The Creative Cookie

Warehouse Gallery Opening

As you know we have our creative studio in Red Hook and I'm stoked to say that tomorrow (11/15) we're opening a second space, a gallery, in West Bed-Stuy!!

We've been quietly working on this project since the summer, our 1st show is called Collo which is a word we made up, over breakfast one Sunday, that means the act of sharing space derived from the first five letters in "collocation", something hard to avoid in New York City. Part of this inspiration came from the reality that our gallery is collocating with a thoughtful vintage boutique (which means that I'm going to have a rough time saving).

kamau is providing his savvy curatorial direction and eye. This feels so familiar -- we met his first gallery, Urban Space, in Pittsburgh. I'm also designing a few fun things to feature in the gallery! I'll be rolling them out, as well as the wares of other creatives, as we grow. The first pieces will be shown next week!

Find out more by following us behind the scenes using the hashtag #warehousegallery. I'd love to see you tomorrow (or one day soon) -- YaY!!!!!!

Ladies Love Project

One of my students, Reina (age 9), will be participating in the Ladies Love Project today. She'll be selling these zipper bracelets and leather bow cuffs that she designed!

There will also be many other amazingly talented and stylish artists, shakers, makers, and creators. Should be a good thing! Come check it out if you're in NYC! I'll post pictures after the event.

UPDATE:). When I arrived at the event Reina had sold the things she made except a few -- go Reina!

Ode to Tote

I'm thankful that Lands' End sent me this market tote. My teaching supplies fit nicely and the straps match my coat:). 

Self-Interview

Ok, so I'm  going out on a fashion limb, here's an interview with me by me (using the style questions that I've received this year from my friends, family, and students:). I hope you find it fun!

Q: Do you ever wear jeans?

A: Yes, once every other blue moon. I have two pairs, Levis and a  pair from Custo Barcelona (my faves). Blue jeans look good on others but they make me feel, ummm, er, blue.  It's hard for me to find the perfect fit, wash, denim weight, length, comfort, etc. In my opinion, jeans are like boyfriends you have to keep trying them until you find the one you love. I've never been much of a dater.

Q: What's on trend for spring 2013?

A: Fashion for me is about fun, artful, quality pieces that can be kept for years. I enjoy trends from afar but I'm into unearthing pieces that fit into my style to create an overall look. I like to make my own trends -- I'll be wearing 50s inspired dresses and bold floral prints this spring.

Q: Describe your style.

A: I tend to mix vintage, vintage inspired, and modern garments with basics. I've always been on the conservitave side. I'm somewhere between a foxy Librarian and a quirky-nerdy teacher. Ha! 

Q: Where do you shop?

A:  Rarely in New York -- only because I like to save my money to shop when I travel!

Q: What's one accessory that you can't go without?

A: GLASSES -- I've been bespeckled since I was 6 years (love them love them love them) ohhh, EARRINGS too!

Q: What's the one thing you'll never wear?

A: A black coat. Black is super chic but New York City is a sea of black outerwear in the winter. I like to bring the color no mater the season. Right now I'm wearing a plaid jewel tone number from the 90s that I picked up from Miss Master's Closet.  

Q: Did you make that?!

A: No (my response like 90% of the time). I'm drawn to wearing things that look like I made them. I love dresses, skirts and tops with a tactile quality. However, this spring/summer my response will change.  I have a bunch of 'Lesley Ware' creations on my studio cutting table. Yes, yes, YES!

♥♥♥♥

Lands' End Holiday Preview

The weather is ch-ch-ch changing, i.e. it's logical to start thinking December now.  Here are a few of my favorite things from the Lands' End Holiday Preview for 2012. Taking inspiration from their home state of Wisconsin there's oodles of mid-west charm to mix into your wardrobe, or gift, as you go to and fro in the snow!

I spy canary coats, chetah print, and needle point tablet cases -- oh my...

photos used with permission from Lands'End

TranquiliT Fall '12 Preview

This past weekend I traveled to DC for my 3rd photo shoot with TranquiliT! TranquiliT is an eco-friendly line, designed by Kimberly Wilson, made with luxurious rayon fabric from organic bamboo. Posting more about the fall collection soon!

photos: Patrick Onofre