Kristena Witherspoon Designs

Great Video!

2012-01-24T07:01:00.000-08:00

New Designs

2012-01-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

I just finished some new designs---The New Sadie Clutch and The Mini Bow Clutch
adding them to the shop now :)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-09T08:23:00.001-08:00

(this was in my fortune cookie a few days ago..so true!)

I know that this post is pretty late but...Happy New Year! I hope that the year is going well for you so far. I'm really excited about 2012 and the renewed focus that I'm bringing to this year.

I've been busy finishing up writing down this year's goals. A new approach that I realized that I need to bring to this year's list is to add a deadline (a realistic one of course) to each goal and break the list down by month. Otherwise, I can end up procrastinating and putting things off for too long.

I also break my goals down into categories

Spiritual
Life/Outlook
Health/Fitness
Family/Friends
Finances
Travel/Culture
Education/Classes
Business/Career
Philanthropy/Volunteer
New Experiences

Best of luck this year and stay motivated!

Here's a video of one of my favorite youtube motivational speakers:

New Positive Habits-Final Recap

2011-12-31T10:48:00.000-08:00

(scrambled eggs, purple cabbage, carrots)

(sweet potatoes and basil sauteed in extra virgin olive oil)

(broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, onions)

This 3 week journey has ended...well..not completely. I still have to keep the positive habits going. This past week was not too different from week 2. Doing something like this around the holiday season definitely made it a bit more challenging.

The main things that I need to continue to work on:
--work out at higher end of target heart rate
(instead of only running on the treadmill, I now focus more on intervals-- walk 1.5 min at 3.5 speed, run 1.5 min at 9.0 speed)
--focus on having a colorful plate when eating
--eat when hungry and stop when full
--limit carb intake
--try new healthy recipes so that I don't get bored
--get back into doing yoga and dance classes (the elliptical and treadmill can get a bit boring)

Final Results:

Saturday Dec 31
wt- 169.2 (lost 5.6 lbs)
bust- 38 (lost 0")
waist- 27.5 (lost 1.5")
low waist- 33 (lost 1")
hip- 42 (lost .5")

Before and After photos:

Although, I did not reach my total 9lb goal, I'm still happy that I tried and put in the effort. I also try not to get too wrapped up in the numbers and prefer to focus on overall health and wellness instead.

Remember, you never know what you are capable of until you try. Trying is the most important thing :)

Ms Aaliyah said it herself...if at first you don't succeed, dust yourself off and try again! Of course, I'm going to include the video lol.

Move Ya Body!

2011-12-30T13:44:00.000-08:00

I absolutely LOVE Guillaume's choreography!
I have to be sure to take his class when I visit Paris :)

KWD has ANOTHER stockists!

2011-12-30T12:16:00.001-08:00

This was a great end to a long week!

KWD has a new stockists :)

Mignonette is located at 1747 W. Belmont in Chicago..just west of the Lincoln/Belmont/Ashland intersection...so the neighborhood can be considered Lakeview or Roscoe Village.

Here's a cool picture of the one section of the interior. Kpoene, the owner, is a super talented visual merchandiser and created a very warm and inviting space.

Yay!

xoxo Kristena

Humpity Hump Day.

2011-12-28T15:57:00.001-08:00

Just added new items to the online shop :)

Oh! I want to give a shout out to Ms Nicole over at 'Ooh, Eye Like It" for doing a great write up on KWD. Thanks :)

xoxo Kristena

Ms Ultra Nate

2011-12-28T11:07:00.001-08:00

I've loved house music since about junior high school. Ultra Nate has always been one of my favorite artists and these are two of my early favorites!

I actually met her a couple of years ago during Chicago Pride weekend and she's such a sweet lady. Due to a previous computer crash, I no longer have the picture that we took together :(

Enjoy :)

"FREE"

"FOUND A CURE"

New Positive Habits--Week 2 Recap and Week 3 Goals

2011-12-24T17:00:00.000-08:00

(I tried the 'stairclimber' at the gym today..it seems to be vintage or something lol. It is like stepping straight up and down instead of going up actual stairs..I see why I only use the treadmill and elliptical now! Oh well, this gym is only 3 blocks from me..so I prefer it over a 10-20 min drive. It is easier to stay consistent when you don't have to drive far)

Week 2 is FINALLY over and it is time for Week 3 :)

This week did not go as well as Week 1 but I'm proud of myself for continuing to stay active (instead of completely throwing in the towel).

