My Designs: The Birth of a Bathing Suit

May 7, 2012May 10, 2012Leave a comment

One of my all-time favorite things to do is roll out of bed early in the morning on any given weekend and hit the studio for some sewing. It’s when my brain is freshest, my eyes sharpest, and the light is just right.

With a steaming homemade latte in one hand, and a sharp pair of fabric scissors in the other, I indulge in the stillness of a morning by cut cut cutting through textiles. The photo above documents one such dawn as I hand craft a custom order bathing suit. A delicate endeavor, each curve must be done with absolute precision to ensure a perfect fit for the wearer. And what better time to embark on such a project as a crisp cool Sunday morn.

Item of the Week: No Sweat

April 25, 2012April 25, 2012Leave a comment

I have a love/hate relationship with Spring. Sure it’s a time to reflect on new beginnings, watch the flowers grow and the like. But the season also brings flirtations of warmer weather, just to plunge us back into cool mornings and nights. That’s why when picking this week’s featured item I instantly thought of the “no sweat” design.

Handmade from thrifted men’s sweatshirts, these cozy tops have a warm fleecy exterior but have a loose cut that allows for a comfy feel. The “no sweat” piece has a perfect balance of style and function – making it a design that can be utilized in this season or the next.

Item of the Week: Never Never Land

April 20, 2012April 21, 2012Leave a comment

Peter pan collars are uber popular these days – so it must have been a stroke of genius or ESP when I debuted the Never Never Land design last year. These tops take cotton t-shirts and transform them into cinched comfy tunics. I then screen print the shape of a vintage collar around the necklines for a flirty retro look. Easy to wear and wash – they’re one of my all-time favorite designs.

Item of the Week: Sir Cycle

April 10, 2012April 10, 20122 Comments

Spring is in full swing in Chicago – which can only mean one thing – nutty weather! That’s why having lots of layer-ables is key in the windy city this time of year. The Sir Cycle design was created with this kind of versatility in mind.

I crafted this particular men’s cut after receiving a convo from a Pierogi Picnic fan, asking if I had any hooded sweatshirts for guys, which I didn’t. She specifically wanted something that her boyfriend could wear while biking – which meant it would have to be comfortable, convertible and warm – all at once.

And that’s how the “Sir Cycle” design was born! With her help, I crafted a soft yet stretchy men’s piece that can be used with a hood, cowl, or none of the above when unbuttoned. It’s now one of my favorite pieces to custom create, and my own biking hubby can attest to it’s style and function.

Item of the Week: Clara Bow Top

March 28, 2012Leave a comment

This is one of my favorite shirt designs! Created from second-hand turtle necks, the Clara Bow tops are super soft and stretchy thanks to the blended cotton mix. The scoop back gives wearers a *wink wink* look while still staying demure. The lacy bow is a marriage of my two favorite things. Can you guess? Lace and bows! I knew you were sharp. I also adore the over the shoulder gaze of Kelli in this photo. What a beauty she is!

This top is part of my Moving Sale, which ends tonight at midnight. So scoop it up at a discount while you can!

Item of the Week: Gradients of Grey

March 22, 2012March 21, 2012Leave a comment

This adorable blazer was handmade using an upcycled grey sweatshirt. I slimmed down the seams, shortened and reshaped the sleeves and transformed the front to have an adjustable collar.

The reason why I love it is two fold: The fabric is incredibly soft and feels great against the skin. I also love it’s versatility! Leave it buttoned for a classic blazer shape, or undue both of the top ones for more of a cardigan feel.

This unique piece is currently discounted as part of this week’s “Moving Sale.” Take an additional 30% off at checkout with the coupon code “movingsale2012.”

New Designs: Stormy Weather Skirt

December 21, 20112 Comments

Dropping temperatures don’t have to equal over-bundling and under-styling. Fight the chill by throwing on a pair of leggings, boots, long sleeve fitted top and a skirt for instant comfort and glamor.

And if you’re looking for the perfect piece, my new “Stormy Weather” design fits the bill! Boasting ruffled fabric at the waist and a bubbled lower hem, it creates a slightly a-line shape that’s not just cozy, but also flattering. My favorite detail? The reverse applique rain drops! Filled with vintage lace, the contrast between the fabrics’ textures, plus, the whimsical cutout, make it an eye-catching detail that won’t go ignored.