Monday, May 5, 2008

Subversive Silk Crystal Beaded Necklace



Subversive Silk Crystal Beaded NecklaceThe pink pearls and crystal beading combine for a lovely bohemian Victorian look.

$59.99 ; at Target.




Steal Paula's Style...



Dress: Tiered Polka Dot Dress, $27.80, www.forever21.com
Heels: Two Lips Calista, $75, www.piperlie.com
Belt: Patent Waist Belt, $10.80, www.forever21.com
Earrings: Antic Floral Studs, $4.80, www.forever21.com
Clutch: Blake Crinkle Patent, $265, www.loreleinyc.com

Polka dots and patent are the perfect combination - don't let the opportunity to pair them pass you by! This polka dot dress is only $28 so hurry up and get your hands on it. Simply take off the ribbon sash and add your own white, buckle belt to get Paula's 1950's-inspired look. Let your shoulders and neckline do the talking by opting for simple studs and no other jewelry.


Sunday, May 4, 2008

As I Was Saying...



Remember yesterday, dear readers, when I said that you'd be the first to know when I found an ombre print item at a Goodwill Store? Congratulations! You're the first to know.

Check out what I've found for this week's Goodwill Good Buy of the Week: a fabulous fuschia ombre frock. Can you believe it?! It's 100% cotton and has some fun gold accents on the neckline and skirt. The tag's been cut out, but judging from how it fits the mannequin, I think a 4-6 would fit into it just fine.

The dress has spaghetti straps, though, and since it's not quite that warm yet in this part of the country, I've layered it underneath a Burberry denim jacket. The jacket's really great, with a simple collar and contrasting cuffs sporting the classic Burberry plaid. The jacket is in immaculate condition and is a size 10 UK/8 US. It's such a versatile piece and it looks great with bright colors, even if they aren't found in the stripes of the plaid. Don't be afraid to mix it up a bit!

Gladiator sandals are hot this season and I think a gold metallic pair would perfectly complement this dress and denim ensemble. You'll be ready for anything.

For a more classic look in fuschia, I've pulled an amazing vintage dress, the kind I think Marilyn Monroe might have worn. It's in a very lightweight wool and has the most amazing rhinestone bow detail at the waist. The square neck-line and cap sleeves are so 1960s. The dress has only two tags: one says size 14 (that's a vintage size fourteen; the dress is closer to a modern 6 or 8) and the other says Union Made.

The top half of the dress is lined, the bottom half is not. But check out the seaming. And the pleating on the front of the skirt section is surprisingly flattering. This dress would create the perfect hourglass shape for a gal who might not come by it naturally. Just sayin'...

I would pair it with sky high strappy silver heels and a vintage clutch for a perfect evening look. Feeling really sassy? Wear it to the office with pointed flats and a simple choker. Every head will turn.

Oh gosh - which dress to choose? I love them both so much! Wait a minute...you don't have to choose. You can find them both online at the DC Goodwill eBay store, your one-stop online source for everything from porcelain to purses, clarinets to crystal. Love it!


Saturday, May 3, 2008

Jules Smith Jewelry



Gina Nigrelli Jewelry Designer



Gina's jewelry is feminine and functional with each piece rooted to her life in the Virgin Islands. The azure waters and Caribbean culture offer a compelling setting for unburdened creativity, while her frequent travels to New York City keep her on the beat and pulse of the industry. Her goal is to create pieces that express her adoration for the natural beauty that surrounds her while representing her personal style and her love for everything fashionable.



I love these! They look like satin.



designer jewelry

Solera Bangle Bracelets

Shimmer and shine in these new bangles. In sterling silver, 18k gold vermeil, or 14k rose gold vermeil. Sold individually.



Inspired by the sugar sand, cobalt blue skies, and lush landscaping of their home in the Virgin Islands, Jules Smith Designs creates luxe resort jewelry. The collections tell the story of a fashion forward soul bridging the gap between metropolitan trends and the laid-back organic vibe of the Caribbean.



jewelry trends 2008

Skin's In Ring

Effortlessly sexy, understated glamour in a style essential. In sterling silver, 18k yellow gold, or 14k rose gold.



