The Aquarians

We never knock, because theres nobody there

2012-02-10T11:41:00.000-08:00

Ellen Rogers photo

from "The Shanghai Express"

Lou Lou de la Falaise by Helmut Newton

Sean McMenomy for Dansk

One of my favorite songs, Peggy Lee singing Me and My Shadow. In honor of my recently acquired... shadow. For the record, i wouldn't recommend trying to climb through windows as an adult. I also would not recommend waiting too long to ice a bruise after climbing through said window, unless of course you want to gain the street cred of having a black eye. I do however, recomend listening to this song over, and over, and over again.

The Best of Times

2012-02-08T10:21:00.000-08:00

Yeah, thats right, I'm posting hearts and flowers and pastels. Deal with it.

via Teeth of the Moon, shot by Hayley Louisa Brown

All our sweetest hours fly fastest

2012-02-08T10:16:00.000-08:00

Here's a little tour of our bedroom, and mostly the new dreamy bedroom ceiling. After having seen a number of ceilings covered in scarves, I decided to join in on the fun. There's no such thing as too many scarves, there's just not having enough places to put them. We still need a few more pins to keep it from caving in, but we're both enjoying the cave-like atmosphere it sets.

Nothing like a new ceiling to get the creativity flowing. A few closeups of my creative organizing.

World of Interiors

2012-02-03T11:21:00.000-08:00

Joanna over at Keep Feeling Fascination just keeps providing me inspiration. She did a little post on this magazine, World of Interiors, which lead me on a google image search of beauty. I'll be decorating my house all weekend if you need me.

Burn Baby

2012-02-02T21:05:00.000-08:00

images via Rookie Mag. I love the feel of these photos, that mood of wasted youth and the sickly green color cast over. Reminds me of the end of the night at Satellite in Silverlake.

Lively UP

2012-02-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

celebrated my birthday this weekend with lots of good friends, balloons, records, and, as you can see from the photos, drinks. No matter how nice your camera is, with no natural light and an excessive amount of dancing its pretty hard to capture anything.

It all started off mellow enough, lots of dancing... then Johnny brought the 3-D glasses...

and Alia shows up with what can only be described as a rave butterfly. It lights up at a variety of different paces/colors and plays a pretty amazing/completely awful high pitched house music song (if you know me, you know i HATE house music with a strong passion. Somehow this little butterfly makes it ok.)

then next thing i know all the balloons are blown up and on the ceiling, thanks to some good old fashioned static cling! No helium allowed.

birfday girl

goodnight!

theres about 200 more pictures where these came from... Moral of the story is, you know you have good friends when a pair of 3-D glasses, a light up butterfly wand, and a bag of balloons is all you need to have a blast. Best. Birthday. Ever.

2012-02-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

A little color inspiration for your day.

From top: left, photo by me, right, necklace by NYLON SKY on etsy

left, stone via aetorn.tumblr, right Marc Bolan cruisin'

my color pallette

planet blue january lookbook

left, the real king, right from beanfield.tumblr.

Ceci est la couleur de mes rêves

2012-01-31T11:46:00.000-08:00

Joan Miro - This is the color of my dreams.

Horace-Bénédict de Saussure’s cyanometer

vintage playing card

sunburnt indigo

shibori textile

All images from one of my favorite inspiration sources, Growing Indigo. I love an art form that you can practice literally from its beginnings, its entirely possible to grow indigo, make a dye from it, and create beautiful fabrics from it. All with techniques that have been practiced for centuries. It makes me feel lazy, really.

This last photo is from an Indigo Dying workshop in Los Angeles in November that i would have dyed to go to (oh my god i crack myself up...). So who wants to have an Indigo Dying workshop at my place??

Not a lot more to say, I've been recovering/continually celebrating my birthday along with actually having a lot of work to do, topped off with the cherry of lots of sales last week (that means lots of shipping this week!).

I leave you with one of my all time favorite jokes, in the spirit of dying.

While passing a cemetery, my father would point and go "see that place?"

"yeah, dad?"

"people are dying to get in there! a hyuk. a hyuk. a hyuk."

Mara Mara Mara...

2012-01-27T10:39:00.000-08:00

This woman blows my mind every time. She uses such beautiful prints, and is never afraid of color or getting far past ordinary (what is this obsession with normal, anyways? dif-fer-ent! dif-fer-ent!). Mara Hoffman's collection are clothes for arts sake.

Her printed bustiers are so inspiring, I can't even begin to think of the work that goes in to manufacturing something like that... each print perfectly accenting the figure just as its supposed to. Enjoying her blog, too. Hey Mara, if you ever decide to move to LA, give me a call, yeah? Her husbands art is also pretty mindblowing, but that is for another post.

2012-01-27T10:36:00.001-08:00

in the shop!

2012-01-25T14:39:00.000-08:00

My brother showed me the EBONY tumblr, a collection of vintage ads, covers, and articles from the magazine, late 1950's through the early 1980's. It's really quite amazing, despite all the turmoil of the civil rights movement, the magazine remained a shining star highlighting some of the most talented and beautiful people of black America. Thanks, brother!

You must've been a beautiful baby...

2012-01-25T13:22:00.000-08:00

New listings in the shop! Get em' while their hot. And bright. And ready for spring! I know L.A. is ready for spring. Thats right. My birthday is coming just in time for the sunshine!

For the first time probably since I moved to Cali 10 years ago it will not only be SUNNY on my birthday, but also 80 degrees. F yes.

2012-01-24T10:04:00.000-08:00

It's mah birthday... week!!! Ok so it's not really until Friday, but this is my golden year (when the date of your birth matches the years you've been alive) so I'm pretty sure I can take a whole week to celebrate.

I did a little pre-celebrating this weekend with a much needed personal shopping trip. Here's some jewels, records, and crochet blankets I found.

I loooove Harry Belafonte, nothing better to get into a cheery mood, this album is a bit mellow but still puts a smile on my face. Diana Ross can pretty much do no wrong musically, I especially love the deterioration on the cover. I'm not one for mint condition record covers, the aging just makes it more special.

