BRIGHT IDEAS: Finds in Clothing and Accessories

Thanks to the Magic of Etsy, it's easy to find really inspirational and interesting pieces in any category, if you're willing to invest the time to look. Here's some interesting "AH-HAH!" things I pulled up - hopefully it inspires you to create... or to pull out your wallet!

Hooded Jersey Baby Doll Dress by Niceface: Very cute take on the shirt dress. I love the little button details at the top, and the half sleeve is perfect for the upcoming fall.

Western Corset by Mariapozo: First of all, I have to take my five seconds all to congratulate her on an amazing photograph. Okay, five seconds over. Oh. My. Goodness. How incredible is this thing? I'm amazed at how intricate and perfectly symmetrical it is, and how well it's done. I mean, zoom in on that baby! If that doesn't give you sewing craft aspirations (because, let's face it, I was hopeless in Home Ec yet still somehow had an idea that I'd end up doing costume design), I don't know what does!

Paisley Leather Cuff in Turquoise by Hollyhawk: I like the graphic pattern and the blue color. What really fascinates me is that she hand dyed the leather, something I'd never attempted - or even though of attempting!

Cheerful Bee Business Card Wallet in Leafy Green by JennMaruskaDesign: This definitely made me go, "awwwwww!" when I first saw it. It's really sweet, and I could certainly use a card holder (if only people actually needed my cards more frequently!). I love the green color too - it's precious! Card wallets - it's one of those projects you just generally forget about - glad someone didn't!

Thistle Scoop Neck in Plum: What I love about this design and is interesting to me is really in the way the thistle is presented. It's really refreshing that you can see something organic and elegant but isn't as literal as the engraving or hyper-precise silhouettes that are all over the place. This illustration is more loose, and abstract, while still being legible. I think it's a fresh take on a trend that's on its way to getting too watered down.

On My Way to Waikiki Ponytail Holders by Magpiesnest: Another product I hadn't really thought of in the accessories area (perhaps it's because I have short hair that barely at best can make a pony tail?), but is really beautifully executed. I love the graphic design of them, and I really appreciate that they're kept more simple. They're small, so keeping it clean and basic allows the one graphic element to really pay off!

White Eyelet Sun Dress by Cherrypievintage: This is gorgeous. I love the cut, and I love the fabric. If there was any dress to really motivate me to drop those extra college-era pounds, this is probably it! I love the little bows at the top - they're so sweet and feminine and add a simple but unique touch to it.