Foraging Fashion

A new project I am starting is a daily "Art & Mind Work" set goal. These sets are unplanned Art & Expression sets, meaning that I do not begin creating them with any preselected items or ideas, I just begin a random search in the Polyvore data-base of items, using any words that come to me. When I find an image that speaks to me, I start by looking at it and thinking of how it can be used. From that point I just build around the original image, layering over it or behind it, and just 'playing' for lack of a better word. I let the set build almost as a sculptor would chip away at a piece of marble, letting the hidden creation reveal itself. It sounds odd to some people I am sure, but it is how my process works.

That is the Art Work component of the set. The Mind Work component for me comes second. After the image is complete, I look for something that it is saying to me, I make the mental leap to a slogan or saying of my own. This can appear as a Word Art expression in the set, or merely as the title of the set. Then I do the heavy work, mentally speaking, by expressing something personal from my own perspective, very subjectively in the set description. Here is an example of what I mean.

This is the image that inspired an entire set. It is entitled Early Snow and is by artist Nene Thomas.

And this is the [Art Work] Meets [Mind Work] set that I created. It is titled They Lie. The description accompanying the set follows below.

They Lie! [A Writing On Personal Pain and How To Move On] by ketsy featuring cotton shirts

They Lie! [A Writing On Personal Pain and How To Move On]

They say time heals all wounds, that time is the cure to a broken heart or a broken past. Time adds distance, but not closure or healing, nor does it make the pain go away. What it does is give us the time to care for the wound, to acknowledge it, to incorporate the event into the person we are as a result of it. Time alone heals nothing, that is the lie. Some wounds can never be healed, and even those that can are not miraculously cured by time alone. Time gives us a chance to go through the stages of grief, to reflect on the injury, and to look within and without for the tools that allow us to survive. Time lets us find the resources, the people, the help we need to move on. Sometimes moving on is all that can be done. Let us not wallow in our misery, let us not over indulge our role as victim. Let us take our collective experiences, both good and bad, and let them create the person we are meant to be. We are women after all, we are the shepherds of our society, we are nothing if not strong and capable of things beyond our comprehension.

~ Lisa Ann Magerman, RN, BScN
Thursday, January 5th, 2012

Again, this is an example of my collage doll creations from Polyvore, and the words sort of emerge from the final image, which I never plan ahead. I start with a single image I like, in this case the woman's face, and then I build around that. If you follow the link to the set, you will see that this image actually contains 46 separate elements.

A detailed description of my process follows:

I cut the face and some of the hair out of the original image. I built her hair from many wisps and curls available. Next it was her collar, as I was left with no neck and a very angular jaw. The poncho style sweater was a great solution, but required some cuts and edits to make it work with the angle of the head. The jeans and boots came next, I choose the pants, then looked for boots in positions that would look like they belonged. The tee-shirt underneath, allowed me to connect the top and bottom halves of the "doll" and gave me some arms to work with. I then searched out and added the hands, filled in the sleeves, and sat back and noted the posture that was created.

Each "doll" has a different personality, in this case I felt serene pain. When I found the background image with the couple in the far distance, I decided it was perfect for not only the way the woman was dressed, but also the mood. Then I wanted to add to the image, to work on connecting the background and the doll, to add special effects like shine or fog. I found a great fog filter to place over the whole image to make the doll and the background look more harmonious.

I was randomly looking for things to add to the image, like the fences I placed on the path, and came across the watch. Putting the watch in her hand made me think of time and pain... so naturally (for me at least)the saying "Time Heals All Wounds" came to mind. The next step was just thinking about that saying, did it ring true to me? Do I believe it? From that came the words, the text I placed on the image, and then the entire "mini-rant" or thought blurb that followed. Sometimes these things are personal to me, something I am feeling or going through. Other times they are just my feelings about an issue or trend, something political, or something that I have read.

Hope you don't mind my sharing this process, I am personally fascinated by the way people come up with some of the brilliant sets they do, and wonder not only how they did what they did within the confines of the Polyvore set creator, but also where the inspiration comes from. Feel free to look at more of my work on my Polyvore profile.

Oh You Beautiful Doll!

2012-01-02T11:40:00.004-05:00

I am addicted to doll making lately, creating Art & Expression sets on Polyvore primarily featuring a "doll", or a hand built figure. You can start with an idea, or just by looking through the dozens of "Tubes Femme" or models on the Polyvore site. Get inspired by a face, a dress, a pair of shoes, a setting, and start building. Choose the head and cut it out of the background, find the torso, and then the arms that work together. It is like cutting images out of magazines, as many of us did as children, and putting together a person from all those cut bits.

It's hard to explain unless you can see it, and looking at the amazing sets created by the many Poly-Doll Creators ohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifn the site is a great start. Ultimately, we all develop our own methods of making dolls and art sets, or a variety of methods that work for us. The key is to keep playing, keep striving to make that work of art that wows us and inspires others. Here are more of my recent "Dolls", many created to be added to my new Polyvore Group "The Doll House", a new community for "Doll"-makers on Polyvore, or all skill levels, meant to showcase this highly creative and inspiring art form. It is nice to see that recent changes to Polyvore have allowed the "Art & Expression" sets to once again share in the spotlight, something that I have been missing for so very long.

Pretty Parlour Tricks by ketsy featuring Erdem skirts

She was the kind of Girl.... by ketsy featuring bow jewelry

When the party is over.... by ketsy featuring peacock hair accessories

Happy New Year To You! by ketsy featuring hair clip accessories

She of the Daisy Chain by ketsy featuring facets jewelry

A Suitcase Full of Steam Punk by ketsy featuring wool hats

Double The Trouble TWINS by ketsy featuring hair bow accessories

On Point In A Teacup by ketsy featuring bow jewelry

Welcome to "The Doll House" by ketsy featuring floral dresses

Art Of The Matter!