SCORE! These crochet throws range in sizes and colors, the orange one is massive. I've got quite the collection going, considering how cold my house gets at night they make themselves plenty worthy.

Appleby Fair Caravans

2012-01-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

here.

I recently acquired a huge stack of National Geographics from the 60's and 70's, and I'm not regretting the space they take up in my house. What a plethora of knowledge and inspiration, including a whale sounds vinyl record insert and a full size fold-out map of Africa. One of my favorite articles so far is about the Appleby Fair, where the British Romani people all gather each year. The elaborate caravans they travelled in are just as interesting as the culture itself.

While I'm sure things have change drastically in the past 30 years since this article came out, the Vardo wagons seems to still be a prominent part of the culture (although I've read modern caravans are used because the reality is, horse drawn wagons don't hold much). So who wants to help me build one??

all images above from National Geographic 1972 issue.

Cruel Summer

2012-01-18T11:45:00.000-08:00

Louis Vuitton, Zero by Maria Cornejo, Louis Vuitton, Rochas, Preen, Opening Ceremony, Missoni.

The concept of a spring collection being shipped to stores in the middle of January fascinates me. The fact that fall hits stores in the middle of July, despite no places actually getting cold until about October, is another of fashion's backhanded slaps in the face of reality. Why do we even bother? Why not call this one the January collection, and that one the July collection? Just a suggestion.

With that, here's pre-fall, in all its orange, gold, cobalt, and lime glory. It's like the colors of fall, but without all those extra layers. I love you, June collection.

All fashion images via style.com, background images are my own.

In over my head but it sure feels nice

2012-01-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

This weekends project: turning an old suitcase into a jewelry display case. It came out well enough that I already bought another trunk... now I just have to make more jewelry to fill it up! It would also be convenient to find a caravan to sell all of it out of. Someday, my friends. Oh, and I'm almost done photographing my latest store offerings. Here's a little sneak peak.

soon to be available here.

"Someday, Everything's Gonna Be Different...

2012-01-12T12:21:00.000-08:00

...when I paint my masterpiece". A collection of some of my favorite images, nomadic inspiration for my current hand crafted items. I always yearn to travel, to explore foreign lands with different cultures and ways of living. At heart I'm a homebody, so this vagabond woman is my muse, she takes me places I've never been, meets people I've never known, and collects treasures I'll someday find. She cares little about trivial things like full-time employment, cable television, and microwaves. The earth provides all these things, and what it doesn't provide she will trade for. This is why she will always be found wearing pounds of jewelry and exquisite embroidery. I hope to one day be as free as she is.

(apologies, i have no records of the sources of these but feel free to help if you know)

The Bird is the Word

2012-01-11T16:05:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot recently about capes. Not the practical, woolen kind you wear in the dead of winter to shield yourself from the elements, but the kind you would wear if you decided to become a super hero. Or, if your me, the kind you put on your dog for halloween every year.

One of my biggest inspiration in design is birds. I'm intrigued by the concept of flight, and being lightweight enough to float through the air and yet powerful enough to hunt small animals. This is why i use leather fringe, it reminds me of the way feathers move, and why I'm drawn to chiffons and tulle fabrics because they literally float in the air. I've been tossing around the idea of a chiffon cape in my mind, but it hasn't quite made it from tossing it around in my head to tossing it around on my shoulders.

So now i ask, why not wear a cape? Are we so sophisticated, so grown up that we can't continue this feeling of flight into more than just a halloween costume? Then along came Three Floor. Their look book is like, yeah, so what, we're just having fun. Their website was even more of a delight, colorful and relaxed clothes, but i wish they had this cape shirt in poppy red chiffon. Oh, excuse me, there's some chiffon and a bottle of red dye calling my name.

found via Tweet

and a few of my favorite pieces from the shop. Chiffon sleeveless trench? Neon lace trimmed tank? Fuzzy mini dress? Yes, yes, yes!

Beth Hoeckl

2012-01-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

Baltimore based artist Beth Hoeckl, found via Where the Lovely things Are

Eden Rock and Vegetales

2012-01-10T12:38:00.000-08:00

all images via Citizen K. Really inspired by the haunted garden feeling, and the big swirly font for both spreads. Colors always feel so much more vibrant against black, like in the morning after a rain. The dirt is pitch black, and the greens and oranges and reds of foliage seem as if they were collaged on top, they pop so bright.

Jump Into the Fire

2012-01-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

I feel like I'm drowning in all the things I plan to make. I do it to myself of course, I guess I like the feeling of my head being just above water, always looking up. You can see my new "things are looking up" style hang tag, above, with a few chunky earrings I've been working on.

More tassels? Yup, thats right. I'll have these available in a few stores in Souther California soon.

A little peak at the beginnings of my next collection, a patterned and colorful exploration of fabric textures. In case you haven't read about The Aquarians clothing here already, they are created from scrap fabrics, patterned and sewn by myself. More on this process and inspiration later... For now I've got some sewing to catch up on!

Birth of the Cool

2012-01-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

PAINTINGS BY BARKLEY HENDRICKS

All images via Nasher Gallery at Duke University. I think i may have shown this artist on my blog a few years back, but I was looking at some images from his 2009 show, Birth of the Cool, a collection of his works from 1964 until the present. The oil paintings are so classically realistic, yet the subjects and his style are incomparable.

These photos dont do the paintings justice, they are absolutely massive, some are larger than life. That last one, at just over 7'x5', almost completely fills your field of vision yet the tiniest details in the texture of the coat can still be recognized. If you ever get a chance to check out this collection in person, go there, and stay for hours.

The Golden Sun Appeared...

2012-01-06T11:47:00.000-08:00

I'll have to thank Ben for this discovery.... or maybe, re-discovery. Perfect LA weather for a Os Mutantes style weekend.

