In this second installment of “Into the Jewelry Box” I found myself in a second story flat in the Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. Eclectically decorated with Asian influences and luxe fabrics, this was definitely a stylish home! Debra is a life-long minimalist by choice, and a quick peek into her closet definitely confirmed this! Her entire wardrobe is comprised of white, charcoal and black garments with clean, elegant lines.
Walking into her bedroom, she had all her jewelry laid out for me. That’s when it really struck what a minimalist she really is. If I tried to lay out my jewelry, I’d probably have to use the floor of my whole little apartment! But Debra’s perfectly curated collection was easily displayed on her dresser, in front of her Asian-style jewelry box — love how she has some precious objects on top of her jewelry box as well.
So let’s start with her favorite piece of all time, her stunning engagement ring, which is a 6 carat emerald cut diamond flanked by two 2 carat emerald cuts. I swear that it reflected the sunshine coming into the window all the way across the room! When I asked her if she helped picking it out, she laughed and said, “I ripped a picture of it out of a magazine and taped it to our bedroom door.” Classic.
The next piece that has major significance to her is this ancient Roman coin. She gave it to her husband for their wedding, and after his passing, she had the coin bezel set and made into a necklace. I love that it’s worn close to her heart.
Debra satisfies all her earring needs with 4 pair, two sizes of diamond hoops and two sizes of diamond studs.
The larger of the studs are two carats, and they are a daily staple for her. Her sassy silver haircut is the perfect frame for them.
She has a nice variety of silver bracelets that she stacks in different combinations. Many are by John Hardy, which she has been collecting the past 20 years.
And she mixes and matches them with some fashion jewelry wrap bracelets and some bangles by Alexis Bittar.
Of her 10 necklaces (yes…only 10, but fabulous ones!), I particularly love her strand of black south sea pearls with a black diamond clasp. She picked this up for a real bargain during the recession when a jeweler friend was trying to unload some merchandise. Just the value of the clasp is now worth half of what she paid for the whole necklace at the time. Now that was a good buy!
This necklace is also killer. She had seen it in a magazine and folded down the corner. Her clever husband noticed it, and he had a local jeweler replicate it for her second wedding anniversary present. SO pretty!
Having this Temple St. Clair crystal amulet pendant on a long silver chain adds some great dimension to her collection.
While many people don’t think about having a watch wardrobe, Debra has, and she has 5 watches which fit every occasion that arrises, from the white sporty Michele watch to the diamond Bedat evening watch to her husband’s Cartier.
She wears the same ring stack on her left hand every day, which consists of a couple silver rings paired with her husband’s wedding ring. One thing on her her “jewelry lust list” is a simple, slim diamond eternity band to add to the stack. I have a feeling I can help her find one…
Also on her shopping list is a pair of black diamond hoops. With her wardrobe and silver hair, I know that this will be a perfect addition.
I so appreciate being given the opportunity to see how Debra “keeps it simple.” While she has definitely made some big investments, her cost-per-wear makes them excellent purchases. Mixing these pieces with her fashion jewelry, Debra is always accessorized to the nines. Thank you SO much for letting me into your jewelry box!! xo
Originally I started out this article as one of my “Jewelry Judge” posts, but it has become a bit bigger than that, as I learned more about the necklace I saw. Last Sunday I took myself out for a well-deserved brunch at my local fave, Alana’s, for a Mediterranean scramble and some home-style potatoes. Packed as usual, I took the last seat at the counter next to a lovely, petite woman who was clearly also a local. It didn’t take long before we were engaged in a meal-long conversation. Of course, I had to ask her about her unique necklace.
I wasn’t quite sure if it was vintage or not, as the main bar and pendant looked antique, but the chains looked much more modern. Apparently my deductions were correct, as this necklace by Kelley Hollis is crafted from both vintage and modern parts. This Berkeley designer has been at it for about three and a half years. She takes vintage jewelry from the 1920’s-1960’s, restores and then upcycles them into these unique, one-of-a-kind creations. She also uses fabric pieces from restored fabric appliqués from India, circa the 1940s.
Colleen, my surprise brunch companion, purchased her necklace at the de Young Museum in San Francisco during their prestigious 30th annual Bouquets to Art exhibit. They invited a select group of artisan jewelers to show each of the 6 days at the exhibit. What an honor!
