The Accessory Lady

Enter the newest Giveaway!

2010-09-14T00:07:00.001-04:00

Click to stop by the new The Accessory Lady blog and enter the latest giveaway!

Summer Sale and Summer Bliss

2010-07-11T22:00:00.008-04:00

Now that the heat wave has finally broken and we've hit a nice temperate 85 degrees is time for The Annual Summer Sale.
Stop by for a discounted selection of uniquely handcrafted bracelets, cuffs, bib necklaces and hair accessories. Save even more with coupon code SUMMER20 - 20% OFF.

© Photographer: Bradcalkins

As for the Summer bliss. What could be more delicious than fresh raspberries or blackberries. I had the pleasure of going berry picking during the 4th of July weekend and fruit right from the tree or bush is simply the best.

What is your favorite Summer fruit and how do you enjoy it? Do you eat them fresh or in a recipe?

Glimpse of a Sunset

2010-07-03T23:26:00.000-04:00

Summertime Summertime Sum Sum Summertime

2010-06-24T17:49:00.010-04:00

Well, the calendar says June, but outside it feels like the dog days of August. To celebrate the sticky, humid, run to the beach weather, here is a hot tamale coupon to use at the shop. SUMMER20 - 20% OFF.
How are you keeping cool in this weather? Are you watching the FIFA world cup in your air conditioned room? Visiting your local pool or walking around in your unmentionables?
Whatever you may be doing I wanted to share another favorite thing that just might help you cope with the unusually hot weather:

© Photographer: Fotografieberlin

Few things are more refreshing, healthy and delicious than a bowl of frozen grapes. So grab a handful, pop 'em in the freezer for a few hours or overnight and enjoy. Make sure to eat them within 5 days of freezing or else they will loose their flavor. Happy Summer!

Favorite Things - Ice Cream on a Warm Spring Day

2010-05-17T08:31:00.002-04:00

© Photographer | Agency: Dreamstime.com
With all the despairing news that we get to hear and see on a daily basis, I've decided to start a series about some of the simple things that bring us joy and smiles. I experienced one of those moments this past weekend by indulging on a small cup of refreshing vanilla soft serve ice cream at the street fair. No fat free, low fat or yogurt, I'm talking about the creamy, cool deliciousness of 100% ice cream. True bliss!
When do you like to indulge on a bowl, cup or cone and what is your favorite flavor?
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The Spring SALE is ON! 25% off all Items. Free shipping for orders $50 and over with coupon code FREESHIP

Super Spring Sale - 25% OFF All Items!

2010-05-14T13:21:00.006-04:00

Although Winter tried to make a brief reappearance this past week, it is quite decidedly Spring in all it's flowery, polleny & colorful glory. Stop by for the fabulous SALE. All items are reduced by 25% (prices already marked down) and use coupon code FREESHIP on orders over $50 for free shipping!

More bracelets have been added to the Friendship Bracelet Collection, also included in the sale! Take advantage and grab a few early Birthday, Graduation gifts or treat yourself to a unique handmade Summer accessory! Sale ends on 5/25.

Recycled Silk Bracelets - Making Something From Something

2010-04-12T17:24:00.037-04:00

After a couple of months of considering what to make with my beautiful piece of recycled silk I finally settled on these double strand bracelets with vintage buttons. It was my first project using re-purposed materials with many more to come. Handling fibers with a prior life must be done carefully to prevent tearing or fraying, but it's precisely this weathered quality that give the bracelets a really cool
vintage look. What is really wonderful is that once the material is re-braided, loomed, sewn, or crocheted it becomes a sturdy and brand new eco fashion accessory for your wardrobe.

Thank you to all the fabulous followers of this blog which has now reached two milestones: 100+ followers and 60 posts!

New colors added:

The New Friendship Bracelet - A Twist on a Classic

2010-04-03T07:09:00.032-04:00

Springtime signifies all things new and improved, but also the return of the comforting and familiar flowers, sunshine and warmth. We come out of hibernation and take more time to reconnect with our loved ones. This is the inspiration behind the friendship bracelet collection. Crocheted with colorful satin ribbon each bracelet is made with a vintage button making each one unique. Give one as a gift or treat yourself to a touch of color for your Spring/Summer style. Check in often as new styles and colors are added!

How to wear them:
Stack 'em for a bohemian look or wear them with your favorite denim:

Complement a romantic Spring or Summer dress:

***In the spirit of giving and sharing a portion of your purchase will be given to DonorsChoose and organization that supports classroom projects.

