Ella's Boutique

Daylight savings ends, but the savings at Ella's aren't stopping!

2009-11-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

When we told you last week everything must go, we meant it. And so...

What a busy week it has been! We hope you had a great Halloween. We're a little startled that it's already November. Time flies! Thank you all for helping us kick off our closing sale with a bang. Sweaters, tops, dresses, tights and skirts -- people are stocking up on their favorite Fall & Winter must-haves before our doors close at the end of this month. But the fun has only begun! Starting tomorrow, November 2nd, everything in the store and website will be 30% off. This jump-starts our "Going, Going, Gone" sales, where every week will bring a steeper discount. Pick your week, or come each week - either way, keep in mind the racks and size options are already starting to look a little bare!

Come by, say hello, and check out the comfortable, the beautiful, and the flattering, while it's all still here.

Major changes for us @ Ella's Boutique:

2009-10-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

dear customers, readers, fans & friends,

It is with some sadness, I am announcing that Ella’s will be closing.
I have truly enjoyed having a shop on Alberta Street and being a part of this very cool shopping district.
It has been a pleasure to get to know you, our wonderful customers,
and helping you find just the right outfit for those special moments in your life.

This will be a new beginning for many of us here at Ella’s. Tess plans to continue with her creative writing and art, her sights on possibly going to graduate school in the near future. She welcomes the opportunity to spend the holidays with her family in California. Rhea will continue to pursue her passion for flowers and floral design. You can visit her at Sammy’s in the Pearl District. Pamela will be focusing more of her energies back into her career as a video editor and hopes to start work on a documentary in the coming year.

We are an immensely creative little group, and we are all excited for the coming changes!

It has been our pleasure to spend time with you here on Alberta and wish you all great happiness. While Ella’s Boutique may be gone, we at Ella’s still plan on shopping at the great stores on Alberta, from Frock to Garnish and Tumbleweed, and we look forward to seeing you on this wonderful street, so full of fun shops as it is! We’re crazy about the shoes at Pie Footwear and pedX.

We encourage you all to keep supporting these local businesses that make our community shine.

On an exciting note: We are having superb sales to clear out our inventory! Everything must go! Stop by soon, as new inventory will be continually marked down. The sale starts Monday, October 26th. Come by, say hello, and pick up a bargain (or two!)

Sincerely,

Your friends at Ella’s
Pamela, Tess & Rhea

Ethos Paris ~ "Changing the world one garment at a time."

2009-10-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

"Each time someone buys a Fair Trade garment, they are helping to change the world for the better.
This is the belief of Ethos Paris founders who insist that when fashion is done right,
everyone profits: consumers, farmers, workers, manufacturers,
transporters as well as the creative and distribution teams."

The Pampero Dress: Whimsical elegance with a romantic silhouette: dramatic dolman bishop sleeves taper into pleats at the mid forearm, floral mbroidery in black, silver and grey decorating the bust.

The Lavanto Jacket: thickly textured organic cotton with snap-closure wrap around tie at the waist and dramatic, edgy raglan bishop sleeves that taper and cuff at the wrist. Adorable wide mock-turtle neckline and zip-up closure complete the look. Cozy!

We love organic, eco-friendly clothing. We love comfortable, easy-to-wear and sophisticated pieces we can match with nearly everything we own. But, we also adore the urban-casual edge of those garments that are eye-catching and uniquely metropolitan. Ethos Paris has all of these qualities, and more. Started in 2002, the line worked from the bottom up on creating a company that would be an international model for fair trade and sustainable practice in how they operated every level of their business. Not only are all their fabric organic and treated with an earth friendly botanical, herbal dyeing process (where after the water is re-used), but they have partnered with the Chetna Organic Cotton Project from central India, an organic and fair trade certified co-op.

Left: 'Chinook' Long Sleeved top in deep berry-magenta, a wardrobe basic with cute scalloped hems.
Right: Kona Skirt, in a lovely, neutral bark color. Wide waist band with gathers creates a flattering, comfortable drape, tapering just slightly along the skirt hem into a panel of fold-over pin-tuck pleats.
Fun with tights and your favorite sweater.

