Shopping Guide: Top Fashion Jewelry Brands

Fine Jewelry is undoubtedly at the top of every woman’s dream list. It is an investment that will be an heirloom and will outlast trends and time. However, fashion or costume jewelry holds a special place in every fashionista’s heart and her closet and jewelry box, of course. High street brands like Zara, Mango, River Island etc., all have their respective takes on fun and fashion forward bling. But here I’ve rounded up the brands and some top picks for fabulous and glamorous fashion jewelry that are both playful, elegant, tasteful, and are of high quality. Ditch those statement costume jewelry that are tarnished or have missing stones, and invest in sparklers that pile on the wow factor.

DANNIJO

Sister Jodie and Danielle, the founders and designers of DANNIJO, put a premium on sustainability and women empowerment. What started out as a way to raise funds for their grassroots women’s initiative in Africa turned out to a be highly successful and coveted line of costume jewelry. With aztec and geometric influences and rock n’ roll lifestyle feel, DANNIJO is at the top of every it girl’s list. This brand has been spotted on the likes of Rihanna, Blake Lively, and Natalie Portman.

Rashida Jones wearing a Dannijo necklace

 

Images from DANNIJO.com

 

LULU FROST

Founded and based in NYC, Lulu Frost has a distinct aesthetic combining art deco architecture inspiration with contemporary kitschy and girly influences. The brand has had collaborations with eponymous retailer, J. Crew, and has been spotted on First Lady Michelle Obama, Beyonce, and Taylor Swift proving the brand’s diverse yet sophisticated look. Marrying antique and modern, Lulu Frost captures the crux of what it means to be chic and stylish.

Olivia Palermo wearing a Lulu Frost necklace

 

 

Images from LuluFrost.com

BAUBLE BAR

Another NYC made and based jewelry brand, Bauble Bar is at the forefront of fashion jewelry online retail. They have an entire range of customizable jewelry and special services to cater to brides-to-be. They pretty much have every service you can imagine. Bauble Bar even has guest bartenders, who curate their own collection. Emma Roberts and Coco Rocha are some of the stylist celebs that they have collaborated with. There are also available stylists online, whether by chat, mail, phone or video, for any of your burning questions on accessorizing.

Guest bartender Emma Roberts wearing Bauble Bar

 

Images from BaubleBar.com

EDDIE BORGO

Making edgy jewelry since 2008, Eddie Borgo is a NYC brand that takes inspiration from the wonderful city it is based in. Aside from harnessing and capturing the vibrant and upbeat energy of New York City in its designs, Eddie Borgo is also inspired by vintage costume jewelry, American tradition and heritage, and heavily rooted in the rock n’ roll culture. This luxe jewelry brand injects street style trends and urban vibes effortlessly into each piece. The designer, Eddie Borgo, has won many awards including the CFDA Swarovski Award for Innovation in Accessory Design.

Sienna Miller wearing an Eddie Borgo tiara

Images from Net-a-Porter

JENNIFER MEYER

Marrying the special quality of personalized jewelry, modern high street style, and the timeless elegance of fine jewelry, Jennifer Meyer has become a quick A-list favorite. From the Olsen twins to Jessica Alba, her understated yet statement making jewelry have been making fashion headlines and winning her scores of fashion fans from all over. Luxury meets wearability, her designs are handmade with love and Los Angeles and definitely have that distinctive echo of bohemian style and an easy air of sophistication.

Elle Fanning and Drew Barrymore wearing Jennifer Meyer Jewelry

Images from Net-a-Porter

LIZZIE FORTUNATO

Twins Kathryn and Lizzie Fortunato have been consistently creating eclectic jewelry since 2008. Using influences from various world cultures and handicrafts, these pieces are adorned with hand beading, loom embroidery, and vintage textiles. If you’re looking for something perfect to go with your bohemian pieces or to update your summer style, Fortunato Jewels are it. Their pieces are where high-end and world-class craftmanship go together to create cool pieces that every girl would love to have on their necks.

Image from Lizzie Fortunato Instagram

Images from Lizzie Fortunato

Happy Xmas shopping ladies!

