Crystal Crush

Looking for an authentic, meaningful and stylish Christmas gift for a special lady in your life? Read on...

One of my recent curiosities: crystals. I am drawn to crystals due to their varied colors, textures and healing attributes.

Needless to say, I was ecstatic to discover JaxKelly's handmade crystal quartz and gem stone jewelry line during a recent visit to Therapy, a gift shop in Berkeley. A few of my favorite designs, which can also be found at her Etsy shop, include:

Gold Dipped Rose Quartz Studs - Rose Quartz has a faint pink hue and is known as the "love stone."

Silver Druzy Quartz Studs - This sparkly gem is attributed to stabilizing inner energy and enhancing creativity.

Gold Dipped Turquoise Stud Earrings - Turquoise, one of the oldest stones in the crystal/gem stone family, is associated with friendship and truth.

As featured in the above images, JaxKelly's motto is: "these studs are handpicked to compliment each other. They are sisters, not twins."

Rock on, JaxKelly.

Pantone Color of 2015: Marsala

Last week Pantone, the global color leader, announced "the" hue of 2015: Marsala. This brownish red hue reminds me of a dark red wine. As Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, stated, Marsala "has an organic and a sophisticated air." There have also been comments that it evokes both an earthy feel and a vintage vibe.

I didn't have to look to far to find a coveted accessory in the Marsala color family. As always, Madewell is on top of their game and updated their tried and true Transport Tote in Pantone's color of the year (personalization available, as pictured here, for an additional $10).

Madewell Transport Tote:

https://www.madewell.com/newarrivals/bags/PRDOVR~B2427/B2427.jsp

Article about Pantone's Color of 2015:
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/pantone-has-spoken-2015-color-of-year-is-marsala-2014-12-05

Mantra Magic

After a hiatus, I am back and ready to share more eye candy with you! So, let's get this (arm) party started...

As many of you know, I am a sucker for a motivating quote, comforting prayer or inspiring word. When a certain message moves me, you will be sure to find it displayed in my apartment or included in one of my social media posts. 

That being said, you can only imagine how amazed I was when my cousin and fellow accessory fan, Kate, recently posted this photo on Instagram....

Two of my most favorite things: jewelry + meaningful words = magic. Hello, MantraBands!

MantraBands are gold, silver and rose gold bracelets inscribed with uplifting messages, as pictured below... a literal fashion statement ;) They serve as gentle reminders, such as "this too shall pass", "blessed", and "smile, breathe and go slowly", just to name a few.

The icing on the cake is that MantraBands' designs are "made with love" as stated on their website. Heartfelt through and through.

Choose your Mantra here:

http://www.mantraband.com/products/inspirational-bracelets

The Sweaty Band Solution

Ok, ladies. Has your hair fallen into your face during a workout as your headband slips and slides? Not fun. Not cute. The solution? Sweaty Bands. 

A few months ago at the Big Sur Half Marathon Expo, I came across a Sweaty Bands booth. The stall of headbands was a feast for my eyes: a variety of sparkle, colors, prints and patterns. I was intrigued by the unique designs, but also by their tag line "OMG...they don't slip!" 

After wearing my silver sparkle Sweaty Band in that race (pictured above), as well as during both high and low impact classes (i.e. kickboxing, yoga), I can honestly say "OMG...it doesn't slip!" The velvet-like fabric on the backside of the headband stabilizes the accessory comfortably on my head. 

Functionality is the key component of Sweaty Bands. But you can express yourself with their vast assortment which includes bling, seasonal, dots, stripes, sports teams and sororities. Below is a photo from their website, showcasing their stars and stripes collection in honor of the 2014 Winter Olympics. 

You can be sweaty - but still stylish!

Visit Sweaty Bands here:

http://www.sweatybands.com/

Making Tracks

With a background in children's retail and my "kid at heart" spirit, I smile when I come across a must-have, pull-at-the-heartstrings product for little ones. My recent discovery was made at the Crewcuts website. While perusing through their Vacation Shop assortment, the Kiko+ Ashiato Animal Footprint Toy Sandals stopped me in my tracks... ;) 

These Toy Sandals are offered in three designs, including the Pink Cat (pictured above), Turquoise Dinosaur and Coral Monkey. The traditional Japanese-inspired shoe silhouette, paired with the colorful footprint sole detail, are an unexpected, playful combination. 

This creative accessory will be an interactive addition to a beach or playground outing during the warmer days and months ahead. 

