Leather so soft, it looks like it would melt with the slightest touch of your fingers.

This is what Seattle-based designer Angie Bowlds uses to create the beautiful, one-of-a-kind bags, coin purses and card holders for her line, Stitch & Swash. Angie sources this leather from dated, damaged and unwanted jackets that she finds in thrift stores.

She was taught how to sew at an early age by her mother and started specializing in bag-making a few years ago. A graphic designer by trade, Angie sees making her bags as the perfect way to combine the two things she loves - screenprinting and sewing.

Angie decided to make leather her material of choice because of it's strength, durability and ductility. She manipulates the creamy leather to create soft pleats, and the rich, neutral-toned leather makes an excellent background for Angie's brightly coloured, modern, screenprinted designs.

Angie runs Stitch & Swash from her basement studio in Seattle and has set up an Etsy store where she aims to offer products in a variety of colors and styles. Since Stitch &Swash does not offer wholesale items, she is able to keep the prices low so that her products are affordable for everyone. Currently, price of items range from US$6 to US$55.

Angie also has another store called The Crafty Devils which was started by her and friend Nicole, and it offers bags made out of new leather which she sells wholesale to a few shops. However, she finds it more rewarding to collect and recycle the soft, vintage jackets rather than use new leather because it gives them "new life as a bag that someone will love to have."
In the future, she plans to transition completely out of using new leather and also expand the Stitch & Swash line to include more tote and purse styles, men's wallets as well as new screenprint designs. 
Click here to go to the Stitch & Swash Etsy store to see what other great items they have for sale!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Indie Designer Spotlight - Stitch & Swash
Friday, May 30, 2008
Cool Vintage Finds - Pumpin' 80s
Most people remember the eighties for some of the horrendous fashion trends that arose during the period. However, it wasn't a complete disaster of an era as there were some interesting trends that managed to actually still look rather cool.
One such trend in my opinion is geometric colour block pumps. I'm all about unique, interesting and funky accessories and these shoes easily fit the bill. What's also great is that I found these ones on Etsy all for US$30 and under!
Now I know these aren't for everyone, so for those of you out there like me, hope you like these shoes as much as I do!
Vintage 80s Multicolour PumpsPrice: US$23.00
Seller Description:
So 80s many hued pumps! Embodiment of the decade. In great condition, soles slightly worn.
Brand: Jasmin
Size: 7 1/2
Get these pumps here.
Vintage Pastel 80s PumpsPrice: US$15.00
Seller Description:
Vintage 80s new wave pumps in adorable pastel colors! White and periwinkle pumps with pink stripes over the toes and 2 1/2" seafoam green heels. The insoles are lightly padded and seafoam green. There is mild discoloration on the inside of the shoes and a scuff mark on the right heel's toe. The right shoe's heel has a small cut in the vinyl next to the heel stop. Otherwise the shoes are is good condition.
Size: 7.5M
Man made sole
Made in Brazil
Brand: Village
Get these pumps here.
Vintage 80s Navy/White Chevron Spectator PumpsPrice: US$30.00
Seller Description:
vintage 80s evan-piccone leather pumps. navy blue with white chevron stripe across vamp. tapered heel. french pointed toe.
label: evan-picone
material: leather
size: US 6 1/2 (EUR 37)
length: 9 3/4"
width: 2 4/5"
heel: 3"
made in spain
clean interior. minor wear on back. VERY GOOD vintage condition.
Get these pumps here.
Vintage 80s Green and White Leather PumpsPrice: US$25.00
Seller Description:
Lovely vintage 80s white and green leather pumps, from the company 'Apart Apart'. Worn only a couple of times.
Size is a 7.5 US, 5.5 EUROPE
Get these pumps here.
Details:
Brand: Jasmin
Size: US 6, Euro 26
100% leather upper
Length: 9.5”
Width (at widest, measured outside): 2 ¾”
Heel height: 2 3/4”
Get these pumps here.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Random Thoughts - Always in Vogue
The editorial spreads are always stunning and creative and the articles are compelling. However, if there's one thing you can never miss on a Vogue, it's the cover.
Even before the issues hit the newsstands, people are often anxious to see who the next cover star is going to be, whether it be a celebrity or a supermodel.
For the month of June, Sarah Jessica Parker and Agyness Deyn grace the covers of the US Vogue and the British Vogue, respectively.
While photographs of beautiful people on the cover is what we've become accustomed to, it hasn't always been this way.
Vogue magazine was founded in 1892 by Arthur Baldwin Turnure and began its days as a weekly social journal for the high society crowd; fashion was not the original focus.
It was not until 1909 when Conde Nast bought the magazine that things began to change. Within a few years, he transformed Vogue into a high-end women's fashion magazine. He hired some of the best illustrators to create beautiful, captivating covers for the magazine to suit the times.
Here are some of the early Vogue covers that I found stunning.






