I recently discovered the delights of “Papa Stour“.  It’s an online shop that specializes in the best of Scottish design.  They carry everything from jewelry, artwork – even home decor.
It’s their jewelry that I’m going to focus on today though.  They carry some fantastic pieces from Scottish designers – in materials as varied as wool, silver and plastic.
Two of the pieces that caught my eye are by Hannah, a jeweler from Edinburgh:

This is her “Charm” necklace, hand cut from sterling silver and accented with pearls.  The necklace features a teeny little Dachshund along with a flower and house.  You can …read more

I always love seeing how indie designers interpret trends.  You can find some really unique takes on today’s hot accessory trends by checking out the “little guys”.
Take a stroll through Etsy and see how many interesting designs these talented folks have come up with!

I am coveting this chiffon flower bag!  The listing is actually for a custom-made purse from Chicago designer, Mojo Spa Style.  You choose the color of the purse, the color of the chiffon flower and whether you want a gold or silver vintage flower at the center of the bag.  The bag is custom-made for you in …read more

The decisions have been made, the handbags and shoes have been judged and it’s almost time for the 2009 Independent Handbag Designer Awards ceremony to happen.
You can get in on the action and vote for your favorite designer in the “best student made”, “best handmade”, “green”, “socially responsible” and more.

The finalists will have a chance a chance to win apprenticeships, sewing machines and even a chance to have their designs produced commercially.
The awards take place in New York city on June 17th at the New York Historical Society.
image: Independent Handbag Designer Awards

January always feels like a time for simplicity, elegance and a return to a more normal schedule after the craziness of December.
I find that my choices in jewelry tend to reflect that as well.  That’s probably why today’s choice is the charming little “Forget Me Not” ring created from sterling silver and painted:

It’s also available in red:

And white (wouldn’t that make a lovely promise ring?)

The rings are handmade in New York City – and in fact, they were even casst from a real piece of string!  Due to their handmade nature, the rings may take up to 6 weeks to …read more