8 Jewelry Must-Haves

“Put even the plainest woman in a fabulous piece of jewelry and unconsciously she will try to live up to it.” from Charm & Chain Blog

I loved this quote when I saw it! I immediately thought about making a list of jewelry essentials. Most women use jewelry to get dressed every morning, but I’m always surprised to hear someone say “I don’t think I could pull that off”. Yes you can! While I aspire to own some authentic baubles one day, I am currently enjoying costume jewelry. There are so many cool things…from vintage to forever21. Here are my must-haves.

1. Dangle Earrings

Lucite and Rhinestone Drop EarringsBird Cage Earrings

L to R Lucite Drops, Lively Tear Drop, Birdcage, Vintage Tulip

2. Bangle Bracelets

Crocodile and Stingray Bangle Set, Mixed Metals

L to R Edgy Bangle, Croc & Stingray, Jeweled Bangle, Smooth Interlocked

3. Statement Ring

Explosion RingRhinestone and Turquoise Stackable RingsRaw Crystal Ring

L to R Explosion, Cross, Stackable, Raw crystal

4. Layered Chains

Shimmery Faceted Stone LariatWood and Silver Bead Necklace

L to R Dynasty, Lariat, Snake Chain, Bead

5. Collar

UO Lace CollarBlue/Purple Beaded Bib NecklaceUO Beaded Collar

L to R Lace, Bib , Beaded, Gold

6. Go-to Studs

Hexagon Stud Earrings, Assorted ColorsPave Knot PostFiligree Stone PostsStarfish Posts

L to R Hexagon, Knot, Filigree, Starfish

7. Everyday Watch

Grandma's Multichain WatchMetal Link Menswear WatchLa Mer Black/Gold Face Watch

L to R Grandmas, Menswear, La Mer

8. Everyday Necklace

Fortune Cookie NecklaceUO Bow NecklaceAsymmetrical Free Bird Necklace

L to R Fortune, Bow, Free bird, Bars

Also check out Lilah Nicolaidis’ picks as well as a Spring refresher from Refinery29

Swimsuits: To fret or not to fret? That is the question.

My friends, I am trying to take my mind off my sick puppy for the time being with something so utterly distracting such as swimsuits. While I’ve promised to go on a many a diet/health kick/work0ut in preparation for Spring, really…I’m the same. And..I still plan on plunging into almost any pool I see (as long as I haven’t washed/curled my hair that day).

Readers, I am compelled to send you to your local TJ Maxx. That is where I’ve found my one and only beloved swimsuit of the summer. I tried it on for my boyfriend last weekend (just to get reviews) and I think he almost salivated! That has not happened. In. Forever. I tell you, it was not me! It was the magical swim suit. It’s a one piece but it is practically backless and completely suctioned. It is practically a piece of machinery in that it makes my boobs hit my clavical, my waist shrink 3″ and my back look as though there were nary a roll. BUT…(how can it get better you ask?) it doesn’t push the fat down to my legs!!! So they look normal, pretty good even (with a wedge added). What I can tell you about this glorious suit is that it’s Nine West or Calvin Klein, $19 and at TJ Maxx. It looks a lot like this but this isn’t it.

UPDATE: I found the swimsuit! It’s Calvin Klein 2009. It was featured last year on refinery29. And this is it!

Calvin Klein Push Up swimsuitCalvin Klein Push Up swimsuit

It has changed my summer 2010 – ALREADY.

While we’re on the subject…I don’t think you will be able to pry me out of one-pieces this season. So, here are a few more I like.

