Style Conspiracy

Frida Kahlo - Viva La Frida!

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:22:00 +0000

Self taught painter Frida Kahlo was born today July 6, 1907.
I've always been drawn to the vivid images and colors she used in her paintings for as long as I can remember. For obvious reasons, I am not alone in admiration of her art and life.

Ecofriendly Frida Kahlo softie by Sew Sew Suck Ur Toe

Frida's Treasure Box Purse by Estudio Martita

Frida Kahlo Mouse by The House of Mouse

Word to Your Mother...

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 06 May 2009 07:51:00 +0000

Mother's Day is right around the corner and I know you don't want to give your mom the obligatory flowers and candy, right? Right!

Show she's special by getting her something that is just as unique as she is.

Large Squirrel Vase by Pretty Random Objects

Puffed Heart Wall Wear by Neawear

Young Lovers jewerly box by Jim Jenkins

Earth Hour 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 23:39:00 +0000

Today is the day for Earth hour. It is a worldwide call to action to draw attention to global warming. Just turn off your lights for 1 hour, starting 8:30pm your local time. That's it to be a part of a global vote to do something about global warming. It is the simplest thing to do.

Waiting for Spring!

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:01:00 +0000

Just a couple of spring inspired goodies to carry you into the weekend.

Puffy Tree with song bird by HouseHold Words

hand painted silk sunflower scarf by Crystal J.

Dahlia Cloud in the Sky by Life in Sugar Hollow

Wearing O' The Green

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 08:45:00 +0000

St. Patrick's day is fast approaching, don't forget to wear your green, even if you happen to not be Irish. Nothing wrong with celebrating someone who is fabled to rid a country of snakes...bleagh good riddance!
Here is a little green to celebrate.

Lucky Me Clover Earrings by Jewelry by Reshell

Green and Lavender Tortoise Serving Bowl by Campana Ceramics

Bijoux Forty by Mood Swing Studio

Free Art: Feed Your Soul

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 03:55:00 +0000

Feed Your Soul: the free art project, is a really cool project of Jen Wallace, author of one of my favorite blogs, Indie Fixx. Feed Your Soul is her recent endeavor where each month a selection of invited artists contribute one print, which is totally free and available for download for personal use. What great way to discover new and new to you artists and perk up your space.

Jessica Rose for Feed Your Soul

In Like a Lion

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:59:00 +0000

After a 8 inch snow fall in RVA yesterday, I thought this video of the effortless and timeless Nina Simone was most appropriate for the nice day that we are having.

Crafting Words

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:02:00 +0000

There are some artists that not only craft with the usual tools of gems, glue guns and what have you but also with words. Awesome new craft books are out or soon to be out, written by some of the who's who in the craft world. These are a couple of my favorite stand outs. (listed in no particular order, I like them all!) I can't wait to add these to my ever growing collection of books.

Crafty Chica's Guide to Artful Sewing: Fabu-Low-Sew Projects for the Everyday Crafter by Kathy Can0- Murillo
Sew Darn Cute: 30 Sweet & Simple Projects to Sew & Embellish by Jenny Ryan
Home, Paper, Scissors: Decorative Paper Accessories for the Home by Patricia Zapata
Kilobyte Couture: Geek Chic Jewelry to Make from Easy-to-Find Computer Components by Brittany Forks

Power of Words...

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:44:00 +0000

In light of goals and new starts this year, these t-shirts by Words To Live By let people know your state of mind.

Denise Hart states, “I started Words to Live By after my mother lost her battle against the same breast cancer that I had survived just the year before. I wanted to create the kind of company that would reflect my mother’s style -- living a positive and celebrated life, combined with my belief in positive thinking." The company’s mission is to help women to live their lives more fully through the power of conscious and courageous living.

2009 Goals

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 03:09:00 +0000

I’m certainly glad 2009 has come. Truth be told, 2008 was sort a meh year for me. Nothing to complain about but no big good change. Just all around breaking even…and there is nothing wrong with that whatsoever. But I would have liked to have a little of hurrah, a bit of sha-bang, a smidgen of wow in the ‘08, ya know?

