You know how it is, you're minding your own business taking a wander around Etsy when you suddenly burst out with 'OMG that's genius!!' Well here to celebrate that exact feeling are the first global Etsy Design Awards, ready to showcase the phenomenal talent of Etsy designers from all corners of the world.
In a time when it can seem hard to have a single original thought, these makers shine through with their imagination, innovation and dedication to quality and detail. Thousands of entries were received under five categories: Inventive Decor, Signature Style, Festive Celebrations, Earth-Friendly, and Creative Collaborations. There are 160 finalists in total, gathered here in no particular order are my top ten favourites and a glimpse of the stories behind them.
Let's start by taking a moment to appreciate the gorgeous print and voluminous sleeves of the Celia smock dress by noemiah. Each dress is hand sewn to order from a luxurious silk & cotton blend featuring a whimsical and ethereal print from Montreal artist Estée Preda. As shop owner Noémie explains: "The Celia dress is a wearable piece of art...it celebrates personal style with a sense of humour and elegance." Feminine, quirky and beautiful, the Celia dress is a real standout in the Signature Style category.
This type of ceramic water jar and cup is known in Brazil as a 'moringa' and is used to keep water fresh and cool. Creator Mari Bray remembers drinking from her mother's moringa as a child and was inspired to create her own featuring wonderfully textured Amazonian botanical painting and carving. You also have the option of personalising the pitcher with a special word of your choice. This gold detailed moringa is an impressive combination of function and beauty, it's hard to imagine a more thoughtful gift.
Inventive Decor Finalist | Handmade Papercut Botanical Birds Wall Hanging | AuMondeInterieur on Etsy
Claire De Lalune from AuMondeInterieur draws her botanical designs directly from nature, before carefully hand cutting into intricate, organic wall art. A sweet choice of decor for a baby nursery, little ones will enjoy finding the hidden birds among the leaves and branches. This handmade treasure is a lovely way to bring the outside in, and is available in a range of colours to suit your home.
I agree with jeweller Silke Seip when she says 'Nature simply produces the most beautiful forms.' Having always been fascinated with bees, Silke experimented with honeycomb wax to borrow one of nature's prettiest patterns. These unique honey-golden rings are are a symbol of sweetness, perfect for the nature loving bride and groom.
This pretty and practical apron is chemical free, vegan, and 100% pure linen. The natural dying process gives it a warm, organic appearance and the linen will soften with every wash. Designed to last for many years, this Japanese Apron is a perfect fit for a 'less is more' philosophy. Creator Isabella has put much care and thought into this piece: 'The cross back design is practical with wide straps and easy to slip on over your head. The handy front pocket can fit your phone, notebook & pen, gardening gloves & scissors. It''s so comfortable you won't want to take it off.'
Signature Style Finalist | Handmade Muslin Bow Dress | Elfenfabrik on Etsy
100% cotton muslin gauze is a much-loved choice for little ones due to its texture and cuddly softness. Nadia Dalnodar of Elfenfabrik has combined sunny mustard muslin with a comfortable design featuring an irresistible oversized bow. There are a selection of pretty colours to choose from, and you also have the option of ordering the blouse version of this beautiful dress.
Vicky Moudilou brings fresh thinking and humour to the party with her Ethical Magic Sliders. Buy one 'base' pair and then choose up to 30 changeable uppers to button into place depending on your outfit or your mood. Tassels, stripes, pom poms, grass, these might just be the most versatile shoes ever. Made entirely from upcycled and sustainable materials these sliders are a strong contender in the Earth-Friendly category.
Lauren Winter has achieved the seemingly impossible - a reversible jumpsuit that truly works and looks amazing worn either way. Stunning in its simplicity, this understated wardrobe wonder features a voluminous wide leg and long tie for double wrapping around the waist. The Lark Jumpsuit is shown here in 100% European linen in oatmeal; you also have the choice of a range of on-trend colours in mid-weight linen or silky tencel.
Amanda de Beaufort is the inspired talent behind adbbotanicaldecor, making 'naturally dyed stuff, perfectly imperfect.' Tablecloths are an easy way to breathe fresh air into your space with minimal effort, especially if you choose something unique and vibrant. This organic, painterly masterpiece has its own story to tell at your next gathering; it has been dyed using flowers, bugs, tea, food waste, natural plant extracts and minerals making each piece truly one of a kind.
These striking statement earrings hang with such beautiful balance, it makes sense when you realise they are crafted directly from nature. Erika Young explains her clever making process: "Real clusters of ginkgo leaves have been transformed into wearable art via a combination of electroforming and lost wax casting processes. These oversized “charms” have been plated in a thick layer of 14k gold and hang from a 6mm stud earring with gold filled posts and backs." Whatever you're wearing these spectacular earrings will elevate your look to a whole new level of golden loveliness.