Little Designers 2.0 Twirl Skirt Edition

I had so much fun making the last round of "Little Designer" creations - I'm launching another opportunity TODAY! Yay! 


Who wants to design their very own twirl skirt?!

Here’s the scoop- print out the picture, color it in, snap a pic of your creation, and send it to me. I will bring the vision to life and ship it out by October 1st, for just $30.00 (Sizes NB - Youth 12. Retail value $40.00) This ETTA style skirt features a flat front waistband with enclosed elastic back and a FULL gathered skirt. In order to give each design my fullest attention, this offer is limited to the first 10 submissions. 💛

Finished designs can be sent to [email protected] or on Facebook  by August 30.

Happy designing! xx 

Design Your Own Dress Feature

Last month, I offered kids the chance to design their own dress. Eight budding designers submitted illustrations, and each one was fabulous!  Giving creative kids the opportunity to release their vision and see their art come to life was PURE JOY for me. THIS is what it’s all about, my friends!

Just look how precious these little designers are modeling their finished dresses!

Thank you to their mom, Samantha, for sharing these photos! Mamas - be sure to tag your photos #daydreambelieversdesigns for a chance to be featured! xx M.

Shop Christmas in July Event

Click to shop the Christmas in July Event

Christmas in July

Merry Christmas in July!
For this year’s Christmas in July event, I’m excited to drop FOUR new products as Christmas in July EXCLUSIVES! These items are extremely limited and only available this weekend!

The first is this “SCUBA SANTA” Pinafore!
This traditional pinafore comes from a truly vintage 1960s pinafore pattern - I love how timeless this style is! This super versatile piece can be worn on it’s own or layered. It features a classic a-line silhouette, rounded hemline, and precious open back. The piece closes with two gold buttons on the shoulder, but most likely can slip right on and off without the closures. For this event, I chose an incredibly FUN Santa fabric! This print has it all! Scuba diving reindeer, a pirate ship decorated with holiday lights, a gorgeous pink octopus decorating the most amazing seashell Christmas tree… look closely and you’ll even find a mermaid in the shadows! You won’t find anything like this in the stores and the quality of the cotton is top notch too! Take a peek:

Available in the Etsy shop - this weekend only (JULY 25-28). I’ve adapted the pattern and can make this top in sizes 6m - girls 8. Christmas in July price just $25!

Next up I have three handmade goodies that I love and use in prints that I adore! Available for this event only! My fav lanyard, key fob, and zip pouch. These pieces make GREAT gifts! It’s never too soon to start thinking of teacher gifts, am I right?!

The lanyard will be made from cheery red with white, cranberry, and gold glitter confetti dots. I use four layers of 100% cotton fabric sandwiched with durable interfacing, for a piece that is durable, but still comfortable to wear.  They measure  inch wide and approximately 40 inches around making them  about 20 inches long. Each lanyard is finished with a silver metal swivel clasp. A split key ring can be added if you’d like. $9.50

Is it wrong to start using this key fob in July?! The sweet pink backdrop topped with black and white vintage ornaments, each topped with a sweet red bow; this fabric is an all time favorite of mine. I HAD to find a way to enjoy it as an adult, haha!  Lucky for you, I have 10 more available! :: This wristlet style key fob is my everyday favorite. It measures 6 inches long and is finished with durable steel hardware. I use four layers of 100% cotton fabric and a soft, flexible lining to create a piece that is built for everyday use. Though I’ll be honest with you, I have one for every season and once you try it for yourself, you’re going to want a dozen too!  $8.50

Confession  - I am zipper pouch obsessed! I have little pouches all around my house, in every bag, in my car. I fill them with so much more than just coins, makeup and pens - oh man - little zipper pouches are my secret weapon for organizing my busy life! Except not such a secret now because I’m sharing them with you!  I hope you’ll enjoy my favorite size 7 x 7.5. The outside fabric is an out of print cotton that features delightful Christmas shopping scene - 1960s vibe clothing, smiling Santa, fun pops of mod yellow, orange, and kelly green. I’ve lined each bag with a green and white dot print cotton, and topped it with a deco metal zipper. I put these bags to work, so each bag is fully lined with organic fleece for added strength and durability. $18.50

In addition to these fun event exclusives - I’m revealing NINE brand new holiday fabrics and offering y ’all 25% off your bespoke Christmas orders when you order this weekend! YAY! All you have to do is choose your fabric and choose your style. We’ll chat about sizing and details, then I will create your exclusive print and have it ready to ship (or pick up) by October 1st so your little one can rock it for Holiday card photos! I will add a listing in the shop - but here is a look at the fabrics:

The bespoke design catalog can be viewed HERE for info on available styles. If you have any questions, please email me.

