Posts tagged Dana Elizabeth.
On March 24th 2013,cool kid LA shopping spot KIN Los Angeles held a charity fundraiser “The Love of Fashion” at their store on Sunset Blvd. to raise awareness for the Lupus Foundation of America. Former America’s Next Top Model contestant and Lupus Foundation of America spokesperson Mercedes Yvette, owner of Rockin Models Grace Lazenby, and KIN Los Angeles founder Darrel Adams joined forces to put on this amazing event to create funds to help find a cure for Lupus.
Guests enjoyed a night of shopping, cocktails, and giving back! Attendees participated in a live auction with all proceeds donated to the foundation. KINLosAngeles.com shoppers can continue to give back by entering discount code “lupus” at checkout for 10% off their purchase.
KIN Los Angeles Founder, Darrel Adams had this to say about the event: “I recently found out that lupus effects 1.5 million Americans, 90% of which are women. Our goal is to get KIN involved with the LFA foundation and assist them with fund raising and public awareness efforts. The KIN staff is excited to be hosting a great event with a wonderful organization.”
What a great charity to get involved with, I am always one for giving back and I love companies that stand behind charities that truly make a difference. Living with a rare disease can be hard, but it makes it easier knowing there are people, and companies such as KIN Los Angeles ready to support those living with a disease like lupus. To learn more about Lupus or to donate visit: http://www.lupus.org
As always, keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
- Dana Elizabeth
Nikki Rich Clothing, the sister line of White Trash Beautiful designed by Nikki Lund and Richie Sambora showcased their latest collection this week at CONCEPT Fashion Week. The event was held at Siren Studio’s in Hollywood where Lund, was on site to deliver the collection to the public.
The line, which launched in 2010 is a favorite amongst A-list celebrities including; Carrie Underwood, Jon Bon Jovi, Kelly Clarkson, Kate Beckinsale, Miley Cyrus, as well as many others. The line is heavily focused on separates with an emphasis on edge. Nikki Rich Clothing has successfully delivered a line that bridges the gap between contemporary-chic and high-end designer labels.
Lund, whom we had a chance to speak with, emphasized the line’s price point. “It’s extremely affordable, washable and wearable. We have designed a collection with items that can be purchased for around a hundred dollars or less. Making fashion available to the majority.”
Lund wore a leather skirt from the collection, looking what we like to call, “edgy-chic” which mirrored the A/W13 Nikki Rich Collection. When asked about the over all aesthetic of the line, Lund responded: We are proud to deliver a collection that is item driven, it’s trendy but it’s also beyond trend. We think the line is for a woman who wants to feel confident and who wants to feel sexy.”
The brand effortlessly delivered impeccable craftsmanship, beautifully constructed garments that are well designed beyond the lines moderate price point. Staying true to the design duo’s aesthetic, the line was rocker-street, and still managed to offer sophisticated luxury through the lines silhouettes. The military inspired collection offers a blend of well-tailored jackets, tops and bottoms, incorporating leather into the collection as well. The line also delivered slouchy knits, washable silks and artistic prints. The color story was a mix of chocolate browns, warm earth tones adding black and touches of maroon to round out the collection.
Rich in more than color and style, the A/W 13 collection by Nikki Rich Clothing left us speechless, a true crowd favorite and was over all, a well-received collection. Lund and Sambora should be very pleased with the out come, eagerly awaiting to see what this design duo will deliver next season, we’ll be watching.
remember to keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
-Dana Elizabeth
Haven’t heard of Paulie Gibson? Well you should become well versed with the designer,he recently launched Blue Print his latest collection during Style Fashion Week in downtown Los Angeles. The designer who first showed last season, returned with a very different, very ‘moving’ performance. Blue Print is the designer’s second collection to debut during Style Fashion Week but certainly not his last.
This was such a great show to catch, having met Paulie last season I had the unique opportunity to truly see how is newest collection evolved. Gibson chose to focus heavily on the color blue, and what he likes to call, his own Blue Print for life. The 33-year old designer spoke candidly about his collection, affirming his belief that each of us has our own unique, Blue Print and delivering this collection was part of his. The designer who took some heat over last seasons debut, doubled his runway show, showcasing 50 different looks, and adding several elements of surprise.
