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Ocean of Color
Rich, blue-green jewelry is in abundance for spring – signaling the promise of warm weather, vacations and resort-wear ahead. These ocean-inspired jewelry pieces are organic, natural and earth-inspired.
J. Crew Marina Necklace – wear with white jeans! $125
A Peace Treaty, Tubar Ring, $132
The Serenity Stone Necklace, $198, from Stella & Dot (as seen in People Style Watch). 12 carat gold plated, mix of smooth, faceted glass stones and turquoise & dyed jade. A gorgeous, versatile statement piece for summer!
Diya Chandeliers, Anthropologie, $298
Lust-worthy Irene Neuwirth earrings, $3,370
I love how refreshing these shades are: simple, yet classic and sophisticated. Colors like jade, aquamarine, and ocean-blue will complement your neutral basics and really pop against your black and whites for spring!
Stay chic,
Annie
Meet Stella & Dot
I’m excited to announce that A Chic Critique has recently partnered with Stella & Dot!
Stella & Dot is a fabulous line of luxury, boutique-inspired modern jewelry and accessories – you may have seen their pieces featured in Vogue, In Style, ELLE, People, Lucky, US Weekly and Redbook magazines as well as The Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. Their pieces have been worn on the wrists and necklines of some of today’s noted celebrities like Giuliana Ransic, Heidi Klum, Kelly Ripa, Penelope Cruz, and Barbara Walters, and featured on TV shows such as The Today Show, Oprah, The View and the Bachelorette. Their irresistible custom designs are runway-inspired, sophisticated, artisan crafted and handmade, as well as lead and nickel safe. Exclusively designed in NYC, these pieces can be ordered directly from A Chic Critique’s own Stella & Dot website at http://www.stelladot.com/sites/achiccritique.
via S&D
the Leona – a favorite of mine for clients! As seen in Lucky Magazine. $98
I’ve been fawning over Stella & Dot’s jewelry for years; additionally, I have been putting my clients in their on-trend statement necklaces, cuffs, earrings and cocktail rings at every opportunity I get. At reasonable price points, they have collections geared towards every style personality, whatever it may be: classic, bohemian, preppy, simple, feminine, edgy, and/or glamorous. For more fabulous pieces, visit my website, or you can check out their Spring 2012 Collection & Look Book here!
Some favorites of mine from the Spring 2012 collection:
The Sierra Necklace, $148
A bib of shimmering 12k gold finished brass discs drape gracefully from a brass arc. Backed with a 12k gold finished disc chain.
Serenity Stone Drops, $49
Hand cut polished semi-precious dyed jade drops are handset in a shiny 12k gold plated hammered brass bezel. Lead & Nickel Safe. 2 inches. Gold plated brass fish hook ear wire.
In honor of this announcement, I’m running a special for the next two weeks: when you make any purchases (of $50 or more), your name will be entered into a drawing – the winner will receive one free piece of Stella & Dot jewelry! All you have to do is start shopping! At check out, enter hostess name: “Launch Party” (you’ll see a drop-down menu under ‘hostess name’).
I’m always telling clients to invest in wardrobe basics and foundational garments – but add polish and style to any ensemble with statement jewelry, such a bold cuff or killer pair of chandelier earrings. What better way to showcase your sense of fashion and personality?
Stay chic,
Annie
Update: A Chic Critique is now working with clients in both St. Louis, MO, and Nashville, TN! Available for travel. Contact annie@achiccritique.com for your spring wardrobe tune-up, personal shopping trip, or closet edit. Refer two new (booked) clients to me, and you’ll receive a complimentary style assessment & wardrobe consult (a 2-hour value)!
ACC Favie: Jewel Mint
Have you discovered Jewel Mint? Designed by style icon and actress Kate Bosworth and her stylist, Cher Coulter, Jewel Mint is an exclusive collection of costume jewelry available online on a membership basis.
“Experience an exclusive jewelry collection designed by actress and fashion icon, Kate Bosworth, and her celebrity stylist, Cher Coulter. Inspired by the runway, vintage pieces and places they love, Kate and Cher design a versatile collection each month, so we can recommend the perfect pieces to match your style.” – Jewel Mint
One thing I’m always stressing with my clients is the importance of accessorizing. Invest in basic wardrobe staples (black blazer, neutral knits, a great pair of fitted dark jeans, riding boots, etc.), then express your personal style and taste through your jewelry, handbags, etc. The reason why I post so often on statement necklaces, cocktail rings and the like is because accessories are an easy, affordable way to update your wardrobe, infuse some sophistication and pull an outfit together.
I love how cool and unusual Kate and Cher’s one-of-a-kind designs are. Some of my favorites:
Just got my pair of wing-it earrings the other day – obsessed.
How does it work?
Jewel Mint makes this process simple – sign up to become a member of Jewel Mint, then fill out their personal style profile so they can make specific jewelry recommendations based on your preferences. What’s your style? Bohemian? Glamorous? Classic? Edgy and avant garde? As a member, you get free shipping and members-only pricing. For $29.99 a month, you get one jewelry credit for one piece of jewelry – your choice – from the Jewel Mint collection, a plethora of rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings. At such a reasonable price, who can resist? And the great thing is – if you decide you don’t want to pay $29.99 that month, you can opt out and wait until the next month to buy a piece.
