Sweet Pad.

By the time you read this, this will have already been “one of those weeks”.  You know, a week filled with twelve-hour workdays.  By Sunday I’ll be feeling like my brain looks similar to a fried egg.  As a matter of fact, I’m already half way there. 

Therefore, I will be enticing you this week with a column on the importance of fashion’s presence in not only your closet, but throughout your home as well.

This topic comes to mind naturally for me this week, since I’ve been spending quite a number of hours lately working on some fun interior projects that, until now, were completely out of my element. 

For those of you who don’t know, I do have some credentials for talking about interior spaces.  I have a degree in Interior Design, have studied a little bit of historical architecture, and also worked as a Designer & Product Development Assistant at Decorator Industries before their unfortunate closing in 2009.  My style is fairly unique to, well, basically myself.  I love hitting up yard sales and thrift stores, turning something old into something new with a little paint and/or new fabric.  I would describe my style as eclectic chic, sort of a mash-up of artsy do-it-yourselfer meets modern whimsy.  That probably didn’t paint much of a picture for most of you, so I’ll be sure to include an interior photo of my house so you can try to envision just how crazy I really am. 

My living room.  I upholstered the green chair and made the pillows.

As it turns out, I’ve been privileged enough to be working for someone with an equally insane sense of style, just from another century.  Where my style is a little edgy, his style is traditional and almost skeletal at times.  As if the sense style being from another century isn’t enough for me to wrap my brain around, the materials and fabrics that I’ve been given to work with are also upwards of two hundred years old.  What does a two hundred year old piece of cotton or silk look like, you ask?  Well, it looks like its two hundred years old.  Most of the materials I’ve been working with are riddled with holes and hundred-year-old patch jobs.  Much of the work consists of preparing the fabric, meaning patching or reinforcing small pieces that then have to be joined into larger pieces to then create an actual slipcover or pillow. 

The most challenging part for me (strangely enough) in this whole process has been to color outside the lines so to speak.  The strange thing about working with fabrics from the 1800’s is that nothing really matches.   Think about it, fabric was quite pricey, so literally anything that even remotely matched was used in patching and repairs.  While I’ve been trained to try to pattern match seams and patches to make them look almost invisible to the naked eye, I have been forced to relearn and revisit my technique to put these mismatched pieces on display more or less.

This got me thinking about interior design and what a great design is really comprised of.  After all, there are so many different styles and tastes out there, so what are the important factors in creating a look that is uniquely you and reflective of your life and personality?  Design is all about space, light, colors and textures, and personality.  Incorporating all of these successfully should give a room a sense of harmony and cohesiveness.  Here are a few tips and tricks on designing your own personal space using all of these abstract ideas:

1. Space & Balance:  For most of us, space and balance are probably the two most important components of our interior designs.  Since many of us actually live in the spaces we design, having a functional space is key.  Start by choosing a style of balance: symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial, and go from there!
2. Light:  Depending on the space you’re working with, the correct lighting can set the tone for how a space is used and perceived.  For instance, Northern facing windows are important in an artist studio to provide the best natural lighting scenario.  On the other hand, incandescent lighting can be added to provide emphasis to a focal point and create a little drama in a space.  Since most of us are not lighting specialists, be sure to ask for assistance at a lighting showroom!
3. Color & Texture:  Probably the easiest way to alter the mood of a space, color and texture add major flair with minimal effort.  For a calming experience, choose a soothing shade of green or blue to paint your walls.  To liven a space, choose a warm hue of yellow, orange, or red.  To add texture, get creative with soft furnishings and fabrics treatments.
4. Personality:  Meaningful objects add a personal touch and make the space uniquely yours.  Bookshelves offer a great space to add trinkets and personality as bookends without getting cluttered.

The home I've been sewing at.  Incredible!!!

