DIY: Bolted Leather Cuff Bracelets

I've got a little arm swag DIY for you today:) Let me warn you this is not as easy as last week's ombre wrap bracelets. This is what I call an intermediate level DIY, but it is still fairly easy..

Materials:

Leather or pleather strips measured and cut to fit around your wrist size

(you can buy strips of it at a craft store, but I cut mine from leather samples I had) 

Metal or rhinestone studs (found mine here and here)

10 mm Crimps (got mine here)

Jump Rings (also found here)

Lobster Clasps

Pliers

A great place to buy supplies is on etsy!

Instructions:

Using the point of a sharp knife (make sure you have your leather pieces on a cutting board), cut small slits the width of your metal pieces along your leather strip.

Insert rhinestone and pyramid studs and close prongs in the back. Use a pliers if needed to close tightly.

Using your pliers, clasp your crimp pieces over the ends of the leather pieces tightly.

Add your jump rings and lobster clasps on the ends.

Wear your arm swag and mix and match with other bracelets of choice.

(Third bracelet is from Poshlocket -giveaway going on here.)

Hope you Enjoy!

DIY: Holiday Tassel Earrings

Remember how I was Holly Golightly for Halloween? I had these fantastic earplugs and it made me want to turn them into earrings. Well then I saw these on the Matchbook blog I was motivated to make a pair and share it here:) You know I like to keep my DIY's simple, so its just 3 steps and 3 supplies!

Supplies:

- Earwire Hooks

- Any 2 Beads (I used these lucite beads)

- 2 in. Upholstery Tassels (bought from Hobby Lobby with several color options)

Steps:

1) Loop beads through top of tassels.

2) Tie a knot to shorten the length.

3) Hook earwires through the tops.

That is it! 3 steps, 3 supplies. 

Time: 5 minutes

Cost: $3-$5

Perfect for a holiday party:) I might be wearing them with this top.

We started advent last week, so I pulled out our advent calendar and am trying my hardest to really make the most of this season, and help my little family prepare for the coming of the King!

Do you have any advent traditions??

Wishing you a Happy weekend ahead! 

Intro to Kate Bosworth's Jewelmint + 50% Off Code!

Have you heard of Jewelmint?

You know, that crazy cool line of jewelry co-founded and designed by Kate Bosworth and Cher Coulture? If you haven't been over there yet, take a peak on how it works! You can sign up for free, take a fun style quiz, and Jewelmint will select different pieces for you to choose from each month! The best part is every piece is the same price.

"JewelMint is truly an extension of our long friendship and creative relationship. For years, we have talked about designing a line together that could authentically represent our love of fashion and style. JewelMint is the result! With JewelMint, not only do we offer you beautifully crafted jewelry, we also provide you the experience of knowing what it feels like to have your very own stylist. As part of your membership, you have exclusive access to our latest tips and trend reports plus so much more. 

It doesn't end there. To offer you high-quality jewelry, we partnered with the same manufacturers that create all those expensive department store brands. Because we are cutting out the middle-man by selling our designs directly to you, we are able to provide you these amazing pieces at a fraction of the price. " ~Kate and Cher

Well I have quite a fun offer available for you readers today! Instead of a giveaway, this is a win-win for everyone who wants to partake! For this month, you can take 50% off all purchases in your first month of Jewelmint membership with code "atlanta992" courtesy of the MBA Atlanta Team. Pretty fun, huh?  

Have fun browsing! I am looking forward to taking advantage of this discount myself!

Also, we have a winner of the Linkel Designs Giveaway!

Congrats to #64 - Jasmine1485! Will be contacting you shortly to claim your prize!

Thanks to all who entered, and to the lovely Linkel Designs who hosted!

Color Files: Jewel Tones

(1. ASOS, $86 2. Forever21, $3.80 3. Ruche, $28 4. Forever21, $4.50 5. Kate Spade, $68 

6. Carlos Santana, $99 7. ASOS, $10 8. Ruche, $33)

I am so happy that the Fall 2011 Runway is full of Jewel Tones. Thought I would round up some ways to add a splash of these hues to your wardrobe this season:) Have a favorite?

I hope you enjoy the long weekend!! HOORAY! TGIF!!!

P.S. I am over at Megan's sharing 3 things that define me...come on ova!

DIY Sequin Striped Tote

I recently saw this bag, and did a little ooh-ing and ahh-ing over it, but for $175 it wasn't an option. When I was at Hobby Lobby a few weeks ago, I discovered a plain canvas tote I knew I had to put to use! I came up with this...

Using the same steps as the DIY Sequin Clutch, and similar supplies, this tote was a breeze to make!