The runway show began with a full-choreographed opening act that continued throughout the duration of the show. Male dancers sashayed down the catwalk to heart-thumping music sending the crowd into a wild frenzy. The dancers, lights and moves left the crowd screaming, as models traipsed through the choreographed segments stopping midway to strike-a-pose.
Gibson believes in his aesthetic for the line, “the collection is really taking off and I wanted something masculine but also wearable. When I went to design the collection, I really believed that we were building a blue print and I wanted it to be filled with things I’ve never done before. In this way, it would be possible for a man to pull from the collection for any occasion.
The collection was a variety of separates, everything from slacks to tuxedo jackets with contrasting lining, bright blue, and turquoise were the color mainstay of the collection. Gibson chose to incorporate blacks, as well as a variety of prints into the line. Full suits walked the runway; vibrant colors added a dazzling spark to the already illuminated catwalk. Plaids played alongside bold blues, and knit fabrics were paired with woven’s delivering unusual, yet pleasing complete looks.
So what’s next for the designer? You’ll just have to wait and see but Gibson did let us in on a little secret, major online e-commerce site, Zappos just picked up the designer’s collection launching this August. His response to all of the recent changes, “I’m super excited about the launch and feel extremely blessed to be a part of some great experiences; not only with Zappos, but on television as well. “
When we asked the designer where he pictured the ‘Paulie Gibson Customer,’ the designer said none other than Los Angeles, “I think my guy lives in LA, I’ve always loved Los Angeles and believe the Paulie Gibson man is here, in this city. But that’s not to discount other cities across the U.S. as well.” Smiling wide the designer wearing his, soon-to-be signature blue slacks, thanked us for our time and assured us there’d be more from him in the future.
If we had to surmise something tells me this isn’t the last we’ve seen of Paulie Gibson, his collection left not only myself, but the crowd stunned as well. As the lights dimmed, haunting chants of, “Paulie, Paulie…” from back stage echoed in our ears leaving the crowd, myself included inspired. Gibson didn’t just leave an imprint on the runway; he left an imprint in our minds as well, and one that is surely to last long after the final show of the season.
Note: Paulie Gibson’s show was filmed in front of a live crowd for the newest season of ANTM. This season takes a unique turn, following the journey of what it’s like to be a Male Super Model. Make sure to tune in this season.
As always, Keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
- Dana Elizabeth
So, I’m not sure if any of my readers read about this yet, but I am so excited to share this post with all of you. It’s from last month, I traveled with our team from The Los Angeles Fashion Magazine, to Las Vegas, Nevada for WW/MAGIC. The bi-annual tradeshow provides brands from all over the world an opportunity to descend upon the brightly-lit urban oasis that is Vegas. Split between two venues Mandalay Bay and The Las Vegas Convention Center, WWD/MAGIC and Project tradeshow’s showcase thousands of brands to hopeful buyers and media. Additionally throughout the week guest speakers and well-known industry professionals host seminars providing WWD/MAGIC attendees with a bit of insider’s knowledge.
Catherine Malandrino – Photography by: Kai He
On the third day of MAGIC the lovely Catherine Malandrino stopped by the Catherine-by-Catherine Malandrino North Hall booth, to unveil her newest venture, Catherine -by-Catherine Malandrino. The diffusion line will carry clothing that caters to the young working professional, she’s the woman who exudes sophistication, but not necessarily the price tag often associated with some other high-end designer labels.
Catherine-Catherine Malandrino Collection – Photography by: Kai He
It was such a great feeling to be able to speak with the world-renowned designer, Catherine Malandrino, she was kind enough to answer a couple of questions about her newest line. When speaking with Catherine about her inspiration for the line, the designer stated, “Catherine, is a line that is effortless. The collection is one that’s designed to be worn very easily. It’s for the young workingwoman that strives for success, a woman who is feminine yet still powerful. She is possibly a woman who will one day transition to the main Catherine Malandrino line.”