I can honestly say that I look at some of the designs that I’ve recently been a part of helping create and they are truly breathtaking.  While I would have never envisioned such a creation in my wildest dreams, they are absolutely works of art. I cannot take credit for any of the actual designs whatsoever (I’m a seamstress on this project, though I’m frequently referred to as Queen Bee as well as various other nicknames that allow me to feel much more important than I really am), I can say that I’ve really enjoyed bringing a female perspective to things and helping to “soften” some of the space with a little color in an otherwise monochromatic (white) palette.  Unfortunately I’m one of those annoying types that always has an opinion about everything, so I’m constantly throwing my two cents in.  Most of the time I’m shot down, but I have had a few small victories with some fabric selections.  In case you still can’t imagine the differences I’ve been speaking of, here’s a photo reference to cogitate.

For more fashion wholesomeness, check out my store at www.goodnpretty.com and blog at www.purplezebrashop.com.  Coming soon to The Purple Zebra:  Sewing classes!  Stay tuned for more info.  For column ideas and comments, email me at goodnpretty@gmail.com.

DIY Valentine Top

Seeing as though I talked about men last week, and addressed all the lovers out there back in January, I suppose that it’s only fair that I write a column geared toward all the single ladies out there.  You know the type.  The Valentine’s Day scrooge who wishes cupid would shove those stupid arrows where the “sun don’t shine” as they say.  Since I like to play fair, this one’s for you, sweetheart.  

Just because you aren’t in love, doesn’t mean you can’t look lovely while you’re sitting at home with a frown on your face and that bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon when the 14^th rolls around.  Remember ladies: that grotesque scowl you’re currently sporting can lead to monstrous frown lines, and we don’t need any of those, especially if we’re single (and can’t afford Botox).  Here’s an idea:  Turn that frown upside down and get crafty with your bad self.  Go ahead, be a little narcissistic and give yourself a gift this year.  After all, you’re single and probably won’t be receiving bouquets of flowers or boxes of chocolates (which is really a gift in itself if you take into consideration how many unnecessary calories you’ll be sparing yourself).  Or, better yet, gift one of you unsuspecting single friends with your heartfelt DIY Valentine!  She’ll be forever grateful that you remembered her on this day that is typically meant for all the couples out there.

DIY Lace Inset Heart Shirt

1. Fold a piece of 8.5x11” paper in half (as you would to create a greeting card)
2. Using a marker, draw a half heart on the fold of the paper.  I used a French curve to create mine, but it is just as simple to freehand your design.
3. Cut your heart design from the paper and set heart cutout aside
4. Select a shirt of your choice (tank, t-shirt, or long sleeved shirt), and turn inside out.
5. Lay the original paper (with heart cutout) flat on the inside out shirt.  Measure in .5” from the outside edge of the paper heart stencil and follow the heart shape, marking the t-shirt with a marker.
6. Cut the shirt along the marker line, making a heart cutout in your shirt that will be 1” less in diameter than your original paper cutout (.5” on each side).
7. Take the paper heart cutout and trace the shape onto a piece of lace of your choice.  Or, use an old shirt of your choice to create the heart from.  Try something fun, like a wild pattern or texture to inset in your new shirt!
8. Cut the heart shape from the lace or fabric of your choice, and pin or glue onto the wrong side of your cutout shirt. 
9. If you would like to sew the heart in place, either hand stitch or machine stitch around the outline of the heart, fusing the shirt to the inset fabric.  If you are not a sewer, simply use some fabric glue! 
10. Turn shirt right side out and enjoy!

Voila!  You’re new shirt may not get you a lover, but it will make you feel lovely about your craftiness, and you’re cute new top.  Happy Valentine’s Day!  For more fashion wholesomeness, check out my store The Purple Zebra in person or on the web at www.purplezebrashop.com, and become a fan on Facebook.  Coming soon to The Purple Zebra:  Good+Pretty Sewing & Crafting classes and parties!  Oh my GOODness.

Boys Will Be Boys.... And So Will The Girls.

A bowtie I created for my store, The Purple Zebra.

