best indie shops - featuring "cool indie shop of the day"

cool indie shop of the day 

july 10, 2006

Better late than never...

www.beadfuddled.com

This one's for my jewelry designer friends....Kelly Russel makes THE most beautiful handcrafted fine silver beads. Each one is a little work of art and would make a stunning centerpiece for any jewel. Butterfly Swirl (pictured at right) is one of my favorites but there are styles to match all tastes. Check it out!

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Playing Hooky.... 

But here's something cool in the interim!

june 27, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.retroimageapparel.com

Now, we all LOVE t-shirts, right? Especially the ones with cute designs or funny stuff on them. But we all know there's no shortage of t-shirt companies out there right now and with the exceptions of a few (see below) - they're all kinda starting to look the same.

Enter Retro Image Apparel.

This super cool shop sells t-shirts, aprons, cycling jerseys, and baby clothes featuring awesome vintage ad, propaganda and pulp fiction imagery. Just choose your image (they have a VERY comprehensive library) and you can have it on any of the above apparel you want. Pretty cool!!!

june 24, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.amyrobertson.com

Amy's quilts are truly exquisite. I've always loved the play of color and shape in quilts but these are really special. Garam Masala (pictured right) is my favorite because of the use of non-traditional earth tones. Just gorgeous!!!

june 23, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.zncreativearts.com

I really like the clean lines and vibrant colors of the jewelry, bookmarks and stationary crafted by Grace Wang-Bishop. Her found object bookmarks (pictured right) are my faves, I love it when an artist takes the mudnane (like a resistor cell from a radio, for example) and turns it into something beautiful.

june 22, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.newspaperjewelry.com

What started out as a college art project turned into a line of VERY creative and colorful jewelry made from newspaper, losing lottery tickets, coupons and more. I love the eco-friendliness of this shop - and the jewelry is just too cool! The Stock Listings cufflinks (pictured at right) would be a great gift for the businessman who already has everything.

june 21, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.laureldenise.com

Laurel creates lovely, ethereal jewelry out of small pieces of glass and hand-drawn art. Her pieces feature delicate, nature-inspired drawings with affirmations or meaningful quotes. These would make a really special gift for just about anyone and are versatile (so they'll match pretty much anything in any wardrobe). I had a hard time picking my favorite (Swept Away, pictured at right) because they're all so darned pretty.

june 20, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.spoonfedart.com

Designer Karin Collins started creating these beautiful spoon pendants to help heal an eating disorder. Each spoon is gorgeously handpainted (one of my favorites is Fire Flower, at right) and really unique. Check 'em out!

yes I'm still here 

june 19, 2006

june 8, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.piropodesigns.com

Beautiful bags abound at Piropo, which features vibrant designs with beautifully beaded handles. My favorites are the Frida Kahlo bags (LOVE Frida!) but definitely check out the Big Easy Bag which benefits Hurricane Katrina victims.

june 7, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.margauxlange.com

Wow is all I can say about this wild line of suprisingly chic jewelry made from...doll parts. The awesome necklace at right is just one example of how artist Margaux Lange transforms everyone's favorite dolly into totally cool jewels. Check it out!

june 6, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.doggon.com

I found this site linked from a profile on MySpace...these good folks create a sort of chariot for dogs who don't have use of their rear legs. This is a different kind of indie shop but I just love their mission so I had to share. Imagine the joy a dog must feel when their mobility is restored. Thanks to Lori and Chad for doing the good work for our furry friends.

june 4 & 5, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.jodibwise.com

One more from the Original Trends show! These wrap tops are just exquisite. Jodi uses beautiful, rich fabrics and chooses impeccible color combinations to create stunningly beautiful tops. You will really stand out in a room wearing one of these wraps, whether with jeans, dressy slacks - some of the are even perfect to dress up a plain white strapless bridal gown. The image at right shows how they simply tie in the back....just gorgeous!!

may 25, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.sewdarncute.com

You will scream for these cute, yummy ice cream totes (pictured at right), whimsical jewelry, adorable dollies and all the other playful and colorful items in this sweet little shop.

may 24, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.rosebud-design.com

Truly exqusite cards and other fun and beautful items abound at Rosebud Design. The image at right pretty much says it all, but also be sure to check out their collection of funny-and-pretty-as-hell postcards.

may 23, 2005 - cool indie shop of the day 

Canita

Yet another Original Trends vendor, Belen was my next door neighbor so I got a great look at tons of her clothes. TOO CUTE. And she's a total doll as well. My very favorite item of hers is the Coral Striped Tee (pictured at right) which is perfect for bringing a summer feel any time of year. She also has super cool dresses with interchangable front and back patches to let you express your moods. AND she's got these very cool ties for women, too.

