Wish I was Better at....

The list for this title could go on and on, but in reference to my fashion design career, I must say that I wish I was better at pattern-making.

Pattern-making is a crucial talent needed in the design industry.  Of course, there are professional pattern makers outer there, but if you can rock patterns out yourself, it's going to save you more than a few bucks.

It is amazing all of the details and steps that goes into being a fashion designer.  Thanks to Project Runway, whether you are in the fashion world or not, we all have a basic idea of the design process.  Of course, seeing it all done in one hour makes it seem almost doable.  However, in reality, there is so much that goes into each and every step, many designers must hire help to complete them.

Although you don't need to go to an art school to learn how to be a fashion designer, it does help.  A lot of times, instructors open up a side of you that may have not come out, if not pushed towards a certain direction. Talents that you may not have known about or seen before can be revealed by taking classes out of your comfort zone, allowing your skillset to truly explore.

Even though I am a self-taught designer, persay, having learned everything I know from my very talented mother, I still have areas that I wish I was better at.  Perservering and research are great, but sometimes asking for help is the best way to go. 

Belladonna Marie, is a brand created exclusively by me.  From concept, to sketch, to pattern-making, I actually did it all!  See the full collection for SS2011 at http://www.belladonnamarie.com/.

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!!