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Mark Your Calendar for Thursday September 10th
“Fashion’s Night Out” is a global initiative to promote retailers, restore consumer confidence, and celebrate fashion. American Vogue editor, Anna Wintour, teamed up with New York and Company and the Council of Fashion Designers of America to create the event that will not only take place here in New York but will include fashion capitals in 12 other countries across the globe. Their aim is to remind consumers that there is an entire industry depending on them. The fashion industry is one of the largest industries in New York City, second to finance; the industry employs 175,000 people and generates $10billion in income annually. The festivities will take place Thursday September 10th from 6pm till 11pm. Over 700 retailers in all 5 NYC boroughs will stay open late, special appearance from celebrities and designers should be expected, contests will be held, DJ’s will spin and champagne will flow. The King of Prussia mall and all 40 Neiman Marcus stores across the country will also be participating along with select Bloomingdale’s, Bergdorf Goodman, and Barneys locations. So if you are not a local NYC resident retailers in your area may also be participating, check your local paper and join the celebration from your home town.
Add comment September 8, 2009
Revamp His Shirt for Her
By Roseann
Revamping an old tee shirt is one of my favorite DIY fashion projects, and since most of us have so many, we can sacrifice a few for fashion’s greater good. With a little innovation and feminine lace (lace inserts are one of fall’s hottest trends) we can create a men’s small tee shirt into a comfortable and effortlessly chic women’s top.
Materials:
- Men’s tee or oversized tee
- 2 yards embroidered lace (Style: 37323)
- Scissors
- Dress makers chalk or pencil
- Pins
- Needle and thread
Instructions:
- Lay your shirt out flat and decide how long or short you want your finished top to be. Note that you will be adding extra length at the shoulders if you use the same lace as I did you will add 3 ½” to the length of the shirt.
- Once you have chosen the length measure equally across the bottom of the shirt and pin and crop.
- If you shirt has ribbing around the neck cut around to remove it. Do the same to the seam at the bottom of the sleeve.
- Using a ruler and your chalk draw a strait line starting at the shoulder seam at the neck line to the bottom of the sleeve. Cut. See image above.
- Mark a strait line from the seam at the inner arm to the edge of the top of the sleeve. Cut. If this is not done the new sleeve you are creating will not hang correctly.
- Measure the length of the top of the sleeve to the neckline. Add 1” to this measurement and cut lace.
- Hand stitch the lace to each or your shoulder pieces with ½” left on each side. Fold excess over and stitch a hem. Sewing can be done on a machine; however I feel that you can hide your stitching better if this is done by hand.
- Measure the bottom of your shirt, cut lace with extra 1” and sew to the bottom. I left the seam open in the back.
- Now try your shirt on. Depending on the type of lace you used the neckline may or may not be too big. If it is, like it was on me, this is easily fixed by adding pleats to the back neckline.
- I added 4 ½” pleats to bring the neckline in 2”. Decide how much you need to bring the neckline in. Once you have done this divide your measurement by the number of pleats you want to add. Start in the middle of the neckline and begin measuring towards the sides. Fold, pin, stitch down 1 ½”. I used the lines in the jersey knit as guide to make sure my pleats were straight.
- For a more glam look bead your lace with bugle beads, sequin, or any other embellishment you desire. M&J has a plethora of fashion accents, and more is more this fall so go nuts!
5 comments August 25, 2009
Latest Trend, Embellished Leg Wear!
By Roseann
Just when I thought that embellishment had reached saturation, designers found the last bit of uncharted territory. Embellished leg wear stormed down Fall 2009 runways and I couldn’t be more pleased. Looks from Doo.Ri , Emanuel Ungaro, Miu Miu, and Zac Posen were embellished using sequin, beading, and sew on jewels. I decided to try and adapt the look to my own personal style and toned it down by using a pair of knee high socks, small metal sequin, and 10 mm Italian sew on jewels, both in antique brass. My main focus was on the top of the socks so that they can be worn this fall underneath chunky boots.
Add comment August 18, 2009
DIY Decorative Feather Throw Pillows
By Roseann
I was very thrilled when M&J recently began carrying feather patches. We have been having a lot of fun with them creating all types of accessories that fit right in with this season’s hot trend. So, you can only imagine my excitement when I discovered the new much larger version, a 20” x 15” feather mat (style #43361-Brown/Green Iris) available by calling 1-800-9-mjtrim. I thought this would look great on a throw pillow, and since I am currently looking to change the look of my apartment this came in just the nick of time. Throw pillows make a great accent in any room. By mixing colors and textures you can liven up the place and create a new ambiance with out the expense of purchasing new furniture or the timely chore of painting.