It’s probably the number one reasoning tactic for a stylish lady.  Find the perfect guy, and worry about the perfect wardrobe later.  After all, you can totally talk the perfect guy into letting you help him with the perfect wardrobe, right?  Umm, maybe?  I’ve yet to fully attempt this age old practice, so I’ll have to report back with the lab results if and when I ever decide to transform the unsuspecting fella.  After all, no one likes a pushy female, so we are probably better holding off, right?  I believe there is typically a not-so-friendly, five-letter-word associated with those pushy types of women.  Certainly I would never be associated with such things. 

Instead, I’ll take my love of menswear and wear it myself, just a little prettier version of it.  Menswear inspired looks are so huge right now, from bold collars and bowties, to tuxedo shirts and loafers.  I can’t get enough of this empowering style, but it can be a little daunting for the faint-of-heart or fashion newbies. 

First and foremost, let’s reap the benefits.  There are countless reasons for playing up the masculine trend.  Not only can this trend be incredibly cheap (i.e. raid the hubby’s closet.  Or your Dad’s), it can also be incredibly fun, sporty, and even sexy!  Yes, sexy!  As I may have stated once or twice, I’m a fairly big advocate of dressing classy (not trashy) and firmly believe that less clothing does not equal more appeal.  In fact, you’re perfect guy may even think it’s cute that you actually dig his wardrobe so much for once and embrace you with open arms for wanting to “borrow” some of his shirts.  Do not, under any circumstance, feign a washing machine malfunction in attempt to assist your man in purchasing a new wardrobe.  There goes your cuteness factor and in comes the not-so-nice, five-letter-word factor. 

Whatever your motive, if you intend to do the menswear trend throughout the remainder of winter, or opt to wait for spring when gorgeous floral print fabrics will allow some girly options for your menswear, there are a few simple rules I’ve devised to help you keep the menswear look believable, cute, quirky, and sexy, all in one.

1.        Proportion Control.  Oversized is in.  It looks timeless and effortless, but gorgeous at the same time.  You don’t, however, want to wear a head to toe oversized ensemble.  To keep things tailored and neat, pair an oversized blazer over skinny jeans or a cute dress.  To lengthen your look, wear the oversized blazer over a tailored maxi dress or black skinny jeans with black booties.  To have a bit more fun with the look, try a printed or bold color skinny jean (like tangerine!)  If a plaid men’s shirt is more your speed, try pairing it with a fitted pair of ankle jeans in a vintage wash and tie it together with some tall wedges and  bold jewelry.  This look is casual and cool, perfect for just about any occasion, even a baseball game.

2.       Color Story.  Since the menswear fad is all about men’s styles and proportions, adding a feminine touch of color will keep you from, well, looking manly.  Attempting the oversized suit jacket?  Try it in a bold red (and smear some red lipstick on to match).  To make a plaid shirt daintier, tuck it into a flouncy skirt, possibly with even a contrasting pattern in the same color family as the plaid shirt (think tiny polka dots or a micro floral print).  Experimenting with color and pattern will allow you to figure out what works and what doesn’t, and it can often be quite surprising to see what works may be what you least expected!  Also, experimenting with complimentary colors (opposite on the color wheel), monochromatic (any shade, tint, or tone of one color), or analogous (next to each other on the color wheel) can make for amazingly stylish fashion!

3.       Accessorize and Prettify.  Probably my favorite menswear trend this year is in the details.  The accessories that complete a look can be so fun, especially when they’re a little out of the “norm”.  Bowties are huge right now, and allow a fun and flirty addition to an otherwise boring look.  Instead of actually stealing your dude’s bowtie collection, try one with a fun print and details, or long tails that make it a bit more girly.  Women’s cuff links, collars and cuffs, handbags, ties and shoes are only a few of the vast world of accessories that have been inspired by men this year.  A good tip to keep in mind if giving a bowtie a try is to leave the necklace at home.  The tie makes enough of a statement itself, and anything else framing the face will be a distraction.  Simple earrings are also a staple with this look.

