For Christmas, I crocheted a winter item for all the females in my family. I couldn't think of what to make my mom since I've made her almost everything you can think of- so as I was online shopping (which is 9 times out of 10 what I'm doing on the internet) I came across this very pretty cowl scarf from Anthropologie: Tawny Knit Collar, hand knit (in India) from wool. I love the look of it, the chunky, soft appeal of wearing it around your neck in the wintertime. But $78? Even on sale for $40, that is an outrageous price for a simple item which was made abroad.

So I decided to try to make this on my own, crocheted not knitted.  I used one skein of chunky yarn, a crochet hook, yarn needle to stitch in the ends, and one snap: totaling the project at $3.20. Sure beats $78!

I studied the photos as best as I could and came up with a very simple pattern of half double crochets and a simple chain stitch around the outside to create a braided border. This was the first time I put a snap on a crochet project and I hope it stands up to the test of time - I found the largest snap I could (which isn't all too big) and put it towards the top 1/3rd of the cowl so the bottom 2/3rd could be folded over the shoulders (unlike the Anthropologie cowl). It's a bit bigger, but I like how it can be worn under a coat to create a protection layer from the cold. Also, the fold over top part can be unfolded and it covers your mouth, nose and cheeks - great for the windy winter chill. If anyone is interested in the pattern, I could post the pattern, please let me know!

Grunge Autumn - Fashion Post #2

Following with my last post, here's another outfit I absolutely love, and follows the grunge style basics.

Floral Tank Dress: Handmade, thrifted- $3.90

Black Cardigan: Given to by mom- free

Suede Tan Vintage Purse: thrifted- $4

Tan Crochet Circle Scarf: made by me, yarn as a gift- free

Studded Tan Boots: from Urban Outfitters sale - $24.00

(Same tan socks and necklace from last post)
Socks: Marshall's - $3.99

Necklace: Urban Outfitters sale - $24.99

TOTAL: $60.88
(the necklace was the most expensive item!, so without this necklace, the outfit totals $35.89!)

I love these studded boots. I bought them after they went on sale at Urban Outfitters in 2010. Surprisingly, they are still holding up after two winters, and the weathering on the front of the shoe looks great.

 I made this scarf from yarn my brother bought me from Purl Soho in Manhattan this past May. I've been wanting to make a super soft circle scarf that would match most my clothing. This alpaca yarn is SO soft and was quick to make up, I made up this pattern and it turned out great.

The cardigan was given to me by my mom. Seriously, don't under estimate your loved one's closets. My mom bought this from Marshall's several years ago, and it didn't fit her. Marshall's has great designer brands for cheap prices (especially on clearance). Sometimes, you have to go more than once or twice if you're looking for something in particular, but sometimes that's the fun of it :)

And, this dress! I actually posted about it in June, find that post here. It's a handmade dress in a floral print that I luckily found at a thrift store! It's big, so it needs to be belted when worn, but it's worth it! Nicely, the dress is midi length and conservative tank sleeves, great for work!
Floral prints are a grunge staple - scavenge your local thrift stores, you will definitely find something!

Lastly, this suede purse - oh it's so soft and has cute gold tabs on the side. It's a nice hobo that fits across one shoulder, and it is big enough for me to bring to work. Plus, it was only $4 at a thrift store for quality suede.