Just to recap, the goals for Week 2 were:
--focus on arms/back this week and build up to 2 reps of 10
--workout at higher end of target heart rate range
--continue with week 1's new habits
--research new healthy recipes

I focused on arm/back movements with 8lb weights and it wasn't too bad. I will need to increase to either 3 reps or 10lb weights for week 3. I also worked at the higher end of my target heart rate. I could definitely tell that I was pushing myself harder!

I did not do so well with continuing all of week 1's new habits (such as only eating when hungry and stopping when full). Definitely have to be more conscious of this for week 3. Oh! I also didn't get a chance to try any new recipes either.

Week 1's results are:
Saturday Dec 24
wt- 169.0 (gained .4 lbs)
bust- 38 (lost 0")
waist- 28 (lost 0")
low waist- 33 (lost.5")
hip- 42 (lost 0")

**Although I kept on track with exercising this week, I was not as diligent with my meals as I was during Week 1. Week 2 was very hectic and busy and it was a bit more challenging for me to eat as healthy as I should. The carbs were calling my name lol!

The goals for Week 3:
--continue new habits from Weeks 1 and 2
--continue to focus only eating when hungry and stopping when full
--limit carb intake
--add squats and lunges to routine (start with 2 sets of 10 for each move)
--add ab toning exercises (I DESPISE crunches, so I think I will try planks)

There are good plank moves at the beginning of this video:

**Helpful Tips:
-if you are doing weights/toning as well as cardio, it is best to do the cardio last
-be sure to drink enough water throughout your workout. I have a quart (4 cups) bottle that I drink. This helps a bit b/c then I only have 6-7 more cups to drink the rest of the day.
-be sure to stretch before and after your workout

New Positive Habits--Week 2 midweek check in

2011-12-22T18:18:00.000-08:00

(a stirfry dish that I made this week: baked salmon-corn-broccoli-onions-spinach and seasoned with basil and a bit of sea salt)

Thursday is already here!

So this week's goals are:
--focus on arms/back this week and build up to 2 reps of 10
--workout at higher end of target heart rate range
--continue with week 1's new habits
--research new healthy recipes

This has been a very busy and challenging week. I've noticed that I have been including more carbs than usual in my meals this week. Combine this with weight training and it is harder to lose lbs. So, I'm mentally preparing myself to not expect a loss similar to last week's.

Here's a quick recap:
--So far, I've done weights Mon and Wed. I'm doing every other day in order to give my muscles a rest. For now, I'm at 8lbs and 2 reps of 10. I really felt it after Monday but I'm beginning to get used to it now. I may have to move up to 10 lbs (or add another rep) sooner than I thought.

--I'm more aware of my heart rate when working out and am consistently making an effort to work out toward the higher end. Tue was a bit challenging and I only did 20 min of cardio. However, I did 60 min on Wed to make up for it :) That was a great mental accomplishment for me because it would have been so easy to just do 20 min again. I've kept the 45 mins on the other days.

--It hasn't been that bad keeping Week 1's habits. Consistently drinking water during the 2nd half of the day has been somewhat of a challenge. I thought about adding crystal light to it but I feel that would kind of be like cheating. Gotta keep trying though :)

--I've yet to try any recipes yet..we shall see.

Best of luck this week. Keep moving and reach your goals!

(in gym mode lol)

Oh! I'm tweeting about the positive habit journey as well!
@K_W_Designs #3weeknewhabitjourney

"When We Were Kings"

2011-12-20T14:34:00.000-08:00

I recently watched "When We Were Kings" and loved it! It is a 1996 documentary about the 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" fight between champion George Foreman and challenger Muhammed Ali. It was held in Zaire which is now the Republic of the Congo. This was quite monumental because it was a huge event that was put on by African Americans but took place in Africa. My favorite parts are when Ali goes out and interacts so charismatically with the local people.

New Positive Habits--Week 1 Recap and Week 2 Goals

2011-12-18T17:21:00.000-08:00

Yay! Week 1 is FINALLY over and it is time for Week 2!

I was definitely surprised by my results this morning after weighing and measuring myself.

Just to recap, the goals for Week 1 were:
--eat when hungry and stop when full
--focus on having a colorful plate when eating
--1 drink max when going out
--remove soda altogether
--increase water intake
--gradually increase cardio time to 45 min

As of the midweek check in, I still needed to build up to 45 minutes of cardio, only have 1 drink when going out, and not over snack at parties.

