I’m getting this in just under the wire, since most of these beauties are custom-made, but I couldn’t resist sharing these completely perfect Mother’s Day options with you. I visited Manor recently, one of my favorite home shops in Portland (they just launched e-commerce too!), and they mentioned they were having a trunk show next weekend (May 12) for a jewelry designer I love. Have you heard of Heather B. Moore? She designs the most amazing, entirely custom charms that are just exactly the thing for moms everywhere.

I know, I know…charms? But hear me out.

See?! Beautiful, right? Each and every one is completely custom – add names, dates, geographic coordinates, birthdates, maybe a line from your wedding vows or the first verse of your favorite lullaby…whatever strikes your fancy. I even saw one version in which the designer actually created a custom engraved stamp of the closing line of a letter from a client’s dad, so the result was a pendant in his handwriting. I’m already saving for that one.

The down side…they’re not cheap. Prices start at $300 per charm. But think of it this way – you have your Mother’s Day gift planned for the next 5 years at least! Just add a charm a year, and in no time, Mom will have a beautiful piece of custom jewelry, packed with memories. And you’ll be her favorite kid.

If you’re in Portland, definitely hit up the trunk show next weekend (if only for the free bubbly). I’m hoping to be there. And if you don’t make it, still give Manor a call to order – they tell me it’s actually cheaper to buy through them than directly from the designer. If you get in touch, tell them I said hello!

Happy Friday, friends! Though, for me, this won’t be much of a weekend, but rather Phase One of the big move. And to clean out all my piles celebrate, I’m selling off a few excellent pieces on eBay that might be of interest. Feel free to take a look – I’d so love for them to go to a good home!

And speaking of sales, there are some killer ones happening this weekend, both in Portland and farther afield.

* Mabel & Zora, one of my favorite girly Portland boutiques with the sweetest owners you’ll ever meet, is celebrating its 6th anniversary today with a flash sale on their website! Save 20% off all separates (which I think means anything but shoes, jewelry and dresses) from 6 pm to midnight tonight only (4.13) with code 6YEAR.

* My beloved Moulé is having an anniversary too! To celebrate a quarter century in business, you can take 30% off the entire store (that means their amazing jewelry and home collections too, neither of which ever go on sale!). The only catch is that you have to be in PDX – the sale’s in-store only. But if you’re here, it’s not to be missed.

* And on a slightly larger scale, Kate Spade‘s multi-annual friends & family event is going on this weekend. Take 25% off nearly everything (except home, stationery and watches) today and tomorrow with code FFSPR12.

And after all that, phew! We need some pretty pictures, don’t we?

These earrings came across my path as a “Best Bet” on NYMag’s blog a couple of weeks ago, and I’m still thinking about them. Quite possibly the perfect studs, don’t you think? Especially for under $100.

Do you know Hermione de Paula? I didn’t either…but now I’m completely in love. She manages to marry old-school tropical prints with mod digitized formats, and the result is, well, the best Hawaiian shirt you’ll ever find.

I am in a world of trouble. Rachel Comey has finally (finally!) opened an online store. Which means no more obsessive hunting through dozens of online mini-boutiques when I’m desperate for a new pair of ankle boots (hers are the very, very best). They even have my size! It spells danger, my friends…but oh, what lovely danger! Those tan perforated Hitch boots (right) are next on my list.

And speaking of newcomers to the online world, Club Monaco’s online store is finally here! Think Topshop, but a little easier to wear – hems are a little longer, styles are a bit more grown up, and looks aren’t all ripped from some other designer’s atelier. I’m so looking forward to taking advantage – particularly since they’re offering free shipping and free returns through the end of April!

And last but not least, my favorite Pin of the week! What can I say…I have bag storage on the brain. But can you blame me, now that this beauty has come to live with me?

{via design*sponge}

Phew! Okay, that’s it, friends. Have a fantastic weekend…pop by my place if you’re in Portland…and I’ll see you back here next week

It’s Friday and it’s a holiday weekend…is there anything better? I’m off to spend a few days with my family, so forgive me if I take a little extra time off next week. For now, I’ll leave you with enough goodies to keep you sated until I’m back.

First up, a winner for that wildly popular kate spade new york contest! You ladies love your bedding, that’s for sure. I’m always so thrilled when one of our giveaways is a hit like this, so thanks for that. Our winner is lucky number 7, Emily, who won with her Twitter entry @emma621. Congratulations, Emily!

