I try to find time to refocus on goals and dreams on a regular basis - I find it much easier to stay motivated in the present if I know what my end game is.
Personally, one of my goals for this year was to create a more ethical and economic wardrobe. Capsule wardrobes and ethical fashion aren't exactly a revelation anymore, but I think it's important that since I work in the clothing industry, my personal life lines up with my design and ethical principles. I rediscovered a couple of really fun thrift store over the summer, and most of what I've purchased recently has been second hand. For the few things I have purchased new, I've searched for a good balance of quality and affordability, and a classic and simple enough design that they will last me for a long time. For me, I've found that one of the hardest things to combat in an intensely consumeristic culture is the constant desire for something new. So, for the next six months, I'm challenging myself to purchase no more than one clothing item each month, and for each item I bring in, I need to donate or get rid of at least one other item. And who knows, if it works well, I may end up keeping it going after the six months are through! My September purchase was a pair of black flats. I have trouble finding classy dress shoes that I like and are also comfortable. After looking around a bit, I ended up adding high quality insoles to these, and I'm quite happy with the result. The lines remind me of Audrey Hepburn, and they go with everything from leggings to jeans to vintage dresses.
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I just completed the flower girl dresses for this October wedding, and I'm so excited to see the girls wearing them!
They're light, flowy, and feminine without being too frilly, which is especially good for the wider age range of the girls. The flower details are removable for easy washing, or to be used on another outfit. I think they would make a great accent for a headband! A dear and lovely friend of mine is getting married this fall, and I have the privilege of working on apparel for most of the bridal party - three adorable custom flower girl dresses, as well as alterations for the bride, groom, and maid of honor. I'm knee deep in mustard gold chiffon flower girls today! As with many of my formal wear designs, I started with an image of a dress and shifted the lines and colors to create exactly what the bride was looking for. Sweet, simple, and just enough ruffles. The one very odd thing about this material is that it's almost impossible to capture the color in a picture - even in great natural light, it turns into a strange beige. I can assure you it's a much nicer color in person!
I started an Etsy store this summer!
My first product is a series of cozy covers for mason jars, to make any mason jar into a portable coffee cup. Each is hand knitted in fisherman's wool, either a simple flat knitted design, or narrow cables. I've made several for myself that I use on a regular basis. Check out my shop - karenacustomdesign! Throughout this fall, I'll be adding more one-of-a-kind and made to order items - cozy home goods and wearables. Check back soon for socks, scarves, and maybe even blankets! |
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