SJP Digs Sheepskin Boots

Sarah Jessica Parker has been a global fashion icon since her days playing Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City, although her style in real life is far more refined than the wacky outfits she wore on the beloved television series. Today, the mother of three seems to favor casual jeans over cocktail dresses and definitely slips into comfortable and stylish sheepskin boots more often than Manolo Blahniks. Sarah Jessica Parker doesn’t only treat herself to shearling boots though; her children are often spotted wearing the cozy and fashionable footwear as well, usually while walking around New York City with their mom. Before you know it, SJP’s long-time husband Matthew Broderick may be the proud owner of his own pair of men’s sheepskin boots as well!

For those of you who were devoted fans of Sex and the City, you may be shocked to learn that Sarah Jessica Parker has a favorite outfit that strays from the colorful and expensive high-fashion wardrobe she made famous on the show. Take a look at these photos of the actress and you’ll see that, in most cases, SJP prefers putting on a pair of comfortable jeans, a cozy sweater and warm sheepskin boots, whether she is running errands in New York City or spending time with her family at their second home in Ireland. More often than not, when Sarah Jessica Parker is out on the town, she is accompanied by her son James, or twin daughters, Marion and Tabitha, who sport their own adorable sheepskin boots for kids.

In most of the photos of SJP wearing shearling boots, the footwear looks the same: simple and tan or brown, sometimes with a small heel and sometimes with a sheepskin flap encircling the top of the boot for added warmth and an attractive touch. Comfortable, durable and stylish footwear is not always easy to find, but Sarah Jessica Parker proves that a good pair of shearling boots can be your go-to footwear for any outfit, season and locale. Sheepskin is a luxurious material that naturally wicks away moisture from the body, so shearling boots will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. While most people wouldn’t be too quick to take fashion advice from Carrie Bradshaw when it comes to everyday wear, Sarah Jessica Parker definitely hit the target with her sheepskin boots!

Date posted: August 25, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Sheepskin Boots for Sarah Jessica Parker and Kids

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Many people associate sheepskin footwear with cold winter weather, but the truth is that there are plenty of shearling boots, slippers and moccasins out there that are perfect for the warm summer months as well. All of our sheepskin products at The Sheepherder are handcrafted from the skins of domestic sheep raised in the Rocky Mountain states and are processed right here in the United States. When sheepskin is processed correctly, the material’s hollow fibers naturally wick away moisture from the body, keeping you cool even in hot weather. Shearling slippers and garments are also very comfortable and stylish, making them the perfect addition to any wardrobe throughout the year. The Sheepherder is an official Minnetonka retailer, and we offer a variety of sheepskin Minnetonka products for summer, including these favorites:

  • Minnetonka Mens Hardsole Sheepskin Moccasin – This attractive shearling slipper is constructed with 100% shearling wool, featuring dense, soft sheepskin on the inside and a hard rubber indoor/outdoor sole that provides durability and traction.
  • Minnetonka Ladies Shearling Mule Slipper – There’s nothing more convenient and comfortable than slipping into a pair of Minnetonka sheepskin mules, featuring an open back for easy on and off. The women’s shearling slippers are also constructed with a stylish band of sheepskin on the outside and a hard rubber slip-resistant bottom.
  • Minnetonka Mens Twin Gore Shearling Slippers – Whether you’re walking around the house or around town, these sheepskin slippers for men will keep your feet comfortable and cool during the summer months. The footwear features elastic gores on either side so they are easier to get on and off, and also have a hard rubber indoor/outdoor sole.
  • Minnetonka Ladies Sheepskin Ankle Boot – Slip on a pair of skinny jeans or short shorts and finish off the look with these shearling ankle boots for women, which provide a comfortable and stylish alternative to sandals. The ladies sheepskin boot features an attractive folded-over flap and a slip-resistant hard rubber sole for indoor or outdoor wear.
  • Minnetonka Ladies Short Shearling Boot – Sheepskin boots are more popular than ever, and can be worn year-round for added warmth in the winter or cool, comfortable wear during the summer. These ladies shearling boots are attractive and stylish, and feature an indoor/outdoor rubber sole for traction and durability.