Time to make tracks, kiddos!

Find the Kiko+ Ashiato Animal Footprint Toy Sandals here:

http://www.jcrew.com/girls_special_shops/vacationshop/PRDOVR~04820/04820.jsp

*Please note ~ these are toys; not intended to be worn as regular footwear.

Hello Spring!

Spring officially arrives this week. Hooray! Bring on the sunny weather styles.

An accessory that caught my eye recently is shown above on singer, Lana Del Rey, via Refinery29. She exudes glamour in her dramatic, floppy straw hat. This striking look is classic, yet current, as it showcases trends of today, including stripes and the black & white color combo.

Whether lunching outside or reading at the beach, make a Spring style statement with the help of a sun-friendly accessory.

Refinery29 article featuring Lana Del Rey:

http://www.refinery29.com/2013/03/44405/lana-del-rey-l-officiel-paris?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=ldr

A comparable hat can be found at J.Crew:

http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/accessories/scarvesandhats/PRDOVR~32542/99102985164/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~0~15~all~mode+matchallany~~~~~straw/32542.jsp

A Lucky Find

Top o' the morning to you! 

As I noted in my St. Paddy's theme post last year, wearing green on March 17th is a must for me because it's a lighthearted way to celebrate my Irish heritage.

Fortunately, since Emerald is the 2013 Pantone Color of the Year, there's a wide assortment of green accessories readily available this season. A favorite find that I recently discovered is pictured above ~ Steve Madden's Kstudd suede flat. Not only is the on-trend hue holiday appropriate, the stud detail makes the shoe current and classy.

With these on your tootsies, you can't help but kick up your heels and do a little Irish jig on St. Patrick's Day!

Find details about the featured shoe here (available in additional colors):

http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=91602&vid=1&pid=503575042

Classic with a Twist

My personal style motto should be: "classic with a twist." I become quite excited when I find an accessory that shares both timeless and current design details. 

An example of this is pictured above ~ Gap's Leather Stripe Tote. The clean lines, brown leather and minimal hardware make for a traditional bag. Yet, the pop of bright orange, which is in line with this season's neon trend, makes a bold statement.

So, if I am "classic with a twist," what are you?  

Click here to view this bag in additional color ways:

http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=34740&vid=1&pid=351408032

Party in the Back

The 2013 Oscars have come and gone, yet I am still contemplating one of the latest accessory trends represented on the red carpet: the reverse necklace. Both Jennifer Lawrence and Anne Hathaway (pictured above) featured the "party in the back" design. 

Maybe I am too practical or traditional, but I am not a big fan. It appears unbalanced to me. Yet, if I had to choose, I prefer Jennifer's attempt at this trend. Since Anne's necklace is not fully engulfing her back, it almost looks like a mistake. 

Although the reverse necklace is not one of my faves, it may have been a lucky look as both of these actresses won Academy Awards on Sunday... The power of accessories ;)

Additional fashion info from the 2013 Oscars: 

http://oscars.hellomagazine.com/oscars-2013/201302251334/oscars-best-fashion-accessories/

Super Bowl Scarf

Scarves rock. It's where function meets fashion. Since my wardrobe primarily consists of solid, neutral pieces (white, black, grey, denim), scarves come in handy when I want to add a bright accent color or an eye-catching print to my look.

My recent scarf find hails from H&M. As you can see, it is kind of a party (perhaps perfect for a 49er Super Bowl fiesta)! Trend-right leopard print, a geometric pattern, red trim, oh my ;) Even though there is a lot going on with this scarf design, it works. 

Picture it: pair this scarf with a black or white top & jeans. Cute, right? Gotta love the wonders of accessories. Easy, stylish and affordable.

Check out this featured scarf here (also available in additional color ways):

http://www.hm.com/us/product/07280?article=07280-B

My Namesake

Every time I pass the above photo in my hallway, it makes me smile. This Kodak moment captures my aunt, Eileen Donovan, with her studly date at her 1968 Senior Ball. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet my beloved namesake, but her spirit and spunk are definitely running through my veins. One way I know this to be true? The fact that she is wearing bright yellow heels with her daisy embroidered dress. This pop of color represented on her tootsies is cheerful and whimsical ~ two attributes that I aim to express through my personal style, interactions and more!

Needless to say, I am honored to share the same name as this wise woman and I am inspired to carry on her fun-loving ways every day. 

Food for thought: who inspires you?

