Day 15 of Nesting

I’m a bit off with my updates for our new nest – but wanted to share pictures of the baby steps we made mid-way through the month! The place is coming along bit by bit, and I hope to have even more photos to share of it’s current state later next week.

Suffice it to say that between the vintage accents, our restored furnishings, and the splashes of color found in handmade home accessories and art – the apartment is really evoking a modern living meets thrifting vibe. Here’ s a peek at what we did a couple weeks back.

If you’re looking for the first “before and after” post, click here.

Item of the Week: Clara Bow Top

This is one of my favorite shirt designs! Created from second-hand turtle necks, the Clara Bow tops are super soft and stretchy thanks to the blended cotton mix. The scoop back gives wearers a *wink wink* look while still staying demure. The lacy bow is a marriage of my two favorite things. Can you guess? Lace and bows! I knew you were sharp. I also adore the over the shoulder gaze of Kelli in this photo. What a beauty she is!

This top is part of my Moving Sale, which ends tonight at midnight. So scoop it up at a discount while you can!

DIY: Stylish Nesting

It’s officially 2 weeks until the big move and I can’t stop fascinating about our new digs. I am ‘pinning’ away on Pinterest, collecting ideas and inspirations on how to nest in my new abode. The site is chalked full of incredible DIY projects and photos of furniture that can be easily replicated using salvaged materials. Below is a look at all of my recent discoveries, which I plan on incorporating into the design of our new apartment. Continue reading

DIY: Lampshade Facelift

Sometimes I get that itch to update things in my place – but I don’t want to be wasteful with my money or resources – so I’m always concocting new ways to make do with what I have.

Most recently I grew tired of the lampshade in our bedroom. It was a sweet embroidered lil’ thing, but the color was fading and the interior was cracking, giving it a not-so-cute shabbiness when turned on. So I rested on the idea of changing it up, allowing my mind to invent some potential ideas. What transpired turned out to be a subtle yet stunning piece that was given new life with a few pages of a vintage dictionary. Here’s how I did it:

1) Using the pages of an old crumbling dictionary (it was the same one I used for the Bibliophile Wreaths for Christmas) I tore out a good handful of pages and cut them into long 1″ slips.

2) Using a glue gun, I affixed each strip to the lampshade, overlapping each slightly. Also, I started on the bottom layer and then worked my way around to the top.

3) The final step is to cut any overly long and crooked strips so they align (not perfectly, but close enough) to all of the others. This will give the effect a more polished look.
And there you go – a quick, inexpensive, easy and eco-friendly way to give a lampshade a new look. You can experiment using other kinds of papers as well, or may even try fray-less fabrics. Once you create one you’ll be tempted to try your hand at more!

Do you have a suggestion on how to update a dull lampshade in your home? Share it in the comments!

Holidays: Last Minute Gift Idea!

If you’re racing the clock to find that perfect last-minute gift – there’s nothing better than a Pierogi Picnic gift certificate! The certificates can be created in any denomination and are sent directly to the giver to either gift electronically or to print from home. Good for up to a year after issue – they make a wonderful present for that stylish conscientious person on your list. And for every $50 of certificates you buy, you’ll receive a coupon code for $10 off your next personal Pierogi Picnic purchase. For more details click here.

New Designs: Stormy Weather Skirt

Dropping temperatures don’t have to equal over-bundling and under-styling. Fight the chill by throwing on a pair of leggings, boots, long sleeve fitted top and a skirt for instant comfort and glamor.

And if you’re looking for the perfect piece, my new  “Stormy Weather” design fits the bill! Boasting ruffled fabric at the waist and a bubbled lower hem, it creates a slightly a-line shape that’s not just cozy, but also flattering. My favorite detail? The reverse applique rain drops! Filled with vintage lace, the contrast between the fabrics’ textures, plus, the whimsical cutout, make it an eye-catching detail that won’t go ignored.