Quality Sheepskin Products at The Sheepherder

Minnetonka is one of the most trusted brands in sheepskin footwear, and we are proud to carry Minnetonka slippers, boots and moccasins among our own selection of fine shearling products. When you purchase a Minnetonka product from The Sheepherder, you can rest assured that you will receive a superior item constructed using only the highest-quality sheepskin available. Check out all of our sheepskin slippers and garments at The Sheepherder and treat yourself or a loved one to a genuine shearling product this summer!

Date posted: August 22, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Minnetonka Footwear for Summer

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Kate Middleton Receives Sheepskin Blanket as Gift for New Baby Boy!

Among the influx of baby presents Prince William and Kate Middleton have likely received following the birth of their bouncing baby boy, one of the best has to be the faux sheepskin blanket the new parents recently received from PETA, which is apparently a traditional gift to give newborns in some parts of the UK. The present came at just the right time and who doesn’t love a comfy, cozy sheepskin blanket? The only thing that could have made the baby gift better would be if the blanket was made from genuine sheepskin, like the shearling blankets and quilts handcrafted by our shop in Alma, Colorado. Not only is genuine sheepskin soft and cuddly, but it is also incredibly warm and extremely durable, making it the perfect gift for newborn babies and children of all ages.

Shearling Toys and Accessories for Kids

After pretty much constant anticipation since the couple announced their pregnancy in December 2012, Kate Middleton and Prince William welcomed their first child into the royal family on July 22, and we’re guessing the proud parents have been inundated with all sorts of baby gifts since their son was born. Like any new parents, they’ll want their little one to have everything he needs to be comfortable, warm and happy, and a genuine sheepskin blanket is a great start. Some of our most popular products at The Sheepherder are our children’s items, including our beautiful patchwork shearling quilt, sheepskin teddy bears and shearling bunnies – all of which are made from the highest-quality sheepskin hides tanned and processed right here in the United States.

Children’s Sheepskin Slippers and Outerwear

In addition to sheepskin blankets and children’s toys, we also carry a variety of shearling outerwear options for kids at The Sheepherder, including warm sheepskin slippers, shearling vests appropriate for year-round wear, and sheepskin aviator hats and earbands for older children. Like our men’s and women’s garments, our shearling products for kids are custom-made to order, which is a way for us to ensure that you receive the item that you want, hand-crafted to your exact specifications. Sheepskin in any form makes a great gift for newborn babies and young children, so the next time you’re shopping for a baby shower or birthday gift, follow the lead of Kate Middleton and Prince William and treat your little one to a luxurious sheepskin blanket!

Date posted: August 3, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Sheepskin Baby Gifts

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Warm-Weather Elkskin and Deerskin Vests

When the warm weather has you trading in your sheepskin boots for strappy sandals, consider giving your upper body the same treatment with one of The Sheepherder’s attractive elkskin or deerskin vests for summer. All of our elkskin vests for men and women are handmade to order at our shop in Alma, Colorado, and we use only high-quality materials for a custom, comfortable fit and stylish appearance. All of the buttons on our deerskin outerwear, for example, are handmade from elk and deer antlers – a quality you’d be hard-pressed to find in most off-the-rack elkskin vests.

Men’s Rocky Mountain Elkskin Vest

Our featured elkskin garment for men is the masculine Rocky Mountain elkskin vest, a comfortable and durable vest that can be worn for a day at work or a night out on the town. The unique Rocky Mountain elkskin vest features a full interior lining of cotton fabric, with genuine elk antler toggles and a loop closure for a secure and cozy fit. For an even more distinctive look, choose two different colors and we’ll create an authentic two-tone elkskin vest just for you, with the body in one color and the yoke in the other. We recommend a Palomino yoke with a Black or Chocolate body for an attractive two-tone vest.

