With this unique boutique, the spirit of the South gets a stylish spin.

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, there’s a boutique that brings the essence of the South alive–a marriage of classic charm and bold brilliance. Welcome to Sinful Southern Belles, the brainchild of Kelly Barnaba, a woman whose journey in the fashion industry has been nothing short of eclectic and inspirational.

The name Sinful Southern Belles is a playful nod to Kelly’s love for a brand that she came across during her tenure at a big corporate retail store. Mesmerized by their unique tattoo art-inspired designs, rhinestones, and splashes of vibrant colors, the brand ‘Sinful’ became an integral part of her wardrobe. But the ‘Southern Belle’ component? That’s all Kelly, a woman with a deep-rooted love for the charm and elegance of the South, as her family would often tease. Kelly combined her two worlds. ‘Sinful’ for her audacious spirit, and ‘Southern Belle’ for her southern charm. Thus, Sinful Southern Belles was born, encapsulating Kelly’s vibrant and multifaceted persona.

Kelly started in the fashion world at age 18. From a corporate retail store to an exciting journey across the country setting up booths at trade shows and rodeos, Kelly’s experience is as diverse as her style. At 26, armed with a dream and an apartment that doubled as her workshop, Kelly began crafting jewelry and headbands. This marked the inception of what would later become a brand synonymous with distinctive style.

Sinful Southern Belles opened its online store in 2017, followed by its storefront location in June of 2021.  Both offer a whimsical blend of hippy, gypsy, and cowgirl styles. Imagine if Dolly Parton decided to throw the most fabulous birthday bash–that’s the vibe! But it’s more than just clothes; it’s a story, a memory, an emotion. Every visit is an experience, whether you’re hunting for that perfect concert ensemble, a date night dress, vacation vibes, or everyday clothes. With an amazing team including Kay Bass and Mya Pennington, the boutique offers every woman a chance to find her own unique style. More importantly, Kelly emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring there’s something for every woman, irrespective of size.

Kelly’s mantra is clear: think outside the box.

Twice a year, she scours markets…searching not for bestsellers, but for overlooked treasures, unique pieces that Sinful Southern Belles can transform into every woman’s must-have. They then bring these pieces back to the shop and show women how to style them to their liking.

Kelly’s vision transcends commerce; it’s about building relationships, forging connections, and giving back. In 2022, they won the best customer service award from the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce. Actively participating in local events, Sinful Southern Belles is a testament to Kelly’s belief in community engagement and local upliftment.

What’s in store for Sinful Southern Belles? Nashville! Kelly’s 10-year vision includes a storefront on Broadway in one of her favorite cities, with aspirations to expand as the brand continues to flourish. And if the journey so far is any indicator, this dream isn’t far from reality.

For those looking to walk the entrepreneurial path, Kelly offers sage advice: “Stay true to yourself. Find your niche, stand out, and always be genuine. Find what sets you apart, and let that be your compass.”

Home is where the heart is, and for Kelly, Cleveland is home. Married for six years, mother to two adorable children, Kelly’s business is a true family affair. From setting up booths at events to being involved in the day-to-day operations, the family stands united in making Sinful Southern Belles a success.

Among Cleveland’s many offerings, the new theater with a live music venue, reminiscent of the iconic Grand Ole Opry, is one of the things Kelly loves best about Cleveland right now. A fan of all things vintage, this theater holds a special place in Kelly’s heart. She even had the opportunity to decorate the green room for the visiting artists. Of course, she decked it out in vintage records and her funky style!

Ready to embark on a stylish southern adventure? Visit Sinful Southern Belles at 109 North College, Cleveland, or dive into the online experience at www.sinfulsouthernbellesbtq.com. And if social media’s your thing, find them on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok.

You’re invited to come discover what makes Sinful Southern Belles not just a store, but a lifestyle!