Item of the Week: Sweet Stitch

November 2, 2012November 2, 2012Leave a comment

My obsession with sweatshirts continues with this new and uber-comfortable pullover design!

Handmade from pre-loved men’s tops, my new “Sweet Stitch” ladies fit sweaters have the cozy goodness of fleece with a cute cut that flatters and smooths. Including a subtle hi-low bottom hem, 3/4 length sleeves and a loose fit, these sweatshirts are trendy while retaining a classic winter chic.

Embellished with a hand-cut, hand-stenciled design that boasts fun geometric shapes, each top is also embroidered with a contrasting stitch, giving them a detailed charm. Great for wearing with jeans or dressing up with a tunic, leggings and boots, these sweatshirts make a great gift for any green gal this holiday season!

Press: Handmade Men

October 3, 2012September 30, 2012Leave a comment

You know it’s truly autumn when all your cool weather items are the hit at every event and are being featured on blogs and treasuries. The latest (and I think greatest) of my designs is currently highlighted on the fantastic site “Handmade Men” which sets to bring the handmade lifestyle to online shoppers.

In a feature entitled “Hot Picks! Handmade Hoodies” they included my “Sir Cycle” upcycled cowl hoodie. This is a piece that I handcrafted for a customer’s boyfriend last winter, and it’s since become one of my all-time favorite designs. So I was thrilled that the creation made it into this style savvy site. Be sure to take some time to explore the entire site for more chic and casual handmade creations.

Designs: Peek-A-Boo Chevron

October 1, 2012September 30, 2012Leave a comment

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?

September 26, 2012September 26, 2012Leave a comment

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

September 4, 2012October 7, 2012Leave a comment

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 Sneak Peek – All About Ombre

August 24, 2012August 14, 2012Leave a comment

This ombre trend is contagious! I have been wanting to experiment with fabric dye for a long time and the melted color look has given me the perfect excuse to do just that!

Using a technique that calls for a slow dip and release process, I created the new “All About Ombre” dress that gives each frock a deep gradient toward the lower hem. An elegant way to revive pre-loved cotton fabric, this design forced me to keep the remainder of the piece simple so as to not distract from the color flow. Continue reading →

Events: Renegade Sneak Peek – Easy Breezy

August 16, 2012August 14, 2012Leave a comment

This is one of my all-time favorite creations – the new Easy Breezy top! Handmade using pre-loved t-shirt cotton and a vintage slip, this lightweight piece has all the elements I’m looking for in a shirt. A flirty cut, scalloped edge, light as air fabric and handmade aesthetic – I predict that it will be a quick fan favorite.

Swing by Renegade to check out these new shirts in person or swing by my Etsy shop after September 9th for their internet debut.