Ever since I could remember, I was a fan of accessories – color and bling, they can frost a gal like nothing else can. When I was younger, I was a complete magpie, ferreting out the necklaces, bracelets and rings from every store that I went into. As I grew and really came into my vintage-loving own, I discovered an unsung hero in the world of accessories: The Brooch.
Over the years, I’ve added more and more brooches to my collection, from florals to berries. And as I am often nothing if not predictable, I will generally very towards the whimsical. The novelty. And if there’s a bit of glitter in there, hallelujah! Enter the wonderful world of Teacup Girl.
I was so excited to work with Teacup Girl on this post. I have followed the lovely Bonita on Instagram and on her blog Lavender and Twill for years, and was overjoyed when I heard she was launching her own line of handmade brooches. I immediately put my hand up for the Mushroom Munchies brooch, and when it arrived, all shimmering reds and pearlescent caterpillars, I knew we were a match made in brooch-i-fied heaven.
My Teacup Girl brooch had quite the journey getting here. She was shipped to me right before the hurricane, and spent a fair bit of time swirling around in NC post. But, the wait was definitely worth it – after I squealed over her adorable packaging (and thoughtful parcel of strawberry tea inside!), I took in all of her amazing details.
Bonita’s designs are all handprinted and handmade with utmost care – you can tell from the delicate golden legs of the caterpillar and multiple pearlescent layers that this was a piece someone labored over. I adore the hints of gold that perfectly balance the white and vibrant reds. Like all of Teacup Girl’s brooches, my Mushroom Munchies is made out of a specialty acrylic and measures 5.6cm h x 4.6cm w. To me, it’s the perfect size to stand out without being overwhelming. Plus, the lightweight materials means it doesn’t pull holes in my sweaters and delicate chiffon vintage (which is a major pet peeve).
I love that from afar it looks like a cute mushroom brooch, and it isn’t until you get up close that you can spot the caterpillar enjoying an early lunch. I decided to give the red of the mushroom a neutral backdrop with this polka dot vintage cutie, and bring in the red in my candy-striped heels with a few strawberries to give the caterpillar something to look forward to for dessert…
The Mushroom Munchies brooch retails for $42.00 (including tax) and is available to order through the Teacup Girl website. These items are Australian made, but they are currently based in Thailand. So, you may have to be a bit patient with your order, which can take 9-14 days of processing plus shipping. But, like they say, good things come to those who wait…
If caterpillars chomping on shrooms isn’t your jam (though it begs the question, why not??) Teacup Girl has an incredible array of amazing brooches – many of which are selling out fast! My current wishlist includes the Love, Forget Me Not (which is such a cute take on a corsage!) and the Moonface and Oswin (which I am fervently waiting to come back in stock.)
Given supporting amazing entrepreneurs and small businesses is a huge passion of mine, it was such a special opportunity to work with bonita and celebrate one of her dreams becoming a reality. I hope you head over to Teacup Girls’ Instagram and Facebook and give them a follow – you can get sneak peaks of new designs coming soon and any sales of promotions!
There is something about a brooch that fits into no one else’s job description. A necklace spends its days bringing attention to your face, all twinkle and glamour. A bracelet has always felt a bit indifferent, aloof – separate from the rest of the body as if to keep a watchful eye and dart in to protect as needed, like Wonder Woman and her cuffs. But a brooch seems more personal. It’s unapologetic in its inability to hide in collars and sleeves. Worn over your heart, to bare all that you hold most dear.
When was the last time you took your heart out for a walk for all the world to see?
xoxo
Outfit Details:
Dress: Vintage (similar modern or vintage here, here, & here)
Brooch: Mushroom Munchies c/o Teacup Girl
Belt: Alannah Hill (similar)
Handbag: Kate Spade, in mint
Shoes: Irregular Choice
Lip Color: Ruby Woo
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