Have fun with your menswear inspired looks and remember to keep things light and feminine.  When trying any new trend, it’s important to not take yourself too seriously!  Spend some time playing with some items and seeing what works for you.  

For more fashion wholesomeness, check out my store, The Purple Zebra at www.purplezebrashop.com and follow me on twitter @goodnpretty.  For column topic suggestions and comments, email me at goodnpretty@gmail.com.

Crush On This: Tangerine Tango, The Color of 2012

Yes, lovelies, it’s finally here.  Pantone’s top color of 2012, that is!  While I am well aware of the fact that this information was released weeks ago, I haven’t found this information to be relevant for a PA native until now.  I finally got my few inches of snow (I also got my shoveling workout, as short-lived as it was), and am now on to warmer things, just like our current weather forecast seems to be. 

For those of you who aren’t familiar, Pantone is basically the authority on all things color.  If you have seen The Devil Wears Prada (and are obsessed like myself), you can probably envision the scene where Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) snickers to herself regarding the similarity of two belts that Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) is debating over for a photo shoot.  Miranda quickly refutes Andy’s apathetic approach to fashion by teaching her a lesson regarding the actual color of her sweater being cerulean, not blue.  Well the moral of the story is, before the trends actually trickle down to the stores that most of us know and actually shop in, someone out there is making the color choices of the year for us.  Enter Pantone.

Pantone is used by tons of industry professionals from a variety of color-dependent industries, including textile designers, fashion designers, interior designers, and graphic designers to name a few.  Pantone’s color of 2012, Tangerine Tango, is a “spirited reddish-orange” hue intended to “provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward”.  Well, I’m not sure if our answers lie in something as simple as the color of our shirts, but hey, I’m willing to give it a whirl.  It also helps that the color is lively and dramatic, quite similar to my personality, I suppose. 

How does all of this information tie into fashion?  Well, just like the color cerulean in The Devil Wears Prada (where the color cerulean trickled down to some tragic Casual Corner where Andy undoubtedly fished it out of a clearance bin) the color Tangerine Tango has already littered a slew of spring runways last September, such as L.A.M.B (a personal favorite of mine), Derek Lam, Christian Siriano, Acne, and of course Michael Kors (I was in attendance of this one and was fortunate enough to view the hue up close & personal).  In fact, even Sephora has teamed up with Pantone, and will be releasing a new makeup line based on the orange hue which will be released sometime this March.  What this means for the average consumer?  Expect to see tons of orange in every store this spring, as early as next month.  Hopefully you have a particularly vivacious attitude, blue or green eyes (which are particularly flattering with this hue), and like to wear brown (no one wants to look like a giant jack-o-lantern in April). 

Not sold on wearing a full-length bright orange maxi dress, dressing your bridesmaids up as pumpkins, or painting a whole room in the tangerine hue?  Not to worry, there are tons of ways you can show your support for 2012’s favorite color in a more refined manner.  By using Tangerine Tango as an accent color, of course!  While I’m not sure that I’ll be lining my closet in wall to wall Tangerine Tango or if I’ll be sporting orange eye shadow this spring, I am certain that I will opt for more subtle hints of the color in my wardrobe, makeup bag, and my home.  Think nail color, lipstick, throw pillows, and pants.  Yes, pants!  I’m fairly certain that a bright pair of Tangerine skinny pants for spring would look oh-so-fab with a neutral wedge sandal and creamy, flowing, lacy top.  I just got so excited that I almost wished my beloved winter be gone!  Keep dreaming.

Will you be adventurous this spring and try some Tangerine Tango on for size?  For more fashion wholesomeness, check out my store’s website at www.purplezebrashop.com, find The Purple Zebra on Facebook, and follow me on twitter @goodnpretty.  For fashion questions or comments, email me at goodnpretty@gmail.com.