Jules of Morocco at Portland Fashion Week

All photos courtesy of Jules of Morocco.

I'm in the fortunate position to be invited to blog all about Portland Fashion Week, from the inside, and from a vegan perspective. As one of the most sustainably produced fashion weeks in the world, it follows that there should be a certain level of vegan presence and awareness too. My goal over the next couple of weeks is to find out what's already there, and see how I might help advance the vegan aspects of Portland Fashion Week in the future.

When one of the designers offered to lend me clothes to wear to opening night, I jumped at the chance. Jules of Morocco is a hidden gem in the heart of Multnomah Village, just a short drive from downtown Portland. I fell in love the instant I stepped inside. The exotic decor sets the perfect stage for the racks of soft, luxuriously simple clothing. I walked through, touching everything, gathering as I went, and made my way directly to a large, curtained dressing room and a glass of champagne. This is my kind of place.

Jules of Morocco's founder and owner, Julie Olson, started the company in the early 80's, when she moved to Morocco and discovered the beautiful handwoven fabric that is only made in Morocco. The supple organic cotton/ramie fabric drapes beautifully and feels elegant and wonderful. Julie's designs are sophisticated and versatile. They're meant to compliment all figure types, and can easily be worn by women of all ages.

I came home with a simple black tank dress with some flirty hem detail, and a gorgeous long jacket that buttons to one side. I also had free run of all the wonderful, handmade jewelry, which Julie hand picks during her travels all over the world. It was hard to choose, but I found the perfect necklace. No pictures of me yet. I'll wait until opening night, October 1st, when I'm all "styled" and pulled together for the big event. Jules of Morocco will be on the runway that night, and I'll be behind the scenes, feeling like a model myself, and enjoying every minute of the show. And when the party's over, and it's time to return the clothes, I'm really going to want to keep them.