Denim Den

The Shoes of the Pope

2008-07-17T05:20:00.001-07:00

Manolo says, after all of the discussion about the Pope Benedict's magnificent red shoes, the Manolo has finally located the close-up photograph of these wonders, the product of the Roman cobbler Adriano Stefanelli.

The Manolo now takes this opportunity to remind you that cobbling is one of the most sanctified of all the manual arts.

backless baroness

2008-07-17T02:20:00.001-07:00

From French-Spanish label BaronBaronne. The rest is over here.

I'm Not Pulling a Style Bytes

2008-07-16T23:20:00.001-07:00

I'm swamped with finals week (possibly my last finals week ever, OMG) and other projects, but I'll be back soon, really, I swear.

Last Laugh

2008-07-16T17:20:00.001-07:00

Last April I mentioned:

I think the recent spate of fashion criticisms directed at women belonging to the polygamist sect in Texas to be distasteful. I'm not defending their religious practices but I think it's the height of tackiness to level superficial criticisms during what must be the most stressful event of their collective lives.

I am dismayed by people who feel compelled to kick people while they're down and over something that doesn't even matter. In that vein, John sent me a news piece today. Now who is having the last laugh?

Mothers say Texas raid forced them to market their clothing style. A new clothing brand may be born out of the Texas raid on a polygamous sect. FLDS women for the first time are offering their handmade, distinctive style of children's clothes to the public through the Web site fldsdress.com. Launched initially to provide Texas authorities with clothing for FLDS children in custody, the online store now is aimed at helping their mothers earn a living. The venture, which has already drawn queries from throughout the U.S., is banking on interest in modest clothes, curiosity and charity to be a success.

Personally, I'm thrilled. I wish them all the best. I'd send them a book if they'd think it'd help. They certainly have the patterns down and they've got the workforce. What an exciting experiment to witness; barn raising a manufacturing company overnight. I wish I were closer and had an invite.

Whose Shoes Wednesday

2008-07-16T14:20:00.001-07:00

Manolo asks, whose shoes?

Prolifique Designer Jewelry

2008-07-16T11:20:00.001-07:00

Precious Metal Clay Artists and Jewelry Designers

Prolifique is French for prolific, which means highly productive, and the Prolifique Girls certainly fit that definition. They have joined forces to make unique handcrafted fine silver jewelry with Precious Metal Clay, and have quickly created a sizeable jewelry collection that is growing by the day.

Symbolic and personalized jewelry is very popular right now, and the Prolifique Girls have a large selection of pendants and earrings made with Asian symbols, inspirational words, nature-inspired motifs, and initials in a variety of fonts.

And remember, this is fine silver jewelry that doesn't tarnish. Click on the pics for more information or to buy.

Handcrafted Fine Silver Jewelry with Meaning

Corner Scroll Fine Silver Initial Pendant

This is a unique take on an initial pendant. It is made of fine silver, approximately 17mm square in size, with a scroll design on one side and your initial in the bottom corner, hung on a 17" sterling silver rope chain.

$32

How nice would it be for you to order your own custom Chinese symbol pendant that is made just for you? And only you will know what it means, unless you're willing to tell. The pendant shown below can be stamped with your choice of 18 different Chinese symbols with various meanings.

Double Word Chinese Symbol Fine Silver Pendant

The pendant shown contains the symbols for DREAM and WISH. It measures approximately 13x10mm with a sterling silver bail soldered to the top. This one is shown on an 18" red leather cord, and it is also available on black or brown leather. You can also order it with a 16" sterling silver rope chain for an extra $8.00.

$28

Origami Paper Crane Pendant

This is the image of an origami paper crane stamped onto fine silver that has been oxidized, sanded, and tumble polished to a high shine. The pendant measures approximately 10.5mm in size, and it hangs from a 17" sterling silver rope chain.

$21

Folded Paper Crane Legend

Sadako Sasaki was born on January 7, 1943. On August 6, 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, and Sadako and her family were exposed to the fallout at their home in Kusunoki-cho, about 1.7 km from the bomb's hypocenter. The blast blew her out of the house, but she escaped without injury. Sadako's mother fled, carrying her daughter, but they were caught in the black rain.

Sadako grew up healthy and entered elementary school. Her dream was to become a junior high school physical education teacher. It was noticed around September that she looked a little pale, but nobody was particularly worried. Toward the end of November 1954, she caught a cold and lumps developed on her neck and behind her ears. The diagnosis was leukemia. On February 21, Sadako entered the Hiroshima Red Cross Hospital, and doctors said she had a year at most to live.

By early August, 1955, medicines had reduced the swelling on Sadako's neck a little, and she was feeling somewhat better. However, both her legs had purple pupura, indicating that the disease was progressing. On August 6, 1955, she received permission to leave the hospital to attend the Peace Memorial Ceremony with her family. On the way to the park, however, Sadako bled from the gums and felt ill. She had to return to the hospital right away, without attending the ceremony.

Multicolor origami folded paper cranes were sent to the hospital to encourage the patients by people in Nagoya. Inspired by the bright cheerful cranes, many patients in the hospital began to fold their own. Sadako was one of that number, folding into each crane her desire to get well. Sadako strung thread through the paper cranes that she folded and hung them from the ceiling of her room in the hospital. Less than a month after she started, Sadako had folded 1000 paper cranes, but she continued to fold.

Toward the end of September, 1955, Sadako's white blood cells began to increase for the third time since being hospitalized. Her condition gradually deteriorated until she could no longer walk unassisted. On the morning of October 25, surrounded by her family, Sadako passed away.

Legend has it that if you're ill and you fold 1000 paper cranes, the gods will make you healthy again. This legend inspired a young Japanese girl named Sadako to give it a try. She was stricken with leukemia in 1955, but she folded more than a thousand paper cranes before she died. Her story is chronicled in the book, Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes.

The point of the story is to never give up, and to use courage and strength to get through whatever life throws at us. Now, the paper crane symbolizes courage and strength, and it is used by many leukemia patients as a wonderful form of therapy and comfort.

We created this piece of jewelry to help remind us all that we are much stronger than we think we are. It is our hope that this necklace will inspire you as the wearer to do everything you need to do to survive, to be strong, and to live a happy life.

Artists Statement

We both believe strongly in Karma. We believe that what goes around comes around, and in the philosophies of many Asian cultures. Karma to us means positive, peaceful energy - the circle is the symbol of connection and listening. As we'll continue to learn about the healing powers of gemstones and what they can do for you the wearer, we will educate you on what we have learned. We feel that this brings meaning to everyday things.

Since there are two of us, one in Florida and one in Arizona, you are going to be assured of getting a large variety of styles. Also, this will mean that if you order multiple items, some may be shipped from AZ and some may ship from FL. Rest assured, that we will be charging NO extra shipping fees.

We love that there are many different meanings or translations for most of the symbols we use. We want our jewelry to have meaning. What will our jewelry mean to you?

Inspiring - and very affordable.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Jewelry as Designer DNA - 13 September 2006

Couture Jewelry Awards - 04 March 2007

Jewelry Designer for Princesses - 08 March 2007

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Swimsuit try-on Session

2008-07-16T08:20:00.001-07:00

My friend Mandy and I both have reason for a new swimsuit. She’s going on a honeymoon in Jamaica, and my kids are leaving for sleep away camp for 3 weeks – giving me time to travel with Jeff. We both wear underwire bras, so we tried on the Freya and Fantasie swimwear lines. They range from B to HH size. Mandy is a 34C and I’m a 34D. She’s a dress size 4 and I’m a 6/8, so she’s a full size smaller than me (and about 5 years younger, and never had a baby, but we won’t go there.)

So here’s what we tried on and here’s what we thought:

The Panama Cooler bikini was the first one Mandy tried on. It has an underwire halter bikini top and boyshorts bottom with a cute plastic buckle (shown). The print was youthful and lively – shades of camo mixed with bursts of deep aqua and sky blue. Mandy loved the fabric, but not the cut of the bottom. This swimsuit convinced her that she certainly needed the C on top, but that she did not want to try on any more boyshort style swimsuits. (There is a brief bottom in the Panama Cooler print too, but not in her size.)

Next Mandy tried on the Soda in green. If you want options - this is the swimsuit for you!! This is a great Freya mix-and-match swimwear collection:

underwire bikini top

underwire tankini top

underwire bandeau bikini halter top

soft cup bikini top

brief bottom

boyshort bottom

string bikini bottom that ties on the side (which is very low cut but has a full butt)

fold-top bottom that let's you adjust how much tummy shows.

There is even a soft cup one-piece tank and underwire one piece tank with halter in the Freya Soda collection. Mandy tried the soft triangle bikini top and classic brief bottom. The green shade was very pretty – the colors of fresh spring grass. It would look great on my friend Tanya with her brown wavy hair to her waist. Mandy liked the cut on this one – the soft cup bikini top was secure and flattering without push up, the bottom has good butt coverage and was trimmed with a cute enamel logo charm. Many of these pieces are on sale now!

While she was trying that on, I put on the Mangopolitan. Its white, chocolate and mango pattern of flowers and dots was cute and feminine – just enough to distract the eye from body flaws, in fact! The Triangle halter top in a 34D was a magnificent fit. The girls were secure and the cleavage created was flattering. The bikini bottom has a full coverage on the butt, and around the waist it has a fold of fabric so you can control the height of the waistline. I’m sure this makes the swimsuit more flattering for more body types, but it also allowed me to keep it unrolled and up high to my navel, hiding all signs that I ever had 2 babies in 2 years.

Mandy liked the Mangopolitan and she tried it on too. We both agreed the top was cut impeccably and flattered so well. It was a lot like the Soda top, but a bit more cleavage enhancing. The Vodkatini swimsuit is colorblocked shades of mocha, black and white, and looked like it had the same awesome cut on top, but they didn’t have my size. These colors would probably look good on me for a more sophisticated look. (Freya's Vodkatini also has a retro brief bottom with a big buckle a la James Bond, a boyshort bottom and an underwire bikini top. At 34D the soft cup was cut so well I did not need the underwire. Something about that inch-wide seam along the inside of the cups kept “the girls” happy.)

While she tried that on, I tried Fantasie’s Seattle tankini in black. The top overlapped the bottom enough that it gave the coverage of a one-piece while still being sporty like a tankini. There is a brief bottom, and a brief bottom with some tummy control - it's just a front lining that offers moderate support, not something that squeezes you in an inch. The tankini top is bandeau style - above the boobs the seam is straight across - and has removeable, convertible straps. It had full hidden underwire and buckled in the back with a copper metal buckle that created a pretty keyhole in the center of the back. I tried it on with and without the straps, and also as a halter. The halter look gave the top seam a bit more shape, and under the bustline there was an empire seam with the same copper metal buckle. This helped a bit with shaping, but basically I realized a bandeau cut was not for me. I don’t belong in tube tops, I need to highlight my boobs to take emphasis off my hips.

There is also an underwire balcony bikini top and a sweetheart padded underwire top. And a one-piece tank with full underwire and deep Vneck with front lining that offers moderate tummy control, an underwire shelf bra and foam sling support for chest support, and shirred fabric by the tummy to flatter curves. Mandy tried on the sweetheart padded underwire top in red with a gold buckle. It's not heavily padded, it’s just enough to line and provide modesty, not enough to add a size. There was a pretty gold slide on the shoulder strap and gold rings to adjust the straps just like you would a real bra. In fact, that was Mandy’s complaint. She felt it looked so much like a real bra that she wouldn’t feel comfortable in it out in public. She likes her swimwear to look like swimwear. I thought she looked amazing in it! It was very similar to the Soda bikini in green one she tried on, but with a more structured top.

Last but not least we both tried on the Fantasie Jaipur underwire bandeau suit with adjustable leg – mainly out of curiosity. I had never worn a swimsuit with an adjustable leg before. There were black ties decorated by copper beads at the bottom of the side seam by the hip. You can pull the bottom fabric of the swimsuit up along the strings to allow more hip/leg to show, creating a ruched effect. The beautiful paisley pattern of red, black and ivory hid all figure flaws. This swimsuit was too long for me, there was extra fabric that would have helped someone 3-4 inches taller than me (I suggest this suit if you're 5′8 or taller). It has a full, hidden underwire bra in front with hook and eye closure hidden in the back so it buckles like a real bra. It also had a bandeau top, so I almost avoided it, but the great paisley pattern is set off by a thick black band of fabric across the top so I though it might draw attention up to the neck. The straps are removable and convertible. So basically if had a V top and was cut shorter-waisted, I’d love it. (It was hard to wiggle in to, but an extra 40 seconds in the dressing room is OK with me if I’m going to wear the swimsuit for 3-4 hours.)

I took the black Seattle tankini home and the Mangopolitan bikini. Jeff said the tankini looked good to wear to water parks (translation: sporty, good fit, good coverage, not too sexy) and the Mangopolitan bikini was “exciting” (translation: excited him!!) I wonder if I could wear the Seattle tankini in the sun all day because the back copper buckle is right against the skin and might heat up. (It’s also difficult to buckle on your own. I was happy to have Mandy and Jeff help me secure this one!)

Mandy and I had so much fun and liked the fabrics, colors and cuts so much that I plan to reenact this day in the dressing room with my friend Joy in a few weeks. Stay tuned for that, and for more Freya and Fantasie swimwear reviews after these suits hit the Florida waves!

No Rules Jewelry

2008-07-16T05:21:00.001-07:00

Enamel on Fine Silver Jewelry

Maya Madden and Wayne Farra are the owners and designers of No Rules Jewelry, and the vast majority of their jewelry is made by applying enamel to fine silver. Through the years, many enameling techniques have been developed. Some involve how the metal is prepared, and some involve how the enamel is applied. This is labor-intensive and time-consuming work.

From the Brookes Collection:

Brookes Dangle Earrings in Smoke

Brookes Dangle Shield Earrings in Cobalt Blue

$48

Enamels are made of finely ground and sifted glass. To create this type of jewelry, the enamels are dampened with distilled water and placed, grain by grain, between the cloisonné wires. The enamels are then fired in a kiln until they melt into a single thin layer. The process of applying the enamels and firing is repeated as many as 10-15 times, until they are flush with the tops of the wires or base.

From the Mosaics Collection:

Mosaic Earrings in Amethyst

Mosaic Earrings in Black

$42

Cloisonné Enamel is a type of enamel work used by Maya and Wayne. In this process, very thin strips of silver or gold wire are attached to the surface of a piece of metal, usually fine silver or gold. The resulting chambers are filled in with multiple layers of colored enamel until they reach the height of the wires. The resulting piece is then ground until it is perfectly smooth and highly polished.

From the Geo Collection:

Geo Bracelet

$195

Anything that can be made out of metal can be enameled - from vases to spoons, to frames to jewelry, from metal mesh to solid forms, from large to small, from fancy to plain. Even the tub inside your common household washing machine is most likely enameled.

Maya Madden Statement

Over the last 15 years, I have sought to create jewelry that is fun to wear and affordable to buy. The creation of my pieces has been inspired by dreams and the natural beauty of my surroundings. Since 1996, enameling on fine silver has been a strong element of my work. These pieces are often embellished with gems and beads. NO RULES Jewelry is now a collaboration of Wayne and myself. Our work reflects a marriage of man and woman, Design and Esthetic.

Wayne Farra Statement

Twenty + years ago, I began creating jewelry mainly using casting techniques and often cutting rock to be used in my designs. Since then, I have explored a variety of materials, from plastic to polyform clay and currently back to precious metals and gems. Maya and I put our ideas and skills together to create NO RULES Jewelry. We are fortunate to live and have our studio in a converted schoolhouse that was built in 1911 and which is located in the beautiful Wisconsin River Valley.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Susan Marie Designs Jewelry - 04 July 2008

Find your Supermodel Strut

2008-07-16T02:18:00.001-07:00

(A public service announcement.)

