Inspiration: Mermaids the film

I don’t know how – but I had never seen the early nineties film Mermaids until recently. I can’t believe what I had been missing! Gracing the screen are gems such as Cher, Winona Ryder and a wee little Christina Ricci. But what got me beyond the great plot, kitschy quality and great art direction was the styling. Here’s how to emulate the movie’s incredible looks:

floral sleeveless blousered vintage high waisted pantsvintage cream cardigan

vintage black crushed velvet dressdetachable white peter pan collarpeach blossom mineral blush

vintage mini dress in pinkmineral cheek and lip colorblack headband

eye brow pencilblue in seattle tunictomato complexion soap

Trends: Neon Florals

The weather is warm, the season is right and I’m seeing neon patterns every which way I turn! I’m loving the neo-floral prints I’ve been spotting on blogs, etsy and beyond. I’m not usually a fan of the style – but something about turning them on their head with neon hues makes them cutting edge and worthy of my devotion. So if you’ve feared looking like a sofa, try out one of these looks to take this trend for a spin.

turquoise clutch from barefoot bag shop, vintage skort from pierogi picnic, fantasy floral art from april awakening, elle on lookbook, kryz on lookbook

Designs: Mix N Match Swim

My latest line of upcycled made-to-order swimwear is here – and the designs are better than ever!

The “Mix N Match” collection in my Etsy shop allows you to pair your favorite top with the perfect bottom. This gives you the option to choose the bikini combo that flatters your figure most. Everyone knows that a good fit and design is key to looking and feeling confident on the beach – which is why customization is key!

What’s the best combination for my figure? I am “top heavy” and prefer to minimize my bust. So my favorite pairing is the boy short bottom and the bandeau top. Sporty with just a bit of flirty – it’s my perfect combo as it lets me swim or lounge in the sun!

What’s your body shape and ideal swimsuit cut? Share below!

Trends: White Lace

I’ve been in love with white lace for some time now – but it’s recently that I’ve noticed it cropping up in trends from housewares to mainstream fashion. The trick with white lace is to use it in one of two ways – as a subtle accent or all out for a voluminous texture. The remaining elements, from outfits to decorating, need to be simple to make the look work. And when in doubt – it’s always easiest to go vintage when pairing this elegant fabric with everyday items. Give it a try and you’re sure to be happy with the results!

diy doily lamps; white lace tattoo; bohemian white curtains; pierogi picnic tank top; diy lace suitcase; white lace and rings; lace shorts

Item of the Week: Dear Darling

It will be in the eighties in Chi-town this week – and what better way to celebrate than with a flirty summer dress! The Dear Darling is one of my favorite pieces for the warm season as it combines breathable t-shirt cotton with a fitted waist and lace embellishment.

I love the gathered waist as it’s flattering on a variety of body shapes. The design is available in my Etsy shop in a variety of colors and can also be custom made to your specifications. I layer mine with a bandeau bra, petticoat slip and a pair of vintage sandals for a look that’s fun and fresh! 

An Indie Biz: Just Dreaming


Lately I’ve been dreaming, musing. Maybe it’s moving into a new apartment, neighborhood. I feel like the sky’s the limit and everything’s fresh and ripe for the picking!

Pierogi Picnic is flourishing more than I anticipated this season. With my recent moving distraction I feared that the very worst would happen – that sales would slide and that I’d spend months recovering. To my delight and surprise it’s been just the opposite. I’ve been working on custom orders every spare moment while trying to organize merchandise and my new studio.

The recent couple of months have been incredibly encouraging and have led to me thinking about the future of my lil’ biz. My thoughts are still too new and vulnerable to document – but they’re stirring and really taking root in my mind. More details to come!

Item of the Week: No Sweat

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.