Physical Element | The Daily Proprietress

Desigual Spring 2012 is here

2012-01-24T16:17:00.000-08:00

Desigual from Barcelona arrives just in time to chase away the winter blahs. One of the major themes in the line are stripes puncuated with citrusy brights. This is a point of reference that many designers looked to for the season, so it won't be the last you see of it!

We still have good finds left in our winter stock, so come in for that as well. We need to make room for new merchandise as Spring approaches.

Outfit of The Week #8

2011-12-29T15:07:00.000-08:00

This week's Outfit of The Week highlight's several pieces that are part of our post-Christmas Selfish Sale. The centerpiece is this unique Knitted Vest Scarf from Bobkova, accompanied by a top and leggings from Rundholz Black Label and of course headwear from Amy Down New York!

dimple boucle by amy downs new york - 100% wool, dry clean only, made by Amy Downs herself!

knitted vest scarf by bobkova - ON SALE! Conceptual chunky knit piece by Bobkova. Meant to be worn over the shoulders and hips.

print legging by rundholz black label - ON SALE! A perfect accessory to perk up your black wardrobe. Color matched to Rundholz Black Label.

dart top by rundholz black label - ON SALE! Rundholz Black Label long sleeve tee nips in slightly at the waist, hits below the hip, but has enough subtle details that it can stand alone. Sleeve opens at the bottoms as well as flares out, same as it does on several other pieces in the line. Front and back darts are exposed, giving textural interest.

Check out previous weeks Outfits of The Week and also join us on Facebook, Twitter, & on physicalelement.com!

Outfit of The Week #7 - Homage to The 60's

2011-12-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

This outfit is an homage to the 1960s chick in more ways than one. The centerpiece of the outfit is this classic yet eye-catching coat from the Spanish label Desigual, with bold contrast in it's swirly texture. With yesterday being the coldest day of the year so far here in Portland, we of course need some fingerless cashmere on our hands from Sayami, to keep them warm and still have access to our computers and phones! Top it all off with some fun headwear from Amy Downs New York.

dafne coat by desigual - mid-weight with a fun modern twist on a very tailored A-line cut. Black with bold white swirls, it is classic and eye-catching. The collar can be wore unbuttoned and folded down, or buttoned up for warmth.

fringe beret hat by amy downs new york - 100% wool made by Amy Downs herself

fingerless cashmere gloves by sayami - Unbelievably cozy fingerless gloves with dyed-to-match button detail in 100% cashmere. A great gift for yourself or someone you care about. (hint: also great for computer users with perpetually cold hands)

Come visit us at our shop in The Pearl as you finish your Christmas shopping!

Previous weeks Outfits of The Week and also join us on Facebook, Twitter, & on physicalelement.com!

Rare Insight Into the Creative Mind

2011-12-17T16:39:00.000-08:00

Originally produced for a French television audience, this portrait of the surrealist artist Salvador Dali details the dreamlike inspiration behind many of his avant-garde creations. Set in Dali's hometown of Lligat, Spain, the artist himself takes the viewer on a tour of the creative process that is behind his remarkable body of work. Journey into the subconscious of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century and take a look at the world through Salvador Dali's eyes with this program that he both designed and performed. The documentary is directed by Jean-Christopher Averty, with narration provided by Orson Welles.

Outfit of The Week #6 - You don't need Bling to Shine

2011-12-15T15:31:00.000-08:00

Celebrate in feminine style this season. When sequins and bling aren't your style, Isabel de Pedro of Barcelona comes to your rescue. This designer is all about celebrating the feminine. Impeccable fabrics, attention to line, and details that flatter. You'll be the one to outshine them all.

gather V dress by isabel de pedro - Isabel de Pedro's perfect red dress blends to a rich dark chocolate brown. The v-neck line is mimicked by the gathers at the waistline which are mirrored at the back. Modest shoulder pads.

Check out Physical Elements Outfit of The Week posts from past weeks here.

Bobkova Sale at Physical Element!

2011-12-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

In store & online Bobkova sale at Physical Element! More than $100 off some items. Come into our boutique in The Pearl or shop the sale online at physicalelement.com.

Physical Element
1124 NW Lovejoy St
Portland, OR 97209

Burst of Color

2011-12-10T23:30:00.000-08:00

Fall color is in full swing right now, but when the skies get grey, nothing is better than adding your own punch of color to your wardrobe. Mix it up now and then with a dramatic winter coat, or something as simple as a great accessory with unexpected pattern and bright pigment.

Outfit of The Week #5 - Conventional made non-conventional

2011-12-09T15:31:00.001-08:00

There is no excuse for the business suit to be boring anymore. It should be considered an opportunity to stand out and be recognized for the unique individual person you are. You aren't a drone, so don't dress like one.

Instead of the standard blazer, wear a fashionable cousin along the lines of this cop.copine boiled wool wrap jacket. Underneath, we've provided a punch of color and texture. Instead of a classic pencil skirt we opted for a modern version: this rayon knit pencil twist. And of course we topped it off with a hat because nothing exudes confidence like a woman wearing one.

bent hat by bobkova - Quirky, yet a best Bobkova seller here at Physical Element. Now, it's back by popular demand. All wool knit, open topped hat with curled edges. Completely asymmetrical and odd as can be.

chevron top by issey miyake cauliflower - Micro pleated polyester top from Issey Miyake Cauliflower featuring a chevron print in wine, black and pink, short sleeves and a turtle neck.

ecusson jacket by Cop.Copine - This cop.copine boiled wool wrap jacket secures via faux leather belt. Lightweight and sheer cotton "hooded scarf" is attached.

twist pencil skirt by pure & simple - A modern take on the classic pencil skirt: travel friendly and comfortable rayon knit skirt by Pure & Simple. This slip on skirt has a very wide exposed 2 1/2" elastic waistband and the rayon skirt is double layered enabling the twisting effect.

Check out all of our Outfits of The Week here!

morning light

2011-12-08T14:57:00.001-08:00

As I was getting ready to open up shop this morning, the morning sun was pouring in the windows - a rare Portland sighting in winter. The shadow play coming through my holiday display was lovely so I quickly grabbed my camera to grab the fleeting moment.

2011-12-04T13:14:00.000-08:00

Come check out physical element’s window display in person as part of Explore The Pearl’s Holiday Window Tour!

Here comes the next big thing in the Pearl! It’s the Holiday Window Tour. Visit 20 businesses, have them initial by their store, and turn it in for an amazing shopping spree that is growing by the day. Visit explorethepearl.com for details. Follow @pearlportland on twitter to learn what we’re adding each day.

