Hiatus Roundup

I hope to make this roundup a regular series on the blog. Here you'll be able to see what Crooked River Couture has been up to over the past week or month or so on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or even my personal Pinterest or Polyvore pages to see where my fashion head has been!

Since I've been a little absent on the blog for quite some time I'm officially calling it a hiatus. So what have the other facets of CRC had to say over the past several months? Find out below!


1. Small Box Cleveland

Quite possibly the most exciting thing to happen fashion and shopping wise in Cleveland during the last few months is the announcement and opening of the Small Boxes in the Warehouse District! Housed in old shipping containers, these mini shops were perhaps the most unique edition to downtown. Currently two boxes, the Banyan Box (a satellite Banyan Tree location) and the Wardrobe (non-moving location for the Wandering Wardrobe) are located at the corner of West 6th Street & St. Clair Avenue. A new shop will be opening soon called Blue Edge and will replace the Browns team shop that was there last season.

Here's what CRC had to say and post about this awesome new way to bring shopping to downtown:

Grand opening of the new @shopbanyantree & @wanderingwardrobe_cle Small Boxes! @smallboxcle #smallboxcle #cle

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 6, 2014 at 3:00pm PST

We can't wait for @SmallBoxCLE to open! http://t.co/eAKG9w7IDK #CLE #HappyinCLE #ThisIsCLE #ShopCLE
— CrookedRiverCouture (@CRiverCouture) September 9, 2014

Post by Crooked River Couture.

2. Small Business Saturday

Favorite day of the year for any avid local shopper! CRC rocked the west side for #ShopSmall 2014 and documented it all on Instagram:

First stop, @gvartwork in #Lakewood! #shopsmall #smallbusinesssaturday #westside #local #cle

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 9:48am PST

@lovelypaperieandgifts is the cutest! #shopsmall #smallbusinesssaturday @shopsmall #rockyriver #westside #local #cle

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 10:28am PST

Don't forget to shop sweet when you #shopsmall on #smallbusinesssaturday! #Cupcakes from @main_street_cupcakes and coffee from @erieislandcoffee! @shopsmall #cle #local #rockyriver #westside

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 12:16pm PST

Finished off #smallbusinesssaturday at @smallboxcle! #shopsmall @shopsmall #cle #downtown #local @wanderingwardrobe_cle @shopbanyantree

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 1:45pm PST

3. The Cleveland Flea

It was just about a year ago when the Flea was just a wee little thing. I remember the first time I read about it and promoted the monthly event as much as I could. I only got to attend one of the summer Fleas in addition to their big November pre-holiday show. But let me tell you, they are just going to get bigger and better!

Things are just about wrapping up at #TheFlea! #clevelandflea

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on May 10, 2014 at 12:51pm PDT

Made it to the Holiday Flea!!! @clevelandflea #cle #flea

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 22, 2014 at 12:25pm PST

Light up bike @clevelandflea!

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 22, 2014 at 1:38pm PST

More holiday goodness from the @clevelandflea!

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 22, 2014 at 3:22pm PST

Post by Crooked River Couture.

A New Beginning of Sorts

So, okay, it's been almost a year since the ol' blog has been updated. However, if you follow CRC on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook, you know that I've still been shining a light on all the fabulous, funky, and fashionable favorites our fair city has to offer. Keeping you updated on new shops, events, cool items, and more! As I do every year I celebrated Small Business Saturday in November and had fun shopping local for the holidays.

And as spring slowly makes its way to Cleveland, I've decided to try some new things to help keep this blog fresh and fun. I'm starting a series of posts spotlighting some of the wonderful things I've purchased at local businesses either recently or over the years. Those of you who are fans of Mindy Kaling may or may not remember her short-lived blog "Things I've Bought That I Love," and in a way, this will be the Cleveland version!

Of course I'll still be keeping you updated with new boutiques, shopping trips, or vendor events. Much of that will likely be happening through social media, whereas other focuses will be published here on the blog.

Crooked River Couture has been around for nearly four years and although there may have been some timeline gaps along the way, I've always believed in the creativity, artistry, and style of this city. Things like the Cleveland Flea, the 5th Street Arcade, and Fashion Week Cleveland prove that this is just as much a part of Cleveland's renaissance.

So if you've been following CRC either in blog form or on social media or are just happening upon this post, I want to hear from you! This project started as a way to promote great local businesses that may not always get the recognition that the restaurants, bars, or other entities get. If there's a new boutique opening up on your block, let me know! If you just bought a rad new Cleveland tee shirt, show it off! Or if you know of a cool event coming up, share the details!

