garnish

Its your lucky day! 40% off all silks through Thursday!

2011-01-18T11:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, that means all silk dresses, skirts, blouses and slips are 40% off. These photos are just a sampling of the silk garments we have on sale. Stop by the shop to see everything and take home a luscious silk piece for yourself... but don't delay - this sale ends on Thursday. See you soon!

Short but Sweet Sale! 30% off all coats and Jackets starting the 14th.

2011-01-13T13:36:00.000-08:00

Starting Friday, January 14th all of our lovely coats and jackets are on sale at 30% off. This includes all colorways of the Claudette Coat, Claire Jacket and Bella Jacket. Sale ends on Sunday the 16th so if you've had your eye on our coats you are in luck for the next few days. Come see us!

Baby Gwendolyn has arrived!

2010-12-19T11:54:00.001-08:00

We are happy to welcome Gwendolyn Lurie to the Family! Erica, Gwen, and Mike are all doing well and we hope to introduce you to Gwendolyn sometime soon! What a wonderful holiday this year has turned out to be!

Holiday Kick Off Party

2010-11-27T13:20:00.000-08:00

In celebration of the holidays we are offering 20% off EVERYTHING in the shop Saturday November 27th and Sunday November 28th! Don't miss this opportunity to snatch up your favorite Garnish designs and holiday gifts!

ALSO.... with every purchase over $150 we are giving our customers a pair of Garnish earrings! This will continue through the holiday season, but stop in earlier to make sure you receive your pair! (limited quantity available.)

Laundering Class!

2010-10-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Garnish is pleased to offer you a free evening to learn the answers to all your questions about how to take care of your clothes.

Laundering Basics

Do you want to know how to keep your clothes looking new for as long as possible?If you have questions such as:
Should I really wash everything in cold water?
Will natural and homemade detergents get my clothes clean?
How can I keep whites bright without using chlorine bleach? Stains?
What causes static cling?
What does 'permanent press' mean anyway?

Find answers to your most pressing laundry quandaries and learn strategies for saving time and other precious resources in this fun and informative class taught by Kristina Salmi Klotz of Busy Bea Soap Company. Have questions about a specific fabric, garment, or stain? Bring it along!

PLEASE RSVP BY FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5th

November 9th 6:30 - 8pm
Garnish
1524 NE Alberta Street

Garnish Boutique Turns 4!

2010-10-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

We can't believe 4 years has already passed since Garnish opened it's boutique on Alberta street! The Garnish boutique started small and has continued to grow and evolve each year. We would like to invite you to come celebrate this special birthday with us. Join us on Alberta's Last Thursday October 28th from 6-9pm for drinks, snacks, shopping, and chit chat! To show our appreciation for your support over the years we will be offering 25% off everything in the shop for the evening of the party! Don't miss it!

New Handbags

2010-09-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

The new RacSack Bags are here! These are the bags made from recycled tire tubes and come in a variety of styles available in the shop. They are super cute and a great price point ranging from $20 to $100. Stop in to snag yours today!

Mina Perhonen

2010-09-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

We are inspired by the beautiful textile designs of Mina Perhonen out of Japan. They make us embrace the Fall with a smile. Enjoy!

New Pre Order Designs

2010-09-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

From top to bottom

The Adelle Skirt in Cornflower Blue. Made of Cotton with a nice sheen and lined with a fun cotton stripe this is a great dress up/dress down skirt. Retail: $134 Pre-order: $113.90

The Penelope Skirt in Ocean Novelty Weave. A back slit makes this below-the-knee, professional, yet sassy pencil skirt easy to move in. Wool with Silk Lining. Retail: $138 Pre-order: $117.30

The Bella Jacket in Ocean Novelty Weave. This flattering number is great on many body shapes, but especially full figured women. Button closure added upon request. Retail:$148 Pre-order: $125.80

The Genevieve Top in Cream. This silk top is very classy. With three ties at the front it can be worn several ways so let you imagination go. Retail: $120 Pre-order $102.00

All Pre Order designs are currently available on our ETSY Site

Etsy Spotlight!

2010-08-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

As Etsy sellers ourselves, we thought it would be fun to share some of the jewels we find on Etsy. There are so many sellers and it takes time to sort through and find your favorites. Now you can look to us for some suggestions!

We love the handmade leather bags made by seller Scottato

Pine State Biscuits

2010-08-15T12:06:00.000-07:00

With the introduction of so many new businesses on Alberta street, the Garnish gals decided to start checking them out! We met for breakfast last week at Pine State Biscuits located at 22nd and Alberta. This is a second location for Pine State, but they are new to us, and we couldn't be happier. Not only does it have a nice open air design to enjoy the summer air but the food was simply amazing!