Total Time: 10 minutes

Total Cost: 6$! 

(use your 40% off single item coupon on tote or trim!)

You can't beat that! I made this for a dear friend of mine and can't wait to send it to her.

 

 

 

Supplies:

This canvas tote or similar.

Sequin Trim (lots of colors available)

Hem Tape OR Glue Gun

I hope you get a chance to make one!

Also, I announced yesterday on the fan page that I am taking a step back from the IHOD shop, to focus more time on my kids. I am so blessed I got to do what I love for a living, but the crazy hours were wearing on me! I am going to be focusing on graphic design. Will continue blogging and bringing you lots of fun and inspiration:) Thanks to each of you who supported the business and made it successful! I am having a 25% OFF Sale on everything in the shop with code: FINAL SALE

While supplies last. Many items already sold out!

3 Steps DIY Sequin Clutch

This is for you gals out there who don't think you can do DIY. These fun and fancy clutches only involve THREE items and THREE steps. Not kidding! Ready?

 First things first, if you are near a Hobby Lobby, RUN your little bottom over there and pick yourself up one or two of these dandy linen clutches. They are ripe for the picking at only $3.99! And use their weekly 40% off an item coupon to get it for less than $2.50! If you are not near one, never fear! You can buy one online here or here. They have both colors available. I bought both the dark charcoal grey and the natural linen. Then head over to the ribbon and trims section and pick out a fun trim to embellish them in. I picked up this gold sequin trim (they usually have trim on sale for 50% off) for $2.50. Sorry the Charcoal trim I bought in the LA fabric district for my shop, so I already had that in stock. For the adhesive you can use hem tape OR glue gun. Easy as that!

In summary, your supplies:

Linen Clutch

Sequin trim (any kind of preference)

Hem tape OR Glue Gun

The Steps:

1) Measure out the trim to fit the length of the clutch(es)

2) Measure out the hem tape

3)Place hem tape between trim and clutch, and hold down your iron on the INSIDE of the clutch for a few seconds on each section of the trim to get them to stick together.

OR

3) Simply heat up your glue gun and use small amounts along the trim where you would like it placed.

*You can use one or two strips of trim on the back depending on the look you want.

....and Voila!! I told you it was simple:)

I hope you go treat yourself or a friend to this $5.00 glam clutch! And if you do, you will have to share the pics and let me know how it goes!

(styled from this previous post)

P.S. I have another fun DIY Sequin tote coming next week:)

Also, I shared some fun maxi skirt love over on Mrs. Capretta's blog if you want to come visit!

DIY Feature: Wrap Bracelets

(via Honestly WTF)

My favorite tutorial of the month:) Taking friendship bracelets to a new level! ;)

There are seemingly endless options! You can find the full instructions and supply links here.

Pair these with the hex bracelets and your wrists will be styled in DIY candy! ...

DIY: Jewelry Hanging

Because I can never get enough of jewelry storage ideas.....

BHG via Pinterest

A pretty simple yet brilliant DIY I am adding to my list of faves.

One of my best friends from college is getting married this weekend in NYC!! So, we are heading up tomorrow morning and I can hardly contain the excitement. Nothing better than seeing your loved ones find true happiness....and getting to celebrate!! Lots of dancing is on the menu:)

Will squeeze in one more post tomorrow and then its a long weekend for me!

Hope you all enjoy yours as well!!

Color File: Shades of Jade

My favorite shade of green is Jade. Had to round up some faves I have spotted lately.....

1. Topshop 2. Smythson via Pinterest 3. Nico Necklaces 4. Old Navy 

5. Hunters (similar) 6. Max and Chloe 7. J. Crew

Inspired by.....

I miss the timeless style and classic beauty that inspired this photo. Women knew how to dress and Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn were the style icons you looked up to. I tend to think fashion peaked in their era. It seems a lot LESS fabric is worn now a days if you know what I mean.

I will be donning some 1920's wear this weekend for a murder mystery surprise. Will make sure a share the photo on the fan page ;) Happy Weekend!

Accessory Swap Results + Giveaway Winner!

I recently discovered Jessica's blog, Creative Index, and immediately jumped in on one of her fun ideas....an ACCESSORY SWAP! What girl wouldn't love that idea?! :) So I shipped off some goodies for another blogger, and received these beauties from Nikki of Perpetually Engaged. I don't think she could have picked something closer to my taste and style! Bold and bright, modern and fun! Thank you so much Jessica for putting the swap together, and thank you Nikki for the accessory fun!

And since we are on the topic of accessories.......I also get to announce the winner to the Lisa Leonard Designs giveaway!! Drumroll.............#120.... Jami!! Will be contacting you for info! Thanks to each of you who entered! 

