Design: Midnight in Paris

To no one’s surprise I just can’t get enough of cotton. This super soft, durable, breathable material is a dream come true – especially in the winter month’s when itchy wools wreak havoc on my skin! So when choosing the fiber for my new “Midnight in Paris” design the choice was easy.

This new piece has a classic a-line shape that is crafted from an over-sized pre-loved t-shirt. I leave the neck hem intact but everything else is cut and resewn for a new silhouette. My favorite part of this adorable tunic is the detachable straps that can be tied together to create a bow, or left off for a more minimalist finish.

Great for layering with oversized vintage sweaters and leggings or for donning with ombre tights and heels – this is an elegant (and affordable!) design that I’m sure will become a staple here at Pierogi Picnic.

Item of the Week: Sweet Stitch

My obsession with sweatshirts continues with this new and uber-comfortable pullover design!

Handmade from pre-loved men’s tops, my new “Sweet Stitch” ladies fit sweaters have the cozy goodness of fleece with a cute cut that flatters and smooths. Including a subtle hi-low bottom hem, 3/4 length sleeves and a loose fit, these sweatshirts are trendy while retaining a classic winter chic.

Embellished with a hand-cut, hand-stenciled design that boasts fun geometric shapes, each top is also embroidered with a contrasting stitch, giving them a detailed charm. Great for wearing with jeans or dressing up with a tunic, leggings and boots, these sweatshirts make a great gift for any green gal this holiday season!

Item of the Week: No Sweat

I love love love fall! The leaves are shifting hues, the air is crisp and cool and it’s the perfect time of year for layering up in cozy clothes! So when thinking of which design to feature this week, the choice seemed easy: My handmade No Sweat cowl tops! These uber comfy sweaters are upcycled from oversized sweatshirts – giving each piece a green spin and soft feel.

Mixing an edgy shape with the casual feel of cotton fleece makes each piece utilitarian yet comfy. And with the oversized turtleneck and lacy touch – it has just enough class to make it wearable to work! Great with skinny jeans and boots or a pencil skirt and leggings – this is one of my favorite designs for the season!

Designs: Peek-A-Boo Chevron

I’ve been holding out on all of you – I created this beautiful new design at the end of August and debuted it at Renegade – but just recently snuck it into a photo shoot. Forgive me for the delay!

Featuring a super soft upcycled cotton, the new “Peek-A-Boo Chevron” cardigan has a loose boyfriend sweater fit and a fun cut-out lace applique across the back which makes for a unique textural combo. The dress comes with a matching cotton belt so that it can be tied in a variety of ways. It also has a black removable button that lets the wearer pin it in the center, at the top, or keep it removed all together. Great for wearing over a summer dress to transition it into fall, or with skinny jeans and a tank, the versatility of this piece is what makes it such a hit in my book.

So now that I’ve literally pulled it from the closet – what do you think?

Designs: Dress or Tunic?

Someone at a recent event grabbed hold of my new Point of Light design and asked, “Is it a dress or a tunic?”And it wasn’t the first time I’d had the question.

“Both” I exclaimed!

Known as either super-short dresses or extra-long tops, dress tunics are great for their versatility. The edgy length means they can be worn layered with a slip and leggings for a flirty look or jeans for something more casual.

So next time you’re shopping for something that can change along with the season’s, consider this unique category of clothing. You’ll find yourself smitten in no time!

Events: Renegade Sneak Peak

I always promise myself to stick to what I know in the weeks leading up to big events like Renegade – but then inspiration hits – and I can’t stop myself from making something brand spanking new! This past week alone I’ve made at least four new creations that I’ll be debuting this Saturday.

One is the “Bow Peep” belt which I hand-crafted using fabric scraps, unbleached elastic and a hook clasp. I made something similar a month back using t-shirt remnants, but this morning I gave the design a twist by making the bow out of a different cotton fabric. The result is better than I anticipated! I love how the solid color of the belt brings out the geometric chevron print of the bow. A job well done (if I’m allowed to say so!).

I’ll be making a bunch more of these for this round of Renegade. If you’re in Chicago – be sure to swing by my booth (#48) to see them in person!

Item of the Week: Hello Doily

I am absolutely loving on this new design! It combines many of my favorite elements in one simple and chic skirt. The soft upcycled cotton makes a perfect base for a flirty shape and hand-stenciled prints.

And for the gal who is obsessed with the peplum trend – but can’t find the confidence to sport the skin-tight pencil skirts they come on – this is the perfect solution! The a-line cut is flattering for many shapes, be it curvy or straight, and gives the wearer space to move.

Currently available made-to-order – this skirt will be debuting in a variety of shades as ready-to-wear in late September. So keep your eyes peeled to my Etsy shop.