Once upon a belly April 28th 2012

Posted on | January 22, 2012 | No Comments

Mark your calendars for APRIL 28th at 11am-4pm.

If there is one baby show you should go to this year, Once Upon A Belly is the one! The show is located conveniently in Yaletown at The Roundhouse. It’s a beautiful spot close to public transport, parking and fabulous scenery!

Directions:

Roundhouse Community Centre
181 Roundhouse Mews
Vancouver, B.C
V6Z 2W3

One of the many amazing parts of this show is that admission is by donation! Once Upon A Belly supports Canuck Place Children’s Hospice which as many of you know is an amazing charity. Click here to be taken directly to the registration page

The first 150 in attendance on the day of the event receive a gift bag full of samples and goodies

It’s “an informative and exciting festival for new and expectant parents. Once Upon A Belly provides an amazing environment that brings together everything your growing family will need. It is our desire to present you with a selection of the best products and services to be had – all under one roof”

Aman, the face and creator behind the show is an amazing women. This is the second year the show has run and Aman made such a great impression last year that the 2012 show has attracted even more amazing vendors such as:

Kippo Kids
True Cuddles
Vancouver Mom
Wee Piggies & Paws
My favourite Blanket
Baby Bahoonie
Bloom Community Midwives
Kael & Kaed and so many more…

Maxwell Designs will be there too chatting to you about “What to pack in your diaper bag” – an essential part of any outing with your new little bundle.

If you would like to follow Once Upon A Belly and stay in touch with whats going on here is how you can:
Facebook
Twitter

We hope to see you there.

pantone fashion colour report 2012

Posted on | January 19, 2012 | No Comments

“For over 18 years, Pantone, the global authority on color, has surveyed the designers
of New York Fashion Week and beyond to bring you the season’s most important
color trends. This report previews the most prominent hues for spring 2012″

Here is the Spring line up for 2012 according to Pantone:

“For spring 2012 designers are inspired by diverse influences, showcasing a range of
styles and lifestyles, from free and playful and light and breezy, to contemporary classics. Colors likewise reflect these differing moods, encapsulating vivid brights, soft muted tones and fun-loving pastels.

“Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and the promise of a brighter day,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “They
have learned how color can help them alter a mood and provide the vitality and enthusiasm that enables them to experiment with new looks and color combinations.”

Provocative Tangerine Tango, an enticing juicy orange, is a vivacious and appealing refresher to enliven anyone’s outlook this spring. Providing a jolt of energy, Solar Power radiates warmth and cheer.

Fanciful Bellflower, a distinct ornamental purple, exudes uniqueness and creativity. Scintillating and sexy, Cabaret is a sensual and intense rosy-red — an excellent
choice for summer clothing and cosmetics.

Sodalite Blue, a classic maritime hue, brings order and calmness to mind. Like an
anchor to a ship, this dependable shade works with every color in the palette.
Cockatoo, a tactile blue-green, is sure to make your spirits soar. This unusual hue
adds a whimsical touch to the palette and will surely make a statement this spring.

Margarita, a piquant yellow-green, lifts spirits with its refreshing and stimulating glow. Reminiscent of a blossoming garden on an early spring morning, fragrant Sweet Lilac evokes the fresh scents of summer. This delicate pinkish lilac adds a touch of romance
to any wardrobe.

Natural versatile neutrals add practicality to this season’s brights. Driftwood, an
adaptable blend of beige and gray with a slightly weathered feel, and Starfish, a
perfect warm summer neutral, complement all colors featured in this season’s top 10

For an ultra-bold vibrant look this spring, try mixing Bellflower with Tangerine Tango
and Cabaret. Combine Margarita with Sweet Lilac and Cockatoo for a subtle
alternative, or combine Margarita with Sweet Lilac and Driftwood for a more
practical variation. Solar Power is best juxtaposed with Sodalite Blue. For a safer
bet, add a natural neutral like Starfish to the mix”

Courtesy of: www.pantone.com

Designer Purses and The year of the dragon

Posted on | January 17, 2012 | No Comments

If your looking for some good luck in 2012 (The Year Of The Dragon) then gold and red (purses) are a must for your wardrobe according to Chinese tradition. These colors are meant to be worn when bringing in the New Year (January 23rd) to promote health and properity. Add these colors to your outfit with a clutch, hobo or tote and get ready to be a dragon and show your fierce side!

So think Salvatore Ferragamo, Christian Dior or Edie Parker for some fabulous gold and red purses.

