Author: M&J Trimming

DIY: Beaded and Sequined Mother’s Day Gifts

Mother’s Day is almost upon us! Struggling to find the perfect gift for mom, something that’s handmade yet worthy of her? We’ve got you. These super simple, super stylish DIYs will have mom smiling and you looking like the best daughter/son.

Flowered Sun Hat

This easy DIY will take you all of 10 minutes. Add a little glitz and glam to a sun hat by adding some beaded flower appliques.

What you’ll need:

A Hat

These Floral Beaded Appliques

E6000 Glue

Some Tape

1: Add some glue to the back of the applique, making sure you get all the edges.

2: Place the patch where you’d like it and press it down.

3: Put some tape over it to keep it in place while it dries.

4: Let dry for a few hours, wrap it up and give it to mom!

 

Embellished Loafers

Give mom a pair of comfy loafers to slip into, that she can wear out to dinner too.

What you’ll need:

A Pair of Loafers

An Iron

A Cotton Cloth or Teflon Sheet

2 x This Beaded Flower Applique

1: Place the patch where you want it.

2: Cover the patch with a thin cotton cloth or Teflon sheet and iron on high heat. Hold the iron down for 20 second intervals, repeating as necessary. Don’t use steam.

3: Repeat on the other shoe.

4: Gift them to mom and put a spring in her step 😉

 

Sequin/Beaded Flower Bag

All moms have that one bag that they throw everything in. They always manage to have snacks and bandaids and just about anything you might need in a sticky situation. Like wet wipes. Treat her with a clutch that she can take out when she’s off duty.

What you’ll need:

A Plain Clutch or Crossbody Bag

E6000 Glue

This Flower Beaded Patch

1: Apply glue to the back of the patch, making sure you get all the edges.

2: Place the patch on the bag and press down.

3: For added measure, place a heavy object over it and let it dry for a few hours.

Now you just have to gift it to mom and see her try to fit all the “essentials” into it.

 

Spring/Summer 2018: Get The Look

I’m secretly hoping that by dressing for Spring, I’m willing it to come quicker. It’s April and I want to cast off the blues, grays and blacks and bust out the yellows, pinks and reds. There are so many fun trends to try out this season and I’ve rounded up 5 of my favorite ones. You can easily incorporate these trends into your wardrobe with some mini DIYs. I hope you find some inspiration in here to brighten up your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

Pink + Red

Although this combination is timeless, it packs a punch every time it comes around. The contrast is just beautiful and can easily be achieved with either accessories, separates or jewelry. Designers like Dolce and Gabbana, Ferragamo and Stella McCartney are embracing this yummy palette. Does it remind anyone of candy?

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Some pink buttons on a red shirt or vice versa.
  • Red and pink sew-on jewels on a blouse would look stunning.
  • A red fur pom pom on a pink handbag or vice versa

Birds of a Feather

Feathers are a whimsical touch to any garment or accessory. They add a bit of dramatic flair or in the case of Alberta Ferreti and Proenza a Schouler, a LOT of dramatic flair.

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Add some feathers around an ankle strap on your strappy sandals.
  • A wispy feather trim around the neckline or sleeves is just the thing.
  • Long feather earrings to add to a simple outfit.

Sequin-Land

Sparkle is abundant on the runways this season. Sequins made an appearance time and time again, upping the glam quotient. It’s clear that sequins are no longer restricted to the holidays!

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Glue on sequins to a pair of heels for some instant glam.
  • Sew on large paillettes to a tank top to create a going out outfit.
  • Embellish a clutch for a night out by gluing some sequins on it.

Bling-Bling

Sequins aren’t the only ones having a moment right now. I don’t think we’ll ever tire of bedazzling things. Rhinestones and crystals have made their way into several collections on the runway this season. Everyone from Saint Laurent to Gabbana is adding some sparkle to their lines.

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Take a page out of Dolce and Gabbana’s book and add some crystals to your sunglasses.
  • Add rhinestones to a pair of thigh-highs like Saint Laurent.
  • Add some sew-on jewels to your light spring overcoat to make it a style statement.

