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fter participating in a dozen pop-ups across the country, Seattle designers Faris Du Graf (founder of the jewelry line Faris; above left) and Deborah Roberts (founder of the women’s clothing brand Silvae) began to fantasize about opening an actual, permanent store together. They wanted more opportunities to interact directly with customers and to “sell experiments: the things we create in our studios that never make it to the racks or the wholesalers,” says Du Graf. Their shop, Rizom, opened in September 2016 to offer women’s clothing and accessories by independent designers, most represented nowhere else in Seattle. “Fashion is not an art form that’s much practiced here,” acknowledges Du Graf. “We are creatures of comfort in this city. But there’s nothing wrong with dressing up. Some people view it as consumerist— but in reality, you’re supporting small business. And it makes you look good!” » graymag . com
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