Inspiration: Wycinanki

July 6, 2012July 4, 20123 Comments

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.

Inspiration: Bringing Back Imagination

June 25, 2012June 23, 2012Leave a comment

Many people lose their sense of wonder for the world as they age. It seems that as each year passes, less and less of our imagination remains. That’s why I wanted to share the following print from the blog please be still. I hope it will inspire you to let your imagination soar.

Inspiration: A New Leaf

June 11, 2012May 27, 2012Leave a comment

There are few spaces in the city where I can instantly find inspiration – and A New Leaf is one of them. A stunning flower shop in the heart of Lincoln Park, this boutique and event space is like a treasure hunters dream. Nestled in a quiet block, the unassuming exterior would lead you to believe that it’s not much more than a place to pick up a bouquet of roses. But once inside you realize you’ve stumbled upon a tiny piece of heaven. Continue reading →

Inspiration: Mermaids the film

June 6, 2012May 27, 2012Leave a comment

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 blouse, red vintage high waisted pants, vintage cream cardigan

vintage black crushed velvet dress, detachable white peter pan collar, peach blossom mineral blush

vintage mini dress in pink, mineral cheek and lip color, black headband

eye brow pencil, blue in seattle tunic, tomato complexion soap

Trends: White Lace

May 23, 2012May 23, 20121 Comment

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

Inspiration: When life gives you lemons

May 9, 2012May 9, 2012Leave a comment

I had an interesting thought inspired by a recent event in our home. Since moving we haven’t had a lot of time to introduce plants into the new place. On my way to work one morning I bought a bouquet of flowers (which I rarely do – so sad to see them wilt!) and placed a few of the stems in my office and brought the remainder home. Continue reading →

An Indie Biz: Just Dreaming

April 30, 2012April 30, 20121 Comment

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!