Xoelle - Stay Classy Inspiration Den!

As I was scouring the great wide internet for some fashion accessories for my husband Jesse, I stumbled upon a gem of a store. Xoelle: a hip, new (to me) bow tie company. I LOVED the variety of fabrics, textures, and character Elle's creations have, and am so eager to share them with you. Elle's own story is equally inspiring! 

Meet Elle designer + Creator for Xoelle!

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (Amber)

ELLE: Xoelle

LWF: How did Xoelle get started? How long have you been doing this?

ELLE: I started collecting vintage neckties in high school and planned to gift them to my future spouse.  I also had a serious love for bow ties and tried, unsuccessfully, to get boyfriends and brothers to wear them.  When I moved to a new city (San Diego!) for a new job (high school art teacher!) I met a nice young man willingly wearing a bow tie- and 8 months later we were married.  I came across the stash of vintage neckties shortly thereafter and decided to turn the lot into bow ties for him.  There were dozens so I chose my favorites to give to the Mr. and posted the rest on etsy.  They were a hit and soon I was making bow ties out of shirts and dresses and billiard felt by the dozens.  xoelle is coming up on it’s 5th anniversary this spring.

LWF: Who and What inspires your designs? What draws you to the fabrics you choose?

ELLE: I adore thrift shopping and often use my bow tie business as an excuse to purchase and collect large amounts of happy second hand fabric.  All xoelle bow ties (with the exception of some custom orders) and made out of vintage or second hand clothing, neckties, fabrics, or linens.  I design for my husband and my little son and often test my ideas on them.  I am drawn to fabrics that are bold, bright, fun, and unexpected.  A bow tie is a statement in itself so going bold is generally part of the package- and I love that!

LWF: What advice would you give a person interested in starting their own design company?

ELLE: Go!  I think that the most important thing in creative endeavors is to be authentic- be your true genuine self.  My own vision gets muddled and I second-guess myself when I pay too close attention to what other bow tie makers are doing.  If you are your authentic self, then you have no competition!  And then of course the rest is lots of hard work and late nights so make sure that you’re passionate about what you’re doing.  But mostly, just go! and do!

LWF: Lastly, what does inspiration mean to you?

ELLE: Inspiration is like this little fire that is burning inside.  I’ve found that it needs to be tended and fed.  To me that means that I have to have a happy work/life balance.  Too much work and that little fire threatens to burn out.  Most of the time when I get new ideas for bow ties or designs it’s not when I’m working- it’s when I’m at the beach with my kids or when I’m dancing at a friends wedding.  I feed my little inspiration fire by playing, and rarely taking anything in my business too seriously.  I feed it good music and rainy days and chocolate ganache lots and lots of pretty textiles- and then new happy ideas come to me and suddenly I can imagine that felted sweater as a bow tie. 

"I love what I do and it is a great privilege to outfit the necks of rad men around the world. " -Elle

Thank you Elle for letting us feature you and your company on Inspiration Den! 

If you want to see more by Xoelle check out her blog + shop below! 

Etsy Shop

Cloud Parade Shop

Blog

Twitter

In + On: Post Holiday Greens

Last time we chatted, I was anticipating all the fun holiday things I'd be wearing and doing. I never dawned my outfits this year. (All the planning wasted!) Instead, I spent most of the last two weeks being tired, ill, or taking care of someone who was. Being the girl that I am, I'm going to stage all those happy events I had planned, down to making those gosh-dang nutcracker cupcakes and take pictures of it all. In January. In 10 years we will fondly remember our faux holidays, I'm sure of it. I'm wearing that skirt and no one can stop me. In the meantime, the tree is a semi-permanent fixture. It's coming down next week, but I already miss it. I'm looking for an equal replacement with a Fiddle Leaf Fig tree for the same corner. I love having plants in the house, so of course, the next bigger and better thing would be a tree.

