I feel somewhat ashamed to have come so late to this decision, but for reasons I mentioned earlier on Instagram, you will never see another Ivanka Trump branded product on this blog. Ever.
Like most moderate Republicans, I watched in horror as primary voters selected a deplorable bigot who made his fortune on the backs of other Americans by being a filthy contract breaker who personally sends jobs overseas. While I am exuberant in my support for #nevertrump, I initially was unwilling to paint his daughter, Ivanka, with the same brush.
Part of the reason is that I know something about being the child of a polarizing figure. When people disparage you based on who your parent is, or ask you to choose between being your own person and honoring/loving your parent, it’s soul shredding. The other reason is that I deeply support the mission of her brand. Providing stylish, mid-price clothing for working women while supporting female empowerment is basically why I started this blog. However, it is completely impossible to reconcile her public brand with her unequivocal support for her father’s candidacy and her refusal to denounce his statements.
I’m disappointed in myself that it took me so long to take this step, but I am taking it now. At the end of this month, I will donate all of my August, September and October profits* from Ivanka Trump products to the Joyful Heart Foundation.
***
I understand that many of you will want to comment on this post, and that some of these comments will fall into negative territory. The comment policy on this blog has always been that as long as there are no curse words, defamatory statements or personal attacks, comments are approved. I have very rarely deleted comments, because I have very rarely had to.
First time commenters (based on email) get automatically held for moderation. Sometimes it takes a few hours before I look in to moderate. Occasionally comments with links or fake email names end up in the spam filter with thousands of actual junk comments. I don’t sort through the spam looking for legitimate comments.
I’m usually not shy about jumping into the comments to debate people. Sometimes, I quite enjoy it and over the years, I’ve learned a lot from these discussions. I’m a moderate who has some political beliefs you might expect, and others you might be surprised by. I work to keep an open mind, and support respectful, fair political discourse. But I don’t write a political blog– I write a non-partisan fashion blog–and won’t be responding to individual comments on this post.
*Because these are the only months that I have records for right now. I’m waiting to see if I can get the whole year.
Belle, this is great. Better late than never. I really respect you for coming to this decision. I also really appreciate your approach to political debate and keeping an open mind. So good to see in these polarised times.
Belle, I too have been horrified by the primary selections of two of the most morally corrupt, personally unfit and politically polarizing candidates for our nation’s presidency in recent history. A really sad result of failings in our educational system and culture which discourage factual research and objective inquiry into issues and instead lionizes ‘reality’ TV, sensational sound bites, name recognition and entertainment over substance. For the first time in my adult life, and I’m 63, I am tempted to leave the blanks for presidential choice on my ballot as just that: blank. And this after 24 years of personal exposure and involvement in our state’s legislative system.
James Madison warned that if we do not pay attention to issues and matters of public policy we get the leaders we deserve instead of those we need. The only reason that I will fill in that ‘blank’ for my presidential choice is the reality of two Supreme Court appointments. And the hope that there are enough smart, experienced and principled government employees of personal integrity whose jobs it is to execute those public policy decisions resulting from poor choices, in a manner least destructive to our society.
Great blog, don’t know how you’ve done it given your hectic life. Hope you are on the mend and that you really enjoy your visit to Cuba.
Nothing but support. And thank you for your post,
Could not be more excited to read this post! Thank you!!!
I have also considered myself to be a moderate Republican but I’ve felt completely lost in recent elections. This is my own fault. I am registered as an independent, and I don’t vote in the primaries. Every independent who is disappointed with these candidates should register with a party so they can have more of a voice in who the parties pick to represent them. We can make a difference in future candidates.
Also, I want to say that I also grew up with a polarizing father who was active in local politics. I see a lot of him in Donald Trump. Even though he loved his daughters, he would frequently (and still does) makes disparaging comments about women. As much as I love him, there is no way I would ever publicly endorse him. The message is clear that people think these types of comments are ok because they are supposedly harmless. They are not.
We are never going to solve all of our country’s problems until we can include everyone’s voice at the table. Let’s take this as a harsh lesson that we ALL need to participate at every level.
