Nestled in the row of gorgeous boutiques that line North 3rd Street, Topstitch stands out as a particular hot spot for those who love an eclectic closet. The store features 38 (mostly local) clothing and jewelry designers, as well as a series of artists who exhibit their works on the walls in two-month rotations. One of the boutique’s most unique jewelry lines is Rabid Fox, produced by storeowner Linda Smyth and fellow designer Rebecca Pulver. Rabid Fox features a collection of gold and silver knuckle duster rings topped with the roaring heads of rabid foxes (yes, you read that correctly) rabbits, or elephants. These killa adornments could make even the fiercest fashionista swoon. Not only are the Rabid Fox pieces unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, they’re also whimsical, masterfully crafted and downright magical.
Topstitch’s best-selling items are usually Smyth’s “Fleather” earrings ($40), and the longer, more eccentric “Feather” earrings ($80-120). However, if these don’t happen to tickle your fancy (or your neck) you’re sure to find something stellar amidst the collection of hand-made corsets, funky necklaces and bracelets, or vintage belts, purses, dresses and shoes. One of the best things about Topstitch is its price range: the wide variety of items is reflected by the diversity of prices, ranging from student-budget cheap to grand-dame pricey.
If you’re too overwhelmed by the post-spring break homework avalanche to make it downtown anytime soon, just hop skip on the internet over to fleathers.etsy.com to peruse some items from the shop’s multitude.
What’s more to love about this boutique? IT BLOGS (or rather, Tina Nguyen, its hip manager, does). Check out ihearttopstitch.wordpress.com, and make sure to watch the stop-motion animation videos Topstitch made in collaboration with Brain Gravy Creative. It is wonderful and refreshing to encounter a boutique actively experimenting with new media and design (whether on the web, above the store in the sewing studio, or in the basement where Rabid Fox casts its jewelry molds.) Topstitch is down with creativity of all kinds, and a visit to the boutique will surely spark yours.
54 N. 3rd St. (215) 238–8877
Category: Unique Jewelery, Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories Price Range: $—$$$ Bottom Line: “Whoa girl! That thing you’re wearing is hella unique! Where’d you get it?” “Topstitch.”