***Don't miss the $20 Gift Certificate Giveaway. Ends 4/7 Click to enter.

Buttons, Buttons, Who's got the Buttons

2010-04-01T11:35:00.015-04:00

I do! And they just don't make them like they used to. I can spend hours looking at the intricate shapes and designs of vintage buttons. Thankfully, there seems to be an unlimited supply of them. All you have to do is visit a few street fairs and stoop sales, as we call them in New York, and you will find them. Metal, plastic, resin, wood, gold, silver, rhinestony... is that a word? Not likely, but it makes the point. Vintage buttons are one of my favorite embellishments because they are beautiful, eco-friendly and functional. What did we do before all those new-fangled zippers and velcro? We buttoned things up to make them stay on. Buttons have survived the test of time and the onslaught of technology. They still remain fashionable, fun and absolutely useful! Crafty tip: update a tired blouse by replacing boring buttons with a set of snazzy vintage buttons and you'll have a brand new looking garment!

Pictured above: The New Friendship Bracelet in Mint Green & the Mellow Yellow Flower Organic Ribbon Flower Pin.

More buttonlicious creations...I'm really not using a dictionary today:

The wonderful "What's up Paper Cup" Blog is hosting a giveaway for TheAL. Stop by for your chance to win a $20 Gift Certificate!

Today's coupon: SPRING15 - Save 15% on your order!

Lights Out for Earth Hour Tonight

2010-03-27T18:30:00.001-04:00

Www.earthhour.org
3/27/10 8:30 PM

The Lady has a name! And the winners are...

2010-03-25T22:52:00.006-04:00

Thank you all for entering the 'name my model' giveaway! The chosen name is Isabella, entered by Small Footprints and the second $15 gift certificate goes to Jen, who suggested the name: Arabella. If you have a moment stop by their wonderful blogs and take part of Reduced Footprints "Change The World Wednesday" green challenges.

Today's coupon: SPRING15 - Save 15% OFF your order.

Check back in soon for the next giveaway and to see Isabella model the latest creations!

Work in progress - Aquamarine Ribbon Bib Necklace

2010-03-10T21:41:00.008-05:00

Colors and shades of the sea....

Finished Necklace:

Heart of Glass

2010-02-28T21:34:00.016-05:00

Sometimes a project or creation needs a little umph and my favorite umph generating embellishment are glass beads. They come in many varieties including Venetian, Czech and there's even a selection of recycled glass beads now available.
Semiprecious and precious stones are wonderful, but there's something thrilling about the sparkle of glass.

With glass beads, a little bit goes a long way. Just a sprinkle on a hair pin or necklace can give you that shimmering look without being gaudy or overdone.

Here are a few Czech glass bejeweled pieces to bring a little twinkle to your Spring & Summer:

Teal and White Velvet Flower Barrette

Fire & Ice Crochet Orange Flower Hair Pin

New Coupon! SPRING15 - 15% OFF

The Snowacane Begins...

2010-02-25T16:38:00.012-05:00

I'm more than a little fascinated by the Weather. Aside from a major attachment to yarn, I'm one of those people who watches The Weather Channel for sport. Jim Cantore is a genius. In case you are wondering about the name of the storm, it's being called a 'snowacane' because the barometric pressure within the storm resembles that of a Cat. 2 hurricane, it's also making a loop right over NY, which makes it an unprecedented Winter storm.

The snow falling today is like nothing I've ever seen. The flakes are absolutely ginarmous... yes, not really a word, but it certainly applies. They were as big as large feathers, or leaves. Very impressive, beautiful but quite difficult to navigate. It is slush central out there and later on tonight the skating will not be at the Olympics, but on the sidewalks of New York City.
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New Video!

The Accessory Lady on YouTube!

2010-02-24T13:22:00.011-05:00

Check out the new video:

Feel free to share, rate or embed. Thank you!
Click to visit the YouTube channel.
New Giveaway!
New videos and creations coming soon!

How do you Bib it up?

2010-02-23T20:33:00.008-05:00

Enter the latest giveaway for a chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate!!

Even Grown Ups Wear Bibs

2010-02-21T16:17:00.020-05:00

Not the large cotton bibs you put on to chow down on crab legs or barbecue chicken, but the beautiful array of gemstone, lace and floral neck decor that is all the rage these days. I have chosen ribbons and the colors of Spring as my inspiration for TheAL collection of bib necklaces.
Pastel Fields Crochet Bib Necklace

The beauty of bib necklaces and chokers is that they can pretty much be worn for any occasion. You can jazz up a simple jeans and tank outfit with an elaborate neck piece or wear a dainty or more dramatic one with a cocktail dress. They can make a statement and enhance a plain prom or bridesmaid dress.
Spring Awakening Bib Necklace

They also have a romantic, vintage elegance that makes an ordinary look extraordinary.

Flamenco Nights Black and Red Beaded Necklace

What other colors would you like to see in the Spring/Summer collection?

