Black and White: Spring 2013 Jewelry Trend

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!!
Black & White Glam!!

For a more bohemian vibe on the trend, check out this cuff by Kevia.

Available at Calypso
Available at Calypso

Chan Luu, the goddess of wrap bracelets, also has her interpretation in black and white agate.

Wrap away!
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
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
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!
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
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
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!!

Ippolita: Designer

Ippolita has become one of my “go to” lines for years now in my personal shopping business. Silver, gold, rose gold, gunmetal and gems galore — how can you go wrong? I now have an even deeper appreciation of this stunning line after spending some time chatting with the designer, Ippolita, herself.

Ippolita and Amy
Psyched to meet Ippolita!

Though the trunk show was absolutely packed, she easily spent fifteen minutes or more casually chatting with me. We seemed to quickly bond, covering topics from how to deal with our (mutually) curly hair to our love of Italy. (Granted, she was born there and I am only half Italian, but still…) It’s amazing how much she has done in her life already. She received a degree in sculpture in Italy, a degree in English literature, founded a dance company, and oh, yeah…started an incredible jewelry line in the 1990’s. Never mind that she’s also a mother and involved in countless other things. How does she do it?

One of the things that I love about her line is that it appeals to a wide range of personal styles among my clients. I’ve got classic gals, more bohemian women, and sporty chics who all incorporate pieces from her line into their jewelry wardrobe. Her pieces don’t become dated, either. They will be as beautiful and stylish the day you buy them as they will in ten years. That’s always a selling point, as it really lowers the cost-per-wear. (Not that you need a reason to buy a new bauble, do you?!)

Here’s a close-up of some of her bangles. She designs the bracelets in a rainbow of colors and metals. They easily can stack with bangles you already own.

Ippolita bracelets
Bangles galore!

This silver link necklace will take you from boardroom to a cocktail party, depending on how you style it. Now that’s jewelry bang for your buck!

Ippolita silver necklace
Silver Ippolita Necklace

I’ve written about choosing jewelry metals for different skin tones before. These mother-of-pearl earrings work on a wide range of skin tones. I’ve tried them on clients with both cool and warmer skin, and they just sort of reflect back in a flattering tone. Since she designs mother of pearl pieces in both gold and silver, all you have to do is pick what metal color best suits you, and you’re sure to have a winner.

Ippolita mother of pearl earrings
I want these!

The Neiman Marcus chain will be doing a “Silk Road Dream” Ippolita show in mid-February. She won’t be making a personal appearance, but you can still view the collection. If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, you can see it in San Francisco on February 10th and in Palo Alto on February 15th.

If you have a few minutes to surf around her website, I highly recommend it. It’s much more than just a jewelry site. In particular, I like the “Three Things” and “Salon” segments, so click away. You needed a little break right now, didn’t you?