Welcome to Racked Philly, where we'll report on retail and fashion comings and goings around town. See a store open, close, or otherwise claim your attention? Hit the tipline, and we'll get right on it.
Philly's answer to Fashion Week, The Philadelphia Collection has returned to take over the city with a weeklong series of fashion- and retail-related events. No waiting required: the fun and festivities kick off today.
The third annual The Philadelphia Collection begins September 13, highlighting the crème de la crème of Philly fashion and retail. A collaborative effort from the City of Philadelphia, the Center City District, and the Philadelphia Retail Marketing Alliance, the weeklong series of happenings is intended to promote Philly's creative talent and retail scene. Rub elbows with Philly's fashion elite during the 75 scheduled events, which run the gamut from film screenings and expert panel discussions, to boutique-hosted parties and runway shows. Here are the events you won't want to miss:
Spruce Up Your Wardrobe at Skai Blue Show Peruse the couture creations from the designers behind the Skai Blue Show showroom. Get up close and personal with the designers as you shop their looks and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Thursday, September 13, 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.
The Brooklyn Circus Pop-Up at Art in the Age: Meet Brooklyn Circus brand founder Ouigi Theodore as he reveals his menswear label's latest collection for the very first time. In addition, the Old City boutique will host a Brooklyn Circus pop-up shop all weekend long. Meet and greet: Friday, September 14, 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
Walk Like a Lady at Bus Stop Boutique: Join Bus Stop for evening of fashion, shopping, cocktails, and music as the Fabric Row boutique flaunts its autumn shoe collection. Join the fun and score a pair of shoes at a 15 percent discount. Friday, September 14, 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Sky Jewels Trunk Show at TownHome: Stop by Rittenhouse Square's TownHome and shop beaded necklaces and earrings from local jewelry designer Stephanie Newman of Sky Jewels. Stick around for sweet treats and refreshments. Saturday, September 15, noon- 4 p.m.
Vintage Trunk Show at Tattooed Mom: South Street bar and restaurant Tattooed Mom will host a fall trunk show featuring unique finds from a variety of local vendors. This event promises free admission and drink specials. Sunday, September 16, 1 p.m- 7 p.m.
NINOBrand and Hylo Boutique's Shopping Soiree: HyLo Boutiques will host a meet-and-greet and trunk show featuring local designer Bela Shehu of NINOBrand. Sip complimentary cocktails, check out Shehu's fall collection, and enjoy a custom fitting from the designer herself. Tuesday, September 18, 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Phashion Phest Fashion Show: The latest fall trends will walk the runway at The Shops at Liberty Place during Phashion Phest, a runway show featuring over 20 area retailers including Kimberly Boutique, Knit Wit, Janice Martin Couture, South Moon Under, and Scarlet Fiorella. Wednesday, September 19, 7 p.m.
SA VA Harvest Moon Fashion Show: Sarah Van Aken, owner of the Sansom Street boutique SA VA, will showcase her store's fall 2012 collection with an outdoor runway show. The event will take over the 1700 block of Sansom Street with outdoor vending and entertainment from a DJ and special guest speakers. This event is free and open to the public and will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern PA. Wednesday, September 19, 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.