What not to wear in Belleville

By Khush Bhandari

Waking up every morning and figuring out what to wear can be a tedious task. What do Belleville fashion merchants say about fashion, and what do stores have to offer?

Marina Boretski, owner of Borestski gallery on Front Street in downtown Belleville, has plenty to say about women’s fashion in today’s generation.

“What people are intrigued by is the vintage factor this place offers. There are many unique dresses with exquisite fabrics, which are handmade. I have many vintage hats and everything is high-end quality,” says Boretski.

“I feel the most important part of a woman’s wardrobe is something that bares a shoulder. I love halters and I feel every woman should have something in her closet that will accentuate the shoulders. Also, a really good hat that will save your skin and at the same time is fashionable. For me, hats can make or break an outfit,” says Boretski.

“Women will spend more on clothing if they find the right outfit,” she says. “For young men, it’s harder to dress up, and there is less to choose from. Many young men come in here to find vintage shirts,” says Boretski.

“Its important that fashion trends exist. The fashion market is a huge, multi-million dollar business. These days, Canadian designers are becoming very well-known,” says Boretski.

Belleville offers big city amenities along with small town friendliness. According to local fashion experts of small boutiques in Belleville, big brand names have a huge impact on society.

“There are many trends that are formed and new styles are constantly developing. The clothing is presented to express and reflect an individual and society's tastes, or affiliation. One doesn’t have to spend a huge amount of money and there are stores that can cater one’s needs with fair prices,” says Tiffany Cunningham who is the owner of Jutta, a shoe store on Front Street.

“Today’s fashion is seen as something that is either in or out, and forever changing. There are many stores and boutiques that have interesting apparel for young and old women here in Belleville,” says Cunningham.

Jocelyn Driver is the manager of Eclipse, which is a women’s fashion store that originated from Newfoundland. It is located in the Quinte Mall on Bell Boulevard and sells only women’s clothing.

“People like to shop here because it’s cheaper for a special night out or casual wear,” says Driver.

“Tops and accessories, if they are visible, are one of the first things I look at,” says Driver. “Scarves are also something that I find appealing on women. We make fashion a woman-based orientation. Our store is definitely catered towards women only. Fashion trends are always changing. It’s like anything goes,” says Driver.

“Definitely, style still work even if they aren’t brand name. I have never been one for brand names and I wear clothing because I like it, not because of the brand name,” says Driver.