When I’m looking for new boutique to visit, I have a strategy. I usually start by picking a designer I love; in this case (while I was in New York City) I chose Raquel Allegra, a clothing designer that I have a very hard time finding in the SF Bay Area. My thinking is that if a boutique carries this line, then surely they’ll have other things that will interest me as well. So far, this strategy has worked out pretty darn well, and I end up discovering lots of places I normally wouldn’t have stumbled upon.
One of the stores that popped up on this recent search was Sucre in the West Village, and it wasn’t a far walk from where I was staying in the Meat Packing area. It’s not an overly-large space, but it’s chock full of goodies! And I’m sure you won’t be surprised, but this case of jewelry is what really got my attention.
The mixed metals, the slightly bohemian flair..it just spoke to me. I learned that it’s all from a line called K/ller Collection, from Brooklyn-based designers. You can read their story here. And just today, I learned that they are the Grand Prize winners of the 2014 CFDA/Lexus Eco-Fashion Challenge, sponsored by Lexus. Congrats!
The first necklace I tried on was this one. It’s made from three hand-cast brass porcupine quills.
I also had a hard time taking off this more dramatic design.
You know what a fan I am of horns, so these necklaces definitely made me smile!
Look at the detail in the carving!
I’m so glad that I discovered this shop and this jewelry line. If you’re lucky enough to be wandering around the West Village, definitely stop in!
It was my last day in New York City before returning to San Francisco, and I wasn’t about to let the pouring rain deter me from hitting all the “must see” stores on my list. First up for the day was Urban Zen, an amazing concept store by designer Donna Karan. (Thanks to my friend, Michelle, for the hot tip!) When I spied this necklace through the front window, I knew I had found the place! This show-stopper is by Anna Srdic of South Africa.
Tucked into a chic space in the West Village, this store is a gift for the senses. I wanted to see, touch, and try on everything! I was expecting simply a clothing line, and I had no idea that there would be home goods, Balinese furniture, and amazing jewelry nearly everywhere I turned. I think I had to do at least three tours of the store before I started taking it all in. The neutral palate was exactly up my alley, and the whole vibe was exotic (yet accessible and wearable), and wildly feminine. Dare I say subtly sexy?
There were different jewelry lines, some by individual artists, and others crafted by the team at Urban Zen, using assembled pieces from Haiti. And then other pieces are made in Haiti, with 100% of the proceeds going back to them. Haiti holds a very special place in Donna’s heart. She founded The Haiti Artisan project, which “promotes economic development through job creation and vocational education, helps raise awareness and highlights the creativity of Haiti’s artisans.” (Click here to read more about the story.) Here are some of the statement necklaces from The Haiti Artisan project.
The long beads are mixed media, some of clay, and some from recycled cereal boxes.
And these cow horn bracelets are so versatile! I learned that the community there utilizes the entire animal, with nothing going to waste. Amazing.
This necklace is also made of horn, though in the form of large beads.
There was a variety of cut leather pieces, all part of the Urban Zen collection.
Made of cut leather!
Here’s a close-up of the cut-leather necklace.
I think my stand-out favorite from the Urban Zen collection was this leather masterpiece.
There were also many Anna Srdic necklaces on display throughout the shop. Their architectural genius is the perfect complement for the Urban Zen clothing line. And I must say, that they are surprisingly light, given their large size.
Taking a look through her collections on her website, you can really get a feel for the whole Urban Zen look, and I have to say…I’m a BIG fan!
I’m going to use everything I saw for inspiration in future curation of my own wardrobe. The way the clothing is comfortable, yet flatters the feminine figure, making bold accessory choices, and being aware of how my dollars are spent — because there’s nothing like fashion that gives back. Thanks, Donna!
I know many of you can likely tell me when and where you were when you either purchased or received your first piece of jewelry in the infamous Tiffany blue box. Perhaps a bean necklace by Elsa Peretti? An engagement ring? (Yes, that’s you, Brooke!) Or in my case, a pair of silver mesh dangling diamond-shaped earrings. Tiffany T is a new line that just launched, and I have a feeling it’s going to become a classic for this storied jewelry house.
Photo credit: Tiffany & Co.
You have been seeing ads for this line across media platforms for the past couple months, but you can now go see, try it on, and buy it at your local Tiffany & Co. store. The photo above shows three of their bracelets: the medium wire bracelet in 18K rose gold, the square bracelet in sterling, and the wired bracelet with diamonds in 18K yellow gold.
Designed by Tiffany’s Design Director, Francesca Amfitheatrof, this line “is simple, but not simplistic.” I agree. Here’s a shot (photo credit: Martin Cook) of the sterling and black ceramic ring stacked with an 18K white gold diamond ring.
Francesca joined Tiffany in 2013, and she has an impressive background, having worked with big labels from Fendi to Chanel to Marni. As a trained jeweler and silversmith, she said the T collection’s, “…message is bold, unapologetically modern and fueled by an American ethos of design so considered and refined it appears effortless.”
Francsesca sketching ideas for the collection
I particularly look forward to seeing these sterling silver cuffs. I can see the thinner one being lovely mixed into a bracelet stack, can’t you?
