JEWELRY STAND ALONE - STAND OUTS



Can a Simple Piece of Jewelry Really Make an Outfit?



I found these pictures while researching this topic and I must say, the answer to this question is YES.  When I saw these pictures, I thought to myself, this is what a nice accessory can do for an outfit.  The interesting thing is that the topics were about the clothing not the jewelry - I noticed the jewelry first.  Funny! As you will see, the jewelry accessorizing is simple,  with the use of just one major piece but the impact it has on the overall look is significant. 

See for yourself...



Stacking various necklaces

Large Silver Earrings with Neutral Dress

Mixed Bracelets and a cute pendant ring

All of these outfits are pretty simple alone, but the jewelry makes the statement.  Not overdone but pretty bold on a neutral pallet.  Jewelry is the art that decorates that plain wall. 

Statement pieces

I love this approach because it is classic and bold all at once. 

I find that all you need is that one statement piece and you're done.  Simple!

Give it a try.  Check out your jewelry box, select that perfect piece and pair with the most basic of outfit.  Maybe some jeans and a little white t-shirt.  See how it elevates the look. 

ONE PIECE OF JEWELRY

  SIMPLY STATED

  OUTFIT ENHANCED



TIDBIT #2 -- CAN I? DO I? HOW? HELP!!!!!!!!

There are some of us who are challenged from a fashion accessory perspective.  Can I mix this with that? Should I wear this with that?  Does this match?  Is this too much?  But it doesn't match! ... 

Whats a lady to do?  Well, its simple and here are some basic tips from an accessorizing perspective.  This is not rocket science and is not complicated but  provides a good basis when trying to pull together the final touches on that perfect outfit. 

Here goes ... 



Select pieces with classic lines -- a MINIMALISTIC style -- and adorn with "statement" pieces that  will elevate the classic to FABULOUS. 

See how little it takes?  A statement necklace is all that is needed to draw attention to the scoop neck of this blouse.  The piece is highlighting not competing with the design of the blouse - keep it simple as there is a fine line.

It is perfectly OK to ACCESSORIZE using affordable pieces AND high-end accessories just as long as the styles don't clash.  An example would be, wearing expensive diamond hoop earrings with sterling silver stack bangles. YES!  An expensive pearl necklace with a cheap pair of ruby earrings - Uhh, a NO!

And finally, focus on purchasing pieces that are versatile and can compliment any look.  Stay away from the overly trendy pieces that limit your ability to expand.  This way, you can buy those few quality items, spending a bit more but less in the long run overall because of the broad usability of your pieces. Less is more.

Till next time ..

Monique

THAT SPECIAL GIFT FOR THAT SPECIAL MOM

Visit mSs Distinctive Designs Studio for Gift Ideas for that Special Mom in your Life



Why mSs Distinctive Designs Studio?

We specialize in unique handmade beaded jewelry

We focus on quality and care

We customize when needed (please inquire)

Our motto is Handmade with Love (we mean it)

We offer free shipping on most items

Visit my picture gallery to see my portfolio of work

Remember we can customize based on your unique needs



Handmade with Love



mSs Distinctive Designs Studio

PRETTY LITTLE RAINBOW!



Rainbow Agate and Pearl Necklace

 Happy Thursday!  I woke up this morning and it was nice and sunny after several days of gloomy rain and it made me feel HAPPY!  So this is what I thought, a rainbow develops when the rain meets the sun  and a bracelet design was born - just that fast. I quickly ran down to the studio and selected these fun colorful beads and began to string.  This is the final result.  I think cute, I think pretty, I think young, I think happy, I think bright.  Exactly what I wanted to portray in this piece.  Yeah! 

Rainbow Agate and Pearl Necklace

This is a cute little bracelet made with rainbow colors of agate stones.  As highlights, I've place a glass pearl in between each littled colored gemstone.  This piece evokes fun and happiness JUST AS I FELT THIS MORNING when the rays of sunshine peaked through my window.  I've also added a cute little silver dangling pendant nugget for that bit of extra.     

Again, as I posted yesterday, INSPIRATION, mine today came from Mother Nature. 

Now listed on my ETSY store for purchase. 

Lets see what else will move me in my travels today.   

Until next time ....

Monique

OH BOY - NEW BEADS!

I just received a new shipment of beautiful beads.  Tonight, I'll dream up my designs .. tomorrow I'll create and post for your viewing pleasure (smile).  Let me know what you think. 

I can't wait -- yippy!

Good Night
Monique

INSPIRED!

Release That Creativity!

Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us which needs to be ignited with sparks.

Johann Gottfried Von Herder

My Inspiration!

I feel like sharing my thoughts today ...

I'm fortunate to have found my inspiration through the art of jewelry making.  We all have God-given talents, we just need to tap into them.  I've worked for corporate American for years and knew inside that there was a deep desire to release my creative abilities and free myself.  I took that leap of faith and FINALLY I can focus and feed that urge to make beautiful things and share with others.  And, through this, I'm content. 

Its this entrepreneur spirit that feeds my desire to succeed and I WILL... I AM.  This is a new phase in my life and I'm looking forward to taking this journey.  A journey that will lead me to the path of fulfillment and joy.  This is the path that we all seek, right?  What I've discovered is that life is too short and we must enjoy it NOW!  I'm doing that. 



mSs Distinctive Designs Studio



There are many things that inspire the design of my jewelry -things in nature, my mood, colors, and the beauty in everyday things that spark my attention.  I tend to be attracted to things that evoke feelings of peace and tranquility and I try to portray this in my pieces.  I hope you'll feel the same. 

