The Cuckoo's Dress

Once upon a time I posted a blog entitled The Cuckoo's Nest: A History of Portland's Original Bohemian Boutique in which I presented stories and images from the glory days of what was undoubtedly the hippest little shop ever to produce unique handmade clothing.

As I reported there, the owner and visionary behind the boutique, Julie Safley, and I developed a cherished camaraderie through our communication concerning The Cuckoo's Nest. Julie now runs an Alpaca farm just outside of Portland where she produces fabulously luxuriant alpaca fibers.

Of the many wonderful and unexpected gifts to come out of this friendship was a package of eight glorious alpaca fiber and Pima cotton dresses...

Four of them are monochromatic (pink, blue, light olive green, and nude), very fitted and flattering, mermaid cut beauties...

And the other four are absolutely gorgeous and utterly unique dresses made of a perfectly blended synthesis of colors, materials, and patterns, each in its own special cut. These dresses were based on original Cuckoo's Nest patterns from the 70s (!), and their bohemian spirit shines brightly through.

Each of the garments is a sensual delight to wear. They are all lined in silky satin and are made of spectacularly well woven material from truly luscious natural materials.

These pieces were made in 1990 for a fashion show and have been awaiting their chance to reappear in public and find a loving home ever since...

And now their time has come. By the end of the week, quite likely sooner, each of these pieces will be listed in the shop.

Thank you Julie, thank you original Cuckoo's Nest designers and seamstresses, and thank you alpacas for giving me the opportunity to present these very, very special dresses to the world.