Catherine-Catherine Malandrino Collection – Photography by: Kai He
The very strikingly beautiful, and poised Malandrino, looked as effortlessly chic and put together as the collection itself. Catherine stated that the line, even though might be considered a diffusion line of the Catherine Malandrino Collection, Catherine-by-Catherine Malandrino still embodied all of the elements that make up the main collection. “This collection is more about an attitude, it’s about refinement, it’s very French, strong with a great mix of fabrics. The silhouettes are very clean, precise cuts that accentuate a woman’s figure. It’s an everyday strong type of attitude to really help propel our customer forward in life.”
Catherine Malandrino and Managing Editor Dana Elizabeth – Photography Kai He
Browsing through the collection, I gathered that it’s very much sophisticated, but still manages to portray a young-vibrant aesthetic. The color story ranged from cool grays, to bright blues. Adding varying shades of brown and mustard-yellow to the collection finished off the line nicely. With the success that is the original Catherine Malandrino Collection, there is no telling just how successful the diffusion line will be…however something tells me it’s going to do very well.
If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to do so yet, I encourage you to also check out www.thelosangelesfashion.com where you can find several other articles written by yours truly, also feel free to subscribe to our newsletter and get ready as our March issue is hitting Apple Newsstands today!
Thanks and remember to keeep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
- Dana Elizabeth
Los Angeles, Ca. January 14th -Introducing a new line of luxury handbags, for the discerning women who believes it’s in the details; it’s in the look and feel that makes the bag. ‘Favorite-Paris-NY’ is the new ‘it’ bag of the year. A clutch in bold color, made from supple Python. What’s unique about ‘Favorite’ is the possibility of making it truly ‘your own’ with your choice of Python color, and unique flower accents that define each bag. Thus allowing a woman to personalize her bag, so each is unique as the woman who owns it.
Elodie Baude, Head Designer and Founder finds inspiration from her love of fashion and her personal experience with exclusive brands such as, (LVMH, Ines de la Fressange, Jean-Charles de Castelbaljac and Tod’s). The idea stemmed from one simple problem that always seemed to elude the designer, she never had that ‘perfect-evening bag’ the kind that easily travels well, and goes with everything. So she designed her own. Thus delivering a bag so unique, with it’s multi functionality, an underarm bag which is easy to carry wherever and goes with anything. The clutch is the perfect bag for any occassion, whether it be a shopping spree with friends or glamorous evening out, the “Favorite” bag complements any look. It offers an ideal solution for all the essential items and papers that a woman cannot do without.
For Elodie’s first collection, fittingly titled, “FIRST” the designer combined her past experience, and design aesthetic while incorporating support from the top industry professionals and players in the field. The collection is available in an incredibly wide range of colors to choose from, 16 different python skins to choose from enabling the customer to literally design the bag of their dreams.
All, “Favorite” accessories are 100% French and reflects a modern meets contemporary style. Proving that no woman could possibly resist owning her very own “Favorite” bag.
For more information please visit: www.favorite-parisny.com Twitter: twitter.com/FAVORITEPARISNY
-Dana Elizabeth
Finding that perfect T-shirt doesn’t always come easy, there’s more to it then simply the cut, color and cost. It’s the fabric and dying process when combined with the perfect silhouette that makes for that, “ah-ha” moment. You’ve been there before, the dreaded ‘dressing-room’ standing in front of that infamous full-length mirror. At times it’s been your enemy, at others—that full-length mirror is your best friend. But once in a while there comes along a special moment when you find that ‘perfect T-shirt,’ engulfing your frame like a second skin. The drape of the top is impeccable, the fabric feels like silk and you would literally live in it if you could get away with it. After years of searching, hundreds of so-called ‘perfect T-shirts’ later, the actual ‘Perfect T-shirt’ has been designed, and the best part is? It’s made right here in LA.
|Ribbed-Knit Dress -BUY IT | Photo Credit: FrozenFramePhotos| lenovstyle.com
Established in 2007, designer Enza Costa set out to create just that, the ‘perfect T-shirt’ one that was impeccably cut, made from the most touchable fabrics, with great attention to detail. After rave reviews her first collection not only became a cult favorite, but caught the eye of the most discerning boutiques and stores worldwide. Since it’s inception, Enza Costa has grown, evolving into a full range of essentials. Silk blend t-shirts, cashmere knits and gossamer tanks rounded out the collection. More recently, the collection has also included full-length knit dresses and maxi-skirts. The line is built around effortlessly chic, never-take-off essentials where each piece of Enza Costa is executed beautifully and handmade in Los Angeles with the finest fabrics from Italy, Japan and California.