From Victoria’s Secret:

From Newport News:

Tropical floral-print bandeauBandeau suitMetallic print bandeauBandeau swim suitShape fx® All-over control halter suit with drawstring neckShape fx® All-over control twist-front bandeau swimsuitShape fx® All-over control shirred one-piece suitShape fx® All-over control shirred one-shoulder suit

From Urban Outfitters:

Pins and Needles V-Neck One PiecePins and Needles Ruffle One PieceInsight Vogue One PieceKimchi Blue Crisscross Floral One PiecePins and Needles Polka Dot Shirred One Piece

From Asos:

Tavik Colour Black SuitFlamingo Sands Floral Looped One Piece SwimsuitASOS Draped Front SwimsuitMouillé Morroka Beaded Fringe SwimsuitMouillé Poiret Ruffle Front SwimsuitASOS Spot Tie Front SwimsuitCosabella Stripe Deep V-Neck One Piece Swimsuit

Also check out NY mag’s shop-o-matic here.

Digital Magazines: Best Idea EVER!

I recently discovered Lonny Magazine, it’s an online-only home decor magazine with amazing finds and a keen eye for style. My favorite part is the instant click of images leading you directly to a site to where you can buy!

Vanity Fair did a piece on this lovely digi-mag in the December 2009 issue:

Here are some photos from the Oh Joy! Blog Lonny-magazine1Lonny-magazine2

One of my favorite articles comes from issue 3 and features a computer table fashioned into a lucite vanity. Sara Gilbane has her perfume/jewelry a top the clear table and her favorite shoes stored below. The whole thing is like a gorgeous work of art. What tops it off is the vintage-ish, oversize square mirror with personal photographs tucked in.

See what this simple (drab) computer table can turn into! The Lucite vanity is gorgeous but the magazine as a whole is SO worth a look :)

Literally… you can click on all the things you like and will be directed to where you can purchase them. SUCH AN AMAZING IDEA!

I also found this gorgeous mirror for $99  from novica.com that would be perfect atop the vanity, don’t you think?

Frosting

I <3 Charm & Chain.

They have so many beautiful things…all price ranges…featuring established designers and up & coming. Plus, everything is in limited supply so you’re much less likely to see someone else with it on. See for yourself:

Earrings

Black & Crystal Mohawk EarringsBlack and Crystal Mohawk Earrings$238 by Elizabeth Cole Jewelry

Navette EarringsNavette Earrings $55 by Elizabeth Cole Jewelry

Aztec EarringsAztec Earrings $40 by Chameleon Jewelry

Ballerina EarringsBallerina Earrings $430 by Eric Beamon

May Day Earrings$188 by Lulu Frost

Segmented EarringsSegmented Earrings$98 by Tuleste Market

My precious boyfriend got me these beauties for Christmas

Emerald Drop Earrings$125 by Kenneth Jay Lane

Quadrille Earrings $192 by Dori Csengeri

Hexagon Studs in black, gold or bronze $80 by Tuleste Market

Cleo Snake Earrings $100 by Fallon

Necklaces

Lucite ChokerLucite Choker with Cords, White/Gold$185 by Tuleste Market

Fish NecklaceSALE $95 by Tuleste Market (I have this one too, it’s a locket!)

Color Form Necklace$935 by Erikson Beamon

Sue Ellen Necklace$300 by Fallon

Isis Necklace$225 by Fallon

Tonal Single Layer SeedbeadSALE $149 by Lee Angel

Enamel & Crystal Lipstick NecklaceSALE $78 by Kenneth Jay Lane

Ignacia Necklace, Green OnyxSALE $140 by Kendra Scott

This necklace is my dream Blue Beaded Bib$395 by Tuleste Market

Starfish Necklace$88 by Sequin

Pearl Wishbone Necklace $237 by Pade Vavra

Bracelets

Chain Ribbon Crystal Bangle$75 by Rachel Leigh

Crystal Snake Cuff$300 by Kenneth Jay Lane

Gold Klimpt Cuff$195 Alexis Bittar

Enamel Zebra Cuff$100 Kenneth Jay Lane

Rhinestone Button Stretch Cuff$90 by Marilyn Schiff

Crystal Snake Chain Bracelet $150 Rachel Leigh

Rings

Peacock Cocktail Ring Peacock Cocktail Ring $45 by House of Harlow

Explosion Ring Explosion Ring $104 by Frangos

Sundance Ring $157 by Dori Csenger

Gold Sunburst Ring Gold Sunburst Ring $80 by Rachel Leigh

North Star Ring $140 by Amanda Rudey

Enjoy! Free ground shipping through March with the code “marchmadness


Guide to Spring Shoes

I love Refinery29, earlier this month they published the Ultimate Guide to Spring Shoes. I’d like to take what they said and find shoes I could find in my area (or online) for less than $100. Click the link to go to their article, then see where you can find these trends for less.

