How To: Necklace Layering

There's only one way to really dress up your plain black shirt. And that, my friends, is with layered necklaces. Now, you can go two ways when it comes to layering. You can either go for a look that's simple and understated or one that's bold and daring. The picture to the left is a little more on the bold side.

If it's simple that you like then you should start off with some sort of pendant. It can be a charming little arrow or that locket from your grandmother that you hold so near and dear to your heart. Once you've got your starting point, feel free to add on the chains. The chunkier it is, the lower it should hang. And you can be as creative and daring as you want to here. Just make sure you give yourself some breathing room in between each chain. That's the key.

If you'd like to go for something that looks a little closer to the picture on the left then feel free to use this as your model. Start off with your pendant necklace again, and instead of adding in simple chains, add in pearls. Pearls are always a classic and bold touch. The lengths can vary. It's just whichever you prefer! But remember, the chunkiest and heaviest of necklaces should always hang the lowest, there should always be a little space in between each chain, and most importantly -- be creative! This is all you here. You can create a look that's all your own. That's the best part of layering.

Ice-breaking Statements

Statement accessories can make the best ice breakers, whether it be a necklace, earrings, or even a hair bow. It's a great way to start a conversation, as I perfectly executed one last Saturday night. I generally compliment someone the first time I meet them, but not just because I'm trying to be nice, but because I actually do like whatever accessory they are wearing. This works for guys, too! I know I would be pretty happy and intrigued if a guy decided to make conversation based off the necklace or shoes I'm wearing. All you have to do is say it looks nice. There. Done. Win.
It's rather simple, really. Accessories are a better ice breaker than clothing simply because accessories don't come along with insecurities. Sometimes us women feel a little insecure about the way we look in certain clothing. So, we dress those insecurities up with breathtaking jewelry, handbags, and shoes. LuckyShops' Hillary George Parkin does a great job at explaining this in her article. Check it out here for yourself!

Let's Celebrate

Apparently today is National Beer Day! What better way to celebrate (other than by cracking open a nice cold one) than to wear this dashing little number of a necklace. Personally, I would never wear this, but it's just so fun and festive that I had to share.
With all the holidays that are about to come up, it had me wondering... what's the craziest thing you've ever worn to show off your festiveness? I'd like to say I go all out on the 4th of July with my American flag socks and red hair bow (down right crazy, I know), but since my sister is getting married on the 4th this year, I can't exactly bring out my fun socks. Sad day... But my question to all of you out there is: what's your favorite thing to wear on holidays? Would you ever wear something like this beer bottle cap necklace?

Powerful Gemstones

Many people are aware of their birthstone. They know the color and the name, but what if there's more to it than just that? It's been said that ancient Indians and Babylonians believed that there's more to it than what meets the eye. They believed that certain gemstones carried strange cosmological powers. Whether that's true or not, I don't think anyone can be for certain, but the idea behind it always offers an intriguing message. The chart below will tell you everything you may want to know about your own birthstone.

#LiveLokai

"Sometimes you're on top. Stay humble. Sometimes you've hit a low. Stay hopeful." 

That's the message behind the infamous lokai bracelet. Although it's not too terribly new to the scene, I still constantly see posts about it. So, I decided to check it out for myself. Founder Steven Izan, after going through some of his own experiences, wanted to share his story and create a way for everyone to keep some sort of balance in their lives. With that being said, the black bead of the bracelet holds mud from the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. The white bead carries water from Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. He's created quite a powerful message. It's no wonder it's so popular. To find one for yourself, or just to learn more about the lokai bracelet, visit mylokai.com.

It's All About the Hair

Photo by: Kevin Tachman

This spring season is all about the hair accessories. Whether it be a bow, a jeweled barrette, or even just a plain ribbon -- anything and everything is all you need to perfect your hair. Some say it's the finishing touch, and I couldn't agree more. Especially for those days when all you want to do is cover up with a hat.

Take a look at this article and photos from Vogue about last season's looks, and let me know which look is your favorite. Word on the street is that these photos are the key to this season's best hair accessories.

Charmed Arms

Photo Credit: beautysha.com 

One of the latest trends to hit the nation is what is known as "Arm Candy," or even "Arm Party." It's a great way to make a final statement about your particular style. I always receive plenty of compliments about my "charmed arms" while I'm working, but I also receive a lot of questions. For instance, a customer once asked me if you could mix gold and silver together. And the answer is YES! Mixed metals are always fun and an interesting conversation-starter. To the left you see just rose gold, but this can be mixed within arrays of gold and silver, too. It's rather easy, really -- for any look you're going for. All you need are the essentials and from there you can play it up as much as you wish. So, what are the essentials? First is the watch. I personally believe that no look is complete without a watch (it's also easier than having to check your phone for the time). It can be gold, silver, decked out in rhinestones, glitter, whatever. It all works here. Next, you'll want to find a link bracelet. It adds a bit of chunkiness to the mix. Then you'll want these three: a bangle, cuff bracelet (if you so desire, I don't usually add this one in), and the dainty bracelet. And, you can arrange them in whatever way you like best. It doesn't matter as long as you love it. And as always, feel free to let me know how your charmed arms turned out!