 

I've had a lot of people ask how I care for my plants (yes, there are that many) and to be totally honest with you - I do nothing. My husband keeps them up for me! They really never last more than a month at my hand, but even at that, I'd rather have a plant then a bouquet of flowers any day. Plants give a home a permanent & settled feeling. If you can't fit a tree in your home, try a Maidenhair Fern (available at Home Depot or Lowes). They look gorgeous anywhere and are by far my favorite tabletop plant)

   

I've had a history of under appreciating the long dress. I'm just under 5'4" so certain maxis or gowns aren't an option because they only accentuate my height (or rather, the lack of). Because they are trending right now, I'm see a lot more options on the market - plenty even I can pull off! And the top left dress is just stunning to me as it's my favorite color - shiny.

(Links & credit for all the inspiration images can be found on my Inspiration Den Board)

On + In: The Holidays

This is the first of many posts to come, I am so excited to be on board as a contributor on Inspiration Den for 2013! In light of the Ignore warningholidays, and all that surrounds them, this post will be a little different than future posts. Where in the future I'll be focusing on what's trending in fashion + home, this post is more of a fun look at the current holidays, and gathering some inspiration for them. Both On (fashion) + In (home). Can't wait! xxoo - Ashley

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I've been thinking a lot about what I'll be wearing through the holidays this year - it seems like a good idea to end the year with some glam (it nothing else, it will make me feel a little prettier!) Tis the season for parties + getting dressed up, plus we'll be having lots of company. I'll be pulling from what I already have in my closet, maybe just adding a new necklace or patterned tights. And I don't know about you, but I'm loving all the gold & bronze I'm seeing, they have long been favorites. Here are some of my "on" inspirations for this years glam holidays:

 

 In contrast to all that glitters, I'm wanting a little more earthy look to my home. First, with having company, I won't be able to change the overall decor too much between Christmas & New Years. The tree will still be up, and the subtle browns and greens with it. My only areas to get really creative and different will be the table, buffet, and maybe ceiling if I'm feeling especially ambitious!

 

Hope that you all have a fabulously inspiring holiday season. xxoo

(Links & credit for all the inspiration images can be found on my Inspiration Den Board.)

Darling Magazine

We are all inspired by so much in life... Nature, Art, Fashion, People, Conversations, Love, Music, Books, Movies.... I love being able to dabble in all areas, and this feature is especially exciting because not only is it inspirational but also motivational and uplifting. Darling Magazine is all about the art of being a woman. I think in today's society we put a lot of emphasis on the wrong things. Instead of focusing on being a size zero or having the biggest house, why don't we focus on how we can make a home with people we love, living a healthy lifestyle, being thankful and staying positive.

I love how Darling Magazine focuses it's attention on how "All women are beautiful, exceptional, and here for a purpose". You'll find many pieces of new design, photography, artists sharing their work, DIY's, and Fashion Pieces, within the pages of this publication--not to mention the quality and look of the letter pressed cover, the texture of the paper, and the size (makes for a year round coffee table book).

All that to say I'm very happy to have been given the opportunity to interview the editor in chief of Darling Magazine Sarah Anne Dubbeldam.

LWF: Little Woodland Friend (a.k.a Amber Dunstan)

DM: Darling Magazine (a.k.a Sarah Anne Dubbeldam) 

LWF: I've ready your Mission statement and am so Inspired by it, can you tell me why your team is so passionate about embracing the art of being a woman?

DM: In our modern world, we feel like there is little guidance for young women on how to grow into a mature, wise woman. Much unlike our grandmothers' generation where women were taught etiquette and mentored in endless skills, many of us are in the dark on how to behave and function healthily as a woman in relationships, at work, or in the home. Much of the advice out there is shallow, or frankly, bad advice. We feel that women need a "modern guidebook" on how to know themselves, make wise decisions, and function in relationships with integrity, self-esteem, grace, and character. 

LWF: How did Darling come to fruition? 

