This holiday season, I'm excited to showcase a selection of cherished small businesses that make for unique and thoughtful gift options. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the festive rush, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate and support the dedicated local artists, dreamers, and makers who put in extra effort to bring their creations to life. Let's make it a season of celebrating and uplifting the spirit of small businesses!
1. Turmeric Calendula Mask from Merigold - (I use this weekly)
2. Espresso Cup by Void Ceramics - (Available at Conifer, the cutest shop in Denver)
3. Nora Link Necklace - (A crowd favorite from Sheena Marshall Jewelry)
4. Tobacco & Teakwood Candle by Wax Crescent - (I burn this scent in my home everyday.)
5. Honey Caramels - (These are so good you might just eat the whole bag.)
6. Puzzle by Goodfit - (Each puzzle features a different artist.)
7. Everyday Hoops - (You can't go wrong with a pair of gold hoops.)
8. Scarf by Pamut - (One of my favorite ethically made brands for clothing.)
9. Valley Archival Print by Lily McAlpin - (I have one of her pieces in my home and it brings the whole space together.)
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If you're seeking guidance on creating the perfect fall capsule wardrobe with a focus on comfort, you're in the right place. I’ll dive into the essentials you need to build your fall capsule wardrobe and provide a week's worth of outfit ideas that revolve around just a few carefully curated clothing items. Whether you're a seasoned capsule wardrobe enthusiast or a newbie, this guide is tailored to help you put together a comfortable, stylish, and functional fall wardrobe.
See how I styled each of these pieces by visiting LTK https://www.shopltk.com/explore/SheenaMarshall
]]>1. Personalized Cards: Let's start with something close to my heart—personalized cards. Sharing a heartfelt note goes beyond words. Include your contact details and willingness to volunteer. From assisting with field trips to supporting in-class activities, your time is a gift in itself. Check out the exquisite hand-painted designs by Lana's Shop, a local Colorado artist, to add a touch of uniqueness.
Lucky Duck Teacher Card // Teacher Sweetness Card
2. Calming Candle: While classroom candles might be off-limits, a soothing lavender and rosemary candle can create tranquility after a bustling day. Help your teacher unwind at home with this thoughtful gesture, reminding them of your care beyond the classroom.
3. Threader Earrings: Busy mornings demand quick solutions. Enter threader earrings by Sheena Marshall Jewelry, a timeless accessory that effortlessly adds elegance. Recognize your teacher's busy schedule by making their outfit choice a breeze. Discover four affordable and delightful options that will leave them feeling polished and confident.
Moab Arch Earrings // Tiny Staple Earrings // June Arch Earrings // Palmer Arch Earrings
4. Magnetic Airplant Holder: Teachers' classrooms are their second homes, so let's make them cozy! A magnetic air plant holder adds a touch of nature to whiteboards or refrigerators, creating a comforting atmosphere. Explore the charming options available to transform their teaching space.
Circle Air Plant Holder // Half Circle Air Plant Holder
Teaching isn't just a job; it's a labor of love that teachers pour their hearts into. Let's honor their dedication with gifts that reflect our gratitude. Join me in showing appreciation to these extraordinary educators who shape our children's futures.
Cheers, Sheena
]]>6. Accessory Essentials:
Keep accessories minimal yet impactful. Invest in a quality watch, a statement necklace, simple stud earrings, and a versatile handbag in a neutral shade.
7. Quality Over Quantity:
Prioritize quality over quantity when building your wardrobe. Invest in well-made pieces that will last longer and maintain their elegance.
8. Mix and Match:
Focus on pieces that can be easily mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. This will help you maximize the versatility of your wardrobe.
9. Tailoring:
Ensure that your clothes fit impeccably. Tailoring your garments to your body's proportions will enhance your overall appearance and refine your style.
10. Occasion-Based Selection:
Consider your lifestyle and the events you attend when curating your wardrobe. Aim for a balance between casual, work, and special occasion pieces.
11. Quality Fabrics:
Select fabrics that feel comfortable and luxurious against the skin. Natural fibers like cotton, silk, wool, and linen are excellent choices.
12. Minimal Patterns:
If you incorporate patterns, opt for subtle and timeless designs such as stripes, checks, or small polka dots. These patterns add visual interest without overwhelming your wardrobe.