may 22, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.myyellowflower.com

At Original Trends, I was completely wowed by these gorgeous tops from Yellow Flower. This India-inspired line is alive with color, bejeweled and so incredibly cool. I love the paisley and henna-like designs. The Yellow Flower design (pictured at right) is my favorite but it was REALLY hard choosing just one...they are all so beautiful. I want, I want, I want!!!

may 21, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.chantillybaby.com

I met the good folks of Chantilly Baby at Original Trends, in between stuffing massive quantities of their delectable baked goods into my face. I swear that if I were on death row, about a pound of these Espresso Chocolate Walnut Cookies would be the dessert I would choose to cap off my last meal. The Pecan Sand Dollar cookies, which are said to just melt on the tongue, are one of their most popular items. They do gift baskets and also customize cookies for baby or bridal events. Check them out...both you and your taste buds will be VERY glad you did!

may 20, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

I sold my jewels today at Original Trends, a fashion & lifestyle event held in Culver City, CA. While there I met a bunch of incredible indie shops!!! For the next few days I'll share my absolute favorites.

First up is:

www.magpierings.com

I first saw Magpie rings in Daily Candy. Now, I make some cool rings myself, but Megan Greene's work is just over the top cool, stunningly good and creative. Chunky, wiry, colorful and sparkling with personality, these rings are definitely for the woman who's not afraid to be noticed. My favorite (pictured at right) features rose quartz, dyed purple jade, freshwater pearl, mother of pearl, blue lace agate and crystal.

may 19, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.zoebonline.com

In case I haven't mentioned it I have about a zillion pregnant friends. I almost want to require that they wear Zoe B's adorable "Boy" or "Girl" (or for a few, "?") shirts, so I can keep track of who's having what. The baby tees are absolutely adorable...as you can see on the right. Lots of cute styles to choose from for both baby and Mom.

may 18, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

http://www.amybutlerdesign.com

Amy Butler makes me want to take up sewing. Gorgeous, vibrant fabrics with lovely designs; sewing patterns for THE coolest stuff (like the Weekender Travel Bag, featured at right) and beautiful books crammed full of inspiration. A definite must-see for the crafty folks out there!!!

may 17, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.madewithmolecules.com

Super cute jewelry, clothes & more featuring molecule-shaped charms and symbols. These are not only an homage to science but are really creative and educational. The Creativity Necklace (my favorite, pictured at right) features charms of neurotransmitters said to boost creativity. Pretty cool!

may 16, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.bettybelts.com

I just adore this fun, colorful and earthy line of belts and jewelry inspired by the ocean and those who surf it. The belts (like Selena, pictured are right) are just to die for. All of the styles on this site can either be worn with jeans and tees or dressed up for a night out.

may 15, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.poshaq.com

The beautifully vibrant handpainted scarves and cushions in this shop are a must-see. My favorite is the butterfly cushion (pictured right), it's waaaaaaaaay too pretty to sit on!

may 14, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.shawnimals.com

The "Son of Mustachio" almost made me shoot Diet Coke out of my nose. This site features a plethora of cool, cute items including awesome plush toys made just for the big kids.

may 13, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.ericrader.com

Absolutely gorgeous lampworked beads abound on this site. Purchase bead sets (for jewelrymaking) or finshed jewelry featuring these beautiful, tiny pieces of art.

may 12, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.maddiepowers.com

There is something sooooooo sassy about the old-school illustrations, book covers and more that adorn the varied collection of goods on this site. I love the cami set (pictured right) and think that ALL the bookpurses rock!

may 11, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.boodababy.com

Now THIS is cute...delightful illustrations of baby buddahs with cute, zenful sayings. Available in baby tee's and oh-so-adorable onesies.

may 10, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.catbirdbaby.com

I'm going to be sending this link to my million or so pregnant friends (is it just me or is EVERYONE pregnant lately?!). A lovely, artful, INDIE alternative to Bjorn-brand, these baby carriers give parents the ability to keep their wee ones close-at-heart, in style.

may 9, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.noisebot.com

Yes, there are TONS of t-shirt sites popping up everywhere. And I see lots of them every day...but not all of them crack me up like Noisebot did. The t-shirt at right had me laughing tears from my eyes. All of the wonderfully acerbic, often nostalgic designs are also available on hoodies and tote bags, and in your choice of colors.

may 8, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.fresh-eggs.com

This site features an eclectic mix of home decor, fashion and stationary items. Everything on this site is great but my favorites are the album and record clocks...the pefect gift for a musical soul!

may 7, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.weezielu.com

These delicate floral jewels are exquisite and feature real flowers which are sealed with poly-resin to preserve their beauty. These would be just gorgeous on a bride and her maids, or for a night out clubbing, or with jeans and a t-shirt on the weekend.

may 6, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.allisondanieldesigns.com

