While browsing the boutiques in Carmel one recent sunny afternoon, I spent more time chatting to a gal in the shop about her eye-catching necklace than I did trying on the merchandise! Turns out that her necklace is made from a vintage diamond and emerald brooch. (Way to work the Art Deco trend!) Her now-husband bought it for her as a wedding gift, and she wore it in her hair for the ceremony. Now, it happily resides around her neck, really showcasing her personal style and adding some bling to any outfit she decides to wear. Love it!
I fell in love with Temple St. Clair‘s rock crystal amulets from the first time I saw one…it was literally beckoning to me from a well-lit glass case. It was at the same time ethereal, bohemian and elegant. It’s a rare piece of jewelry that can capture all that at once. Then and there, it went on my “lust/must” list.
Temple has been celebrating her 25th year in business, and I was thrilled to attend her special trunk show at Wilke’s Bashford a while back.
Temple and Amy
Since procuring said amulet wasn’t part of my budget at that time, I settled for reading her beautiful coffee table book cover-to-cover. Alchemy, a Passion for Jewels is a gorgeous tome, full of both information and stunning photos. While reading I discovered the designer and I both shared a passion for Italy (where she learned her craft), pieces of the past, and the ocean. Perhaps this is why I am so consistently drawn to her collection, as we appear to be kindred spirits. (In fact that’s what she inscribed in my copy of her book!)
A must-have book for any jewelry lover!
Here’s a sample of her rock crystal amulets that I got to have fun with at the show.
How to decide which one I love best?!
And it was hard to tear this incredible moonstone cuff from my wrist….
Fit for a goddess!
Temple designs with 18K yellow and white gold and gemstones of all colors. She creates a new collection twice a year, for spring and fall. Her line can be found in fine jewelry boutiques and department stores around the globe. If you’re interested in seeing her work in person, I’m sure you can find a nearby retailer!
Trust me, as a 43 year-old woman I’m constantly aware of dressing both myself and my clients in a hip, yet age-appropriate way. Is the skirt too short? Too much cleavage showing? Do any of my friends’ daughters wear this? These are all questions which constantly run through my head when styling. Believe it or not, this also extends to one’s jewelry choices each day.
There are a multitude of fun jewelry trends out there right now, some of which I’ve written about, such as brightly colored jewelry and the art deco craze. I basically feel that the younger you are, the more license you have to experiment with trends — it’s the time where you’re really trying to nail down your sense of personal style.
Here’s the wrist of a 19 year-old I spotted in San Francisco. The neon pink bracelet from Charlotte Russe paired with the silver charm bracelet from Juicy Couture just seemed “right”…remember…she’s 19…
Perfect for a 19 year-old
And while out and about in Palo Alto I spied this stylish 23 year-old who was rocking both stacking bracelets and the neon trend. Again, I loved it…for her.
Some summer fun!
But then…there are those times when a poor choice is made. While I know Hello Kitty is more than just a crush for some (I have a dear friend with a tasteful Hello Kitty tattoo), I find it highly inappropriate when an adult adorns herself with said cat in not just glittery earrings, but also with Hello Kitty bedazzled hair clips. Really?! I’m not sure this woman has clearly thought about the image she wants to portray. And really, she was a darling woman.
My 7 year-old niece would love this
So tomorrow morning when you head for your jewelry box, I urge you to take some time to think about your personal style and what your jewelry will be saying about you before you even open your mouth. Because trust me, jewelry talks!
I’ve written about layering necklaces and bracelets, but I’ve yet to talk about stacking rings. I think this goes beyond being a trend — it’s more of a personal style. Mixing metals, styles and scale, one can really let your personality shine through with this technique. And the bonus is that there are no set rules…you just need to experiment until you get the vibe you’re going for.
On a recent shopping trip with a client, she was excited to show me her new (beautiful) David Yurman ring which she had purchased on a girl’s weekend in Las Vegas. She and her long-time friend bought matching rings to commemorate the trip. She smartly paired this with a diamond band she already owned. On our shopping expedition, she found the perfect thin black diamond eternity band at Gallery of Jewels to complete the trifecta. Loving it!
Great combination!
Here’s another stack that was created over a few years’ time. The bottom ring is by Armenta, the middle ring was purchased at an estate sale, and the top ring is a beauty by Nina Bashrova from Manika Jewelry. Though they are all different, they still appeal to the same sensibility with the delicate gold/diamond story. In addition, the scale of each ring works harmoniously together.
A coherent gold & diamond stack
Let your creativity run wild when experimenting with combinations. This group by Sylva & Cie rocks!
Creative combination!
I’d love to see what stacks you come up with. Feel free to send me photos!
So what exactly is Art Deco that we’ve been hearing so much about? Basically it’s a jewelry style that gained popularity during the World’s Fair in Paris in 1925 and remained en vogue for about 10 years. It’s name is derived from the official name of the fair, and it’s characterized by very architectural features: squares, circles, and triangles that form very cool geometric patterns.
Art Deco has been popping up everywhere from the fashion mags to the street, so if this trend appeals to your personal style, then jump on the bandwagon! I’ve seen examples at a range of price points. Here are a few cool pieces that have caught my eye. First up is a pair of earrings that would take you from jeans to a LBD.
Aventurine & Crystal disc earrings by CA & LOU
I think this red resin ring by Trina Turk would add a lot of umph to a maxi dress, with a margarita in hand, of course!
Trina Turk Button Ring
This fabulous Deco bracelet by Kenneth Jay Lane is very hot. It really combines two trends, with the cuff being another important theme this season.
