Boutique Beat – Atelier
September 13, 2008
Whimsy is the word that sprung to mind when I walked through the front door of Atelier (the French word meaning artist’s studio) clothing boutique. In an unassuming Victorian neighbored by a lawyer’s office, three young artists have turned this space into a fashion design workshop full of vintage pieces and handmade designs from local artisans, including themselves. The three women who own the shoppe each have their own line of clothing that represents their respective unique style – Lindsay Rickman, NAIK FUR, and Threaded Heart – each of which are carried in the store and are available online at the Atelier website.
On the scorching hot day when I stopped into the boutique, I was greeted by two girls relaxing, lying on the floor. We all know that heat rises, so when you have to hang in a swap cooler cooled space all day long I can see the floor becoming a welcome respite – the coolest spot in the place. The walls were covered with racks of clothing of intricate designs, many featuring fine or vintage fabrics. I felt like I had to touch everything I laid my eyes on – it was a fantastic treat! I like to think of this shoppe as an art gallery disguised as a boutique. All sorts of vintage shoes (boots, pumps, clogs, flats, mules) lined the floor, and there was a huge variety of vintage and locally designed jewelry on display at the front counter and on antique vanities throughout the shoppe. Also found during my trip were vintage purses and bags, hats, gloves and undergarments.
I ended up purchasing a vintage long, black cotton/polyester blend dress from the late 70’s early 80’s (couldn’t you guess the time period from the polyester?) for $30. It is so casual and perfect as we move into fall and I can’t wait to wear it out. I urge everyone to check out this whimsical store and see what these three local, talented fashion designers are creating. I am a huge fan of vintage clothing but more importantly as far as Atelier is concerned; it is really exciting to see what the fashion designers of our city are adding to the American design aesthetic. I can’t wait to see what these skilled designers come up with next.
Atelier
1617 16th Street (across from Fremont Park)
Sacramento CA 95816
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Great Review! We should go next time I am in town