Ladies Blue Sky Deerskin Vest

Elkskin and deerskin hides make such high-quality vests and other garments, they shouldn’t be reserved just for the guys! Here at The Sheepherder, we also offer the beautiful Blue Sky deerskin vest for women – a genuine deerskin vest with a classic look that goes well with virtually any outfit. The Blue Sky vest is handcrafted at our Colorado shop using soft, supple leather whose buttery texture is second to none. With a variety of colors, including Brown, Palomino, Black and Burnt Cork, this ladies deerskin vest is the perfect addition to any woman’s wardrobe.

Deerskin Moccasins for Kids

Let’s not forget about the little ones now! We also offer adorable children’s moccasins, which are handcrafted using the finest deerskin available, and are durable enough to outlast most other kids’ shoes. Our deerskin slippers for kids come in Brown, Saddle, Palomino, Rust, Black and Burnt Cork colors, and feature a soft flannel lining on the inside and elastic at the ankle to make sure they provide a secure fit for your little boy or girl. The next time you’re trying to think of a unique birthday or holiday gift for a young child, consider purchasing a pair of our beautiful deerskin slippers for kids!

Date posted: July 15, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Elkskin and Deerskin Vests

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Ghana Market Baskets Make Great Summer Totes!

Many of us depend on a roomy tote bag to carry the go-to items we use on a daily basis – including a wallet, sunglasses, cell phone, etc. – and the authentic Ghana market baskets available on our website are this summer’s perfect “carry-all.” Woven from native African grasses into colorful and unique designs, the handmade baskets are attractive, durable and perfect for trips to the beach, the market, picnics, and even as a stylish storage space for toys and magazines in the home. Not only are the genuine African baskets handmade and one-of-a-kind, but they are incredibly strong and come in handy for a variety of uses. The baskets are also fair trade items, which means a percentage of the proceeds from the basket sales goes towards providing healthcare, community buildings and school fees for the weavers and their families in Ghana.

How the Ghana Market Baskets are Made

Also known as Bolga baskets, the unique Ghana market baskets are handwoven by artisans in the Bolgatanga region of Ghana, West Africa, and are traditionally used for carrying goods to and from the market. Bolgatanga is known as the crafts center of Northern Ghana, and weaving has been, for many generations, a traditional skill of the indigenous Gurune, or Frafra, people. Because the soil in that particular region of Ghana is not fertile enough for agricultural activities to flourish, basket weaving, pottery and leather work is often undertaken by the people of Bolgatanga to supplement their incomes. The Ghana market baskets are crafted using native veta vera grasses, which, when woven together, create an incredibly strong, useful product that is made to last. The baskets are particularly useful for toting fresh produce, because they are forgiving to fruits and vegetables that can be easily bruised.

Find the Perfect African Market Basket

Here at The Sheepherder, we have three different sizes of Ghana market baskets available – an oval tote basket that measures about 7” wide and 17” long, a round market basket that measures about 14-16” in diameter, and a mini basket that measures between 8” and 9” in diameter. Over time, the fair trade baskets may become misshapen from frequent use, but can be easily reshaped by soaking them in cold water for a few minutes and reforming them with the flat of your hand. Each African market basket features a unique color scheme and attractive handles wrapped in leather so the basket is more comfortable to carry. If you have a specific preference for size or color, we will do our best to accommodate the request as closely as possible. With a variety of size and color options, you’re sure to find the Ghana market basket that suits your individual needs!

Date posted: July 4, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Ghana Market Baskets

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Celebrities in Slippers: A Hot New Fashion Trend

Sporting slippers as outdoor footwear isn’t just for grandma and grandpa anymore; it has emerged in the past couple of years as a hot fashion trend for male celebrities like Ryan Gosling, Brad Pitt and even Kanye West. Slippers in general are comfortable and convenient, and when paired with a fashionable suit or casual wear, the right kind of slipper can add a little pop of style that will help you stand out in a crowd. Unfortunately, many of the slippers worn by our favorite celebrities cost upwards of $400, which is probably a little out of the target price range for those of us without a fortune at our fingertips. Lucky for you, here at The Sheepherder, we have high-quality sheepskin slippers that will keep you cozy and stylish at the same time, and the price is definitely right.

