J.crew has some unique DIY denim styling ideas, including my favorite: DIY patchwork monogram and patch-pocket fading. I’m up for giving the patchwork monogram a try one of these days, but in case you aren’t so inclined to spend time on these looks, here are some great store-bought alternatives. View all of J.crew’s DIY denim ideas here.
Colorblock Denim Wester Top, now $39.99 at American Eagle Outfitters.
90s Denim and Gingham Top, $30 at vauxvintage on Etsy.
Recently, I dyed my hair auburn (Emma Stone style), and at about the same time I also decided to take swimming lessons. Having never dyed my hair before, I was concerned about the effects of chlorine on the color. I found this great post about some tips for protecting your color hair when swimming from Fashionista.com. Below is what I bought after reading the article.
Vidal Sasson Color Protect Spray, $3.97 at Wal-Mart to apply before swimming
L’Oreal Ever Pure Sulfate-Free Color Care System Moisture Deep Restorative Masque, $7.74 at Wal-Mart for once a week moisture treatment
Aveeno Pure Renewal Sulfate-Free Shampoo, $5.97 at Wal-Mart for daily shampooing
Do you have any other tips for protecting colored hair?
Ciao!
Sarah
Oversized
Pastels
Simplicity
Menswear-inspired
Neon
Textured Sweaters
Hybrid
Sheer
Lace
Chambray
What are you favorite spring trends?
Ciao!
Sarah
This amazing goat created by my talented friend, Diana. Originally posted on the Canvas Lands’ End blog.
Some cozy artist’s space inspiration from 79 Ideas.
Memories of Florence.
Salvatore Ferragamo’s Men’s Fashion Show AW 2013 2014. Watch it here.
Everything about the second season of Girls and the music from it.
And finally, some guiding words of inspiration from the great Paulo Coelho:
“The energy of hatred will get you nowhere; but the energy of forgiveness, which reveals itself through love, will transform your life in a positive way.”
What’s inspiring you today?
Sarah
I found the pattern and tutorial for this charming little clutch at Charm Stitch. I modified the original pattern by increasing the pattern size by two inches and choosing not to decorate my bag with drawings (I let the corduroy and contrasting vintage floral lining do all the talking).
I don’t recommend this project for beginners who have not worked with zippers yet, but if you feel up to the challenge, I suggest trying a sample bag first before working on your final piece.
My biggest piece of advice is to be patient, use a zipper foot, and backstitch wherever it makes sense for security (I’d like think this bag will get thrown around and used quite a bit!).
Have you tried the tutorial out yourself? Pass along your thoughts or suggestions below!
Ciao,
Sarah
Related Posts
Lined Sequin Clutch with Zipper: a tutorial at Sweet-Verbena.blogspot.com
Fold-Over Clutch Tutorial at Fabandmade.blogspot.com
DIY: Leather Fold Over Clutch at SayYestoHoboken.com
My parents found this vintage Singer at a garage sale in New Hampshire. What a gorgeous find! Unfortunately, it’s not in sewing shape. 
Still looking for a holiday gift? Want something unique, beautiful, and handmade? My non-profit, The Uncovered Artistry Project and Boutique, has a new goal to reach $1000 in sales this holiday season. We sell all sorts of handmade products including candles, jewelry, ornaments, and home goods, which are all made by domestic and sexual abuse survivors or generously donated by artists. And we just added a slew of new items! Help us reach our goal and find a unique gift that you can feel good about buying.
Happy Holidays!
Sarah
I’m a bit obsessed with 1970s and 60s fashion, so coming across this (hand sewn) 1970s dress (you guessed it, in polyester!) at my local thrift store was thrilling. Besides the fact that it only cost $7, it also fits me perfectly. I’ve still yet to find an occasion to wear the dress, but I’d probably style it with tights and heels to keep it relevant and not too vintage-y. The print and colors do remind me a bit of Thanksgiving. Maybe I’ll try to work it into this weekend’s wardrobe!
Want to see more great vintage finds from my closet? Check out my Ferragamo Shoe Collection, 1990s Oversized Wool Coat, and 1980s Lace Party Dress.
This dress is probably one of my most expensive vintage purchases at $75. I discovered it at a Chicago vintage fair and fell in love with the lace detail and the classic silhouette (and I can’t complain that lace dresses have been spotted just about everywhere this fall!). I had to get the dress professionally tailored but still consider that investment worth it. The dress was perfect for all the formal sorority and graduation events last year, and I am eager to find an occasion post-graduation to wear it again.
To see more of my favorite closet finds, check out my Ferragamo collection and my new (vintage) oversized wool coat.
Ciao!
Sarah
Last week, I started blogging about some of my favorite pieces from my closet (check out my Ferragamo shoe collection here). It’s an attempt at reminding myself of all the amazing clothing, shoes, and jewelry that I’ve accumulated over the years– and more specifically over the last few months after graduation. Most of these pieces are vintage or antique, which I think makes them particularly unique and interesting. This is one of my newest finds; it’s a vintage (circa late 1980s or 1990s, I believe) oversized coat in a gorgeous cobalt blue. I’ve sen some oversized coats out there (Once Upon a Time fans will recall Mary Margaret’s cocoon coat from season one), including at Topshop and J.Crew, so I was thrilled to find this vintage piece for $20 at my local Good Will. The coat is 100% wool and is in great condition. Hate to say it, but I’m looking forward to the colder temps to try out this coat!
gibbsongirl.com 