August 2011 Archives

Marilyn Monroe may have announced that diamonds are a girl's best friend - and that point still stands nearly half a century later - but what's a diamond's best friend? Pearls, of course! A dreamy, gratifying combination, the two go together like milk and honey. Or even better, Champagne and caviar.

Especially when the pearls are not perfectly round and set on a typical strand - read prissy and trite, unless they are pumped up with some major personal style. No, the new breed is cultured freshwater pearls in bumpy, lumpy, asymmetrical shapes for an earthier feel. And nothing sets off intricate pave diamonds better.

Ross Simons boasts a thrilling collection of cultured pearl and diamond shake-ups, for thrilling discounts, no less. A necklace of peach pearls ( $695 from $1,395: suggested retail of $2,695) gets delightfully thrown off by a splash of pave natural diamonds, while the black Tahitian pearl bracelet ($2,625 from $3,500), set off with three sparkling beads, looks like it was dug out of a magical sea. The diamond beads on the drop earrings ($1,871.25 from $2,495) look as shapely and organic as the pearls themselves, but the most exciting pieces might be the rings: a Biwa pearl ($975 from $1,795; suggested retail of $2,650) surrounded by a menacing yet cute serpent and a wildly shaped Baroque pearl ($1,695 from $5,995; suggested retail of $4,300) encased in an abstract serpentine design. These are pearls for the new generation of glamour girls.

All the intricate trappings of the most demure lace and not a hint of the prissiness. From their ready-to-wear to their shoes and bags, and, of course, jewelry, I am so in love with Bottega Veneta's lace story this season. Trompe l'oeil stencils created virtual lace on the runway, combined with touches of mesh and frayed leather, they gave new depth and meaning to conventional lace.

In all-matte blackened oxidized silver, the jewelry has a hard edge that's quite assertive - just the kind of lace I like. The necklace - such a spectacular piece it looks like it was pulled from a darkly mystical garden - won't be hard to show off with something that's already in your closet. My favorite is the bangle, and apparently I'm not the only one. It's sold out on Net-a-Porter (but still available at Bottega). For $4,380, you know it's out of this world. It's brimming with elaborate detailing yet still maintains a high degree of delicacy. And heavy and thick enough to make a seriously cool statement. I tried it on briefly - I was afraid of falling too madly in love with it, but mad enough to spend over $4K? You decide.

The chunky ring is also divine, and much more manageable in price. It obviously doesn't have as much complicated detailing, but an airy, open filagree is the perfect antidote to gunmetal-faceted cubic zirconia. Chandelier earrings in jet-black are a nice twist on traditional crystal versions, while always pretty can get mundane. Speaking of mundane - that's simply not a word in Bottega's vocabulary.

Blackened Oxidized Silver Floral Lace Necklace on Net-a-Porter for $3,350.

Blackened Oxidized Silver Chandelier Earrings on Net-a-Porter for $980.

Blackened Oxidized Silver Filigree Ring on Net-a-Porter for $580.

Blackened Oxidized Silver Bangle on Net-a-Porter for $4,380. (Currently sold out on Net-a-Porter, but available now at Bottega Veneta)

Sometimes, it takes only the slightest detail to make something unique and bold. This split circle pendant from Paige Novick has 2 faceted red jasper half moons surrounded by crystals on an asymmetrical linked chain and leather for an overall refreshing yet old world look. Statement pendant are on trend but don't get caught blending in with the crowd with the ubiquitous large dangling crystal (which are fine, just not great). This piece is well priced for such an extraordinary investment that has longevity and versatility. The leather straps are adjustable so you can have this enhance your décolletage or draw the attention lower with a full length necklace. At Bergdorf Goodman for $425.

Jewelry designer and artist Zia has a diversely interesting background that is reflected in his vivacious designs. Born in Kenya to Japanese-Indian parents, Zia spent his teenage years in Kansas. He attended SCAD in Georgia and set up shop in Savannah in 2005. Since then he has swiftly grown in scope and aesthetic as he travels the globe sourcing for his exotic and inspired pieces.

Zia's jewelry evokes Africa, Asia, and Dorothy's stomping ground; some pieces, unpredictably asymmetrical, look tribal, ancestral, while others, contemporary and modern. But all have his individual touch. He draws on geometric forms and organic shapes to create strikingly unusual designs.

