Blog the Blogger: Fashion, Evolved.

Yeah, she's a new kid on the block, but Amanda of Fashion, Evolved is tellin' it like it is with some of the chicest eco fashion out there. Plus some pretty hilarious youtube finds, too. Her blog will introduce you to amazing designers you've never heard of and she's all about sharin' the blog love with other fashion bloggers. Awesome! The DCGF has hit her up for my soon-to-be Famous Five (plus One) questions. Oh, and the picture to the right will make sense once you read question 5. Forthwith, her responses...

1. What is the first article of clothing you remember that you loved to wear? When I was a little girl I had this yellow satin pajama top with puffy sleeves. I loved that thing, and I would wear it constantly...to bed or outside with my jeans or shorts. I wore it with almost anything regardless of whether it matched or not. I don't know if it was the color or the texture or what, but I felt like I princess in it.

2. Where is your favorite place - besides Goodwill, of course! - to shop for a fashion bargain in the DC area? Well, I don't live in DC, so I can't really say. I am all about online shopping though, and I love to shop Etsy because of their huge selection of unique recyclable, vintage, and sustainable clothes. [We all (heart) Etsy! Oh, and consider this your official invite to come shop with me in DC! -the DCGF]

3. Where is your favorite place to shop for a fashion bargain outside of DC? Garage Sales! 4. Who is your current favorite designer? Anna Mkhitarian of Annatarian. She's a designer from L.A. who does custom couture out of reconstructed vintage pieces. [Like the gorgeous dress above. -the DCGF] She specializes in wedding gowns, but she has also done other types of dresses. I love the idea of getting something totally unique and gorgeous made just for me out of beautiful old fabrics that have a story and history to them.

5. If you could own any single item from fashion past or present - money is no object! - what would it be? Hmmm. Right now I'm lusting after a pair of Mohop sandals [left]. Before the season is finished, I'll buy some. I would also love to have an exquisite vintage kimono.

Bonus Question: How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop? One. Plus one big bite.

Oh, those sandals are tres chic! And sorry I had to put the kimono at the top of the post, but, well, that's the place it fit best. But it builds suspense, no? Thanks, Amanda, for introducing me to Annatarian. Wasn't familiar before, but now I'm becoming slightly obsessed with their Peace Love Earth necklaces. Would look perfect with all those summer dresses I'm planning on getting out this weekend...

Goodwill’s fashion blog provides detailed knowledge and insight on vintage and contemporary clothing and accessories that are valuable to fashion shoppers. The facts and opinions shared present readers with entertaining, exciting and value based information on vintage and contemporary fashion and shopping trends.

Serge Lutens Mascara

I never gave the cosmetics line much thought when it first came out 2 years ago because frankly, I think people should just stick to their strengths and for Serge Lutens, it is of course fragrance. I was at Barneys with 2 of my girlfriends and we were heavily persuaded by the sale associate to try the "best mascara in the world". Come on, how many times have you heard that? I know my beauty stuff, I don't fall for claims by make up counter girls. Being the big skeptic, I passed and just wanted to get upstairs to shop for my dress that I need for the Sex and the City premier in NYC(which is tonight!), but my friends wanted to try the mascara so I had to hang around.

As soon as I saw them with this mascara on, I was like, "Where the heck did those lashes suddenly come from?". I really could not believe what I was seeing and of course had to try it myself. The applicator is one of those comb deals, which I normally do not like, but with this formula it works best. The mascara needs to be combed through your lashes and it binds to every part of the lash from the root up, the amazing thing is that it curls them instantly - you can see that happening as you are applying. It not just builds up and thickens, it articulates and defines, and of course lengthens like nothing you've ever used. I looked like I was wearing falsies because my lashes became so pronounced. It has won numerous awards as well as editor's choice in countless magazines so I guess I should have taken notice much sooner but like I said, I was like, what does a scent maker know about making my non-existent lashes luscious and thick? Apparently, a lot! Before you run out and get this, I have to give fair warning. You don't need to use a lot of this, I was instructed as such but did I listen? No, I went home and tried to glop it on and made a total mess. It goes a long way, dip it in only once for both eyes and slowly comb and brush with much diligence. $60 at Barneys New York and believe me, it is worth the extra few bucks.

Stephen LeBlanc Art Jewelry

What exactly is art jewelry? Some jewelry is just too beautiful and too unique to be called anything but art jewelry. Some of it is too precious and/or fragile to wear. And, to me at least, it also means that the piece is designed and handmade by the artist. To me, anyone who can take a sheet of precious metal, and or wire, and create a piece of jewelry from scratch, is a jewelry artist.