Their designs have everything we love about the stylish fashions of Paris, with the added benefit of knowing what you're wearing is both safe on your skin and was created without harm to the earth itself. Each piece of clothing is versatile, ideal for layering in various ways over leggings, sweaters, long sleeved tops, boots and other accessories. Ethos Paris was featured in Portland Fashion Week, and we are thrilled to be carrying such a fun, comfortable and eco-conscious line.

s founders who insist that when fashion is done right, everyone profits: consumers, farmers, workers, manufacturers, b

The Cyclamen Tunic Top: Beautiful, sophisticated print of stylized ferns and sand dollar motifs decorate this adorable top, in charcoal over a muted red-orange. Fitted through the bust with a relaxed fit through the body. Cute with jeans!

New Fall dresses & a top from Kelly Lane

2009-09-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

The 'Santa Fe' Dress

In May, I wrote some tid-bits about Pittsburgh designer Kelly Lane, about the eco-chic line she has created with vibrant, bold colors and fun textures. For Fall, Kelly's dresses and tops are inspired by the whimsical palettes of carnivals and carousels, particularly the painted horses with their unique jeweled tones. The 'Trot' top below is gorgeous and down-to-earth, with a ruffle accent down the middle adorned with a double-stitch orange detail, and an over-sized turtleneck for maximum coziness this Fall.

Since they arrived in our store a couple days ago, I can't stop thinking about the Southwest. Santa Fe. Red rock, adobe architecture, Native American jewelry and turquoise every where. Enlivening Fall with these bright colors not only brightens your wardrobe and your complexion, but also your mood. It could be the grey and blustery day that's making me think of color retail therapy, but it is more likely that our store looks that much more beautiful and bright with Kelly Lane's dresses in it! Come try them on, as they're immensely flattering. A customer tried on the turquoise 'Harness' dress earlier today, and she was wearing some amazing cowboy boots... and it was pretty much perfect. Her whole look was uplifted by the brilliant turquoise-emerald color, and the graphic accents of color insets flattered her shape perfectly.

The Turquoise 'Harness' Dress

Ella's is now a supporter of the 3/50 Project!

2009-09-28T15:01:00.001-07:00

Blue Canoe: Organic Yoga and Casual Wear!

2009-09-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

A delightful shipment of Blue Canoe yoga wear arrived! We are excited to be carrying such a comfortable and flattering line, whose focus is on sustainable practices and organic materials, while still creating unique, fun garments that are uniquely feminine, graceful and sweet.

Left: Long sleeved swing top with gathered sleeves and a relaxed, effortlessly draped fit. $65
Right: V-neck lacquer red top with a wrap front and scallop hem. $58

Left: Yoga crops with tie in black, with a contrasting wide waistband in vivid ocean blue. $66
Right: Wide legged crops with fold over waistband in black. $68

~ Fall @ Ella's Boutique ~

2009-09-08T13:31:00.001-07:00

We have been so busy here in the past month with incoming, beautiful items for Fall! Hats, long sleeved tops, scarves, and dresses, as well as one spectacular coat I just can't stop thinking about by Rebe.

The Mary Anne Coat, with hood, single button asymmetrical closure and optional fold over or high collar. Princess seams and a fitted waist with double pleats front and back make for an undeniably cozy, flattering fit. Sage. Handmade with recycled materials and organic cotton. $214

Eco-friendly simplicity and grace mark this gorgeous, supremely flattering hooded coat by mother and daughter designers, Debra Weiss and Hillery Sproatt. With a degree in textiles from UC Davis, Weiss and her daughter began following their dream of an ecologically conscious and unique line of clothing and accessories when Hillery was fifteen. Later, Hillery went on to study both printmaking and book making at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, Maryland. The colors and textures that Weiss and Sproatt use in their clothing show us a deep understanding and love of craft, color and form. And, that they use solely recycled materials, often organic, is a huge step forward in the idea of wearing your ethos on your sleeve, literally!

Many of Rebe's pieces are ideal for layering, such as the Chloe Dress, Gingham Dress and Jesse Dress, and some, like our favorite coat - the 'Mary Anne' hoodie jacket in sage - will keep you cozy and warm all Fall and Winter long, knowing that what you're wearing was made with love and care for the earth.

~ Other Organic & Earth Conscious Items made in the USA ~

The Arden Top by She-Bible. Thermal, cowled, in a stunning deep berry color. What more could a girl want in a comfy top? Organic, Made in San Francisco. $66

The Heartwood Top in deep lavender by She-Bible. $66, organic and made in San Francisco.

Art @ Ella's & Last Thursday

2009-07-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

You know what excites us? Beautiful, pretty things. What excites us more? Being pampered. This Last Thursday, July 30, surround yourself with lovely dresses and skirts, tops and blouses, jewelry and purses, as well as treat your senses to aromatherapy skincare and bath products by Angelface Botanicals, who will be here giving demonstrations of exquisite facial masks, toners, facial cleansers, lotions and more!