His necklaces, with naturalistic names like Decadent Sticks, Wire Sea Pod, and Sea Urchin Quill, feature smoky quartz, cinnabar, Biwa pearls, and gaspeite. Stones hang from adjoining circles and looping lines of 14-karat gold-filled chains and chokers. Ranging from the sober to the playful, Zia's earrings drop from the ear like teardrops, stalactites, moons, and flowers featuring jade, citrine, pearls, onyx, blue topaz, and cherry quartz. His bracelets, all cuffs and wraps, are made from either hammered brass that's been baked in the sun with lemon juice, or rustic leather that drapes the wrist in chunky tiers. They sport cocoa and jacaranda seedpods that have been vegetable-dyed, wire-wrapped spinel stones, labradorites, tiger's eye, clear and rutilated quartz. Rings with the same spellbindingly organic quality use 22-karat gold-over-brass with coin pearls, raw amethyst, and faceted topaz.

Zia has an obvious knack for predicting trends in unique jewelry, apparent in the strikingly individual collections each season. From the colorful and bold Kalahari to the more refined and ethnic Marmara to the nature-inspired Jacaranda, dynamic designs make for a clever mix.

Every girl wants a tiara but the fantasy in not in having one but having the opportunity to actually wear it. Yes, I will admit, I wanted to be the Princess Bride so I wore one on my wedding day but since then it's been sitting in my closet waiting for..... for what, an invitation to the Prince's Ball? The allure of a make believe world where love conquers all is too seductive even for the most pragmatic, which brings me to this wearable tiara, fashioned in the form of a tiara but is a necklace instead. You get to live out your fairy tale at formal events without looking like a cast away wannabe Princess. Best of both worlds, practical and fantastical, isn't that the real dream come true when it comes to fashion? At Barneys New York for $64,950.

The look this season? Layers upon layers of various chains, textures, tones and charms. Nothing embodies that trend more than this Iosselliani Muliti-chain necklace where you have a little of everything amounting to a whole lotta style. You have snaked gold chain transitioning to anthracite with a bit of rainbow gradient in between, there are rhinestones, red stones and shell charms all in a well orchestrated tangled mess. Old meets new in a piece that is thoroughly original and fantastically bold. There will be no boring outfits in your closet once you have this ace in the hole. Keep it simple with a solid dress or top but the way I see this shining is with a fearless print. At ShopBop for $536.

Pair With: Thakoon Asymmetrical Shoulder Dress that is also traditional on the surface (only the print) but is morphed into a modern work of art with simple twists and turns.

A statement piece so unique makes for the best ring I've laid eyes on in a long time. By using a rectangular piece of Tiger's eye (I'm starting to think ol' Tiger's eye is really having a moment this season) as the base for an enormous multi-faceted smoky quartz, Stephen Dweck has brought arresting creativity to the commonly seen sparkly cocktail ring. A bronze setting unites the rougher Tiger's eye and more feminine quartz. Overall, an ingenious way to use Tiger's eye, a gemstone that's not often shone in the best light. It's like a stage for the quartz, and somehow the stage is almost better than the main act! When you don this gem it should probably be the only jewel you wear. And the cooler, more casual the ensemble, the better. This is the diva and deserves center stage! At Bergdorf Goodman for $585.

Pair with: I love a big wallop of a cocktail ring with a stunning yet understated little clutch, such a treat for your hands. Indulge in some clean, minimal geometry via Rochas' tab clutch, in creamy neutral. Rochas Tab Clutch, $980.

Suzannah Wainhouse seems to mold her jewels directly out of the earth, or at least cull from it, for ethereal designs that are truly organic in nature. Called a "modern mystic" by The New York Times T magazine, Wainhosue is a sometime-painter who is focused on the inherently primitive and deeply tactile. These two brass rings, although quite different, both look as though they could have been unearthed from an ancient cave.

The chunky yet nuanced "Band" ring ($750), with two offset citrine stones, evokes a distant civilization. Its cracks, dents and irregularities make it unendingly, and enduringly, interesting. The brash "Clutch" ring ($800) with rough cutouts has a natural tribal feel. At over an inch in width, it makes a bold organic statement - one that may need translating, but fascinatingly bold nonetheless! Unusual and redolent, Wainhouse's rings can easily be a fascinating focal point of any ensemble.

Pair with: Suzannah's earthy, hands-on rings would do well with a boot that speaks to your rugged side. Wear modern cowboy booties by Golden Goose ($1,235), Joie ($295), or Cobra Society ($795) with a flowy little dress.