This designer offers a gorgeous collection of belts for women and girls as well as some stunning cocktail rings. Rock your waistline with amazing designs like the one pictured at right. I love that the belt itself is as cool as the buckle. Check it out!

may 5, 2005 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.poesisonline.com

This shop features an extensive line of beautiful handbags, accessories and even stylish, backpack-style diaper bags but what really wowed me was their extremely cool mule shoes (my favorite style of shoe) in bold geometric designs and colors, like the Tribo Slides (pictured at right). Something for everyone here, from the sophisticated to the fun and flirty.

may 4, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.alchemygoods.com

This site offers a small but interesting collection of goods made with a mission "turning useless into useful". I really like their Ad Bag (pictured at right) which is made from the giant ads featured on the side of buildings. Gotta love recycling, especially when it's so stylishly done!

may 3, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.smallthingsdesigns.com

Really exquisite handmade pendants, rings and more featuring intricately carved designs inspired by nature. I wish like crazy I had the patience (and the talent!) to do intricate silversmithing like this. Fortunately for all of us, Teresa does!

may 2, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.offhanddesigns.com

Hands down THE most stylish diaper bag I have ever seen, the Ursula (pictured at right) and the other baby bags at Offhand Designs deserve to be in even the hippest purse collection. They also have a line of smaller purses made from velvets and other luxe fabrics.

may 1, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.armoursansanguish.com

I really, REALLY love the clothes in this shop. Highly original designs, flirty and feminine. Their "naughties" are to die for and they even do bridal wear. This one is a DO NOT miss!

april 29 - 30, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day (ummm....ok, of the WEEKEND!) 

www.snorgtees.com

There are LOTS of t-shirt shops out there nowadays, but SnorgTees has some of my absolute favorites. I love the one pictured at right, but also check out their "Mullet Over" and "I Have The Body of a God" designs. REALLY funny stuff!

april 28, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.allknitup.com

Maybe it's because I'm just obsessed with cute little things (or maybe it's the fact that practically EVERYONE I know who has a uterus is pregnant right now) but lately I'm kind of addicted to sinfully adorable baby stuff like the Rainforest Hat & Bootie set (pictured right). And that's just the tip of the warm, fuzzy iceberg in the All Knit Up boutique. Be sure to check out the lovable Little Monsters and the yummy scarves, too.

april 27, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.temari.com

If you're a crafter looking to conquer new frontiers, you'll LOVE this....you can learn to make these intricate, colorful, beautiful thread balls. Artist Diana Vandervoort calls Temari "yoga for the mind" and offers instructional books and videos. Her site features a gallery of Temari balls (like Circles and Stars, pictured at right) and also a free online tutorial for beginners. Pretty cool....!

april 26, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.humblebeads.com

Here's one for my fellow jewelry designers. This shop features really beautiful, handmade and handpainted beads (such as Monet's Water Lily beads, pictured at right). These beads and other handmade findings on this site are a really wonderful and lovely way to set your work apart from the rest.

april 25, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.goodmorning-morning.com

I love how the styles offered in this sweet little shop are at once sophisticated and playful. The organizers (like the Turquoise Blossom one, pictured at right), small pouches (perfect as a makeup case) are highly functional and a fun way to inject a little color and style into your day.

april 24, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.pancakemeow.com

You MUST check out these drop dead adorable little jewels and other items made to look (and smell) like delectable desserts and food. I love the Waffle Stack (pictured at right) best but they are all so darned cute!

april 23, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.curliegirl.com

These darling knit caps, scarves and other accessories are sweet and stylish, and have a vintage feel, with a modern twist. Their new baby hats (pictured at right) are absolutely to die for and their wristlet pouches are equal parts adorable and functional. You're sure to find something to keep you feeling warm and looking cool, so check them out!

april 22, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.yosoh.com

This artist creates whimsical, heartfelt art from computer generated images printed on clay with a ceramic glaze. There are so many cute, really special items on this site! I love the "everyone wants it" bowl (pictured right)and the "hopes and dreams" teapot best. This one is a must see if you're looking for something different for your home or as a gift.

april 21, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.twinklecards.com

Twinkle, twinkle, little cards....