Paper Fashion

2011-12-02T13:37:00.001-08:00

On occasion, I've been known to make paper dresses, coats or wigs for the shop window displays. They are nothing as astounding as these creations! Whenever I find sites that share these pieces of art and inspiration, I can't help but share. I found these beauties at fashionarium.com.

Outfit of The Week #4 - Warm in Wool!

2011-11-26T16:10:00.000-08:00

This week's Outfit proves that wool is anything but boring. Perfectly functional, yes! Warm, stands up to the rain, never out of style. But wool is also a fashion chameleon in the right designer's hands.

Here, Rundholz fashions a perfect 2-piece coat (with cotton interior coat!) in the brand's trademark asymmetric styling and pitch perfect cut. We paired an Amy Downs New York wool "seashell" hat so its angles play the counterpoint to Rundholz' lines. Thick equestrian-inspired ponte leggings provide a slim base (sorry, in-store only) and a clean, classic stripe tee highlight the coat. The hands mustn't be ignored: cashmere fingerless gloves do the trick!

2-piece boiled wool jacket by rundholz black label - This Rundholz jacket is actually two complete jackets that work as one. The outer jacket is warm and timeless boiled wool. Nipped in at the waist, slanted patch pockets, classic tailored blazer touches- but that way that only Rundholz knows how to do.

striped 3/4 sleeve tee by lilla p - Classic French style stripe tee with wide slightly scooped neck and 3/4 sleeves. Slightly boxy fit.

seashell topper by amy downs new york - Keeping your head warm is never boring with Amy Downs New York. Angular hat trimmed in black thread to highlight the tiers. Pom-poms clasp the ends. The brim is trimmed out in black braid.

fingerless cashmere gloves by sayami - Unbelievably cozy fingerless gloves with dyed-to-match button detail in 100% cashmere. A great gift for yourself or someone you care about. (hint: also great for computer users with perpetually cold hands)

Check out our past Outfits of The Week here!

2011-11-25T16:15:00.000-08:00

Small Business Saturday is here, and so is our Holiday window display! With pieces from our store and some necessary elements from Bernadette Breu Experience, it’s all together!

Come see it in person in The Pearl!

1124 NW Lovejoy Street, Portland OR 97209

Outfit of The Week #3 - Combining Designers/Labels

2011-11-25T10:54:00.001-08:00

This week’s outfit shows that you don’t need to match your labels/designers to make a proper outfit. So often I have customers ask me, “what did the designer have to go with this?” Often, the answer is “nothing, really”; meaning that the collection is meant to be treated as separates. Or, as the buyer for my shop, I intend my goods to be incorporated into your existing wardrobe. This week’s outfit perfectly illustrates how pieces from several designers can work together beautifully.

This look would be an ideal (and extremely comfortable) ensemble for work. The Issey Miyake jacket has a timeless Chanel quality to it, but with a Japanese modernist take. The texture is able to be the star of the show with the skirt being a simple, long pencil skirt. I love the sophisticated palette of slate and plum.

We’ve carried on with the plum accent with Amy Downs’ pillbox hat with more modern textural interest in her “slices” of wool. Add to this our Italian Alpine patterned armwarmers ( an added bonus: they help keep chilled fingers warm while working on the computer) that has complimentary pops of color like coral as well as a locally made whimsical crochet pin to complete the look.

Jacket: Issey Miyake - I like to imagine this piece as Issey Miyake’s interpretation of a Chanel jacket. It’s somehow timeless yet future perfect. Front button closure, side seam pockets. The cuffs, collar and banding slightly fray accentuating the textures at play in this wonderful item.

Hat: Amy Downs - Elegant and modern: Amy Downs New York pillbox in either red or charcoal grey. Classic pillbox with strips of wool sewn down the middle that create a shadowy relief. Cashmere trim at base for comfort. Fully lined.

Arm Warmers/fingerless gloves: De Pio - Elbow length cotton armwarmers with thumbhole by Italian company DePio. Ends are slate grey while middle pattern evokes ski sweaters of the past.

Crochet Pin: Lynn Latta $15 - Available only in store

Pencil skirt: Rundholz Black Label in Plum $95 - Available only in store

Check out last week’s outfit.

Creative Accessories for Fall:: Part 2

2011-11-22T13:59:00.001-08:00

One area that consistently gets cold when the weather turns nasty are the hands. However, there's no need to bury them in boring black fleece all the time when so many fashionable and interesting options are out there.

Gloves with dyed finger tips are an unexpected and colorful touch that liven up your winter coat wardrobe. For just $45, it makes a great gift too!

Dexterity can be a problem with full finger gloves, so fingerless gloves in comfy cashmere are a perfect solution. Know anyone whose hands are perpetually cold while working at the computer? Fingerless or no-finger gloves and arm warmers are ideal. These and other accessories can be found on our website.

Want even more ideas for warmth with style? Stay tuned for our next installment!

Outfit of The Week #2 - Mixing Patterns

2011-11-18T12:03:00.001-08:00

Outfit of The Week #2

If you missed last week's outfit, then welcome to our new blog series! We're now doing an Outfit of The Week blog post every Thursday that highlights some wonderful pieces we've got in the shop. This week we've got some interesting pattern mixing between a houndstooth hat from Amy Downs New York and a Plaid belt from NOR. Unfortunetly the NOR Plaid Belt has sold out since we snapped these photos, but you can have a look at all the other items individually in our online shop (links below) or here at 1124 NW Lovejoy in cold & rainy Portland, OR.

boots pant by deca paris - Flattering pant by Deca Paris. Narrow elastic waistband with picot edging. Slim fit at hip that get a little fuller at the thigh and narrows back at the ankle. Interesting pattern work.

fingerless gloves by DePio - Fine grade merino wool from Italy. Fingerless gloves with a open thumb hole. Gorgeous variegated tones in either charcoal or wine.

lennon cap by amy downs new york - Not your average cap by Amy Downs New York. Cut "just right" this cap strikes a perfect silhouette and it's made even more stunning in a grey and black fuzzy houndstooth. Full wide elastic inner band.

family pendant by melle finelli - Sterling silver necklace by Melle Finelli Jewelry. Approximately 1" round.

NOR plaid belt - Just sold out!

Outfit of The Week #1 - International Fashion

2011-11-10T17:28:00.001-08:00

Outfit of The Week #1 - International Fashion

We'll be highlighting an Outfit of the week every Thursday, and we thought it'd be fitting to kick it off with an international outfit, spanning from Japan to Turkey and right back home to Portland. All these items are available at our shop in the Pearl District!

