I just discovered Kate Quinn Organics and ordered this Basil Bell Sleeve Tunic, but I wanted to order so much more! [Don't worry, darling ... your wallet is safe ... for now...]
What started as an organic baby clothing line, has grown into women, maternity, bedding, baby, and more! Everything looks so comfy [and stylish too!]. Here are some of my picks – Those Skinny Sweats are going on my covet list!
Your purse is one of your most important accessories. It holds things that are near and dear to you – the things you need to get through each day. Keys, phone, make-up, credit cards, glasses, tampons, breath mints, bobby pins … and the list goes on and on. It is a reflection of who you are – not just on the inside, but the outside too. A great purse is the key to looking and staying put together … I mean, if we trust these bags to hold such precious commodities, shouldn’t it look good doing it?
The fabric choices from Charm Design just scream SPRINGTIME! SUMMERTIME! I am in love with these zippered pouches, but they also have a wonderful selection of shoulder and tote bags too. Pretty, fun, and simple – just the way I like it!
The hand woven cotton on this bag from Tippy Thai is the perfect pick for warmer weather. There are lots of rich color selections to choose from in a variety of natural fabrics [cotton, hemp...]. Excellent casual bag.
Don’t be afraid of carrying leather in the hot summer sun. While it may not be the ideal choice for a day at the beach, a leather tote is perfectly acceptable [and looks so cool] for a day lunching and shopping or a night on the town. The bags at Hoakon / Helga are made from vintage leather jackets and other upcycled materials [awesome!].
You’ll definitely turn a few heads carrying this bright yellow pouch from Farrago Bags. Their bags also come with a key chain monogrammed with your initials for a personal touch.
These simple and classic sailor totes from Bayan Hippo are just the thing for a day at the beach or strolling through the park. Choose from a wide assortment of colors … I think I’m going to have to get one of these!
This bag by Spongetta is made from upholstery remnants and wrapped around two rattan rings. Great bag to just pick up and go with!
How chic are these metallic zip pouches by Marketa in NYC?! You can fill it up and toss it in your bag to help stay organized or use it as a clutch for nights out when you don’t want to lug around a huge purse! There’s something about shiny things that just makes you want them … meow.
This gorgeous handbag [the manzanilla] by Zelaya was made with incredible attention to detail. A raw cotton fabric [manta] is used and then embroidered with polka dots and sewn together with thread dyed using chamomile tea and finished off with a hand carved wooden handle. It’s elegant, yet casual and I think it’s probably my favorite bag. This one goes on my covet list for sure.
I was smitten with this necklace the moment Tammy Wilson from Earthlover sent me a sneak peek. Crafted by hand using imfibinga seeds (awesome), this pendant hangs from a 24″ hand knitted cotton string.
This necklace is part of the Be Sweet product line, working with villagers in South African tribes – their mission is to “bring socially and environmentally friendly products to fashionable consumers that evoke an individual style and help support community development around the world.” A portion of their proceeds are donated to a school in the Eastern Cape, where many of the artisans’ children attend classes. What makes a better gift than a gift that gives back? Nothing. This necklace is available at Earthlover for $21.00 … and if the necklace isn’t for you, there is a gorgeous heart shaped pin!
Back in June I featured the Batik diaper bag from Earth Lover. A few weeks later I received a lovely email from the owner, Tammy Wilson, thanking me for including this item. We wrote back and forth a few times and it became apparent to me that this shop was something special and I wanted to know more. We set up a ‘phone date’ and talked our heads off about everything under the sun. In her sweet southern drawl, Tammy told me all about her wonderful family and the journey through life that eventually gave rise to Earth Lover. “Sometimes you just work your way to a place. It is not a lightening bolt. Not really a sudden brilliant idea- just a place that you find yourself on your personal journey, and then it evolves from there.”
Fourteen years ago, Tammy retired from a long career as a Respiratory Therapist. Since then she owned and sold several small business – all of them born out of passion for the things she loves. She took a few years off when her son started high school, but fears of an ‘empty nest’ and a need to give back to the world won Tammy over in 2008 when Earth Lover was founded. Her daughter, Micah Elaine, is working on her Masters in Teaching in Atlanta and her son, Spencer Ryan, has been working on restoring a ’67 VW Microbus [his recycling project] and plans to attend MIT after high school. These amazing children were part of Tammy’s inspiration, as she wanted to set an example for them as they go out into the world and choose their roles in society. Since she had experience importing goods and a love for handmade, starting a green business and working with Fair Trade products seemed like the perfect fit. With the support of her architect husband, Tammy got busy searching for goods from all over the world, “that not only bring joy into the lives of the recipient, but give back so much to the world and the beautiful people struggling to live in many parts of it”.