There are times, days, and longer stretches when a woman doesn't feel her best. When this happens to you, whatever you do, don't lay around depressed. Get out there, do errands, meet friends or just take a walk. And no matter how you feel, exhausted, hot, sweaty, whatever—push through the “pain” and walk like you're on the catwalk. Yes, find your supermodel strut every woman has. May I suggest, unless you prefer not, wedges or heels as well. Put one foot in front of the other, quite literally, hold your head up high, and this is a time when it's okay (and will help you concentrate on keeping up the pace) to pout, also like on the runway. There might be a reason even models pout, they have woman problems, too, and it's a chore to walk so perfectly - yet while it's a chore it makes you feel as good as accomplishing such work. Despite that pout it will cheer you up, you'll feel your womanly power and you might even get to your destination more quickly. I also bet it's better than a leisurely stroll for burning calories and building muscle.

Find your inner supermodel strut and confidence will shine from you, and it will even seep into your mood!

In the Merry Month of May

2008-07-15T23:18:00.001-07:00

I love May, and not just because it's my birthday month. May is the month when Spring turns into Summer (at least here in Arkansas), the privet blooms and our backyard becomes perfumed like a night in Brazil, and my mood improves wonderfully (perhaps because my fibromyalgia does). I have been so busy with shipping and paperwork, not to mention trying to get my office/studio reorganized that I haven't had much time for making jewelry. Of course, I haven't had that drive lately that causes me to stay at the studio so late that I see the policemen change shifts in front of city hall across the way. I've been having ideas, but the ideas are such that I require hours of time to play with colour schemes, gemstones and manipulate wire without interruptions of any kind.
However, I did do the apatite bracelet above, 2 strands of sea-coloured apatite with lampwork beads by Lynn Nurge, while dreaming of crashing into waves with a kayak.The bracelet above is unusual for me - a combination of brown and blue is not one I am known for. But the fantastic beads were my starting point, and I loved them so much I had to go with the two colours. So of course I chose pietersite for the brown: wonderful browns with great subtle patterns and sometimes glints of gold and blue. The Swarovski crystals keep the bracelet from becoming too earthy.

I adore lapis! The lapis earrings that you see here are made with some of my favorite pieces of lapis. The ones above feature good blue lapis with great ripples of sparkling gold pyrite-very nicely sparkling pyrite in chunky faceted nuggets. The earrings below feature some fantastic faceted diamond squares and rondelles of gorgeous blue that hang from sterling posts with spirals around a lapis cabachon.
Here's hoping for some time, totally free time, so that I can play, because play so often results in wonderful things!
Tell me, are the flowers blooming in Finland yet?

jewellery accessories jewelry fashion shopping bracelets beads handmade beaded jewelry beading helmi gioielli smykker tak? juvelen lampwork beads The Jewelry Blog jewelry trends accessories jewelry handmade bracelet unusual jewelry lapis jewelry

My Picks!

2008-07-15T17:19:00.001-07:00

Left to right: Poppy Tunic Dress, $19.80, www.forever21.com; Adriana Knit Dress, $39.50, www.delias.com; Draped Tube Dress, $22.99, www.charlotte-russe.com; bex beads dress, $149.99, www.usa.frenchconnection.com

Left to right: Grecian Dress, $38.50, www.alloy.com; Jersey dress, $45, www.victoriassecret.com; Safari Belted Pencil Dress, $128, www.ardenb.com; ABS by Allen Schwartz Belted Shirtdress, $258, www.shop.nordstrom.com

If you too aren’t drawn to patterns, try picking dresses in this season’s must-have shapes like the bubble dress but opt for colors you’ll always cherish. Black and other neutrals are classics but summer was meant for color so go live a little!

Advanced Fashion Quiz: Martin's Dream Edition

2008-07-15T14:16:00.001-07:00

One of the photos below shows a Eugenia Kim hat, retail price: $312; the other shows an Aluminum Foil Deflector Beanie from my new favorite website. Can you tell which is which?

_________________________________

Martin says:
I like the second one.

Susan Marie Designs Jewelry

2008-07-15T08:16:00.001-07:00

Fine Jewelry Designer and Goldsmith

The timeless elegance of the finest handcrafted gold, precious gemstone and pearl jewelry awaits you at Susan Marie Phipps' website. A professional goldsmith for twenty-four years, Susan is also a GIA graduate gemologist, using her expertise to select only the most vibrant Diamonds, Tahitian Pearls, fancy colored Sapphire, Tanzanite, and other gemstones for use in her work.

14k Gold & Multicolor Sapphire Pendant

1.38 carats Sapphire

3 mm Japanese Cultured Pearl

18" 14k Yellow Gold 10-strand cable necklace

Susan Phipps began making jewelry while attending a high school class on the subject, in her hometown of Findlay, Ohio. During that period, she received several awards, including a Gold Key Scholastic Award for jewelry in 1979 and 1980. She furthered her study of metalsmithing at Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina, and later at the University of South Carolina.

14k Gold & Spessarite Garnet Earrings

3.09 carats Spessarite Garnet

.10 carats Diamond

14k Yellow Gold

Susan Phipps' professional career began in 1981, when she was employed as a goldsmith, and she continued working for various employers until 1993, when she began her own business. In August 1992, she completed the Gemological Institute of America's program and earned a Graduate Gemologist Degree.

18k Gold & Chrome Tourmaline Ring

1.23 carats Medicine Wheel-cut Chrome Tourmaline

Cut by award winning stone cutter Larry Woods

18k Yellow Gold

Platinum crown

Artist Statement

My experience as a goldsmith enables me to design jewelry that is functional and substantial enough that customers will not have durability problems. To me, this is a basic and fundamental consideration in designing fine jewelry.

As a graduate gemologist, I am aware of the broad spectrum of colored stones available beyond emeralds, blue sapphires and rubies. I always enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for colored stones with others, exciting people with the endless possibilities which exist for coordination of colored gemstone jewelry with fashion.

To this end, I carefully hand-select gemstones of all colors for use in my work. In choosing gemstones, I pay special attention to the quality of the cut and the maximum beauty it has to offer. In addition, I seek stones of exceptional clarity and vibrant color, always with an eye for overall quality and value.

As an artist, I have always been drawn to forms which are graceful and elegant, without being overly complex. I want my designs to enhance and amplify, never crowd or compete with the inherent beauty of the precious material of which they are composed. As I evolve, I will continue to draw on these basic principles of sound design in order to create classical styles that will endure through the seasons of fashion.

AWARDS AND COMPETITIONS

2001 American Gem Trade Association's Spectrum Award

1998 26th International Pearl Design Competition

1995 De Beers Diamonds Today Award

1993 21st International Pearl Design Competition

1993 American Vision Award

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Jewelry That Rocks - 28 July 2007

DiSpagna Jewelry Gets Creative with Cold Fusion Jewelry! - 18 December 2007

Susan Barth Jewelry - 27 June 2008

Juicy Couture Jewelry

2008-07-15T02:15:00.001-07:00

Juicy Couture

Once upon a time, two women created the cutest velour hoodies and matching drawstring pants. The line was called Juicy Couture and every starlet in Tinseltown had to have one. Soon after, so did the rest of the world. Now the once little brand has blossomed into a fashion empire, complete with clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, and most recently, fragrance.

Juicy Couture Onyx Geometric Ring

Geometry is easy to master - pyramids and angled bands create striking linear effect.

14-karat yellow gold plate.

Black onyx.

$92

Juicy Couture was founded in 1997, by Gela Nash-Taylor and Pamela Skaist-Levy, as premium designer, marketer and wholesaler of sexy sophisticated basics. The California-based company is known worldwide for its casual-chic designs, high quality materials and superior craftsmanship. Juicy Couture is embraced by fashionistas from all walks of life, and is also a celebrity favorite.

Juicy Couture 'Vintage Estate' Chain Bracelet

Five linked chains in various finishes and widths comprise a vintage-inspired bracelet centered with tiny heart charms.

Width: 2"

Bar closure.

Length: 7 1/2"

14k gold-plated brass/enamel.

$128

Juicy Couture started out as a women's sportswear line but quickly branched out, and began offering a full line of products. Juicy Couture brings their signature style to their extraordinary line of women's shoes and girl's shoes. For women, Juicy Couture offers a wide array of pumps, sandals, ballet-flats, slippers and boots. Trendy young girls can enjoy a wonderful selection of Juicy Couture sandals and flats.

Juicy Couture Buckle Bracelet

Faux buckle gives a unique look to a wide bracelet.

Magnetic bar closure with clasp lock.

14k gold- or platinum-plated brass.

Width: 1 1/4"

Length: 7"

$128

Juicy Couture embodies all that is chic and glamorous, but lends itself to a relaxed and comfortable way of dressing. Juicy Couture is all about being happy, feeling comfortable, and looking gorgeous.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Juicy Couture Handbag - 22 October 2006

Spring/Summer 07 Jewelry Colors - 27 January 2007

Warm it Up & Be Juicy - 10 February 2007

Couture Jewelry Awards - 04 March 2007

Shooooo(e) La La! What a Haute Blog!

2008-07-14T23:15:00.001-07:00

I'm amusing myself with ridiculousness this afternoon. Labeling it and putting it away, not to worry over but placing it in a file for chuckles when needed. Why obsess over media icons - why force one's body to the pain over footwear with spikes to the rear of the soles - why does a fashionista have to love shoes at all—or even follow a single rule of our couture culture - why not let go of any girlish trappings you never wanted? And yes! Hold on to one's website when the site-mistress's feelings toward the subject changes - why can't a blog be living and growing as well the human behind it?

You know this is where I've been for a while (and it has nothing to do with most recent silence - that I think is busy-ness, health and different types of changes - irrelevant in the long-run, don't worry) - BUT have I mentioned that I now, well, can't stand shoes? Mm Hmm. This site started as purely (and fluffily) a shoe blog. With “candy” and star ratings (wow I purchased too many pairs if I was able to serially review them—but it was Zappos with their return policy..). I still could never have too many bags if I were true to my heart and had the magic powers to defy capitolism.... but shoes, well they're necessary, and I wear them of course .... OK not all the time, I will hop in a car to my best friend's house without ever changing from terry slippers! But yes, I even still INSIST I MUST wear CUTE shoes ... and now living in Florida, it's easier. I pretty much only wear/buy Easy Spirit sandals and wedges (yes, wedges my friends, their WEDGES are more comfortable than most flats!) and I don't have to worry about widths. But god - the last time I bought shoes was after moving (and thus needing more of those sandals) last Fall. (And I only plan on one new pair in the recent future - I want sandals in pink!)

So yes, I've sworn off heels, and all designer shoes forever, and will only maintain a mild affection—purely aesthetic and on the Internet — it's still fashion, it's visual art.

And yet (here we are after an insanely long intro) I have a new blog among my favorites, and it's a shoe blog. How writer, Katie, from Shoe La La, can call herself a shoeaholic when each of her posts are so wittily spot-on with their critiques of the silliness of this crazed-after accessory and are so “shamelessly” reasonable (”Oh no she di'in't just type a synonym for “practical”? Oh girlfriend!), yes, reasonable. A woman - a shoeaholic woman. Dissing the glass slipper (even I love the glass slipper at heart - my name is a Cinderella pun, doi) was the post I first discovered thanks to Google images, with her words mimicking my feelings so deeply—and then recent posts—confessions on walking in high heels and sexy-exercising—graphic-edits and craft-name dropping while she unmasks the label “hobby” from the shopaholic disease (shushies!)—and more! *Thump-thump. Thump-thump.* She has my heart and sole.

Her bio confesses how her guilty pleasure developed, and assures, even furthers my blog crush (coining a term here, folks, pay attention) for her. I bet, for her, when the shoe fits she does buy it in every color and wears it happily, for she can appreciate the rarity. *Swoon.*

Yes, blog crush! I want to give her presents ... like hosting where she can earn money from Google Adsense and a divine header logo and custom blog template.... (and not to mention the Google link juice I'm now gving.) I want to claim her with the roses of the Internet! And not just to gain benefit, but because I like her!

Oh but I know she's too good for me - SEO be damned her blog titles are short and merely perfectly creative with not one keyword a necessity. Sighhh.. She smells so sweetly of integrity and perhaps even “not for profit”...

But as I continue to follow her posts, there will always be something. I don't even know where she lives in the real world, but in my heart it works. We have that olive (insert any food here) love/hate thing. I will consume handbags and she will consume shoes. And I know we'd both wear pants. Mine will mostly be sweatpants and even pajama pants, whether it's that same slippers-day or even walking up the street to my friend's house. “Cause rules be damned when you don't even pass anyone on the way - this is a new world of freedom in gender roles! (A world where a woman was a huge candidate for President, and although that goal's ruled out again for a while longer, at least the pantsuits are gone. Roles/schmoles, a woman can't deny her hips!)

Oh and speaking of pants - get your butt over there to read every last post of Shoe La La now. Whether you love shoes or hate them, too, whether your blog-sexuality is straight or what — I know you will love this blog as much as I do!

Just don't like the blogger as much as I do - ok?

April Higashi Enamel Jewelry

2008-07-14T20:15:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Metalsmith

April Higashi is a Bay area jeweler and designer, who is recognized for her work in painted enamel and mixed metals with high karat gold. She earned a BFA from the University of San Francisco, and after a brief stint in the corporate fashion world, April opened her own company. The second order she received was for an amount well into six figures, and her career as an independent designer and artist was launched.

18k Gold Biwa Pearl Ring

Maximum impact with 18k gold.

Biwa coin pearl ring.

Pearl is 12-13mm.

$1570

Born and raised near Salt Lake City, Higashi has always been engaged in making things. Her grandfather, an artist, took her for walks in the mountains, where he would draw, and he was an important influence on her life. By the age of eight, she showed a strong and creatively independent spirit.

Circle Shield Earrings

Oxidized silver frame earrings topped with enamel.

18k gold wires.

$365

Higashi aims to create wearable art that is both comfortable and uniquely beautiful. Her appreciation for wabi-sabi forms - an aesthetic described as beauty that is imperfect, impermanent, or incomplete - has inspired her to invent new techniques, combining Japanese influences with those of modern design and textiles.

Kombacha Earrings

Set in oxidized silver with 18k gold accents.

Black enamel with 24k embedded gold.

Kombacha is Japanese for squash.

18k gold ear wires.

$440

Higashi paints, textures, and etches her enamel surfaces to give them depth and dimension. She experiments with heat and layering to create texture and translucency, firing some pieces as many as thirty times. She accents her work with darkened silver, high-karat gold, and precious gemstones to give the pieces an earthy modern feel.

April's career continues to expand into diverse areas. She does consulting work, is employed as a buyer for a Paris-based clothing business, and is art director for the Jerry Garcia Estate.

Artist Statement

I use enamel to create rich color fields, markings, and textures. By creating layers of glass, I can create translucent paintings. In the process of heating glass in the kiln, there is always an unpredictable element at play. I am attracted to the depth, textures, translucency, and bleeding that occur during firing.

In a sense, I am marking imperfections in layers to create beauty and balance, by utilizing the unique properties of fusing glass with metal. I look to create a simple sense of beauty and leave a timeless imprint for the audience's reflection. My jewelry represents my aesthetic, which is both contemporary and ancient.

See full article.

