Hems & Hers

Look Book Winners

2010-08-30T16:46:00.000-07:00

We narrowed our choices for the Fall Lookbook to 26 shots. These aren't all 26, but here are some of our favorites!

Rejection Has Never Looked So Good

2010-08-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last week we spent some time shooting a look book for Hems & Hers. We got the shots earlier this week and spent some time with Intern Tori choosing our favorites. We narrowed the final selection to about 30 photos that we'll be laying out and binding for our first look book. We loved every shot that Stephanie took, and we thought a sneak peek at the rejects would whet your appetite for the winners. Feedback is welcome!

"Buckett"ful of Sunshine

2010-08-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, SuZeeBee and I discovered a fabulous boutique in Ayrsley called Bucketts. This precious shop sells gifts, home decor and adorable and unique clothes. In fact, for my birthday over the weekend, I received a host of Bucketts' goodies that I've been rocking every day this week.

It is with huge smiles on our faces that we announce that Hems & Hers will be designing an exclusive, capsule collection of skirts and tunics that will be on the racks of Bucketts this fall! We are so excited to be working with Lynn and Keri from Bucketts, and we can't wait to see our garments gracing this lovely store. If you're in Charlotte and haven't been to Bucketts, you're definitely missing out!

The Hundred Dresses

2010-08-04T19:46:00.000-07:00

When I was younger, I loved the book The Hundred Dresses. While not a feel good story by any means, I was transfixed by the story. Well, in recent months, my life has turned into a new version of The Hundred Dresses. In early spring I was contacted by a sweet blog reader who had followed the progression of Hems & Hers and had the utmost faith in our abilities. She inquired whether I would be interested in creating approximately 100 dresses for her sorority to wear during one round of their fall rush. Ecstatic and foolishly unintimidated by such an enormous task, Little and I leapt at the opportunity to create such a huge order.

This order, more than almost anything else, acted as an incredible catalyst propelling me toward pursuing Hems & Hers full time and believing in it as more than a hobby. The Hundred Dress (as we've taken to referring to them as) are due Friday, and it's hard to believe that the journey we've been on with them is almost over. We've experienced several hiccups along the way that have spurred refinement in our business operations, and the girls' patience of has been wonderfully appreciated as we feel our way through a monumental orientation to this new world and uncharted territory.

We had the pleasure of seeing several of the girls in their dresses Sunday afternoon, and I have no doubt that the girls will be the prettiest on campus come September. I won't post pictures until the chapter does, but trust me when I tell you, that the lovely ladies look, well, just lovely.

Let's Go Ride a Bike

2010-06-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

We were honored when our good friend Swankypeach asked us to design some pieces for the 24 Hours of Booty fashion show taking place this Saturday, June 26. Susan got right to work and unveiled these two precious dresses... the Hannah and the Casey. Don't they make you want to go for a pedal in the park?

Feeling the Love

2010-06-14T05:28:00.000-07:00

Thank you, thank you to Lisa for this wonderful H&H shoutout!

Help Wanted!

2010-06-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Hems & Hers is hiring a summer intern! The demand for our pieces has (excitingly) exceeded our ability to keep up in a timely manner, and we need you! We need extra hands to help us with all aspects of Hems & Hers from sewing to photography to Web editing, plus, you'll get to work with US (do you really need another selling point?)! You'll refine your sewing skills as well as learn and use marketing and advertising, small business operations, social media and more. Email hemsandhers@gmail.com if you're interested or have any questions.

Even though Twitter has removed Justin Bieber from its trending lists, that doesn't mean you have to go off-trend too.

