by | Dec 29, 2013 | Accessories, Fashion |
Hello Elegant Readers,
Hope you are having a wonderful holiday and soon to be 2014!
I have a student guest writer on Bubbling with Elegance and Grace this week. These are not necessarily the views or opinions of Bubbling with Elegance and Grace; but I wanted to give my guest writer an opportunity to have an open discussion for her class assignment.
Brooke is originally from New Jersey. Now she is a in her senior year at Boston University, this article was written for her online marketing class which is a requirement for her Communications degree. Upon graduation Brooke would love the opportunity to stay in Boston and work at one of the major PR firms that is located downtown.
When it comes to maintaining a youthful appearance, women try everything and anything to keep themselves looking young. For years, women have relied on creams, home remedies, and even cosmetic surgery to revitalize and maintain a fresh looking appearance. Following a daily routine that makes you feel good about yourself is healthy and can definitely help you maintain your youth, however, there are other avenues women can explore that will effortlessly and instantly turn back the hands of time. Incorporating certain jewelry styles into your existing collection is a fabulous way to rejuvenate your over-all look and make you feel like a spring chicken! There’s no need to spend your money on Botox, because all you need is a boost in the bling department.
Less is More!
This doesn’t mean middle aged women should run to their nearest tattoo and piercing shop and get the nose ring they dreamed of when they were 18, no! This does, however, mean that women who are more mature can still jazz up their style with classic and modern jewelry trends. One thing I’ve noticed about some older women is they sometimes wear bulky or gaudy jewelry, especially to formal events.
This is a big no-no! Adding too much jewelry to your ensemble will make you look like you’re trying way too hard. Instead of wearing huge chandelier earrings with a matching ring, necklace, and bracelet, keep things simple. Let’s get down to the facts, as we age our skin ages with us. After years of wearing large or heavy earrings, some women’s ears have lost elasticity and wearing heavy earrings only accentuates this.
Giorgio Castielli – email: michael.castielli (at) gmail.com (Creative Commons Free License).
Rather than wearing big earrings that look painful and unattractive, opt for lighter stud earrings or smaller hoop earrings. These earring styles look classy, chic, and take years off of you! If you want daytime earrings, opt for plain metal ones. If you’re dressing up for a special event, there are several fancy options out there that will still make you look timeless and elegant. I love these silver puffed hoop earrings from Kohls.com because they are classy, perfect for women of all ages and fit for any occasion. These are small enough to wear in the day, but when paired with a simple necklace, could add the perfect amount of sparkle to your evening look.
Bibs: Not Just for Babies
![By Syuli noire (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons](https://bubblingwitheleganceandgrace.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Fashion_Jewelry_Necklace.jpg)
By Syuli noire (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Another fantastic accessory I think makes any woman look young and fabulous, are short statement necklaces. This style necklace rests higher up on the décolletage, bringing light to your face. If you prefer wearing high-collared shirts or blouses, this necklace sits at a perfect length and really adds some stylish flair to your look. A statement necklace that sits higher up on the neck is also a fantastic way to cover up ageing skin. If you have sun damage or sagging skin on and around your neck, you may not want to be overly exposed when you wear certain necklines. Adding a larger statement necklace will cover up any imperfections you don’t like, and make you look chic! If you’ve never tried wearing a bib necklace, I highly suggest trying this black teardrop bib necklace from forever21.com. This piece is perfect because it can easily match with many outfits, and it’s not too pricey. If you feel it’s not for you, you won’t regret spending a lot on it. I’ve seen women of all ages wearing statement necklaces and I think they all look age-appropriate and fashionable.
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!
Now, you may not be in your 20’s any longer, but you may also not be in your 50’s so you still want to have a little fun here and there and try out some funky pieces of jewelry. Personally, I think any and all facial piercings should be out of the question once a woman is in her late 20’s. Unless you work in an environment where facial piercings are prevalent, this look may not be as professional as employers may like.
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AToe_ring2.jpg
If you’re a daring diva who wants to mix up her style with a youthful piece of jewelry, I think toe rings are the perfect go-to! This accessory is perfect for warm weather months, especially since most of us are in sandals the majority of this time. I think too often, women forget that they can have fun and dress up their feet. Why not show off that pedicure a little more and add some cute foot jewelry to highlight your little piggies?! I love the cutetoe rings featured on emitations.com because they are fun, fashionable, and affordable. They offer simple ones that are great for everyone, as well as unique charm options for the playful fashionistas out there. Personally, I think of toe rings as being a young accessory that older women can add back into their jewelry collection. Celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston have been spotted around with fancy foot hardware, and I think it looks cute!
