DIY hairbows (with instructions)

My sister Tiffany loves the hairbows at Anthropologie. She asked me if I knew how to make some at home (and if I could show her), so I thought I'd give it a try. I was surprised with how easily, and quickly, I was able to turn these out on my first try. For my first DIY hairbows I used a purplish-blue ribbon because purple is Tiffany's favorite color. What was exceptionally great about these was that I didn't have to go buy anything for them. I made these with scrapbooking goodies that I already had on hand at home and since I haven't scrapbooked in ages, I was glad to put them back into use! I'm going to try a few different types of ribbons and hairbows (and I may post more as I go), but here are my steps for the one shown above.

1) Cut four ribbons of equal length. For my bows I cut 1/2 inch thick ribbons into 3 inch strips. I wanted to keep the size small, because I was making a pair of bows and didn't want to have them totally overwhelming once placed in the hair.

2) Criss-cross the ribbons into a star shape as shown below, making sure that the cross right at the center of each strip. Using thread of a matching color, insert threaded needle down through the center of all ribbons. Run the needle back and forth once or twice to hold all ribbons in place.

3) Flip ribbons over and fold the end of one ribbon in toward the center to form a loop; sew it in place. Repeat to form remaining petals.

4) After all of the "petals" have been sewn in place, I added two more stitches through the center just to make sure everything was held in securely.

5) Then I placed a floral petal and jewel on top of the completed "flower" (from steps 1-4) and sewed them in place. Depending on what embellishments you use, it may be easier for you to glue it in place. From the backside, I also sewed the hairbow onto a bobby pin, but again if you prefer to use hot glue or superglue then go for it.

And there you go! It couldn't be easier. If you're a crafty gal and already have these items at home, you can make a pair of hairbows in less than 20 minutes. Tiffany, I'm saving this pair for you! I'll try to make some more sophisticated hairbows next time around (I'm already getting more ideas).

xox,

Bre

Ear Muffs??! Yes Please!

When I think back to Winter time as a child I remember waiting for the school bus in the snow. My mom always made sure I was plenty bundled up, and in addition to the normal scarf, snow boots, and coat, she had me wear earmuffs too. I HATED those things!! I thought they were ridiculously nerdy and as soon as I got out of sight I would take them off and stuff them in my bookbag. But now, somehow (maybe since I'm not an awkward little girl with glasses anymore) I seem to kind of love them! I wouldn't wear them around So Cal, but I'm thinking of finding a pair to wear for skiing. My hats never really seem to keep my ears warm when I hit the slopes, but these adorable heart-shaped muffs would definitely do the trick!

Faux Fur Heart Shaped Earmuffs,£14.00Urban Outfitters (in Black)

Faux Fur Heart Shaped Earmuffs,£14.00Urban Outfitters (in Purple)

Heart Shaped Ear Muffs, $5.50 @ Forever 21

UGG Cardy Earmuffs, $86.20 @ ASOS (ok - now these ones are pretty pricey for earmuffs, but I like the cable-knit look and would just use this picture as inspiration to help me find something more affordable)

Hope you are bundling up this week! It's been raining constantly where I live!!

xox,

Bre

Dear Side Bang,

(image via glammed blog)

Oh how I've missed you. I don't know why I ever decided to grow you out and abandon you. I think we had just been together for 4 years and I just wanted to try something new...but now I've been suffering from the blah's for quite some time and I know we were meant to be. Please forgive me.

This Friday when I get off the plane, I'll be running (not walking) to my cute little hair lady to bring you back! I can't wait! Until then, forgive this hot mess I've been calling my hair. ;)

xox,

Bre

p.s. Hi readers! I'll be in Chicago all week, and while it is a "work trip", I would still like to try and get out into the city a couple nights while I'm there. Anyone have any must-do's or great local spots? Last time I went we ended up at a place that sold $8 pitchers of Captain and Diet! $8!!! That is UNHEARD of where I'm from. So if you're a local and have some great advice, please feel free to fill me in.

Take care and Happy Monday!

Out with the POOF! In with the Twist!

Ok, let's face it. Snookie pretty much killed whatever bit of stylish-ness the hair "poof" had left. I can't look at a poof the same now without seeing THIS face. So what to do with my in between side bangs when I just want to pull them back out of my face? I've decided this Spring & Summer I will just sport what I'm calling "the twist".

I overslept a bit this morning and was rushing out the door, so I just twisted my side bangs back and threw my hair is a little semi-messy bun. And you know what? I think I dig this "Twist" thing. It would look even better with my hair down (think of beach wavy hair with the little twist on the side). I'm thinking this will be a great way to keep my crazy curly bangs out of my face after playing in the ocean this Summer. I'm not a model by any means, but I took a couple pictures so you could see what my twist looks like. What do you think?

Let me know if you think I'm just crazy, but I dig it. LOL.

xox,

Bre

Top photo courtesy of Film Magic