Jade Sheldon. Untitled. Print. 2009.

And if feeling like a goddess is not enough for you, look up at the walls into the faces of goddesses from around the world. We will be showing mixed media drawings by Jade Sheldon, whose work delves into exploring goddess mythology and the human form through a vibrant palette, a love of drawing and a passion for expressing the divinity of goddesses. How she views her artwork and art-making is expressed quite poignantly with a quote from Audrey Flack, "“Art is a calling. It’s something you do because you have to. Artists are shamans, the priests and priestesses, the magicians of society. Only a few make a living from their art. If you have this calling, you will continue… Enjoy life, live it to the fullest – whatever that may mean for you."

Jade Sheldon, Ameratasu. Soft Pastel & 3B Graphite Stick, 2009.

I first viewed her work when visiting the BFA Thesis Exhibit at Pacific Northwest College of Art in May. What caught my eye was her beautifully rendered line work, expressive color and, of course, the use of goddess mythology. Her mixed media drawing of the Japaense goddess Ameratasu was particularly striking for me: how the hair and flowers within it were drawn, the radiating sun-parasol she holds, and the blissful, peaceful expression on her face. Her use of line in her printmaking and drawing are also exquisite. I hope that when you come visit Ella's through August, you will take a moment, look up, and consider these beautiful works for your own!

Jade Sheldon. Untitled. 2009.

New JWLA @ Ella's

2009-07-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

Flattering and new styles from JWLA have just arrived in the store. Incredible floral embroidery.

Beautifully embroidered roses and blooming vines decorate this gorgeous black dress. Belled sleeves add a fun, flirty flare. Elastic ruching accents either side for the perfect flattering and comfortable fit.

The "Gabriela" top is super soft and sweet, with darling red, violets and yellows embroidered into a floral pattern, with stylized dark grey tulip and leaf embroidery running along the neckline, hem, and across the top of the back. Truly darling!

Classic and relaxed, this dark heathered grey cardigan is made unique and elegant with the decoration of embroidered roses along each shoulder and neckline, as well as at the hip. Accented by deep pockets on either side.

Summer time, and the living's easy! Upcoming events @ Ella's & Alberta

2009-06-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

July is upon us (already?!)! With it, comes fun sales and spectacular street-wide events.

First, Ella's Boutique is celebrating 4 years on Alberta Street! Happy Birthday, Ella's!

We're so thrilled that we will be offering 20% off all clothing July 1st through the 10th!

And the sales don't end there!
On the (hopefully!) glorious sunny weekend of Saturday July 11th through Sunday July 12th, Alberta Street is throwing its first ever Sidewalk Sale.
Participating stores and boutiques will be offering some great deals up and down the street.
Delight your senses, your wardrobe, buy some flowers, indulge yourself with great shoes, and more!

Art @ Ella's: Laine Perry

2009-06-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

Laine Perry is a painter, photographer and writer in Portland, Oregon. A selection of her current body of work, called "BirdSong", will be displayed at Ella's Boutique through July.

"I have been making art all of my life. I am a curious observer of the fascinating world we live in. My interpretation of strong, life affirming moments is reflected in this body of work, which I call BirdSong."

*Pictured Above: "A Little Bird Told Me", acrylic on canvas.

New HOBO International handbags @ Ella's!

2009-06-23T17:26:00.000-07:00

Just added to our website & new in store: amazing bags and clutches by HOBO International! Here a few examples!

Dress up your professional and elegant wardrobe with either of these gorgeous shoulder bags.
The 'Morgan' [Left] in has unique folded exterior detailing and tons of charm.
The 'Natalie' [right] is exquisite and black, with a double rolled shoulder strap and a unique, classy fan shape.

Why we love HOBO International's bags: they're versatile and utilitarian, chock full of interior pockets and delights, but they are also incredibly polished, sleek and refined, the perfect mix of fun and professional, of elegant and every-day.

Figs & Ginger: Beautiful, handmade & cute!

2009-06-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

Something about birds on branches, deers resting by trees and the simple shape of a circle, all combined within immaculately hand-crafted jewelry, delights us! Figs & Ginger is composed of all of that, and more.

