Da Kine

THE BELLA PROJECT

Last year, the Bella Boutique distributed more than 300 prom dresses, and this year there will be more than 500 to give away.

MAMO HOWELL

Mamo Howell's "Kihei Pili" blankets, and more, are available at all Hilo Hattie stores.

STYLE FILE

Nonprofit group aids girls for prom

High school teens in need of prom attire and accessories are invited to two Bella Boutique prom dress giveaway events hosted by The Bella Project, a local nonprofit group serving young women.

A Honolulu event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Honolulu Design Center's Cupola Theatre, 1250 Kapiolani Blvd., and a Leeward area event will take place during the same hours March 5 at the Mililani High School cafeteria.

The events are open to any high school teenager in need of gently used or new prom attire and accessories.

Last year, the Bella Boutique distributed more than 300 dresses, shoes, jewelry and toiletry items. This year, after collections from dress drives, drop-offs to Hawaii Self Storage and other events, there are more than 500 dresses to give away. The inaugural "Rule the Runway" fashion show fundraiser last fall also allowed The Bella Project to grow.

To participate, teens must bring a valid high school ID. One female guest can accompany them to help with selections. Additional requirements for participating in the event are located on the Bella Project website at: www.thebellaprojecthawaii.com/want-a-dress.html#bella-boutiques.

The Bella Project is also asking for volunteers to act as stylists to provide support for participants. To volunteer, contact Amanda Ross at thebellaproject@yahoo.com or call 271-0644.

Mamo Howell expands into homes

Shoppers who have enjoyed Mamo Howell's island fashion over the years can now add Mamo style to their homes.

The designer has introduced new lifestyle products for the home, an idea with roots that date back to 1978, when Howell began marketing a baby blanket she designed after returning from a fashion career in New York and Paris. The "Kihei Pili" blanket was inspired by her grandmother and mother, and she recently re-created it.

In addition, Howell has launched aprons, pot holders and oven mitts, all in exclusive Mamo Howell floral prints, as well as mugs and insulated cooler bags in six classic Hawaiian quilt patterns.

All are available at Hilo Hattie stores.

Additional products will be added throughout 2011.