Golden Globe Purses and Fashions 2012

Posted on | January 15, 2012 | No Comments

The Golden Globe fashions/purses are something I look forward to every year. I love to see who everyone is wearing, and what purses they are carrying - to live vicerioulsy through the television for just one night a year.

I think this years Globes were truly fabulous. With the predicted muted colors of pastels for 2012, gowns were inspired with cool soft shades and flowing fabrics. I loved that Charlize Theron wore Dior Couture and the elegant sparkle she added with a fabulous matching clutch made for a soft and elegant look.

Elle McPherson looked stunning in a Zac Posen layered fish tail gown, its hard believe she is 47! She accessorized with a stunning gold clutch purse and chunky metallic bracelets.

One of my favourite gowns, and purses of the night, was worn by Stacy Keibler. Stacy looked sophisticated and elegent in a red Valentino gown with a bow detail on the back of this otherwise simple yet chic dress. Stacy co-ordinated her gown with a stunning black clutch purse.

I would love to know exactly what these tiny clutch purses hold on award night, perhaps a lipstick, compact, a tisse and an iPhone to take those all important photos next to your favourite celebrity (AKA friend)? Everyone looked stunning and I cant wait to see more details come out about the designers dresses over the next few days.

Did you have a favourite purse, dress, designer at the Globes?

Hot purses for 2012

Posted on | January 12, 2012 | No Comments

Its now the second week of January 2012. Have you decided what your hot Purse or Bag is going to be for this year? If not, there is still plenty of time to figure that out but here are a few suggestions to get you on the right track.

Purse Predictions are for fun, flirty, bright and cheerful prints/colors as well as choosing a medium or large handbag.

Avoid “fads” – designs or prints that might be trendy right now and opt for classic prints or solid colors that you can enjoy for years to come. Keeping in mind Tangerine Tango is a very hot colour for 2012 (this of course will change in 2013) as is Black & White, Aqua and Lime Green.

Here at Maxwell Designs we have hit the nail on the head in terms of bright, colourful prints and designs that will stand the test of time. Take our new Hobo Bag/Purse for example. Our purses are designed for the best use of space and we added some classic and fun, bright prints too. We went with splashes of color and a classic hobo style to best show off our new line. We will also be adding new designs throughout the year.

Accessories will be big this year also. If you can, match your purse, handbag or clutch with a makeup case for a fabulous co-ordinated look.

If you want to make a splash in 2012 with a fabulous Spring color palette make it big, make it bright, make it fun.

Sewing Essentials – what you need to get started (part 1)

Posted on | January 3, 2012 | No Comments

Have you made one of your New Years Resolutions to take up sewing? If you are looking to start sewing there are some basic pieces of equipment you need to make your start a successful one. Here is my essentials list but this is in no way complete, your list will grow depending on what type of sewing you are doing. I mainly sew using a machine, so if you hand sew your requirements will be slightly different.

Basics:

1. A good, reliable sewing machine. I urge you not to go to places such as Walmart if you are looking to get a strong, sturdy, reliable machine. Although the machines they have to offer are ok they will not serve you well if you begin to love sewing and want to expand and do lots of projects. My advice is to visit your local sewing machine or fabric store. I got mine when I lived in Terrace as a reconditioned model, so someone had brought it in and upgraded. I have been using this model (a Pfaff) for 5 years now and it has never let me down. The great thing about buying from a local store is that they can give you excellent advice AND you usually get a free lesson on how to use the machine that you buy – which is invaluable.

2. Thread & Spools - and lots of it! I use polyester/nylon as I found that cotton tends to shrink and pull the fabric sometime. Depending on what you are sewing of course will depend on the thread, if using leather then you need a nylon based thread. It is a great idea to match your fabric and your thread so make sure you take a scrap of your fabric when you go to buy your thread, it will make it a lot easier. I would strongly suggest buying the biggest spool you can when places such as Fabricland/Fabricana have sales on, this way you will be the best bang for your buck. Make sure you get the correct spools for your machine and have at least 10-12 on hand if using different colours of tread.

3. Measuring Devices - tape measure, clear (see through) ruler and a metal ruler. Each of these measures can do different things. The tape measure is a good all round rule of thumb and very convenient. The clear ruler is great for measuring fabric when you need to be able to see what is underneath and accuratley meausure. A metal ruler is needed if you are going to be using a rotary cutter as you will need a strong line that cannot be cut.

4. Scissors & Seam Ripper – the type of scissors you get will depend on the products you are working on. I have 2 pairs of fabric scissors, 1 pair of leather cutting scissors and 2 small very sharp pointed scissors for cutting off loose ends to keep by your machine. PLEASE I must stress how important it is NOT to let your husband/partner/friend use your scissors for anything other than what they are intended. I have lost many pairs of scissors from my husband “borrowing” them to cut a piece of paper or string. A seam ripper will make your life a lot easier when taking out seams.

