Over the weekend, I had had the opportunity to attend West Coast Craft for the first time, held at Ft. Mason in San Francisco. According to their website the fair is, “…a craft and design show featuring carefully selected designers, artists, and crafts people inspired by the mood and aesthetics of the West Coast lifestyle. Cool but sunny, laid-back yet innovative, they represent the best of West Coast craft.”
The booths ranged from hand-carved spoons to eco-friendly clothing to jewelry(!) to surfboards and more. I was most definitely surrounded by the craftiest hipsters of the Bay Area. Was I hip enough to be here?! Not so sure…
Though when I spy a jewelry booth, there’s nothing else in my mind except seeing the line. The first one I encountered was Gabriela Artigas, who I’ve been following on Instagram for quite some time. It’s always fun to see things in person that you’ve only seen in a little photo on your phone. Her designs are clean, current, and edgy.
Strolling along the first row, I was also loving the necklaces with horsehair tassels by Faye Kendall.
I had to stop and try on these brass, quartz, and crushed pyrite cuffs by Dea Dia.
Meeting Corey Egan in person was definitely a highlight of the show, as I’ve been following her online for quite some time.
I was also completely in love with the hair pins by her neighbor, Kirsten Muenster.
There were so many talented artists displaying their wares. After two laps around the show, I decided I had to go home with this set of stacking bowls by Portland artist, Relm Studios. It’s been quite a while since I’ve added any decor to my little apartment, and I smile when looking at them.
If you want to check out this fair, it’s held twice a year in San Francisco, so be sure to check their website for show information.
While on the plane home from Jewelry Week in Las Vegas, I started writing down my observations on the trends I saw. Most definitely ear jackets are very on point right now, and I think they will be growing in popularity in the months to come. (WWD was clearly on the same page, as they published an article about it on Monday. Unfortunately, since I don’t subscribe, I wasn’t able to read the article. Know what any overlap in content is purely coincidental!) Exploring ways to creatively adorn the ear has been extremely on trend, staring with the resurgence of multiple piercings and ear climbers. Ear jackets are just the next step in this evolution. In fact, while perusing the jewelry counter at Sak’s yesterday, look what the woman next to me was donning in her lovely lobe!
With the assistance of Kathy, the kind saleswoman at Sak’s, I tried on this spiked “Ice Pick” jacket by Jacquie Aiche.
You may be wondering how these work. Basically, you take a stud earring, and then thread the ear jacket through the post behind your ear. Some jackets come with a coordinating stud, but in the case of the one I tried on, the jacket is sold separately, and you can use it with any stud you already have. Here’s what it looks like on its own.
You may be wondering why there are three different holes you can use. This is because there are a range in sizes and shapes of earlobes, and this design is made to accommodate a variety of ears. If you remember back to middle school biology class, you may recall learning about detached (the dominant gene) and attached (the recessive gene) earlobes. Both look great with ear jackets, so you just need to find the correct fit for you.
Which type do you have?
There is also a plethora of styles out there to choose from, from the very subtle to some real statements. Here’s a little taste of different styles. Do any of them inspire you to try this trend?
None of these are fine jewelry, but I think fashion jewelry is a great way to go if you’re trying out a trend to see if it works for you. Then when you’re confident the style resonates, it’s a great time to invest in the fine jewelry versions, such as the one I tried on at Sak’s.
You’ll also notice that some of these are sold in pairs, while others are sold individually, or with a coordinating stud. This is one of the great things about current earring trends — things don’t have to be symmetrical. You have license to get as creative as you want!
Though spring in San Francisco currently seems to be colder than our winter, my eye is still being caught by the ever-popular insect motif in jewelry. As I was walking up Sutter Street the other day, this little Victorian beauty buzzed my name from the front window of Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry.
While so beautiful, this intricate piece is certainly an investment for most people. It got me thinking about how this pin would be on the catwalk at Fashion Week. But how to translate this to the street? Or as often dubbed, “Runway to Realway.” I took a look around and compiled a collection of ideas. Here they are, in no particular order.
Tomorrow, as I head out for the day, I’m going to see how many of these winged creatures I see, both in reality and in the form of jewelry. I hope you have a lovely spring day!
I love weeding through my clients’ jewelry boxes. It’s amazing what one can uncover when you get to the far corners, pulling out items that likely haven’t been seen in years. When you start making a little pile of singular earrings that are missing their mate, perhaps a wedding ring from a former marriage, or something that is just SO not your style anymore, things can stack up fast. This is exactly what I did with a client a few months ago, and here’s the handful we ended up with.