Related Entries:

April Flower Jewelry Contest - 01 April 2006

April Jewelry Contest - 19 April 2006

April Contest Almost Over! - 27 April 2006

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Ebony and Ivory

2008-07-14T14:15:00.001-07:00

Besides being the topic of a classic song, and part of a hilarious karaoke scene in the movie Undercover Brother, ebony and ivory are a fantastic summertime color combination. Not quite as stark as black and white, the two hues compliment each other in a way that says, "I'm sophisticated and effortlessly put together. Don't you wish you could dress this way?"

Well now you can, with this week's Goodwill Good Buy of the Week. The DCGF has pulled together two looks, both of which include pieces that still have the tags on them!

The first ensemble, at right, is comprised of a new-with-tags lightweight sweater by Isda & Co. It's very sheer and requires a camisole to be worn underneath, but the fabric is wonderfully soft. The front placket fastens with covered snaps. The sweater is in a size medium and will fit anywhere from a size 6 to a 10.

The sweater's been paired with a black skirt from Banana Republic. It has a straight style with side zipper, and a fun flounce at the bottom. The ramie/cotton/silk blend is fully lined in acetate and quite resistant to wrinkling from what I can tell. It's also environmentally friendly! The skirt is a size 8 and shows no signs of wear. It's hard to see the detail in this picture of the bottom hem, so look for better pics on the DC Goodwill eBay store later today.

The second outfit is a little dressier, and incredibly flattering to a tall gal, especially (not that I'm biased!). The top is from Tahari and still has the original tag from Neiman Marcus showing that the original price was $198. I know - almost $200! Suffice to say you can acquire it for much less. The top is polyester and has a loose tunic style with a drawstring neckline and belled sleeves. Very boho chic.

In keeping with this loose vibe, I've paired the blouse with 100% silk ivory palazzo pants from Flores & Flores. Fairly new to the world of women's clothing (they were founded in 1999), Flores & Flores features classic design and luxurious fabrics. Similar pants are currently retailing for $250. And these are brand new, too.

Although they're wide at the bottom of the leg, the pants are narrower near the thigh and feature no-waistband styling, creating a fluid line all the way down the body. The key to wearing to loose-fitting pieces like this is that they are well tailored. In the case of the blouse, the waist is defined and the sleeves narrow before they end in the flounce at the wrists. The pants also have pleated inserts of woven silk that flow out from the mid-thigh section, creating a long line down the leg. That way you'll look taller and leaner, not like you're drowning in fabric. Or like you're a mime. Because mimes are scary.

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on eBay funds Goodwill's mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities.

Dust Ho!

2008-07-14T11:15:00.001-07:00

Whenever I need a good shot of righteous indignation, I like to search through Google Books on keywords like 'ridiculous dress' or 'ludicrous gown', because I'm never disappointed. I can always find some man who has decided that the only thing wrong with the world is women's dress, and that of course he, being far above the vagaries of fashion (and who is, of course, wearing that completely rational item of dress, the necktie) is ideally suited to pass criticism upon it.

This example is wonderful -- it's not that the streets of London are filthy, or that men should perhaps not throw their cigar butts in the gutter -- no, women's dresses are too long. (Why can't both things be true, I wonder?)

SOCIAL CATECHISM.
Q. WHAT is the dirtiest creature you know?
A. The English fine lady.
Q. What are your reasons for saying this ?
A. Her habits.
Q. Explain yourself more fully.
A. When she walks she drags behind her a receptacle for dust and dirt of every kind.
Q. What is this called?
A. A long dress, or train.
Q. What is its action?
A. It sweeps the ground, collects mud, dust, cigar-stumps, straws, leaves, and every other impurity.
Q. What happens next?
A. This accumulation rubs off to a certain extent upon other portions of her dress, or upon the legs of any person who may walk beside her, and when she gets into her carriage, the objectionable matter spoils the lining ; besides that, the dust is most offensive.
Q. Why does she wear such a ridiculous dress?
A. For one of two reasons. Either because she aims at a servile imitation of certain great folks, or because she owes money to her milliner, and dares not order any kind of dress except that which this tyrant sends home to her.
Q. Why does she not raise, or loop up her dress to keep it from the ground?
A. Because, being a lazy person, she has thick ancles [sic], or being a scraggy person, she has skinny ones, which her vanity forbids her to exhibit.
Q. Is there any other reason?
A. Yes; she has probably ugly feet, disfigured by corns or bunions caused by wearing tight boots.
Q. Is there any cure for such habits?
There is none, until her husband has been nearly ruined by her extravagance, when she is compelled by economical reasons to dress like a rational being, and at once becomes clean and charming as the British female was intended to be.
Q. What sensation is caused to man by the sight of these dresses ?
A. Contemptuous pity for the woman, and pity, without contempt, for her unfortunate husband.
Q. Does she know this ?
A. Yes, but as she dresses less to please men than to vex women, the knowledge has no effect upon her dirty habits.
Q. Where can the animal be seen?
A. At the Zoological Gardens on Sunday afternoons, in the Park and Kensington Gardens, and in most places where fine clothes can be successfully exhibited.
Q. What lesson should you deduce from this ?
A. That of thankfulness to Providence that, (if married at all) you are married to a sensible woman and not to a fine lady.
Q. What will you take to drink ?
A. Anything you like to put a name to.

noir

2008-07-14T08:14:00.001-07:00

Givenchy, Marni & Dries, from indomitable style seeker Garance.

Blogback Mountain

2008-07-14T05:14:00.001-07:00

A fantastic summary of my friend Meg's experience at our fourth of July bash.

A fantastic summary of things we discussed at our fourth of July bash.

Caroline has alerted me to a horrifying, click-at-your-own-risk, NSFW, Don't Show-cha Your Chocha that might be more aptly called Don't Photoshop Out Your Chocha.

Send Princess Poochie your best Shoe Story and win a Zappo's gift card! Do it do it do it!

Krisatomic rocks it out.

Smaggle Style has quickly become one of my favorite blogs--SO creative, funny, and stylish.

Ambika's got a fever, and the only prescription is this necklace!

Karla is so cute that if I saw her in person I would probably do something stupid like hump her leg. And it would probably be the last time I saw her in person.

Gala deserves a leg-humping too. OK, OK, I'll stop.

And finally, here is a transcript of the inner monologue that occurs every time I visit Style Bubble:

First Day: Gasp! OK, yes, this is it. This is my favorite Susie outfit OF ALL TIME. No doubt. FOR SURE. God, she has nice legs.

Next Day: Gasp! Alright, nevermind, THIS has to be my favorite Susie outfit of ALL TIME. Aaahhh the colors! Like a perfect sunset!

Day after that: Gasp! Wait, no, this is it! Damnit, Bubble! Stop messing with my head!

Thoughts.

2008-07-14T02:14:00.001-07:00

An imagined interior monologue, starting with my nose pressed against Georges Seurat's famous oil painting (above) and slowly backing away:

Well, that's dumb. It's just a bunch of dots. What the hell kind of painting is this? Anyone could do this shit! Georges Seurat? More like Georges Overrated. Heh, heh. Good one, Winona. Freakin' dots... Dippin' Dots sound really good, come to think of it. Maybe I'll grab some later. I wish all food came in Dippin' Dots form, like Broccoli Dots, that would be fun. I should call someone about tha--Wait, wait, is that a frolicking dog? Whooooaaa hold on! Grass! Grass! I see grass! A woman! People! It's a Sunday afternoon scene! This is the best painting ever!

A second imagined interior monologue, starting with my nose pressed against Karl Lagerfeld's sequined self-portrait tank top (above), and slowly backing away:

Oooohhh fun! Sequins! Shiny! Weeeeee! Gosh, does it get any better than sequins? And I love the black, white and grey. Tres chic, indeed! I need more sequins in my life, I think. No wonder I've been feeling down. Must increase sequin intake. Umm...are those sequin eyebrows? And sunglasses? What the hell? A nose? KARL LAGERFELD? Stop staring! I'm sorry! Please spare me, FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!

Ali Baubles Jewelry

2008-07-13T23:14:00.001-07:00

Handcrafted Jewelry by Allison Raposa

Born and raised in the UK, now living in the USA, Allison Raposa's passion for baubles has never faded. She finds it exciting to be able to bring the raw materials together to create a beautiful piece of jewelry, which will, hopefully, be cherished for generations. You will see by her description of each piece that she makes almost everything by hand.

Geometrically Groovy Necklace

A bold geometric necklace with a pendant made with individual links of fine silver wire that I've cut, hand fired together, shaped and hammered for texture and strength, and then tumbled to bring out the shine. The pendant is approximately 3" in length. Finished with ceramic beads (made in Greece) dipped in fine silver, strung on black satin cord (one size fits all). A very bold and contemporary piece. Fine silver is 99.9% silver and is highly tarnish resistant.

$82

Metronome Necklace

Very sleek and versatile necklace. The pendant is made with sterling silver wire which has been soldered to sterling silver discs, which have been cut and domed, and then tumbled to bring out the shine. The pendant is approximately 3-1/2" in length. Strung on black satin cord.

$109

Carnaby Street Bracelet

A chic and modern 7" bracelet made with links of sterling silver that I've cut from a sterling silver 22g sheet, shaped, filed, and tumbled to bring out the shine (except for the circular links which I've sanded to get a nice matte finish). Finished with a handcrafted sterling silver clasp which has been soldered on.

$92

Artist Statement

My pieces are handcrafted and made with the finest quality materials, including artisan created lampwork beads, sterling silver, 14k gold fill, copper, and other precious metals. My work is very eclectic as I'm constantly striving to learn new skills, and enjoy dabbling in different areas.

I personally fabricate and weave my chain jewelry from start to finish. Hand-woven chain is a complex and labor-intensive form of jewelry that is beautiful, classic, and enduring.

Allison Raposa

Owner/Designer

AliBaubles.com

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Couture Jewelry Awards - 04 March 2007

Jewelry Designer for Princesses - 08 March 2007

Baubles up for Bid - 08 December 2007

meretrix mehndi

2008-07-13T20:14:00.001-07:00

Setting- Paying for newspapers at a market stand.

Guy: Hey, I like your mehndi.

Me: Thanks.

Guy: I tried it once. On my back.

Me: Cool.

Guy: It reminds me of what's-her-name... um... you know. Red hair. In the bible. Jesus's girlfriend.

Me: Mary Magdalene?

Guy: Yeah! You look like her.

Be Good to Your Mother

2008-07-13T14:14:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, dear readers, Mother's Day was weeks ago. But I'm not talking about your actual mother, I'm talking about Mother Earth. Yeah, it's kinda silly, I guess, but doesn't it sound better than always saying, "Go Green" or "Be Eco-Friendly"? I just need a little variety, that's all.

But I know that this is a topic that is not going away any time soon. Any maybe, just maybe, I'm eating my own words a bit here, because back in January I said, "Green is good. Let's just quit talking about it all the time." And I'm still not convinced that lots of companies are jumping on that bandwagon for nothing but publicity reasons, but there are legitimate reasons to keep this topic at the forefront of the fashion industry.

For one, many of you send me emails asking how to update and reuse items you've found at Goodwill at other resale stores. You just don't want to go out and buy new things. That's recycling at its best! Keep those emails and comments coming; the DCGF is always up for a challenge. And here's the exciting part: fashion labels are starting to reach out to li'l old me to let me know about their green initiatives! How cool is that? Yep, the gals over at Lutz & Patmos sent me an email giving me all the details on the companies new collaboration with Barney's Green, called Leroy & Perry.

Their spring collection consisted of three pieces named after their favorite New York City restaurants: Pastis, Cluny and Zampa, shown at right. All of the styles are made from materials like recycled t shirts and bamboo and 1% of the proceeds go to an environmental charity. Cool, right?

Even better, the Zampa tunic is currently on sale at Barney's! Personally, I wouldn't wear it sans shirt, as the gal in this picture does, but I think it would look great over a button down for the office, or just over a tee-shirt for weekend casual.

Oh, and I forgot to mention, the whole line's inspiration comes from the first few years that designers Tina Lutz and Marcia Patmos spent living in New York's West Village on - where else? - Leroy and Perry Streets.

So here's my Monday gift to you, dear readers: an exclusive preview of their fall collection! At left is just one of the looks to come from the collaboration at Barney's for the fall and winter months in more of those earth friendly fabrics. Don't you just love the toggle closures and hood? Looks so cozy...

And this color's easier to wear than you might think. Pair the capelet with chocolate brown, olive green, rust red for a great fall color palette. Oh, and remember how I'm all about investing in a long pair of gloves for winter? Well this garment is perfect for either showing off bracelets or wearing a fabulous pair of pleather gloves in a longer length, to keep your wrists warm and toasty. I don't have a price point for this item yet, but when I get more details, I'll let you know!

And what befits the fashionista who sports this label and is good to her mother? Try the Billboard Large Deluxe Messenger Bag from Ecologic Designs. It's made out of 98% reclaimed and recycled material, including (as the name suggests) its waterproof, repurposed vinyl billboard exterior.

And yeah, I'm totally digging this Zipcar version, 'cause if you don't own a car (like moi) there's no better way than a Zipcar membership to get all of your donations to Goodwill (and do a little shopping while you're there, too!). On the website, it appears that you might not get to choose which billboard ends up on the side of your bag, but that's part of the fun, I suppose. The bags retail for $119.95, which I'm sure is in part due to their unique nature, both stylistically and in how they're constructed. But it's a great investment that's guaranteed to last a long time.

Ahh...how sweet it is to work for an organization that's one of the nation's largest recyclers. And Goodwill Industries will soon be doing even more to let you know how Goodwill's are being good to our mother earth. I'll keep you posted!

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on eBay funds Goodwill's mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities.

We Are All The Same

2008-07-13T11:14:00.001-07:00

As you no doubt learned last week, dear readers, the DCGF is an avid fan of the fashion magazine. And recently, there have been two groundbreaking events in magazine-world that merit noting, especially as they relate to marketing in the modern world.

Let's begin with the complete media saturation that was Estée Lauder's promotion of it's new fragrance, Sensuous, in the July issue of Harper's Bazaar. See the women at right who represent "Beauty at Every Age?" Coincidentally, the four together comprise the official spokesmodels for Sensuous.

Additionally, Gwyneth scored the cover and 39 additional pages in the mag are devoted to these four women. While some in the industry are applauding what is obviously a huge coup for Estée Lauder, others are accusing them of selling out.

Here's what bothers me, though: the age spread between Hilary Rhoda (21) and Elizabeth Hurley (43) is not that great. And Paltrow (35) and Carolyn Murphy (32) are practically the same age. How is that beauty at every age? Aerin Lauder is actually quoted on Estée Lauder's website as says "The advertising was inspired by the belief that women at every age can be sensuous." Every age between 21 and 43, that is.

Even worse is the complete lack of diversity in the group. Sure, one has a real accent. One has a fake accent. Two blonds, two brunettes. But all are Caucasian. The homogeneity of the group is astoundingly narrow-minded in this day and age. Was there not one Latina, Black, or Asian model willing to smile for Sensuous?

This campaign perhaps more than any other fragrance campaign ever launched is focused intensely on the personality of the spokesmodels to sell the product. Just watch Rhoda waxing poetic about being "in her natural element," or read how Murphy wants to be "comfortable in her own skin." Even if that's true, that skin only look like about a little over half of American women.

Italian Vogue has also published a July issue of stunning homogeneity, but of an entirely different kind: all of the models are black. Steven Meisel shot all of the photographs and everyone from old pros like Iman, Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks to relative newcomers like Sessilee Lopez (below; you can see all of her pages in the mag on her blog) and Jourdan Dunn are sprinkled throughout the mag and on the cover (shown above). This isn't news to most of your in the blogosphere, but I just couldn't resist contrasting it with the Sensuous campaign.