Stephen LeBlanc draws his inspiration from the natural world with his line of hand forged jewelry. By concentrating on the transitions within each form, edges become expanding planes and surfaces respond to one another. Each piece is created from one piece of material, which LeBlanc stretches and forms to its extreme limit of plasticity. All of his designs are offered in different metals, hence the different prices.





Ginkgo Necklace & Earrings

Hand forged from one piece of silver, this stunning anticlastic sterling neckpiece has a high-polished and matte finish, and lays gracefully around the neck and culminates into a perfect ginkgo leaf. Matching earrings have integrated ear wire.

$245 - $275



Stephen began working in metal in 1994, during his second semester at Skidmore College. After three semesters of metals classes, he left Skidmore after two years to move on to a more direct method of learning and studying with masters of the craft at Deer Isle and the Haystack Mountain School of Craft in Maine. He enrolled in a session of glassblowing, yet even in his glasswork he was incorporating metal. Following a month of glassblowing, he set up a metal shop - he needed to refine his work and understand why he was so drawn to metalwork.





Unfurling Silver Neckpiece & Earrings

A single hand-forged arc of silver gracefully unfurls through the artist's use of anticlastic raising. Contrasting matte and high-polished surfaces highlight this neckpiece and earring set's beautiful curves. Matching earrings have integrated ear wires.

$255 - $390



Anticlastic Raising is the process of forging a piece of metal so that it has opposite curvature at a given point. The metal is worked in a way that stretches the outside areas of the metal and creates a concave curve, while the center section of the metal is compressed and forced into a convex curve.





Mokume Gane & Anticlastic Twist Earrings

Using the ancient Japanese mokume-gane technique, LeBlanc forges palladium and 18K gold together into these exquisitely patterned earrings. Each earring is given its subtle twist through anticlastic raising. Also available in sterling silver with matte or polished finish.

$180 - $1625



Mokume Gane is Japanese for wood-grained metal - an ancient technique originally used to forge katana blades. Soft metals like copper and silver are pressed together, heated, and rolled to create the distinctive wood grain like pattern.



Artist Statement

Following a series of commissions and working in mediums including metals and wood, I was ready to try another avenue to expand my skills. This quest brought me to southern Maine, where I commenced classes at the Maine College of Art. It was there that my metals instructor suggested an apprenticeship at the Ronald Hayes Pearson Studio, and insisted that I apply. Soon after, I was off again to Deer Isle.



During my two years of apprenticeship at the Pearson studio I continued to expand my learning experiences in a variety of media. I explored blacksmithing at Haystack once as a student and the following year as a teaching assistant for master blacksmith Doug Wilson. Haystack Mountain School of Craft has become a foundation for both my art and my life, drawing me back to expand my horizons year after year.



Following my work with Doug Wilson, I was requested as a teaching assistant for master metalsmith Heikki Seppa; the Finnish creator of synclastic and anticlastic raising techniques with metals. I have been blessed with opportunities during my lifetime to learn from true masters of craft who have assisted me in refining my skills, while nurturing my passion for metals and fanning my creative flame.



My work incorporates the forms and essences of the natural world. In observing the interplay of form and function, my goal is to create work that draws people to explore this dynamic interplay. I do not strive to duplicate, but to integrate elements of these organic forms into each one of my pieces.



The medium of metal lends itself to developing these naturalistic forms with the durability and integrity afforded by hand wrought metal. I intend to grab the viewers' interest, to intrigue and coax them into taking a closer look to understand and explore the form.

See full article.





Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Stephen Dweck Jewelry - 08 November 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

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Michael Kors & Calvin Klein PLUS lines at Macys!

Ok, SHOCKING! Michael Kors and Calvin Klein have both started plus size lines that are being sold at Macy's, Bloomingdales and Lord & Taylor. I have to admit that I learned this fact from my fabulous friend Kathryn's blog TheBudgetFashionista.com. The Bloomingales website does not feature the lines right now, but I did see a few pieces at Macy's online. I am not impressed with Calvin so far, but check out these Michael Kors pieces:



L: Mosaic Print Dress, $169.95

R: Cap Sleeve Lace Shirt, $69.50












There is also a somewhat cute Tiger Print sweater, but I have issues with designers thinking that all plus size women want to wear animal print. Even though sometimes we do....but I digress. Go to Macys or Bloomies and support Michael Kors and Calvin Klein! When straight size designers start designing for us, we need to show them that we'll buy their stuff (especially if its actually good!).