Don't forget to enter the latest giveaway!

Work in Progress... Spring Awakening Crochet Bib Necklace

2010-02-19T19:18:00.007-05:00

Streaming ribbons of brilliant color... I want to will the flowers to bloom and the sun to shine longer...
Can a necklace make it happen? Perhaps not, but it will surely make this day brighter!

New Giveaway! Name my new Model!

2010-02-17T08:46:00.015-05:00

Introducing the new model for The Accessory Lady: The stunning... well that is just it, I cannot find the right name for my trusty new partner. I tried to get Emma Watson for the job, but she was too busy with Burberry and her new fair trade/organic clothing line. As for Zoe Saldana, she is getting ready for the next Star Trek movie. So...this lovely lady has graciously offered to model my handmade collection. Sometimes it's difficult to imagine what a hair ornament, headband or necklace will look like without displaying it properly so I am very glad to have her on board!

To enter the giveaway, follow this blog and leave a comment letting me know what you think her name should be. Two prizes for this one! One for the best name idea and another winner will be randomly picked from all entries. Each will receive a $15 gift certificate for the shop! The winners will be announced on March 25th.

On the photo: Curly Flower Crochet Velvet Choker

Happy Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year!

2010-02-14T22:01:00.012-05:00

Hope you all enjoyed a wonderful day!

The end of Winter seems miles away, especially considering the fact that at some point this week there was snow in 49 States! DC is still digging out from several feet of snow. Thoughts and wishes of Spring invade my brain at every turn and I stared at the Valentine's Day flowers quite wistfully.

To put me in a Spring state of mind, I finished one my flowery works in progress. A curly flower barrette with blend of lavender velvet and silky navy blue ribbon with a sparkly button accent.

Stay tuned for more Spring creations!

Why I love Bloglovin

2010-02-02T09:48:00.016-05:00

I don't usually write about the technical aspects of blogging, but I'm so impressed with Bloglovin I had to share. I began using it a few months ago and I found it to be the easiest, most rewarding way to keep track of all my favorite blogs. There are plenty of blog readers out there, but this one is just so attractive, sleek and functional, which makes it the go-to tool for many fashion blogs. You may have noticed the Bloglovin buttons around the blogosphere:

The beauty of the platform is that your preferred blogs don't need to have a Bloglovin button to add them to your list. You just type in the web address in the search field and follow the blog. You can then assign it to one of your own categories. Every time you login you can easily see all the newest entries for your followed blogs and at a glance you can preview which entries you might want to read further or comment on. There's also a little heart you can click on to make a particular entry a favorite. I like to use that feature to save recipes or projects I might want to try later.

The best part of Bloglovin is the categories. You can click on the side and choose to look at the new entries in one category and within that section you can click on a blog name and just look at the last posts from that particular blog. All from one page and from on clean menu on the left. It makes blog hopping fun, easy and efficient.

What do you use to surf through your favorite blogs?

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Stay tuned for the latest work in progress and next giveaway!

Warm those Ears! Handmade Warmers & Muffs

2010-01-18T22:01:00.011-05:00

One of the biggest Winter fashion issues is how to keep your hair in place while staying warm. Hats and beanies basically smush your hair down to an unrecognizable mess and we all know that hat hair is not cool! I started wearing ear warmers a couple of years ago. If they are fluffy and snug enough, they keep the wind and cold at bay and your coif in working order. Muffs and warmers can make a fashion statement all by themselves. So much so that you might not want to take them off once you head indoors!
Stay toasty with these hand loomed and crochet headbands:

Burgundy & Beige Velvet Ear Warmer (just added!) and Blue & Burgundy Tie on Ear Warmer

Brooch it up! Part 2

2010-01-17T17:35:00.011-05:00

Guess who is brooching it up now! A few months ago I posted an entry with the fabulous Emma Watson on the cover of Teen Vogue wearing a pair of fabulous D&G flower pins. Looks like the first lady is setting her own trend with this ornate and bright orange flower brooch. She really manages to be age appropriate, fun and stylish all at once during her appearance on Super Chef.

Check out the rest of Michelle Obama's look book at NYMag.

How do you brooch it up? Let TheAL give you a hand:
Burnt Orange Crochet Flower Brooch

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Help Haiti Guide: A comprehensive list of reputable organizations and links.

Making Something From Something - Recycled Silk Project

2010-01-09T17:28:00.012-05:00

Reduce, reuse and recycle... it is a motto that has become standard operation in my daily life. I pretty much try to find use for as many items as I can so they don't end up in a dump or polluting a body of water miles away. If I cannot find an application for them I make sure they are recycled or donated so someone else can take advantage. What I have not done before is to take the plenitude of materials around me to create something new. I have used organic fabrics and yarns to design eco-fashion in the past, but this will be my first journey into truly re-purposed fashion. I found an old piece of silk fabric that used to be a table runner. It has a slightly weathered look, but the color is beautiful and I think it will become a very interesting piece. Hope you'll stay tuned to see the results!