Knowing we had some great diamonds and gold in hand, we headed to Rebecca Overmann’s studio in San Francisco for a design session. The possibilities were endless, and Rebecca took to her notebook to start sketching out some ideas.
The first decision we needed to make was what to do with the large, round solitaire diamond. My client spends countless hours a week out on the tennis court, so we thought a bezel-set pendant on a simple chain would be ideal. It wouldn’t get in the way of her backhand, yet it would certainly add a little glitz to her tennis whites. Boy did it turn out beautifully!
Not only is it elegant on its own, but it layers so easily with other necklaces.
My client has also really gotten into stacking rings, so a couple new ones were definitely in order. Here’s a great shot of the first one off the bench.
The second one she made is a bubble design, shown paired with the ring above, on her middle finger. So fun!
Here’s another combo I spotted her wearing. (The larger ring is Tap by Todd Pownell.)
Finally, my client was in need of a pair of diamond studs that would also be great for her athletic lifestyle. Rebecca did not disappoint.
So now, instead of old, unused items gathering dust in her jewelry box, my client has a new necklace, two beautiful rings, and a pair of earrings that she will wear all the time. Thanks for everything, Rebecca!
I think it was the sinuous, exotic shapes and deeply colored stones that first drew me to Anahita’s booth at the Couture show. Perusing her collection, it’s no surprise that the first bracelet I tried on was this this horn cuff, with an ebony wood dome, accented with 18K gold, diamonds and moonstones. It was right up my luxe bohemian alley, and she explained that it was inspired by her travels to Bali and Cambodia.
I was so pleased to meet Anahita (Ana) Stein and see her line in Las Vegas. Her Persian heritage and background in architecture are perfectly melded in her sculptural, fluid designs. Take, for example, her “Wave” bangles, which stack together in an organic pattern.
Tear drops are a common theme in her jewelry, and she told me she’s inspired by the tears that Persian soldiers shed with their wives before going off to war. This pair of earrings has drops of both beryl and Mandarin garnet, alonside blue sapphire, tsavorite and yellow beryl in 18K yellow gold.
This “Sultan” ring has tears of ruby briolettes with diamonds and a fabulous grey moonstone, all set in white gold.
The brushed finish on the gold really makes these labradorite cabochons pop, don’t you think?
I’m sure you’re now seeing the exotic allure of this line, and the curves continue with this cuff, featuring cognac diamonds and prehnite cabochons. I just adore the yellow-green glow of the prehnite.
Made in New York City with recycled gold and conflict-free stones, Anahita’s “wearable architecture” is a beauty to behold. Click here for a list of retailers near you.
I don’t quite know what’s going on with me, but I’ve got feathers on the brain. I see them on the ground, I’ve had more than one dream that I have a feather tattoo, and no lie, but as I was getting ready for work in the bathroom the other morning, a teeny, tiny feather drifted down right in front of my face. Where did THAT come from?! I also was lunching with a friend a couple weeks ago and she gave me a necklace with…wait for it…a feather charm! She had no idea what’s been going on with me, and I must say I got chills when I opened the box.
I’ve researched the meaning of feathers a bit, and there seems to be a common consensus that it is associated with ascending to a higher spiritual plane. Interesting. Of course, I’m not necessarily wedded to the idea of a permanent feather on my body at this point, so my mind has turned to feather jewelry. Here’s a few pieces that have caught my eye.
Feathered Soul diamond feather on leather necklace (Not to be biased, but this one is my favorite on the list.)
Being a self-taught cook, I can wrap my brain around. Perhaps even teaching yourself how to dance. But being a self-taught fine jeweler? That’s on a whole other level! Self-taught Elizabeth Garvin, based in the Village in NYC, has been designing jewelry for over 20 years, and she launched her fine jewelry line a couple years ago. It’s very modern, full of geometric design, and extremely wearable. Her signature is the “Cyclone Ring,” and I’m sure you can see why.
Hand-fabriating each piece with 18K gold, 950 palladium, oxidized silver and diamonds, Elizabeth truly comes up with original pieces, the likes of which I haven’t seen before. It would be worth creating an entire outfit around these earrings.
In the same “gust” series as these earrings, is this complex ring. I can envision the gusts of wind that the shape of the metal represents. (At least that’s how I’m interpreting the design…)
In keeping with sinuous curves, is this “Eye of the Storm” pendant. That’s a storm I’d be willing to brave!
This “Spiral” necklace would add interest when worn with any outfit, even on the most casual of days.
I am seeing this “Twist” ring as the perfect option for a bold middle finger ring.
