Valentine’s Day Bling to Buy for Yourself!

The way I look at Valentine’s Day, or basically any other holiday, is that it’s the perfect opportunity to buy yourself a lovely gift! Pricey, inexpensive, it doesn’t really matter — just do it! (You know I’m a strong proponent of self-gifting!)

As I’m strolling around the internet this morning, I’m coming across quite a few lovelies that would be the perfect gift. I thought I’d share some of my finds and hopefully inspire you to go look for yourself.

1. Check out this stunning labradorite ring by Armenta. It’s an investment, but it would look to-die-for with a necklace I already own.

Armenta labradorite ring

2. Since I’m always in search of gorgeous stud earrings, these rose gold druzy studs by Dara Ettinger might be just the ticket. (Love that they’re under $100 too!)

dara ettinger druzy studs

3. I can always find some fabulous, ethnic jewelry at Maison K in Montecito, CA. This rhinestone and turquoise necklace from Istanbul would be amazing with an all-white linen outfit and gold sandals…with a drink in my hand…

maison k turquoise and rhinestone necklace

4. I own these Jennifer Meyer hoops in yellow gold, and I’m surprised I haven’t worn them out yet. Perhaps I need a pair in white gold as well? Decisions, decisions….

jennifer meyer white gold and diamond hoops

5. A statement necklace makes the simplest of tops look like you came right from Fifth Avenue. This neutral druzy necklace by Isharya would pair beautifully with jeans, a white tee and a camel cardigan. Yum!

Isharya lunar druzy white necklace

6. I’ve tried this bracelet on twice at J.Crew recently. My wrists are tiny, and it actually fits perfectly. Layered with some of my bangles, I think it could be a very inspired combination.

J.crew rhinestone bracelet

Oh, the choices I have… And who’s to say I won’t come across something else while I’m out shopping today? And the bonus, is that this treat is calorie free, unlike those giant chocolate-filled heart boxes. So go treat yourself and enjoy Valentine’s Day! Feel free to share any of your great finds — I’d love to see them.

Montecito and Santa Barbara: Two Must-shop Boutiques

I make it a point to visit Montecito and Santa Barbara at least once a year. I just love the beachy atmosphere, the stunning views, and of course…the shopping! This past week I visited one of my favorite destinations in Montecito and discovered a very cool new shop on State Street in Santa Barbara.

To put it bluntly, I’d pretty much like to live in Maison K. The neutral palette highlighted with metal, glass and exotic materials just speaks to me. Kimberly Phillips, the store’s owner with a discerning eye and fabulous taste, finds treasures from around the globe to share with her clients.

kim phillips
Me with Kimberly Phillips, owner of Maison K

What really caught my eye this visit was the extraordinary case of jewelry she just brought back from Istanbul. I didn’t know where to look first–pearls? coral? turquoise? gold? Oh my, the choices!

maison k jewelry
Some baubles from Istanbul

This is definitely a must-stop for unique jewelry that you most certainly won’t see coming and going.

As I did my stroll along State Street in downtown Santa Barbara, checking out all the familiar windows, I did a double take. (I love when a new store pops up!) Plum Goods is the creative product of Amy Cooper, and it opened just this past October. It’s a very eclectic shop with everything from jewelry to art to gift items. I just adore her motto, which is on the front window.

plum goods motto
Words to live by

Much of her merchandise is made by local artists, which is a huge plus in my book. Her wares are hand-crafted, fair trade, recycled and eco-chic. I spent quite some time perusing the various cases of jewelry, when a buddah necklace by Iris di Santo really caught my eye.

plum goods jewelry
A small sample of jewelry at Plum Goods

So for those of you who know me, jewelry with a buddah is right up there with horn pendants as part of my signature style. I don’t think you need to think too hard about whether or not this necklace went home with me.

buddah necklace
Buddah necklace from Plum Goods

So next time you are lucky enough to find yourself in the Santa Barbara/Montecito ‘hood, definitely check out these two gems in the world of retail and enjoy!