“Well, I don’t know because I can’t read but my Mom can make you one because she is a famous designer,” is what the amazingly articulate red headed child said to me when I complimented her skirt and asked what the fabric said in the lobby of the Monaco Hotel.  The small child and I stood by the art easels and talked about travel and fashion and I learned that her name was Beatrice and she was the only person in her family to be born in Canada, which she found amazing.  “Many of my Mom’s designs were inspired by when she lived in Hong Kong”, she tell me.  She also tells me that she is excited to see her cousins from California (one more than the other) and how she is glad she gets to see her grandpa and grandpa often, but the conversation always comes back to fashion as she holds her glass of sparkling juice in a wine glass with complete ease.  The radiant Beatrice effortlessly models the “Hello” skirt in black and white that says “Hello” in several languages which fits the worldly and talkative tyke perfectly.  Her Father is a dancer who is wearing a shirt that says, Less Chatter, More Dancing.  His big smile close-by let’s me know that Beatrice makes friends wherever she goes and enjoys doing PR for her Mother’s clothing line.  As Beatrice strikes up a conversation with my daughter who is painting, I strike one up with her Mother who goes to get me a catalog.  RedFish is a Canadian clothing line for kids and Lorraine Kitsos is the ”mompreneur” behind it.  Made of good quality fabrics with big personality prints Redfish is clothing made for kids…real kids…who want to look great and be comfortable.  Lorraine tells me that Redfish Kids Clothing was created along with her friend and business partner, Kristy Brinkley, as a symbol of their commitment to children and a celebration of their courage.  The catalog goes on to say that the clothing is designed and constructed for growth, movement, and versatility.  I look over at Beatrice who looks beautiful while playing Wii and painting at the same time and think the catalog description is right.  The 2010 line is full of cute designs but my favorites are the dresses with bright colors and playful names; the butterfly swing dress, the lucky dress, the party dress, and so on.  But the Hong Kong influence that Beatrice told me about is apparent in the Suki Yaki Dress, The Same Pant, Kimono PJ Lounge Set and Baby Kimono which is sooooo cute.   I quickly put in my order and she tells me they would love my help getting the word out about their clothes (apparently my daughter did a little PR there, too) in America.  “Done!” I agree, though I am really doubtful that Nicolle Camarata could say it any better then singer/songwriter (and Mom) Sarah McLachlan already did when she said, “These fun and vibrant clothes are perfect for my daughter who insists on living in Redfish party dresses!”  So, I will just tell you that it is unique clothing that will make you smile worn by fascinating creatures, like my friend Beatrice. 

The Kelly Skirt in the “Hello” print, $48. CAN

The Market Dress in Red, $68. CAN

Check out more Redfish designs and order for back-to-school at www.RedFishKidsClothing.com

written by Nicolle Camarata

The Portland Waterfront Fashion Show will be a fun day of food and fashion at the lovely Thirst Wine Bar & Bistro on Sunday morning June 13th, 2010.  The space overlooks the boats and bridges on the Willamette River in beautiful downtown Portland.  Guests are in for a treat because my long time friend and boutique owner of Lily Atelier, Dawn Stanchfield, has hand-selected the models and outfits for the fashion show.   The clothes I have bought from her over the years continue to be some of the favorites in my closet.  Dawn has also styled me for many television shoots and we’ve worked together styling fashion layouts for various magazines.  Her style is modern but classic with unique detailing and wonderful craftsmenship and her clothes will be for sale after the show.  But, if accessories are more “your thing” make sure to stop by and see Ann Matthews with Silpada Designs, who will be on-hand to help you find a great piece of jewelry that comes with a lifetime guarantee!  Jenn Hanston will be also be there with her Three Sixty Bags that are entirely designed and crafted in the good ol’ USA with designer grade upholstery fabric.  The fun and flirty bags are made to last.  Lots to see and buy this Sunday but you can even make some money.  The Gold Exchange encourages you to bring any broken or old gold jewelry you don’t want and they will pay you cash on the spot.  Don’t worry if it has stones in it, because they will gladly remove and return those to you.  This event will be a fun day packed with talented fashionistas and will also offer a small brunch, with mimosas and a special featured wine.  Tickets are $20. and doors open at 11am and event goes until 3pm,  I’ll be the MC so make sure to say hello! 

Written by Nicolle Camarata

The 5th Annual Boutiques Unleashed offers a fun and sometimes hilarious look at the latest styles from local boutiques for people and pets.   In fact it is the only fashion show I have been to where the models are practically ignored because the furry fashionistas on the runway simply steal the show.  Dogs are the common models but not the only ones.  This year keep a look out for a returning kitty cat, a bunny named Molly and Smokey the Lama who will be dressed in a design made especially for him by Seth Aaron, the hometown pet-lover who is currently a fan favorite on Project Runway.  

The fun is an annual fundraiser for DoveLewis Animal Hospital Pet Loss Support Program.  Anyone who has lost a four-legged friend knows how hard it can be and they provide much needed support to those who are hurting.  Boutiques Unleashed is fashion for both ends of the leash and happens this year at the Tiffany Center on Friday April 9th.  Come out for this great cause!  For more information head to www.boutiquesunleashed.com.

You don’t have to be a fashionista to know that when the seasons change so do the trends.  Last year’s runway looks make the trip to store shelves and everything gets a fresh new approach, including clothes and accessories.  Even though the change takes place every season, Spring trends are usually especially welcome after cold months and the bulky, buttoned-up look.  Tweed moves over for tulle and fur trim is replaced by tees and tanks.  This year several trendy items will be blooming up and we picked our favorites.  Here is the Nicolle Shops Portland top five trend list for Spring…what is your must-have?

#5 HOT SHORTS 

Yep, you better renew your gym membership because short shorts are shorter and hotter then ever.  Pair them with a long tunic or men’s shirt.  Here is Mitch (from the Daria & Mitch Show) and I at a private party at Mama Mias.

#4 FEATHERS

From Italian designer heels to throw pillows you will see feathers on almost everything for the next couple months.  For the rainy streets of Portland you may want to steer clear of feathered footwear and go for something more practical, like these locally made earrings.

#3 DENIM

If you don’t have a denim jacket or a good pair of jeans then go shopping.  But beyond the basics the hottest look in denim is jean leggings, also called “jaggings”.   Both are available at Soho Boutique, 1605 NE Broadway.

#2 FUTURISTIC

We’ve all heard the saying, “that’s so last year” but 2010 is already so 2010…how?  The future is now.  Fashion has gone to space and the designs have taken a trip in time.  Maybe this will be the year that Lady GaGa and Grace Jones can buy off the rack.

#1 POLKA DOTS

Dots are hot!  Love ‘em or hate ‘em…they are here to stay.  The flirty pattern is covering clothes, accessories and even home decor this Spring and Summer.  Invest in the fun and feminine trend to show off your playful side.