When it comes to fashion and style, it’s important for women to dress comfortably and choose items that are age appropriate. Getting older doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with jewelry and accessories. The trick to always looking your best is choosing the right items and topping it all off with confidence. There’s no need to spend a lot either to make you look younger. Dressing to your body type and pairing classy accessories will make you look young and fresh, no matter the occasion.
Do you have any tips that weren’t covered in this article? Please let me know down below in the comments section!
This post is linked up with NOT DEAD YET STYLE!
by | Dec 2, 2013 | Fashion |
Hello Elegant Readers,
My hubby surprised me on our anniversary with a trip to Chicago. Yeah, Chi-town!
We went to see The Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Show Exhibition at the Chicago History Museum. The exhibition opened March 16, 2013 will close May 11, 2014 (UPDATED!).If you are in the area please go see it.
The designs are gorgeous.
Image Courtesy of the Chicago History Museum
Quote from Joy Bivins, Exhibition Curator
“We hope visitors will have the impression of attending an exclusive event that was put together just for them where they will be wowed by fantastic garments and a powerful American story,” said Bivins. “We want them to feel what it was like to attend this spectacular event, and learn about Chicago, American and fashion history in the process.”
I must admit I felt like I was going to a red Carpet event when I walked into the exhibit. The stanchions and carpet made me feel like a queen.
Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair
Excerpt from the Chicago History Museum website
“The Ebony Fashion Fair began in 1958, and over the next 50 years the traveling fashion show blossomed into an American institution that raised millions for charity and helped Johnson Publishing Company reach audiences.
Show organizers overcame racial prejudice to bring the pinnacle of Europe’s premier fashion to communities that were eager to see, in real time and space, a new vision of black America that was the hallmark of Ebony and Jet magazines. Eunice Johnson took over as producer and director in 1963, and under her direction, the traveling show took on new heights as she expanded her cachet and power within fashion circles.”
The exhibition has over 60 garments including designers such as St. Laurent, Oscar de la Renta, Pierre Cardin, Pucci, Christian Lacroix and others. Fashion that is flamboyant and ahead of its time. The fashion show was founded by Eunice Johnson of Johnson Publishing company with her husband. It was neat to find out that Ms. Johnson would go into exclusive couture houses and pick garments for her fashion show and received the utmost respect.
The exhibit looks like it came right off of the runway; highlighting some of the most elaborate, intricately detailed couture garments. In the picture below is a Christian Lacroix ready to wear hooded ensemble, it appeared in Fashion in Love in the Fall/Winter 1998-1999. The garment is made of wool cashmere, synthetic blend thread and fox trim around the hood. I like everything about this outfit, except for me I would have faux fur around the trim of the hood.
Another favorite of mine is the dress in black and metallic by Jean Patou made me look twice. This dress is Haute Couture, fall/winter 1986-1987 in silk satin, synthetic tulle, silk velvet and feathers. It appeared in Fashion Scandal. The hat adds sophistication with flair.
Image Courtesy of the Chicago History Museum
I learned many things about Eunice Johnson and what it took to make this traveling fashion show a success. The models were women of color and it gave inspiration that they can wear those clothes and they can look like that too. Not only did she cross stereotypes; but she made the outfits appeal to women no matter what their size was at the time. Women over the size of 14 want to cute as well. Celebrate your individuality and personality because no one can do it for you. You have to stir up the gift inside of you.
Below is an image of one of my favorite designs. This dress is so avante garde that it works in every way, shape, and form. Over the top describes this dress to me, literally leaves your mouth open. The designer of this cocktail dress is Tilmann Grove, Haute couture, fall/winter 2003-2004. The dress is made of silk chiné-taffeta, horn, plastic and glass beads, horsehair tubing, and plastic boning. The dress appeared in Living It Up, 2004-2005. The model in the catalog has matching bracelets on each arm
I wonder how comfortable this would be at the dinner table? The dress would be a real conversation piece for sure.
Image courtesy of Chicago History Museum
The garments are beautiful and I learned a lot about Eunice Johnson and her husband. If you have a dream, you can achieve it and inspire others to go that extra mile to achieve their dreams.
I watched an interactive inside of the exhibit and I remember a lady saying that when she went to an Ebony Fashion show she realized that she could look like that the model walking down the runway or better.Women could actually get to visualize themselves wearing these clothes and feeling confident.
Sources:
Chicago History Museum Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair exhibition website
Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair by Chicago History Museum Catalog for the Exhibition
by | Nov 16, 2013 | Accessories, Fashion |
Hi Elegant Readers,
The weather has been all over the place. One minute I am in a sweater the next minute I am going out of the house without a coat.
Isn’t that what fall is all about?
Well with fall brings bright hued colors in are clothing and what better way to top it off than a piece or two of jewelry.