|Oversized Sweater BUY IT |Photo Credit: FrozenFramePhotos| lenovstyle.com |
Enza Costa’s visionary and illusory style accentuates the silhouette with cool formalism and casual expression. The classic line is guided by transparency, layering, femininity and sensuality. Which is why when I was given the opportunity to review the line first hand I jumped at the chance. At first glance one might assume that an ‘Enza Costa’ piece of clothing was nothing more than your average T-shirt, or garment. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s in the first touch, the first time you slip on one of Enza Costa’s pieces that you realize what it is that you’ve been missing.
Double Silk Maxi Dress BUY IT | Photo Credit: FrozenFramePhotos| lenovstyle.com
There isn’t a single piece of clothing from the line that I don’t love, I find myself building my daily wardrobe around my Enza Costa pieces, trying to tailor each outfit to fit any and all events possible. From the full-length maxi dresses to their gauzy knit sweaters (that I simply can’t take-off) Enza Costa has won, not just my closet over, but my heart, as well.
To learn more about Enza Costa please visit:www.enzacosta.com or shop the collection online at: www.shopbop.com
and as always, keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
-Dana Elizabeth
Los Angeles, Ca. January 9th 2013 – With the New Year in full swing the time has come to finally ‘make good’on all those ‘resolutions’ we so eloquently promised, (silently or spoken out-loud, when the clock struck midnight). For some of us, it was as simple as let’s say, ‘giving up chocolate for a year.’ For others, (myself included) I vowed to ‘give-back’ more to my community. Whether it’s volunteering at your local animal shelter or giving-back to your favorite charity, the time has come. Which is why we think there is no easier way to ‘give-back’ then by investing in, ‘time.’ We’re talking, watches and one company is doing their part to help out.
These fashionable Keep A Breast™ Vestal watches (VESTAL ZR2-KAB), with their hot pink embellishments, are perfect for a Valentine’s Day gift or for a spunky Spring accessory! The one-of-a kind numbered pieces (only 150 units produced), are available in black, gold and silver. Each one has a unique “check yourself” breast cast etch on the back of the face. The watches retail for $300 and 100% of the net proceeds will be donated to The Keep A Breast Foundation (KAB),™ a worldwide non-profit organization. That’s right, 100% of proceeds…so what are you waiting for? The watches are available online at: www.keep-a-breast.org. And for an extra added bonus, the watches come packaged in magenta wood boxes, and come with a signature, “I Love Boobies” bracelet in addition to a custom guitar pick.
We think it’s a pretty simple choice and easy one too! So give-back this year and be on time with Vestal. to learn more or see other watches by vestal please visit: http://www.vestalwatch.com/
and as always, keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
-Dana Elizabeth
In 1980 the youngest daughter of the world renowned artist Pablo Picasso, Paloma Picasso—introduced her first collection of Jewels for Tiffany & Co. Paloma quickly climbed the ranks, becoming one of the worlds most sought after jewelry designers. Her gemstones introduced the world to a whole new color palette and exquisite jewelry to choose from. Fiery orange opals, shocking pink tourmalines and her now signature “X” design; combined with her use of “Scribbles,” and “Graffiti” sky-rocketed Paloma’s career and established her as a permanent fixture and force-to-be reckoned within the design world.
Paloma’s pieces have not only become a favorite amongst Tiffany collectors but have become extremely recognizable, well known and loved throughout the world. The longstanding partnership between Tiffany’s and Paloma has proven to be an extremely rewarding collaboration for both parties. Which is why, it’s no surprise that Tiffany commissioned Paloma to yet again, design a new collection. Fittingly appropriate and in-sync with the New Year, we were invited to preview the new line forTiffany and Co. “Paloma’s Olive Leaf” collection. This week we stopped by Tiffany & Co.’s Rodeo Drive location in Beverly Hills, California.
The collection is intricate, extremely detailed and yet delicately designed at the same time. Inspired by Peace and Natural Beauty, Paloma’s Olive Leaf collection is stunning. With pieces for everyday wear to evening, her collection is nothing short of brilliant. Precious metals combine with brightly colored gemstones deliver a collection that is true to the designer’s signature aesthetic.