Men’s Indoor/Outdoor Sheepskin Slippers

Once a simple bedroom staple, sheepskin and other types of slippers have evolved recently into an international fashion statement, coveted by the most fashion-conscious celebrities, both male and female. For men, one of our more popular shearling slipper styles is the Minnetonka twin gore sheepskin slipper, an easy slip-on shoe with a hard rubber indoor/outdoor sole that can be worn any time of year. The inside of the Minnetonka slipper is shearling wool, a naturally insulating material that keeps your feet warm in cold weather but wicks away moisture in warmer temperatures to keep your feet from sweating. The outer portion of the sheepskin slipper is a natural, durable hide that adds a classic accent to any man’s outfit.

Ladies’ Shearling Slippers and Ankle Boots

Two of our most popular sheepskin slippers for women are the mule slipper and the ankle boot, both of which are made by Minnetonka, a staple of American style since the 1940s. The ladies mule slipper features a convenient open-back style so it can be easily slipped on and off, and a hard slip-resistant sole for extra durability and traction indoors and out. The ladies ankle boot is a stylish slip-on boot that boasts a warm, cozy sheepskin interior and a hide exterior that offers both a classic look and a durable construction. The shearling slipper can be worn any time of year, and features a sheepskin flap that folds up around your ankles for added warmth in cold weather.

Sheepskin Slippers for Men, Women and Kids

Keeping up with the latest fashion statement isn’t always easy, but our custom-made shearling slippers at The Sheepherder can help you get an edge up on the trend this time around. All of our sheepskin products are constructed by hand using the highest quality materials, which means they are made with comfort and durability in mind. With their attractive design and quality construction, our shearling footwear is the perfect complement to any outfit, whether you’re just running errands or going out on the town. Our sheepskin slippers have a classic appearance, which makes them a versatile addition to any wardrobe, and we have options for men, women and even children, so you can outfit the entire family in sheepskin this summer!

Date posted: June 23, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Celebrities in Sheepskin Slippers

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Best Sheepskin Products for Camping

One of the best family activities to take part in during the summer months is camping, and whether you prefer to camp riverside, in the mountains or on the beach, there are plenty of great sheepskin garments out there to keep you warm or cool, depending on the weather. The thing about genuine sheepskin that makes the material so valuable is that it naturally wicks away moisture from the body, keeping you toasty warm in cold weather and cool in hotter temperatures. For this reason and more, our sheepskin jackets and vests are the perfect garments to bring along on any camping trip – spring, summer, winter or fall.

When it comes to camping in cold weather, there is no material better suited to keep you warm and comfortable than genuine sheepskin, which is used in the creation of all of our products here at The Sheepherder. Two of our best-selling sheepskin jackets for men are the Cattleman and Colorado shearling coats, which feature two very different designs but are perfect equals when it comes to their durability and quality of construction. For women, two great garments for cold-weather camping are the Aspen and Rancher sheepskin jackets, which pair a classic style with a sophisticated but feminine touch.

For camping in warmer weather, the men’s Gambler sheepskin vest is a clear favorite. With its classic style, tailored lines and handmade antler buttons, the shearling vest stands out as a perfect addition to any camping attire. Another great option for camping outwear is the men’s Mountaineer sheepskin vest, which features a no-sleeve design to allow for easy maneuvering at the campsite, and wool-out seams and side-entry pockets to keep you warm during those cool evenings. For women, some great warm-weather shearling garments for camping are the Wrangler and Silverheels sheepskin vests, which pair a versatile, form-fitting design with an elegant, feminine style.