Staying Hydrated

I thought I would mix it up & write a blog entry featuring a different kind of an accessory. As an active gal, one of my goals for 2013 has been to drink more water. Due to this, I have had a water bottle by my side on a daily basis. But, I have to admit... Only 25 days in and I am getting a bit bored with this beverage! 

Fortunately, a fellow Beachbody fitness team member recently introduced me to the ingenious water bottle, the CitrusZinger, represented in the above image (thank you, Langley!). Place half of a lemon, lime or clementine at the bottom of the water bottle. The juice from the fruit is then infused in your water for a refreshing citrus experience! Isn't that brilliant?! The product design is even on trend with the neon color accents. Convenient, healthy and trend-right. All good things.

Drink up and enjoy!

Learn more about the CitrusZinger here:

http://zinganything.com/product/citruszinger

Additional Zinger Products include AquaZinger, VodkaZinger (!) & SaladZinger: 

http://zinganything.com/shop

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

As we are now in the heart of the winter season, cold weather accessories are a necessity. These Kate Spade "Big Apple Pop Top Gloves" caught my eye thanks to the trend-right stripe pattern, whimsical pop of color, and functional fingerless glove detail with a mitten overlay. And get this... they are now on sale!

Stay toasty, my friends.

Product Information for the featured Kate Spade gloves:

http://www.katespade.com/big-apple-pop-top-gloves/PSRU0888,default,pd.html

Pantone Color of 2013: Emerald

Pantone, the global color leader, designates a specific hue for every year. They make their decision based on color influences found in entertainment, art, current events, technology and more. Recently, Pantone announced that Emerald is their color of 2013.

As you can see in the above image, Emerald has a multitude of meanings. Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, explains: "Green is the most abundant hue in nature - the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum. As it has throughout history, multifaceted Emerald continues to sparkle and fascinate. Symbolically, Emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation, which is so important in today's complex world."

Throughout this year, I will feature various Emerald fashion accessories to brighten up your wardrobe. For starters, I found a couple of Chloe + Isabel earrings, accented with a wee bit o' green, which add color and sparkle to your look. Enjoy!

Sweeping Feathers Chandelier Earrings ~ $58

Chandelier Stone Earrings ~ $38

Learn about Pantone & their 2013 color choice:
http://www.pantone.com/pages/index.aspx?pg=21055

View these featured Emerald jewelry designs & more:
http://www.chloeandisabel.com/boutique/eileencorrigan

Sock it to Me!

I am a sucker for new running gear ~ especially products that enhance my performance while making a fresh statement. One of my favorite places to uncover such finds is at the Big Sur Half Marathon Expo. Various vendors are present, eager to sell their latest and greatest wares to race ready participants. While meandering through the aisles at this event last month, I stumbled upon the Running Skirts' booth. Their colorful and whimsical designs were a feast for my eyes ~ from women's running tops to running skirts to... compression socks?! 

Yes, compression socks. These knee high wonders are now a popular accessory among runners. Why? Their snug fit increases circulation in a wearer's calves, helping legs recover faster from a run. Running Skirts has put their own playful, feminine twist on this functional item, which is evident in the above image. The bright pink sock accented with the bold heart graphic is perfect for the girly girl who is ready to hit the pavement! 

Needless to say, I was compelled to purchase a pair of these for my tootsies. I voted for the black and white stripe design with a pink heart that I wore during the 13.1 mile trek. You can catch a glimpse of them in the photo below...

Running Skirts notes on their website, "increased circulation = happy legs!" As you can see, I was a happy camper when this photo was taken. Happy to have completed the half marathon, to have shared the experience with my family and to have sported my newfound, lighthearted accessory.



Running Skirts ~ Women's Compression Socks:
http://store.runningskirts.com/accessories/compression-socks

Mixed Metal Madness

Are you a golden girl or a silver stylista? If you looked in my jewelry box during my school years, you would have gazed at a sea of silver. Over time, I slowly began introducing a few gold accents into my collection. But, being the Virgo that I am, I was adamant about maintaining order by separating the metals when accessorizing. And then the mixed metals trend happened... Hallelujah! My accessory options were limitless.

Over the past few months, I have been on a hunt for key mixed metal baubles. My first find is featured in the above photo, the DKNY 'Street Smart' Notched Bezel Chronograph. This watch is a life changer. The winning combination of the gun metal with gold accents is a show stopper on its' own, but it also complements just about all of my existing treasures.

