Tag: jewelry shopping in burlingame ca

Shannon Koszyk @ Margaret O’Leary

One of the perks of living in Burlingame, CA, is that I can walk to a completely darling downtown, rife with cute shops and eateries. Margaret O’Leary is definitely one of my favorite boutiques, and I must say that I frequent their shop a few times a month. While known for their own knit line, I’ve got to tell you that they also have some stunning jewelry, and each location carries different treasures. Most recently, I’ve been drawn to a couple bracelets by Seattle-based designer Shannon Koszyk. Her pieces are a bit of history, yet with such a modern aesthetic.

This bracelet is simply divine. It’s made of three different widths of sterling silver chains, with a bronze Victory Angel Medal from WWI. I learned that this medal was commissioned by the French after the war — on one side is an angel, and on the other side are all the flags of the victorious countries from the war. Crazy cool!

shannon koszyk victory angel bracelet

The other stellar piece that I tried on was this bracelet, composed of British South African coins.

shannon koszyk british south african bracelet

I’m so glad this designer is now on my radar! Upon research, I see that she was at the JCK show in Vegas. Bummed to have missed her (that show was beyond huge!!), but I will make it a point to visit her booth next year!

Venessa Arizaga: Designer

One of the things I just love about this time of year, is that all the new merchandise for the season is arriving in the stores. I love seeing the boxes stacked up on the floor while store employees are eagerly unpacking new items out of the shiny, cellophane bags. It’s like Christmas come early! So, I make it a mission to really do the rounds, hitting all my favorite boutiques and department stores to make sure I don’t miss a thing! (because that, of course, would be a tragedy!)

Yesterday one of my visits was to Les Deux Copines in Burlingame, CA. I was just drawn to the necklace on the manequin in the window, and I had to investigate further.

les deux copines necklace
What’s around her neck??

Upon closer inspection, I was even more enamored of the edgy necklace, which really brought personality and individuality to the outfit.

venessa arizaga necklace
Delicious!

Come to find out that this super-cool creation is by Venessa Arizaga, who I one day hope to meet in person. I would describe her designs as fashion-forward, definitely with some edge, yet with a user-friendly vibe. Honestly, I’ve never seen a collection quite like it.

Look at this bracelet. I adore the juxtaposition of the woven silk colored thread with the heavier gauge chain. It’s like good-girl meets rocker, all in one piece.

venessa arizaga bracelet
I think I could picture myself rockin’ this…

As a life-long traveler and lover of the exotic, Venessa really puts a unique spin into her line. I was really drawn to these two necklaces. One, which plays with the uber-current neon trend, and the second, which I can really envision transitioning into fall, with a cream sweater and leather leggings.

venessa arizaga necklace
Just the right amount of neon!

venessa arizaga necklace
It has the feeling of an avant-guard sweater, yet for your neck!

Finally, I loved the irreverence in this pearl necklace. The small skull bead really says it all. Would you dare to wear it? Does is sync with your personal style? I certainly know a few people that this would work perfectly on!

venessa arizaga necklace
Perhaps not the right string of pearls for the PTA meeting

So yes, I’m intrigued. Have I purchased a piece yet? No, not yet, but I certainly wouldn’t rule it out. Can’t wait to see what ships next for the season!