Thank you and well done.
Thank you for this decision. For a long while now, I have screened out Ivanka Trump products as I “window shop.” I sometimes wondered if I was cutting off my nose to spite my face because her style spoke to me: as you said, “stylish mid-priced clothing for working women.” But her business is part of her father’s empire, and there is no way I can spend one minute or penny supporting that.
I will quote an Ohioan I heard on the news one night: “Three hundred and thirty million people in this country, and these two are the best we could find?”
co-sign this comment. I stopped buying ivanka trumps products a long time ago for that very reason – follow the money. You are stuffing cash into Trump’s pocket so I decided to put my money where my mouth is and no longer support that. For moral reasons, I’ve also declined shopping other brands and stores like Macy’s and Walmart. But, I also realize that I have some privilege and ability to do so, and not everyone can make this choice without making a significant sacrifice.
+1. Thank you, Belle! This is SO well-stated.
I was really heartened to read this because none of the fashion bloggers I follow have even mentioned this. It has been on my mind since she started appearing in support of her father, and I will personally never buy a product from her brand or any brand with which she’s associated.
I’m particularly bothered by the false equivalences people keep spewing (“They’re both terrible! There’s no difference!”), which are categorically wrong. They may both be subjectively terrible individually (NB: I don’t believe HRC is terrible at all, but I understand there are people who do), but there is no comparison between HRC’s “terrible” and Trump’s “terrible”; it’s just lame apologism for him. Even more concerning, however, is the courting of anti-semitic voters and Ivanka’s standing by without saying anything even though she personally married a Jewish man and converted to Judaism. How she can even look at him is beyond me.
Anyway, thank you for taking this stance and publicizing it.
Thank you. These aren’t two equally terrible candidates. I for one am proud to vote for HRC.
Thank you Belle. I think this is an excellent idea & giving your money to charity is a perfect way to deal with what you’ve already earned. I’ve personally never purchased any of her products and never will. Kudos to you for taking a stand, even though it impacts you financially. That’s hard to do. I enjoy your blog and wish you continued success.
Thank you, Belle. Enough is enough. How can it be that in 2016, Trump’s treatment of women and eager willingness to advocate and/or commit sexual assault is not a deal breaker for all Americans? We have a long way to go.
Thank you Belle!
Bravo Belle. The Joyful Heart Foundation is a wonderful organization.
What a wonderfully courageous move on your part. So many people bury their heads in the sand because it’s easier than looking at the truth. Many of us have made the hard decision to put space in between ourselves and our parents because sometimes they are just not good people and you have to choose to put yourself first and not worry about what society thinks about parental relationships. I would bet Ivanka has not come to terms with this yet. I commend you for putting yourself out there and for taking it a step further and donating the money. I do not envy the negativity I’m sure you’ll receive but from this reader I have nothing but positivity for you and your decision.
Thank you Belle, I could not be happier to see this and fully support you!
I’ve been reading your blog for 4+ years and you’ve always been one of my favorite bloggers. We may be on different sides of the aisle, but I truly respect your informed positions and appreciate you taking a stand on this. He is beyond despicable and every dollar going to Ivanka during this election season is implicit support for him. Bravo for doing this and I hope others follow suit.
As a long time reader, I am incredibly happy to see this!
Long-time reader, based in Ireland, where current events are shaking our nation too. Bravo Belle.
Thank you, Belle. As a long time reader I’m very grateful for the position you’re taking. I was distressed to see her products on the blog previously and applaud you reaching this conclusion.
Really “distressed” over clothes.
Trump did not ASSAULT ANYONE!!! Yes, of course what he said was completely wrong and disgusting. Trump said words 11 years ago. Evil Hillary’s actions are way worse, she covered for her own husband’s rapes and assaults for years and ruined his victims lives.
She will tear this country apart, she is evil.
Amanda Carpenter had an affair with Ted Cruz…. they both were and are married… TRUMP said disgusting words, Hillary’s actions are evil!!
