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    December 08, 2009

    Your Sweater Challenge Favorites

    Yesterday Elsi asked me on the Jordana Paige Ravelry forum what I thought of the results of the voting from the sweater challenge. It was really interesting to see the results. I completely agree with your picks, but I was surprised that some of my favorites didn't get more votes. Here are those days; Day 6, Day 11, Day 20 and Day 29.

    Below are your favorites. The first week there was a tie between Days 1 and 5. The second week you went crazy for Day 7. Charlie was a top pick twice, which totally convinced me that it is in fact The Go-To Sweater.

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    December 04, 2009

    Winner of the Sweater Challenge...

    Congratulations to Ella! Ella submitted two entries. I selected her styling of Starsky as the winning entry, but I also loved her styling of Amused so I'm sharing both with you. She did a great job of showing the versatility of the sweaters. Starsky was the first sweater she ever knit. I have to give her a huge applause for this. Starsky isn't a "beginner" sweater, so to attempt and complete it as a first sweater is really awesome. Ella will be receiving a Jordana Paige bag of her choice.


    Starsky, knit in Red Heart acrylic of some variety, in a dark green colour
    This was the very first sweater I ever knit, and it was quite the epic undertaking at the time. No major modifications, but because I'm tall it's a bit shorter on me than as modelled. It's nice and cozy, but now that I know more, I wish I had chosen a wool yarn because I would love the sweater even more. Acrylic does make it really easy care, which is convenient. I've styled it here with my plaid skirt, in a cozy fall look, with dress shorts and a yellow sweater, which I've worn to work in the late summer on many occasions, and with jeans for a more casual option.


    Amused, knit in Knit Picks Wool of the Andes, colour: Hyacinth.
    I knit this sweater pretty much exactly as specified, with a bit less ease than modelled. I love wearing this sweater, because I always feel like the back of my neck is the first part of me to get cold, so the big collar helps keep me warm in the winter. I've styled it here in a few ways that I often wear it- with a casual tee for around the house and lazy weekends, with boots, jeans, and a scarf for a shopping trip or weekend stroll, and with dress pants and a chunky necklace (and my knitter's satchel!) to wear to work.

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    December 03, 2009

    Pick Your Favorite Look 5


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    Day 30: In Fine Feather



    Jacket: Emmery by Jordana Paige
    Jeans: Express
    Top: Target
    Boots: Can't remember
    Headband: Urban Outfitters

    Whew, I did it! Thirty days of only wearing my own knitwear designs. You can see all the looks in one place at weardrobe.com. I really enjoyed this challenge; both the styling and getting to wear my designs. Although taking my picture every day did turn into a bigger project than I expected, I got a little sad taking the last photos today. It's been fun. I hope you've enjoyed it.

    I feel like I need some great big finale-type look for today, but I really just wanted to wear Emmery one more time before it gets shipped off for a trunk show. It's my favorite (my most recent design usually is). The past two times I wore it, I dressed it up. Today I kept it casual. The world is full of cute clothing, but nothing beats being comfortable. If you can get cute and comfortable, like with Emmery, then you're in fine feather.

    Entries for the contest are being accepted until midnight PST. The winner will be announced tomorrow.

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    December 02, 2009

    Day 29: Vintage Accents



    Top: Isabella by Jordana Paige
    Skirt: The Limited
    Belt: Kurios
    Shoes: Bakers
    Necklace: ferdandbird on etsy
    Bracelets: Grandma

    Hand-knitwear typically sticks in my mind as being fairly casual. I'm not sure why. I've been rather pleased with myself for putting together a number of dressier looks over the past 29 days. The right shoes and jewelry can make all the difference. Today I'm wearing a necklace I gave my mom. It's several vintage pieces put together in one necklace. I'm a HUGE fan of vintage jewelry. It's so unique.

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    December 01, 2009

    Day 28: Pretty in Pink



    Sweater: Charlie by Jordana Paige
    Pants: Express
    Shoes: Bakers
    Shirt: Target
    Flower pin: Charlotte Russe
    Bag: The Knitter's Messenger Bag by Jordana Paige

    I love the combination of pink and grey. It's so soft and feminine. Every day I use The Knitter's Messenger Bag in Pink/Black Tweed to carry my laptop from my home to office and back. As I put this outfit together I didn't even think about how awesome it would look with the messenger bag. I picked up my bag to head out the door, looked down and got really excited. So cute!