Which do you prefer, the photographs or the illustrations? I appreciate them both as they bring completely different aesthetics to the cover but while the illustrations are gorgeous, I think the photographs are more suited to our time.
To see more vintage Vogue covers, click here.
To read an article on the June US Vogue photo shoot and also see behind-the-scenes footage, click here.
To get a sneak peek at the contents of the June British Vogue, click here.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Ebay Spring Trend - Sheer cover
Show some skin! Sheer fabrics are another big trend this spring and were seen on many runways including (from left to right) Chanel, Jil Sander, Derek Lam and Fendi.
You can use sheer fabrics as a cover up over another garment, for example, wear a sheer patterned dress or skirt over a plain one for delicate but alluring look.
Tap into this trend with the items I found below.
#1 70s Liquid Satin Wine Colored Mini Dress
Item no. 300221217838
http://cgi.ebay.com/70s-SEXY-LIQUID-SATIN-Wine-Colored-Plunge-Vneck-Mini-M_W0QQitemZ300221217838QQihZ020QQcategoryZ48869QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
This is a sexy semi sheer wine red dress with a plunging V-neckline. It is unlined and features sheer puff sleeves, a ruffled collar and a stretch waist.
Measurements
Bust - 36"
Waist - 26/30"
Hips - 32"
STARTING BID: US$0.99
AUCTION END:
#2 Vintage Floral Boho Sundress
Item no. 160235287569
http://cgi.ebay.com/Floral-DISCO-Indie-SUNDRESS-Boho-PARTY-Vintage-Dress-S_W0QQitemZ160235287569QQihZ006QQcategoryZ48870QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Sweet Ruth McCullouch vintage dress with gorgeous bold floral print. In good vintage condition. Size small.
STARTING BID: US$9.99
AUCTION END:
#3 Vintage Navy Blue Sheer Crepe Top with Lace Bib
Item no. 260235639796
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Top-Lace-Bib-Victorian-Collar-Puffed-Sleeves-Sm_W0QQitemZ260235639796QQihZ016QQcategoryZ48910QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Darling vintage navy blue sheer crepe top with sheer lace bib, Victorian collar, puffed sleeves, button cuffs, accordian knife pleat bodice and cabbage edged hem. Great vintage condition. Size small/XSmall.
Measurements (will stretch)
Bust - 32"
Waist - 32"
BUY-IT-NOW Price: US$34.95
AUCTION END:
#4 Vintage 60/70s Floral Maxi Dress
Item no. 110248367728
http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-60-70s-Peach-Formal-Prom-Long-Floral-Dress-S-M_W0QQitemZ110248367728QQihZ001QQcategoryZ48869QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