Again, be sure to keep up with Crooked River Couture on all of its social media platforms (which can be found on the right sidebar of the blog) for even more fabulous, funky, fashionable Cleveland love. Thanks so much for reading!

Mother's Day Weekend AND MORE!

Yes, it's been a little while since the CRC has been updated. To be honest it's been a pretty crazy time for me, a lot of transitions plus a trip to the West Coast made it a little tough to keep up with the good ol' blog. But fear not C-Town --- Crooked River Couture is BACK and ready for some local business promotin', event informin', bloggin' fun! I will definitely still be keeping you up with great local shopping and fashion events going on around town and with the weather improving and summer right around the corner you know there will be plenty to tell you about!

On top of that, I really want to go back to the roots of this site by showcasing some of the fabulous, uniquely Cleveland items I've found at local shops, boutiques, or fairs, and a look inside some of those places as well.

To kick it all off, I've got some great happenings going on this weekend in the CLE for you! Check 'em out, hit 'em up and have a fabulous Cleveland weekend!

Amy's Shoes Trunk Shows
Friday May 9, 10am-6pm
Saturday May 10, 10am-6pm
19134 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River
28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere
www.amysshoes.com
The woman that bore you, raised you, and/or molded your life more than any other has only one day a year dedicated to her (other than her birthday...and maybe Christmas) so you best have something lovely to give her on Sunday! Amy's Shoes is a local staple of both the Old River and Eton shopping areas and this weekend only both locations will be featuring local vendors' goods. The Rocky River location will feature local jeweler Kim O'Neill from RockOutJewelry and at Eton, handcrafted soaps and hand dyed silk scarves from local designer Barbara Bloom from Images in Bloom. Hit up your local Amy's Shoes or make a day of it and attend both of these special trunk shows to get your mom something truly unique for Mother's Day!

via Amy's Shoes

Tremont ArtWalk
Friday May 9, 6-10pm
Tremont Neighborhood
www.tremontartwalk.com
In our beloved city known for its bipolar weather days and disappointing sports teams, there is at least one thing we can count on --- the Tremont ArtWalk! On the second Friday of every month over 20 Tremont galleries and businesses come together to showcase art and offer specials and discounts. Whether you're a Tremont lifer or have always wanted to check out the area, it's always a great time. Check out their website for more details on what to do and where to go!

via Tremont ArtWalk

The Cleveland Flea: May Flea
Saturday May 10, 9am-4pm
Sterle's Slovenian Country House
(1401 E. 55th, Cleveland)
www.theclevelandflea.com
Okay so I lied. There are TWO things you can always count on in Cleveland, the second one being the fabulous Cleveland Flea! Every second Saturday of the month, rain or shine, dozens of vendors will be selling their goodies at Sterle's. Get your locally made jewelry, your vintage, photography and food all in one spot! Be sure to check out the DIY workshops being offered throughout the day including terrarium making, perfume blending and found object planter making! (The Flea also does a great job on social media --- be sure to like them on Facebook for more info and updates!)

via The Cleveland Flea

The Hooley on Kamm's Corners
Saturday May 10, 12-8pm
Lorain Ave. West Park, Cleveland
(Between Rocky River Drive and W. 165th St.)
www.kammscorners.com
One of the most historically Irish neighborhoods in Cleveland is West Park. The heart of the WP is Kamm's Corners, a hub of local businesses, restaurants, and of course, Irish pubs and bars. Celebrating its 5th anniversary, The Hooley, Gaelic slang for party, features a day full of fun including two stages of live bands and performances, games, and over 60 booths of food and vendors. Just added to the 2014 Hooley is the Fine Art Alley featuring glass jewelry, beach glass creations, wood prints, abstract oils, and more!

via The Hooley on Kamm's Corners

April showers bring local, handmade flowers

Courtesy: The Cleveland Flea

Seriously you guys, I know I always talk about the weather but it has been SUCH a nice week here in Northeast Ohio! And with the Indians season underway, two major motion pictures filmed here premiering, patio season around the corner, it's a good time to be in the CLE!

In case that's not enough excitement for you, there are some great local events going on this weekend, if shopping local is your thing (which it probably is since you're reading this blog). Check out the details and support your local artists and vendors!

Tremont ArtWalk
Friday April 11, 6-10pm
Tremont Neighborhood
www.tremontartwalk.com
Did you know this monthly event has been around since the early 90s? On the second Friday of every month over 20 Tremont galleries and businesses come together to showcase art and offer specials and discounts. Whether you're a Tremont lifer or have always wanted to check out the area, it's always a great time. Plus, this is the first really nice weather day they've had for the ArtWalk so you know it won't be one to miss! Check out their website for more details on what to do and where to go!

