MNfashion Week in review: Shop Local at Picky Girl

by Natalie Gallagher
All photos provided by Picky Girl

It was a cozy Thursday evening at Picky Girl on St. Paul’s Grand Avenue, as locally designed lines Calpurnia Peach, Nelle handbags, Rapport handbags, and Post- accessories debuted their spring collections. uests enjoyed wine and cupcakes (fitting for the confections on display) and had the opportunity to chat with the designers about their inspirations for this season.

[Calpurnia Peach designer Luci Kandler showing off a design]

Local design darlings Luci Kandler and Ashley Wokasch of Calpurnia Peach spoke lovingly about their latest line, done up in bright orange and yellow sherbet colors and original lacey prints. The ladies have six different styles from their spring line available at Picky Girl for purchase, including an elegantly relaxed red and gray frock to an attention-grabbing tiered cocktail dress. (Additional styles from the collection are available in Minneapolis at Design Collective.)

[Nelle floral accessories]

Nelle handbags is offering a stellar selection of accessories, including a fabric “Single Bud” flower belt (brought back from the holiday collection by popular demand) and some exquisite clutches in rich, silky jewel tones that are sure to be a coveted item for many a glamour girl. As guests ogled over her color palette, Nelle designer Laura Nelli cheerfully discussed her upcoming projects, which includes preparing custom orders and readying for the always-busy bridal season.

[Michele Henry & Wesley Uthus of Rapport Handbags]

Katie McShane and Lois Eliason, the always-fabulous, energetic gals of Post-, proudly displayed totes and clutches from their P3 line, which feature a pressed image of the peace symbol on Italian leather. The ladies also showed pieces from their Bramante line of decadent handbags, including one superlatively constructed from Italian-imported ostrich, which made us nearly melt into a puddle of desire.

Be sure to stop into Picky Girl to check out the new items. But be forewarned - drooling may ensue.

Picky Girl is located at 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-698-4107, www.pickygirlmn.com Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from noon-5 p.m.