DM: I was really inspired by author Wendy Shalit and her book, “A Return to Modesty,” which is a fascinating exploration on the state of the modern woman, men, chivalry, modesty, and sexuality. After experiencing personal and relational difficulties myself, and observing many women around me struggling with dating, emotional baggage, self-esteem, body issues and life purpose, I wanted to create the magazine I wish I had during the formative years of my life. My friend and Co-Creator of Darling Kelli Lane and I spent two years developing the foundation of Darling, then recruited six more girls to join us for weekly meetings of content development for another year; then we launched the website on 11.11.11, let that build for around 9 months, and put out our first print issue in September 2012! Now we have over 75 contributors in the U.S. and several countries around the world, and are currently selling Issue No. 2, available this December. 

LWF: How does the Darling team get inspired daily?

DM: We are constantly intentional about having deep conversations and asking good questions of other women in our lives. We feel that women embody a special sensitivity to the world around them, and therefore can speak well to issues currently going on in culture and the world. In asking our friends what they feel are the pressing issues of the day, we come up with content for the magazine. In order to come up with photo shoot ideas and other visual inspiration, I personally also read a lot of books (mostly fantastical fiction-type stories mixed with women's issues books), watch a lot of movies, and get out in nature to be inspired by the stillness and beauty of the world. 

LWF: Any other thoughts you would like to tell our readers?

DM: If you have a dream, go for it! If something burns on your heart, don't ignore it. Pursue what you have to in order to make a change in your small corner of the world. Also remember: Only action is real, and ideas belong to the people that execute them, not talk about them. Lastly, don't be afraid to fail.  If you do, you will only learn—as often our failures lead us to our greatest successes, and mature us to become the person we need to be to handle the dream that will succeed. Lastly, you are beautiful, talented and unique. No one can make the difference that you can. Know your worth and speak worth into those around you!

Thanks Darling Magazine for the amazing interview! 

If you've fallen in love with Darling Magazine like I did and want to see more you should check out their website and order yourself this amazing Winter Issue (makes a great gift!).

Darling's Mission Statement Above

Sweet Sparkle Collars // Quick Inspiration Shout Out!

Two of my favorite things: Sparkle & Collars! These two trends can add a little something needed to dress up a potentially boring outfit.

31 Bit's

Happy day after Thanksgiving! It's the day that you officially pop into Christmas mode. One of my dearest friends put it best: "in two day's it will finally be socially acceptable for me to listen to Christmas music!" So not only am I listening to some old school Christmas tunes while sipping a piping hot cup of joe, but I'm also flipping through magazines and poring over blogs to find some holiday inspiration (future inspiration gift guide coming soon!)! And this spirit of gift-giving brings me to one of my most favorite features to date: 31 Bit's a Jewelry Company!

31 Bits is more than just a Jewelry company. They have a creative concept which truly inspires you to get up, get out, and do more. I love their idea of "Using fashion and design to empower women to rise above poverty." Through selling their beads, 31 Bit's gives these women more than just a paycheck. They get a chance to learn finance training, English, receive spiritual support through a community group, health education, and business training in hopes that after four to five years within their program each woman will graduate with confidence, a voice, a career, and a future. 

When you receive a 31 Bit's piece you also receive an amazing booklet of who 31 Bit's is and what they stand for. As I was reading through the booklet, this quote stood out to me: 

"In our model of development, we believe in a holistic approach, caring for every part of a person life. Education, Health, Faith, Financial Independence, and the capacity to dream, all play a part in an individuals journey to rive above poverty."    

I LOVE this company and I'm sure you will too. Take a gander at their website and blog to see these amazing pieces, and be sure to check out their full story! 

The bracelet below is one of my favorites, it's called the Whistler and would make an amazing gift! 

Thanks 31 Bit's for allowing me to feature your amazing work!