    This is also a great reminder for me to tell you that The Knitter's Messenger Bag in Pink/Black Tweed has been discontinued and only a few remain. It will probably be sold out by the end of the year. So, here's your warning. If you've been wanting one, act now before they're gone.

    And, speaking of pink...did you see what Debbie Stoller chose for her Bust Gift Guide?

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    November 30, 2009

    Day 27: Good Day



    Cardigan: Floral Yoke Cardigan by Jordana Paige
    Dress: Anthropologie via eBay
    Belt: Target
    Shoes: Kenneth Cole
    Hnadbag: Bella by Jordana Paige

    What does one do Monday morning after a super fun, long weekend? Yes, go to work, but I've found the remedy to Monday morning blues; turn on "Soul Sister" by Train, put on a really cute dress and start dancing. It will kick you right into gear and you'll be ready to face the day. It works, I promise. Today's been a really good day.

    Just three more days left to the sweater challenge. If you haven't sent in your entries, don't wait any longer. The last day to enter is December 3rd. Remember, you get a free Jordana Paige pattern just for entering. Also, be sure you photograph yourself from head to toe like you've seen me do for the past 27 days. I want to see the complete look!

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    November 29, 2009

    Day 26: Falling Leaves



    Necklace: Julie by Jordana Paige
    Sweater and Belt: Target
    Skirt: H&M
    Shoes: Nine West

    Elizabeth and I have switched places. Usually I take the photos while she models. The past few days she's been taking the photos. This means she gets to get back at me for all the silly things I make her do. Today it was throwing leaves in the air. Such fun! I can't remember the last time I jumped in a pile of leaves or threw them in the air.

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    November 28, 2009

    Day 25: Just Like Is



    Cardigan: Spring Fling by Jordana Paige
    Top: Banana Republic
    Skirt: The Loft
    Pearls: Street fair in Campbell
    Shoes: Bandolino
    Bag: Rio by Jordana Paige

    Growing up I always wanted to be like my big sister, Elizabeth or as I would call her, "Is". I'd wait for her to get dressed in the morning so I could try to put together the same outfit. While most kids don't like getting hand-me-downs, I anxiously waited for her to outgrow dresses so I could have them. Each birthday our Gran would make us matching dresses. I remember being crushed the year she declared at the fabric store that we could no longer have matching dresses.

    Now we share our fashion secrets with each other. This morning I opened up the world of tights, belts and cardigans to her, while she helped me style the last 6 looks for the sweater challenge, this one included. Actually, everything I'm wearing today is hers. We visited the book store today, got some coffee, found a couple of comfortable chairs and cracked open our new books. Sisters are the best!

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    November 27, 2009

    Pick Your Favorite Look 4


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    Day 24: Where's My Waist?



    Top: Annie by Jordana Paige
    Belt and Cardigan: Target
    Jeans: Express
    Boots: Kenneth Cole

    Wearing a belt the day after Thanksgiving is not a good idea. But, I figured maybe wearing a belt would make it look like I have a waist today.

    The day after Thanksgiving is always so nice. I hung out with my sister and brother-in-law on this unexpectedly rainy day. We were lazy, had turkey left-overs and then went to see Fantastic Mr. Fox. I took my camera to get a rainy photo at Santana Row, but forgot the memory card. Oh well! Here I am with wet toes on my boots and hair gone wavy from the rain. Time to snuggle by the fire and make turkey pot pie.

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    November 26, 2009

    Day 23: Much to be Thankful For



    Jacket: Emmery by Jordana Paige
    Skirt: Anthropologie
    Shoes: Borrowed from sister

    There is so much to be thankful for. I had a wonderful day with my family. The dinner was a huge success, no disasters. I think my mom taught us well. Here's a mosaic of the day.

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    November 25, 2009

    Day 22: Thanksgiving Prep



    Apron: Kitchen Couture Apron by Jordana Paige
    Sweater: Target
    Jeans: Express

    Today has been nothing but a day of cooking. This is my sister and brother-in-law's first year to host (such grownups!). My sister asked that I come before Thursday to help her out. My parents and grandparents will of course be bringing dishes, but I had no idea we'd be responsible for so much. There's so much pressure!!