The sale goes live Thursday morning and closes Sunday at 12:25 pm. CLICK TO SHOP

Be the Designer!

It’s my birthday, let’s have a little fun! 🥳

•

This sweet dress is coming to my shop in August - I’d love for YOUR girl to be one of the first to have her very own!

•

Here’s the scoop- print out the picture, color it in to her/your liking, snap a pic of your creation, and send it to me. I will bring your vision to life and ship it out before this style goes public, for just $36.00 (Sizes 12m - Girls 14. Retail value $55.00) 💛

Finished designs can be sent to [email protected] or on Facebook  by next week, July 25.

Happy designing! xx 

Pirate Birthday Party at home

We celebrated E’s sixth birthday yesterday with putt-putt golf at a local pirate-themed course, followed by lunch, cake and presents at home. Here are some party pictures to inspire your next pirate theme shindig. You are welcome to message me for more details on anything we made. xx M

:: Eats & Treats ::

Birthday Breakfast:
French Toast Sticks (aka PLANKS) served with Cap’n Crunch whipped cream and a pirate banana

Birthday Lunch:
Fruit Salad in a Watermelon Pirate Ship, Pirate Booty, Tuna Salad, and
PEG LEGS (aka Corn Dogs) these were E's idea - SO fun!

:: Decor ::

 

April Showers bring...

April Showers bring... CUTE skirt season! ;)

Let’s have some fun!

TODAY in the shop I have a  HUGE Grab Bag deal for You!

Here’s your chance to score a  one-of-a-kind skirt• made exclusively for YOU for HALF OFF!

::The Details::

You choose the size and style and I will create a SURPRISE skirt for you! 

In true “grab bag” style, pieces will be discounted 50% from their retail price!

This is a GREAT way to stock your gal’s wardrobe with OOAK skirts for Spring! 

Here’s the scoop on each style:

ELLE skirts (sample photo #2)

Elle is a high waist “paperbag” style skirt with a slim a-line style and fully enclosed elastic waistband. 

ETTA skirts (sample photo #3)

Etta is a classic twirl skirt made mod with it’s flat front waistband, enclosed elastic back, and full gathered skirt.

ELOISE skirts (sample photo #4)

Eloise is my most popular piece, and for good reason! Featuring a flat front waist band and adjustable “suspender straps” that criss-cross and tie thorough loops in the back for a comfortable, completely adjustable, fit! Eloise is a semi-gathered skirt with plenty of twirl! Tie the straps higher for a vintage, baby-doll, look or wear them loose for a more ‘90s vibe.

::The Fine Print::

Each skirt will be made to order, making it truly unique for each child! No duplicate fabric combos will be used! 

Available in sizes Nb through 12.

The fabrics will remain a surprise for these pieces; that’s part of the fun! No fabric requests, returns or exchanges will be made. IF your girl refuses to wear flowers or really can’t stand gingham; please let me know and I will avoid said prints :) I want y’all to love your custom pieces! Rest assured that all fabrics are Daydream Believers approved high quality cottons in prints that are current with today’s trends. PLEASE LEAVE A NOTE AT CHECKOUT WITH YOUR TOP CHOICE OF PRIMARY COLOR. I will select a fabric that features the color you tell me. If no note is left, I will select for you.

Sound fun?! Here is the link to shop! xx M
https://etsy.me/2VV2BNs

Spring Break Inspired

Just returned from a gorgeous Spring Break vacation  with my family. My heart is full, and I am feeling recharged and ready to create! The sights and sounds of South Carolina  have inspired my fabric choices for this month.

I am opening orders for custom pieces only.
To commission a special outfit made from the fabrics shown here, shoot me an email [email protected] with the subject SPRING BREAK INSPIRED.

You can view the Bespoke Clothing catalog to select your style HERE

Orders for these fabrics will close on Friday, April 12.

xx M

I believe in timeless fashion...

I believe in timeless fashion, in purchasing better-quality items less often.

In creating pieces that are environmentally and ethically conscious, rather than trend-driven.

Through Daydream Believers I modify classic clothing patterns to create pieces designed to grow with your child, so you can enjoy them and pass them on for many seasons.

By hand crafting each item myself, I ensure these garments are durable and lend themselves to repairs, not disposal.

While the process is time consuming and the amount of clothing I create is limited; I am confident it is worth it.