The masculine design of our men’s garments is complemented by the coziness of genuine sheepskin, making the shearling jackets perfect for virtually any outdoor excursion, whether you’re camping out, hitting the trail on horseback, or going out on the town. On the flip side, our women’s outerwear is equally as warm and comfortable, but the garments have a unique style that makes them more feminine and elegant. Overall, we take special care when creating our custom sheepskin jackets to ensure that each garment is made with the highest-quality materials, and all of our products are custom-made to order, which means you can count on a perfect fit every time!

Date posted: June 3, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Sheepskin Products for Camping

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How to Care for Your Sheepskin Garments

All of our shearling garments at The Sheepherder are hand-made with authentic sheepskin hides, which means they will last for a long time, but taking proper care of the sheepskin is an essential component of the material’s durability and appearance. This means that certain commercial products should be used to protect the suede or leather from water spotting and soiling, while others can be used to safely remove spots without damaging the supple material. The two most important things to remember when caring for sheepskin garments are to avoid setting by cleaning the stain or spot as soon as it occurs, and to use the following preventative care techniques to protect your shearling from stains that may be tough to remove without having it professionally cleaned. Sheepskin is a naturally durable product, and our high-quality shearling garments are made to last. With the following care and cleaning methods, you can make sure yours does!

Protecting Sheepskin from Light Spots and Stains

Because most sheepskin slippers, jackets and other shearling garments are made to be worn outside, we recommend two products that can be used to protect and care for your sheepskin outerwear. First, the outer shearling hide – which is called suede or “Brisa” leather – should be sprayed with a non-silicone rain and stain guard made especially for leather or suede. This product will shield the sheepskin hide against water spotting and will also help the garment resist soiling. Second, a suede conditioner or cleaner can be used to remove spotting in most cases, although when shearling products become significantly soiled, it is often best to bring them to a professional dry cleaner that specializes in leather or furs. The inner wool of any sheepskin garment can be touched up with a combination of water and Woolite, although it’s important to remember that you should never soak through to the suede when cleaning shearling. When it’s nearly dry, brush the wool to fluff it up.

Cleaning Tough Stains on Shearling Garments

For tougher stains on your shearling garment, such as liquid or grease spots, you can try applying a layer of cornstarch directly to the stain and allowing it to sit for one or two days, or longer. Once the liquid or stain has been absorbed, vacuum up the cornstarch with a handheld vacuum or with a brush attachment on a regular vacuum cleaner. If you ever wear your sheepskin coat or slippers outside and they become significantly wet from rain or snow, be sure to dry the garment slowly without using direct heat. Once the product is completely dry, you can remove water spots with a suede sponge or brush, which you can find at your local leather store. When using a suede brush or sponge, always brush in the reverse of the nap, to avoid damaging the material, and never use a regular sponge or rag to clean your sheepskin jacket, as this can cause tearing or spots.

Date posted: May 14, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Care and Cleaning of Sheepskin

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Nicole Kidman Dons Sheepskin Boots to Film Latest Movie

There’s no doubt that taking a stroll in the British countryside in early April must have been pretty chilly, but Nicole Kidman kept her cool and stayed warm with the help of some cozy sheepskin boots while shooting her latest movie, Before I Go to Sleep. The filming, which took place just outside London, required Kidman to spend long periods of time out in the chilly weather, trekking up some steep hillsides, which she did with ease thanks to her warm, flat sheepskin footwear. Not only are sheepskin boots and slippers practical and incredibly comfortable, but high-profile celebrities like Nicole Kidman, who is known as one of the most fashionable women in Hollywood, continue to prove that shearling footwear can be equally as stylish.

Quality Sheepskin Footwear

While shooting her latest project, a psychological thriller about a woman with amnesia who loses her memory every time she goes to sleep, the Australian actress braved the cold by pairing a long gray wool coat and rose-colored scarf with black tights and a set of casual but warm sheepskin boots. The shearling boots featured snow-white wool-out seams with brown suede on the outside, and silky, warm wool on the inside for the utmost in warmth and comfort. Nicole Kidman’s elegant shearling boots also boasted hard, slip-resistant rubber soles, making them the perfect type of footwear for filming outdoors in the hilly British countryside.

