ReadysetDC A CREATIVE URBAN ENTERPRISE

fashion:district | Redeem

Reported by Jordan

Once upon a time, shopping in the nation’s capitol was defined by a plethora of malls in Chevy Chase, Tyson’s Corner and Georgetown. Nothing existed to represent the city’s true and natural style. Little by little, with the help of bold creatives, a new and unique community-connected shopping experience is blooming in DC. The people behind this creative move are true pioneers, who now are gaining real recognition and redefining the shopping experience in Washington. DC residents are actively changing Washington’s style and there is a new found sense of hope for fashionable Washingtonians.

Over the coming month ReadysetDC is setting out to spotlight the burgeoning fashion community in Washington, DC. Part one of our intrepid adventure will comprise of a five part spring 2010 fashion feature on businesses, designers and fashion photographers. Each week we will feature a beloved Washington boutique or designer including; Treasury, De*Nada Designs, Commonwealth and Redeem. Each feature will provide a glimpse into the lives of the people behind the movement. You may call this a shopping guide for DC, though I would rather call this an ode to bold business pioneers. The series will also include spring forecasting straight from the Washington creatives themselves, just in time for the spring thaw.

fashion:district part II will be announced March 16th, after the final part I series debuts. We are brewing up something ground breaking which will spotlight every aspect of the fashion community here in Washington, DC.

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Over the past three years Redeem has become a neighborhood staple in Logan Circle. Owner and DC native, Lori Parkerson opened up her minimalist urban clothing boutique in 2006. A few months back Redeem celebrated its third birthday with featured designer Virginia Arrisueño of De*Nada Design and artwork by Kelly Towles. The event drew out an impressive crowd, a perfect representation of Redeem itself; stylish and electic. Redeem is a refreshing shop, where friends pop in throughout the day to say hello, newcomers find a conceptual gem and quality surpasses quantity.

Men and women alike flock to Redeem for urban armor. Parkerson’s shop features hard to find labels such as;
B. Son, Love Brigade, Kai-aakmann, Covet and Bodybag. Not to exclude DC’s own designing community, Redeem also sells pieces from De*Nada Design, Plastic Heaven and Realm by Jesse Walker.

Redeem is located at 1734 14th Street NW.

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RSDC: You opened in 2006, part of the frontline–if you will– in reinvigorating 14th street. What would you say has changed the most about the neighborhood since Redeem’s opening?

First, I’d say the real frontrunners were businesses like Home Rule and Green Pets, who both recently celebrated their 10 year anniversaries, as well as Muleh and Pulp. They really pioneered the area for retail! As for changes in the last 3 years…besides having other great independent businesses crop up along 14th Street like Cork and Treasury, I definitely feel like the neighborhood is getting more recognition in town and out. It feels like it’s producing more of a buzz.

RSDC: Why do you carry the lines you do?

Mainly the criteria for bringing in lines is a combination of the brand aesthetic and identity matching the identity of the shop, gut instinct – what lines do I get excited about? want to wear? love seeing others wear? [while] making sure the price point isn’t too outrageous. It can be a tricky balance. I really like supporting up-and-coming brands – being part of the process of furthering other independents’ passions and dreams.

RSDC: Why did you open your own boutique in the first place?

It’s been a dream of mine since I can remember. Fashion is the one thing I have never tired of. I just finally decided to pursue what I really love….to take a chance….

RSDC: Where are your go-to shopping spots?

Since opening the store, I don’t get out much nor do much clothes shopping outside of it. I like to visit Treasury to hunt for choice vintage. When I make it big I suppose I’ll be going to Hu’s for footwear.

RSDC: What advice would you give to creatives aspiring to become small business owners in DC?

Go for it! Have a solid, realistic, business plan [and] try to find someone who’s done it that can help answer questions. Be sure you’re 100% committed – it’ll help get you through the bumps and bruises.

RSDC: Where do you see Redeem (and yourself) in 5 years?

Older, wiser, still cranking out fresh gear for the people. Maybe with a bakery connected to the shop…a girl can dream…

RSDC: And finally, what do you see for Spring 2010. What looks are you looking forward to the most?

I’m really loving Kai-aakmann’s Spring 10 collection for guys and girls. We have the first delivery in house now and it looks awesome. For girls, looking forward to long structured boxy-shouldered vests, slim cropped trousers, and body conscious dresses. For guys, still loving the slim tapered ankle trouser and shorter shorts (we’ll have some great ones this season by store newcomer Hyden Yoo).

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The Looks.

The looks are a sneak peek into what ReadysetDC and Redeem are planning for this March, so stay tuned!

WOMENS:

Black Zip Up Vest …. Kai-aakmann  $118

Green Knit Tank …. Kai-aakmann $60

White Distressed Drop Denim ….  $125

Brass “In Flocks” Necklace …. AK Vintage  $85

Double B Handbag … George Gina & Lucy $215

MENS:

Navy Double Lapel Trench Coat … Kai-aakmann  $249

Pinstripe Shirt … Kai-aakmann  $115

Black Axel Pants … Orthodox $215

Blue Typewriter Tie… Cyberoptix $40

Nooka Watch … $135

Les Wayfarer Duffel … George Gina & Lucy $225