Category Archives: jewelry

all in the details: shimmering sailor knot necklace

Kate ~ Transition, transition, transition. Every blog, every magazine, everyone discussing fashion for this upcoming season is mentioning transition pieces (…myself included). While the natural thought pattern for transitional accessories normally just turns to the addition of hats and scarves, or swapping neon for deep jewel tones, there’s always the option of allowing the dazzle and sparkle to play double duty as well.

Case in point? This necklace from Ranna Gill pays homage to to the nautical knots trends of spring and summer, while also feeling readily at home with deep golds and subtle colour for fall (cobalt, maroon and pale pink). It’s substantial enough to pair with a cardigan or sweater, but also not too overwhelming for a t-shirt and jeans.

Shimmering Sailor Knot Necklace, Anthropologie, $118

A necklace like this presents a unique opportunity to pair casual with dressy. A simple navy sweater that borders on loungewear adds ease to a multi-toned patterned pencil skirt with metallic thread. Because the necklace and skirt have similar colour palettes they complement as opposed to compete with one another. The sweater keeps things from being overly fancy and lends a daytime essence to the outfit.

Studio Sweater, Gap, $40 / Floral Brocade Pencil Skirt, J.Crew, $168

Since there’s a lot going on balancing the necklace and the skirt, your details need to be crisp and unfussy to tone down the overall look. Tiny hammered studs are the only other jewelry I’d suggest, aside from an understated brown leather band watch and perhaps some dainty gold rings. Instead of extra jewels, have fun with a warm medium burgundy nail polish – metallic or creme, you choose! A structured ladylike handbag maintains the feminine tone alongside simple brown ballet loafers. Furthermore all of these pieces will move seamlessly between the seasons as hardwearing staples.

Wallace Watch, Fossil, $85 / Tramp Stamp or Shag, butter London, $14 / Stackable Band Rings, Stella & Dot, $39 / Willis Bag in British Tan, Coach, $298 / Carmel Tiny Hammered Studs, Gorjana, $22 / Calfskin Ballet Loafers, Brooks Brothers, $118

Picking pieces that transition from late summer to fall is crucial at this point in the year.. Mixing transition with bold balance (metallic thread pencil skirts and sparkling necklaces) is a fun way to bring the light of summer into a refined fall. Statement and staples, it’s all in the details.

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all in the details: threadbare bracelet

Kate ~ Occasionally I come across a detail that strikes me as the kind of piece that would work no matter your style. The Threadbare bracelet from RockLove is an example of that, from preppy (nautical knots and primary colours) to the indie chic rockers (refined leather and hardware), and with all the colours available, odds are there’s a version for you.

Comprised of an intricate leather knot, gold chain, and an anchor-and-eye clasp, this bracelet is chunky enough to be a statement on its own, yet refined enough that it could withstand a little extra arm candy. I’ve opted for the Oxblood Red, as it’s the kind of colour that could really be rocked year round.

Oxblood Threadbare Bracelet, RockLove, $115

When I first came across this, I was sitting in black cigarette pants, a khaki blazer, and that Tory Burch Scarf from a few weeks ago…quietly thinking that the Oxblood would both pick up the colours of the scarf and balance out an oversized gold watch on the opposing wrist. Nonetheless, while I have nothing against outfit repeats, this column is about being inspired by details and creative.

For the foundations, I’m reaching for end of summer staples: a cotton oxford button down (crisp and polished in shape, but soft in material), and dark denim shorts or jeans (either classic indigo or black will do). I’ve opted for neutral basics so that you’re welcome to weave in your own aesthetic in the rest of the details, whether it be rocker chic or downtown prep.

Broome Street Jeans, Kate Spade, $198 / Shrunken Oxford, Madewell, $60 / Boyfriend Shorts, Paige, $139

Playing up the arm candy of the Threadbare bracelet, I’d add a thin silk and chain wrap bracelet and bold gold studs to start out the details. Adding a patterned scarf with a touch of red ensures that the outfit doesn’t stray into monotone (eg. all bold solid colours/accents), and softens the look when just hanging casually around your neck. The bag, shoes, and belt should all pick up on either the red/gold of the bracelet, or the other tones of the scarf. Red ballet flats add a touch of fun, a thin yellow belt ties in the scarf, and a semi-structured tan bag keeps things in the light, late summer category. Now just add your favourite shades and keep your makeup fresh and minimal with extra flirty lashes.

Fish Print Scarf, J.Crew, $48 / Gold Chloe Studs, Gorjana, $40 / Silk & Chain Wrap Bracelet, Chan Luu, $98 / Yellow Belt, Gap, $30 / Regina Ballet, Frye, $128 / Biennial Satchel, J.Crew, $348

A bracelet like this allows your look to multitask, whether your style is classic or contemporary on any given morning. In addition, neutral statement pieces allow you to draw on inspiration from other accessories as well. A dash of coordination and a pinch of edge means keeps everything interesting, all in the details.

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currently coveting: 1909 by erica weiner

These beauties landed in my inbox last week, and I’ve been pining ever since.

Erica Weiner‘s designs are always a favorite of mine, but she’s upped the ante in a big way with her new fine jewelry line, 1909. Gold, precious gems and some serious craftsmanship, with all of Erica’s signature vintage hipness. I’m already scheming for an anniversary band (if only I could decide which one). If you’re lucky enough to have a wedding coming up, take note!

The full collection launches on August 8, and prices range from $400 to $2,250. Ready, set, shop!

