Shopping Spree

Fashion > Forward

by Monica Weymouth

Elena Brennan ranks pretty high on our list of fiercest Brit imports (not quite David Beckham, but definitely more posh than Victoria). In honor of her home country, the London-born owner of Bus Stop Boutique is hosting British Invasion, a cheeky night of dancing and shoe shopping. Special guests include Piper Nightingale of Irregular Choice (Brennan's "favourite English shoe," some of which are pictured) and DJ Under, who will be spinning music from across the pond. Nothing fashionable about arriving late to this bash, mates — only the first guests get Irregular Choice party favors.

Let it never again be said that Northeast girls aren't fashion-forward. Designer Jamie Lewin and TONY owner Pamela Dollak — both originally from Roosevelt Mall territory — are teaming up to squash those Aqua Net jokes once and for all. Lewin, the crafty lady behind Phyl Couture, will take over the Old City boutique with her flirty, sophisticated spring/summer 2008 collection. The trunk show will feature tops, skirts and dresses with her signature appliquéed embellishments — all of which miraculously manage to be both summery and bra-friendly. A purchase scores you a complimentary tote, which the Neastie in us knows will work with both day and evening sweats.

After some time in Brooklyn, Mrs. Pleasant (aka Emily Amarnick) is back in Philly — and she's brought plenty of goodies with her. In celebration of her homecoming, the Mrs. is hosting a cocktail reception and shopping party in her new South Philly home/showroom, which is full of carefully selected vintage clothing for ladies and gentlemen, accessories, handmade cards and housewares. RSVPs are required, dollfaces, and it wouldn't kill you to put on some mascara — this isn't your average house party.

Throw in some scented bubble bath, and suddenly National Poetry Month sounds a little less boring. Those who RSVP to LUSH's poetry slam party and spend $45 will take home a gift bag stuffed with products inspired by famous verses, such as their Emperor of Ice Cream buttercream and Waving Not Drowning bath bomb. (Oh just quiet down and moisturize, Wallace Stevens wannabes.) If eco-friendly handmade soap brings out the Whitman in you, you're invited to share your poem and compete for an extra gift. We're going with a haiku: Lemony Flutter:/ dry skin disappears, and our/ purse smells like cookies.