The Essence of America

Happy Independence Day! Let’s not forget the freedom that came to Americans this day in 1776. May there be joy and appreciation. If you like the vest posted above, take a look at how to make one for yourself here.

DIY: American Paper Chains

 

 

Fourth of July is this Friday, y’all! If you’re looking for last minute decorations or festive flag-inspired crafts, here’s just the thing. You probably have all of the supplies needed already. The Sibley Denim Shorts are perfect for any fishing or bar-b-queing you may have in-store this holiday weekend. Have fun and stay safe!

Leslie Vigeant of Material Rescue League

Visiting a city dump is an eye opening revelation to those who haven’t had an opportunity to see the path that waste follows once it’s left homes and businesses in the surrounding area. Endless piles of what most consider trash fill the gigantic rooms of the facility. Those heaps are destined to filtered, compacted, and shipped to the nearest landfill. The Portland dump has a different approach. They have programs that allow artists and others to sort through trash that has been safely filtered through the system so that they can recycle their finds. I saw plenty of things that could be reused and made new again as I made my way through the mountains of junk.
Just ask artist Leslie Vigeant. Her project the Material Rescue League incorporated her precious finds from the dump. Leslie collected non-recyclable items and rehabilitated them into boutique products. Take a look at the final photo posted above, with interesting colors and materials packaged and displayed with care, all in the name of art and making the world a better and cleaner place.
As the birthday of this nation rolls around, keep those in mind who go out of their way to preserve the beauty of America. Be motivated by strong women like Leslie, who aren’t daunted by piles of stinky trash. Find the beauty in everything and use a little elbow grease to help others see that beauty as well.

Take a look at Leslie’s work gear: Carhartt Women’s Minot Shirt, Clarkston Cami Tank, Relaxed-Fit Canvas Kane Dungaree, & Carhartt Women’s Quick Flex Glove. 

Potomac Point Winery

Cheers and happy 4th y’all! Let’s all lift a glass to this great nation. I know the perfect place to do that: Potomac Point Winery. It’s right outside of DC in Stafford, VA. The wine flows a plenty and it’s ridiculously good! This is Rachael, the food and wine manager. (and that has to be one of the coolest jobs around) Not only is the wine good at Potomac Point, the food is too. With the picturesque scenery and a delicious taste testing tour,
you’ll never want to leave this place.

shop Rachael’s look here: Force Performance Quarter Zip and El Paso Cropped Pant 

DIY: American Flag Vest

With the 4th just around the corner, it’s time to get your Betty Ross on! Carhartt Women’s Tomboy Hooded Vest is perfect for sporting your American pride. All you need is scrap fabric, paint, and thread. Stitch up a storm and you have your outfit for Independence Day. Whatever your holiday activities may be, this is a great outfit. It’s ideal for fishing, boating, bbq-ing, etc… My favorite thing about this vest is the media port to deal with those headphone wires easily.

shop this look: Tomboy Hooded Vest, Cheyenne Shirt, & El Paso Short