Here's what to watch for this spring and summer, and Hems & Hers can help you achieve any of these looks:

1. Ruffles galore - designers from Valentino to Chanel embraced ruffles at Fashion Week
2. Sequins - stars need to shine, and sequins are just the way to do it. Whether understated as tee embellishment or adorning a full cocktail dress, warm weather brings the sparkle
3. Neon brights - no one wants to be a wallflower. Neons in any color - pink, yellow, green - add the right pop to any wardrobe and help you stand out in the crowd
4. Tie dye - while not my personal favorite, there's no denying that tie dye is coming back in a big way. Whether in muted shades or screaming hues, this season is all about the dye
5. Gray - more warm weather friendly than black, but still conservative, make sure gray is a piece of your closet this season.
6. Watercolor prints - fresh off a trip to Mood in New York, I am armed with plenty of this handpainted material. These prints lend equal parts romance and fun to any garment.

May Flowers

2010-05-06T13:35:00.001-07:00

Here are some great pieces that have blooming at Hems & Hers HQ!

Wax On, Wax Off

2010-05-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hop on over to waxMAMA Charlotte and take a gander at an amazing write up on Hems & Hers!

Elephants on Parade

2010-05-03T04:37:00.000-07:00

I've been hanging on to these two fabrics for a while now wanting to make the perfect garment to match their whimsical feel. As it turned out, the perfect garment was a Belle skirt with pink elephants dancing across the waistband and pocket bands. I am so in love with the results!

For the Kiddies

2010-04-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

We can all remember being little girls and yearning to wear the dresses our mom's would don. I lived in dresses, and I always wanted to find the prettiest, most colorful styles that would make me look like a big girl. Remembering back to those times, my mom decided to create this miniature version of the Hannah. We're calling it The Allie after our favorite "Little Big Girl." We have no doubt that she'll look precious in this candy-colored frock.

We're Live!

2010-04-21T08:23:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the amazing help of my friends Geoff and Amy, Hems & Hers now has an official home on the Internet! Come check out our new site and let me know what you think!

Sweet Caroline

2010-04-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

I love how versatile the Caroline dress is. Whether it's a plain strapless, a halter, or a ruffled halter, the sweet femininity and flirtation really shines. I was delighted to use this fun fabric to create yet another Caroline variation with two ruffled straps.

Pink and Green And Ribbon-y All Over

2010-04-14T11:19:00.001-07:00

Ribbon-y isn't a word, but adorable is, and that's exactly what describes this new dress. This shift is made out of a satin-y lime green fabric that has hot pink grosgrain ribbons swirling all over it. It's fun and unique and the lovely lady who will be donning this soon will sure to be remembered.

Spring Into Style

2010-04-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

I'll let the pictures do the talking. If you're interested in ordering any of these pieces, as always, just send me an email at hemsandhers@gmail.com.

It's Not Just Me

2010-04-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

There are two of us behind this Hems & Hers operation. Without my mom, none of this could be possible. She's not just a one-trick pony like yours truly, however. Hop on over to SuZeeBee to see my mom's full range of accessories... from pretty belts to dynamic buckles to sporty workout buffs to adorable bangles, the woman is a superstar.

See? It's Not Always Pink and Green

2010-04-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

Admittedly when I go about buying fabrics for inventory skirts and dresses, I have to force myself to look beyond my comfortable (and pretty) pink and green box. I was delighted to create this non-pastel Hannah dress for a lovely girl who came to the second Hems & Hers trunk show. I love the way the solid bow just makes the print pop. I may have to expand my hue horizon more often.

Little Bitty Pretty One

2010-03-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Here's what's been happening in H&H HQ. To see which styles are currently available, visit the Hems & Hers Etsy shop!

Slacking... But Not

2010-03-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

So I guess we should say that during the time I'm not updating the blog, which has clearly not been done in a while, I'm busy at the sewing machine. Between two successful trunk shows, a huge order from a great sorority at Chapel Hill and various and sundry other orders, all my free time while not in the office has been consumed with making pretty little things for some, well, pretty little things! Add to that the fact that my work computer is no longer recognizing my camera, and I haven't had a chance to upload pictures and show you all the newest additions to the Hems & Hers family. Trust me when I say, though, that new styles and new fabrics are being turned into some pretty gorgeous eye candy. I hope to update with lots and lots of photos soon.

In the meantime...

