Thursday, January 28, 2010

SHOPPING FROM HOME

Holy Crap! These Roberta Chiarella jewels are under $50 on hsn.com. There are pieces as low as $14.95. Yes, $14.95!! I'm dying! Why haven't I checked out the home shopping site sooner?

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Me likey HSN.

Monday, January 25, 2010

VMan

I normally wouldn't post a men's editorial, especially one that has nothing to do with accessories -- but I've become obsessed with Adam Lambert! I'm crazy for his theatrical costumes, guyliner and individuality. These candid portraits were shot by Mark Abrahams for VMAN magazine. Enjoy!

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Sunday, January 24, 2010

BEACHY KEEN

I loooove Cynthia Rowley, always have! Recently I learned that she's an avid surfer, which makes sense when you consider her latest collaboration. She designed a beachy (yet chic) line for Roxy's spring 2010 collection. Check out some of the duds -- I think I'm ready to become a surfer chick!

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Life's a beach, in cute accessories!

Sunday, January 17, 2010

SPINNING A YARN (BANGLE)

There's no excuse for my lack of posts this week, but I've been very busy. I apologize dearly.

Over the years, bangles have become a staple in my arsenal of accessories. Because they're constantly being reinvented, I have drawers full of them crafted from various materials, like wood, Lucite, plastic, metal, Bakelite, etc...

While I've been M.I.A., I came across these bangles from The Accessory Lady. Handmade with a yarn blend of mohair and cotton, they're a perfect addition to your wooly winter wardrobe!

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I'd also like to take the time to thank Carly from Chic Steals for the Beautiful Blogger award. Carly's blog is chuck full of great fashion, and the award means a lot coming from her.


With the honor, I'm required to list 7 factoids about myself -- here you go!

1. Clothing was my first love, accessories came later.

2. I'm named after my grandmother. 

3. Molly Ringwald was my style icon as a young girl.

4. I live for road trips.

5. Twizzlers are my favorite candy.

6. I'm currently obsessed with Mad Men.

7. When I was in kindergarten, I didn't know my ABC's so I copied them off the girl next to me. Along with the ABC's, I also copied her name. Ha! I saved the best one for last!

I'd like to pass the award onto:




Saturday, January 9, 2010

THE NEW BIB

I just previewed these stunners by R.J. Graziano (available in spring), and I'm actually giddy. Being constructed completely of beads, they're unlike other bibs I've seen this season. I think they have a Bohemian feel, perfect for earthy ensembles.

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What do you think?

Thursday, January 7, 2010

MY SENTIMENTS EXACTLY...

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I love this fashion piece photographed by Terry Richardson for V Magazine. In addition to being visually stunning, it truly illustrates how fashion can flatter all figures. And look at those bold baubles -- accessories know no dress size!

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

I ♥ NY


The inspiration behind
H Williams' spring 2010 collection:

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The outcome: Killer pumps.

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Using the Brooklyn Bridge, the Chrysler Building and other NYC landmarks as muses, designer Heather Williams has created a collection that's both edgy and elegant. In the words of Frank Sinatra, "Start spreading the news!"


MIDNIGHT -- OR ANYTIME! -- COWBOY

Will cowboy boots ever go out of style? Not likely!
Mainly because they transition from season to season with ease, thus becoming a wardrobe staple. I've already seen cowboy kickers in several spring 2010 collections, including Isabel Marant, Stuart Weitzman and American Eagle. Personally, I like the styles that look rugged and distressed, or super snazzy -- like these snake-embossed bootsies by Miz Mooz. 

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It's worth checking out the rest of the Miz Mooz collection at Infinity Shoes. They have all the latest trends in footwear, and they're affordable. YEEHAW!!!

Monday, January 4, 2010

BEHIND THE SCENES: KORA

I'm happy to start off 2010 talking about a collection that's truly amazing and one that everyone should know about -- Kora. When I was invited to a Kora party a short time ago, I didn't know much about the company, but I accepted (of course!) because I love jewelry and never pass up an opportunity to buy more.

Kora means "work" in the native language of Rwanda, where the jewelry is made. All the pieces are made out of horn by local artisans and part of the profits go toward building up a self-sustained industry for the plentiful resource in that country. Take a look at some items from the line, and then check out my interview with founder Amy Walker -- it's sure to inspire you.

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Partygoers adorned their arms with stacks of bangles.

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The candlelit room was decorated with beautiful flowers, while the jewelry was either hanging on rustic fixtures or laying on gold material. Truly exquisite.

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Accessory Source: What brought you to Rwanda?
Amy Walker (above): To work in public health. While I was there, I was offered a job in business development, and it was something I always wanted to try.

AS: Why horn?
AW: I searched the country for a material that's valued in the States, can be sourced in Rwanda, and a trade that can be taught. I found two things, horn and wood. Wood is hard to import into the States, and horn has value in the U.S. so it had to be horn.

AS: What's the most rewarding thing about Kora?
AW: Building the infrastructure there -- there are six people working, everyone gets paid and they love the work. It warms my heart when their faces light up after telling them their products are well received. That, as well as building the management support team.

AS: How often are you in Rwanda?
AW: I lived there for 14 months. Now I go back and forth. I'm in Kenya and Rwanda for two to three months doing production, then I'm back in the States for a few months doing sales.

AS: What do you see next for your business?
AW: I have a big dream. Ideally, it becomes a legitimate industry in Rwanda. I'd like to set them up to become manufacturers so they have other clients to work with. Then I would like to go to other developing countries, find materials abundant in those countries and develop them to bring to a Western market.

Are you as impressed as I am? She's only 26.  

PS: I was totally expecting a small gathering of women in a tiny NYC apartment. Instead, it was in a penthouse with hors doeuvers, wine, a smashing view and lovely people. I highly recommend attending a Kora party near you!