September 7, 2007

State of Mind

Alabama Chanin Designs

When life gives women lemons, they make lemonade. When life gives Southern women lemons, they make spiked lemonade with fresh mint and a plate of fresh-baked sugar cookies on the side.

So when you’re ready for a transformation of your own, turn to Alabama Chanin, who takes surprising materials and creates limited-edition, well, everything. Natalie “Alabama” Chanin (so nicknamed after her home state) creates clothing — like the DIY eagle applique T-shirt or made-to-order corset with molded fabric flowers — and jewelry (such as a beetle charm bracelet tied with a cotton ribbon and fabric medallion necklace on a double chain) with a delicate Southern flavor.

There are also one-of-a-kind home furnishings like handmade kitchen chairs from the 1900s woven with men’s ties.

The wares aren’t cheap, but consider that you’re getting something truly unique that’ll set your wardrobe or home apart in a big way.

And that kind of Southern charm? Priceless.

Available online at alabamachanin.com.