3 Indie Shops That Get It Right

For a very long time, I have preferred buying from smaller independent brands over huge, mass producing chains. I've worked for an independent retailer for 7 years now and doing so has only made me love little boutiques all the more.

Why buy from small shops/independents? In this day and age, I think it makes sense to be fussy about who is deserving of your money and support. The high street is fun, but original, creative and experience-orientated it usually is not. I love independent shops as you are far more likely to get good service, innovative pieces and a truly personal touch.

Today's roundup of indie shops are all online (some of my faves aren't, but if you fancy hearing about them in another post I am happy to oblige!) Please do feel free to give them a gander and let me know of any independent shops you are obsessed with!

 

TEA AND KATE - UK

My most recent addiction. Every morning, I kid you not, I wake up and check the New Arrivals page as I am deeply in love with Kate's fantastic taste. Brands I've heard of (Rifle Paper Co., Livework and Secret Holiday Co.) bump heads with plenty I've yet to sink my teeth into. Beautifully curated with dreamy homeware, stationery and gift ideas.
On my wishlist: Rifle Co. Weekly Planner, Danish Wall Shelf, Vintage Scissors

ANOMIE - US

Chelsea of ChelseaWears clearly has the greatest taste of just about any human ever, as everything on Anomie is to die for. You would be amazed how many trends her lovely little store has sparked and it is no wonder: designer home and fashion brands are stylishly displayed and perfectly chosen. I regularly consider going bankrupt while browsing this site.
On my wishlist: Everything. Specifically, Base Range Lady Bra, Opal Pip Ring, Pommes Frites Summer Breeze Candle

A GIRL NAMED LENEY - US

I've been following Leney's beautiful blog for a while now (it recently got the most stunning facelift, get ready to have the happiest browsing sesh of your life) and the last few weeks have seen me yearning to own each and every beautiful knitwear piece in her lovely shop. I just love the idea of owning something made by someone I can put a face to; it really makes a piece feel more personal. If you love gorgeous and well designed knits, she has got something for you.
On my wishlist: Knit Crop Top Sweater, Explorers Club Cowl, Nomad Mittens

So gang, what do you think? Are you choosing to buy from indie shops (or has this post inspired you to look for some?!) Let me know of any that you are loving at the moment down in the comments, you gorgeous people!

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DIY: Inspirational Quote Jar + Download!

If you're looking for a way to add some inspiration to your morning, this DIY is definitely for you!

The girls and I have had a quote jar in the kitchen since January and I have really looked forward to opening a quote each morning. It's super simple to make, but all things are more fun in video montage form so I filmed the process for you anyway:

I've made you a PDF with some quotes to get you started - simply print out, cut up and add to your jar! If you are after more to add later, Brainy Quote is a great resource; my favourite authors are Gandhi, Oscar Wilde and Audrey Hepburn.

Will you guys be making your own jars? What do you do for some daily inspiration? Let me know in the comments as always!

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Lessons Learnt From Knitting

This year has seen me fall hard and fast for knitting, something I had tried as a child but not really got into beyond a few weeks.

So far I have made some very questionable phone cases and I just finished a navy blue snood, which is ginormous but something I am very proud of.

If you have yet to pick up those needles, or have learnt previously but have forgotten its majesty, this post is for you!

PATIENCE IS KEY

I made more mistakes than I can count making my snood, but thankfully knitting errors (certainly the ones I have made!) are reversible and it was actually super satisfying to go back and find you've sorted your mistake.

KNITTING IS EXPENSIVE...

I bought four skeins of this wool for my snood and some 10mm wooden needles and all together they clocked in at about £30-35 pounds. I definitely didn't think it would be that expensive when I started, but...

...BUT IT IS WORTH IT

The simple act of knitting is an incredibly calming one and I have really enjoyed doing so as a way to switch off my mind at night. I have also realised that if I wanted to buy a handmade snood from 100% wool of this size, it would definitely cost more than my materials, which is something!

IT'S CHANGED HOW I SEE FASHION

It's fascinating; I never used to see fashion as anything but fun, but now I am also obsessed with the quality of a garment, what it is made with, where it is from and how long it will last. I'm definitely on the hunt for folks that make and sell their own pieces, so shout if there are any on your radar!

I HAVE A LOT TO LEARN

I am honestly not sure how to progress from where I am at as I can knit a couple of basic stitches, cast on and off, but I am clueless as to reading a pattern and what new stitches I should be mastering. Any guidance you guys have would be amazing on this one! Also listening to the Woolful Podcast has been amazingly inspiring, I highly recommend if you are a knitter of any level.

Have you guys ever bust out the knitting needles? If you have, what advice would you share?

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