Product Review Tuesday: Front to Back Earrings

Accessory trends have been popping up everywhere from street fashion blogs to celebs and they've become something to talk about.  From ear cuffs to front to back studs, current jewelry trends are about to show us how to accessorize in a whole new way.

Pearl Front to Back Earrings
Amazon
$14 

 Front to back earrings (or 360 earrings) are so fresh and on trend it's almost hard to find them with your norm mainstream retailers, so look to your favorite designers (they're usually your first pick, right?)

So what makes front to back earrings so amazing?  I'll admit it, I was definitely intrigued the first time I saw them.  Dior's pearl front to back studs took summer by storm, which when paired with casual or couture polishes your look perfectly.  Also, you can easily modify these earrings with studs from your own collection.  But Dior was only the beginning.  Front to back earrings are basically art for your lobes in the most unique way (that you can even wear to work, like I did).

Mise en Dior Tribal Earrings

Dior

 $290

Dior rocked our summer with these amazing pair of earrings that was sported by a handful of celebs and models (Miss Watson included), which also has started to inspire designers and hopefully more retailers in the near future.

Here are a few of my favorite front to back earrings

that on my wishlist:

Pearl Floral Stud Earrings

Tory Burch

$125

Two-Part Drop Back Earrings

Vince Camuto

$28

Alex Earrings
Nasty Gal
$18

xx

New Fall Wearable Tech Could Save Your Life, Seriously.

Wearable tech is definitely going to be the biggest trend starting this Fall, no doubt.  The days are nearly over where the coolest trend in fashionable tech are ipad and iphone covers.  Women (and men) designers and engineers have been working hard this year finding solutions for that missed technology problem.  Ringly, who I posted about last week, has an app for that (and a ring with a semi-precious stone, a diamond and is 18k matte gold, I'm sold.).  As a woman who can't keep her phone with her constantly, I tend to miss calls, emails and if I run into a dangerous situation my phone won't be easily accessed.  Ladies, Deepa Sood  of Cuff knows your pain and has a fashionable solution.

Video: Cuff and YouTube

So basically, Cuff devices have a Cuff "chip" that you hide inside of specially made baubles or keychain that will share your location with your chosen circle of friends or family (and letting them know if you may be in danger instantly), while also tracking your health and keeping up to date with all of your important notifications.

 Photo: Elle

Photo: Elle

Cuff accessories are not only stunning and modern but not that expensive, either.  You can either buy packages (I recommend this) or all the products independently (of course the cutest cuff is sold out already!).  While you're shopping on their website, you can tell how many other viewers are shopping as well and how many quantities are left, so get them while they're still on pre-order ladies!

Photo: Cuff

  Photo: Cuff

From what I've heard from people I know and articles I've read, alot of parents are buying Cuff smart jewelry for their daughters so they are safe on campus, hanging out with the girls and going on dates.  I know if I had smart jewelry like this when I was in college, my parents would've done the same thing (even if you stay in the dorm most of the time). 

 Photo: Cool Mom Tech

Cuff smart jewelry has also been advertised as jewelry for Grandma too.  Just because she's older doesn't mean she won't love something flashy (that can alert close friends and family in emergencies)!

Photo: Ecouterre

Pre-orders are going on now and won't arrive until Fall (just like Ringly), so make sure you snatch them up before they're all gone!

xx

My Wedding Look for September

1.  Olivia Palermo for Brides Magazine

2. Urban Gem (Shot and Styled by me)

3.  Ann Taylor

4. Kate Spade

5.  Coach (Shot and Styled by me)

6.  Tory Burch

7.  Wedding Rings (Artisan Made, also Shot and Styled by me)

8.  Pinterest

I never wanted a huge wedding, a princess gown or a huge rock on my finger (no offense those who do, I'm sure you look or will look lovely).  I'm a career woman who uses her hands for a living but I always did want something intimate, simple and elegant.  Evens and I got engaged back in 2011 and since then we had been slowly planning out the details.     

Evens always wanted to get me a huge ring but I have always liked something a little more simple, this was our compromise.  In the end, I think it's perfect.  We both found artisans to make eachother's rings and we couldn't be happier with the end result (even though he thinks they look like they're from Game of Thrones).

My wedding look is definitely workwear inspired.  I just love shift dresses.  I tried to love other styles (and I did) but I always came back to the shift.  It's reliable, you always look good and it has simple, yet flattering lines.  I found mine at Ann Taylor for under $100 (don't hate me, it was a flash sale), which I plan on pairing with a blazer styled over my shoulders.  Simple Kate Spade posts and a couple of layers of statement jewelry around my neck, with my favorite Coach flats that I bought for $50 (I know) that will complete the look.  Of course a beautiful bouquet of succulents to tie it all together.   

via Maven Bride

We plan on going to the courthouse this September to get married and then have a ceremony with both of our families in Florida next year around the same time at an art gallery.  We both have a deep appreciation for nature and a calm atmosphere so this is probably more along the lines of what we are thinking.  Luckily, we both have an art/design background so we will be designing everything so we can really enjoy the wedding planning process and time with our families (which is what it's about anyway).

xx

Product Review Tuesday: 9th & Elm for Pre-Fall

I was so excited when I was invited by 9th & Elm to review some of their pieces (they are offically my new go to for accessories)!  9th & Elm, handmade and independent designs, offer not only jewelry, but also scarves, clothes, handbags, and so much more.  If you know me at all (or follow me on instagram), I am addicted to jewelry probably the most of everything simply because jewelry is so versatile.  As a Photo Stylist, I am always meeting with clients at various times of the day and week so I'm all about going from day to night in a short amount of time.  9th & Elm is a great resource for this because they literally have jewelry for everyone. When I was browsing their site, I was literally seeing all of the current trends in accessories, various price points and a wide array of talented designers.  As we near the end of summer in a few short months, I specifically chose pieces for pre-fall that would be great for day to night.  As with other reviews, I like to try the pieces out for a day to see how I like them and the feedback of those around me.