2012-01-06T10:34:00.000-08:00

Spent the past few evenings making a cornucopia of tassel necklaces and watching horror movies. This is what they are beginning to look like, and my fingertips are being worn down to the bone. Eventually I'll invest in some heavy duty pliers and stop using my fingers as such. Until then, Oh the horrors!

..and I can't wait for the weekend to come so i can spend all my time creating more jewelry and play with Sylvia (the new camera) in daylight hours! It. never. ends.

If the shoe fits...

2012-01-05T17:25:00.000-08:00

They made a mustard fringe top. Like the designer had a dream with me in it, and then made a shirt for me specifically. Thats how i feel, anyway. Close to reality I'm sure.

Sass and Bide Neck Piece, Sass and Bide Top, both at Pixie Market

Kid in Play

2012-01-05T12:37:00.000-08:00

Sometimes i get the urge to cut my hair, and have a curly little 'fro like i did a few years back. Then i see images like this, and remember why I started growing it out in the first place. I love the feminine power that seems to be held in long locks of hair.

I even love that they didn't even attempt to hide that she's got a ton of tracks of extentions. Love the look, but fake ain't really my jam, so just give me a few more years and I'll be rocking this au natural.

Chloe Moretz - photos by Alexi Hay, Styling by Jennifer Eymere, images via Jalouse, one of my favorite magazines, despite not being able to read a lick of it. I'm hoping the more I read it, the more French I'll pick up.

Buzz me Baby

2012-01-04T10:10:00.000-08:00

I've gotten a little backed up with showing my drawings on the blog, so get ready for a flood.

Florence and The Machine played on SNL with Florence in this dress. Love at first sight.

on a completely different note, i found this beautiful piece of work from 1915 at the thrift store recently, it's quite interesting for an almost 100 year old book.

Turns out it was published by one of the presidents of the New Thought Movement, which it seems is like the precursor to what is now the self help book movement. Its all about the power of attraction, minus all that materialistic "imagine yourself behind the wheen of your brrraaaaand neeeew caaaaar!" or "you deserve that diamond necklace!" Elizabeth Towne also published the Nautilis, a magazine associated with the movement. Love the covers of these, too.

Say No More

2012-01-02T10:56:00.000-08:00

This is one of those photo shoots I'll remember forever, I've looked at it so many times already its engraving itself on my brain. The colors and photo style bring me on a little mini vacation in my mind. Also, I just made a bunch of necklaces like the above fringe ones, andnow I'm thinking of layering the necklaces to get a really bold look. I'm trying to take my jewelry to the next level, you know, like Our Lady Guadalupe chestplates (see image #2). Or something a little more tame. Who knows.

NOAH via Fashion Gone Rogue. Photographer, Anouk Nitsche. stylist, Patrycja Juraszczyk.

UPDATE: here's the layered leather necklace look. These will be up in the shop later, I'll even be discounting the purchase of 2 as a set. Pardon my "thug life" face. I can't help it sometimes.

Start it up

2012-01-01T16:09:00.000-08:00

New year, new listings in the shop.

all of these available at christi jay + the aquarians

Keep Me Hangin' On

2011-12-31T11:21:00.000-08:00

Considering my track record with electronics, i thought it might be smart to invest in a camera bag. Except right now I've got way more time on my hands than money, so i just whipped one up out of some materials I had lying around the house. and by 'whipped one up' I mean spent hours going "why cant this %#^@ machine just do what i &*$# tell it to??" while breaking needle after mother loving needle. Patience really is a virtue. Honestly, it was worth every minute. I love Sylvia's new home.

Thats right. My camera's name is Sylvia.

Rather just hand over the cash? Scroll down for some beautiful options from etsy.

Just because its holding precious cargo does not mean it needs to be ugly, grey, or have sporty reflective piping. While I'm sure the gortex finished cases with all their aerodynamic features are great for professional photographers who are carrying their equipment around with them in rain, sleet, or snow, that just ain't me. A few below that fulfill both requirements: looking good AND super sturdy.

top left: Porteen Gear $125, right: Canter Bags $218, bottom left: Sizzle Strapz $549.99

...When You Came into My Life

2011-12-30T14:37:00.000-08:00

Finally, after years of careful planning and deliberation (i.e. avoiding the inevitable) I finally got a new camera. I would have put it off longer but when it comes to gift giving, electronics are kind of my mothers specialty. After 5 minutes of playing around with it though, I realized all the hype around quality cameras. Um, its because they are great. Really, really great. I mean, look at that soft focus portrait of Sue.

clockwise from top: Sue (Ben and I's pup), some framed photos and artwork of mine, Haley Ann's mini deer, cross stitch from 8 Limbs in Echo Park, diorama by Teresa Pilar Huerte, and my manicure, thanks to OPI samples at Sephora.

necklace soon to be available in my shop, my back patio, succulent closeup, and watching the sunset from my kitchen.

the sunset setting is one of my favorites, especially when you've got a highlighter pink striped sky. No better thing to come home to (although my holiday in Florida was full of amazing sunsets also).

Go back and get it

2011-12-26T14:47:00.000-08:00

Josephine Baker

Marsha Hunt

Pat Cleveland

Adgbani Darego

A concise collection of some beautiful women in history. These women helped (and are still helping) to let the world know - black is beautiful. Below is a Sankofa symbol, an West African Adinkra symbol that means literally go back and get it, as in learning from the past.

Where is Sleepy Darlings?

2011-12-24T12:41:00.001-08:00

She woke up and re-named her blog The Aquarians. Deal with it!

Long story short, after 2 1/2 years of a name I wasn't totally in love with to begin with, I've decided its time to start something new. It's still all my favorite artists and designers, DIY projects, and personal projects, just with a title that fits my work a little better. It's about creating unity within the creative community, a search for brotherhood (and sistahood), enlightenment, and peace through art and design.