Erica went for "the Reggie", made with fried chicken, bacon, cheese, and gravy all inside a buttermilk biscuit. With that combination, we anticipated heart burn and stomach aches later that morning but instead Erica felt great! She was happily full and didn't feel weighed down by the rich food. It was fabulous and we will definitely be going back! Oh, and don't overlook the sides. We had the friend green tomatoes, the perfect comfort food and the hot apples, which tasted like apple pie. Thanks Pine State and welcome to the neighborhood!

Garnish Dress to be in the New York Times Tomorrow!

2010-07-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Wahoo! Garnish is in the NY Times again! My good friends Sara and Andy were married in Maine a couple weekends ago and Sara looked gorgeous in one of the last Garnish Wedding Dresses! Sadly I couldn't make it to the wedding, but I get to enjoy the story by reading about it in the Times (and I'll get to hear the yummy details when we picnic with them tonight before heading to the Hawthorne Bridge celebration). Read the full article online, and it's really a beautiful story, or pick up a copy of the Times TOMORROW. (Incidentally, the women in the photo holding the baby in the upper left is my sister-in-law holding my niece!)
Cheers,
Erica

July Jewelry Collection

2010-07-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

Made with gold fill, glass beads, and alebelle stones. Now available in the boutique

Fiber Artist Susie Brandt

2010-06-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

The much awaited sunny warm weather in Portland has brightened our spirits the past couple days! The bright saturated colors and soft fiber texture of Susie Brandts sculpture is both inviting and uplifting just like this gorgeous weather! Susie investigates the relationship between textiles and landscape in a fun and playful way that makes us smile.

Designer Fabric Sale

2010-06-23T13:37:00.000-07:00

For all you crafters and fabric lovers out there, this is an event you can't miss! Garnish and Modern Domestic are teaming up to put together a DESIGNER FABRIC SALE. Designers will be selling their beautiful fabric for near, at, or below wholesale prices! Mark your calendars now for Wednesday July 14^th.

What: Designer Fabric Sale Open to both designers and the public. Fabrics will be at, near, or below wholesale prices!

When: Wednesday July 14^th from 5pm - 8 pm open to the general public.

Where: Modern Domestic 1408 NE Alberta St Portland, OR 97211

Beautiful Photography by Corey Arnold

2010-06-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

We have been admiring the work of Photographer Corey Arnold for some time now. His work is quite moving and powerful, especially the images from his time on a crab fishing boat! You can view more of his beautiful imagery through his website www.coreyfishes.com or just make your way to the Charles A Hartman Fine Art Gallery in Portland where you can view and purchase this amazing work!

more new designs coming July 1st.....

2010-06-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

We are stocked!

2010-05-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

There are so many new designs in the shop right now. Here is a taste of whats available, but you will have to stop by to see all the latest goodies!

Art Hop Fun!

2010-05-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Art Hop 2010 was as success as always this year! We had loads of fun spinning our Wheel of Fashion and giving away awesome discount coupons for the day. A few lucky participants even won 40% off coupons!

Fabulous Fabrics for Summer Dresses

2010-04-30T12:29:00.000-07:00

We are very excited about our new fabrics to make Summer dresses with! Samples to view and pre-order coming soon.....

New collection available for Pre Orders

2010-04-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

New Designs available for Pre Order online. Recieve 15% off with your pre order purchase! Stop in the shop to see the samples and available colorways!

Vancouver Designer Mandula

2010-04-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

I recently visited Vancouver, BC and stumbled upon Mandula's fabulous boutique. The designer hand makes very limited edition pieces that are structurally interesting and incredibly unique. She incorporates found materials into some of her work as well. I loved the distinctive and urban industrial appeal of the shop. Inspiring! Check out her work here.

Artist Andrea Zittel

2010-04-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

felted dress

Smockshop project

Andrea Zittel is a contemporary artist who blends the lines between life and art. She designs products that offer ways to make our lives more efficient and sustainable without so much “stuff” bogging us down. Using modern design she designs and makes multifunctional products. For instance, she made a "living unit" that functions as a bed, dining room table, and kitchen but only occupies a small amount of space.

Andrea also embarked on a uniform project in which she wore the same outfit everyday for 6 months spanning a season. For part of this project she made a series of handmade pressed fiber uniforms. In another series, she made her own "Single Strand Uniforms' using simply her fingers to knit them! "Smockshop" was a seperate apparel project Zittel designed which was a series of smocks sewn by a community of artists, challenging the connection between fashion and function. The uniform and smock projects both raise notions of everyday use of our apparel and a suggest a more frugal alternative to design. Limiting our consumption is actually quite liberating! Andrea reminds us that we can be both smart and selective in our consumer choices. We love it!

Charlotte Dress - PRE- ORDER

2010-04-02T15:17:00.001-07:00

Sweet and flirty dress with stitching and appliqued details on the bodice. Lined with a lightweight cotton lawn. Comfortable and versatile, this dress is perfect to wear for a picnic in the park or to this Summers weddings.
The Charlotte dress is now available for pre-order in navy and white cotton/linen blend (shown above). The Charlotte is also offered in a second colorway featuring a solid red bodice and a blue floral skirt. (see swatches below)
Retail price $198/ Pre order price 168.40
Order from our etsy site or give us a call in the shop today to secure your Charlotte!