I went to an ugly sweater party on Friday and tried to keep myself from over snacking by eating my meal beforehand. Well...that did not help! I over snacked and also had more than 1 drink. Usually I'd throw in the towel when stuff like this happens...just give in and go all out the entire weekend. Instead of giving up though, I went harder at the gym on Saturday morning. Also instead of the 45 min, I did 50 min and ate healthier the entire day.

I went out for a friend's birthday on Saturday night and did really well by having only 1 drink. Yes! What definitely helped was knowing that I had to get weighed and measured the next morning.

Week 1's results are:
Sunday Dec 18
wt- 168.6 (lost 6.2 lbs)
bust- 38 (lost 0")
waist- 28 (lost 1")
low waist- 33.5 (.5")
hip- 42 (lost .5")

**the 6.2 lb lost was a shocker, but that is not uncommon for the 1st week of a big diet/exercise change

The goals for Week 2:
--focus on arms/back this week and build up to 2 reps of 10 (was thinking of using 10 lb wts but that sounds quite painful...will aim for 8lb wts instead) (will add legs next week)
--workout at higher end of target heart rate range (see link below)
--continue with week 1's new habits
--research new healthy recipes

**great link to find target heart rate:
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/healthtool-target-heart-rate-calculator

I definitely needed a bit of help with the arm movements. Here's a great video that I found and the moves are pretty quick:

Good luck this week! I know that you can do it :)

Oh! Here's the sweater that I wore. I couldn't find a tacky christmas themed one, so I had to opt for the fall/thanksgiving one.

What's up in the KWD studio?

2011-12-16T11:15:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season of being extra busy! November and December are always super busy months and I've been spending a lot more time sewing and crocheting. Just wanted to share a few studio shots :)

Some music.

2011-12-16T10:43:00.000-08:00

I like to create youtube playlists to listen to while I sew.
Here are a few tracks that I've been listening to lately.

Enjoy :)

New Positive Habits--Week 1 midweek check in

2011-12-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

So it is Wednesday already! I'm taking it one day at a time though :)

So this week's goals are:
--eat when hungry and stop when full
--focus on having a colorful plate when eating
--1 drink max when going out
--remove soda altogether
--increase water intake
--gradually increase cardio time to 45 min

Other than having a few cookies on Monday, I've been doing a good job staying on track this week.

Here's a quick recap:
-Eating when I'm hungry has not been so bad so far. To recognize fullness, I've had to eat a lot slower than I normally do. I don't even consider myself a fast eater. I'd say I eat my food at an average pace. But since it takes 20 minutes for the brain to recognize fullness, I've had to slow down a bit

-Definitely doing the colorful plate thing, too. It is actually a nice challenge...making sure that I have foods that are different colors.

-I haven't really been out this week yet. However, there's a lot going on this weekend so it will be somewhat of a challenge...but I know that I can do it!

-No soda so far this week! Yay!

-Yes, I've been drinking more water. This is something that I've had to be more conscious about, because I'm not necessarily thirsty when I drink it. I just try to sip on it throughout the day so that it doesn't seem so bad.

-I've gradually increased my cardio time up to 35 min so far and will use the next few days to get to 45 min. It may not sound like a big increase, but it has been somewhat of a challenge. It is probably more mental than physical, especially when I'm watching the time on the elliptical or treadmill and am so used to stopping at 30 min. Those extra 5 min that I've been doing this week seem to go by sooo slowly!

I've included another picture of one of my colorful dishes :)

How are you doing so far this week?
Stay focused and finish the week strong!

The New Isis Ipad Case :)

2011-12-13T14:46:00.001-08:00

This is a lovely padded ipad case that is created out of adorable woven upholstery fabric. I love the fabric because it has a wonderful luxe feel to it :)

http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/

New Positive Habits--Goals for Week 1

2011-12-11T18:38:00.000-08:00

In order to get this show on the road, we definitely need applicable info for this week. So here it goes:

My main issues to overcome:

-tend to overeat in social settings (grazing def adds up!)
-only drinking about 6-7 cups of water daily
-drink socially—sometimes up to 4 drinks
-only doing 1 set of 10 reps when working out (I count to 10 and I'm done lol)
-not using weights when doing squats and lunges
-not consistently working out at a high enough heart rate
-coke/choc chip cookie/banana pudding addiction
-only doing about 25-30 min of cardio 4-5 times per week