I’m going to keep my eye out when I’m out and about to see if I can spy this collection hitting the streets. Do you see yourself purchasing it? Would it fit into your personal style? Do tell!
Did you receive your August J.Crew catalogue in the mail today? I did, and I was pleasantly surprised to see that they’ve launched a fine jewelry collection! While I’ve been a long-time fan of their costume statement pieces, I think they’re very fashion-savvy to bring some fine jewelry into the mix. I mean let’s face it — that’s how most people dress, right? Mixing up the high and low?
I think they’ve done an excellent job curating a nice selection of 14K gold and precious gem jewelry which includes some of their own designs, as well as capsule collections by some pretty big names in the world of jewelry. Their own designs are very clean and classic, such as this rectangular signet ring and gold hinged bangle. Most of the items are perfect for engraving as well.
I think the ring I’d find most useful as an addition to my own collection is this slim gold and black diamond band by Gabriela Artigas. Can you believe that I don’t own any black diamonds at all? (yet!)
Catbird, one of the Brooklyn-based jewelry stores on my bucket list to visit, has some great items available. I think these “ballerina” earrings would be a cool look to wear in lieu of studs or small hoops.
From the look of things, it appears these baubles are only available online, but I can envision that changing if it becomes really popular. I wouldn’t be surprised, as just while writing this article, the signet ring sold out in sizes 6 & 7! Please let me know if you decide to made an addition to your jewelry box — would love to see what you choose!
I knew that title would get your attention! So the other day I found myself with a little time to kill between appointments in Union Square. So what’s a jewelry blogger to do with this time? Well… I decided to visit Neiman’s and take myself on a virtual shopping spree, where I could pick out the top five pieces I’d like to own, and with an open-ended budget — the sky is the limit! (It’s a great fantasy, right?!) I was so happy that Lea Kushnir, my go-to sales associate, had some time open as well, and she loved my idea! So off we went, and here’s what I picked out. (in no particular order of preference, by the way)
Chocolate and black diamond ring by Bessa, $13,750
Diamond and sapphire earrings by Loree Rodkin, $12,900
Now, if I only had the $42,750 (plus tax) to make it a reality…well, a girl can dream, can’t she?! Thanks so much, Lea, for going along with my fantasy! xo
I may not be married, engaged, or heck, even boyfriended, but that certainly doesn’t stop me from going to try on some of the most gorgeous wedding rings out there! I mean really, isn’t this the JOB of a jewelry blogger?! I definitely think so. With the upcoming bridal event happening at all three SF locations of Gallery of Jewels, I was psyched to go check out the rings and give them a try today!
The event will take place July 11-27th, and it’ll feature over 20 different designers. Today I learned that many are debuting their first bridal line, such as Sakura Haru (shown in the photo below) and Corey Egan.
Instead of feeling like I was in the land of the traditional solitaire (absolutely NO offense if that’s your personal style), my eyes were darting from case to case wondering what to try on next! Here’s some of the rings which really caught my eye (and finger…just sayin’).
Megan Thorne (for a feminine twist with two diamonds)
Now trust me, you don’t need to be engaged to attend this event. I have (no surprise) purchased a ring or two for myself at this event in past years. If you’re into beautiful rings, then stop by one of the locations, regardless of the status of your dating life! I promise you won’t regret it!
Sometimes the universe is just brilliant — how you can cross paths with someone at just the right time, without any planning or forethought. That’s just what happened yesterday. I was checking out the latest and greatest at Gallery of Jewels in Union Square (I know…shocker!) and once again eyeing this particular ring by Sakura Haru. I’ve tried it on more than once, and I love everything about it, from the mixed metals, to the weight and comfortable fit on my finger, to the sparkle of the diamonds.
Well wouldn’t you know it, but in walked Sakura to the boutique!
Though I clearly must have been keeping her from the mission that brought her into the store in the first place, she had a sense of ease and happiness as she let me barrage her with questions about her and her line. It turns out that she’s from Japan’s southernmost island, Okinawa, where the climate resembles Miami. (Who knew?!) And for Sakura, her line is inspired by this tropical island and “fun in the sun.”
I tried on a couple more pair of earrings…
The texture in this last pair of earrings is SO unique — part of her Paleo collection. That’s when I found out why she was actually there (drum roll…) to bring in her new body chain from this collection. How fun! You can wear it over a dress, under a tank, with just a hint showing… just use your imagination!
Designing the line for 8 years now, this San Francisco-based designer makes each and every piece herself. Her work is ethically made with recycled metals, conflict-free stones, and low-waste studio practices. She was fortunate to have an amazing art teacher in high school back in Japan who introduced her to jewelry making. Clearly, she was an effective and inspirational teacher, as Sakura’s line is just beautiful. As she says, her jewelry “appeals to women who embrace beauty in natural forms.”
Here’s a shot from her website, to give you more of a feel for her work. Definitely go check it out in person if this gets your jewelry heart pumping!