Theresa Skirts

2010-03-25T16:33:00.001-07:00

Looking for comfortable cute Summer skirts that you can ride your bike in or throw on to go to the park with the kids? Our new Theresa skirts are very comfortable and low maintenance! This is also a great skirt for traveling because it folds into a tiny space and you don't need worry about ironing. We think these skirts are a staple for every woman who wants comfort and versatility in her clothes. Now available in floral/black and grey/black in sizes xs-xl. $72 each.

New Designs available for Pre-Orders

2010-03-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

Lily Top: Available in black and blue floral pattern or tan hexagon pattern fabrics. original price $92 Pre-order price: $82.80

Penny pencil skirt: available in red or black $116 retail /104.40 Pre order price

Bella Jacket: Available in navy strip (seen above) or solid black. Retail price $136 Pre order price : 122.40.

Call the shop today to place your pre-orders! 503.282.3200

Spring Eva Tops

2010-03-12T15:35:00.000-08:00

The soft drape and bright Spring colors of the new Eva tops make them the perfect staple shirt to pair with jeans or skirts. Buy yours online today! ($88 each)

More Amanda dresses- NEW COLORS

2010-03-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

As promised, we made more Amanda dresses in new colors. For those of you who collect every color or those of you that are missing this staple wardrobe dress, hurry in for your very own Raspberry and Smoke colored Amanda dresses! (118 each)

Taking Pre-Orders Now!

2010-02-28T16:02:00.000-08:00

We are excited to jump into Spring with the new Eva tops. These new tops are lightweight and have a beautiful drape to them. Please call us to place a pre-order or stop by the boutique to see the sample in pink! Also available in teal and milk chocolate. (retail $88/Pre-Order price 74.80)

Nadira Dresses

2010-02-28T13:36:00.000-08:00

Nadira Dress: Sand Lace with black slip (top Left), Cream lace (center), Sand Lace with Champagne slip (top right)

We may not be offering bridal, but we will always have a nice selection of elegant dresses for your special occasions! These beautiful lace dresses can be combined with different colored silk slips to create a completely different overall look. Available now and going fast! Coming soon online. Check our Etsy site regularly for online purchases.

PRE-ORDERS!!!!

2010-02-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

Introducing the NEW PRE-ORDER Program!

From now on, we will be revealing all our latest designs online and in a new section of the shop for two weeks prior to production. We plan to make only a few of each design, BUT, if you see something you love, you may place a pre-order for 15% off the selling price. We will then custom make an additional garment in your size! (production takes approx. 3-4 weeks) We are offering this exclusive opportunity so that, one, you will wear original unique designs that very few people will own, and two, there is no risk! If you receive your pre- ordered piece, and its not exactly what you hoped for, you may return it within 2 weeks for a full refund!

Now, that sounds tasty!!

STAY TUNED TO OUR BLOG, NEWSLETTER, and FACEBOOK for new styles. Remember, you will only have 2 weeks to place your pre-order.

(We will have samples made up to view in the boutique as well.)

New Spring Skirts!

2010-02-13T11:01:00.000-08:00

Spring is almost here and we are gearing up with new exciting designs! Here are three skirts currently in production and we expect them available in the shop within the next couple weeks.

As mentioned in our newest blog, we will only be producing a few of each design. These skirts are no exception. They are already in production and we didn't offer the opportunity for pre-ordering this custom piece. However, if you call soon to place a pre-order, we WILL reserve one of these beauties in your size.

(All three designs sell for $118)

Kate Troyer Designs

2010-01-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

Garnish is proud to present select items from Portland designer (and Garnish Manager), Kate Troyer as our "Guest Artist". With a BA in Art Histroy and Sculpture and an Masters of Fine arts in Textile Design, Kate has been an active exhibiting fiber artist for years and is now expanding her creative persuits into designing womens fashion. With an interest in the handmade component, Kate uses elements of detailed structural manipulation and hand drawn patterns to create many of her peices. Current designs are inspired by a mix of manmade and natural textures, architectural forms, and notions of repetition. Ideas of patterns and repetition will continue to be central to her work suggesting notions of cycles, networks, and rythym. Expect to see more of Troyer's unique, modern, and sophisticated designs in Portland as her line continues to grow and evolve.

Poppy Dress $198Lattice dress $240

Domino skirt $168

Ann Kyyro Quinn

2010-01-23T11:57:00.001-08:00

In addition to fashion, textiles are used in many other design disciplines including architecture, interior design, and fine art. We have laundry list of artists and designers who we love including interior textile artist, Ann Kyro Quinn. Ann uses felt as a medium to create large scale interior sculptures with a focus on rich textures. Her work is saturated with bold colors and shapes creating an engaging visual and tactile experience. Beautiful!

