Arcadia Boutique's Second Anniversary Party

Thu., Sept. 17, 6-9 p.m., free, Arcadia Boutique, 819 N. Second St., 215-667-8099, arcadiaboutique.com.

by Nicole Saylor

Arcadia Boutique is turning two, but don't expect an Elmo cake at this birthday bash. To celebrate, owner Ali McCloud — whose boutique was one of the first eco-fashion retail stores in Philly, in 2007 — is mashing three events into one.

The nonprofit Nest will host a trunk show showcasing housewares and accessories crafted by women from developing countries. The b-day party will also mark the opening of Todd Marrone's "Hanging Jackets" exhibit, which features abstract portraits of musicians painted onto vinyl jackets. (And talk about a cool goody bag — guests can walk away with a reusable tote customized by Marrone.) Meanwhile, partiers will receive 20 percent off of all merchandise along with complimentary tapas, champagne and music.

After she takes down the balloons, McCloud is looking to grow her mission to create and support sustainable fashion even further. She's currently expanding Arcadia's online presence to reach clients outside of the city, and plans to open another store in order to diversify merchandise. More than anything, though, she's set out to prove that sustainable attire doesn't always have to be Birkenstocks and burlap dresses. "You don't have to sacrifice style," says McCloud, "to be eco-friendly."