    I'm responsible for appetizers. Every year I make little turkey-shaped crackers. I also made some brie and cranberry tartlets and will be chopping up a veggie platter in the morning. Today we got Tom the Turkey prepped, made the apple pie, prepped the pumpkin pie, made the stock and got everything ready for tomorrow. With all this cooking, the only logical knitwear for the day was to wear my Kitchen Couture Apron. If you click on the link above, you'll get a pdf version of the pattern.

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    November 24, 2009

    Day 21: Third Home



    Sweater: Amused by Jordana Paige
    Khakis: The Limited
    Shoes: Nine West
    Pin: Anthropologie
    Wooden Bangles: Grandma

    I'll be celebrating Thanksgiving this year at my sister and brother-in-law's home. I consider this my "third home," my second being my parents'. When I'm visiting them, I'm at maximum happiness, laughing and just having the best time. I think today's outfit reflects the comfy-ness of home; khaki pants, a sweater and a little wooden bird pin. Oh yes, and their little kitty, Bailey.

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    Free Sweater Pattern for Contestants

    I'm really quite thankful for you, my customers. If it weren't for your enthusiasm for our products and loyalty, I wouldn't get to do what I love. I sincerely appreciate your feedback and the inspiration you provide me.

    As a little thank you, I've decided that everyone who submits their photos to the Sweater Challenge will receive a free Jordana Paige pattern of her choice. You'll get to select from any one of our 8 patterns. When you email your submission, include what pattern you would like to receive. If you've already sent in your submission, just send us another email with your pick.

    A free pattern, a chance to win a free bag...why not enter?

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    November 23, 2009

    Day 20: Handknit Sweaters > Store Bought



    Jacket: Landon by Jordana Paige
    Jeans: Express
    Boots: Don't remember
    Scarf and Broach: Gifts

    As I was wearing Landon today, I got to thinking about the yarn. Maybe I'm just buying the wrong store bought sweaters, but they're never as soft and cozy as handknit sweaters. Knitters really have top choice on yarn selection. Then I thought about how people usually associate handknit sweaters with scratchy, acrylic, shapeless sweaters made by their grandmothers. How fortunate for us that we're not limited anymore.

    I have a special little extra element to the sweater contest that I'll be announcing tomorrow morning. You're going to love it...free stuff! Check back tomorrow.

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    November 22, 2009

    Day 19: Marian the Librarian



    Cardigan: Catalina by Jordana Paige
    Skirt and Tank: The Loft
    Tights: Don't remember
    Bangles: Grandma
    Earrings: Mervyn's
    Shoes: Nine West

    I feel like I'm channeling Marian Paroo, the librarian, from The Music Man with this look. Something about it seems so Victorian-library-ladyish. Maybe it's the flair in the skirt and lace hem with the tights. Yep, now I have The Music Man songs running through my head...Madam Libraaaarian.

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    Pick Your Favorite Look 3


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    November 21, 2009

    Day 18: The Homemade Look



    Cardigan: Spring Fling by Jordana Paige
    Dress: McCall Pattern
    Boots: Kenneth Cole
    Broach: Gift and Gran's

    This outfit is truly homemade. I made this dress earlier in the year. I love it, but it's such a bright Kermit-the-Frog-green that I have to wear it with a cardigan, belt, tights or something else to calm it down a bit. I added a couple broaches to Spring Fling. So fun! I never wear broaches. What a shame because I have some really neat ones in my jewelry box. Will need to make an effort to wear them more.

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    November 20, 2009

    Day 17: Rainy Day Friday



    Vest: Peyton by Jordana Paige
    Shirt: Target
    Jeans: Express
    Boots: Mervyn's
    Hat: The Limited

    I wish I had designed a pair of knit pajamas because that's the look I'd really like to be wearing right now. It's wet outside. Since I don't own a pair of fabulous rain boots to stomp and splash in the puddles with, I just want to snuggle up with some hot chocolate, a good book and blanket. But no, back to reality, it's not the weekend yet. Peyton will have to be the next best thing. It is basically like having a knit blanket wrapped around me.

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    November 19, 2009

    Day 16: Free Pattern Day!



    Scarf: Spangle Sequin Scarf by Jordana Paige
    Jacket: Cute little boutique in Pacific Grove
    Jeans: Express
    Boots: Can't remember

    Today I did a really horrible job photographing this look. The lighting, white shirt and color of the scarf were a bad combination for photography. So sorry, but to make up for it, here's the pattern for the scarf. There's three strands of sequins that are woven through the scarf.

    FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
    Width: 6.5 inches
    Length: 50 inches (not including fringe)

    MATERIALS
    Ironstone Yarns [78% Mohair, 13% Wool, 9% Nylon; 89 yd per 40g skein];
    color: Silver; 2 skeins

    1 set US #10/6mm straight needles
    6yds single slung sequins
    Darning needle
    Crochet hook

    GAUGE
    16 sts/18 rows = 4" in stockinette stitch

    PATTERN
    CO 27 sts.

    Row 1: K3, yo, k2tog, *k2tog, yo, repeat from * two more times, k2 yo k2tog, *k2tog, yo, repeat from * two more times, k2, yo, k2tog, k2

    Row 2: P

    Row 3: K3, yo, k2tog, k1, *k2tog, yo, repeat from * one more time, k3, yo, k2tog, k1, *k2tog, yo, repeat from * one more time, k3, yo, k2tog, k2

    Row 4: P

    Repeat these 4 rows until scarf measure 50 inches. End with row 2. BO 27 sts.


    FINISHING
    Run yarn ends through scarf.

    Cut sequins into three, 2yd strips. Use tape on the ends. Delicately weave sequins in and out of the three eyelet columns. Pull sequins taut to keep straight.

    Fringe
    Wrap yarn lengthwise around a tape cassette case 4-5 times (one wrap is about 10 inches.) Cut yarn at one end. Insert a crochet hook from back to front on the edge of the scarf where the sequin strip is. With your clump of yarn folded in half, pull it partially through the scarf using the crochet hook. Pull the yarn ends through the loop. Before pulling tight, bring the end of the sequin through the back of the loop and then through the front of the first eyelet. Pull fringe tight. Repeat for other sequin edges and in between sequin strips. Trim fringe straight.

    Sequin Finishing
    To prevent sequins from falling off the ends (without using tape), carefully slide off a few sequins, leaving the threads. Double knot the threads.

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    November 18, 2009

    Day 15: Graceful Changes



    Jacket: Starsky by Jordana Paige
    Skirt and Top: The Limited
    Shoes: Payless
    Necklace: Mexico
    Purse: Bella by Jordana Paige

    It's been beautiful and sunny here with a slight nip in the air at 60 degrees. Santa Cruz's autumn is a graceful transition from summer to winter. Sometimes it's hard to select the right clothing for the day; will it be warm enough for a skirt, or a cool day needing a sweater? Both! I think that's what's fun about autumn clothing--the graceful transition; wearing sweaters with skirts, tights with dresses and lightweight cardigans with pants.

    Transitions and change can be hard, but wouldn't it be nice if we could make our life changes as gracefully as the seasons change? Yes, I just jumped from a sweater to life changes, but it's what is on my mind. Today I made a decision for a big change in my life and I hope I can make it with such grace.

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    November 17, 2009

    Day 14: Indecisive



    Top: Sylvar by Jordana Paige
    Jeans: Express
    Blouse: Gap
    Boots: Can't remember
    Purse: Rio by Jordana Paige

    I'm really indecisive about this look. I like the collared shirt under Sylvar, but then I don't. It's like it was a good idea, but not executed right. I don't know. Now that I see it photographed I'm liking it more than in the mirror. I think if I were to make Sylvar for myself and wanted to be able to wear a shirt under it, I'd make the sleeves a bit larger. They're very fitted sleeves so trying to get the shirt under there comfortably was difficult.

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    November 16, 2009

    Day 13: Jury Duty



    Sweater: Rylee
    Skirt: The Limited
    Tights: Urban Outfitters
    Shoes: Borrowed from sister

    Today I had jury duty. It was the first time I've ever had to go in. Fortunately, my name wasn't called to the juror box. I must say though, I actually enjoyed watching the jury selection process. If it wasn't the busiest time of year for me, I wouldn't have minded sitting on the jury. It really is something every American should experience.

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    November 15, 2009

    Pick Your Favorite Look 2


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    Day 12: The First



    Top: Sleeveless Boatneck by Jordana Paige
    Jacket: Old Navy
    Jeans: Express
    Necklaces: Borrowed from sister
    Boots: Mervyn's

    This was the first knitwear garment I ever designed, not to sell, but just for myself. I think it was 2002 or 2003. I remember being so proud of how I shaped it to fit my measurements perfectly. It's beautiful 3-ply alpaca yarn. The top is sleeveless, worked entirely in St st with ribbing at the hem and neck. Simple, yet classic.

