Fabulous Etsy Finds: Valentine Gifts

Oh Etsy how do I love you, let me count the ways.  One) You are always unabashedly yourself.  Two) Your quirky style helps me discover interests I never knew I had.  Three) You encourage creativity by providing a marketplace foe artists from all walks of life.  Four) I can always find something with you that brings me joy for less than $20.  Five) You make Valentine's Day more beautiful with your funky, cool awww-inspiring finds.  Have a look at a few lovely creations that I want to give/get this Monday.

Vintage Pale Rose Ring



$22



Yoda In Love Card

$3.50

 Love Birds Necklace

$18.50

Lovey Owl Print

$10

Yes Or No Slap Bracelet

$25

Rustic Barn Carving

$12.50

Initial Ring

$18.99

Mustache Glasses


$26

Valentine IPod Sleeve

$10

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Friay's Fab Etsy Finds: Retro Roses

When I think of rose-themed jewelry, it reminds me of the accessories that I use to wear in grammar school. Those irreplaceable treasures that I would wear to bed every night. Even though they probably only cost a few dollars, they made me feel special and girlie and just plain pretty. And maybe that's why this fashion is making a comeback. The classic rose takes us Generation Yers back to a simpler time when all we had to worry about was how to work a Pogo Bal and what time Saved By The Bell came on. Whatever the draw is, I'm hooked. Its elegant playfulness allows the rose motif to work with almost any outfit. But like anything totally 80's, having a unique touch is the key to making its retro allure work. Luckily when it comes to individuality, Etsy's got you covered. Here are a few finds that will have you rocking it like its 1989.

Vintage Inspired Rosebud Earrings

I could wear these little beauties every day of the week. They come in a variety of colors, but I am digging this rich red hue. They are individually handcrafted from polyclay and sell for $13. Right now the seller, Mr. Jason, is offering a BOGO on all of his earrings.

Rose and Glass Beads Necklace

There are so many color and style variations to choose from on this necklace. The ivory and turquoise struck a chord with the vintage lover in me. I can't quite put my finger on it, but for some reason this piece reminds me of the movie, My Girl (one of my childhood faves). And I imagine that it would make me feel just so dainty and feminine. It comes with matching glass earrings and sells for $44. As an extra bonus, shipping is free.

Olive Roses Antique Brass

I daydream about wearing this sunny little bracelet. The roses are soft and delicate while the metal is fun and whimsical. And the sheen from the beads dresses the whole thing up. I love the oversized, ornate details. So often bracelets tend to lack the pizazz found in other articles of jewelry. This one sells for $15.

Antique Brass Adjustable Ring

This bubble gum hued ring makes me want to throw on a Debbi Gibson record and dance my heart out. I can't help but smile every time I see it. The warm pink tone and the fluttery petals seem like they can melt away any gloominess that's bringing down your day. It sells for $10.25.

Friday's Fab Etsy Finds: Celebrating Groundhog Day With Etsy

Every February the country anxiously looks toward Punxsutawney, PA in hopes of predicting the near future. I am talking about Phil, the famous groundhog and his infamous shadow. Will he see it, or will we have any early spring? We will soon find out this Tuesday. But unless you live within 50 miles or so of good ol' Punxsutawney, chances are this underappreciated holiday is barely on your radar. For shame, I say. Why not embrace it as an excuse to celebrate the whimsy in life? And where can you find whimsical, celebratory Groundhog Day supplies? Why, Etsy of course.

Groundhog Day Button Set

You can make your own prediction with these cute little button pins. Don the cloud if you predict an early spring and the sun if you predict a long winter. Or wear them both if you are feeling ambivalent, but still want to get into the spirit of things. These pins are about one inch in diameter and features the seller's own original artwork of our beloved Phil. At $4 for the pair, this is a find that makes celebrating Groundhog Day fun and affordable.

The Cutest Groundhog Soaps

Now you can think of Phil and his fateful appearance every time you wash your hands. Just stock your bathroom with these little groundhog-shaped soaps. What's even better is that you can choose from lots of yummy scents like Chocolate Cherries, Tahitian Vanilla and 7Up Pound Cake. They come wrapped in cello bags and a bow. And at $6 for a set of 3, you may just want to start a new tradition of Groundhog Day gift giving.