Thank you to my many clients who share this mission! xx M

Last year's dress is this year's tunic!
High Quality, Handcrafted clothing designed to grow with your girl! That is Daydream Believers!

How to place a custom order

At it’s core, Daydream Believers is a celebration of each child’s personality. Through the bespoke design process, I collaborate with my clients to create one of a kind garments that perfectly suit each child.

Maybe it is a special occasion dress for a wedding, or a themed piece for a birthday.  A coordinating sibling set for family photos, or a personality filled outfit for the first day of school. A special dress for vacation, or a mix and match capsule wardrobe for comfy everyday wear. No matter the reason, every child deserves a one of a kind outfit designed just for them.



Each piece is created, by me, for your child. Each pattern is drafted based on your child’s measurements, ensuring a perfect fit, every time. No need to worry if your child is between sizes; I am experienced in pattern drafting and tailoring for children. Each heirloom quality piece is handcrafted, by me, in my Michigan studio.


HOW DOES IT WORK?
The process begins with reserving a design spot. In order to give each order my fullest attention, I must limit the number of orders I take on each month. I encourage you to reserve your spot as early as possible. There is a $25 deposit required at the time of reservation.



Once your spot is reserved, you will receive a design-consultation-worksheet. This simple form will help me to understand what you are commissioning to be made. I review each worksheet and then put together a design proposal that outlines your options (fabrics, embellishments, prices, timeline) for your order. I love collaborating with my clients! Hearing them share stories about their child, then dreaming up the perfect pieces to make; it is an absolute joy and privilege.

After you review your proposal, we finalize the details for the order. I will write up a detailed listing for you to purchase directly from the Daydream Believers Designs Etsy shop. Then I get to work creating your special piece and you get the excitement of the signature pink bag arriving in the mail with your unique creation! 

Interested in commissioning a custom piece for a child you love? Check out the Bespoke Orders page for more details or email me directly to reserve your spot!

xx M

Quitting.

I started blogging ten years ago. I was a stay at home mom with two tiny girls and I enjoyed the hobby. I met some lovely ladies through blogging, many that I still talk with today. Over the last decade we have watched each other’s children grow, our families change, and our outlet transform.

Through my blog,  I was lucky enough to connect with wonderful women who saw the beauty in the clothing I was making for my girls and encouraged me to continue creating. I didn’t start out blogging for business. I didn’t start designing clothes with the intention of selling them. I started sewing because fashion has always been special to me and I found joy in curating unique wardrobes for my girls. I opened my shop because I wanted to give other parents a way todo the same for their girls.I wanted to give them a way to get one of a kind clothing designed especially for their child. I wanted to give them clothes that fit perfectly, that you wouldn’t find anywhere else! Connecting and creating; I have been fortunate enough to spend the last decade doing just that.

I have designed clothes that are already treasured family heirlooms.
I have created pieces for kids to shine in on their most special days.
I have connected with hundreds of people who used my chemo-cap tutorial and took the time to reach out to me
I’ve  sewn chemo caps for beloved friends and prayed over caps being sent to strangers that I will never meet.
I have made precious pieces for gender reveals, and capes for real life superheroes.
I was privileged to make a precious outfit for an angel who celebrated her one and only Earthly birthday wearing a Daydream Believers original.

I never intended to start a business. Then once I did, I never imagined quitting.

Still,
Last year, I began preparations to close Daydream Believers Designs.

The creative community had changed. I felt out of place. I found myself in multiple groups for small shop owners on Facebook and these up and coming entrepreneurs made me realize that I was not a business person. Yes, I was running a successful shop, but I was not a business person. Seeing behind the scenes how these people were running their companies made it clear, I was not in the right place.

I would sign in to the groups and read:
You can’t just post photos from your phone, that’s tacky.
Then I’d feel badly because my photos come from real clients, not models.

I’d see:
A small shop MUST have a stand alone business page. Your customers are following you on social media to see your work and do not want to hunt through photos of your kids to do so.
Then I’d question if this was true, and WHY hadn’t I separated my work from my personal page? DB grew so authentically, it was such a big part of my life, it hadn’t occurred to me to separate the two until these other shops wrote about doing so daily.  I’d read their posts, then I’d worry that I upset my clients by forcing photos of my kids in to their feeds.

I read through in depth conversations giving advice, such as:
You MUST start a VIP group on Facebook. General Facebook just doesn’t reach enough clients.

You have to leave Etsy - it’s juvenile.

You have to get on Twitter! That’s the BEST way to connect with clients!

An Instagram page has to have cohesive tone. Do you even follow a schedule?