Imaginary and real elements of forest life and hills find their way into this unique, stunning and earth-friendly jewelry hand-crafted by Elijah and Rhona Wyman of Asheville, NC. Cute silhouettes of deer, trees, rabbits and birds are recurring themes, often contained on a branch or within a circle. Figs & Ginger strives to create jewelry that is as versatile and pretty as it is low impact and effortless, using the highest grade of recycled sterling silver. With a brushed and blackened patina, their pieces go, quite wonderfully, with a wide variety of outfits, from elegant to every-day casual.

Rhonda and Elijah got their start in retail and crafts together in 2003 in the "indie-craft scene", Rhonda graduated from Rhode Island School of Design and the two were married in 2004. In 2006, Figs & Ginger was officially named and sales began. The couple have been happily silver-smithing jewelry, creating art and music since, alongside their cat Puppy and their dog Crashdog.

Art @ Ella's: Nature and light ~ Photography by Rebecca Lefferts

2009-05-27T18:35:00.000-07:00

Through June, Ella's Boutique will be exhibiting stunning, sometimes otherworldly photography by Portland artist, Rebecca Lefferts. She has always loved photography and received her first camera at age eight. Nature and the fall of natural light on her subjects, whether they are Tuscan looking landscapes or dramatic black and white forests, are her inspiration.

We will be open from 11 am to 10 pm on Last Thursday, May 28, to showcase Rebecca's work. Come take a look!

Lustrous Pier
Rebecca Lefferts
Taken in Les Landes, France.

Kelly Lane: Ethical and eco-friendly clothing with color.

2009-05-26T17:44:00.001-07:00

Kelly Lane's Iris dress: beautiful periwinkle contrasted with a printed ivory panel down the center and a band of soft mustard yellow at the waist. Sleek and slimming with a comfortable, soft feel and fit, perfect for summer parties!

An artistic childhood and a grandfather who loves telling stories have both influenced the exquisitely hand-crafted designs by Kelly Lane. Up until 2005, she worked as a graphic designer, having received both a bachelor's degree and master's degree in graphic design ten years earlier. When, in 2005, her husband gave her a sewing machine, she says she "traded in a Mac for a Singer" and the youthful, creative energy of her childhood was unleashed onto an entirely new canvas: clothing! She started her own clothing line a year later, Kelly Lane: Clothing with Color. She says,"I, like my grandfather and his colorful stories, seek to enhance your true colors."

The Dahlia dress is versatile and sassy, perfect for a cocktail party or summer wedding.
Wear as a skirt, as well, the ties wrapped gently around the waist.
Beautiful rose color contrasts with a fun and care-free printed accent down the center.

Kelly Lane's dresses and skirts are sophisticated and artistic, combining different textures, prints and solids that are eye-catching and unique. She blends sinfully soft jersey knits with sturdier woven fabrics, resulting in feminine silhouettes that are sweet, timeless and durable. She and the artisans she works with use eco-friendly materials and ethical practices, creating handmade, high quality "clothing with a conscience."

At Ella's, we are increasingly tring to bring eco-friendly, and, when possible, handmade clothing and accessories into our store, and Kelly Lane is a designer we're excited to have, and we think you will be, too!

Hats'n'pretty things at Ella's Boutique!

2009-04-27T16:47:00.000-07:00

The Honeycomb Blouse by Loco Lindo - effortless grace with a fun honeycomb print in rich orange and off-white polka dots.
A store favorite, for its versatility, fun, and its light-weight Summer flow.

Spring & Summer
have arrived
at Ella's Boutique!

It feels amazing to waltz out the front door wearing short sleeves and a skirt, or a dress, or your favorite Summer blouse and crops. We have a number of stunning new items from Loco Lindo, XCVI, Two Star Dog and Glam Vintage Soul. Stock up on beautiful summer dresses and tops!

We've been quite busy here at Ella's Boutique, as we are regularly, almost daily, receiving stunning and beautiful new things for late Spring and Summer. A large shipment of leather belts also arrived recently: skinny belts in blue, yellow, black and white, some fabulous wide belts, and some floral accented brown and black belts as well! Today, we received a fabulous shipment of Summer hats by DeLux, some of which are organic! Stop by and have some fun finding your favorites.

Beautiful new palettes and styles at Ella's!

2009-03-25T16:17:00.000-07:00

Sweet and flattering top by Green Dragon with ruffled sides,
a gentle fit and flattering yoke scoop neckline.

Sinfully soft and effortlessly graceful dresses.
~Pleated Day Dress in a lovely muted periwinkle and violet, composed of exquisite Supima cotton.
Flattering and modest all at once.

