Funny Name, Serious Shopping

For a while after all of our friends moved to the North Loop area, we cursed them. Their relocation meant more money spent on gas, longer commutes for reality t.v.-watching, and packing on the pounds from all those Parlor pizzas and Ararat hummus. We changed our tune when we drove down 53rd St. one day and spotted our new favorite store, Slinky Whistle Bait. The boutique (whose name apparently comes from a World War II-era term used by servicemen to describe an attractive woman) was previously located in Denton for over four years. Even though owners Donna and Erica Barton enjoyed a loyal following and received kudos (including a “Best of Dallas” award), they decided that they needed a change and closed up shop. They re-opened the store in March on North Loop to continue selling their hand-picked vintage, gorgeous reconstructed clothing and to-die-for accessories. Anyone who’s been inside knows that Denton’s loss is Austin’s gain.

The lovely Barton sisters are quickly making a name for themselves in their new hometown, too: they were one of only 20 local design teams selected to show their clothes on the runway at the Stitch Fashion Show at Emo’s on November 13th. However, if you can’t wait until next month to sample their wares and party at the same time, you’re in luck. The North Loop Strip Block Party takes place this Saturday from noon until 10 p.m. Other area businesses like Room Service, Sound on Sound, Austin Modern and Forbidden Fruit are co-hosting and there will be hourly door-prizes, refreshments, a costume contest, palm readers, belly dancers, fire spinners, and more! Of course, there will also be live music... because we live in Austin. Luckily, the bill reads like a garage rocker's dream: Faceless Werewolves (look for Erica from Slinky Whistle Bait on drums), Ugly Beats, Golden Boys, Ligers, and Stun Gun.

North Loop Strip Block Party
Saturday, October 22nd
12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Visit Room Service's website for more info!