"Whatsoever things are lovely... think about such things." - Philippians 4:8-9

Trunkin'

2010-03-15T06:32:00.001-07:00

Check out a recap of Friday's trunk show at Bella Ropa Boutique here!

Get the Scoop

2010-03-11T04:56:00.001-08:00

Okay, I admit, like a narcissistic celebrity, I have a Google Alert set for Hems & Hers. Of course, with that combo of words, I get some pretty interesting, PG-13 and R rated alerts sent to me every night. Last night, though, I was thrilled to find out that Scoop Charlotte had written a little blurb about my trunk show at Bella Ropa Boutique in Birkdale Village, which is taking place tomorrow from 1-4 p.m. Check out the description of Hems & Hers. I have to admit they pretty much hit the nail on the head.

"Bella Ropa, one of several fun little boutiques in Birkdale Village in Huntersville (including a Belle Ville, it’s a belle/bella kinda place) is offering 20% off as part of the Birkdale Village Sidewalk sale this weekend along with a trunk show from local designer Hems & Hers. Kicky, bright, classic preppy style, channels Lily, Malia and Marimekko a bit. You can check it out on the Hems & Hers and / or Bella Ropa FB fan pages here."

Ray of Sunshine

2010-03-01T07:23:00.000-08:00

Here's a sneak peek at one of the new offerings that is not only available online through this blog, but will also make an appearance at the Hems & Hers trunk show at Bella Ropa Boutique on March 12. I'm loving the bright yellow paired with the candy-colored stripe. This Hannah dress is perfect for springtime sunshine!

With a Little Help From My Friends

2010-02-23T05:56:00.000-08:00

My little Bernina sure is getting a workout this week as I fill orders and prepare for two trunk shows in March... one at Bella Ropa Boutique and the second in conjunction with SuZeeBee accessories. So here's what I want to know... what is your most wanted or must-have piece for spring and summer this year? What prints and colors are you loving for the warm months? Let me know!

Workin' For The Weekend

2010-02-22T07:19:00.000-08:00

I spent this weekend sewing up a storm, and this week will be another full of stitching. Below are two new garments... a multi-colored seersucker Susan skirt (modeled by Anna Beth in a Belle style during the Hems & Hers photo shoot) and a Sadie shift to send with my sweet friend Belle as she moves to the bright lights of New York. Donning the gray paisley style, I have no doubt she'll conquer the Apple and make it her own.

Contented Sigh

2010-02-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

The sweet and lovely Amy just posted this wonderful entry about Hems & Hers on the Bella Ropa Boutique blog. Thank you so much, Amy!

A Whole New Meaning to the Term "Couch Potato"

2010-02-15T13:21:00.001-08:00

While I work most frequently with cottons, there is something about home decorating fabrics that I just love... maybe its their thick and sturdy weight, maybe it's the large-scale prints, or maybe it's because you don't see them everywhere. Whatever the reason, I have made several garments out of furniture fabric including one on Saturday. I found this gem at Mood in NYC in October, and I'm obsessed with everything about it. I have enough left over to make another skirt, so if you're interested in your own, leave a comment or email me at hemsandhers@gmail.com!

Thrilled to Pieces

2010-02-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

I made a list of goals for Hems & Hers in 2010, and I cannot begin to express how humbled I am that they're all being accomplished so beautifully and seamlessly (no pun intended). This morning capped my biggest by far. Hems & Hers is now being carried in a boutique! I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I am! Bella Ropa in Birkdale (for you Charlotteans) will now be featuring Hems & Hers, and we're sorting out the details for a trunk show this spring. If you're in the area, make sure to stop by and not only check out my fashions, but ooh and aah over Amy's precious store. I promise that you will not be disappointed.

A Seersucker Carnival and More

2010-02-01T18:49:00.000-08:00

Just added to the Hems & Hers Etsy shop? These two lovelies... perfect for your spring wardrobe!

