I'm in a total jewelry state of mind this season.  Typically for Summer, I keep the jewelry to a minimum... big hoop earrings, maybe a bangle or two.  But this time around is different - I want bold, statement-y jewelry and I want lots of it!  Whether you opt for a simple sundress or a vintage kaftan, jewelry that packs a punch will take your look to the next level!

The taqua nut from South American rain forests is a fantastic, sustainable & chic material that lots of savvy jewelry designers... and here are some of my favorite pieces! 

  

Also by Mui Chic are these super gorge statement rings of naturally-dyed Taqua.  What a way to finish an outfit, right?

And don't forget the wrists!  Stack these bracelets, or wear alone... they're instant chic with any ensemble from a tank top and cut offs to your favorite Summer dress.  From Left: Tawa by Mui Chic, Shilsol Bay by Green Diva and Kandi by Mui Chic. 

I was never much of a silent film fan until recently.  Honestly, I just never really gave them a chance, but now I've changed my tune.  Like any other good movie, regardless of type or era... a silent film can be funny, compelling, tragic, beautiful and glamourous!!!  I have a serious thing for the master of the genre, Buster Keaton, but when it comes to the ladies, Clara Bow is my girl!  She was vivacious, confident and yet another woman who possessed that magical quality - easy elegance!

There is a similarity to many silent film sets... silky textiles, geometric prints, glammy lighting and curvy furniture.  The vibe is fancy meets moody and I love it.  There's not a ton of yesteryear glitz "green" decor out there, but here are some chic pieces that fit the bill.

  The Cameo Lamp by LightenUp Design at Green With Glamour is a lovely nod to the bygone days of silent film.  Pretty and polished, LightenUp Design uses only natural clays and handmade, non-toxic glazes. 3-way socket, shade included.

Nothing makes a bold statement in the bedroom like a striking headboard!   Of organic cotton & a hardwood frame, the York from Pottery Barn will add some serious style to any sleeping quarters!

Ms. Bow in the boudoir.

 

It's no secret that I fancy a good example of the "Uptown Bohemian" look... be it a powder room, a handbag or a hotel lobby.  Well, take a look at this vintage image of the socialite "swan", Gloria Vanderbilt.  Though GV certainly had her hand in the disco denim revolution of the 1970's, let's take a moment to celebrate this patchwork masterpiece!

 

 

A modern day Gloria Vanderbilt with son, Anderson Cooper.  Perhaps she's moved past the patchwork, but the style still lingers!

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It's not that I'm not a fan of "mainstream" fashion, but overall I do find "eco-fashion" a lot more interesting - the risk-taking designers, always evolving textiles and heightening profile of the industry in general.

That being said, I am a sucker for a classic design... a Chanel suit (vintage, of course), a Halston gown and definitely the Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress.  I've had a crush on that silhouette since my mother wore a handful of them in the 70s.  There's something about DVF's style that is unparalleled.  With her design, she has mastered the combination of bold patterns, clean designs and a flattering cuts... but to me, more important than that, she is the greatest example of an incredible & independent, easy-elegance and exotic-though-still-urbane lifestyle look.

 

She's a lot to live up to... but it's certainly fun trying!

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