~Flirtatious and charming little dress by Green Dragon with a print of black flowers over honeysuckle-yellow, a flirty sweetheart neckline and sleeveless with ruched gathers at the shoulder. Wear it with your favorite little strappy heels for a sexy segue into Spring and Summer, or with boots and your favorite cardigan.

~Stunning light-sage green dress with a spiderweb mesh overlay and gathered empire waist - flattering and the epitome of Spring sweetness and grace.

Art @ Ella's: Simple gestures, layers of color and form ~ Erika Warhus ~

2009-02-22T14:49:00.000-08:00

Erika Warhus, "Pomegranate", mixed media on paper. 6"x12"

Oh, if only Spring were here! Every now and then a day will be warm and bright, and we'll daydream of all the beautiful colors blooming outside, flowers and cherry blossom-filled streets... well, we can dream, for now, or feel these elements within the artwork that will be displayed for the month of March by local Portland painter Erika Warhus.

Her work is primarily process oriented. In layer-upon-layer of organic line and shape we find subtle whispers of meaning. Simple gestures become complex; daily actions and nature shape Warhus's work, and we see both in her non-representational oil and gouache paintings.

Come view Erika Warhus's fabulous paintings in person at Ella's from February 25, 2009 through the month of March, and visit her work and our store on Last Thursday, February 26, until 7:30 pm.

Your new unbreakable habit: Habitual Jeans @ Ella's Boutique!

2009-02-22T13:55:00.001-08:00

We adore comfortable and sexy jeans. Naturally, we're excited with our new shipment and inventory of Habitual Jeans. Not only are they soft and stretchy, but they are sleek, flattering and combine utilitarian simplicity with metropolitan grace. Pockets are hand-sewn onto the backs to ensure the perfect placement and silhouette, and every inch of their jeans are hand-made in the U.S.A. The jeans are triple-washed and hand-sanded, meticulously crafted for an impeccable, perfect fit.

In store, we carry the Audrey Stretch Crop in steel grey, and the sexy cinch jean in black. Both are accented by grommet detailing at the pockets, with back pockets adorned with the "H" logo. Give us a call if you have any questions at all about fit and size.

Trashy Diva: Graceful and timeless with an irreverently modern flare.

2009-02-19T12:02:00.001-08:00

What Candice Gwinn had in mind when opening the first Trashy Diva Boutique in New Orleans in 1996 was, originally, to sell genuine, flattering vintage wear for women. For her, the "Trashy" in Trashy Diva represented the idea that found objects and material could be made into something original, beautiful and ultimately unique. The full name itself was inspired by an issue of W that explored classic starlets' fashion, such as Marilyn Monroe and Jane Mansfield.

For three years, Gwinn's boutiques sold vintage and second-hand dresses, slips and other fabulously timeless styles. In 1999, Trashy Diva was indeed "blossoming", producing a two piece clothing line (a "charm gown" and a charmeuse flapper coat) and expanding its store and reach within New Orleans, nationally and internationally through their website. They created original, eye-catching dresses that echoed dresses of the mid 20th century, although each dress was updated and fitted for a modern, unique style. Trashy and Diva combined to create a clothing line that was inspired by 1920's to 1950's fashion, symbolizing "irreverent beauty" for "girls who don't always follow the rules."

Trashy Diva has timeless, classic dresses that above all else are flattering for nearly all body types, comfortable, and with finely crafted vintage-inspired details throughout every inch of every garment. A particular classic or vintage print Gwinn finds inspires her to create a whole line of dresses, or she starts with one particular cut and style in mind, borrowing elements from a dozen or so vintage patterns. You can also find a modern flare in all of her dresses, as well a subtle touch of traditional Japanese fashion, seen in the overlapping V-necks and dramatic panel-empire waists that accent the bodices of her dresses, usually in solid colors to compliment the stunning prints. Full circle skirts, A-lines and top-stitched and fitted empire waists are Trashy Diva staples that'll make you want to dance! Mingling Asian influences with her current love for the 1950's and cottons, her line continues to thrive.

We love how well Trashy Diva's dresses fit and flatter, and we recently received a shipment of beautifully exquisite examples of the flawless perfection that is Trashy Diva.

Please call or e-mail us with questions about the fit and size of these lovely dresses, as they do run a bit small.

Weston Wear ~ Style, grace & comfort.