Wednesday Pretties

2010-01-27T11:46:00.001-08:00

Want to break out of the mid-week blahs? Feast your eyes on these pretty Belle skirts. Currently available in the Hems & Hers Etsy shop!

Seam & Heard

2010-01-25T11:32:00.001-08:00

Check out these precious pics of the baby sis rocking her Hems & Hers Belle skirt out and about in Chapel Hill. I just don't think you can get much cuter. I adore this gray floral fabric!

Branching Out

2010-01-18T20:26:00.001-08:00

While I love bringing clients' ideas to life with custom garments, I'm branching out to start creating my own pieces to have as inventory. These skirts and dresses reflect my own personal style and fashion, and, as such, I'm thrilled to announce the opening of my Etsy shop! If you have any questions about any of the listings, don't hesitate to contact me. Check back often for new designs and styles and, of course, shop shop shop away!

Vogue

2010-01-14T05:20:00.000-08:00

Sweet Caroline

2010-01-04T05:12:00.000-08:00

The Caroline dress is clearly one of my favorites to make (you know, it does share my name and all). I loved these two dresses created for an old college friend. I have no doubt she'll be looking chic year-round at her seaside home.

Feathers, Furs... Feelin' Good

2009-12-21T06:34:00.000-08:00

Charlotte Magazine asked me to create some Hems & Hers pieces featuring fur and feathers. I'd never worked with those materials before, so not only was this a technical challenge, but a creative one as well... the best kind of challenge. In fact, this process even brought about a new style - the Sadie Shift! Hope you enjoy these new pieces... all are for sale. The dresses (with trim) are $120 each, and the skirt is $75. Email me at hemsandhers {at} gmail {dot} com if you're interested... they can ship today!

The Sadie Shift... featuring a drop waist, pockets and a pencil skirt.
As shown with fur collar trim. Size 4. $120

Caroline Strapless Dress
As shown with a feather-fringed hem. Size 4. $120
The Susan Skirt.
As shown in brown herringbone tweed with a mink faux fur waistband. Size 6/8. $75

A Bit of the Unexpected

2009-12-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty predictable. When I have fabric choices in front of me, 98% of the time I gravitate to the bright, flirty, whimsical and preppy. Pink and green? Check. Animal print? Yes, please. Seersucker? Without a doubt.

It's always fun for me when a client chooses a fabric that's unexpected. Whether it's a deeper, richer color palette or a print that didn't catch my eye, I'm always eager to discover just what that fabric will become.

With its shades of ruby and ice blue, this Belle skirt happened to be one such instance. I was a bit dubious about it being too dark, but as you can see all my fears were for naught. This is the perfect piece to wear for the holidays without looking like you've donned the dreaded "CHRISTMAS SWEATER."

A Kiss of Southern Sunshine

2009-11-30T05:09:00.000-08:00

If you read Polka Dots & Protein Bars, you know that one of my favorite people on the planet is aHr from Southern Sunshine. A real life friend and delightful blog writer, this cutie always brings a smile to my face.

Ave contacted me a few weeks ago to create a Carolina blue Belle skirt for her (a fellow NC State alum, ARH is beyond selfless by wearing a color to support her beau's alma mater). I was tickled to death when I received this picture in my inbox. Ave shows you how to make a Hems & Hers piece weather appropriate by pairing it with long sleeves, leggings and flats. And not to be mistaken for a Tar Heel, Miss Southern Sunshine wisely added an unexpected pop of red to complete the look.

She Got It From Her Mama

2009-11-11T05:21:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of shots of my sweet sister at ADPi Family weekend rocking her Caroline dress in style. Instead of the ruffled halter, though, she opted for a more simple halter style. I think you'll agree that she is looking presh.

It's a Jungle Out There

2009-11-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

I always think that every piece I make it my favorite, but this time, I think I'm serious. This Hannah dress and Belle skirt are for a friend of a friend who's heading off to Mexico for fun and adventures. I'm so thrilled that Hems & Hers will be along for the ride. We're going international... it's a fiesta!

