Aug 25
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    P.S.- Join the the mod squad.  This season, my friends at WHO WHAT WEAR and I are massive Mondrian fans…craving classic grid patterns.  YSL created iconic mod styles using the Mondrian grid, and this Fall Prada is taking note. Follow in the footsteps of Prada’s bold pattern, seen on the FW11 runways, and get inspired to create a version of your own. Here’s how:  Cut the sleeves off of a t-shirt , at the seams  (or use a tank if you already have).  Measure and cut strips of navy ribbon.  The length of ribbon should be one inch longer than the shirt on each side. Leaving extra ribbon is always best, you can always trim the excess.  Use a ruler to measure equal distance between each “line” (will vary depending on your size shirt).  Apply small amount of fabric glue to the back of the ribbon and place vertically, dabbing with your fingers to set.  Cut shorter strips to cross horizontally, again making sure the ribbon is evenly spaced to create your grid pattern.  Cut small squares of raspberry red colored ribbon. *P.S.- DIY tip! Use clear nail polish to keep the ends from fraying!  Glue squares on the intersections of the navy ribbon grid. For the collar and button detail, first create a paper collar template. Measure with a ruler and create a collar that is about 2 inches wide (depending on size of your shirt).  Use the guide you made to cut out the felt.  Cut a straight strip the same width as the collar and the same length as your shirt - to create the side panel.  Glue both collar and strip of felt onto shirt using a moderate amount of glue, setting with your hands, and letting dry for approx. 10-15 minutes before sewing on buttons.  Sew buttons onto collar and along the felt strip.  Lastly, trim any long pieces of ribbon and/or felt that are hanging off the edges-  and you are ready to join the Prada parade!

    P.S.- Join the the mod squad.  This season, my friends at WHO WHAT WEAR and I are massive Mondrian fans…craving classic grid patterns.  YSL created iconic mod styles using the Mondrian grid, and this Fall Prada is taking note. Follow in the footsteps of Prada’s bold pattern, seen on the FW11 runways, and get inspired to create a version of your own.

    Here’s how:  Cut the sleeves off of a t-shirt , at the seams  (or use a tank if you already have).  Measure and cut strips of navy ribbon.  The length of ribbon should be one inch longer than the shirt on each side. Leaving extra ribbon is always best, you can always trim the excess.  Use a ruler to measure equal distance between each “line” (will vary depending on your size shirt).  Apply small amount of fabric glue to the back of the ribbon and place vertically, dabbing with your fingers to set.  Cut shorter strips to cross horizontally, again making sure the ribbon is evenly spaced to create your grid pattern.  Cut small squares of raspberry red colored ribbon. *P.S.- DIY tip! Use clear nail polish to keep the ends from fraying!  Glue squares on the intersections of the navy ribbon grid.

    For the collar and button detail, first create a paper collar template. Measure with a ruler and create a collar that is about 2 inches wide (depending on size of your shirt).  Use the guide you made to cut out the felt.  Cut a straight strip the same width as the collar and the same length as your shirt - to create the side panel.  Glue both collar and strip of felt onto shirt using a moderate amount of glue, setting with your hands, and letting dry for approx. 10-15 minutes before sewing on buttons.  Sew buttons onto collar and along the felt strip.  Lastly, trim any long pieces of ribbon and/or felt that are hanging off the edges-  and you are ready to join the Prada parade!

    Aug 11
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    Make your mark in the world… with a marker!  Introducing Stained by Sharpie.  Sharpie’s first ever fabric marker allows you to scribble, draw, color and stain the day away.  My love affair with the iconic brand is no secret.  I was honored by being chosen to “start something with Sharpie”, partnering in the exciting launch.  A DIY clutch was in order.  This season, everyone who’s anyone is joining the clutch craze.  It’s timeless, stylish, and wreaks of chic.   P.S.- CHECK OUT THE BEHIND THE SCENES CLUTCH CREATION VIDEO! To create a clutch using Stained by Sharpie, outline a canvas bag using a ruler for straight lines, and add your own desired details.   Begin shading in top flap and continue to fill in using different pressures to create a lighter or darker shade.  Use a ruler to measure equal lines and create quilted effect (Approx. 1”).  Outline diamond quilting and add stud.  Place studs where lines intersect, and add stitching detail with dotted straight lines around the border. Next, cut slit for grommets, aligning on both sides and hammer together. Purchase a grommet kit for this step.  Feed chain through all four grommets, using safety pin to join ends of chain (or simply connect with pliers).  Add a fun tassel and “stained” faux hardware inspired by the fab clutches seen on the runways this past season.  Finally, Glue a gem or bauble on for the finishing touch!   P.S.- A DIY CHALLENGE FOR YOU: START SOMETHING WITH A SHARPIE.  UPLOAD YOUR DESIGNS ON SHARPIE.COM!