Garnish Bridal Blowout

2010-01-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

It's been fun, but the Garnish Bridal Dynasty is nearing the end of its rein. We have decided to discontinue our bridal line in order to focus more on the pieces that you want and need on a day to day basis. (We have made it our focus for 2009 to REALLY listen to our customers and that's what we've been hearing from you. But don't worry, we'll still have gorgeous dresses that will make you look like the goddess that you are for your next special occasion).

Which brings us to our Wedding Dress Blowout! All dresses are now 50% off and they are going fast! So if you, or anyone you know, will be tying the knot soon get your cute toukus (however you spell it) in here before your perfect dress is gone!

Hope to see you soon!

New table and shelves!

2009-12-23T11:47:00.000-08:00

Over the duration of only a couple days, Erica used her mad skills to build a beautiful new table and shelves for the Garnish boutique! Not only does Erica have an impeccable sense for design, but she also loves power tools and knows how to use them like a pro! Who knew?!

Make sure you stop in soon to see these beauties in person.

Last Minute Shopping Ideas

2009-12-20T10:43:00.000-08:00

We have Sweaters!!! These one of a kind handmade sweaters are now available and make for wonderful gifts!

Left: Grey/navy Sasha Sweater $96

Right: Brown/tan Sasha Sweater $96

We also have lots of new jewelry and can work with you to custom design that special piece you've been looking for!

Pssst! Don't forget about out 12 day of Christmas Countdown! Today is buy 2 pairs of tights and get 1 free! Monday will be $10 off any belt! Stay tuned....

12 Days of Christmas at Garnish

2009-12-11T15:55:00.000-08:00

Beginning on the 12th of December we will start our countdown for the 12 days of Christmas! Each day we will be offering a special something or discount which will be announced here on our blog and in our store window.

Spoiler Alert!

The first day of Christmas my true love gave to me,

all silk dupioni at 30% off!

Be here Sunday December 13th for this special Holiday Deal!

KPTV Makeovers!

2009-11-25T14:57:00.001-08:00

We had a lot of fun participating in the KPTV makeovers of two local women, Mary and Sarah. Mary's makeover was revealed on November 18th. You can watch it here:
http://www.kptv.com/video/21655879/index.html

The second makeover will air Wednesday, Dec. 2 @ 1:15pm and 1:45pm on KPTV. Don't miss it!
Garnish donated two dresses for the makeover and the women plan to wear them to their upcoming holiday parties!

Garnish Charity Party

2009-11-25T12:54:00.000-08:00

The kick off to our charity party was a great success! Thank you to everyone who came out to support us and Hope dolls. I think we speak for everyone when we say that the live music performed by Fred, Kevin, Garrett was so much fun! Also, a big thanks to Sweet Thing coffeehouse and bakery on the corner of Martin Luther King Blvd and Alberta for their generous cookie donations. If you haven't had the opportunity to taste their baked goods, we highly recommend paying them a visit!

Artist: Eunsuk Hur

2009-11-22T11:42:00.001-08:00

Eunsuk Hur is a textile artist using laser cutting and various printing processes to create pieces that are versatile in function and purpose. Her work references ideas of sustainability through this multi-functional nature. Many pieces transform from one form to another such as an item of clothing growing into a wall decoration, or a handbag that folds on and out of itself to take a new shape. Take a look at her beautiful images! http://www.eunsukhur.com/

Holiday Charity Kick off Party

2009-11-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

Its time to get into the holiday giving spirit! You are invited to join us for the Garnish clothing and fund drive kick off party benefiting Hope Dolls, a local nonprofit providing programs and goods to abused and neglected children and offering services to help them gain independent life skills. There will be live music, food, and drinks! During the party Garnish is offering 20% off your entire purchase with the donation of a gently used clothing item. Additionally, Garnish will donate 10% of your purchase to Hope Dolls! Be there to make a difference, shop great new styles, and enjoy some partying fun!

If you can't make it to the party, don't fret, you can still donate and receive a 10% discount on any regularly priced item in the store through December 10th! Garnish will also donate 10% of the sale to Hope Dolls. We hope to fill the entire front window with donated clothing!

Check our blog or stop by the shop to check on our progress.

Celebrate America Recycles Day with this Crafty Idea!

2009-11-04T18:53:00.001-08:00

Oh how we hate to part with things at Garnish. Sometimes it comes back to bite us as we wade through piles and piles of scrap fabric wondering where to store it all, but mostly we love repurposing anything with an ounce of "possibility" that is waved under our noses! That is why we rejoice in the thought of America Recycles Day on November 15th.

In the spirit of the holiday, we thought we'd let you in on a secret project that make great use of some items other folks might be tempted to pitch. Keep reading to see how to grant new life to old pillows, linens and buttons.

