Inspiration, Trends & Recipes
German Music Playlists to Cheer You Up
I don’t know about you, but when I’m feeling blue… nothing helps brighten my mood than a good ol’ personal dance party or some feel-good music - or BOTH! In our house, music always sparks joy. When everything around you feels chaotic and a little out of control, we find that some solid tune-skis can bring a smile to our faces.
Those "Silly" things Oma did... that you do now!
I think about my Oma often, many times it's because I find myself doing many of the things she used to do. When I was little I thought she was being so silly for doing certain things, but now... they may still be a little silly, but I do them too! Oma may have been doing these things to save money or by habit, but most of these habits are some that we should put into place in our own homes to live a more sustainable and zero-waste lifestyle. There has never been a more important time in history to start making little changes that will make a big difference in the future. It's hard at first to change, but let's take the lead from Oma!
The True Legend of Krampus - Who is Krampus?
America has Santa Claus. Germany has the Christkind… but then there is this ½ goat ½ devil man that shows up in Bavarian & Austrian folklore. Who is this Krampus? Where did this crazy legend come from? Well we’ve got the low-down on this darker Christmas tale. Here are the true Krampus facts that you need to know.
Authentic German Pretzel Recipes
Happy National Pretzel Day!!!! 🥨❤️🥨 If you are new to my blog, welcome! If you are not, then you know that my sewing skills are far better than my baking skills. So, when it comes to cooking or baking, I turn to my friends Sophie, Gerhild & Anja for advice.
Karl Lagerfeld's Trachten Inspired Collection
It is with great sadness that a fashion legend like Karl Lagerfeld should leave this earth, but he has truly left behind a great legacy of work. My all time favorite collection from him was the Pre-Fall 2015 Collection by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel. The designs are very tracht inspired, but also very high fashion. I love everything about it especially the back story.
My German Christmas Playlist - German Christmas Songs
I have very fond memories of baking cookies with my grandparents during the holidays and listening to music. I think on these memories often when I hear the German Christmas songs that they used to play... but where can I hear them without busting out the old cassette tapes?
99 places to wear your Little Black Dirndl
The Little Black Dirndl is a dirndl closet must have. Its comfort and versatility is unrivaled and is the clear go-to for just about any occasion. Below are 99 places to wear your Little Black Dirndl.
The Krampus Story Continues: 'Krampus Meets His Match' the Krampus Book
In recent years, the Legend of Krampus has transcended its Alpine roots, gaining popularity in America and beyond. As a fervent admirer of both Krampus and traditional Austrian attire like dirndls, I sought a way to share this spine-tingling holiday tradition with my son without instigating nightmares. Thus, the idea for a unique Krampus book was conceived. Introducing: "Krampus Meets His Match"
Dirndl Inspiration: Christina’s Trip to Indonesia
I've have not had the opportunity to travel to Southeast Asia myself... but it's absolutely on my bucket list! Reading about Munich-based travel blogger, Christina Guan's adventure to Indonesia which included some unique and unusual places that are simply breath-taking. Her blog inspired me to utilize a fantastic ombre batik print fabric to bring this Indonesian adventure to life.
Dirndl Inspiration: Oma's trip to Morocco
In March of 1983, my Grandparents set out for their first adventure in Africa. They visited Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria. They had been to Central and South America in previous years, but this would be their first trip to Africa and they were very excited. “I remember really looking forward to the new experiences. I never went into a trip with preconceived ideas. I always went with an open mind; ready to take it all in” said Grandma Rosina.
Dirndl Travel Inspiration: Ghana
In 2007, I traveled to Ghana on a study abroad trip. All the other fashion majors were traveling to London or Paris and I was like... mmmm see ya! I'm going to West Africa #waymorefun. A large part of the curriculum for this trip was focused on textiles and Ghana has a long standing textile tradition, so it wasn't completely un-fashion-related. I was so excited about the trip, but I would never have imagined how it would eventually change my life forever. Believe it or not, this was the trip that really got me interested in studying the traditional dress of my own heritage and eventually starting this business. So thanks Ghana! The following is from my journal that I kept during my trip:
Dirndl Inspiration: Ashley's Trip to Belize
Having never been to South America, I was totally smitten with the blog posts on MyWanderlustyLife.com written by Ashley. Her travels to Belize were so full of bright colors and a tropical feel that seemed unlike what I had experienced anywhere else. This trip and her fabulous photos inspired me to design a dirndl. Here is her post and a little bit about the new dirndl design!