5. Pins - My preference is glass tipped pins. These pins won’t melt if you happen to iron over them and in my opinion tend to last longer than “regular” pins. You can also never have enough pins, they are such a resonably priced product that its always better to have too many than not enough. I would suggest not using a pin cushion but using a magnetic bowl or similar (I got mine from Canadian Tire) as it helps keep your pins in one place and is heavy enough not to get knocked over.

6. Needles – Plan your project carefully and make sure you have the right size and type of needle for your machine – for example using a “jean” needle for quilting cotton is going to leave big holes in your fabric as the needle will be too big for the delecate fabric. On the other hand using a small needle (70/10 ) for leather will probably damage your machine (if it gets through the leather), leather needs special needles which have slightly different shaped tips. I would suggest having a couple of packets of needles handy as you never know when one might break half way through a project if you happen to sew over a zipper for example.

7. Lighting – lighting – lighting!! If you are able to sew in a room with tons of natural light I am very jealous! If you are like me and there is some natural light but tend to have to sew at night then you will need a lot of light to make sure you can see your project. I would suggest buying energy efficient bulbs in the “daylight” variety as you need it to be bright!

8. Pattern – unless (like me) you plan to make your own. If this is your first project make sure you choose a pattern that is easy to understand and follow. Your local fabric store should be able to guide you here. Try not to get ambitious too soon when you see all of the pattern books on offer, there are some fabulous projects in them but you can get frustrated and never go back to sewing if you choose something a little over your experience level.

9. Patience – sounds strange I know but sewing is a presise skill and it takes practice and lots of it. Sewing, luckily though, is a skill that if you work at it and continue to learn and take classes it can be extremely rewarding and satisfying. It takes patience and the understanding that if it doesnt work out the first time, keep trying as every mistake you make leads to a greater understanding of what not to do next time.

HAPPY SEWING

Maggie
Maxwell Designs

*more to follow

(I have to say that I have never used a pattern for any of my designs and all of Maxwell Designs patterns are designed by me. This list is what I consider the essentials but it might differ from others, I am a self taught seamstress and so this is my opinion and may not be opinions of others. I hope you found it useful)

How to care for a leather purse

Posted on | December 26, 2011 | No Comments

Do you have a leather purse or handbag? Are you taking care of it well? I have been wanting to use leather in my designs for a while now and finally took the plunge a couple of weeks ago. I had no idea there were so many different types, thicknesses and grades of leather, it is still quite daunting. Leather is a more expensive medium to work with but it is also durable, timeless and a good investment.

You will be seeing in the next few weeks/months leather creeping into my designs as I play with it and try to use it in different ways. But here are a few simple ways that you should care for your favourite purse to keep it in the best shape possible so that it lasts much longer:

*A couple of things I should mention right off the bat, leather is a sensitive material and is prone to absorbing grease and oil so be careful what is on your hands when you handle your purse. Do not use water as leather is prone to leaving water stains/marks. Also make sure you use a clean soft, preferably undied cloth and test on a unobvious part first, just in case it marks or stains.

Here are a couple of really useful guides I found full of great tips such as “Moisturize your bag with a leather conditioner to keep it supple. Do not use a conditioner on patent leather purses” – How to care for leather handbags at Overstock.com

I also found a very interesting website – a spa for your leather bags! The music on the website is such as you would find in a spa which I found a little odd but I love that they provide such a unique service – Lovinmybags.com. So if are not sure what to do or you would rather a professional pamper your purse for you then this might be a good choice.

I found that ehow.com had great instructions too.

I like that Tandy Leather Factory, Canada has an amazing array of leather conditioning products. I have found their customer service to be excellent and they are very passionate about their product which makes them experts in the leather department.

So dig out your leather purses and if they are looking a little dull treat them to some leather conditioner and make them feel special again. If you use your leather purse every day then condition it occassionally to keep them in great shape. If you have any tips you would like to tell me about please send me a comment, I would love to hear them.

Boxing day sale

Posted on | December 26, 2011 | No Comments

Our Boxing Day Sale is now on. Enjoy savings up to 73% on our Liquidation/SALE items as well as 15% on regular priced items. Simply choose your favorite products and enter “BOXINGDAYSALE” at the checkout. Ends January 2nd or while stocks last.

(excludes gift certificates)

Happy Shopping!