    Make your mark in the world… with a marker!  Introducing Stained by Sharpie.  Sharpie’s first ever fabric marker allows you to scribble, draw, color and stain the day away.  My love affair with the iconic brand is no secret.  I was honored by being chosen to “start something with Sharpie”, partnering in the exciting launch.  A DIY clutch was in order.  This season, everyone who’s anyone is joining the clutch craze.  It’s timeless, stylish, and wreaks of chic.  

    P.S.- CHECK OUT THE BEHIND THE SCENES CLUTCH CREATION VIDEO!

    To create a clutch using Stained by Sharpie, outline a canvas bag using a ruler for straight lines, and add your own desired details.   Begin shading in top flap and continue to fill in using different pressures to create a lighter or darker shade.  Use a ruler to measure equal lines and create quilted effect (Approx. 1”).  Outline diamond quilting and add stud.  Place studs where lines intersect, and add stitching detail with dotted straight lines around the border. Next, cut slit for grommets, aligning on both sides and hammer together. Purchase a grommet kit for this step.  Feed chain through all four grommets, using safety pin to join ends of chain (or simply connect with pliers).  Add a fun tassel and “stained” faux hardware inspired by the fab clutches seen on the runways this past season.  Finally, Glue a gem or bauble on for the finishing touch!  

    P.S.- A DIY CHALLENGE FOR YOU: START SOMETHING WITH A SHARPIE.  UPLOAD YOUR DESIGNS ON SHARPIE.COM!

    Jul 22
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    PS- It’s a heat wave, and nothing is hotter than Proenza Schouler.  We look to Jack and Laz each season to get swept away in their chic world that’s full of oooooh’s and aaaaaah’s.  The designing duo’s inaugural costume jewelry collection is Perfectly Stunning.  In one word: J’amazing, actually.  The whimsical mash-up of  baroque and modern flair is a must have this season.  I cannot dream up anything more magical, and my partners in crime, WHO WHAT WEAR agreed! PS- I’d be lost without PS! To create a baroque-styled necklace:  Slice and roll out 9 pieces of clay.  Each piece should be rolled out to approx. 1/4/ inches.  Once rolled out, draw each pendant pattern onto parchment paper for each shape.  Place pattern on top of clay, and use carving knife to trace around the pendant drawing and gently pierce through the paper, cutting the entire shape out of clay.  After each piece is cut, carefully place onto a non-stick baking tray laying pieces just as the final version will look.  PS- Be sure to match the pendants very close to one another in order for the jump rings to be able to connect.  Use a toothpick and/or chopstick to carve detail ridges in pendants by gently pressing into the clay, making soft, curvy detailed lines.  Using a toothpick, poke holes into pendants.  Be sure all holes line up perfectly before baking and make sure they are big enough for the jump rings to fit through.  Bake in oven at 275 degrees for 15-20 minutes.  Bake time may vary depending on oven.  Let cool for an hour.  Use a lightweight sandpaper to smooth out outside edges, and achieve a clean, soft look on top.  Use pliers and connect each pendant together with jump rings.  To finish off, loop ribbon through the end jump rings and glue to finish off.

    PS- It’s a heat wave, and nothing is hotter than Proenza Schouler.  We look to Jack and Laz each season to get swept away in their chic world that’s full of oooooh’s and aaaaaah’s.  The designing duo’s inaugural costume jewelry collection is Perfectly Stunning.  In one word: J’amazing, actually.  The whimsical mash-up of  baroque and modern flair is a must have this season.  I cannot dream up anything more magical, and my partners in crime, WHO WHAT WEAR agreed! PS- I’d be lost without PS!

