No, I’m not making reference to Christian Grey, but rather to one of my latest obsessions — the cuff bracelet. I have written about beautiful cuffs by many designers the past couple years, but for some reason my interest in this particular style has really been piqued lately. I almost feel stronger in some way when I wear one. Perhaps I’m channeling my own inner Wonder Woman?!
She rocked one on each wrist!
Well wearing a cuff on each wrist is becoming more and more popular, and it really can be a chic look. I’m gravitating towards the sleek, modern look of these.
Cuffs by Celine
While shopping with a client in San Francisco last week, I discovered that Reed Krakoff, whom I normally associate with gorgeous handbags, also has some amazing pieces of jewelry! My client and I both fell love with this gunmetal t bar oval cuff. It sits very comfortably on the wrist, has an easy-to-use and secure closure, and just screams style!
My client modeling her new purchase
Upon looking through Reed Krakoff’s website, I’m also totally taken by this one, which is a combination of metal and resin.
Transformer Cuff
Elsa Peretti, who designs for Tiffany and Co. has created an amazing “bone” cuff. The design is different for each wrist, so that it molds naturally to the shape of your wrist. I’m SO going to try these on next time I’m at the store!
Sculptural perfection
Lanvin has a very geometric version of the cuff. The design is slightly reminiscent of 60’s architecture to me. Do you see it too?
Oracle Cuff
There are many options out there in rose gold as well. Personally, this layered-look cuff by Alexis Bittar just makes me smile.
Stunning
Speaking of the layered look, I also like the idea of layering a bold, wide cuff with a narrower one. I bet this smaller one by Saint Laurent would work for that.
One really important thing I’ve learned about cuffs is that you HAVE to try them on. Some feel way too heavy. Some are soooo tiny that I can’t even get my wrist into it! And yet others are too big, and they fall down too far, making it difficult to bend your wrist. I mean heck, I’m willing to suffer a little for fashion, but not that much! So just like Goldilocks, you’ve got to test them out until you find one that’s just right for you!
I always love to see what eclectic mixes people can come up with in their bracelet stacks. This gal did not disappoint, and I think we spent at least 10 minutes talking about where all her various bracelets came from.
What a combo!
From the pearls by Erica Molinari, to the large bracelet by Diane Cotton, it was a cool mix. The antler cuff is from Grange Hall in Texas — apparently a store that I must add to my “must see” list!
This inspires me. Tomorrow I will be heading to my jewelry box and creating a brand new stack for the day!!
With Mother’s Day approaching, I know many of you out there are on the quest for the ideal piece of jewelry for your mom. Well what about upgrading her jewelry box instead? I’m sure that she’s due for an upgrade, don’t you? I like the clean lines of the Andover jewelry box by Pottery Barn. I love the glass on top, so you can really see your most-used pieces.
You can get it monogrammed too!
I also just adore these two boxes, also by Pottery Barn. I happen to own the smaller one, and it’s where I store my watches and daily rings/bracelets. A friend of mine owns the larger one, and she likes how it showcases her favorite pieces — really making her jewelry part of her boudoir decor.
Lovely and functional
Now if your mom has a bangle collection that keeps on growing, then she might just need this acrylic stand from the Container Store. They make one for necklaces as well.
Very modern!
Here’s a very sweet cloche from Anthropologie. I can see it used anywhere from the bathroom counter to a bedside table.
Darling!
Now if you really want to go all-out, and your mom has a vast collection, then this would be the epitome of a jewelry armoire!
l-o-v-e!
Of course, you can always give your mom a jewelry box with a new piece of jewelry in it as well…just a thought. Enjoy!
(P.S. My Jewelry Fashion Tips Facebook page will keep you in the know for lots of Mother’s Day trunk shows that are happening!)
A few years ago, as I was preparing for a cruise on the Baltic Sea, I was thrilled to find out that we would be starting the journey in Stockholm, Sweden. Why, you ask? I’m sure the answer won’t surprise you, because it involves jewelry. For years, I had been seeing these amazing leather bracelets with woven silver on them, and I finally found out that they are made in Sweden! (Surely the prices of these treasures would be lower there, right?!)
My cousin wearing a Sami bracelet, paired with a sea glass bracelet.
With a little research, I learned that these bracelets were originally made by the Sami people, who are an aboriginal people from northern Sweden. Dated as far back as the 16th century, they braid pewter, mixed with about 4% silver, into intricate braids and mount them on bracelets of reindeer leather. The button closure is traditionally made of shed antlers. Many designers now also incorporate copper and silk in their woven designs, taking them to a whole new level.
You can find them in all colors and widths. Eva, a jewelry designer in Sweden, has a great website showcasing the range that Sami bracelets come in.
Love the colors!
Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, I’ve also discovered a talented designer, Erika Honig. She is based in Mill Valley and you can find her lovely bracelets at Gallery of Jewels.
Bracelet by Erika Honig
Oh, and you might be wondering how my shopping quest went when I was in Stockholm…fabulous, of course! I was a woman on a mission, and I managed to track down quite a few bracelets that I brought home with me. One of the reasons I love them is that they stack so easily with other bangles. Here’s a little stack with two of my Swedish purchases.
My stack
My only regret is that I didn’t buy more of them. Why didn’t I get a couple really wide ones? And why did I shy away from color and just go for the neutrals? Well, I guess I have another shopping mission next time I find myself in Stockholm!
Jacqueline Kennedy Onasis is certainly one of America’s classic style icons. From the pill-box hats to the simple sheath dress, she was always impeccably dressed. When I think of her personal style and her jewelry, I definitely come up with words such as classic, clean lines, and I’ll be honest…a bit conservative. Granted, she had to dress that way being the First Lady!
American Style Icon!
This is why I was so surprised when I recently came across this photo of one of her charm bracelets.
History on her wrist!
I love it! I would have expected her to have more of a classic collection of simple gold or silver charms. This bracelet actually exudes a more exotic, bohemian feel. I can only guess where each of the charms were collected from…perhaps the ivory horn from a trip to Africa? Or the bunch of grapes from a romantic trip to Tuscany? I’ll never know, but it really makes me look at this legend with new eyes. I think there was certainly a lot more to this lady than meets the eye.
Black and white outfits were ALL over the runway this spring, and it’s no surprise that it’s translated into jewelry as well. The point was driven home when I saw this amazing cuff by Robert Procup — the diamonds, the stingray, heck, I’m hooked!
Black & White Glam!!
For a more bohemian vibe on the trend, check out this cuff by Kevia.
Available at Calypso
Chan Luu, the goddess of wrap bracelets, also has her interpretation in black and white agate.
Wrap away!
Nan Fusco has come up with a very versatile black and white combo with this piece. It can be worn as a necklace or a wrap bracelet. Now that’s some good cost-per-wear.
I love the chain detail
If the vintage look is more your style, then you’re bound to be in love with this necklace by Susana Speidel.
Just as chic as it was in the 1950’s
And for a more modern look, these hoops from Ippolita’s Rock Candy Collection are definitely a new classic!
SO versatile!
And let’s not neglect our fabulous fingers! If a more substantial, statement ring is up your alley, then you’ll covet this evil eye design by Miriam Salat.
Superb
Then again, you may be more apt to wear a delicate ring. In this case, I’m loving this ring by Nolan.
Delicate & on-trend
I think that exploring the black and white trend is so much more user-friendly in jewelry, as opposed to in your outfit. Let me explain…if you have high-contrast personal coloring (like Cher — dark hair and pale skin), then repeating this high-contrast level in your clothing is a very inherent look and is fabulous. On the other hand, if you are more low-contrast (think Gwyneth Paltrow — pale hair, skin and eyes), then wearing black and white for your outfit is a bit overwhelming. People will notice your outfit before they notice you. SO, interpreting the trend in jewelry and accessories is the perfect solution.
I’d love to hear how you’re wearing (or not) the black and white trend this spring. Send me photos!!
While strolling along the charming streets of Carmel, California, I came across this stylish 60-something. She was wearing a simple white tee, black pants, and a teal sweater. While a fine outfit in its own right, it was her creative necklace that really set her apart from the crowd.
Not your average necklace!
In chatting with her, it turns out that wearing a statement necklace has really become her jewelry signature. Love that! Just goes to show that fabulous jewelry knows no age! Jewelry Judge gives the thumbs up!
I cannot believe this is already the final article in my six-part series “Jewelry Box Basics.” Talking about what jewelry you should have in your jewelry box based on your personal style, I’ve covered the lady who lunches, the bohemian, the rock star, the minimalist and the romantic. Now, it’s time for the woman who’s all about the latest trends. You may notice that some of the pieces I feature in this article could easily fit into one of the other categories. This makes perfect sense, as each season there will be jewelry trends that appeal to different personal styles. For instance, when I wrote the article about this spring’s big spike trend, you just know that the rock star is all over that one! Please remember that no one fits into just one box. We are each unique, and it’s wonderful to explore the different facets of our own style, from clothing to jewelry. Don’t worry about the price tag on the pieces — just use the item as a springboard for your own interpretation at the price point that’s comfortable for you.
I’m writing this particular post from a personal perspective. Since there are SO many jewelry trends out there, I decided to chose things in each category that are on my own wish list — things that I would actually love to wear. Some items have a bohemian edge, others a little rock star…enjoy.
Watch
There’s nothing truly “basic” in a trendy fashionista’s jewelry box, right down to her watch. The past couple years we’ve seen white ceramic watches become increasingly popular. I like Michele’s interpretation, which of course is bedazzled with some diamonds.