Create a Fun New Pillow

Repurpose Vintage Linens, Buttons, and even an old Pillow Form (if you have one)

You will need:

Pillow form (perhaps one laying around that currently sports an ugly cover)
Fabric to cover the form front and back (again, if it's recycled it's that much cooler)Vintage linen - a tablecloth, napkin, pillow case, or tea towel would work (stains and all)
Vintage buttons, or the extra buttons they give you when you buy something nice that the buttons might pop off of one day
Ribbon
Thread
Sewing Machine (unless you are WAY more patient than we are)
Measuring Tape
Scissors

We are going to make a pillow with a 2" flange/ruffle around the edge like a Euro Sham. The back will have 2 pieces of fabric that overlap 1.5" and close with buttons and ribbon loops.

Step 1. - Measure your pillow form from edge to edge with a fabric measuring tape.

Step 2. - Cut one piece of fabric (the pillow front) to be 5" wider and longer than your pillow form (so if you pillow form is 24" h x 28 w" you would cut the piece to be 29" x 33"). This allows for a 2" flange and 1/2" seam allowance on each side.

Step 3. - Cut 2 back pieces according to the following... The height should be 5" more than the height of your form (for flange and seam allowance). The width should be half the width of the pillow form plus 4.5" (flange and seam allowance plus 1.5" for closure overlap and another 1/2" for seams allowance on the closure side).

Step 4. - Cut out a piece of your linen that you like and pin it to the front piece of your fabric where you would like it. Zig-Zag stitch around the edge of it to secure.

Step 5. - With one of your back pieces on the side of the back that will form the button closure turn under edge 1/4", press, turn under again 1/4" and stitch down. Repeat with the other side.

Step 6. - Sew on your buttons so the egdes of the buttons are roughly 1/2" from the finished edge of one of the back pieces. It is a good idea to use a backer button if your fabric is rather light (see photo).

Step 7. - Lay the piece with the buttons on top of other back piece so there is 1.5" of overlap from one finished edge to the other. Make loops with cut lengths of ribbon, loop them around the buttons and pin them to the back piece that does not have the buttons on it. Sew down the loops in one long stitch (contrast thread is cute).

Step 8. - Lay the front piece on your work surface face up. Lay the back piece with the buttons on it face down. Lay the final piece with the ribbon loops on it face down as the top layer. Line up the edges of all layers and pin.

Step 9. - Stitch all the way around the outside of the pillow 1/2" from the edge.

Step 10. - Turn the pillow right side out and iron the edges. Stich in 2" from the edge all the way around to create the flange.

Step 11. - Insert the pillow form and button it up! Now you have a darling new pillow to give as a gift or keep for yourself! Good work, we knew you could do it!

** Please note, we are new to writing instructions (and aren't very good at following them!) so if you have questions please feel free to call: 503.282.3200.

Sunday Fashion Shoot at Penninsula Park

2009-10-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

Katie in Samantha Skirt and Olivia Top

Erica adjusting Shannon's bow on the Nadira Dress

We had so much fun running around the Farmers Market and Penninsula Park for our Fall Fashion Shoot. The models looked fabulous and were in great spirits throughout the afternoon, which made the day a blast! We lucked out with beautiful sunny weather and the colors were shining brilliantly. We are excited to get the pictures back so we can share them with you on our website and blog. Thanks so much to Nadia, Sean, Katie, Linda, Michelle, and Shannon for all your hard work and vibrantly positive energy!

Linda and Katie in Samantha Skirts and Olivia Tops

Michelle in Abby Skirt and Olivia top

Victor and Rolf Spring 2010

2009-10-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

The Spring/Summer 2010 show for Victor & Rolf at Paris fashion week proved to be splendid and whimsical with strong silhouettes and playful textures and colors. What a thrilling mixture of sculpture, architecture, fantasy!

View more pictures at www.coutorture.com/5408289

The Idom we know and love

2009-10-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to write a special blog in honor of Idom. Modi, the designer of Idom is the not only extremely talented and creative, she is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet. We miss her on Alberta street since she has relocated to NW 23rd , however, if you haven't been to her shop you must go visit her. The new store is absolutely striking!

Also, Portland Fashion Week is this weekend and Modi will be participating. You can buy tickets online at http://www.portlandfashionweek.net/. Don't miss it! Also, Idom is participating in another show Monday October 12th at Portland Center Stage. Tickets are available at the Idom boutique.

www.idomdesign.bigcartel.com

5 year Birthday party for Garnish!

2009-09-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

We had a great party for Last Thursday at Garnish to celebrate 5 years in business and 3 years on Alberta! We gave away awesome Garnish gifts, had tasty hot food catered by Brian, and really fun music by Fred and Kevin. To top it all off, Hopworks Brewery supplied us with a keg of Red Ale! Thanks Hopworks! Whoohoo!

We hope you had as much fun as we did. Thanks for all your support over the years!