13. Regular Edit:
Periodically review your wardrobe and remove items that no longer align with your style or fit well. This will help you maintain a streamlined and relevant collection.
Remember, the key to a minimal and refined wardrobe is intentionality. Choose pieces that resonate with your personal style and can be effortlessly mixed to create a range of stylish outfits. Less is more, and each piece should contribute to the overall harmony and elegance of your curated collection.
For links to brands and outfits I often wear, follow along on LIKE TO KNOW IT here.
Cheers, Sheena
]]>In a world cluttered with options and trends, the allure of minimalist style is undeniable. It took me years to hone it in but now I feel I have a wardrobe of pieces I can mix and match for years to come. For me, embracing minimalism went beyond just decluttering my closet; it's about cultivating a deliberate and intentional approach to my personal style. In this blog post, we will explore the art of mastering minimalist style, along with practical tips and tricks to help you create a stylish and simplified wardrobe.
Define Your Personal Aesthetic: Before diving into a minimalist capsule wardrobe, it's important to identify your personal aesthetic. Are you drawn to clean lines, neutral colors, or bold silhouettes? Understanding your preferences will serve as a foundation for curating a capsule wardrobe that reflects you!
Less is More: Decluttering Your Closet: Start your minimalist style journey by decluttering your closet. Take inventory of your existing clothing items and evaluate them based on their fit, quality, and versatility. Keep only those pieces that make you feel confident and align with your aesthetic. I also like to think about whether they still bring me joy and make me feel comfortable and confident. Donate or sell items that no longer serve you. One of my favorite places to resell is Poshmark. Letting go can be hard, especially if certain pieces bring back memories or you think you will wear it again one, but remember, a clutter-free closet will make it easier to create cohesive outfits effortlessly.
Focus on Quality over Quantity: In minimalist style, quality trumps quantity. Invest in timeless, well-made pieces that will withstand the test of time (jewelry included). Look for high-quality fabrics, impeccable tailoring, and durable construction. Although these items may come with a higher price tag, they will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ultimately saving you money in the long run. These are a few of my go-to brands for quality clothes that last - PAMUT, ITISWELLLA, EILEEN FISHER
Stick to a Neutral Color Palette: Neutral colors are the backbone of minimalist style. Opt for a palette of whites, blacks, grays, and earth tones like beige, taupe, and olive. My closet is full of these colors lately and that is what works for my personal style. These colors are versatile and effortlessly complement each other, making it easier to mix and match your outfits. Incorporating pops of color sparingly through accessories can add visual interest and personality to your minimalist looks.
Embrace Classic Silhouettes: Classic silhouettes are a cornerstone of minimalist fashion. Timeless pieces such as tailored blazers, crisp white shirts, well-fitted jeans, and little black dresses are essential in a minimalist wardrobe. They can be styled in numerous ways, transcending seasons and trends. Focus on investing in these foundational pieces and build your outfits around them.
Minimalist Accessories: Accessories play a vital role in completing a minimalist look, hence why I started Sheena Marshall Jewelry. Choose accessories that are simple, refined, and complement your outfits without overpowering them. Delicate gold or silver jewelry, a sleek watch, a structured handbag, and a well-crafted belt are all excellent choices. Remember, the goal is to enhance your outfit subtly rather than distract from it. Here are a few of our bestselling pieces of jewelry from the collection - Moab Arch Earrings, Diane Pearl Hoops, Alice Necklace, Livy Link Bracelet.
Mastering the Art of Layering: Layering is an essential technique in minimalist style, especially during transitional seasons. Experiment with different lengths and textures to create depth and interest in your outfits. A longline cardigan over a basic tee or a lightweight trench coat paired with tailored trousers can add sophistication and dimension to your minimalist looks.
Remember, minimalism is not about depriving yourself but rather about making thoughtful choices that align with your unique style and values. So, embrace the beauty of simplicity and embark on a minimalist style adventure that will transform the way you dress and feel every day.
It is made with 100% GOTS certified Organic Pima Cotton Canvas, which makes it incredibly soft and durable. The pre-washed and pre-shrunk fabric make this jumpsuit even more comfortable and help maintain its shape for years to come. The cropped leg and cinched waist provide a sleek silhouette that looks great on all body types.