If you’re in a bit of a post-holiday funk, some new jewelry might just be the spice you need. In my opinion, it’s worth checking out: a new year’s online shopping trend I’m partial to.
Stay chic,
Annie
all images via Jewel Mint site*
Kendra Scott Giveaway
I’ve mentioned my love for Kendra Scott jewelry a couple of times on my blog, but let me reiterate how much I adore her pieces. I was first introduced to the line back in 2010, but my passion for her bright, eye-catching, and beautiful statement jewelry has continued to grow. Her whimsical and feminine cuff bracelets are conversation pieces, and her chunky, collar necklaces with their bold color selection can dress up any basic white tee or black dress.
A Chic Critique is excited to announce a Kendra Scott giveaway – I’m giving away a brand new pair of Kendra’s “Danielle” earrings in turquoise (retail value $60).
This happens to be one of my favorite pairs of earrings; I can’t tell you how many compliments I get when I wear them! I was in Nordstrom shopping with a client the other day, and at least four sale associates mentioned how much they liked them.
“Worn by Hilary Duff on Access Hollywood Live and featured in People Style Watch, People Magazine and on The Today Show, the simple elegance of the Danielle earring is sure to please with its big bold pop of turquoise color!” – www.kendrascott.com
Seen here in People Style Watch:
image via here
Here’s how you can enter to win this fabulous pair of earrings:
1. Sign up for the “A Chic Critique” email list on the homepage. Comment in the comment section below this post for one entry.
2. Tweet about my giveaway and follow @achiccritique, my twitter account, then post the link for two entries. Please leave the comment twice below in the comment section so that all of your entries get counted.
3. Blog about this giveaway for three additional entries. Please leave a link in the comment section three times, so that all of your entries get counted.
4. “Like” my Facebook page for two more additional entries. Please comment two times more on my Facebook page so that each of your entries get counted.
All entries must be received by Wednesday, Oct. 12th at 6PM CDT. The winner will be chosen that night! Good luck and thank you for following my blog!
Stay chic,
Annie
Pretty Little Things
Is your jewelry collection continually expanding? If you’re like me, it’s a challenge to make room for your jewelry, much less keep it organized and accessible. Instead of digging through countless stacks of cocktail rings and bangles, why not invest in a jewelry stand that takes some of the work out of accessorizing? These stands are pretty, modern, and whimsical, a welcome addition to your vanity or closet.
Two’s Company Gold Leaf Birds Jewelry Holder, $43.49
Anthropologie Wish Tree Jewelry Holder, $98. The height on this one suits long pendant necklaces.
Little Birch Jewelry Stand, Urban, $32
Another creative way to showcase your necklaces (and to keep them from tangling up) is to invest in a couple of vintage-inspired hooks (Anthropologie has a delicious assortment). Fasten three on your closet door, inside an armoire, or even on the wall beside your vanity, for a functional, yet decorative touch.
Key Hook Rack, $24
And last, but not least, one of my favorite ways to display accessories: take an old frame, remove the back and replace with corkboard, and voila! All you need are pushpins.
I’ve seen this done in a couple of boutiques- an innovative merchandising technique. Image via here.
How do you like to store and display your pretty little things?
Stay chic,
Annie
Loving NOW: Eddie Borgo
Have you seen Eddie Borgo’s jewelry line for J. Crew? It’s kind of delicious. Rock-and-roll meets elegant sophistication in the latest collaboration between Borgo and J.Crew.
“To celebrate the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award runner-up Eddie Borgo, we’re excited to present a six-piece, limited edition collection made exclusively for J.Crew. Each punky yet polished accent captures Eddie’s signature take on street style and was created to earn his cult following some new recruits.” – J. Crew website
I. must. have. that. fringe. necklace.
I adore the juxtaposition of materials: raw, yet polished, feminine, yet edgy. Leather cuffs and bows adorned with grommets? A tassel fringe pendant paired with a pearl strand? Talk about interesting, one-of-a-kind jewelry that makes a statement (well-done, J.Crew, well-done). J. Crew has dubbed Eddie’s design aesthetic “rock-chic.”
In case you haven’t had enough, third time’s the charm. Eddie Borgo at J.Crew Fringed Mesh Pocket Necklace, $175
Like what you see? If so, you can peruse the entire collection, purchase, and gawk to your heart’s delight here. Now’s the time to strike – the collection is only available for a limited time, and according to my friends at J. Crew, they’re selling out quick!
Stay chic,
Annie
Monogram Me
I’ve never been one for monograms (shocking, seeing that I’m from the South where we’re known for our excessive tendency to stamp our initials on anything and everything we own). Done well, they can be elegant; however, they always seem a bit expected, even trite. A bit too “cutesy” for my taste.
These chic necklaces have me reconsidering my stance on monograms.
