Recently in Frugal Snob Category

I've never bought anything from HSN, because for the most part the brands that sell their designs on the network don't offer their jewelry at all that much of discount compared to what you can buy in stores, but I'm very much drawn to the above cuff from Carlos Falchi. I can't get over the price though...$350...really!? Most of this line is "slob" - just take a look at this, or this, or this, but I like this cuff because it's clearly inspired by the exotics that Falchi typically works with without being literal and sticking an alligator on it (as he does with a number of other pieces in the collection). It also has a nice caviar texture, but for $350, I think I could find something better from Noir or KJL. Do you shop on HSN?

Fred Allard. Images from Felicia Sullivan  

The other week I went to the Palace Hotel to preview Nine West's New Fall Winter 2010 offerings. The set-up was to die for! I'm partial to the Palace Hotel, because it's where my brother had his Bar Mitzvah, so I have wonderful memories there, but even that withstanding the set-up was gorgeous. I haven't gotten anything from Nine West in years, but the latest Fred Allard-designed collection may have me turning to the brand once again come Fall. I was particularly impressed with the jewelry - Earrings: $25 range
Necklaces: $45 range
Rings: $30 range
Bracelets/Cuffs: $40-$55

I actually didn't even know the brand made jewerley up until the preview, but I'm liking a number of their current pieces as well. This taupe ruffle bracelet and wide cuff I found particularly eye-catching.  

Have you ever bought jewelry at Nine West?

Charm and Chain is a one stop shop for all the unique jewel designers you love. And they love you back by giving Jewel Snob readers 15% off their entire site, including items already on sale! Here are my favorites but you should go through the site, you will be amazed by the variety and selection, and savings! Use code JEWELSNOB when you check out to get 15% OFF.

Jac Necklace, Hot Pink Quartz by Gemma Redux, seen on Blake Lively in Gossip Girls, on sale, was $369 and now $174.25 with Jewel Snob code.

Magical Landscape Ring by Pade Vavra. This is a show stopper, it is so incredibly interesting, it is an attention grabber. $4000 - $3400 with code.

Clip-on Fan Earrings by Badgley Mischka. Timeless yet chic and fabulous, on sale, was $300 and now $204 with code.

Yellow Sunburst Coil, exclusively for Charm & Chain. Industrial is in, and this feminine mix of chains and crystals embodies this trend but still making you feel delicate, $575 - $488.75 with code.

When it comes to jewelry at Barneys, I actually find more pieces I like in their co-op section than on their main floor. In the NYC flagship they've got three large cases on the seventh floor with a ton of fun, affordable (relatively at least), original designs from the likes of Fallon and Subversive. When I first saw this Thea Grant Quadrangles Multi Chain Necklace ($385), I thought it's kind of fun and quirky, but for nearly $400 it's a bit ridiculous to have a hotchpotch of items on a metal chain. I tried it on for fun and it predictably looks ridiculous. Plus the random items aren't even interesting!! The necklace makes me think of those monochromatic canvases you sometimes see at modern art museum and think to yourself...uhhh, I could have done that myself!

Am I missing something here? What do you think of this necklace? Snob or Slob?

If it weren't for the Kenneth Jay Lane counter at the mall in the Plaza Hotel, the space would be a total bust (well KJL and the Demel Cafe...best coffee and petit fours!). Nothing like an afternoon trying on dozens of bold baubles and indulging in some sweets:-) I only wish there were QVC KJL buys at the counter. Hard to believe, but many of the KJL QVC pieces are near-identical (maybe even totally identical -- both design and quality-wise), to the main line. Not that KJL is ridiculously expensive, but the pieces aren't great quality and it's not uncommon for them to break after a few wears making QVC all the more appealing. I'm liking the KJL Elaborate Enamel Flower Necklace ($220). The size of the piece could make it veer on the tacky side (though this is the case with many KJL pieces!), so I would pair it with something simple and casual like jeans and a white tee.

What do you think about this KJL necklace? How would you wear it?

