Summer is here, and it’s time to travel! One of my clients is taking a fantabulous trip with her two young boys. The itinerary includes Paris, London, Italy and the south of France. (Who me? Green with envy?!) While she’s not limiting herself to a carry-on bag, we also don’t want to have a monster-sized bag that she has to lug around from place to place. So the key is to have outfits that will definitely do double or even triple duty. This striped maxi dress by Vince is a great starting point.
Now I know many of you might be saying, “But, Amy,…don’t you know that horizontal stripes are universally unflattering?!” I hear ya, but I’m going to call you on it. This is an old rule (like not wearing white after Labor Day), and it’s not always true. I’ve been pleasantly surprised with many striped outfits over the years that look totally hot. And remember, the outfit will be broken up with other items and accessories, so that is also a big contributing factor.
For the first look, I’m going for a, “Come on boys! We’re going to spend the whole day wandering the streets of Rome — from savoring gelatos at the Fountain of Trevi to visiting the Sistine Chapel.” Translation fashion-wise: very comfortable shoes, layers, and fun jewelry. I always advise my clients to travel with costume jewelry. No need to tempt a pick-pocket, right?! This cargo vest by Velvet is the perfect day look for over the dress. (The pockets are an added bonus for keeping track of tickets, etc.)
For the sake of comfort and safety, a cross body bag is a must. Adding this one by Marc Jacobs in a bright red-orange hue definitely adds some punch to the outfit.
I definitely prefer when things are not all matchy-matchy. And I hate to say that for this trip, an actual comfort shoe is in order. Now this doesn’t have to mean you have to look like an unstylish tourist — I promise that there are some cute, hip alternatives out there, such as these metallic sandals by Ecco.
Since the vest looks best worn open, I want a long necklace, which will in turn elongate the whole look. Love this white beaded necklace with a tassel pendant from Anthropologie.
These double teardrop earrings and an organic slim cuff finish off the look. This bracelet would also stack very easily with others that might be in the suitcase…or acquired at a street market. (Yes…I’m dreaming of what I’d be doing there!)
Now for the stint in Paris, I know that she is meeting up with some other moms for a girl’s night out, Parisian style. Oo la la! So she much look tres chic, or I’ll be in trouble! So same dress, but let’s go a little more high style. First up, ditch the vest and don this white silk jacket by Amanda Uprichard.
Then leave the flats in the room (with the kids and the babysitter) and strap on these heels by Sol Sana. One reason I like them for travel is that they have a very wide heel base, making it much easier to walk on cobblestones, especially after a few glasses of champagne! The wide straps also give your foot a lot of support, holding you in as you meander to the next stop for the evening.
For a bag, I think a wristlet is the perfect solution, as it is safer having it around your wrist (as opposed to just a clutch), and it can double as your wallet for the rest of the trip, tucked inside the cross-body bag. And you know I certainly don’t want a boring one, so this gold version by Halogen adds some nice shine to the outfit.
I opted for a shorter necklace for this outfit, and in a much more streamlined, sophisticated style. This gold and lucite look by Alexis Bittar is just the ticket.
Paris is certainly one of the global headquarters of fashion, so I’ve got to make sure she blends in with the locals. (I told her if she gets asked for directions, then I did my job well.) These reversible stud earrings give some edgy attitude to the outfit. Might be fun to wear one with the gold side showing and one with with sparkles up front for an unexpected twist.
To continue this edgier look, I think it’s great fun to bring a set of multi-finger rings, along with a stand-alone ring to mix and match for different looks. Again, advising against bringing fine jewelry while traveling, this affordable ring set by Luv Aj and open design ring by Campbell are cool without the major price tags. These rings will also go great with her more casual looks, and they can be worn in different configurations.
Since Paris is one of THE best places in the world to find amazing costume jewelry, I hope that my client has some time for a little shopping as well. Can’t wait to hear all about her adventures! And don’t forget, if something in this article piques your interest, just click on the blue links for more info. Cheers!