2011-12-29T19:53:00.003-05:00

I have really been having some fun playing with Art sets these last few weeks. They can be incredibly time consuming, with the cut and paste, the layering, and choosing just the perfect images to use. But that is all part of the fun, and when other Polyvorians respond to my sets it makes it all worth while.

She Counts Flying Pigs In Her Dreams by ketsy featuring high heels

She dreams of Para Paradise.... by ketsy featuring shawls scarves

Iconic Art - The Dream Sender by ketsy featuring gold wedding jewelry

She Said Her Head Was Too Full of Dreams... by ketsy on polyvore.com

A Room With A View

2011-12-29T19:40:00.002-05:00

Another wonderful source of expression on Polyvore, is the "interior decor" design category. Create the room of your dreams, gather together bits and pieces of design inspiration, or even a whole home. Here are a few of my favorite interior design sets, the rooms I can decorate in my dreams if not in real life.

A Diva's Sitting Room by ketsy on polyvore.com

The Fashion Designers' Inspiration Room. by ketsy featuring Miss KG shoes

Making January My Muse

2011-12-29T19:31:00.003-05:00

Where do you find your inspirations? I find them in just about everything, from something I see in the streets to a name, or even a month of the year. January is my muse this month, particularly a woman named January. She is fashionable, she is free, she comes in fresh and new and makes you pay attention. Here are some sets I have called "A Girl Named January", a glimpse at month as muse.

A Girl Named January by ketsy featuring crystal pearl earrings

A Girl Named January by ketsy featuring a wrap dress

A Girl Named January by ketsy featuring mary jane platform shoes

A Girl Named January... by ketsy featuring platform high heels

This Holiday Sweater by ketsy featuring hand knit sweaters

School Spirit - Canadians Have It Too!

2011-12-08T20:28:00.002-05:00

I never really thought about my school spirit in relation to anyone else. We all have it to some degree, but perhaps being Canadian means I am less in your face about it than my American neighbors. We certainly don't have the same state to state rivalries, those that have legendary status and have people dedicating entire holidays to watching their teams. It is a more quiet pride.

As an Alum of Toronto's RYERSON UNIVERSITY, I have a soft spot for my team, the Ryerson Rams. When the School Spirit contest appeared this week on the official Polyvore Contest list, I decided to create a set reflecting not only my school spirit, but the fact that I am as proud as anyone about my school and team.

Canadians Have Spirit Too! RYERSON RAMS! by ketsy featuring socks

I am so proud of my amazing school and the spirit we have. Sports are so different in Canadian Universities. We don't have the same budgets, we don't scout players, we don't have huge $$$ Alumni Supporters, but we do have the same spirit! We love cheering on the teams, the players who play for pure love of the game, and we love to get silly! Every single student shares in that school pride, and we are so proud of our "little" CANADIAN UNIVERSITY.

The New Year's Eve Mini Editor!

2011-12-08T15:59:00.008-05:00

I have been having fabulous fun putting together sets of party looks for New Year's Eve. It's the one night of the year that most people really get to go all out and get dolled up for an event. It's also a night where almost anything goes. Whether it's a party dress, a cocktail dress or a formal gown, they can all work at any champagne circuit soiree.

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 15 - New's Year's Eve Countdown by ketsy featuring gold tone jewelry

Here are some of my own New Year's inspired looks, and I have put together a little Mini Editor of some favorite party frocks, evening bags, and gorgeous shoes that you can play with to make your own set of New Year's happiness. Enjoy and Have a Healthy, Happy, and Fashionable New Year!

New Year's Party Girl by ketsy featuring a cape jacket

Get your own Mini Editor from Polyvore

Sparkle & Shine with Swarovski

2011-12-02T12:59:00.010-05:00

I have often mentioned how inspired I am by some of the contests on the Polyvore web site. The latest is a dream come true for any woman of style, the "Light Up Your Look with Swarovski" Women's Watch line. They are classic and stunning timepieces, and they have a chameleon like ability to make a day look even more spectacular and a night look the ultimate in chic. I have been having a blast making entries for this contest, often spending hours on one set, and I can still say that these watches are so versatile that they have inspired endless possibilities.

On a more personal note, I have been working to develop a new set style. Not that I don't like my usual square sets, but I want to start playing more with the editor. I am working with positive and negative space, different aspect ratios of images to articles or items, and finding ways to use sheer color blocks and text in new ways. I am not looking at any other sets at the moment simply because I don't want them to influence my process, and it is a process. How much is too much? Is there a point at which the set is finished and adding just that one more item will throw it off? What about size of items, should jewelry be displayed in small images or should it be enlarged to show detail? How many images can you mix together, it it more appealing to go with just one iconic or eye-catching image? These are questions I have been exploring in my last series of sets. What kind of sets do you prefer?

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 1 by ketsy featuring cami tops

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 2 by ketsy featuring a pink belt

Light Up Your Look With Swarovski 3 by ketsy featuring beaded jewelry

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 4 by ketsy featuring platform heels

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 5 by ketsy featuring slip on boots

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 6 by ketsy featuring lanvin jewelry

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 7 by ketsy featuring high waisted white pants

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 8 - Modern Bride by ketsy featuring python handbags

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 9 - Gold Dust Woman by ketsy featuring strap watches

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 10 - The Rocker Chick! by ketsy featuring platform stiletto heels

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 11 - True Grace by ketsy featuring kate spade earrings

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 12 - The Party Girl by ketsy featuring spiked booties

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 13 - The Urban Bohemian by ketsy featuring gold plated rings

Still more inspired sets featuring Swarovski Crystal Watches. What I am loving about this contest is that a watch is such a versatile accessory to begin with, and can work for anyone, no matter their age, personal sense of style, or occasion. I am having fun with placing the Swarovski Watch in a wide variety of sets, including sporty and youthful looks, as well as glamorous and fashion forward looks.

