Retail Love: Loaded Trunk

It's easy to get disenchanted with the "global" look -- how often have we seen traditional crafts practiced over centuries -- amazing works of art you had to buy a plane ticket to get -- turn into mass-produced trends available at any Crate & Barrel?

Yes, the replicas can look pretty, but the specialness is gone. At the same time, there's something to be said for accessibility. That's why I completely adore Loaded Trunk, a wonderful boutique and online shop that purchases beautiful handmade goods from local artisans at a fair price, but saves you the $2000 plane ticket and three-day hike to get to them.

There's a lot to love in this shop, but my favorite things would have to be the magical Mexican bedspreads and the Turkish tinned copper.
(Mexican Bedspreads)

There are also richly dyed Turkish rugs, Indonesian ikat, vibrant Suzani pillows and cool and creepy Indonesian shadow puppets. Shop here.

(Indonesian shadow puppet, Turkish tinned copper, Thai cobra stapler, Yao ceremonial scroll)

Etsy Fave: Bird and Bear

Do you ever come across something that you love, but you can't fully explain why you love it? That's how I feel about these pretty embroidered linens from Etsy seller Bird and Bear. I love the simple sentiments and the wear and tear on the vintage linens, but there's definitely something else that I can't quite put my finger on.

These pieces are definitely on the pricey side, but seeing as each one is an original hand-embroidered piece of art, I think the prices are fair. Too keep it from being too granny-chic I would probably pin them inside a white shadowbox.

Etsy Fave: La Pomme

I am loving these sweet, embroidered and hand-stamped pillows from Apol Lejano-Massebiau, a Filipino expat now living in the South of France. Many of these "pillows" are actually filled with lavender -- perfect for working on a good night's rest (or just pretending you're the one living in the South of France), and really don't you prefer these peaceful birds to that creepy Lunesta butterfly thing? You can get to know more about Apol here and can purchase her creations here.