Perhaps it’s because I live in San Francisco, which hosts one of the biggest Chinese New Year’s parades outside of China (no joke!), but the Year of the Snake (according to the lunar astrological calendar) is getting lots of press! This is translating right down to a resurgence of snake jewelry. Now this is certainly not a new theme. Everyone from Cleopatra in ancient Egypt to women of the Victorian era have donned this slithery creature in many forms. Purported to have powers of healing and protection, I’ve seen snake jewelry everywhere from the red carpet to the wrist of a teenage girl in my building.
Here’s Lorraine Schwartz’s fine adaptation as seen on Kim Kardashian.
Kim rockin’ the snake!
And the Philipp Plein runway wouldn’t have been complete without these snake cuffs.
These are pretty chic!
Here are a few more user-friendly options. The first is a stretch bracelet by Cara, that would be a great spring addition to your bracelet stack.
Nice pop of color
If you’d rather go for a neutral metal, then you might like this brass cuff by Jennifer Fisher.
Low-key snake
Here’s a nice combination of gold and emerald (one of the hot colors of the season) by Isharya.
Two trends in one!
Keeping with the green theme, these drop earrings by Sara Weinstock are pretty amazing!
Stunning snakes!
You can also take a more minimal stand with these studs by Elizabeth and James.
Love their eyes…
There are also many incredible snake rings. Some of the designs are so creative, that you have to really look at them to tell what you’re looking at. Take this two-fingered ring by Ileana Makri.
Very sleek and modern
Finally, for a more cost-effective way to wear the trend, this ring by Julie Vos will do the trick.
Lovely design
While I’m not sure that I will be adding any snake jewelry to my collection (truth be told, I still think snakes are a bit creepy), I am very impressed with all the beautiful and creative pieces out there. If snakes are your thing, then enjoy all the possibilities!
Welcome to the second installment of “Jewelry Box Basics.” In case you’re just joining us, this is a 6-part series about what basics I recommend that you have stocked in your jewelry box, based on your personal style. I’ve come up with six different personal styles: the lady who lunches (who was featured last week), bohemian, rock star, minimalist, trendy and romantic. Again, I know that virtually no one fits into just one style box, so read this with an open mind, seeing what appeals to you. Also, don’t let the price point bother you — just take each piece as an example of a look, and then shop at the price point where you’re comfortable.
I’m pretty psyched to write this article, as it’s definitely where my heart lives. From the Navajo necklace my father bought me when I was 6 years old (yes, I still have it!), to the orange tie-dye dress that I lived in (against my mother’s wishes…orange really wasn’t my color), I’ve always had some version of the boho tune singing in my head. The interesting thing about this personal style is that it has a real range! It varies all the way from Haight-Ashbury hippies to what I call “luxe boho.” The examples I’ll showcase in this post definitely veer more towards the later look.
Watch
The chic bohemian still loves her bling, yet is a bit more casual than the lady who lunches. This watch by Brera really hits that note. The leather strap and visible screws have a great juxtaposition with the diamond-encased watch face. And the strap is interchangeable with other colors, so the boho girl can really mix it up with her bracelets.
Casual, understated bling
Bracelets
Speaking of bracelets, the bohemian woman is the queen of stacking bracelets and bangles. There’s no doubt that “basics” in this category range from beaded, elastic bracelets to jewel-encrusted bangles. This polki diamond bangle from Ross-Simons is a fabulous basic. The raw, organic feel of this type of diamond is the perfect representation for this style. And don’t worry if your metals don’t match. With the eclectic combinations created, it all comes together harmoniously.
Luxe and organic at the same time
Here’s a great example of the elastic-beaded bracelets that I referred to for stacking. This stunning bracelet is by Rona Pfieffer, one of my fave designers.
Natural neutral
Rings
There is no room for a minimal ring for the Boho girl, unless it’s part of a big stack of slim rings. Rather, a large statement ring is her basic. I’m loving this teardrop quartz ring by Peppina. It’s the perfect neutral to blend with any outfit, and it really resonates with the natural feel of this personal style.
Absolutely lovely design!
Earrings
Once again, hoops are the basic go-to earring of choice. In comparison to the lady who lunches, the bohemian’s hoops are likely to be even larger in scale. A varied array of metals and embellishments are sure to be found in her jewelry box. These slim, yet large hoops by Jennifer Meyer (love the singular diamond station!) are fabulous.