2009-01-22T15:16:00.000-08:00

When Julie Weston was eight years old, her sister - using their mother's sewing machine - helped her design and create her first dress, a mod-style "Correges" inspired dress with a red and white houndstooth print - and a helmet hat to match. Weston had been in ballet since the age of five and would be a regular cast member in the Nutcracker until she was fourteen. Dance, combined with this first foray into clothing design, "cast the die" for what would eventually become Weston Wear.

Julie Weston danced her way through childhood, her teens and through the doors of Stanford University, where she received her MA in Dance. Around the same time, a new fabric had been designed to allow for absolute comfort and movement, perfect for dancers: Cotton/LYCRA. One could look and feel wonderful in clothes made from a fabric that moved with the body without losing its shape, and Weston, along with her friends, lived in their dance clothes like never before.

The Weston Wear line was launched in 1980, the core tenet of which still remains "stylish yet comfortable". Elements of dance and art are felt in the pieces she and her company create, with ever-changing prints and silhouettes each season. Currently based in San Francisco, her new inspiration lies in finding unique European prints for layering with nylon mesh fabric.

Some of our favorite Weston Wear dresses:

Exquisite grace and elegance flows from the Whitely Dress. An artistic print suggests watercolor and flowers, with washes of dark blue, neutral sky blue and soft earth brown underlying or overlapping linear, free-flowing magnolias. A single pleat drapes from a flattering, gently fitted empire waist, accented by a sweetly feminine tiered V-neckline.

The darling, flattering and effortless Darleen dress, somewhat reminiscent of an afternoon spent drinking tea while wearing your favorite white cardigan and heels. An impressionist floral print in pinks, charcoals, muted greens, magenta and ivories adorns this beautiful, sexy sleeveless dress. The top is ruched and gently gathered at the sides and at the back, creating an eye-catching yet comfortable fit, with a subtly flared and pleated skirt.

XCVI ~ Urban elegance, every-day wear.

2009-01-15T17:03:00.000-08:00

XCVI has returned to Ella's! The ever-popular shirred panel skirt is back, in a striking, rich black. We love this skirt because it can be dressed up or down to your fancy, and it adds edge and a little sass to any outfit. With a subtle A-line flare and drawstring waist, the fit is comfortable, the silhouette is classic, and you'll find excuses to wear such an amazing skirt as often as possible!

Victorian-inspired elegance accents this adorable high collared blouse, with faux tortoiseshell buttons, scalloped lace yoke and girlish cuffed sleeves. Pair it with XCVI's sweet skirts or pants, jeans, or slacks.

Utility and urban-chic mingle in the hybrid crops, in which we find everything we love about XCVI: the effortless, comfortable drawstring waist, paired with grommet detailing and ruched panels at the leg - slant pockets pull it all together, as would boots, your favorite blouse or sweater and handbag.

What's Your Body Shape?

2008-12-27T14:46:00.000-08:00

Finding the right clothing for your body shape can sometimes be a challenge. Ella's Boutique decided to make it easier for you to find the perfect items that flatter you best!

DEFINITION: Medium/Large bust and excess body weight accumulates around the stomach and hips.

Apple shaped women should focus attention to great legs. With the majority of weight located at the center of the body, trouser/wide leg pants and jeans with a flare and mid-rise waist help create a balanced look.

Several types of clothing styles help apple shapes draw attention above the bust and below the waist. Consider shorter skirts that hit just above the knee paired with tunics that fall away from the belly. V-neck or scoop neck lines also help draw attention away from problem areas.

TIP: Dark and solid colors for tops help balance the top half of your body with your slimmer legs.

ELLA'S BOUTIQUE SUGGESTS THESE ITEMS FOR APPLES:

DEFINITION: Slim body, often times athletic build. Fewer defined curves with weight distributed in no one particular area.

Square shapes, like a ruler, have problems creating curves and a more feminine silhouette. Look for belted tops to help create a more defined waist. Flowing blouses or tops with a tighter waist or nipped at the waist.

For skirts, go with a pencil shirt with flowing tops or a full skirt with a tighter top. Square shapes can wear straight legs or flares.

TIP: Try to layer your outfits or pairing a bulky sweater with tighter, slim bottoms. Both with help break up the straight line!

ELLA'S BOUTIQUE SUGGESTS THESE ITEMS FOR SQUARES/RECTANGLES:

DEFINITION: Smaller shoulders and/or bust with heavier waist, hips and thighs

Pear shapes should go for printed tops and cuts that draw the eye upward. Bishop and rouched sleeves will help widen the shoulders. Pear shape women can wear slightly open necklines or heavy collars/turtlenecks.

