Artist Interview One: Rose Bonomo of Roseabode

On a crisp fall day last week, I was fortunate enough to steal away from work just long enough to bop into Roseabode, on NE Fremont. What a treat! Stepping inside is literally a dream. Through the door, you'll enter a world of warm, fuzzy, sleek, and sophisticated pieces, all begging to be touched and worn. Faux fur throws, hats & vests to keep you warm, beautiful scarves and gloves, coin purses and clutches, and impeccably fashioned tunics and jackets. Additionally, Rose is now carrying jewelry pieces by Emily Jane, and has a few other local artists in her shop! There's no doubt that owner Rose Bonomo has a wealth of experience and a superb eye for beautiful pieces, and she creates lush and affordable pieces of comfort to be worn and cherished.

the front window always  displays the latest!

If you're looking for a special, unique gift for someone this season, don't pass up Roseabode. I know a few people who will be receiving gifts made by Rose this holiday… And there might just be something from Santa for me, too. (psst, Santa - if you're reading this, I want the leopard hat!)

awesome leopard hat with ears

Rose generously took some time away from her mountain of silk to answer a few questions about her design aesthetic. Here, we get to know Rose better, and see why Roseabode is a neighborhood jewel!

bomber caps with faux fur liner & earflaps

1. You've lived and traveled to many places - including growing up on Long Island, and living & working in the fashion & beauty industries in New York. How does Portland compare fashion & beauty wise with New York?  

Honestly...it doesn't. That doesn't mean there aren't many people who care about fashion and put themselves together with great style and panache, but the biggest difference is in the importance of how one looks. In New York, it really matters. People care and they care about standing out. We have different values here and it is just not the same level priority.

beautiful, luxe scarves

2. How long have you been in your current location? What do you love most about being in the Beaumont Wilshire Neighborhood?

We opened 2 years ago and the neighborhood has so many wonderful people in it, who are SO loyal, so supportive - you really cannot beat it. If you look at NW 23rd, Irvington, those neighborhoods have suffered and had a great deal of upheaval because of high rents. Fremont has just gotten better.

jackets and a gorgeous scarf

3. You use such soft and cozy materials in your work. What is your design aesthetic & philosophy?

My aesthetic is literally, to trust myself. I have a good eye and a very highly developed tactile sense - so if it feels good to me, it usually sells. My philosophy is, if i absolutely LOVE something, no matter how strange it might seem, there will be other people who love it. If I am lukewarm about something, or if I second guess myself or if I think, "well, someone will like it"....no good. It never works. I follow my heart and my passion, and that can take me in many directions.

throws and pillows you'll want to sleep on and in!

4. What tools & products in your studio could you not live without? Do you have a favorite?

Rotary cutter. Rotary cutter. Rotary cutter! And my self threading Serger.

belt buckles by local designer

 5. What trends do you see for fall and winter in fashion? What items in your shop are hot when the weather turns cold?

Faux fur is huge this year. Mind you, I have had it for the last 2 years and we had faux fur vests last year, but it is just everywhere. And it's so functional - warm, soft, and beautiful. The hats this year are a hot ticket, as are the vests. The fingerless faux fur gloves are a must have and who wouldn't want a Muff/Purse?

the studio

6. You're a working atelier, welcoming neighbors into your studio when you are working...  Complete this sentence: "When I'm in my studio, I feel _______________________."

"Alive and at home."

fun colors and wild textures

7. When you're stuck or facing a tough decision, what creative inspiration do you look to? How do you combat "designer's block?"

Usually, I start googling vintage things, especially vintage fur things. Real fur was used for so many whacky, over the top things that it never fails to inspire me.

me-ow!

8. If there was a soundtrack to the movie "A Day in the Life of Rose" what would it include?

Probably something from Caravan Palace.

if all you need is a statement piece...

9. If you could visit the studio of any craftsperson/artist/designer (present day or historical) who would it be and why?

I would love to visit one of the first Modern Dance studios - like Martha Graham or Ruth St. Denis or José Limón. They were developing a new art form as they broke away from the confines of ballet. I can only imagine the freedom and passion they must have felt. Intoxicating.

or if you want quality construction in classic staple pieces

Go see Rose at Roseabode. You won't be sorry. But plan to spend some time there: you'll need it to touch everything in her studio.

Roseabode
4225 NE Fremont
Portland, Oregon 97213
503.493.9391

Wednesday 11-4
Thursday, Friday & Saturday 11-5
Sunday variable in winter months
Or call to make an appointment: 503.407.1677