I am an avid collector of all types of jewelry, it doesn’t matter what type. I plan my outfits around jewelry and I always have on a jewelry because to me it finishes my look.
Berricle.com an online jewelry store contacted me and asked if I would like to select and review a piece of jewelry with a maximum of a $50.00 price range.
I looked at the website and saw that they have a wide selection of jewelry in the finest cubic zirconia set in silver tone and precious sterling silver. In addition, they offer a great collection of men’s jewelry.
I accepted the offer and chose an Oval Cut 1.86 Ct Emerald CZ 925 Sterling Silver Fancy Cocktail Ring.
Why did I choose this ring?
Emerald is my birthstone and the gem in a setting can be quite expensive. Also, I have found that even the expensive gems can have more inclusions than I would like, so when buying emeralds I have to be selective. The Berricle emerald ring was very affordable in a precious metal at only $48.99. I can wear this ring when I travel and do not want to wear my expensive wedding set or it can be my right hand ring.
The ring was shipped promptly and packaged well. When the box arrived it was in pink tissue paper. Here’s a picture of the beautiful pink box with the ring royally positioned inside. This ring looks like it costs so much more. Love it!
Ring presentation
This ring literally leaves me speechless that it’s so beautiful.
Picture below I am wearing the ring as a right hand ring and the green is pulsating and vibrant. This emerald CZ is what a true emerald dreams it could look like. This Emerald CZ, up against my red cashmere sweater, is flawless and the setting is done well in sterling silver.
Wearing gems in a wedding setting is unexpected and out of the ordinary. I went for it in the picture below. It is gorgeous with my sterling and diamond band. This set looks like it cost thousands of dollars.
Ring as wedding set
I wanted to show another angle of the ring to show how the setting looks so regal and shines. The emerald and diamonds around it are not real. However the ring is beautifully well made and looks believable. It’s real to me at an affordable price and reasonable.
Berricle.com
Berricle.com has made me smile and I appreciate them so much for giving me the opportunity to sample one of their products. Please check out Berricle.com because there is something for everyone.
November is citrine month so check out the lovely selection of jewelry at Berricle.com.
* I was given this sample however this is my honest opinion. I would purchase jewelry from Berricle.com *
by | Nov 11, 2013 | Fashion |
Hi Elegant Readers,
In the photograph below, I am at the park modeling my new Sikkim jacket handmade by Nirmaan from MarketPlace: Handwork of India.
Marketplace of India
Sikkim Jacket
MarketPlace: Handwork of India recently asked if I would collaborate with them, to review one of their new must-haves for fall. I previously worked with this wonderful company when I was featured in its Fall 2012 catalogue. CLICK HERE to read about my professional modeling debut.
I support MarketPlace’s mission wholeheartedly, so I gladly accepted an opportunity to work with them again.
JT enjoying a beautiful fall day in the Park.
“MarketPlace: Handwork of India is an innovative fair trade, not-for-profit organization which combines the experience of running a business with a variety of support programs designed to effect real, meaningful, and lasting change in the lives of low-income women in India. We work with 480 artisans who are organized into 14 independent co-operatives which produce high-quality women’s apparel and home decor. Being in charge of their own businesses, the women learn valuable skills and are able to earn a living and support their families. In addition, programs offer educational and enrichment opportunities designed to help the artisans overcome personal, cultural and financial obstacles.”
To read more about the mission of MarketPlace: Handwork of India, click here.
I was given several amazing options to review; and I selected the Sikkim Jacket. Isn’t it beautiful! The description in the Holiday 2013 catalog reads,
“With easy oversized kimono styling, this Jacket artfully combines elements of bold ikat and kalamkari vegetable print.
Hand embroidery adds a pop. High hip length, three quarter sleeves.”
This intricate ikat design pattern of the jacket caught my eye because it was different and looked like a workhorse in the wardrobe. The Sikkim jacket is versatile enough that it can worn 12 months out of the year. See how the intricate pattern goes around the neckline, along the lower hem of the jacket and around the cuffs.
Pairing the jacket with red pants made it a cut above because it goes beyond the norm. A bold punch to an outfit is a must for fall.
MarketPlace: Handwork of India
The jacket works well with the red turtleneck top and red pants. I added a different spark of color with the turquoise handbag.
JT
Behind the scenes for the photoshoot.
1.First, I selected Forest Park for the location.
JT looking for a great spot.
2. I make sure that I take my jewelry case with me so I can change my accessories to show the versatility of the jacket.
The wind was brisk a it was great to be able to catch some sun because it was cloudy earlier in the day.
JT getting ready for photo shoot
I had so much fun styling this jacket.