The Reviews Are In

2009-11-02T07:25:00.000-08:00

Those of you who have been around the blogosphere certainly know Queen Bee Swain. One of my favorite bloggers (as a read and as a friend), I was ecstatic to make a lovely little Hannah dress for her. The Queen was kind enough to send me this picture and attached note about her Hems & Hers experience.

"This fetching dress arrived on my doorstep in early September and has proved to be a fantastic transitional piece as the temperatures take a nose-dive. It is so comfortable, easy to wear and attention-grabbing, I can't help but strut a bit more than normal when I sport the Hannah dress out and about. You know that you have a great piece when you've received compliments on it within minutes of sitting down at your desk- even men paid praise for this cheerful frock. I've had so much fun playing around with what is paired with it- because beggars cannot be choosers- the lady in my office that took this pic did not capture the whole ensemble, but I was wearing this with my favorite pair of riding boots to give it a further autumnal touch. Great pieced with or without a belt too!"

Houndstooth & Nail

2009-10-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this skirt. I know I say that all the time, but this one may truly by my new favorite fall piece. It's no secret that I love both bright colors and houndstooth. The way those two come together on this fabric is just perfection. I can't wait to see Krissy sporting this around town as the temperatures get cooler and cooler.

Hems & Hers In Action

2009-10-19T05:45:00.000-07:00

Phew! Life has been crazy for these little sewers (the needle and thread variety - not the breeding ground for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles). So what have we been whipping up? Pretty threads, of course. These are just a small sampling of what we've been putting together, so keep your eyes peeled for more shots coming soon.

Plus: Hems & Hers visits the Big Apple this week!

Cute Emma belted her Hannah dress (far right) for an adorable game day look.

The Belle skirt for another Carolina gal.

Pink + Brown + Amy Butler = a tres fab Belle skirt.

Up For Grabs

2009-10-12T08:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went with my dad and sister to Knoxville for the amazing Tennessee-Georgia game (45-19!!!). We were up early on Saturday to go to the Tennessee-Georgia game with our grandfather; HOWEVER, Saturday morning dawned damp, chilly and gray, which meant I wasn't able to wear the Susan skirt I made for the game - complete with buttons and ric rac trim. I adore this skirt - the fit, the flair, everything - but I doubt I'll be wearing it much, so I'm offering it up to my Hems & Hers readers (particularly Tennessee or Clemson fans, but I won't discriminate if you just love orange, like I do). This skirt will fit sizes 6-8 as a high-waisted skirt, and size 4 at the natural waist. The skirt is $50, and if you're interested, shoot me an email... I'll get it in the mail tomorrow!

Miss New Booty

2009-10-08T15:09:00.000-07:00

Lest you think that Hems & Hers specializes solely in warm weather clothing, I chose to turn my newest Belle skirt into the perfect Southern weather transitional piece. By pairing this pretty gray piece with a turtleneck and gray ruffled booties this morning, I stayed perfectly in season and weather appropriate all day.

Sewing Safari

2009-10-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Here at Hems & Hers, animal prints are always in vogue. When not overdone, these prints exude fun, sophistication and class. Whether it's oversized giraffe, leopard or zebra, we love taking a walk on the wild side. Check out these shots of the Susan skirt looking ferocious.

Eye Candy

2009-09-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite parts of the entire Hems & Hers process is selecting fabric. Orders have been pouring in over the past two weeks, and the material you ladies have selected has been fabulous. Here's just a peek of some of the beautiful eye candy! All of these fabrics are also available as belts from SuZeeBee - one of the best ways to jazz up your wardrobe.

One Fabric: Two Styles

2009-09-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

As a self respecting NC State alum, I should be ashamed by all the Carolina blue fabric abounding in Hems & Hers Headquarters I and II (my house and Little's). I have to say, though, I'm loving the cute styles that have been hitting the mail all week. Check out how the same fabric takes on totally different looks in Belle and Hannah styles!

