Portal, a new “buy/sell/trade/rental concept focusing on pre-loved designer and vintage women’s clothing,” is now open at 189 Saint Philip Street and are readying their first collaboration.
In addition to their normal stock, Portal will be stocking contemporary designer brands like Tibi and Cynthia Rowley, fashion forward brands like Acne and Carvan, and some things for the avant garde like Zero Maria Cornejo and MM6. The business says they are focusing on products with an inclusive size range (XXS-XXL) at an affordable luxury price point ($25-$198).
Co-owner Tina Heath-Schuttenberg says styles will range from “edgy to demure.”
“It’ll feel like a blend of the 5th Floor of Bergdorf Goodman and Buffalo Exchange,” she said. “An odd mix that will offer something for every female presenting local.”
Heath-Schuttenberg, who is also the co-owner of Kwei Fei, Micho, and Lady Xian, says she loves collaborating.
“We wouldn’t be where we are without the help of others and have learned so much from the collaborations we’ve hosted,” she said. “We’re bringing that spirit to Portal as well. Each month, we’re inviting a local maker or pop-up to set up a shop within the shop for a month long residency.”
Threads Todisco, which has been ‘upcycling’ and popping up in Charleston for the past five years, will be Portal’s first collaboration in February. The business, which is owned by Anna Todisco, is a sustainable clothing company that sources recycled clothing and fabric to rework them into new and unique pieces.
“She’s created a business that lets her use her costume design experience with a focus on sustainability,” Heath-Schuttenberg said. “Her flannel reworks using thrifted pieces are whimsical and wearable at the same time. She’s recently expanding into a collection of silk screened pieces that carry that same spirit. You’ll be able to find her pieces along with our inventory on pre-loved women’s clothing at Portal for the month of February.”
The screen printed pieces Threads Todisco will be releasing at Portal were designed and printed by local artist Michael Coon (@gnomercy on Instagram).
For more information, visit Portal’s website at portal-chs.com and/or Threads Todisco’s website at threadstodisco.com.
