The before picture.

If you've walked past The English Dept.'s windows and wondered what's up, we're devoting our weekend to a bit of a shop remodel. Please pardon our appearance while we update our wee space for the coming season. We reopen Tuesday!

Ivy & Aster.

Photos: Sweet Little Photographs

We were completely bewitched by Ivy & Aster's dress collection at Bridal Market, and can't wait for it to arrive at The English Dept. These are the freshest little frocks I've seen a long time--they're pretty, they're sexy, they're modern--to call them bridesmaid dresses seems almost unfair. I have my eye on that little lady in the top left photo. I'm talking about you, Pinky.

To market, to market...

Whew! Clara and I are just returned from New York Bridal Market, and what a whirlwind of tulle and chiffon it was. Although we saw plenty of this sort of thing...

 ...we also happened upon some absolutely stunning new dresses for The English Dept. Now back to the secret lab to finalize our collection for 2011. More to come!

Behind the music.

I spent yesterday (one of the last sunny days of the season, I fear) shooting our first-ever English Dept. bridal fashion editorial. Magical (secret!) location, glorious golden light, and a top-notch team--everything came together so beautifully. Many thanks to Brandon, Rebecca, Amy and Thalia (our fearless model)! Can't wait to show the photos...

Now hiring.

 Photo: Cecil Beaton, 1948.

Part Time Retail Sales...plus a whole lot more.

The English Dept. is a bustling little shop with a special mission. We focus on non-traditional bridal, bridesmaid and special occasion dresses in an intimate boutique setting. We pride ourselves on providing excellent service in a relaxed environment. This is decidedly not a stuffy bridal salon. Our ideal English Dept. employee has experience, energy and enthusiasm, a cheerful and patient disposition, a ready grasp of details, the ability to learn quickly and independently, and the ability to assist a diverse community of customers with their shopping experience. It's a special opportunity for the right person...could it be you? If you are in the Portland area and think you might like to work with us, please let us know! Forward a resume to info@theenglishdept.com, including your desired hours and availability.

SEPTEMBER SAMPLE SALE

Through September 30th we are discounting nearly all of our 2010 dress samples to make room for the 2011 styles. The deals on wedding, bridesmaid and party dresses range from the pretty sweet (10% off) to the truly great (up to 75% off). Sizes run from 2 to 12, and there are loads of lovely styles and fabrics to choose from. Sales of these dresses are on a first-come-first-served basis, and applies to samples only. If you've had your eye on a particular dress and are wondering if the sample is on sale, just call the shop. Or better yet, come have a look!

We had a party.

There were lots of fun supplies to play with.

 We were inspired by each other.

And we made some lovely things!

Thanks to everyone who came out on a very rainy Sunday for Finishing School. It was such a pleasure to meet all of you and get crafty together!

Off to the races!

It's Kentucky Derby Day! And since every well-turned out lady simply must wear something on her head at the races, I thought I'd mention that we have many gorgeous new Twigs & Honey headpieces, headbands and hairpins at The English Dept. Myra's pieces are completely exquisite and we're so lucky to have them. They're too lovely to stay here long, though! The best pieces will go to the fleet of foot...

Think pink.

Time for a little color therapy! Jenny Yoo dresses (and 5th anniversary flowers) in our shop window.

Now we are FIVE.

Five years ago today, The English Dept. opened its doors. Here I am with invaluable co-founder Joy Cohen during our earliest days at our original NW 23rd location (we're about to attack that ugly carpet and terra cotta tile behind us). I don't know what's scarier, my wide-eyed, thumbs-up innocence or the fact that I still have those pants. The English Dept. has certainly gone on an evolutionary journey, and I with it. To customers, friends--really everyone who has assisted in this miraculous little venture over the past half decade--I say a thousand thanks. Because of you, The English Dept. is still here, and thriving.

The English Dept. on TV!

Myra over at Twigs & Honey just let me know that "our" television commercial is now making the rounds. We were honored to be chosen for one of a cluster of TV spots featuring unique downtown Portland businesses. We're featured in the "Shopping" segment. All of the ads are so, so witty and stylish. Cheers to Food Chain Films and the Downtown Marketing Initiative for showing our familiar little city in such a fresh, fond light. Go here to view our ad and here to watch them all.

Need a little party dress?

...has a Best of Portland guide, and they named The English Dept. one of their favorite boutiques in the Holiday Party Wear category. Thanks!

Part Time Retail Sales...plus a whole lot more.

The English Dept. is a bustling little shop with a special mission. We focus on non-traditional bridal, bridesmaid and special occasion dresses in an intimate boutique setting. We pride ourselves on providing excellent service in a relaxed environment. This is decidedly not a stuffy bridal salon. Our ideal English Dept. employee has experience, energy and enthusiasm, a cheerful and patient disposition, a ready grasp of details, the ability to learn quickly and independently, and the ability to assist a diverse community of customers with their shopping experience. It's a special opportunity for the right person...could it be you? If you are in the Portland area and think you might like to work with us, please let us know! Forward a resume to info@theenglishdept.com, including your desired hours and availability.

Pssst...SALE!

Until the end of September, The English Dept. is hosting a sale on sample bridal, bridesmaid and party dresses. Lots of fetching styles at quite attractive prices--and already going fast! Do come have a look if you're in the neighborhood...