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    November 14, 2009

    Day 11: Oh, Baby!



    Top: Isabella by Jordana Paige
    Skirt: Anthropologie via eBay
    Shoes and Belt: Mervyn's
    Necklace: Gran

    This look was a last minute, "uh, I don't know what to wear!" outfit and I absolutely love it! Everything came together so perfectly, it's one of my favorites so far. Today I had a baby shower for a friend I hadn't seen in so many years. Baby shower means girly-ness, flowers, lace and frills so I was instantly drawn to this skirt for the event. It has flower petals cut from lace sewn to the skirt. So crafty!

    I knit little baby Lily a periwinkle sweater. Here's the new mom showing it off.

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    November 13, 2009

    Day 10: I-Don't-Wanna-Style-My-Hair-Day



    Sweater: Amused by Jordana Paige
    Jeans: Express
    Shoes: Target
    Hat: The Limited

    Today driving to work, lost in my own little world, I had to do a double take at the SUV in front of me. On the back window there was a Knitty sticker and a Ravelry sticker, plus a little llama hanging from the rear view mirror. I made a little gasp and thought, "Oh...Friend!" As I passed the SUV I considered sticking my head out the window and yelling, "I'm a knitter too. I'm wearing a sweater published in Knitty!" but I thought that would be a little odd. We knitters really need to come up with a universal sign to acknowledge each other in such situations.

    It's Friday, and let's just face it that I didn't feel like doing much more than throwing on a hat today. There's oodles to be done before the weekend and no time for primping. Every wardrobe needs a good hat. I've had this one probably for 10 years. It has so many colors in it, that I can wear it with just about anything.

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    November 12, 2009

    Day 9: Lovely Landon



    Jacket: Landon by Jordana Paige
    Pants: Banana Republic
    Boots: Don't remember
    Earrings: Ralph Lauren
    Shawl pin: South 4th Woodcraft on Etsy
    Purse: The Knitter's Satchel by Jordana Paige

    Today was another meeting day so I paired Landon with my pinstripe pants. I'd never played too much with the different ways of closing Landon. Depending on how high or low the shawl pin is, a different look can be created. Next time I wear it this month, I think I'll try pinning it closed closer to the hem, or even wearing it open.

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    Photography Tips

    I was recently asked if I would be judging the photography for entries of the sweater challenge. No, I'll be looking at your creativity in how you styled the garment. With that said, a good photograph will communicate the look better than a poor one. Here's a few tips to remember when taking your photos for the contest.

    1. Show the look from head to toe. Have you photographer squat a bit so the camera isn't level with your eyes. It may even look like he's photographing your stomach.

    2. Find good lighting. Get outside, not in the harsh bright sun, but preferably on a cloudy day. Bright sun will make you squint and add shadows. Cloudy days are great for soft lighting. If you need to shoot inside, try standing by the window and turn off the flash.

    3. Find a simple, non-distracting background.

    4. Have fun, strike a pose! Just make sure whatever pose you use, you're showing the complete outfit.

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    November 11, 2009

    Day 8: Nostalgia



    Jacket: Starsky by Jordana Paige
    Jeans: Express
    Top: eBay
    Boots: Kenneth Cole
    Earrings: Kitty McNeil Designs
    Sunglasses: Street vendor in Detroit

    You know how music and smells have the awesome ability to trigger memories, taking you back to an event or time in your life? I'd never thought about it before, but handmade knitwear has the same ability. I'd given my sister the sample knit of Starsky, so I hadn't worn it in many years. This morning when I put on the sweater I was instantly taken back to the summer of 2005, the summer I designed and knit Starsky. I became so nostalgic. I probably didn't appreciate it at the time, but Summer 2005 is worth being nostalgic for. My sister and I were sharing an apartment in San Jose (some of the best times of my life), I had just graduated from college and I was excited/scared/anxious/motivated to be working on Jordana Paige full time. So many great memories. How amazing that a sweater could bring all this back.