Add comment August 4, 2009
DIY Swarovski and Chain Necklace
By Roseann
Every girl can use a little sparkle in her life, and thanks to M&J’s selection of Swarovski rhinestones and assortment of sew on jewels and pendants, it’s easy and affordable. For $25 I created a piece that could easily retail for $60 or more. I used 1 twisted Swarovski sew on jewel (#40198), and two different pear shaped Swarovski pendants (#38394 in Vitrail, and #41916 in golden shadow) available by calling 1-800-9-mjtrim. I used simple jump rings to attach the stones to the chain. The piece was left long, so it fits easily over the head. The look is simple and chic, and since it can be worn with jeans or cocktail dress it is also versatile. Please check out our Swarvski section online and create a gem of your own.
Add comment July 21, 2009
Show your American spirit with this hot slashed leather necklace
By Roseann
When I sat down to do this entry I was a little scared. Americana fashion is hard to do without looking cheesy. I don’t know, that’s just my opinion. However, I really think that by incorporating our colors into today’s hottest trends the look can be quite hip. Wear this piece with a white tank as to not over do it.
Materials
- Ultra suede tape 10 yards of both white and cardinal, and 3 ½ yards in French blue
- Sobo craft glue
- Jewelry wire
- Wire clippers
- Cord necklace fastener. I choose to use a magnetic fastener, be sure that it will be large enough to hide all the ends of the leather.
Directions
- Cut the red and white suede into strips 36 long and the blue into strips 20” long.
- Take all the red and white and 3 strips of the blue together and wire wrap the end.
- I then pinned this end to a board and gathered the other side with the other 3 strips of the blue and draped to the other side of my board.
- If you like pull on some of the leather strips at the unwrapped end to create different lengths in the necklace.
- Once you have the desired look, gather the other ends, trim, and wire wrap. Trim the blue hanging strips so they have a staggered appearance.
- Using Sobo craft glue, glue the wrapped ends of your necklace into the magnetic fastener.
Add comment July 1, 2009
DIY Cufflinks For Dad
By Roseann
If your dad is anything like mine, then he’s probably not interested in any fancy expensive gifts this Sunday. Some of the best gifts given to dad were the macaroni art you made when you were five. A handmade gift is more personal and really comes from the heart. But, now that you’re older you may want to step up the level of taste just a bit, not that the macaroni art wasn’t cute. So, if the “what should I get dad for father’s day” question is still plaguing you? Skip the shave kit or another tie, you know he’s got plenty, and try making him a gift this year. My suggestion is a pair of cufflinks. It’s easy to do and won’t break your bank.
All you will need for this project is cufflink posts, you should be able to purchase these at any jewelry supply shop. I found them for a dollar a piece, some cool buttons, wire clippers, and E-6000 craft glue. I chose 4 different styles to create a variety of looks. I like to cover my basis. They range from casual with a leather button to business with a gold and black glass button and a gold crest to very dressy with a rhinestone , for dads who are into a little bling. All of these buttons can be found online. All you need to do is remove the loop from the back of your buttons and glue the cufflink post to the back. When purchasing buttons for this project be sure to purchase shank buttons only. I hope this has helped some of you. Please share with us some of your creative personalized gifts for dad.
1 comment June 16, 2009
DIY Beaded Fringe Reversible Necklace
By Roseann
In the wake of the slow economy many people have turned to do it yourself fashion projects. As a result I have seen some of the most innovative and creative pieces in decades. The best of these hand made accessories display bold mixes of materials and colors. And hey, if you’re going to use the remnants of previous projects you can throw out, “The less is more attitude”. So, go a head and dive into your scrap box and mix it up.
Materials:
- 3 shell sew on jewels Style # 39433-Lime
- 4 triangle sew on jewels Style #39983-Antique Brass (1-800-9-MJTRIM)
- 2 rectangular sew on jewels Style #39982 (1-800-9-MJTRIM)
- 1 square sew on jewel Style #39983 (1-800-9-MJTRIM)
- ½ yd gold chain Style #39535 (1-800-9-MJTRIM)
- Glass bead fringe Style #17796 (1-800-9-MJTRIM) M&J has a wide variety of glass beaded fringe available on line
- 1 6” square of two complimentary fabrics
- Needle and thread
- 1 jewelry clasp
- Fabric pen
- French curve and ruler
Instructions:
- On the back side of 1 6” fabric square mark the middle at one edge. Measure up 2 ¼” and mark. At top right corner mark ¼” in from the side. From your 2 ¼” mark draw curved line to ¼” mark in right corner. Do the same from the bottom mark to right corner. Fold square and cut on lines so that you have an even crescent shape. Repeat steps with the other fabric square.