[Japan] Issey Miyake: 100% wool sheer dress & vertical stripe cotton leggings.
wool sheer dress here. vertical stripe leggings here.

[Portland] Lynn Latta necklace. Only available at our retail location.

[Turkey] BNG hand beaded hat. Find it online here.

PDX is Represented at North Soles Footwear in Bend!

2011-11-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

I loved being in Bend OR this weekend at the lovely North Soles Footwear boutique and seeing so many PDX designers represented! Isaac Hers, Ms. Wood, Covet and more. Check them out below!

Isaac Hers | Ms. Wood | Covet

physical element presents: melle finelli jewelry trunk show

2011-11-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

when: Friday Nov 11th,
time: 6-9pm

We are extremely pleased to host Melissa Finelli and her work at Physical Element. Melissa Finelli, of melle finelli jewelry, resides and creates in Boston, Massachusetts. You may be familiar with Melissa's work from seeing it at Art in the Pearl.

With a background in jewelry and sculpture, Finelli's pieces exude movement, spontaneity and a playfulness that comes from her curiosity of working with new tools and new ways to manipulate metal. Repeating spirals, circles and swirls out of sterling silver and 18 karat gold make melle finelli jewelry fun and unique pieces of wearable art.

Please do come and see Melissa's amazing work while we offer champagne and light bites. We will also have special discounts THIS EVENING ONLY as a thank you for coming!

We look forward to seeing you.

A few Amy Downs Pieces Here in The Shop

2011-10-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

We've got several fabulous original pieces from Amy Downs New York in stock right now, so I thought I'd take a moment to highlight and share them. From left to right...

big button pillbox: Multi grey classic pillbox style with large buttons and some great yellows.

lennon cap: Cut "just right" this cap strikes a perfect silhouette and it's made even more stunning in a red, black and white wooly check. Full wide elastic inner band.

slice pillbox: Elegant & modern, available in 2 colors - classic pillbox with strips of wool sewn down the middle that create a shadowy relief.

top hat: A fabulous statement piece that mixes two stunning materials: yellow and grey plaid, and grey and black fuzzy houndstooth. Flexible brim and red lining.

Each is available in our store at 1124 NW Lovejoy St. and in our online shop.

Creative Accessories for Fall Part I

2011-10-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you want more than a standard scarf or hat when cold temperatures hit. One trend we saw and loved in the European lines, were hats that could double as neck warmers. Here, Italian label De Pio brings us the most incredibly soft merino wool that is double faced. Each piece can be turned inside out to reveal a completely different color palette. What is not to love? Above, you can see myself and Physical Element muse, Joanne Rollins, of fabulous local frame shop Art of Framing trying them out at the Fall 2011 New York show.

You can also see this trend play out in Bobkova's line. We have the hats/neck warmers in chunkier knits with zippers in colors like dark brown, and navy.

Want even more ideas for warmth with style? Stay tuned for our next installment!

Spring 2012 Previews from LA & Las Vegas

2011-10-25T14:06:00.000-07:00

Having come back from the big Spring 2012 Apparel markets in both Las Vegas and L.A., the big story for Physical Element is COLOR. Not your standard pastel matchy-matchy color. This is YOUR type of color ladies. Color as a modernist would wear it. Color worn boldly, in abstract prints.

The other big trend for Spring? Textural interest continues. For Spring 2012, it comes mainly in the form of curious textiles, architectural pleating, and of course layering. For those of you who don't think texture can't create interest, here's a picture I snapped of a wall in Venice, CA.

With every difficult economic turn and uncertain times, I worry how it will effect the designers and if it will make them work conservatively. I had nothing to be concerned about. Their vision and work become bold and optimistic- collections of art and beauty. I cannot wait to show you the New Year.

Visit our shop while you're online at physicalelement.com.

Jean-Paul Gaultier Touring Exhibit

2011-10-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

Jean-Paul Gaultier has announced a retrospective touring exhibit showcasing his work after it premiered at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts in June. Gaultier is a wonderful avant-garde designer that many of you may be familiar with. Even if you aren't, this is an exhibit you would enjoy greatly. It will be in San Francisco next year between March and August and if you happen to be in the bay!

Source

Check out our online shop if you haven't recently, we've got some great new arrivals.

Amy Downs visits the shop Today!

2011-10-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

Amy Downs visits the shop Today! Can’t wait to see Amy as its been over 2 months since she’s been in Portland to see us. She will be bringing us Fall hats to fill our anemic hat display! What a wonderful way to start the weekend.

Our first Unisex Item! Klasica out of Tokyo, Japan

2011-10-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Our first UNISEX item to be offered in the shop: Klasica out of Tokyo, Japan. Klasica’s coat was one of those item’s that stopped me in my tracks in New York. While I was at the New York trade shows, I think I went back to Kohei’s booth three times at least, trying to fall out of love with his designs. Impossible. Both he and his work were completely engaging to me. The materials, patterning, philosophy: all thoughtful and 100% Kohei’s point of view.

Although out of my usual price point for the shop, I couldn’t resist bringing it in. Every so often I HAVE to bring something in simply because of its pure design and beauty. I won’t make much on this piece - if it sells at all - but I have had the pleasure of meeting someone like Kohei Kawamura and showing his talent.

See more details and purchase HERE

Interesting Connection: Steve Jobs & Issey Miyake

2011-10-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

Steve Jobs changed the world forever, and the innovator’s passing has been a hot topic online since the sad day came last week. RIP. An interesting tidbit about Mr. Jobs has come about since then. One of our favorite designers, Issey Miyake, was good friends with Jobs, and was the designer behind Steve’s classic Levi’s & Mock Turtle neck work uniform.

Apparently, when Steve learned that Miyake was behind Sony’s employee uniform, he proposed to Apple that they do something similar. He was met with opposition from all ends… I guess Cupertino didn’t like the idea of wearing Rip-stop nylon jackets with zip off sleeves everyday. Never-the-less, Jobs had Issey make him about 100 or so of the black turtlenecks he is seen wearing all the time, and he wore them literally everyday at work, until the end.

Who would have thought? Very interesting indeed. While we don’t carry any men’s fashions from Issey Miyake right now, check out what we do have from him in our store.

Source

Headed to LA for Spring Buying & Moyuru Japan

2011-10-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to LA this weekend to buy the last of our Spring 2012 inventory for the shop. I'm especially excited for Moyuru Japan!

Check out our current stock of Moyuru Japan right HERE and be excited for more soon!

Colorful Hosiery Spices up Basic Black

2011-10-10T14:21:00.000-07:00

This Fall season, experiment more with color by investing in some fun hosiery pieces as well as scarves and gloves. Not only will it add new life to your black and neutral wardrobe, but it will also brace you for a color renaissance that is coming in Spring 2012.