These would blend easily with any outfit
Necklaces
This is where things get a little complicated, as the bohemian style really doesn’t lend itself to just one necklace. Layering necklaces is really intrinsic to this style, so her basics will likely include at least two necklaces. One should be a bolder, long piece, and the other a daintier necklace that can be worn harmoniously with the other one. This shark tooth necklace by Givenchy (yes, it’s on my jewelry lust list) would be a very versatile choice.
A chic statement
If you pair this with a shorter necklace, like this pyrite and natural diamond one by Jemma Sands, then you’ve really created quite a look. And of course, either necklace can certainly be worn separately.
Perfect layering necklace
But I have to go just one step further with what a boho woman would consider basic. One of this woman’s favorite things to do is travel, and she undoubtedly picks up singular pieces along her adventures. It could be a scarab ring from Egypt, a buddah charm on a bangle from Bali, or a piece of history from the southwest, as in this amazing Native American squash blossom necklace.
This can be a basic for the bohemian style!
Whether this jewelry collection made you say, “Yes!!! That’s SO me!!” or, “There’s no way I’d ever even look twice at these pieces!” it’s all good. This is what makes the world go round. The key is to learn what speaks to you and develop that jewelry signature. When you have a solid sense of your style, things just fall into place and shopping gets a lot easier!
I know that when you see images from a runway show or a photo shoot in the latest issue of Vogue, you may say to yourself, “Who would ever wear that in real life? I know I certainly wouldn’t!” Well that’s true. These looks are not meant for the average person to walk down Main Street in. The way these images are very useful, though, is to extrapolate what trends and themes will actually appear in your local stores.
Take for instance, this over-the-top floral necklace that was seen on the runway at the Giambattista Valli show.
Gorgeous, but not practical, right?
Well he wasn’t the only designer showing floral jewelry, so I am not surprised that we’re starting to see it coming up roses everywhere from Bergdorf Goodman to Kohl’s.
Here’s a more toned down version by Martine Ali that has a similar effect, yet is more user friendly.
Rose Neck Collar
And here’s J.Crew’s take on the floral trend. I think J. Crew really does a great job at offering beautiful jewelry at a more accessible price point.
J.Crew Flower Lattice Necklace
Alexis Bittar expertly combines color with this floral brooch. This pansy comes in three colors, too!
Ophelia Pansy pin
Forever 21 is always on-trend, and their jewelry is extremely affordable. Here’s a cool filagree bracelet that looks much more expensive than it is.
Delicate, yet bold at the same time
This Kevia ring (sold at Fragments in NYC) has a little bit of rocker edge to it, don’t you think? The smoky quartz and cubic zirconia create an edgy flower.
Unique take on wisteria
Here are a pair of clean, modern floral dangling earrings designed by Patrick Irla. I think these would look great as an everyday look or for a special evening out on the town.
Hydrangea earrings
If flowers are your thing, you can see that there’s a veritable bouquet just waiting for you out there in the stores. Happy shopping!
This is the first article in a 6-part series about what basics you should have in your jewelry box, based on your personal style. In my many years as an image consultant, I’ve spent countless hours working with clients and their jewelry, helping them to carefully select the pieces that really enhance their outfits and express who they are. I’ve come up with six different personal styles: the lady who lunches, bohemian, rock star, minimalist, trendy and romantic. For those of you who are wondering where the creative style is, don’t think that I’m neglecting you. Instead, I’ve learned that there really aren’t any “basics” for the creative type! This personal style likes each piece to be a work of art.
Granted, no one fits exactly into one “box,” but hopefully these articles will at least give you a framework of where to start in building your jewelry wardrobe. Personally, though my own style definitely veers towards the bohemian esthetic, there are elements from each style that I love (and have in my jewelry box!). In each article, I’ll be showing an example of each item, but don’t let the price point bother you, whether you think it’s too high or too low. Just use the example as the general “look” and then shop at the price point that you feel comfortable with.
Ok, so here goes…”the lady who lunches” is very prevalent here in the Bay Area. Active with their children’s schools, always involved in various charities, and with a booked social calendar, this woman needs jewelry that will take her everywhere.
Watch
I recommend a high quality watch in the metal that looks best on you. You may even decide on one embellished with diamonds, if your style and budget support that. I think this one by Philip Stein is very versatile, and I love the unique shape of the face.