Distinctly Paloma, the collection embodies elements of true organic design combined with whimsical elegance. A true artisans touch is seen throughout the collection. From the details seen within each Olive leaf, to the carefully placed gemstones, the collection is one that begs to be worn and captures light perfectly, drawing one’s eyes almost without notice to each piece, beautiful on it’s own, yet even more so dazzling in the light.
Paloma’s Olive Leaf collection makes use of a variety of metals and gemstones. One stand out piece from the collection is a large bib-necklace, which traces delicate leaves and stems in an openwork pattern, brilliantly placed green tsavorites and 18 karat gold come together to finish the piece nicely.
The designer used various gemstones like Rubellite and green peridot Cabochons that are woven throughout each ring setting of either 18-karat gold or silver offset with diamonds. Pear-shaped Rubellites accentuate luxurious drop earrings of gold and sparkling diamond leaves. With several pieces to choose from, there is bound to be something for even the most discerning of customers. Paloma’s Olive Leaf collection is a true work of art, one that would make even Tiffany’s founder, Charles Lewis Tiffany very proud. The collection will be available at select Tiffany & Co. locations starting, March 2013.
For more information please visit: www.tiffany.com
and as always, keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
- Dana Elizabeth
update: original version read: ‘Soft after’ edited for corrections on Tues. January 15th 7:04 pm to read: ‘Sought after.’ edited by: Dana Elizabeth
July 9, 2012 - Katie Kiesler For WFTR
Designer Olivia Anne Totman has created the ultimate mash up collection by combining contemporary art and fashion and delivering a high-end line, Angelika London. First to hit the runway UK fashion scene in 2010, Totman has now made Angelika London available for the US market.
| Angelika London | Shop | Summer 2012 Collection | Maxi- Dress|
Each piece in the Summer 2012 collection is a one of kind hand-painted design and has been created with lightweight fabrics. The free-flowing Maxi dresses are one of the highlights, providing chic comfort and versatility. The unique emblazoned butterflies, golden feathers, skulls with crowns or dream catchers create a look that shines at any summer occasion- day or night.
| Angelika London | Shop | Fall 2012 Collection | Hoodies and Beanies |
Totman has also recently released the Angelika London Fall 2012 Collection- complete with beanies, hoodies and blazers. Bringing bold images of skulls and lions to sweatshirts and sweatpants, Angelika London shows that it’s possible to be comfortable in high-end contemporary clothing. For the less fierce, the Fall Collection also contains softer designs like a beautiful rose track suit, as well as hot studded high heel graphic tees.
| Angelika London | Shop | Fall 2012 Collection | Hoodies and Beanies |
To see more of the Summer and Fall 2012 collections, visit AngelikaLondon online.
Keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
-Team WFTR
Finally there’s a shoe that measures up to all your requirements. Have you ever dreamt of a perfect heel? A shoe with comfort, fit, style, and one that’s completely affordable? Those are the elements that make ChromaticGallerie, our favorite online shoe company. Not only are the shoes completely customizable but they’re delivered right to your front door in a beautiful purple box. And each pair comes with soul-soothing inserts to keep your tootsies cozy.
| Zooey Deschanel In ChromaticGallerie | Lipsticky-red | $88 USD |
With ChromaticGallerie, it’s really easy to design the shoe of your dreams. Start by selecting your heel-height. Choose between sweet and sultry Kitten-heels at 2 inches, or rise to the next level with 3-inch heels and coming shortly Chromaticgallerie, will be offering a 4-inch option. Then, choose your color. With hundreds of colors to choose from the possibilities are endless. Choose From “Lipsticky-Red” (Which is the color I chose.) Or go naked in “Nude” with their barely there collection. After selecting the heel-height, and color you can decide on fabric choice. Selecting leather or suede can change the color variation slightly, so make sure you check the photos for each option.
| Zooey Deschanel | Chromatic Gallerie | Lipsticky Red | $88 USD |
Then finish by selecting your shoe size, they offer three variations, regular, narrow or wide making each shoe fit like a glove. Celebs like Zooey Deschanel, love the line. I designed my pair with her in mind. Opting for a 3 inch, suede, pump in “Lipsticky-Red.” When the shoes arrived I was completely blown away. The inside was beautiful the purple lining complemented the red suede perfectly. And once I wore the shoes, it was a done deal. I’m totally hooked on Chromaticgallerie. and will be recommending them to all my friends.
