An Indie Biz: My 50th Photo Shoot

This past month I held my fiftieth, that’s right 5-0-th, photo shoot for Pierogi Picnic. That’s 50 sets of clothing, 50 modelling sessions, 50 folders filled with product photos.

Hitting such a big milestone shouldn’t be taken lightly – so I thought it appropriate to take a trip down memory lane. Here’s a look at the evolution of my photos since launching Pierogi Picnic five years ago.

50 photo shoots: Pierogi Picnic

News: Final Call for Hoodies!

pierogi picnic: eco friendly sir cycle sweatshirt hoodie

One of the many quirks of running a business that relies on using upcycled fibers is that, depending on the season, my fabric options can become extremely limited.

After spending several summers super stressed out, unable to find the pre-loved sweatshirts I needed for my popular Sir Cycle and Ms Cycle hoodies, I’ve learned my lesson. From here on out these made to order pieces will only be available in the fall and winter, when sourcing upcycled heavy knits is much much easier. Making this simple shift will save me hours upon hours – allowing more time for creating new designs and summer orders.

So this is the official final call for all of you who have been eyeing either of these designs. I will be taking down all of the custom hoodie listings on May 5th, and they won’t be returning until September. So be sure to snatch up your order now!

upcycled fabric: womens miss cycle cowl sweatshirt from pierogi picnic

Designs: Dawn + Dusk Collection

Pierogi Picnic: Dawn + Dusk Collection

It’s finally here!

After months of sketching, sewing and tweaking, I am excited to officially debut my newest collection for Pierogi Picnic! 

The Dawn + Dusk collection combines upcycled and vintage fabrics to create clothing that’s as stylish as it is sustainable. Merging warm and cool tones with soft textures and classic shapes, these unique pieces are perfect for wearing day and night. And as always, each piece is eco-friendly, handmade, and one-of-a-kind.

Design It Yourself series: Pierogi PIcnic

One part ready-made, one part custom order, the Dawn + Dusk collection offers eco fashionistas two different avenues in which to express their style.  The first is a limited edition set of pieces that was made out of vintage fabrics. That includes skirts, tops and accessories that are beyond replication. The second option is the new “Design It Yourself” series. With this option shoppers pick a base color, silhouette and embellishment and I create a piece that’s as unique as the wearer. 

 Whether ready to send or made to order, Dawn + Dusk collection has brought together some of my favorite silhouettes with soft fabrics, a green methodology and a feminine touch. View the full collection in my Etsy shop today!

DSCN3654 2DSCN3571Pierogi Picnic: Dawn + Dusk Collection DSCN3556 Pierogi Picnic: Dawn + Dusk Collection

Coming Soon: The Dawn + Dusk Collection

Pierogi Picnic: Dusk + Dawn

I’m just a big tease!

Having announced that the debut of the new Dawn + Dusk collection would occur today – I realized just this past weekend how much more photo editing I had yet to do before showcasing all the new designs.

So…if you have it in your heart to forgive this one-woman-clothing-show, I’m postponing the big reveal for April 22nd, which is also Earth Day! So save the date, check back here in a week, and I hope to have more details for you.

In the meantime – here are a few sneak peeks to tide you over.

Enjoy!

Pierogi Picnic: Eco friendly, affordable, design savvy clothing

Pierogi Picnic: Eco friendly, affordable, design savvy clothing

Pierogi Picnic: Eco friendly, affordable, design savvy clothing

An Indie Biz: The Coming Spring

the coming spring

Today is the first of March – which means we’re just a couple of weeks and a few days from spring!

Winter’s always a difficult time for me to be productive, which seems counter-intuitive, right? With record breaking cold and snow, you’d think that all that time indoors would lead to bursts of creativity and hours upon hours of sewing. But that simply isn’t so. Despite my efforts to remain optimistic, I find that winter brings a malaise and lack of drive, at least when it comes to my creative ventures. Instead of focusing on business plans, product designs and photography, I give in to the temptations of snuggling with my pets, movie marathons and cooking fatty, delicious foods. Eating them too of course!

But in these next few days the clouds will start to part and tiny sprigs of life will begin to burst from the ground. It’s a time when both nature and my creativity begin to bloom. Which is why I’m excited that today marks the nearing of winter’s end and the beginning of a season of artistic bounty.

Happy March!

Designs: A Bow On It

pierogi picnic: turban headband earwarmer

Just when we thought we had a taste of spring another winter storm has whipped through the Chicago area. For that reason, it only seems natural to continue showcasing pieces that will keep you nice and warm through the end of the season. And my “A Bow On It” designs will do just that!

Handmade using vintage knit sweaters – these adorable turbans are headbands and ear-warmers in one. Keeping your noggin toasty, without giving you a case of dreaded hat-head, these practical and cutesy accessories are just what you need to get you through this final stretch of winter. In a variety of colors and prints, they’re a great way to add a pop of style to your cold weather ensembles.