JT
I would like to thank MarketPlace for giving me the opportunity to style this lovely jacket.
by | Oct 14, 2013 | Accessories, Fashion |
Hi Elegant Readers!
Today is a beautiful, lovely day.
I wanted to talk about how you can make a completely black outfit have flair and color. How do you say? Jewelry is a classic accessory that can spark a black ensemble.
Rachel Zoe bracelet and Amedeo NYC Cameo Ring
The collage above is me modeling my Rachel Zoe bracelet and Amedeo by NYC Cameo ring. Both jewelry pieces are fashion jewelry. I recently was looking at Tiffany’s website and saw a bracelet designed by Paloma Picasso Olive lead cuff in 18 KT gold that look like my bracelet and it retailed for $11,500.
Look at the similarities. My Rachel Zoe Bracelet is on the top and the Tiffany Paloma Picasso bracelet is on the bottom. Looks somewhat similar, don’t you think? But mine did n0t cost any where near $11,500. It was less than $100. I say I got the better deal.
I served in the computer ministry at my church on Sunday, so the standard outfit is all black. I spiced it up with sparkly jewelry and a colorful handbag or two.
The handbag on my shoulder is from the Bahamas. It caught my eye because of the vibrant colors from one of the many street vendor selling items in a small marketplace. My hubby and I visited the Bahamas while on a cruise in the Caribbean a couple years back. We had a fantastic time and you never know where you can find an inexpensive accessory that can add a big pop to an monochromatic look of all black. I usually carry my IPad and notebook in this bag. It is not heavy at all.
I have been wearing pink or adding in a pink accessory in the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness. This is a favorite bag of mine and I have had it for some years now. You can’t go wrong with a Dooney and Bourke leather bag.
Dooney and Bourke pink handbag
You see black can have vibrancy with a few accessories. The Rachel Zoe bracelet is one of my favorites and I get compliments on it all the time. I purchase it from QVC. Unfortunately, it is not being sold anymore.
You can do so many things with a monotone palette.
How do you wear black? Do you add color or be smoked out in black?
by | Oct 3, 2013 | Fashion |
New Look Brown cut oout ankle boot
The summer seems to addle our brains when it comes to fashion. Perhaps it’s because we have spent so long wondering around in sun dresses and sandals that the thought of choosing clothes and matching footwear seems an insurmountable task. I myself notice that when I return to the high street after my summer holiday, I feel like I have entered some alien land.
Dark Red Patent Double Buckle Chunky Heeled Boots
If you have been shopping in the last seven days, chances are you have come across something called a Chelsea boot. You’re probably now scratching your head and thinking – ‘What is this Chelsea boot thing everyone keeps going on about?’ Never fear. A Chelsea boot is a low heeled, wide fit ankle boot which has an elasticated part on the side. The elasticated panel makes slipping the shoe on and off easier to do. The boots have actually been around for the best part of two centuries, but they are making a particularly spectacular comeback this season.
Tan Suede Chelsea Boots
Some have thin heels, or are wedged to add more height. However, most Chelsea boots have a small thick heel, just enough to add sophistication and a little glamour, without the hassle of having to commit to a full heel or risk a stiletto in the wet weather. Chelsea boots women fit really well with this season’s grunge, Nirvana trend. The grunge look features velvet dresses, black tights, and band t-shirts; all layered together with a leather jacket thrown on top. This grunge vibe really suits people are on the go all the time, because it’s easy to look fashionable without much upkeep. Imagine a pair of skinny jeans and a tartan blouse. With a pair of Chelsea boots added into this ensemble, you have a slick, sexy outfit in no time.
New Look Black Drape Chain Stud Ankle Boots
Chelsea boots also compliment this season’s trend for tartan and checks. So, if you want to try a ‘90s look, opt for a tartan playsuit over black tights, or a checked crop top and high-waisted leather skirt. Both of these outfits look striking combined with leather Chelsea boots, preferably in black. Or, if you want a more work-appropriate tartan look, go for some peg trousers in a vivid tartan pattern, and team with a block colour top half, some chunky bracelets, and a pair of Chelsea boots.
Tan Multi Buckle Worker Boots
As well as working with various fashions, Chelsea boots are popular for another reason – they’re so comfortable. Forget tottering around all day in high heels, or teetering precariously between puddles in your suede slip on boots. Chelsea boots have the low heel we’ve all been yearning to wear, and for which our backs will thank us. They also have a robust design, making them practical for everyday tasks. So whatever the weather throws at us, armed with our Chelsea boots we should make it There is no surprise that Chelsea boots have become so popular. They work with this season’s hot trends, they are comfortable and stylish, and they are totally practical. So hurry up and find yourself a good pair of boots before everyone else snaps them up.
Tan Leather Aztec Panel Ankle Boots
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