DIY: Strappy Sandal Fabric Wrap
Variety is the spice of life… or at least that’s what Grandma use to say! I do believe that a mini makeover the the perfect way to add a little variety to your shoe collection. A fabric wrap is a great way to spice up your Summer strappy sandal. I think of this project as the turban wrap for shoes.
Materials: Strappy Sandals (Shelia available at Sole Society), Fabric, Double Stick Tape, Scissors
Cut your fabric into a rectangular strip about 2 feet long
Place your fabric around your shoe and tie it in a knot
Wrap the fabric around the shoe
Tuck the ends of the fabric to the inside of the shoe and use double-sided tape to secure the ends. For a more permanent solution., secure the ends with glue.
Shirt: Vintage Liz Claiborne | Skirt: Express |Bag: Vintage | Shoes: Sole Society Shelia
I wanted to play matchy-matchy so I used an old scarf that matched my shirt to wrap my shoes. The options for this project are endless! Solid fabric, printed fabric and so on and so on. It’s like back in the day when you would coordinate your hair scrunchy with your outfit…don’t act like I’m the only person that did that!
A Special Note From Kristen: I know I cut up a circa ’86 Liz Claiborne scarf, but don’t worry this is the most action this scarf has seen in years! I salvaged the shirt/scarf combo from my Mom’s closet years ago and have NEVER worn either of them. Thank goodness for project because now the ’86 LC is finally getting some attention! You however do not have to cut up Mom’s scarf. A fun fabric will work just fine for this project.
DIY: Fabric Covered Clay Pot
Spring has sprung and it’s time think about the details of my 2013 garden. I’m a little limited in my garden options since I live in an apartment, but that doesn’t mean I can’t cultivate a cool and colorful floral outdoor space. My plan is to use post to plant a few herbs, succulents and rose bushes. Since my plants will sit on my patio in clay pots, I really wanted to make the pots special. I headed over to Pinterest for a little inspiration (of course) and found that Mod Podging fabric to pots was a thing! Check out this super chic and easy project. Pick your favorite fabric and truly make this project your own!
Materials: Clay Pot, Fabric, Mod Podge, Brush, Scissors
Cut a piece of fabric that is the length of your pot and a inch taller than your pot. You’ll need a little extra to tuck the fabric over and under your pot.
Cover your pot with a coat of Mod Podge
Wrap your fabric around your pot. Be sure there are no air bubbles under your fabric.
Tuck the ends of the fabric under the bottom of your pot and over the top of your pot. Apply a coat of Mod Podge to the top of your fabric to seal it in place.
Find your favorite Spring flowers and plant them in your new pot.
DIY: Jeweled Clutch
A jeweled clutch is the perfect accessory for almost any outfit. It will dress up a flirty sundress or bring the glitz to your cocktail attire. I picked up a silver metallic basic box clutch (via Kate Young for Target) a few weeks ago and wanted to give it a little make over before my next outing.
Materials: Clutch (here), A Necklace (or other statement jewelry pieces), Glue
Can we talk about the Kate Young for Target collection for a second?! Hands done one of my favorite Target collaborations as of late. It’s all about the little accents and the details. The jumpsuit is and obvious winner! And I’m loving this bodysuit (here) and these booties (here). The BEST part is the entire collection is that it’s now 30% off in stores. I know you’re probably like, “Girl that collabo has been out for awhile.” Yes I know! But I’ve learned to wait a few weeks for the sale price before I shop these goodies. I’m now the proud owner of this dress, this dress and this dress! Where will I wear them to? Who knows, but the were on sale!!!
Now back to your regularly scheduled DIY project…
Use a pair of pliers to remove any access chain or findings from your jewelry.
Glue your jewelry pieces directly to your clutch and allow a little time to dry.
The makings of a perfect night out: a jeweled clutch, a Summer scent, statement earrings, MAC eyeliner, Rimmel London mascara, L’Oreal ‘Pink Plush’ lipstick and Aretha Franklin on Pandora
VIDEO: DIY Sequin ‘N Stripes Tank Top + My Mom
My Mom and I have a very special relationship. She’s my best friend! We chat a few times a day and now that she’s learned how to send text messages on her flip phone (she’s #TeamFlipPhone for life) she’s always sending me pictures of DIY “inspiration” pics that I should to make for her. She treats my blog like the Spiegel Catalog… she sees something she likes, picks up the phone and places her order!
