Try Handmade

Shopping blog featuring products made by people not factories.

Cocktail Party

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I’ve been daydreaming lately about throwing a lovely cocktail party, full of fancy dresses, music, laughter and great conversation. Unfortunately, my apartment is barely big enough for my craft supplies, let alone guests. I am undeterred, however; a cocktail party will come my way sooner or later, and when it does, I’ll be ready with the perfect handmade outfit.

Fashion in Hawaii is pretty casual, which means I’ll be extra excited to slip into this gorgeous 1950’s style silk dress by Fiori di Arancio. The high neckline, full skirt, and short sleeves are chic and elegant, while the organza bow adds the perfect touch of sweet. The dress can be made in any color silk, but I love the patterned fabric shown on the model–it’s classic, subtle and sure to turn heads among the little black dresses.

What’s a cocktail dress without the perfect statement-making ring? This bezel set option by Blue Wave Jewelry will add just a little bit of sparkle and modern flair to my vintage-style dress–a fashion juxtaposition, if you will. The different dimensions of this druzy quartz stone will catch the light perfectly, and set it apart from your typical cocktail ring. The oval shape and wide sterling silver bezel setting are classic.

A great clutch is always a must when you’re dressing up for a night out. This simple black option by Designs By Ambiana is made of vegan leather, lined, and includes a small pocket. It’s large enough to hold all of your things, but small enough that it won’t compete with the cocktail dress. The silver purse frame and chain will coordinate perfectly with the silver jewelry, and the pattern on the vegan leather is just the perfect amount of texture.

Now that I have my perfect cocktail party outfit, all I need is an invitation, and a drink!

**The image featured at the top of this article is a photograph by The Bunny Cage.

Isabel Amyo

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Isabel Amyo: Women fashion designer for almost 10 years now.
I had an unusual career. After having been Assistant Director, I wanted to realize my childhood dream by becoming a fashion designer.
Full of motivation and energy I have taken training to hone my skills as an autodidact.
I worked in several fashion house in Paris, and now after having two beautiful boys I decided to run only in creating my own brand.
Let my creations enchant you and I would be most happy.

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My Black Dress

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My Black Dress: I discovered my passion in Fashion three years ago and just entered a fashion school without any knowledge of clothing construction or pattern-making. Now I can bring any design in my mind or on paper into reality. I purely love sewing, designing, draping–in fact, the whole process of making clothes. I work on every single piece with my soul, passion, heart, and love. I would not put anything on my store that I am not proud of. Each peice is truely well-made and one of a kind. Enjoy!!

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Travel Inspired Spring Fashion

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I don’t know why, but I’ve got travel on my mind more than ever these days. Maybe it’s the temperatures increasing ever so slightly and the sun peeking out from behind the clouds. Or possibly, it’s also the not so distant memories of snow and that we’re still wearing coats and gloves most days. (Screenprinted T’s from New Duds.)

Whatever the reason – there’s probably nothing more fun to daydream about then time away in beautiful places. I have two trips on the horizon, that I am hoping will happen within the next year. One to Maui, and one to Paris. Neither are confirmed yet, but that hasn’t stopped me from doing a little bit of research to see where my top places to go in each city are. Maui would be all about hiking, eco-tourism and time at the beach for me!

In Paris – La Duree for some sensational macaroons, Versailles in all it’s splendour, and biking in the French countryside are all top of my list.

And being the fashion loving girl that I am, I started to think of what clothing I’d want for these trips! For Maui, brightly colored lightweight dresses, tank tops and bikinis. For Paris, breezy romantic dresses and clothing in sweet pastels….

I thought I’d take a peek around Supermarket at some great indie fashion – matching each outfit with a fun getaway destination.

First up, these cute screenprinted t-shirts at the top of this post from New Duds! Almost instantly, they had me thinking Road Trip. T’s are always comfy for long trips in the car, with a stop at a cozy roadside dinner or a fun pub for lunch or dinner.

The Pastorius Dress from Dressed in Yellow makes me think of New York!

Lekkerlife Clothing offers this oh so cute black and white pleated skirt that says vintage California to me – I can just see myself wearing this great ensemble, top down, driving around in a classic car.

Finally – this gorgeous organic cotton dress from Gina Michelle has me thinking of Paris. This dramatic little number looks perfect for a candlelit dinner at a raucous restaurant!

Have you started shopping for spring and summer clothes yet? Any fun finds?

Boyfriend Chic

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Wearing your boyfriend’s clothes is one of those fashion trends that keeps coming back year after year in one form or another. Sure, it sounds easy enough – just throw on your man’s collared shirt – but for those of us who aren’t fashion models, this trend can be difficult to pull off. Those over-sized collared shirts can easily create a messy, even frumpy look. For women in need of something more tailored, there are plenty of handmade artists creating pieces that will keep you on trend, but still looking chic and pulled together.

I just love the look of this tunic by Ma chemise d’homme. Made from a man’s collared shirt, you still get the comfort and relaxed look that is typical of the boyfriend trend, but the round neckline, puffed sleeves and contrasting bias tape add subtle touches of femininity. Ma chemise d’homme’s entire shop features women’s clothing made from upcycled menswear and some of her designs are truly surprising – a must see.

If you love the relaxed look of boyfriend jeans, but are looking for something a little more tailored, the Charlie Pants by Three Little Ducks may be just what you had in mind. With a relaxed fit and flattering pleating across the front, these pants combine masculine tailored details with a feminine cut and fit, and could be easily dressed up for a night out or worn out while running errands.

This acorn yellow satchel by breagha is another great combination of masculine and feminine details. The leather shoulder strap and detailing along with the boxy shape mimic more masculine messenger bags while the bright yellow color and compact size make it perfect for female body types and taste. Made from tweed woven in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, this bag is both unique and utilitarian.

The sweet print featured at the top of this post was created by Sparklehen.