Now, I usher in 2009 with new hope not only from our new President but from friends who are energized from the new year and starting new pursuits and goals. I start this year in the mood to make my yearly resolutions but go a little deeper with it. Not to just have a general list of to-do’s and will do’s but be way more reflective with the goals. I’m going to put more effort into 2009 and be a lot more hard-core with pursuing my goals. Become one with organization, tap back into being crafty for the fun-without it being a part of my business, to focus my business in a direction I am excited about again(already working on that), etc.

I am also going to focus on my writing more with regards to purpose of this blog and with my writing goals to write a novel(s) and craft book(s). I've been sitting on these ideas and plots for too long. For those that have been following this blog, thank you for hanging in there with me as I try to figure out its direction. I promise more posts/articles/ramble on whats happening & what new in the indie design scene.

Cheers to the new year, here’s to making it shine in 2009!!

Seasonal Notes

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 07:23:00 +0000

Send some seasonal cheer with a handmade touch with these fun holiday cards by Lamar Lynch of Handcrafted by LaMar.

With a wide variety of cards and sizes to chose from, you are sure to find a card to best express your well wishes of this holiday time of year for your friends and family. Cards are available on his Etsy shop lamarlynch.etsy.com.

Tis the Season

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:27:00 +0000

Tis the season for the holidays! Time to start decking the halls, send out the greeting cards, planning the parties etc.

So, you'll need to start with this absolutely adorable Santa ACEO (Art Cards, Editions, and Originals) by Stacey-Ann Cole of Miss Ann Art.
In this UK based artist's Etsy shop, you'll find a variety of her original mixed media and watercolor artwork inspired by her surroundings, moods and imagination.

Its been a minute...

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 02:01:00 +0000

Wow! It has been a minute since I've blogged. I will get back into to swing of blogging and finding new and cool indie designers and artists really soon. I am also pondering a refreshing of the look of SC.

In the mean time, I have to share a really cool site dedicated to soul/urban music , Soul Bounce, http://www.soulbounce.com. News about the music artists you are use to hearing on the airwaves and lots of news of the ones you should be hearing. I've been beefing up my playlist with all the new (and new to me) artists I've been reading about here.

Mood Yndigo... Yndigo Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 23 May 2008 09:50:00 +0000

Name: Kim Lyons
Store name: Yndigo Designs
Website/online presence: http://yndigo.com

A look behind the scenes:
Kim Lyons of Yndigo Designs, has been designing and handcrafting jewelry for 9 years. In that time she has taken what started out as a hobby and turned it into an award-winning line of one-of-a-kind and limited edition jewelry and accessories. Kim's design style is a fusion of ethnic and contemporary elements resulting in "ethno-chic" works of art. Inspired by geometric shapes, music, and all things cultural, she creates pieces that have a distinct identity and enhance a woman's individual style.

Kim was awarded Best Indie Women's Accessory (Jewelry) at the 2003 Indie Fashion Awards in New York, and nominated for the Fashion Group Internationale's 8^th Annual Rising Star Awards, Accessories (2006). Her work has been seen in various venues such as dc Fashion Week®, The Baltimore Sun, Black Elegance magazine, and Consciousness magazine.

Born and raised in Washington, DC, Kim got her artistic start writing and performing poetry throughout the DC Metropolitan Area at various jazz poetry sets and on the radio. This self-taught designer is also an avid supporter of the arts and strong believer in giving back to the community. She has taught several jewelry-making, art, and entrepreneurial workshops to inner city children at summer camps and Saturday art programs. She is a past president of the D.C. Chapter of The National Association of Fashion & Accessory Designers, a non-profit organization of professionals and hobbyists representing all areas of the fashion, apparel, and accessories industries.

Kim is offering a free gift with every purchase thru May 30th from her website, Yndigo Designs. As a bonus for Style Conspiracy readers, Kim is offering 15% off, just enter code "conspiracy" at check-out thru May 30th as well.

Brace Yourself Boutique Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 02:31:00 +0000

Brace Yourself Boutique is celebrating their new and improved website with a HUGE sale. Bracelets from 50-80% off. Some prices as low as $3! The Boutique has also added some wonderful new early summer finds.
They offer free gift-wrapping on purchases over $25.00 and free shipping on orders over $50.00.