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 14 - The Scene Stealer by ketsy featuring logo bags

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 16 - Young At Heart by ketsy featuring bustier tops

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 17 - Happy New Year Baby! by ketsy featuring clear crystal jewelry

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 18 - The Party Butterfly by ketsy featuring gunmetal jewelry

Light Up Your Look with Swarovski 19 - The New York Society Girl by ketsy featuring strap watches

Trend Report: Winter 2011/2012 - The Sweater Dress

2011-11-26T20:37:00.007-05:00

Winter is coming, so they say, but the weather in Toronto is fantastic! So what do you wear when you don't know what the weather will bring? Simple... the comfortable and easy sweater dress. It is flattering to almost any body type, and paired with leggings or tights is just the perfect touch. Feminine, but still easy to wear and transition from day to night with the right accessories. Push up those sleeves and go with some chunky bangles on a warmer day, when the temperature drops add a wool scarf. Go with a great colored leather handbag to be 'of the moment', and choose the booties or tall boots that make you feel like you can take on the world.

How to Rock a Sweater Dress! by ketsy featuring a cashmere shawl

The Sweater Dress by ketsy featuring lip jewelry

Wrap Me Up In A Sweater Dress This Winter! by ketsy featuring a leather handbag

Bring On The Color: Sweater Dress by ketsy featuring rose earrings

Red & Black Stripes: Sweater Dresses! by ketsy featuring a cashmere dress

Winter 2011/2012 Wrap Up - The Sweater Dress by ketsy featuring enamel jewelry

Warm Up The Winter With A Sweater Dress by ketsy featuring a gray coat

Ready To Play This Winter! ROMWE by ketsy featuring a khaki coat

Trend Report: Winter 2011/2012 - The Return of The Mini-Skirt!

2011-11-26T20:21:00.002-05:00

The surprise hit of the Winter 2011/2012 Season is the return of the Mini-Skirt. It has grown up, with fabulous asymmetrical touches, ruched details, frills, knits, and patterns.

They are not just for twig skinny teens anymore, with chic grown-up looks that include metallics, embroidery, and beading. Here are some fabulous Mini-Skirt looks that are sure to set those chilly Winter temperatures skyrocketing into the double digits. Sometimes showing a little leg, even if they are clad in thick tights or stockings, is just the perfect way of being a little sexy without showing all the goods. Embrace the Mini-Skirt, it is your friend ladies!

The Mini Skirt with A 'Touch Of Red' by ketsy featuring a blue shirt

Mini-Skirt in Blue by ketsy featuring a leather shoulder bag

Totally Harajuku Mini-Skirts! by ketsy featuring felt hats

The Rocker Chicks Love Minis! by ketsy featuring zip jackets

Fabulous Chic Mini Skirt by ketsy featuring diamond earrings

Skirting The Issue: The Miniskirt! by ketsy featuring fitted shirts

Skirting The Issue: Tartan Mini Skirt by ketsy featuring striped knee socks

Inspiration Sets: Mood Boards in Pale Yellow

2011-10-28T21:57:00.003-04:00

Sometime I just want to be inspired. One of the best things about Polyvore is searching through the images that other members have clipped and finding treasures that inspire or speak to me in some way. I decided to do a series with soft pale yellow as a common tone. Some of the images may be familiar faces, silhouettes, or places. Others are images that are magical and unique, captured by people with a gift to see the usual in unusual ways. Whatever they are, they make sense to me as a "set", and they will foster inspiration in the form of not only Polyvore sets [both fashion and art], but also in my real life work and art.

Mood Board 1: Pale Yellow Inspirations by ketsy on polyvore.com

Mood Board 2: Pale Yellow Inspirations by ketsy on polyvore.com

Be-Witching Fashion Sets!

2011-10-28T21:52:00.003-04:00

Here are a few fabulously wicked fashion sets inspired by the Halloween season. Think Modern Witch with a twist of fabulous!

Which Witch? by ketsy featuring a bell sleeve dress

Practical Magic by ketsy featuring high heels

That's Right... You Should Be Scared! by ketsy featuring alexander mcqueen dresses

Talk Nerdy To Me! by ketsy featuring long sleeve tops

A Real Halloween "Doll"

2011-10-24T23:44:00.002-04:00

The Hellcat Halloween Fairy by ketsy featuring shiny tops

The Halloween Fairy comes out in late October to play tricks on the unwitting and those that refuse to celebrate her night. She blows out the candles in your Jack'o Lanterns, steals candy from the big kids, and knocks on doors and runs away. Such a tricksy little Fae, but full of the Halloween Spirit for certain!

One of the most difficult of my "Colored Fairies" yet, it took a whole 50 item cuts to make her. See the rest of the collection HERE.

Fun & [Almost] Free Halloween Looks

2011-10-23T21:23:00.003-04:00

I love Halloween, always have. It is so much fun to be something else for a night and celebrate with friends, family, and best of all, junk food! Here are some do-it-yourself costumes that should make you smile and maybe even give you a great idea for this year's All Hallow's Eve! Happy Halloween Everyone!

Do-It-Yourself Halloween Costume: Sookie Stackhouse by ketsy featuring black short shorts

This one is a great easy costume that you can whip up in just a few minutes. You can buy the actual T-Shirt, Apron, and TRUE Blood Drink online... but you don't need to at all. Just print up an image of the "Merlotte's Bar" Logo and stick it to a white t-shirt. You can stitch up the little apron from a scrap of forest green fabric in a few minutes.Just fill any empty bottle with Red Wine or any Red Liquid, use food coloring, to look like blood.

