style icons {darling, creative Bree}

Bree is one of the most creative girls I know.
Her blog is so inspiring to me.
You see, Bree sews beyond belief. {jealous!}
I never wanted to be good at sewing, until I started reading her darling blog.
Not only is she a rockstar at sewing...
She is a wonderful wife to Bryce (who grew up just right around the corner from me)...
She is an amazing decorater....
And she is a sweet sweet person.
I am honored to have her as a friend.
I am featuring her today, because she is so fashionable and beautiful...AND because she creates what she wears! How inspiring!

Without further ado, here is Bree!

Q. I feel like sewing is a lost art. What are some of the benefits of sewing your own clothes?

Good question! There is so much satisfaction that comes when you are able to create something on your own. You can apply that to sewing, decorating, photography, art…you name it! It’s also nice to be able to make something the way you want it. Think about it, a designer will make a piece in what… 4 or 5 sizes? Well how many different body types are there? Millions! When YOU make it, you fit it to you and only you! I love that.


Q. You have some seriously awesome sewing skills, who taught you to sew, and how long did it take for you to master your skills?

My mom put me and my sister in sewing lessons when I was about 10. My cousins also took, so once a week we would all carpool into Mesa and sew away! At the end of the year there was a big fashion show and we had the opportunity to model what we made. I am so grateful my mom saw the need for that skill in our lives. You’re right, sewing has become a lost art, and if it weren’t for her I don’t think I would have realized the importance of it. All through high school I’d do little sewing projects, like putting straps on a prom dress, or altering shirts. I also worked at a bridal shop and learned to do custom beading on dresses. But until recently, I lost much of what I learned. My husband got me a sewing machine this last Christmas, so I’ve been able to start practicing again. I had to re-learn a lot of what I was taught. But I totally enjoy it!


Q. When I am looking for inspiration, I hop on fashion blogs. Where do you get your ideas for your super cute skirts?

I found a darling blog, and that is actually what inspired me to start sewing again. The gal taught classes at Domestic Bliss in Mesa, and I was so bummed I couldn’t attend any of them because we’re living in San Diego for the summer. She’d post pictures of what they were making and I thought “I can do that!” So a few of the patterns came from me being a copy-cat! As I started, I’d have ideas come to my head, and that’s when I really started to create my own designs.


Q. I have heard that a lot of ladies love Walmart's fabric section; however, I am a JoAnn's fan. What is your favorite fabric store?

I’m a Wal-Mart lover because of the prices! The $2 fabric…my fav! Most Wal-Marts have stopped carrying fabric though. JoAnn’s is great because of the massive selection! Here in San Diego there is a store right up the street from me that I have grown to love too. SAS down in Mesa is amazing if you find what you are looking for. You really have to dig though and sometimes you luck out. I got tons of lace there for way cheap. (Lace is my all time favorite fabric!) I guess it comes down to price for me. I hate spending a lot of money on fabric so the place with the best deals is my favorite place!


Q. How would you describe your personal style?

Oh gosh. That changes every day. I love feeling classy and feminine. Heels are my best friend, because I’m short and they’re beautiful! I love lace, chiffon, and ruffles, but I also love me some funk! I think it’s important to say that a person’s style is more than just the clothes they wear. It’s the way they carry themselves and the actions they choose to make. I’ve yet to meet a “classy” woman who has the mouth of a sailor, and little respect for herself and the people around her. You know what I mean?


Q. Who is your style icon?

I get inspiration from my next door neighbor, or sister, or best friend. The everyday women in our lives. The world’s idea of fashion has been turned over to top designers, celebrities, and runway models. Personally, I think Hollywood’s fashion is absurd. Nobody wears that kind of stuff to the grocery store!


Q. Where are your favorite places to shop?

I love little boutiques. It’s there you can find a gem that few people have! Unfortunately most boutiques are a bit pricey, that’s when I turn to FOREVER 21. Honestly, whoever opened that store is brilliant. Good prices and numerous styles to choose from! I also love a good consignment store. One of my favorite places to find designer jeans is Namebrand Exchange. I’ve found a few pair of True Religions for both me and my hubs there for under $50. Which, compared to $200-$300 is a total steal.


Q. When given the choice between designer jeans, or designer shoes, which would you choose?

Oh jeans for sure. I’m totally a shoe girl, but I love cheap shoes! 1. You are able to buy more when they are inexpensive, and B. They get worn out quickly. I hate spending money on shoes and then after wearing them once, notice a scratch mark on them. I justify spending a little more money on jeans because they last forever!


Q. I dream of owning a chanel handbag someday, do you have anything on your "dream list"?
You know, I’ve never thought about it. I’m so cheap (in case you haven’t noticed form every other answer!) I’m the kind of person that thinks “Ok I can either have 1 Betsy Johnson bag, or 5 cheap bags!” It’s all about quantity not quality. Twisted, I know!


Thank you, Bree for letting me feature you!
I am positive you have inspired many!
xoxo to you!
So, everyone...which is your favorite skirt?