BHM Featured Artist: Art by Kwame

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 08:49:00 +0000

Name: Marcus Kwame Anderson
Store name: Art by Kwame
Website/online presence: http://www.marcuskwame.etsy.com (shop)
http://www.marcuskwame.com (gallery)


A look behind the scenes: 
I am an artist from Albany NY. I teach art and I make paintings, drawings, comics,
music, stories, poems and whatever else moves me.  I make art to express myself,
to celebrate my culture and heritage, and for the purpose of social commentary

BHM Featured Artist: Beads In The Belfry

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 05:17:00 +0000

Name: Nina Jackson
Store name: Beads In The Belfry
Website/online presence: http://shopbatty.com

A look behind the scenes:
Ever since I could recall I've been making things…One of my earliest memories is sitting in the living room of my parents' house cutting up frilly socks to make clothes for Barbie. It got so bad that my grandmother started bringing me little frilly girl socks just for that purpose!

So I have pretty much been making art all my life. I like to make all sorts of things but I am focusing right now on jewelry with a focus on wire wrapping and metal smithing. I like the tactile feel of wrapping and bending wire into something that was not there before. Beads In The Belfry is my brainchild to that end. It is the place for those who've gone quite batty for baubles. I make pieces that are more often than not influenced by nature and her organic shapes. Precious metals and semi-precious stones are primarily used in conjunction with wire wrapping techniques. I've just started learning how to solder metal together. Watch out world!

BHM Featured Artist: B So Chic! Designer & Vintage Boutique

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 23:07:00 +0000

Name: Bren Herrera
Store: B So Chic! Designer & Vintage Boutique
Website/online presence: http://www.beesochic.com

A look behind the scenes:
When I was working full-time in DC, I would usually spend my lunch hours shopping and flipping through all my fashion magazines. I had a closet full of unworn pieces that came from major retail chains or couture and designer pieces and accessories. I decided to make money from it! I started selling things on the side and then thought how to cool would it be to have an online boutique doing the same thing. So, I started "buying" for real! I hit every consignment shop, going out of business store, estate sales and smaller boutiques. I would find the coolest and most unique things. I even keep some things for myself--only sometimes!
(clockwise from top: new Tory Burch lucite cuff, new Sascha of London Houndstooth Pump, Vintage, London Fog Cream Trench Coat, circa 1960. Unworn in excellent condition)

I launched B So Chic! in July 2005, just 3 months after I quit my job. I realized I had a knack for finding unique things, both vintage and designer. At www.beesochic.com you will see items like vintage Herme's shoes that are brand new, or a Jackie-O vintage dress. Or how about some 7 For All Mankind jeans and Gucci logo bag priced at 60% less than retail! I carry handbags, accessories, shoe and apparel. This is what B So Chic! is about-- offering women a chic shopping experience that won't break their account! It's about being sexy, chic and frugal, all at the same time!

Through B So Chic! I host monthly trunk shows in the Atlanta area that promotes other local artists and designers. Mostly women, these cool and indie crafters come out in full force with their original works! We have a funky DJ to entertain us, complimentary food, drink specials and most of all, incredible networking. I can't tell you how many of the recurring vendors have benefitted from meeting other women in business! If I can help each of us grow, then I'm happy. I really do love what I do!

BHM Featured Artist: C.B. Herrera Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 02:05:00 +0000

Name: Carmen Beatriz
Store: C.B. Herrera Jewelry
Website/online presence: http://www.cbherrera.com

A look behind the scenes:

After many years of running a very successful commercial cleaning business, C.B. Herrera, whose friends know as Betty, turned to relax a bit. She found herself interested in the jewelry her daughters were always coveting. So, to stop dishing out allowances that were satisfying shopping fetishes, Herrera picked up some tools and gems & went to work! "I'm not really inspired as much as I am in love with the peace jewelry designing offers me! A lot of times I get up around 1 a.m. and go to my studio and just start putting my ideas together."