I have been a fan of Isharya jewelry for years, in fact ever since I bought my first piece on Gilt group way back when. Emma Roberts is among the many celebrity fans, and she rocked their blue lapis goddess power cuff at the Tribeca Flim Festival.
Well meeting Radhika Tandon, one of the co-founders of the line, at a recent event in San Francisco was fantastic! Not only is she smart, stylish and beautiful, inside and out, but she also has an extremely welcoming personality. I was invited to visit their California headquarters and showroom in San Jose. (Their other main office is in Mumbai, India.)
I didn’t know where to look first, with shelves and beautiful displays of jewelry everywhere.
Isharya is the creation of Radhika and her sister-in-law, Gauri Tandon, who runs the Mumbai office. While neither started out in the jewelry business, they both have a love of sparkle and bling. Radhika told me that it all started when she would have jewelry designed and made for herself in India. Back in 2004, a friend borrowed one of her pieces, who then showed it to someone else, and next thing she knew, she was being featured everywhere from Daily Candy to Lucky and In Style magazines! Clearly she was on to something. Here’s a close-up of the blue lapis goddess fringe necklace Radhika was wearing at our meeting.
The first thing I tried on, because you know I couldn’t contain myself, was this abalone tentacle cuff. The shades of the sea were lovely on my wrist!
Knowing that the stones in the jewelry are all real (amazonite, lapis, labradorite, and more–click here for a list of materials they use), I was curious about how they keep the prices so reasonable. There’s nothing in the line over $498, and a large percentage of the pieces are under $100. The answer is that they use gold-plated brass. And I can tell you that the result is just beautiful! The jewelry is, “inspired by India’s intricate and vibrant style…each piece is designed to fuse an effortless California chic aesthetic with the glamour of Bollywood.” There are various collections, and each has a distinct vibe, ranging from very complex design, to items with cleaner, more Art Deco lines. In other words, there’s something for everyone, no matter what your personal style.
Radhika explained how much time and effort they put into each and every aspect of design and production. For example, they spent 8 months perfecting their enamel process so that it doesn’t chip. Here’s a lovely enamel example in the teal and turquoise jaisel floral statement cuff.
Learning how to cut mirrors was also a big project. Many of their pieces have cut mirror, some of which resemble polki diamonds (often mistakenly called rose cut diamonds). I adore these prism mirror statement earrings!
I also tried on this royal filigree tassel lariat, which can be worn different ways. They come up with a new filigree print each year, so there’s always something new to look forward to.
The matte finish on this black pyramid luxe bib necklace was killer. It’s surprising lightweight, and it would be a perfect centerpiece for some of today’s minimalist looks.
A couple of the gals who work at Isharya also showed me how to wear some of the body jewelry. So feminine and on trend!
This body chain would be fantabulous over a black strapless dress, don’t you think?
All the pieces, no matter what their size, are definitely for the girl who wants to make a statement!
These amethyst moon bali earrings certainly have more of an exotic, Indian style. I can picture wearing them with a flowing caftan and gold sandals, poolside.
Of if you’re looking for a more streamlined earring, then these purple druzy three stone drops are beautiful. (They also invested a lot of time perfecting how to set druzy so elegantly.)
And finally, because snakes are one of their signatures, I couldn’t resist trying on this serpent scale wraparound cuff. So unique, and I love the colors!
I was lucky to also check out their upcoming fall line. While I can’t share any photos with you (YET!), I will say that you will be wowed. I’ll be sure to share highlights with you come fall. If this line intrigues you, then definitely check out their website. They also have retail presence in the US and in 50 other countries around the globe! (Click here to find your nearest location.) I hope that you’ve enjoyed this visit to Isharya as much as I did!
The first time I became acquainted with Jennifer Miller Jewelry was when I just happened to be strolling up Lexington Avenue in NYC, and I stopped in my tracks when I saw the sparkle through the window in front of me. As I entered this jewel box of a store, I honestly didn’t know where to look first. Well much to my delight, I was invited to a Jennifer Miller trunk show on Wednesday at the fabulous home of Alexis Traina in San Francisco, whose home I had admired in the pages of Elle Decor and Vogue.