In honor of Mother’s Day, I figured I would assist my Mom with her first, ever DIY project. Together we crafted a Marc Jacobs inspired sequin and stripe top!
Are you making anything for your Mom this Mother’s Day?
Please don’t forget to like the video, subscribe to the channel and share it with a friend… or Mom!
Happy Mother’s Day!
Video and photos by Christina Hoang
Celebrating Cinco De Mayo With The Perfect Strawberry Margarita
Happy Cinco de Mayo!! Margaritas are a festive and delicious Cinco de Mayo treat. Today is the perfect day to taste test HonestlyYum’s “perfect margarita” recipe, but with a sweet strawberry twist. Plus, with the cost of these LA cocktails (my favorite margarita in the city cost $18 because the restaurant now puts it in a fancy pineapple cup O_o) it’s time I stepped up my DIY delicious beverage skills.
Ingredients: Strawberries, Tequila, Triple Sec, Simple Sugar, Lime Juice
Squeeze 1 oz of fresh lime juice
Now for my favorite part… muddle 2 fresh strawberries. Muddle is fancy for smash ‘em up
In a cocktail shaker add 2 oz tequila, 1/2 oz triple sec, 1 oz lime juice, 1/4 oz simple syrup, your muddled strawberries, a few ice cubes. Shake vigorously (…while listening to this).
Pour into a sugar-rimmed glass, garnish with a strawberry and party on!
{Substitute alcohol with Sprite for a non-alcoholic treat & always remember to enjoy responsibly}
Fashion Friday: Summer Hat Swag
No.1 Wide Brim | No.2 Bucket | No.3 Florals | No.4 Color Blocked | No. 5 Fringe | No.6 Neon Visor | No.7 Striped | No.8 Snapback
In honor of this weekends Kentucky Derby (aka the Oscars for hat fashions), here are a few of my under $50 faves to add to your Summer collection.
VIDEO: DIY Embellished Headband
Next Friday Leo Dicaprio and friends release their version of The Great Gatsby. I am BEYOND excited about this movie. The Great Gatsby one of my favorite books and I’m looking forward to seeing this movie remake. I’m looking forward to seeing all the fashions! The 1920′s flapper style was so glamorous and inspirational. Drop waists, fur shawls and over the top embellished headpieces.
Enjoy this Gatsby inspired embellished headband video and don’t forget to subscribe to the GNG YouTube channel (here).
DIY: Tiered Mirror Cupcake Stand
My 30th birthday is 3 months away and party planning is in full effect (aka I’m already thinking about cupcakes!). I have no theme, no location, but I do know that my cupcakes will be resting on a beveled tiered mirror cupcake stand. Priorities!!!!! This project is so simple, so chic and the perfect addition to any party decor.
Materials: Beveled Mirrors (available at Michael’s) in 3 different sizes, Candle Holders (I scored these at $1 store but they’re also available at Target), Glue
Apply glue to the bottom and top of your candle stick holder
Starting with your largest mirror, place the candle holder in center of your mirror and allow the glue time to dry
Then, continue to stack your mirrors until your stand is the perfect height.
Yummy cupcakes!!!!
I also love the idea of this being a tiered jewelry stand. My girl Geneva from A Pair And A Spare made an adorable porcelain jewelry stand (here), but I think a mirrored one would be fun too!
DIY Video: Glitter High Top Sneakers
Miu Miu and Jimmy Choo... I’m currently obsessing over glitter high tops sneakers. I’m also obsessing over paying my rent on time, so until I can afford to drop cash on kicks AND pay rent at the same time… this glitter sneaker DIY tutorial will have to do! Enjoy
Don’t forget to subscribe to the GNG YouTube channel. There’s something MAJOR in the works and I know you won’t want to miss out on the fab news!!! SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
DIY: Coin ‘N Rhinestone Pendant Necklace
My apologies in advance because this tutorial is totally selfish! It has nothing to do with a current fashion trends or celeb inspo, but this project has been on my DIY “to-do” list for almost two years. Now I know I’m not the only one with a DIY “to-do” list… okay!
Two Summers ago, my Mom and I took the most amazing Mother/ Daughter European vacation. We spent a week in Paris then took the train and spent a week in London. I brought home with me some European and English currency. The English pence has Queen Elizabeth on it and reminded me of the Chanel coin. I thought turning my pence into a pendant necklace would make the perfect souvenir.
London Town / Summer 2011!
