This week the spotlight is on Rachel Robichaud, designer of Plume Jewelry and owner of the brand new boutique, Bridge City Mercantile. We’ve always been big fans of Plume (hence the abundance of handmade pretties throughout the store), but we’re so excited for her new venture with the gift shop. A little fun fact- Shop Adorn was able to stay afloat during our four month hiatus because Rachel so kindly let us use her basement studio to keep business running. During this time, she was busy working on getting her shop set up. Meaning, we got to preview and swoon over all of the goodies that would soon decorate her shop. If you’re local, you must check out her shop (just a few blocks down from us on Fremont) with its perfectly curated selection of gifts and home goods. She’s also got tons of her stuff available on her online store. So, without further ado…

Shop Adorn: How would you describe your personal fashion?

Rachel Robichaud: I would say that I love to mix vintage and modern styles. I enjoy finding vintage pieces that are unique while keeping with what’s classic.

SA: Who are your biggest style influences and why?

RR: That seems to change year to year. I used to think I was reincarnated from the 50s and 60s, but now I love the more rocker looks of the 70s. I guess I would say I look at fashion in terms of eras rather than particular people or designers.

SA: What is your go-to piece of clothing and why?

RR: Everyone who knows me knows that I have a big thing for skinny jeans. I love them in just plain denim or bright colors. I love that I can wear them with boots or sandals. I think I have about 15 pairs.

SA: Where do you turn for fashion inspiration?

RR: I would say regular people on the street. Sometimes, I can see a girl in a coffee shop and love the way she wore particular boots with a cute dress. I read Urban Weeds religiously and am so intrigued by what others are wearing.

SA: What’s the one item you’ll splurge on and why?

RR: I will definitely splurge on a good pair of shoes and jeans. I think both are important when creating an outfit. I’m a big fan of wearing a designer pair of jeans with a cute top that I found thrifting.

SA: How would you describe Portland Fashion?

RR: I think we have an amazing sense of fashion in Portland. We have such an eclectic mix. People really appreciate good fashion, but there are also a lot of those like me who aren’t so concerned with labels and focus more on what fits their personal style.