Jennifer herself was there, and I was thrilled to get a first hand tour of the collection.
There are four Jennifer Miller stores, including East Hampton, Southampton, and Palm Beach, in addition to the NYC location. One thing that really makes this store unique is that it represents 450 (nope, that’s not a typo!) different designers, and it includes both fine and faux pieces. The two are so effortlessly mixed, that it’s not until you look at a price tag that you can be sure what you’re looking at.
Three different displays of bracelets caught my eye right off the bat.
A couple different rings jumped right off the table and onto my finger as well. (Hate when that happens!) I loved the sheen of this one, which is made from rutilated quartz over mother-of-pearl with a sparkling border.
And the cage effect on this one is beyond cool!
There was such an array of different styles, that no matter what your personal style is, there’s undoubtedly something that will get your pulse going. This display was itching to be worn by a bohemian princess.
And for the more dramatic personal style, this ensemble was perfect!
The gal with a more uptown look would likely be drawn to these Vaubel necklaces.
And I have no doubt that this “dino cuff” would inspire the downtown girl.
And what, pray tell, did I go home with? (because you just know that I couldn’t go home empty-handed!) Well, I chose to invest in this beautiful pair of white topaz oversized drops, as I have realized that my special occasion earring wardrobe is severely lacking. Since they are colorless, they will blend with the majority of my wardrobe, and they’ll add just the right amount of bling!
I did add a couple other items to my “wish list,” which I had started the last time I visited their store. And with their fabulous website, where you can shop from the comfort of your own home, I can definitely see my list building! How about you?
I try not to discriminate in the world of gemstones, but I must admit that emeralds have never been one of my favorite stones. (I guess it’s lucky I wasn’t born in May.) So I thought I’d give myself a challenge this St. Patrick’s Day and delve into the world of green stones, from emeralds to green diamonds to tourmalines and beyond. I decided to send myself on a virtual shopping spree, with no budget constraints and see what gorgeous green gems I could come up with. Folks, I was definitely NOT disappointed, and I now have a completely new appreciation for lovely baubles in all shades of green. So here goes, my top 20 picks.
Earrings
First up is this amaze-balls pair of earrings by Sutra.
Next I started drooling over these oval cravellit earrings by Armenta.
With the bar necklace trend still fresh in my mind, I expanded further by adoring these bar earrings by Jennifer Meyer. Though they are made of opals, they definitely read “green,” don’t you think?
For a classic tear-drop with a twist, take a look at these chrysoprase earrings by Irene Neuwirth.
And taking a more yellow-green approach, I think Anne Sportun has a lovely design in green garnets and diamonds!
Necklaces
Moving down the body, I started looking for green ways to adorn my neck. And oh, what lovelies did I find! First, I fell in lust with this tourmaline and diamond necklace by LFrank.
For a truly dramatic look, Irene Neuwirth nailed it with this emerald necklace.
I also explored the world of vintage jewelry, and I fell in love with this antique “Mogul” emerald and diamond pendant. The emerald was carved 1695 — so pretty!
Back to a simpler design, I think this green diamond paisley by Sethi Couture is beautiful.
And finally, this pendant necklace by Emily Amey would be great in creative layers.
Bracelets
Taking us to the wrist, I was loving the array of choices in which you can adorn yourself in green gemstones. This ombre look in chrysoprase and green quartz by Mary Esses is phenomenal.
Since I am a fan of stacking bracelets, I thought this bangle by Nak Armstrong would be a fab addition to my jewelry box. I love how the emeralds are such an unusual hue — veering more toward the aqua-green side.
I am often seen wearing my Hermes click-clack bracelet, and perhaps one in green would be just the right way to add a punch of color to my oft-neutral ensembles.
This delicate cuff by Jemma Wynne made of Zambian emeralds, gold and diamonds is perfection.
And given that this exercise gave me an unlimited budget, why not go for this tourmaline and diamond bracelet via Sotheby’s?
Rings
Lest we forget our fingers, I kept on the search. The first ring to catch my eye was this emerald slice and diamond stunner by Monique Pean. The stone has such a smoky quality to it — love it!