Drawing from a myriad of life experiences, Gina Nigrelli's appreciation for adventure and natural beauty began while studying abroad in Harare, Zimbabwe. She began her fashion career at Diesel in Las Vegas where she was a manager and merchandiser. It was the exposure to the strong brand identity and cutting edge fashion philosophy of Diesel that motivated her to take the next step in her career.



jewelry designer

Whale Wishes Pendant

Pendant measures approximately 2x2 inches on 18" cable chain. In sterling silver or 18k yellow gold.



Always willing to take a leap of faith, Gina moved to Chicago to pursue a degree in fashion design. While in school, Gina held the post of Director of Marketing and Events for a national online shopping destination. In 2006, Gina and her husband relocated to the Virgin Islands. It was in this exotic environment that Gina was finally able to pursue her lifelong dream of designing her own collection. Jules Smith was established later that year.

See full article
.





Related Entries:


Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006


Couture Jewelry Awards - 04 March 2007


Jewelry Designer for Princesses - 08 March 2007


Smith Wraps it Up - 20 August 2007













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Foot Candy Never Tasted So Good




My Balenciaga-inspired boot-sandals from GoJane have arrived and when I saw the UPS truck pull up, I couldn't wait to try them on. (I adore expedited shipping! I ordered them late Wednesday night and they arrived Friday afternoon.) Much to my surprise, they're comfortable and quite walkable. This is probably due to the 3/4" platform and the adequate arch support. My hunch about them being unbearably uncomfortable was wrong. Now I'm seriously considering ordering them in black, as they'll work well with tights, jeans, dresses, or cropped trousers. They'll stand up to the true test of my footwear when I wear them on the dance floor this weekend.
**Update - I wore these boots out tonight tucked into some skinnies with my Prada-esque two-toned socks from H&M and within several minutes three (older!?) women complimented me on them! One of these women was very fashion-forward and struck up a quick conversation with me about them. She could not believe that they weren't leather, and I was surprised to hear that she was familiar with GoJane. We agreed that there's something about the platform and the angle of the shoes that makes them more comfortable than wearing flats. I've always had trouble with flats being uncomfortable and slipping off the back of my feet, and accordingly, I prefer heels. When I want to be super comfortable, though, I rely upon my trusty Nike Shox.


Friday, May 2, 2008

I'm with the band



Novelty bags are a niche to themselves. rarely seen as more than a one off, they are often coveted in vintage stores for their tongue in cheek appeal.
I'm not sure where the Piano Clutch from Dutchy falls.

It's symmetrical enough to not shout "PIANO!" and the mix of textures is lovely with the embossed patent set onto the smooth leather. However, there is no mistaking what the designer's intent was when you look a second time, and see the subtle keys stitched into the cream leather. It's not like it's a baby grand on a strap. I think if it suits some one's personality, it's a very cute bag that is sure to make some people smile.
The bag is well thought out, with interior pockets and a cell phone slot. The wrist strap is removable, but personally, while I prefer a clutch hold, I like having a loop if I need to slide the bag onto my wrist.
There is also not a serious investment involved, a plus for a novelty bag that you would probably not be carrying too often (lest the appeal wear off). It's $175 and available from Unsung Designers.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

On My Way...To B.A.



It's almost time for me to depart for my trip to Buenos Aires. I'm very excited since I've been looking forward to this trip for several weeks. Based on all of the reading, internet research, and street style blogs that I've seen, I think that Buenos Aires will be an amazing and stylish city. It certainly doesn't hurt that the exchange rate favors the U.S. dollar (to the tune of about 3.16 Argentine pesos to the dollar). As I do my last-minute preparations before leaving, I'm daydreaming about eating savory asado or empanadas in a parrilla, drinking ice cold mojitos, watching tango dancers, and buying locally made crafts. Expect to see plenty of photos and shopping reviews when I return, as I intend to do some good shopping!