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!

Events: Renegade – Creation Station

I have started a tradition at my in-person events to always have some kind of earth-friendly craft ready and waiting for fans to make.  And this September’s Renegade will be no different!

Since I’m not sharing a booth this year I’ll have a bit more space to stretch out – so I’m planning to insert what I’m calling the “creation station.” This little nook of my tent will feature supplies and instructions on how to make your very own green-it-yourself bracelets. Created from the remnants of my cotton-based designs, these accessories will be a fun way to get fair-goers to try their own hand at crafting. I’ll be hand-dying each strip in advance too – so that the finished bracelets have a lovely ombre effect.

So if you’re planning on coming by the fair on September 8th or 9th, be sure to set some time aside to make your very own fabric bracelets. There’s nothing better than a free, green and trendy souvenir!

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!