Jennifer Zeuner Large Swirly 3-initial pendant, $264 (also comes in sterling silver)
West Avenue Large Monogram Necklace – from Max & Chloe, $210
Blaire Eadie (Gap merchandiser and blogger extraordinaire) is partly to blame. As you can see, her monogram necklace is subtle yet makes a statement: nothing ‘cutesy’ here. If you like what you see, she’s wearing a Max & Chloe number (above).
image via here
Miss Taylor Swift and Lauren Conrad are fans of Jennifer Zeuner’s monogram pieces, which have been around for a couple of years.
The verdict is out: I’m obsessed with monogram necklaces (these, in particular). Sweet, simple, and the perfect addition to your accessory collection. Do you like to wear your name proudly, or will you be keeping your monogram under the radar? I won’t.
Stay chic,
Annie
Arm Party
Have you all joined the arm party yet? This mix-and-match bracelet trend is on the up and up.
I love the juxtaposition of textures, shapes and sizes – a diamond link next to a rough leather band, positioned next to a vintage oversized watch, topped off with jeweled encrusted cuffs. Silver mixed with gold, brights mixed with neutrals. The end result? This eclectic, frenzied display of arm candy somehow manages to look chic and polished.
image via here
image via here
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image via here
How to wear it? The more, the merrier. Don’t be afraid to mix hard metals with supple leathers, high with low, or bold bangles with a subdued, classic gold watch. David Yurman next to Forever 21; rough chain links next to pearls. You get the idea.
Here are a couple of different looks I put together:
Depending on your personality, you can add a string of pearls, some neon bands, or a vintage cuff. Mix it up and have fun with accessories – showcase your own personal style, be it funky, retro, sophisticated, feminine or glam.
Stay chic,
Annie
Snake Charmer
If you are at all prone to ophidiophobia, this post might trigger a reaction; otherwise, the spotlight is on sexy serpent jewelry.
To say I am obsessed with snake jewelry would be an understatement – this girl can’t get enough. Snake cuffs are a bit edgy, but they reek of sophistication. There is something so simple and elegant about one: an ideal combination. For the luxurious palette, I’d suggest one with encrusted pave diamonds, or perhaps diamond accents.
Recently, I wore this funky Lucky Brand cuff (see letter “a” below) to a charity event with an unadorned, silk, navy dress from Bloomie’s. As a statement piece, it needs little else to compete with. Pair one with your favorite LBD, a bold clutch, and killer gold heels for an instant stylish update to an otherwise predictable black frock.
a) Lucky Brand Gypset Snake-Coil Cuff (not available online) How fun are the pink and turquoise accents?
b) Quartz, Black & White Diamond Sterling Silver Snake Bracelet, $395
c) Gara Danielle Diamondback Snake Cuff, $263 (my favorite of all)
d) Jewel Snake Cuff, $25
e) Aurelie Bidermann Mamba 18-karat gold plated snake cuff, $805
f) Elizabeth Charles Thalia Pave Diamond Snake Bangle with Cognac Diamonds, $6,800
g) Melinda Maria Nikki Serpent Cuff White, $315
h) ASOS Wrap-around Snake Cuff, $14
Easy and effortless, this organic trend would also pair well with a pair of jeans and a black or white t-shirt for a cool, casual look.
Stay chic, charmers.
Annie
100th Post: Feather Love
Today is ACC’s 100th blog-post! It’s exciting to look back over the last year at all the fun, fashion, and (according to a good friend) ‘chic-critiquing‘ occurred. Whether shopping & packing for honeymoons, making consignment trips, editing wardrobes, or beautifying a bride, I’ve been able to do what I love and am most passionate about: helping women of every age, shape, size, budget, and lifestyle look and feel beautiful. Get ready for another year of style-tips, “what NOT to wear” advice, trend reports, and ACC happenings along the way.
Onto today’s topic: feathers galore.
I often wear a pair of blue and green peacock-woven earrings I love, and surprisingly, have received more compliments on them than almost any other pair of earrings I own. I’m a self-professing “dangly-earring fanatic” by nature, so my collection continues to expand; however, this pair takes the cake. Half “where the wild things are,” and half “free-bird hippie,” feather jewelry reflects some of the most beautiful creatures in nature, but is simultaneously funky and glamorous. Unexpected and stylish.
Isabel Marant RTW (via Style) Love them? Here they are:
Swoon-worthy + feather + pink = A Chic Critique hot-list for spring. Unfortunately, these bad-girls are sold out. I know – I’m a tease.
Like the look? If so, here are my favorites.
1. HaylBop Originals “Flock of Peacocks Earrings“, originally $49 – now $24.50!
2. Anthro Alabaster Peacock Earrings, $38
3. Aurelie 18-karat gold-dipped Swan feather earrings, $1,300
4. Ron Herman Feather Earrings, $75
5. Forever21 Festive Feather earrings, $4.80 (look for less)
Style Q & A:
In honor of our 100th post, I’m having a free-for-all. What would you like to see ACC write about, stylish readers? Business / professional attire? What to wear to meet the parents? Affordable bridesmaids dresses? Pencil skirts for every shape? Lingerie & bras for all sizes? Maternity style? The Look for Less? We’re open to feedback! Post your ideas and questions in the comments section below, please – or email annie@achiccritique.com.
Stay chic, and don’t forget to submit your Style Q & A ideas below!