The Cleveland Flea: April Flea
Saturday April 12, 9am-4pm
Sterle's Slovenian Country House
(1401 E. 55th, Cleveland)
www.theclevelandflea.com
The Flea has really become the end-all be-all of Cleveland arts and craft shows. And to call it an arts and crafts show is an understatement! Over 100 vendors will be in attendance, selling just about everything from jewelry to vintage, photography to food. Located in the historic Sterle's Country House, the event basically has it's own campus complete with multiple bars, live music stages, and of course shopping areas! Be sure to check out the workshops being offered throughout the day including terrarium making and all-day open crafting. (The Flea also does a great job on social media --- be sure to like them on Facebook for more info and updates!)

2014 Summit County Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday April 12, 10am-5pm
Sunday April 13, 11am-5pm
St. George's Fellowship Centre
(3204 Ridgewood Rd., Fairlawn)
We love the Avant-Garde shows and are so glad they pop up so often and in so many locations around Northeast Ohio! Get unique gifts for Mom or pick up something to give your Easter brunch host from the nearly 100 artists and crafters who will be there. Also, check out their Facebook page because in the weeks leading up to one of their shows they will post photos and info about their vendors. It's $3 to get in and part of the proceeds to this event will benefit Drink Local. Drink Tap., a local non-profit focusing on bringing safe water to those in need.

Pre-Spring Shopping in River

Do my eyes deceive me? Is that a two digit number that starts with a FIVE on my dashboard thermometer? We've had quite the winter in NEO this year, and although cozying up in your scarves and boots I think I speak on behalf of all Clevelanders when I say that we've just about had it. So bring on the warmer temps! Sunny days! Daylight savings! Spring holidays! I've got a couple fun events going on in the lovely 'burb of Rocky River this weekend that will surely get you in the mood.

All-Irish Boutique
Friday, March 7, 10am-7pm
Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm
Sunday, March 9, 11am-4pm
Rocky River Memorial Hall
(21016 Hilliard Blvd.)
As a proud West Side Irish Catholic Clevelander, the All-Irish Boutique is always a highlight of my St. Patrick's Day season. (And yes, that is a thing.) This is the 32nd year this event has been going on in Rocky River and it is always the perfect place to get you in the mood for St. Paddy's Day. Vendors will be there offering up their Celtic ware including jewelry, hand knits, and gifts of all sorts, not to mention the authentic Irish soda bread and scones that are to die for! Plus bands and dancers galore!

Lovely Paperie & Gifts Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, March 8, 10am-6pm
19315 Detroit Rd., Rocky River
We always love it when a new small business opens in the CLE, especially when it's an adorable paper and gift shop! Lovely Paperie & Gifts just recently opened in Rocky River, a suburb that has always been populated with great local shops. Lovely has a prime location, right across from Beachcliff Market Square and just a block down from the Old River Shopping area. This special event to celebrate their grand opening will include a "Bubbly Bar," treats from local vendors, raffles throughout the day PLUS 10% all purchases!

Vintage shake-up

After a much needed break after holiday craziness, Crooked River Couture is back in action! Hopefully everyone enjoyed our full coverage of Shop Local 2013. All of my Christmas gift recipients LOVED their all-local presents and I loved having a story behind each goodie.

One local purchase that may have been overlooked with all the holiday shopping posts was my new, too-perfect cocktail shaker from Flower Child. I was on a mission to find a legit shaker for Thanksgiving as I decided to make an after-dinner dessert drink that consisted of pumpkin pie vodka and Baileys. (YUMS.) After finding less than impressive cocktail gear at the likes of Ikea and Target, I knew I had seen cool vintage shakers at my favorite Cleveland vintage shop. Little did I know I would find EXACTLY what I needed, and for a great price!

If you've ever been to Flower Child you know the store is packed inch to inch with fabulous vintage finds. After scanning the drinkware shelves for a few minutes I spotted it - the perfect shaker! The kit includes a stainless steel cup paired with a glass pint glass that is adorned with classic cocktail recipes and measurements - quite helpful for the rookie mixologist. Complete with a long mixing spoon and strainer the whole set cost just $15! I added a lone double jigger for $2 just to make it all complete.

The shaker was a hit at Thanksgiving and I loved telling my family the story behind it. And yes, the pumpkin pie martini was delicious, thanks to my new vintage kitchen addition. Although browsing Flower Child's rooms and rooms of vintage clothes is always a good time, they have such a great collection of housewares, from unique housewarming gifts to fresh fun additions to your own place.

Be Cool. Shop Local. (last minute!)