Dress: J. Crew

Jewelry: 9th & Elm

            Givenchy

              Kate Spade

Large Black Enamel Shark Teeth Studs

I literally had so many compliments on these studs!  These are such a great pair of studs for fall/winter because they are so classic and will go with absolutely everything. They originally caught my attention because they are made from a mold of actual sharkteeth (seriously, who thought of this?) and the brush of gold adds a polished flair that makes these earrings both casual and dressy, depending on the situation (I'm also currently obsessing over the white pair available here).  

14k Crusted Crystal Ear Cuff

I'm personally loving that ear cuffs are back right now.  Sparkle is always in and what a great place to wear it, opposed to and/or on the finger, around the neck and wrists.  9th & Elm has some really great options and this one I thought would be great for going out.  It also works great as a sort of "layering" piece because you can add other earrings to accent it!

Brown Druzy Bib Necklace


I just love the druzy look and what I love about this piece is the gold edging which adds a more sophisticated touch (opposed to without, which is much more casual).  I feel like you can't really wear druzy all year around because it's more of a summer look mainly (ie. Free People) but this piece is classy enough you can definitely sport it during the cooler months as well.  I highly recommend shopping 9th & Elm's druzy pieces, they are stunning!

Jacket:  Guess
Sweater:  Ann Taylor
Denim:  David Kahn
Jewelry:  9th & Elm

Brown Tortoise Acrylic Necklace

Tortoise is huge this Fall (especially with emerald green, black and white and/or jewel tones), it's a classic print that never goes out of style and looks great one everyone.  I love the simplicity and edgy design of this necklace and it can easily be dressed up or down. Also with similarly designed bib style necklaces, I've noticed the chain isn't long enough to fit nicely around the collar, this piece (as you can see) is obviously perfection. 

Black Velvet and Gold Chain Bracelet

The 90's are still trending and the "chunky chain" look is still very hot (that's ok, because I love it).  This piece would look great in the office, but also could dress up something more casual.  Textures like velvet, fur, suede, etc. (also like a few years ago), are popular again for the colder months so the velvet accent to this is really a great touch. The actual chain looks like more of a "vintage" classy (more like vintage 90's Chanel) type look with more of a modern edge.  Surprisingly enough, this bracelet looks great on smaller wrists like mine and isn't heavy whatsoever.

In essence, 9th & Elm is an overall great online shop that offers more than most and to various types of customers with varying tastes.  The quality for what you actually buy is totally worth it (all jewelry is handmade) and you will be guaranteed great pieces that are unique and are made by talented artisans and jewelry designers.  9th & Elm has a huge following and since all pieces are handmade, they can be gone fast, so be sure to buy it when you see it (which is a good thing).  There is always new stock, which is something I always like, and flash sales quite frequently so 9th & Elm is really thinking about their customer base and how to sell to them efficiently.  Would I buy from them again?  Absolutely!

xx

West Elm Shows Us How to Style Our Room{s} like a Catalogue

I get asked alot by friends and clients on styling advice for their rooms and it would be great to come home to a room (or mulitple rooms) that look like they've come straight from a spread in your favorite home decor magazine.  Luckily, West Elm has decided to share some of their style secrets and give us a look at their fabulous decor for fall. 

Ladder Bookshelf

$399

Easy, "no nail" furniture has been trending lately (I have a similar piece and it is truly amazing) and you'll understand why when you see this piece.  Not only is it easy to assemble but looks sleek and is even easier to move around in your home.  Just add some of your own collections and you've got art.

  

Mid-Century Shelving

$29-459

I remember my grandparents having a buffet by their dining room table growing up, and how much it really made the room look polished yet comfortable.  The genius modular wall system is at work again, with this piece as well making the wall (not the beatiful table) additional storage.  This piece could easily be added to any room, accented by beautiful art, dishes and personal items to tell a story. 

Geo Gemstone Wool Rug

$149-849

What really makes this room a great space is not only the dark grey wall (to accent the wall art and room decor), but also the attention to pattern detailing.  Pattern mixing is on trend in fashion and of course that means in the home as well.  In essence, if you are able to find a great rug to accentuate your wall paper/paint pattern and art, the rest is easy.

Martini Side Table in Silver

$149

Sometimes using a small table to add height on another one, is the best idea.  You may not want to add a light on top (or maybe you do) but it's up to you and your decor in the end.  Also, use metallics to brighen up a drab room, you can never go wrong with a little sparkle.

xx

DIY Friday: Green Campaign Inspired IKEA Rast Hack

I've been looking for the perfect way to store my clothes in our bedroom (or at least a more effective way) and then I stumbled upon Bethany at Dwellings By Devore's IKEA hack.  Seriously, spend $400 or more, or just find an old dresser (even though she remade a night stand), repaint and refinish it, then add some decorative hardware or well under $400.  Seriously though, such a great idea and be sure to check out Dwellingsbydevore.com!

xx