June 13, 2017

10 Days of Design Crush Anniversary Giveaways: Day 9 Cursive Design

 

Ten years ago this month I started Design Crush as a place to gather inspiration for my day job as a graphic designer, and five years ago it became my full-time job. To thank you all, as well as highlight some of my favorite sponsors from over the years, we’ll be hosting ten days of giveaways in celebration of ten years of this little site that could.

 

 

I first met Sarah Fox, founder and jewelry designer of all things Cursive Design, what feels like ages ago. After falling for her work we connected online (oh gosh, it was such a smaller place then) and then became pals. Her Chicago-based jewelry line was created in 2005 and is inspired by Sarah’s background in art – she received a BFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago with a focus in Sculpture, Color Theory, and Lighting Design. Triple threat!

 

 

Cursive Design‘s ever-evolving collection strikes a balance between everyday wearable pieces that also create a statement. Her jewelry designs are characterized by their playful shape composition, relaxed geometry, and use of targeted color combinations. Sarah takes great time and care when sourcing the materials involved in the creation of every piece, and each is made by hand in her studio.

 

 

 

I’ve had the pleasure of attending New York Fashion Week twice, and in 2012 I took Sarah along with me to work on a sponsored project! She created the most incredible art deco-inspired reversible necklace featuring cast brass shapes with the help of a little input from Design Crush’s readers.

 

 

I must own at least seven pieces of Cursive Design‘s jewelry, and every time I wear one I’m complimented. Everything is so wearable, I’ve dressed it up and dressed it down and love the versatility of Sarah’s designs. She is generously offering one reader a mini collection of jewelry – color theory no. 7 necklace, dalmatian jasper supermoon necklace, primary circle earrings, triple triangle stud, and circle stud. All pieces can be seen above! You know how it goes, this time there are 24 ways to enter to win but only 48-hours to do it.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Posted In behind the scenes, jewelry, series, shameless plug, style, wear it, win it
21
June 8, 2017

My Friend Paco

 

Aside from having a name that makes me smile every time I type it, My Friend Paco also has a shop full of creative and heartfelt home decor and fashion. Each piece is produced in Portugal with its own story to tell that’s full of youth, culture, and open-mindedness. If you appreciate unique, contemporary design check out their rugs, variety of cushions, and scarves for a dose of personality and humor!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted In accessories, create, house and home, living, style, wear it
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June 7, 2017

The Epoch Collection

 

A cycling helmet that actually looks decent? Sign me up. We all know how important it is to wear one, but but most are so unappealing. Thousand saw the problem and created a solution – The Epoch Collection. A modern look that’s the opposite of the bulky headgear you’re likely used to, an innovative design fit for commuters and urban explorers alike. There’s also the Secret Poplock System that allows you to secure your helmet to your bike, Thousand will actually replace your helmet if it gets stolen while attached. Add in the seven vents, three cooling channels, and vegan leather straps and I dare you to find a more appealing helmet.

 

 

 

Posted In accessories, living, outdoors, style, wear it
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June 7, 2017

10 Days of Design Crush Anniversary Giveaways: Day 5 FAIL

 

Ten years ago this month I started Design Crush as a place to gather inspiration for my day job as a graphic designer, and five years ago it became my full-time job. To thank you all, as well as highlight some of my favorite sponsors from over the years, we’ll be hosting ten days of giveaways in celebration of ten years of this little site that could.

 

George Barberis

I have two favorite jewelry designers in Austin, Texas and this is one of them – meet Fail. After working for two internationally renowned jewelry designers, Christine Fail (yes, that’s her actual last name) decided to strike out and put her stamp on the world. I had the chance to meet her in person a few years ago and she’s just the absolute embodiment of her brand and the pieces she creates – understated elegance, delicate yet strong, a modern classic.

 

George Barberis

Christine is also a smart businesswoman and split Fail into three categories – Fail, Epic Fail, and a home line. Fail offers designs in 14K gold fill and sterling silver, Epic Fail‘s line is full of timeless designs in 14K gold and diamonds, and the home collection is stocked with unique metal accessories.

 

 

I wear this 14K Open Ring in yellow gold from the Epic Fail line on my left hand every day. It’s so perfectly thin that I barely feel it, yet sturdy enough that it doesn’t feel precious which is a balance that I really look for in all jewelry I wear regularly. (It’s also available in rose gold and white gold.)