We are days away from Christmas and that means it's time to wrap up those Christmas lists and get the gifts for the stragglers on your list! We put together a guide of our favorite local shops and boutiques, complete with hours and locations, to help you on your final holiday shopping push!

These are obviously not even near all of the CLE's small businesses, so feel free to comment with your favorite place you think people should hit up this weekend or send us a message on Facebook or Twitter!

Banyan Tree
Mon-Fri, 11am-9pm
Saturday, 10am-9pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm
2242 Professor Ave., Tremont

City Buddha
Mon-Fri, 11am-9pm
Saturday, 10am-9pm
Sunday, 11am-7pm
1807 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Hts.

Cleveland Christmas Village Pop Up at Crocker Park
Mon-Sat, 10am-9pm
Sunday, 12pm-6pm
Next to Coach in Crocker Park, Westlake

CLE Clothing Co.
Mon-Sat, 11am-9pm
Sunday, 12pm-6pm
342 Euclid Ave. (E. 4th & Euclid), Downtown

Collective Upcycle
Thurs-Sat, 12pm-8pm
Sunday, 10am-4pm
6202 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland

Crafty Goodness
Friday, 1pm-7pm
Saturday, 12pm-6pm
Tuesday, 1pm-5pm
15729 Madison Ave., Lakewood

Deering Vintage
Mon-Sat, 12pm-8pm
1836 W. 25th, Ohio City

Flower Child
Mon-Thurs, 11am-7pm
Fri-Sat, 11am-8pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland

GV Art + Design

Friday, 11am-7pm
Saturday, 11am-5pm
Monday, 11am-7pm
Tuesday, 11am-3pm
17411 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Lion and Blue
10am-6pm

15106 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Native-Cleveland
Friday, 1pm-9pm
Saturday, 12pm-8pm
15813 Waterloo Road, Collinwood

One World Shop
Mon-Fri, 10am-7pm
Saturday, 10am-5pm
Sunday, 12pm-5pm
19321 Detroit Rd., Rocky River

Paper Trails
Mon-Wed, 10am-6pm
Thurs, 10am-8pm
Fri-Sat, 10am-5pm
19146 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River

R/S Boutique & Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe

Mon-Sat, 11am-8pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm

2078 W. 25th, Ohio City

Salty Not Sweet
Mon-Fri 11am-7pm
Saturday, 10am-7pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm
*Check Salty's Facebook and/or Twitter pages for up to date extended hours!
2074 W. 25th, Ohio City

Star Pop
Tues-Sat, 2pm-9pm
Sunday, 12pm-4pm
15813 Waterloo Rd., Collinwood

Small Business Saturday 2013

Our favorite day of the year is here! Small Business Saturday is November 30 and we can't wait to hit up some of our favorite local spots. Of course we all should be patronizing these businesses all year round, but something about having a day dedicated to them makes it special.

If you don't know where to start or where to go, Crooked River Couture is here for you! Below is our list of special events going on Saturday as well as details on some of our favorite Cleveland area small businesses!

These are obviously not even near all of CLE's small businesses so feel free to comment with your favorite place you think people should hit up this weekend or send us a message on Facebook or Twitter!

Winterfest Holiday Pop-Up Shop
Saturday, November 30, 2-7pm
Public Square

Be a part of the Downtown Cleveland Alliance's annual Winterfest bash! Browse the locally made goodies and stay for the other Winterfest activities, including the Holiday Lighting Ceremony.

Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe

11am-6pm

R/S Boutique

2078 W. 25th, Ohio City

Banyan Tree
10am-9pm
2242 Professor Ave., Tremont

City Buddha
11am-9pm
1807 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Hts.
10am-10pm
Cleveland Christmas Village Pop Up at Crocker Park, Westlake

CLE Clothing Co.
11am-9pm
342 Euclid Ave. (E. 4th & Euclid), Downtown

Crafty Goodness
12pm-6pm
15729 Madison Ave

Deering Vintage
12pm-8pm
1836 W. 25th, Ohio City

Flower Child
11am-8pm
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland

GV Art + Design

11am-3pm
17411 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Lion and Blue
10am-6pm

15106 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Native-Cleveland
12pm-8pm

15813 Waterloo Road, Collinwood

One World Shop
10am-5pm
19321 Detroit Rd., Rocky River

Paper Trails
10am-5pm
19146 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River

Salty Not Sweet
10am-7pm
2074 W. 25th, Ohio City

Star Pop
2pm-9pm

15813 Waterloo Rd., Collinwood

Be sure to use #ShopSmall or #ShopSmallCLE hashtags Saturday to share all of your Small Business shopping adventures!

Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe & Kickoff Party

Welcome to the biggest shopping week of the year! Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and *ugh* yes, even "Brown Thursday"... We promised to help you avoid the insanity of usual holiday shopping experiences by bringing you awesome local shows, events, and places to get your all your gifts. Small Business Saturday is quite possibly our favorite day of the year, and we'll have a full post on where to go on the 30th later this week...

But first off, you may be asking yourself what to do and where to go on the infamous Black Friday. Unless you really had your eye on that 60" flat screen, we've got the perfect place for you! One of our favorite Ohio City boutiques, Room Service is hosting it's 6th annual Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe! This month-long event gets started this Friday with a kickoff party that is sure to be a blast...

Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe Kickoff Party
Friday, November 29, 4pm
R/S Boutique
2078 W. 25th, Ohio City
www.rscleveland.com
Get the holiday shopping season off with a bang! Get a look at all the locally made goodies and giftables available at R/S all month! PLUS yummy noms courtesy of Cleveland Confectionery and drinks including wine, hot toddies, and an exclusive MADE beer on tap! Accompanying the merriment will be DJ Peter Pleasurecruise and then join the crew at the after party at Tremont's Duck Island Club.

Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe
November 29 - December 24
Monday-Saturdays, 11am-6pm
Sundays, 11am-5pm
R/S Boutique
2078 W. 25th, Ohio City
www.rscleveland.com
This marks the 6th anniversary of the MADE Holiday Shoppe and there's no better time to join in on the fun! Your one stop shop for local Christmas shopping is open 7 days a week, with extended evening hours beginning on December 7. They've got everything from clothing to cards, accessories to home goods, and everything in between!

A Weekend in St. Clair

Forget everything you ever thought you knew about Flea Markets! The Cleveland Flea is a whole new ballgame. Once a month, vendors from all over come together in the St. Clair neighborhood to show off their goods to the fine people of Northeast Ohio. This weekend is "The Flea's" big holiday extravaganza, complete with a Sneak Peak Party on Friday night PLUS the grand opening of Collective Upcycle right down the street! We've got all the details for you right here, and remember to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for even more updates!

Holiday Flea Sneak Peek & Meet the Makers Party
Friday, November 22, 7-10pm
Slovenian National Home
6417 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland
(Between E. 64th & Addison Ave.)
www.theclevelandflea.com
Get a look at the Holiday Flea a day early! Enjoy complimentary refreshments (including BEER!) courtesy of Sterles Country House, Jeni's Ice Cream, and Piccadilly Artisan Frozen Yogurt. Tickets are $20 and shopping starts at 8pm.

Collective Upcycle Holiday Grand Opening Party
Friday, November 22, 5-8pm
6202 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland
(Between Norwood Rd. & E. 64th)
www.facebook.com/CollectiveUpcycle
You like local, you like handmade, how about adding a sprinkling of eco-friendliness? Collective Upcycle is a pop-up shop of Cleveland-area artists who specifically use recycled materials. The party Friday will feature live music from Ansambel Dvojčki, food from Impassioned Baking and Catering, and Slovenian cocktails!

The Cleveland Flea Holiday Show
Saturday, Nov. 23, 10am-6pm
Sunday, Nov. 24, 10am-6pm
6417 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland
(Between E. 64th & Addison Ave.)
www.theclevelandflea.com
The main event! Peruse the dozens of local vendors selling their handmade goodies including jewelry, clothing, food and more! The Flea also features a "Maker Center," that connects local talent and the community like never before. We also hear there will some of Cleveland fabulous food trucks in attendance at this most treasure hunt-esque show!

Map courtesy of The Cleveland Flea

Be cool. Shop local.

The temps are dropping (consistently), decorations are sprouting up everywhere, and Starbucks' red cups are back. It's time to face the facts - Christmas is coming, and that means so is the holiday shopping season! It may seem like a burden when your idea of Christmas shopping is trudging to the mall or busy shopping plaza and facing the insanity.

Believe it or not, it doesn't have to be that way. If you take a page from our book, shopping local is where it's at! Skip out on all the craziness, support independent businesses and vendors, AND chances are, your friends and family will truly appreciate something unique for Christmas this year!

If you're at a loss for where to start, fear not, Crooked River Couture is here! We are all about shining a light on all the fabulously awesome small businesses in the Cleveland area! Keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and of course the ol' blog here for great places to shop as well as shows and events that will help you with your all-local holiday to-do list!

Here are some upcoming November events to kick off the season right...

Beachwood Arts Council Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Saturday, Nov. 9, 10am-5pm
Beachwood Community Center (25225 Fairmount Blvd.)
www.beachwoodarts.org
Get your arts & crafts on at this free event! Browse the over 50 vendors selling their handmade jewelry, soaps, ceramics, photography, fiber art, handblown glass and more! Plus the Beachwood Arts Council will be accepting canned good donation for the Heights Emergency Food Center to help the hungry during the holidays! It's a win-win!