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Stop by and play Top 3 of the Decade to enter the Facebook giveaway!

I say brrrr, It's Cold in Here!

2010-01-04T09:09:00.013-05:00

If you are familiar with the cult favorite "Bring it On" then you recognize that quote... or cheer. I wish I was talking about Cheerleading, but I'm actually talking about the brain numbing, face paralyzing temperatures that are currently gripping much of the of the United States. I lived in Maryland for a few years. I happened to be there during a particularly bad stretch of Winters...Blizzard of '96 anyone? So I get to New York and I'm thinking, this is cake. I can do this. The past five Winters have been positively balmy. Well the honeymoon is over and the Polar weather endures.

That being said, this lady from the tropics has learned to look at Winter in a whole different light. It can be beautifully haunting and the perfect time to slow down, sip some hot chocolate, drink gallons of lovely teas and put your crafty hands to work. So break out the blankets and fire up your favorite movies. It's time to embrace the cabin fever.
Winter tea recommendations: Good Earth Original Herbal Tea Spicy, warming and delicious!
Winter movie: Signs Anything that makes your heart race helps to keep your warm!
Latest Creation:
Brocade Gold and Burnt Orange Round Crochet Pin

Giveaway Winners!

2010-01-02T21:32:00.010-05:00

Happy New Year! I am pleased to announce the winners of our latest giveaway. Elizabeth Says Relax has won the Purple Fantasy Organic Cotton Tote & the $10 Gift Certificate goes to WalkintheWoods.

Please visit their lovely blogs if you have a moment.

Thank you all for entering and for your wonderful feedback. Stay tuned for the next giveaway, which will take place at the end of the month.

Wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010!

New coupon: 15% Off your purchase: WINTER15 http://www.theaccessorylady.com

The Velvet Rope

2009-12-23T14:18:00.024-05:00

I've always loved the rich colors and textures of velvety yarns. Commonly referred to as suede or chenille yarn they really give crochet and looming a luxurious quality. Plus they just feel delicious. Due to a couple of irresistible encounters at the store, I've amassed quite a collection of these and they were calling out to me today. It's also the perfect time of the year for velvet.

As I avoid the cold and postpone several Holiday chores, here is the work in progress:

Pink suede and contrasting navy blue ribbon yarn.

More velvet creations at TheAL:
Burgundy Red Velvet Flower Brooch

Stay tuned for the finished piece and click by to enter our last giveaway of the year! Happy Holidays!

Last Giveaway of the Year!!!

2009-12-18T15:33:00.012-05:00

So you've bought (or made) all the gifts, you baked all the pies, you sent all the cards (or emails), you put up all the decorations and you fried all the potato Latkes. Now it's time to get a chance to treat yourself. Enter our last giveaway of the year. Two prizes! First place wins an Extra Large Purple Fantasy Mandala Organic Cotton Tote (see photo) and 2nd place wins a $10 gift Certificate towards any purchase at our shop. The winner will be announced on January 2nd.

To enter, make sure you are a follower of this blog and leave a comment below.
We wish you a happy and healthy Holiday season and the very best for 2010!

News Flash, New Look!

2009-12-15T23:13:00.012-05:00

The blog has a snazzy new design and so does our shop!. What do you think of our brighter, shinier look? TheAL is also expanding with a little studio on Artfire where you can find the finished 'work in progress' from the "Finding Time & Inspiration" post!

And if you prefer a double dose of flowery goodness:

Fluffy in Teal and Pink Crochet Flower Brooch Pin

The AL at The Holiday Craft Fair

2009-12-14T22:32:00.019-05:00

A glimpse of the table:

Thank you very much to all the attendees and participants. I'll be dreaming about all the delicious baked good for weeks! Strawberry cake anyone?

Saturday Dec. 12th, Holiday Gift Fair, Brooklyn, NY.

Finding Time & Inspiration

2009-12-09T23:08:00.023-05:00

Finding inspiration and a quiet moment can often be a challenge during the hectic Holiday season and end of the year. It's so rewarding when you find that something catches your eye and forces you to create no matter how long your to do list has become. In my case, I spotted this small cluster of roses. They might be the last ones standing at this point considering the wild, yet very interesting weather we've had in the last few days. I've posted a Mcklinky below. Share a link to your latest inspiration and creation. It can be anything you made or are in the process of making (painting, drawing, photograph, new recipe, Holiday decor or gifts, etc). Just leave a link and a quick word about what prompted your crafting frenzy!