Just the right amount of bling
Bracelets
Three to five bracelets in the same metal color as your watch are perfect for stacking. They can be worn on the same wrist as your watch or on the other arm. Personally, I’m a big fan of Ippolita. Her bangles come in just metal, or embellished with diamonds and semi-precious stones. The bangles don’t need to all be by the same designer, either. Just look for harmonious design elements in your grouping.
I like using bangles in odd numbers
Rings
A colored stone, worn in the largest scale that you’re comfortable with, really goes a long way. It’s appropriate during the day, and can also add a lot to a cocktail outfit. This blush colored sapphire ring by Jill Alberts is lovely.
Subtle, yet still a statement
Earrings
If you’ve been following my blog, then you know that I think hoops are about the most versatile earring on the planet. I’ve yet to find a person, no matter what their personal style is, that doesn’t resonate with the perfect pair of hoops. For the lady who lunches, I really think she needs at least two pair — one, in her metal of choice, and then another with diamonds. (Can you tell that this is a pricey personal style to have?!) Of course, this look can easily be achieved with cubic zirconia as well. This pair by Roberto Coin is just lovely.
I have a cz version of these
Necklaces
I find that various strands of pearls in different lengths, colors, and textures, are definitely a basic for the lady who lunches. Now these are NOT your stuffy, old-lady pearls we’re talking about. Instead, imagine multiple layers, various scales, and even interspersed with metal chains. No need for real pearls, either. There are plenty of man-made pearls at various price points. Here’s a very cool take on a multi-strand necklace by Alexis Bittar.
I love the metal & sparkle details
With these five elements in your jewelry box, you’ve got a good base on which to build. A jewelry collection takes time and money to create, so just enjoy the process. Invest in pieces that you LOVE and that really appeal to your personal style, and you can’t go wrong.
Now I know that when most of you think about spiked jewelry, your mind likely goes to a punk-rock sort of look, complete with black nail polish and a black leather biker jacket. But spiked jewelry has really morphed into a mainstream phenomenon this spring, with looks ranging from rocker to more refined. In addition, there’s quite a variety in the type of spike, from the long, pointy ones to those that more resemble a little pyramid.
Take a look at this ensemble. While it is a bold use of spiked bracelets, it comes across more feminine when combined with the teal skirt and the lady-like chain handled bag.
This is an ecclectic way to incorporate spikes
Here’s another, more subtle way, to wear the trend with bracelets. This gal was at the Trina Turk store in Burlingame, and she combined some of her Trina Turk enameled bracelets with her others for a lovely look.
Subtle “edge” to this stack
So sport an avantgarde look in the realm of spikes, this bracelet by RK New York would certainly do the trick.
Luxe alligator
If you want to add just the “tiniest” bit of this trend to your outfit, then you might like this simple, yet versatile cuff by Vita Fede. Who knew spikes could be so sweet and delicate?!
Great scale cuff for stacking
This trend is not limited to your wrists. There are a wide array of spiked earrings out there. This lovely rose gold and diamond pair by Majolie would be a more sophisticated way to explore the trend.
Rose gold is also very hot!
Not quite minimal, yet not overly “spiked,” is this pair by Viv and Ingrid.
Spike Thread Earrings
Whereas this pair by Topshop is definitely more of a statement.
A bolder earring choice
But don’t let us neglect the neck! Necklaces galore are showing their spikes, such as these two layered necklaces by Pamela Love. Instead of a rocker or refined look, it veers more towards the bohemian vibe.
Love these!
And if color is your thing, then you’re in luck too. Spikes are combined with every color of the rainbow this season! Here’s one by Sara Designs.
I like the color combination
As you can see, this is a trend that may appeal to many different personal styles! You can find pieces at virtually every price point, so have fun exploring, and send me photos if you find the perfect piece for you!!
If you appreciate organic beauty, and value sustainable, socially-responsible jewelry, then Melissa Joy Manning is your gal! When I first entered her boutique in Berkeley back in 2011, I was struck by how this line really was unique. Inspired by nature, the jewelry cases were accented by fossils, vintage taxidermy and insect specimens. It was like being in a little museum of curiosities, where you could actually buy what was behind the glass. (jewelry, that is…)
It wasn’t until I was at the Couture show that I actually got to meet Melissa in person. Though she claims that she is deceptively shy out of “work”, I find that hard to believe. I thought she was just charming!