 

Must-Have Sweaters for Fall 2014

I love sweater weather. Cozy knit scarves, snug beanies, and soft cardigans are both indispensable pieces that will undoubtedly complete your fall wardrobe. With a variety of designs available to suit every girl’s style, taste, and personality, there are simply so many ways to play around with sweater dressing when you’re styling yourself. Although fall is the common time to break out those statement making knitwear, knits are also making waves with spring/summer runways and street style. All season, all occasion, and definitely all casual elegance, sweaters will give your style a texture uplift and an increase in chicness.

These celebs certainly know how to get decked out in the best and most stylish knit wear. Whether it’s more dressed up and polished or more daytime casual, we can certainly see that the sweater’s trendiness translates anytime and anywhere.

Karolina Kurkova shows off her penchant for white as she steps out clad in a menswear-inspired ensemble. Her cream knit  jumper serves as the visual texture that adds interest to her look. 

You can count on Olivia Palermo to pull of a monochromatic sweater and skirt set look. Casually half-tucked at the waist, the burgundy hue of her sweater and pencil skirt is the perfect canvas for her awe-inspiring statement necklace. 

California girl, former reality TV star, and fashion media and business mogul Lauren Conrad understands the power of knit wear and layering to instantly increase the sophistication of a tank dress and nude sandals. She does her own take on springtime layering in this chunky oversized knit cardigan.

Images from WhoWhatWear

Ready to take on the knit wear/ sweater trend? Shop my picks below:

M Missoni Wave Knit Cotton Blend Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

Missoni’s signature prints will liven up your fall/winter wardrobe. Pick one of the colors within the sweater design and coordinate it with your other cold weather accessories, like scarves, gloves etc. This will look just as good in the summer, with shorts and ballet flats.

The Elder Statesman Cashmere Sweater from Net-a-Porter

Every fashionista needs and more importantly, deserves a quality cashmere sweater. Nothing can beat the luxurious feeling that wearing cashmere gives. This one from The Elder Statesman is in a vibrant pink color that will pop with your blacks and navy blues.

Alice + Olivia Face Appliqued Knitted Cardigan from Net-a-Porter

If you’re searching for something playful, grab this Alice + Olivia knit cardigan. The super fun face applique will look extra amazing when paired with a pencil skirt, opaque tights, and over-the-knee suede boots. Elizabeth and James Oversized Leopard Print Cotton Blend Cardigan from Net-a-Porter

To any fashionable woman, leopard print is practically a neutral. This print is perfect to pair with practically anything in your closet, and this oversized cardigan from Elizabeth and James is the perfect knit cover-up for your dresses and tailored separates.

Jil Sander Leather-Trimmed Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater from Net-a-Porter

Turtleneck is a major trend this year. This Jil Sander piece modernizes and makes this trend even more covetable, with a few smart design decisions; from the leather panel detail on the inner sleeve, subtle asymmetrical hemline, and the understated gray color, of course.

 

Etro Knit Sweater from MyTheresa

The vintage print on this Etro Knit Sweater is simply stunning. Layer a crisp, white button down underneath this knit for a quick and chic office look, or opt to wear on its own and pair with distressed denim and sneakers for some effortless street style flair.

Chloe Knit Sweater Dress from MyTheresa

A sweater dress is a great way to get dressed, whether you find yourself in the midst of springtime or fall. You can wear this Chloe frock with tights or without, with heels or flats. The marled gray knit fabric and colorful geometric pattern make this piece truly versatile.

Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Knit Sweater from MyTheresa

For the full-on preppy look, slip into this classic Polo Ralph Lauren sweater design. Channel country club springtime chic and wear it with a pleated white mini skirt and espadrilles. Come fall, accent this knit with red scarves and matching cropped navy trousers.

Sweaters are a godsend. It is both comfy and fashionable! What is your sweater pick this season?