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all in the details: margaret elizabeth cocktail ring


{Editor’s Note: The always-lovely Kate is back with a pick I’m going to be scooping up the second I hit publish. This ring is too pretty for words…the only thing it’s missing is my finger. But the real question: why oh why don’t those fab ankle boots come in my size? Tragic.}

Thus far the details have ranged from handbags to shoes, necklaces to earrings and bracelets…but where are the rings! Clearly we’re due for something with a touch of sparkle to don on our digits. Rough cut stones are always great, as they look equally lovely with a button down and sleek pencil skirt, as they do with a flirty summer dress. This particular choice from Margaret Elizabeth features a stack of seafoam chalcedony, green onyx, and clear quartz stones set in gold.

Bezel Set Stackable Ring, Margaret Elizabeth, $154

Summer mornings call for as little thought as possible, and the solution can always be found in a dress. This striped option from Club Monaco picks up on the cool tones of the ring appearing inspired as opposed too dangerously matchy. For a cooler evening, or even just a little added style, I’d reach for a dusky army green safari-esque jacket to keep with the colour palette and not compete with the stripes of the dress.

Canvas Military Jacket, Gap, $80 / Nora Silk Dress, Club Monaco, $160 / Belted Safari Jacket, Vince Camuto, $69

As for the other details, my thoughts were utterly preoccupied with gold and sea-glass tones. A broken arrow belt adds unique interest to the dress, and wearing a single bold bangle on the opposite wrist will help to balance the ring. Opting to coordinate the earrings with the ring, I’d suggest some basic teardrops in either seafoam (if your hair runs on the lighter side) or green onyx (if your hair is a darker tone) that are simple and subtle. A deep green flat, and a funky but functional transitional tote rounds things out and keeps with the rustic oceanic palette for summer. Feeling a little autumnal already? Swap the flats for worn-in ankle boots, picking up on the rougher nature of the jacket.

Twinset Bangle, Henri Bendel, $118 / Green Onyx Teardrops, Margaret Elizabeth, $98 / Racing Green Henriettas, London Sole, $245 / Steel Bedford Kit, MZ Wallace, $395 / Seafoam Teardrops, Margaret Elizabeth, $98 / Broken Arrow Belt, Madewell, $25 / Horrigan Wrap Strap Booties, H by Hudson, $312

This week was inspired by something as small and simple as a stack of unassuming rings. Letting the green tones guide your intuition in setting the colour palette reminds one never to underestimate that it’s all in the details.  ~ Kate

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friday finds / happy fourth!

Happy Friday, friends! This is an especially lovely Friday for me…it’s been a busy, busy month here, and I need some R&R. So, I’ve decided to give myself a little “staycation” next week. That’s the problem with a holiday falling on a Wednesday: it all but requires this kind of drastic action. So, I’ll be MIA here in blogtown, but I have no doubt I’ll be unable to completely detach, so if you get lonely, hang with me on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest or even Instagram. I’m everywhere, people…just like Starbucks.

With that, a few of my favorite finds this week!

I love a good West Elm party, and they’re having a great one tomorrow. The Portland store is having a “Dog Days of Summer” bash – bring your dog, donate some food or treats to the Pixie Project (an amazing doggie nonprofit), and you’ll get a free pro pic of your pup. Meet me there! Oh, and if you’re not in Portland, don’t fear – other stores are having their own awesome fetes as well.

Claudia Pearson doggie plates, $16 (yep, totally need these)

You know by now that I’m not exactly the eco-friendly type. But I got the sweetest email from the owner of a very stylish green boutique called Future:Standard, to let me know that her entire site is 20% off this weekend with code sb1120. She has some pretty fantastic pieces, eco or no…a few of my faves:

Scalloped denim shorts, Covet, $50 / Kingston dress, Koch, $142 / Dean Tee, Toggery, $44

I have a longstanding love of Russian nesting dolls, or matryoshka (if you can spell it) Something about the bright colors, insane amounts of detail, and all that tinyness manages to appeal to my creative side and my Type A personality. So when I spotted these adorable stacking matryoshka necklaces, I let loose a tiny little squeal. Am I too old for them? Maybe. Am I still dying for one? Absolutely. I’d put the whole family on one 22″ silver chain…or, even better, a charm bracelet!

I got my copy of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale catalog this week…and friends, it is good. My favorite pick so far? Those Rag & Bone Newbury boots you’ve seen on every. single. celebrity. They have a black suede edition for $299, which is an amazing price (they retail for $495, and almost never go on sale). Keep your eyes out for those bad boys…presale starts 7/11, but you know I’ll give you my annual picks list before then 🙂

And speaking of new social media, I’m going to give you a little Instagram goodness today instead of a Pinterest pick. I recently got the most gorgeous rugs from Rugs USA as part of my insane home overhaul. I’m head over heels for them…and so are my pups, who think my new Moroccan souk rug is one giant dog bed. Happy dogs, happy life. Or something.

I think they should hire her to do all their modeling, don’t you?

That’s it for me! Have a fabulous weekend and a happy Fourth, everyone…I’ll see you back here in a week!

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one great thing…

I stumbled across this necklace by A Peace Treaty on Pinterest, and can’t quite get it out of my mind. How perfect would this be for summer?

I’m a big believer in upping the accessory ante in summer…mostly because my summer wardrobe is about as dull as it comes. But throw this on over a tank and jeans, and suddenly, it’s an outfit – it’s amazing what a great statement necklace can do for casualwear. Plus, it’s limited edition (if you don’t know about Of A Kind yet, prepare yourself for some serious gasping), so you get to feel like you have something special.

Let me know if you nab one, and I promise to be appropriately jealous. Unless I get there first.

 

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just for mom: heather moore jewelry

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!

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friday finds (and important information!)

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

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