This is a 60s/70s peach vintage dress with a sheer floral overlay. It has double spaghetti straps and a crossover V-neckline and a long pleated skirt. In very good vintage condition.
Measurements
Bust - 33/34"
Waist - 31" (max)
Hips - 40" (max)
STARTING BID: US$11.99
AUCTION END:
#5 Vintage Black Lace Victorian Dress
Item no. 250242494407
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vtg-Black-LACE-Victorian-Button-Neck-Empire-DRESS-S-M_W0QQitemZ250242494407QQihZ015QQcategoryZ48869QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

This gorgeous black lace dress features a Victorian neckline with pearl buttons. The waist and sleeve cuffs are elasticated for comfort. It also has two tiered ruffled hemline and a matching string belt sash.
Measurements
Bust - 36"
Waist - 24" but will stretch to 32"
Hips - 42"
STARTING BID: US$14.99
AUCTION END:
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Ebay Spring Trend - Full Figured
I know many of you have been waiting patiently for the first available chance to expose those sun deprived legs. However, this spring trend may just change your mind.
Seen at runways such as Thakoon and Donna Karan, this season's full skirt keeps those gams covered yet still effortlessly sexy and stylish. This 1950s wardrobe staple can either exude ladylike glamour (a la Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina) or fun and playfulness. Here are a few options that can fulfill both those needs.
#1 Colourful Fiesta Stripe vintage 80s full skirt sundress
Item no. 350039893379
http://cgi.ebay.com/COLORFUL-FIESTA-STRIPE-vintage-80s-full-skirt-sun-dress_W0QQitemZ350039893379QQihZ022QQcategoryZ48870QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
FUN FIESTA COLORS vintage late 70s, early 80s sun dress! This great Mexican inspired dress has a flirty, 1950's bombshell look to it. The dress is black, turquoise blue, red and vibrant yellow. It is a soft cotton, the kind that has "meant to be there" wrinkles in it (crinkle cotton).
The bodice has tie shoulder straps that can be adjusted as you like. The V neckline in front has subtle, thin elastic in back for a perfect fit. The bust is fitted with the gathers from the waist.
Measurements:
Bust: 30"-37"
Waist: 20" - 28"
Hips: Free
Condition: Excellent
STARTING BID: US$34.00
AUCTION END:
#2 VTG 80s 50s style Nautical White Hot Full Skirt
Item no. 250228998800
http://cgi.ebay.com/VTG-80s-50s-Style-NAUTICAL-White-Hot-FULL-SKIRT-Dress_W0QQitemZ250228998800QQihZ015QQcategoryZ48870QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem Fabulous Fields Choice 50s style full skirt dress with deep V Captain/Safari style bodice with snap pockets and shoulder straps. Dress also snaps all the way down the front and features tucked seaming at the waist for a fitted feminine look. Lightweight flowy cotton poly blend. White and tan belt included. Size 8/Medium.
Measurements:
Chest: 38"
Shoulders: 16.5"
Waist: 27"
Hips: Free
Condition: Fabulous Quality Vintage
STARTING BID: US$9.99
AUCTION END:
#3 Vtg 50s Couture Ball Gown Metallic Gold Full Skirt
Item no. 130208391921
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vtg-50s-COUTURE-Ball-Gown-METALLIC-GOLD-Full-Skirt_W0QQitemZ130208391921QQihZ003QQcategoryZ48868QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Measurements (double):
Bust: 15"
Waist: 13"
Hips: Free
STARTING BID: US$9.99
AUCTION END:
#4 DISTLER Austria Vintage Full Swing Party 50s Skirt
Item no. 200210559339
http://cgi.ebay.com/DISTLER-Austria-Vintage-Full-Swing-Party-50s-Skirt-38-4_W0QQitemZ200210559339QQihZ010QQcategoryZ48892QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Measurements(double):
Waist: 13"
Length: 32"
STARTING BID: US$9.99
AUCTION END:
#5 50s lk Pink/Black full Mexican Western Dress Skirt
Item no. 280211943091
