12. Jennifer Wiglesworth

Entry Category: Emerging Designer

Designer Name: Jennifer Wiglesworth

Line: BellaDonna Marie

Branding Statement/ Bio Info:

Classic Woman. Modern Sophistication.  

Sophisticated Garments meet Sustainable Fabrics.

Launched Belladonna Marie (BM): A classically, feminine & modernly sophisticated women’s apparel brand, Jennifer introduced Belladonna Marie to exclusive, VIPs at Candy Bistro and bar, on Friday, June 4th, 2010. Belladonna Marie is created for women who like to stand out in a crowd, enjoy wearing their favorite pieces season after season, and understand the importance of investing in beautiful clothing.

The collection features blouses, pants, shorts, dresses, swimwear & outerwear. Currently, the collection is being sold to boutiques, nationwide. The SS2011 collection can be seen at www.belladonnamarie.com. Don’t forget to check out all the press she’s received!

Belladonna Marie

Expressing the fact that trends are ever-changing, Belladonna Marie’s classic garments are timeless, with a hint of modern flair. Garments from B.Marie are also designed with the highest ethical value, being 90-100% sustainable, and are made in the U.S.A. 

Launching Line:

SS2011 Collection is inspired by the foam of the ocean’s waves. Cool white garments, accented by warm ocean tones, celebrate nature’s beauty on women. You’ve never seen anything like this!

Designer biography

How many people have climbed the Wall of China, went black water rafting in New Zealand, experienced the Sydney Opera house and shopped under the bright lights of Tokyo, in one year? It is through these experiences, and more, that helps shape me as a person and a designer.

Coming from French descent, fashion has always been a kind of second nature to me. French people understand fashion like they understand tying their shoes. It is an inherent part of who they are.

At 10 years old, when most children are excited about jungle gyms or bicycles, I fell in love with my mother’s sewing machine. My mom has always been an excellent seamstress. At one point in her life, she was a designer and even walked the runways.

The first garment I ever made was a bright salmon apron, with a royal blue diamond pattern. I did everything myself – from picking out fabric and embellishments to sewing the final seam.  That year, I entered the apron in the fair. Remembering my mother’s proud face as we walked into the judged area, together, was unforgettable. I couldn’t believe the first garment I ever made got a blue ribbon!

A lot has happened along my journey since then. The biggest change was marrying Carl, a man from English descent. He has brought many traditional elements into my life. He helps me remain grounded and logical through the dramatic and sometimes nonsensical ways of fashion.

After dabbling in fashion for over 10 years, I am finally launching my line. I once heard that if you could do something you would do without getting paid for it, that you are truly one of the lucky ones.  Well…I have arrived.

** Spec sheet available