31 Bit's Web, Social Media, Shop, Blog & More
Photo Credit & Shoot Concept goes to one of my favorite photographers Mark Brooke Photography

-Amber of Team Woodland Friend

DIY - Gold Tube Bracelet (Pt. 2)

Hi Everyone,

Here is Part 2 of the DIY Gold Necklace and Bracelet set! 

If you just stumbled up this DIY post check out the DIY Necklace Post ! These two are a set and perfect for gift giving just like our featured designer Kristine showed us in the last post, I love her rad wrapping ideas for these pretty little gems! 

Thanks again Kristine for being such an awesome contributor to Little Woodland Friend, we are so looking forward to featuring your graphic design and invite work!

Step 1. Begin by measuring the desired length of your chain. I measured my bracelets to be 5.5”-6” inches long.    

Step 2. Cut the chain in half.  

 Step 3. Cut a piece of beading wire. You want it long enough to easily handle. I cut mine to be about 6”-7” long.

Step 4. Loop one end of the wire through one end of the chain and twist the wires a few times to tighten the hold on the chain. Then feed both ends of the wire through the gold noodle tube. Once you’ve fed the wire through, loop one end of the wire to the other length of chain and gently twist the wires shut. Cut off excess wires. You want this to look nice and neat, so twist it just a few times and trim as close to the end as possible to blend it seamlessly with the chain. 

Step 5. With your pliers in either hand, gently pry open one of the jump rings. Hoop the spring clasp and one end of the chain to the jump ring, then gently close the jump ring to complete your perfect circle again. 

Step 6. Again, using your pliers, gently open the second jump ring and hoop the other end

 of the chain to the ring. Close the jump ring to complete a perfect circle. 

That’s it! In just a few steps you can have your own gold bar jewelry! It’s seriously the world’s easiest D.I.Y. necklace and bracelet. 

If you prefer to purchase this set feel free to contact Kristine via e-mail : 

kristine@red-letter-stationery.com

Here are a few links to find the supplies featured in this DIY post:

Short Gold Noodle Tube 

Open Jump Rings 

Spring Ring Clasp

Chain

Wire 

Pliers/Wire Cutter Tool Set

DIY - Gold Tube Necklace (Pt.1)

Hi Everyone, I'm so excited to debut our first DIY project submitted by a very talented graphic designer, Kristine Lacanlale, who will be featured sometime in the coming weeks! Kristine was so kind to let us see how she made these wonderful pieces. Stay tuned because tomorrow I will be posting a DIY on a matching bracelet! 

...

After arriving home from a summer abroad in England, I wanted to give gifts to my closest friends as a way to thank them for their support. I could have easily bought something, but I wanted it to be special, handmade and chic. So when I saw similar looks of this bracelet and necklace on Pinterest, I just had to make it. This delicate gold bar necklace and bracelet is the perfect addition to any outfit and I’ve already made it my go-to piece for my favorite season—Autumn! Here’s the how-to so you can make it for yourself and your closest friends! 

Step 1. Begin by measuring the desired length of your chain. I measured my necklaces to be 18” long.

Step 2. With your pliers in either hand, gently pry open one of the jump rings. Hoop the spring clasp and one end of the chain to the jump ring, then gently close the jump ring to complete your perfect circle again.   

Step 3. Slide your gold noodle tube through the chain.

Step 4. Again, using your pliers, gently open the second jump ring and hoop the other end of the chain to the ring. Close the jump ring to complete a perfect circle.

And if you’re giving them out as gifts, why not make your own packaging right? With torn book pages, glue, a needle, some thread and a little bit of imagination, I made these cute packaging to hold my jewelry. You can easily use wrapping paper, newspaper, and maybe even some fabric if you sew the seams in to avoid it from fraying. Now, go get creative! It’ll make the world a happier place. If you have any questions or would like to place an order, shoot me a line at kristine@red-letter-stationery.com! I’d love to hear from you!