Lilly. Hems & Hers Style

2009-09-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

When sweet Hannah told us she needed a Lilly dress for Rush, we knew just what to do. We ordered two yards of Lilly fabric and set to work. The result? A precious shift in punchy, flirty Lilly. Can you tell which one didn't come with the $100+ price tag?

Gone to Carolina in My Mind

2009-09-21T05:22:00.000-07:00

This post doesn't require many words from me. Let's just pause and admire the sheer cuteness of my sister wearing her Carolina blue Belle Skirt to Saturday's game.

What's In a Name?

2009-09-18T05:16:00.001-07:00

While "tie-neck dress" and "pleated A-line skirt" are descriptive and functional, they just don't capture the feel of the Hems & Hers collection. We have been lucky enough to have input, feedback and suggestions from some of the sweetest girls around, and to honor them, we're renaming the line to reflect their own personal styles.

1. Pleated A-line Skirt - This Hems & Hers bestseller was suggested and first made for one of my best friends (who I'm also lucky enough to see every day at work). Henceforth, this beauty will be called The Belle Skirt.2. Tie-Neck Dress -Another bestseller, the tie-neck dress is adorable, flirty and fun, just like someone else I know. The lovely lady who gave us the idea for this dress is a fellow Wolfpack-er and a total cutie. Allow me to introduce you to the, The Hannah Dress.
3. Ruffle Neck Halter - My personal favorite and newly dubbed The Caroline Dress.
4. V-Strap Dress - I love, love this dress, and it will forever have a special place in my heart, as it was the first dress we created. To celebrate it's originality and the girl who rocks it like no other, my sweet, sassy Baby Sis, it is The Anna Beth Dress.
5. Slim A-line Skirt - A chic, sophisticated, dressier option that The Belle, The Susan Skirt is a classic, and a staple for every wardrobe.

In Your Face

2009-09-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Kat, a new client of Hems & Hers has been oh so supportive of my little venture and created a Hems & Hers fan page on Facebook! Seriously, folks, she's the best. Click here to the view the page and become a fan!

To Top It All Off

2009-09-12T09:34:00.001-07:00

We've been busy at Hems & Hers this week. A skirt, dress and this precious top hit the mailbox to travel to their new owners. I loved Lexiloo's choice of this fresh Amy Butler print. This tie-neck tunic style will look amazing over jeans and leggings, and the subdued, pretty color palette will be ideal to welcome the autumn season.

We've Got Spirit, Yes We Do

2009-09-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

My mom just completed this adorable skirt for a fellow Tennessee fan, and I'm in love with it. I can't imagine many people looking cuter than Ms. Samma this football season. A precious skirt or dress is always a nice change from jeans and a school t-shirt on game days, don't you think, ladies?

Rockin' Robin

2009-09-11T05:46:00.000-07:00

This pretty fabric has been sitting in my cabinet for a couple of months, and I didn't know what to make out of it or how it would translate into a garment. When Miss Queen Bee Swain asked for a tie-neck dress out of it, I was a little nervous, but my fears were instantly assuaged when I saw how gorgeous it came out. The combination of pinks, oranges and browns makes this an absolutely fabulous transitional and fall piece. Paired with tights and boots or over a turtleneck, this little beauty is much more than a one-season wonder.

Welcome to the Jungle

2009-09-10T05:28:00.000-07:00

On Monday I decided to experiment with a new skirt. I wanted something A-line but in a sleeker silhouette than the pleated skirt. I took some old home dec fabric that was in Little and Daddy's basement (and also adorns a bench and pillow in my house) and got to work. I was beyond thrilled with the results. A multitude of darts makes the fit tres flattering, and the skirt is so sophisticated and chic and will look amazing paired with tights and brown boots this fall/winter. Unfortunately it's too snug for me, so it's officially part of the Hems & Hers inventory. Please let me know if you're interested in buying this skirt... it will fit a size 4.

She Got It From Her Momma

2009-09-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

Lest you think I created my love of fashion and flair all by myself, please note that I came by it honestly. Check out these shots of my beautiful mother in her Hems & Hers tie-neck dress. It's a great reminder that fabrics don't need to be busy or full of loud prints to be unbelievably adorable (plus, take a gander at her hot kicks!).