Chic and on trend!
But seeing that color, especially in the neon range, is hot-hot-hot, I’d also have to add this day-glo watch by Marc Jacobs. What a great pop of color with a neutral outfit!
Fabulous!
Bracelets
I have to say that I’m getting a little obsessed with bold cuffs. I actually think this trend will easily transition into fall, so picking up a nice one might be a good investment. When I was at Barney’s the other day, I tried on this stunner by Celine. The mixed metals, the rounded studs, and the weight of it were just divine. No, I didn’t get it, but it’s currently #1 on my jewelry lust list!!
Yes, I’m coveting this!
I’m also loving this metal and horn creation by Maiyet. I can easily envision one on each wrist with an all-white outfit.
Strong design!
Rings
There is definitely a growing trend in multiple-finger rings. The key to this trend is not to just grab any old rings out of your jewelry box and pile them on, but rather curate a handful that has a similar theme. Many designers are now selling a set of 5 rings, one for each finger! Balenciaga is one such line that has a stunning group. I’ve yet to see them in person, but they’re everywhere in the media! I wish I knew where to check them out — not even their website offers them….they are elusive…
Uber-cool
Earrings
A couple trends are beckoning to me this season. The first is all about color. Colored and painted crystals are showing up everywhere from H&M to Neiman Marcus. This pair by Dannijo is cited as their “mohawk moment” — love that!
Punk meets vintage
I’m also really enjoying the “new” shape of chandelier earrings. They have a long, thin silhouette, as opposed to the wider designs of a few years ago. This diamond and chain pair by The Woods is a perfect example of this. It can be easily worn with jeans or a cocktail dress. Boy would they look great in my jewelry box! 😉
SO versatile!
Necklaces
I’ve got to come back to the colored crystal trend for the necklace choice as well. The Courtney Lee Collection has designed some trendy, yet very wearable pieces this season. Take this necklace, for instance. Style it with a denim shirt and white jeans, and suddenly you look completely put together. Just one key piece of jewelry can really make an outfit.
The crystal/chain combo is genius
J.Crew always has a great selection of on-trend jewelry as well. Here’s one of their necklaces with a similar feel.
Great color combination
Here’s what you have to be really careful about when you are a trendsetter. You need to strategically think about the cost-per-wear of each piece before you buy it. Some trends will be just a flash in the pan. If you spend tons of money on something like that, then it may not be a wise investment. But if it’s something that truly makes your heart sing, works with the majority of your wardrobe, and you can see it lasting or being mixed with other pieces in the future, then it may be a wiser expenditure. These sorts of pieces really can end up being your jewelry signature, so it’s worth it. Do you think you’ll be investing in any trendy jewelry this season? Do tell! Inquiring minds want to know…
Hello there! I’m SO excited to send you this invitation. On the evening of Thursday, May 2, my colleague Jennifer Bressie (and friend since kindergarten) and I will be co-hosting a fabulous event at the Union Square location of Gallery of Jewels in San Francisco. We are both professional image consultants and wardrobe stylists with a deep love of jewelry. We will be here to style you and talk with you about everything from hoop earrings (a definite jewelry box basic!) to what other pieces would look amazing on you. So if you’re up for an evening of jewelry, champagne, and surely some laughs, then come on by! Bring your best-ies and make a fun evening of it. Hope to see you there!
I first started seeing ear cuffs on the runway, from Dries Van Noten to Katie Gallagher.
Bedazzled Ear at Dries
Nimue Ear Cuff
And then I started seeing celebrities, such as Alicia Keys wearing them as well! I believe that Alicia is wearing a diamond embellished one by Repossi.
Alicia Keys looking glamorous
Upon further research, I’ve learned that there are ear cuffs and ear wraps, and many use the terms interchangeably. Some don’t require you to have any piercings at all, such as this one by Pamela Love. (In this photo the ear cuff is worn in combination with a stud earring.)
Maia Vine Ear Cuff
D’Alatrou makes a variety of ear cuffs and wraps. This one is quite lovely, and again, it doesn’t require any piercings.
Creative, for sure!
Ryan Storer has a very embellished version — check it out!
Edgy!
Other varieties of ear cuffs do require that you have some piercings. For example, this Hello Kitty piece has a chain that connects your basic ear piercing to a cartilage piercing further up your ear. Not quite my cup of tea, but I know there are zillions of Hello Kitty lovers out there!
This one requires two piercings
While I’m not sold on this whole trend, I can certainly appreciate the creativity of others. And if I were to try it out, I’d probably go for something uber-simple, like this woman did.
Minimalist version
So what about you? Is this a jewelry trend that you’re going to embrace? I’d love to hear your opinions!