I am also excited that Chloe + Isabel currently offers multiple mixed metal options. A few examples are displayed below, including the Set of Six Stackable Rings, Two-Tone Fringe Earrings and Two-Tone Metal Round Stretch Bracelet.

Happy Mixing!

DKNY Watch:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/dkny-street-smart-notched-bezel-chronograph-watch/3304247?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=5341&pprd=0

C + I Stackable Rings:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/products/R028CL/set-of-6-stackable-rings

C + I Two-Tone Fringe Earrings:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/products/E041/two-tone-fringe-earring

C + I Two-Tone Bracelet:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/products/B091T/two-tone-metal-round-stretch-bracelet

Polka Dot Explosion

As you know from a previous blog entry, polka dots are one of my favorite patterns. The dot trend is rolling right into the Fall fashions, too. While in New York City last month, I was reminded of its presence and popularity. As I turned the corner on 5th Avenue, a polka dot explosion caught my eye. The facade of the building where the Louis Vuitton store is located was blanketed with this circular design. I broke out in a BIG smile! Then, I mused... how will retailers represent this timeless subject matter in an updated way this season?

Check out the latest find! The Fold-Over Canvas Tote by Old Navy (shown below) with a watercolor-style dot print represents a unique approach to a classic motif. This, along with the multiple convertible options thanks to the removable shoulder strap and fold-over feature, is both a fashionable and functional addition to your wardrobe!

Information about Old Navy's Fold-Over Canvas Tote (available in 3 color ways):

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=7374&vid=1&pid=330073&scid=330073002

"Be Creative. Be Confident. Be You."

Last week while I was in New York City, I stopped by the Chloe + Isabel headquarters in the trendy Tribeca neighborhood. My visit included a meet and greet with the talented head office team who offered a glimpse into the design process. A highlight was my one-on-one chat with our fearless C + I leader, Chantel Waterbury (pictured above, on the right).

Chantel and I share an alumni connection through SCU (we are both grads of the Retail Management Institute) and of course, we're both jewelry fanatics. She is an inspiring, down-to-earth, hands-on expert in the jewelry biz. Her passion for the product and the people is contagious. As a seasoned retail pro, she champions her merchandisers as entrepreneurs. The Chloe + Isabel mission statement, "Be Creative. Be Confident. Be You." aligns with her clear vision that dynamic, confident women can grow their personal businesses, bolstered by multiple company resources. It's a "win-win" proposition for all involved, success breeds success as the C + I buzz is growing across the country!

The company is not just about gems and jewels - its focus is also on personal development. Leaving the office, I was energized and proud to be a part of the Chloe + Isabel community. With Chantel at the helm, we have a role model who is steering us in the best direction!

Learn more about Chantel: 

http://www.chloeandisabel.com/about-us/founder/

Visit my personal C + I boutique:

eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com

Track all things stylish by "like-ing" my Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/eileenforchloeandisabel

Old Glory + Union Jack

 

What is the best way to show support for our American Olympians as well as the 2012 host country, Great Britain? By sporting these whimsical Repetto Ballerina Flats, of course! Although the left and right shoe differ in flag patterns, their shared color palette makes a cohesive statement. They will definitely cost you a pretty penny, but doesn't the design concept at least make you smile?

Over the next five days, kick up your heels in patriotic style while watching the Games and those cute young royals in the crowd on the telly.


Learn more about the featured Repetto Ballerina Flats here:
http://www.openingceremony.us/products.asp?menuid=2&designerid=393&productid=65014&key=repetto

Visit InStyle's Gallery for additional Olympic fashion items:
http://news.instyle.com/photo-gallery/?postgallery=121725

Birds of a Feather

My Chloe + Isabel jewelry gig is fun! Not only am I crazy about the product, but sharing it with dynamic women at my trunk shows uplifts me.

One recent C + I highlight is the arrival of the "Birds of a Feather" collection. I have been curious to see this latest C + I installment so I could choose some treasures. Once the styles were unveiled on the website this past week, I was impressed to discover that the feather-theme design has been dramatically expressed across the multiple product categories.

A personal "must have" piece from this summer refresher delivery is pictured above: the Sculpted Feather Hinged Cuff. This bracelet makes a bold statement from afar, while up close the intricate textured details come to life. The gold plated finish also allows for easy mix and match with additional accessories. 

Continue to spruce up your look with novel accessories, my fellow fashionistas... As they say, "birds of a feather flock together"!

Explore C + I "Birds of a Feather" Collection:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/shop-our-jewelry/birds-of-a-feather