Inspiration, Trends & Recipes
What is an Edelweiss? Why do we love it?
I love edelweiss and most women who are of German, Austrian or Swiss descent also have an affinity for this flower. But what is it and why do we love this seemingly fuzzy ugly flower so much? I mean we love it so much that we can't help buying anything with it on it... or we get it tattooed on our bodies... or we have it encased in glass and wear it around our necks! I mean... this is a strong love for flora here.
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.
7 AMAZING Women participating in Dressember that you need to know
This year I am participating in Dressember, a month long style challenge in which I will wear a dress or a dirndl everyday in December in an effort to raise awareness and funds to end modern day slavery and sex trafficking. Over the years this movement has grown and if you are interested in this idea and some of the awesome women taking on this challenge, I highly recommend you check out these 7 women. Their energies are contagious and I hope you enjoy following their journeys through Dressember as well as my own.
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!
How Travel Adventures Inspire Dirndl Designs
One of my favorite things to do is travel and learn about other cultures. I find it fascinating how the difference in culture affects how people work, live and play. Not to mention my LOVE for food and eating my way through Thailand is on my bucket list for sure!
Beginner's Guide to German Soccer
I wasn’t much for sports as a child. Whenever it was time for gym class and the teacher announced that we would be “playing softball”, “playing basketball” or really playing anything that involved a team and a ball, I was not a happy camper. I preferred dance, crafts or coloring… Fast forward 20ish years and I was dating a soccer fan who loved German soccer and knew so much about it… and I knew jack sh*t. I would assume that I’m not the only person out there that would like to be more knowledgeable about the team that my date and other friends love so much.