This year, I asked a number of people involved in the local fashion industry to give me their take on 2007, and what they’re looking forward to in 2008. I’ll be posting them on M.O.D. as they trickle in, and you’ll see some early responders in the next issue of the Mercury, too. Here’s what Garett Stenson, CEO of DB Clay had to say:

My favorite new boutique is Lizard Lounge. They have been super cool to work with and they are serious about running a good business. They are responsive, they educate themselves on the brands they carry and simply, they flat out sell product. All too often, I feel, boutiques are too concerned with being cool rather than actually selling product. Lizard Lounge combines both elements nicely. Other honorable mentions: My favorite stores in Portland are Ray’s Ragtime and Alexandra’s on Interstate (Vintage shit). Local 35 always carries cool shit and you can tell Justin is working hard to make it happen and keep it fresh. I buy most of my nice shoes at Johnny Sole…the best men’s shoe store hands down. Though I don’t shop their too much, Upper Playground (Jay Sajko) is doing it right. Great aesthetic, art, products, well done. Jay is a stud and his store is cranking. Emily Katz is a dope chick. She is clever, she is musical, she is innovative, and she is multidimensional. She’s making it happen. I am part of Sameunderneath too…Good people all around. Working hard, pushing the envelope towards a global business model which I like. Education (rather than just fashion) is going to be the competitive advantage that defines. New trends in 2008: Of course, green. Although I feel like this is not being handled very well by most. It’s being used too loosely as a buzz word rather than a genuine pursuit. I fear it will crumble and become a fad if managed poorly which is sad because it is a good cause. I just don’t think people are handling (and marketing it) very well. The internet. Pretty much going to sculpt and radically change the landscape of fashion as we know it…get ready ya’ll… As soon as I get paid (and I’m talking paid), I am going to start buying custom tailored suits from Mario’s…I want to bring back the Great Gatsby days…suits, cufflinks, fancy parties…Rolls Royce. The roaring… Por que no has the best tacos in the world.

(a DB Clay wallet—one of many designs)