Do-It-Yourself Halloween Costumes: Dr. Sheldon Cooper [The Big Bang Theory] by ketsy featuring long sleeve t shirts

The most inexpensive and fun costume this Halloween.... with major BANG for your buck! Use what you have and get "Geek Chic" as Dr. Sheldon Cooper. Carry a used Physics Textbook for added "POW". Bazinga!

Do It Yourself Halloween Costume - ANGRY BIRDS! by ketsy featuring a red kimono dress

This is what I will be wearing this year... and you can too! It is simple, chic, and trendy... but most of all FUN!!
Steps:
1. Wear Read (From head-to-toe, tops and skinny jeans, a red shirt dress or kimono style dress like this one.)
2. Find an image of the red "ANGRY BIRD" on-line, just Google Image it. (Print it up and cut it out, reinforce it with cardboard if you like.)
3. Get a black headband and a handful of feathers from the craft store and attach the feathers and the ANGRY BIRD Image to it. ( or use a ready-made fascinator headband and attach the ANGRY BIRD image to that)
4. If you can find a "Pig Pillow", particularly green, carry it with you and give it a whack or a punch when you feel angry.

Stylist For A Day

2011-10-17T01:31:00.002-04:00

I always wonder how I would fare as a Professional Stylist. I know I love putting looks together in my Polyvore sets, and often they express a "more is more" esthetic. But in reality, a Stylist is an Editor. I keen eye for trends, knowing your client, understanding the difference between "Runway" and "Real Way". Often it truly is a "Less is More" esthetic that works best for clients walking on the streets and Runways of the world. You have to edit down the accessories to key pieces that express the clients personality, yet remain on trend. Fashionable and wearable, and ultimately workable. Here is the first of a new series of sets I am working on called "How I Would Style It".

How I Would Style It: 1 by ketsy featuring tall boots

Monday's Child...

2011-10-17T01:11:00.002-04:00

I have always been intrigued by the poem known as "Monday's Child". I ascribes a certain personality to the child born an each day of the week. It makes me wonder if there is any truth to the poem, but mostly I wonder what these "children" would look like as adult women in the fashion sense. So I created a collection of seven sets, one with fashion for each of these spirited children. Which "Child" are you? How would you dress them all?

Monday's Child by ketsy featuring silver drop earrings

Tuesday's Child by ketsy featuring studded handbags

Wednesday's Child by ketsy featuring engraving rings

Thursday's Child by ketsy featuring straight leg pants

Friday's Child by ketsy featuring a floral print dress

Saturday's Child by ketsy featuring gray handbags

Sunday's Child by ketsy featuring clutch hand bags

I've also created a contest in my Polyvore group TOTAL FASHION DOMINATION where you can express your own inner "Child". Pick a day of the week, or do them all, and create a set to match the sentiment of the day. Everyone is welcome to enter. Which "Child" are You?

Spring/Summer 2012 Runway Ready!

2011-10-12T16:50:00.002-04:00

I am having a really good time looking at the Spring/Summer 2012 Fashion Week Runways as they debut, and have noticed a few interesting trends. There is an awful lot of black and white from head to toe looks, as seen from Alberta Ferretti and Betsey Johnson. I am also seeing clean and often structured silhouettes, sheer panels, and a lot of lace, crochet, and sheer looks. Some of my favorites are no-brainers, since color is my passion. I adore the DSquared2, MISSONI, and Alberta Ferretti offerings in color. Here are a look at some of the fresh from the runway snaps, and also my "of the moment" interpretations for cruise-wear looks made with affordable items everyone can manage.

S/S 2012 Recap - DSquared2 Milan Fashion Week by ketsy featuring pewter jewelry

S/S 2012 Runway Recap - MISSONI by ketsy featuring cropped pants

S/S Runway Recap - Alberta Ferretti Spring 2012 RTW by ketsy featuring fendi belt

More Fall Fabulousity!

2011-10-07T01:55:00.002-04:00

I've been having fun playing with the new Fall 2011 fashions appearing in the online shops, and working them into wearable looks that any woman would love. Here are a few more great looks with new items available this season.

When I FALL In Love by ketsy featuring a pin brooch

The Spirit Of Fashion.... by ketsy featuring betsey johnson handbags

Modern - Urban - Bohemian by ketsy featuring a leopard t shirt

Orange Crush by ketsy featuring coral drop earrings

She's The One by ketsy featuring a navy blazer

Shiny Happy People... by ketsy featuring jersey pants

Ocober 2011 - I Want It All! by ketsy featuring butterfly jewelry

Ketchup with my Mustard!

2011-10-07T01:47:00.002-04:00

Mustard Yellow is another hot Fall 2011 trending color. Pairing it with bright Ruby Red is a way to make it really showstopping. This combination of "Ketchup" and Mustard is eye-catching and fun, but also simply stylish and chic. Can you say delicious fashion?

Ketchup & Mustard: Fall 2011 Color Trends by ketsy featuring a yellow gold bangle

Ketchup & Mustard: Fall 2011 Color Trends by ketsy featuring floral jewelry

Hello September.... Hello Fall. by ketsy featuring a wood bangle bracelet

Can't Resist You! by ketsy featuring printed stockings

How To: Turn Summer Bright Pants Into Fall Staples!

2011-09-28T23:25:00.005-04:00

I love when a Polyvore contest inspires me to go a little wild and think outside the box. This week's challenge was to take a brightly colored pair of summer trousers and turn out a look that will carry then into the Fall 2011 season. Fall's runways are full of color, so it is really just a matter of selecting the perfect new additions to any wardrobe and making the look work. Here are my nine sets created around this idea. If you love color, these looks will bring your Fall wardrobe to "Bright".