L.A. Event - UCE Magazine - Asia Issue Release Party

ASIA ISSUE RELEASE PARTY

Wednesday, May 21st

Red carpet at 10pm

Hosted by Jazmin Whitley

Midnight performance by Monét Monico

Location - OPERA

1650 Schrader Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90028

RSVP@worldcoastmanagement.com for Guest List and Bottle Service

http://www.ucemag.com/

Please click on the flyer to enlarge.

Baroni Designs Jewelry

Sarah Baroni has been creating her collection of handcrafted sterling silver jewelry in Arcata, California, since 1991. She is inspired by the natural beauty of her home town on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, as well as the North Coast of California where she now lives. It is the organic artistry that resonates in the jewelry Sarah designs - striking pieces that are refined, unique, and timeless. Her designs are classic and elegant, and know no season. They gracefully accentuate the individuality of the wearer.





Sterling Silver Lavender Resin Rectangle Ring

$50



The Baroni Collection offers an inviting variety of sterling silver jewelry for women, men, and children that is sold in popular catalogs like Red Envelope and in chain stores such as Eddie Bauer. They also create specialty corporate items for companies such as Coca-Cola and Mercedes.





Sterling Silver & Ocean Resin Pendant

Freeform Open Circle on Snake Chain Necklace

$55



How was Baroni Designs born?

Sarah Baroni and Cathy Witkos were living in San Francisco. They both had backgrounds in jewelry, and were both always looking for nice sterling silver pieces at reasonable prices. Ultimately they began to make their own jewelry, and that slowly evolved into Baroni Designs. The designs reflect an appreciation for understated but beautiful jewelry. It has moved rapidly into new areas (such as yoga jewelry), and maintains a diverse customer base. The company is now in its 16th year of business.





Matte & Polished Sterling Silver Double Disc Earring

$45



Artist Statement

As we begin our 17th year for Baroni Designs, our hearts are filled with gratitude for so many things. We enjoy a safe, harmonious (most of the time) workplace with an amazing group of people who truly care about what they do, and a loyal, fun and very diverse group of customers that help make our jobs worthwhile and enjoyable.



After many years of building the business, we have reached a point where we are able to give back to the community. Each year we design and sell a breast cancer collection. The 2007 collection exceeded sales from the previous year by over 200%. We were thrilled to donate a portion of those proceeds to the Humboldt Community Breast Health Project, a wonderful cause on behalf of all of our staff and customers.



In addition to the breast cancer collection, which we will again update in fall of 2008. Throughout the year, we will be choosing charities that benefit women, children, and the environment. A portion of all sales will benefit these charities. As the charities are chosen our web page will be updated.



And now we invite you to peruse the all new 2008 Baroni catalog. We are thrilled to offer a full array of looks this season. It is our favorite season yet, with new looks and lower prices on many of the styles. Again, whether you have long been acquainted with Baroni Designs or are new to us, we welcome you, and thank you.

Sarah Baroni & Cathy Witkos

See full article.





Related Entries:

EK Designs - Jewelry for Us All - 19 June 2007

Jewelry That Rocks - 28 July 2007

Emily Armenta Inspiring Jewelry Designs - 08 September 2007

DiSpagna Jewelry Gets Creative with Cold Fusion Jewelry! - 18 December 2007

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Cuff Daddy Jewelry

Cuff Daddy is an online cufflink store based in metro Washington D.C. Cuff Daddy specializes in unique, high quality cufflinks not found elsewhere in the United States. They source the best discount cufflinks for men, and also carry a large selection of ladies cufflinks at affordable prices, with or without semi-precious stones.



Their cufflinks are adorable, but it's their large selection of unusual pendants that I found interesting:





Interlocking Love Stainless Steel Pendant

Black and Silver stainless steel is interlocked to form a rectangular shape with laser-engraved gender signs on each. Give one half of the pendant to your significant other so they can always keep you in their heart. Black color on half of pendant is coated by PVD, aka physical vapor disposition, which is the innovative process of providing a hard black coating onto metal. Once the process is complete, the black coating is extremely durable.

$25



Carbon Fiber Jewelry

Carbon fiber is the next big thing in the jewelry industry. Super-light - lighter than titanium - with rings weighing only a gram or two, and bracelets at only six grams, carbon fiber is a slick alternative to heavy metals. It offers something that gold, silver, or platinum simply cannot offer - it's strong, it's rugged, and you don't have to worry about where you store it.





Polished Stainless Steel Pendant with Carbon Fiber Cross

Made of stainless steel so it never needs polishing.

$25



Carbon fiber is renowned for its use in Formula One Racing, space exploration, and aeronautical applications where high strength and light weight are critical - and it makes some very unique jewelry.