Alberta Street Fair

2009-09-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the Alberta Street Fair this year! Thanks so much to Lucinda and Mary who carried the Garnish banner in the Parade. They looked fabulous in their Garnish apparel. The photo above shows Lucinda and Erica sporting two new skirt designs and Mary in an Amanda top. The day started off rainy, but by mid afternoon the weather was sunny and beautiful. Thanks to all those who filled the streets in support of the Fair and everyone who worked so hard to make Street Fair possible! We hope to see you all again next year.

3/50 Project

2009-08-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

We are proud supporters of the 3/50 project. This project raises awareness of the importance of local business and how your support for them filters back into the economy and benefits us all! If half the population spent $50 a month in independently owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 Billion in revenue! For every $100 spent in an independent store, $68 goes back into the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures! Portlanders are well known supporters of their local shops and we can't express how much we appreciate you! Thank you!

PICK 3. SPEND 50. Save your local economy.

Craft/Fabric Stores in Portland

2009-08-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

Portland has some great offerings to find the perfect fabric or button for your summer project. Some of our favorite places for supplies are:

Mill-End fabrics- for high quality fiber blends

Bolt - for great patterns and color ways

Fabric Depot - for a large selection of home decor and apparel fabrics

Scrap- sometimes you can score smaller cuts of great fabrics and notions there!

Knittn Kitten- for a nice selection of vintage buttons and fabrics

This is our short list. Feel free to make comments suggesting new places for us to check out! Any secret treasures?

Design patterns and print your own wallpaper!

2009-08-20T14:24:00.000-07:00

For all of you who love patterns and design......Manager of Garnish, Kate Troyer will be teaching a course on how to design your own patterns and hand screenprint your own wallpaper! Students will learn about pattern networks, draw their own designs, and print yardage onto wallpaper. The class begins September 8th and meets every Tuesday evening for 6 weeks. For more details and registration go to http://www.ocac.edu/

Recent "Garnishings"

2009-08-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

As you may know, Garnish embellishes or "garnishes" particular designs. Here are a couple recent customized wedding and bridesmaid pieces. We think they look pretty!

top to bottom: Odessa wedding dress (first three photos- front and back views), Jennifer wedding dress (back view), detail of Dorethy dress in sky blue.

2009-08-11T17:13:00.000-07:00

We just added a great new blog to our Links. True up is a blog completely devoted to fabric! The entries are not only visually pleasing, but also are very informative for any fabric lover. Check it out!

http://www.trueup.net/

New Items

2009-07-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

Beat the summer heat with our new soft lightweight bamboo/organic cotton dresses!

Left: Sophie dress available in Raspberry bamboo/organic cotton

Middle: Dahlia wrap dress in Blueberry. Also available in Raspberry

Right: Dahlia wrap dress in Black

James Coviello Fall 2009 collection

2009-07-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

Fashion designer, James Coviello's newest collection is rich with delicate patterns, flowers, and femininity. We love the romantic yet playful and lighthearted qualities of this Fall 2009 collection. His work is very delicate and rich in design. We hope you like it too!

http://www.jamescoviello.com/

Ped X Coupon

2009-07-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Not only does Ped X have fabulous shoes and accessories, it is just down the street from Garnish! We highly recommend shopping there for a selection of great styles, comfortable shoes, and a very friendly staff. To inspire your next shopping day on Alberta Street, Ped X and Garnish are teaming up to offer a discount to our loyal customers. Simply print off this image and bring it into Ped X for 20% off your next purchase. So, next time you stop at Garnish looking for a new dress or outfit, think Ped X for the matching shoes! We appreciate your continued support!

www.pedxshoes.com

Sidewalk Sale!!!

2009-06-28T14:15:00.000-07:00

photo: Jasmine Photography

Don't miss out on this years Alberta Sidewalk Sales! You can partake in festivities on Saturday July 11th and Sunday July 12th from 10-6pm. The shops on Alberta street will spill out onto the streets with the best deals in Portland! We are hoping for a beautiful sunny day this year and we would love to see all our loyal and beautiful women who shop Garnish!

Another Interesting Blog

2009-06-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a secret that you wanted to share, but didn't know who you could or should trust with it? Post Secrets.com offers you a revealing glimpse into peoples lives where everyone is invited to write in, share, or read. We find that once you start reading it is hard to look away and you can't help but think about the stories behind the secrets.

Our secret is that we wonder how many of the secrets are real? Check it our for yourself....

www.postsecrets.com

Interesting and Beautiful Artwork

2009-06-23T16:57:00.000-07:00

We love the whimsical sculptural work of Stephanie Liner. Her work blurs the boundaries between art and fashion and explores ideas of architecture, furniture, sexuality, and human interaction. Liners work is interactive, visually engaging, and well crafted. She also uses really beautiful prints and colors. Yummy! www.stephanieliner.com

"Dahlia" Wrap Dresses

2009-06-14T14:31:00.001-07:00

You haven't discovered comfort until you try on the "Dahlia". The new brown organic cotton wrap dress is the SOFTEST cotton dress you will ever own. Feel like you are lounging at home, but look work or dinner party appropriate! Could you ask for anything better than that?! Available now in the Garnish boutique or by phone order.