Fringe Benefits

I personally love the flappers from the twenties with their beaded shift dresses and drawn-on panty hose. Fringe was an essential back then and apparently in S/S 18 too. Whether it’s Chanel’s subtle fringe on their classic tweed suits or Stella McCartney’s macrame fringe bag, we can’t get enough of this trend.

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Make a pair of statement earrings with a 6″ fringe to add some oomph to any outfit.
  • Glue some fringe onto the front of a small bag for a statement piece.

    Let us know in the comments if you tried any of these trends out! Happy Spring!

How to Tie a Classic Bow

Classic Bow Tutorial

Want to step up your gift wrapping game? Well, to do that you need to master the classic bow. Watch the video below and you’ll be an expert in no time. To make sure you get the best possible results follow these tips:

• Use a ribbon that has some stiffness if you want a nice structured bow that holds its own. If you want something softer and almost drape-y, use a silk satin ribbon.

• Use a double faced ribbon so you don’t have to worry about a right and wrong side.

• Use a sharp pair of scissors to avoid a frayed edge.

 

DIY: Sugar Skull Inspired Halloween Mask

Guys. It’s October. If you haven’t started planning your costume already, you better start now. Halloween is fast approaching, and I want to help you out with a DIY mask to get you started on your costume. I’ve put together a fairly simple tutorial to make a Day of the Dead mask, inspired by the sugar skulls. I’m sure you’ve all seen awesome Day of the Dead themed costumes the last couple of years and now it’s time to make your own.

Did You Know: Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday where people believe that the spirits of their loved ones are reunited with them for two days following Halloween.

What you’ll need:

Flatback Rhinestones

Sew-on Jewels in Different Shapes

3D Flower Patches

Magna-Tac Glue

A Mask

A Rhinestone Applicator

 

1

I improvised the placement of the stones for the most part. That’s what was most fun about this DIY. However, if you need a little more guidance, you can use a pencil to lightly sketch out a design on your mask.

2

Start by applying a thin layer of glue to the area you want to place the stones. I started around the eyes. Then, using a rhinestone applicator, pick up the stone and place it where you want it. Repeat till you’re done with that section.

3

I kept going with the designs, using different colors and shapes to create dimension.

4

When you’re done with the stones, take the flower patches and glue each one, facing forward, to the back of the mask. I added one on the front in the center just to give it some depth.
A good substitute for these patches would be red silk roses. 

That’s it, you’re done! Pair this with a corset, tulle skirt and some lace gloves to complete the look.

 

The Many Ways to Wear a Scarf

It’s scarf season! With the heat drifting away, it’s time to keep warm with the windy days approaching. If you’re a lover of scarves, well, this post was especially made for you. But let’s face it, who doesn’t love scarves. It’s a great, and fashionable accessory. They are a great asset to your outfits, and of course, your warmth. So enjoy and explore the endless ways of wearing a scarf!

M&J Trimming - Scarf w. Belt

Bold, bright colors on neutral colors. What a great combo!

M&J Trimming - Hair Scarf

We love the final look to this! Such a great source of hair accessory.

M&J Trimming - The Shawl Wrap

Such an elegant touch. Use a snap for security.

M&J Trimming - Chiffon Style

This style goes great with chiffon or satin material scarves.

 

 

All Things…Leather!

Who loves the fall as much as we do? Fall is such a fashionable season filled with layered outfits, over sized sweaters, leather jackets, and…let’s stop at leather jackets. Leather is such a world-renowned material that it has urbanized the fashion industry. You see practically anything made out of leather whether it’s real or faux. There’s leather jackets, boots, pants, handbags, hats, even accessories like bracelets and watch straps. The ideas are endless when it comes to leather. So gear-up everybody because we have gathered some unique styles with a dash of leather. This is all things leather!

M&J Trimming - Leather Pants

Chic up your style with some leather pants and/or boots. The drape affect goes great with this outfit!

M&J Trimming - Layered Outfit

The perfect layered effect with a dash of leather.

M&J Trimming - Leather Pencil Skirt

Keep it professional in this leather pencil skirt.

M&J Trimming - Trussardi Spring 2015 2

Be bold and fierce in red leather.