Buy Now: Must-Have Outerwear

Fall/Winter season is all about the coat. Whatever you decide to wear underneath, a coat gets the most attention when you’re walking out on the streets. Your outerwear choice also speaks volumes about your style, and it is a valuable element that should always complement and add more chicness your cold weather outfits. If you happen to live in warmer climates, it is stylish and appropriate to invest in a raincoat to ward off the rains, or maybe even a lightweight coat for layering during slightly chilly days.  Outerwear is now an all-year round fashion enterprise and style staple, here are some of my picks for 10 must-have coats that will complete your fall/winter style:

Burberry Brit Cotton-Blend Twill Trench Coat from Net-a-Porter

Nothing is more classic and timeless like a Burberry Trench Coat. Instead of the more common and often seen khaki incarnation of this coat, select the navy colored trench coat option. Navy is a very hot color this season, and mixing your navy coat with a black ensemble displays your forward sense of style. Navy and black is no longer a fashion faux pas, but rather a style must-try.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hooded Cotton Twill Parka from Net-a-Porter

An olive colored twill parka with utilitarian details like drawstring and multiple pockets make this parka an easy pick for a piece that combines fashion and functions effortlessly. This parka is a street style staple that can be worn with practically every single piece in your closet. From floral dresses to denim and tees, this parka will look great when layered on top.

REDValentino Cotton Mackintosh Cape from Net-a-Porter

A cape is an impossibly chic outerwear option that is also every trendy. This silhouette is very unique and will lend any look a sense of high fashion and couture feel. The check print detailing on the shoulder and inside lining of this cape adds to it trendy meets classic style. This can definitely jazz up your sweater and leggings uniform.

PASKAL Atlas Coat from LuisaViaRoma

This coat from PASKAL combines three major trends of the season in one piece. It is a tailored blazer with cape like arm slits done in a pastel pink color. I can just imagine this coat providing a great color contrast to your neutrals or serving as a stylish alternative to your dark-colored coats.

Jill Stuart Hooded Brushed Wool Coat from LuisaViaRoma

Little Red Riding Hood goes high fashion in this red Jill Stuart hooded brushed wool coat. Red is a classic color that goes perfectly with a plethora of colors and the shape of this coat has a vintage feel that will add a classy touch to any look. 

Emporio Armani Cashmere Coat from LuisaViaRoma

Menswear inspired tailoring for women’s wear is yet another one of the hot trends that has invaded outerwear for this season. This luxurious cashmere coat has a streamlined and straightforward oversized blazer silhouette that is perfect for office dressing. It is also the ideal overcoat to wear over your LBDs and sparkly cocktail dresses for the evening.

Erdem Bonnie Printed Neoprene Coat from The Outnet

The neoprene gives the feminine and girly digital floral print of this coat a sporty vibe. Neoprene is such a durable material that will withstand the elements while keeping you looing sleek. When you’re feeling a little bit down, the vibrant print of this coat will perk you right up. Inject a little bit of fun and playful print into your wardrobe, and let this coat transform your fall/winter style. 

Diane Von Furstenberg Logan Wool-Blend Coat from The Outnet

Two-toned and color blocked, this Diane Von Furstenberg coat boasts of two classic colors that when placed beside each other make for an even chicer piece. Like I said, blue and black is a color pairing that is being embraced by more and more designers and this coat is a strong argument for the blue and black trend.

See by Chloe Wool Coat with Textured Collar from MyTheresa

The toggle detail of this See by Chloe coat doesn’t just add visual interest and appeal, it also adds rustic/country inspiration to this outerwear item. The blue contrast textural collar ups the stylishness of thie piece up a notch, and opens you up to more styling possibilities. Style this coat up with red opaque tights and biker boots for some serious street style cred.

Dries Van Noten Wool Coat from MyTheresa

An abstract floral embellishment across this Dries Van Noten wool coat increases the glamour of your look while simultaneously keeping you cozy. There is no need for a lot of accessories when you have pieces adorned with high shine metallic appliques such as this one. Embrace the artistic print and pair with more dark wintery florals or with classic chunky stripes.

What are your top outerwear picks? Happy Shopping ladies!

Trend Report: Activewear Chic

Partly due to the resurgence and the resounding boom of the athletic/sporty style trend, activewear is increasingly taking the spotlight in the fashion industry. Gym clothes are now more stylish than ever, and it can actually pull double duty for you now, taking you from your workout to post-workout fetes or for laid-back weekend soirees. High-fashion designers are also getting into the activewear market with their own respective line of gym wear. There is now no excuse for you to take a break from looking chic, even when you’re breaking a sweat.

