UPDATE

DeLorme goes retail

By Sonya Tomlinson

Patriotism may be at an all time high, and small things like “Made in the USA” found on the tags of our clothing have taken on a new meaning. Recognizing that Mainers take great pride in their home state, and those who flourish from it, one local retailer is taking a flyer on an up-and-coming local designer.

Brooke DeLorme, MECA student and fashion enthusiast, has been designing her own clothes for years. (See http://www.portlandphoenix.com/ archive/ features/ 01/07/27/ feat_fashion.html). Just last month she was browsing around the Old Port and stumbled into Joseph’s clothing store on Fore Street. It was there that she happened across Nancy Norton, the store’s manager and buyer. Also a clothing designer, and familiar with DeLorme’s pursuits, Norton suggested that she bring some of her designs to the store for her to evaluate. Hey, when you’re talented, things come easy.

Norton was delighted with DeLorme’s “artsy, eclectic,” pieces and added them to her retail collection in August (okay, so patriotism wasn’t exactly the driving force, but it doesn’t hurt). “People love that it’s a Maine artist,” says Norton. “Customers get enthusiastic about it when they see it because it’s different and unique, not so cookie cutter fashion.” Fairly priced and current with other designers carried at Joseph’s, DeLorme’s clothing has been well accepted by the clientele. “I’ve given away her pamphlet to people who inquire about where else they can find her clothes, or want something custom-made,” says Norton.

When featured in our fashion piece, one of DeLorme’s aspirations was to market her clothes locally. It seems she’s realized one of her goals. “I’m excited,” says DeLorme. “A number of pieces have sold.” On top of continuing to promote her garments aroundetown, DeLorme hopes to have a new brochure out by December to preview her Spring/Summer 2002 line.