Now, on to more pressing business. Like jewelry. Pretty, delicate, utterly-perfect-for-spring jewelry, to be precise. Amy Wing’s spring collection has me in palpitations, and not just because she’s a dear friend (and because her stunning lookbook was styled by our inimitable Trends Columnist). Particularly this Tiny Blossom lariat, which I’m envisioning as the perfect finishing touch for everything I want to wear all summer.

You may very well fall over when I show you this next find. It’s from Payless Shoes (I nearly fell over just typing that). But hey, even the bargain bins get it right sometimes, and this sweet strappy sandal is spot-on for summer. I love the grosgrain detail, the color-blocking, the woven wicker edging on the wedge (and a very reasonable 2″ wedge it is, by the way). In short, a very excellent summer shoe…for $39.

Remember those Athena Procopiou scarves with which I’ve been utterly obsessed this spring? Well, guess who has two thumbs and found one for half off? Yep…this guy! Best of all, I didn’t snag the only one for myself…get thee to Anthropologie stat, and nab yourself this beautiful thing, which is even more bold, bright and statement-making in person.

I’ve been seriously tempted by these Tribeca pants at StyleMint for the last few weeks, but was convinced I couldn’t pull them off as anything other than sweats. Then, I went to the hairdresser yesterday, and my stylist was wearing the cutest version of sweats ever: a black version of these pants, a cropped, elbow-length sweatshirt, and black suede ankle booties. Her hair was in a perfectly messy side braid, and the whole thing was so fantastic, I was distracted into getting my hair chopped about 3 inches shorter than I was expecting. If you’re feeling brave, this just may be worth a try.

Last but not least, I thought I’d start showing you my favorite thing I’ve pinned on Pinterest each week. Are you pinning yet? I’m itching to bust out a certain perfect black pencil skirt I bought last month, but it’s been too cold. This look might just be the solution!

{via Models Off Duty}

Have a fantastic holiday weekend, friends…don’t forget to splurge on a frosted sugar cookie (or two)!

It’s not every day that a friend this near and dear to my heart celebrates a milestone this big. That’s right, Tiffany & Co. – my first luxury love – is celebrating its 175th birthday this year.

I remember my first Tiffany purchase like it was yesterday – it was right after I’d been admitted to law school, and I knew the best way to show everyone I’d made it was to strut around campus with a Tiffany & Co. silver keychain. So, when my BFF and I planned a trip to San Francisco, we made a beeline for the flagship store in Union Square. I was trying so hard to play it cool, but as I left that store with my little blue box, I was positively floating. Tiffany has that effect on people.

Just as you’d expect, Tiffany has cooked up something pretty special to celebrate their birthday. They could have designed a new piece, maybe even a small collection of special pieces. But no…this is Tiffany. Go big or go home.

So, they created a new metal. A new metal. Who but Tiffany could pull that off? It’s called Rubedo, and it’s a stunner. A blend of yellow gold, silver and copper – think rose gold, but with more of a warm copper sheen to it. Since my love of rose gold is well-documented, you know I’m already in love. Add the Tiffany tag, and it’s bordering on obsession.

The Rubedo pieces are a permanent part of the Tiffany collection now, but these special pieces that have the founder’s signature on them will only be available for 2012 – and heaven knows, I’m all about the limited edition. Plus, these aren’t at all unattainable – prices start at $200, which is downright reasonable by Tiffany’s standards.

It’s a nearly impossible choice, really. A bangle is a classic, and I know I’d wear those bar earrings nonstop. But I’m sorely tempted to splurge on the classic Tiffany padlock, which you could wear as a pendant, add to a keychain, or even use it to update that silver Tiffany charm bracelet you got from your first boyfriend, but never had the heart to throw out.

Friends, I met the sweetest Portland designer the other day: Ruthie Crawford, of Harlow Jewelry. Even before I saw her designs, I knew I had to introduce you…she’s an absolute doll, who truly adores what she does. Fortunately, her gems happen to be stylish, elegant, and ridiculously reasonable too. I could hardly wait to fill you in!

For me, these pieces just scream “work appropriate” – something not all jewelry can do. Every last one has this fantastically delicate, vintage vibe that makes them perfect for the office, but they’re still stylish enough to be taken out on the town.