\ ChromaticGallerie \ Customize \ Heels in any color \$88 USD \
Walking around town, complete strangers were stopping me and asking, “Where did you get those shoes? They are gorgeous.” All of my girlfriends fell in love them. The color, is vibrant, bold, and adds a pop of color to any outfit. Check out the shop style steal page to see how I styled the pair. They are my new favorite obsession. I’ve been coming up with excuses to go out, just so I can wear them. I have to admit, I’ve also been wearing them around the house a bit. The rounded toe makes the shoes as comfortable as your favorite pair of sneakers. Chromaticgallerie, shoes are designed with a “simple silhouette that are sure to become your favorite pair of shoes, now and forever.” Here’s the best part, at only $88.00 ChromaticGallerie shoes are a total steal. One pair? Why stop there, when you can get at least two? To learn more about Chromaticgallerie head over to Chromaticgallerie.com and get customizing ladies.
Thanks, and keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
Xo - Dana Elizabeth
Behind The Dream
WFTR Interviews Tina Tangalakis of DellaLA
This past week I had the privilege of interviewing Tina Tangalakis, founder and head designer of Della LA. Della is an amazing company with a wonderful story. In brief, Della was started in late 2009 in a small village in Ghana, (Hohoe) pronounced, (Ho-Way.) The company makes beautifully simple handbags from gorgeous textiles sourced in Ghana. The village of Hohoe, is largely benefitting from one woman’s vision. Under the over cast sky at Akasha, a local restaurant in Culver City, we chatted and talked all things, Della and a few other things. (Off the record) sorry fashionistas, some things are not for the runway. However here is what was said:
Dana Elizabeth: First, if you could just tell me a little bit about yourself. How did you decide to volunteer in Ghana?
Tina Tangalakis: Well, I was born and raised here in Culver City. I am a native of Los Angeles. I come from a big Greek and Italian family. I was raised going to Catholic school; we did a lot of volunteering. In college, I went and volunteered in Mexico and that really sparked my interest. I studied costume design, and I became pretty successful but I got a bit burnt out on the industry and decided to start freelancing for other companies. I did design for a belt company in China, and decided I wanted to get into design more so.
D.E: When did you start Della?
T.T: It was November 2009; we haven’t hit our third year yet. It’s almost our birthday!
D:Happy almost, birthday! (laughing) so, you went to Ghana and you Volunteered at Happy Kids Orphanage, where you met your first seamstress for Della, Beatrice? How did you two get involved really?
T: She was a seamstress who volunteered near the organization. I kind of reached out to her, to design a bag that I originally was going to bring back to the U.S. as a present for one of my sisters. Then after seeing how great it was, with the more American design it all clicked. I was like wait a minute they need jobs and I want a career in design. I just kind of ran with it.
(Left: Tina Tangalakis, Dana Elizabeth @ Akasha restaurant April, 23 2012)
D: How are the fabrics and textiles sourced?
T: Its from the capitol city, we go to the capitol city and find the fabrics we want. It is a one print run so once it sells out its gone. So lately we’ve had to buy huge bulks of fabric.
D: I read that you just launched in Nordstroms? How is that going?
T: We just launched. (Smiling) Yes, I think it went well. We’re actually just looking at sales reports right now. It’s fun to look at the regions that are responding well to our bags. Its actually nationwide, we are in 36 stores. It’s kind of crazy like, wow I think we are doing this. I think we are in business. (laughing) I know we are not in all doors yet but in 36 stores and that feels pretty amazing.
D:Any stores in LA?
T: They are more in the South Bay, or in the Valley. Like Irvine spectrum, Brea Mall, The Topanaga Mall.
D:Are they on some sort of a display? Is it a pop-up shop?
T: They are. I have photos that people have taken for me. Things are on display pretty prominently. Locally we have been making sure that all the sales people really know our story so that they know how to talk to the customer and really talk about the history of our company and what we do.