Happy Groundhog Day Rubber Stamp

This rubber stamp will add a little festivity to your daily paperwork. Ideal for teachers and small businesses, emboss assignments or out going mail with this little guy to show you attention to detail. It sells for $8.50.

Punxsutawney, PA Postmark

Here is another stamp that will add just the right amount of Phil to your February 2. Adorn out going paperwork or the inside of a greeting card or handwritten note with this iconic emblem.

Groundhog Letterpress Card

Here is a fun, casual way to reach out to someone special. This accommodating letterpress card makes mention GH Day, but also leaves room for other topics of discussion. It sells for $4 for one card and matching envelope.

Friday's Fab Etsy Finds: Neckwear

There are some days when you feel like standing out. You want to wear something with a little extra oomph. If your closet is leaving you less than inspired, neckwear could just be the missing element in your wardrobe. Neckwear is a fairly foreign concept to most women. Now I'm not talking a tiny little gold chain or rayon scarf. I am talking bold, unique statement pieces that can only be found in a marketplace like Etsy. Whether you are looking to set the next fashion trend or break out of your shell of shyness, these fabulous Etsy finds can help you achieve your fashion goals.

This dramatic neck ruffle is made from a rare and intricate soft French lac and tied together with two rows of cognac orange velvet ribbons. It would be perfect for adding a romantic flair to your work attire. Just pair the ruffle with a plain black or beige pant or skirt suit and a white button down shirt, leaving the top few buttons open.

This elegant neck shawl is crocheted from soft, white acrylic ruffle yarn with silver thread. It would be a great pairing with a low cut evening gown or satin cami.

Here is a floral bib made of ribbon flowers and yarn. I especially like this one because it has more of a casual feel. I would wear it with a white or lightly patterned crewneck or V-neck tee.

This necklace boutonniere displays a delicate arrangement of ivory and beige chiffon flowers with a maroon button center and is offset by the chunky gold-plated chain. This is a versatile piece that can dress up a refined outfit or bring a little funk to a casual one.

Handmade Wednesday's: Dryer Fragrance Sachets

While I am always looking for great crafts, I came upon a gem: CraftBits. They were loaded with really great ideas and this was one of them. So if you are ever tired of buying new dryer sheets all the time and being wasteful, try making your own dryer sachet. When you place it into the dryer the fragrance will come wafting through and penetrate through all your clothes. It's so easy!

What You'll Need:

• Cotton Fabric (your choice)
• Sheet wadding
• Lavender seeds
• Fragrance oil or Essential oil (your choice)- consider Lavender and Lemon

Here's How to Make it:

• Start by cutting out what size pads you want , approx. 5cm X 5cm is suitable.
• Cut your fabric into the size you require allowing for stitching.
• Sew 3 sides of your fabric closed and slip in the sheet wadding through the last opening.
• You will need to either begin hand sewing or machine sewing this end closed.
• Just before you complete the closure Sprinkle some lavender oil into the Project or sprinkle your drops of oil onto the wadding prior to placing it inside.
• And when the fragrance decreases add some more drops of oil !
• You can use essential or fragrant oils for these mat's, Fragrant oil is much cheaper and can be bought from good craft supply stores.

Here's another way:

• Instead of putting wadding in, load it the bag with lavender seeds
• Now, if you are not crafty or just don't have time to make these, you can find them on Etsy too!

Friday's Fab Etsy Finds: Knitted Accessories

Brrrrrr!  The cold weather is upon us and I don't know about you, but I need knitted accessories.  During this time of year I love to throw a scarf around my neck adding just a bit of flare.  Or a hat on my head to keep me warm and cozy.  Even a pretty knitted sweater will do, but I never thought of throwing something knitted around my coffee cup!  Heading to the ever fabulous Etsy, I discovered some knitted wonders that make want to jump in the snow just so I have a reason to shop.

I'll start with the knitted coffee cup sleeve I just mentioned.  When I saw this, I almost died!  I love coffee and now I can have warm - but not scorched - hands and be fashionable while holding it.  Just amazing.  And for only $12 this is the perfect Christmas gift or stocking stuffer.

Of course, I am a hat girl.  They just look good on me and so I'm always in search of new a classic trends.  When I discovered a knitted flapper hat I thought, "I can be warm and trendy?  Yay!"  Though this is a bit expensive for my taste at $38, I believe having a warm and pretty head is well worth it.

