Instyle
So, I finally had some time on the train today to go through my November Issue of Instyle mag. I know kinda late.
As you can tell by the cover, this issue was going to be dedicated to the Best Online Shopping- or atleast it was a cover story. Imagine my glee when I saw a sidebar dedicated to what was termed the best of Etsy.
It's only natural that I immediately decided that I needed to check these stores out, and I guess offer a more indepth angle than Instyle mag did (just saying).
First up
Babooshkaboutique : already excited just because of the name. Page loads and I'm indeed impressed. Effortless chic
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Definitely for the Erin Wasson/ Alexander Wang girl. Prices range from $11 to $180 and they have variety of items from sweaters, turbans, tights and dresses.
Second: Blackbirddesign house
First impression is not great. I mean I like what I see, but its not really my style. To be honest the most exciting and interesting about this shop is that my girl crush Christina Hendricks (Joan on Mad Men) is modelling some of the items
I love Joan, i really do, but at $118 and up a pop for these scarves, I'm not sure I love her THAT much.
I do find the felted bowls kinda cool and interesting, but still not completely sold on them. If you have a different opinion, please drop a comment. Again, this is all personal opinion and maybe I just don't get it. UPDATE: Just read on site that all items are hand knit and felted for hours, so this must be a very labor intensive process- always consider that when thinking about pricing.
THIRD: IsabelleAbramson
These are indeed gorgeous, definitely statement pieces for the home. I immediately read artist bio and so impressed to see that artist is 28 year old nurse by day, and handmade porcelain artist by night.
These would all make a very special housewarming gift for someone. Below is a glimpse into more of what Isabelle has to offer.
And last but not least: Unearthed
Their homepage states that they specialize in custom handcrafted leather goods and accessories. They work with snakeskin, lizard skin, ostrich leather to name a few. Love the originality, Definitely not a run of the mill shop. They also do have a pretty hefty selection of items, over 280, which is generally speaking a high number especially for Etsy. I think they have enough stuff to cover different tastes. My personal faves
All in all Instyle did a good job, I would have liked a few more options and I have some stores I adore and woulda loved to see on the list. I hope they continue highlighting these indepenedent artists, who honestly deserve all the publicity they can get.