(Della, in the early beginning some of the woman learning how to sew.)
D:At what point did you branch out to do the Ipad cases and the Mac book cases?
T: we started it pretty early on. I had bought my first Macbook, which I needed for the company and I was like I need a case for this. At the time at the Apple store they only had like, black or pink cases and so when I was out in Ghana I had them make me a case. I thought, that’s something that people genuinely need. Its like, people need something to protect there computers and it’s something they look at and use everyday. So I thought it would be a good combo.
D:Are those also being sold in Nordstroms?
T: No, it’s just the hobos and headbands.
D:You also sell jewelry, and make jewelry for the line as well?
T: Yes. We, I mean, when I was freelancing for the belt company I was also selling and designing my own jewelry. I became really good friends with the town jeweler in Ghana. He makes every single piece by hand. He refines all the silver himself by hand. It’s so ancient and primitive and rustic. We have a very nice relationship with him.
D:Are you wearing any of the pieces right now?
T: (Looks down, laughs) Ummm, just these. (Pointing to three beautifully simple rings on her ring finger.)
D: Those are beautiful! I love them, love em! (Laughing) So can you tell us how you came up with the name, Della?
T: I volunteered with a volunteer organization, and when choosing the name for the business, Della, I wanted something that would connect us with Ghana but that wouldn’t sound too ethnic that it would pigeonhole the business. So um, Della is the first person I met off the plan in Ghana. He was the driver for the volunteer organization. He is the sweetest soul, with the kindest smile. The energy you feel from him, it was like just being a good open warm person. It was like oh; I want my brand to have the essence of him. His name is Della, I felt even though it was a man’s name it sounded still feminine and thought it would resonate with the fashion community.
(Left: Tina Tangalakis and Dana Elizabeth, enjoying a small reprieve from the interview)
To read more of the interview click below:
and as always, keep it here for more: WORDSFROMTHERUNWAY
xo- Dana Elizabeth
Della, a Los Angeles born company is delivering a lot of change to Hohoe, a poverty stricken village in Ghana. Ghana, where 1 out of every 3 individuals live below the poverty line. Della is bringing more then monetary funding to the village, they are providing education and jobs to the community that so desperately needs it.
(Above, Tina Tangalakis - Founder and designer of Della poses with the women of Hohoe.)
Della, was formed when two women from two very different backgrounds met by chance. Tina Tangalakis, a Los Angeles native traveled to Ghana where she volunteered at The Happy Kids orphanage. There, in the surrounding village of Hohoe, is where she met local seamstress Beatrice Agabe. The two formed a connection almost instantly. It was through their shared love for design and textiles, that the first, Classic Hobo bag came to life.
(Pictured above, the Classic Hobo bag. Made from local fabric in Ghana)
Beatrice and Tina knew they were on to something amazing. The two decided under the direction of Beatrice, that they would teach the local women of Hohoe, how to sew and construct the bags. Not only would this provide them with jobs and education but hope as well.
(Above, the local women of Hohoe, creating and crafting the one of a kind bags.)
The Classic Hobo bag has done so well that Della has designed a full line of bags, including clutches, (available fall 2012) Ipad cases, headbands, and even jewelry. Each bag or garment is constructed from one individual, with a special tag sewn into each one and signed by the woman who beautifully made it.
(Model pictured above, sporting one of the Classic Hobo bags.)
We are so inspired by this amazing company and wish for our readers to help support this great cause. The bags are completely affordable and are perfect for spring. Heading to the beach? The Extra Large Hobo bag is perfect for all your “beachy ” necessities. This is one bag you can’t live without. Plus, you can feel good about giving back.
(Pink Guava Jelly Bag pictured above, one lucky reader will get her chance to win it. Click Here.)
Maybe you aren’t the beachy-type. You can totally still help, everyone these days has an ipad, macbook, or laptop, Della’s got you covered there as well. They are lightweight beautiful and one-of-a-kind. Who wouldn’t want to sport one?
(Songbird Ipad case is beautiful. One of our favorites. The colors go lovely together.)