Inspiration and work in progress...

***Make sure to leave comments for your fellow creators & stay tuned for our next Holiday giveaway. Thank you!

Drum Roll Please...

2009-12-07T10:13:00.010-05:00

And the lucky winner of the $20 Gift Certificate Giveaway is...

SoftPencil (Wonderful artist & illustrator - Visit her blog & shop)

Congratulations!

Thank you all for submitting your entries and comments. Stay tuned for our next giveaway!
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The Warm Bracelet/Carnival Collection - ON SALE!

Cyber Monday Deals at TheAL!

2009-11-30T11:30:00.005-05:00

www.theaccessorylady.com

Don't forget to enter our giveaway!

Fall Giveaway! $20 Gift Certificate!

2009-11-25T10:27:00.016-05:00

It's Fall, the Holidays are here so it is definitely time for another fabulous giveaway!

The winner will receive a $20 gift certificate which can be used for any purchase at our shop!

Stay tuned and check in to see if you are the lucky winner on Dec. 6th.

Three ways to enter:

1- Tweet this giveaway and leave a comment below this post.
2- Post the link to the giveaway on your facebook page and leave a comment below
3- Follow this blog and leave a comment below

Zengeo's New Seasons Collection of Necklaces

2009-11-19T18:17:00.011-05:00

Zengeo Creates the Seasons Collection

This collection of necklaces was inspired by the vast and brilliant colors of nature as Seasons change. The focal bead of each creation was handcrafted with Polymer Clay. The flower on the bead was created using the Millefiori cane technique. This term comes from an ancient glassmaking method in which rods of molten glass are combined and stretched to produce a long cylinder with a continuous floral or geometric pattern. The pattern is then cut into extremely thin slices and applied to molten glass. This technique was used by Venetian Glass artists that made Millefiori. It has been successfully adapted to polymer clay and it's the basis of some of my work. It is also called modern polymer clay canework. The necklaces feature wirework embellishments and very small seed beads known as"Delicas" seed beads. The center bead was baked and polished to a shine then finished with a glossing. Handmade glass and wooden beads and an exquisite toggle clasp are also a part of these unique pieces. These necklaces were created to bring fun, and lightheartedness to all and they are just waiting to be part of your attire. They also make a very special one of a kind gift.

Pictured:
Golden Fall
Winter Solstice

The Fall Sale Has Begun!

2009-11-18T13:36:00.006-05:00

Stop by and get a jump start on your shopping with handcrafted gifts for the Holiday Season. Use coupon code FALL20 (20% OFF) for even more savings! Take advantage of markdowns on one of a kind pieces: crochet brooches, bangles, cuffs, necklaces, belts & handbags. Gift Certificates available.

CLICK TO SHOP OUR SALE!

www.theaccessorylady.com

For the Love of Critters

2009-10-26T08:39:00.018-04:00

When I first lived in a dorm I noticed something very peculiar about the decor of some of my peers. There seemed to be a particular kind of animal theme covering or wallpapering their side of the room. Of course there were always the usual suspects like Munch's The Scream poster, Klimt's The Kiss and Dalí's melting clocks all over the place. But then there were those whose rooms were covered with dolphins, or geckos and the most popular of all: frogs. I started wondering if it was a phase. Do we all identify and love one kind of critter. Next thing you know, butterflies started sprouting all over my room decor and I joined the crowd of eccentrics. Except now I don't really see it as an eccentricity. I'm starting to think it's truly a part of the human condition since it was and still is so common. We just express it differently. We may build a web page or blog for our dogs, or perhaps watch hours of cute kitty videos on YouTube. We may even accessorize with our favorite creature. There is just something very comforting and beautiful about our preferred animal and I'm not embarrassed to say there are still a few butterflies in my home.

What is your favorite animal?

Here are some of our one of kind critters:

Zengeo Lampworked Wirework Gecko Pendant

Zengeo Wirework Butterfly Brooch
Zengeo Lampwork Wirework Copper Butterfly Pin

Today's Coupon: FALL20 - 20% OFF your order!

And a Happy Equinox to you!

2009-09-22T18:51:00.012-04:00

As the first minutes of Autumn approach, instead of missing Summer I choose to fall in love with Fall all over again. The textures, colors, fragrant aromas of soups, stews and baked goods are definitely things I look forward to as well as cozy crafting session and new creations. Yes it will be cold, but that just means we get to rock our cozy cardigans and sweaters once more. Bring on Halloween, leaves, Fall TV and Oktoberfest. I'm ready. Are you?