Quoted in the New York Times, editor Franca Sozzani explained, "'Mine is not a magazine that can be accused of not using black girls,' said Ms. Sozzani, noting that Naomi Campbell has had several covers, and that Liya Kebede and Alek Wek have also had covers." Bold words that no American editor would ever be able to utter.

And it's not just about the pictures. As the UK's Telegraph explains, the accompanying articles will focus on black women who have achieved success in the fields of arts and entertainment. Thus far, though, the pictures I've seen are so gorgeous, I'd pay import price on the mag just to see them.

Well, gosh, where does this leave us? Is Estée Lauder sending the industry backward? Is Italian Vogue moving it forward? Probably neither. It's going to take more than a single ad campaign or one issue of a magazine to create a seismic shift in an industry that currently prizes blandness over beauty and conformity over character. But maybe we're taking a small step in the right direction.

Stephani Briggs Fine Jewelry

2008-07-13T08:14:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Goldsmith

Based in Portland, Maine, Stephani Briggs makes contemporary jewelry in high karat gold. Most of her pieces are handcrafted using traditional techniques, and often incorporate unique gemstones from around the world. She believes that jewelry should transcend ornamentation, and should stand alone as an object of fine art.

Moonstone Filigree Pendant

Gold Band Rings

Gold Pendant with Pearl

Stephani's designs are replete with detail and color. There is no substitute for the richness of high karat gold - it gives her jewelry designs an antique, regal quality. The textures she crafts into the metal, particularly in the band rings, are so attractive and unique, and not easily accomplished, I can tell you that.

As a goldsmith, Stephani creates her designs from the rawest of materials, using many different metalsmithing techniques, like stamping, carving, and casting. Anyone who can take a sheet of metal and some wire, and create a lovely and enduring piece of jewelry, is a true artist in my book.

Artist Statement

Creating beautiful objects has become my mission in life. Knowing that someone with a discriminating taste will eventually cherish and care for the work, focuses my attention to the process. When a collector understands a piece, its meaning and inspiration, a connection occurs between artist and appreciator. This is the unique and lively relationship that encourages my evolution as an artist.

My methods of building are very traditional. I fabricate the pieces with metal sheet and wire in high karat gold. Hand tools are used to cut, form, and fuse or solder the jewelry. Patience is critical. There are very few shortcuts and sometimes design changes are intuitively made along the way.

Inspiration is never a problem. Designs begin with drawings and grow from there. Long before I commit to building a piece, I study it aesthetically and technically in drawings - to make sure it will last. Due to the labor-intensive nature of the techniques, I create a limited number of pieces.

I strive for balance in my life, and find sanctuary and inspiration by spending time in the natural world. My home is in Maine and I spend my free time hiking, camping, and biking in the mountains. India has also become a home away from home for me. I travel there annually to study the culture, spend time trekking and buying gems in Jaipur. Wherever I am, I find my place - and what surrounds me inspires me.

For more info, click on the pics!

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Manak Jewelry Mania - 16 January 2007

Merging Cutting Edge ART With Jewelry- Anada Khalsa Jewelry - 19 May 2007

Jewelry Shopping for You? - 30 May 2007

MAC: Electro Flash really POPS!!!

2008-07-13T05:14:00.001-07:00

Why, OH WHY did this not come out earlier this summer!?!? I love, love love this new collection from our amazing friends over at MAC! The baked eyeshadows are genius, I love that I can now basically get two eyeshadows for the price of one.I am really excited about all this baked makeup, as it is so easy to apply and blend (which is what MAC eyeshadows are famous for in the first place, right?). And the colors, oh the colors!! If you are looking for a way to wear colors during the day and not look like a hooker, I suggest starting by lining your bottom lash line (under the lash, not on the wet part) with something unexpected...like green or purple, and blend down. The lip colors are a great neutral compliment (Vanity's Child is my favorite!)... Pair it with Odd Couple eyeshadow and look like rock royalty! xoxo

"Short-circuit expectations. X-ray vision means you see ahead of the rest. Electricity is our most precious resource…everybody, electrified! Light up this world, and the next!" -Electro Flash

Lily of France Bow Thong

2008-07-12T23:14:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe another week has gone by here at the Intimate Guide. It seems like just yesterday that we were featuring the lovely Opin Divin thong from Aubade. But alas, it is once again Thong Thursday and this week we have something that (by name) might seem similar to last week's thong, but is actually quite different.

While the Opin Divin thong is well suited for a romantic evening in, the Lily of France Bow thong is perfect for a casual night out. The low 4.5 inch rise is perfect for your low rise jeans and even if you do show a glimpse of waistband during a dance at the bar or concert, you'll only be showing off the flirty ribbon and bow print detail. The trim of this thong is scalloped and elasticized. As an added bonus, it's even tagless!

The Lily of France Bow Thong is available in nude (barely beige) with black ribbon, black with grey ribbon and white with black ribbon. The white and black is our favorite because the color contrast really sets off the print. It's fantastic in any color combination, though. You can get all 3 for only $21!

Archives 7/4-7/10 2005-2007

2008-07-12T14:14:00.001-07:00

Here's this week's entries from the archives...

July 4 through July 10, 2005

Independence day?

Leather dies style 21206

Style 22692 Bundling & Bagging

How quickly we forget

Bagging Tutorial

July 4 through July 10, 2006

Process and Progress

H&M Is Taking Over the World

Hot working bras

Freudian slip

The devil wore Prada

Machine washing

Miracle's off the hook

July 4 through July 10, 2007

Library of Congress

Geek Holiday day 1

I am not evil

Geek Holiday day 2/3

Geek Holiday day 4

Sweet sales items I found!

2008-07-12T11:14:00.001-07:00

I always mean to do this at least once a month, but tragically I am usually too busy to get to it. But here is another addition of hot steals I found on the web (aka cool clothes on sale!):

This cute dress by Lily, at Nordstrom, is on sale for $42 from $108 and all sizes are still in stock!!

Alfani Woman Deep Surplice Top, was $65, now $47.99 at Macys.com

Aphrodite Wrap Front Bathing Suit 50% off! Was $79, now $39.50 at AlwaysForMe.com

Crochet Gauze Dress, was $69.99, now $34.99 at Silhouettes.com

Where to Get the Two-Tone Color Craze

2008-07-12T05:14:00.001-07:00

A very modern and lasting trend this season that will flow into the next is the two tone anything. Whether it be a dip-dye ombré dress, shirt, shoes, a belt or your sunglasses, I recommend owning something with this fabulous color process on it.

A great place to pick up a variety of pieces with this dye job is through Adam Lippes, on shopadam.com, which is where you can find this two-tone purple frock featured here. Although I must say this two-tone yellow garb by Behnaz Sarafpour is far superior to anything I saw on Adam’s website.

On the sunglass note, I recently picked up a pair of two tone mellow yellow frames at Charlotte Ruse for $5, but if you are itching for something with a little more lasting power and little less scratches on it, try these Chloe Charme sunnies, the Baby Phat shades or these Emilio Pucci’s at the far right there.

Dear Daddy Likey: Don't Make Me Pull A Kim Kardashian

2008-07-11T17:14:00.001-07:00

Dear Daddy Likey,

I'm so happy that you've found a swimsuit that you love, and that flatters a part of your body you're not thrilled with. But I have a different problem altogether. My waist measurement is a 26 but my hips are a 42, meaning that I don't mind wearing bikinis because my stomach is okay, but my hips and thighs are all wobbly and squishy and dimply. (Cute, I know.) And there is NO swimsuit for that problem! I hate having to wear a sarong until the second I get into the water, and I don't want to go all Kim Kardashian and actually TAKE A TOWEL INTO THE WATER WITH ME, but I don't know what else to do!

Please help me! Are there any creative solutions? I can't think of ANYTHING!

Signed,
Stacy Sa-Wrong

Dear Stacy,

I'll be honest. My response to your query started out along the lines of, "Own it, girlfriend! Don't let anyone make you feel bad about your squishyness! Woo! Girl Power!" But then I realized that if I asked someone for advice about swimwear that camouflaged my stomach, and they said, "Wear a bikini! Own it, girlfriend! Don't let anyone make you feel bad about your Jack Black-sized gut! Woo! Girl Power!" I would have to track them down and strangle them with a conservative one piece.

So, with that in mind, I came up with a couple more realistic, less annoying suggestions for you.

Swim Skirts and Swim Dresses

For many of us, the term "swim skirt" triggers traumatizing visions of frumpy grandma suits, but a couple weeks ago, my friend Jess bought this swimsuit and showed me the light:

It's even cuter in real life, seriously. The gold details around the bust and the ruching at the waist really stand out.
Black Gold Stud Halter Swimsuit, ON SALE for $39, torrid.com

When she came over to show me and take a dip in the pool (which, because it's located in a condo complex with a large retiree population, has seen its share of scary swim skirts), I was blown away: it was glamorous, flattering, unique, sexy, and SKIRTED. And here's the thing, it wasn't glamorous, flattering, unique and sexy in spite of the skirt, but the skirt actually contributed to all of those things. Paradigm. Shifted.

My beautiful plus size readers can enjoy Jess' lovely swimsuit above and the equally chic skirted suit below:

Hot-Pink Star Print Halter Swimsuit, also ON SALE for $39, torrid.com

This one is so cute I want to wear it everyday, not just to cover up a little extra junk in the trunk:

How cute would it be with a simple black bikini top?
Coral Floral Flirt Skirt, $28, venus.com

Adjustable Gottex Skirted Bikini Bottoms, $74, nordstrom.com

If you like the look of the skirt above, but prefer not to spend so much, this two piece set is only $18:

Going Dotty Swimwear, Target.com

How freakin' amazing is this swimdress? You could wear it to the Oscars, and then go for a dip in the pool, and then wear it to the Grammys. SO chic.
Anne Cole Swimwear Shirred One Piece, $112, nordstrom.com

Also check out this amazing DKNY swimdress, which is kind of cuter than any of the regular dresses I own, on sale at Macy's.

Board Shorts

These can be a little tougher to work into your swim wardrobe unless you already prefer a more athletic look, but with a million different cool prints and varied lengths, you're sure to find one that fits your style.

Board shorts are a much better option than wearing a towel into the water, if just for the simple fact that you won't be clinging to a giant waterlogged piece of cotton while sinking to your death and shrieking "Don't look at my thighs!!" Pair them with a bikini top or slip them over a one-piece, and you've got yourself a hip-covering and functional swim ensemble.

Here are two bright and crazy options (my personal favorite), but just google "boardshorts" for about seven billion different options, including solid colors, designer, and knee-length styles.

Billabong Flower Child Board Short, $38, swell.com

Roxy Polka Party Boardshort, $37, amazon.com

Feel free to share your suggestions for Stacy in the comments!

mascarpone millinery

2008-07-11T14:14:00.001-07:00

This is not a food blog (though I enjoy my meals as much as my boots), but I wished to share with you my little egg of tiramisu.

I think it would make a good hat (of the fantastic, sculptural variety that upper class Brits wear to special events). A lady could cheer for her racing horse and snack on mascarpone cream at the same time.

I Like HIS Style!

2008-07-11T11:14:00.001-07:00

Ebony Magazine is giving thanks to all those brothas that know how to make us swoon. Effortlessly swagger is innate. It cannot made. And if you don't believe me take a look the four men pictured (four other covers are avialable). Each one has made a mark in our community and the world, for not only being talented, but for being an unapologetic individual. Be sure to grab a copy, or two, this coming Tuesday:

For the first time ever, Ebony magazine presents not one, not two, but eight quintessential covers to celebrate the 25 coolest Black men of all time. Jay-Z, Barack Obama, Prince, Samuel L. Jackson, Denzel Washington, Marvin Gaye, Muhammad Ali and Billy Dee Williams take center stage as they personify Black cool on the covers of this historic collector’s edition. From their sleek, debonair styles to their smooth-as-silk personas, these magnificent Black men have conveyed, captured, and conquered the quintessence of cool while making it appear effortless.

Click on the thumbnails below to enlarge the photos...

what's up pussycat?

2008-07-10T23:14:00.001-07:00

Street fashion is going feline.

(from top left, stockholm, munich, mexico)

A Fleet for you?

2008-07-10T14:14:00.001-07:00

The reaction was a little mixed last time I posted about Fleet Ilya. Now that the website is lot more evolved, it seems far more clear as to what Fleet Ilya is all about and now I'm sure that there's a Fleet Ilya accessory for everyone, despite the self tagged 'taboo-breaking' description.

We have the 'Classic' line which consists of simple oversized bags (I spy the bag as a dress trick there...), well made belts and even a simple harness that concentrates on craftsmanship that comes from Ilya Fleet's (one half of the partnership behind the label) background and training under saddler Robin Cochrane.

Then there's the 'Concept' line with couture pieces that mainly involves powerful statement-making belts used in Ana Sekularac's AW08 show. The belt with a one shoulder strap has me thinking about the belt being used more as a garment than an accessory.

Finally we have the 'Restraint' line, probably the most intriguing out of the lot as whilst it's described as the 'epitome of luxury bondage' and I'm not really into bondage gear, I love the extremity of the harnasses and accessories. The lookbook images here obviously are purposely provocative but again, out of that context and they become something else altogether...

I'll find out for myself once and for all, what sort of Fleet Ilya girl I am as they're holding a sample sale this weekend at Unit 8 Maun House,1 Dunn Street, London.

Fashion Sewing on A Budget ... and the Walk-Away Dress!

2008-07-10T11:14:00.001-07:00

I was flipping through some of my old sewing books a while back, looking for something (I can't even remember what) and was arrested by this image, which of course is the famous Walk-Away Dress:

If you can't read the caption, it is:

Even a beginner can make a dress like this one successfully, from two old dresses. This pattern is smart, adaptable, and easy to make since it only has a few pieces.

The book was Fashion Sewing on a Budget, and I have to say it's one of the more helpful of the ancient titles that I've accumulated. I think because it takes a "learning by doing" approach, which is the learning style I've always favored. (You make more mistakes, but you learn more from them!)

The online copies I've linked to above, on Amazon, are fairly pricey but my copy is marked "$1-" on the flyleaf and I'm sure I've seen this many a time in thrift stores and used book sales. Keep an eye out in those places, if you want it.

I still haven't made the Walk-Away dress, myself. I keep reading other people's reviews and can't decide whether to try it, and, if so, in what fabric ... and, of course, where to put the pockets!

Pop Quiz #474

2008-07-10T08:14:00.001-07:00

Don't give me any grief about this. I'm telling you up front that this qualifies as one -if not the most- arcane and dopiest entry I've ever published. In sum, if you don't get the answer, it's likely no one else will either but I'm looking forward to reading your creative submissions.

This was inspired by DH. He wondered why some of my patterns had little blue lines around the outside edges (below)

If that's not visible, below is a close up:

Hurry on sale now - Vera Wang

2008-07-10T05:14:00.001-07:00

On sale now at the time of this post - the Vera Wang Enhancers strapless bra. It is a very light nude color with baby pink trim across the top and bow in front. This is the softest bra I've ever touched! Made of 79% Nylon and?21% Spandex, it feels so smooth! Like suede!

34A-38D available. Comes with clear straps. Seam free cups have extra fabric below - extending the band to keep it in place. Firmly padded with a layer of foam and supported by concealed underwiring. Comfy and supportive.

Regularly $65.00. SALE! $32.50

Just a few more hydrangea photos!

2008-07-09T20:14:00.001-07:00

Let me torture/bore you with some more photos of my pretty, pretty hydrangeas! They are just so pretty this year, loaded with flowers.

I'm here on a semi-vacation for the next week or so. With sporadic internet access on my laptop.

Balenciaga-ga for prints

2008-07-09T08:14:00.001-07:00

What says warm weather like a beautiful floral print? Abstract, watercolor, pastel...the details don't matter nearly as much as the delivery, and boy does Balenciaga deliver!