http://cgi.ebay.com/50s-lk-PINK-BLK-full-Mexican-Western-dress-skirt-VLV-L_W0QQitemZ280211943091QQihZ018QQcategoryZ48892QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Great pink sequined 50s Mexican Style vintage reproduction skirt. Great colour, perfect condition, sequins intact.Measurements:
Waist: 30"
Length: 29.5"
Hips: Free
STARTING BID: US$9.99
AUCTION END:
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Cool Vintage Find - Green Leaf Print Dress
I love the oversized leaf print on this mod style dress. It's bright, funky and very cute! The dress has a drop waist bodice and a jewel neckline. It is darted at the bust and there are vertical darts on front and backside. The skirt has large box pleats and dress closes with a back zipper. Wear with confidence and you're sure to turn a few heads in this number!
Waist: 30"
Hips: 40"
Length: 39.5"
Grade "A"
Price: US$35.00
If you like this dress, don't waste any time! Click here to get it!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Ebay Spring Trend - Ebony and Ivory
Inspired by the black and white Blair Waldorf ensemble in the post below, today's Ebay Spring Trend is black and white. This is one of my favourite colour combinations and this spring, it comes in many forms and fashions.
Stripes, Polka Dots, Stars, Tie Dye, Ombre...you name it! Guaranteed you will find it in black and white. Below are some of the great black and white items to be found on ebay.
#1: Bombshell Black & White Polka-Dot Wiggle Dress 1950s M
Item no. 160219118293
http://cgi.ebay.com/Bombshell-Black-White-Polka-Dot-Wiggle-Dress-1950s-M_W0QQitemZ160219118293QQihZ006QQcategoryZ48868QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
How can you go wrong with black and white polka-dots? And that bombshell shape! There are seams in the front and back to really tailor it and flatter your curves.
It has a cute little Peter Pan collar and a slit in the back for ease of movement. There’s a metal zipper up the back in perfect working order. The fabric is really light, too, which makes it perfect for warm spring weather!
In very good vintage condition.
Measurements:
Bust: 36”
Waist: 28”
Hip: 38”
Length (shoulder to hem): 40”
STARTING BID: US$0.99
AUCTION END:
#2: Vintage 60s 70s B&W MOD spaceage MINI DRESS S M
Item no. 170202340184
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-60s-70s-B-W-MOD-spaceage-MINI-DRESS-S-M_W0QQitemZ170202340184QQihZ007QQcategoryZ48870QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Adorable 1960's black and white mini mod dress! The dress has no tags, but it feels like it might be a polyester. There is a zipper up the back. The dress has a braided tie belt that can go around the waist or high waist. Really cute!
Size: S/M
Measurements (double):
BUST: slightly over 18 in
WAIST: 15 in
HIPS: 26 in (measured 8 in below waistline)
LENGTH: 18.5 in
CURRENT BID: US$12.09
AUCTION END:
#3: VINTAGE WHITE COTTON GLOVES WITH BLACK PLASTIC STRIPES
Item no. 120233674883
http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-WHITE-COTTON-GLOVES-WITH-BLACK-PLASTIC-STRIPES_W0QQitemZ120233674883QQihZ002QQcategoryZ14075QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
This auction is for a FUNKY pair of vintage gloves. They are made of white cotton with black plastic stripes. A guess at the size would be 6 1/2. REALLY FUN GLOVES. Good condition; no tears or splits in the plastic. The white does have some faint pink stains here and there and slight yellowing. Could use a good wash.
Very fun gloves, very 60s!!!
STARTING BID: US$4.99
AUCTION END:
#4: Black/White Spectator Stiletto Heel Pumps 7.5/38
Item no. 280202610121
http://cgi.ebay.com/Black-White-Spectator-Stiletto-Heel-Pumps-Shoes-7-5-38_W0QQitemZ280202610121QQihZ018QQcategoryZ74982QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQ_trksidZp1638.m118.l1247QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohosting

Anne Michelle faux leather Black and White Spectator pumps with stiletto heels, pointed toes, sexy buckles and major toe cleavage!
Size UK size 5/38/US size 7.5.
BUY-IT-NOW PRICE: US$11.25
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Ebay Spring Trend - Gathered together
Ruffles, ruffles, ruffles! From Ralph Lauren to Zac Posen to JustSweet, the runways were floaty and romantic with this trend.
They come in varying sizes, colours, fabrics and amounts and they are certainly one of the most accessible trends for spring. Check out these pretty, inexpensive options to bring a ruffle or few into your wardrobe.
#1 - New Teal Ruffle Tiered Mini Dress S 327331
Item no. 200205300198 http://cgi.ebay.com/New-Teal-Ruffle-Tiered-Mini-Dress-S-327331_W0QQitemZ200205300198QQihZ010QQcategoryZ63861QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQ_trksidZp1638.m118.l1247QQcmdZViewItem

This is a hot style dress tiered ruffle mini dress side zip. Approx. length: 36 inches. 100% cotton; machine wash. Color: Teal. Size: S. BUY-IT-NOW PRICE: US$29.95
________________________________________________________________________________________
#2 - NEW ERIN FETHERSTON TARGET RUFFLE DRESS Item no. 290214306220 http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-ERIN-FETHERSTON-TARGET-RUFFLE-DRESS-3-SOLD-OUT_W0QQitemZ290214306220QQihZ019QQcategoryZ63861QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Ruffled cocktail minidress, main color: Purple
NEW WITH TAGS LIMITED EDITION, NOW SOLD OUT
100% POLY LINED IN COTTON
SIZE 3 (33" LONG FROM SHOULDER, 32" BUST)
STARTING BID: US $24.99
AUCTION END: Mar-20-08 14:18:49 PDT (5 days 2 hours)
________________________________________________________________________________________
#3 - Vintage COBALT RUFFLE chiffon BOHO babydoll DRESS
Item no. 380006526578
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-COBALT-RUFFLE-chiffon-BOHO-babydoll-DRESS-S-M_W0QQitemZ380006526578QQihZ025QQcategoryZ63861QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


Beautiful dress in one of this season's hottest colours.
Soft and sexy blue chiffon with ruching to the flattering empire waist, sexy deep v neck and sewn hem detail.
This dress is fully lined, pull over style.
Size S/M
Bust 32"-34.5"(Comfortable) - 35"(max)
Waist Free size
Hips Free size
Length 35"
Colour: Cobalt Blue
STARTING BID: US $18.99
AUCTION END: Mar-20-08 18:39:41 PDT (5 days 6 hours)
________________________________________________________________________________________
#4 - BEBE NWT TOP Silk RUFFLE MINI Dress RED
Item no. 130206250967
http://cgi.ebay.com/BEBE-NWT-TOP-Silk-RUFFLE-MINI-Dress-RED-159-00-SIZE-4_W0QQitemZ130206250967QQihZ003QQcategoryZ63861QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Occasion: Casual
Size Type: Misses
Sleeve Style: Sleeveless
Size: 4
Dress Length: Above Knee, Mini
Main Color: Red
Condition: New With Tags
STARTING BID: US $39.99
BUY-IT-NOW PRICE: US $69.99
AUCTION END: Mar-21-08 21:36:15 PDT (6 days 9 hours)
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Ebay Spring Trend - Artsy Fartsy
One of the hottest current trends to hit the runways is abstract art prints.