Dahlia dress xs-xl $138.00

Calling all Artists and Designers

2009-06-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

Every September Alberta closes their streets for a fun filled Street Fair! The festival falls on Saturday September 19th and will include great food, crafts, live music, and events. This year Garnish is managing all the street vendors for the event, so if you are a designer or artist and interested in setting up a booth for the event, please contact us at info@garnishapparel.com and we will send you an application.

Cool New Jewelry

2009-05-17T14:34:00.000-07:00

New Summer Dresses

2009-05-17T14:14:00.000-07:00

Above: Arabella dress in black, red, and brown. $138

We have new summer dresses in comfortable and beautiful fabrics. The Arabella dress is light and comfortable and perfect for a summer wedding, graduation, or simply a dinner party!

Above left: Amanda Dress $118 Above right: Sophie Dress $118

Are you looking for the most comfortable "go to" dress for summer? We have it! A flattering style and comfortable fit in stock now! Available in Black and Grey (coming soon). These styles sell out fast so stop in soon to snag yours.

Skirts and wrap tops

2009-04-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

New Items this Week.....

Above:

Left: Espresso Victoria Top $88.oo, Suzie hand painted and embroidered skirt red or brown 168.00

Right: detail of Brown suzie skirt

Above:
Victoria red floral wrap top, $88.oo

Limited quantities. Call (503) 282 3200 to place an order

Last Thursday on Alberta

2009-04-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

Last Thursdays is a great excuse to get out of the house and spend an evening on Alberta looking at art, shopping, eating, and mingling. On April 30th, Garnish is teaming up with other dress boutiques on Alberta to offer 15% off all dresses from 6-8pm only! (excluding our wedding dresses) We will also provide small treats and beverages for the event.

Garnish/Tudyk show and reception

2009-04-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

Come join us for our Show and Reception at Tilde!

Portland painter and illustrator Sam Tudyk and clothing designer Erica Lurie have collaborated their talents and ideas over the past few months fusing notions of art and design to create a unique collection of clothing. Sam designed two patterned fabrics, which Erica then used to create a line of ready to wear dresses and skirts. The exhibition of their creations will be revealed at an opening reception Friday, May 1st at Tilde. We would like to invite you to join us for wine, nibbles, and conversation from 6-8pm.

Located in Sellwood, Tilde, a modern lifestyle shop, offers a well-edited selection of women’s accessories and home decorative items that are created, hands-on, by either an individual artist or design group. Displayed in a home/gallery environment each product has an artist’s statement displayed nearby to reveal the story behind each item.

Where: Tilde, 7919 SE 13th Avenue, Portland OR
Reception: May 1st 6-9pm
Show: May 1-31

Here Comes The Bride

2009-04-16T11:45:00.000-07:00

Wedding season is upon us. Sisters, daughters, best friends, mothers... we know they are special to you and their wedding day is one of the most important of their life, so allow us to help you choose the right dress for this memorable and meaningful day. Something old, somethin new, something borrowed, something blue. Ever thought about customizing your dress with a blue silk sash or pieces of lace from your grandmothers wedding dress?

In case you haven't checked in with us lately, we have a variety of wedding dresses ranging from short and casual to long and luxurious. We have something for everyone ranging in size from 0 to 20 or "oh baby" to "Tres Jolie", as we like to call them. Choose from our collection of simple yet elegant designs made with luscious fabrics and work one-on-one with us to make it "uniquely you". The possibilities to "Garnish" your dress are only the limited by the imagination and no detail is too small. Whether you choose to add a sash, rossettes, lace, ribbon, etc.. we want to help you find the dress that best represents your personality and style.

Popina Swimwear

2009-04-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Every year about this time I start day dreaming about sunny days at the beach and looking steamy and fabulous in my new swimwear! So, I stopped in Popina swimwear the other day and was struck by how cute it is! So many women have a difficult time finding the right fit and style that flatters their body shape and size. Well ladies, look no further! The owner Pamela and her superb staff at Popina not only know their stuff, they design and make swimwear and are eager to help you find something comfortable that you feel great in! They offer a diverse range of lines, including their own line of unique retro styles from the 40s and 50s. The best part is you don't have to compromise with heavy or itchy fabrics. The ladies at Popina design using modern fabrics and construction techniques that make you feel relaxed yet sexy. Great products and personal service..I highly recommend checking it out.

Spring Cleaning Tips

2009-04-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

With the change of seasons, it is time to re-evaluate your closet and think about streamlining your wardrobe. Here are some tips to get you started….

