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Summer Series: First Thursday Street Gallery
It’s always big news here in Portland when we have more than two days in a row of sunshine and that time is finally upon us. We can free our shorts, t-shirts, and summer dresses from the confines of our closet so they can see the world again. Our calendars filling with fun summer activities like wine-tasting, outdoor concerts, happy hours on a patio, and more. One event that cannot be missed is Portland’s First Thursday Street Gallery in The Pearl. Since 1986, this monthly event has become a Portland staple showcasing the city’s unique art, food, and music scene while strolling along NW 13th Avenue. Yes, this is an opportunity to wear your favorite denim shorts/tee combo, but this also a chance to be more creative. The next event, titled “Picnic in the Pearl” is on July 4th, and the purpose is to celebrate unique, expressive art and style. Your own outfit should be no exception. Plus, galleries like Augen Gallery or Froelick Gallery are right next to each other, and you may find some fun photo opps alongside their colorful exhibitions.
If you’re still attached to the idea of wearing denim shorts, we totally get it. We all battle the “shorts” game every summer – do we want high-waisted? Cut-offs? Bermuda? Short-shorts? Stretchy? The list goes on. Keep it easy (and classy) with the Dez Denim Short by Xirena. They’re comfortable and are the perfect length. Combine the Sundry Boyfriend Tee with the shorts for the classic look with a little red-white-blue nod. Shrug on this Forte Forte workwear jacket in case it gets chilly at night. Pop in these gold sunshine studs by Sydney Evan and you’ll complete the look.
If you’re in a denim mood, but don’t love shorts, don’t fret! Denim can be worn in many forms like this fun yet simple Frame Denim dress. It’s very comfortable and goes with everything (just like your favorite pair of jeans). As for something to wear on your shoulders, we’re in love with ANYTHING by La Prestic Ouiston. If you haven’t heard of this label yet, you’ll quickly see how they combine elegance with color in all their pieces. The Liberte jacket has a colorful, funky pattern to pair with the artistic evening, and it’s reversible with a more versatile leopard print on the other side. It’s silk and therefore lightweight, and feels amazing on. Perfect to throw on or pack in your tote as you get your steps in perusing the arts and crafts.
We cannot have this summer go by without showing off the newest Rhode Resort collection, and for First Thursday, and sunny days, look no further than the Linen Nilu Dress. It’s feminine, spunky, yet understated, and very gently gives red-white-blue energy if you want it to. This particular colorway is literally called “Do Re Mi” and I promise people will sing its praises the moment you wear it. Throw on this Vince zip up jacket for light warmth if you need it, and keep the jewelry simple with these Zofia Day huggies so the focus stays on the dress.
Friendly reminder that the event loops from the 13th Avenue street market to NW 9th Avenue, down Everett Street to the DeSoto Building galleries, and back via the Pacific Northwest College of Art.
It’s always fun to support local businesses and artists, and the First Thursday Street Gallery allows us to do that with an artistic flair. Don’t be afraid to try out new looks at anytime - but especially at artistic events like this. They’re meant to inspire us with new ideas, and your outfit should be no different. Now get out there and enjoy that sunshine.
Until next time,
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