Unzipped

What can I say? I love fashion shows! Unzipped was full of creative, fashionable, funky and fresh wearable clothing and accessories. Saturday was a bit slow, not very desieratble for designers. However, it picked up a bit Saturday and besides, the ability to connect, chat and get to know some of the personalities behind the pieces was there for the taking. I did just that in hopes of luring the designers into showing their creations off at Peridot. While presenting the designers with the idea of showcasing their lines at Peridot eyes lit up and smiles grew. Excitement was sparked! Be sure to look for new and exciting jewelery and clothing designers at Peridot this summer and fall.
The variety at the show was huge! Good thing it's the spice of life. This is what I hope Peridot can connect you with. Bringing local, independent designers to our local consumers. Building a stronger community, know where our dollars are going to and coming. Yes, even for fashion. Threads like one size fit's all funky skirts that can double as tops, consisting of a huge variety of patterns and materials, can dress them up or down, over jeans, leggings or as is, very snappy! Materials that are warm and yummy for fall like Soy/Lycra Jersey, sound cozy or what? How about sustainable, functional and fashionable had bags, wallets and sunglass holders made out of recycled library books and rubber tires. Weather your style is clean and classic to sharp and fierce, there was something for everyone at the show.
One last general observation. The music was well done. Something that makes a difference not only for the customers but for the participating vendors. I've been to fashions shows where the music is just one continuous loop. Hearing the same song more then five times in one day is too much for anyone. Unzipped was smart and coordinated a live dj.

I spotted many designs and creations that are fantastic! Here is a list of only a few:

CLOTHING

• Emily Katz --Portland OR-- http://www.emilykatz.com/
  bonnie heart clyde is her current spring/summer line, love it!
• Erin MacLeod -- http://www.erinmacleod.com/
  snappy skirts!
• DarBeka -- www.shopdarbeka.com
• Jodibwise -- www.jodbwise.com

ACCESSORIES

• Mugwump -- Suzanne Keolker is the designer -- http://www.imugwump.com/
  love the recycled materials! Very sustainable, fun and functional!
• Clever Castle -- Emily Baker -- local to the Seattle area -- http://www.clevercastle.etsy.com/
  jewelery that is like poetry, nothing else like it!
• Amy Bengtson -- local to Seattle area -- http://www.amybengston.com/
  nature's combinations of silver, rosewood and mother of pearl inlays...so simple, so nice
  check out her glass work too!
• Alisha Louise -- http://www.alishalouise.com/
  enameled copper....love the colors!
  
  I'm almost certin that Unzipped is an annual fashion show.You can find out more at www.unzippedevent.com. If supporting independent designers is your thing then mark your calendars! Be sure to check back http://peridot.queenanne.blogspot.com for our next up and coming independent designer show.

Ciao!

-drea