1. Printed Florals— “If your style borders on classic and simple, a pair of Liberty-inspired oxfords or an abstract floral pump could be just the thing to bring your look into this new season.”

From Refinery29:

printed-floral-shoes-summer-2010.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Lanvin T-Strap Sandals, $980, available at BarneysRobert Clergerie Floral Demisos Platforms, $685, available at Joan SheppASOS Magnolia Lace-Up Shoes, $48, available at ASOSTopshop Wilma Floral Wedges, $145, available atTopshop.

From me:

From Victoria’s Secret $99 and Piperlime $79

2. Shades of Ecru— “There really is nothing sexier than the season’s dreamy-soft nude palette…it’s no doubt our neutral of the season.”

From Refinery29:

nude-shoes-spring-2010.jpg

Above, clockwise from left: Coach Stephanie Heels, $188, available at CoachJean-Michael Cazabat Mignona Oxford, $345, available at Bloomingdale’sJeffrey Campbell Dominate Wrap Heel, $128, available at Urban OutfittersChloé Wood and Canvas Wedges, $650, available at Net-A-Porter.

From Me:

MAIDEN

All from Forever21.com $19, $24 and Bakers $89, Piperlime $65

3. Men’s Shoes— “Oxfords, wingtips, jazz shoes…this spring, we’re loving them all.”

From Refinery29:

oxfords-mens-shoes-shopping.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Rag & Bone Cap Toe Oxfords, $325, available at Shopbop; Deena & Ozzy Suede Oxfords, $58, available at Urban OutfittersASOS Mister Two-Toned Lace-Up Brogues, $51.28, available at ASOSJ Crew Camden Brogues, $250, available at J. CrewJil Sander Leather Slip-On Brogues, $570, available at Net-A-Porter.

From Me:

ORLANDBERMUDA

From Bakers.com Left: Orland $49, Right: Bermuda $39

4. Mesh Details—”Somehow after all the studs and tough-girl accents, a little basic mesh feels so much lighter and cooler.”

From Refinery29:

mesh-details-spring-shoes.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Anthropologie Transom Wedges, $145, available atAnthropologieMaison Martin Margiela Net Classic Heels, $735, available at La GarçonneTopshop Raver Mesh Sandals, $100, available at TopshopJil Sander Mesh Oxfords, $545, available at Barneys.

From Me:

From Forever21 $25 and Dillards$79

5. Classic Clogs—”The clog (and all its variations) has been in heavy rotation for a few years now, but this spring’s version pays homage to the ultimate ’70s Dazed & Confused classic.”

From Refinery29:

clogs-mules-spring-2010-shoes2.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Jeffrey Campbell Karl Clogs, $135, available at Jildor;Swedish Hasbeens Lace-Up Clogs, $398, available at Free PeopleFree People Charli Platform Clog, $179, available at Free PeopleTwelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Tamara Embroidered Wooden Clogs, $350, available at Shopbop.

From Me:

From Dillards $38, $95

6. Peep-Toe Booties—”Booties have become a seasonless staple, and this new batch of peep-toe styles will be on point right through next fall.”

From Refinery29:

open-toe-booties-peep-toe.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Acne Raya Boots, $529, available at AcneFree People Cut Out Eyelet Bootie, $68, available at Free PeopleASOS Tate Lace-Up Booties, $68.38, available at ASOS.

From Me:

From Forever21 $29 and $24

7. The New Espadrille—”There’s no mistaking that comfy, woven vacation bottom, but this season’s espadrilles have a decidedly more glamorous vibe.”