In today’s economy we know everyone is struggling. But can you possibly imagine how others around the world are struggling too? Some like, the village of Hohoe are struggling far worse then we are. So I ask you, my lovely fashionable and giving readers—Can you spare a little to help change the lives of an entire village?
For more information on Della or to visit their online store click HERE. Also, you can follow Della on Twitter, and Facebook,.
Head over to our gift giveaways and guides tab, or CLICK HERE to see how you can win one of the PINK GUAVA JELLY BAGS.
And as always keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
xo - Dana Elizabeth
For those of you who have followed wftr since its beginning or are new welcomed additions I wanted to take a moment and update you on what’s been happening. Recently I’ve been doing my own Upcycling project. Reworking used leather goods to re-create new ones. With much success mind you. Here is a dress I found for $19.99 on sale, the zipper was broken but the leather was 100% beautiful and unharmed.
I believe in the ethical treatment of animals but I also know that leather goods are still being made. My theory on this, I can’t stop it and I may not be able to change it but I can slow down the demand for excessive leather poaching. My idea, is to only use leather goods that have already been processed. By using vintage leather products I am able to obtain the leather I need for my purses and make a dent albeit a small one in the fight against leather farming. I know it’s not perfect and leather will always be in demand but this is my way of slowing the process.
Here is another image of the dress before I cut it and redesigned it. below:
By making a few changes, slicing the seams and sewing them together I was able to create a beautiful hand made leather purse. I utilized an old vintage chain my grandmother gave to me and voila! I think I love the purse even more knowing that I didn’t go out and buy expensive, dyed leather pelts.
I cut the back of the dress where the broken zipper was and used that to form the bow at the top of the purse ^ It was a little difficult trying to figure out how to secure it to the purse but with a little tucking, pinning, and sewing I got the job done.
Here is the purse finished. You can see the gold vintage chain, thanks grandma for the donation. It still needs a pocket added to the inside but I ultimately love the design, its hobo meets chic and the bow is feminine yet edgy with the zipper detailing. What do you think?
Want to purchase one of my bags? contact me below and I’ll custom make one just for you.
Dana@wftr.net
For more information on leather farming click here.
It’s been quite some time since I worked up the courage to address my current situation. It’s been an even longer time since I’ve written a confessions post. In fact, it’s been almost a year.
From the time I began my post graduate work in the real world (at the age of 25) I assumed I would undoubtably be midway to my career goal at this point. Yet, here I sit nearing the end of my twenties and have barely anything to show for it. A few transitions, from retail to corporate and back again, have stifled me. Not only creatively, but also monetarily as well. It is at this current moment in time that I am being faced with the question: what exactly is my time worth? And more importantly: what am I worth to my employers?
It’s no doubt a difficult time for our economy, but at the same time for myself and many others. I am yet again having to take another retail position to make ends meet and let’s be honest the monthly take home isn’t that great.
But it is definitely better than nothing, or at least that’s what I keep telling myself. On a daily basis I struggle with what most creatives struggle with. Do I give up my dreams and settle for a mediocre job in the real world or do I fight for my dreams and eat ramen for the remainder of my years? 
It begs the question: can we do both? Live a minimal life making next to nothing and chasing our dreams on the side or do we throw everything we’ve got left at a dream? What if you simply can’t afford not to work?
So at the end of the day, like myself, you have to determine what you are worth to employers. Once you decide what exactly you are worth in dollars and cents you now have to ask for it. Asking for a raise in this time period is almost like voluntarily offering up your head on the chopping block and handing your boss the axe. 
I know because I’m about to commit this atrocity in a matter of weeks. I am hoping that my hard work the last few months will be enough for my bosses to evaluate me not only by my work ethic and dedication to the company, but also my value as potentially a key figure in the future of the company.
If all goes according to plan I’ll be able to move from ramen to a slightly more nutritious meal replacement…frozen entrees.
But even if I do acquire the raise I’ve been hoping for it doesn’t mean I am going to give up on this. Perhaps I am worth more, and perhaps climbing the latter now (ever-be-it slowly) will make reaching the top that much sweeter. I’ve always dreamed of writing myself into history and hopefully with a little bit of luck and determination I’ll eventually get there.
Here’s hoping all of you do as well.
Keep it here for more: wordsfromtherunway
x.o.-D.E.