Materials: A Coin, Rhinestone Cupchain, Chain, Glue, A Drill
So the biggest obstacle to this project (and probably the reason it’s taken me 2 years to finish it) is figuring out how to get a hole in the coin. Of course I YouTubed it and found tons of videos showing how easy it is to drill a hole in a coin. Now here comes the full disclosure… while I was in the hardware store looking the perfect size drill bit, the sales associate offered to drill the hole for me. Hmmmm what’s a girl to do? Should I be a true DIYer, purchase the $3 bit and actually do it myself? Or should I take the nice man up on his offer and not break a sweat? Needless to say 60 seconds later I left the hardware store with a hole in my coin!
The process was however really easy and absolutely one I could have done at home. Just use a pencil to mark your hole, place the coin on a block of wood and using the correct drill bit (ask your local hardware store professionals for their advice) drill a hole through your coin. Or you could pull a Kristen and kindly ask the nice associate working at your local hardware store or key making place to do it for you. #DIFM (#DoItForMe)
Then, use a strong hold glue to glue your rhinestone cupchain around your coin.
Slip the chain through your coin and enjoy your pendant necklace.
Now I’ll always have a little piece of my London trip with me! This project is a great way to remember that perfect Summer vacation and can be done with any coin. Next I’ll be bringing it back stateside and working my magic on a silver dollar. #LadyLibertyRealness
VIDEO: DIY Matte Black Accessories
I’m NOT a fan of those matte black cars I see driving on the streets of Los Angeles (I mean why would you paint your $200,000 Masarati matte black?) but I am a fan of matte back jewelry! Special shout out to GNG reader Noa for also being inspired by matte black and for sharing her inspiration with me! #SharingIsCaring
It seems like last year I was spraying everything neon (here and here), but this year it’s gonna be ALL (matte) BLACK EVERYTHING! I hope you enjoy the video and please don’t forget to subscribe to the GNG YouTube channel.
Oh and if you ever see a cool DIY inspiration pic and want to share, feel free to FB or tweet it to me. I wanna see too!!!!
DIY: Stud Trim Embellished Pump
Sole Society teamed up actress Julianne Hough and together produced a collection of fun and fashionable shoes. The moment I laid my eyes on these minty pumps I knew I wanted to give them a Glitter ‘N Glue make over. I love the silhouette of this pump plus the color is girly and perfect for the season. I thought a studded embellishment would be the perfect way to add a little flare to this ultra feminine shoe.
Materials: Sole Society Giselle Pump , Stud Trim, Scissors, Glue
Cut your stud trim into two equal parts.
Fold your trim in half and glue it together to secure.
Glue your trim directly to your pump.
TIP: If you’re looking for a less permanent option, glue your trim to a shoe clip.
Use a clip to hold your trim embellishment in place while the glue sets.
This project was brought to you courtesy of the fab folks at Sole Society
DIY: Decorative Door Knob Wine Cork
While thrift shopping in Palms Springs this weekend I purchased a few fancy glass liquor containers (here). They’re very “Mad Men” if you will, but since I’m not much of a hard liquor drinker I was trying to figure out what else to fill them with. I’m more of a wine lover but that doesn’t mean the top of my wine bottles can be fancy either. This project is simple and makes the perfect gift.
Uncork your favorite bottle of wine.
Using the hole the bottle opener made in your cork, screw your door knob into place.
TIP: This might take a little effort so if need be use a pair of plyers to hold the knob in place and use your other hand to screw on the cork.
Now if for whatever reason you happen to not drink the entire bottle in one sitting (lol kidding obviously) you have a chic and glamorous way to recork your bottle and keep your wine fresh!
PS: In case you’re wondering Chateau St. Michelle (CSM to all the cool kids) is one of my favorite wines in the entire world! No lie, it’s so delicious (and they’re NOT paying me to say this either). It can be purchased at most local grocery stores ($6.99 with my Pavillions card) AND is often on the menu at some ritzy restaurants, so you seem real classy when you order it. If you haven’t yet experience the majesty that is CSM it’s time you get with the program. Try their riesling… you’ll love it! Enjoy responsibly… and by responsibly I mean at home, in your fanciest robe while watching reruns of the Golden Girls, Designing Women or some fab show like that!
Fashion Friday: Summer Sunnies Under $50
No.1 Stripes | No.2 Tropical Print | No.3 Metallic | No.4 Colorful Bling | No.5 Teal And Tortoise | No.6 Bold Shapes | No.7 The Dwayne Wayne’s | No.8 Graphic Prints | No.9 Tribal | No.10 Red
I’m heading to Palm Springs this weekend to participate in a few Coachella festivities. The Coachella music festival seems to be the official Summer kick off here in LA. Yes, with 90 degree weather we’re skipping Spring out here and headed straight for Summer! It’s time to update my Summer shades collection with a few inexpensive, yet fun designs I’m adding to my wishlist.