The items we show here are all by Issey Miyake's Cauliflower line, with more information online as well as ability to purchase. We have other options as well from Desigual. Check out ALL our accessories options on our site!

This Fall, Japanese Design Is Here

2011-10-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

Moyuru

Kohei Kawmuru of KLASICA

If you have been waiting for Japanese design to makes its appearance at Physical Element, your wait is over. Right now, we have inspired work from THREE remarkable designers: Issey Miyake (Cauliflower), Moyuru Japan, and independent designer Kohei Kawamura (KLASICA).

I brought in an outstanding long coat from KLASICA that is a jewel of design and workmanship. It is also UNISEX, which means that is suitable for both men and women.

Two new pieces in from Issey Miyake's just arrived: one is a brightly colored chevron printed short sleeved turtleneck in Miyake's innovative pleat fabrication. The other is a velvet on matte chevron wide cropped pant.

Cauliflower Chevron Top

Photos from the Portland Fashion Week Launch Party at Urban Studio!

2011-10-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

The evening had a great turnout and Mercedes Benz very generously donated to the cause. Totals aren’t in yet how much we raised for the scholarship fund but from the looks of it, it will have turned out to be a successful event!

Photos courtesy of OSI Photography and you can see them all and purchase them here.

The Winner from Portland Fashion Week’s Catapult/Emerging Designer Competition

2011-10-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

What an interesting evening. All the judges agreed: this was one of the most difficult deliberations in the history of Catapult. We REALLY wanted to have 2 winners but PFW wouldn’t let us. We understood, but went back and forth for over an hour. Audience votes were also neck and neck.

The winner of last night’s Catapult/Emerging Designer Competition At Portland Fashion Week is Amanda Grisham’s(pictured, right) line Grishley, which featured fabric from Pendleton Woolen Mills. Grishley featured the revered wool manufacturer and their iconic patterns in updated silhouettes such as coats, shift dresses, and jackets, taking the company into a new modern direction. A tight vote, but the audience’s favorite!

The judges felt it they would be remiss to not give an honorable mention to Chicago Harper’s menswear looks for his innovative and directional efforts. Exceptional patternwork and theme make Joshua Buck a designer to watch.

There is a couple more photos from last night’s event on her blog and follow her onTwitter.

Catapult Competition for Emerging Designers, tonight!

2011-10-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

I will be judging the Catapult Competition tonight for Portland Fashion Week, presented by Portland Monthly Mag. The competition highlights some awesome emerging designers. Winner will be accounced at the After Party. Details below...

When: Wednesday, October 5th, 2011 | Doors: 6PM | Seating: 8PM | After Party: 10PM (YOLO Lounge)
Where: Swan Island Ship Yard, 5555 N. Channel Ave. Portland OR 97217

Designers:
House of Summer
Silkwood Collection
Michelle is WellGrishley
Silkwood Collection
Chicago Harper by Studio SKB
AM Renegade
Moontess
Lizz Basinger Designs
Becky Ross for Wicked Quick (Project Runway Season 9)

Judges:
Seth Aaron, Fashion Designer, Project Runway Season 7 Winner
Leonard Allen, Owner, Ecovibe Apparel
Anne Bocci, Owner, Anne Bocci Boutique
Sue Bonde, Director of Apparel Design, Art Institute of Portland
Alison Brownrigg, Fashion Editor, NWSource/Seattle Times
Jo Carter, Owner/Buyer of boutique, Physical Element
Anna Cohen, Internationally-renowned Eco-Fashion Designer
Eden Dawn, Style Editor, Portland Monthly Magazine
Marjorie Skinner, Managing Editor, Portland Mercury

Tickets HERE

Fashion Week Launch Party Benefits Ai Students. You Come FREE*

2011-10-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday Night and not to be missed!

Portland Fashion Week Launch Party & Art Institute of Portland Scholarship Fundraiser

What: Come to this launch party to kick off all the fashion week festivities and do some good for the newbie designers on the scene. Ticket includes noshing, music, photo opportunities, and 10 of Ai’s outstanding Apparel Design students will be displaying work so that guests can vote on their favorite garments. Feel free to wear a judges robe.

Who 10 of Ai’s top promising designers, plus hosts of PFW’s designers and players.

When: Tuesday, October 4th at 7pm

Where: Urban Studio, 935 NW Davis Street

Details: Purchase Tickets (all proceeds go to Ai scholarship fund) at Physical Element! $20/single, $35/for 2, $15/student i.d.

*For Physical Element customers, VIRTUALLY FREE!

Buy a ticket and your purchase / or next purchase at PE will be deducted by the cost of the ticket.

Thank you for supporting budding fashion designers and local business!

At long last...Moyuru Japan Arrives Next Week

2011-09-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

The beautiful designs of Japanese design house Moyuru appears once again at Physical Element next week. At once traditional and reverential to its Japanese heritage, Moyuru also explores modern and experimental design in apparel.
We look forward to showing you the line next week.

Keep an eye out for all our latest arrivals on our website www.physicalelement.com.

Rundholz Black Label Fall/Winter 2011

2011-09-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

Rundholz Black Label's Fall line is here with more to come. We are migrating product onto our website as we speak; visit Rundholz here but better yet see it in person!

Going fast...

2011-09-08T17:10:00.001-07:00

BNG has arrived but some outfits, like this one pictured, are really taking off and are going FAST. Come in soon and see this exciting minimalist line with a definite edge. It doesn't disappoint.

Fall Keeps Blowing in..

2011-09-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

We can hardly keep up! Just arrived are shipments by BNG, Lilla P Origamis, and the long awaited Christian LaCroix designed line for Desigual. We will frantically post pictures soon...

Arrivals and Updates on Fall 2011 Deliveries

2011-08-30T16:17:00.001-07:00

Our first shipments of Cop.Copine and Sunlight Paris has arrived! Rundholz Black Label is delayed due to customs and Hurricane Irene. Once the U.S. Customs office in NY recovers and gains power again, things should shake out...hopefully Rundholz with it.

Mark Your Calendars! Thursday August 25th

2011-08-13T14:47:00.001-07:00

Physical element proudly presents the Bobkova fall/winter 2011 collection. Please join us for an extraordinary fashion evening. We are honored to have the designer herself, Christina Bobkova, visiting from the Ukraine for the first time. This is a rare opportunity to meet the designer, see a runway show of her designs followed by a trunk show of the 2011/12 winter collection.

Special gift with purchase courtesy of Christina Bobkova.

