Things that drive me crazy:

1: Songs with that computer generated voice in them.  I think it’s Akon that does it all the time?  Not sure, but I will be SOOO happy when this trend is over!  There’s a station set in my car that used to play fun hip-hop music perfect for pretending to be Beyonce with and now it seems it’s the computer messed-with station!  Ugh!

2: Seeing dry, cracked heels in cute sling-backs or sandals.  If you’re gonna wear “look-at-me-shoes” make your feet look-at-worthy!  I use the Stiletto Stick by Butter London (of course we have it at the shop!)  but I think there are a ton available out there that would do the trick! 

Butter London Stiletto Stick, 1/2 off right now at MZ!

3:  Weather like today after a beautiful weekend!  I know, I know…I chose to live in Portland!  I’m just super ready to enjoy some sundresses, I guess mainly because my belly no longer fits into my jeans and I don’t want to buy maternity jeans for 1 month!  Which brings me to my next pet peeve…

4: Wearing legging with short shirts.  I am a HUGE fan of leggings right now and this is the perfect weather for them, but there are very few “real” behinds in the world that look good in just a pair of leggings, mine included!  So grab your tunics, ladies or switch to jeggings, the hybrid jean/legging-they usually have some pockets on the back that help tremendously!!!   Or the ponti jean, it’s got a ton of stretch, feels like a legging, but has pockets and helps hold everything in it’s proper place!!!  We just got our Seven Skinnys in, a wonderful jegging, lot of stretch and support all in one!

not good...NOOOO!

no, no, no.

See how cute a tunic is with them!

What are you’re pet peeves?  We’ll try to avoid them!!!

Leica M3 Gold Digital Camera

How gorgeous is this camera?!?

It’s like a beautiful accessory, but totally functional!  My husband would be so proud! 

With its striking black and gold design, this remarkable miniature delivers state-of-the-art technology in a classic look, delivering pin-sharp images rich in detail and natural color rendition.

This model has been meticulously miniaturized to one-third its original size and features innovative digital technology and a resolution of five million pixels.   Also records video sequences in AVI format.

My new must have: a glamorous, fabulous camera!

I know, it’s not right!  I don’t feel comfortable mentioning Fall right now when Spring has just arrived and I haven’t even gotten to wear my Veronica M dresses yet!  But I just placed my orders for Fall, and thought I’d share some of the trends coming up with you!

Apparently, we’re all going on a Safari this Fall!

Trina Turk Fall

I always look like this when I go on safari, don’t you?  From Trina Turk to Michael Kors, everyone had a safari theme going…speaking of Michael Kors, we’re super excited that we’ve added this collection to our line-up for fall!  With his jet-set, glamour Hollywood vibe, it fit’s in perfectly with our style!

Trina Turk pancho

Some collections took it a bit further and seemed to be saying we’d all be joining the military this fall.  I saw a “Sgt. Pepper coat” at numerous showrooms, Bailey 44’s July collection was named “GI Jane,” and the camo print was all over the place, unfortunately in pink in some lines.  We held off on these!

Trina Turk dress, perfect for hiking & tree climbing!

Milly went soft and lacy, lots of tone-on-tone lace and an awesome retro red, white and blue plaid collection (think picnic table cloth) that my staff wouldn’t let me order any of!  We did get some beautiful dresses ordered from them, and tights!!!  They made some awesome tights that are only $24!!!

Menswear inspired pieces continue to be on the front lines.   More structured, tailored pieces and lots of tweed, which I love!  All in all, Fall looks pretty good, and from a gal who never looks forward to fall (give me sunshine, lots of sunshine) that’s a pretty good sign!

From Trina Turk to

In its third year, the Pearl District Bunny Hop is coming offering kids and families fun, prizes and activities. A number of businesses in the Pearl—including Mabel and Zora,  Little Urbanites, Cupcake Jones, Green Frog Toys, as well as adult-focused retailers like Bridgeport Brewpub & Bakery—will offer toys, treats, and storytelling.

“It’s a really fun event, and it’s primarily for kids,” said Kim Sibley, owner of Little Urbanites. “But it’s grown into a bigger event to explore the Pearl—for kids and adults.” Peter Rabbit will make his appearance at Green Frog Toys.

Also, this Saturday we’ll be having a trunk show from 1pm to 5 pm with ASA Custom Jewelry Designs  by Angela Arnold.  One of our favorite local designers, Angie’s jewelry has been a hit in our stores for years, and she is bringing some of her beautiful designs that are perfect for bridal jewelry as well as everyday pieces including necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

Solestruck, our neighbors with fabulous shoes, will be celebrating their re-grand opening this weekend as well.  They’ve decided to stay on permanently in the Pearl (yay!)  So they will be having special events all day this Saturday, too!

Come down and join in on the fun in the Pearl!  Bring the kiddos!

Ever walk in and are immediately drawn to the most expensive thing in the shop?  There’s tons of $100 dresses around but you HAVE TO HAVE the $350 dress?  (This happens with me and shoes every time I go to Zelda’s.)

Just put it on Lay-a-way!!!

We’ve had some customers who’ve had a lay-a-way going since we first opened! 
They pay a little each week, add new things, take out things paid for, and never feel they’re over budget!

How’s it work?
Just pay a 30% down payment at time of purchase
then pay 30% each month, or if you want to work out a better payment plan, just ask…we’re flexible!

We keep the merchandise until it’s paid in full, then send it home with you to enjoy!

Want to shop with your friends and NO ONE ELSE?
No problem, host a private shopping party at our store!

We love doing them, and you get all our attention as well as a fun girls’ night out!

Just email us: mabelzora@yahoo.com or call: 503.241.5696
and let us know you’re interested, we’ll pick a date that works for both of us and host a party for you and your friends after closing.  We provide wine and sweets, help you find the perfect ensembles, and might even be able to provide a personal shopper for the night to help answer questions if one of our wonderful stylists is available!  We generally ask for you to have at least 4 people in attendance, no limit on how many! 

It’s a great way to start an evening with friends: get new outfits then head for a night out in the Pearl!

Just let us know if you have any questions, we’ve had a lot of fun at these!
One customer had 4 bridesmaids with her, we helped pick out dresses for each for the wedding and rehearsal dinner!  They were able to shop in a private environment, try on everything, solicit each other’s and our advice on who looked best in what while enjoying some wine and cheese!  We were sent pics from the wedding and it came out beautifully!

So, please feel free to use us, that’s what we’re here for!
And always, let us know if you have a new idea for us to try, we’re open and always learning!