Outie?

It's amazing how having a child can inspire you to do things you've never dreamt of. Like staying up all night just to watch your baby sleep, using your bare hand to wipe a runny nose, changing a poopy diaper without dry heaving…or designing a children's clothing line.

Moms Abbe, Eleonore and Robin realized the kids' apparel world was missing something, and since raising kids wasn't enough to keep them busy (ha!), they decided to take action...they created reversible clothes for girls and boys that are funky, fun and not just pink and blue. And if your little bundle of joy squirts grape juice all over herself, you can simply flip it over and voilà, a whole new outfit. How cool is that?

Click on the site for the song alone...Potato Chips! (It's awesome!!)


inniesnouties.com
       
  3 Stay Within the Lines

Okay, you know the drill, channel your inner you-know-who with 2 Jane's Paint by number Wallpaper. It's classic and beautiful and something you can show off and brag about. "Oh that, yes, I painted it." But this is no ordinary abstract Pollack like your usual masterpieces. This is refined, evocative, and made just by you. You are sooo talented!

Hang it like conventional wallpaper, grab a paintbrush, and let the numbers be your guide. Enjoy the new groundcolors and bold style of the latest generation of this design classic.

Available in two designs: Pineapple and Gerbera. Color your world!


2jane.com
       
  4

Oh Joey!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month you must pick up these fabulous True Religion Joey Breast Cancer Awareness Jeans. They are so cool and they’ll make your butt look great! And best of all, it's for charity.

$100 from each pair sold will go to the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization. Sold exclusively by ShopBop, these jeans are adorned with a pink butterfly and floral embroidery detail. They also have worn spots at the pockets and light brown undertones throughout, and a cool twisted seam at the flare leg.

Everyone who purchases these will receive an email from Shopbop in November with additional information. This email will give you the opportunity to register for your tax credit and receive more information about the Y-ME Foundation.


shopbop.com
       
  5

Let's face it, if you’re anything like us, it's hard to have cleavage.

We mean good cleavage. Cleavage that matters. But now there's a miracle that lifts without the fuss of an annoying bra.

The Nu Bra Ultralite Self Adhesive Cups are backless and strapless, lighter weight and easier to use than the original, and they make the best cleavage...even if you're a bit challenged in that area.


fredericks.com
       
 

Hip Happenings:

 
  1 Special Delivery @ OFFICE!

This weekend beloved Portland-based artist Amy Ruppel transforms the OFFICE gallery into a bird sanctuary. Amy will be hanging more than 25 of her adorable, original bird “wax paintings” from ribbons attached to tree branches for her show, “Special Delivery.” Her work is sure to sell out quickly, so stop by OFFICE this weekend to secure your Amy Ruppel original!

  • What: OFFICE – Quality Products for the Modern Worker – is pleased to announce Amy Ruppel’s Alberta Arts District debut “Special Delivery.” Amy is an acclaimed artist/graphic designer/illustrator, nationally recognized for her adorable (and affordable) iconic artwork and product lines.
  • When: Friday, Oct. 28-Sunday, Nov. 30, during store hours (Friday/Saturday 11 to 7 and Sunday 12 to 5.) Please note that Amy’s show, “Special Delivery,” will run through Sunday, Nov. 20 at OFFICE.
  • Where: OFFICE, 2204 NE Alberta St.
    Portland, OR 97211
  • Visit www.officepdx.com, email shop@officepdx.com, or call 503.282.7200 for more information.


officepdx.com
       
  2

The Catlin Gabel School Rummage Sale
November 3-6
Portland Expo Center

Okay. It's big. Really big. On Nov. 3 at 5p.m. we open the doors to 13,000 treasure hunters at Portland's favorite Rummage Sale. There are 80,000 square feet of cool finds at bargain prices, so wear comfy shoes and bring a shopping cart!

A Portland tradition for 61 years, The Catlin Gabel School Rummage Sale is on every treasure seeker's list of “must go” sales. This year you'll find everything from vintage designer clothing to a spiffy ’91 Jeep Cherokee, and a baby grand piano to a beautiful baby stroller, and if American Civilization is your thing there's a jukebox filled with ’50s jazz and blues 45's and a first edition of Steinbeck's East of Eden! All proceeds go to student financial aid.

Check out the website at www.catlin.edu/news/rummage, or e-mail rummageinfo@catlin.edu. Max takes you right there - so you can skip the traffic and the Expo parking fee!


catlin.edu
       
  3

Shop!

It's that holiday time again, and what better way to get started on your early gift buying than at Essence Interiors’ annual Holiday Boutique at the home of local interior designer Lynn Mesher. A beautiful array of accessories awaits savvy shoppers, from Seda France scented candles (Oprah loves them) to Votivo's woodsy aromatics.

You’ll find a variety of urban table lamps, beaded chandeliers, gorgeous dried flowers and topiaries, vintage antiques, and many more decorative elements. The boutique will also feature custom beaded jewelry by local designer Becky Lang from Girlie Jewelry, and Paige Claire from Paige Claire Designs!

You'll be sure to find loads of gifts for family, friends, teachers, and won't be able to resist a purchase for yourself as well!

Shop Wednesday, Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. The address is 6450 SW Bancroft St., Portland OR 97227.

Bring your girlfriends and have a ball!


sedafrance.com
       
 

So whether you’re going out on the town this weekend, or you’re hiding in your attic with the lights off, remember to leave a bowl of candy by the front door and a bottle of wine in the fridge!

Be safe, be scary, and send us your Halloween party pics!

xoxo

       
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