The Fast Fashion industry is something we should avoid and we should try to shop locally instead!
An alternative to fast fashion brands for people who live in the bay area is Bella James Boutique in San Jose, CA. I had the opportunity to talk to the sweet owner of this boutique, Lisa Morris, and got to learn the history behind her boutique!
Lisa started Bella James in March of 2006. Lisa and her sister-in-law opened it together. They had careers working in retail and met when they were working at Nordstrom. Their dream was to open their own store and thought the area could use a women's clothing store.
Lisa has always been interested in opening her own boutique and would describe the clothing sold at Bella James as, "lifestyle, women who are stylish at any age, all shapes and sizes." They also began to carry more loungewear. The age demographic of the clientele at BellaJames is from teenagers to women!
Lisa and her sister-in-law started in a small spot on Lincoln Avenue. Then, they moved to a larger spot for 10 years and 3 years ago, they bought their current building. Bella James Boutique is located at 1371 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, CA 95125. They also have an online store in which they got up and running during COVID. Their website is https://bellajames.com/
Unfortunately, COVID has impacted many boutiques including Bella James. They had to shut down for 3 months but luckily they were able to reopen. They take many health precautions to make sure everyone stays safe during this pandemic such as a limited amount of people in the store, daily cleanliness, masks on at all times, and steams clothes after people try them on. They also have the option for people to come in and pick up their clothing orders in-store. Before COVID, Bella James did many events within the store such as springtime fashion shows, vendor events, private parties-friends can come in after-hours and shop together, and so much more!
Especially during these tough times, we should support local businesses in any way we can!