M&J Trimming - Leather Jacket

This outfit is just perfect. We love the patent leather burgundy shoes for a pop of color.

Fedora Fashion

Hats are an essential accessory, especially with the upcoming seasons. Fedoras really made its way back into fashion. It really does bring your whole outfit together, and it’s a great source of warmth for those windy nights. Stay warm, and fashionable this year, with this round-up of fedora fashion. We’ve gathered some beautiful fedoras, from bright colors, to floppy rims, to keeping it traditional. There is a fedora style for everyone!

M&J Trimming - Wide Rim Fedora

This wide rim fedora is great for those sunny fall days.

M&J Trimming - Straw-Like Fedora

Keep it traditional with a dash of urban fashion.

M&J Trimming - Neutral Fedora

Neutral colors are always great to have since they can be paired up with any color.

M&J Trimming - Bright Red FedoraM&J Trimming - Bright Red Fedora

Bright colors will have your outfits stand out more. We love this bright red fedora!

M&J Trimming - Flappy Rim Fedora

Floppy rimmed fedoras gives your outfit a very soft, and sweet look.

Best DIY Projects from September 2015

Wow! Can you believe it’s almost October. With September coming to an end, here are some ways to keep yourself busy and those creative juices flowing. Here is a round-up of some pretty unique projects from the month of September. We’ve rounded up our favorite DIY projects that can surely keep you busy for October. Make a pillow, or re-design your closet. Keep your mind at ease this fall with some DIY projects. The ideas are endless!

M&J Trimming - Candle Holders

Such a cool way to hold candles. And it goes great with the fall season!

M&J Trimming - Closet Customization w. Trim

Another useful way to use trimmings. It came out beautiful! Make sure to check out the before & after picture.

M&J Trimming - Shell Candles

You can never have too many candles. But how cute are these shell candles! So creative.

M&J Trimming - Chain Scarf

Make a chain scarf! It will definitely come in handy for the fall and winter.

M&J Trimming - Fall Pillow

Everything about this pillow is perfect. The color, the saying, the design…very fall-ish.

DIY: Embroidered Pumpkin

If you’re looking for an easy DIY that will instantly make your doorstep more festive for your favorite frightening holiday, Halloween, this is it! Instead of going the traditional carving route, we decided to make use of our leather cord to create a unique embroidered effect. We also used a craft foam pumpkin for this DIY so that it can last multiple seasons, but you can swap it out for the real thing too!M&J Trimming: Embellished Pumpkin DIY

What You’ll Need:

Scissors

Spooky Image of Your Choice

Pins

1mm Round Leather Cord

Pumpkin

DSC_01481. Cut out your image.

DSC_01492. Pin paper cut-out to pumpkin.

DSC_01523. Cut out top of pumpkin. If you’re using a real pumpkin you’ll want to clean out the insides.

DSC_01534. Make a knot at the base of the leather cord.

DSC_01545. Either drill or puncture  small holes into the pumpkin using your cutout as a guide.

DSC_01596. Start weaving your leather cord through all of the holes. Make sure every hole has a complementary hole close by.

DSC_01617. Continue weaving until the image is complete. For small areas you can tie a knot and weave back through one hole, as we did with the spider fangs.

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Fall Home Decor Inspiration

Fall is finally here, meaning is time to bring out those fall home decorations. If you’re bored with the same old decorations each year, try something new to place in your home. Here’s a round-up of some pretty cool DIY’s to autumn-up your home for 2015. Try a new project with some pastel colors, or create a new center piece when having big dinners. The ideas are endless!  M&J Trimming - Fall Jars

Pastel colors for the fall? Why not! Lace and burlap is always a great combination.

M&J Trimming - Fall Center Piece

Awesome center piece! The pine cones are a very nice touch.

M&J Trimming - Cool Colors for Fall

These are some beautiful cool colors for the fall.

M&J Trimming - Ombre Vase

Some cool ombre vases. Such a fun looking project to do, and so simple.

M&J Trimming - Fall Table Tray

A beautiful tray with autumn touches. The pumpkin is a great addition!