Elizabeth says, “When a woman designs jewelry for another woman, there’s a sensitivity…carefully honed to suit a woman’s body, to flow with her lifestyle, and to become part of her own personal expression.” Well said. I can certainly see these earrings being part of my personal expression, with their mixed metals and diamond accents. So pretty!
It was wonderful spending time with Elizabeth at the Couture show. Click here for a list of retailers near you.
I have been looking for a cool graphic t-shirt for at least a couple years. I have so many outfits I want to style it with! But I have such specific parameters in my head, that I haven’t been able to find what I’m looking for…I prefer a v-neck, scoop or tank (none of those tight, high crew-necks), I want it to be in MY size (not that of a pre-teen), I like neutrals, and puh-leese, it’s got to have a message that I support. Given that my pursuit has been fruitless, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Along with my blog-master, Jeff, and the website Teespring.com, we’ve come up with these t-shirts and tank, which in my mind, say it all. I purposely chose the distressed, industrial font in juxtaposition with the message.
Yes, this is currently for sale for the next ten days (Yay!), and there are five different options of brand/colors (all in the white/black/grey family). Check them out! I, personally, am ordering both a tank and a scoop, and I want to share with you how I’m going to style them.
First, let’s go with the weekend casual look, for which I’ll select the tank. For this, I want a pair of lightly distressed boyfriend jeans and a military jacket. I think the ideal jacket is by Current/Elliot. I bought one a while back, and it’s become a true staple in my wardrobe. Clearly, it has staying power, as they offer a similar design each season. This goes to show that it’s more than a trend. I think the shorter sleeves are perfect for changeable weather, which you definitely find in San Francisco.
For the distressed boyfriend jean, I don’t want anything too sloppy, but more of a relaxed, tapered leg. This pair by Kut from the Kloth seems just right, paired with the oversized jacket. You want to balance out an oversized top with a narrower bottom.
Given that this is a casual chic look, sneakers are the preferred shoe. Vince has come up with a new classic with their slip-on perforated style. (Reminiscent of the Van’s I used to wear in college!)
Yes, I must admit that I own these as well. Sometimes I wear them barefoot, but if it’s a little chillier out, then I prefer to wear a ped with them. I particularly like these by Hue. They have a little non-slip thing at the back, and as soon as I wear them for about 10 minutes, and my feet heat up, they stay in place all day.
I definitely want a hands-free bag while I’m out for the day, and this cross-body by Alexander Wang is very hot. The double slinky chain strap and soft, washed leather totally fit the vibe of the outfit.
Having a scarf handy is never a bad idea, so toss in this Alexander McQueen scarf for a little ‘tude.
Keeping with the hassle-free look, I’m opting for a short, mixed metal necklace by Rachel Zoe.
Tai has become a household name with their bohemian bracelets, and this layered look is a perfect example of why.
Stacked with a watch by Shinola (go made in the USA!), I think it’s a great combination.
To top off the look, just a little sparkle (of course!) in the ears with these warm/cool mix earrings by Rebecca Minkoff.
So now on to a more refined look, using either the v-neck, or the scoop, depending on your personal style.
This ensemble will take you out on a date (he should know how you feel about bling!) or meeting your friends for margaritas and guac. To step it up, I’m pairing the tee with this Alice + Oliva blazer, which features a very inspired design in back.
A skinny, darker wash pair of jeans is definitely in order for this look, and I am a huge fan of AG Prima jeans. (Many of my clients who swear they will never wear jeans are addicted to these!) They come in various washes, and are beyond soft.
A heeled bootie elevates everything, and a recent client will testify that these Paul Green booties were super-comfy first wear out, for the whole day. (Thanks to Elizabeth for road-testing them!)
I want a mixed-neutral bag that’s a bit more uptown for this outfit. Diane von Furstenburg has just the right one. It can be worn over the shoulder, or carried as a clutch, with the strap tucked inside.
Statment earrings are a must. Loving these by Dannijo for a Navajo meets fashionista edge.
In lieu of bracelets, I’m going for a multi-ring look. For a bold punch that’s in harmony with the earrings, I like this ring by House of Harlow.
Do you know what granulation is? I had an idea, but I didn’t truly understand what it was until I met Jack and Elizabeth Gualtiere of Zaffiro at the Couture show. Granulation is an ancient goldsmithing technique which is, “…a decorative process that consists of applying minute spheres of gold to a surface of similar gold alloy and then heating the entire piece to a temperature high enough to form a permanent bond between the surface and the spheres.” Impressive, right? Take a look at this pair of earrings. As described by Elizabeth, “These are our one-of-a-kind classic “Fern Curl” earrings that are set with amethyst briolettes and teal diamonds in granulated 22kt yellow gold, with 18kt yellow gold posts.”