These adorable, delicate, sparkly cards are sure to make your note or invitation stand out among the rest. Their sushi cards (detail pictured at right) make me want to throw a little soiree at my favorite sushi restaurant - just so I have an excuse to get and send out the cards (ok...the sushi is a bit of a motivator, too ;)

Check them out!

april 20, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.edgeofurge.com

I LOVE this line of flowy, colorful, versatile clothing. Seemingly every item can be worn several different ways, and you can chose custom modifications on many pieces...but even without, you can rest assured that you'll be setting the style (rather than just following it) when sporting one of these beautiful dresses, tops, skirts or bathing suits. I think the Maria bikini (pictured right) is drop dead hot...now if only I had the figure for it! ;)

april 19, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.b.pure.com

For years there's been talk about the internet offing "smell-o-vision", allowing web surfers to experience scents online. Not sure that it will ever happen, but if it does I will beeline to b.pure's website to sample all of their delectable sounding lotions, candles and lip glosses. Their new Island Collection makes me want to realize my lifelong dream of sailing around the world, island hopping (now if only the lottery would cooperate!). Maui, pictured at right, makes my mouth water with the promise of an "exotic scent of mango and macadamia nut". Yummy yum yum!!!

april 18, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.individualicons.com

I love how designer LeeAnn Herreid makes unusual jewelry out of ordinary items...rulers, levels, thermometers. My favorites are the compass rings and the chic Diamond Dust necklace (at right).

april 17, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

Better late than never....especially considering that WOW, we were Lens of the Day today!!!!! :)

www.myperennial.com

Decidedly sweet yet still sophisticated, these felt accessories can infuse any outfit with a splash of texture and color. This adorable shop features everything from scarves to pillows to hair clips.

Playing Hookie! 

No updates weekend of April 15 - 16, 2006

april 14, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.p3clothing.net

I love the inspirational aspects of this clothing line. P3 is all about providing "fashionable motivation" to its customers through their shirts, hats and bags, all of which feature messages such as "do what u love" and "pursue purpose passionately". My favorite is the girl's tee (featured at right) which reads "Future CEO". How's that for getting our girls started off right?

april 13, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.sweaterbabe.com

This very cool site features the largest online yarn store directory, crochet and knitting tips, and patterns you can buy to make all kinds of cute and fuzzy clothes, like the easy knit poncho pictured at right. If you live in the L.A. area, sweaterbabe Katherine Lee can teach you to knit or crochet, either in classes with other purl girls or one-on-one. Check it out!

april 12, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

As a jewelry designer, I have a giant folder of bookmarks with about a gazillion cool jewelry sites featuring the gorgeous work of the many designers I admire. The only reason I haven't featured one yet is because I'm having such a hard time choosing just one at a time!

Then I remembered www.twigsandheather.com

These twin sister silversmiths cast charming, nature-inspired creations that are truly unique, using twigs, seeds and seaglass found in their New England hometown. The beauty is in the sweet simplicity and utter grace of these pieces. The necklace at right reminds me of days of my youth spent collecting and playing with "angel wings", as we called them. Their colorful Sea Glass collection is lovely as well. You can even send in your own special twig or sea glass to have immortalized in a one-of-a-kind piece of your own, right from your own backyard.

april 11. 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.kathrynell.com

The colorful creations on this sweet site are fun, stylish and definitely unique. My favorite is the Karen (pictured at right) but I also love the Sophie Mary, which features the iconic pink ribbon and benefits cancer research with every purchase.

april 10, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.brightlights-littlecity.com

These colorful lamps are TOO CUTE. The only thing I don't like about this shop is that I'm having too hard of a time choosing which one I want to buy! I love that these lamps can brighten a room whether or not they're switched on. Check it out!

april 9, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.moondropclothiers.com

I LOVE this shop...I love their committment to fair trade, I love their super cute products (the handmade Hippie Patchwork apron dress/top, pictured ar right, is one of my favorites) and I REALLY love their AMAZING PRICES!

april 8, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.yattabags.com

Yatta is so much more than just cool bags. I covet the "Wind" small folio wallet (pictured at right), and I love their Idea Books, too! Yatta's products are sweet as pie yet a bit edgy, and are highly original. Check them out!

april 7, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.pinklovesbrown.com

These handmade paper goods are just sublime. SO sweet, my favorite is the Hopscotch design. Their
Silhouette series is whimsical yet sophisticated
and any of these products would make a great gift.

april 6, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

www.yummy-soap.com

Truth in advertising is SWEET and so are these truly yummy soaps. I got a bar of the Coconut Cream as a gift from a friend and it made my face feel like silk. The awesome lather and delectible scents make this a great gift for anyone (especially you!)

april 5, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

Fierce Kitten Studio

The CUTEST handbags, all done in rich fabrics and colors. Or you can express yourself by choosing your own fabrics for your custom bag. I love the Minsc Messenger bag (pictured at right)...it's both artsy and chic. Check it out!

april 3-4, 2006 - cool indie shop of the day 

oops, I got really busy and accidentally skipped a day! Never fear....this indie shop is cool enough for two days!

www.mohop.com

SUPER COOL sandals you can customize with an array of ribbon styles and colors and different configurations. Why didn't I think of that?

april 2, 2006's cool indie shop of the day 

www.kokoleo.com

Really unique stuff in this fabulously funky shop. Definitely check out the super cool "All Tied Up" top and the "Labels Suck" bag. Also love their patchwork jeans and stuffed toys.