Thursday, August 25th

physical element

1124 nw lovejoy st

Program:

6pm doors open for mingling, drinks and hors d'oeuvres
6:45-7 Christina Bobkova presents
7-7:20 Bobkova fall/winter 2011 runway presentation
7:20-9pm trunk show

This is an event not to be missed. We do hope you will join us! As our space is limited, RSVPs are appreciated. Fine cocktails provided by NW Distillery www.nwdistillery.com

Isabel de Pedro Fall 2011 is here

2011-08-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

Rock N' Roll is here to stay as far as Isabel de Pedro is concerned. This season is graphically intense with black awakened with red, gold, and silvery greys. Check in often as we get the collection up on the website in the New Arrivals section.

Pardon Us Please

2011-07-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

To our brick and mortar shop customers: Please pardon our disarray over the next few weeks. We will be undergoing a minor remodel of the store; however, I'm sure you'll enjoy the results!

Issey Miyake's Cauliflower Arrives at Physical Element

2011-07-28T16:03:00.000-07:00

After long anticipation, the first delivery of Issey Miyake's Cauliflower has finally arrives at Physical Element.

This iconic design house continues to inspire and thrill. His designs are futuristic, beautifully imaginative and fun. This season the theme is "forest" and he took his inspirations from the forests and other wondrous natural environments in Scandinavia. It draws on deep colors like green, purple and brown.
We are still getting all the styles up on the site, but to see what we have so far, go to our Issey Miyake section of our website.

Pearl District Summer Style Sale:: This Weekend!!

2011-07-19T14:42:00.001-07:00

Starting Friday! The Pearl District Summer Style Sale!!! Amazing deals to be had all over the hood. At Physical Element we're marking the store down 40-60% off. We have to make room for new shipments, so come in for even better pricing.

Christian Lacroix for Desigual

2011-07-12T15:23:00.001-07:00

Christian Lacroix for Desigual: Only in select Stores and Physical Element is one of them! The first shipment should arrive in just two weeks and the pieces are a lovely mix of Mr. Lacroix's French opulence and Desigual's Spanish exuberance and whimsy. Quantities are limited.

The Museum at FIT does it again

2011-07-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

Anyone in New York this Summer? This FREE exhibit at FIT would surely be a treat to see. You are obligated to tell us all about it!

Daphne Guinness
Special Exhibitions Gallery
September 16, 2011 - January 7, 2012

The exhibition Daphne Guinness will feature approximately 100 garments and accessories from Guinness' personal collection, including designs from the likes of Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaïa, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, John Galliano for Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Rick Owens, Gareth Pugh, and Valentino. Guinness' own designs will also be on display. The exhibition is co-curated by Daphne Guinness and Valerie Steele, Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at FIT.

.:: CLOSED for Independence Day::.

2011-07-01T18:12:00.001-07:00

Physical Element will be CLOSED to celebrate Independence Day. We hope you too have a safe and happy holiday.

::The Summer Sale Starts NOW::

2011-07-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

We're once again preparing for new deliveries and need to make room! We have joyfully marked down items 25%-50% off. All the designers and lines near and dear to your hearts are represented:

Rundholz Black Label

cop.copine

Desigual Spain

Deca Paris

Moyuru Japan

Isabel de Pedro >

and so much more.

Come early for best selection!

What Fun! The Portland Hat Parade

2011-06-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

A great time was had by those who attended the second annual Portland Hat Parade. Organized by the lovely owner of Lulu's Vintage, Ms. Anne Weiland, it was a sunny and splendid day for a group of two dozen hat aficionados to show off their favorite hat or headdresses. Hope to see you next year! For more pictures and story,click here for KATU 2's coverage.

Proper styling gives your favorite pieces multiple looks

2011-06-23T18:07:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite stylists, Allison Jones, dropped by the other day and picked a few pieces from the shop and showed how the addition of accessories could give them lots of different looks. It's a great read. She wrote up her time at the shop on her blog here:
http://allisonjonesdesign.com/2011/06/23/what-is-allison-wearing/

The Portland Hat Parade

2011-06-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

I hear it all the time, "I never have any place to wear a hat." Well, the brilliant Lulu, of Lulu's Vintage has solved this age old problem by starting the Portland Hat Parade! We, the ladies of Physical Element are all for it.

Meet up at Lulu's Vintage at 1pm SHARP. (Need a hat? Come by Physical Element beforehand and scoop up an Amy Downs concoction!) . Parade starts at 1pm where we wander to predetermined destinations. For more information, stop by Lulu's or email lulu at lulusvintage@yahoo.com!

CLOSED for Memorial Day

2011-05-27T13:27:00.001-07:00

Physical Element will be closed on Monday in observance of Memorial Day. However we will maintain our regular business hours on Saturday (11-5) and Sunday (noon-5). We hope to see you this weekend! Have a safe and happy holiday.

FLATCOLOR GALLERY- SEATTLE, WA - LETTER/FORM - May 5th, 2011 - May 29th, 2011

2011-05-06T14:27:00.000-07:00

FLATCOLOR GALLERY- SEATTLE, WA - LETTER/FORM - May 5th, 2011 - May 29th, 2011This exhibition is my agenda when I visit Seattle later this month. I'm already familiar with Joker's work, but excited to get to know some new artists as well.

movie recommendation: Bill Cunningham New York

2011-04-30T17:42:00.000-07:00

“We all get dressed for Bill,” says Vogue editrix, Anna Wintour. The “Bill” in question is 80+ New York Times photographer Bill Cunningham. For decades, this Schwinn-riding cultural anthropologist has been obsessively and inventively chronicling fashion trends and high society charity soirées for the Times Style section in his columns “On the Street” and “Evening Hours.” Documenting uptown doyennes (Wintour, Tom Wolfe, Brooke Astor, David Rockefeller—who all appear in the film out of their love for Bill), downtown eccentrics and everyone in between, Cunningham’s enormous body of work is more reliable than any catwalk as an expression of time, place and individual flair. In turn, Bill Cunningham New York is a delicate, funny and often poignant portrait of a dedicated artist whose only wealth is his own humanity and unassuming grace.

Showing at Living Room Theater in Portland OR.

Bobkova has arrived!

2011-04-30T17:34:00.001-07:00

The Spring 2011 collection from emerging designer, Christina Bobkova, has arrived at Physical Element. Bobkova specializes in sleek minimalist lines and lovely use of functional hardware. To see the entire line of Bobkova at Physical Element, visit our website.

new Rundholz just arrived:: Spring Delivery 3

2011-04-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

Our final Spring 2011 delivery from Rundholz Black Label is here. We hope to get images up on our web site up by the end of the week, but your best bet is to come in and see it in person. It features 2 stunning dresses, a natty check coat, go-to skirts and silk inset pieces.