Tammy calls Earth Lover an alternative shopping experience. It’s a place to shop, to learn, and to give. “If my site can make my customers think about how simple it can be to help others through a small purchase of a beautiful product, then maybe they will begin to think about ALL of their purchases and one tiny step at a time we can make a difference.”
You can find earth-friendly products at Earth Lover for your home, your pets, your children, yourself, and your friends. Like these handmade Fair Trade Christmas Stockings – perfect for the upcoming holidays! Handmade in Guatemala and Armenia, the stocking on the left is made from recycled burlap coffee bags and the stocking on the right is 100% cotton with a fluffy wool top!
Click on images for more info.
Wrap yourself up on those cold winter nights in the comfort of a Swazi Blanket. Handmade from 100% cotton by the lovely women of Swaziland and made available in the USA through Creative Women [a Fair Trade organization based in Vermont].
Click image for more info.
Q & A
Tammy Wilson of Earth Lover [You wouldn't believe how shy she was about sending me a pic! For a while I thought she might have one eye, a warted nose, and horns! - LOL. Soooo not the case - great picture, Tammy - thank you!]
What is your best selling item right now and why do you think it’s so popular?
“Right this VERY MINUTE my best selling product is the Recycled Jute Backpack- it is CUTE , colorful, unique, and a great price. It is starting to slow down, now that back to school has settled in, but still quite popular. Right behind that would be my Cruelty Free leather backpacks, messengers, and the Hemp Messengers. They are just great products, unisex, and really hard to find in cruelty free leather. I have a hard time keeping them in stock, as the Fair Trade makers in Nepal have limited production, and I ALWAYS sell out!”
Where do you find the products you sell?
“EVERYWHERE! I have products from Fair Trade members, local artists, small US companies, Non- profits. And I have NEVER been to a wholesale market!! (I KNOW!!) SO much of what I have is found by web searching for hours on end, late into the night- and from networking. People involved in Eco products, and Fair Trade tend to be very open and helpful, so it is not uncommon at all to be working with one group or person, and they share with me about another – I love that!“
What is your favorite way to relax?
“Can you define that word, I am not familiar….. I am only 5’2” – and I frequently remind my friends and family that I am actually about 6’ Tall- I am just wound very tightly!! Haha! I do quilt- by hand- I know, who DOES this any more- but it is very relaxing. And I cook. Too Much. (Not too often, just too much- can you say LEFTOVER?) In the spring I grow vegetables. Organic, of course. I can totally chill in the garden for hours picking weeds.”
Why do you think people should buy eco-friendly and fair trade goods?
“Why WOULDN”T you??? Maybe I am naive, but I really believe that if people are educated about their choices, it is just not a choice any more! If I ask anyone if they would rather have this handbag, or flower vase, from a sweatshop somewhere in the world, or a filthy polluting factory- or this other product from a Fair Trade Co-op that is supporting the welfare of people and making products in a way that considers the impact on our environment…Really, WHO is going to say, “Oh. I really Prefer the Sweat shop, thank you!” I really do believe it is just a matter of OFFERING an option, and educating the shopper. Maybe I am just a True Believer- but I really do believe that people are inherently Good, and would much prefer to choose Good when it is effectively offered!”
What’s something silly that most people don’t know about you?
“I talk too much to have any secrets. Really! Ha! I don’t know…I am a vegetarian (no surprise really). I am terrified to fly. So I may never see many of the places that I work so hard to support – how sad is that? Maybe someday…but I am REALLY terrified. I have flown- lots of times- but it is hardly worth the trauma and I am getting more terrified every year.
I also like to sing stupid made up spontaneous songs during any time of great stress for my loved ones. Yea, they REALLY appreciate this. I recently had a Greatest Hits involving the SAT! It is REALLY silly, but it does relieve stress when someone is making a complete fool of themselves on your behalf. Shannon, that may be way too silly for ANYONE to know!!” -Tammy, you are not alone. I sing about diapers, going to the grocery store, taking a bath, and a few other things I won’t mention.
BIG THANKS to Tammy Wilson of Earth Lover!!! This shop is definitely one to watch!
XO!
