As September’s first Thursday approached, I looked forward to the grand opening of Leanna NYC – the Pearl District’s newest boutique, inspired heavily by the fashion forward attitude of New York City. Owner Leanna Carreon, a Portland native, designed for eight years for various designers in New York City, including Jessica McClintock (who designed every teen’s dream prom dress!). Her exposure to the fast-paced fashion world of the East Coast led her to realize that Portland has the enthusiasm for fashion but lacks in supply. Thus, she has made it her goal to bring the current trends from NYC to PDX.
The modern woman doesn’t want to run home and change for a night out on the town. She should be able to make her outfit go from work to play with just a couple of updating tweaks, and Leanna NYC caters to this demand seamlessly. I am most impressed by the line, Gracia, with embellished dresses and tops in wearable shades of brown, grey and black. These are unique, bold separates you could easily layer over jeans and leggings for a more casual look, or put on some heels and pin your hair up for a night out. Gasp.
Leanna NYC specializes in an array of distinct shapes and cuts. I commend her selection for being more about creative fit and figure than outlandish color combinations. Of course, there is an endless supply of black lace pieces and studded minis. As pictured, grey is the new neutral, and you will have more than enough at your fingertips at this boutique. Her selection makes looking good seem effortless. The shapes and design lend to providing you with an effortless chic demeanor. You won’t look like you’re trying to hard, yet will stun everyone in the room.
The price point is moderate for the most part, with high end denim lines (James Jeans) as well as recycled and organic cotton basic tees by Spun, based in Seattle, at the affordable price of $25-$40.
The space itself is quite creative. Leanna’s own photography lines the walls (if you like her photos, they are also secretly for sale!), and blue glass chandeliers hang from the ceiling. A sophisticated velveteen waiting area is provided for your shopping accomplice. At the time of the event, there were labeled cupcakes that had rearranged themselves into spelling out “CLEANN” by the end of the night, but supposedly they spelled out the store name just hours prior. Don’t wait, this East Coast fashion is being devoured quickly, and you don’t want to miss it.
Leanna NYC
402 NW 12th Ave. Portland, OR 97209
503 719 6197
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