a minor, tassel-tastic DIY

I was recently re-introduced to tassels, and reminded how fun they can be to accessorize with, thanks to Potluck Paris.  On a visit to their office/warehouse a few weeks ago, I was gifted this amazing necklace which was made in-house by the lovely lady in charge (the idea was inspired by her recent trip to Paris, where she saw similar accoutrements)! 

After several wears (paired with the J.Crew necklace seen above to make a small "neck party"), I started noticing tassels popping up everywhere.  Then, I had an idea...

I had been in the market for a new clutch to add to my collection of one (this one in Poppy), and came across this gem on ASOS.  When it arrived, I really thought it could use a little zhuzhing... like a tassel!  I hopped onto Etsy and found a huge selection of leather tassels, and ended up with this, priced really well and not a lot to ship.  Using some pliers and a jump ring, I connected the tassel to the zipper and voila!

You can get a jump ring at any jewelry supply or bead store.  Remember to get one made of a metal that isn't super pliable so it doesn't come right off when you pull the tassel to open your clutch. 
 

you + donate = a cute tote

 {image + styling by noelle sharp}

While there are many great deals out there on this Black Friday, one of the best I've seen all day is on USA Projects.  My friend Carrie's sister, Christy, is an artist currently based in LA and hand-weaving is one of her specialties—she has been teaching in this area for the last 7 years.  

In her effort to raise money for a Jacquard loom, there is a super fun deal being offered on her USA Projects campaign page.  For a $50 project donation, you get a canvas tote bag screen-printed with an image she designed (shown above).  The best part is, she has matching funds available for the next $1,000 worth of donations meaning that until those funds are exhausted, totes are only $25 (plus you get a tax deduction)!

So what are you waiting for?  Get on it!