Maggie
Maxwell Designs

Which purse suits your body type?

Posted on | December 22, 2011 | No Comments

Has this thought ever crossed your mind? I have to be honest and say “No”. But as I delve more into expanding my line of purses/handbags/diaper bags it has been on my mind. There are so many different shapes and styles available have you considered if they will suit you before you buy? or are you of the mind that “I like it, its cute/practical/stylish…” so it doesnt matter the shape? Well, according to some people there is a way to tell if a bag will suit you, a step by step guide almost.

According to Cynthia Nellis – Choosing the right handbag for your body - there are a few simple rules to follow when choosing a purse:

“Try to choose a shape that is the opposite of your body type” – “If you are tall and slim” she suggests choosing a purse that is similar to a hobo bag, slouchy with little structure. If you are slightly more rounded then a more structured purse, perhaps “tall and rectangular” might be the best fit for you.

Cynthia goes onto to explain some different purse types:

“Some popular shapes:

Tote – An open-top bag with straps or handles.
Hobo bag – A crescent-shaped shoulder bag. (one of my favourites)
Duffle – Tall shoulderbag, often with a wider opening on top.
Field bag – A flap-top shoulderbag with utility-type closure (buckles, snaps, etc).
Clutch – A small, handheld bag or a larger, geometric shape that is tucked under the arm.
Satchel- A large, handheld bag.
Baguette – Long and rounded shoulder bag resembling the namesake bread.
Messenger – A large, soft shoulder bag with long straps (often worn across the body).
Cigar Box – A small, boxy, hard bag.
Pouch – A soft, small bag.
Kelly bag – A classic Hermes style named after Grace Kelly; a large, structured handbag with distinctive hardware closures.”

Another point to make is the colour of your purse. There have been crazy times when such companies as Louis Vuitton would put every colour imaginable into their purses (I for one did not buy into this craze) but a lot of people were bitten by the bug and I have to say that it was a purse that probably did go with everything at the time.

However times have changed and I like the advice that Lhancel gave on the Fashion Accessories Guide Blogspot:

“Choose Color that Complements most of your Outfit:
After you have selected the right size and shape of a handbag that best suit to you, it’s now time to choose for its color. Matching up the color of handbag to your outfit and shoes is an ideal way to have a fashionable style. Try to buy a colorful handbag that has dominant colors that will match most of your clothes. But to be more practical, you can also go for a plain handbag with just one color. It’s most recommended to take neutral color handbags since they are popular choice. Black is a neutral color so you can never go wrong in selecting it because it always comes in style and fashion. You can also harmonize it with any color of your outfit. Brown and white colors are also advisable to use because you can also match them with most of your clothes”

Good advice if you into matching your purse to your clothing.

For me, it has, an always will be, if I like the style of the purse I will buy it, if I love the colour of the purse I will buy it, and if its for some practical reason that I need I will purchase it.

Do you have a criteria when looking for a new purse? do you follow “The Guide” or not? Or do you have your own set of rules you follow?

Maggie
Maxwell Designs

What are hot colors for purses in 2012

Posted on | December 15, 2011 | 1 Comment

I love to see what colors are trendy right now, and what’s coming up for the next year. It seems that 2012 is going to be an interesting year color wise. According to Shar at Squidoo.com “this spring and summer ..2012.. you will be adorned with fabulous vivid color, as well as soft neutrals” and “as always..Black and White fashion’s defy time, and keep their well earned place as big colors for spring and summer of 2012.

“The color that jumps out at the head of the line for spring is orange!” www.squidoo.com/sharsspringssummerfashion
According to Amanda Mull at The Purse Blog “Every year, Pantone picks a new color as a PR stunt to have us all talk about Pantone and colors for a week or two…For 2012, Pantone managed to get it right – the bright, saturated, orange-y reds that we’ve seen all over the runways for the past two seasons is 2012′s Color of the Year. It’s technically called Tangerine Tango”

The Purse Blog goes onto the say that is has also “become clear that ivory and pastels were going to be on the biggest trends of 2012″. I am a huge fan of pastels, being blonde they tend to compliment my skin tone but they can be hard to pull off with some skin tones and hair colors.

I love the way The Purse Blog put it in terms of purses “That’s the beauty of handbags though. If you want to embrace a color trend without having to wear it next to your face for an entire day, accessories are the perfect way to do it…whether or not it looks good on your particular skin tone becomes something of a non-issue”, well said!

Do you consider the upcoming trends when purchasing a new purse or outfit? do you follow trends or simply choose colors that you love and not worry about whats in “right now”?

 

 

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