Transition Trend: Bright Pants 1 by ketsy featuring a bangle bracelet

Trend Reports: Bright Pants 2 by ketsy featuring brown sunglasses

Trend Reports: Bright Pants 3 by ketsy featuring zipper pants

Transition Trend: Bright Pants 4 by ketsy featuring layered jewelry

Transition Trend: Bright Pants 5 by ketsy featuring stackable jewelry

Transition Trends: Bright Pants 6 by ketsy featuring a toggle coat

Transition Trend: Bright Pants 7 by ketsy featuring ksubi jeans

Transition Trend: Bright Pants 8 by ketsy featuring beaded jewelry

Transition Trend: Bright Pants 9 by ketsy featuring stretch pants

GREEN is the New Black!

2011-09-24T22:32:00.002-04:00

Looking at some fantastic Fall 2011 fashion trends, I could not be more thrilled to see the return of color both bold and bright. Jewel tones seem to be leading the way, but candy colours as well as earthy tones are also in the offing. As a big fan of green, particularly Emerald Green, I could not be more thrilled to see this colour prominently featured on both the runways and red carpets of the season. Here are some fall sets with bold colours, including some with that fabulous fall green!

GREEN is the new Black! by ketsy featuring brown shades

Green Is The New Black -Template by ketsy featuring butterfly stud earrings

Fall 2011 Colour Pops! by ketsy featuring a green ring

Trend Report - Fall 2011 [Emerald City] by ketsy featuring a dolman sleeve dress

All Dolled Up For Fall by ketsy featuring short sleeve tees

Anna Paquin is IN DEE GROOVE by ketsy featuring gold chandelier earrings

Color Me In Fall Fashions by ketsy featuring vintage jewelry

Style is All for Fall 2011 by ketsy featuring cotton shorts

Having Some Fun

2011-09-21T01:19:00.008-04:00

I am really enjoying some of the changes that have been made to Polyvore recently, particularly in the Editor. I love the new colour block option, so you can add effects with the perfect expanded palette. The new "Magazine Article" and "Frames and Borders" search options make creating templates and new sets so much faster. The new editor itself has much better custom background editing as well, it allows the creator to think beyond the average fashion set or collection of items. Here are some examples of some of the sets that have only become possible with the changes in the editor in the last year.

The Precocious Pink Fairy by ketsy featuring a flower necklace

The pink fairy is a stubborn and willful one, she will always want to do the opposite of what is expected. She makes mischief wherever she goes... stealing tiny items from your home, pestering your cats, and pushing doorbells as she flutters about. What a naughty fae!

The Relentless Red Fairy by ketsy featuring fur lined boots

The Red Fairy is a resourceful and determined fae, she believes that promises are meant to be kept and love promised is owed. She is the one that catches the tears you cry over a lost love, and turns them into a dust she sprinkles to bring sorrow to the one who broke your heart.

The Bashful Blue Fairy by ketsy featuring a bow hat

The gentle Blue Fae is shy and reserved. She may hide among the cornflowers, peek out from under leaves and vines... but she sees all and in a student of the human condition. Don't underestimate her, she possesses a serene wisdom and kindness. She whispers words of comfort into the ears of slumbering folk.

The Shrinking Saffron Fairy by ketsy featuring tarina tarantino jewelry

This skittish Golden Yellow Fae is an anxious little one, she is afraid of spreading her little wings and exploring the world around her. She fears making the wrong move, so she chooses to make no move at all. She simply goes where the wind takes her. Always in need of reassurance and elucidation, she relies heavily on her sister fairies to tell her who she should be.

The Gracious Green Fairy by ketsy featuring chain jewelry

This Earth Loving fairy is kind to all creatures and thrives in the long grasses and leaves of a well kept garden. She dances over the surface of small ponds and bird baths, and helps fetch bird-seed for her tiny avian friends. A warning though, do not pollute her beloved land or she will find ways to make your gas guzzling pollution monsters fail at the most important moments.

The Passionate Purple Fairy by ketsy featuring floral hair accessories

This delicate Purple Fae is full of passion and pluck, she is tireless in her love of music, poetry, and art. She is a true friend to her sister Fae, and tries to show them the beauty that lies all around us. Every raindrop every petal on a flower is a gift from mother nature, and should be cherished. She helps inspire the artist in all of us by drawing our attention to those tiny miracles all around us.

The Benevolent Brown Fairy by ketsy featuring a floral brooch

The warm and loving Brown Fae is a vision of warmth and comfort. She sends good luck and feeling of joy to those she passes in her travels. Like a warm mug of cocoa or the smell of a hot latte, she not only sweetens the lives of those around her, but embraces and comforts. She is the shoulder we cry on when we think we are alone, and the one who wipes the tears away and gives us hope for a new day.

This type of set is often referred to as a "Doll Set". The use a variety of items in different and unique ways to create an overall image, like a paper doll, that is both whimsical and ingenious. If you want to see how I put these "Dolls" together and what items I used, please check out my Polyvore Feed.

Dee-lighted with Rebecca Minkoff

2011-09-09T15:40:00.003-04:00

One of the new contest on the Polyvore site is a challenge to pick a favorite celebrity to "rock" the Dee Clutch by Rebecca Minkoff. An adorable funky clutch with a chain strap that anyone, celebrity or not, would love to own. Here are some of my entries.