2013 West Side Fall Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10am-5pm 
Sunday, Nov. 17, 10am-5pm
Rocky River Memorial Hall (21016 Hilliard Blvd.)
www.avantgardeshows.com
We are so excited about this two-day craftastic extravaganza! $3 gets you in the door to browse the almost 100 local handmade vendors! Part of the proceeds to this event will benefit Drink Local. Drink Tap., a local non-profit focusing on bringing safe water to those in need. Plus on top of all that you can treat yo self at the on-site concession stand!

Stash Style Pop-Up Shoppe

I told you I'd post again soon! In addition to Small Business Saturday this weekend, there is a great trunk show happening at Beachcliff in Rocky River. Last spring I wrote about Stash Style, my favorite boutique in Chagrin Falls. Since then, the Chagrin location has closed, but the owner has set up various pop-up shops selling goods all around town. Lucky for us, one of these very pop-ups is happening all weekend long!

The Stash Style blog has been full of photos of all kinds of great items available this weekend. So far it seems there will be plenty of holiday goodies, as well as everyday finds perfect for gifts. Last Christmastime I bought an adorable yellow and white mini tree knick-knack and a sparkly silver vintage ornament (among many other things). They promise to have loads of vintage ornaments this year, all for just $1 a piece!

I'm hoping to get some Christmas shopping done there this weekend, so I may not be posting everything I buy - it would ruin the surprise if any recipients were reading! Hope to see you all there this weekend, I promise it will be worth it!

Stash Style Pop-Up Shoppe
Beachcliff Market Square in Rocky River
Fri,  Nov. 25: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sat, Nov. 26: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sun, Nov. 27: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Small Business Saturday

Dredgers Union on E. 4th

It's been a little while since I've posted here on good ol' Crooked River Couture. As many of you can probably relate to, life gets busy and crazy sometimes, and I found myself in a bit of a funk. What better way to bring myself back to life than with some Cleveland fashion blogging! One thing I have been doing is writing some pieces for Examiner focusing on, what else, Cleveland fashion. I've written two pieces so far and hope to do more, so be sure to keep up on them!


As for my trusty blog here, it's been a bit of a struggle coming up with ideas for posts. I think I need to be a little less picky and a little more open to any kind of Cleveland style topics. I would also like to keep up a little bit more on fashionable events going on around town. So I think that's how I'll start!

Vanity Lab

This Saturday, November 26 is Small Business Saturday. This is the second year for this great nation-wide event that promotes local independently owned businesses. It's kind of the local version of Black Friday, which we all know is the biggest shopping day of the year. After you've had your fix of name brand products for a fraction of the price at malls and shopping centers, think about heading out for Small Business Saturday to help out your local businesses and boutiques!

This blog has been dedicated to all the great shops around town. Here's a link to some I have covered. Think about heading to one (or all) of these places, and more!

- Lion and Blue in Lakewood
- Vanity Lab in Westlake
- One World Shop (Ten Thousand Villages) in Rocky River
- City Buddha in Cleveland Hts. (Coventry)
- Flower Child in Cleveland (Clifton)
- Salty Not Sweet in Ohio City
- Room Service in Ohio City
- Dredgers Union, Downtown (E. 4th)*

I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving, a greater Black Friday and the best Small Business Saturday! Check back soon for some more updates, I hope to be churning them out faster than I have been lately!



(*Note: CLE Clothing Co. will be opening up a shop on E. 4th this weekend! Make sure you hit that up on Saturday too!!!)

Dredging down East 4th

Last week I posted event info for the Made in the 216 and Dredgers Union grand opening event that took place on Friday night (and all weekend!) If you didn't have a chance to hit it up, you missed a great event for Cleveland fashion. It was so great to see so many people downtown, and even though I know some of the crowd was from the Tribe game, I know a lot of people were there for this event! Even Channel 3 was live from E. 4th during their 7 p.m. news!

Unfortunately we didn't get there until later, but I'm so glad we got to stop by. The Dredgers Union store is located on the east side of the street right across from the Greenhouse Tavern. The set up of the store is really cool. There was a very Anthropologie vibe. I was expecting more of a boutique, which is more common for locally owned shops. But I can definitely see the Dredgers Union becoming a national chain! Not that it ever would or would ever want to but it had that type of vibe, like you could plop it in any mall in America.


Of course me being me, the first thing that caught my eye when I walked in was this navy blue tote bag with a vintage map of Cleveland on it. It was just $20 and I just might have to go back and snag one!

