The A-List is about people and places in Portland that have continuously shaped what we know to be good about our city. No one does that better than Zelda's Boutique owner, Libby Hartung. I had a chance to pop into Libby's newly remodeled store on one of those perfect sunny fall days that are the reason we all love to shop on NW 23rd Avenue. The store itself is like a lavish, perfectly stocked dressing room. The kind that women dream of having in their homes.
I had a chance to talk with Libby about her store, her favorites for Fall, and being in business for 15 years!
DCS: What is your specialty in reference to style?
LH: I love shoes that get noticed! The Zelda's Collection encompasses many different styles, but I am always envisioning my customers and where they are going in each shoe. Women play many roles in life and I think it's true that no matter what we are doing we want to feel stylish and put together. I incorporate shoe styles that will look stylish and be functional for day- and I love finding show stoppers for evening.
DCS: Tell me about the recent remodel?
LH: We have revamped the Zelda's space to be able to accommodate both shoes and clothing. We are now able to carry some of our favorite clothing items for the season to show with the shoes. It was also important to me to create a warm and inviting space for our customers. i want everyone to feel welcome, relaxed and imaginative when they visit Zelda's.
DCS: What are your thoughts on your clients personal style?
LH: We are fortunate to have a very stylish clientele of all ages. They are forward thinking women that know what's in for the season and really count on Zelda's to interpret it for the Portland lifestyle-which I think places an emphasis on comfort as well as style.
DCS: What makes the shopping experience special?
LH: Because we carry boutique shoe lines, our customers find shoes that they won't see any where else. I really focus on bringing unique styles to Zelda's. We also book Zelda's for private parties in the evenings, so that our customers can actually host parties and showers at the store, which I love. Our private parties include a gift certificate for the guest of honor I think the package is truly special. Who wouldn't want to have a private party and receive a pair of shoes for the special occasion! It's a very unique option for our customer.
DCS: What's your favorite item in the store for Fall?
LH: I can't possibly choose just one! I am very excited about our selection of boots for Fall and I'm looking forward to getting a fabulous studded peep-toe bootie from Calleen Cordero in this month.
Libby's store is definitely one of the best places to fall in love with beautiful things. My favorite was a pair of Italian, lavender, printed python heels from Angeleigh Anastasio. This is the kind of shoe you want to be having drinks with on a Saturday night. They would be attached to a stylish Portland lady of course! Everyone knows you can't have cocktails with a pair of shoes..... not in public anyway.
Visit Zelda's at 633 NW 23rd Ave. Portland, Or 97201. Phone 503. 226. 0363
m-f 11am - 6pm , sat 10am - 6pm , sun 11am - 5pm.
www.zeldaspdx.com