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    November 10, 2009

    Day 7: Business Appropriate



    Jacket: Emmery by Jordana Paige
    Pants and Black Top: The Limited
    Shoes: Bakers Shoes
    Earrings: The Loft
    Bracelet: Made by my aunt
    Purse: Rio by Jordana Paige

    Of all the sweaters I've worn so far, I am enjoying wearing Emmery the most. The yarn (Blue Sky Alpacas Sport Weight) is amazing. It's so cushy, cozy, warm. Yum! I could just hug myself. I had a meeting today, so I needed an outfit that was business appropriate. I think this did just that.

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    November 09, 2009

    Pick Your Favorite Look


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    Day 6: Pattern Play



    Vest: Peyton by Jordana Paige
    Dress: Target
    Belt: The Limited
    Tights: Urban Outfitters
    Shoes: Bakers Shoes
    Earrings: Mervyn's

    This is my $17 dress that was on sale at Target. It looked like a shapeless blob on the hanger, but when I saw it I thought, "belt potential!" It's not really cold here, but it's also not warm either so wearing a dress with Peyton, is perfect. I'm absolutely loving how the pattern on the tights gives texture and compliments the exploding ribs pattern on Peyton.

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    November 08, 2009

    Day 5: The Go-To Sweater



    Sweater: Charlie by Jordana Paige
    Jeans: Express
    Shoes: Payless
    Rings: Gran
    Bangle: Grandma
    Earrings: The Limited
    Purse: The Knitter's Satchel by Jordana Paige

    When I designed Charlie I wanted it to be a sweater that was a go-to sweater; the sweater you can throw on when you just don't know what to wear, oversleep and don't have time to think through an outfit or are simply having one of those I-feel-frumpy-and-ugly days. With the cowl neck and puffy sleeves, there's a lot going on at the top of the sweater, so I avoid wearing big earrings and necklaces with it, which means less time needed to get dressed. You can just quickly throw on Charlie with a pair of jeans or dress pants and feel confident as you walk out the door that you're looking pretty good. And when that cute guy in line at the post office starts flirting with you, you can smile to yourself and think, "maybe this isn't a frumpy day."

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    November 07, 2009

    Day 4: A Stroll Down the Row



    Sweater: Rylee by Jordana Paige
    Dress: eBay
    Shoes: Me Too
    Necklace & Earrings: Gift
    Purse: Bella by Jordana Paige

    Today was a relaxing Saturday with a stroll down Santana Row, followed by lunch in Los Gatos. Although by date it's autumn, we're still enjoying sun here in California. I wanted to take advantage of one last chance to wear a summer dress. I had the hardest time deciding if I like Rylee tied and buttoned with this dress, or left open. What's your vote?

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    November 06, 2009

    Get in the Game! Quick JP Knits

    Chances are if you're reading this blog, you'd really like to win a Jordana Paige bag. But, maybe you haven't knit a JP pattern, so you're feeling left out. Don't worry, there's plenty of time to whip something up so you can enter the contest. Below is a list of JP patterns that will knit up faster than others:

  • Sylvar

  • Amused

  • Rylee

  • Spring Fling

  • #11 Striped V-Neck Vest, Vogue Knitting, Winter 2004/05 (Pictured at left. Not available online. Check out your stack of Vogue Knitting magazines.)

  • If you have a JP sweater on the needles, here's your nudge to get it finished. You can do it! Plus, coming up with three different looks for your new sweater will be so much fun, guaranteed!

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    Day 3: Simply Content



    Top: Catalina by Jordana Paige
    Brown Top: The Limited
    Jeans: Express
    Shoes: Steve Madden
    Necklace: NY street vendor
    Earrings: Ralph Lauren

    It amazes me how much one's clothes can effect mood and vice versa. I had planned to wear a super colorful outfit today, but I just wasn't feeling it. I'm not bouncy and bright today, just calm, content and thankful it's Friday. I put on the colorful outfit thinking the bright colors would change my mood, but that just didn't work. Besides, content is a good place to be. So, I changed into this outfit, which reflects my mood much better.

    I'm enjoying this challenge so much. I've been digging through my jewelry box finding all kinds of stuff I haven't worn in such a long time and putting together different combinations of clothes that I normally wouldn't try. I'm also really enjoying the comments from friends and people I meet. Wearing my own knitwear has been a great conversation starter and way to educate people about the craft. Here's a conversation from earlier this week:

    Lady: "I love your top."
    Me: "Thank you, I designed and knit it."
    Lady: "You did! I didn't know there were knitting patterns that were so stylish. I'm knitting a scarf, look."
    Me: "Wow, that looks really great."
    Lady: "I have a bag of yarn that my grandmother gave me and I don't know what to do with it all."
    Me: "Have you heard of Ravelry? It will change your life."
    Lady: "No, what's that?"
    I tell her, she whips out her Blackberry and looks up the site.
    Lady: "Oh, that will change my life! I use to knit with chop sticks because I didn't have knitting needles."