My goals for these entire 3 weeks:
-eat when hungry and stop when full

-consistently get healthy snacks (nuts/dried fruit/pretzels)

-focus on colorful plates (this helps you get the fruits/vegetables that you need)

-lose at least 9lbs total---3 lbs per week

-increase muscle tone/definition

-increase # of sets when doing 10 reps--work my way up to 3 sets

-use weights (10-15 lb) when doing squats and lunges
-remove soda from diet entirely
-increase water intake (apparently I should be drinking 10-11 cups per day)
-less alcohol—1 drink max when going out (regardless of who is buying lol)
-plan meals ahead of time if I will be out all day
-work out at higher heart rate (but not too high!)
-do 45 min of cardio 5-6 times per week

**great link to help you determine what your water intake should be:
http://www.ehow.com/how_4875988_recommended-water-intake-per-day.html

**One thing that doesn't work for me is counting calories. I've never been able to get pass the 2nd day with this method. I believe that eating when hungry and stopping when full will do the trick as long as it is healthy food.

This is ALOT to focus on..so I'm going to narrow in on only a few things this week:

--eat when hungry and stop when full

--focus on having a colorful plate when eating

--1 drink max when going out

--remove soda altogether

--increase water intake

--gradually increase cardio time to 45 min

I hope this helps and good luck this week :)

Today's Event :)

2011-12-11T09:19:00.000-08:00

I'm headed over there now..should be fun!

3 weeks to new positive habits

2011-12-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

This is a bit scary and exciting at the same time. Scary because I'm posting these pictures online and sharing something so personal. On the other hand, it is exciting because I get to motivate and inspire others as well as create new positive habits. I also wanted to do this because we have exactly 3 weeks until January 1st (and it takes 21 days to form a new habit). Instead of waiting until the new year to focus on this, I figured it would be even better to get a head start and bring the new year in with healthy habits already in place :)

Hmmm..so step 1 is admitting my weight: as of this morning the scale said 174...actually it said 174.8. There I said it! Wow..not as hard as I thought it would be. Ideally, I would like to get to 160 by Jan 1st but that is craziness for me. And besides, another reason for sharing this journey was to focus on healthy eating and exercise instead of the numbers on the scale.

I've realized that 160 is my number, because that is where I was this past summer. That is just a comfortable and manageable weight for me. I was eating healthy and exercising regularly and also challenging myself with different dance classes. I've noticed that anything below this number is harder for me to maintain. I'm also kind of tall (5'8") and what I call 'big boned'. Some say there is no such thing...but I think I actually have big bones. Also for some reason, winter seems to be my 'thick' season. I guess because it is the season of layers, staying inside, and lots of social gatherings involving food.

So what I'm going to do is weigh and measure myself at the end of each week and share the results. Throughout the week, I will also share food and exercise tips and challenges.

Sunday Dec 11
wt- 174.8
bust- 38
waist- 29
low waist- 34
hip- 42.5

It is mad cold outside!

2011-12-08T13:36:00.001-08:00

It is mad crazy cold outside! 25 degrees to be exact lol.

No worries b/c I am prepared with my Protect Ya Neck Hood :)
I love it and just added 2 new colors to the online shop (red/black and olive/charcoal)
They are reversible..so 2 in 1..even better.
http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/

Just added to the shop :)

2011-12-07T12:16:00.001-08:00

Just posted new delight coin purses-phone cases to the online shop:
www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

The Delight Coin Purse/Phone Case is the perfect size for essentials: keys, cell, money, and ID.

KWD pop up shop this Sunday Dec 11th--noon to 5pm--Chicago

2011-12-05T18:29:00.001-08:00

I will be at Glenwood Bar this Sunday Dec 11 from noon to 5. Free entry and live music...located at 6962 N Glenwood Ave (near Morse red line) in Chicago :)

Can't wait!

Also, here's a picture of me set up on small business saturday (11/24)while visiting my family in Little Rock, AR. I set up at the Rivermarket that is located downtown near the river. It brought back memories b/c I used to set up here when I first began selling my items in high school. It has definitely evolved...more shops, restaurants, and bars...as well as a cute trolley that takes you around downtown. What made it even better was my dear talented cousin was set up next to me-- http://www.yoyomoore.com/

News and such :)

2011-11-22T17:33:00.000-08:00

FINALLY on tumblr~~www.kristenawitherspoon.tumblr.com

also tweeting more~~www.twitter.com/K_W_Designs

http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/

I'm visiting my hometown of Little Rock this week and below is a really cool picture of our Rivermarket downtown.

