Trendwatch ~~ Make Your Own Gifts

I've been sewing my own clothes for years and knitting sweaters, hats and mitts. While making it myself is economical I also enjoy the design process and the chance to be creative. The appeal of making handmade goods is spreading. According to the U.S. Commerce Department, retail sales in crafts and related supplies is increasing. More people are doing a do-it-yourself Christmas because of the economic downturn and because people appreciate making things themselves. We're becoming more interested in sustainable living and realizing the health benefits of crafting as a major form of stress reflief. Even people who don't have the time to create their own gifts are buying handmade gifts directly from artists on sites like etsy.

Knitting Heirloom Toys

If you can knit, you can make stunning heirloom toys. Jean Greenhowe, a master knitter and designers has been at her craft for over forty years. It wasn't until 1980 that she designed her first knitted doll. Her patterns are easy to follow and produce professional looking dolls and charming accessories. Now residing in Scotland, Jean established her own company in 1988 and her patterns are sold worldwide.

Molyneux ~~ It's Just Apparent

Edward MOLYNEUX reached the height of his popularity in the 1930's when he took the fashion world by storm, by streamlining fashions. His coats and dresses had single unbroken lines with a gracefull fluidity. He dressed such stars as Greta Garbo and Vivien Leigh. Vogue Pattern 2872 very much follows the graceful lines that distinguished his fashion influence. This pattern is circa 1973. This is one of his last designs, in collaboration with his nephew. Edward Molyneux died in 1974.

This pattern is in stock at http://www.sandmarg.etsy.com/ in size 10.

Change the Look of Your Outfit with a Detachable Dress Collar

The popularity of the practical 1940's detachable dress collar continued into the early 1950's as women discovered an economical and beautiful way to extend their wardrobe.

This is a gorgeous red cotton detachable dress collar, made in England for Olgilvy's of Montreal. It changes the look of a dress or blouse entirely and can be turned to have a peaked collar look at the front.

available for sale at http://www.sandmarg.etsy.com/

Who Doesn't Love a Givenchy Dress?

This is a stunning dress design for evening or red carpet wear. This dress has perfect lines that emphasize body length, shoulder and neck. The dress is fitted and lined and falls above mid-knee. It has a foundation to ensure a proper and forgiving fit and a right side front seam. The ruffle can be made in the same material as the dress or in a contrast material.

Givenchy's long history and success has been closely associated with a famous clientele including: Lauren Bacall, Babe Paley, Greta Garbo, Elizabeth Taylor, Marlène Dietrich, Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis, Princess Grace of Monaco, Wallis Simpson and Audrey Hepburn.

This dress pattern was sold on http://www.sandmarg.etsy.com/.