Lilian Asterfield Eco-Friendly Tie Ruffs

Here's some great eco-friendly fashion that I happily found last week.

Lilian Asterfield is a 'refashion label' featuring 'upcycled gentleman's neckties and vintage scarves' that are hand sewn into ruffle scarves, brooches, and jewelry for women and men.

The Elizabethan-like ruffle collars, which hug the neck and are hand-ruffled and hand-stitched, are my favorites. Below is the Double Ruffle in Bubble Gum and Black.

Nicole Deponte is the woman behind Lilian Asterfield. Apparently, 'Lilian Asterfield' is the nickname that Deponte's stylish grandfather (who must have worn some great ties!) gave to her mother. She gets the ties from eBay and scavenges nearby Salvation Army outlets located near her Boston studio.

Deponte got the idea for doing the tie scarves during a collaboration with her fashion desiger brother - he gave her a bag of ties, including some of her grandfather's, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The Triple Ruffle, below, brings together three very different ties - each with soft colors - into a fun pattern of its own.

Two satin silk neckties are hand ruffled and hand sewn into the lovely white violet ruffle collar, below.

Here's a vintage silk scarf that's been hand stitched in a 1900's style hair bow and then stitched onto on a silk and leather lined headband.

Finally, would you believe there's even a Doggy Ruffle Collection? Your doggie's scarf will be custom sized to fit your pooch's neck. This scarf is modeled by "Bugs."

I love the gorgeous patterns, striking colors and appealing designs in these pieces, which are bound to be conversation starters. And, they're reasonably priced.

If you're lucky enough to be in the Maryland area, you can see Lilian Asterfield designs at the American Craft Council Show in Baltimore from February 24th to 26th (Booth # 3702 on the main retail floor).