'I Love Life' Earrings--SALE!

2011-11-11T17:21:00.000-08:00

I'm excited that the 'I Love Life' Earrings are getting such a great response! Because of this, I'd like to show my gratitude by offering a sale through November 18th~~choose any 2 for $18, 3 for $27, or 4 for $36.

www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

.

The 'Protect Ya Neck' Hood is unisex.

2011-11-07T20:18:00.000-08:00

navy and black reversible---2 in 1 :)
available in the shop.
www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

More Fafi Foldover Clutches in kente.

2011-11-07T20:15:00.001-08:00

Her name is Fafi.

2011-11-03T14:04:00.001-07:00

Just posted another Fafi Foldover Clutch in the shop.
It is a mix of black leather, blue/black African mask print, and yellow/black African Adinkra print.

I'm really loving the texture and color mix.
www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

More 'I Love Life' Earrings.

2011-11-02T17:08:00.000-07:00

More colors available!
1st row- Diaspora, Heart & Soul (new), Afrobeat (new)
2nd row- Mariposa, Carnival, Bubbleyah

available in the online boutique-www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

Big hair and feathers on the shoulders!

2011-11-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

Just added to the online shop :)

2011-10-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hey!

Can't believe it is already Wednesday...and getting colder by the day :(

Good news thought:) I just added a one of a kind tan faux leather tote to the shop :)

This is a great daytime work bag.

Exterior- tan faux leather (woven design) denim straps denim bottom base

Interior- bright yellow solid cotton; interior bottom is a gold/green African Ankara print; 2 small interior pockets (gold/green African Ankara print) that are 3.5" wide and 4.5" deep

Dimensions: 14" wide 14" deep 22" strap length gold magnetic snap closure.

http://kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/faux-leather-tote

'Protect Ya Neck' Hood

2011-10-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

I live in Chicago and the winters are BRUTAL. Besides a coat, I usually wrap my head and neck in a scarf. However, it is sort of a pain taking it off and having to rewrap it when you are headed back out. I wanted to create something that you could wear around your neck as a scarf but also pull over your head to protect the sides of your face from the wind.

I also wanted it to be able to stand alone and be worn as an accessory by itself.

Fafi Foldover Clutch- kente print

2011-10-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

We are bringing back the Fafi Clutch!

Fold over clutch with black zip closure at top. Gold magnetic snap closure to keep folded. Interfaced to give structure.

Exterior- kente print with black leather detail at front
Interior- black/white checkered cotton print

DIMENSIONS

11.5" wide

7" deep folded

13.5" deep unfolded

10" wrist strap
diagonal leather detail- 11" long and 1.5" wide

http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/fafi-foldover-clutch-kente-print

‎'I Love Life' Earrings in Bubbleyah.

2011-10-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

My phone evolution.

2011-10-18T16:45:00.000-07:00

I recently got a smartphone. Yes...it was way overdue but I'm proud of myself for holding out as long as I did. I actually really needed it b/c of how much I'm on the go. I actually still have my last two phones and thought it would be cool to take a picture to see 'my phone evolution' lol. The one that I had before the flip phone was a classic nokia...not sure what happened to it.

xoxo Kristena

2011-10-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Another KWD pop up shop this weekend :)

2011-10-12T17:58:00.000-07:00

This Saturday's event will be held at:

Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago IL
Noon to 5pm
and there will be live music

This has to be one of the best bachata dance performances that I've seen...love it!

2011-10-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

KWD has a new stockist.

2011-10-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

I'm so exicted! Our 'Reversible Sugah Hobo' and 'Delight Coin Purse' styles are now stocked at Wolfbait & Bgirls in Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood.

Wolfbait & Bgirls
3131 W. Logan Blvd
Chicago, IL 60647

xoxo Kristena

Our KWD pop up shop @ Handmade Market was great :)

2011-10-10T09:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a lot of fun and I met some really cool people.
Vending is always interesting because you get to meet other independent designers as well as interact face to face with clients.

xoxo Kristena

KWD is setting up shop today @ Chicago's Handmade Market :)

2011-10-08T06:04:00.001-07:00

Feel free to come check out some awesome handmade items or to just say hi...oh and there's a bar! So sipping is optional, too :)

We'll be located at:
The Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave
Chicago, IL
noon to 4 tooday :)

xoxo Kristena

Making Progress.