Dee-lighted to meet you! by ketsy featuring cocktail dresses

Dee-lighted! - Leighton Meester & Rebecca Minkoff by ketsy featuring suede high heels

The DEE Factor - Hayden Panettiere by ketsy featuring clutch bags

SKITTLY DEE & ZOOEY DESCHANEL by ketsy featuring orange jewelry

Making Templates on Polyvore

2011-09-09T15:34:00.002-04:00

One of the new features on Polyvore that has me intrigued is the ability to create Templates with boxes to drop items in and re-use again and again, and to use templates made by other members. I am playing around with the Template creator, and have had some mixed success. Here are four of the templates I have created thus far. All the clothing items and sometimes images, are dropped in, but can be switched up and used by other members.

Template Test Run by ketsy featuring bangles jewelry

Total Fashion Domination Template 2 - Test 1 by ketsy featuring denim skinny jeans

Ketsy's Birthday Template - Total Fashion Domination by ketsy featuring gold clutches

Perfect Scrapbook Template - Total Fashion Domination by ketsy featuring vintage necklaces

Nicole Miller Fall 2011

2011-09-09T15:23:00.002-04:00

Nicole Miller, an absolute fashion icon, has created a brilliant new collection for Fall 2011 inspired by bold modern art prints and that retro Glam Rock look we all adore. Think Ziggy Stardust meets Graphic Prints and a lot of shine. Here are a series of sets created with the new line in mind.

Unleash Your Inner Star! by ketsy featuring skinny leather pants

I'm Kinda Sorta A Big Deal... by ketsy featuring clutch handbags

Nicole Miller: Party Like A Rock Star by ketsy featuring knit tops

Nicole Miller: Be Your Own Work Of Art by ketsy featuring glass shades

WIN $1000 US Dollars Just For Foraging On Polyvore!

2010-08-26T07:33:00.005-04:00

I put my favorite FALL 2010 Items & Some Great Set Fillers Together So You Can Build Your Very Own Favorite Looks!

To enter the contest, check out the Mini-Editor below, create your very own Polyvore sets, and you could win $1000! Each set submitted is another opportunity to win, so be sure to come back often!

Mini-Editor Sets - Foraging Fashion by Ketsy featuring stud earrings

For this contest, one blogger (like moi) and one reader (that's you) will each win a $1000 Visa gift card. The criteria for selecting the best Mini Editor will be based 50% on how many sets are submitted and 50% on style & aesthetics. The winning blogger will select his or her favorite set created by a reader, and that reader will also win $1,000. See the official rules here.

Powered by Polyvore

Directions:
Scroll through the 100 Items in my Mini-Editor. Select items by dragging the from the image bar onto the workspace. You can reposition items, stretch or shrink, and rotate them using the box around the item. Layer items by sending them backwards or forwards in your set. Create your favorite look for FALL 2010, and then use the "Publish" button. Make sure you have a Polyvore account, or create one when prompted by the editor to enter for a chance to WIN! Questions? Use the comments form and I will be happy to help! Bring your friends by and try to out-style each other, the more entries, the more chances you have to WIN!

Still Want More Details? Read Up HERE!

Runway Report - Fall 2010 Designer Showcase

2010-08-26T07:27:00.003-04:00

Q: Whose Runway & Pret-A-Porter lines were your favorite this season?
A: Look & See!

1. PROENZA SCHOULER

Label It - PROENZA SCHOULER by Ketsy featuring tortoise sunglasses

I adore Proenza Schouler's Pre-Fall 2010 Line, it is incredible wearable, the pieces are so fabulously collectible and mix and match. This look is head to toe Proenza, but you can see how the pieces can all work in your whole Fall wardrobe and right into Winter! The look is timeless, part schoolgirl, part rocker chic, part glam society girl, all love!

2. VIVIENNE WESTWOOD

Label It - Vivienne Westwood by Ketsy featuring vivienne westwood sunglasses

If they gave awards for the youngest and freshest designers, without telling you how old she was, you would say Vivienne Westwood would win hands down. The fact that she is one of the most mature designers of substance is remarkable. Her work is fresh, full of color and rock & roll spirit. There is a sassy highland fling mixed with an almost effortless wrap and drape of fabric. But don't be fooled, Westwood knows exactly what she is doing, her work is perfection, and she amazes season after season.

3. JUNYA WATANABE

Label It - JUNYA WATANABE by Ketsy featuring wedge booties

A new discovery for me this season was this amazing FALL 2010 Collection by Japanese Designer Junya Watanabe. All reports suggest his show was one of the seasons best, and the clothes are simply brilliant. There is something wearable for everyone. Watanabe specializes is knits, and he is best known for his menswear and innovations, but this seasons womens collection is perfection. Military inspired jackets and skirts, amazing leggings you could kill for, and this knit dress in particular is simply WOW. It is so effortlessly wearable, mix and match, I want it all.

4. WUNDERKIND

Label It - WUNDERKIND by Ketsy featuring wunderkind skirts

Designed by Wolfgang Joop, Geman Design House WUNDERKIND is another new favorite. Genius Touches with Geometric Prints, Sheerling, Suede, and other luxury fabrics, it has an Urban Gypsy feel for FALL 2010. I love each and every piece, the accessories are brilliance, and the Runway Show was styled to perfection. Check out the website and fall in love this Fall with WUNDERKIND.

It's Still Rock & Roll To Me!

2010-08-26T07:17:00.003-04:00

Inspired by Katharine Polk's designer challenge, this week I was looking at the influence of Rock & Roll Culture on the Fall 2010 Trends. I didn't have to look far, since I am a part-time internet DJ. Here are some of my favorites.

Style Expert Challenge: Katharine Polk - Siouxsie Sioux by Ketsy featuring erickson beamon jewelry

Siouxsie Sioux was famous for wearing leather and lace, military inspired coats, and tons of other Rock & Roll looks long before they were considered Rock Chic. She is a true fashion icon and you can see her influence all over the runways, every season.