- Find the outer measurement of your crescent. Subtract 2” and cut fringe to this length.
- Pin fringe to bottom curve and baste.
- Embellish face of the other fabric crescent. I chose flat sew on jewels so that the piece can be reversible. If you like you can embellish with larger sew on jewels and beads and where your piece from 1 side only.
- Pin fabric crescents back to back and stitch around.
- Finding the placement of you piece is up to you. I left my chain a little longer so that it can be adjusted depending on my outfit.
- Stitch chain to the corner of you crescent
- Add jewelry clasp.
- Wear, enjoy!
Add comment June 2, 2009
DIY Swarovski Tear Drop Earrings
Well it has finally arrived, that’s right, it’s prom Season. Although an exciting milestone in a young person’s life, prom today can be a costly event and with the state of our current economy it may be causing some parents and teens to wince at the price tag. We’d like to help. A pair of self made Swarovski earring can really add elegance to your look without cleaning out you savings account. The total cost of this project, $25!
Materials
- Two pear shaped Swarovski jewel (#38394/crystal vitrail light). 1-800-9-MJTRIM
- 6 pieces of 4mm Swarovski beads
- 4 5mm roundels in crystal/silver, you should be able to purchase these and the rest of the following materials at any bead shop or jewelry making supply shop..
- 2 earring posts and back. I purchased a type of post with a rhinestone in it and then replaced it with one of our own Swarovski rhinestones.
- 2 eye pins.
- 2 jump rings.
- Fine step jaw pliers.
Instructions
- From the open end of your eye pin add your beads and roundels so that you have an end result of 3 beads 2 roundels.
- Using your pliers close the open end of the pin by creating a loop. Fine step jaw pliers will ensure that your loops come out the exact same size. All you must do is wrap the wire around the rounded end of the pliers reposition and close the loop.
- Connect one jump ring to the pear shaped jewel.
- At one of your loops add your earring post.
- At the other end add the jump ring and jewel.
- Have a wonderful and safe Prom!
More Money Saving Prom Tips
- Borrow your dress.
- Check consignment shops for a great dress.
- Do you own nails.
- Have a friend do you hair.
- Many girls have opted for a less costly pair of flip flops or sandals over higher priced heels.
- Make dinner at home and set up the back porch with candles and lanterns.
- Skip the limousine and drive yourself.
3 comments May 19, 2009
DIY Fringe and Feather Sandals. HOT! HOT! HOT!
By Roseann
I am very much in love with two of this season’s biggest trends, feathers and fringe. Designers are using these two elements to embellish everything from clothing, jewelry, and accessories, and I am looking for any way to incorporate them into my wardrobe. As I am searching my closet I find a pair of gladiator sandals from last summer and decide they are perfectly in need of a make over. By adding just two simple trims to a past “must have” I now posses this summer’s hottest look.
To Get the Look:
- 1 yard of 2” faux leather fringe. M&J carries leather fringe in many different styles, colors, and sizes. So please, take a look and be creative.
- 1 yard of feather fringe. Style #26796 in Turquoise available by calling 1-800-9-MJTRIM
- 1 pair of sandals
- 1 bottle of Sobo Craft Glue.
- 1 leather needle.
- 1 spool of thread, rayon or a cotton/poly blend work best.
Instructions:
- If you are using a pair from your closet, clean them first.
- Next measure down the center vertical strap.
- Cut two pieces of the fringe about a ¼” longer than strap measurement. I like to dap just a touch of glue on the ends of the fringe to keep it from fraying and coming apart.
- Using glue tack the center of each piece of fringe down the center strap of your sandal. Let this set up for about 45 minutes.
- You may skip this step if you wish, I choose to do it because I like the way it keeps my work in place while I am trying to sew by hand.
- Using your leather needle begin to stitch the fringe to the strap.
- Using glue once again top the two center pieces of fringe with your feather trim. Allow to dry for 24 hours.
- You may carefully stitch the feather trim down using your leather needle, I would use a very thin thread, being careful to hide all stitches.
- Wear, enjoy!
1 comment May 12, 2009