Amanda Rudey jewelry is seen coast to coast, from the streets of New York on Gossip Girls to the shores of California on 90210. And the best part, you can be a Frugal Snob AND still look like a shining star without compromising. This handmade North Star ring is only $130 and with code PEOPLEAR, you will recieve 20% off at AMANDA RUDEY, making is only $104!! Her collection ranges from $60-$345 - this code is good site wide until Feb. 12th. Let me know if you need me to send a hint to your significant other for the perfect Valentine's gift =) Code and info via People Style Watch.

Banana Republic Monogram Coiled Bib Necklace

My sister wore this one night and I hounded her about this until she finally revealed, reluctantly, that it is Banana Republic.  Trust me, with a piece this amazing, there is no shame in that.  Banana Republic has been doing fantastic jewelry for many seasons, but this looks like Oscar de la Renta!!  Truly incredible in person, you will not be disappointed and either will your lucky gift recipient.  For $150.

Ann Taylor Silver Pavé Four-Row Necklace
Yes, that's right Ann Taylor!!  Their jewelry collection is phenomenal, the designs are edgy, chic and amazingly affordable!  This four-strand necklace of silver links, smoky faceted beads and pavé balls is $65.

Isharya Gypsy Moonstone Earrings

Chandelier earrings are dramatic and eye catching.  Especially in moonstone and 18 carat gold plating.  It was $175 and is now on sale at Net-a-Porter for $87.50

Horn Open Hoop Earrings by Asha by ADM

Horn jewelry is huge right now, it is a natural material so you get the interesting irregular striations but you aren't paying fine jewelry prices.  These Brazilian horn open hoops are a bit exotic but will be your go to earrings for everyday.  An easy look to fit anyone's style.  At Vivre for $85.

Single Rosette Necklace by Nicole Romano

I love wearing a simple necklace sometimes, it really makes people stop and take a closer look.  This Rosette necklace has so much interest and details for something so simple.  I love the multiple rings symbolizing never-ending togetherness, the perfect sentiment for the season. At Vivre for $128.

Crystal Thornbush Necklace

Now we switch gears to a bold statement piece.  Asymmetrical necklaces with multi-strands give boring outfits an instant fix.  The Czech-glass stones are set open in the back for maximum impact.  A Frugal buy that looks like a million bucks!  At J. Crew for $135.

J. Crew Salon Bracelet

If you know someone who is a hand talker, you can stop looking because here is her gift.  She might even be able to speak softer now that she is getting more attention with her hand!  At J. Crew for $95.

Maje Leaf Pendant Necklace

Get flirty with this Leaf Pendant necklace.  The length (22 1/2") is great worn over a sweater or a v-neck tee shirt to give the bare torso something to look at (I don't mean bare as in naked, you know what I mean).  The wispy details are so great, think about its movement when you are walking!  At Net-a-Porter for $120.

Kenneth Jay Lane Glass Pearl Flower Earrings

For the prim and proper girl on your list, this simple and pretty flower clip-on earrings with pearl embellishment is adorable and classy.  Also a great choice for your mom and mother-in-law (just not both, never buy them the same things!!).  At Net-a-Porter for $95.

Fabulous at all price points, the beauty of Darby Scott is the ability to switch things up. This faux Golden Amber Bib Necklace is bold and fabulous with a price point that is amazing. You get maximum impact on a minimal budget. Get the shorter choaker at 28" or for the full bib look, get the 34", both are $450. Of course, there is the Smoky Quartz Mélange Ring that has twelve faceted stones for blingy fabulousness with the smoky quartz and three blue iolite stones encircle this 18K gold ring. Not as friendly on the wallet but this is an investment piece that will get long term wear, $2,950.

Wow. Once in a while I peruse the latest jewels from Banana Republic, and find myself blown away by the fantastic designs and the fantastic prices. Kind-of makes me wonder what on earth I'm doing spending more than necessary elsewhere. Anyhow, clearly it's been a while since I took a look at BR's new offerings, because this stunning ring is already on SALE! To me, this piece looks sharp - and significantly more expensive than it is. $34.99 here.

Another perfect example of great things on the horizon for fall. What a great impact costume piece in such a cool neutral for just $80!