Ruffle My Feathers

2009-09-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

I have a thing for feathers. Even more so when they're of the peacock variety, so my heart skipped a beat when Black Labs & Lilly chose this fabric for her ruffle neck dress. I made my own in July (also featuring peacocks), and to date, it's still one of my favorites. Unfortunately, it's hard to get a good shot of this dress - halters and clothes hangers are not wonderful friends. I tried my best, but I know it will look even better on Ms. BL&L.

Best In Sew

2009-09-03T05:33:00.000-07:00

My sweet, stylish mother (commonly referred to as Little) is the owner, founder and designer of SuZeeBee belts. She is also the reason I learned how to sew, and due to her immense talent with a needle and thread, is my business partner in Hems & Hers. Little has been busy making gorgeous garments for some of my Sis's friends. Want a sneak peek? Of course you do. Feast your eyes on these little pieces of eye candy. And don't forget to order yours today!

What Do I Wear With It?

2009-08-31T06:07:00.001-07:00

As any stylish lady knows, nothing beats the perfect fitting white top. So why not go for a twist on the classic pairing of jeans and a fun, punchy top, and combine that white shirt with a bright, graphic skirt instead? Check out how my sweet little sister (far right) paired a Hems & Hers pleated skirt with a white tank top. She knocked it out of the park with just a little spin on tradition.

You're Tops

2009-08-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

I experimented this weekend for my company's party and adapted the infamous tie-neck dress into a top. I used one of the Amy Butler Daisy Chain fabrics, and although I didn't get great pictures of my outfit, I think you can get the main idea. If anyone is interested, I'll add these to the repertoire for $40. Just let me know!

Tied Together With A Smile

2009-08-12T07:05:00.000-07:00

I've had some Michael Miller White Garden Collage fabric sitting in my desk drawer for a few weeks now, winking at me every time I reach in to pull out a different fabric. Last night at 10:30 I realized that with Labor Day quickly approaching, I needed to make my garment, and soon. Soon turned out to be this morning. I cut out the dress before I went to bed, and before work this morning I stitched it together. I came sauntering in this morning with a new dress and a smile.

I'll update the photos at a later date. In the meantime, this self-shoot in the company bathroom will have to do.

"Fall" In Love

2009-08-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

I've been spending my evenings perusing the Web for fall fashion inspiration (textures, styles, structure, prints, color...). Quick peeks at the J.Crew and Anthropologie catalogs quickly get my wheels turning, and I think I've found some wonderful transitional and year-round solutions. I want to hear from you, though, what will be your go-to piece when the temperatures dip, and it finally gets a little cooler?

Some of my favorite new fabrics (you've seen some of these before)...

Twist & Shout

2009-08-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

I finished a twist on the ever-popular tie-neck dress last night. The tie is eliminated, which creates a closer fit at the back and neck. The straps are a contrast (pink seersucker, in this case) to the bodice fabric, and a band of the same contrast makes up the hem on the bottom. I'm happy to make this style in place of the tie-neck dress for the same price ($40).

New Fabric Has Arrived!

2009-08-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

What would you like to see made out of these pretty textile that are currently waiting on my sewing table for needle and thread?

ComPLEATly Lovely

2009-07-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

The unofficial face of Hems & Hers is my precious coworker, and truly, wonderful friend The Supermodel. No, she isn't really a model, but I'm sure if some agent stumbles across this site, they'll sign her up immediately.

While she's the unofficial rep, she was the first official customer, ordering 2 pleated A-line skirts for the summer. She's already modeled the first creation - a smidge-longer-than-knee-length pink & green skirt, and today she's sporting the second one in the office.

I'm not usually a huge fan of florals, but this fabric had just the perfect combination of flowers and whimsy.

I wish I could take credit for how adorable she looks, but really, she rocks it out all on her own!