    To create a baroque-styled necklace:  Slice and roll out 9 pieces of clay.  Each piece should be rolled out to approx. 1/4/ inches.  Once rolled out, draw each pendant pattern onto parchment paper for each shape.  Place pattern on top of clay, and use carving knife to trace around the pendant drawing and gently pierce through the paper, cutting the entire shape out of clay.  After each piece is cut, carefully place onto a non-stick baking tray laying pieces just as the final version will look.  PS- Be sure to match the pendants very close to one another in order for the jump rings to be able to connect.  Use a toothpick and/or chopstick to carve detail ridges in pendants by gently pressing into the clay, making soft, curvy detailed lines.  Using a toothpick, poke holes into pendants.  Be sure all holes line up perfectly before baking and make sure they are big enough for the jump rings to fit through.  Bake in oven at 275 degrees for 15-20 minutes.  Bake time may vary depending on oven.  Let cool for an hour.  Use a lightweight sandpaper to smooth out outside edges, and achieve a clean, soft look on top.  Use pliers and connect each pendant together with jump rings.  To finish off, loop ribbon through the end jump rings and glue to finish off.

    Jul 11
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    Dive, snorkel, and scour for coral!  The branchy marine organisms are sea-tasticly chic.  Studied by Marine Biologists and incorporated into our fashion and interior Icon’s designs, coral elements continue to inspire and intrigue us all.  As the father of the Sea, Jacques Cousteau once said, “when one man, for whatever reason, has the opportunity to lead an extraordinary life, he has no right to keep it to himself.“  In the spirit of the sea, sharing, and helping to make lives more beautiful, it’s time to get your DIY on.  Next beach stroll,  be sure to collect your thoughts and pretty pieces of coral to create this j’amazing cuff.  It’s on: Collect your coral treasures!  Cut and fold mesh wire (traditionally used for sculpting) into your cuff.  Create the cuff shape by wrapping around a glass that is comparable to the size of your wrist.  After achieved size and shape is reached, fold the sharp edges back about one inch.  This will soften the ends of cuffs and keep the wire from poking into your skin.  Using your glue gun, apply small dabs of glue to coral (not too much- it will ooze through the wire), and place onto the cuff.  Hold for a few seconds till set.  Get creative with sea-life combinations.  Weave string and shells for an ever bolder cuff.  Yes to coral. yes to cuffs. Get involved! PS- IF YOU LOVE CORAL, SHELLS, AND CREATURES GALORE, YOU MUST GET THE   CABINET OF NATURAL CURIOSITIES BOOK!

    Dive, snorkel, and scour for coral!  The branchy marine organisms are sea-tasticly chic.  Studied by Marine Biologists and incorporated into our fashion and interior Icon’s designs, coral elements continue to inspire and intrigue us all.  As the father of the Sea, Jacques Cousteau once said, “when one man, for whatever reason, has the opportunity to lead an extraordinary life, he has no right to keep it to himself.“  In the spirit of the sea, sharing, and helping to make lives more beautiful, it’s time to get your DIY on.  Next beach stroll,  be sure to collect your thoughts and pretty pieces of coral to create this j’amazing cuff. 

    It’s on: Collect your coral treasures!  Cut and fold mesh wire (traditionally used for sculpting) into your cuff.  Create the cuff shape by wrapping around a glass that is comparable to the size of your wrist.  After achieved size and shape is reached, fold the sharp edges back about one inch.  This will soften the ends of cuffs and keep the wire from poking into your skin.  Using your glue gun, apply small dabs of glue to coral (not too much- it will ooze through the wire), and place onto the cuff.  Hold for a few seconds till set.  Get creative with sea-life combinations.  Weave string and shells for an ever bolder cuff.  Yes to coral. yes to cuffs. Get involved!

    PS- IF YOU LOVE CORAL, SHELLS, AND CREATURES GALORE, YOU MUST GET THE   CABINET OF NATURAL CURIOSITIES BOOK!