Yum!
Finally, this necklace would spice up a slim cardigan and skinny jeans. Love it!
Kara Ross Art Deco Necklace
So if you want to get your speakeasy on, then scoop up this trend while it’s in a store near you…because you know these things never last.
While I do typically focus on women in my Jewelry Judge series, I must say that a very tall drink of water stopped me in my tracks today. All decked out in a black suit, polka dot shirt and bow tie, his personality definitely came through (in a tasteful way) with his choice of brightly colored beaded bracelets. While not always a fan of “man jewelry,” this one definitely worked for me! His collection included pieces from Chinatown in SF, Hawaii, and a multi-bead combination made by a friend. In my book, he’s got it goin’ on!
I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas this past Sunday. Now I know the style-du-jour in Vegas is typically something resembling Malibu Barbie in platform heels. But trust me, throw in the country awards show and it was simply mind-boggling!
Just a couple seats away from me was Adley Stump, a contestant from the wildly popular singing show “The Voice.” She had the most bubbly personality and was more than happy to chat with everyone, sign autographs, and be in photos with fans…a genuine sweetheart!
Now I know that her headbands are part of her signature style. But what do you think about all the gold jewelry in combination with the sparkly shirt? Is it just right for the venue and event? Or is it going to far? For this one, I’m curious what YOU think! I look forward to your comments.
Forget the rule that you have to wait till 5 o’clock for a drink. The NEW rule is that ANYtime is cocktail time…you do realize that I’m talking about cocktail rings, right?!
Don’t save your big bling for going out in the evening. Instead, enjoy that heavy weight on your finger all day long. I, myself, have been having fun with this trend. Here’s a picture of me wearing a killer taupe Alexis Bittar ring that I picked up for a song at a pre-Christmas sale at Decorazzi in Las Vegas.
The ring picks up on the color of the boots
This is not a ring for the faint of heart
Whether the ring be made simply of metal or with a stone, don’t be afraid to get your milage out of it! (Remember the cost-per-wear rule…the more you pay for something, the more you should wear it to get the best value.) A large-scale ring can really add some attitude to the simplest jeans and t-shirt ensemble. If you need some inspiration, here are some gorgeous options.
I found this labradorite stunner on Net-a-Porter (fab site, if it’s not already on your radar). It’s designed by Monica Vinader.
Labradorite with 18K gold vermeil
I have admired Steve Vaubel’s work since I purchased my first pair of his earrings at Sak’s years ago. He makes striking, modern jewelry, and this ring is certainly no exception.
Utterly modern and architectural at the same time
Finally, here’s a bit of the floral craze interpreted in a cocktail ring by Yves Saint Laurent. By the way, if you only associate this brand with high-end clothing, shoes, and bags, you may be pleasantly surprised at their costume jewelry line!
Arty flower ring by YSL
So go dig deep into your ring collection. While you’re at it, see what your mom and grandmother have tucked away. They may have just the perfect ring to bring your outfit to the next level…and to think that these rings were normally just brought out for special occasions. Isn’t everyday a special occasion?! I truly think so.
So Native American jewelry can go one of two ways…horribly wrong (are you still in your Pocahontas Halloween costume?!) or terribly chic (channeling a Ralph Lauren ad). Personally, I’ve always been drawn to this genre of accessories, and it works in beautifully with my boho chic personal style. On my most recent trip to Las Vegas, I unexpectedly learned a little more about it.
While in Vegas you will usually find me browsing the luxury shops. But this time I had the opportunity to take the public bus (thanks, Jeff) down to Fremont Street. (I don’t think I’d been there since I was a child!) While this area definitely is a whole other side of Vegas, I stumbled upon a hidden Vegas treasure — the Indian Arts & Crafts store right near the New El Portal theater.
My highlight of Fremont Street
While the shop was definitely home to lots of cheesy tchotchkes, I was quite impressed by the jewelry counter. As a major fan of turquoise, I was drawn to the array of shades from blues to greens. Yum!
Navajo jewelry
All their jewelry is hand made by local tribes. Each piece has the initials of the artisan on the backside, verifying it’s authenticity. When I came home, I pulled out a thin, Indian bracelet that my mom received in high school. Sure enough, there was the initials of the artist! Unlike a piece I bought near Los Alamos, New Mexico — which I clearly purchased at a non-reputable place.
I came across this lovely woman while shopping in Burlingame shortly after my trip. Her incredible Squash Blossom necklace literally stopped me in my tracks. THIS is how to do the Native American thing in an extremely stylish way! Her outfit was simple, yet elegant, and she was only highlighting that one piece. Often people think if you’re wearing the necklace, then wouldn’t it be better to also add the coordinating ring and earrings? Absolutely not. This is when you end up looking like you’re wearing a costume.
Amazing Navajo turquoise necklace
I am definitely on the hunt for my own Squash Blossom necklace. I did encounter some fabulous ones at Peregrine Galleries in Montecito, CA a couple weeks ago, but none that went home with me. I’m confident that the right one will appear at the right time.
For me, Brunello Cucinelli’s line is synonymous with exquisite fabrics and neutral colors with a bit of complex, subdued color thrown in. It’s not contrived whatsoever, and to me, it epitomizes the concept of causal (Italian) chic.
Whenever I enter the Cucinelli area in a store, I just breathe a contented sigh, and wish that I were walking into my own closet. The past couple seasons I’ve been very pleased to see that he’s added some amazing jewelry to his ready-to-wear line. Here are a few snapshots of his spring pieces.