For a much more organic, boho look, I’d opt for something like this adventurine and sterling silver ring from Circle & Square.
Given my penchant for stacking rings, I know that I could incorporate some of these skinnies by Suzy Landa into my collection.
I think this opaque green diamond ring by Sethi Couture would look amazing with my skin tone.
And to end with another vintage piece, I think this emerald and diamond ring from the late 1800’s/early 1900’s via Bonhams is exquisite. I’m actually shocked that it sold for under $3K.
So what do you think of my virtual shopping spree? Do you see some pieces that you’d like as well? Wishing you a fabulous St. Patrick’s Day!
So how is your holiday shopping going? If you’re like most Americans (myself included), there are definitely some more gifts to buy — perhaps for others or even for yourself! (I’m still working on my boyfriend gift this year.) With that in mind and only 9 more shopping days, I’ve been scouring all the latest and greatest items in the world of jewelry. With so many stunning choices, which way to turn? Well, whomever the gift is for, don’t forget to take the recipient’s personal style into consideration.
During my 6-part series, Jewelry Box Basics, I discussed what jewelry each person should have in their jewelry box, based on their personal style: the lady who lunches, bohemian, rock star, minimalist, romantic, and the trendy gal. Of course, practically no one fits into one tidy box, but this still provides a framework with which to hit the jewelry store or your favorite online site. Here are some suggestions for Santa on what you might put under the Christmas tree.
The Lady Who Lunches
Pearls and studs are a mainstay for this personal style. Once you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time to branch out. Alexis Bittar is a great fit for this lady, and he recently came out with an oo-la-la fine jewelry line. I think this multi-strand pearl necklace is so unique!
Midnight Marquis necklace
Look at the detail of aquamarines, green amethysts and gold on the multiple layers of grey pearls.
If a new pair of studs is in order this year, then I think these grey diamond slice lovelies by Sethi Couture would certainly do the trick!
Grey and white diamonds
The Bohemian
True, I have a strong Bohemian influence in my own personal style, so I know that adding a statement ring to the jewelry box is always a good idea. Here are a couple that have really caught my eye. First is a unique horizontal design by Jemma Wynne. I had the opportunity to try it on last week, and it looked spectacular — plus it was so comfortable to wear!
Labradorite and diamonds
For an even bolder statement, I turn to one of my all-time favorite designers, Rona Pfeiffer. Take a look at this major ring!
Fan-tab-ulous diamonds!
The Rock Star
Do you have a rock star on your list? I’m sure that her jewelry box is in need of refreshing as well. And what better way to do that, than by one of the edgy ear cuffs that are hitting the market? If this is a more refined rocker, then I think this ear cuff by Repossi would be perfect.
And if she’s into something a little more “raw,” then I recommend this one by Mania Mania.
“Vamp” ear cuff
Here’s how it looks on the ear.
Pretty cool, right?!
The Minimalist
In stark contrast to the Rock Star, this personal style thrives on clean lines, and fewer choices in the jewelry box. But don’t let this scare you off — you can still find the perfect addition to make her smile. Likely, she has a pair of simple studs in her collection, so how about you give her a pair with just a small twist? This small cluster design by Jacquie Aiche is perfection.
A slim, low-profile ring would also be a solid (yet sparkling) choice. This band by Melissa Joy Manning is simple beauty, in white gold with black diamonds. It’s easily captivating on its own or stacked.
The Romantic
This time of year doubtless stirs up feelings of nostalgia and sweet smiles for this personal style. Since many of the pieces in her jewelry box are most certainly family heirlooms, selecting a gift with a nod to the past is wonderful. I came across this unique necklace by Ginger Peachy, made from a vintage pin centered on a rose gold chain. Love it!
Or how about this delicate boulder opal ring by Armenta, which is sure to become a favorite!
This will certainly be passed down for generations.
The Trendy Gal
There are so many jewelry trends going on right now, that this is one of the easiest personal styles to shop for. Definitely a trend on the rise, the hand chain (otherwise known as a slave bracelet) is popping up from coast to coast. Here is a clean design by Blee Inara that might delight her.