Pinterest is a business tool. Instagram is a business tool. Twitter is a business tool.

Email marketing is the way to go!

Hiring brand reps is the way to go!

Send celebrities swag - it’s the BEST for exposure.

It was endless.

Even though I didn’t buy into much of their advice, I was made painfully aware that Daydream Believers was not like these other shops.  Side by side with the wave of trendsetters and wanna-be-moguls; I simply did not fit in.

My company was thriving, but I was disheartened. I saw Instagram as an app, not a business plan. MY business plan was to better utilize my time so I could say yes to more custom orders. When I realized that more of my precious work time was being spent on a computer than at a sewing machine, I admitted to myself and to my sweet husband that I couldn’t keep doing it.

So last January, the plan was to complete the reserved custom orders, then close it all down. But it wasn’t that easy. I fell into the rabbit hole of reflection. I read though every post on my blog (including the fun old ones that lay archived). I looked though hundreds of photos and spent a solid month trying to find the words to write the goodbye announcement to end Daydream Believers.

The words never came.

In looking back, I realized that despite not being a modern business woman, I had grown a special company. My goals for Daydream Believers were met. I connected with people, helped them celebrate life, and I have  made some CUTE clothes!
 

I enjoyed my work. But friends, I did not enjoy the social media marketing.

So, I quit.

I just stopped posting. I stopped sharing on the business Instagram page. I archived the VIP group. I deleted twitter from my devices. I left every annoying small shop “encouragement” group. I stopped wasting time Facebooking an Instagram post to tell you that there was a blog post highlighting a new product in the shop. I designed and fulfilled orders without ever sharing a photo of them. And do you know what happened? My business continued on.

I found that by minimizing my social media use, my work time was better focused on getting meaningful work done. I was more productive and more inspired to create.  2018 was, by far, my most successful year to date. Isn’t that something?

I realize now that in order to keep going, I need to focus on doing the work I love and leaving the rest behind. I plan to spend my work time designing and sewing. I’m not interested in putting energy into social media marketing, so I’m not going to. Keeping it old-school; I will create beautiful clothing and will continue to be available to my clients for custom designs. Your personal referrals and happy Daydream-Believers-wearing kids will be my advertising. I appreciate you for being here, I hope you’ll stick around.

Here’s to 2019: to being honest, to taking chances, and to quitting things that burden us.
xx M

: Updated to add : For now, I will be using this blog as THE space for db updates. I will still be sharing on my personal Instagram page (@daydreambelieversdesigns) because I genuinely enjoy sharing and connecting. I hope you are cool with seeing photos of my kids mixed in with the fashion posts. xx

Surprise! Blind Bags Are HERE!

You guys! Who loves surprises?!

Here’s your chance to score a one of a kind Daydream Believers piece without a custom design spot! Whoo!

Here’s the deal:
Choose a style, pick your size, and leave the rest to me!

I will surprise you with a one of a kind piece out of the fabrics featured here!

These gems will each be one of a kind! You may receive a style not currently available in the shop, or a piece adorn with vintage trim from my collection! The surprise is part of the fun!

Sizes 0-3m up to a youth 12.

I know, the anticipation of what’s to come is half the fun! Please allow 3 weeks for your piece to be made and shipped.

Pop over to the shop to read all the details and snag your blind bag now!

https://etsy.me/2r3K18o

Upcycle Tee Shirts Into a Ruffle Twirl Skirt

Did you know that when I started sewing I learned most of my skills by upcycling old tees into new creations? I would stock up on large tees from the Salvation Army and spend hours cutting them up and turning them into new, wearable pieces. My girls’ outgrown shirts would often be repurposed into a dress or skirt. Each piece was unique and adorable. To this day, my girls love a comfortable upcycle! It was no surprise that when I suggested to Vivian that we turn some of her beloved theater tees into a skirt, she eagerly RAN to her room and started pulling tees! Here’s a quick look at what we made!

To make this special skirt, we used Ady’s Paneled Pocket Dress pattern from CKC.
Yes, I chose a dress pattern to make a skirt; because - pockets!

If you sew, Ady’s is a great pattern to add to your collection! The Ady’s pattern gives written instructions and pattern pieces to create a short sleeve knit dress with a very full (very twirly!) skirt with optional pockets. The pattern instructions are very well written and easy to follow!  We used the Ady’s pattern pieces to cut the panels and pockets for the skirt, as well as this fun tee shirt.

*To alter the dress pattern to make separates - simply follow the instructions as written to assemble the bodice and skirt portions, attach the skirt portion to an elastic waistband, cut the bodice to desired length and hem.