Amy and Melissa
During our chat, I certainly could understand her life-long love of jewelry. (definitely something we have in common, aside from both being Bay Area natives) From the time she was a child, making jewelry at her Montessori grade school, she was hooked. At age 20, she went to Mexico to learn silver smithing, and finally made the leap into full-time designing over 15 years ago.
This dramatic pair of chandelier earrings is made from dumorierite, petrified wood, and pyritized ammonite. Have you ever seen anything like them?
These are a work of art!
She travels to gain inspiration for her designs, and nature is especially important to her. As she says, “I like to challenge the ideals of traditional jewelry by blending conventional materials to create neoteric pieces.” She only uses 100% recycled silver and gold. The majority of her stones are sourced here in the USA, and all her materials are from reputable suppliers who also are share her vision of sustainability.
This geode cuff is quite fantastic. And you’ll notice her prong settings are different that most you see. This is one way I’m able to identify her pieces when I come across them.
It’s an artifact for your wrist
Melissa also designs many simpler pieces, that can be worn in a variety of ways. For example, take a look at this freeform chain bracelet. With its mixed metals and different scale chains, it’s perfect on its own or in a stack with other bracelets.
Cool design!
She has a very interesting collection of non-traditional bridal jewelry as well. If you’re in the market, you might like a ring like this one.
Will you marry me?
Just this past Sunday, I stopped by Red Bird, one of my absolute favorite boutiques. A tall jewelry case just beckoned to me, and I was blown away by these earrings, by none other than Melissa. I tried them on, and they were just perfect with my coloring and personal style (and not too heavy for my ear lobes). Alas, they were not in the budget at this time, but I won’t soon forget them!
I was in awe of these gorgeous creations!
All these beauties are hand-made right in her Berkeley studio — no outsourcing, no casting — just pure, old-fashioned metal smithing. It’s a real gift when people can make a fair living doing what they love. Hands-down, I’m an all-around fan of Melissa Joy Manning!
I met Madyha during the Couture jewelry show in Las Vegas. She was standing next to a very tall case of exquisite gems that practically had me drooling!
Madyha and Amy
Madyha is only a couple years into her jewelry business, but she has an amazing background that will certainly ensure her success. From traveling the world while growing up as the daughter of a U.N. diplomat, to getting a degree at Parson’s School of Design, to working at Cosmopolitan Magazine, she’s both worldly and stylish.
She just sent me some recent images from her new collection, and I’m so happy to share them with you. First of all, here’s a pair of colorful statement earrings that are red-carpet worthy! They are made with blush, lavender, and brown sapphire slices with champagne pave diamonds. And color is surely on-trend this coming spring!
Just stunning!
On the more delicate side, I’m loving this bracelet of labradorite with a slice of brown diamond, surrounded by pave diamonds. Such sparkle!
Perfect for layering!
Finally, I think these studs of brown diamond slices with champagne pave diamonds would be SO versatile! Simple enough to wear every day, yet special enough for a fancy dinner out. These would be a valuable investment.
A unique take on the classic diamond stud
Madyha’s hand-made jewelry is just beautiful, and it really meshes with my personal style. (luxe bohemian) I hope to see her again at the Couture show this spring, and see what other new pieces she has in store!
One part of my job I just love is exploring new shopping areas, especially when I can do it with my dear friend and colleague, Jen. Tuesday was one of those days, so we headed north over the Golden Gate Bridge to the Marin Country Mart. While I was expecting the hustle and bustle of the Brentwood Country Mart in southern California, which is stocked with fab stores and eateries, Marin was very quiet and there were many open shop fronts available. But I do think there’s a lot of potential there. It’s lovely, has a nice layout, and it has a truly prime location right near the Larkspur ferry. The BIG draw for me was Calypso St. Barth, one of my fave resort-inspired shops, including some drool-worthy jewelry.
Walking into the inviting store, I loved how everything is laid out by color, including the jewelry. The first tray that caught my eye was this grouping in emerald, teal and lime green.
The color is HOT for spring!
The cut crystal pieces by DanniJo are a little bit vintage, yet a little bit rockin’. I also loved the delicate beaded quality of these earrings by another designer. Here’s a close-up of the earrings.
The teal transcends seasons — great all year long.
I next headed to an area where neutrals were the story — cream, tan, beige, and white. This selection of baubles would be very versatile!
What diversity!
My favorite is the collar on the bottom left. It’s by London designer Fiona Paxton. I think it would dress up a basic, solid-colored sweater or tee, or enhance a cocktail dress!