Well I’ve been back from the Couture show in Vegas for a week now, and I think I’ve finally recovered. But I’m still just in awe of all the spectacular designers I met and the lines I saw (and tried on!). Each year I attend, it becomes more and more special, as I get to visit the designers I’ve gotten to know over the years, and I eagerly look for jewelry that I’ve never seen before. And let me tell you — this year certainly did not disappoint. I cannot wait to share all my discoveries with you over the year to come.
Of course, there’s certainly some “play” mixed in with business, and the opening night poolside party at the Wynn was totally glam and headlined by Janelle Monae. When I heard Italian being spoken at a nearby cocktail table, I sauntered over (along with my colleague, Jen) and introduced myself. I love when I get a chance to practice a little Italian! I spent some time chatting with Christine Beccaro and Giovanni Chini from Annamaria Cammilli, a 30+ year-old jewelry line from Florence. I promised to come check out the line first thing in the morning.
Poolside opening night party
So bright and early (10:30?!) I was at their booth, and I was immediately taken with this golden line. It started with flowers all those years ago, and it remains one of their signatures. Take a gander at this phenomenal ring! It’s one-of-a-kind, and it has the date of its birth, 2014, on the inside.
This line is made 100% in Italy and uses an amazing spectrum of SIX shades of 18K gold in their designs: white ice, yellow bamboo, orange apricot, pink champagne, natural beige and black. The unusual tones of gold are one of the characteristics which make the jewelry easy to identify.
The ring I was immediately drawn to is called the Sultana Ring, from the Vision collection, and features three shades of gold highlighted with diamonds. The silky finish on the gold is so special.
Annamaria takes her inspiration from all things in nature. She has four main lines, each dedicated to a different natural feature: Flowers, Essential (dedicated to the Earth), Vision (dedicated to water) and Colour Stones (dedicated to the sky). One of the standouts from the Essential collection was the Dune Ballet rings. They are so named for the ribbons on ballet shoes, artfully draped and interspersed with diamonds.
Giovanni (who has known Annamaria since he was 14 years old!) told me that their pieces with cabochon stones are extremely popular with Americans visiting Florence, and I’m not surprised.
One of the standouts from the Vision collection is the Polaris pendant. “Polaris is a vortex that projects volumes and lights telling the story of improbable water games. A precious swirl featuring sections of cobbles set against the stylish Cammilli gold.”
Not only is their design incredibly unique, but they also have used the same, signature model in all their ad campaigns for the past 9 years. I think it’s fabulous that they’re not out looking for some new, hot young thing each season. Instead, they celebrate the beauty of a woman as she goes through life, beautiful at every age. Here she is modeling pieces from their Aqua collection.
They opened a flagship store last spring, and it’s definitely on my bucket list to visit it one day.
Even the way they package their jewelry is done with style and luxury. Here’s a picture of their signature box, complete with a marble lid. I mean, really….how divine!
If you’d like to see more, then take 3 luxurious minutes to watch this video, shot in Florence with their model. It’s like a music video for jewelry! (And if you’re reading this post on an RSS feed and it looks like a black box, then click here to watch it on Youtube.)
I was ecstatic when they won one of the prestigious Couture Design Awards for best debut at Couture! Bravo!
Thanks so much to Christine and Giovanni for their time and expertise showing me this beautiful jewelry. I hope to see it represented here in California soon! Grazie mille! xo
OK, these mother and daughter bracelets have got to be one of the cutest things ever, don’t you think?!
These were spotted at Droplets, a wonderful new children’s store in Makawao on Maui. The store offers both children’s consignment and a well-curated gift boutique. I’ve known the owner, Beate, for many years, and her exquisite style, intelligence and welcoming personality are the winning combination for this new venture.
But now back to the jewelry…these darling bracelets are designed by Christine Higa, owner of Beach Angel Maui. Christine was born in Hawaii and raised on the beautiful island of Maui. She is inspired in paradise, and with creative ideas overflowing, she inevitably started her jewelry line. She has, in fact, been designing jewelry as far back as she can remember.
Here are a few more shots of some of her beachy baubles.
The clean, ocean feel of this line is so inviting. I can almost smell the salty air…You can find more of her designs, including more items for little ones, on her website. And if you’d like to keep current about what’s new at Droplets, then be sure to follow them on Facebook. Mahalo!
We’ve been having a bit of an early summer here in the SF Bay Area, and people are definitely bringing out their summer outfits! While shopping at J.Crew, this colorful ensemble on a shopper caught my eye.
Of course, as it is my MO, I had to chat with her about her look. The causal distressed jeans, rolled up to perfection, were a nice balance with her vibrant top and necklace. Turns out she got the two at Cost Plus World Market for a steal — she said under $40 for both! I can tell you that the necklace did not look like it was $14.99! And furthermore, I had never even thought about going to Cost Plus for accessories. Clearly I need to stop by and check it out in person!
With her blond hair and blue eyes, the shade of blue really suited her personal coloring, and it drew your eyes right up to her face. Finishing it off with a Gucci purse and metallic flip-flops was great. This is the amazing beauty of mixing high and low — you don’t need to be dressed head-to-toe in designer to look fabulous. What about you? Have you mastered the high-low mix in your own personal style? Any savvy tips to share?
