Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Eco-PunK'd

Have you been Punk'd?

Did you know that you can really find eco-friendly garments in places like Target and Wal-mart? Yes, you can. It seems like everyone is jumping on the 'eco' bandwagon to get a piece of the hottest trend of the 21st century. Although many companies have veered away from this, due to recent, economic hardships, it continues to be the way to one-up the competition.



Watch out for labels, companies and garments that are not 100% sustainable (eco-friendly). Sustainable is all about taking it back to the virgin state garments come in. It's expensive and extremely challenging for those who really are sustainable, to compete with those who are 'faking it' to make the next buck.

Some of my favorite sustainable designers/labels are: Toms Shoes, Melissa Baswell (Mountains of the Moon), Lara Miller, Sofada, Loyale Clothing and of course my own label - BELLADONNA MARIE. Apart from providing great sustainable products, many of these companies go the extra mile to help. Loyale donates portions of proceeds to the environmental organization Green Corps. BELLADONNA MARIE supports Share our Strength (a non-profit organization designed to help feed starving children across the U.S.).

Don't get Punk'd! If you decided to go eco-friendly, make sure it's real. Happy Shopping!!

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Fashion Bootcamp

We all know what bootcamp is, but what about Fashion Bootcamp? Fashion Bootcamp is for all of us women who want to take our beauty and fashion skills to the next level.

Crave, one of the city's greatest resources for women, is providing us with the first annual Bootcamp. This Thursday, Bridgeport Village will be filled with the most fashionable people in the area. They will be offering a $25 gift card, valid at participating BV stores, to every attendee!

Featured topics like tips and trends, anti-aging secrets, eye wear trends, accessorizing and more, will be presented at the Bootcamp. What are you waiting for - click here: http://thecravecompany.com/portland/events/bridgeport-village-presents-fashion-bootcamp/
and get your ticket today!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Fit makes everything Fabulous


Spring is one of my favorite seasons...no more winter coats and boots, hiding the skin, covering ourselves up in layers, from head to toe. Spring is here! It is time to shed light on what is under all those layers. Are you ready for that?


Fit can make all the difference. Whether you feel like America's Next Top Model or not, you can definitely look it, with the right fit. Jeans are the best example. You could literally look 10 lbs. slimmer with the right fit of a great pair of denim.


You may not be brave enough for summer swimsuits, but expiriment with what is out there for spring. Suprise is always the best reward - standing in front of the mirror and saying - "I look hot!"


Don't forget: Belladonna Marie is launching on June 4th. The line is all about feeling fit and looking fabulous! Stay tuned...

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

RADWOMAN (also known as "mom-Lee")



From her first embrace, the day I met her, I knew she was a woman with a fiery inner spirit and an open heart of love. She energizes any room that she's in and somehow releases this energy to all those around her. Her listening ear proves that she is a good friend and her laugh demonstrates that she is always ready for a good time.


As one of May's (my daughter) biggest fans, May lights up whenever 'gama' is near. The last time she was here, May would have nothing to do with anyone but 'gama'. It is so endearing, and their relationship makes me treasure her even more.

My husband is so blessed to have a mom like Lee and now I am sharing in the blessing of having her in my life. Like me, she embraces life in full force. She admires fashion, promotes health and fitness, and most importantly loves family.

Mom-Lee really is a "Rad-woman". We love her and can't say enough about how life would not be the same without her. Thanks for being you - Happy birthday!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Feeling Portland's Fashion Love

One thing I love about being part of Portland's fashion world is the way, like the city itself, they embrace change. The easy-going, eco-friendly, love-the-world persona is true to Portland, even when it comes to the ultra-mini fashion world. Although the world is small in comparison to our sister, Seattle, the mega-fashion city, Los Angeles and the king of it all - New York, we are a city that understands what it means to be artists.

Truly exemplified on an international level, Portland has sent finalists and at least one winner through Lifetime and Bravo's Project Runway. What an amazing story that has been for our city! Way to go LeAnne Marshall and Seth Aaron!

I am proud to be part of Portland's fashion world, because we are not just designers making a name for ourselves, but also a family helping each other reach our goals. LOve you all!