View all our Rundholz Black Label Collection here.

Spring 2011 Fashion Show with Devonation & Physical Element

2011-04-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

April 10th | Sunday from 2:30pm-5:30pm

@ LOTUS Antiques/Imports 2215 NW Quimby

This is sure to be a wonderful show that offers looks from both sides of the fashion spectrum. Devon of Devonation, a Portland Fashion Week Emerging Designer Competition finalist, presents his Fall 2011 line where he draws his inspiration from "Madame Butterfly" and Chinese culture. It is sure to be a gorgeous spectacle of luxe details and color!

Our aim is to be a complimentary foil to the Devonation collection. Physical Element proudly presents Moyuru Japan's Spring 2011 collection. Architectural and minimalist, the line takes an alternative view of fit and proportion. We will also be presenting pieces that marry well with Moyuru such as Rundholz, BNG, and others.

**as a special incentive, present your ticket receipts at any time and the price will be deducted from your next purchase as a thank you for attending and supporting Portland Fashion**

VIP Seating is $20

General Seating is $10

I encourage you to purchase your tickets in advance at the DEVONATION website via PayPal secure payments. Please go to

http://www.DevonYanBerrong.com to purchase.OR you can purchase through Physical Element. Just call us or come into the shop!

Also on tap for the afternoon

*Chinese Garden ticket giveaways

*Chai Tea from Blue Lotus Chai

*The gorgeous setting of LOTUS Antiques

,

We look forward to seeing you. Friends welcome!

Moyuru Japan for Spring is here!

2011-04-01T10:37:00.001-07:00

Architectural, and with a distinctive sense of proportion, Moyuru's Japanese aesthetic is evident. Come in now to see their full range of summer sweaters, tunics, vests, dresses, pants and pleated coats. For a sneak peek we have begun getting the collection online.

Rundholz Black Label :: Spring 2011

2011-03-15T17:23:00.000-07:00

Rundholz Black Label's second Spring 2011 delivery just hit our threshold so we'll work to get the images together and online as soon as possible. The palette? Inky blues freshened with white, but it also works right back to black. We have 3 prints in : a small check, a large scale check and a pin dot floral. There's also a screened Rundholz doodle on a couple pieces as well. All the anticipated and loved Rundholz flourishes are here as well - the seemingly upside down garments, pockets to nowhere, mind boggling patternmaking. Come in and see! To see ALL our Rundholz Black Label items, click here.

Our First Ad:: AboutFace

2011-03-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

Every business has their firsts: first dollar, first write-up in a magazine, first fashion show.... all are important and big milestones. Well, we just had one at our little shop. Sure, we've run ads before, but we've had to use photography provided by our designers and manufacturers. Some fabulous...some okay.

This year, I decided it was time to do our own fashion shoot and do a series of shots that we could pull from to evoke what Physical Element is about. Besides, it's something I've been DYING to do for years! What's the point of starting a business if you can't realize a few dreams along the way, right ladies?

So, here is one of the results. You will be seeing the rest on our web site home page, in our postcard mailings, eventually on our store walls and in future ads. I hope you enjoy!

photography by brendan coughlin photography

model: cora of Q6 Talent

Hair: Dayna Cakebread

Makeup: Madeline Roosevelt

graphics: Lynn Latta

moloko paris

2011-03-03T17:30:00.001-08:00

I like anything that makes you want to twirl. The ALICE by Moloko.

Rundholz Spring 2011

2011-02-10T16:51:00.000-08:00

RUNDHOLZ Black Label will arrive at Physical Element next week. We are expecting a large box with at least a dozen styles in our initial shipment.

Spring Hair and Fashion Show @ Arabella Salon!

2011-01-27T17:55:00.000-08:00

Pop in for a fun filled sneak peek at Spring 2011 hair and fashion this Sunday afternoon at Arabella Salon. Physical Element is thrilled to be outfitting the hair models in the season's latest fashions.

Arabella Salon and Spa has MUCH to brag about and we are oh-so-pleased to be rubbing elbows with them:

- they are recipients of the 2010 International Sustainable Salon Award
- Deanna Reed, who's magical hair creations you'll see on Sunday, has just been featured in the video launch, "Hot in my Salon"
- Owner Amanda was featured in the Feb 2011 issue of ELLE magazine.

Need to get out of the winter doldrums? Pop into Arabella Salon this Sunday anytime between 3pm and 7pm for a shot of Spring!

When: this SUNDAY, Jan 30th, from 3pm-7pm
Where: Arabella Salon and Spa @ 2637 NE MLK, Suite C

Suspender Love

2011-01-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

Ou le Soleil shows us some lovely and unexpected ways to wear suspenders. Who knew? Get yours at physical element!

Winter Sale On NOW

2011-01-08T11:05:00.000-08:00

the winter sale is going on NOW, with most stock at 30%-50% off. The sale continues until we find homes for these lovelies. New season merchandise is on its way after all!

come in while sizes and styles are best.

Season's Greetings!

2010-11-30T17:55:00.000-08:00

Thought we would share our holiday window with you. We have 9 tiny reindeer, all with lighted noses (but can you spot Rudolf?). Our mannequin wears an amazing hat made especially for our theme by Amy Downs! A perfect segue-way to our upcoming Amy Downs Trunk show this Friday, Dec 3rd....

This Friday! Amy Downs Holiday Hat Show

2010-11-29T13:41:00.001-08:00

Always fun and always delightful, Amy Downs will be showing special creations with the theme of "Holiday Hats" as well as a plethora of other chapeau concoctions that are sure to beg to go home with you.

RSVPs greatly appreciated

Also on tap for the evening:

*Holiday inspired beverages

*Special event discounts!

We look forward to seeing you!

Coats are here!

2010-11-07T08:02:00.000-08:00

Coats are here just in time for winter at Physical Element. Check out these and more on our website in the coats and jackets section!

Physical Element's Fall Speakeasy/Salon

2010-09-23T18:08:00.000-07:00

Thursday September 30th | 6pm to 9pm & Friday October 1st | 6pm to 9pm

You are invited to an intimate evening of fashion, cocktails, and friends. Enjoy casual interactive discussions of this season's looks while viewing live mannequins.

Due to our cozy space, please RSVP by September 27th which night you would like to attend and how many friends (if any) you will be bringing.

Also on tap for the evening:

Special product debuts from a dear friend * Introduction of a new apparel line from Eastern Europe * Groa's new Fall line (formerly Casch Copenhagen) * Special event discounts!