    Jun 30
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    Declare your Independence DIY Day!  From the backyard BBQ’s to beach blow-outs,  boasting your red, white, and blue for July 4th is the thing to do!  Hand over heart, it’s all about art- so get involved.  Create a cool, creative, and craftastic centerpiece for your July 4th fete. Its On: Draw your desired “vase” shape onto foam core - available at most art stores, and office supply stores like STAPLES.  Be sure to do a few practice sketches before taking to the foam core.  Get creative with your shapes, sizes, and colors.  Mixing and matching will make an eclectic display.  Use a craft knife (be sure the blade is sharp!) and make slow, steady, and smooth slices on the “vase” outline.  Be sure you’re cutting on a board to protect the surface underneath.  If there are some shaggy and not so clean edges, clean them up after your shapes are cut out.  Tape a string (or ribbon) onto the back of your foam vase and secure it to the front of a container, by tying a secure knot or bow.  Re-purpose jars from the kitchen, drinking glasses; whatever’s clever!  Fill the containers with sweet smelling fresh flowers and display vases on a table for an unexpected and  delightful centerpiece. If you bleed red, white, & blue- I think this DIY is for you. God Bless amERICA!

    Declare your Independence DIY Day!  From the backyard BBQ’s to beach blow-outs,  boasting your red, white, and blue for July 4th is the thing to do!  Hand over heart, it’s all about art- so get involved.  Create a cool, creative, and craftastic centerpiece for your July 4th fete.

    Its On: Draw your desired “vase” shape onto foam core - available at most art stores, and office supply stores like STAPLES.  Be sure to do a few practice sketches before taking to the foam core.  Get creative with your shapes, sizes, and colors.  Mixing and matching will make an eclectic display.  Use a craft knife (be sure the blade is sharp!) and make slow, steady, and smooth slices on the “vase” outline.  Be sure you’re cutting on a board to protect the surface underneath.  If there are some shaggy and not so clean edges, clean them up after your shapes are cut out.  Tape a string (or ribbon) onto the back of your foam vase and secure it to the front of a container, by tying a secure knot or bow.  Re-purpose jars from the kitchen, drinking glasses; whatever’s clever!  Fill the containers with sweet smelling fresh flowers and display vases on a table for an unexpected and  delightful centerpiece.

    If you bleed red, white, & blue- I think this DIY is for you. God Bless amERICA!

    Jun 22
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    Don’t walk to the beach… run!  It’s the time of year when millions pack their beach bags to head towards the sunshine and sand for some R&R.  Donning a cute bikini is a DO, as is donning proper sun protection *P.S.- Protecting yourself from the sun’s UV rays will lessen chances for wrinkles, age spots, skin cancer, and eye damage- so take note and action!  I recently took a trip to the Bahamas, where my friend Rebecca Minkoff (one of the most amazing & creative business-savvy ladies I know), was sporting a j’amazing over-sized beach visor.  I died to DIY this, P.S.- just ask her!  Yes, you can make it!  Here’s how: Reach for a sun hat.  I picked up a $5 straw hat at Kmart.  Use sharp scissors to slice off the top part of the hat, leaving a lip of approximately 3 inches. P.S.- Save the top of the hat for a cute bowl- I filled mine with pretzels, true story!  Next, slice the brim of your hat with a slight curve on the ends.  Note: if you have a tiny head, you will have to make your space between sides larger.  Use scissors to make 4 tiny holes approx. 1-inch from the outside of the hat.  The holes could rip if made too close to the edge.  Lace rope (or opt for ribbon) through the holes and tie together for your sensational sun hat!  P.S.- Check out Refinery 29’s Sun Hat roundup that may inspire other sunny DIY’s.

    Don’t walk to the beach… run!  It’s the time of year when millions pack their beach bags to head towards the sunshine and sand for some R&R.  Donning a cute bikini is a DO, as is donning proper sun protection *P.S.- Protecting yourself from the sun’s UV rays will lessen chances for wrinkles, age spots, skin cancer, and eye damage- so take note and action!  I recently took a trip to the Bahamas, where my friend Rebecca Minkoff (one of the most amazing & creative business-savvy ladies I know), was sporting a j’amazing over-sized beach visor.  I died to DIY this, P.S.- just ask her! 

    Yes, you can make it!  Here’s how: Reach for a sun hat.  I picked up a $5 straw hat at Kmart.  Use sharp scissors to slice off the top part of the hat, leaving a lip of approximately 3 inches. P.S.- Save the top of the hat for a cute bowl- I filled mine with pretzels, true story!  Next, slice the brim of your hat with a slight curve on the ends.  Note: if you have a tiny head, you will have to make your space between sides larger.  Use scissors to make 4 tiny holes approx. 1-inch from the outside of the hat.  The holes could rip if made too close to the edge.  Lace rope (or opt for ribbon) through the holes and tie together for your sensational sun hat! 