Pending child rape charges notwithstanding, he is claiming to have assaulted women (saying that he has just kissed women without their consent because he can’t control himself and he can do whatever he wants because “he’s a star”). Hillary never assaulted anyone, and are you expecting her to be bffs or even cordial with the women with whom her husband cheated? I can’t know how I would react if I found out our spouse cheated, so I can’t presume to judge, but trying to protect the person you’ve committed your life to seems pretty understandable.
Bless your heart Susan, you just keep repeating those words you heard. “Hillary is tearing the country apart,” never you mind who actually has the divisive agenda in this political race. Blame her husband for stuff. Sure. How’s that wall coming along?
Just to help you explain your own words, Ivanka’s support to Donald is semi-equivalent to Hillary’s support to Bill. However, Trump claims to have ASSAULTED women. Bill was having consensual relations. Hillary hated those women because they damned well knew they were destroying a marriage. Bill had a bigger part, obviously, but none of us know what Hillary had to put up with or “disapprove of” to keep her marriage into her presidential campaign. That part is none of our business.
Of course my earlier comment will not be approved… remember Trump said WORDS… Hillarys ACTIONS evil!
I think it’s evil to objectify women and brag about sexual assault. Words alone are still VERY powerful because they send a message to men and children that it is okay to treat women as sexual objects. And he’s been accused plenty of times to make the “only words” excuse pretty flimsy. The majority of men may not rape women, but the men who do think that it’s okay because society has not condemned “words” like these.
This blog post was about the decision not to financially support a man whose words (and maybe actions) have belittled and likely harmed women. The content said nothing about who to vote for in the election or promoted HRC in any way, so please take your inflammatory and offensive statements elsewhere.
Susan O., Please look at some non-partisan, historical-based reporting on some of the evil actions that Trump has committed throughout his life as a “legitimate” businessman. Breaking contracts, racially discriminating against renters, counter-suing on baseless claims knowing the other party couldn’t afford to fight, not to mention infidelity. These, too, ARE ACTIONS, NOT WORDS. Seriously, educate yourself. There is a great serious now on the PBS Frontline series that you might find interesting, if you are actually interested in learning the truth about your beloved trump, who can do no wrong..I, however, suspect the truth doesn’t matter to people who hold your points of view.
Thank you for holding her accountable for the support she has given to her father’s hateful campaign.
Belle,
I totally support your decision. I have stopped purchasing Ivanka’s products and I to, am happy that you addressed this topic. As a reader that has followed you over many years, it is great to see how you have evolved. Keep inspiring your readers!
Bravo. Very tough decision, but the right one.
Thank you Belle. You’re a very open and candid blogger. That’s why you’re so popular. I hope we will all choose to support our country first.
PROUD OF YOU AND MY DECISION TO FOLLOW YOUR BLOG!
Hi Bella, I identify myself as a liberal, which affiliates me with Democratic views. Given your affiliations, I struggled for some time of whether or not I should be following this blog. But later realized that despite the differences, I relate to you at a fundamental level which helped me set aside my prejudice. From reading what your articles, I knew you aren’t NOT BAD SH**T crazy!
THANK YOU for the confirmation!
Hmmm we seem to have more sympathy and less judgement toward domestic abuse victims, who at one point did choose to be with their abusers, than we do children who were never given the choice whether or not they want to associate with their parents. Those are some harsh words against Ivanka, who, no matter what age, has less choice than a spouse does in this situation. I’m not going to hold her loyalty against her.
“Chose to be with their abuser?” This kind of victim blaming language is exactly what perpetuates systems of violence. You should feel ashamed of that comment.
Nobody asked Ivanka to abandon her father, but she has chosen as an adult to try to put a female friendly face on the man who said she could be referred to as a “piece of ass”. It’s her choice to campaign for him and ours to not support her business with out money.
I decided long ago never to buy her products because I refuse for one cent of my money to go to any part of that family. I’ve always been #NeverTrump and thank God I never supported such a despicable excuse of a man.
And yet the only (realistic) alternative to Trump is a woman who has refused to denounce her husband’s analogous behavior and has, at the very least, tacitly approved of campaigns to destroy the reputations of the women he assaulted. Trump is a terrible candidate, but there is no logic to supporting HRC while simultaneously condemning Ivanka.
