Champagne-Sparkle Mondays

I have a radical idea that might change the way we think about Mondays. Radical. Let's call it "champagne-sparkle Monday." It is sorta like "casual Friday," only much, much more exciting. Because instead of denim and comfortable shoes, we could wear cocktail dresses and fancy heels. And instead of water or coffee, we could offer our clients/customers champagne instead (while also enjoying a flute or two ourselves).

I think it's a fabulous idea. It would really take the edge off of a Monday morning, don't you think? Employers around the country would gladly go for it.

Okay...maybe not.
Alright, so perhaps champagne isn't realistic, and cocktail dresses aren't practical, but at the very least we could spice up our Mondays (or any other day of the week for that matter) with a little sparkle. Just a hint. Like in this top I designed using an old tank top I had.

I call it the Sparkle Holiday Top, but really you could wear it just about anytime. Because sequins and beads aren't just for the holidays or parties.

Oh no. Sequins are for anytime.

Anytime, people.

Now admittedly you can go overboard with the sparkle-factor, and turn heads in a bad way. But I created this design to be a bit understated--more like a necklace for your collar than a showgirl ensemble. You can certainly wear it with a pair of jeans and a jacket or cardigan without looking out of place.

Or you could dial it up and pair it with a pencil skirt and kitten heels for a holiday soiree. Like, say, a New Year's party, where there really might be champagne to add to your sparkle!

Undoubtedly I will be wearing my Sparkle top all year long, because I like a little bit of glamour for everyday. Just a hint.

If you're looking for a little glamour in your life this season, consider making this top yourself. All you need is a plain tank top, dress, sweater or shirt, a handful of beads and/or sequins, and needle and thread. I provide a trace-on template in my pattern, so you don't even have to fiddle with the design if you don't want!

You could even wear it to work next Monday. Just save the champagne for after your day ends.

To learn more about this DIY pattern, and others, click here!

Patchwork Design

When it comes to home design, I have to admit that I'm not partial to the "country" style. I don't love gingham or wicker or needlepoint art.

I do, however, love patchwork.
Patchwork appeals to me for a number of reasons. First, it gives me a chance to play with color, pattern and texture all in one design. And second, it is a great way for me to use up some of my fabric remnants and scraps.

Personally I like to pair patchwork with unexpected accessories, like a sheepskin throw or a braided jute rug. And even though these pillows include very traditional patterns (ticking stripe, checks, etc.), you could apply this design to something a lot more modern, like retro polka dots or asian batiks.
For instance, I recently made this collection of pillows for my mom to enjoy this holiday season. And even though they look complicated, I promise that it only took me two afternoons to make four pillows!
Basically the design possibilities are endless! And with the right combination of colors and patterns, these pillows would fit in almost any home!

Of course it wouldn't be nice of me to not share how I made these pretty pillows, so I've created a pattern that you can follow along if you feel inspired. The best part is that I included a "paint-by-number" design template so that all you have to do is plug your favorite fabrics into the scheme and skip all the hassle of trying to piece them fashionably together.

You can find the pattern for sale now in my online store!

Happy Patching!