    P.S.- Check out Refinery 29’s Sun Hat roundup that may inspire other sunny DIY’s.

    Jun 14
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    P.S.- I DIE for DIP DYE!  This season it’s all about white denim.  Summer’s must-have is also a must-make!  My friends over at WHO WHAT WEAR and I knew we had to get involved and spread the word on this denim DIY wonderfulness.  P.S.- Get excited! To create: Grab a pair of denim shorts. (loving my Levi’s).  Wear plastic gloves to protect your hands and create bleach solution, mixing two parts water and one part bleach in a plastic bucket.  Prepare your shorts by threading a ruler through the belt loops (or use any long item to rest across bucket).  Dip the shorts into the liquid, to the desired depth, and rest the ruler on the top of the bucket where they will hang in the solution.  Leave the shorts soaking for approx 30 minutes. P.S.- the bleach will run a tad, so be sure to leave an additional few inches. After the bleach has turned the shorts the desired white shade (this may take a few dips), remove and soak in your sink or bathtub with two parts water and one part vinegar for approx. five to ten minutes, to stop the bleaching process. Let the shorts dry completely and cut to desired length. For a more distressed look, pull along the edges of the shorts.  Wash and dry the shorts alone for the first time.  After that, you’re good to go for future washes with you summer whites!

    P.S.- I DIE for DIP DYE!  This season it’s all about white denim.  Summer’s must-have is also a must-make!  My friends over at WHO WHAT WEAR and I knew we had to get involved and spread the word on this denim DIY wonderfulness.  P.S.- Get excited!

    To create: Grab a pair of denim shorts. (loving my Levi’s).  Wear plastic gloves to protect your hands and create bleach solution, mixing two parts water and one part bleach in a plastic bucket.  Prepare your shorts by threading a ruler through the belt loops (or use any long item to rest across bucket).  Dip the shorts into the liquid, to the desired depth, and rest the ruler on the top of the bucket where they will hang in the solution.  Leave the shorts soaking for approx 30 minutes. P.S.- the bleach will run a tad, so be sure to leave an additional few inches. After the bleach has turned the shorts the desired white shade (this may take a few dips), remove and soak in your sink or bathtub with two parts water and one part vinegar for approx. five to ten minutes, to stop the bleaching process. Let the shorts dry completely and cut to desired length. For a more distressed look, pull along the edges of the shorts.  Wash and dry the shorts alone for the first time.  After that, you’re good to go for future washes with you summer whites!

    Jun 09
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    P.S.- Dive into DIY this summer!  The weather is hot, and your accessories should be too.  This seasons attire is “Beach Chic”, so please dress accordingly.  Elie Tahari’s SS2011 Collection boasted a stunning and breezy beach wrap, which was the inspiration for this DIY.  Whether you’re beach-bound or bouncing around town, everyone needs a bevy of beaded necklaces. To create: reach for thin material/fabric, cut into long strips.  P.S.- the thinner, the better.  Cut strips, angling the top, pinch ends to thread beads through.  Classic pony beads are ideal and are available in a variety of colors.  Get creative with color combos and spacing to create a staggering look.  Make multiple strands for the ultimate summer statement necklace.  P.S.- JOIN ME THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 11 AT ELIE TAHARI TO DIY THESE NECKLACES AND MORE J’AMAZING ACCESSORIES!  RSVP@ELIETAHARI.COM

    P.S.- Dive into DIY this summer!  The weather is hot, and your accessories should be too.  This seasons attire is “Beach Chic”, so please dress accordingly.  Elie Tahari’s SS2011 Collection boasted a stunning and breezy beach wrap, which was the inspiration for this DIY.  Whether you’re beach-bound or bouncing around town, everyone needs a bevy of beaded necklaces.

    To create: reach for thin material/fabric, cut into long strips.  P.S.- the thinner, the better.  Cut strips, angling the top, pinch ends to thread beads through.  Classic pony beads are ideal and are available in a variety of colors.  Get creative with color combos and spacing to create a staggering look.  Make multiple strands for the ultimate summer statement necklace. 

    P.S.- JOIN ME THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 11 AT ELIE TAHARI TO DIY THESE NECKLACES AND MORE J’AMAZING ACCESSORIES!  RSVP@ELIETAHARI.COM

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