There’s something so infectious and inspiring about meeting someone who absolutely loves what they do. You can just feel them bursting with excitement. Valerie from Chicken Scratch’d Designs is most definitely one of those people. Her Etsy shop is full of beautiful treasures, and, as she says, she loves creating accessories for girls and women — Anything from necklaces to headbands to scarves to earrings. “You will find that the inventory is always fresh and new,” she says. Read on for more inside scoop on her shop and her tips for looking chic on a budget! xoxo

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Tell me a bit about your shop. What’s the inspiration behind its launch?
My “roots” are in the beauty industry. I was a hairstylist for seven years. Along that time, I did hair primarily for women from age 30 to 50. In addition to that, I had the opportunity to make a focus on bridal work and editorial work as well. It was during those photo shoots that I fell in love with accessorizing hair. Fast forward a few years, and I had a baby girl. I was a headband and hair-accessory-loving mama for my sweet bundle. When she was about six months old, I suddenly realized with my background in hair and having a little girl that it just made sense that I should start an accessory line. I kept looking at all the cute little hair pieces I was buying for my daughter and kept thinking I can easily just makes these! At that time, I opened my Etsy shop Chicken Scratch’d Designs with hair accessories. I now carry a variety of women’s and young girls accessories. It was a slow progression of building out into necklaces, scarves, headband elastics, bridal pieces, earrings, etc. Since leaving the hair industry to stay home with my two children, I have found such a passion in making accessories!

What are some trends we’re seeing as we move into the spring/summer? What are some of your favorite fashion trends?
PURPLE!! This is my year, you guys! I’m a purple-loving nutso! But in all honesty, if you aren’t aware, the Pantone Color Trend of the Year is Radiant Orchid. I’m seeing it everywhere from fashion to home decor and even makeup! I gladly made shades of purple a huge statement in my latest creations in nearly all sections of my shop. Another trend is Aztec or Native American prints. This one seems to be much more of a “love it or hate it” trend among people, but I personally love it. I have brought those prints and designs in through some of my headband elastics for this season. And finally, lace. For spring and summer, I’m seeing lace paired with corals and mint greens. I currently have a new infinity scarf design that is going to be available in either coral or mint backed with lace for a super lightweight but feminine spring accessory. Right now, they aren’t listed in the shop as I have them pulled aside for our local Spring Handmade Vintage Market that I’m a part of. After the upcoming market, these scarves will hit the shop too!

What are some things people should keep in mind when shopping for jewelry/fashion?
I believe the way you present yourself on the outside can be a direct reflection of who you are on the inside. Through clothes, makeup, or accessories, you can show the world with no words needed if you are “simple”, “fun”, “bold”, etc. I try to always keep that in mind when I purchase pieces and I get dressed. I’m a really light-hearted and fun-loving person, and I try to make that show. Honestly, you could probably take one look at my shop and assume those qualities about me! So my biggest piece of advice is choose accessories or anything you wear that make the statement of who you feel you are! Don’t jump on board a trend if it isn’t a good reflection of you!

What are some ways that people can still look chic for less?
Don’t be afraid to try making your own pieces. With today’s resources like Pinterest and the ability to Google anything you can imagine and You Tube…there are tutorials out there for sewing, accessories making, etc. Making and creating isn’t for everyone, but if you are looking for just a couple pieces to spruce up your look, you can totally handle making things yourself! Get the JoAnn’s or Hobby Lobby app on your phone; they have amazing coupons! I ALWAYS use those when buying my supplies. Some things I make for myself or my daughter can be as cheap as just a dollar or two when I take advantage of those coupons!

What is your favorite piece in your shop and why?
This is an impossible question! I love it all. If I had to chose just a couple items it would be this headband, this necklace and this scarf!