I love how versatile this jumpsuit is. Whether I'm at home lounging or out running errands, the Noble Adult Jumpsuit is perfect. The lightweight fabric also makes it great for layering with a sweater. Additionally, the fabric is breathable, making it comfortable to wear even in warmer weather.
We know I love thoughtfully made clothing, so I also appreciate that this jumpsuit was ethically made in Peru with GOTS certified organic Pima cotton canvas. The ethical manufacturing process ensures that workers are treated fairly and given fair wages for their work. This jumpsuit also comes in a variety of colors and sizes so you can find the perfect fit for you.
Overall, I am highly impressed with the Noble Utility Jumpsuit. It's an incredibly comfortable, versatile addition that is perfect for any season.
Favorite Jewelry Pairings from Sheena Marshall - Sunset Necklace, Clea Hoops, and a stack of Maeve Rings.
Shop the Jumpsuit
OUTFIT DETAILS
Cardigan / Tank / Jeans - Old School Color (sized down) / Shoes (sized up) / Sunglasses (black) / Pia Flat Band / Nora Link Necklace / Clementine Earrings
Follow along on social for more!
OUTFIT DETAILS
Earrings - Diane Pearl Hoops/ Dress / Shoes (True to Size) / Ring - Mirabelle Band / Tote Backpack
Follow along on social for more!
The Basics: Researching the company & value alignment
When shopping for leather goods, it is important to look for a company with sustainable, eco-forward practices. Portland Leather Goods is a great example of this - they source their hides from the U.S. beef industry, making sure that materials that would otherwise go to waste are reused. In addition, the hides are tanned in award-winning facilities that not only meet, but continually redefine the standard for eco-forward practices in the field.
You also want to look for the best leather possible. Portland Leather Goods only uses top quality hides in its bags, ensuring your purchase will be made with the highest quality materials available. Furthermore, all of their leather goods are vegetable tanned and dyed, meaning they won't contain any harsh chemicals or solvents that can damage your leather over time. By choosing Portland Leather Goods, you can rest assured you're getting the best leather available.
Style Considerations
When shopping for leather goods, it's important to consider not only the aesthetic of a piece, but also what you will be using it for. Consider the size, color, and design of the bag; you want something that fits your lifestyle and is eye-catching. As a small business owner and mother, I am always seeking pieces that allow me to be hands-free. I personally love Tote Backpack and Accordion Wallet from Portland Leather Goods. They are both crafted using full grain vegetable tanned leather, making them both incredibly durable bag as a transition between the studio and being a mom.
Start with a Sustainable Foundation
The foundation of any good outfit is a sustainable base layer. I usually choose a neutral color that will mix and match well with other pieces. Choose a top or dress made from sustainable materials like organic cotton or linen. These materials are lightweight and breathable, perfect for warmer spring weather. Here are a few linen pieces I am starting with this Spring:
Layer Up
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it is always a good idea to layer up. Choose a lightweight jacket or cardigan made. Here are a few of my favorites:
Choose Versatile Pieces
When putting together an outfit, choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched with other items in your wardrobe. All the links above are great examples of building a capsule wardrobe that you can literally toss on and go!!
Accessorize Ethically
Accessories can make or break an outfit, so it's important to choose them carefully. Look for handmade pieces from artisans who care about their craft. Here are a few accessories I’m adding for Spring:
Choose Sustainable Shoes
Let’s complete that spring outfit with a pair of sustainable shoes. Read the about section to see how the company produces their shoes. Part of being a conscious consumer is doing a little digging to make sure the company matches your values. Here are my go-to Spring shoes:
Putting together an ethically handmade spring outfit should be easy and fun! I can confidently say that once I switched from fast fashion to slow fashion, I now have a wardrobe that reflects my values and style! Many of these pieces will be cherished for a lifetime.
