Dona Forta opened in 2019 and within the year, we were working together! This Fall will be seven years, and all along, it has been a joy. Liana has a clear vision and wonderful customers, you must visit the next time you're in Denver.
1. Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Liana Hill. I opened Dona Forta in the Berkeley neighborhood of Denver, Colorado in 2019.
2. How did you decide to open Dona Forta?
Dona Forta means “strong woman” in Catalan. I opened with the idea that strong women know who they are, and are more interested in building a wardrobe that reflects their personal style than chasing trends.
This aligns with my preference to buy and sell things that last, and my belief that doing so is an important part of sustainability. It is my hope that if people buy quality clothes that are great for their bodies and that match their personalities, they will want to keep them a long time.
I opened this store because it didn't exist yet in Denver. I have met so many wonderful, strong women over the past seven years.
3. Can you tell us how you first discovered CARLEEN?
I choose brands that hold high social and environmental standards. I look for timeless, artful clothing made to last. Virginia Craddock from Inside Out Agency introduced me to Carleen in 2019, knowing I would love it, and that the brand aligned with my values. She was right, and I've been carrying Carleen ever since.
4. What does your customer appreciate about CARLEEN?
I have brought in many one-of-a-kind items and small batch items by Carleen which I know my customers intend to keep for a lifetime - they consider them heirloom pieces. They are so well constructed, so whimsical, and have an essence that is missing from mass-produced items.
5. We’re coming to Denver to shop at Dona Forta- what’s another place we must check out while we’re in the neighborhood?
There is a great men’s clothing shop called Berkeley Supply right around the corner. Grab a drink and a delicious small bite at Hey Kiddo. Shop journals, pens, and gorgeous photo books at Earnest Paper.
Thank you Liana!