I’ve been watching a lot of The Cosby Show on Netflix lately and couldn’t help but feel inspired by the wacky fashion that was donned during the series. In ode to the classic “Cosby” sweater I’ve come up with this fun pencil skirt that I’ve handcrafted from vintage sweaters. Look for the design at this weekend’s Renegade Craft Fair and in my Etsy shop in the weeks to come.
Category: My Designs
New Designs: Never, Never, Land
I have a slight obsession with Peter Pan collars – and it shows! This new design takes the school girl look of this classic adornment to a new level. Instead of sewing on a separate piece I created a screen print that can be added onto any of my designs. The new tunic series “Never, Never, Land” that features the print also boasts pleated sleeves, a cinched elastic waist, and a beautiful palette that includes blueberry, ochre, tangerine and salmon. This is definitely one of my all-time favorite Pierogi Picnic designs. Find it at the Renegade Craft Fair September 10th and 11th or hit up the Etsy shop for a custom order.
New Designs: Clara Bow
Here is one of my favorite new designs for the fall! The new Clara Bow takes soft thrifted turtle necks and transforms them into chic yet simple tops. I love the fabric composite of cotton and jersey – which is what made the original shirts perfect for reconstruction. The fact that they’re so pliable also means that I can layer them with high waisted skirts or with some simple skinny jeans. My favorite detail by far though is the deep scooped back that I embellished with a bow created from vintage lace curtains. Love this final touch.
An Indie Biz: Sewing Process
The beginning stages of design are what get your creative juices flowing. But once you’ve worked out the kinks of a new form and how it’s constructed the true thrill lies in bringing that idea to life!
Lately I’ve been really inspired by old fashioned Victorian shapes. I spent all of July sketching new ensembles that would pull from the ideas of the era while remaining fresh and modern. It’s not just the lace that draws me in – it’s also the layers and volume found in the outfits from the period. Bringing the aesthetic into the current century with an indie twist was my main goal.
So first I started out with a set of 2 men’s t-shirts in varying shades of red. I cut and snipped each into the sections that would later be sewn together to create a shift dress embellished with an asymmetrical bustle.
After sewing the gradient of geometric layers together I stitched the bottom portion of the dress, adding elastic around the top edge to create a cinch at the waist. Then I attached the bustle to the right hip before bringing together the top of the piece.
The result is one of my favorite new Pierogi Picnic designs! A practical cotton dress with just the right zing to give it a whimsical and chic feel. The only thing left to do is come up with a unique name for the design. What would you call it?
New Designs: Dear Darling Dress
With the Chicago Renegade Craft Fair quickly approaching I have been dedicating every Saturday of this month to making new designs for the fall season and mega craft fest. This adorable dress is one of many new creations that will grace my booth at the fair.
Made of lightweight cotton that was salvaged from a men’s t-shirt – this dress has a feminine lace and embroidery floss embellishment across the front. I especially enjoy the contrast between the softness of the cotton and the elegance of the vintage fabric. Continue reading
Planning Ahead: Fall Fashion 2011
I was reading through the Etsy Blog and came across an article about uber entrepreneur Melissa Helmbrecht and was instantly floored.
The post chronicles Melissa’s diverse array of achievements and shares her 3 piece of advice for small indie businesses. Her very first tip has haunted me since I read the article: 1. Do what you don’t feel like doing.
When I read this I had to stop, go back, and read it again. At first I had thought it said “do what you feel like doing” and thought to myself, “yeah!” Boy was I bummed when I processed it again. “What do you mean do what you don’t want to? That’s not what I want to hear!”
The article continues by reviewing the need for a business plan and forward thinking – none of which I’m against – but to be reminded of this on a warm lazy summer day hit a nerve.
I was suddenly overwhelmed – the fall season was just a mere 3 months away and I hadn’t even stopped one moment to dream up my cool weather designs. The business plan is intact – but what about the core of my brand – the clothing!?
So after ordering up some steaming sweet and sour tofu takeout I sat down to plot, draw, and dream my Fall 2011 collection. And if you think I’m stalling (don’t fashion designers figure this out year’s in advance!?) then remember that I’m not your typical clothing designer and that at times spontaneity and procrastination can lead to high pressure thinking and fabulous results!
And in case you’re just itching to see some of my thoughts I’ve included a page from my business journal above. Which leads me to wonder – have you planned out your ideas for the coming season? When did you get started? Share your insights below!
Summer is Here!
Today is the full-out first official weekend of summer!
My plan for the day? To celebrate in as many ways as possible! I’ve already started by visiting the first Edgewater Farmer’s Market day where I sucked down delicious iced coffee from Kitchen Sink, picked up fingerling potatoes, cremini mushrooms and real strawberries from local vendors. Then David and I migrated to the secret neighborhood garden with Peanut & Butter where we noshed on a fresh piece of moist blueberry coffee cake – a perfect start to the day. As we plan our beach outing and visit to the new custard stand Lickety Split, I’m also plotting which of my newest designs I will be sporting on this beautiful sunny morning.
How will you be celebrating your first summer weekend? What will you be wearing?
Shiny Happy*People 