A lot of the apparel was on the higher price end (again, like Anthropologie) but they were really chic and unique.  There was everything from shorts to tops, dresses and more. On the upper level stage area were all home wares. Each little area was like a separate room in someone's house. There were some really great shower curtains that my friends and I wanted in our future apartment! I also loved some of the cups, bowls and plates around. As I've always said I'm a sucker for interesting set ups inside stores and the housewares area had a really cool set up. I wish I could live there!

Now the real party was hopping down stairs in the basement level. That's where the Made in the 216 event was going on. It was like a mini craft fair with racks and racks of Cleveland T-shirts (including some from my favorite CLE Clothing Co. and their new summer tanks), tables of accessories and Cleveland-themed art on the walls.












We were really feeling the jewelry pinned up on this bulletin board. A lot of them were made from old watches and clocks from Aviaire and were so unique.

I, personally was totally into the Cleveland art up everywhere. My favorite would have to be the black and white text prints by Arterx with street names from various neighborhoods. I loved the Lakewood one featuring "Warren," "Bunts," "Detroit," and "Riverside" as well as the Ohio City and Tremont ones. Another adorable print I loved was by Rachael Novak reading "Lake Erie Love."




Even though I didn't buy anything I'm really glad I went. Like I said in my preview post it's so good to see some retail coming to downtown! Even though a lot of the Dredgers Union stuff was a little expensive for my kind of income, I can't wait to do a little East 4th shopping once I get a little dough (whenever that might be!) I would definitely suggest checking it out, and maybe to give Made in the 216 a follow on Twitter to keep up with their pop up events. And of course, one of the best things about both Made in the 216 and the Dredgers Union they are dedicated to locally produced items - spreading the CLE love one shopping spree at a time!



***Check out the links on this page to see the web sites for some of the items I saw at the event!

Salty, sweet and in between

Last week I posted info about Salty Not Sweet's grand reopening event in Ohio City. It sounded so nice I had to check it out for myself, and I am so glad I did. This adorably funky boutique features handmade items from local and national artists picked from the owner at various craft shows.

The first thing that caught my eye when I walked in was the wall full of tote bags. Many of them were Ohio themed (which I love) but I couldn't help myself when I saw this bag with one of my favorite movie quotes on it. I love all of Paul Rudd's mega awkward phrases from I Love You Man. I say "totes ma gotes" all the time like it's nobody's business.

Intermixed with the tote bags were rows of glass magnets. They were really neat, many with photos of celebs like Zooey Deschanel and Alec Baldwin and patterns from zebra to polka dots. I bought this one with a couple of my favorite TV characters. However I might give it to a friend as a gift, thus the pixelated faces.

As we made our way towards the back we had to check out the tshirt shelves. There were a lot of really cute prints including one with a painterly looking pair of seahorses my friend bought and a really cute long, bright orange tee with cut off sleeves that would look super chic belted with leggings. The shirt I bought however I knew I had to have. I cannot wait to wear this out!











The jewelry at Salty Not Sweet is a whole adventure in and of itself. Really unique pieces included earrings made of recycled bottle caps and vinyl records, necklaces with birdcage and scooter charms and metal crafted rings. I also loved the line of pins, hair clips and necklaces with tiny city maps on them. (By the way, I LOVE MAPS). I had been looking for a new ring and I really liked a two finger studded ring but I decided to buy this gold triangle one. It's really different from anything I've seen, and it was just eight bucks!

Salty Not Sweet is more than just tshirts and trinkets. The locally made candles and soaps they sell smelled so good I wish I could fill my whole house with them! And as you know I love unique displays in stores and the in-house greeting card prints were displayed in an old card catalogue cabinet. We spent so much time reading these clever cards, some of which were hilariously snarky.

As it was their grand opening party, they had delicious cupcakes provided by the Cleveland Cupcake Company as well as other snacks and refreshments. I have to say the dark chocolate bacon cupcake I had was to die for.

When we finished our shopping and browsing, we headed up to the counter to make our purchases. Candra, the owner, was so sweet and funny. She genuinely loved everything in her place and everything I bought, she had one of her own! (And she also shared my love of vintage keys that were scattered around the shop ;) We also got to go home with our own little plants Candra said she had been growing in cups in her kitchen for weeks. My friend chose some herbs and I, who would have no use for such things, picked a lavender and a snapdragon. Such a cute idea!

I had an amazing time at Salty Not Sweet's opening on Saturday. I cannot wait until summer when I have some more dough and I can really go on a shopping spree there! Ohio City has always been one of my favorite Cleveland neighborhoods and it is really blossoming. This new boutique addition, as well as its neighbor Room Service, are making the area even better.