]]>Denver is home to some amazing small businesses, many of which create handmade products with love and care. From pottery to jewelry and candles to furniture, there are a multitude of Denver small businesses that deserve our support. If you're looking to shop small and support local makers, here are some of the best small businesses in Denver
Shopping small is an excellent way to show support for local makers and their passions. Handmade items have a special feel to them, and shopping with a Denver small business helps you find one-of-a-kind items while supporting the community. Small businesses are often family-run, and they need your help to keep going. Shopping small means that your money goes directly into the hands of the person who made the item and not into the coffers of a large corporation. You can often find unique items that are not available anywhere else when you shop small. Plus, small businesses provide excellent customer service and go above and beyond to make sure you’re satisfied with your purchase. So don't forget to shop small and show these small businesses in Denver some love!
Self-Care
Candles
Home Décor
Clothing
Homemade Delivered Food
Coffee
Classes
Kids Clothing & Gifts
Puzzles
Boutique Gifting
Ceramics
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Start your shopping process with some research. Knowing the basics about how materials are sourced and produced, who made it and the pricing practices of a company are important to get a general feel for what the company is all about. Additionally, make sure to take a look at customer reviews and recommendations before deciding on any purchase.
Find small, sustainable businesses and handmade shops. These small businesses have unique items made with care and often have artisans directly involved in creating them. Shopping small and local can have huge positive impacts and create direct connections with the makers.
Invest in quality over quantity. Spending a bit more on an item may make all the difference. Look for sustainable materials, upcycled materials, ethically-sourced fibers and recycled materials to know you’re getting a high quality, eco-friendly item.
Finally, if you’re in doubt about where a product was sourced or created, always ask! Sustainable businesses will usually have a lot of information available online but don’t hesitate to reach out to the owners and makers for clarification. The same goes for finding out what a company does with leftover scraps of material or deadstock fabrics and threads - most sustainable businesses are transparent about their processes and are happy to discuss their policies.
Ethical and sustainable shopping can make a huge difference to support artisans and small businesses and lessen our collective impact on the environment. With these tips in hand, happy ethical shopping!
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The perfect accessory to complete any outfit, our bestselling minimalist earrings are a must-have for the minimalist. Crafted from 14k gold fill, they provide a dainty and timeless look that is perfect for everyday wear. With their delicate and understated design, these earrings are made to last and will quickly become a staple in your wardrobe. The gold fill ensures a high-quality piece that is tarnish resistant. Whether you're looking for something simple or a little bit of sparkle, these earrings are the perfect choice for any occasion.
When it comes to jewelry, nothing is more timeless and classic than a dainty necklace. Madewell offers a range of beautiful Sheena Marshall Jewelry minimalist necklaces that are both understated and tarnish resistant. Whether you’re looking for something special for yourself or the perfect gift for the Madewell lover in your life, these necklaces are sure to make a statement.
One of our bestsellers is the 14k Gold Fill Kensing Necklace, made from 14k gold fill and designed to be light and comfortable to wear. This delicate piece looks amazing on its own or layered with other gold necklaces for an on-trend look. Another popular necklace is the Sunset Necklace which features a simple 14k gold fill tube. Both pieces are sure to add a touch of class and sophistication to any outfit.
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When it comes to jewelry, solid gold is the most expensive and highest in quality and purity. This is because it is composed of pure gold alloyed with other metals to give it strength and durability. The pure gold content of solid gold jewelry makes it a more expensive choice than other alternatives, such as gold filled jewelry.
Gold filled jewelry, on the other hand, is much more affordable than solid gold jewelry. This is because gold filled jewelry has a thick layer of gold covering a core made up of other metal alloys. This thick layer of gold gives gold filled jewelry the same look as solid gold, but at a fraction of the cost.
When it comes to jewelry, solid gold is the purest and most luxurious option. It's made entirely of gold and can be purchased in various karats, ranging from 14k to 24k. Solid gold jewelry is beautiful, timeless, and most importantly, very durable. However, because of the high cost of gold and the amount used in making a single piece, solid gold jewelry can be quite expensive.
On the other hand, gold-filled jewelry is composed of a base metal that is layered with gold. Gold-filled jewelry is much more affordable than solid gold pieces, but still has the look and feel of solid gold jewelry. While it is not as long-lasting as solid gold pieces, gold-filled jewelry can still last many years with proper care.