The Floral print Clutch, as featured in the New York Times Magazine is sublime. It is at once strong and feminine without any of the typical "this is a designer bag" hallmarks. Prints may come and go on the fashion scene, but a clutch like this transcends those trends, as a thing of beauty. It is $945 at select Neiman Marcus stores.

Alas, not all prints are created equally timeless, but that doesn't mean they are less beautiful.

The Giant City Bag in Coquelicot Japonais has that same fabulous juxtaposition of a hard edged bag in a feminine fabric, but a bit more in your face than the clutch. It's a bag that will garner looks instant recognition on the street in a style that has become an indie classic...while some girls have tossed their Balenciagas aside for newer IT bags, others have remained true to the signature style, making them chic without that "of the second" trendiness.
The Giant City in the floral is $1595, and available exclusively from Balenciaga.

Congratulations to the Winner of Contest 5!

2008-07-09T05:14:00.001-07:00

Congrats to jennachloe for winning Customized Girl's Fifth Design Contest! She wins $200 and her design will be featured in the July 3rd issue of US Weekly.

She designed a very cool tank top. We particularly love the use of the dice as a symbol for the number “10″. We didn't even notice that ten was showing on the dice until jennachloe created this design. Very clever.

In addition to this awesome tank top, we have to give respect to jennachloe for the seemingly infinite number of clever, interesting, funny, and cute designs she has submitted to each contest over the last few months.? All of them have been excellent, and there were definitely more than one that could have been the winner.

And thanks once again to the other entries as well.? There was an incredible amount of talent on display for Contest 5, and we hope to see the same for Contest 6.

Speaking of Contest 6, it is officially launched!

PLEASE NOTE: We're upping the dollar value to $250, but instead of cash, the winner will be earning a $250 gift card to CustomizedGirl.com.? Now you can purchase all of your favorite designs from the contests and keep them for yourself or use them as excellent gifts.

Hurry, contest 6 ends on June 16th!

The contests are now on a monthly schedule. A new winner is announced in the middle of every month. As soon as a winner is announced, the next contest begins.

The winner should appear in US Weekly two Fridays after the announcement.

Moonstones & More Garnets

2008-07-09T02:14:00.001-07:00

Ive been trying to look over my website the last few days and in doing so I realized that I had only one moonstone bracelet that hadn't been sold. It was time to make more. I have a Rainbow Moonstone Jewelry page, but it was the regular Moonstone Bracelets page that was so depleted. I have some moonstone that I hadn't made anything with for a while that I am very fond of: these are faceted white moonstones in a nugget form that fascinate me for some reason. They have a strange gleam or glow at angles and I just like their faceted nugget shape. Ifound what I think is the perfect match with some of Robin Weber's magical translucent, silver-laced lampwork beads and with some pretty blue aquamarine faceted nuggets. I used all bright silver to match the sterling silver Robin had worked into the beads and added a Karen Hill Tribes thick white silver chain. To top it off, a pretty white silver toggle that has a flower on the edge of the ring. This bracelet just made me feel good!
But I also had these moonstone nuggets that were the same faceted shape and were odd colours - a greenish colour and a greenish grey. Again, I really liked these but hadn't used them before. Once again, Robin Weber's beads to the rescue! With their green touched with a grey, cream, charcoal and silver, they were perfect for the bracelet I had in mind. Sterling silver and some more moonstone beads with their eerie glow and I had a bracelet I thought seriously about taking home (one of the problems of this trade). But I dutifully put it on the website. With its spiral sterling Hill Tribes charms and rings, it's a real eye-catcher! The third moonstone bracelet contains a mauvey-peach-beige moonstone that has little flecks of glitter as well as a glow in it. The addition of leopardskin jasper with deep peach tones was great for a different look. Leopard in the Moonlight is also on the Moonstone Bracelets page. Don't forget that Garnet is the January birthstone. The garnet bracelet above mixes garnets with porcelain jasper and faceted rose quartz accented by the great lampwork of James Derrick Reeves. Little bezel set garnet charms hang at intervals on the bracelet.
I'm trying to stick to those New Year's Resolutions, and unfortunately, find myself adding more all the time! It seems I have a lot to work on! But I am working on them, little by little, getting organized, being more thoughtful of others, neater at home; I even bought an organization book for artists and artisans about how to organize a studio/office. Here's hoping it helps!

jewellery accessories jewelry fashion shopping bracelets beads handmade beaded jewelry beading helmi gioielli smykker tak? juvelen lampwork beads The Jewelry Blog jewelry trends accessories garnet birthstone moonstone bracelet moonstone

Black & White with a Punch!

2008-07-08T23:14:00.001-07:00

Every store I go into, I am seeing Black & White. It seems that the absence of color is the new color for Spring. I think its actually a really sleek look, and can be very flattering on plus sizes, if done in the right proportions. However, I recommend adding a real punch of color with your bag or shoes if you are going to go this route, otherwise you will look totally drab. Here a couple of my ideas:

Franco Sarto Knotting Hill Large Bag
$141.95 at Zappos.com

Gabrielle Rocha Ellie Shoes
$69.95 at Zappos.com

Above: Satin Tie Halter, $38 at Torrid

Chinese Laundry Bucana Heels
$62.95 at Zappos.com

Guess Collection Vixen Flap Handbag
$161 at Zappos.com

Extra! Extra!

2008-07-08T20:14:00.001-07:00

Just thought you should know...

What: Open call for models, photographers, stylists, and artists of all kinds by your friend and mine, tu-anh

Where: The Park at Fourteenth, 920 14th Street, NW (sorry, non-DC readers!)

When: Tonight from 6pm-8pm!!

Why: Even if you're not one of the above, just show up to hang out with your fellow fashionista, the DCGF

How: RSVP to info@tu-anh.com to get yourself on the list. See you there!

A Model Society

2008-07-08T17:13:00.001-07:00

They're baaaack! As you've probably heard, dear readers, our favorite supermodels of the 90s are showing up in more ads now than possibly they did then. Claudia Schiffer has signed on for fall campaigns at Chanel and Salvatore Ferragamo, Linda Evangelista will be parading in Prada, Naomi Campbell (assuming she stays out of trouble!) will be layering on Yves Saint Laurent, and Christy Turlington will be ensconsed in Escada.

Already ads by Louis Vuitton (like the one at right) have reminded fashion magazine readers what a fashion ad with professional models looks like. Could this possibly signal an end - or at least a diminishment - of the incessant celebrity-driven advertising campaigns of the 2000s? The UK's Independent traces the demise of the model in fashion ads to Donna Karan's Fall 1996 campaign featuring Demi Moore and Bruce Willis, reminding readers that by the end of that year Calvin Klein claimed people "just aren't that interested in models".

Maybe there was some fallout from the media saturation of the so-called Big Four: Christy, Cindy, Linda, and Naomi. They were practically everywhere in the fashion and pop-culture world, including music videos and full-length documentaries. Remember Unzipped? And then they settled down, got married, had kids, or just found other pursuits for awhile, many of them philanthropic. And Hollywood seized the opportunity to use fashion as a medium for promoting everything from the casts of television shows to A-list movie stars to celebutantes who had no discernible skills beyond the fact that they could fit into a sample size.

I recently stumbled upon an Allure Magazine dated March 1998 in a pile of vintage fashion periodicals that were donated to me, and who is on the cover but Jennifer Aniston! Aside from the incredibly awkward pose and unnatural airbrushing on her face - or maybe because of it? - this magazine could be from last week. It has all the hallmarks of the current fetishization of celebrity found in most fashion magazines: "Special Issue CELEBRITY BEAUTY" in the upper right hand corner; "PRIMPING FOR THE OSCARS" in the lower left hand.

Because knowing about "The Stars, The Experts, Their Top Secrets," somehow made one more fashionable in 1998. Just like it still does today. Doubtful!

Anyway, I thought it was just fun to see a magazine that's now over 10 years old and to realize how little has changed since the seismic shift of the late 90s. But I'm ready for something new, or maybe just a return to what was before. I'm ready to see a model on the cover of a fashion magazine again.

Vogue attempted a trip down memory lane with their April issue this year. On the cover is - gasp! - Giselle Bundchen. You know, a model. Sure, she's posing with LeBron James, but it's the "shape issue," so having an athlete on the cover seems perfectly reasonable.

Unfortunately, what made headlines about this cover was not the fact that it was absent a movie star (thank goodness!), but that there might have been some racial undertones to the pose of the two cover subjects. While that debate raged on, the DCGF quietly smiled, crossed her fingers, and secretly hoped that this might be the change I'd been hoping for. Tragically, the two subsequent months of Vogue featured Gwyneth Paltrow (new movie in theaters!) and Sarah Jessica Parker (new movie in theaters!).

-sigh-

Same as it ever was.

Even if we never again experience the beauty and magic of the heyday of the supermodel, perhaps there's still hope for fashion magazines and their increasing collaborations with the art world.

I'd love to see Lucien Freud or Takashi Murakami commissioned for some cover art on a major fashion magazine. I know this sometimes occurs on international versions of these same periodicals, but why can't we see it here? If the Gap can get Jeff Koons to design a t-shirt, then anything is possible.

Check out the Vogue cover to the left, from October 1957. It's stunningly beautiful. And painfully simple. Something like that would never fly today, I know. We need all of our little headlines telling us how much slimmer, prettier, hipper, chicer we'll be after reading 300-some-odd pages of shiny copy.

But maybe, just maybe, there's a shift out there, back toward the fashion industry's roots. Back to beautiful clothes and accessories, and not just the touched-up celebrities who are lucky enough to get to wear them.

I look forward to what's in store for us...

Film and Fashion.

2008-07-08T11:12:00.001-07:00

While watching a movie, I often find myself focusing more on the wardrobe than the movie itself. I derive a lot of my style from my favorite movies, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who finds inspiration in cinema. So... today I'm discussing fun ways to incorporate some film flair into your style.

For starters, how about unleashing your inner stylish criminal and channel the lovely Faye Dunaway in Bonnie and Clyde?

&hearts; Grab yourself a short-sleeved vintage sweater. I'm head over heels for this canary yellow one from Vintagetrends.com.

&hearts; Pair it with a woolly beret. I rather fancy this one from Adorevintage.com.

Or perhaps you're going for a more 80's teen-queen, Pretty in Pink ensemble?

Admit it, we all wanted to be Molly Ringwald once upon a time. (I think Ducky was my first celebrity crush.)

&hearts; Browse Ebay for some obnoxiously (yet deliciously) flashy vintage 80's pieces and pile them on! My inner Molly is lusting after this floral mini from Ebay vintage seller Jumblelaya.

&hearts; If you're feeling especially daring, you could always snag an 80's prom dress from your local thrift shop and start snipping!

True to my title, I've gotta say that one of my personal inspirations is Kate Hudson as Penny Lane in Almost Famous.

&hearts; Express your free spirit in an uber-warm faux sheepskin coat like this one, from Black Light Vintage.

&hearts; Don't forget your John Lennon sunglasses.

Another one of my favorite film-fashionista's would have to Thora Birch as Enid in Ghost World. She had such fun, kitsch-y outfits that made me think of someone that plays dress-up every day.

&hearts; Enid's always wearing vintage eyeglasses, and I'm definitely jonesing for a pair of these fun frames from Retrospecs & Co.

&hearts; Enid also wears a lot of funky prints and vintage dresses, like this one from Rusty Zipper.

So what are some of your favorite style-inspiring movies?

Marianne Anderson Jewelry

2008-07-08T05:12:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Goldsmith

Acclaimed British jewelry designer Marianne Anderson graduated from The Glasgow School of Art in 2003 with a First Class Honors Degree in Jewelry Design. Since then, Marianne has developed her exquisite jewelry from her studio in Glasgow, Scotland. Enjoying the creativity of designing and the challenge of running her own business, Marianne exhibits and sells internationally.

Ornamental Cluster Ring

Oxidized silver, 18k gold, Garnet, and Freshwater Pearls

This lovely cluster ring features a collection of briolette garnets and drop pearls grouped with oxidized silver and 18k yellow gold details. All pieces move around creating a really tactile piece.

Inspired by the history of ornament, Marianne Anderson's jewelry presents a considered exploration of traditional ornamental forms and a refreshingly original interpretation of the decorative. Working within a restrained palette of oxidized silver, 18k gold, Garnets, and white Pearls, she creates luxurious and wearable collections that skillfully reference the human fascination with adornment.

Pearl Pattern Brooch

Oxidized Silver and Freshwater Pearls

Hand pierced in oxidized silver and featuring gorgeous surface decoration and a scattering of freshwater button pearls. This brooch is a real statement piece and would suit anyone who loves bold contemporary jewelry. It measures approximately 70 mm in diameter.

Working mainly in oxidized silver, 18k gold, red garnets, and white pearls, she creates luxurious collections that reference historical ornamental detailing, and she draws inspiration from intricate motifs and patterns. All the pieces in her collection are entirely made by hand.

18k Gold Decorated Gold Band

This beautiful ring is richly decorated with Marianne's signature ornate trimming that forms tiny hearts around the ring's surface. Perfect as a unique wedding band or gift for someone special.

Artist Statement

My interest is rooted in how we learn and draw from the past and return frequently to designs, motifs, and patterns of historic and symbolic significance. By purposefully engaging with the past, my aim is to highlight the importance of ornament in a modern context. Far from superfluous, ornament has always had its own vocabulary and meaning, and I try to engage with this through my work.

In my jewelry, pierced silhouettes of oxidized Silver are systematically arranged and intersected by grids of gemstones, pearls, and 18k gold, or scattered randomly to deconstruct controlled patterns, creating bold fragmented images on an intricate scale. The arrangement of repeated parts into patterns creates symmetries and contrasts that are alluring and elegant.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Stephen LeBlanc Art Jewelry - 27 May 2008

This One’s For You…

2008-07-08T02:12:00.001-07:00

Above: Onyx Nite Stretch Satin Dress, $59, www.silhouettes.com**

Left to right: Tropical Print Dress, $69; Eyelet Shirtdress, $59; Shirtdress, $49 all available at www.silhouettes.com**

I’ve had a few emails from readers requesting that I include at least one item for women sizes 14 and up in each post. Most times that proves difficult but while looking over Silhouettes.com for an upcoming post, I noticed that a lot of their dresses where relevant to posts I’d written in the past. For example, take the “Take a Leaf Out of Her Style Book: Halle Berry” post. I chose these dresses but you can check out the Eyelet Shirtdress for $59. One of summer’s popular must-have dresses is the Maxi Dress. I loved these choices but try the Tropical Print Dress, $69. And lastly, for an ultra chic Satin Dress you must Onyx Nite Stretch Satin Dress. At just $69, it beats out my original picks.

**Use the search function on www.silhouettes.com to find the dresses above!

Jewelry Bargains at Jewelry Television

2008-07-07T20:12:00.001-07:00

At Jewelry Television? our mission is to open the world of fine jewelry and gemstones to everyone. Shopping online with Jewelry Television? is easy, fast and convenient. In fact, we shipped approximately 5.5 million packages to our customers last year! In our fast-paced world, we believe that online shopping will continue to thrive so we are working daily to bring you more of the jewelry and gemstones you want to see.

10k Prasiolite & Lavender Quartz Bypass Ring

10k yellow gold 1.90ct cushion shape checkerboard cut Prasiolite.

1.90ct cushion shape checkerboard cut lavender Quartz bypass ring.

This ring measures 11/16 inch knuckle to knuckle.

$100

Sterling Silver & 18k Over Sterling Silver Prasiolite Ring

Sterling silver and 18k yellow gold over sterling silver.