Salty Not Sweet grand reopening 5/21

If you're looking for something to do on Saturday (especially if you just found out the Indians game is sold out) never fear! I have another great fashion event for you to check out.

Salty Not Sweet is celebrating the opening of its new location in Ohio City with a fabulous grand reopening party this Saturday, May 21 from 6-11 p.m. Located on W. 25th just south of Lorain Ave., this unique boutique is bringing its homemade merch and vintage wares to the west side. 

I never got to visit the Waterloo Rd. location, but I am excited to hit up its new home in one of my favorite C-Town neighborhoods. The party will feature shopping (of course) and refreshments including yummy cupcakes from the Cleveland Cupcake Company! 

Salty Not Sweet

2074 W. 25 St.

Cleveland, OH 44113

saltynotsweet.com

New post preview: Beaded Flower Ring

Yet again, I know it's been a while since I've blogged. I'm in the process of tweaking the format of the site a bit. But while I do that, I thought I'd do a few preview posts before I explore my next Cleveland boutique.

I bought this ring at this shop's old location on W. 25th. I miss that old place but the Coventry Rd. spot is just as nice (only a bit farther away!) Stay tuned for more previews and the full post!

The Flower Child Experience

I have always considered myself an old soul, obsessed with the past and everything non-contemporary. You can imagine my glee when vintage shops started sprouting up around Cleveland, especially since my mother saved nothing for me from growing up in the 60s. There are some really great vintage shops around town but the first (and still favorite) one I ever went to Flower Child on Clifton.

The first few times I went to Flower Child, I didn't even buy anything. It's really an experience in and of itself. There is so much to look at and play with I could spend all day in there. When you first walk in you are greeted by so many visual stimulants it's hard to take it all in. The front room is full of vintage jewelry, from tasteful to gaudy and everything in between.

Like I mentioned in my post exploring Lion and Blue, many of my friends have been the benefit of gifts from Flower Child, and a lot of it has been jewelry. One of my favorite gifts I bought at Flower Child was a pair of cameo earrings. Something I've bought myself from this front room full of bling was a large ceramic red and white flower pin. I bought it around Christmastime so I took it as a poinsettia but it's so fun and bright I've worn it all year round.

The rest of the top floor is mostly full of housewares. I can only dream of having my entire future home furnished with the shag rugs, funky lamps and brightly colored couches you can find there. One cool item I bought as a gift was a vinyl record bowl. There are also always great cups, glasses and bowls as well as vintage mini bars that are sometimes discretely hidden for 50s housewives.


Once you get your fill of the first floor, take a trip down to the basement. There you'll find rooms and rooms and more rooms full of clothes, bags, accessories and more. As I said before, you could literally spend an entire day at Flower Child and most of it would be rifling through all those racks. From retro tshirts to sequined jump suits there is something to tickle everyone's fancy. One great find I bought was this kimono-style robe. I was casually looking for a light robe to wear around the house and I instantly fell in love with this leaf-motif number. Sometimes I wear it over lounge wear or take one of my sashes or scarves to cinch it closed.


Possibly my favorite Flower Child purchase is this vintage Pan Am bag. As I mentioned in my preview post featuring this classic bag, I had wanted a Pan Am bag since I saw Catch Me If You Can. That bright royal blue and instantly recognizable logo is so classically 60s. I was pretty close to buying a Marc Jacobs Pan Am bag on eBay but I knew I'd appreciate it more if I found an authentic one. I was in one of Flower Child's basement rooms when I saw it sitting on a chair around other random items. I could not believe it and once I saw the $20 price tag I knew I had to have it. If there's any doubt that it isn't an authentic 1960s bag, I can tell you the janky zipper and adjustable strap is definitely at least 40 years old. But regardless, this bag is great and I've used it a lot, especially since the recent cross-body bag trend.

I can only describe Flower Child in so many words, you really have to experience it for yourself, and it is quite an experience. One cool thing they do is indicate on much of their merch what decade or year they are from. There is also a good chance you can find some fancy vintage designer items. And although I am always for promoting local businesses, you can very easily spend a great afternoon soaking up all the vintage awesomeness without spending a dime. But if you do have a dime or two to spend you can definitely find a lot of great items that won't break the bank. And the best part is that every time you go, it's almost like a completely different place, they are always getting in new items and donations.

Post Preview: Red and White Flower Pin

As a result of two crazy weeks and the holiday weekend I have yet to put together a full post. But wait no longer, I'm working on a new entry at this very moment! I will definitely, DEFINITELY post it later tonight. So I thought I'd throw up this quick preview (in addition to my last preview) to tease tonight's full post!