I'm an Aquarian by birth, but I'm also really drawn to the idea of a new and enlightened age, moving on from the sometimes materialistic and selfish ways of our current lives (something I'm always having internal fights about). While the actual date of this age is under debate, gaining insight through its meaning is what is really important. Aquarius is most associated with concepts like humanism, philanthropy, and modernization, as well as freedom, nonconformity, and rebellion. I can dig it.

Altered Mood

2011-12-22T10:20:00.000-08:00

The Temptresss

The Sun Queen

The Dream Garden

I love making mood boards.

Double Sided

2011-12-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

Vivienne Strauss Collages available at The Double Sided Vivienne. With names like "He couldn't cut the mustard" how can you resist?

Peach, Pumpkin, Persimmon

2011-12-21T13:15:00.000-08:00

Whatever the shade of orange, it's all right in my book. The bastard child of yellow and red that was condemned for decades to reside only in old hook-yarn rugs, the print on your grandmothers chenille couch, or the velvet lining of that old suitcase.

Things are about to change. Pantone has named it's 2012 color of the year as none other than Tangerine Tango, a bright orange with a strong red hue. A delightful departure from last years so-sweet-it-made-you-vomit honeysuckle pink.

side note, OH wow, how badly do I need those shoes?? Actually, i pretty much would love to own all of this. Family, take note. Just kidding. Maybe not. UPDATE: those shoes are no longer for sale. ehem.

1. Leather Wrap Bracelet - A Cute Cute, $9
2. Necklace- Ginger Hallows, $32
3. Kisslock Billfold - The Vintage Suitcases, $9.99
4. Fur Trimmed Jacket - Divine Excess, $325
5. Flash Lightning Boots - Green CanyonRoad...
6. Birdy Skirt - Tansy Pool, $18.50
7. Beaded Eagle Necklace - Fidget Finds, $20
8. Hand Painted Scarf - Somewhere In Time Scarf, $15
9. Tangerine Tango, in full effect.

Body Amour

2011-12-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

Ann Tabor shot by Howard Grey, 1969.

Mummy, I want a python!

2011-12-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

Some recent drawings i did of jewelry designer Maria Francesca Pepe's Lookbook. I was so drawn in by the way the snakes integrate with her body, and the use of all black clothes to really showcase the jewelry. It's almost as though the jewelry itself were the clothing and the black just an extension of the female form.

Go take a look at her product catalogs, too. I love how she takes a concept and just runs with it. You can see the themes running through her collections for multiple seasons, the snake being a very clear continuation on a theme.

2011-12-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

Keeping in the vein of a DIY holiday season that doesn't cause credit debt, heres a fun, quick, project for a holiday party accessory, or a gift for a friend. I had all the materials lying around the house, but a quick trip to the craft store is all you need if you dont have these supplies (or, even better, just improvise!).

I had been looking for long metal bars to use in my jewelry,and when I found some old picture hanging mounts I knew they would be perfect. You can also put a clasp at the ends instead of the embroidery tie, i just thought this piece was begging for a little more color.

Freedom IS Free

2011-12-19T11:20:00.000-08:00

I've documented for you all the process of turning some low hanging branches into the cheapest of holiday decorations. I'm not very sappy (oh my god the puns never stop) or sentimental, but decorating a bundle of sticks and making it look like a Christmas tree got me really nostalgic and put me in a great mood.

Starting with some pine tree branches salvaged from the park across the street, we jammed the ends into our umbrella base, then pretty much tangled them up in enough rope to make it resemble something close to a tree shape. After further enforcing this glorified tumbleweed with a string of lights, we ran around the house grabbing trinkets and tying them to the tree. No better, or cheaper, way to light up the house with love.

I have fond memories of going out with my dad and finding the cheapest tree (always under $20) so I feel like I really made him proud with this one. Doesn't get much cheaper than free. **NOTE: It has been brought to my attention that my mother was the one who set the $20 limit on the Christmas tree, my dad was just following her orders. That almost makes it more fun of a story...**

2011-12-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

Usually I hear "glass miniatures" and think "lost and broken." Something about these adorable miniatures makes me re-consider.

Kiva Ford on Etsy.

Reverie

2011-12-16T09:53:00.000-08:00

God I love studio visits. The mess, the chaos, the trinkets, all an integral part of the creative process (except maybe the trinkets. that might be just me.) The Makers is a website found on Anthology, and am I glad I found it. Some images from the jewelry designer behind reverie's studio, from the website.

Makes me want to take over the rest of my living room with jewelry hooks. Want to see my studio? Go over to Lune Vintage for a tour! Heres a few images from her post of my workspace...

Babies on Fire

2011-12-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

God I love these photos. She's selling the purses, but i just can't help but think parades and marching bands. They are still really simple photos which do the classic shapes of the bag justice, but the costumes say "i know how to have fun!" By fun, I mean running around half naked and playing dress-up in your schools costume department. Which i highly suggest to you all. SABRINA TACH handbags on etsy.

Oh, and did i mention? "The tanneries used by Sabrina Tach have strict environmental policies. All of the leathers come from animals bred in free-range Uruguayan estancias, and are by-products of the meat industry." cool.

a few more babes from her shop.

Dead Supermodels

2011-12-12T12:11:00.000-08:00

Did a bunch of drawing this weekend, what better way to save money on a model than to draw her? So here it is, some of my jewelry on the infamous Donyale Luna. If you've never heard of her, look her up. While her real lineage is uncertain, she claims to be Afro-Egypitan, indigenous Mexican, Indonesian, Irish, and Native American, really a woman of the world (which i can clearly identify with). Unfortunately she passed at 33, but her face is pretty much etched into my brain by now. or sketched. tee hee.

"If there is anything in the world of high fashion more vulnerable to whim than clothes, it is the models who wear them. They seem to emerge from nowhere, sparkle brilliantly, then plunge into Stygian darkness,* the victims of too much deja vu. Now rising into ascendancy is a new heavenly body who, because of her striking singularity, promises to remain on high for many a season.

Donyale Luna, as she calls herself, is unquestionably the hottest model in Europe at the moment. She is only 20, a Negro, hails from Detroit, and is not to be missed..."