Didn't you know that knitted bracelets are all the rage this season?  Well they are.  And this particular company is having an amazing deal right now.  You get three of these little beauties for only $20.  I'm ready to be head to toe full of knit!

And speaking of toes, crochet slippers can seriously be yours if you know anything about knitting.  Spend just $5 and you can make slippers for yourself and everyone in your family!  I am crazy about this idea.

Pretty Thought of the Day

A pretty ruffled or floral pillow can add interest and depth to an otherwise bland couch.

Friday's Fab Etsy Finds: Legwarmers

I don't think that there is a girl alive that doesn't (openly or secretly) love legwarmers. They are fun, flirty and so versatile. Sure, you can rock them during a step class with a leotard. But the legwarmers of the 21st century have moved well beyond the gym and into every day attire. Now we wear them with minis, under cropped jeans, over leggings or skinny jeans, around our pumps, above our boot cuff and other in unexpected ways. Now that fall is on its way (pardon the heat wave), this is a great time to revive this classic look in your own wardrobe. Here are some Etsy finds to show you just how many ways leg warmers can work for you.

If wearing a mini skirt always feels like you are trying a little too hard then these crocheted above-the-knee legwarmers are your solution. They say "Yes, I can flaunt my legs, I'm just not going to". For a sexy, yet classy look, pair these with a mini skirt or perhaps some pleated shorts. For a more casual style scrunch them down or wear them over leggings. Pick up a pair from Mademoiselle Mermaid for $40.

These vintage legwarmers with yoyo rosettes are all grown up. Like the repurposed wool sweaters they are made from, they exude casual elegance. I prefer them in an understated look as shown in the photo above. However, as you will see on the Etsy page they also go great with a flowing floral skirt. Try them out for $35.

Okay, so technically these are not legwarmers, but they have the same feel so I threw them in here. I love a good pair of riding boots in the fall. And these little Boot Cuffs are the perfect addition to this look. They really do complete the outfit and make it all come to together. There are rave reviews and several color choices on the Etsy page. They go for $38 a pair.

My husband caught a glance of these lace up legwarmers and told me in no uncertain terms to order them. This came as no big surprise since he is a fan of almost anything that laces up. He says that it is because it has the allure getting of a peek at something that is covered up. There is nothing flashy about your calf. But when you lace some ribbon (or yarn as the case would be) around it, it becomes mesmerizing. The legwarmers are made by Two Trees Grow, so it is fitting that they have a subtle tree design woven into them--adding a little extra interest. Snatch up a pair for $56.

Again, these are not technically legwarmers, but I think that spats have a place in this line-up too. They do, afterall, at the very least keep your ankles warm. They dress up heels or flats and add interest without screaming for attention. Mademoiselle Mermaid has this pair listed for $30.

Friday's Fab Etsy Finds: Hair Wear

There are some times when I just need a little something extra. Whether I am feeling discouraged, anxious, upset or just having a bad hair day; there are those days that require a little distraction. Some people turn to shop therapy. Some people turn to rocky road. I turn to the little vanity drawer in my dresser. This is where I keep all of my pretty little hair pieces. There are barrettes, clips, bands, ties and more. And each one has an unique feel to it that makes me feel special. I know that it may sound silly, but it is like wearing lacy underwear. It makes me hold my head a little higher, it makes my step a little lighter and it helps me feel more confident about whatever it is that I am trying to conquer. The next time you need a pick-me-up, you should give it a try. Here are a few Etsy finds to get your collection started.

This Satin Lotus Flower Hair Clip is made with an antiqued brass alligator clip. The flower is a realistically layered lotus flower made of satin in a peachy coral hue. As you can see, it is beautiful. But what makes this such a amazing piece is that the flower can be folded in to be smaller or spread out to be bolder. A few of these would go perfectly with a simple summer dress or they could dress up a tee shirt and a pair of jeans nicely.

This Set of 3 Green Silk YoYo Bobby Pins have tiny hand stitched rosettes complete with pearl centers. They are just the thing to add a little interest and whimsy to a polished outfit. Perhaps, to help you stand out just enough at you next job interview or meeting.

This paisley Liberty of London Braid Scarve take a simple loose braid to a whole new level. It is dainty, chic and apparently the next hot trend in hair.