She didn’t say word one about supporting HRC; I’m sure if and when she starts selling a line of stylish, mid-price pantsuits, Belle will omit them from the blog as well.
Dorian, this comment is pure perfection! My thoughts exactly.
I applaud your decision! I really appreciate that you work to keep an open mind and encourage meaningful discussion. This has always been such a dignified space on the internet.
I really respect you taking a stand. You’re exactly right – follow the money. Props to you, Belle.
Belle – respect to you for speaking publicly! As a self-proclaimed ‘bleeding heart liberal’, I have long respected your blog and your hinted-at politics because you present yourself as a reasonable person who thinks for herself. Thank you! Hope you are feeling better, physically!
I second this Sharon.
Belle, after reading your blog almost daily for a few years now and perceiving your political leaning, it was only recently that I ‘googled’ you and realized that indeed you have had a solidified role in republican politics. Honestly, initially I was a bit alarmed that I had followed so closely someone who was formerly with an organization that I have deep concerns about and is very polarizing. BUT, this realization challenged me because I value and respect your opinion, and trust your reasonableness in how you’ve approached different times in your life as you’ve written about here. I don’t think that everything republican is bad, and that we should always have democratic leadership – diversity offers opportunities to grow. I appreciate your voice and that you’ve chosen to express yourself publicly. Thank you and keep on.
The lower Trump goes the worse trump sympathizers say Hillary is. We went from crooked to evil Hillary. Really people?. Is she a witch now?
Hillary is a hard working woman who has the guts to not apologize for being smart. She has been in the public eye forever and more exposed than any other candidate.
Ivanka isn’t dumb either but she has no track record on public service, fighting for anything but herself and her wallet. Does she deserve a boycott? She has taken plenty of advantage of her father’s brand so I can see how her brand can be viewed as an extension of his.
I am a long time reader, although I appreciate you taking a public stance on this, I am still critical of why now. Yes, the video is disturbing but people must still think critically as why this moment/video is the last straw for what is not okay, and not his racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia. As a black Muslim woman with refugee parents who immigrated to the United States decades ago, I was long since done with Ivanka Trump products. I feel like many white woman in particular turned a blind eye to his antics because it did not directly attack them, but now (when it affects them), that is when the line is drawn in the sand.
To be fair to Belle she said she has been never a Trump from the start but relates to the position Ivanka is in. This was the tipper for Ivanka. Not Trump.
Sasha, I think the “why now” of the timing of the video being released is just pure politics. That or someone truly got fed up with him.
As for women getting up in arms about this comment, let me assure you — plenty of white women have been denouncing Trump as a racist, homophobic, xenophobic, anti-Muslim, White Power-enabling, hate-mongering bigot ever since he joined the race. I understand that, for some, this current controversy makes it seem like no one cared until their particular group felt attacked–and I’m sure, for some women, that’s exactly what happened. But you shouldn’t have to feel like you’re alone — SO MANY OF US have denounced Trump (and Cruz, and Pence…) from the get-go, and we’re behind you.
Hi Sasha! White woman here. I’ve never bought an Ivanka product and never will. I’ve long thought they were cute but refused to give that family any money, even prior to this video. I’m not defending Belle’s decision but just letting you know that for some people (white women), the “straw” that shaped my view of Ivanka Trump was long ago.
Up until several years ago, I was a moderate Republican. An enthusiastic, moderate Republican. Active in support of local politicians, VP of College Republicans at my university and living in Cincinnati, OH spent much time in the late 90’s/early 00/s actively supporting Mr. Boehner. I noticed the tide turning and in addition to supporting Republicans, I felt I had to be a vocal and unforgiving Christian. And so I moved even more to the middle. I say this in that, we need the dialogue you provide here and also raising awareness. I was horrified by the comments and find them in no way, explainable. And I am sorry to say, I did not think all the way thru to my purchases. I have been a fan for years of Ivanka’s brand. I own 15 pairs of her shoes and several handbags. And now no more. You made me realize I was not connecting my beliefs to my buying power on this and I thank you. You provide a great venue for discussion and discourse.
