Trends: Feeling Dreamy

Stars, cosmos and space seem to be all the rage in both the art and design world these days. The trend has been cropping up here, there and seemingly everywhere. From leggings sprinkled with crescent moons, to canvasses adorned with solar systems, it seems that all of us are star-gazing.

And though the itch to throw a milky way print onto new Pierogi Picnic creations hasn’t struck yet, I have been digging for Etsy items that have taken to space. Sneak a peek at my recent favorites in this dreamy treasury.

Item of the Week: Flirty Flounce

I’m really looking to infuse more  prints and patterns into my handmade garments. Not only does it require me to develop this portion of my skills as a designer, it’s also a real challenge as it stretches the aesthetic combinations of my pieces. By adding these re-occurring elements I’m hoping to bring more of a folksy look to my otherwise retro and urban inspired style. The Flirty Flounce is my first in many upcoming ventures to combine a feminine shape, casual cotton and whimsical pattern into one piece.

What I love about this design in particular is the soft peplum flare along the bottom and how it combines with the look of the assymetrical print. The image along the top is hand-stenciled using two different shapes – one which I created myself. I alternated the colors to enhance the ‘textural’ appeal of the garment.

The clothing sample in the photograph above also brings together some of my favorite colors for the upcoming season: teal, silver and grey. Seeing that this piece hits on all my interests and goals for upcoming looks – how could I not have chosen it as the “Item of the Week?”

New Designs: Cute & Cozy Cowl Sweatshirt

I love fall and winter – hot chocolate, holidays and fluffy blankets make this the most romantic season in my world. Add to that list warm cozy clothing – and I’m smitten beyond belief. This new Pierogi Picnic design looks to conjure up that warm fuzzy feeling and more! Handmade from a salvaged men’s sweatshirt, the cuddle-worthy fleecy interior gives the wearer comfort while the raw cut gives it an enviable edge. Shaped with a cropped waist, sleeves and high cowl, it still retains a modern feel. Also embellished with vintage lace and mismatched buttons, it will make the perfect gift for that fashion forward utilitarian loving gal on your gift list.

Tutorial: Homemade Caramel Apples

There’s nothing that beckons the dawn of fall like crisp yet rich caramel apples.The moment I see them hit the grocery store end caps I know that autumn is in full swing.

If you’re an addict like me, try your hand at this simple recipe that will not only give you the freshest results – it allows you to use organic natural ingredients – so the only thing you’ll feel guilty about is hoarding them all for yourself!

To see the full recipe view my post on the EcoEtsy blog here

New Designs: Pumpkin Spice

You know those cool autumn nights where all you want to do is cuddle up in a warm knit sweater and read your favorite novel? That’s exactly what I was channeling when creating this new design! Reshaped from a vintage men’s sweater, this top boasts a cozy over-sized fit, 3/4 bell sleeves, a vivid pumpkin hue and an embellished lace collar. Perfect for wearing with leggings and slippers – I can’t wait to curl up in one of my own!