I have a friend who once told me, “My family is not just a family. We are a tribe.” This resonated with me because I think growing up there were many families around me who would identify with this kind of fierce “stick togetherness”. I was surrounded by tribal families: strong, (often) large, loyal, proud, and of course chaotic in the usual ways that working imperfection can be messy. This...
Notre Dame Face Mask
“Through the pursuit of beauty we shape the world as a home, and in doing so we both amplify our joys and find consolation for our sorrows.” ~Sir Roger Scruton Hand Embroidered Face Masks I recently finished a face mask for a graduate of the University of Notre Dame. The face covering is hand embroidered (cross-stitched) with navy, Kelly green, and gold threads. I used an authentic Ukrainian embroidery pattern that...
Hand Embroidered Leather Crop Jacket
Published August 2019 My Ukrainian heritage is a constant source of inspiration. Sometimes it might just be the work ethic. I have been known to work with clients on projects I think are important even when they ultimately cost me money. But other times the inspiration is bit more obvious. Today, I am sharing photos of my new Ukrainian inspired jacket. This jacket is made with Argentinean cognac calf leather and...
Dark Green Wool Jacket
Published 10/22/2018 Here is a recent custom ordered sports jacket for women. Wool Leather Jacket for Women: ~100% heavy satin dark green wool ~Dark brown real Italian leather cuffs ~ Belted and cinched waist ~Deep lapels to waist (made with bespoke tailoring techniques and hand stitches) ~Fully Lined with modal textiles (Website sells the jacket with silk lining) ~ Gold and Brown Eagle buttons (The center button is supposed to represent the Ravenclaw...
Champagne Wool Coat
Published 09/05/2018 I was in NYC last spring training with a bespoke tailor. It was an incredible experience. I especially enjoyed visiting some of the old churches during my free time. I am going to share some of these experiences with you through some new projects. Today I begin with: Champagne Wool & White Leather Color Block Women’s Coat. This coat is influenced by one of my favorites, St. Peter Roman...
Ukrainian Embroidered Lace Dress
Khrystos Voskres! Christ is risen! Phew! Lent is over and true to tradition; I barely finished my annual Easter dress for Easter Mass. Every year at this time, I design and sew a Ukrainian inspired Easter dress. This year, I had trouble choosing between 4 dress designs. So by the time I nailed down a design and started the embroidery, it was already half way through Lent. Blue Ukrainian Embroidered Dress A...