It is cocktail party season...

Years ago a co-worker of mine asked if I would copy her favorite vintage bag so she could give them as gifts for the holidays. I obviously said yes, it's so fun to get to investigate vintage pieces I don't have the patience to shop/hunt for. We did modify the proportions some, shorten the bag, lengthen the handle..

As I was cleaning out my studio, I found my pattern pieces and the half finished one I had started to make for myself. So, I finished it up and here it is, just in time for all the holiday parties!

One of the things I love about this design is (if it's not clear from the photos) it's totally reversible. I love a good stripe lining and in this case it makes for a great option, something to add to your little black holiday ensemble. The other thing that I love about this design, is how you arm slips into the handle, the arm opening is the same as the opening to put things into the bag. Brilliant. So easy to hold the bag while also holding a drink and . . . whatever else you fancy, something to eat, your sweetheart's hand .. . . :)

It's nice, yes?

Fall!

I've had fall fashion thoughts on the brain for weeks. And now, suddenly I am pulling out all my sweaters, thinking about socks and wishing I had more plaid pants!

There is always a newness to fall, maybe after years of new school years and that crisp new-ness that fall weather brings, the relief after a hot muggy summer.

And this fall there is lots of new-ness going on in my studio. Namely, I'm moving! I'm not going very far, 2 floors to be exact. But my new space will have a different view, more windows, a new color palette and more space. I don't move often since I love where I live, but I do love the opportunity to stir up my work and living spaces. I'm really excited! (I've been day dreaming of having these rooms on any floor in my building for YEARS!)

And with the beginning of October comes thoughts of Halloween and all the holidays that follow . . . So I'm putting together my list and sketches of things to make as gift ideas. . . is there anything you'd like to see? Warm winter hats? Party dresses? What do you fancy for this fall?