A significant addition to the plethora of stylish activewear options and brands is the upcoming collaboration that has fashion fans and Beyonce fans in a tizzy. Pop culture icon, style maven, and reigning queen of music Queen B, Beyonce announced recently that she will be coming out with an activewear line with high-street UK brand Topshop. Topshop has had a storied history of excellent collaborations with designers and style icons like Kate Moss and Christopher Kane. Her exciting collab with the brand will include clothing, shoes and accessories made for dance, sports, and fitness. She promises that her activewear line will integrate functionality and her signature streetwear vibe.

 

Image and News Source: Vogue UK

 Another noteworthy designer/celebrity collaboration that attests to the trending of fashionable activewear is Kate Hudson’s newest activewear line, Fabletics. A partnership with shopping site, Just Fab, Kate Hudson’s line actually has friendlier price points than other dominant brands in the activewear fashion industry. Combining fitness with fashion is Hudson’s end goal for her premiere collection. She also designed the pieces with a variety of body types in mind. Most pieces retail for under $100, and are fashion forward enough to wear outside the gym. Here are some looks from her collection:

Image from: Well and Good

The prestigious French fashion house Balmain has joined in on the activewear trend as well and of course, did a more luxurious and haute couture take on it. Leather sweatpants with tough biker details, sweatshirts in rich prints, and even tailored cotton sweatpants are all pieces that have been spotted on fashion industry insiders.

Balmain White Pinstriped Cotton Sweatshirt from Lyst.com

Balmain Leather Jogging Pants from Stylebop

Pierre Balmain Heather Grey XX Lounge Pants from SSense

Want more chic activewear pieces to incorporate into your daily looks? Here are some of my picks for sporty threads and athletic duds that’ll up your fashion cred and get you into this hot trend.

Nike Liberty Windrunner Jacket from LuisaViaRoma

Nike’s collaboration with design print company Liberty of London produced this upgraded take on the hoodie. The paisley print on this piece looks vintage inspired and when married with the athletic vibe of the hoodie makes for a fashion forward addition to your closet. Wear this beautiful hoodie over a white dress and with striped slip-ons for an easy look for a summer afternoon. You can even use this hoodie to layer underneath a blazer for a surprising element to your fall uniform of boyfriend blazer, dark denims and ankle boots. You can also try layering a blue printed scarf in a similar shade with this hoodie to add some downtown cool to a typically sporty item.

Fendi Creatures Hooded Shell Ski Jacket from Net-a-Porter

A part of Fendi’s Creatures collection this ski jacket debunks the thinking that winter style is bulky, unflattering, and the total polar opposite of chic. This fun and playful color blocked ski jacket will give your winter looks a punch of color. Perk up your all black looks with this piece, or you can even accent a pair of sleek black trousers with this athletic item.

Mover Stretch Jersey and Mesh Sports Bra from Net-a-Porter

The addition of mesh to this sports bra makes it trendier and adds a subtle hint of sexy. The mesh detail of this number takes this beyond the gym and makes it ideal for those night outs and parties. Quick styling tip, wear this sports bra with more feminine silhouettes to contrast with its modernity. Try this with a midi skirt with lots of volume, or even with tailored cigarette pants for a different take on cocktail dressing.

Adidas by Stella McCartney Mesh and Stretch Jersey Dress from The Outnet

This cute and flirty dress has the right amount of swing and flow to it. Adidas and Stella McCartney has had a long partnership way before the athletic trend exploded all over the scene, and you can always count on this design collab for athletic pieces that have feminine details that update the standard sporty silhouettes. Pair this dress with a statement necklace, loose hair waves, and some white wedges for a winsome look, ideal for weekend brunches and afternoon jaunts.

Y-3 Oversized Cotton T-Shirt from MyTheresa

This cotton T-shirts have athletic varsity stripes that take it from basic to trendy. You can wear this design with everything, if you want to lend it a more casual, sporty vibe. Wear it with printed skater skirts or denim cutoffs, it’ll look chic every single time.

Nike Roshe Run Print Sneakers from MyTheresa

Sneakers are not just for running anymore, just take a look at any street style blog and you’ll see just how white hot this sneaker trend is. Worn with everything from sequined dress to LBDs, from tailored suits to floral rompers, sneakers are newest must-have footwear that are equal parts stylish, comfy, and versatile. These pair of Roshe Run sneakers have a black and white print that have a modern pop of neon. The streamlined design makes it easy to wear and incorporate into different looks.

Do you love this trend as much as I do? Sound off below for your stylish athletic picks!