Featuring Zengeo Multi-colored Bracelet & Necklace Set

Featuring the Royal Velvet Gold & Burgundy Cuff

Coupon: FALLINTOFALL - 20% OFF

The Warm Bracelet - Carnival Collection

2009-09-17T12:08:00.018-04:00

Ever feel you'd like to wear something besides metal during the cold season? The Accessory Lady introduces The Warm Bracelet, part of our new Fall collection. The sleek knit bangles are handcrafted with warm and soft mohair/cotton yarn in brilliant colors that will brighten up those glum months and freshen up your style. Mix and match multiple colors, stack them for a dramatic look or wear them individually. However you choose to add them to your wardrobe they will certainly make a statement! Currently available in pink, white, green and black. New colors coming soon!

Coupon Code: LADY15 - 15% Off your order!

Crochet Flower Hair Pins & Summer Coupon

2009-08-31T07:19:00.013-04:00

End of Summer coupon code: 20% OFF your ORDER: SUMMERBLISS , Expires 9/15

Just added! Blue Lagoon Flower Hair Pin

Click to view a selection of handcrafted flower pins. Embellish your hair style with these dainty one of a kind pieces.

Which hair accessories will you be wearing this Fall?

Brooch it Up!

2009-08-20T08:57:00.021-04:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

You may have caught a glimpse of Emma Watson on the August cover of Teen Vogue wearing two gorgeous D&G brooches. A brooch can transform and enhance an older top, cardigan, skirt, jacket, hat or handbag, turn it into a fresh part of your wardrobe and give you a completely new look. Check out our affordable and unique collection of brooches. Each piece is handcrafted and one of a kind. Featured in these fashion sets: Burnt Orange Crochet Brooch, Endless Carnival Beaded Brooch, Red Velvet Crochet Brooch and Pink Turquoise Black Crochet Brooch. Click sets for more info.

The Accessory Lady on Facebook

Find Your Summer Florals at the A.L

2009-07-09T13:09:00.004-04:00

Stop by and check out our Summer Florals!!

Holiday weekend coupon code extended: JULYFOURTH - 25% OFF. Expires July 15th!

Announcing the Winner of the Organic Poppy Field Tote

2009-07-01T22:04:00.006-04:00

Congratulations to Kikolani, winner of the Organic Cotton Poppy Field Mandala Tote!

4th Of July Celebration Coupon: JULYFOURTH - 25% OFF!!! Expires July 8th

Stay tuned for our next giveaway!!

http://www.theaccessorylady.com

Organic Cotton Tote GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-06-19T08:46:00.000-04:00

Organic Cotton Tote GIVEAWAY!!!!

News...Auction

2009-06-11T14:41:00.002-04:00

We had the pleasure of being part of the Spanish Nights Oak Knoll Kinderhaus, Silent Auction. We are thrilled the Rainbow Festival beaded pouch found a home in support of a wonderful event and we hope to participate again next year.

Spring Giveaway - Organic Mandala Tote Bag

2009-05-27T10:37:00.016-04:00

Want to win this fabulous large organic tote?

To Enter, Link this giveaway post to your blog: Create a Link

or

Join our Facebook Fan Page:

The Accessory Lady's Facebook Page

Promote Your Page Too

Once you've linked or joined you are automatically entered! Invite your friends to join or link and they will be entered in the contest too!

Winner will be announced on June 30th!

About the tote:
Large enough to carry your groceries yet soft enough to fold and keep in your purse this colorful certified organic tote is a wonderful addition for your vacation and trips to the market, school, gym or shops. Made with organic cotton twill & water based inks. Original mandala design on both sides. 20"x14"x5". 100% Eco-friendly! Care: Turn inside out and machine wash. Hang dry or spin dry at low heat. A swirl of dancing poppies are featured in this design.

Spring a Trend

2009-05-10T08:49:00.029-04:00

With warmer days finally showing their face. It is time to do the proverbial Spring cleaning and scour the back of the closet to satisfy the revolving door of fashion. Indeed the best thing about fashion is that certain trends never die, they just bide their time until the can come back with a vengeance, which of course makes Spring cleaning all the more challenging. Is it time to say goodbye to my plaid purse? Will it be horizontal or vertical stripes next year?