If your personal style veers toward the Romantic, vintage-inspired side, then Kelley Hollis’ line is right up your alley!
While I am certainly not one for “rules” in the jewelry and fashion arena, there are still a few things that drive me crazy. So I’m here to share my “just don’t do it!” list for you.
1. Total lack of jewelry
Aside from sleeping or working out, you should always give some thought to your jewelry ensemble. Heck, even when I donned my “going to the grocery store” outfit today I still carefully selected a nice pair of earrings, a few slim stacking rings and my watch. I mean really, who knows who you’re going to meet when you’re out — from your boss to your arch-enemy to your potential soul mate? You want to make a great impression, right?! Make an effort, girlfriend!
2. Matchy-matchy jewelry
I know that decades ago you had to match your bag to your belt to your earrings. But seriously, these days are long gone. As Stacy and Clinton always said, “Things have to go, not match.” So when you’re confronted with the matching set of bracelet, earrings and necklace, please take a pause. Even if you do purchase it, consider splitting the set to mix and match the pieces with other items.
3. Over-doing holiday jewelry
It’s true that during my 8 year stint as a third-grade teacher I had quite the elaborate collection of holiday jewelry. And if you’re a teacher or grandmother, I totally get it. But for the average Jane-about-town, there’s really no need for the elaborate holiday get-up. (case in point: battery-powered jewelry) There are so many tasteful ways to wear holiday jewelry (perhaps your grandmother’s vintage brooch on your coat during December) This is what not to do.
4. Excessively noisy jewelry
Unless you work from home, nobody wants to hear the banging of your bracelet stack or necklace with the bells on it all day. It’s annoying to everyone around you, so please be aware of this. A musical tinkle from bracelets are just fine, but if someone can hear you from another room, then take heed.
5. Earrings that are too heavy
We’ve all done it — worn earrings that are too heavy for our pierced ears. And if you do it enough, then your hole will eventually lengthen and tear a bit. Continuing to wear heavy earrings just isn’t a good look. I suggest either looking into the cosmetic procedure which will minimize your piercing, or select earrings that are lighter or in a style that won’t highlight the sagging hole.
6. Wearing jewelry that you don’t like.
I’m sorry, but life is way too short to wear jewelry that you don’t like, let alone love. I don’t care if it was a gift from your aunt from France or your best friend who lives next door. Be true to your personal style and wear what you love and what makes you feel fabulous. Period.
7. Ankle bracelets worn under hose
While I think ankle bracelets are “on the edge” in the first place (unless you’re a total bohemian princess and it’s integral to your personal style), then tread lightly. Wearing one on its own can sometimes be OK, but if you wear it under hose, then it’s just all wrong.
I’m sure some of you may take umbrage to these rules, and I’d love to hear from you. And perhaps you have some “don’ts” of your own? Do tell!
During my recent girl’s weekend in Seattle, I finally got to visit Les Amis in the Fremont neighborhood. Just reading the list of clothing designers that they carry which I love (Gary Graham, Pas de Calais and No.6 to name a few), I was psyched to walk in their darling front door. So I guess that I shouldn’t be surprised that one of the cool sales gals rocked my boho world with her jewelry choices. First of all, I loved her statement necklace by Annie Costello Brown worn with a simple cream top.
Then, as she began writing up my receipt (because you just KNOW I went home with a couple amazing tops!) I was mesmerized by her eclectic ring combination. It takes an expert to combine a midi ring, a couple oversized rings and a wedding ring set with such panache.
I thought that this gal did an amazing job at expressing her unique personal style. In addition, she was the perfect fit for the store (perhaps she was the owner?? didn’t ask…). It has inspired me to take a closer look at how to combine the rings in my jewelry box, for sure. What do you think of her choices?
So how many of you just love watching those reality shows were you get to tour people’s homes and get an inside peek into their closets?! Or even a spread in Architectural Digest or In Style magazine that shows you how the stars live? Well I just love them, but I always wish they’d spend a little more time in the closet, and more specifically show me what’s in their jewelry box. I don’t care if it’s Oprah or someone I’ve never heard of, it’s just my curiosity about wanting to see what pieces are important to them. That’s how I came up with this new series, “Into the Jewelry Box.” Throughout the year, I’ll be visiting people’s homes and getting an in-depth look at their collection. I can’t wait see what I find and share it with you!
