Fresh From Etsy: Round ‘Em Up
Milkshake contributor Katy Kelleher takes us with her on a new monthly jaunt through the best of Etsy, sharing her favorite finds. This month, it's all about the urban cowgirl vibe. Yeehaw!
Though I'm now a proud resident of the great state of Maine, I spent much of my childhood living in New Mexico. I like to blame my geographic history for my obsession with all things Western, but the truth is, I also just love the look! It doesn't hurt that Americana is a perpetual runway favorite—not to mention an entire category in my iTunes library.
For my first installment of Fresh From Etsy, I wanted to feature some of my favorite items that have that cool, country flair. Since they're all from the handmade marketplace, every piece on this list is supporting a small business. Now giddyup over to Etsy and let's get shopping!
Up Your Sleeve
Pendleton Wool blankets are a gorgeous addition to any house, but they can be a little overwhelming. Instead of going for the whole hog, you can snag an iPad sleeve from Timberline Treasures, a shop that specializes in wool goods. This particular pattern is called "Spirit of the People," which I think makes the practical purchase even sweeter. $40 at Timberline Treasures.
Over Your Shoulder
This handmade leather tote bag is simple and sleek, but the rich whiskey color—not to mention the sassy fringe—give it a nice laid-back vibe. At 16 inches by 16 inches, it's also big enough to carry your laptop, notebooks, wallet, scarf, and whatever other essentials you need day-to-day. $114 at Renkil Tasarimlar.
Around Your Neck
Specializing in printed fabric jewelry and clothes, Thief and Bandit is one of my all-time favorite Etsy shops. Their patterns are inspired by Native American art and are often reminiscent of cave paintings. It's hard to choose a favorite item, but I'm currently drawn to the muted tones and simple geometric style of the Hand Printed Circle Scarf. $88 at Thief and Bandit.
The Finishing Touch
Finally, top off your outfit with this turquoise sunburst necklace from Ayofemi Jewelry. Though a lot of people consider turquoise a summer accessory, I think the brightly colored beads will add a punch to your outfit year round. This necklace is simple enough to wear with a t-shirt and jeans, but it would also make a nice compliment to a simple wrap dress. $62 at Ayofemi Jewelry.
About Katy
Katy Kelleher is a writer, editor, and obsessive reader of all kinds of fiction who currently lives in the beautiful state of Maine. When she's not in her kitchen cooking up new ways to consume kale (the greatest veggie to come out of her tiny urban garden), she can be found floating in any nearby body of water, running with her dog Deja, or hunting through racks of vintage threads. Up until September, she served as the global editor of Milkshake, and before that she worked at NBC and MSN. Her work has appeared in The Huffington Post, Boston Magazine and The Improper Bostonian. She's also the managing editor of Dispatch Magazine, a lifestyle and events publication based out of Portland, Maine.