Her pieces are an eclectic, yet fancy fusion of stones, crystals, earthy elements and one of-a-kind pieces she finds along her travels. She loves pretty things and wants to make sure her client is seen that way. A lot of pieces, no matter how earthy, will have a touch of crystal--may not be visible to the on-looker, but it's there! Her line is ever evolving and working toward a distinguishable look. She makes jewelry that any woman will love to wear.

Carmen lives outside Washington, D.C with her husband. She is currently rep'd by her daughter, Bren, in Atlanta, who puts on her designer hat every so often!

BHM Featured Artist: Double Stitch

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 05:43:00 +0000

Name: Erika and Monika Simmons
Store: Double Stitch
Website/online presence: http://doublestitchwear.com (Official website)
http://doublestitch.etsy.com (E-commerce website)
http://myspace.com/doublestitchwear (myspace)

A look behind the scenes:
Double Stitch is the brainchild of the multi talented twin designers Erika and Monika Simmons. This collection of fun and flirty hand crochet apparel has it all - one of a kind construction, a limitless use of color, plush fabrication, silhouettes that flatter all body types and twin designers that demand as much attention as the head turning garments they produce. Since the unofficial launch of the line Christmas 2002, Double Stitch has leaped to the top of the 'ones to watch' list. The concept that started as holiday gift giving created a demand that rapidly expanded into a line of fun and flirtatious designs. The newest line consists of daring, new-age concepts that include dresses, dusters, jackets, skirts, shrugs, hats, scarves, sleeves, apron tops, chokers, and ponchos that transcend fads and seasons.

Double Stitch has developed a far reaching fan base from New York City to Los Angeles. Celebrity vocal fans also include, Jennifer Hudson, Floetry, Kindred the Family Soul Artist, Aja, Common, Eve, and the fabulous Patti LaBelle. Actress Rachel True of UPN's Half & Half, Chelsey Cooley (Miss USA 2005), Abiola Abrams, host of “BET J: The Best Shorts” and reality tv star Lauren of Beauty and the Geek , are all Double Stitch fans.

Their very first book of crochet patterns, entitled Double Stitch: Designs for the Crochet Fashionista, published by Interweave Press, is set to release May 2008.

BHM Featured Artist: Brace Yourself Boutique

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 12:04:00 +0000

Name: Myisha Croom-Turner
Store: Brace Yourself Boutique
Website/Online presence: www.braceyourselfboutique.com (shop)
www.myspace.com/braceyourself74 (blog)

A look behind the scenes:
Hello, My name is Myisha and I am a independent jewelry designer from Southern California. I reside in Fontana which is 50 miles east of Los Angeles. I am employed full time and I also design/create jewelry and participate in local fairs. I am happily married, and a mother of one wonderful 8 year old named Myles. I started my business back in 2000 making bracelets for co-workers and family, and realized how enjoyable it was creating wearable art that people actually loved. With an appreciation for nature and uniqueness, I love creating bracelets that stand out and make a bold statement.....'I am not afraid to be different!' I love creating 'chunky' styled jewelry, and this year I have expanded my collection to include earrings.

In 2007, I created a shopping event/vendor fair for women called Sip n' Shop Girls Night Out. I solicited over 30 business owners to participate. At Sip n' Shop women were able to shop from other women designers, boutique owners, and consultants, sip cocktails, view hourly fashion shows, and listen to neo-soul music spun by a DJ all evening. Due to the success of the event I am currently planning Sip n' Shop Girls Night Out for Spring 2008, and I am seeking handmade crafters, and independent artists in SoCal to participate. For information about this years Sip n' Shop event or to view last years pictures you can go to www.myspace.com/sipandshop.

BHM Featured Artist: Smell Good Spa 1998™

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 20:17:00 +0000

Name: Itiel Mcvay
Store: Smell Goods 1998™
Website/Online presence: http://www.smellgoodspa.com (shop)
http://smellgoodspa.blogspot.com (blog)
Smell Goods '98 Commercial (commercial)

A look behind the scenes:
Specializing in signature fragrance body oil blends, signature hand-dipped incense, and gourmet, made-to-order bath & body products. I focus on creating products that are healthy for the skin, that will condition the skin, and of course products that smell good.