I was lucky enough to indulge in a little shopping spree while I visited, and well…let’s just say my gifting needs are handled for the year. Oh, and did I mention her pricing? Honestly…I was working hard looking at her website this morning, and couldn’t find a single piece over $100. Including the pieces piled high with massive stones. I have no idea how she does it.

Check out all of Harlow Jewelry’s goodies on their website…but be warned: mass buying is likely to ensue.

Friends, I’ve missed our Friday Finds fun, so I’m resurrecting it today. Which means I’m pre-empting Kim’s usual spot…so you’ll see her here on Monday instead. Rude, I know. Forgive me?

Every year when Fashion Week (or NYFW, as it’s called in the biz) rolls around, I get excited to see what’s in store. But mostly, I get incredibly jealous that I’m not there. Because, you know, the only thing standing between me and a front row seat at Marc Jacobs, Rachel Comey and Proenza Schouler is a plane ticket and a hotel room.

Since (sniff!) I’m not there, I thought I’d daydream a little about what I’d pack for my fantasy NYFW experience.

First, I’m going to need an amazing carry-on. This new tote from Hayden-Harnett stole my heart the moment I spotted it last week, and hasn’t let go. Navy and black used to scare me, but now it’s one of my favorite color combos – and this crazy-practical version happens to be reversible! Fashion Week or not, I may need this as a consolation prize.

Menswear flats are everywhere right now, and I’ve been dying to splurge on a pair of Dieppa Restrepo loafers. This metallic tasseled version would be just the thing to get Bill Cunningham to snap my pic, as I stylishly leap from one cab to another.

Of course, I’m going to need some pretty amazing apparel to compete with all of my cohorts on the front row. Fortunately, Lauren Santo Domingo has nothing on me. Sure, I could go with the obvious and dress in the designer whose show I’m seeing, but it’s infinitely cooler to show up in a piece from a up-and-coming label. This Jasper jacket from Veda isn’t available until next month, but I’m sure I could pull some strings and pick one up early, just like all the celebs do. It’s easy, right?

And really, it’s time to admit that those printed pants I’ve been coveting are totally necessary – at NYFW, it’s all about trends, after all. These from Derek Lam have been in every fashion magazine this season, so they’re sure to pave my way to success. Or, I could go the “understated chic French” route and opt for these Vanessa Bruno cropped silk trousers instead. I do love that colorblocking!

To go along with all this edgy apparel, I’ll need a little something extraordinary in the jewelry department. Yes, I’m thinking a piece from Iosselliani is just the thing to help me bump up the style quotient of my everyday attire. Add a white tee, leather jacket and a great boot, and really, I’m ready for just about anything.

Finally, I’m going to need an amazing bag to carry to all of these events. I’d be nothing at NYFW without at least one piece of Proenza to my name, but absolutely everyone will be toting the ubiquitous PS1. Instead, I’ll opt for this neon yellow clutch (which I’ll wear, ever so coolly, crossbody by day). This bag alone is sure to get me into Anna Wintour’s most exclusive fete.

Phew! I’m exhausted, friends. All that wistful shopping was too much….I think I need a nap. Especially since I’ll be heading to all those after-parties this week. Have an amazing weekend, and I’ll see you back here next week!

Editor’s Note: I’m so very excited to introduce a dear friend and kick-ass designer as our guest for today’s Crafty Girl. Arrs is the mad scientist behind GemKitty, a fantastic website that basically allows you to staff out your DIY jewelry fantasies. Pick one of their dozens of beautiful designs, come up with a color combo you love, and presto – they’ll ship it to your door in no time flat.

Oh, and the best news? Order today (it’s the last day for Valentine’s Day orders), and get 30% off with code ROMEO -  forward it to a significant other or take matters into your own hands!

In the meantime, Arrs has cooked up an exclusive DIY design for your Valentine’s Day delight. I can hardly wait to get started on this pretty – if only I could decide on a color combo. Lapis beads with bright yellow jasper accents? Pale green aventurine and orange carnelian? Where would you start? (Yep, I totally used her amazing website as a gem cheat sheet for that, by the way.)

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DIY fashion is all the rage (again) and while I heart marathon crafting sessions, I presume most of you aren’t reading this with hot glue gun, plumbing parts, and yards of fancy ribbon in hand.