Being a fan of all shades of aqua, I was immediately drawn to the hue of this necklace in their case. The pendant is the surface skin of an aquamarine, which is very reminiscent of Roman Glass. It’s basically what the stone looks like when it comes out of the ground. J’Adore.
Jack and Elizabeth originally discovered Etruscan granulation while on a study abroad program during college. They began working together 22+ years ago, and they were friends before the whole dating/marriage thing. (Love that!) They live and work in Portland, Oregon, where each piece is completely hand-crafted. I thought it was so interesting that they consult on each others’ designs, yet each one makes their own pieces from start to finish. Apparently Jack is more drawn to architectural, geometric designs, while Elizabeth gravitates towards curves. Though through it all, granulation is the core, common thread.
These two pendants begged to be tried on, and who am I to ignore jewelry saying, “Hello, Amy!” These are Anglo Saxon bronzes from the 6th Century, which were dug up in London. They truly take “one-of-a-kind” jewelry to the next level!
While 22K gold is their main medium, they have also added oxidized silver to their repertoire. Their Etrusco group showcases their metal work, alongside colorful gems.
The cuffs in this series blew me away, Here’s one I tried on at the show.
And here’s another design from the same collection they recently posted on social media. The main stone is Australian boulder opal, accented with teal and white diamonds.
These “nebula” cuffs, part of the Etrusco series, are, “..inspired by the imagery of distant constellations, points of light against a dark universe, and the harmony of seemingly randomly arranged objects..” I completely see it, don’t you?
While speaking with Jack and Elizabeth, I couldn’t help but notice the color of this bracelet, as it wasn’t rose gold, yet I couldn’t quite nail down what I was looking at. It is apparently a new patina they’ve been working on called the “orchid patina.” It’s still in the experimental stages, and they have yet to achieve the color on gold. I would not be surprised if this has now been accomplished.
I was e-mailing with Elizabeth this week, and she shared this image of a new necklace, most definitely fit for a princess! It is a one-of-a-kind Etrusco pendant, set with a tanzanite cabochon, purple sapphires, teal diamonds and a mint green tourmaline in 22kt yellow gold, with forged and oxidized sterling silver. They truly have a gift with color.
If you’d like to take a closer look into the intensely complex process of making a custom piece, then you’ll most certainly enjoy this 4 minute video. I know I did!
I likely took up a bit too much time asking a million questions of this dynamic design duo, but I truly appreciated every moment of it. I am very excited to see their most current designs at Couture again this year!
I always make it a point to visit the Brentwood Country Mart in southern California when I’m down there — love the cozy layout and the variety of stores, including jewelry gems Broken English and Pippa Small. When the Marin Country Mart opened in Larkpsur, I certainly made it a point to visit. Though I must say, in it’s infancy, there were still many open storefronts and NO jewelry to mention. Girl, this has all changed with the opening of Hutchinson Fine Jewelry at the end of 2014. This now makes stopping at the Mart a must when I’m up in Marin.
As I entered this jewel box of a store, I was stuck by the stunning display, with three walls of glass-fronted vignettes, representing over 20 different fine jewelry designers. (Note to self: when assisting clients design their new closets, keep this idea in mind!)
Manager Kellie Phinney was very generous in showing me around and letting me play with all the jewels. She told me that the owners, Kary Chendo and Miranda Abrams, choose lines that are utterly unique in their own way. “They want the jewelry to be loved and worn every day, and then passed down.” My philosophy exactly!
I was amped to see they carry The Woods, who I’ve desperately missed seeing ever since Carrots closed in San Francisco. There was a magnetic pull to this mother-of-pearl necklace on a silver and pave diamond chain.
Hutchinson is also one of the few places to represent Carolina Bucci. She weaves magic with gold and silk on a loom from the 1800’s. Take a gander at these necklaces — the detail is amazing.
I tried on this wide bracelet, and it felt like buttah on my wrist, without the calories!
Monique Pean is always one of my faves, both for her designs and her environmental consciousness. How can you go wrong with fossilzed wooly mammoth scrimshaw and diamonds? (Once again, if I had a bottomless wallet…this would be mine.)
Pippa Small is right up there at the top of ethical designers as well. She hand selects each stone she uses, designs around their natural beauty, and uses clean gold, which is, “Gold mined without impacting the environment, respecting labor rights and often produced by community cooperatives.” Brava.
I was also very excited to see Bay Area local, Susie Fox, glittering in the cases. This double drop ball pendant necklace with cognac diamonds is what I would describe as subtle luxury.
I know the collection at Hutchinson is only going to grow, so I will make it a point to stop in more often. Have you visited yet? Do tell!