We look forward to seeing you!

hard to improve on perfection

2010-09-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

...and that is what we feel about cop.copine's Malice leggings. The perfect mix of vintage inspiration and modern lines. Reminiscent of seamed stockings, these leggings have a charcoal gray raised seam up the back of the leg and are punctuated with a little bow at the end. Cop.copine almost never reissues styles, but we are so glad they did with this one. Get them while they last on our site or at the shop!

Rundholz Black Label is online

2010-09-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here is our first delivery of Rundholz Black Label. We waited for MONTHS for its arrival and it was worth it. See these styles and more in our NEW ARRIVALS section of our site!

Rundholz Black Label is here!

2010-09-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

Rundholz' Black Label just arrived at Physical Element today and their fall line looks amazing. Over 100 pieces are being unpacked and we hope to get some of it up on the website very shortly.

fall/winter 2010 cop.copine is here

2010-08-13T11:37:00.000-07:00

Here's the first of cop.copine's lush fall arrivals with more coming in every week!
For details and pricing, check out our NEW ARRIVALS section of our website!

Just In! Isabel de Pedro of Barcelona

2010-08-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

We are unpacking as I type this. We'll have her lovely dresses up on our website very soon. Check out NEW ARRIVALS for all the latest!

A taste of what is to come

2010-07-20T15:35:00.001-07:00

Any day now, we are expecting this amazing dress/tunic from a remarkable San Francisco designer we discovered while visiting that inspirational city in June. This piece can be worn at least 5 ways! We'll reveal more once it actual hits our floor. In the meantime, this picture is but a taste....

Items now marked down 30% off during our annual Summer SALE!

2010-07-13T14:26:00.000-07:00

We're going through the store once again and marking down the merchandise! Spring and Summer merchandise is now being discounted 30% off. Check out the web site for a look at some of the current sale prices!

The Summer Sale is NOW

2010-07-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

Physical Element's Annual Summer Sale is going on now with just about the whole store at least 20% off. Come in for best selection on cop.copine, Desigual, Deca, Rundholz Black Label and more!

Up in the Air Summer Affair at Hotel DeLuxe

2010-06-28T17:23:00.001-07:00

Come see Physical Element, Moule, Parallel, Oh Baby, Mabel and Zora, Popina Swimwear, Lizard Lounge, Idom, and Solestruck in an amazing summer fashion show on top of the Hotel deLuxe parking structure! The view is simply breathtaking.

Enjoy free cocktails (hosted by Kona Brewing and New Deal Vodka), raffle prizes, booths with local designer items for sale and more! All proceeds benefit a great cause - the Willamette Riverkeeper. We would love to see you there, get your tickets ($10) by clicking here!

Special thanks to CRAVE Portland and the Neatsheet for sponsoring this event!

Friday July 9th from 6pm-9pm, fashion show starts at 7!
Tickets $10 (tickets available at www.craveportland.com). All proceeds benefit Willamette Riverkeepers.

Color frenzy courtesy of Desigual

2010-06-01T16:05:00.000-07:00

Our wonderful new arrivals from Barcelona line, Desigual are going fast! View these and more in our new arrivals section at physicalelement.com!

Buy Your Tickets to the STELLA Benefit at Physical Element!

2010-05-28T17:38:00.000-07:00

Please join the friends and family of Stella Monteverde-Cakebread for a 2-part benefit concert event to be held Saturday June 5, 2010 at the @Large (“At Large”) Films Studio, located at 807 NE Couch St (one block N of E Burnside).

Admission for the day portion is $10 for adults, $5 for kids. Admission for the evening event is $20. Adults wishing to attend both portions can buy a package discount ticket for $25. Tickets will be available at the door (cash only for door ticket sales!), or in advance online through brownpapertickets.com. Buy tickets online! OR Buy Daytime tickets @BlackWagon. Buy Evening tickets @ Physical Element.

DAY Event: Afternoon 12-4pm All ages

After noon the RED CROSS BUS will be at the event. Sign up to donate!!! www.redcrossblood.org

NO event tickets to donate blood! Thanks for helping save lives.

The afternoon portion of the event, from 12 noon to 4 pm, is open to all ages and aimed at families. The afternoon headline act is Kode Bluuz. Other main stage acts include Negara with Origin (Mediterranean music with belly dancing), Katie O’Grady (interactive acting show for kids), and the Jumping Jackie O’s (jumprope exhibition). This portion of the event will also feature dance exhibitions from local dance groups, food and beverage service, auction items, plus a large arts and crafts area for kids.

Local Celebrity Actress: Ayanna Berkshire will be our MC for the the daytime event.

**Please note that the event venue will be closed to ticket holders between 4pm and 6pm so that event staff can set up for the evening performances.

Event: Evening 6-12pm Adults "21 and over"

The evening portion of the event, from 6 pm to 12 midnight, is adults only (21 and over) and will feature full bar service. The evening headline act is Dr. Theopolis. Other main stage acts are by Lindsey Stormo, Stephanie Schneiderman, Oracle, and Stolen Sweets. This portion of the event will also feature several dance exhibitions from local dance groups, food service, and a silent auction.

Local Celebrity Newscaster: Deb Knapp from KATU 2 will be our MC for the evening event.

So many hats, only one head! Amy Downs Arrivals are here!

2010-05-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

We have a wide assortment of VERY fun hats from Amy Downs in the shop right now. See them in all their glory on our website, physicalelement.com!

Read all about it: Graphics Shake up your Look

2010-05-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

It is no secret we love our solids, as the vast majority of our shop represents that fact. But even we succumb to a great print and have an urge to shake up our look with one.

2026 Paris is always a design house we can count on to provide excellent prints that meld well with our design sensibilities. This season they bring us the Annonce newsprint mesh tee with just the perfect hit of red accents, and the Tafar 2pc top with rich blue hues and painterly themes.

Both shirts can be found, as well as additional pictures and information, in our New Arrivals section of our website.

Give us white in the summer | Deca is here

2010-05-15T18:05:00.000-07:00

On a hot summer day, there's something so ethereal and sophisticated about an all white palette. Just in are these lovely items from Deca Paris: The Ulysse dress worn with a versatile white knit bolero and the elegant Olympe cotton wrap top. Perhaps Deca was also thinking of beautiful blue skies and white sand beaches....
See these items and other new arrivals on our website in, where else? the New Arrivals section.

In case you missed it!: Catwalk!

2010-04-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

Catwalk: Fall Fashion Preview April 22nd

2010-03-28T17:28:00.001-07:00

Physical Element will provide a sneak peek of their designer collections from Paris, Tokyo, Barcelona, and Portland on April 22nd at the Pinnacle Pavilion. It is an event not to be missed! Visit our EVENTS page for more details.

