So do you have fond memories of playing Scrabble while growing up? I know I do, as do millions of other people around the world. Well Hasbro Inc., the creators of this uber popular game, has teamed up with World Trade Jewelers to create a whole Scrabble jewelry line! Famous for their Hershey Kiss jewelry, this line will be available to the public sometime this fall. (Jewelry collections for My Little Pony and Candy Land are also in the works.)
Of course, the stars always have first access to the hottest items, and the Scrabble necklaces are being spotted all over Hollywood, from Olivia Munn to Brooke Burke. Initial or monogrammed necklaces are all the rage right now, so it’s no surprise that stylists are swooping them up for their celeb clients. Here’s Carly Rae Jepsen sporting a “C.”
Rockin’ it!
The first pieces that will hit the market are the pendants. They come in sterling with white diamonds and 14K yellow gold with black diamonds.
When I spoke with World Trade Jeweler’s CEO, Murray Shabot, last week, he said that this is only the beginning. There will be some pieces made of wood (birchwood and mahogany), cufflinks, and even a bangle where you can add letters to spell out what you want. Cool! The price range will run from $50-$1000, so there’s really something for every budget.
One thing I love about this whole concept is that it really appeals to both kids and adults — it’s nostalgic and current at the same time. I also think it will be a great necklace for layering. Here’s Amanda Crew wearing an “A” with a simple tank.
I would style it layered with a couple longer necklaces to create a fun look. I will get to see this line in person this week, as it debuts at the JCK jewelry show in Las Vegas. Can’t wait!
(Photo credits for Carly and Amanda: Look Los Angeles PR. Photo credits for pendants: Lazar Advertising)
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!!
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…
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!
Get excited — it’s time for the third article in my series “Jewelry Box Basics!” To catch you up, this is a six-part series outlining the basic pieces you should have in your jewelry box based on your personal style: the lady who lunches, bohemian, rock star, romantic, minimalist and trendy. True, everyone is a unique individual and may adopt aspects of various styles, so just use this as a framework. Use the images as a jumping off point to inspire you and send you in the right direction. Don’t let the price tags affect your vision. Instead, shop at the price points that you’re comfortable with and have fun!
So let’s get back to the style du jour. Now granted, not everyone can be a successful rock star, belting out songs on stage, yet I know that there are many people who have an inner rock star living inside them. (regardless of their musical talent) If this sounds like you, then you should let this aspect of your personality shine through in your wardrobe and jewelry!
The jewelry for the rock star conjures up images of metals in oxidized silver and gunmetal…motifs such as skulls, spikes, angel wings…leather cuffs…and black diamonds. But you have to select pieces carefully, as you don’t want to appear like a parody of an actual rock star. Here are some examples of jewelry that would strike the right note.
Watch
Oversized and in black, there are many options for a rock’n roll watch out there. Karl Lagerfeld’s new collection is right on the money with this vibe.
Edgy and chic at the same time
Bracelets
The rock chic needs a chunky link bracelet to complement her style. This one by Moritz Glik is tremendous.
The diamonds really shimmer!
But there also has to be a leather bracelet in your jewelry box. I think this wide leather cuff by Erika Honig with woven pewter and silver would look fantastic worn on the opposite wrist as your watch.
Would you rock this?
Rings
I’m thinking of one particular friend in Austin, and she is definitely the rocker. Her husband really chose the ideal wedding ring for her — a large, black diamond. For the right hand, I think an edgy ring like this one by Stephen Webster would be just fantastic on her.
The “rapture thorn” ring
Earrings
You might be in shock that the pair I’m recommending for a basic for this personal style is actually not a hoop! I could, of course, but I’m going a step further with these dangling chain earrings by Alberian and Aulde. I love the movement of the chains accented by diamonds.
Feminine, yet with a bit of a dark side
Necklaces
Layering necklaces is intrinsically part of the rocker style, just as it was with the bohemian. Therefore, a minimum of two necklaces are going to be basic, one more delicate, and the other more of a statement. For the smaller piece, I like this embellished feather by Jamie Joseph. The mixed metals (notice the gold-toned ring that holds on the pendant) make it even more versatile.
Oxidized silver and diamonds
Either worn solo, or in combination with this necklace by Virgins, Saints & Angels, it’s rockin’ without being a costume.
A necklace with some attitude
So how do these pieces sit with you? Can you picture yourself wearing them? Or is it too much of a departure from your personal style? With the three styles I’ve now covered, you can see what a range there is out there in the world of jewelry. And just think, we’re only half way through! 😉
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!
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!
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!!
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!
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. 😉