6.44ct approximately 12x10mm cushion Prasiolite.

This ring measures 9/16 inch from knuckle to knuckle.

$15

14k Tahitian Pearl & Diamond Ring

14kt yellow gold and .18ctw round diamond.

9-10mm round natural cultured Tahitian Pearl.

This ring measures 5/16 inch from knuckle to knuckle.

$200

Blue Topaz & Sterling Silver Filigree Ring

8.70ct cushion Blue Topaz approximately 12.5mm.

This ring measures 1/2 inch from knuckle to knuckle.

$27

10k White Gold & Tanzanite Pendant

10k white gold.

3.18ctw round Tanzanite cluster.

The drop measures 1 3/8 inches, the bail is 3mm.

$150

14k Blue Zircon & Diamond Accent Slide

14k yellow gold.

1.80ct oval blue Zircon.

.01ct round diamond accent.

The slide has a drop of 7/8 inch and a width of 1/2 inch and a 1.5mm bail.

$80

10k Textured & Polish Twisted Oval Link Bracelet

10k yellow gold textured and polish twisted ovals.

5/16 inch wide with a spring ring clasp.

This bracelet was Made in Italy.

$80

14k Polished Herringbone Bracelet

14k yellow gold 6mm polished herringbone bracelet.

The bracelet measures 3/16 inch in width.

Lobster claw clasp.

Made in Italy.

$100

Garnet & 18k Yellow Gold Over Sterling Silver Bracelet

18k yellow gold over sterling silver.

3.52ctw marquise and round garnet bracelet.

This bracelet measures 5/8 inch wide with a hidden box clasp.

$53

14k Gold & Sterling Silver Twisted Hoop Earrings

14k yellow gold and sterling silver twisted hoop earrings.

These earrings have a drop of 1 and 1/4 inches and saddlebacks.

$38

Silver Sky Blue Topaz & White Topaz Bracelet

Sterling silver.

Hidden box clasp closure.

Sky blue topaz approx 8x8mm.

24.90ctw trillion sky blue Topaz.

.48ctw round white Topaz bracelet.

This bracelet measures 5/16 inch in width.

$60

Amethyst & Sterling Silver Flower Design Cuff Bracelet

Sterling Silver & 1.25ctw round Amethyst flower design cuff bracelet.

This bracelet has a width of 13/16 inch.

$70

Have a great week!

Maggie

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Jewelry Bargains at Max & Chloe - 03 May 2008

Jewelry Bargains at Zavier - 11 May 2008

Jewelry Bargains at Diamond International - 15 June 2008

American Apparel Coming To Ventura?

2008-07-07T17:12:00.001-07:00

There is some potentially exciting news for American Apparel fans in Ventura County, California. A recent visit to their website indicated that they will be opening a new store in downtown Ventura. That means no more driving to Santa Barbara or Los Angeles to shop for your form-fitting basics. While there is no opening date listed, the website indicates that the location will be 391 E. Main Street. This puts American Apparel in the heart of Ventura's downtown cultural district. As someone who has spent a fair share of time shopping, dining, and hanging out in this area, I'm quite surprised that such a large company (that appeals mainly to Gen X and Y) would even be interested in planting roots in off-the-radar Ventura. Most of the businesses along Main Street in this area are locally owned, so it will be interesting to see how the locals react to this new tenant. As many of the antique stores for which Ventura was once known continue to close along this stretch of Main Street, trendy clothing shops, high end home furnishings stores, quaint wine bars and sleek restaurants open, ushering in a new, more modern landscape.

This Should Be Easy...Right?

2008-07-07T14:12:00.001-07:00

Today, dear readers, yours truly the DCGF has on a very cute black empire-waist dress and - wait for it - turquoise shoes. Now don't get me wrong: I love to add a touch of color via my footwear and accessories. But I've been searching...nay, I've been on a quest to find a great pair of black flats for the summertime with zero success. Am I too picky? Too hard to please? Too hard to fit? I'd like to think that's not the case. I mean, we're talking black flats here, not cerulean stilettos. Although I'm beginning to think the latter might be easier to find!

Let's start with what I have currently. It's the "Willy" style from NaNa and yes, I know these are blue, but mine are black. I love the snub toe and low heel, not to mention the edgy strap detail on the toe and cut-out pattern on the heel.

Problem is, mine are about two years old now and the soles are almost worn through. And the heels are, well...not in great shape. Plus, the shoes are really more for fall/winter. They don't breathe and are a bit unpleasant in the summertime. I highly recommend the brand, though, overall, especially to gals who are large of foot, like moi. Their flats run about a half size big - woohoo! You can find them at zappos.com or, if you're in the D.C. area, at Shoefly on U Street and in Clarendon.

So with my NaNa's on their last leg (so to speak), I decided to try a new brand from Piper Lime, the online shoe store owned by the Gap, Inc. I was a bit nervous about these OroNero's, because their size 11 was equivalent to a 41, which usually means they'll be too small. But returns are free and found a couple of other pairs I liked, so I threw caution to the wind.

And they're so cute! And way too small. My toes were literally pressing out of the end. But I love the bejeweled strap and stretchy upper, not to mention the fact that they seem like they'd be cushy and comfy for a day of walking. Alas, it's not meant to be. I'm going to be sending them to my sister. If you like them, though, they're still available in black, red, and yellow patent in a variety of sizes for just $49.99.

So now, dear readers, I'm thinking that I might go for the BCBGirls "Almond" style from Nordstrom. They're available in a size 12 and are on sale for $44.90. I like the low heel and pointy toe, for sure. And a patent finish is always great for summertime.

But I'm torn about the rose cutouts. Too girly? Too young? Certainly they'll keep me cool on the hottest of days, but I don't want to look like I just stepped out of a "My Chemical Romance" music video. What do you think? Any other suggestions?

Oh perfect pair of black flats...where are you?!

into the abyss

2008-07-07T11:12:00.001-07:00

Kazakh model Ruslana Korshunova fell to her death from a NY apartment this weekend. She would have been 21 on Wednesday.

It is difficult to keep track of all the models who appear from Eastern Europe each year, but Ruslana has stuck in my mind since I first saw her in this Mario Sorrenti editorial due to her name (I'm a fan of Pushkin's poems), and knee length rapunzel hair. The print version of her Nina Ricci fragrance ad (below) is currently pasted on a billboard across from my work. I think of her every day as I pass it.

My heart goes out to her family. What a tragic loss.

New year - new body?

2008-07-07T08:12:00.001-07:00

Did you know that the number 1 most popular new years resolution is to lose weight? Just because you, my dear readers, are empowered and attempting to love your body (if not loving it already) does not mean that you aren't going to be tempted to undertake a weight loss regiment yourselves.

I am not going to try and stop you; as many of you know I have lost more than 40 pounds in the last 2 years by exercising and changing my eating habits.

But I highly encourage you not to go on a diet. Diets don't work! They are restrictive and boring and no fun. I am not on a diet. I just finished a fabulous vanilla and peanut butter swirl frozen yogurt with peanut butter chips. But I also did a kick butt workout this morning for an hour and half. It's all about balance, girlies.

I also encourage you not to try and get "skinny". I may have lost 40 pounds, but I am still a full figured fashionista. It's about health, not size 2 jeans. It's about energy to walk and run and do all the fun things you want to do. It's about living your life to the fullest - not rejecting or hating the body you have, but loving it enough to make it perform at its best, regardless of its size.

Since this is a blog where I do make recommendations, I will make one now. I have lost my weight with 2 things: 1) A gym membership. 2)Weight Watchers. It lets you eat like a human being, and yet gives you the tools to lose weight. Amazingly, its not that hard (if you are truly ready to start), or that expensive. It may not work for everybody, but its the plan I have found that teaches you the most how to eat like a "normal" person, not a dieter. I am on the points plan (I think its called "flex") and I love it!

Oh, and if you have no desire to lose weight, that's cool too. Just giving you some food for thought!

Cage Campaign

2008-07-07T02:12:00.001-07:00

Mind is refreshed and ready to type something a little more intelligent than simply 'Look at me in a floral cage skirt!'. Apologies for post-repetition/expansion. Very tardy of me indeed. However it had to be recalled and retold. So I ambled into the Acne SS09 show in my floral cage skirt worn over a vintage dress with my Sophia Malig floral leggings and Ann Demeulemeester jacket and topped off with the new Marni shoes (comfy for five hours but I did have a pair of emergency flats with me after that....). The show was being held at the Acne headquarters and so all the Acne peeps were there. All the different countries' press reps, the creative team etc, so me showing up in the floral cage skirt could easily have ended up being a bit of a laughing stock. I might well be known as the 'The Girl who Showed Up in an Acne Knock Off.' However, I was pretty defiant in my campaign. As soon as the show was over and the chit chat and meet'n'greet was going on, in preparation for the post-show dinner which was also held in the show venue for all guests, people started asking me about my skirt. I can't quite remember how many times I retold the story but it was quite a few....it went something like this...

'I have a bone to pick with Acne. I saw the cage skirts in the SS08 show and waited and waited, and it never turned up in-stores online or in London. So a friend of mine (that's you Angie...!) made this for me....'.

The story was rolled out to the Acne press people who seemed to love it. The production guy at Acne heard it and he apologised. Who knows what they were thinking secretly but the final conclusion was that the Acne press people said they would try to track down the cage skirt and get it over to me.... who knows how that will transpire but in any case, it's good to know the skirts weren't discarded as malfunctioning show pieces (apparently Leigh from the Misshapes wore the cage skirt to the Acne x Lanvin party in Paris on Monday...).

But what of the show? I did a write-up for Dazed Digital but at the end of the show, all I could say was 'Very Acne...'. Not very intelligent sounding at all. What I meant though was that all the pieces seemed to have high-end aspirations and editorial approaches; sheer stripy loose leggings, exposed seams, sheer panels, jutting out hip shapes but then it was all equally casual-fied by the loose/relaxed fits and the very 'day' fabrics.

(Show images from Modette, Outfit pics by the Stockholm Street Style site)

Ananas popping up all over...

2008-07-06T23:12:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I exaggerate, they're only popping up on Canal St in New York.
That's right, Brooklyn based handbag designer Jennifer Lagdameo is opening a temporary shop for her line Ananas at 52 Canal St starting tomorrow, June 24th, for 3 (I'm sure they will seem short) weeks only.

While I've mentioned the bags here before, the shop will also feature other leather accessories, as well as clothing, jewelry, and scarves all in keeping with the Ananas aesthetic.
One of the big draws will surely be the chance to get your hands on early Fall styles before they are shipped to stores in August. These styles are so fresh, that photos are not yet available.

Judging from the photos I did see, there will also be styles in the current line available, among them classics like the Samantha (shown in a luscious cherry red with a wooden buckle accent, or the Emily, a classic Ananas shape with their signature stitch work. You can see other styles at their site, Ananas Collection.
The prices are sure to be worth the trip, with clutches (you can see an adorable Coco clutch in the storefront photo) starting at $88, and topping out at $552 for a clutch...with many styles in between, I'm sure.
There will also be scarves, eco-bags, jewelry, and more starting at about $50 to help you complete your look.
Now, what would a fashion happening be without a soon to be coveted signature item? Ananas is giving away limited edition totes with an adorable play on the classic I (heart) NY logo. How cool is that?

It doubtlessly makes the trip downtown worth it to me (much better than 3 hours in the rain outside Whole Foods for that other canvas tote...)
Lest I forget, while I'm going on and on about the merchandise...Ananas also is a company that gives back. Portions of proceeds from several of their lines go to specific charities including "Trees for the Future" restoring trees to deforested areas, and a line of clutches with a blue bag benefiting Ovarian Cancer Research and a pink one for Breast Cancer Research.
If you are unable to make it to the pop up shop before July 15th, be sure to check out the Ananas Collection on line for current styles, and sales.

Don't Show-cha Your Chocha, Volume XII

2008-07-06T17:12:00.001-07:00

There's nothing like a triumphant blogging comeback, but it's even better when it involves chochas (sidenote: Has a rapper trademarked the phrase "Everything's better with chochas" yet or can I snag that for a confusing, sexually charged blog slogan?), and, more specifically, Don't Show-cha Your Chocha!

I think the first photo and caption perfectly sum up this feature, so I'm gonna jump right in:

Says Jeni: The way she's standing she looks like she's trying to hold something in...perhaps her modesty.

From Jennifer:

I can't tell if the bottom is shorts or a skirt, but either way, I'm worried.

Says Nicole: I came across this tonight while trying to purchase overpriced linen pants from J.Crew and immediately thought "Don't show your cha-cha!"
[Editor's note: My mom and her group of friends also use the term "cha-cha" interchangeably with "chocha," and, like in this case, I can't tell if it's an intentional, charming alternative or a mix-up. I sort of love it.]

From Laura:

It makes me feel embarrassed just looking at it!

Beth found what is perhaps the most artful Don't Show-cha Your Chocha on record:

Says Beth: It looks like she's trying to hold down her dress AND hold her hair on. yikes! (In other news, the next time my friend Katelyn complains about how hard it is for her to find a long enough inseam, I will print out this picture and give it to her. I mean, good god, I would be able to make eye contact with this girl's kneecap.)

From Tessa, via Betsey Johnson:

The perfect dress for girls who like to stand...a lot...no, seriously, like, all the time. Would you like to try to sit down in that thing?

Jo-Anne brought my attention to this fantastic photo, and provided a fantastic description of the subject, Phoebe Price:

Hey saw this hilarious post of this wannabe celebrity phoebe price on dlisted. She goes to that same restaurant and poses out front every day. She gets a scrape on her car and poses with it!!! Anyways look at the dress! She's coming a little too close to showin' it.

Diligent DSYC officer Amber tracked down these next two offenders:

I titled this image "velvet chocha," and felt quite dirty after typing it.

You know how they say eyes are windows to the soul? Well, that triangular cut-out there seems to be a window to the chocha.

So, this "dress" being eaten by the model's crotch, courtesy of our old friend Shopbop, was featured in the last installment of DSYC, but I've gotten so many emails about it, and it's just so strange/horrifying, that I feel compelled to post it again, along with some choice reader commentary:

Anne: This is so horrible. I hope the $319 buys you a little black "censored" box to put in front of your ladyparts.

Livia: The description says 'Chicly sophisticated with a distinctly modern vibe'. Distinctly modern vibe? I say it's a distinctly chocha vibe.

Ashlee: GAAAHHH!!!

Remember, the next time you're browsing online and catch yourself thinking "Egad! [admit it--you totally think "Egad"] If that model so much as reaches for a tortilla chip, she's doing full frontal!," email me--daddylikeyblog@gmail.com

Look Book - Carl

2008-07-06T08:11:00.001-07:00

Thanks to SJ+Hat we were introduced to Melbourne-based fashion designer Carl , whose clothing line recently has been snapped up by American Neiman Marcus. In Sydney, his items are stocked at Duck Egg Blue.

His spring/summer 07/08 collection presents clean lines in silk and satin, and complements his super minimalistic website.

Check out the complete look book in pdf-file here.

Karla Colleto Covered Rings Swimsuit

2008-07-06T05:11:00.001-07:00

Normally, Frilly Friday is reserved for something you might not wear out of the house. Swimwear, on the other hand, is something you probably very rarely wear in the house. So, how does swimwear end up on Frilly Friday? Well, the true definition of Frilly Friday is something that's really pretty, but not so practical. So, when applying that to swimwear, we generally think of it like this:

It looks great, but leaves you with really funky tan lines.

