Being 'new' to a country or a scene often results in surprises; "I didn't see that coming" moments of sorts. I don't necessarily love surprises - they go against my horoscope sign - but I do acknowledge their affect on the ego. Spontaneous surprises are humbling and serve as reminders that hey, perhaps you don't know it all just yet. They can be quite entertaining as well, especially if you're a newcomer to a fashion scene, where knowing it all is a precondition. Like that time I went to 'some T-shirt company open house' and discovered an awesome party.
Said company is Everlane, the local answer to J.Crew, minus the snobby take on trends. It's a funky online-only retailer, specializing in basics with a twist, for men and women. Soft sweaters, silky fabrics, 'expensive' leather, cute backpacks, the whole thing. The prices are reasonable and the look is generic yet highly desirable. Once in a couple of months, Everlane open their studio and have an Open Studio event - and it's a must.
Let me tell you something about fashion parties. When you've been in the presentation/launch/opening circuit as long as I have, you develop a sort of Pavlovian reaction to free snacks and drinks. The Israeli fashion event market takes full advantage of this, stuffing journalists with carbs and drowning them in bubbly. It's an industry standard, guarantying good vibes and positive attitude towards whatever is celebrated/launched. Everlane do the same thing, but it doesn't feel tacky. They take farmer's cheese, DJ music, free drinks and cardigans, mix and shake well - and beautiful folks (some of them might be employees, it's hard to tell) show up in droves.
The first time I went, I was genuinely surprised. The second time I went, I felt right at home. Try it, and you will get there, too. And how? Attend this event on Facebook and receive an automatic update on all the upcoming fashion parties at one of the city's coolest spaces. It's free, it feels insider-ish, and there's wonderful bread and jam. See you there!