Itiel McVay is the chief operating officer and mixologist of Smell Goods ‘98™. In 1998, after hearing her husband’s idea of becoming purveyors of oils and incense, Itiel moved forward with the idea and has made the creative side of the product line what it is today. Over the years Itiel has honed her bath and body knowledge and creative skills. Itiel stays abreast on the latest cosmetic trends, body care treatments, and the pros and cons of cosmetic ingredients.

From l. to r.: 4 in 1 - Almond Whipped Cream Scrub, Rub Down multi use oil and Chai Soap (vegan friendly!)

Itiel is also an active member of online crafting communities and online indie business communities. Since childhood, Itiel’s life has centered around a healthy way of living. Mixing up goodness for beautiful conditioned skin and educating others about the Smell Goods ’98’s™ line, comes naturally to Itiel. Itiel’s creative inspiration comes from gourmet desserts and gourmet beverages.

Itiel is a home-school mother and resides in Charlotte, with her husband and their two children.

Smell Good Spa is currently celebrating its 10 year anniversary with a “Don't Be Ordinary 48 HR
Sale!” tonight, Thursday, February 7th at 12 am through Saturday, February 9th to 12 am. The entire site is 45% off! No redemption codes needed, just simply shop your hearts content.

BHM Featured Artist: La Vonne’s Knot Just Knits

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 19:41:00 +0000

Name: Angela Best
Business name: La Vonne’s Knot Just Knits
Website/online presence: http://lavonneknotjustknits.com (shop)
Blog: http://lavonneknotjustknits.com/blog/ and
http://crohooker.livejournal.com/

A look behind the scenes:
Toronto, Canada based designer of Crochet/Knitted Fashion Wearables was born in England then migrated at an early age to Canada. Crocheting and knitting have always been a very important part of her life. Angela taught herself to crochet and knit which meant she had no preconceived ideas and therefore let her work focus on the exciting use of color, unusual construction approaches and simple yet elegant garment shape. Her love of the unusual is evident in her dramatic fashion pieces of crochet, knit or the latest art called “mix” which combines both knit and crochet in a single garment.

Angela was busy running Toronto’s Shelly’s Yarns for 6 years, designing for several local yarn manufacturers, along with selling her crochet designs from her website La Vonne’s Knot Just Knits, http://lavonneknotjustknits.com. Not only did she teach knitting and crocheting at the shop, she is also an expert finisher and with her keen eye and artistic sense excelled at helping customers pick out color and texture combination for their creations or custom designs.

The former and second President of Toronto’s Downtown Knit Collective knitting guild, she was affectionately know as the crochet queen, she is also a member of the Toronto Hookups Crochet Guild. Angela loves to keep busy with pattern designs, teaching and publications for the crocheter/knitter who is searching for something different. She is a walking encyclopaedia of crochet knowledge and takes great pleasure in sharing her knowledge and creativity as she works with hooks, needles, and yarns. All of these experiences have given Angela a great appreciation for the importance of clearly written instructions. When asked if she can knit or crochet she answers. “Yea kinda” then “I’ve designed everything from bikinis to wedding dresses and then some”. Her designs have been featured in many newspaper articles and yarn companies for many years.

Hearts and Flowers for Valentine's Days

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:08:00 +0000

You can get the flowers anywhere but you can find a cute pair of heart earrings at A Pretty Rock. A Pretty Rock is having a special deal for Valentine's Day. All orders over $40 will receive a free pair of Filigree Heart Circle Drop Earrings.

Sale ends February 14th and only while her supplies last. All details on this Valentine's special can be found on her shop's blog.

BHM Featured Artist: Uzuri Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 04:58:00 +0000

Name: Sharonda Crome
Business Name: Uzuri Designs
Website Name: www.UzuriDesigns.net, www.uzuri.etsy.com

A look behind the scenes:
Who am I: Sharonda Crome a Wife, a mother of 3 great children and a self taught jewelry designer.
I design unusual handcrafted beaded and fine silver jewelry using a mix of gemstones, wire, and my new medium silver art clay. After being introduced to jewelry making by a friend, I found that I was absolutely in love! I love combining unique colors and shapes and mixing stones to create fabulous pieces of jewelry