This tray of boho-inspired necklaces drew my eye (I know you’re not surprised!), and I was a bit envious that Jen went home with the camel necklace with the leather tassel by Hipchik Couture. I wonder if she’d let me borrow it….
Yum!
The visual delight continued as you went to the cash desk. There, you were greeted with a plethora of colorful bracelets, from designers ranging from Chan Luu to Julie Rofman.
Arm candy!!
After all the shopping, of course we had to eat lunch. We dined at the Rustic Bakery, and we were not disappointed. Though I think on our next visit, we should each get our own (giant) chocolate chip cookie, instead of splitting. 😉
I certainly remember a few times in my life when I would get the “evil eye” from someone–perhaps when accidentally cutting off an unsuspecting car on the freeway, or when I got caught flushing my amethyst stones down then toilet when I was about 6. (yes…true story) And I know that as a third grade teacher, I certainly gave that “evil eye look” on occasion while out on yard duty. The concept of the evil eye, and being able to send harm through one’s gaze crosses a multitude of cultures. To escape the effects of the evli eye, people began wearing evil eye talismans and jewelry. By donning these, it was said that the harm and negativity would be reflected away from the wearer.
In Turkey, the amulets are known as “nazar” and can be found everywhere, with their powerful indigo color protecting everyone.
Evil Eye Talisman
Evil eye jewelry has become increasingly popular, and it seems to be a growing trend for spring 2013. I’ve been seeing many evil eye bracelets mixed among many cool stacks. Here are some pretty designs from Yanina & Co.
Great for mixing with other bracelets!
Sydney Evan has designed very petite enameled evil eye studs for everyday wear. I wonder if earrings bring double the protection?
This is definitely a creative take on the theme in the form of a ring by Danni Jo.
Uber-trendy!
Even Lindsay Lohan was sporting the trend (I’m sure hoping for protection!) during one of her recent court dates.
Not sure even the power of jewelry can help her
If this trend appeals to your personal style, then you’re certainly in luck, as there are a multitude of choices out there at every price point. Protection be with you!
You know how some people just radiate good energy? Well jewelry designer Jen Pleasants is just one of those people. I had the fortune of hearing about her line while at In Her Shoes in Palo Alto via her business partner, Amy Salisbury. (Yep…I pretty much interrupted her private conversation with another woman when I heard “jewelry line!”) Fast forward a few weeks, and I found myself in her amazing studio in Portola Valley, CA.
While Jen did start designing about 10 years ago, she had to put it on the back burner for a decade while having three kids. Come May 2012, she’s back at the drawing board and has launched a truly wonderful business. Once an eco-blogger, Jen has always strived to give back, and finds that making the world a better place is one of her life’s callings. Combined with her creative nature and background in sculpture, she has now found the perfect intersection of her passions in her jewelry line, Show the Love. (5% of their profits go to water.org)
Trying on a necklace with Jen
This is truly an inspirational jewelry line. Each piece is carefully designed, named, and has a message. As stated on their website, “STL jewelry emphasizes positive affirmations, invokes ‘girl power’ and is crafted with recycled metals and ethically sourced stones. We designed and named each piece to express a feeling or sentiment. Our hope is that by wearing STL jewelry, women will be inspired to ‘Show the Love’ for themselves, for others and for the Earth.”
I was immediately drawn to her bangles with a Herkimer diamond drop. First of all, it was the first time I’d ever heard of Herkimer diamonds, which are double-pointed crystals from Herkimer, New York. They promote healing and white light circulation. And inspecting the bangle further, I saw that it was inscribed with “She believed she could, so she did” Can I say awesome?!?
More than your average bangle
This precious necklace was inspired by her young daughter when she said, “Mamma, you know what love is? Love is showing your heart!”
SO sweet!
This line features both fashion and fine jewelry (at a wide range of price points), and uses metals from yellow and rose gold to brass to silver. I think the following necklace and earrings from her “Soldier of Love” group are just fabulous. The subtle diamond chevron pattern make these pieces very versatile, to be worn with anything from a t-shirt and jeans to an LBD.
Soldier of Love earrings
Soldier of Love necklace
The organic beauty of these pieces, along with their cherished inspirational messages really make it a special line. AND…if this collection brings a smile to your face, then just wait till next week. My next giveaway is a stunning piece from this very line. So stay tuned for your chance to win!