Here are a few links to find the supplies featured in this DIY post:

Long Gold Noodle Tube 

Open Jump Rings 

Spring Ring Clasp

Chain

Wire 

Pliers/Wire Cutter Tool Set

Also, Kristine captured these Photographs by iPhone 4 Edited with VSCO Cam iPhone App

-Little Woodland Friend

Kelli Murray - An Artist Interview & Look Book

Hi Everyone,

So excited to get you pumped this Monday morning by this amazing illustrator, painter, blogger, fashion inspiration, designer, and pretty much everything we here at Inspiration Den adore! 

I first stumbled upon Kelli's work on Pinterest. Everyone at Inspiration Den has a special place our hearts for paper & illustration, and this artist just blew our minds... It was her
LET'S CELEBRATE invitation which caught our attention. I loved this invite so much I needed see more. I was totally inspired by her blog, and found out that Kelli was not only a talented designer, but that she also has a knack for fashion and a super cute daughter! 

So, without further ado, I would like to introduce you to Kelli Murray...

LWF: How would you describe your art in 10 words?

KM: Oh, this is terribly hard.  I would say my art is endearing, sweet and sometimes heart provoking.  Usually composed of dreamy girls and/or their animal friends.  (and that was over ten words!)  

 LWF: What inspires you and how do you start the creative process?  

KM: I am inspired by so many things.  Mainly nature and fashion and people.  I love to draw little animals and have really taken to illustrating female portraits.  All of my artwork starts with just a quick sketch of something I am inspired by.  I try to have a notebook with me all the time for this reason!  Weather it's something I saw in a book or online...or something in my own life.  Lately, I have been really enjoying using pencil and watercolor on paper.  But most of my work is done on wood panels using acrylic paint.    

LWF: Do you have any words of wisdom or encouragement for artists who are just honing their craft?  

KM: Just keep creating.  Defining your style as an artist does not come overnight.  In fact, I think it's a journey that never ends. But just like anything, the more you practice, the better you will get.  Just don't give up.

LWF: I see you're the head designer for Jedediah Clothing Company... Can you tell us a little bit about it?  

KM: I actually am in desperate need of a website update, so my current bio is a bit misleading.  I worked for Jedidiah for 6 years as the head designer, but decided to go full time freelance when I had my daughter in August of last year.  When I was working full time for them, my main roles were in graphic design and merchandising, and I worked with a team of other talented designers to create a full product line each season.  It was an amazing job and there are parts of it I do miss....but going freelance has allowed me to be at home with my daughter and also dive more deeply into my personal art and illustration.  Which is really my passion.

Contact Information & Shop for Kelli Murray

Website

Society6 Store

Blog

Baby Blue & Blond

Love this outfit and hair ensemble on Michelle Williams! Button Ups, Patterned Pants and Loafer type shoes, adorable. I guess bleached blond short hair is the trend right now, we all know Mylie Cyrus, Gwen Stefani and Pink are all rockin' this look and lookin' good doing it!

Tell us what your wearing today!

Color Palette: Pastels

Happy Monday! We love jewelry here at Inspiration den, a little flair sometimes adds that little something you need to spice up that boring outfit. We love this Pastel Mosaic Bib Necklace , pastels have made their mark this season we are see'in it in clothes, nails, hair, make up, jeans and everything in between! Peach & Pink is one of our favorites! 

Enjoy this quick piece of inspiration!

-Team Woodland Friend

Dr. Martens & Floral Prints Oh My! (a Little Wednesday morning inspiration)

It's Wednesday, the middle of the week, the day you need the most inspiration except of course for Monday! So in honor of Wednesday hump day get inspired by these radical floral Dr. Martens!

Looks like the 90's are coming back, we were inspired by this summers tribal textiles and now were lovin' the floral prints and Dr. Martens for fall! Who else is looking forward to sipping a hot coffee and sitting by a warm fire?! We are!

-Team Woodland Friend