Fall is equated with a tightening-up of sorts. Enter the structured jackets, sharper heels, stiffer leathers, and buttoned-up shirts. Which means our jewels should get a crisp makeover, as well. Give your loosely layered beads and dangling pendants a break and lock yourself into a choker. Stern yet intricate, the new chokers function more like byzantine collars, which would give depth, dimension and intrigue to even your most exhausted of crew-neck tees.

Isabel Marant's unadorned brass ring ($165) gets the power-punch of a big horn pendant. Simple meets statement means you can layer other strands around your neck. Speaking of statements, Anndra Neen's mega-V ($825) is made of malleable golden nickel-silver so you can conform it comfortably to your throat. Shell-inspired with a shocking pink braid, the "Moroccoy" necklace by Aurelie Biderman ($2,258) is sure to set off a few conversations.

If you're more into heavy metals than the boldly exotic, Lanvin ($1,345) serves up some sparkle and heft - countless chains are trimmed with a crystal-bedecked buckle - and Delfina Delettrez ($2,049) poses the question, why not wear your collar separate from your shirt? Her sleek collar is pure sculpture for the collarbones. You simply cannot go wrong with vintage Cartier ($13,495) - a choker like this (four rows of 18-karat gold circa 1982) will never go out of style.

Leave it to darkly mystical jewel designer Pamela Love to give us a ninja weapon and accessory in one slick ring to slip on our fingers. Most hardcore baubles (they're are suddenly so many out there inspired by swords, studs, punks, and daggers) only look threatening, but in this case, I'm actually serious about the danger factor here - literally and figuratively.

Partially oxidized sliver creates the appearance of a sweeping, far-reaching talon. And a sharp claw at that. Inspired by porcupine needles, it extends a little to far out and even lashes out past the fingers, so not only are the people around you in danger, so are your clothes. Watch out for crowded places and be especially careful around knits! I love edgy innovation when it comes to accessories, but this time Pamela has gone just a tad too far. As cool as this prickly porcupine needle is, its unwearability ultimately wins the battle here. On Net-a-Porter for $425.

The editor-in-chief of New York-high-life magazines, Gotham and Hamptons, has created an exclusive collection for Jennifer Miller jewels. (Hamptons- and NYC-based Jennifer Miller is known for their glamorous collaborations.) A fashion editor like Samantha Yanks - she even has a background as the Accessories Editor of Vogue - is a natural partner when it comes to design liasons. After all, editors spend their lives looking at and reporting on fashion! That makes much more sense than say, a B-list celeb (Oops...was that bitchy? I haven't slept in two days and have traveled though four time zones in the last two weeks!).

I think these breezy yet high-impact tassel necklaces speak for themselves. This is intricate nonchalance. With eclectic vintage inspiration, fine rough-cut diamonds and precious stones, set on 14-karat yellow gold and oxidized silver pave, stand out with a distinct kind of unfussy elegance. One that you might say only a woman with a fashion editor's eye could produce!

Diamond and Coral Tassel on Pyrite Bead Necklace at Jennifer Miller for $2,900.

Diamond and Sapphire Tassel Necklace at Jennifer Miller for $5,900.

Diamond Tassel on Pyrite Beaded Necklace at Jennifer Miller for $4,300.

Diamond and Black Spinnel Tassel Necklace at Jennifer Miller for $3,800.

Jewels have the potential to transcend time and place, to distort our own less sparkling realities into something more romantic and enable us to fantasize. No jewelry house seems to understand this like Van Cleef & Arpels. Their recent collection, Bals de Legende, is inspired by the greatest parties in history and spans references from the past over hundred years. It plays on the concepts of enchanting memories, bygone eras, and spectacles that seem all too removed from the world we live in now - and the results are stunning.

Be transported to Le Bal du Palais d'Hiver, which took place in St. Petersburg, 1903. The sumptuous court of 17th century was recreated in a winter palace of ice and snow. What's most exciting about a Russian ball? The focus is on the most precious stones people can find. Costumes were heavy, laden with jewels. This ball is still considered the "most impressive display of stones the world has ever known." No surprise it marked the end of a grandly luxurious era. Naturally, the jewels to go with it are truly decadent - heaping strands of lapus lazuli and pearls adorned in diamonds, plus rubies and rubellites and mandarin garnets. The "Providence" ring is a standout, a sugarloaf emerald of over 20 karats and trimmed in violet and pink sapphires, diamonds, and more emeralds. Le Bal du Palais d'Hiver, "Providence" ring is SOLD OUT.