Thank you, Belle. Long time reader who did feel disappointed when I’d see her products. Your statement about being the child of a polarizing figure was very enlightening to me. Even though I’m a democrat/more independent, I have tremendous respect for you and all the republicans who have denounced him. I hope if my ‘side’ ever nominated someone to this degree, I would be standing strong and fierce in opposition. I have tried to hold out respect for Ivanka as she has been portrayed as the most ‘reasonable’/’stable’ of the bunch, yet it has been so ludicrous. I understand loving your father- but she can and should, publicly, stand up to him. His comments about her have been so vile.
I forgot to add- October is domestic violence awareness month. I’d encourage everyone to look for events and organizations within your community to take part in- I’m participating in several, including a 5k to benefit a local women’s resource center, next weekend. We can speak out against what is wrong, and we can also take direct action to help others. Many of these shelters need help with basic supplies – shampoo, soap, tampons, etc- the very items many of us can easily take for granted in our hectic day-to-day lives. I know there are so many strong, wonderful women reading this blog that can make significant contributions, through their time, financial resources, etc. Thanks, everyone!
I have so much respect for you, your integrity, and this blog. Thank you for taking this stand.
Thank you Belle! I’m a life-long Dem and long time fan of your blog. I too really loved Ivanka’s clothes and shoes, as well as what her brand stands for. But I completely agree with you, and I commend you for taking a stand. Please keep up the great work, you have a lot of people in your corner!
As a moderate republican who appreciates healthy debate and would fight all day, every day for the right to say what you want whether I agree with it or not, I say BRAVA!
Hi Belle. Longtime reader from Sydney, Australia here. Love your style and your blog, despite having very different political views. Regardless I totally support this decision and wish more fashion bloggers would do the same. Bravo!!!
Standing ovation. Thank you for standing up for women.
As a fan of your blog, I appreciate this immensely. Full disclosure, I’m an independent voter that currently leans Democrat. For obvious reasons, I applaud you.
[…] had another post on fashion scheduled today, but reading Belle’s vow to never buy Ivanka Trump products again, I thought I’d do this post on the spur of the moment instead, especially when asked by […]
This is a really poor business move on your part. I have followed your blog for years, and would think you would have the business acumen to keep your politics and the service you provide seperate. This is a fashion blog, not a commentary on political beliefs. Of course it is your right to make any political statements on your own blog; but this is an extreme and will polarize your readers who come here for fashion advice. From a fashion standpoint, Ivanka Trump has impeccable style and produces quality products. I think everyone can attest that no one’s family life is perfect. To punish her for the actions of her father, when she provides quality products and is inspiration to working moms everywhere is a shame. It is exactly the type of narrow minded thinking that has pushed our American government so far to the left. While I appreciate your right to have an opinion, I disagree and have lost a certain degree of respect for this blog.
There are but a handful of comments (yours included) that were critical of her stand. She’ll do fine.
I respect your opinion. And sadly, I am reluctant to patronize and click on your blog and it’s posts in the future.
I had high hopes that I could come to your blog and escape the highly politicized culture that now exists in this country. I have supported Mr. Trump from the beginning and no two bit sound bite is going to change that.
Nothing he did or said has been criminal or has even bordered on being criminal activity, unlike his competition. Looks like a lot of folks have gotten swept up in the side game and have lost sight of the forest for the trees.
Is it too much to ask for non-partisanship…in a blog?
It is bad enough that politics from all directions is essentially stuffed down our throats during every moment of everyday. You have alienated a loyal viewer.
Farewell.
It is not my intention for this reply to come off as attack-y, but think about everyone you wouldn’t support financially, politically, etc. Are they, their words, or actions all criminal?
I cannot speak for Belle or any reader but myself – but I would not be inclined to support Trump directly or indirectly even if the Presidency weren’t a concern. Personally, I choose not to eat at a popular local eatery because the owners are jackasses. That wouldn’t change because the owner ran for local mayor, or governor, senate, or President.