Here’s how it looks when worn.
Chains are appearing everywhere, and here’s a very on-trend ring by Djula that proves it.
If “brand names” are something that she’s into, then you can’t go wrong with a bracelet by Vita Fede. There are SO many different metal colors and styles, that it’ll be tough to make a choice.
Titan rose gold and Swarovski crystals
I’ve seen endless permutations of stacks that incorporate them.
Stack ’em up!
Now I know that many of the pieces in this article may not be in your shopping budget. (They certainly aren’t all in mine!) But don’t let that discourage you. It’s possible to find the “look” at a variety of price points. Just use this as a jumping-off point to find the perfect gift. I’d love to know what you find!!
Although it’s been over a month since I worked in NYC, I’m still basking in the lasting shopping glow. During one of my “exploration” days, I wandered up and down every street in Soho. I took a double-take when I saw the Etienne Aigner shop on Greene St. I hadn’t seen this brand around in quite some time, and if memory serves, it was quite conservative, and I’ll just say it…boring. Never one to let this stop me, I entered the newly opened store, and boy was I in for a nice surprise! The line, which includes clothing, shoes, leather goods and jewelry, has gone through a complete transformation! Thoroughly modern and very wearable, I spent quite some time examining all the jewelry.
Designed by local jeweler, Sarah Magid, the jewelry collection is quite diverse. I know that customers with a wide range of personal styles will find something they like.
These refined spike pieces definitely have a modern, rock n’ roll edge.
And this case appeals to those with a more bohemian vibe.
And if drama is your style, then you might be drawn to this statement necklace.
This collection of costume jewelry has very accessible price points, and includes materials such as leather, semi-precious stones, and 12K gold plate. It’s nickel-free as well, for those with sensitivities. And what did Amy go home with? Because you KNOW I didn’t leave empty handed! Well I surprised myself with this necklace, made from African jade stones. It’s perfect to layer with some of my other necklaces, and very different than anything I own.
I think this reversible leather cuff with a magnetic clasp is pretty chic as well.
Though this is currently their only shop in the US, they do have their jewelry available on their site. Click here to check it out.
Since joining Pinterest at the end of 2012, I must say that it’s become quite the addiction. While I started with just jewelry boards, I’ve now expanded to 32 boards ranging from closets I covet to statuary. Who knew?! But I do love my 13 jewelry boards, and they give me great joy to build. I find my pins from all over the globe, but certain boards really speak to me. I follow boards that have a distinct point of view — their own voice, so to speak. Not someone who just pins every piece of jewelry willy-nilly. If you’re into pinning, then I encourage you to check these boards out!
This board is described as “effortless jewelry styles…my way…my daily style!” I would categorize it as a beautiful board, chock full of organic, somewhat bohemian pieces. I think she’s an up-and-comer on the Pinterest landscape. Here’s a couple examples of her pins.
Now Becky is a true jewelry aficionado! With over 20,000 followers and 123 boards, she’s got boards on different jewelry genres, designers, and types of jewelry. You can seriously spend hours just looking through them all! I love her Bling Bling: Kimberly McDonald board, who’s definitely one of my most lust-worthy designers.
Kimberly McDonald ring
She really chooses statement pieces, as shown by these earrings on her Bling Bling: Ear Bling board.
Noel does a fantastic job of finding all sorts of ancient jewelry. (She has jewelry boards from other ancient cultures as well.) When I look through her pins, it’s like strolling through an amazing jewelry museum. Take a look at the type of jewelry she selects.
This is an extremely editorial board created for “..where (our) inner magpies come out.” With almost 63,000 followers, it has more than just jewelry — it showcases jewels in all their forms, from over-the-top creations to clothing.
From shopghost.tumblr
From hookerlegs.tumblr
I know that as each week goes by, I will stumble upon more and more jewelry boards to pour over during cocktail time. (my favorite time to do this) Do you have any boards to recommend? Please comment, as I’d love to know!