The Luna Year -Time Magazine, 1966

My mind has been blown

2011-12-10T09:26:00.000-08:00

Please allow me to introduce you to: The Metalepsis Project. from top, wood prints of e5, b2, and e3, a few pieces from the collection, and the collection map.

Paraphrasing is not my strong point, especially when it comes to jewelry of a fine art caliber, so I'll let the project speak for itself:

"The 2012 Metalepsis Projects collection is inspired by mid-century Scandinavian sensibilities in combining linear and curved geometries, and by the art and methodology of Sol Lewitt.

Often Lewitt’s works ... visually explore all methods of combining groups of modular geometries. Similarly, our collection comprises a series of cast bronze modular geometries that can be paired in an array of ways.

Each Metalepsis cast is un-finished, meaning that it retains the patina with which it emerges from the mold. This patina is wholly unique; even two castings of the same piece will have differing patinas. The patina will continue to develop slowly over time as the necklace encounters salt, oxygen, etc.

Necklaces are available in all combinations shown at left, though not all combinations have been photographed. 11" x 14" wood block prints are also available in all combinations shown."

the Metalepsis Project, Found via Dossier Journal, currently changing the way i think about creating.

We be illin'

2011-12-09T12:16:00.000-08:00

My boyfriend gave me cooties and now I'm stuck at home sick. These silk pajamas from Creatures of Comfort would be the perfect outfit for a moments like this. For today, I will continue to wear my blanket as pajamas.

Oh no she di-int!

2011-12-08T12:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, she did. A little lookbook preview... just posted a bunch of fun new handcrafted clothing in the store. Enjoy!

shop THE AQUARIANS by christi jay

A wise falcon hides its talons

2011-12-06T13:58:00.000-08:00

A collage including some of the drawings and paintings I've been working on. The peregrine falcon has probably one of the coolest in-flight-bird shots I've ever seen. It's structure is graphically appealing, and its bird of prey reputation makes for a really great source of inspiration.

From top:

perigrine falcon image: here, leather paintings done by me, talon necklace: made her think via bona drag, Balmain dress via style.com, kimono via Cult of Aphrodite on Etsy, Falcon drawing done by me, bird mask via Twilight and Filigree on Etsy, Girl via theblowup.com, girl with bird in center, she just kind of showed up on my harddrive. and I'm willing to bet thats not a falcon in her hands. Double sorry.

A few weeks ago, I saw Florence Welsch on SNL wearing that Balmain dress (right) and spent the rest of the evening looking for the dress. It's since managed to integrate itself into my sketches and leather painting, much to my delight. Soon I'll just get to drawing the dress...

2011-12-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

Alyssa Pheobus Mumtaz - Collage of fragments from discontinued Pakistani one rupee notes. found via Creatures of Comfort blog.

Then things got a little weird

2011-12-05T12:20:00.000-08:00

Amber Anderson by Simon Burstall for Elle France via Fashion Gone Rogue

Jam Fight in the Marmalade Room

2011-12-05T10:48:00.000-08:00

A weekend full of crafting and photographing! Here's some test shots for my lookbook I've been working on, I'm having a lot of fun playing with color and collage (and leather!).

Another massive project I've been working on is a clothing line called The Aquarians, one/two/three of a kind pieces made from factory scraps of fabric in floaty, roomy fits. The best part is they are going to be available at affordable prices! Here's a sneak at a few of the pieces...

back tag

Gilded Sparrow vest - velvet and leather

Little Wing dress - brown tulle

Scorpion Tank - brown tie dye

Mantis Dress - black velvet burnout

you get the drift. available by the end of this week (hopefully!!) I've been thinking of posting these on bigcartel instead of etsy. While there's no searchability on bigcartel, you have so much more control over the website. How much better does this look than etsy??

Seriously?

2011-12-02T18:09:00.001-08:00

seriously.

Dreamboat Annie

2011-11-30T10:58:00.000-08:00

I've been rocking out to a lot of Heart this past few weeks, so i finally broke down and purchased the record on etsy for a whopping $2. Its all the greatest parts of late 70's rock, guitar solos, folk influence, soulful vocals, jethro tull-style flute included, and sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson gots mad style. A little formulaic as a band, but they rock none the less.

Hey. Nice hair. Hello, 1982.

this song gets pretty real around 3:00. If you can't handle it, just fast forward.

This is where the flute comes in. Geting even realer.

Wildlife Goldmine

2011-11-29T11:31:00.000-08:00

Getting some DIY inspiration by unusually patterned animals.

clockwise from top left:

clover canyon photoshoot image, Kayu clutch via refinery 29, photo via ellen rogers, cosmic dye job via fashion canvas,chrysolina fastuosa beetle showing iridescence via rhamphotheca, octavia in dyed shirt photographed by thefblog, background image via tumblr (vague enough for ya?)

head wrap: nasir mazhar via thefblog, varushka in striped pantsuit, necklace via jamie spinello, coast garter snake via wikipedia, lizzie fortunado clutch via style.com, image via marian kihogo

necklace by shickimicki via olive green anna, erin wasson via tolovewithstuds, floral bra via fashion gone rogue, balmain clutch via style.com, moth via emjanda, and i totally forgot where that girl with the braid came from...

2011-11-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

Its Monday, so I'll let photos explain my weekend in reverse. Something like... thrift store, thrift store, leather store, pies entirely from scratch (Ben made the apple pie, i made the pumpkin pie with gingersnap crust. damn tasty.), beer, hard cider, thanksgiving dinner with the boyfriends parents, beer, brandy, rum, beer, thrift store. Oh, and a crap ton of sewing and leather slicing.