    My other favorite comment from this week has been, "so that sweater you're wearing just use to be a ball of yarn?"

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    November 05, 2009

    Day 2: Comfort First



    Top: Sylvar by Jordana Paige
    Skirt: H&M
    Tights: Can't remember
    Boots: Kenneth Cole
    Necklace: Great Aunt's
    Purse: Bella by Jordana Paige

    Today will be a long day as I won't be leaving the office until about 9PM and will then be getting dinner with friends. Long days need comfortable clothes--no sacrificing comfort for those heels that are oh so cute but aren't meant for walking in. These slouchy boots are my favorite shoes. I can wear them all day without getting sore feet.

    I think boatnecks are one of the most stunning necklines for women's clothing. A necklace really isn't needed for boatneck tops, but I recently re-discovered my great aunt's locket in my jewelry box. I've been wearing it with just about everything for the past couple weeks, so pairing it with Sylvar just seemed necessary.

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    November 04, 2009

    Day 1: Flirty Finesse



    Top: Annie by Jordana Paige
    Belt: The Limited
    Skirt: Street Fair in So. Lake Tahoe
    Shoes: Bakers


    Selecting the first JP design to wear today was easy; Annie is one of the designs I'm most proud, so I was eager to wear it.

    When I style for a photo shoot I have to make sure all elements of the garment are shown to communicate the design. For this challenge, only style matters. Since I didn't need to show the hem, I decided to tuck the top in and cinch a belt around my waist. As you'll soon learn, adding a belt at my waist is one of my favorite ways to accessorize. I really like the silhouette it creates.

    This morning I had a hair appointment, ran some errands and then to the office. It sounds silly, but I always like wearing something pretty when I have my hair done so that when the cape is whipped off I feel fabulous from head to toe. I really like this look. It's flirty, girly and fun.

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    November 03, 2009

    Sweater Challenge: Win a Jordana Paige Bag

    This evening as I was organizing and cleaning out my dresser drawers I thought, "it's not fair, I never get to wear my own knitwear." I knit all the samples you see on the website. After the photo shoots the sweaters get wrapped up and then shipped off to yarn shops for trunk shows. They're never worn and I never knit myself one because I've moved onto the next design. After pouting for a second I was hit with an idea.

    MY CHALLENGE
    From November 4th to December 3rd I am only going to wear my own knitwear designs. Unfortunately I don't have all of my designs to pull from as many are with the editors of the magazines and books that published the designs. This means that with 30 days to dress, I'll be duplicating sweaters a few times. My challenge each day will be to style the sweater in a new way. I'll document it here each day. Personal fashion blogs like What I Wore, Weardrobe and The Uniform Project are among my daily reads, so I'm really excited to join in the fun.

    Here's the part where you could win a Jordana Paige...

    YOUR CHALLENGE
    Let's see how you style my knitwear designs. Submit 3 photos of yourself (or the person you knit the garment for) wearing a Jordana Paige knitwear design. Each photo must be of the same knitwear design, but styled differently. One look could be the sweater with a dress, the second look could be the sweater paired with a cute pair of pants and the third look could be something different and unexpected. So pull out your accessories and get creative. There's 31 Jordana Paige designs to choose from. You can see a full portfolio at Ravelry.

    To enter: Email your photos to contestsATjordanapaige.com (replace the AT with @) by December 3rd. Please include your first and last name, yarn info, any modifications you made to the pattern and a few notes about how you styled the three looks. If you've made more than one Jordana Paige sweater, you can enter for each sweater, but you must submit 3 different looks per sweater.

    The Winner: I'll select my favorite set of photos based on how well you styled the sweater. The person selected will receive a Jordana Paige bag of his/her choice, from available stock. There will probably be some runner up prizes too!

    Void where prohibited. Submissions must be received by December 3rd, 2009 at 11:59PM PST. By submitting your photos, you grant Jordana Paige permission to use the photos on this blog.

    Whoo, this is going to be super fun! I'm so excited to see what you come up with.

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