1.Go through every item of clothing and ask yourself, "would I be excited about this item if I saw it in the store today?" If the answer no, its time to get rid of it!
2.If you have a favorite garment and it is worn out (holes, stains, etc..), you should be proud that you gave it such a long life, but now it's time to say bye bye.
3.We all have clothing items that stay in our closet because, "I might be able to fit into it again...someday". We don’t want to discourage a positive outlook, so if you can't part with these items, store them someplace so you can revisit them when you lose those extra couple pounds at the end of the summer. In the meantime, don’t clutter your closet with "stuff" you know you won't be wearing in the near future.
4.Organize your closet by your dressing thought process. Do you think by color, by type of item (long sleeve shirts, skirts, dresses), etc.. This will help you to see every option you have, and wear all of you clothing rather than the same items over and over.
5.Think about possibilities for your clothing's second life...re-purposing or donating are always great options.
6.Lastly, what do you need in your wardrobe? Do you have lots of shirts, but no skirts to go with them? Do you need a really flattering and comfortable dress that you can throw on without much thought? Think about this, then stop in to see us and we will help you find the perfect item to complete your wardrobe for the Spring.

Alberta St. Stimulus Plan

2009-04-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

Check it!

Alberta Street brings you our very own stimulus plan! Here is how it works: shop at any of the participating businesses and when you spend over $25 they will give you a coupon to get 20% off your NEXT purchase at any of the participating businesses. Offer runs now until June 1st. The only exception at Garnish is that wedding dresses and alterations are not included.

Spread the word, and the love!

Embellishments galore

2009-03-26T11:21:00.000-07:00

Buttons and ribbons.... ohhhh how we love them. As you may know, we carry an assortment of materials to embellish your Garnish clothing! Take a peak at this beautiful sampling- and get inspired for Spring! Sometimes, we just need a little color and small detail in our wardrobe to lift our spirits and help us to feel unique and lovely!

Welcome!

2009-03-01T16:00:00.000-08:00

Garnish is excited to launch our new blog! Check here for the latest information about events and happenings at Garnish. In addition, we will keep you updated on our new designs, fabrics, and exciting plans. Your opinion and input is very important to us and we welcome any feedback or suggestions you might have. Tell us what you love, what you wish for, and what we can change to make our shop better for you. If you haven’t had the opportunity to stop in our boutique on Alberta lately, please drop by! We are very friendly and would love to get to know you!

Photo by Jasmine Photography

New Logo

2009-03-01T15:30:00.000-08:00

You may have already noticed there is something different about the Garnish logo featured on this page and, yes, it is our new logo design! In the upcoming weeks and months all Garnish materials will carry this beautiful new logo. From our hangtags to our sign outside the boutique, expect to see this new font and color scheme on all garnish products and announcements.

New Assistant Manager

2009-03-01T14:30:00.001-08:00

We would like to introduce the newest member of Garnish, Assistant Manager, Kate Troyer. Kate recently moved here from Wisconsin after finishing her Masters of Fine Arts in Textiles. In addition to Garnish, Kate will be teaching textile printing and animation courses at a couple local colleges in the Portland area and hopes to offer a class at Garnish sometime in the future. Some of her interests include sewing, drawing, cooking, and spending time in the company of friends and family. We are happy she has found a home here at Garnish and plan to use her talents designing patterned fabrics for future Garnish apparel. Kate has recently launched a line of industrial felt bags now available at our boutique on Alberta. The clean lines and unique shapes, materials, and colors of these bags are contemporary and playful in design. Make sure you stop by to check them out and meet Kate in person.

New Jewelry

2009-03-01T12:47:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't been by to see us lately, we have some gorgeous new pieces to share with you. These pictures represent merely a sampling of some of the new styles available. Please feel free to call to place an order over the phone (we'll ship anywhere): 503.282.3200.

New York Times article

2009-02-28T11:31:00.000-08:00

In case you missed it, Garnish was recently featured in the New York Times travel section entitled, "Saved by Design in Portland". We are thrilled to be the only clothing boutique mentioned alongside a few other distinctive shops on Alberta Street. Take a look!

http://travel.nytimes.com/2009/02/01/travel/01surfacing.html?scp=1&sq=saved%20by%20design%20in%20portland&st=cse

New spring fabrics

2009-02-16T14:17:00.000-08:00

(LEFT: Wren wrapskirt, $128.00 available in espresso (shown) or poppie (below). Flo Top: $88.00 available in black floral print (below) and cream floral print (shown). MIDDLE: Grace Dress,$168.00 available in black (shown) or white cotton. RIGHT: Madddy dress, $148.00 available in red (shown) or navy stripes.)

Upcoming designs and fabrics for Spring! Since we only make a few of each design, we would like to offer you the option of preordering what we project to be some very popular Spring designs. Be sure to call us so we can reserve one of these limited edition peices for you. 503.282.3200. Pieces should be in the shop in the next few weeks.