I’m not trying to change your mind – I appreciate your civility in spite of your difference in opinion and disappointment. I only wish to offer an alternate perspective. In my opinion, Belle has done an exceptional job of keeping politics out of Capitol Hill Style/The Work Edit. When you consider her career, frankly, it’s incredible. Given that this is a one-woman, sponsor-free operation, her operation, she is entitled to express what she wishes, just as you are entitled to read…or not.
I was a person who commented last week on my disappointment to see an Ivanka Trump item featured. I really commend you for your position on this on this and for being willing to take it. I’m a very liberal Democrat, but I have enormous respect for your political views.
You go, girl! Your integrity is admirable.
I appreciate this post, Belle, and feel the same way.
Hi Belle,
THANK YOU! As a long time reader, former Ivanka fan and mother of 3 (2 of which are girls), I applaud your decision. My daughters are not old enough to understand what is happening, but one day they will be. I can’t imagine explaining to them why it’s ok to have Ivanka Trump shoes in my closet but that what her father said was not ok. He is sending a message to millions of boys (including my son) that this is how you treat women and telling millions of girls that you should take it and then say thank you. His words are not just words!
Fellow moderate Republican working for a Republican elected official here. I’ve been reading your blog since college, but I rarely comment. I cannot thank you enough for this post. Relieved I’m not the only one who has ~had it~ with those who refuse to denounce our nominee’s comments.
While of course I applaud your decision, I must say I am the most heartened to see someone else identify themselves as a moderate Republican! This whole election season I have felt like one lone voice in the wilderness, wondering why on earth I can’t have a candidate that even marginally represents my interests. Even a little.
Anyway, brava again on your decision!
I applaud you Belle for taking a stance but i feel as though many people do what you do, wait until it is an issue that affects them directly…
When Trump made deplorable racist comments, no stance. When Trump made deplorable comments about a muslim veteran, no stance. When Trump made deplorable comments about bombing innocent people ( woman, children), no stance. But now, now that Trump has degraded a woman (a white woman), now people are getting upset. It goes back to the hierarchy of life; white males at the top, followed by white females, then minority males and last are minority females. Trump did something disgusting and despicable to the white females, and that is too close to the top..its too close to the white males. so now people are getting upset. Are you saying that what he said about minorities didnt ruffle your feathers, it didnt make you sick, it didnt question your stance? Are you saying that every other deplorable thing he has said, you were able to give him a pass for or to overlook? if so, why? Why is it okay to allow a presidential nominee say that blacks are lazy and the cause of violence or that all immigrants are terrorists and murderers.
I think that people are okay with overlooking what does not affect them. But i think that all people need to decide what is right and what is wrong, their own stance and they need to stick to it. For example, if you choose to believe that all forms of racism is wrong..stand by that. Speak up when racism is shown or spoken. dont say, ehh well i dont know and then brush it off. As young adults, knowing our individuals beliefs, choosing to hold firm and be vocal, will be the only way our society will grow and began to eliminate the injustices we are facing in this decade from from effecting our children in the next….
Belle has expressed her dislike of Trump, despite this not being a political blog. I am on the complete opposite side of the spectrum as Belle, but I understand why it has taken longer to boycott Ivanka’s business, since she isn’t the one who said or did horrible things. I myself have been uncomfortable buying anything of hers, but it isn’t so cut and dry.
Thanks for sharing. I appreciate your comment about polarizing parents. My father became an elected official after retirement and has been on one side of a very divisive issue in a very small community. It’s uncomfortable to see your parent through the eyes of their opposition. I was villainized in a public forum although I’ve never lived there and have no involvement in this issue. Like you, I tried to separate Ivanka from her father but cannot given financial ties and her actions.
I am very happy to see that you have taken this step. I did quit following this blog for a while because of the Ivanka Trump items you were posting, and I did have suspicions about your political leanings. But I came back because you were certainly not the only blogger who was still supporting Ivanka Trump, and I do think you are a strong voice for working women.
This has been such a difficult election cycle. It is difficult to know what judgments to make (not really about Donald Trump) about many of the people surrounding the campaign and my own family members who still choose to support this man.