 

 

I hung one of Christine’s organic spirit chains on the curtain rod above my bed before even knowing that’s where it’s supposed to go! These hand-cut and hammered brass beauties come in three different lengths, and are meant to be hung next to a window or in a curtain to keep bad dreams at bay. It’s one of my very favorite things.

 

 

All three of Fail‘s lines are always expanding, which means I’ve got my eye out for new pieces to add to my own collection. After the latest round of additions I’m eyeing the Graphite Ridge Ring, the 14K Lightning Stud, the Aeon Earrings, and the Saros Necklace (that stone!).

Oh, and guess what! You have a chance to win a $250 gift card to spoil yourself or someone you love with Fail goodies! There are 18 chances to enter but only 48-hours to do it, so get going.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Posted In accessories, behind the scenes, create, house and home, jewelry, living, series, shameless plug, style, wear it, win it
31
June 6, 2017

Beautiful Wears S/S 17

Paola Stripe Top // Chambray Stripe Rampling Tee // Joni Sweatshirt // O’Keefe Chambray Wrap Skirt

 

Nami 1-Piece Swimsuit // Matador Romper // Hazel Dress // Covill Dress

 

White Linen Boat Neck Dress // Oversized Long-Sleeve Shirt // Contrast Cotton Shirt // Long Elastic Waist Dress

 

The Nancy Dress // The Kheller Trouser // The Laurena Maxi // The Shit Tee

 

Black Crane Boat Neck Top, Print C // Black Crane Floral Dress // Black Crane Pleat Dress, Print A // Marion Dress

Posted In create, style, textiles, wear it
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June 2, 2017

12 Dopp Kits

Alden Leather Travel Kit // Waxed Canvas Toiletries Pouch // Manready Dopp Kit // Herschel Studio Tarpaulin Chapter Dopp Kit

Nothing makes me feel more prepared for travel than a solid dopp kit – do you have one? I actually keep doubles of a lot of my toiletries permanently inside because it makes packing for a trip much easier, and thereby me far less likely to forget something. I have a patterned one from Hammocks & High Tea that’s served me well for at least five years, I love it and can’t wait to take it along for a few more adventures this summer.

 

Refresh Dopp Kit // Toilette Shave Kit // Filson Travel Kit // Kip & Co Mauve Toiletry Bag

 

Leather Dopp // Alchemy Goods Elliot Travel Kit // Too Designs Travel Kit // Waxed Canvas Dopp Kit

Posted In bags, round up, series, style, wear it
1
May 31, 2017

May Favorites

1/ EcoBark Dog Harness
After years of searching for a harness that helped control my dog’s tendency to pull, as well as one that fit her broad chest/small neck measurements, I’ve found it. This thing is a lifesaver and the straps are made from recycled water bottles – bonus. (Note: runs small)

2/ Lemon Tree
Plants are therapeutic for me, and I picked up one of these little guys during a plant buying binge. I liked the idea of trying to grow it so much that I bought my Grandma one for Mother’s Day, too. No doubt hers will be five feet tall before mine hits 18-inches!

3/ Native Union Night Cable
This ten-foot long cable is amazing for charging your phone and devices while lounging in bed. The weighted knot anchors it to any surface, so you’re not left searching for your fallen phone when the alarm goes off in the morning.

4/ Elemental Coffee
My favorite coffee from when I lived in Oklahoma City remains my favorite 2 1/2 years post-move. The small batch roastery imports and roasts their own, and you can order a subscription service to show up on your doorstep. I highly recommend the Perusha.

5/ NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Red Square
A classic orangey-red that looks amazing on any skin tone, it’s been my go-to for a few years.

6/ Case Study Bentwood Tray Table
I rely on this tray table in the evenings, when I’m sitting on the couch with the dogs and either listening to records or half paying attention to something on television. It’s a great height and wide enough that I can sit crosslegged under it.

7/ Bebe drawn by Preserve a Moment
The super talented Susanne Kasielke drew my pup, Bebe, from a photo I’d shared in Instagram months ago. Her work is top-notch and I suspect it won’t be long until I commission her to illustrate my other pup as well!

8/ Tadesse Bucket Bag
The perfect bag for summer, its roomy interior provides so much space for essentials while the drawstring closure keeps it all secure. (It’s also available in a mini size and several colors of leather!)

