The Alison dress ($242) from Sublet (new designer to Pivot) is our favorite summer dress this moment. Nearly everyone who walks in our door is drawn to the New York-based designers’ dress, and it’s hard to blame them. Casual and dressy, sweet and sexy – it’s perfect for nearly every occasion. And yes, there are pockets! The bamboo and cotton jersey fabric is ideal for hot weather … we’re positive it will indeed be warm one day. Come in and check it out! As a little gift to the lucky people reading this entry…try the dress on, fall in love, and receive 10% off when you mention this post. Or call us for a phone order.

I wanted to take a minute to introduce myself on the new blog. I am the founder and owner of Pivot – Chicago’s first boutique devoted to eco-fashion. Prior to opening Pivot I was working as a journalist, which led me to discover eco-friendly fabrics and the designers who were committed to using them to create beautiful, inspired fashion. I decided to open Pivot to promote the growth of the industry in Chicago and beyond. I hope that people walk into Pivot and immediately realize that they don’t need to sacrifice anything in terms of style, fashion or comfort to have a more conscious wardrobe.

One of the best parts about Pivot is that I’m able to meet so many interesting people and share resources, information and ideas with visitors daily. And I’m also lucky enough to be able to connect with people outside the store. Last weekend I attended Chicago’s Green Festival and spoke about my participation in the Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) program. It was a wonderful experience and if you didn’t make it to the festival this year, I hope you’re able to check it out next time.

So, make your way over to Pivot soon and say hello! We’re excited to meet you!

-Jessa Brinkmeyer

You’ve heard the buzz about smart cars, now come see one of the tiny travelers in person! This Thursday, May 15, from 5 to 8 pm, Pivot will have a smart fortwo on hand, as well as Roscoe Jackson’s new line of recycled plastic outdoor furniture. With any smart reservation or Roscoe Jackson purchase, receive 25% off any item at Pivot. And if you already own a smart car, drive it down and join us – you’ll get 15% off Pivot purchases.

You’ll pray for rain after you set your eyes on The Brelli, the world’s first biodegradable umbrella. The Chinese parasol design may look delicate, but The Brelli will keep you dry through even the heaviest downpours.

And if you pack your bags in search of kinder climates, don’t fret – the bamboo frame and bioplastic canopy will completely biodegrade less than five years after being discarded. Pivot is The Brelli’s only Chicago retailer, so stop in soon!

Join us this Friday, May 9 from 3 to 8 p.m. for a Lara Miller trunk show and special screening of her appearance on an upcoming Sundance Channel episode. Pieces from her Spring 2008 collection will be available for sale, including items not typically in stock at Pivot. Lara is known for her unique designs that allow you to wear styles in multiple ways – so this is the perfect time to check out the line and receive personal styling assistance from Lara! We’ll also have delicious organic pastries from Hannah’s Bretzel.wp_

Pivot has launched a new Web site and it has a STORE and a BLOG! We’re very excited… Our online shop will grow and develop over time, so definitely keep checking in on that. And on the blog we’ll keep you posted on new products, designers, events, ideas we think are smart and whatever else we feel like sharing!

But, even though you can keep better tabs on us online now…we still want you to visit us in Fulton Market. Because we like seeing you.