FRUGAL FASHION: Kenneth Jay Lane

Kenneth Jay Lane launched his costume jewelry brand in 1963.  Since then his pieces have been worn by celebrities, royalty, politicians and fashion girls alike.  It's one of those 'under-the-radar' type brands that people just know about.  The main reason I felt compelled to spotlight the label is the affordable luxury appeal it has.  Most of the pieces are made in the USA, feature luxe detailing like gold plating and range from $40-$900 depending on the piece.  On a recent shopping trip around the city I noticed a major gap in this market when it comes to costume jewelry; I saw very cheap pieces that were $10 and would probably tarnish and break within a weeks time, or very expensive pieces upwards of $1000.  So for those of you who have had a similar shopping experience , check out Kenneth Jay Lane jewelry available at saks.com, shopbop.com, net-a-porter.com, and other fine online retailers.  And while you're shopping I recommend my favorite pieces, the KJL signature enamel/gold plated animal bangles; funky yet chic.

 Gold Plated Pendant Necklace, $40 www.net-a-porter.com

 Knotted Pendant Necklace, $215 www.neimanmarcus.com

 

Double Leopard Head Bangle, $198 www.shopbop.com

CURRENT OBSESSION: Lanvin Jewelry

I've always been a fan of oversized/chunky jewelry and for Fall 2014 Lanvin's Alber Elbaz took the trend to a whole-nother-level.  I know the collection debuted in February of 2013 however, we are now able to see it up close and personal in stores like Bergdorf's and on the fashion elite a la Anna Dello Russo.  What's more is the chunky chains and whimsical word jewelry trend isn't going anywhere anytime soon, so go get yours now.

Label Love: FENTON/FALLON Jewelry

Jewelry designer Dana Lorenz brings us two labels to love Fenton and Fallon. After stints at Gucci and Donna Karen, Lorenz started her own jewelry label Fenton in 2006. Fenton offers the fashion conscious a mixture of luxury and the unexpected ala gold/crystal necklace matched with rope. A year later in 2007 the fusion line Fallon was born; a lower priced diffusion line of “graphic layerable pieces”.

Okay, so now that you have the back story check it out for yourself; these are just a few of my favorite pieces for your viewing pleasure. For more information visit www.fallonjewelry.com and http://www.fetonusa.com/.

FALLON

FENTON

Get the Look: Gypsy Chic

Stevie Nicks as inspiration it's time to get that updated witchy woman look.....flowy, assymetrical, floral, bold color, lace dresses...pair it with long scarves, fur/feather stoles, bangles, collar necklaces.....go crazy with the accessories

TrendAlert: SKULLS

Alexander McQueen was an amazing designer, and although he is no longer with us his legacy continues. McQueen was a master at mixing luxury with the unexpected, innovative, glamorous yet a little dark, and his new jewelry collection mirrors that.

And what better time to sport some luxe skulls than the month of October!