A bounty of shipments: et compagnie, animale, cop.copine, moloko!

2010-03-18T18:07:00.000-07:00

We've been so overrun with unpacking, steaming and labeling and whatnot, that we've had absolutely no time to take pictures and update the website and blog. If you are in the neighborhood, please stop in to see all the new arrivals!

Physical Element Interviewed by Fashion Blog "Examiner"

2010-03-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

Portland store-owner Jo Carter talks design, and plans for Portland Streetcar construction

The boutique is Physical Element. The story for me, however, is not to be found simply in the store’s history or in upcoming sales, but in the very personal, particular, and passionate appreciation for design that its proprietor shares with the city through her Pearl District windows. It sits near the intersection of NW Lovejoy & 11th, next door to a certain caffeine dealer that this Examiner admittedly frequents all too… frequently.

It also sports what is consistently one of my favorite boutique windows in Portland, featuring women’s apparel that really does make me stop, in very conscious recognition of design, and makes me curious about the woman whose taste speaks so consistently to my eye. Jo Carter, the store’s owner and apparel buyer, can usually be seen helping customers in the clean, modern Pearl District space. One need only sit down with Jo for a few minutes, with a couple of wholesale look-books from prospective designers who have caught her eye, to experience a distinct upswing in her already cheerful demeanor. The word “giddiness” might even apply. This is a retailer who is seriously into fashion design, and while her store’s collection represents a variety, you can still see the thread of her personality and taste running through every single garment, and can feel her appreciation for particular design elements in every piece.

"I like femininity that reveals itself in layers…
it isn’t just OUT THERE… and that’s just like my customers.
They become more interesting as they reveal themselves too…
they aren’t just 'out there' either.”

to read the rest of the article, click here.....

Let there be Sunlight!

2010-02-15T15:37:00.000-08:00

Ah, Sunlight Paris has arrived. We have a nice array of dresses, tunics (including a healthy restocking of the popular Brazil vest)and this very smart looking Persique jacket. So versatile! $245.

Rest In Peace Alexander McQueen

2010-02-11T11:28:00.000-08:00

A sad day in fashion. Design visionary, Alexander McQueen committed suicide at the young age of 40. Known for pushing boundaries and playing in the world of the avant-garde, his work and vision will be missed.

Dayna Pinkham Millinery in Italian Vogue

2010-02-10T12:43:00.000-08:00

A heartfelt congratulations to Portland's own Dayna Pinkham for appearing in the January issue of Vogue Italia! A true master in our midst.

2010-02-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

Vests are a strong trend this spring which is great news for those of us that love to layer our looks year 'round. Cop.copine's Orlandi dress is a 2-piece set that combines a knit dress with a vest. The lovely knit boatneck tee shirt dress has elbow length sleeves and wide banded arms along with a flattering ombre color gradation of white to grey. The vest is a brushed polyester with a large front snap. The back gathers for flexible fit.$285.

the boston jacket by cop.copine

2010-02-04T12:01:00.001-08:00

cop.copine’s lightweight and oh-so-leather like cropped boston jacket is causing instant Pavlovian responses here at Physical Element. It will not last long on our floor! Slender asymmetrically placed front zipper pockets, off-center zipper front. Off center snap closures in the back as well. Fully lined cotton/viscose body, and polyester in the sleeves. $295

in celebration of the sun: desigual has arrived!

2010-02-02T16:05:00.001-08:00

what better way to welcome today's sun that with an exuberant burst of color? Desigual out of Barcelona Spain has hit our floor today. Looks like we have our work cut out for us getting it out on the floor as well as up on the web! See this top here.

just in! cop.copine, fluxus, lilla p!

2010-02-01T16:34:00.000-08:00

Two new styles from cop.copine just arrived as well as great new graphic tees from fluxus, and origami tops and layering tees from lilla p. We'll post pictures and details tomorrow here and on www.physicalelement.com.

cop.copine spring 2010 is here!

2010-01-29T14:08:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few of our arrivals from cop.copine's spring 2010 line. visit our website's New Arrivals section to see them all!

Winter Goods Now 40-60% off

2010-01-29T14:00:00.000-08:00

A flood of new merchandise is expected any day now, and we need to make room for it.

That means that coats, and jackets and more wintry fare has been marked down to at least 50-60% off! The rest is at least 40% off.

There are still many gems left and all have been sorted by size for quick and easy shopping.

New Arrivals This Friday!

2010-01-20T18:11:00.000-08:00

Finally! We expect new shipments from cop.copine and Sunlight Paris to hit our floor this Friday. Oh thank the gods. As much as we love our fall merchandise, we are craving some new looks to fawn over. Stay tuned for what our favorite UPS man brings.

Special Holiday Hours

2009-12-16T16:02:00.000-08:00

For the first time since we opened our doors over 6 years ago, we'll be open between Christmas and New Year's Eve. You can thank the staff for this as it was their suggestion. So, if you have friends and family in town, please stop in and visit! Hours and days are posted below. Happy and safe Holidays!

Holiday Store Hours :
12/24 xmas eve: 11-3pm
christmas day: closed
saturday 12/26: 11am-5pm
sunday 12/27: noon-5pm
monday 12/29-wed 12/30: 11am-5pm
New Years Eve and Day: CLOSED

time for a cozy sweater

2009-11-11T15:44:00.000-08:00

Time for a cozy sweater don't you think? Cop.copine's Leroy sweater fits the bill quite nicely.

You Need A New Guitar: Rock Camp For Girls Auction

2009-11-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

Come by Physical Element's window for a sneak peek of all the uber-cool guitars, drum sets, and vinyl to be had at this upcoming Friday's Rock'tion Fundraiser for The Rock n'Roll Camp for Girls!
At the Eco Trust Building 7pm.
I for one am SO not feeling worthy....we have guitars in our windows from the likes of Joan Jett, Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth, Indigo Girls, Girl in a Coma. Go to the Rock Camp for Girls site for more info!

2026 Trocadero dress

2009-11-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

One of our most anxiously anticipated dresses of the season has arrived from 2026 Paris. With mottled colored yarn and interesting pattering, the Trocadero dress is simultaneously flattering and artful. The dress is a sleeveless scoop neck with the sweater knit forming the top and coming up to the bust. The knit underpinning keeps the knit’s shape and prevents it from “growing” over time as well as forming the bubble hemline. The cropped long sleeve sweater turtleneck top has an attached button accessory. This is a dress you’ll cherish for years to come.