This V-neck swimsuit from Karla Colleto fits that bill. The front contains an interesting pattern of rings and cutaways that will leave a rather “stitched up” tan pattern if you spend too much time out in the sun. It's this very detail, however, that makes this suit so eye-catchingly beautiful. Like the front, the back is cut low (sans rings), but offers full coverage in the rear. I don't recommend you wear it for a day at the beach, but it's perfect for an evening in the hot tub.

Copy This!

2008-07-06T02:11:00.001-07:00

Warning - angry rant to follow soon...
while I am flattered that there are readers out there who think enough of Fashion Trend Guide's content to copy and paste it onto their sites, it enrages me to the point of wanting to go to law school and become an IP expert so I can teach these thieves a lesson. Either that, or beating blog thieves to a pulp with some fierce stilettos, which I only fantasize about (just kidding). Here's a bit of helpful information for all bloggers who may not know a lot about the law. IT IS ILLEGAL to copy and paste the content on this blog onto another site unless you have permission from yours truly, Poster Girl. I have legal agreements to share content with certain affiliates and advertisers, and unless you're one of them, please DO NOT steal content from this site. I will actively seek and pursue you until the content is removed, as I did with a certain blogger recently. Now that the blog with stolen content has been suspended, I can attest from personal experience that web and blog hosting sites act swiftly to investigate copyright infringement because they take it VERY seriously. So do lawyers, so please respect the law and the creativity and hard work of others, and don't do it. And now off I go to edit previous posts with a © symbol. It's a shame I even have to do this...

Pretty In Paris

2008-07-05T20:11:00.001-07:00

French women are often admired by fashionistas all over the world for their simple, polished sense of style. For me, the quintessential French-girl outfit conjures up an image of a gorgeous gamine wearing a nautical striped top, dark trousers, ballet flats, and an effortless chignon. If you can't get away to Paris this summer to be inspired by French style, channel the elegance of the City of Light with some simple pieces from Forever 21. An artsy beret, a frilly blouse, sailor jeans, a printed tote, and some Chloé-inspired architectural heels will have you saying manifique!

Pictured above: 1. Artisan wool beret, $12.80, 2. Contrast trim blouse, $22.80, 3. Paris tote, $5.50, 4. Double button denim trouser, $32.80, 5. CZ-3 patent peep-toes, $27.80.

Images from forever21.com

Sarah Mann Jewelry

2008-07-05T17:11:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Metalsmith

Sarah Mann is fascinated by the creative and technical challenges of transforming sterling silver into objects of adornment. She is proud to carry on a family tradition in the crafts, and pleased that this enables her to exercise her talent no matter where she lives. She creates clean straightforward designs that often incorporate kinetics.

'Astral' Sterling Silver Ring

A dreamy band of brushed sterling silver punctuated with otherworldly designs.

$130

Sarah was introduced to metalsmithing at the University of Wisconsin in her hometown of Milwaukee. She furthered her interest under the expert guidance of Heikki Seppa at Washington University in St. Louis, and the craftspeople at Fuji Studio in Florence.

Collapsible Ring

Brushed sterling silver ring with unique design. Movement and flexibility makes for a comfortable fit. Narrow ring has one bar instead of two.

$150

Sarah then lived in New Orleans, where she worked amid its thriving community of metalsmiths and honed her skills in preparation for a transition to New York City. The dynamic nature of the city inspired the strong form and kinetic design of her pieces.

Jester Cuff Links

Sterling silver cuff links with a patina enhanced surface texture.

$105

Sarah Mann has recently returned to her roots in the Midwest and continues her silversmithing there, creating bold yet elegant jewelry with unique surface treatments. The jewelry that she designs and handcrafts skillfully merges geometric and organic elements to create a style that is recognizably her own.

Mann realizes fully the broad potential of sterling silver. She crafts her jewelry with torch and tools - saws, files, pliers, nippers, drills, hammers, dapping blocks, and a rolling mill - then gives it with a range of hues through delicately controlled oxidation. The combined effect of patina on texture is a signature characteristic of all Sarah Mann jewelry.

Sarah introduces a new jewelry collection - earrings, necklaces, pins, bracelets, and rings - about every ten months. She carefully crafts each piece, and presents it as one of a limited edition. "Raw sterling silver cries out to me, begs me to convert it into bold jewelry with subtle finishes. Of course, I must obey."

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Stephen LeBlanc Art Jewelry - 27 May 2008

Michele Watches

2008-07-05T14:11:00.001-07:00

Maurice Barouh taught his son Jack the essentials of watch making - patience and a dedication to quality. It was an education in both the business and the craft of the industry, a lesson that Jack combined with his own interest in design. Jack's knowledge of the mechanics involved in watch production gave him the tools to focus on both construction and style.

Garden Party Collection

Inspired by the beauty and simplicity of nature, a unique series of three different enamel dials capture the scenes of an enchanted garden. This whimsical interpretation is further adorned with diamonds amongst the brightly colored enamel, as well as larger diamonds around the case.

Bumble Bee Royal Blue Alligator

Stainless Steel.

White lacquer dial.

White diamonds.

Sapphire crystal.

$1325

Jack and his wife Rita, who grew up in Geneva, Switzerland, moved to Panama in the 1970s to help run the family business as well as to begin their own family. While there, Jack's watches garnered great attention from the Latin American market because of their innovative designs.

After several years in Panama, Jack and Rita moved their two young children, Jeremy and Michele, to Miami, where they started Michele Watches, named for their daughter. The very first Michele Watch, the CSX Diamond, was just the beginning of many more collections to come.

CSX Collection

Michele succeeded in revolutionizing the industry with its first designer timepiece known as the CSX. A globe-shaped case illustrates its universal appeal. Pioneering a trend of luxury without limitation, CSX performance timepieces are specially designed for those devoted to living increasingly stylish lives.

Stainless Steel Gold Patent Leather

White Mother-of-Pearl dial.

Sapphire crystal.

$445

The lessons of the past have not been lost on the third generation of watchmakers in the Barouh family. Both Michele and Jeremy credit the brand's success to their parents' enthusiasm and perseverance. Michele believes that the company must stay up-to-date in terms of fashion, so they can maintain the competitive edge that sets them apart from other brands in the industry.

Deco Collection

A brilliant celebration of the history of Art Deco design. Modern mechanics and aesthetics are brilliantly fused together to capture the magnetism and wonderment of an unforgotten era. The distinguished rectangular case reflects the geometric shapes identified with Art Deco architecture.

Deco Dark Purple Alligator

White Diamonds.

Mother-of-Pearl dial.

$1875

Michele's eye for trends has been one of the assets that differentiates Michele Watches. She is largely responsible for moving the brand's design aesthetic forward, and also for capitalizing on the trends of the moment with the interchangeable watch bands she designs that are made in several skins, from crocodile to stingray, lizard to leather.

One of the Barouh Family's biggest sources of inspiration comes from their yearly travels to exotic locales. "We were always fortunate enough to travel to see different cultures," said Jeremy, who, like the rest of his family, speaks French, Spanish, and English.

According to Jack Barouh, the best part about working with his children is seeing how each brings a different experience to the table. "After watching them grow up, go through college, declare their independence, and travel, they've returned as complete individuals who have a great deal to offer the company," he said.

Michele Watches' third generation has mixed a love of fashion with a love of travel and design to create a truly unique product. Michele and Jeremy understand that, unlike a great shoe or bag, a watch is a living device, one that encompasses both a history of craftsmanship and the potential for becoming a family heirloom.

Today, Michele Watches is a $50 million business that has become part of Fossil, a global leader in the fashion watch market with a proven track record of attracting and expanding brands. Jack Barouh made the decision in 2004 to merge his company with Fossil in order to give Michele Watches an even greater position of strength in the global watch industry. But Michele Watches still operates as a family business, with the design and business decisions made by the Barouh family in partnership with Fossil.

Pretty pricey, but we girls have to have something to dream about.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Time for Watches to Be Big Business - 08 March 2006

Anne Koplik Jewelry & Watches - 25 August 2006

Too Hot Jewelry - 08 February 2007

Talking Japanese Watches - 12 April 2008

fringe factor

2008-07-05T08:11:00.001-07:00

Lately, I've been inspired by fringe. I love the flossy feel of it, and in particular, I love to dance in it (many hours have been spent watching 1920s film footage and practising Charleston-esque moves!) In the past, I considered fringe to be reserved for cowboys on Appaloosa horses, as well as the women in my family who wear lovingly custom-designed chaps and jackets on their motorcycles. As with any type of decoration, I still think that fringe is most attractive in moderation (unless you're dancing to smoking hot jazz, when more is definitely more), but I hope to see a touch of show girl on the streets this summer. If you're looking for DIY inspiration, Svenja Specht's spring collection for Reality Studio was influenced by a trip to Morocco, and features fringed accessories (the head decorations above are my favourite). If you really want to make people's eyes pop, you may be interested in the Roxy tights by bebaroque - with the lauding of Susie Bubble and Queen Michelle, I'm sure to see some fringed legs in the UK this fall.

A little gratuitous fringe action to get you in the mood...

(pink tights photo by Saga)

Dear Monsieur Postman

2008-07-05T02:11:00.001-07:00

I've done so many posts about novelty handbag "don'ts" that when I come across a "do", I have to share it.

What could be more fitting for a small envelope sized clutch than to turn it into, well, an envelope?
The Yves Saint Lauren Y-Mail clutch is a perfect addition to any collection, especially if you've been coveting a grafitti-esque handbag, with a little class. In black patent, with gold lettering, this clutch is just the right size to fit in your hand, and will instantly add a touch of humor to even the most serious of evening attire.
At $395, it costs more than the postage to mail it, but not so much that it breaks the bank. An evening bag also gets less wear, and is less prone to big trends, so you will get lots of years worth of wear for your money.
Pre-order one today from Yves Saint Lauren.

Dana Kellin Jewelry

2008-07-04T20:11:00.001-07:00

Dana Kellin is one of New York's hottest Jewelry Designers for 2008. This distinctive jewelry features enchanting gemstones in unique handcrafted designs - a beautiful and feminine jewelry collection, perfect for Spring / Summer 2008, and a great addition to any stylish woman's jewelry collection. Their client list reads like a who's who of stylish American women.

Wire Wrapped Drops Necklace

Triple pear shaped wrapped drops with Crystal Quartz.

16" Gold filled five strand chain necklace.

$690

Since their premiere collection in 1994, jewelry designers and sisters Elizabeth and Dana Kellin have tempted Hollywood with their captivating designs. Over the past eight years, Dana Kellin Jewelry has been featured on both the big and small screens.

Artisans in the Dana Kellin Los Angeles studio make the jewelry in a tedious process of wrapping fine gauge wire into various sculptural forms. For instance, a delicate briolette gemstone is encased in wire on an intricate beaded choker. Dana Kellin's design influence comes from various themes including Byzantine, Victorian, and Elizabethan, yet there is always a modern undertone.

Wire Wrapped Drop Necklace

14k gold filled chain with three shell-like wired drops.

Length: 17"

$400

The Dana Kellin gemstone jewelry collection combines luminous freshwater pearls and a variety of gems, such as Blue Topaz, Golden Tourmaline, lemon yellow Citrine, and lime green Peridot.

Teardrop Gemstone Earrings

14k Gold wrapped 1.5" hoop earrings

Lemon Quartz, Olive CZ, and Green Amethyst

$220

Dana Kellin's career began as a fashion editor at Women's Wear Daily and W magazine. Over the years, she has pursued her interest in jewelry making, and the demand for her designs escalated among friends and followers. In 1994, her hobby turned into a business when Dana Kellin and her sister Elizabeth Kellin established their company.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Dana David Jewelry Collection - 14 May 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Pedi Couture Sandals

2008-07-04T17:11:00.001-07:00

How cute and perfect are these? How many times have you walked around after a pedicure with twisted up paper towels in between your toes? Totally not glamorous, although girls see you and understand your pain. These toe separator sandals is the solution to your post pedi blues. You put these on right before the color goes on and walk right out with perfect toes. They come in a variety of colors, even metallic and this camouflage shown here. Now all I have to do is remember to bring them with me. At Pedi Couture for $24.95.

stila Lip Color with SPF

2008-07-04T14:11:00.001-07:00

I usually stick with glosses because, most days, I want a touch of shine without any added color so, typically I wouldn't even have tried stila's SPF 20 shine lip color ($22) in the Georgina shade, but I happen to be looking for some makeup to complement a new pair of Stella McCartney red pumps I just got to go with a vintage Chloe wedding dress I bought (yes wedding dress! But other than it being long and white it really doesn't look like one:) )...Anyway,Georgina is the perfect color (no traces of orange or pink, yet not too deep of a red), and since this outfit is for a party out in Southampton I'm loving that it has SPF, however what really sealed the deal for me was the smell -- vanilla!
Besides going on smooth and being relatively lightweight I loved the smell...so many lipsticks and even glosses are sticky, smelly messes so this one is a nice change. The package also says that it has Vitamins A, C and E:)

Looping the Shirts

2008-07-04T11:11:00.001-07:00

No I haven't completely forgotten that couture fashion week is going on but what is my paltry commentary on the shows going to do when so much is being said already so me thinks the less chat the better, especially when not one show has REALLY had me floored. Staying on the Stockholm Fashion Week rag, the one show that everyone kept on harping on about whilst I was there which I didn't get to see was Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair. So after checking out the images, I must say, I think they might have been trying to inject some 'couture' elements into some of their pieces as if to say 'Yeah, we're showing at the same time as couture fashion week but we can do wickedly loopy things too!'. Loopy being the operative word as they took a mass of button down shirts and layered them and made curves to create rather sculptural dresses. These three 'showpieces' were of course interspersed amongst the much more wearable fare that we expect of a nonchalantly cool Swedish brand such as Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair. The finale was a copper sheeted dress that reminded me of the metal sheet dresses in the intro of the film 'Qui êtes-vous, Polly Maggoo?'. Hope the model didn't suffer any injuries.

Still, despite Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair going out of their way to bring some drama with these pieces, they are at the end of the day made out of quite accessible materials. I've always been attracted to the idea of making something quite extravagant out of low-key materials and the brands that do this well usually get my vote. So here's hoping Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair won't dispose the dresses to the 'showpiece' rail and put these into production for those of us that like their doses of drama subtle and small.

Designing uniforms

2008-07-04T08:10:00.001-07:00

I've always thought that uniform design would be very challenging. I recently found a blog entry that talks about EMS uniforms that explains why. Frankly, it didn't occur to me that styling would be an issue for EMS -maybe it is for airline attendants and fast food workers- but it is. The writer (Dan) explains that their uniforms are styled like police uniforms and this reduces their task efficacy and moreover, is dangerous!

They are really just police uniforms, evolutions of military designs, sometimes with only a change in fabric color from what local law enforcement officers wear... I think we place our EMS staff at high risk by wearing these style garments. The drug crazed patient does not care you wear light blue while the police in your community wear dark blue. He reacts to the visual styling cues and will often mistake you for a cop in the first few seconds. In most parts of the world this is no big deal, but in any modern American big city it can get you killed.

My first thought centered on functionality (range of motion), durability and fiber (comfort) so it doesn't surprise me this is another problem with uniform design. Think about it; EMS workers have to do their jobs in dirty, dangerous environments. They need apparel that won't restrict their movements, won't tear readily, washes easily without staining, protects them from the elements but not be too hot either. While Dan was less graphic, another site described how often patients bleed and regurgitate on them.

Color Theory

2008-07-04T05:10:00.001-07:00

Our junior year of high school, my BFF Rachel and I took a color theory class at the local community college. Our teacher was possibly insane, and spent a few classes quietly crying in the corner. Rachel and I spent every class getting inadvertently high on Sharpie fumes and screwing up our assignments so bad that I failed a gray scale project (translation for those of you unfamiliar with the art world: I failed mixing white and black paint). The one thing I do remember from that class, the one thing that wasn't lost in a haze of permanent marker chemicals, is that blue and orange are opposites on the colorwheel, and therefore, they look mega good together.