For bottoms, stick with solid, dark colored skirts and pants. Look for pants with small flares or trouser styles and mid-rise waistlines.

TIP: Have fun with style and prints for tops – so few can!

ELLA'S BOUTIQUE SUGGESTS THESE ITEMS FOR PEARS:

DEFINITION: Larger shoulders and/or bust with a smaller waist and hips.

Triangle shape women often have trouble playing the balancing act with a heavy top. Like the apple shape, triangles can feature their legs with shorter skirts since they have smaller thighs and hips. A-line shirts or skirts with a little extra flare can help balance the shoulders and/or bust.

Avoid high necklines by selecting tops with a lower cut. Showing a little leg, along with an open neckline will always be flattering.

TIP: Try heavier fabrics like tweed on the bottom or pants and skirts with prints. Pair with solid colored tops or tops with a subtle print.

ELLA'S BOUTIQUE SUGGESTS THESE ITEMS FOR TRIANGLES:

DEFINITION: Defined waist area and an overall curvy figure. Weight goes to both the bust and hip area.

Hourglass shapes do not lack the curves and many styles can work to your benefit. Scoop and V-neck tops open up the top of the body. Wrap dress and tops and halters can also be very flattering.

Wear flared pants or straight leg trousers. Stay away from tapered or too tight of pants.

TIP: Find items that tie or button below the bust to help accentuate your waist.

ELLA'S BOUTIQUE SUGGESTS THESE ITEMS FOR HOURGLASSES:

Angie Olami and ruins of old becoming treasures of now.

2008-12-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

During the Roman Empire, dating to 100 B.C.E. through 300 C.E., there was a revolution: the art of glass blowing. This allowed for unique pieces that were light-weight and eye-catching: vessels, bowls, perfume tinctures and other houseware and trinkets decorated the halls, chambers and streets of the Roman Empire in the Middle East. Shards of these vessels have been found en masse during archaeological digs of pillars and once great cities. What is unique about these remnants of a mighty civilization is the variation in color within them, almost an opalescence that resembles abalone shell and is ever-changing with time. This coloration is a chemical reaction to the elements and minerals in the soil, specific to the dramatic and harsh climate of the Middle East. Layers of patina wrapped around the found remnants of vessels and refract the light, creating the iridescent colors.

Angie Olami and the craftsmen she works with in Israel, as well in her studio in New Jersey, set these pieces of glass into finely crafted sterling silver after a labor intensive cleaning and brushing process, where they remove excess patina so it will not, in her words, "flake off and look like 2,000 year old technicolored dandruff." The final pieces of glass are solid and stable: thinner, longer pieces are then cut into bewitching earrings, and thicker, deeply colored pieces are reserved for more substantial necklaces, brooches and one of a kind pieces of jewelry.

Angie Olami, Inc. was started twenty years ago after Angie received her B.A. in English literature from Yale, after studying Russian literature at the University of St. Petersburg, working on an archeological dig in Israel, traveling throughout Nepal, and living in Southern Spain. All of these experiences and travels were fused into the stunning creations that would unfold in the decades to come. This impressive globe-trotting artisan speaks five languages, and her designs use mythologcal and linguistic symbolism from Israel, Mesopotamia, Greece and the world of Dante in Florence. Her work is timeless, unique and will last for generations to come, the perfect gift and heirloom piece.

"When is a coat a jacket and a jacket a coat?" President Fillmore meets fashion.

2008-12-04T13:11:00.000-08:00

It's been a bright, sunny afternoon here in Portland, spent reading things about clothing company/designers Millard Fillmore. Their coats are modern with vintage inspired fits and flares. A portrait of America's 13th president, Millard Fillmore, decorates the clothing designers' tag, as well as the president's birth year, 1800. President Fillmore was raised on the frontier, braved the elements and once tramped through one hundred miles of forest; we're not suggesting you do the same in Millard Fillmore's amazing coats and jackets, but don't be surprised if you want to! Lush wool pea coats and metropolitan-chic trench coats that remind us of Audrey Hepburn are Millard Fillmore staples we have here in the store, as well as beautiful, cozy dusters. President Fillmore once said, "... People here know nothing of comfort in cold weather," and it is in the coats and jackets of Millard Fillmore that we find that Millard Fillmore knows quite a bit about keeping warm and stylish even when it's cold!

Fillmore is an active sponsor of Music Saves Lives, a conduit between life saving organizations and the entertainment industry. A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of their garments will fo to Fillmore's continued support of this life saving organization.