Ok, I must admit that I’m having a bit of a moment with jewelry sporting a chevron pattern. It began when I started seeing chevron motifs in my home decor magazines — on walls, on floors, on linens, everywhere! The inverted “V” design caught my attention!
Cool geometry!
Interior design and fashion have always been closely intertwined, so it’s no surprise that I’m seeing this pattern everywhere, including while shopping in SF this past Saturday afternoon. (My client giggled when I accosted this shopper!) This woman paired her Gorjana necklace (purchased on Gilt.com) with a dainty star necklace. Side bar: If you are not a member of Gilt yet, then join!! I’ve found some amazing pieces of jewelry there, including my vintage Hermes bracelet. Yet I digress…
The chevron has been around since 1800 BC, so it’s certainly not anything new, but I think the way different designers are interpreting the theme are uber cool. Case and point, this beautiful ring by India Hicks. (yes, the same India Hicks that was a member of Princess Diana’s wedding party)
I think this pattern is very delicate, yet a bit edgy with it’s geometric angles. This bracelet by Nashelle would be ideal for stacking.
I’ve also been spying all sorts of permutations of chevron rings. Some are stacked, some are knuckle rings (we’ll visit this trend soon) and I’m loving it!
I’m finding pieces that would appeal to various personal styles. These earrings by Nest definitely have a more tribal, ethnic feel.
As with all trends, you can find examples at every price point. This stunning necklace by Brooke Gregson shines in rose gold with labradorite and diamonds.
So have you purchased any chevron pieces lately? I’d love to see them — send photos!
One of the things I love about blogging is getting to know people, from the designers, to store owners and workers, to my readers. Everyone has such interesting stories that weave into an amazing tapestry of life!
I recently received an e-mail from one of my readers who has been going through a particularly difficult time in life, from the death of her father to relationship issues. While life is certainly throwing her some curve balls lately, she seems to be really coming into her own. First of all, she just came in first for her age group in her VERY first triathlon. (Brava!!) I admire the dedication and fortitude that the whole training and race took — way to focus energy into something positive! And next, she bought herself some amazing inspirational rings.
These lovely rings are crafted by Olive Bungalow. This is my first introduction to this line, but I can say that just from perusing their website, I’m a big fan of this artisan, made in the USA line. My reader chose three rings, with opal, green tourmaline (both her birth stones) and a chocolate diamond. Inside each ring, she chose a meaningful inscription: hope, strength, and courage.
Hope
I know that each time she looks at these rings, she will feel that pulse of self-worth. Though jewelry can seem frivolous to some, this is case and point that it can have real meaning — she is more than worthy! I applaud this reader, and I have strong intention that her inscriptions of hope, strength and courage help carry her though whatever life has in store for her. Much love.
On Thursday I went to a ModeWalk trunk show at Azadeh in San Francisco. ModeWalk is a unique business model in the world of fashion. Basically, they get hot, luxury fashions from Europe (many brands that I’ve never heard of!) and sell them online, through selective trunk shows, and via stylist appointments. Interesting! While I went to the show intending to focus on the clothing, my attention was (not surprisingly) re-directed to some stellar pieces of jewelry!
First up was this fab necklace by Fiona Paxton. With its pop of neon, it’s truly on-trend.
Stylish way to add some neon
Another statement necklace that had me drooling was this rose-gold stunner by Lara Bohinc.
An elegant statement, for sure
I certainly didn’t want to ignore my wrists, so I quickly tried on this amazing bracelet by Parisian designer Philippe Audibert…well actually it’s much more than a bracelet. I don’t even know how to describe it! But I love it — it makes my arms look so sleek!
Wowza!!
I also adore these knotted bracelets by Coralie De Seynes. I’m very tempted by the orange one. While orange isn’t a color that necessarily looks good on me in clothing or make-up, why not add a dash of it in an accessory?!
These are quite the rage in Paris!
If you’d like the opportunity to see some of these gems live, you’re in luck. ModeWalk will be having another trunk show this week (Feb. 5-9) at Azadeh in Los Gatos, California. You can find out about their upcoming trunk shows on their Facebook page. Happy shopping!