2011-11-26T14:56:00.000-08:00

shop christi jay

Shoppers Delight

2011-11-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

I present to you a collection of collages of mine inspired by our undying urge to consume (most specifically diamonds in this case, as you can see). In honor of the most hellish weekend ever, the one I would not leave the house for if given the choice, cartmageddon, if you will... whats that? why, yes, i am usually the only one who laughs at my own jokes.

its a slippery slope to get to them sparkles, missy...

how much does it take?

lastly, my favorite... i call this one 'like flies on s***'

While my agoraphobia keeps me well away from the places I'm supposed to be buying presents from, I'll be making my presents thank you very much (thanks mom, for making that a rule in our house!). I also urge you all to by handmade and local, these are the businesses that most need your help during the holiday season, the small businesses that can't afford to give you the deepest cost cuts are the ones that end up getting hurt. The less successful small businesses we have in our communities, the further allow corporations to run our lives. Its your choice, make it a good one!

Thank You Falettinme be mice elf

2011-11-23T12:07:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is never a holiday I have confusion about what to wear. My wardrobe is celebrating thanksgiving every day, its a veritable cornicopia of mustard, poppy, coriander, whiskey, cognac, yam orange, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, collard green... it keeps going.

Don't worry, I have plenty more meaningful things to be thankful for. For now, I present to you my 3-outfit-change options for the holiday. All involving luxury beanies, because what is more fun than a beanie priced way out of the range of most peoples income??

1. Alexander Wang beanie at farfetch.com, Illestevia sunnies via lagarconne.com, Charlotte Ronson vest at farfetch.com, laser cut shirt at pixiemarket.com, Gary Graham skirt at farfetch.com, curtain tights at hanselfrombasel.com, Esquivel waris boot from farfetch.com, Dries Van Noten gloves from farfetch.com

2. Kenzo beanie at farfetch.com, Karen Walker sunnies at lagarconne.com, Elizabeth and James coat at netaporter.com, Rag & Bone shirt at farfetch.com, Rodarte for Opening Ceremony skirt at farfetch.com,

3. Moncler fur hat from farfetch.com, Illestevia sunnies from lagarconne.com, Casmari blanket cape from farfetch.com, PROENZA SCHOULER dress from lagarconne.com, tights from hanselfrombasel.com, Lanvin wedge boots from farfetch.com

Crazy on You

2011-11-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

A little peak at the handmade clothing I've been working on for the past week or two. Still trying to figure out what I'm going to do with it all. There's more than this too, it's like a little factory in my house (and I'm sure Ben is just loving it) where you put in the fabric and spits out clothes.

All I can really say is, I went to the outlet fabric store, blacked out, and woke up an hour later walking to my car with three huge bags of fabric going "what have I DONE!" and decided that to make it right with my bank account, I'll probably have to sell these babies.

Don't fight it baby, feel it

2011-11-22T10:17:00.000-08:00

Beautiful conceptual collages from Lizzie Fortunado. The story is the web designer creates these for each collection of hers.

Found via Keep Feeling Fascination, a blog from the mastermind at kneeland co, a Los Angeles company that designers go to to source visual inspiration and design resources (dream job much?). She would clearly know a good collage, check out their home page. Excuse me, I'll need to go home, I just caught the collage bug...

RE-UP

2011-11-21T12:14:00.000-08:00

Getting inspiration for some art projects to do over the long weekend. Loving the stark white with black outline, especially on the craft paper up top.

Daphne Van Den Heuvel illustrations.

and how great are her displays for her collections?? I wish i had a window that faced the street, I'd have a constant fashion show like this.

Just knit already!

2011-11-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

In honor of the hours I'll be spending fixing my knitting machine this weekend... after about 6 months without use, i pulled it out, knitted a swatch, then BAM. it just. stops. knitting. Well, its manual so could never actually start knitting, but the part that does the knitting gets jammed. I've got some serious mechanical reparations to do before these shorts become mine. my mother suggested i do it with a glass of wine. I may need something stronger.

for more proof knit and crochet isn't just for grandma, check out Anna-Christina's post. Love all those images. Especially the shorts.

Clockwise from top left: Wool and the Gang sweater from Creatures of Comfort, navy singlet from Someone Else by Natalie Wood, Anthropologie tank, ivory tank from Someone Else by Natalie Wood, mason by Michelle Mason sweater at netaporter, Etoile Isabel Marant cardigan at netaporter, shorts from fuzzybazooke on etsy, metal mix sweater by duffy at net a porter.

MAKEOVER!

2011-11-18T10:56:00.000-08:00

My store got a lil make-over... Can I tell you how much I love makeovers? I used to watch home makeover shows as a child (god i must have really made my parents suffer with all that crafting and what not), and I'll watch shows like kitchen nightmares JUST for the restaurant makeover. Now i get to makeover my store whenever i want! If only i could take off all the etsy pre-sets...

Absolute Chaos

2011-11-17T10:32:00.000-08:00

and i love it.

Charlotte T by Andrew Yee for How to Spend It via Fashion Gone Rogue

In yo dreams!!

2011-11-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

The left says lets get down to business. and by business i mean music. The right says lets play. and by play i mean lounge around surrounded by floor pillows and candles and incense.... i feel like I've said that exact same thing before. Is this a recurring dream im having? Where instead of working like a dog I'm lounging in some fabulous house smoking opium and talking about the cosmos? Which would not actually be possible, because the minute i stop working, i fall asleep. and goodnight.

sunnies - karen walker at acrimony

jacket - pixie market

necklace - isabel marant at net a porter

ruffly cami - agent provocateur at net a porter

velvet trouser - acne at creatures of comfort

sell-my-car-to-afford-them shoes - nicholas kirkwood at luisaviaroma

thank you bag - cast of vices at acrimony

sunnies - karen walker at acrimony

necklace, jacket, and mustard cardigan all at pixie market

floral tank - girl by band of outsiders at net a porter

pants - spanish moss vintage

shoes - acne at creatures of comfort

bag - isabel marant at la garconne

Looking back

2011-11-16T12:15:00.000-08:00

Prada 2001, via keep feeling.

SHUT THE FRONT DOOR.

2011-11-16T11:50:00.000-08:00

'nuff said. eliza fernand, found via hey we made it.