My first visit was to see Merna, a stylish 61 year-young woman with a background full of fashion. With a cropped blond pixie and twinkling eyes, she seemed very excited to show me her treasures. In fact when she opened the door, she was wearing her first diamond, which she received at 7 months old from her grandmother (who was also her godmother) for her baptism. Jewelry has clearly been part of her life from the start, and she joked, “I teethed on Vogue!”
Still in possession of her first jewelry box from 5th grade, she has been a collector and receiver of many gifts throughout her life. In fact, her collection has pieces dating back over 100 years.
I asked her to show me her favorite piece, and she couldn’t limit it to one. The first was this sunburst pendant/pin from Taxco, which was made by one of Spratling’s students. Just beautiful workmanship!
Another favorite is a large sterling cuff of her mothers from 1949. She used to own its mate, but sadly it disappeared at a photo shoot. (I hope whoever walked off it with is at least enjoying it!)
Finally, this sea shell, which she found during a photo shoot at Stinson Beach, is a sentimental favorite. Ironically a couple years after she started wearing it, she was flipping through the pages of W magazine and saw that Yojii Yamamoto did the exact same thing in sterling silver! (for $4500!)
Merna’s collection is housed in a large rolling tower of drawers, and we spent a good amount of time opening little boxes and peering inside silk pouches. (It felt like a treasure hunt for me!) My jaw dropped when I came across this exquisitely detailed pre-WWII Chinese dragon bracelet. She also has the matching ring and earrings which she received during college, as she was born in the Year of the Dragon.
These silver filagree bracelets from the early 1900’s also demonstrate amazing detail.
When I asked how her personal style has changed over the years, she talked about how she has shifted more from the small, delicate pieces (unless worn in stacks or layers) to bolder pieces. She likes the juxtaposition of the the bold pieces with her tall, small frame. Case in point are these wide Armani bangles, purchased from the Armani store in SF back in the 90’s.
I will say, though, that I was drawn to her vintage pieces. It was like being in a jewelry museum, but you could actually try things on. Take a look at this silver and amethyst Art Nouveau set from around 1900.
And being a Downton Abbey-o-holic, I could just picture Merna’s mother wearing this 1920’s pearl necklace out on the town in her flapper-esque dress…
If you like vintage watches, then you’ll definitely like this Longines timepiece from the 1930’s, which is completely original inside and with a new strap.
She says that she rarely edits her jewelry, as she has been given so many lovely gifts and she only buys what she loves. With so much diversity in her jewelry box, I asked her what was on her jewelry lust list. Here’s her top items:
1. There are always some Hermes pieces that she has her eye on
2. A gold pearl necklace and matching stud earrings (which would complement her hair perfectly!)
3. A single stone aquamarine pendant
4. Brown diamond stacking rings
I’m sure, like me, she’ll add things to her list. And sometimes you don’t even know when your heart will be pulled by something sparkly as you walk by the window of a random shop. Though whatever she does end up acquiring, either for herself or as a gift, I know it will have a story. There was not one item we found that didn’t have a story to go along with it, and in my eyes, that makes her collection all the more special.
Thanks for opening up your jewelry box for me, Merna! xo
Coming from the world of fashion, Fern Freeman is a prolific jewelry designer! When I stopped at their booth at the JCK show, I learned that a whopping 70% of the items in their cases were brand new.
The line is full of statement pieces, many with a creative, bohemian edge. This is definitely at the opposite end of the spectrum from delicate chains and skinny stacking rings. Take a gander at this long labradorite pendant.
And what about this geode and diamond necklace with a double chain? Yes, please!
I was also loving this rhodium cuff with a diamond bar. It’s large, yet still a bit delicate at the same time.
And is it cocktail time? I mean cocktail ring, that is. I’ll take mine in the form of this crystal and 22K gold ring.
And because I’m obsessed with all shades of aqua, these agate and moonstone earrings are a gypset girls dream!
Would some of these pieces work for your personal style? How would you style them?
I know I wasn’t the only one tuned in to The Bachelor during its season premiere on Monday. While this certainly isn’t a brain-enriching show, I consider it “mind candy” after a long day. Plus, I’m pretty content just watching Juan Pablo for the two hours!
This season the lucky bachelor has 27 single hotties to choose from!
As each woman steps from the limo, you know that you just can’t help giving her the once-over, from her head to her toes. They say it only takes 7 seconds to make a first impression, so clearly they all were trying their hardest to make the best impression possible. Unfortunately, although they are all just gorgeous in their own way, I felt some of the lovely ladies missed the mark with their accessory choices.