Style Expert Challenge: Katharine Polk - Queens Of Rock by Ketsy featuring skinny belt

Joan Jett, Sioxsie Sioux, Patti Smith, Debbie Harry, Chrissie Hynde, Shirley Manson, the Female Icons of Rock. They inspired us then and now. Graphic Tees were everyone's look, and are still hot for fall. The Graffiti Denim is a total rock star look, inspired by grunge and that lived in look. These women threw on a Tailored Blazer over anything and hit the clubs, Boots were made for the Rock Star Walk, and chunky jewelry and tattoo inspired themes are all about the music. On every runway this fall, you see Military Inspired looks, Graphic Prints, and Leather, and these women wore it first and made it famous.

Style Expert Challenge: Katharine Polk - Rock Inspires Runway by Ketsy featuring black sunglasses

Rock & Roll always has pushed boundaries, and this is particularly true in fashion. Rock & Roll and Runway go hand in hand this season as always, but often it is a "Chicken and Egg" dilemma. I believe the biggest trends are always from the street first, and we are inspired but the music ans the images we see. This season, grunge, graphic, and military are major trends, but you saw them first on the Rock Gods & Goddesses of the past and present.

Style Expert Challenge: Katharine Polk - Joan Jett & The Runaways by Ketsy featuring double wrap belt

Arguably one of the most influential women in music history, but after the release of "The Runaways" movie this year, she has impacted a whole new generation. Joan made her own grunge tees before there was such a thing, she wore those leather pants like no one else. Her standard leather jacket became the look of all bad-ass girls to follow. Here you can see her influence in the suede pants, leather blazer, and graphic print tee, with biker influenced boots and bags, and cuffs not unlike Joan's studded standard. Some things never go out of style, and some influences are seen in every designer's collection at some point in their careers. This fall women are wearing strong bu still feminine, and this look nails it!

Rock & Roll Queen - Pat Benetar by Ketsy featuring stamped jewelry

Pat Benatar has some serious pipes, and her anthem "Heart Breaker" says it all. She was such a huge icon of the 80s', her style was famous. All of the items featured are new for FALL 2010. Bucket Bags, Metallic Cuffs, Over The Knee Laced Boots, Graffiti Jeggings, Knit Tops, Leather Blazers. All very Rock & Roll, sexy as heck, and perfectly re-mixable in your wardrobe!

Fall 2010 Fashion Preview

2010-08-21T02:01:00.006-04:00

I can't wait for Fall! It's a little to do with the weather and a lot to do with fashion. The new trends are coming fast and furious and are more hit than miss. So take a chance to check out what is happening on the runways, and here are a few of my favorites!

Fall Style Preview 1 by Ketsy featuring Alexander Wang bags

For the Grunge loving rocker chick in me, there is just so much this season! The graffiti jeans and denim look is a particular favorite, grunge style prints with concrete appeal. Geometric prints are everywhere, from tops to skirts to dresses and scarves. The blazer is back in a big way, but it is fitted and tailored with a feminine edge. Boots are the thing for fall, whether chunky platform low boots, or knee high wedge boots, there is something for everyone. Bags how I love thee, there are some amazing totes coming out for Fall, in leather or suede or animal prints and textures. Jewelry is chains of all sizes, single or multi-strand sets, chunky is my favorite trend.

Fall Style Preview 2 by Ketsy featuring Marni dresses

For the classic business woman on the go, there is even more in the offing. The Must-Haves List; Knit Pompom Beanies, Military Inspired Coats, Wedge High Boots, Geometric Print Frocks, Multi-Chain Necklaces, Animal Print/Texture Bags. It is simply perfection, and I can't wait!

For full shopping details, click through and view the set details on my Polyvore profile!

Gotta Keep Em' Separated!

2010-08-05T19:47:00.003-04:00

I have always loved the mix and match-ability of separates. Lets face it, we all love a perfect dress, but that is usually a big investment. I think Fall 2010 will be marked by a lot of mix and match, particularly mixing classic pieces from our existing wardrobes with the odd new find. The economy is still tanking, and who can afford to splurge on a single look outfit? The solution, buy a piece that can be worn many ways over many days.

Here are some examples of mix and match outfits that you can select a piece from and create a whole new outfit around. It's much more fun that sticking with a single dress and just selecting a matching clutch and heels.

I would like to start over, please. by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade bags

I can't help falling for you! by Ketsy featuring Rick Owens Lilies tops

Tagged! - By Amyy♥ by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade

Where Is The Love? by Ketsy featuring Versace shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Sara by Ketsy featuring Alexander McQueen shoes

You're So Much More To Me Than You Think by Ketsy featuring Givenchy shoes

For a great example of the ultimate mix & matcher, check out my favorite blogger, Tavi Gevinson on her blog, or look at her Polyvore sets!

Dress-A-Friend Fanatic!

2010-07-28T22:22:00.002-04:00

Every Friday, Polyvore holds a Dress-A-Friend 24 Hour Contest. You can submit up to 3 entries, choose a friend, make a set for them, e-mail it to them. Every week there is one winner. I hadn't really been paying much attention to the official Polyvore contests until recently, when I decided to try entering a few, and the Dress-A-Friend contests are my favorite. They are great because you can choose any style, any theme, and any friend. I have made them for my room mate, my sisters, my friends, and lots of others. The first official contest I ever won was a Dress-A-Friend Friday, and so was the second. Call me hooked. Here are a selection of my very favorite friendly make-over sets!

My Two Winning Sets!