My weekly dose

2011-11-14T11:18:00.000-08:00

EVIL TWIN 2nd Summer BY WAY OF FALLEN IDOLS via PLATINUM EVIL

SOMETHING ELSE by Natalie Wood via a coworker. Don't even think for a second that I'm not going to make that pantsuit, second down on the left. I'll do it. Watch out.

New Addition

2011-11-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

Last time I used a camera with film, I was in high school photography class and I developed it myself. Now I can't even figure out how to turn the flash off on this thing... and yes, i already tried the button that says flash.

so once I master my new Miranda, I'll go with something a little less convenient. This guy knows whats up.

Photo from the wall at Sunset Beer. (side note: if you live near the Echo Park area in LA, and you love a good beer but hate risking the purchase of a 6 pack on a beer you may not like, RUN to Sunset Beer right now. They sell singles of every yummy fancy delicious beer you can think of. Sorry kids, no tecate or PBR. Its like a DIY 6 pack!!)

FRI-DIY

2011-11-11T10:57:00.001-08:00

thought I'd share an easy DIY collar - and its easily customizable!

Adornment in Watercolor and Graphite

2011-11-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

watercolor/ mixed media painting

getting back in to pencil sketches... my, its been a long time!

Jewelry - Annie Costello Brown

2011-11-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite local jewelry designers, Echo Park based Annie Costello Brown makes beautifully bold jewelry that doesn't feel precious. I love how each piece feels like a found objects collage, but after seeing season after season, the method to the madness is quite evident.

a ton more in her shop

Earthly Desires

2011-11-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

Sometimes painting things cures the need to own something. Still waiting for the cure... Meanwhile imagining wearing this while running through rainbow fields of flowers, hosting dinner parties for 30 in the backyard by candlelight, ruling the world... you know. Dream life. See you there, caftan.

Painting by me, Topanga Canyon Mystic Caftan available at Spanish Moss.

Just One Look (thats all it took)

2011-11-09T10:35:00.000-08:00

Found a while ago on Net-a-porter, One Vintage is a line I'll always check back, they have crazy expensive items but they are worth every penny. Their jewels and purses are my favorite (huh, strange...) but their clothing is definitely something to be seen. For instance, this cowry shell maxi. No further questions your honor.

I've been watching too much law and order.

all photos from One Vintage Designs

Fresh From the Freezer

2011-11-08T10:18:00.000-08:00

That title is only funny to me because my heater went up in smoke on Sunday (quite literally), conveniently right before winter. So what you see below is essentially a fund-raiser for a new heater!

1. Mahogany Velvet Maxi - $28

2. Jagger Jacquard Bolero Jacket - $35

3. Marigold Leather Tassel - $35

4. Silver Eagle Leather Fringe Necklace - $50

5. Leopard Romper - $26

6. Vivienne Tam Lace Top - $26

7. Ivory Gauze Peasant Top - $22

8. Scarlet Crochet Cape Poncho - $22

Um um um um

2011-11-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

I'll be there.

Thanks Refinery 29 for the update.

Insta-weekend

2011-11-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

Why can't weekends be forever!

Did a little re-organizing of the supplies...

made a bunch of fun new stuff...

Rained on and off all weekend, me and the plants thoroughly enjoyed the moisture. The dog and cat, however, just complained.

Went grocery shopping. Still life at Cookbook LA.

all in all, a very creative weekend, uneventful in all ways except to the mind.

follow me on instagram: @christijay

Bustin' Loose

2011-11-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

A few more mini paintings, bustier tops inspired by this photo of Vonetta McGee, actress from such films as Shaft in Africa, Blacula, and even an appearance in Repo Man. She also happened to be in an 80's TV show called "Bustin' Loose" thankfully making this title relevant in more that just a crude way...

"Vonetta McGee was like a lot of actors and actresses at that time, like myself, Jim Brown, Richard Roundtree, Billy Dee Williams and Pam Grier, in that we had more talent than we were allowed to show because everything was perceived as a black project. Once they categorize you, your marketability becomes limited."

McGee was no fan of the "blaxploitation" label that was attached to many of the films featuring black casts in the '70s. That label, she told The Times in 1979, was used "like racism, so you don't have to think of the individual elements, just the whole. If you study propaganda, you understand how this works."

Excerpt from an LA Times article on her death by Dennis McLellan, quote in top paragraph from Fred Williamson.

Latest Acquisitions

2011-11-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

A few fun books I picked up on my way home from work yesterday. They all surpassed my expectations, and were under $10 (if not $5). Used books just have so much more character, and the older and more out of date they are the more exciting it is to immerse yourself in it.

"'Twas ever thus" was signed by the couple who wrote the forward, and is full of early 20th century Canadian folk art.

"Favorite Songs" is old enough to have the words "dark-ies are a-singing" used in the lyrics. It also has just about every song about america written before the 1950's.

"Photographing the nude" is full of beautiful, tasteful photos (clearly before the days of Terry Richardson), and some great tips for an art form that has almost been entirely replaced by digital.

The last one, the red cover, is apparently a 2008 portfolio/yearbook for Tisch School of Arts Photography and Imagery department or something. Whatever it is, its beautiful to look at, inside and out!

all from Stories Echo Park (photo via their website). A stones throw away and yet my first time in this place. I'll be back for you, stories...

Days of Heaven

2011-11-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

i needed something refreshingly light after all my halloweening. Now that i got that out of my system, back to the dark eyeliner and purple lipstick, tomorrow is Dios de los Muertos after all!!

photo credit: Angelika, Chelsea & Natalie by Harper Smith for Fashion Gone Rogue

Eye Candy

2011-11-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

Recently found these purses on etsy, and while they are completely out of my price range (which is $0-$10, because lets face it, if i want a purse that bad i should really just make it for myself or face not making rent) I'm still a little obsessed.