Art @ Ella's: Geology, landscape and abstraction.

2008-12-04T11:52:00.000-08:00

Oil paintings, acrylic paintings and several encaustic (wax) paintings by local artist Sarah Kamsler adorn the walls of Ella's Boutique for the month of December. Within her work, we see her vision of the natural world we both inhabit and are strangers to. Landscape has become a point of departure for the imagination. Human struggle is personified in entwined ribbon-like forms and wide open skies, in broken and abstracted trees and twigs, and uneven, layered geological forms. Original paintings on box frame panels and canvases are available for sale, as well as smaller printed reproductions. The gift-giving season is upon us!

December 3, 2008 through January 4, 2009
Ella's Boutique
2529 N.E. Alberta St.
Portland, OR 97211

Pictured at right ~ "The Humpty Effect."

JWLA ~ Creative and care-free!

2008-11-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

We are jump-starting a series of mini-essays on our blog about the designers Ella's carries. It begins with California favorite JWLA, a division of Johnny Was that was an "experiment" in 2004 - to create fun, casual T-shirts accented by stunning embroidery. Victor Tanisaka and Biya Rumar both designed this delightful line of tees, chiffon blouses, knit tunics and hoodie dresses, believing that, at the time, the market was craving "newness". Tanisaka graduated from the Fashion Industry of Design and Merchandising in 1988; 20 years later, JWLA is his favorite creation. Fiercely successful and sold world-wide to the finest stores and boutiques, including Fred Segal in Los Angeles and the Galleries Lafayette in Paris, Tanisaka has said that while the line is funky, fun and chic, it is worn by women of all ages and seen on celebrities such as Janet Jackson. Interlaced and linking the eight divisions of Johnny Was are free spirited, eye-catching embroidered details of birds and flowers, particularly shining in the hoodie dresses we carry here at Ella's Boutique. Each piece by JWLA is a work of art, the tenets of which are versatility, beauty in the details, and comfort!

The Imperial Rose Tunic-Dress by JWLA stands out in our store with its gold embroidered cranes that wind up the skirt and adorn the back, accenting a warm blue and the fuschia roses that decorate the bust and hood. What we love about this dress is the flattering empire waist, the hoodie, and how undeniably cozy it is!

Art @ Ella's Boutique: Seascapes, landscapes, and cityscapes, o my!

2008-10-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

October ends with crisp, sunny days and ever-changing Fall colors: fiery oranges and reds, even violets. One day you'll see a tree afire with color, and the next it will be barren but beautiful. We love Fall's colors and energy as Halloween and the holidays approach us. Ella's is ending October with a stunning array of artwork by Ariel Frager, whose mixed media paintings explore seascapes, landscapes and images of crowded India streets. Photographs are mingled with oil paint and poured over with resin, creating a smoothed glassy layer that makes one feel as if they are looking through a window. Her brushwork plays tricks on the eye: where does the photo end, and the paint begin, or vice versa? Richly layered and textured beneath this sleek resin top layer, the depth and skill of Ariel's craft is best seen up close - come take a look this Thursday! We will be open until 10 pm.

Ariel Frager: New Mixed Media Work
Last Thursday, October 30, 2008
Ella's Boutique
2529 N.E. Alberta St.

P.S. Ariel's paintings would make great gifts! 'Tis the season, almost! ;)

Photo shoot with Beth Fall 2008

2008-10-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Soft and warm red cardigan from Green Dragon

Stripped Turtleneck tunic very chic with jeans or leggings

Embroidery is everywhere, The Love Hoodie by Johnny Was can be worn as a dress or a tunic depending on your mood.

This lovely jacket is from Two Star Dog

New Designer for Ella's
Kate Organic

Here is her very sexy
Organic Cotton
Movie Star Dress

Time is flying on Alberta Street!

2008-09-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

Wow! September is almost over, and Fall is creeping up on us. We've had a good summer here at Ella's and hope you have, too! Lots of fantastic and fun events are coming up, including a night of shopping called Fashion by Flashlight on Thursday, October 9, from 6 to 9 pm. Join Ella's and twelve other amazing Alberta Street boutiques for an unforgettable night of shopping and fun. Delight yourself in sales, trunk shows and treats up and down the street!

Ella's will be having a trunk show of exquisite Ellington Leather handbags, special discounts, wine and chocolate. What more does a girl need other than luscious leather handbags, wine and chocolate?

See you then!

Ella's

2008-09-27T01:21:00.001-07:00

The Alberta Art Hop