With the big holiday season approaching, I thought it would be fun to take a look at some selections inspired by major holidays that can be worn all year. There is nothing like a great piece of jewelry to add a little flair to your outfit. Jewelry can be very personal or just for fun. Like a necklace I have had since I was small with a tiny ruby hanging on a tarnished gold chain or a big chunky colorful bracelet that makes me smile. Since baby Ava loves to tug on my necklaces and earrings [ouch!] I have been wearing more bold rings and bracelets … but still find it hard to resist a killer necklace.
Since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, I’ll start with this Wishbone Necklace by Lanyapi Designs. Make a wish and this gold charm could be yours for only $23.00.
I debated whether this Candy Corn Lariat should be part of the Halloween inspired jewelry, but the autumnal colors made me lean more towards Thanksgiving. Hanging on an antiqued copper chain, these agate stones are lovingly strung through a hand hammered brass and copper ring by Sally Stearns of SASessories. $39.50.
I cannot believe Christmas is next month. There are some people in our neighborhood that already have their decorations and lights up – ridiculous! If you can’t wait for that yuletide cheer, adorn yourself with this awesome “made from vintage” piece by That Jewelry Girl. A rhinestone button attached to a brass locket and strung with a medley of brass chains make for an eye-catching piece. “Hanging of the Greens” can be purchased for $32.50 [free shipping for November!!].
I looked at hundreds of snowflake jewelry trying to find something that didn’t look so ‘tacky Christmas’ and it was no easy task. Finally, I found this charming little necklace by CrArt. I love the copper patina snowflake pendant falling down the side towards the bluest of blue teardrop briolette. It looks so delicate … just like a snowflake. $29.00.
Next on our journey through the holidays is Valentine’s Day. A day easily associated with jewelry. I am hoping that this “Yes No Maybe Love Me Love Me Not” charm bracelet by A Likely Story will BE MINE soon! Charm bracelets are so fun … I would wear it all the time [hint hint, Michael]. $39.95.
I had to include these beautiful earrings by Royal Princess Designs – they are made from REAL ROSES preserved in thin layers of resin. How cool is that?! $42.00.
All Those Threes is to thank for this gorgeous Love Mandala necklace. Handcrafted from 99.9% pure silver and hanging on a fine sterling 17″ chain. $58.00.
There are so many icons associated with Easter – crosses, colorful eggs, lilies, and of course bunnies. This adorable little bunny charm created by Mariska goes by the name of “Tumsy”. $28.00.
This wonderful Easter Lily Bracelet was made from antique spoons [circa 1907]!! Village Boutique, in my home state of Ohio, turns vintage silverware into amazing pieces of jewelry! $44.99.
The Fourth of July doesn’t have to be all Red, White, and Blue. Rebecca Dubay of Vernon Bea Studio created this Patriot Necklace – a hand cut star and stamped tag hanging from a 16″ sterling ball chain. Love it! $53.00.
Halloween is such a fun holiday. Pretty much anything goes. Maybe that’s why I was so taken by this steampunk “Gothic Owl” Necklace by Cosmic Firefly. $45.00.
And the final piece of jewelry inspired by a holiday is this “Death by Citrus” piece, which conjures up images of Dia de Los Muertos [Day of the Dead]. I love the color in this necklace – that vintage enamel flower is awesome! It can be your very own one of a kind Bionic Unicorn creation for $76.00.
I started writing a post about handmade children’s costumes for Halloween, but stopped dead in my tracks when I happened upon these totally awesome “Foks” scarves by Celapiu on Etsy. I can’t imagine a more hip scarf to keep me toasty warm … very sly.
The handmade scarves come in a variety of sizes and colors … all the way from Poland. They also have some really cute gloves and hats to match. Oh, and I can’t wrap this post up without showing you the “Golden Chain” scarf [comes in other colors too].
How rad is that?! I am in love with this brand … playful without being too silly to wear around. Add these to my gift list!
14 days until the big move and I can barely stand it! Time is moving so terribly s l o w. I just want to be packed and unpacked and moved in already! Patience is not my strong suit.
I know my postings have been sparse lately, but that will all change after we get to Chicago. I have some exciting revamping planned for Furious Shirley … guest bloggers, shop features, dad’s point of view, and so much more! In the midst of all this change, I was able to put together today’s “Get This Look” post from this pic I snapped of Ava looking cute as a button the other day.
To get this look for your baby, start off with a long sleeved onesie [if you have a baby, you already have tons of these hanging around]. Layer it with a cute tunic top or tank dress. This is a great way to get more use out of summer tops and dresses and take advantage of summer clearance items like this adorable plaid top for only $3.98 at Target!