My desire is to be able to share my passion with others through my jewelry.  I want others to get pleasure from wearing my art. THIS IS MY GOAL.  



mSs Distinctive Designs Studio



I feel that wonderful things are about to happen and the path is being laid for this journey.  I encourage and support anyone who is either seeking or pursuing their life path.  DO IT!        

Thanks for listening ..

Monique



TIDBIT #1 - THE FIREY AMBER STONE



Have you ever wondered if your gemstones are authentic?  Well, here is a tip on authenticating the brilliant AMBER STONE and it is foolproof:

• Completely dissolve some salt in a bowl of water.  Once the salt is dissolved, add the amber.  If the amber sinks that means it is plastic .. if it floats, its the REAL thing.  Did you know that in nature, amber floats in the sea?  It does.

• Another test to back up the first theory, rub your finger vigorously against the stone until it becomes very hot.  Quickly smell the amber stone -- it should give off a resinous, piny, aromatic smell. 

About the Amber Stone:

Amber is a fossilized sap from prehistoric trees that has aged over the course of millions of years. We usually see amber in hues of yellow golden but it can also be found in shades of milky white, red-orange, green, black and even (very rarely) violet.  Amber is not considered a gemstone, although we think of it that way.

Amber's Energy Properties:

Promotes good luck and success

Fights conflict

Brings peace and happiness

Heals multiple ailments

POWER .. MONEY .. HEALING

In the Blue -- TURQUOISE

I REALLY love turquoise .. especially in the summer.  The color is SO calming yet very bold and beautiful.  It reminds me of the clear blue Carribean beach, the color of the sky on a clear summer day and yes, that little blue Tiffany box.  Turquoise is unofficially recognized as the gemstone of summer and I can see why. 

I particularly love turquoise in a bangle or cuff bracelet and a large cabochon-style ring.  It makes a statement all on its own.  Here are some pieces that I absolutely adore. 


Love, love, LOVE this cuff (below right picture).  I actually have one that is very similar to this.  I purchased it last year at a Native American shop on the way to the Grand Canyon.  It is absolutely gorgeous both striking and bold.  Can't wait to wear this season.

 
Turquoise come in many shades and hues as shown below.  In addition, it pairs well with other colors like red, white, pink, green and black stones.  The PERFECT compliment. 


Color Variations

Facts:

Color:    Shades of blue, green and turquoise and is often veined with brown, black or white

Source:  Egypt, Mexico, China, USA, Russia, Peru, France, Iran, Poland, Afghanistan, Tibet, and Arabia

Native American Bangle Bracelet

Attributes:  Money, Protection, Healing, Luck, Courage, Love, and Friendship



Whats not to like about this stone?  Beauty and Meaning - You gotta love it.  I do!




Lovely Sterling Silver Natural Turquoise Ring

 What is your favorite gemstone and why?

Trends for Spring and Summer 2011

  BOLD AND  COLORFUL REIGNS THIS YEAR

2011 is the year for making that bold statement.  Express yourself through pieces that will get you noticed.  Popular this year are bold colors, chunky textures, large stones, layered looks, statement jewelry, and unique cuff bracelets.  Dare to be different -- it is totally acceptable and expected this with jewelry this year. 

At mSs Distinctive Designs Studio (http://www.mssmith03.etsy.com/), I fashion my jewelry to make a "statement " and to draw that attention.  I use various textures, dimensions, patterns, colors, and materials to achieve this effect. 



Large Stone



Here are some examples of what we can expect to see this year:

Large stones are the rave now.  Not only do they add dimension to the piece but can be very colorful and bold.  Turquoise is especially popular as it comes in various shades and hues and is the "unofficial" stone of summer.  



Chunky and Layered Look



Layering rings, bracelets and necklaces creates a multi-dimensional look and accents the most basic outfit well.  Imagine wearing a pair of jeans and a nice white tee shirt.  Add layers of beads in various colors, or layers of chains with different link sizes and it'll take that outfit to a whole new level and look. 



A "POP of color

In addition, color - color - color, USE IT!  Color adds appeal and interest to an outfit.  It provides the POP.  Why not present this in your jewelry?  You should. 

Jewelry is, indeed, that perfect accessory.  There are so many ways to express yourself and this is the perfect medium.

Cuff Bracelets

 So, there you have it.  Go for it ... Dare to be different ... Aim to be seen .. Accessorize your heart out (but tastefully) -- and finally MAKE THAT STATEMENT! 

Tell me how you have been able to express yourself through the use of jewelry.  I would love to read your posts. 

Until next time ...





April's Birth Stone

Did you know that April's birthstone is the ever-desired DIAMOND?  Wow, why was I born in August (Peridot - Green)?  Anyway, I'll stop hating ........

Here are some interesting facts about the "BLING" stone:

• The Diamond is harder than any other substance on earth - Hard to resist?  Heck yeah. 
• Were thought to have healing properties during the mid evil times - They can heal any emotion.  Apologize with this rock my dear!
• Are just crystalized carbon  - Who needs to get technical.  Does is shine?
• Found primarily in Australia, Africa and the Soviet Union - and imported to the U.S. of A. 
• Value based on the skillful cut and facet - no cubic zirconias men!!!!

Ladies .. this is what I know - DIAMONDS are beautiful and will heal "almost" any wound - The ULTIMATE apology! 

Please share your diamond stories with us here.  I'm sure diamonds have made a lot of folks happy out here. 

Also, for all you April babies --- HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!