Sew Ready

2009-07-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Hems & Hers. I'm thrilled that you stopped by to check out my new site.

Hems & Hers is completely devoted to the creation of bargain couture... custom pieces, driven by your likes and dislikes. The concept is simple...

1. You tell me what you want made (skirt, dress, etc)
2. I give you options (A-line skirt, pencil skirt, strapless dress, tie-neck dress, etc)
3. You tell me what type of fabric you have in mind (color, pattern, etc)
4. I send you fabric options to choose from. You choose one of those, and I hit the machine, or we go back to the drawing board until we find something that is PERFECT for you.
5. You send me your measurements to insure an ideal fit.
5. I sew and send, you wear and bask in the compliments.

Pricing is easy too... $40 for skirts, and $50-$70 for dresses depending upon complexity and amount of fabric used.

To get started on your personalized wardrobe, simply leave a comment or email me at polkadotsandproteinbars@gmail.com.

Come On In

2009-07-26T19:13:00.001-07:00

Want to start sporting your own Hems & Hers original? It's easy!

1. You tell me what you want made (skirt, dress, etc)
2. I give you options (A-line skirt, pencil skirt, strapless dress, tie-neck dress, etc)
3. You tell me what type of fabric you have in mind (color, pattern, etc)
4. I send you 4 fabric options to choose from. You choose one of those, and I hit the machine, or we go back to the drawing board until we find something that is PERFECT for you.
5. I sew and send, you wear and bask in the compliments.

Pricing will be pretty easy... $40 for skirts and $50-$60 for dresses, depending on the pattern difficulty and amount of fabric used. I think the price is fair since you'll get to customize your piece, and you'll know that no one else has it! Below are pictures are some of the items I've made so far...

Ruffle-Neck Dress (this is actually a strapless dress pattern that I added the ruffle to. You can do it either way)
Pleated A-Line Skirt (with or without pockets)
Tie-Neck Dress (with or without grosgrain sash)
V-Strap Dress (mine is made from pique, which makes it sturdier and more voluminous than Little Sister's cotton one)
I'm always working on new styles, so the offerings are ever-expanding. You can start ordering right NOW (yes, now). To find out more, just leave a comment on this post or email me at polkadotsandproteinbars@gmail.com.

Hems & Hers

Look Book Winners

Rejection Has Never Looked So Good

"Buckett"ful of Sunshine

The Hundred Dresses

Let's Go Ride a Bike

Feeling the Love

Help Wanted!

Trending

May Flowers

Wax On, Wax Off

Elephants on Parade

For the Kiddies

We're Live!

Sweet Caroline

Pink and Green And Ribbon-y All Over

Spring Into Style

It's Not Just Me

See? It's Not Always Pink and Green

Little Bitty Pretty One

Slacking... But Not

Trunkin'

Get the Scoop

Ray of Sunshine

With a Little Help From My Friends

Workin' For The Weekend

Contented Sigh

A Whole New Meaning to the Term "Couch Potato"

Thrilled to Pieces

A Seersucker Carnival and More

Wednesday Pretties

Seam & Heard

Branching Out

Vogue

Sweet Caroline

Feathers, Furs... Feelin' Good

A Bit of the Unexpected

A Kiss of Southern Sunshine

She Got It From Her Mama

It's a Jungle Out There

The Reviews Are In

Houndstooth & Nail

Hems & Hers In Action

Up For Grabs

Miss New Booty

Sewing Safari

Eye Candy

One Fabric: Two Styles

Lilly. Hems & Hers Style

Gone to Carolina in My Mind

What's In a Name?

In Your Face

To Top It All Off

We've Got Spirit, Yes We Do

Rockin' Robin

Welcome to the Jungle

She Got It From Her Momma

Ruffle My Feathers

Best In Sew

What Do I Wear With It?

You're Tops

Tied Together With A Smile

"Fall" In Love

Twist & Shout

New Fabric Has Arrived!

ComPLEATly Lovely

Sew Ready

Come On In