Shop Feature: ripe_fruit
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you based? How do you spend your days?
Hi I’m Courtney! I’m an artist based in Portland, Oregon. I have two daughters under 5 right now (new babe is 6 months!) so my days are generally WILD. Lots of dance parties (the kid kind), some scattered hours in my home studio working on my sculpture and jewelry practices, and as much time as possible scouring closets (my own and others) for great clothes. Prior to kids, I was faculty at the beloved and now closed Oregon College of Art and Craft teaching metalsmithing, sculpture, and eventually leading their MFA in Craft and Material Studies. Currently, I'm staying at home with my kids, making one thousand snack plates, and building a really fun shop with Ripe Fruit.
How did you hear about Noihsaf Bazaar / when did you become a part of the community?
I have been quietly following Noihsaf for what feels like a long time, at least a few years I think? Like many other people on here, I had a friend (an artist, VERY cool) post on Instagram about the site so I immediately found you. I had always been hesitant to try and sell anything online. I have a closet of great things but had only done in-person consignment at some of the Portland resale boutiques. Then Noihsaf had an event at Madre Linen (PS the best linens of all time) which was wonderful and exciting, and I finally decided to do it! So under the radar, I’ve been part of the community for a few years but as a seller, about two months?
Dries Van Noten Skirt + Petar Petrov Top available in Courtney's shop
What is your favorite Noihsaf score?
So many things!! I recently bought a vintage USSR painted wooden horse that I am in love with, I have it paired with a tiny horse vase from ceramicist Erin Ibo I purchased earlier this year and it’s perfection. There’s also a Farewell Frances floral chore coat that I am absolutely desperate to have, but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. It’s so hard to buy a coat when it’s almost summer! But I also know I’m going to deeply regret missing out on it if I don’t. This is the eternal shopping dilemma.
Gauchere Mirror Tank available in Courtney's shop
How would you describe your personal style? Do you have any style inspirations that you return to?
Personal style is such a tricky question, I love so many things! My art practice and my love for materials and good craftsmanship is definitely a huge influence on what I choose to wear. Often the things I gravitate toward are modern and have a nod to abstraction— I love a sculptural silhouette, painterly pattern, or material-forward design. I love menswear and menswear-inspired pieces because there is something about boxiness that feels easy and cool as soon as I put it on. I’m also in a phase of life at 40 with two small kids where I’m making intentional choices for my day-to-day wear. Like I know I’m not in my ‘silk era’, or anything super fussy, or huge platforms that I have to struggle in with a baby carrier. Currently I am seeking “cool mom” in whatever form feels right to me. My parents always had the best never-trying-too-hard style that I hope I emulate.
Do you have any designers/brands that you're especially into these days?
Endless! Maya Meyer. All of her pieces are one of a kind and the perfect mix of sculptural and effortless. She always sells out of the ones I want immediately which drives me mad. Aeron— impeccably made, lots of menswear-inspired silhouettes that work well on my body. Artist Rop Van Mierlo has an online shop (Wild Animals) selling hand knit sweaters with his paintings. They’re so good. Also Christian Wijnants for patterns and tailoring. Cosmic Wonder. Ply-Knits for their material-driven focus. I feel like this list could go on forever.
Aeron Skirt, Anglozine Tee + Christian Wijnants Dress all available in Courtney's shop
What trend are you currently loving, or what trend would you like to see?
Bring back kaftans! I know they technically exist right now but I haven’t seen anything that gets me super excited. I am dying for a very cool, very weird, 70s inspired kaftan from an independent designer!
Favorite song to play when getting dressed?
Lejos de Más by pablopablo and Helado Negro. Take one listen and tell me it doesn’t perfectly set your mood for the day.