Caring for your gold filled jewelry is essential for its long lasting luster. Keep your gold filled jewelry as dry as possible and away from humidity in an air-tight plastic bag, as rubbing it against other jewelry can cause it to lose its sheen. Avoid wearing your gold filled jewelry when working out. Clean it with a solution of warm water and detergent-free soap, a soft-bristled brush. When not worn, store your gold pieces in soft cloth bags or the original Sheena Marshall box to help prevent scratches and ensure its long lasting shine.
When it comes to caring for solid gold jewelry, it's pretty durable! When worn regularly, your gold jewelry is exposed to skin oils, perspiration, dust, makeup, and more. To keep its long lasting shine, you should clean your jewelry regularly with a solution of 10-parts warm water and 2-parts dish soap. Use a soft brush to scrub the crevices and rinse with warm water. Gently pat dry with a soft cloth and store away from sunlight in a cool, dry place.
]]>If you're looking for the perfect gift for a minimalist mom, look no further than a beautiful, ethically handmade neck wrap by Olive & Olde's. Not only is it an aesthetically pleasing and practical gift, but it is also a great way to show your mom how much you care about her. These neck wraps are not only made with scrap pieces of fabric from previous production runs, but they also have helpful handles and microwaveable insides so she can enjoy the benefits of hot or cold therapy wherever she is. Plus, each neck wrap is handmade in Denver, CO with standard linen and comes in five colors: Clay, Ocean, Olive, Sol, and Spruce.
Olive & Olde's Lavender Neck Wrap
A Wax Crescent Candle is the perfect gift for a minimalist mom who values ethically handmade, eco-friendly gifts. Wax Crescent's hand-poured candles are made with wax made from USA grown soybeans, phthalate and paraben-free fragrances, and essential oils for a clean burn. Each candle is made with a braided cotton wick, and the ingredients are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Wax Crescent Lavender and Rosemary Candle
For the minimalist mom, a meaningful and thoughtful gift can be found in an ethically handmade gold jewelry piece from Sheena Marshall Jewelry that she can keep forever and always remember the special occasion with. It is a reminder to take time away from the daily rush and focus on the quieter pleasures in life. This necklace will bring her close to nature and add a unique touch of sophistication and beauty to her wardrobe. 14k gold fill jewelry also adds a touch of glamour, creating an heirloom that she can pass on for generations to come.
Sheena Marshall Hygge Bloom Necklace
If your mom is looking for a way to naturally brighten and balance her skin, the Cherry Hibiscus Face Mask by Merigold is the perfect gift. This ethically handmade face mask was crafted with love and care in honor of sakura, cherry blossom season in Japan. Using organic, plant-based ingredients like cherry, hibiscus, licorice, and gotu kola, this mask will help rejuvenate and restore her skin. Let the natural world come to life around her as she relaxes with this heartfelt formula that will enliven her skin to the season’s budding potential.
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If you’re looking for a natural and safe way to clean your jewelry, this is the guide for you! Here we will discuss the best methods for cleaning jewelry naturally without damaging your beloved pieces. We’ll explain why it’s important to use natural cleaning methods and provide tips on how to do it safely and effectively. So if you’re looking for a way to keep your jewelry sparkling without harsh chemicals or commercial cleaning products, read on for your ultimate guide to cleaning jewelry naturally.
When it comes to cleaning gold fill jewelry, there are a few things you'll need to get started. These include a gentle dish soap, warm water, a soft bristled toothbrush, and a polish cloth. It's important to note that harsh chemicals can damage delicate jewelry, so make sure to opt for more natural cleaning solutions whenever possible.
If you have gold-filled jewelry that needs cleaning, you can use a natural solution to get it sparkling again. Start by filling a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Submerge the gold-filled jewelry in the soapy water for 10-15 minutes to loosen dirt and grime.
After soaking the gold-filled jewelry, take a soft toothbrush and scrub the piece of jewelry gently. This should help remove any dirt or debris that was loosened during the soaking process. Make sure to get into any tight spots or crevices.
When all of the dirt and grime has been removed, plug the drain and rinse off the jewelry until all of the suds are gone. Pat the jewelry down with a clean lint-free towel to remove excess moisture. Let the jewelry air-dry completely before putting it away.
When it comes to caring for your jewelry, a little preventive maintenance can go a long way. Here are a few tips and tricks to help keep your jewelry looking its best: