Posted on 02/16/2010 10:15:12 AM PST by KeyLargo
Pinto, a favorite designer of Michelle Obama, closes boutique
By Shia Kapos Feb. 15, 2010 Despite a recent renaissance that led her gowns to the White House, Mario Pinto's West Side boutique didn't make it.
The Chicago fashion designer, whose garments have been favored by first lady Michelle Obama, told industry insiders just a few months ago that her company was thriving and she was considering seeking private-equity investment. But the shop is now shuttered.
Neither Ms. Pinto nor her media handler returned calls.
Clients were stunned yet not completely surprised by the news, given the economic times.
Ms. Pinto was enjoying new popularity after filing for bankruptcy protection in 2002, her difficulties in part blamed on an employee who had embezzled funds.
Back then, she was known for her artistry in producing one-of-a-kind shawls and scarves.
She returned to the fashion scene in 2004 with a new line sold in department stores in New York and Chicago, then opened the Jackson Street boutique in 2008. This time, she aligned herself with "business-savvy" partners and expanded her repertoire to include garments and full-length gowns.
That's what caught the attention of Ms. Obama, who wore a memorable purple Pinto the night Barack Obama won the Democratic nomination for president in 2008.
At last year's pre-inauguration festivities, when she was on pins and needles wondering whether Ms. Obama would wear one of her gowns, the ever-positive Ms. Pinto said she was "just happy to be considered."
Picking herself up from loss, after all, is something she's got sewn up.
everything they touch _____ __ ____.
Those Obamas sure have the Midas touch.
Considering Michelle is built like a Pinto....
Cute, but the designer's name should have been Clydesdale. That would be even more appropriate...
yeah. that "baggage" sure needs something to cart it around.
Business-savvy partners? Check!
Favorable publicity from the First lady? Check!
Bankrupt (again) in just two years? Check!
Someone should be an employee, not an employer.
Barack says she blows up after you rear end her.
Hilarious!
Boob belts and big butts.........what can you say.
I didn’t know they made a Pinto garbage truck.
“Barack says she blows up after you rear end her.”
Winning reply right there.
And you make it look so easy.
I bought that same pinto, grabber lime. It was my first car and I paid $1999.00 for it brand new.
If Ma’belle’s clothes are an example of his clothing line, I can see why he closed! She looks like she buys at resale shops & just throws anything together!
"Watch it sucker!"
You mean she'll explode if you slap her on the hindquarters?
Considering the fabric requirements of any outfit in size giant wookie-it’s a wonder she lasted this long!
What...you mean her butt bursts into flame on impact?
I'd liken her more to an AMC Pacer or a Chevy Caprice...with their expansive rears.
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