From Refinery29:

espadrilles-spring-2010-fashion.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Robert Clergerie Naya Raffia Platforms, $355, available atBarneys New YorkDolce Vita Ulma Espadrilles, $150, available at Martin + OsaPierre Hardy Espadrille Wedges, $565, available at Barneys New York.

From Me:

DESIREZELDA

From Bakers.com $69 and $89

8. Red—”We’re not sure why, but nothing really feels as chic for spring and summer as a pair of lipstick-red pumps or cut-out oxfords.”

From Refinery29:

red-shoes-spring-2010-shopping.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Aldo Mintken Oxfords, $54.98, available at Aldo; Diane Von Furstenberg Suede Platform Sandals, $280, available at ShopbopOpening CeremonyAnkle Clog Boot, $520, available at Opening CeremonyLoeffler Randall Maggie Flats, $395, available at Ten Over Six.

From Me:

BANDIT

From Forever21 $14 and Bakers.com $89

Product Image Women's Xhilaration® Tabitha T-Strap Peep-Toe Pumps - Red

From Target.com $19 and Forever21 $24

9. Sneaker-Inspired—”These aren’t the kind of kicks you’re generally used to, but we’re kind of into all the athletic details and sporty-sophisticated undertones.”

From Refinery29:

athletic-sports-shoes-fashion-2010.jpg

Above, clockwise from left: Alexander Mcqueen Puma Elevate Wedges, $248, available atOakTopshop Unique Skater Boots, $310, available at TopshopAlexander Wang Mirte Boots, $550, available at Opening Ceremony.

From Me:

From Forever21 $22 and Dillards $59

10. Wovens—”We can’t help but think of an old-school Miu Miu, Marni, and Missoni when we see all the vibrant wovens that have popped up for spring (how could designers not be inspired by the Italians?).”

From Refinery29:

woven-shoes-spring-2010-shopping.jpg

Above, clockwise from top left: Coach Simona Heels, $198, available at CoachProenza Schouler Woven Lace-Up Heels, $1,055, available at Opening CeremonyLoeffler Randall Carlie Mignon Twist Sandals, $325, available at Shopbop.

From Me:

BREANNA

From Bakers.com $59 and  Dillards $89

Enjoy!

Dresses: Prints & Patterns Under $100

Inspired by my lovely friend Lydia’s excitement over the Liberty of London Collection at Target and by Refinery29’s article on 12 printed spring dresses…I decided to find 10 dresses in prints or patterns for under $100. Because you know I love dresses!

From Target: $34.99Product Image Liberty of London for Target® One Shoulder Ruffle Maxi Dress - Pink Garla Print

From Target $39.99Product Image Jean Paul Gaultier for Target® Rolled Collar Floral Dress - Pink

From Asos $51.28ASOS Pebble Printed Fitted Waist Dress

From Asos $64.96ASOS Abstract Feather Print One Shoulder Dress

From Asos $44.44ASOS Leopard Print Sundress

From Asos $51.28 ASOS Washed Rose Button-Through Dress

From Forever21 $24.80

From Forever21 $22.80

From Dillards $69

From Victoria’s Secret $98

I want this dress!

I know my closet is busting at the seams. I know there are many things I should do with my money instead of buying clothes. I know I have so many dresses that there are several I have never worn. I know.

But I don’t care! I want this dress!!

NY&C Red Label Silk Shirt DressIt’s from New York & Co and despite the price tag ($89!), I want it.

While we’re on the subject…Payless? Umm not just for grannies anymore.

Womens Christian Siriano for PaylessAll Done Up Mary Jane Pump

Favorites

These are my favorite shoes. They’re Gianni Bini croc booties with a peep toe.  I bought them in December 2008 @ Dillards and have been obessed with them ever since. A pair of animal skin booties can transition you from fall to winter to spring to summer. You can seriously wear them with dresses of any solid color, jeans, skirts, black cropped pants…EVERY SINGLE time I wear them I get compliments ;)

Not the most clear photo but a perfect example of their versatility

I seriously can’t find any like this but here are some that would have a similar effect from Forever21


These are two of my favorite songs right now. L.E.S. Artists by Santigold

and When did your heart go missing by Rooney


This is my favorite blog right now. I love the way Emily photographs her outfits and shares them with her fans. She has a great take on fashion.

http://cupcakesandcashmere.com


There are FIVE outerwear essentials (in my humble opinion) that you need for transitional pieces from Winter into Spring (thank god!) When the forecast calls for weather above 45degrees, put your heavy coats away and welcome spring!