DIY: Ombre Straw Hat
Last year I was inspired by Mr Karl Lagerfeld (here) to pulled out my Rit Dye and ombre a wide brim straw hat. Click here to see last years post. This weekend I’m heading to Coachella (yes honey… this should be interesting) and I thought it was time to update this look with a new color for the season. I hope you enjoy this little how to video.
For all the latest Glitter ‘N Glue DIY video fun please subscribe the YouTube channel!
DIY: Lucite And Neon Knotted Necklace
Last weekend I attended the Lucky FABB cocktail party. While I was chatting with a friend a uber fashionable blogger walked by wearing a fab lucite and neon orange tread necklace. Before I had a chance to ask her where it was from or get my camera out to snap a pic, she was gone. In other news, I’d make the worst paparazzi EVER!
I’ve been seeing these type necklaces pop up all over the place lately. While I may not have been able to get any details about her necklace, I just knew I’d have to make one of my very own.
Materials: Lucite Beads, Neon Thread, A Needle
Thread your neon thread on your needle
TIP: Lucite beads can be purchased at your local bead store. However, I used the beads from an H&M necklace I’d purchased a few months back. #MakeItWork
Double knot your thread 3-4 inches from the end and start threading.
Place our beads onto your thread, knotting the thread between each bead.
Finish your necklace off by double knotting the end. To wear, tie the necklace around your neck.
DIY: Framed Fish Tank
I’ve been wanting to get a pet for some time now. I figured a fish would be a great starter pet! Plus a colorful Betta is a great and inexpensive way to add a little color to a room without pulling out the paint brush. I wanted a really decorative tank for my fish to live in. Since I always feel like I’m in an art museum when I stare at my Betta, I thought framing the tank would be a fun and creative idea to display my new moving art piece.
Materials: Rectangular Tank, Picture Frame, Mounting Tape, Aquarium Rocks, Aquarium Decor
Remove the back of your frame and apply your mounting tape.
Tip: Your picture frame should be the same size as your tank. A rectangular vase that you find at your local craft or floral store will make a great tank. Just be sure it’s at lease 2 -3 inches deep to give your fish wiggle room.
Mount the frame to your tank.
Decorate the inside of your tank with rocks, greenery or whatever aquatic decor that catches your eye. Remember this is the “picture” that will be visible in your frame so have fun with it!
My new fish really seems to be enjoying his new home. It’s bigger than that little bowl he’s been living in for the past few weeks and the plastic plant is quickly becoming his new BFF! Now it’s time to name him…
What should I name my new fish? If it were up to me I’d name him Elton, but thank goodness it’s not… I’m leaving it up to you guys! Leave any name suggestions in the comment section below and I’ll pick my favorite. If your name is chosen I’ll send you a little gift in appreciation! xo
Fashion Friday: Spring Break
No.1 Varsity Jacket | No.2 Personalized Letter | No.3 Haute Pencil Skirt | No.4 Graphic Tank | No.5 Colorful Earrings | No.6 Neon Satchel | No.7 Mesh Bootie
Is it just me or do you too have a wardrobe “uniform”? You know, that go to outfit throw on when you don’t have much time before you need to leave the house?! Well lately my go to has my personalized varsity jacket and a pencil skirt. For day, I pair it with an oversized toted and some cool sandals (like these). At night, I dress it up with a heel or a bootie. I’m loving the letterman jacket (as we call is down South) because it takes just a few seconds to personalize one with your initial. Stylish, crafty and chic!
DIY: Studded Skinny Cuff
I’m starting to notice these skinny cuff /bracelets thingys appearing all over the place. This weekend I obsessed over my friend Alice’s Giles & Brother Skinny Railroad Spike Cuff (here). These skinny cuffs are the perfect addition to my collection of all gold everything arm party (<- are people still even using that word?!?).
This project is chic, super easy and you can make an entire arm full for just a few bucks. To complete this project just follow this simple DIY equation: earring + earring = bracelet!
Materials: Hoop Earrings, Earring Studs, Glue, Nippers
Use your nippers to remove the findings on the hoop earring.