Which Spring trend are you rocking this season:
(click photos for more info on the featured item)

Gladiating, Featuring the Japanese Lady Art/Pendant

Pastel Haze, Featuring Double the Shimmer Pink & Lavender Cuff/Necklace

Wedge it up, Featuring the Pink & Blue Small Crochet Handbag

Silk and Ruffles, Featuring the Black White & Gold Tie On Cuff

Floral Prints, Featuring the Blue Soft Cotton Bamboo Tote

Tunic Love, Featuring the Zengeo Blue & Purple Wirework Pendant

Fabulous Coupon code: SPRINGFEVER 20% OFF, valid until May 20th, 2009

Bring on Spring

2009-02-23T12:28:00.042-05:00

Since we are in for two days of snow and ice here in the Northeast, it's definitely time to talk about some serious color. Thankfully Spring trends are leaning towards lots vibrant hues and festive prints to keep us in sync with nature. It's been a long dreary Winter. Start thinking warm thoughts and take a gander at the super bright, energizing and recharging Spring pieces at the A.L.:

The Unrestrained Color Collection:
(Click Photos for more details)

Yarn, How I love Thee

2009-01-22T12:07:00.006-05:00

Here is a preview of some colors and textures that will soon be added to the A.L.

A Reflection on Valentine's Day

2009-01-18T07:33:00.045-05:00

A couple of days after New Years, I was walking through the pharmacy and turned to the next isle. It was as if I'd stumbled into a Pepto bottle. Pink everywhere. Hearts, and candies and stuffed animals galore. Clearly it was time for a new Holiday. Don't get me wrong. I truly enjoy Valentine's day, but it has an overwhelming emphasis on lovers, partners and romantic relationships. Hence the penchant of some to walk around dressed in black from head to toe condemning the day.

When I was growing up it was also a celebration of friendship and family and another opportunity to thank those who stuck with you through thick and thin. In college we bought as many of those cartoon mini valentines as we could and sent them to all of our friends. I'm sure the campus post office workers absolutely dreaded the approach of the Holiday as they were left to handle hundreds if not thousands of extra mini pieces of mail and stuff them into mailboxes.

So, to those of you who expect flowers, chocolate or jewelry I say fantastic and congratulations, and to those who don't I say this celebration is also for you and its about time you got your chocolate, gifts and mixed tapes too!!!!

Valentine's Day Handcrafted Gift Ideas:
(click on the photo for more info)

Royal Velvet Burgundy and Gold Cuff

Zengeo Mokume Gane Ball Pendant Necklace

Pink and Turquoise Corset Wide Cuff - The Moulin Rouge Series

I've been robbed.... and I'm thrilled about it...

2009-01-16T22:11:00.010-05:00

Well not quite, but as a New Yorker, ever since I learned that all 155 people aboard flight 1549 were alive and well, I can't stop smiling. I love this city and its people and even though I woke up yesterday morning to find that someone in Michigan bought 80 dollars worth of video games on my dime (identity theft), I'm still smiling. We are constantly overwhelmed with a barrage of bad news. It is inspiring to witness such courage, selflessness and incredible will to survive. I express deep admiration for the captain, co-pilot crew, passengers and all of those who rushed to help without a moments hesitation. Not even theft or frigid temperatures can dampen my spirits.

-The A.L.

This Ain't your Grandma's Crochet!

2009-01-04T16:40:00.023-05:00

Crochet is sometimes considered a rather old fashioned crafting technique. People think of crochet and they might just picture themselves surrounded by doilies, table runners and toilet paper holders. All still very beautiful and coveted items, but crochet has evolved into a truly fashionable, desirable and wearable art. From the runways of Paris to the streets of New York crochet has entered the 21st century and the fashion houses with a bang.

In truth it was actually my great grandmother who I first saw hold a crochet a needle. Bent over her work at 90 years of age she created the most elaborate and delicate pieces. I still have the very last item she worked on. I have great respect for the myriad of useful items that can be made with crochet and I thoroughly enjoy making my own dishcloths, but crochet has come a very long way.

Featured Item: Beige and Brown Crochet handbag.

Velvety Goodness

2008-12-30T16:11:00.018-05:00

With two days left in 2008. This is the time when we take stock of the year that passes and look forward to new and exciting things for the new year. To celebrate the arrival of 2009 I created this sumptuous and soft teal cuff with brilliant golden glass beads; perhaps to signify that the new year will be full of bright moments, prosperous and rich in creativity, health, love and enlightening experiences.

It's Cold, It's Cold, Its Freezing Cold!!!

2008-11-19T11:47:00.014-05:00

It feels like January and it's not even thanksgiving yet! Everyone on the east coast will agree that it is far too early to be this cold. Am I right? In light of these freezing developments it was time to create something warm, cuddly and delicious. I made this headband/scarf with extremely soft mohair/wool yarn and accented with a large button. Perfect to wear as scarf or ear warmer. More of these comfy confections coming very soon!