I also found this black and white polka dot set for $$8.48 at Target! Turn it into a fall look by layering a black long sleeved onesie underneath and then finish the look with a little white cardigan, socks and booties.
I love little baby leggings! They are so versatile and work for any season. Pacifier has a great pair of American Apparel leggings that are cuffed around the ankles.
And these lace trimmed leggings [by Stella Industries] at Bubble are irresistible!
Ballet flats are the perfect cute and comfy shoe for your baby girl [if you can get them to stay on those wiggly feet!]. Tootsies Children’s Dance Wear has a beautiful pair of pink leather ballet shoes for only $11.95!
If you’re willing to splurge a bit, Couture Baby Boutique is where you will find these darling blinged out satin slippers.
And I just could not resist posting these handmade booties ["The Cicily Baby Shoe"] by The Vintage Clothespin.
Have a picture of your little one looking cute and stylish? Email me for an upcoming fashion baby feature!!!!
I know I promised this post to show up over the weekend, but we had such great weather here and spent our days out and about enjoying Brooklyn and sharing some much coveted family time together. Today was supposed to be the kick off of my Monday’s Wedding Bells series, but I am postponing it until next Monday to finally bring you more maternity fashions! My previous post, “Stylish Maternity Clothes – They DO Exist” has been one of my most popular posts so hopefully all of you pregnant readers will love these selections just as much!
Who doesn’t love a great pair of skinny jeans?! Don’t rule out this style trend just because you’re expecting and may not be feeling all that skinny. This dark wash denim by Maternal America [found at Apple Seed Maternity & Baby Boutique] are great paired with a bright baby doll tank and heels or a simple tee and some flats for a more laid back look.
I love this nursing top [also by Maternal America]! Pretty and practical and would go great with those skinny jeans!
I love white for summer. It shows off your tan and just looks clean and crisp and well, summery! I found this white linen skirt by Motherhood at EVO for only $19.98!
This nursing dress I found at Japanese Weekend is made from organic cotton and will look great with a short sleeved white jacket and pumps or a pair of metallic sandals and a chunky bracelet.
I found this Momzee tunic on sale at Nordstrom for only $39.90! Pair it with skinny jeans or leggings and layer a few necklaces of varying lengths around your neck to complete the look.
Feel free to feel beautiful round the clock in these pajama and lingerie styles from Belabumbum. This bamboo chemise is soft and sexy and totally eco friendly!
Feel sexy [yes, sexy!] when you put on your nursing bra and panties [now that's something you don't expect to hear!] with this lacy copacabana set. XO!
Not too long ago, just getting the chance to take a shower was a luxury for me. Now that Ava is almost sleeping through the night I have reinstated my evening bathtime, but it’s still fairly difficult to get myself dressed and looking pretty in the mornings. I have simplified my hair and make-up routines – hair up, dab of foundation, sweep of blush and eyeshadow, mascara, lip gloss [at lightning speed], and I’m ready to go. That’s all fine and dandy, but every now and then I still need to feel like a girl and do girly things … like put a moisturizing mask on my face and paint my nails or style my hair or treat my skin to a lovely, scented, exfoliating scrub down. What’s great is that many of these beauty treatments are really easy to make at home for so much less than what you would pay in the store … and they are all natural! So put the kids to bed or have your hubby take them out for an afternoon and take some time to make yourself feel pretty!!
My latest baby obsessions will make your cute baby even more adorable and help to keep your little one quietly occupied [especially helpful in public].
First up, leggings. They make for easy diaper changes and add a bit of extra padding for crawling on those unforgiving wooden floors. Oh, and they are SO OUTRAGEOUSLY CUTE! Pork Chop Kids make footed leggings, which I love [because as you know it is close to impossible to keep socks on a baby's wiggly squiggly toes!].
There are also tons of footless options at really great prices in the handmade marketplace. I found these styles on Etsy.
Click on Images to be taken to Etsy Store!
And here is a picture of Ava sporting a pair of her own!
Now, this next baby obsession of mine has been a real life saver on so many occasions. If you do not have a mesh feeder, run out and buy one. I’m serious. Not only can you give your baby fresh fruit well before they are able to chew it up and swallow it on their own, but it also serves as a teether when you put a frozen piece of fruit inside. These qualities aside, the thing keeps Ava busy and has prevented many a tantrum. I do not leave home without one. I recommend never putting banana in this, as it was close to impossible to get out.
Item shown, by Munchkin.