Dress A Friend Fridays - For Jordan by Ketsy featuring See Thru Soul jeans

Dress A Friend Fridays - For Skiggs by Ketsy featuring Planet pants

Some Of My Other Favorites:

Dress A Friend Fridays - For Jordan by Ketsy featuring Stuart Weitzman shoes

Dress A Friend Fridays - For Anessa by Ketsy featuring Marni bags

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Anessa by Ketsy featuring Christian Louboutin shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Lisa by Ketsy featuring Yves Saint Laurent shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Zoe Belle by Ketsy featuring See By Chloe bags

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Jordan by Ketsy featuring Marciano shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Jordan by Ketsy featuring TopShop dresses

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Lisa by Ketsy featuring Juicy Couture shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Anessa by Ketsy featuring Kurt Geiger shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Anessa by Ketsy featuring Stephen Webster jewelry

Dress-A-Friend Friday - For Skiggs by Ketsy featuring Oasis

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Jordan by Ketsy featuring Badgley Mischka shoes

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Dawn by Ketsy featuring Matthew Williamson dresses

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Bodie by Ketsy featuring Dolce & Gabbana

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Anessa by Ketsy featuring Free People tops

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Jordan by Ketsy featuring Peter Pilotto dresses

Dress-A-Friend Fridays - For Bodie by Ketsy featuring Valentino tops

Now if I could just have all of that in my closet I could die happy! Can't wait till next Friday, can you? Thanks Polyvore!

For The Love Of Kate Spade

2010-07-28T22:07:00.002-04:00

I have adored Kate Spade products ever since I can remember, but certainly after seeing her first appearance on the Oprah show way back when. I love coluorful accessories, and boast my own bag collection at over 50 (just ask my mother who helped me move). I admire mixing and matching bold colours and prints, classic shapes and designs, and touches of whimsy that are irresistible.

Polyvore is celebrating the wonderful designs of Kate Spade this month, and I threw together a few sets inspired by some of her catch phrases. The more I looked at the website, and the items, the more in jeopardy my VISA card was becoming. Thank goodness I can play virtual dress-up online. Here are my Kate inspired sets!

embark on an adventure with kate spade new york 1 by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade

embark on an adventure with kate spade new york 2 by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade

embark on an adventure with kate spade new york 3 by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade

embark on an adventure with kate spade new york 4 by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade

embark on an adventure with kate spade new york 5 by Ketsy featuring Kate Spade

Grab up some colour today at Kate Spade On-line!

The New British Invasion: Debenhams

2010-07-26T17:57:00.002-04:00

I have to admit, I have a crush on all things British, and it has nothing at all to do with the accent. (Well not much anyways.) Fashionally speaking, I love things from across the pond, the designers seem to have more cheek, they have some classics that we simply can't touch, and the new up and coming designers are total rock stars!

When Debenhams announced they would begin shipping internationally, they did it with a contest of course, and I had a blast discovering some of the amazing designers that are housed by the Debenhams name. Some are new to me, others, like Ben de Lisi are particular favorites from reality television shows like Project Catwalk. Here are my Debenhams sets, and I can't wait till they start shipping to Canada!

Debenhams: The British Invasion 1 by Ketsy featuring Collection bags

Debenhams: The British Invasion 2 by Ketsy featuring Carvela shoes

Debenhams: The British Invasion 3 by Ketsy featuring H! by Henry Holland

Debenhams: The British Invasion 4 by Ketsy featuring Rocha.John Rocha

Debenhams: The British Invasion 5 by Ketsy featuring J by Jasper Conran

Debenhams: The British Invasion 6 by Ketsy featuring Butterfly by Matthew Williamson

Debenhams: The British Invasion 7 by Ketsy featuring Star by Julien Macdonald

Debenhams: The British Invasion 8 by Ketsy featuring Nine West shoes

Let The Invasion Begin! Welcome Debenhams!

Victori's Got A Secret, And It's PINK!

2010-07-22T02:19:00.003-04:00

I have always thought that Victoria's Secret PINK Collection was adorable, and this week Polyvore is holding a contest for the brand. It has always had that fresh cheeky style that young teens and women love, and it a really great colorful fun underwear and comfort wear brand. Here are some of my entries into the contest, just for fun.

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 2 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 3 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 4 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 5 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 6 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 7 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret PINK Undercover Fashion Challenge 8 by Ketsy featuring Victoria's Secret

Who knew PINK could be so colorful!
Shop it here: Victoria's Secret PINK

TACORI Girl's Dream Wedding.

2010-07-13T13:20:00.004-04:00

The latest Polyvore contest to capture my imagination is "A Tacori Girl's Wedding". Asking; How will you sparkle in Tacori diamonds? It’s summer wedding season - the weather is warm, the flowers are in bloom, and the Bride and Groom are awaiting their big day!

I think TACORI makes some of the most astounding rings there are to be seen, a girl would be a fool to say no to one. I have never dreamed of a formal wedding, but the diamond ring is something you carry with you every day. A classic ring with a timeless look and a personalized style, there is nothing more wonderful.

Here is a look at my TACORI Dream Wedding Sets:

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 1 by Ketsy on Polyvore.com

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 2 by Ketsy featuring Pedro Garcia shoes

A Tacori Girl's Wedding -3 by Ketsy featuring L.A.M.B. shoes

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 4 by Ketsy featuring Loriblu shoes

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 5 by Ketsy featuring Inge Christopher clutches

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 6 by Ketsy featuring GUESS by Marciano shoes

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 7 by Ketsy featuring Alexander McQueen bags

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 8 by Ketsy featuring Diane Von Furstenberg shoes

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 9 by Ketsy featuring Christian Louboutin shoes

A Tacori Girl's Wedding - 10 by Ketsy featuring Dune shoes