2011-10-07T17:23:00.000-07:00

So today I went to the Chicago City Treasurer's Small Business Expo and it was fantastic! I met cool people and got a lot of great information. Although I've had my buiness for a few years now, I'm always trying to learn new things and continue to grow (as a person and as an entreprenur).

I also wore my new 'I Love Life' earrings. I got a lot of compliments and passed out lots of business cards. I definitely need to begin doing them in different colorways :)

xoxo Kristena

Our BGLH ad--gotta share it with y'all too!

2011-10-05T20:06:00.000-07:00

Here's an ad that we did this month and we just wanted to share the special savings with you, too!

xoxo Kristena

Reversible Sugah Hobo Styles added to the shop :)

2011-10-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

New 'I Love Life' Earrings!

2011-10-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

These earrings were inspired by the ebb and flow of life and how these different things weave us into the unique person that we are today.

They are currently available in our online boutique at www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

This is my new favorite bag.

2011-10-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

Back in college, I used to make a lot of big hobo bags. I've recently gotten back into it and am loving it! The new Reversible Sugah Hobo Bag is my new fave. I've been carrying this one for the last couple of months and it has held up nicely :) I tend to overstuff my bags and this one is perfect for that. I'v also made it so that it is reversible....so it is 2 in 1!

Upcoming KWD event

2011-10-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

This Saturday- Oct 8th- KWD will be set up at the Chicago Handmade Market from noon to 4 at the Empty Bottle. Stop by :)

I've never been into anthems...but this would be mine if I had to pick one!

2011-10-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

The Upsetter

2011-09-14T06:49:00.000-07:00

I recently saw this at The Black Harvest Film Festival in Chicago. One of the best things about Chicago is the multiple film festivals that come through the city..I love it! Anywho, this is a cool film and definitely recommend it. It was interesting to learn about the man that essentially created reggae and dub music.

KWD F/W 2011

2011-09-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be able to share the new F/W items. Here are a few pictures and I'll definitely be adding more throughout the season. Yay!

*reversible Sugah hobo---2 bags in 1!

www.kristenawitherspoon.etsy.com

I love this cover!

2011-09-07T08:00:00.001-07:00

Where is KWD?!

2011-08-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

I'm sure it seems like I've been hiding. I have definitely been slacking in the blogging dept and I apologize for that. I'm really excited to share the new pieces that I've been working on and will be posting on September 10th!

KWD Pop Up Shop @ Kurls and Konversation

2011-07-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yay! This should be a lot of fun :)

I will be vending at Kurls and Konversation on July 30th from 7 to 9 30

It will take place at The Daystar Center, 1550 S State St, Chicago

KWD at Green Music Fest 2011

2011-06-24T04:17:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be setting up at this year's Green Music Fest in Wicker Park on Saturday.

I'll be in booth 35 and will also be bringing lots of new pieces :)

Inspiration...big earring!

2011-06-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

I found this on one of my favorite sites-- www.lecoil.tumblr.com

I think I should get on tumblr soon....

Fela! Fela!

2011-05-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

More Bamboo Flag Earrings-Jamaica

2011-04-10T22:07:00.000-07:00

I'm excited about these. Just added them to the shop :)

http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/bamboo-flag-earrings-jamaica

KWD will be setting up shop next Saturday!

2011-04-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited. I'll be setting up shop next Saturday from 12-5 at Grafton Pub in Chicago with other Urban Folk Circuit vendors!

I've been hard at work on many new pieces so come check it out :)

Beautiful Song.

2011-03-17T10:38:00.000-07:00

Another Bow Bag...in Ankara!

2011-03-16T21:33:00.001-07:00

I love Ankara fabrics. The gold in it is so vibrant!

This is definitely a statement piece and shows what KWD is all about--using vivid and colors prints in funky new ways that are still functional. Enjoy!

http://kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/bow-bag-ankara

Pre-order Bamboo Earrings

2011-03-14T07:06:00.000-07:00

New styles are now available for pre-order: Rasta, Guyana, Brazil

More styles will be added soon!

www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/bamboo-flag-earrings-rasta-pre-order-only

More Candy for ya!

2011-03-14T06:29:00.000-07:00

I love the colors and mixture of textures in this piece.

One of a kind. Added to shop this morning :)

www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

New in Shop!

2011-03-13T19:46:00.000-07:00

http://kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/delight-coin-purse-pnk-blk-faux-leather-white-webbing

Super Spring Sale!