P.S. Thanks to all of you who keep voting for me in the Top25 Stylish Moms Category. It sure makes me feel better since I have only gotten out of sweats a few times since having the baby! ha ha! :)

*CLOSED* Giveaway: Elliven Studio Sequins & Ruffle Clutch!

Isn't it a beauty?!! I bought one of these a few weeks back as a gift and just want to keep it because its perfect! Julie is the talented mama behind Elliven Studio. I could rave and rave about this girl! She is so genuinely kind, a talented designer, and her product from package to detail is flawless!

She is offering one of my favorite products to one of you readers! The sequin and ruffle clutch! Read about it here. Ready to win?

Here's how you can enter (must be a follower or subscriber of IHOD):

- Visit Elliven Shop and tell us your favorite item!

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES (leave a separate comment for each) :

-Blog, Tweet, or Facebook about the giveaway!

example tweet (you can copy/paste): Just entered the #giveaway @inhonorofdesign for a sequin ruffle clutch from @ellivenstudio!! http://bit.ly/fGRsCC

- Follow Julie of Elliven on Twitter

*Open to International Readers! Best of luck my friends!

Color File: Neon + Coral

1. - Kate Spade, 2. DVF, 3. Marc Jacobs, 4. Kate Spade, 5. Kate Spade 

6. Zimmerman 7. DVF via Postcards & Pretties, 8. Philosophy

Raise your hand if....

Your favorite crayon in grade school was a neon color!....Yep, that would be me. To be perfectly correct, "Shocking Pink" was my favorite crayon in first grade. Thus, I am happy to see the neons hit the mainstream lately. Its fun! I love it even more paired with neutrals and corals:) 

Round up of a few fantastic posts from this week:

Spring Stripes post via Creative Index

Mara's look incorporating the Dance in Curacao Headband.

Lyrics + Prints Posters on Little Reminders of Love.

Strawberry Party on You are My Fave.

Bloggers are just like you post via Aspiring Kennedy. Laugh out loud.

 Desiree is hosting an auction to raise money for an adoption from ethiopia. Several artists including Olive Manna, Emersonmade, and Oh Hello Friend have donated fantastic items. Please consider stopping by! 

Happy weekend!

Meet Jenny May: IHOD Modelista

(All accessories from the IHOD Spring '11 Line)

Meet Jenny May. She is a California girl, who married her Swedish sweetheart. She writes screenplays, has an incredible voice, and oh yeah.... she is my good friend from Freshmen Year in college:) We used to drag ourselves to 8am Political Science class with Dr. Krason. I don't know how we made it out with passing grades to be honest! Love this girl!... and so happy she agreed to model some IHOD accessories for me. A little more about Jenny....

Your current favorite color to work into your wardrobe: Red! red lips...red shoes...red dresses...I can't get enough :-)
5 words to describe you: spontaneous, passionate, outgoing, adventurous, caring 
Where you go for daily inspiration?: I really enjoy reading The Daily Love on twitter.  He writes inspirational quotes and sayings everyday that really motivate me in my life.  

Find more of this lovely lady here:

The Swede Records | Twitter

I am heading out today to a 3 day spiritual retreat, where I get to do nothing but focus on prayer and peace. 30 women are gathering for inspirational talks, time to write and reflect, time for prayer, (and of course eating;) etc.....and ALL in complete silence! The last time I did one of these, it was life changing. How can it not be?! Silence is where God speaks. My hunk of a husband is going to hold down the fort and watch little G for me. I am looking forward to UNPLUGGING from the world and using the time to re-focus. 

Hope you each enjoy this March weekend:)

DIY Feature: Braided Bolt Bracelet

(found via pinterest)

Talk about being resourceful! I absolutely love the look of this bracelet, and hey! It cost pennies! And what a fun gift to give in a set of different colors!

I think I will be digging in my husband's tool box....

Oh and hey! Look over to the right in the sidebar:) Since I am less than 6 weeks away from baby's arrival I thought it would be fun to add a poll. Can you guess what I will be having? If you need to see a belly pic, just refer to this post:D  Keeping this secret is tough! 

Seeing Pairs: Fine Black Lines

(Feather Bangle, Salt and Pepper Cellars, Triple Hoot T, Faceted Ochre Necklace)

These were the pairings I saw developed in my pinterest boards this week:) 

I think I have a thing for fine black lines right now...

I am just 7 weeks away from my due date! Time is flying! It hit me that in a short time I will have this sweet little soul entrusted to me, who will make my heart grow twice as large, and only bring more joy in my life. I know it will be a transition from one to two, but I welcome the challenge with open arms. My husband and I are most excited for Little G to be a big brother. He is going to be a great one:) We are keeping the gender of the little one a surprise until then so stay tuned! 

