I am honored to be featured in another round of Etsy Finds. Today’s email blast ran with the theme of “Bold & Beautiful” and highlighted a number of trends. What was one of them? Color blocking! And I’m proud to report that my eco-chic ‘Night Shift” dress was included in the spread.
I first reported on the emerging trend of mullet hems last year. Since then it seems the style of high-low hems has exploded as dresses, tops, and skirts all don the assymetrical dip. I have always been a fan of the style and am happy to see it hitting the mainstream. So when choosing my “Item of the Week,” it seemed natural to feature my new “Point Out the Way” tunic.
Handmade from a pre-loved men’s t-shirt, this edgy design features a lengthier back hem that’s cut to a point and a front that’s raised in a ‘v.’ The back also has a lovely geometric cut that brings a touch of grace to an otherwise sporty look. And with the tie at the neck it makes adjusting the fit super easy. Keep an eye out in my Etsy shop for more of these tops in various hues.
We all know the meaning of the word ‘adopt.’ Many of us think about orphaned children or homeless animals when hearing the verb, but what about object adoptions? Rather than purchasing mass-produced, manufactured goods new, consider changing the look of your home with pre-loved objects instead. You’ll find that you’ll create a captivating ambiance while giving an otherwise landfill-destined item a new chance for use.
People often come over and note our unique decor style and don’t realize our aesthetic was never intentional. Our mantra, for many years, has been to avoid purchasing furniture and other housewares new whenever possible. And while the DIY spirit can be felt as well – it’s really our commitment to re-using as much as possible that brings the look of our place together.
Our home is filled with tiny upcycled treasures in each nook and cranny. The majority of items came from antique markets, garage sales, dumpster dives, thrift stores or hand-me-downs. Whether it’s our couch frame that we bought from a gal in Andersonville, or the many glass bottles we’ve collected over the years, each piece has a history that gives a room it’s own character.
So next time you’re itching for a splash of color, or a new side table, consider hunting down items that are ready for re-homing. Not only will you achieve a one-of-a-kind interior design, you’ll also be lightening your footprint too.
I am heading to Poland this August to spend time with family, and it’s got me thinking about my roots. And with these musings comes the question – how do I translate my heritage into my designs? How can I integrate my background into the clothing I make?
These questions led me to the idea for a new set of designs inspired by Polish “Wycinanki.” What literally translates as “cut-outs,” this tradition unites a pair of scissors and sheet of paper to create stunning high contrast designs. Symmetrical, whimsical and super folksy, wycinanki are made for seasonal decor by children and adults alike. Artists also use the technique for intricate detail work that has a characteristic finish that invokes Eastern European stylistics.
I’ll be debuting my new pieces which include home-made wycinanki stencil work later this month. So check back to see where this inspiration has led me.
Flowers, butterflies and sun – oh my!
David and I had a chance to get a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the Chicago Botanic Gardens this past Saturday via my friend and small group colleague Cindy Baker. And what an experience! This expanse of curated gardens and restored prairie sits upon 350+ acres of land in the far Northern reaches of the Chicago suburbs and is a plant lovers dream come true! Continue reading
One of the most common questions I receive from clients and fans is: “How do I take my measurements.”
What can seem like an intimidating or daunting task is really a quick 50 second process that will help determine your sizing for Pierogi Picnic designs and beyond!
Watch my handy-dandy video tutorial to help you take stock of your curves for both readymade and custom orders.
Shiny Happy*People 