First, take a look at Christy. Wearing a floor-length white halter gown, a beaded headband and extra-sparkly long earrings, I couldn’t decide if she knew she wasn’t a bride, at least at this point in the game. Not such a subtle statement, if you ask me!
Then there’s Lucy, the free spirit from Santa Barbara. While I understand her love of hippie chic, I really don’t think the flower-child hairpiece and the lack of shoes (seriously!!) and make-up did her any favors, especially on TV.
At the other end of the spectrum, you’ve got Elise, who apparently thought she was competing in a beauty pageant. The floor-length jewel encrusted gown (which must have weighed a ton!!) was one thing, but then when she added the oversized, cheap-looking earrings and the big hair, it was just all wrong. (but great for Miss America!)
Of course, there’s always got to be someone who turns on the waterworks during each episode, and this week is was Lauren H. While she’s just a darling girl, I think it would have been better if she skipped the necklace (and the tears) with her asymmetrical one-shouldered gown. The chandelier earrings would have been plenty, and the “matchy matchy” set is a bit dated.
I will say that Sharleen, the opera singer from Canada by way of Germany, did stand out from the crowd with her ensemble. While most of the women really went all-out glitz, Sharleen opted for a simple, yet sophisticated unembellished gown with statement earrings. (I think they may be by Alexis Bittar, but don’t quote me on that.) I don’t think it was necessarily her best color, but it still made for a great impression. So much so, that Juan Pablo gave her the first impression rose!
(photo courtesy of abc.com)
I’m sure next week the girls will spend half of the episode in bikinis or some other skimpy outfit (after all, this is the Bachelor), and I’ll be curious to see how the girls bejewel themselves for that. Are you watching the show? Would love to hear your opinions!
Seeing that I’m a (single) wardrobe stylist and a jewelry blogger, people always assume that I know exactly what I want when it comes to the day that I get engaged. Shockingly, I still have no clue! So I’m always on the lookout for amazing rings, looking for inspiration. (Yes, I know that this is a “cart-before-the-horse scenario,” but a girl can dream, right?!)
Last Friday I was doing some Christmas shopping in Union Square and along Fillmore Street, and I came across two very stunning and non-traditional sets. First was on the finger of Sarah.
The trio of rings is by Armenta (whom I adore, both as a designer and as a person), with an ornate wide band and diamond eternity bands on either side. She said she also has a wide platinum band that she can substitute for the middle one if she’s having more of a “silver” day. Gotta love options! (Side note: love the edginess of the chevron knuckle ring and sparkly manicure on this young wife)
Not long thereafter, I came across this gal, who has a main band of diamond slices surrounded by smaller diamonds, and again, framed with two diamond eternity bands. Yes, I was drooling!
I think the originality and versatility of both these stacks are uber cool. Plus, they really give the wearer a chance to express their personal style. I’ll definitely be adding these ideas to my mental “wedding ring” idea list. Sorry, honey — I don’t know who you are yet, but you’re already in trouble. 😉
So how is your holiday shopping going? If you’re like most Americans (myself included), there are definitely some more gifts to buy — perhaps for others or even for yourself! (I’m still working on my boyfriend gift this year.) With that in mind and only 9 more shopping days, I’ve been scouring all the latest and greatest items in the world of jewelry. With so many stunning choices, which way to turn? Well, whomever the gift is for, don’t forget to take the recipient’s personal style into consideration.
During my 6-part series, Jewelry Box Basics, I discussed what jewelry each person should have in their jewelry box, based on their personal style: the lady who lunches, bohemian, rock star, minimalist, romantic, and the trendy gal. Of course, practically no one fits into one tidy box, but this still provides a framework with which to hit the jewelry store or your favorite online site. Here are some suggestions for Santa on what you might put under the Christmas tree.
The Lady Who Lunches
Pearls and studs are a mainstay for this personal style. Once you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time to branch out. Alexis Bittar is a great fit for this lady, and he recently came out with an oo-la-la fine jewelry line. I think this multi-strand pearl necklace is so unique!
Midnight Marquis necklace
Look at the detail of aquamarines, green amethysts and gold on the multiple layers of grey pearls.
If a new pair of studs is in order this year, then I think these grey diamond slice lovelies by Sethi Couture would certainly do the trick!