2011-03-03T06:48:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy to announce the SUPER SPRING SALE!

Get 15% off all items in the shop

Sales begins today and ends March 10th 11pm cst

Simply enter 'superspring' at checkout and voila!

http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/

New Print

2011-02-28T12:42:00.000-08:00

I love this print and of course had to add some faux leather details.
Currently in the process of using the print for bigger bags, too!

In the shop:
www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com

Dance! Dance! Dance!

2011-02-28T12:00:00.000-08:00

I've always enjoyed dancing. Never really did classes but always liked it. I recently began taking a few dance classes (salsa, bachata, African, Afro-Cuban) and am currently looking for a ragga danchall class...not that easy to find.

Time for a new dress form.

2011-02-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

I'm ready for a Wolf dress form.

I plan to add clothing to my line this summer and this would make draping so much easier.

I absolutely LOVE the one that I have but it works better for display.

New Kente Bow Bag

2011-02-27T16:58:00.000-08:00

I just finished this piece today and I love it!

I've been meaning to create more pieces that are multifunctional (sling to clutch, etc)

I will definitely be doing more of these!

It is posted in the shop :)

http://kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/product/bow-bag-kente

Workspace- just wanted to share :)

2011-02-27T15:59:00.000-08:00

KWD pop up shop this Sunday Feb 13th :)

2011-02-08T17:25:00.000-08:00

Ntjam Rosie--lovely voice!

2011-02-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

Fiyah!

2011-01-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

one of my fave things=African prints used in a contemporary

Kente Cloth in a new way.

2011-01-13T07:36:00.000-08:00

I really like the colors in this fabric and incorporating it into my designs.
Available at http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/

Kente cloth originated with the Akan people of Ghana.

The colors have different meanings:

red- political/spiritual moods

green- harvesting/growth/spiritual renewal

white- purification

yellow- royalty/wealth

blue- peacefulness/harmony/love

black- maturation/intensified spiritual energy

(courtesy of wikipedia!)

Inspiration.

2011-01-11T09:00:00.001-08:00

I love me some Les Nubians.

Nephew :)

2011-01-06T07:06:00.000-08:00

Mr Michael. So cute...but giving an evil eye lol

I enjoy her music.

2011-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Esperanza is an amazing talent. I love it when people share their amazing gifts with the world.

New Bags in online shop!

2011-01-02T13:57:00.000-08:00

I've been hard at work on new items. I must say that I love them!
A great way to start off the new year :)

All bags are at http://www.kristenawitherspoon.bigcartel.com/

The Holstee Manifesto

2010-12-21T07:03:00.001-08:00

Ms Kerry (my favorite actress!)

2010-12-07T06:27:00.000-08:00

Some Saturday Morning Chill

2010-12-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

Snow in Chicago....here we go!

2010-12-04T08:39:00.000-08:00

I ♥ pashminas!

2010-12-04T08:32:00.001-08:00

New Fabric!

2010-11-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

Throwback video- French graffiti artist, Fafi, talks inspiration

2010-11-14T08:58:00.000-08:00

New Flag Earrings

2010-11-11T12:38:00.000-08:00

New Handpainted Bamboo Flag Earrings.

I love these!

Télépopmusik = amazing trip hop

2010-11-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

Can't wait to see her live!

2010-11-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

Back After a Long Break!

2010-11-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

It has been way too long since my last post. I will def be posting more often!

I've been busy working on Delight Coin Purses!
more in the online shop at www.kristenawitherspoon.etsy.com

BEP..The End

2009-06-13T19:17:00.000-07:00

I just got their new album yesterday.
I love how it is produced so that all the songs flow together.
Great party tracks and will keep you pumped during your morning run.
Check it :)

WristCuffs

2009-06-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

I always have a ton of scrap fabric..now I have something to do with it!

More Bow Clutches!

2009-06-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

A few other colors completed.
So funky!

Introducing the Bow Clutch

2009-05-23T19:45:00.000-07:00

I'm sooo in love with this!

New style for KWD!

Introducing the Bow Clutch. Perfect for a night out. Fun and girly yet super practical. Big bow on front of clutch.

I've done 3 so far: stonewash denim, blk/white mudcloth, and the Ankara print.

More colors to come!

KWD will be @ the WE Market this Saturday..coolness :)

2009-05-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

New Bamboo Flag Earrings!

2009-05-11T19:05:00.001-07:00

Featuring Guyana, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Rasta, and Nigeria.
Handpainted and VERY limited quantities.