I also have some small amount of understanding for the people who want to say that Bill Clinton deserves our ire. But it does seem the people on the right are more concerned about their hatred of Clinton than the well-being of the women he may have hurt.
I think in the end you have made the right decision, and I will continue to support the blog and share it with my friends.
My only questions to Belle and everyone is do you use the same type of decisions when buying everything? For example, do you still shop at Target if you don’t like their gender bathroom policy? Do you still shop at Walmart if you are horrified of their treatment of their employees? And the biggest one yet, do you buy ANYTHING from China given their huge humanitarian disaster and politics that oppress millions of people? It’s not as simple as it is made to be here. Unless you are living your life consistently across the board it may be perhaps hypocritical.
Except this is that simple. It is literally “I won’t support the Trump organization, so I won’t be buying Ivanka Trump products.”
It might not be perfect, but if we all try, if we do make at least some conscious decisions, we are aiming towards a more ethical life. If we only did things perfectly or not at all, we wouldn’t get far. Life is not a zero sum game. I don’t think it makes us all hypocritical, just humans struggling and thinking and having conversations.
I agree, we should all make a start. But is Ivanka Trump’s clothing line the best place to start? What has more impact, buying from a mid-priced retailer who we wear probably for work only, and probably even then only occasionally, or by changing our habits where it really impacts our life? It sort of seems like an easy way to feel good about our selves by nixing her line; yes, you can oppose Trump this way, but it isn’t like you can wave your flag for women’s issues because of it. As one person said, it really isn’t so cut and dry.
Again to echo the sentiment of, “if we only did things perfectly/the best way,” then we wouldn’t do much. It might not be the *best* place to start, but it’s a start nonetheless.
Why is it not a good place to start? And also, how do you know Belle doesn’t make those kinds of decisions in her life? Why would you accuse her of waving a flag for women’s issues? Finally, I don’t think you or any individual for that matter gets to decide what the standard for ethical consumerism is. I care more about the fact that Paula’s Choice donates money to Susan G. Komen who I abhor for their anti Planned Parenthood stance than I care about Target’s bathroom policy. Your choices might differ. I don’t get to judge your behavior as a consumer. And you don’t get to judge Belle’s and accuse her of “waving a flag.”
Yes – I refuse to shop at Walmart and Target for the way they treat their staff. We don’t purchase from Maryland because we don’t support their state legislators. I am 100% behind this ban of Ivanka Trump merchandise and never bought anything from her because I know how horrible their family is when it comes to the treatment of immigrants, minorities, and women.
Longtime daily reader chiming in with support. I appreciate your grace in admitting that this has taken too long. Thank you for doing the right thing, rather than remaining silent.
So glad you decided to donate the profits to Joyful Heart! It is a great organization that advocates for victims and is at the frontlines of changing our culture.
Thanks for taking a stance Belle. I’ve read you for many years and enthusiastically support your decision.
Thank you for taking this stance Belle and what a great charity to donate to.
I understand the initial struggle, but I commend you on making the right decision and will continue to enjoy this blog!
Thank you for being courageous enough to publicly take a stand; I can imagine it wasn’t an easy decision to come to. Even though there are a handful who have disavowed TWE/CHS, there are many, many more of us applauding.
I wonder why you felt the need to inform the readers of your decision instead of making this decision and donating privately? I’ve always been taught that charity should be something you do because it is right, and not to seek personal commendation for doing what should be done from the beginning – helping those less fortunate. Why didn’t you just stop including them in your recommendations? Political opinions are crammed down our throats on a daily basis via every type of media there is. I enjoy your blog and I have been reading it daily since you started. I like seeing your fashion picks and reading your fashion advice. However, I’m not interested in your political opinions. Unfortunately, I doubt I will be back to your site. Best of luck to you in your future endeavors.
I thought she politely side stepped election talk by not talking about who she was voting for and instead focused on who she would support financially. Lots of conservative republicans hate trump but are still voting with their party.
Blair, she makes money when readers click on affiliate links, and that includes Ivanka Trump products. If she didn’t inform us of the decision she made to give those funds to charity, I’m sure there would be dozens of comments ridiculing her for taking an ideological stand despite profiting off of previously posted products.
Belle– I made a conscious decision to stop reading your blog (but followed you on Instagram) when I realized that you continued to promote IT products. I was really unhappy about it, but I respected your decision to post what you wanted on your blog, despite not agreeing with you on why supporting Ivanka was still okay even when you didn’t support her father.
I’m ecstatic to see this post and I’m really excited now to catch up on the backlog of CHS posts I’ve missed and continue to read your posts regularly.
I admire and respect your decision. I wasn’t planning on commenting – instead was opting for sending silent support your way. Then I read the comments section. There are a few who detailed that they were disappointed in your decision because this is supposed to be a non-partisan space. I decided it was important to chime in and say that it is critical to me that non-partisan citizens oppose supporting, financially or otherwise, the spread of such hatred towards literally all marginalized groups. While Ivanka Trump is not her father and there was a point when I too did not fault her for the sins of her father, it is clear that she is an active participant in placing him in a position of power. That, to me, is enough to direct my consumer choices to other brands. I absolutely see it as the place of your blog to discuss your decision to disengage with her brand. While some may feel otherwise, you have overwhelming support from many of your readers.
I just started reading you blog this year and I guess I will say goodbye as well. I don’t and can’t understand that you and so many of your readers are so nearsighted and would rather throw away their future and their daughter’s futures by voting for the criminal HRC, and her criminal husband. Maybe go back and read history…he raped woman and she demonized them! Don’t pretend you care about the rights of women when you support someone that horrible. She will make our country unrecognizable with supreme court justices and 300,000 syrian refugees. Trump said some stupid words, and that’s all you care about!?? Beyonce has worst lyrics and no one ever says anything about that. Shameful.
I don’t get this argument about Beyonce lyrics. She is not running for President.
Thank you Belle.
Belle, I applaud your decision and really respect that you’re donating past profits from click-throughs of Ivanka’s products to a charity that fights the very thing that her father thinks is merely “locker room talk.” Thank you for your integrity and for always being brave enough to speak up about tough things!
I absolutely love this – thank you, Belle. This is classy as he**!
Thank you for publicly taking a stand. Many bloggers are fearful to take a stand for fear of losing followers. You have not lost me, I applaud you! I am deeply concerned with the future of this nation and know that voting for him is not the solution. Yesterday at Bloomingdale’s I picked up a cute pair of tassel loafers and immediately put them down when I saw the brand: Ivanka Trump. I refuse to support that family.
Belle – Cheers to you for making this decision and not shying away from sharing with your readers. I’m a longtime fan of this blog (despite political differences) and will continue to enjoy this space and the fantastic content you create. Thank you!
I am SO GLAD you wrote this, but not because of anything partisan. I have been struggling with this decision as well. I LOVE her shoes and her brand, but I have been questioning my morality and my positions in life if I continue to financially support this. I am grateful to know that there is another voice in the world that has been thinking about this the same way I have been thinking, so I say THANK YOU for putting this out there, from one professional woman to another.
I support this, totally! You go, girl!
xxoo
Mary
http://www.BelleOnTrend.com
Thanks for this post, Belle. I think it’s becoming increasingly important that consumers become aware of whom they support with their buying power. To me, this is not so much a political position as an ethical and social one. I also appreciate your efforts to make your blog a very transparent one. Props to you!
Belle,
This is a classy, informed, thoughtful, and graceful way of handling a change of heart. As a long-time reader with a moderate political stance, I appreciate your general lack of partisanships in this blog. That being said, I strongly believe that values and actions need to reflect each other. I commend your consideration of the many facets of this issue and ultimately voting with your green dollar votes to align your actions with your values.
I will continue to be a (mostly) daily reader and recommend CapHillStyle to interns, junior professionals, and newly transplanted DC ladies. CHS is a great resource for all.
Thank you for your dedication to this blog through your many life changes,
Kc
[…] video that showed Trump talking about grabbing women “by the pussy” emerged, Belke wrote a post saying she wouldn’t be featuring the Ivanka Trump brand any […]