Venice's Le Bal du Siècle took place in September 1951, after famed party-thrower Beistegui discovered an old castle and saw 18th century Italy. Guests arrived by gondola and only to discover an immense spectacle before them. While Cardin created spectacles covered in ants for Salvador Dali, while Barbara Hutton spent $15k on her costume. Jewels set in motifs of exotic birds in colored diamonds, flower bouquets of isavorite garnets, and sapphire dancers suggest the whimsy of the ball. The "Notte Azzurra" clip depicts charming butterfly-dancer girls glittering with massive mauve-star sapphires, turquoise and diamonds. Le Bal du Siècle "Notte Azzurra" clip is SOLD OUT.

No lesson in balls would be complete without Truman Capote's coming-out celebration, Le Bal Black and White. He co-hosted the affair at the Plaza Hotel in November, 1966, along with hostess, Kathertine Graham, editor of The Washington Post. Playing on the concept of instant celebrity (precisely what Capote himself was experiencing at the time), he imagined it like a scene from a film about the international social elite. And that's exactly who showed up, donning masks and carrying fans (though it was hard to do both at once!), as per the writer's request. This was New York City in its glory days. The "Heavenscraper" necklace and "Abstraction" ring are clearly inspired by the sleek, towering buildings of Art Deco architecture on Fifth Avenue, and the "Black & White" briolette-cut diamond and onyx earrings are perfection combination of city-strength and masquerade drama. Le Bal Black and White. "Black & White" briolette-cut diamond and onyx earrings are SOLD OUT.

Marisa Berenson likened September 1971's Le Bal Proust, in where else but Paris, to stepping into a Visconti film. With headdresses and big as the bouquets of white flowers, she says there were countless tiaras and lots of jewelry. Of course, Elizabeth Taylor was covered in the biggest diamonds. But it is Berenson who now has a necklace named after her; the "Marisa" necklace, a curving creation of white gold and diamonds, completed with a pear-shaped 10.32-karat diamond That ball was one of the "moments when you tell yourself life is beautiful." I think fine jewelry should create those moments. Le Bal Proust, "Marisa" necklace available for $2,550,000.

And how do we feel about Man Jewels?! Personally, I prefer jewels on me, not my man. But if your man loves to accessorize, advise him to make his jewels small and personal (stay away from flashy gold chains with diamond medallions please!), like Alex Woo's Little Letters Collection. Alex designed the collection to celebrate individuality and the classic initial pendant can be layered to create a fashionable look. Check out Kellan Lutz, who clearly is not afraid to accessorize, with an Alex Woo 14kt Yellow Gold Initial "K" pendant. Makes for a great gift for your guy. Even more special is giving him a necklace with yours and your baby's initials!

Alex Woo is a jewelry designer based in New York City, whose work delicately balances the trendy "must have" with classic style. With a workshop located in the heart of Rockefeller Center and an eponymous collection of jewelry, Alex has since become one of the most recognized jewelers amongst a new generation of designers. To learn more about Alex Woo, please visit the website www.alexwoo.com

Wouldn't it be cool if you could say you made this yourself? Like in advanced metal workshop in an old industrial loft. The abstract two tone setting wrapping and warping around the clear quartz that's full of intricate organic inclusions is a genius work of art. The play of light with the irregular reflection from the gold and silver is downright magical. This is a piece that can be paired with just about anything but don't waste it on ho-hum days, make sure you are dressed to impress with this superstar bling to top it all off. At Barneys New York for $730. And, I hope George Lucas doesn't sue me for this title but I would actually be quite ecstatic if he contacted me for any reasons whatsoever, even if it is followed by a hefty legal bill.

Roger Vivier stilettos-- yes. Roger Vivier bags-- absolutely. Roger Vivier jewels?! Hell, yes! Inspired by the Art Deco movement and the glamorous feeling of the '30s & '40s, the collection would have made Daisy Buchanan lose her mind. The Manchette Crystal cuff is my favorite-- with the iconic Vivier buckle it captures the essence of art deco design.

Who wouldn't want the Catena necklace dangling off their collar?  Vintage inspired with a thoroughly modern feel, this will dress up any outfit you choose, including a simple tee and a pair of wide legged pants.

The understated Sautoir is not without its glam details-- check out the chic Vivier lock clasp, a signature for the colelction.  Like all things Vivier, these are collector's pieces that will look fresh when you hand them over to your granddaughters!

Manchette TV Crystal - $675 - enamel & crystal
Necklace Catena - $1,195 - gold & enamel
Sautoir - $675 - gold & enamel
All at Roger Vivier boutiques.