Whenever I pair my favorite blue tights with my new orange shoes, I feel like that class was maybe worth it:

Tights: We Love Colors (Read my WLC rave review here)
Shoes: Nine West, from Marshalls

p.s. Does anyone else hate summer solely because you can't enjoy colorful hosiery without guaranteed death by heatstroke? I'm moving to Antarctica.

The Daddy Likey Straight Talk Express: Yes, I Love My Swimsuit That Much

2008-07-04T02:10:00.001-07:00

I raved about my new Esther Williams swimsuit back when Daddy Likey was but a zygote floating in the womb of the blogosphere (note to self: quality of metaphors decreases sharply after 2 a.m.), and in the years since, I've heard from many readers who bought their own Esthers and loved them, a few who didn't, and a great many with general questions (mostly, "Jesus, do you really love your swimsuit that much?").

In the past month alone, I've gotten no less than ten inquiries about my swimsuit. This, combined with the ominous cloud of the approaching swimsuit season, is why I've decided to set the record straight with a rapid fire Esther Williams Swimwear FAQ:

Are Esther Williams swimsuits really as awesome as you say they are?
Yes.

If Esther Williams swimsuits were handed out as free gifts to every person in New York, would it have the same effect as blaring (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher from the Statue of Liberty in the climactic scene of Ghostbusters II?
Absolutely.

Who is Esther Williams, anyway? Is it Madonna?
No, no, silly. Esther was a swimmer/movie star (best combination ever) in the 1950's, and now she designs adorable retro swimsuits that are flattering and comfortable. She is a hero and a patriot.

Seriously though, a swimsuit that's retro and flattering and comfortable? No way. Shut up.
Yes way!

So, Esther Williams suits are custom made to order. How does this work? Is it easier than ordering a sandwich at Subway? Cuz that's sort of involved and annoying.
Don't worry--it's way easier than ordering your five dollar footlong. Here's what you do:

1. Go to Esther's website.
2. Don't let the 80's-tastic photos faze you.
3. Pick out the style of swimsuit you fancy.
4. Pick out the fabric you fancy (so many cute options--I want them all).
5. Place your order.
6. In two weeks, receive your suit and look amazingly retro glamorous.
7. Begin spreading the gospel.

Since these swimsuits are custom made, they must cost, like, $500, right?
That's where you're wrong, friendo. All suits are around 80 bucks, which is way less than most designer suits churned out in third world factories, and way worth it.

Are there plus size options?
Yep. They carry sizes 6-26.

Soft foam cups sound good, but that "3/4 inch elastic under bust for support" bit makes me nervous. Will I feel saggy and naked in this thing?
As a chesty girl, I can measure my life in the number of swimsuit bust support systems that have let me down (quite literally) in frustrating and horrifying ways, so I was also nervous about the soft foam cups. I was pleasantly surprised by the suit's support--I think it's all about the quality of the fabric and getting a good fit. I wouldn't jog in it (I also wouldn't really jog, period), but I definitely don't feel saggy and naked in it. Praise the lord!

I hate buying a new swimsuit every damn year. How do Esther Williams swimsuits hold up?
Well, I got mine in September of '06, and it's still going strong. Here is a list of some of the things my swimsuit has been through:

Daily lounging and lap swimming in a chlorinated pool during my five month stay in Hawaii.
Snorkeling and swimming in the ocean in Hawaii.
Halfheartedly splashing around in the ocean before screaming, "Holy shit it's cold!" and running away from the ocean in Oregon.
Pretending I know how to boogie board.
Teaching a man who may have been Danny DeVito to pretend how to boogie board.

What does your swimsuit look like in real life?
Before you look (you already looked, didn't you?), I want you to know that I got to snap one photo before my stupid camera died, so this picture really doesn't do it justice:

But if it still looks cute tossed hastily onto my living room floor, think how cute it looks on a person, poolside, with a pair of Jackie O shades and self-esteem to boot! Bonus: the halter strap can be tied around the back for a cute strapless look and no tanlines.

This style is the 1 Piece Classic Sheath and the fabric is called...wait for it....wait for it...Polka Dot (White on Black).

Is Esther Williams paying you?
She's not, I swear! I just really love my swimsuit and want to share the Good News.

Updated to add: Today I received an email from wonderful reader Stephanie, who recently bought an Esther of her own: "In the spirit of sharing, I attached a bad picture of my swimsuit tossed hastily onto my bedroom floor."

Love it.

Renewed Appeal of Size Appeal

2008-07-03T20:10:00.001-07:00

So I've known about Size Appeal for a long time, and even purchased from it sporadically. But recently at Lee Lee's Valise (which I wrote about in my last blog) I had a chance to try out some of their newest stuff and I have to say I really like it!! It reminds me of a plus size H&M - affordable, disposable fashion in fun, funky colors and designs. These are not high quality long wear garments, they are seasonal pieces - but a cute top for twentysomething dollars, I don't mind! Lisa D (the owner of Lee Lee's) told me she is selling out of the Size Appeal stuff in her store and has had to order more! If you can't get into Lee Lee's to try it on, check out Size Appeal's website:

Left: Acacia Top in Mustard, $29
Middle: Elaine Top in Teal, $29
Right: Joanna Top in Blue, $29

Left: Captivate Dress, Black & Red, $68
Middle: Harriet Dress in Red, $52
Right: Serenity Dress in Black, $49

All available at SizeAppeal.com!

Pop Quiz #473

2008-07-03T08:10:00.001-07:00

Reminder: posting will be slow this week. I'm working with a trainee. He's doing really well, exceeding all my expectations.

Okay people, here's the quiz for the day. Here's a jpeg of a pattern sample I found on the internet. The pattern maker's identifying marks have been removed (he charges $75 an hour!); I have no desire to cause anyone embarrassment. The question is, explain why a pattern like this is a problem. It's something rather obvious and not a trick question. Don't read anything extraneous into it.

Blog the Blogger: Fashion, Evolved.

2008-07-03T05:10:00.001-07:00

Yeah, she's a new kid on the block, but Amanda of Fashion, Evolved is tellin' it like it is with some of the chicest eco fashion out there. Plus some pretty hilarious youtube finds, too. Her blog will introduce you to amazing designers you've never heard of and she's all about sharin' the blog love with other fashion bloggers. Awesome! The DCGF has hit her up for my soon-to-be Famous Five (plus One) questions. Oh, and the picture to the right will make sense once you read question 5. Forthwith, her responses...

1. What is the first article of clothing you remember that you loved to wear? When I was a little girl I had this yellow satin pajama top with puffy sleeves. I loved that thing, and I would wear it constantly...to bed or outside with my jeans or shorts. I wore it with almost anything regardless of whether it matched or not. I don't know if it was the color or the texture or what, but I felt like I princess in it.

2. Where is your favorite place - besides Goodwill, of course! - to shop for a fashion bargain in the DC area? Well, I don't live in DC, so I can't really say. I am all about online shopping though, and I love to shop Etsy because of their huge selection of unique recyclable, vintage, and sustainable clothes. [We all (heart) Etsy! Oh, and consider this your official invite to come shop with me in DC! -the DCGF]

3. Where is your favorite place to shop for a fashion bargain outside of DC? Garage Sales! 4. Who is your current favorite designer? Anna Mkhitarian of Annatarian. She's a designer from L.A. who does custom couture out of reconstructed vintage pieces. [Like the gorgeous dress above. -the DCGF] She specializes in wedding gowns, but she has also done other types of dresses. I love the idea of getting something totally unique and gorgeous made just for me out of beautiful old fabrics that have a story and history to them.

5. If you could own any single item from fashion past or present - money is no object! - what would it be? Hmmm. Right now I'm lusting after a pair of Mohop sandals [left]. Before the season is finished, I'll buy some. I would also love to have an exquisite vintage kimono.

Bonus Question: How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop? One. Plus one big bite.

Oh, those sandals are tres chic! And sorry I had to put the kimono at the top of the post, but, well, that's the place it fit best. But it builds suspense, no? Thanks, Amanda, for introducing me to Annatarian. Wasn't familiar before, but now I'm becoming slightly obsessed with their Peace Love Earth necklaces. Would look perfect with all those summer dresses I'm planning on getting out this weekend...

Girls just wanna have fun

2008-07-02T23:10:00.001-07:00

This handbag made me smile ear to ear when I first saw it.

It made me think of the 80s, but in a good way...the black and white stripes, the cute button detail, the pouf of the bag, so evocative of LaCroix's La Pouf skirt of the era...it just brought me back to a happy place.
The bag, by British designer Emma Gordon for her own label, Emma Gordon London is hand made of cotton jersey and solid cotton with a subtle ric-rac trim. The bag is fully lined in a polka dot cotton fabric (another of my favorites from back in the day!).
It is so sweet and girly, like many of her other bags featured on her website Emma Gordon London which are made with an obvious eye to detail as well as a great sense of pattern and color. Based in London, girls on the other side of the Atlantic need not fret, since she offers free shipping worldwide (though the prices are in pounds, so you'll have to calculate them to dollars). The bag featured is the Martha Stripe retailing for £50 (about $100 give or take) but be sure to take a peek at some of her adorable clutches, which would be perfect alone, or slipped inside a larger bag as a pouch for small accessories...might as well replace that ziplock you've been using, right? Oh wait, that's my inner voice talking to me.
You can see the full range at Emma Gordon London.

Patty Bolz: Goldsmith

2008-07-02T20:10:00.001-07:00

Patty Bolz began her career as a designer and goldsmith in 1980. Since that time, she has maintained a studio and a home in Camden, Maine, where she lives with her husband and three children. Over the years, Patty's work has won numerous awards, and has been exhibited in galleries and shows throughout the country, and has also been featured in books and publications on contemporary jewelry design.

Gold & Gemstone Rings

Emerald-cut stones and trillion-cut stones.

Top: Rhodolite Garnet with Tanzanite.

Bottom: Green and Pink Tourmaline.

Patty's jewelry, which has been described as a stylistic blend of ancient and contemporary, is constructed in 22k and 18k gold using traditional goldsmithing techniques. These include fusing, soldering, forming, repousse, and engraving, among others. With these techniques, she strives to achieve form and balance within each piece.

Gold & Black Onyx Pendant

Pendant with 12 x 6 x 8mm high dome stone.

Shown in Matte Black Onyx.

Lightweight snake chain.

Size ~5/8" across.

While Patty sees jewelry as wearable adornment, she also believes that a successful piece must be capable of standing alone as a work unto itself. As in sculpture, all of the elements in a form - both metal and non-metal (including gemstones and non-precious materials, such as steel or slate - must work together within a single vision.

Gold & Gemstone Bar Pin

5 x 3.5mm oval stone.

2.7mm round diamonds.

Blue & Orange Sapphire.

Size: 5/16" wide, 1" long.

4 x 3mm pear shape stones.

Along with the overall form, the application of surface texture is integral to Patty's work, and is achieved through a variety of methods - fusing, engraving, stamping, hammering, stippling, chiseling, sanding, etc. Texture often serves to connect the various elements in a piece stylistically, and adds visual dimension to her jewelry.

Artist Statement

I regard my jewelry not only as personal ornament but as sculpture. A successful piece must be able to stand on its own artistically while being comfortable and wearable. My inspiration comes from the textures found in nature, diverse architectural elements, and from the unique characteristics of the high-karat gold and the gemstones with which I work.

I am particularly drawn to ancient jewelry, and when designing my work I strive to achieve a classical sense of timelessness, while also maintaining a contemporary element. As a jeweler and a designer, I work to bring something of this presence into my work - to create pieces with a fullness of form and a richness of detail. My designs combine a classical sense of timelessness with a contemporary appeal.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Jewelry Shop Gets Big Kudos - 09 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Don't Show-cha Your Chocha...to a horse?

2008-07-02T17:10:00.001-07:00

I cannot stop laughing at this picture or this post.

Urban picnic basket

2008-07-02T14:10:00.001-07:00

Those little picnic basket kits that turn up every spring always intrigue me, but face it, I'm a city dweller with limited closet space, and besides, those baskets are heavy, bulky, and need a seat of their own on the subway.
Enter the best picnic idea since, well, sliced bread.

The Rebecca Minkoff Bread and Wine Bag, with it's leather outer pockets perfectly sized for a bottle of wine, and a loaf of French bread (talk about to the point bag names, huh?) was designed as a reusable market bag (don't hate me because I prefer the plastic bags...I do recycle them!) but I think an afternoon in the park is a much better purpose. It is large enough to stash some cheese, fruit, and maybe brownies for dessert as well as utensils and plates. Ideal for an afternoon lunch or light dinner before, maybe a Summer concert in the park.
The bag is canvas, trimmed in leather, with a double handle. Inside are additional pockets, maybe for a corkscrew.
There's still time to get one before the weekend for $165 from Bloomingdales.

Floral Footwear At Target

2008-07-02T02:10:00.001-07:00

During my recent trips to various Target stores to inpect the latest GO International goods, I spotted these playful Betsey Johnson-esque peep-toe pumps by Xhilaration. The fabric bows and floral print are the perfect antidote to all those gladiator sandals and flip flops you'll be seeing this summer. Pair them with skinny cropped denim for a 50's-inspired look or go ultra girly with a LBD. Either way, you'll be smiling because these babies will only cost you $22.99. Too bad they didn't have my size...

© 2008 Fashion Trend Guide. All right reserved. May not be reproduced without permission.

Archives 6/6-6/12 2005-2007

2008-07-01T20:10:00.001-07:00

I decided to take the day off from posting (I still put in a full day) but I did mean to post this week's entries from the archives but I forgot. Sorry 'bout that. Dinner plans are on hold till I tend to chores. Have a great weekend.

June 6 through June 12, 2005

Vionnet book on Amazon

Smoking & Drinking: cherished industry traditions

The Clothing Broker

I hate Tommy

Vintage German Patterns

June 6 through June 12, 2006

Hats UK

A rock and a hard place

Literary women quiz

Sleeve cap ease is bogus pt.2

The influence of authority

Style Bites

Sewing Divas

Canada: Bras and meetings

Constructing Sparkle

Management Software pt.2

Smug

20 Questions

June 6 through June 12, 2007

Hiring a virtual assistant

What will become of us?

Swim Lessons report pt.1

How to engage buyers at trade shows

Who do you hang with?

RAFW - Matthew Eager

2008-07-01T14:10:00.001-07:00

Matthew Eager's show presented clean lines with no accessories, to make a feature of the minimalistic approach that Eager had in mind. Super-wide linen trousers looked quite elegant on the tall models. High-waisted ra-ra skirts, and dresses in knee lengths came in silver- embellished thick fabric. The boxy coats and bolero jackets were striking, but felt quite demure rather than young and edgy. Colours were in sections white, silver and grey, and with splashes of deep turquoise, and acid green. With the many sleek dresses, this collection presented the most sophisticated range throughout the week. Read also Rebekah Van Druten's, (ABC), interview with Matthew Eager before the show.

The sort of summer holiday I'd like...

2008-07-01T11:10:00.001-07:00

I spent my summer holidays as a teen doing absolutely zilch and being quite unproductive in general. I'm thinking if I was a bit smarter, I should have got my ass and applied for an internship at a magazine. Then I could spend my days tidying up issues and issues of Dazed & Confused, D&C Japan, Another mags going back to the 90's when you had double covers going on the front and back. Hmm... flicking through dusty mags and ordering them by issue number and year... lovely stuff... (there wasn't an ounce of sarcasm in that by the way...)...