Happy Tuesday friends:)

Meet Mara: IHOD Modelista:)

Model: Mara of M Loves M

Accessories: Sweet Surrender Bow Headband, Coral Craze Necklace

I got to meet Mara in L.A. over Christmas if you remember this post. She is as sweet as she looks. Such a gem! She has this fabulous blog called M Loves M....oh and and is getting married in a few short months! Mara agreed to be one of my lovely models for the IHOD Spring Accessories line. I love her taste and new that she + IHOD accessories would be a beautiful partnership;) 

A little about Mara:

5 words to describe you? sweet, loving, playful, feminine, and classic

Where do you go for inspiration? I am constantly inspired by interior design. I'll see colors and textures paired together in a living room or bedroom and want to recreate it, not only in my home but also in my wardrobe.

Stay tuned on both of our blogs for more fun on this look book collaboration:)

Happy Friday friends! I am heading out to Colorado to meet my sweet new little nephew! He has quite the set of dimples. I cannot wait! Also, just wanted to say thank you to each of you who voted for me on the lovelies. You all are wonderful!!

IHOD Spring 2011 Line Premier

So its time to officially announce the launch of the new IHOD Spring line!! A long work in progress that is finally ready! I created a look guide using some of the pieces and color inspirations of the line. With all this snow and cold weather across the nation, I had to bring a little color into the blogosphere:)

The entire collection will be in my shop in the next few weeks! The majority of the above are already available. I have some amazing fashion bloggers lined up to model the accessories and will be posting those soon as well. This is a milestone for my business as it is my first complete line of seasonal accessories! I started from scratch with a design and color inspiration board that was a helpful guide in staying on board! From there it was the actual design process, supply purchasing in L.A., production, photography, photo editing, and look book! I think all of you fellow small business owners can relate to the amount of work involved! Tell me how you design your items. I would love to hear!

So please tell me which are your favorites, what colors stand out to you, and what type of accessories you would wear most! It will be of so much help to me in moving forward! Your feedback means so much!  Happy weekend friends!

*CLOSED-Giveaway: Sienna Bag from Mimi Boutique

Dreamy right?! Well so is every bag from their site!...sigh. You lucky readers - someone will get to win one of my favorite bags in your color of choice from Mimi Boutique - The Sienna Bag.

To Enter (must be a follower or subscriber of IHOD):

1) Visit Mimi Boutique and leave a comment with your current favorite item(s)!

Extra Entries (leave a separate comment for each):

2) Follow Mimi Boutique on Facebook or Twitter  and let us know which!

3) Blog, Tweet, or Facebook about the giveaway and let us know!

Giveaway open until Monday night the 24th! (This giveaway is for U.S. Residents only)

Make sure you have a website or email linked to your user id! Good luck!!

Style Files: Crimson Red - Pt. 2

(source: 1, 2, 3, 4)

I am still crazy about this color, and of course Anthropologie has the perfect accessories in this shade.

And I was happy to find some braided inspiration:) I frequent braids quite often...especially on bad hair days. Lucky for me, my husband loves when I wear my hair in braids -yeah he loves my bad hair days?!

We are going to attempt family pictures this weekend in a very spur of the moment decision to do Christmas cards! Wish me luck! 

Fun Links for your weekend:

Don't forget about And Everything Nice's Note Card giveaway! The perfect little stocking stuffer!!

Check out this adorable free owl wrapping download from My Owl Barn.

Here is what I gave Ashley on the 7th day of Christmas...:)

This little fur vest is a perfect example of why, if I have a girl, it would be dangerous.

Gift guide for the guys and for your girlfriends.

Handmade Holiday Giveaway: Make Your Day Designs

I've had the pleasure of getting to know Colbey, the talent behind Make Your Day Designs. She creates beautiful step by step patterns that you can purchase online, and she also has finished products! Best of both worlds! She has generously offered the beautiful Serendipity Necklace and Bracelet Set! Handmade by Colbey with Vintage Italian Buttons!! Isn't is STUNNING?!

To Enter (must be a follower or subscriber of IHOD):

1) Visit her Finished Products Section and let us know which you are impressed by:)

Extra Entries (separate entry for each):

-Blog, Tweet, or Facebook about the Giveaway

*example tweet: Just entered the Handmade Holiday #Giveaway to win the Serendipity Set @inhonorofdesign.

- Subscribe to Colbey's blog

And the winner of the Gilded Bee Kit Giveaway......#70 Silenti Congratulations lucky girl! Please email me your mailing address:)