Last week, Stephanie Longo, of Recession Proof, tipped me off to the growing trend of embracing comfort - with bold shapes and soft knits - in high fashion. This week, she pointed out that "the economy isn't the only thing mimicking 1929 right now!"
Handmade clothing designers have embraced fringe a la flappers, the Charleston, and The Great Gatsby.
Stephanie says fringe is hot "whether it's necklaces, sewn onto the front of tanks, or allover skirts and dresses."
Of course, fiber artists and knitters - perhaps the originators of fringe - are onto this trend. Lois, from FoxyGKnits, is currently featuring a self-fringing scarf with a full 9 inches of fringe on either end! More fringed scarves can be found at Cricket's Creations, along with exceptionally fringe-y photography props for posing newborns & infants.
VeridiAum is featuring an eco-friendly fringed necklace created from vintage chains and recycled microsuede.
This type of necklace makes a big statement while being light and airy. It could be easily dressed up or down to suit many occasions.
Fringe is also appearing on handbags. Erin Quintana, from Ruju, is showing a tote bag (pictured above) with a full fringe detail around a paisley cut out - another trending design element.
Fringe doesn't stop with its literal representation, either. LuzDesigns is featuring a line of earrings strung with tear-dropped shaped beads creating a fringe effect. Erin Leigh Heart, a clothing designer, has created a ruffled embellishment that mimics the look of fringe.
So find some fringe and grab a comb!
Photo top left: Paisley Tote, courtesy of Ruju. Available at publication.
Photo bottom right: Fringed Square Cut Scarf, courtesy of Recession Proof. Available at publication.
Tara is a freelance writer, social media consultant, and the editor of Handmade in PA.net, a blog & online community dedicated to supporting arts & crafts in Pennsylvania.