Just when I had gotten so excited by my exotic paper lashes along comes this mask to totally trump them! Turn your face into a bedazzling visage of mystery, no smoky cat-eye or blood-red lip required. Not that there are too many occasions when Erickson Beamon's gunmetal-plated, Swarovski crystal-covered masquerade mask would exactly be appropriate. Let's see...festive galas, flamboyant black-tie parties, and costume soirees would all invite such an accessory. But anything short of an ethereal affair - like an event that simply calls for a flirty cocktail dress - and you'll like you're doing nothing besides screaming for attention. Save this mystical piece for when the time is right, and draw the ribbon around your tumbling locks to write your own romance drama. On Net-a-Porter for $2,085.

Pair with: Only a severely embellished clutch will do this mask justice. Choose among sparklers from Alexander McQueen ($2,270), Valentino ($4,195), Gucci ($2,190), and Judith Lieber ($1,695).

Is it just me or have snakes gotten out of control? The critters have gotten so comfortable they have wound themselves all around our arms and fingers and settled there. I say no more! I'm loving Sara Weinstock's take on the snake, a coiled-up little creature, contained all safely in a long, delicate oval hoop. A design like this takes the ubiquitous reptile theme to another level.

Abstracted to exaggerated whirls of gold lines and surrounded by pave diamonds, this is more modern art than National Geographic. From afar the snake looks like an ordinary curving jewel design, but the swirls stand out with prowess - and so do the snake's glowing, yet somehow friendly eyes! Picture these dangling from your ears: exotic from afar, even more adventurous up-close. At Barneys New York for $17,520.

Pair with: Shirred, metallic leather and smooth, coiled earrings are a win-win. Anya Hindmarch's beyond-textural silver leather is a second mirage to behold. Anya Hindmarch "Roslyn" Clutch, $795.

This bright chunky necklace demands attention with its bold hues and design. The gunmetal-tone metal brings out the brightness of the Lucite crystals which perfectly compliment the contrasting Swarovski sparkles making this statement making piece something to consider for your next party. Wear this fearlessly with some Acne skinny jeans and a T by Alexander Wang top. Though this necklace is a bit heavy on the eye (and a bit heavy on the neck) it is an eye-catching fun addition to many looks. Crazy, colorful and electric, this piece isn't meant to be taken too seriously, so have some fun with it!

Pick this up at Net-a-Porter for $985.

Of course! It's so obvious. The concept of a cuff in jewelry is based on shirt-cuffs, so why shouldn't ours come with their own bejeweled cufflinks? Kara by Kara Ross' chunky bangle is a brilliantly discrete play on the menswear trend, no clunky oxfords required. No, this is a shirt-cuff I can get used to - one adorned in onyx and exotic skin. Gold-tone lizard, gleaming golden metal (when a piece is kind of a novelty, we don't need 18-karat), and cabochon black onyx serve as the links and punctuate the end.

Perfect for those who want to toy with their masculinity in a totally feminine way. So next time he asks for help putting on his cuff-links, ask him for help latching your jewels! At Neiman Marcus for $315.

Pair with: Camp it up with Kiki de Montparnasse's playful "Fantasy" shirt, which is an overt take on a tuxedo style. Scrunch the sleeves and wear it with a wink - and detach the optional undone bow tie if it feels too much. On Net-a-Porter for $350.

I recently attended a spectacular exhibition and private dinner celebrating the opening of Cindy Chao's first boutique in Beijing, and unveiling her 2011 Jewel Art Masterpiece Collection. The ever-fabulous Sarah Jessica Parker was guest of honor.

Let me say first: I have never seen a table this size in my life. It was a full 8 meters long and wide (27' x 27'), accommodating all sixty guests at one magnificent entity. Million dollar (yup, that's USD) dinners in China are the norm, but for us Americans, this was truly awe-inspiring. The floral arrangement, in all its splendor, dangled from above the table, not on it, so we all could see one another (genius, right?). The arrangement itself was said to cost $50,000. Sarah Jessica could not stop taking photos of the table and flowers. She even told me she had never seen anything like it. And that's saying something! Other guests of honor included Hamilton South, of the HL Group in New York City (who sat to her right), and Serge Normant, SJP's hair guru.

But the true centerpiece and attraction of the evening though was Chao's museum quality masterpieces of jewel art. During the press conference Sarah Jessica wore Chao's Art Jewel diamond branch bangles in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds and rhodolites and ivy hoop earrings in 18-karat rose gold with yellow diamonds (I happen to have the bangles and hoop earrings, too!), with a frothy, silk-chiffon-paneled Prabal Gurung confection. But the tour de force was the three-million dollar 10-karat yellow diamond ring Sarah Jessica wore at the dinner with her Diane von Furstenburg dress. This masterpiece dazzled those who aren't dazzled easily!