Celebrities Who Wear Sheepskin

Nicole Kidman may be bringing sheepskin boots to the big screen with her latest film, but the 45-year-old actress isn’t the only celebrity to recognize the numerous benefits of sheepskin footwear and other shearling garments. A-list stars like Hayden Panettiere and Kate Hudson regularly pair sheepskin coats and boots with dressy or casual wear throughout the year, and many celebrities, including Nicole Kidman herself, dress their children in cozy sheepskin garments for kids. In fact, Kidman’s daughter with husband Keith Urban, Sunday Rose, has been photographed wearing her own pair of sheepskin boots, following in the footsteps of her famous mom.

Shearling Garments at The Sheepherder

While it would certainly be nice to have the wardrobe of Nicole Kidman, Kate Hudson or Hayden Panettiere, owning a great, go-to shearling garment or two doesn’t have to be only a pipe dream. Keeping comfort, quality and style in mind, our goal at The Sheepherder is to create custom sheepskin products that look and feel great, and can be purchased without an A-lister’s salary. Handcrafted at our shop in Alma, Colorado, all of our sheepskin products are made from authentic hides, unlike the imitation sheepskin products sold by many chains. Check out our handmade shearling jackets, slippers and accessories at The Sheepherder, and get your hands on that classic sheepskin garment that makes you look and feel like a star!

Date posted: April 25, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Nicole Kidman in Sheepskin Boots

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Quality Sheepskin Products for Summer Wear

Spring is just around the corner, and although sheepskin slippers and jackets are typically favored as cold weather accessories, authentic shearling products like those we create at The Sheepherder are actually designed to be worn comfortably year-round. As opposed to other traditional winter garments that are typically packed away once the weather starts its upward climb, our sheepskin outerwear is designed in such a way that it keeps you warm and cozy in cold weather, while allowing your skin to breathe and stay cool during the summer. Start the summer off right this year with our shearling slippers, vests and accessories here at The Sheepherder.

Shearling Garments Can Keep You Cool

All of the sheepskin garments hand-crafted at The Sheepherder are made using genuine sheepskin hides, which have silky wool on one side and smooth suede on the other. Our garments are made using the skins of domestic sheep raised commercially for their meat in the Rocky Mountain states, and the hides are a valuable by-product that are tanned and processed in the United States. When processed correctly, using an intricate 21-day system, the result is a sheepskin product that naturally wicks away moisture from the body. This means that our sheepskin slippers, vest and jackets at The Sheepherder will keep you cool even in warm weather, and won’t make you sweat like most synthetic materials do.

We Use Authentic Sheepskin Hides

Unlike lower quality, imitation sheepskin, the shearling we use to create our garments is one piece of continuous natural hide. This means that the wool you see in your sheepskin jacket or slippers is not a separate lining glued or sewn to the suede. Our dedication to comfort, style and quality puts our shearling garments a step above most of the sheepskin products you find at a typical retail chain or big box factory. Here at The Sheepherder, we also offer deerskin vests for men and women, and elkskin booties for children, which are also made from authentic hides and are great for the transition from spring to summer and fall.

Custom Order Your Sheepskin Garment Today

All of our sheepskin products are handmade by Diane Blessing at The Sheepherder shop in Alma, Colorado, where Diane has been hand-crafting custom shearling slippers, jackets and other high-quality products for more than 30 years. In fact, all of our sheepskin garments are made to order and can be tailored to fit your specific preferences for color, fit and style. If you love sheepskin for its comfort and elegance, don’t go an entire summer without stepping into cozy shearling slippers or accessorizing with a classic shearling vest. Check out the variety of sheepskin garments we offer at The Sheepherder, and stay cool and stylish all summer long!

Date posted: April 13, 2013 | Author: | Comments Off on Sheepskin Products for Summer

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