It was at that point I started to really change the way I shopped. Oh sure – I still enjoy indulgences at Anthropologie and H&M every once in a while, but I try to branch out and check out indie designers when I can. Websites like Shopflick, Etsy and SupermarketHQ are excellent resources if you aren’t sure where to start on your indie adventure.

chocolateandsteal | Image: Shopflick

Still not ready to take the plunge? Here are a few reasons that should help change your mind about independent designers.

Limited Quantities
As I mentioned before, a large motivation for me was that I don’t want to be wearing cookie cutter clothes that everyone else has. It’s validating when you see the same design once or twice, but all over town? There is no personal style in that.

Relationship Building
If you come across a designer you truly enjoy, it’s actually possible to get to know the person behind the scenes. Can you say the same for your big box brand favorites?

Hidden Treasures
The large chains are catering to the masses – you probably have a quirky taste that you don’t even know about because you’ve never happened upon a designer that was as unique as you are.

High Quality
I generally find the cheap, disposable ‘fast fashion’ items I pick up don’t last. But the ones that are handcrafted survive season after season. There is simply more time and effort put into each item.

You Never Know
The little unknown designer you start investing in might just become the next fashion icon. You could be ahead of the curve and onto something huge – and what a great feeling that would be, wouldn’t it?

Post from: The List Maven

A lot of people gravitate towards eBay when they’re looking for handmade stuff. It’s great, because eBay’s been around for-freaking-ever, and it’s a trusted way to purchase online, however I tend to hunt around Etsy when I’m looking for original, handcrafted, high quality gifts. The artisans there really do have a huge respect for their crafts, and you can tell that love and care is put into every piece. Payment processes are as reliable and honest as those on eBay, so you have no worries there, and it’s not set up as an “auction” – the price you see is what you pay. Take a look at some of the recent recycled accessories I’ve found there, and grab something for a last minute gift or stocking stuffer! Photos and details after the jump…

This vintage typewriter key necklace is perfect for your favorite “retro girl” (like me!). $12.99 available in various letters.

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Men love funky accessories too! This 9mm Brass Mens Straightline Belt Buckle is sure to be noticed, and no, he doesn’t have to be a police officer to appreciate it! $37.

Check out another great “recycled” post here at The List Maven: 11 Ways to Recycle Your Old Shoes

In the “Why didn’t I think of that?” category, there’s this adorable Zipper Swirl Pendant! Comes in a wide variety of colors, and I can just see my goddaughter wearing this thinking she’s just “so cool” for having something that none of her friends have. $20.

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I love leather cuffs. Pair this with an open white oxford over a black tank, jeans, and boots, and you’ve got a classic look that never goes out of style. This cuff leather bracelet is branded and hand burned from a recycled belt! $18.

Check out another great “recycled” post here at The List Maven: 35 Accessories Made from Recycled Materials

Know a gamer who loves a fun night of playing domino with friends? Get her this cute mini domino adjustable ring for good luck! It’s cute, one size fits all, and won’t break your pockets for $5.99.

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I don’t care how old or young you may be, Elvis was a hottie! Even if you aren’t a fan of his hip-thrusting, silk-scarf-wearing, convulsion-inducing, body-shake music (okay, OR his ballads), you can’t deny this man was beautiful! Put him on your arm with this Elvis Presley recycled record album tote! $59.99.

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Okay, I absolutely LOVE these! Like, they’re on my list, okay? Haha.. These wrist and arm warmers are made from recycled wool (which comes from wool sweaters that have been felted to take the “knit” look out and create one solid piece of wool), and feature a crocheted rose on top! They’re only $25, so buy them for me, okay? (That’s if I don’t buy them myself first!)

Check out another great “recycled” post here at The List Maven: 3 Green Fashion Finds

Here’s another great pair of recycled fingerless gloves, made from “upcycled” felted wool sweaters. I really love this idea, don’t you? Available in many stripes and solids. $20.

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This one’s just for the pattern, so you can make it yourself, but this one really got me! It’s a tote bag made from plastic grocery bags! How freakin’ neat is that!? The bags are cut into strips and made into “yarn” that’s then crocheted to make this adorable bag. Take THIS one with you back to the grocery store, or to the beach! $3.95.

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Please Note: I really love finding these kinds of one of a kinds, but be absolutely assured that it’s possible the specific items I featured here may disappear (ie. be sold) before you get to them. In that case, be sure to click on the artist’s profile and shop link to find more great items that are similar to the ones featured here.

Post from: The List Maven

Images are from the product sale pages on Etsy, and belong to their respective artists/jewelry makers.

What shoes should I wear? Red E for the Prom
Genuine barbie shoes. Red strappy heels with silver glitter on the straps. Shoes hung on silver french ear wires. Total length is 1.5″.
$10.00 via SAEE on Etsy

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Seen Better Days Barbie Necklace
Silver-plated fine chain necklace approx. 20″ with 12mm B&W striped Czech glass beads. Red, handmade decoupage pendant measuring 1.75″, featuring a slightly shabby Barbie. Pendants are double varnished to ensure durability and a high quality finish.
$50 via VenusFlytrapJewels on Etsy

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Punk Rock Pendant
Electric blue eye-shadowed Barbie doll eye, black pigmented resin surround, entirely hand fabricated. 16″ oxidized diamond cut ball chain and lobster clasp. Pendant measures 1 3/4″ in diameter. Artist signature on back.
$170 via MargauxLange on Etsy

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Splash
The base of this pendant is a black plastic bottle cap. Inside hazel eyed Barbie has been immersed in resin. Covering the top of the pendant is a purple piece of plastic, found at a rummage sale.
$22.50 via gjarvisjewelryetc

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Barbie Pump Purple Earrings
Are you a lover of all things Barbie doll?? Then relive your childhood by wearing these super cute earrings, made with authentic barbie doll pumps. With three small beads (clear, pink, and lilac), this earring dangles about 3 inches long. The pump itself is 1 inch in length.
$4 via flamingofluffy

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Post from: The List Maven