Missibaba's range has something for everyone. They have managed to mix my love for leather, bold colors and textures, and supporting local industry, in South Africa no less! Oh, and yes, that is an owl and a fish you see down there. Yes, that plaid is hand painted. That little olive bag? covered in geometric stitch lines. OK no more talking, just swoon.

Ride on Soul Sistah!

2011-10-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

In my standard Halloween fashion, I made my costume the afternoon before the party, and dressed up as 70's blaxploitation star Cleopatra Jones, a special agent assigned to crack down on drug trafficking. 6' 2" and all dynamite!

Yes, that is my real hair, made as curly as can be, which was surprisingly easy for me to brush out. As in, this is a possible everyday look for me. Well, except for all that makeup, which made me feel like a drag queen, see below. All in all, i felt like a badass, i got to carry a gun around with me (i.e. a hardware clamp with a toilet paper roll painted black on the end), and i made a really fun new necklace that no doubt will inspire a whole new series...

Fri-DIY night

2011-10-29T11:38:00.001-07:00

Something about living with your best friend and being able to listen to records and stay up all night that makes going out on a Friday night seem like a hassle. So me and B stayed in last night, him playing guitar and I finally got back into a little painting. Seriously, these things are like 4" x 5". pocket sized fo sho. Step one, then the finished product...

And the inspiration

A little spooky...

2011-10-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Lindsey Thornburg's collab with boutique Reformation, the best part about it (besides this badass lookbook) is that the clothes are all made from reclaimed materials AND made in the U.S. I'm sold.

via Refinery 29, this was shot in an abandoned religious theme park.

Tales of Endearment

2011-10-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

“I love hunting for clothes, books, records, things that have lived a life and have a story to tell,”

Clearly a woman after my own heart, my friend Alia was spotlighted in Tales of Endearment recently, and while this is one of many articles about her, I enjoyed this one the best. Especially the photos!

Sounds

2011-10-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

Found via Design Tonic, Nick Cave's sound suits with their more wearable counterpart. I still cant figure out who made the clothes, though. I want to know more about that sheer pink skirt...

Photo Credit: Ted Sabarese for City Mag

BLACKOUT

2011-10-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

New items in store:

1. Long Black Leather Necklace - $45

2. Bronze Leather Fringe Bone Necklace - $30

3. Vintage 50's Nylon Circle Skirt Slip - $20

4. Silver Crescent Leather Necklace - $40

5. Pyramid Crystal Leather Tassel Necklace - $35

6. 80's Metallic Roses Jacquard Shirt - $20

7. Black Gunmetal Chevrons Necklace - $45

8. Black Leather Motorcycle Jacket - $114

2011-10-25T10:15:00.000-07:00

Some images from a recent work trip thrifting in Ventura. Some highlights - a vintage Olympus PEN camera that i now get to regret not buying for as long as i have that photo, and a mini book on "Corporations: How to Form and How to Run Them." Its that easy!

How did you spend your weekend?

2011-10-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

I apparently just wasted my time, because this is what i should have been doing. Just kidding, I worked my butt off trying to get some new items in the store this week. Lots of new items. Stay tuned...
alphabet T's by Hiroaki Ohya (via Dark Victory) (via an ambitious project collapsing)

Black Magic Woman

2011-10-21T14:47:00.000-07:00

Sneak peak of the vintage I'll be adding to the store... Thanks to Mekenzie for being a spooky creature of the night, and bringing me beer.

Alligator Wine

2011-10-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Take the blood out of an alligator
Take the left eye out a fish
Take the skin off of a frog
and mix it all up in a dish

Add a cup of green swamp water
And then count from one to nine
Spill over your left shoulder
You got alligator wine

Screamin' Jay Hawkins is right up there with Jimi Hendrix and Eyrkah Badu as far as my style influences go, and his music just makes it better. Every time halloween comes around, I get back in the mood for his voo doo blues. A smoking skull on a stick, candles, and a lot of howling and grunting, this guy was really an original at his time. He's toured with The Clash, opened for The Rolling Stones, and collaborated with The Fuzztones. His original recording of "I put a spell on you" was banned by the radio in some areas, which always adds to the allure. Clearly an influence for any artist with a dark side.

Sweet, Soft, and a little Strange

2011-10-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

Suno Spring 2012. runway photos from style.com.

playing with feathers and flowers.

Mama can't dance and Daddy don't rock and roll

2011-10-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

all photos from http://mikepiscitelli.com/

If i could turn back time

2011-10-17T13:38:00.001-07:00

I'd make it Saturday morning again. I miss you, kitchen table...

The inner workings...

2011-10-14T17:34:00.001-07:00

2011-10-13T15:24:00.000-07:00

Just because you can't afford it, doesn't mean you can't play dress up! Can i just point out the fuzzy gloves in the 2nd look... just let the thought roll around in your head a little while.

1st look - hat, wings + horns at shopacrimony.com, sunnies super by retrosuperfuture at gargyle.com, necklace by jensen conroy at mohawkgeneralstore.com, horace faux fur top at pixiemarket.com, hungry eyes skirt at gorman.com.au, burberry prorsum jacket at netaporter.com, tights hansel from basel.

2nd look - hat at pixiemarket.com, sunnies karen walker at gargyle.com, fashion is for losers APC shirt, mih jeans silk button up at netaporter.com, fuzzy jacket zero +maria cornejo at lagarconne.com, gloves bless cheers at creaturesofcomfort.us, bag kayu via refinery29.com, pantsuit martin lamothe at pixiemarket.com

2011-10-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

i miss coming home to this sparkle at my desk in the afternoon... come back, evening sun!

Stone Free

2011-10-12T12:44:00.000-07:00

Some feet I painted this weekend, my camera has been getting worse and worse at focusing, so don't mind the blurriness. I love the look of Indian anklets, pajeb, and how elaborate they can get.

Love is the Drug

2011-10-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Tati Cotliar and Yuri Pleskun shot by Jason Kibbler. via Fashion Gone Rogue.

love the energy in these shots

Happy Birthday!

2011-10-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

Love you and miss you Dad!