Shift
The New Mart, Suite 806(213) 489-4960
A need for more space prompted Lesley McEntire to grab a larger showroom across the way at The New Mart last September for her Shift showroom.
The expansion from 1,200 square feet to 1,800 square feet meant there was more room to display the 10 European and domestic designer lines she represents throughout the year.
Being in McEntire’s showroom is like being in two continents with two different time zones. The European lines only show twice a year and have a six-week selling season that is earlier than the season for most domestic brands, which show four to five times a year.
McEntire’s assortment of labels targets women ages 30 to 50 who like a little fun and sophistication in their lives.
“Everything I have has to appeal to me aesthetically. It has to be creative enough to be considered a form of art,” said McEntire, who has a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from San Francisco State University. “I’m attracted to color, texture and the innovative use of fabric.”
The showroom’s assortment of brands includes Babette, a San Francisco label that has stores around the United States. Babette clothing uses pleating for many of its sportswear styles, which employ a lot of black for this Fall season. Babette’s designs are rooted in mid-century modernist architecture.
Neesh by Dar, a Chicago label designed by Denise Allen Robinson, is a playful collection of long, colorful tops paired with skirts and pants. The bright blues, dusty purples and pumpkin orange are part of the rich palette for Fall.
Deca is a French line that is all about layering, mixing colors and patterns, and the use of easy-to-care-for fabrics.
McEntire also carries Ilux, a line of fun socks and leggings that have bright colors and designs. Many are made of cashmere with a touch of Lycra.
Her other lines are Alashan Cashmere, Kokomarina, Moloko, Moyuru, Myrine & Me and Zoe Couture.
Wholesale prices for the lines range from $40 to $350, with the average price hitting at around $100 to $150.—Deborah Belgum