An evening to remember for a lifetime, worth all the family jewels.

Cindy Chao bangles ($13,500-$25,000) and earrings ($37,500+) available at Bergdorf Goodman.

Any genuine Jewel Snob has swooned over and likely pined for Loren Rindinger's haute couture-worthy line of jewels. The only issue is Loren Jewels also tend to come with an haute-couture price tag. Pine no more! I am so excited that Loren is releasing a moderately priced line (from $199-$999) in collaboration with HSN called Yours by Loren.

Over the weekend, Loren introduced the line with HSN CEO Mindy Grossman at the Market America convention-- if these baubles don't get you excited I don't know what will!

As of December 12th (yes, I know that seems so far away, but it is sure to be worth the wait), you can purchase pieces from the exclusive collection on-air and online. Get ready for a wide selection of classically glamorous jewels, varied enough to suit all styles and thrilling enough to lure in anyone's gaze. Chunky rocks and intricate clusters, diamond-encrusted chains, and fluid Art Deco lines highlighted with glistening stones of all sizes and shapes. Mark your calendars for more affordable jewels to last a lifetime.

Who says hoops have to be round? This is the best variation of the classic hoop earring I have ever seen. You get all the oomph of a curvy hoop, but with a sharp, streamlined look that's so much more desirable.

These perfect squares are 2.5" inches in height and width, so they definitely make an impact. Better yet, no clasps, hooks, or backing means no unnecessary clutter. Just pull them all the way through and until they are, yes, upside-down, and voilà! Your earlobes just got an instant shock of glamour.

Solid gold ensures no allergy issues, and they won't darken with time. It's the oversized earring-loving gypsy girl, paired down and high-styled with a modern makeover. Lana Jewelry gives new meaning to the term minimalist-chic. At Lana Jewelry for $465, as well as Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Harrods in London, Intermix, and over 200 stores worldwide.

Pair with: Get the maximum out of your minimalist hoops with Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti's Mongolian shearling coat. Angular gold will look so good grazing the sea foam fluffiness. On Net-a-Porter for $4,295.

Jewelry spans years and generations, and some pieces rarely leave our sides. So shouldn't it be meaningful? I love jewelry with spiritual significance (though I will not shun big ole' rocks given, "just because"!) Alex Woo's ethereal Little Faith Collection embraces symbols from different religious beliefs intended to provide important spiritual reminders and guidance. And now it's got some new additions. From the protective Hamsa Hand to the motivating Chai (meaning "living"), each necklace embodies a positive, uplifting message.

My favorite is the Angel Wing. Your own guardian angel around your neck - how great is that? Nothing feels more comforting than having your special protector near your heart. The OM and the Faith symbols are also stylish tokens of blessings. You can even wear several together to make your own statement.

All of the Little Faith pieces are handcrafted in 14-karat yellow or white gold, or sterling silver (some feature diamonds) and no two pieces are identical. They are delightful as gifts - what better way to show someone you're celebrating what's really important in life - jewelry plus a meaningful message! At Alex Woo for $138-$1,098.

This cheerful little piece mixes colorful beads and gauze and weaves it into a chain bib statement making necklace that would be a perfect compliment to any summer occasion. The innocence of the pinks and peaches are balanced with the 12-karat gold-plated curb chain allowing this to go from a perfect bridal shower accessory to a night on the town with ease. The vintage feel to this is a great way to tie it perfectly into a look such as a Miu Miu cotton and silk tunic with some Sam Edelman wedges for a summer day event. It would also bring a sweet twist to this otherwise serious T by Alexander Wang dress. This necklace would be a fun addition to any look. Pick it up at Neiman Marcus for $375.

Stingray is the new skin. The bubbly, crackly, caviar-like leather is popping up all over jewels and clutches. I swooned over Chanel's extremely rare stingray bag back in the winter - so rare it goes for $16,000, but had to give up on that dream! Which is why I'm now thrilled by Paige Gamble's super-stylish and yes, super-affordable collection of stingray cuffs. The exotics-centric design house knows their skins, creating each unique, limited edition piece by hand in New York City. So they know that stingray is bold and sparkly enough to let shine on its own. I can't think of a better material for a colorful cuff. Sanded and set on sterling silver, they come in three widths. I say collect as many as you can and mix up your colors for stacked-up sheen. At Paige Gamble for $110-$130.