Round Pink Glass Pendant with Stainless Steel

Gorgeous pendant made from poured glass into a stainless steel cage.

Made with stainless steel so it is both durable and easily cleaned with water.

$40



Company Info

Our design team creates gold cufflinks that will make your sleeves look simply dazzling. Our inventory of sterling silver cufflinks will transform your entire wardrobe into a posh ensemble. If you want to get creative with your French cuff shirt, check out our cat-eye cufflinks, novelty links, and fiber optic designs.



We are the only seller of our Italian-inspired designs. In addition to cufflinks, you can also find men's ties (that can actually match your new set of links), multifunctional pens, and leather money clips on our site.



Cufflinks come in these materials:

• Silk

• Gold

• Silver

• Wood

• Crystal

• Enamel

• Catseye

• Fiber Optic

• Carbon Fiber

• Stainless Steel

See full article.





Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Couture Jewelry Awards - 04 March 2007

Jewelry Designer for Princesses - 08 March 2007

Cuff Links and Jewelry for Dad - 22 May 2007

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Snob Worthy Links May 20th 2008

Jewel Snob glitters with Louis Vuitton Clous Bracelets!

Huge Net a porter sale at Bag Snob!

Tot Snob has a mom snob-worthy bag from Le Sports Sac!

The Thoughtful Dresser with a case study in thoughtful dressing.

Purse Blog ponders Balenciaga Giant City Bag.

Bella Sugar Tour of Beauty in LA!

My Picks!

Left to right: Disc Trim Pleat Dress, $22.50, www.wetseal.com; Rosegarden Lace Dress, $22.80, www.forever21.com; Karen Kane Eyelet Dress, $44.50, www.delias.com; Sackrace Dress, $44.50, www.alloy.com

Left to right: Linen-like Pinafore Dresses by Zuccaro, $106, www.edressme.com; Babydoll Sundress in Solids, $55, www.victoriassecret.com; Puella Gathered Smock Dress, $167, www.pinkmascara.com; Karen Kane Eyelet Dress, $118, www.shop.nordstrom.com

Though jewelry like pendants and earrings would really complete this look, don't ruin the shape of these dresses with belts or scarves. Also think about going makeup less if you can. This look is meant to be fresh from head-to-toe. ;)

Moonstones & More Garnets

Ive been trying to look over my website the last few days and in doing so I realized that I had only one moonstone bracelet that hadn't been sold. It was time to make more. I have a Rainbow Moonstone Jewelry page, but it was the regular Moonstone Bracelets page that was so depleted. I have some moonstone that I hadn't made anything with for a while that I am very fond of: these are faceted white moonstones in a nugget form that fascinate me for some reason. They have a strange gleam or glow at angles and I just like their faceted nugget shape. Ifound what I think is the perfect match with some of Robin Weber's magical translucent, silver-laced lampwork beads and with some pretty blue aquamarine faceted nuggets. I used all bright silver to match the sterling silver Robin had worked into the beads and added a Karen Hill Tribes thick white silver chain. To top it off, a pretty white silver toggle that has a flower on the edge of the ring. This bracelet just made me feel good!
But I also had these moonstone nuggets that were the same faceted shape and were odd colours - a greenish colour and a greenish grey. Again, I really liked these but hadn't used them before. Once again, Robin Weber's beads to the rescue! With their green touched with a grey, cream, charcoal and silver, they were perfect for the bracelet I had in mind. Sterling silver and some more moonstone beads with their eerie glow and I had a bracelet I thought seriously about taking home (one of the problems of this trade). But I dutifully put it on the website. With its spiral sterling Hill Tribes charms and rings, it's a real eye-catcher! The third moonstone bracelet contains a mauvey-peach-beige moonstone that has little flecks of glitter as well as a glow in it. The addition of leopardskin jasper with deep peach tones was great for a different look. Leopard in the Moonlight is also on the Moonstone Bracelets page. Don't forget that Garnet is the January birthstone. The garnet bracelet above mixes garnets with porcelain jasper and faceted rose quartz accented by the great lampwork of James Derrick Reeves. Little bezel set garnet charms hang at intervals on the bracelet.
I'm trying to stick to those New Year's Resolutions, and unfortunately, find myself adding more all the time! It seems I have a lot to work on! But I am working on them, little by little, getting organized, being more thoughtful of others, neater at home; I even bought an organization book for artists and artisans about how to organize a studio/office. Here's hoping it helps!

jewellery accessories jewelry fashion shopping braceletsbeads handmade beaded jewelry beading helmi gioielli smykker tak? juvelen lampwork beads The Jewelry Blog jewelry trends accessories garnet birthstonemoonstone bracelet moonstone