Last Days of Summer

2008-09-20T09:23:00.012-04:00

Here come the last two days of Summer. It makes me wish I lived in the southern hemisphere. The days are now shorter and the nights are definitely much cooler and I get nostalgic for those 90 degree temperatures. There are some wonderful things about the arrival of Fall. It is the time for lovely warm teas and scrumptious soups and the cool weather also means more crafting. We slow down and snuggle into our couches and comfy chairs and creativity blooms and we launch into various artistic pursuits. We put away our shorts and flip flops and scope out the new abundant and diverse produce that comes with the season. So... hurray for Fall, the beautiful foliage and the new TV season! What will you be eating, crafting & watching?

Here's one of my favorite Fall/Winter Creations

Jeweled Poodle Headband/Ear Warmer
(click photo for more details)

AAAAHHHH The Joy of Freeform Crochet

2008-03-31T19:50:00.021-04:00

Most of the time I don't even know what I'm making or I start with one thing in mind and in the middle of it I become inspired by something else. The ideas can come from anything: nature or even an outfit a passerby is wearing. Lately I've been working with ribbon and glass beads quite a bit. When it comes to crochet there are absolutely no rules... unless you are following a pattern. My latest creation came to me this morning while experimenting with different textures. Behold the Oreo Cookie Cuff. I'm actually keeping this one!

Speaking of passersby, my collection of cuffs called The Moulin Rouge came to me during one my many forays into crafting in public. I find myself crocheting in cafes and on the subway quite a bit. Surprisingly enough, I'm not the only one. There is usually one more person knitting or crocheting on the train. Men women and children are crazy for creating! The best thing about crafting outdoors is that people will undoubtedly approach you. Especially in a big city like New York where we are not shy about engaging in random yet friendly conversation with strangers and this collection was born during one of those wonderful moments!

The Moulin Rouge Series - (Click the photo to see more of the series)

Yarn-o-Mania!

2008-01-20T15:16:00.002-05:00

Ever feel like monkey here on the left? Drowning in a sea of yarn, never to be found. I have to say I rather enjoy that feeling. Any support groups out there for this particular affliction? I simply cannot go into a crafts shop, yarn stores or even a supermarket that might sell yarn without coming out with a new purchase and my fingers are not crocheting or looming fast enough to go through it. So, a couple of days ago I decided it was time to organize my yarn-a-palooza. I dragged all of it out and immediately projects started popping up in my head like the little bubbles on "pop-pop-video". Wow, I truly just dated myself. I struggled with whether I should store it by categories: wool, cotton, acrylic or by colors. Then I decided I liked it just the way it was. All different colors, fibers and textures. That's where the great creative ideas come from. I see color combinations that I would never think of if the blues were with the baby blues and the pinks were stored with the hot pinks.

My favorite yarns are hand dyed made out of natural fivers, but there's also something really magical and surprising about the novelty yarns with all their color, flash & bling.

What is your favorite kind of yarn and are you also suffering from yarnieitis?

Leave a comment and let me know. Perhaps we can come up with a solution, or perhaps we best not! :-) Clearly that's a a look of happiness on Monkey's face!

How it all Began...

2008-01-14T16:58:00.008-05:00

I started crafting when I was very young. Dance was the center of my life back then but creating things was also an important part of my life. As a little girl I watched my great grandmother crochet exquisite tablecloths, doilies, runners in super fine lace weight yarn & thread, even when she could hardly see. I still have the last thing she was making before she passed, which was a runner for my piano. My mother has some of the table cloths she made as well. My great grandmother never used a pattern or guide to make her pieces, so even back then I saw it as a spontaneous and creative artform.

My grandmother can sew anything from a bathing suit to a wedding dress and she made specialized patterns for anyone who came her way. She should have had a shop in Fashion Avenue in New York City. She sewed clothing for all her daughters (all 7 of them) and the most amazing thing I ever saw was watching her make three debutante gowns in a week!

So the concept of creating items either decorative or for daily use was instilled in both my aunt (Zengeo) and me early on.

Oddly enough the person who taught me how to crochet was a lady who lived down my street. All the girls in the neighborhood were between the ages of 7 and 12 and we sat in a row on the sidewalk with our crochet needles learning how to make doilies. This lady was also a wonderful artist and she made the most beautiful and dainty outfits.

Thereafter, I taught my aunt to crochet. She has always been a naturally gifted artist. Throughout the years she has taught herself to paint, draw, sculpt and pretty much work with any material available to her including: polymer clay, glass, silver, wire & acrylic paints. She also learned the Japanese art of Mokume Gane which you will see in many of her pieces.

This year we decided it was time to bring our shops and artistic tales together on this blog. http://www.theaccessorylady.com & http://www.zengeo.com

My mother always said: Do what you love. Do what makes you happy, and letting our creativity run wild certainly makes us very happy. We are glad to share our one of a kind items with you!

Come back soon for our latest news and to check out the newest additions!

Gallery

2007-01-01T10:38:00.002-05:00