So, for you crafty novices, I’ve cooked up a DIY necklace project that is the perfect way to wish yourself a happy Valentine’s Day. It’s simple (no special tools required), can easily be made while imbibing your favorite cocktail or gossiping with your girlfriends, and absolutely everyone can pull it off with style.

Necklace made with tiger’s eye and carnelian beans and suede cord.

To make your very own, just click below for all the gory details:

Read the rest of this entry »

Attention wayward men who have been sent to this page by your better half:

I’ve never understood the big challenge about Valentine’s Day. Make it sweet (candy or flowers are old-fashioned, but they never fail) or sexy (silk or lace), and it’s hard to go wrong. Lingerie is never a bad idea, as long as it’s the good stuff – pleather or polyester are never, ever okay. Nor is anything from 1-800-Flowers…or Kay Jewelers.

I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite picks (for men and women alike – what guy wouldn’t like a bouquet of cake?) that are most definitely in the spirit of the season.

1. Finn Heart and Arrow Studs, $595 / 2. Brulee Vamp teddy at byLangley, $180 / 3. Armani Dolci at Armani 5th Avenue (212-339-5950 to order), $35 /4. DCI heart earphone splitter, $11 / 5. Bevin bronze facet ring, $63 / 6. Forget-me-not Coral Girl scarf, $150 / 7. Bites Desserts cake pops bouquet, $28 / 8. Lilac mug cozy, $8.50 / 9. vkoo cashmere blazer, $408

By the way, whether you’re single or attached, you deserve a little extra love. So, as I advocate every year, be your own Valentine! Buy yourself something extraordinary (perhaps the most luxe pajama set I’ve ever seen). Lord knows you’ve earned it.

{ENTRIES NOW CLOSED…thanks for playing, everyone!}

I am so excited this morning, friends…I have a Valentine for you! And trust me, it’s much better than candy hearts and overpriced flowers. But before we get to the swag, I’d like you to meet the crazy-talented Bevin Designs. Beware…coveting is likely to ensue:

How could you not fall for pieces that pretty? I am so in love with this collection – the designs are so substantial and statement-making, but still utterly wearable. Plus, every piece is hand-forged from bronze, sterling or copper – no fillers, thank you – so they’re sure to last forever. I was lucky enough to snag that beautiful faceted necklace above (though I picked the ring version…and talk about a massive rock on my finger!). Truly, as gorgeous as these photos are, they don’t do her designs justice. I’ve been wearing it nonstop since it arrived.

Designer Colleen Smith crafts each and every one of these beauties entirely by hand, right here in Portland. No molds here…she’s an actual metalsmith! How bad-ass is that?

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Colleen and I thought it was the perfect time to give the gift of jewelry to you, friends. That’s right, Bevin Designs wants to be your valentine! See that beautiful bronze cuff up there? Wait…let me give you a closer look:

It doesn’t get more classic, or more perfect, than a bronze cuff. This one is hefty and has the most beautiful patina that carries it effortlessly from casual to dress without missing a beat. It’s a jewelry staple if ever there was one. And Bevin wants it to be all yours.

This is a Facebook contest, friends…so, to win, all you have do is “like” Bevin Design on Facebook (while you’re at it, “like” me too if you want, but no pressure – that part’s optional). Then leave a quick comment letting me know, and you’ll be entered to win! And, since I’m feeling extra generous, you can have a bonus entry if you let your friends on Twitter know about the contest as well (just come back and leave a second comment letting me know).

One entry + one bonus entry per person. The contest closes Sunday night (2/5) and we’ll announce a winner Monday morning (2/6). Good luck, friends!

* This fantastic giveaway is sponsored by Bevin Designs, and hand-picked by me. All opinions are 100% my own. As always.

I spotted these beautiful watches in the February issue of Lucky, and have been obsessing ever since.

These are by Unearthen (their entire site has some fantastically edgy pieces), and I particularly love that each piece is one of a kind – I think they start out as vintage specimens. As always, the rose gold is my favorite, but they’re all beautiful, and perfectly nail that pretty/edgy balance I’m always striving for. I love my menswear watch for everyday wear (it was actually my grandfather’s, so it gets bonus points for sentimentality), but this would make such a fantastic counterpoint, particularly for dressier days.

If you love it too, you can score 35% off (taking it from $500 to $325) with code LUCKY7 (which I’ll probably get in trouble for telling you, but hey, it’s called good journalism, people).