Who doesn’t like shoes and handbags? I love shoes and at one time I couldn’t go past a shoe shop without having a look at least, but over the years I have learned to restrain myself. Budget was one reason, but I started to realise the ecological cost. But that doesn’t mean I have deprived myself.
So instead of buying the latest fashion, I have learned to give my shoes a new look. It is very easy with a bit of know how. Here are some ideas:
Ribbon – Glue a ribbon shaped into a bow on the front or side of your shoes.
Add some bling – using a brooch or clip-on earrings. Pick colours that match an outfit.
Make ankle straps – using a ribbon, glue it to the inside back of your shoe. Add trims like a catch or buckle, before trimming the ribbon to the size of your ankle. Another alternative is to use a necklace, but check it out beforehand as some necklaces may irritate your ankles.
You can do the same things to your handbags too. Now I wouldn’t recommend getting your latest Chanel and piercing holes into it, but grab those old bags that you love and change them a little by adding some bling, sparkle or ribbons.
If you have some bags stored away or have bought some lovely vintage bags that you would love to use, they can a bit on the smelly side. When bags have been stored away for a while, they can smell very musty, but don’t worry you can clean them quite easily.
After removing any items out of the bag, place 2 tablespoons of baking soda inside the bag. Shake it all about.
To make your bag smell nice again, add natural odourisers such as lavender sprigs or rose petals or lemons (cut in half) or limes (cut in half). Leave overnight.
Remove your odouriser and then using a vacuum remove all the baking soda. To remove any excess baking soda, remove with a damp cloth and allow to dry.
If you prefer, at this stage sprinkle a few drop of an oil like lavender, sandalwood or bergamot. Make sure it is safe to add the oil to the inner material of your bag, as some oils will stain.
You don’t have to stop there. Look at the rest of your clothing. Can you save it from going to the bin or the opt shop? Have fun, be creative and you might surprise yourself with what you may come up with.
Be earthly passionate,
Attracta & the earthly passion team