9/ Yucca Plant
I had no clue that yucca plants could survive outdoors in Pennsylvania, or that I had three in my front yard, or that they bloom sporadically! Mine sprouted some tall stalks just about overnight, now I’m waiting for their white bell-like flowers to bloom.

Posted In bags, beauty bag, create, favorites, food, furniture, house and home, illustration, living, outdoors, pets, series, style, technology, wear it
0
May 5, 2017

30 Swimsuits

Positano Swimsuit // Prettylittlething Mesh Bandeau Bikini

Every year I make the mistake of waiting until it’s time to wear a swimsuit to try and buy one, but this year I’m behind the 8 ball and starting my search early (on time?). I haven’t been one for bikinis since my 20s, so I’m thrilled that the selection of one-pieces is exceptionally robust this year. Lots of interesting cuts and graphic patterns that draw me in like a moth to a flame. Plenty are already on sale too, so if you’re on the hunt for a new suit there’s no time like the present.

 

Aerie Super Scoop One-Piece Swimsuit // Emma Pake Antonia Lace-Up Swimsuit

 

ASOS Clean Cross Back Mono Stripe Swimsuit // Dolce Vita Seacoast One-Piece

 

Tavik Jett Colorblock Bikini Top + Bottoms // Baserange Kinch Swimsuit

 

Bathing Beauty Swimsuit Top + Bottoms // Beach Striped Halter One-Piece Swimsuit

 

Romy Pistol Pink One-Piece // Seaside Splendor Reversible One-Piece Swimsuit

 

The Ones Who Cutout One-Piece // The Ones Who Maren Top + Heather Bottoms

 

Weekday Pink Ribbed One Shoulder Swimsuit // Wake by the Ocean One-Piece Swimsuit

 

ASOS Layered Palm Plunge Halter Swimsuit // Out From Under Printed Tie-Front One-Piece Swimsuit

 

Solid & Striped Lexi One-Piece // Solid & Striped Morgan Bikini Top + Bottoms

 

Genevieve Bikini // ViX Striped One-Piece

 

Solid & Striped Willow One-Piece // Tide My Best One-Piece Swimsuit

 

Solid & Striped The Elle Striped Bikini // Matteau Square Maillot One Piece

 

Flagpole Jade One-Piece // The Ones Who Tali One-Piece

 

Tory Burch Solid Wrap One-Piece // Stella McCartney Stripe Padded Swimsuit

Posted In round up, series, style, wear it
0
May 4, 2017

DIY Geometric Sunhat

 

It’s already May, and I’ve been a planting fool! But unfortunately, I’ve also already been sunburned once. Despite my daily layer of sunscreen, I’m realizing I need something more – like an gigantic hat to protect my face, neck, and scalp. (Having super dark hair and a flaky scalp do not mix.) I picked up a wide-brimmed straw hat for the job, but decided it needed a bit more personality. A few geometric shapes and three primary colors later and now I’ll be wearing it all summer long! Bonus: this one is foldable, so it’ll be easy to tuck into my bag on the go – no excuses.

 

 

Supplies:
• wide-brimmed straw hat
• craft paint
• cardstock
• scissors
• pen
• flat-tipped paintbrush
• palette or paper plate
• paper towels

 

 

Start out by making some simple cutout templates using the cardstock, pen, and scissors. I used objects from around the house – a salt cellar for the circle, a sticker for the square, and the corner of the cardstock for the triangle. (Of course you can opt to use any shapes you want, I think black and white squiggles would look great!) I recommend using a pen to trace each shape because a pencil didn’t seem to be dark enough.

 

 

Lay out your shapes and trace as you go, making sure to avoid placing circle next to circle, etc. Now get to painting. I chose a primary color palette because it’s bright and fun for summer, but I think a black and white scheme would be just as striking. Layer of paper towels or newsprint on your painting surface before getting started because it will come through a bit. After putting some paint on my palette, I went around and made a small daub of color on each shape as a guide.

 

 

Carefully line the edges of each shape using your flat-tipped brush before filling in the centers, using the brush in an up and down motion to get all the nooks and crannies where necessary. Allow your new hat to dry thoroughly (of course) before strutting your stuff and protecting your mug!

 

Posted In accessories, create, living, make it, style, wear it
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