Tip: Wider hoops work better that skinny ones. I purchased these from Forever 21 (here), but if you can’t get your hands on a pair try using a light metal bracelet or simple bend a thick wire to fit around your wrist.
Repeat the process and remove the findings on the studs. Be sure the back of the earring is as flat a possible.
Use the glue to apply the studs to the end of the hoop earring. Allow time to dry.
Fashion Friday: Tango Tropics
No.1 Tangerine Dress ($44) | No.2 Stackable Rings ($37.50)| No.3 Heeled Sandal | No.4 Lioness Necklace ($30) | No.5 Tiger Eye Ring ($15) | No.6 Tropical Clutch ($45) | No.7 Winged Sunnies ($15)
I’m not sure which I’ll purchase first… the tangerine fishtail dress or the lion pendant necklace. So many fab fashion finds under $50.
DIY: Decorative Glittered Easter Eggs
Blame Pinterest! I think that’s how I’m going to start all of my projects from now on… blame Pinterest! I’m usually not excited about Holiday themed crafts, until I log onto Pinterest. This week my timeline is full of creative and inspiring Easter egg projects. I came across a glittered egg tutorial from the one and only Ms. Martha Stewart (here) and I just couldn’t resist.
Decorating eggs totally takes me back to my Easter egg hunting days. Seriously, 6 year old Kristen was the QUEEN of the Easter hunts. I always walked away with the most eggs. These glitter eggs are perfect for the “grown people” hunt I will now be having this Sunday!
First, boil your eggs
Tip: Use plastic or wood eggs if you plan on keeping these decorations for next year
Martha Stewart glitter puts a smile on my face… a dent in my wallet, but a smile on my face! The array of different colors are so gorgeous.
Edible glitter and food glue is also a great alternative if you’re worried about kids (or adults who act like kids) eating the glitter.
Apply a thin layer of glue (Mod Podge will do) to the shell of your egg
Then, add your glitter
The golden egg!
Click here to check out more creative egg decorating ideas on my Pinterest page. #BlamePinterest
DIY: Framed Fabric Inspiration Board
Don’t get me wrong Pinterest is a good time, but my inner magazine junkie gets a real thrill from physically ripping out those glossie pages and pinning them on a real life inspiration board. I like having a board in my work space that is bright, colorful and inspires me to be creative. Obviously a regular ole cork bulletin board just won’t do! This floral fabric covered frame board is just want I needed to decorate my space. And the best part is that it doubles as wall art!
Materials: A Frame, Fabric, Paint, Cardboard, Scissors, Stapler
Apply a coat of paint to touch up or change the color of your frame
Trace the back of your frame onto cardboard and use scissors to cut out your shape
Note: I used a cardboard display board as my base. It reminded me of my 4th grade Science project!
Cover the cardboard with your favorite fabric, pulling it as tight as possible and stapling it to the backside
Place the fabric covered board in the frame and hang it on the wall.
Use metallic pins to dress up your inspiration board
Real life pinning!
Earring studs also make glamorous pins
FASHION FRIDAY: Spring Fling
Brocade Jacket $50| Floral Crew $16| Brocade Pant $34| Metallic Oxfords $45| Crystal Earrings $13
Because I know my glam readers love the glitter just as much as y’all do the glue, here are a few fab fashion finds under $50 just in time for Spring. I mean metallic oxfords?!?!? YES PLEASE!!!!! The floral top is Joe Fresh and I’m loving their entire collection for JCPenney’s. There is lots of fun to be had for under $50 like this… and these… oh and this. Enjoy!
Photo by Vince Trupsin the great
DIY: Sequin Cap Toe Flats
Comfy flats are a necessity in every girls wardrobe, but just because basic doesn’t be they have to be boring. Make your flats sparkle by adding a few sequins to them.
Materials: Flats (Kami flats available at Sole Society), Sequins, Tacky Glue, Tweezers
SEQUINS!
Using your tweezers, apply a small amount of glue to the back of your sequin and add the sequin to your shoe. Start at the tip of your flat and work our way out. Allow at least an hour for the glue to dry before you wear them.
My sequin flats perfectly compliment my new red haute Sole Society handbag. In case you missed the announcement on my Instagram, Sole Society now has a collection of hangbags. YES HONEY! SS is quickly becoming my one stop shop for accessories. Checkout their entire collection here. They’re all leather and gorg! They’ll be releasing a new collection of bags next month, some a lower price point. I can’t wait to see them!!!!!!!!!!
Kami flats fabulously provided (here) by Sole Society #SoleSocieDIY