A neck warmer, a bomber jacket, a white blazer, rain boots & a classic trench.

A neck warmer.

Here’s an infinity scarf from f21:

Mine is from New York & Co (ps: underrated store that carries so many wardrobe staples & their sales are unreal). I love it with a white jacket/blazer. My jacket in the below photo is also NY&C and bracelet length (love!)


A bomber jacket. Mine is from Target and I’m obsessed with it.

Here’s a cropped jacket from F21

A cute lighter version from NY&C

Faux Leather Bomber Jacket

Here is a quasi-good pic of me in my Target jacket.



And one that’s still available at target.com

Product Image Womens Faux Crinkled Leather with Diagonal Pockets Moto Jacket - Black


A white/cream blazer

Here are a few great ones from (where else?) Forever21

Mine is from Banana Republic but I purchased it at my favorite thrift store in Fayetteville, Cheap Thrills



Here’s a cute one from Target

Product Image Mossimo® Black: Sateen Boyfriend Blazer - White

And of course BR


Rain boots. You can throw them on if it’s chillier or wet with your jeans, dress or skirt. I got mine at Target in the gardening section so they’re blue and mid-calf (and meant for gardening but whatevs). I used to have the best black rain  boots from home depot of all places!

From Target

Product Image Women's Zetta Tall Rain Boots - BlackProduct Image Women's Merona® Zasha Bias Plaid Rain Boots - MulticolorProduct Image Women's Zetta Tall Rain Boots - Red


A classic trench. I have one that I got during the middle of summer last year at TJ Maxx. I adore it but I’m not sure I have any photos in it.

From BR

From Target

Product Image Merona® Long Trench Coat - Fresh WhiteProduct Image Coffee Shop Twill Double Breasted Long Trench Coat - Khaki

From Forever21

Enjoy!

10 HOT Spring dresses under $50

Refinery29 inspired me this morning with their post about 20 spring dresses under $100. I thought if they can find 20 under $100, surely I can find 10 under $50! And so the search began…

Two-tone convertible halter dress

$39 Newport News

Belted Short Sleeve Tunic Dress

$14.99 NY&Co

$49.99 Banana Republic

Silence & Noise Multi Chard Print Dress

$48 Urban Outfitters

Urban Renewal Crisscross Minidress

$48 Urban Outfitters

$34.80 Forever21

$22.80 Forever21

ASOS Washed Printed Smock Dress

$47.86 Asos

ASOS Frill Front Strappy Dress

$30.77 Asos

I have a feeling I will update this again soon. So excited for spring/spring dressing!

Fall 2010 NYFW

Some of my faves so far… Loving the dresses, thigh-high boots, furs, oranges

I literally die for every piece of the Temperley London collection.

Temperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearTemperley London Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Everything Carolina Herrera

Carolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearCarolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearCarolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearCarolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearCarolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearCarolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Jill Stuart

Jill Stuart Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearJill Stuart Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Rachel Roy

Rachel Roy Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearRachel Roy Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearOscar de la Renta Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Halston

Halston Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearHalston Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearMonique Lhuillier Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Marchesa

Marchesa Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearMarchesa Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Victoria Beckham

Victoria Beckham Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearVictoria Beckham Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Sophie Theallet

Sophie Theallet Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearSophie Theallet Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

Nanette Lepore

Nanette Lepore Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearNanette Lepore Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

DVF

Diane von Furstenberg Fall 2010 Ready-to-WearDiane von Furstenberg Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

I also love Elie Tahari’s use of black & layering.

Images from Style.com. Enjoy!