If you have the burning desire to look like a walking canvas, check out these three great pieces on ebay right now! Two of them are vintage at bargain prices and the last one is more expensive but completely adorable; so if you can buy it, do so!
___________________________________________________________________
Item no. 160216325264
http://cgi.ebay.com/Op-ART-STRIPE-Electro-70s-Vintage-Black-Disco-Dress-S-M_W0QQitemZ160216325264QQihZ006QQcategoryZ48870QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

ERA:-LATER 1970's
FABRIC:-LIGHT-WEIGHT POLY
COLORS:-BLACK + TEAK, PURPLE, MAGENTA AND TURQUOISE
HIGHLIGHTS:-STUNNING PRINT! Dons Mock Sarong Bodice, FINE CRYSTAL PLEATED SKIRTING, Elastic Waist with Matching Tie and Blouson sleeving (full-length...I have them pushed up in the pics)
CONDITION: -EXCELLENT VINTAGE. NO HOLES, PILLING, STAINS OR FADING.
SIZING AND/OR MEASUREMENTS: WOULD BEST FIT A SMALL TO MEDIUM:
*IDEAL BUST: 34" - 36" / WAIST: 20" - 37" / BODICE(shoulder to waist): 16" / SKIRTING: 25" / HIPS: Up To 39"*
STARTING BID: US$12.50
AUCTION END: MARCH 15, 2008 19:45:00 PDT (2 days 2 hours)
____________________________________________________________________
#2 - Vintage 50s Pink Gold & Black Halter Sun Dress & Bolero
Item no: 300205226600
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-50s-Pink-Gold-Black-Halter-Sun-Dress-Bolero_W0QQitemZ300205226600QQihZ020QQcategoryZ48868QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Just beautiful vintage 50s white cotton hand painted halter sundress & matching bolero jacket! Comes with the matching belt.
Dress measures 34/36" at bust, 26" at waist, full at hips, and waist to hem is 28.
Dress closes at the back with a metal zipper, has a fully boned bodice, and is tagged Alix of Miami.
Fabric is a swirled pink, black & brown abstract design with gold accents.
Halter closes behind the neck with two buttons one of which is missing a rhinestone and dress has a built in white tulle netting slip.
In overall great condition with no rips or tears. Does need a good soak or trip to the cleaners to brighten it up. There is a spot on the skirt shown in the last photo that may lift with proper cleaning.
CURRENT BID: US $56.99
AUCTION END: Mar-15-08 12:45:00 PDT (1 day 19 hours)
____________________________________________________________________
#3: $555 ISSA LONDON SILK MULTICOLOR ABSTRACT PRINT DRESS 6
Item no. 290213350245
http://cgi.ebay.com/555-ISSA-LONDON-SILK-MULTICOLOR-ABSTRACT-PRINT-DRESS-6_W0QQitemZ290213350245QQihZ019QQcategoryZ63861QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
AMAZINGLY gorgeous ISSA LONDON silk faux-wrap dress!!!
The size tag was removed but this is a US size 6 (of course, pls. see measurements to be sure of fit).
Purchased from Neiman Marcus for $555.00 (it's so current that it's still on NM's web-site at full-price). If you've been eyeing this dress online or in store, here's your chance to snag it for so much less than retail!!! We're always SO excited to list Issa London items because there's always SOOO much to say about them! They're like pieces of wearable art, the silk material always flows and fits beautifully and the prints are so vibrant. SOOO obviously ISSA LONDON and SOOO obviously expensive, no one can miss that! =) We loooove the cap sleeves, v-neck, sash and gorrrrgeous print! Even the little "Issas" here and there are darling! Truly such a beautiful spring into summer dress!!! LOOOOOOVE ISSA LONDON! =)
Zipper in the back.
In EXCELLENT, gently worn condition. This amazing dress comes to us from a woman that buys A LOT every month and barely (if at all) wears her items. Lucky her! Now lucky you! =)
Measures approx. 16.5 inches from underarm to underarm and 37.25 inches from top of shoulder to bottom of dress.
note: actual material/print may vary a little if one compares it directly to the first picture but Issa designs generally have some slight variation and do not match exactly in terms of where the print is situated.
STARTING BID: US $339.99
BUY IT NOW PRICE: US $349.99
AUCTION END: Mar-16-08 19:52:26 PDT (3 days 2 hours)


