One of a kind. The girl and the skirt.

:: Ady’s Paneled Pocket Dress PDF Pattern is available for purchase on the CKC website, here ::

Custom Pony Theme Birthday Dress

I love custom orders!  It is SO much fun for me to help someone design something truly unique and special. Many of my custom designs start at the request of a sweet kid with a big idea; I love having the opportunity to take that vision and make it a reality. This beautiful dress was made especially for Miss A’s birthday and includes a few of her favorite things: ponies, delicate flowers, and the color blue.

For this special piece, my client and I agreed that the BROOKE style dress would be the perfect style. This gorgeous maxi style dress features a ruched bodice, wide straps, and a simple, flowy, skirt. Easy-to-tie sash cinches bodice for a perfect fit while creating a sweet bow! Brooke is comfortable and easy to wear, while still feeling glam.
  

I tell ya friends, it’s a magical job making boho pony princess dreams come true!

The 52 Lists Project, a journal for all listmakers

I've been a serious list maker my whole life. A true pen and paper, gal! I was delighted to receive The 52 Lists Project for Christmas this year. With it's hardcover, thick pages, and beautifully curated artwork; it's really a great gift for anyone on your list! I went on to Amazon to order one for a friend today, and noticed it is on sale for $13! You can grab a copy HERE

If you're not familiar with the 52 Lists Project, this lovely book provides weekly inspiration to write lists for self-discovery, encouragement and fun too! Let me know if you are participating too; I'd love to follow your journey this year! xx

My Favorite Fleece Dress Pattern

Fleece. When you live in the Mid-West, cozy fleece is a winter wardrobe staple. This is a challenge for my always-fancy, dress obsessed, Vivian. Girlfriend will sacrifice function for fashion: always! Thankfully, I am able to make her some warm pieces that still meet her feminine standards, like The Fern Tunic -

Isn’t sweet?! I made this great tunic using Fern’s Fleece Scarf Collar Pullover from CKC. It’s a great piece for layering all Winter long. This tunic took me less than an hour to sew! The instructions are straightforward and easy to understand. With no zippers, buttons or plackets - “Fern” is simple enough for even novice sewers. The pdf printable pattern includes instructions for creating a tunic, like Vivian is wearing here, or a dress, in sizes 2-14.

The cozy scarf collar is my fav detail! Viv loves it too!

You can purchase Fern’s Fleece Scarf Collar Pullover Pattern on the CKC site, HERE

Tis the Season for GIVEAWAYS!

We're wrapping up another great year at Daydream Believers by looking back at some of the BEST looks of 2017. I LOVE when y'all share photos of your girls wearing the outfits that I make for them. To kick off the season of giveaways, I want to see how YOUR GIRL styled her DB this year! I'm giving away DB gift cards to everyone who shares a photo of their girl rockin' Daydream Believers this year! That's right! The giveaway starts today in our VIP group on Facebook. Click that link to join in on the fun! xx

Christmas Collection 2017 Is Here

Christmas is coming my friends, and the 2017 Christmas line is NOW live in the Daydream Believers Shop!

It just isn’t a holiday until your girl has a Daydream Believers piece in a fun print! Releasing today I have five festive pieces that can each be styled casual *and* formal to keep your girl shining bright all season long! It’s my hope that these pieces will take your girl from school singalongs, to visiting Santa and every shindig in between!

In true Daydream Believers fashion, these looks showcase classic patterns paired with modern fabrics for looks that are timeless and gorgeous to wear!  I’m THRILLED to share that I have modified a few staple pieces so that I can offer a wider range of sizes! Each piece in this collection will be made to order, for Newborns thru Tweens!

Here’s a peek!
*Run Run Reindeer ELLE Skirt

*Deck The Halls ETTA Skirt

*Let’s Be Jolly ELOISE Jumper

*The Shining Brightly ELLE Skirt, Midi length

If you’ve been around for years, you may remember my original Christmas Collection “BEE Merry & Bright” which released in 2011 - the line was full of bright colors and fun prints. It’s wild to think it’s been six years since I designed those sweet pieces! This year, I’m delighted to offer you (again!) The Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree BONNIE dress!

This dress was a client favorite and I’m excited to offer it to a new bunch of Queen Bees! If you aren’t familiar with BONNIE, this is a grow-with-your-girl style; enjoy it this year as a dress then rock it next year as a tunic! Many girls are able to get three seasons of wear from each Bonnie!

Here’s the link to SHOP - As always, each and every pieces is handcrafted by me and limited in quantity. xx