Rachel Ancliffe is a designer with a strong point of view that ranks high on the list of fashion forward designers in Portland. She’s been in the biz for over 15 years and has an impressive design resume that extends from her many years in NYC. And despite how easily she could be in more notoriously fashionable cities like New York or L.A., Rachel insists on raising the bar here in the Pacific Northwest. It’s both inspiring and impressive to witness her dedication to perfection, and to see her success and true joy in designing exquisite clothing. She is not one to sacrifice her sense of self, nor her aesthetic, and that reads loud and clear in her collections. Her latest creations are underlined by modern shapes, quality fabrics, fine details, and dreamy silks. The collection of mostly basics can be easily layered. I’ve singled out three of my favorite looks, as a bit of a sneak preview! See her entire collection this weekend alongside my new jewelry, at our Pop Up Event at Halo Shoes in the Pearl!
This incredible silk top has the most interesting elbow detail making the overall movement of the garment absolutely brilliant. The drop shoulder flatters ladies with broad shoulders and its subtle cropped fit is perfect for laying over a dress or jumper!
Classic cigarette trousers and a bralette = So hot! What could be more basic than your bra? But a bralette isn’t necessarily just meant for holding the girls in, it’s meant for looks! Layered under this fierce fitted jacket (or a slouchy tank for that matter), it’s absolutely on point. A definite go-to this season for all you rocker chicks.
Lastly, I love this look for creative professionals. These pieces will work with other garments in your wardrobe, dressed up or down with ease. This particular shade of blue keeps it classic and stunning. Additionally you can do so much with a zipper at the wrist! Cuff it, scrunch it, or half-zip it like she did above!
As you all know, I’m big on quality. I like to draw attention to things that are hand-crafted, and hand-crafted well. Rachel shares a similar sentiment towards precision, and it happens to be one of the integral aspects of her design process. She is relentless when it comes to her impeccable seaming, so I wanted to give you a microscopic view of the detail. Here’s a little lesson on seams and skills a la Rachel!
1. This is a French Seam. Often used with silks and light weight fabrics, it finishes both the inside and outside edge, preventing the fabric from fraying.
2. A Mock Felled Seam. Often used in denim, this technique strengthens the garment by interlocking heavier-weight fabric.
3. This is the inside back view of the black drape jacket in the second outfit above. Tailored to perfection! Another Mock Felled Seam.
4. The Mitered Corner. A perfect 45 degree angle finishes the corner cleanly with less bulk.
I hope to see you all this weekend!
Xo,
Scarlet