Grey and white diamonds
The Bohemian
True, I have a strong Bohemian influence in my own personal style, so I know that adding a statement ring to the jewelry box is always a good idea. Here are a couple that have really caught my eye. First is a unique horizontal design by Jemma Wynne. I had the opportunity to try it on last week, and it looked spectacular — plus it was so comfortable to wear!
Labradorite and diamonds
For an even bolder statement, I turn to one of my all-time favorite designers, Rona Pfeiffer. Take a look at this major ring!
Fan-tab-ulous diamonds!
The Rock Star
Do you have a rock star on your list? I’m sure that her jewelry box is in need of refreshing as well. And what better way to do that, than by one of the edgy ear cuffs that are hitting the market? If this is a more refined rocker, then I think this ear cuff by Repossi would be perfect.
And if she’s into something a little more “raw,” then I recommend this one by Mania Mania.
“Vamp” ear cuff
Here’s how it looks on the ear.
Pretty cool, right?!
The Minimalist
In stark contrast to the Rock Star, this personal style thrives on clean lines, and fewer choices in the jewelry box. But don’t let this scare you off — you can still find the perfect addition to make her smile. Likely, she has a pair of simple studs in her collection, so how about you give her a pair with just a small twist? This small cluster design by Jacquie Aiche is perfection.
A slim, low-profile ring would also be a solid (yet sparkling) choice. This band by Melissa Joy Manning is simple beauty, in white gold with black diamonds. It’s easily captivating on its own or stacked.
The Romantic
This time of year doubtless stirs up feelings of nostalgia and sweet smiles for this personal style. Since many of the pieces in her jewelry box are most certainly family heirlooms, selecting a gift with a nod to the past is wonderful. I came across this unique necklace by Ginger Peachy, made from a vintage pin centered on a rose gold chain. Love it!
Or how about this delicate boulder opal ring by Armenta, which is sure to become a favorite!
This will certainly be passed down for generations.
The Trendy Gal
There are so many jewelry trends going on right now, that this is one of the easiest personal styles to shop for. Definitely a trend on the rise, the hand chain (otherwise known as a slave bracelet) is popping up from coast to coast. Here is a clean design by Blee Inara that might delight her.
Here’s how it looks when worn.
Chains are appearing everywhere, and here’s a very on-trend ring by Djula that proves it.
If “brand names” are something that she’s into, then you can’t go wrong with a bracelet by Vita Fede. There are SO many different metal colors and styles, that it’ll be tough to make a choice.
Titan rose gold and Swarovski crystals
I’ve seen endless permutations of stacks that incorporate them.
Stack ’em up!
Now I know that many of the pieces in this article may not be in your shopping budget. (They certainly aren’t all in mine!) But don’t let that discourage you. It’s possible to find the “look” at a variety of price points. Just use this as a jumping-off point to find the perfect gift. I’d love to know what you find!!
Although it’s been over a month since I worked in NYC, I’m still basking in the lasting shopping glow. During one of my “exploration” days, I wandered up and down every street in Soho. I took a double-take when I saw the Etienne Aigner shop on Greene St. I hadn’t seen this brand around in quite some time, and if memory serves, it was quite conservative, and I’ll just say it…boring. Never one to let this stop me, I entered the newly opened store, and boy was I in for a nice surprise! The line, which includes clothing, shoes, leather goods and jewelry, has gone through a complete transformation! Thoroughly modern and very wearable, I spent quite some time examining all the jewelry.
Designed by local jeweler, Sarah Magid, the jewelry collection is quite diverse. I know that customers with a wide range of personal styles will find something they like.
These refined spike pieces definitely have a modern, rock n’ roll edge.
And this case appeals to those with a more bohemian vibe.
And if drama is your style, then you might be drawn to this statement necklace.
This collection of costume jewelry has very accessible price points, and includes materials such as leather, semi-precious stones, and 12K gold plate. It’s nickel-free as well, for those with sensitivities. And what did Amy go home with? Because you KNOW I didn’t leave empty handed! Well I surprised myself with this necklace, made from African jade stones. It’s perfect to layer with some of my other necklaces, and very different than anything I own.
I think this reversible leather cuff with a magnetic clasp is pretty chic as well.
Though this is currently their only shop in the US, they do have their jewelry available on their site. Click here to check it out.
