Events: Button Drive


Button, button, who’s got the button!?

Throughout the month of June I am hosting a Button Drive to collect used, vintage, and otherwise unwanted buttons. If you have one, two, five or fifty buttons you’d like to give up I’ll give you a 30% discount to my Etsy shop for sending them my way! All you have to do is fill out the form below and wait for my confirmation. Then we’ll swap info and I’ll send you a coupon code. Nice and easy! Continue reading

A Day at the Market

Farmer’s Market season is in its full glory this time of year in Chicago – and I’m reaping the benefits! Supporting local farmers and food artisans is just the start. Market shoppers find the best quality produce while building relationships with the people who grow it. Forging this link between the food, the maker and the consumer creates a connection that’s been lost over the years with the advent of the one-stop shopping grocery store chains.

So if you’re looking for great food, people and a welcome atmosphere – find a farmer’s market near you. You’ll be glad you did!

Item of the Week: Frills & Thrills

It feels like summer in Chicago – and I can’t bring myself to wear anything with length! That’s why the Frills & Thrills tank immediately came to mind when picking my “Item of the Week.” Made using ribbed cotton, these racer backs tops are embellished with a vintage button and lace, giving them a touch of whimsy while remaining simple enough to pair with almost anything in your closet! I use mine for layering with high-waisted skirts but they also look great with skinny jeans or layers. Welcome summer with me in this adorable design!

Designs: Mix N Match Swim

My latest line of upcycled made-to-order swimwear is here – and the designs are better than ever!

The “Mix N Match” collection in my Etsy shop allows you to pair your favorite top with the perfect bottom. This gives you the option to choose the bikini combo that flatters your figure most. Everyone knows that a good fit and design is key to looking and feeling confident on the beach – which is why customization is key!

What’s the best combination for my figure? I am “top heavy” and prefer to minimize my bust. So my favorite pairing is the boy short bottom and the bandeau top. Sporty with just a bit of flirty – it’s my perfect combo as it lets me swim or lounge in the sun!

What’s your body shape and ideal swimsuit cut? Share below!

Trends: White Lace

I’ve been in love with white lace for some time now – but it’s recently that I’ve noticed it cropping up in trends from housewares to mainstream fashion. The trick with white lace is to use it in one of two ways – as a subtle accent or all out for a voluminous texture. The remaining elements, from outfits to decorating, need to be simple to make the look work. And when in doubt – it’s always easiest to go vintage when pairing this elegant fabric with everyday items. Give it a try and you’re sure to be happy with the results!

diy doily lamps; white lace tattoo; bohemian white curtains; pierogi picnic tank top; diy lace suitcase; white lace and rings; lace shorts

Item of the Week: Urban Folk Tunic

It really doesn’t matter how tall, small, curvy or lean you are – tunics are a girl’s best friend! They elongate our torsos while covering our bums. What more could you ask for? Whether with tight jeans, a skirt or cutesy shorts, you can do no wrong with a lengthy tunic.

The Urban Folk design brings together this flattering shape with one of my favorite natural images: bare tree branches. I use a deconstructed t-shirt and hand-pull the print across the soft cotton. I then sew the shape and seams, creating an external gathered hem which gives just enough volume to bring an edge to an otherwise soft shape. The concept also gives the wearer a cinch at the waist without making them feel constricted anywhere else.

So when looking for a flattering, edgy, yet comfortable (yes – it’s possible!) piece, the Urban Folk Tunic is a three-in-one dream come true!