Trends: Color Report Fall 2012

Every few months Pantone puts together a color report to summarize hue trends for the upcoming season. In a surprising twist – the palette for fall has a unique smattering of shades – many that would normally be found in a spring collection. I picked my four favorites hues and compiled a series of eye-catching looks from Etsy to get you thinking about Autumn.

Vernon blouse by Kimmy Kuo

Oval N5 brooch by Verónica de Arriba

Sunrise Anonymous bear leggings by Qoo Qoo Fashions

Girl with Dotty Scarf by 10antemeridian

Point of Light tunic dress by Pierogi Picnic

Danae lace collar necklace by White Owl

In With the Old, Out With the New

We all know the meaning of the word ‘adopt.’ Many of us think about orphaned children or homeless animals when hearing the verb, but what about object adoptions? Rather than purchasing mass-produced, manufactured goods new, consider changing the look of your home with pre-loved objects instead. You’ll find that you’ll create a captivating ambiance while giving an otherwise landfill-destined item a new chance for use.

People often come over and note our unique decor style and don’t realize our aesthetic was never intentional. Our mantra, for many years, has been to avoid purchasing furniture and other housewares new whenever possible. And while the DIY spirit can be felt as well – it’s really our commitment to re-using as much as possible that brings the look of our place together.

Our home is filled with tiny upcycled treasures in each nook and cranny. The majority of items came from antique markets, garage sales, dumpster dives, thrift stores or hand-me-downs. Whether it’s our couch frame that we bought from a gal in Andersonville, or the many glass bottles we’ve collected over the years, each piece has a history that gives a room it’s own character.

So next time you’re itching for a splash of color, or a new side table, consider hunting down items that are ready for re-homing. Not only will you achieve a one-of-a-kind interior design, you’ll also be lightening your footprint too.

Inspiration: Wycinanki

I am heading to Poland this August to spend time with family, and it’s got me thinking about my roots. And with these musings comes the question – how do I translate my heritage into my designs? How can I integrate my background into the clothing I make?

These questions led me to the idea for a new set of designs inspired by Polish “Wycinanki.” What literally translates as “cut-outs,” this  tradition unites a pair of scissors and sheet of paper to create stunning high contrast designs. Symmetrical, whimsical and super folksy, wycinanki are made for seasonal decor by children and adults alike. Artists also use the technique for intricate detail work that has a characteristic finish that invokes Eastern European stylistics.

I’ll be debuting my new pieces which include home-made wycinanki stencil work later this month. So check back to see where this inspiration has led me.

DIY: Taking Your Measurements

One of the most common questions I receive from clients and fans is: “How do I take my measurements.”

What can seem like an intimidating or daunting task is really a quick 50 second process that will help determine your sizing for Pierogi Picnic designs and beyond!

Watch my handy-dandy video tutorial to help you take stock of your curves for both readymade and custom orders.

DIY: Mirror Mirror on the Wall

Bargain hunting, thrifting, flea hopping, dumpster diving – however you do it and whatever you call it – there’s something to be said for salvaging used goods and bringing them home. Rather than purchasing a newly manufactured item, scooping up a vintage or pre-loved piece is a sure-fire way to give your home character while keeping your wallet feeling thick. But the key to re-using any kind of item is giving it a new spin. Which is where a little paint and elbow grease come in!  Continue reading