What's up?!

2009-04-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

SUPER SPRING sale is what’s up.
KWD is making room for superfresh spring styles (stay tuned for the Bow Clutch) holla!

www.kristenawitherspoon.etsy.com

Urban Heiress Interview

2009-04-22T09:15:00.002-07:00

Yay!
Shouts out to Urban Heiress for interviewing KWD.
Check it at:
http://urbanheiress.blogspot.com/2009/04/hobby-hustlin-kristena-witherspoon.html

The Fafi Clutch

2009-04-12T07:25:00.001-07:00

I've had a small obsession with fold over bags for a bit now...it's about time that I've created one for KWD! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this fabric. The colors are beautiful and the sunflower print is interesting. I enjoy using faux leather, and I found an ostrich print type..so cute!

I'll definitely be doing this in more colors!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Fold over clutch with wristlet strap. Beautiful gold, black, green and cream sunflower African print cotton fabric. Black ostrich print faux leather detail. Green satin lining. Gold magnetic snap closure. Interfaced to give structure.

7.5" deep zip pocket beneath fold.

DIMENSIONS
12" wide
8" deep folded
13" deep unfolded
10" wrist strap
2.5" wide faux leather detail

HANDMADE & ONE-OF-A-KIND :)

The Sugah Hobo

2009-04-07T17:47:00.000-07:00

Holla back!! Holla at the Sugah Hobo!!

I've started using mudcloth fabric....and it looks great as a big bag :)
It has a great heavyweight feel and is very sturdy.

This is an awesome bag! Superhuge. Slouchy hobo style.
The top curves slightly to fit right beneath your arm. The exterior is a heavyweight purple/plack mudcloth with a 2" wide black webbing detail at front. Strap is black/white mudcloth. Pink interior. 2 interior pockets. Gold magnetic snap closure.

DIMENSIONS
13" deep
20" at widest point
14" opening at top
16" strap (2" WIDE)
5" x 5" interior pockets (2)

Street Style..part uno

2009-03-14T21:40:00.000-07:00

I like street fashion…seeing how people mix their own ideas is very inspiring to me as a designer. I enjoy seeing how various people express themselves. I initially planned on starting an entirely new blog for this..but decided to simply add it to the KWD blog.

Charita B. is a friend of mine with supercool style. I’ve told her plenty of times that she should become a personal stylist or something. She once told me that she’s probably so into clothes because she had to wear a uniform for school. We’ve collaborated on many projects: from customizing dresses to creating new ones. What’s even more awesome is she scores awesome finds from resale shops (hope that wasn’t a secret..) and mixes it with newer stuff.

Who is Taraji P. Henson?

2009-03-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

.....a great actress that's been slept on way too long. Wake up! haha

Taraji is an Academy Award-nominated American actress. Born in 1970 in Washington, D.C., she has been acting since 1997 and is best known for her roles in Hustle and Flow, Baby Boy , and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. She graduated from Howard University with a degree in Theater Arts.

Taraji has said in an interview that her philosophy in life is: "Love as often as you can. Dance like nobody's watching. Travel. Eat. Try new foods because, like my character [Queenie in The Curious Case ..]says, you never know what's coming for you and when it's time to let go, you got to let go."

Below is a list of a few of her awards and nominations:

Academy Awards
o 2009: Best Supporting Actress - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (Nominated)

BET Awards
o 2006: Best Actress (Winner)

Black Movie Awards
o 2005: Best Supporting Actress - Hustle & Flow (Winner)

Gotham Awards
o 2007: Best Ensemble - Talk to Me (Winner)

NAACP Image Awards
o 2009: Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (Winner)
o 2008: Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture - Talk to Me (Nominated)
o 2006: Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture - Hustle & Flow (Nominated)

• MTV Movie Awards
o 2006: Best Breakthrough Performance - Hustle & Flow (Nominated)

Screen Actors Guild Awards

o 2008: Outstanding Cast in a Television Drama - Boston Legal (Nominated)
o 2007: Outstanding Cast in a Television Drama - Boston Legal (Nominated)
o 2006: Outstanding Cast in a Motion Picture - Hustle & Flow (Nominated)

"Sing It Back" by Moloko

2009-03-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

I absolutely ADORE this song. Trip hop and ya don't stop!
This live performance is so so great!
Gotta love the clothing too :)

More, more Moloko! Here are some more cool songs.