BLACKBURN AND SWEETZER

There are a crazy number of great shopping events this weekend, and I finally got my hands on the flyer for Society for Rational Dress‘ Open Studio day downtown on Saturday (255 South Santa Fe Ave; 11AM-7PM; cash or credit). Spring ‘07 items will be sold at retail, including limited edition and one-of-a-kind pieces. Get deep discounts on options from past seasons. Designer Corinne Grassini consistently puts out strong collections, always using structure and volume in intriguing ways. For spring, a strapless dress is belted just above the bust, a plunging top has delicate chains, a vest has roomy pockets, pants are slim, not skinny. A rare breed of a label, it’s all very editorial and wearable at the same time. If you get a chance to chat with Grassini, take it; she’s smart, friendly, and will give you an eye into her unique vision.