Jewelry designer Molly Brown has a collection of jewelry specifically targeted to girls. And they are made with high quality gemstones, precious metals, and pearls. Definitely not the usual plastic jewelry that are targeted to the younger audience. The jewelry is even packaged beautifully, which in itself is a reason to buy from the brand.

Although Molly Brown is "designer girls jewelry", don't fret, I found many pieces that I liked from browsing through the website. The necklaces with colorful jellybeans and charms with bright fairies were appealing. A useful item on the website is the "Gift Guides" which include everything from birthdays, to tomboys, to new bridesmaids. For example, for girls christening gifts, there are pieces such as conservative pearl necklaces, fairy bracelets, and of course, cross necklaces. Some different collections that are also featured are, Alphabet collection from which you can make necklaces out of alphabet charms. My personal favorite is the Princess collection, which was designed to "encapsulate everyone's three favourite fairy tale princesses -- Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty." I am especially fond of the Snow White Necklace, which features a pretty sterling silver snowflake with a 18kt gold heart in the center. And of course, there's even a Christmas section filled with other delightful options.

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Like my previous post, this one also features on more splurge-worthy jewelry. Astley Clarke is a British luxury brand that centers around beautiful jewelry. Even from looking on the site for no more than ten seconds I was already enamored with many of the pieces. Astley Clarke has long-term investment, fine jewelry created by over 40 of the world’s leading designers. While their pieces are eye-catching, you won’t be finding any cheap costume jewelry on this site. They use only the most exquisite gemstones and precious metals. What’s also great is that they have a speedy delivery service, even if you are outside of the UK! Their jewelry is organized into three categories: contemporary jewelry, designer jewelry, and fine jewelry. Astley Clarke’s contemporary jewelry section is filled with stunning pieces that are stylish and trendy, yet still made beautifully. The designer jewelry section has pieces from designers from all over the world. And finally the fine jewelry section has the most luxurious pieces. All in all every single piece of jewelry on Astley Clarke.com are worthy of drooling over.

So it’s no wonder that Astley Clarke.com won the Walpole award for “Best Luxury Brand Online”. The Walpole awards took place on November 16, 2009 in London, which honors brands that have excelled in seven different categories including luxury, design, online, international, overseas and emerging talent. This year the awards were judged by Nathalie Massenet of Net-a-Porter, Brent Hoberman of MyDeco.com, Guy Salter of Walpole, Erik Wachtmeister of A Small World, Martin Bartle of 270 Degrees and Peter Fitzgerald of Google. Definitely a worthy panel of judges that all decided Astley Clarke.com fit the “Best Luxury Brand Online” category best, even with other admirable contestants like Mulberry and Louis Vuitton in the running.

Astley Clarke.com recently re-launched their website to better fit their company’s mission which is “to make Fine Designer Jewellery a more creative and imaginative category for a new generation of luxury consumer.” From looking through their jewellery pieces it’s not hard to see why they are worthy of recognition.

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While we're all for fashion jewelry, especially with this sort of economy, jewelry can also be one of those items that you splurge on and keep with you forever. Personally I only have one or two pieces that are like this, but it was well worth the investment. My favorite is a simple, gold necklace with a small, dangling charm. It’s perfect for when I need an understated piece of jewelry to go with my outfit.

If you are like me and tend to stick to more cheap, fashion jewelry because it has more fun, unique pieces, it can be a little harder to find a piece you would like to splurge on. But not to worry, it just takes some more time to find stores like these. One fine jewelry store site I came across is Compton & Woodhouse. They do feature many classic jewelry pieces (ie: studs, charm bracelets, etc) but they also carry a very good selection of pieces that jump out. Their fine jewellery section has a lot of options to browse through. The prices are also pretty reasonable. There are not any pieces I looked at where I literally gasped just from the price (which happens quite often these days, trust me). The prices are shown in euros, but there is a currency conveter on every page for easiness. If you are looking for pretty, long-lasting items of jewelry for a good price, definitely check out Compton & Woodhouse.

I spent a good amount of time looking through the site since there are so many options! Plus, everything kept grabbing my eye. But here are a few of my favorite jewelry pieces. (Prices are approximates).

Celtic Love Diamond Bracelet, $200

A perfect everyday gold bracelet, yet the intricate design keeps it from looking just like any other bracelet.

Protective Garnet Earrings, $177
Scarlett Fire Earrings, $162

While I usually wouldn't give a second glance to these stones, the gold lining embracing them just made them extra special. And the perfect girly earrings, the Scarlett Fire earrings are a great pop of color.

Rose Cameo Ring, $340
Shiva Necklace, $126

Vintage looking rings have been all the rage recently, but unlike the others, this piece is sure to last you a lifetime. And while the Shiva necklace isn't a typical jewelry item you'd see in most fine jewelry stores, it's definitely something you won't see on anyone else.

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No one can ignore that our economy is still down and many of us are still faced with empty wallets. Yet we don't want to give up shopping! This has inspired a new post idea we will be doing once or twice a month. We will be bringing you fabulous new arrivals at your favorite budget friendly stores! And of course we had to start off with the trendy, inexpensive store renowned for this: Forever 21.

1) Hello Kitty Jewel Bow Tee, $15.80
A girly graphic tee, perfect for layering under a tough, leather jacket.

2) Fur Collar Coat, $42.80
Look totally glam in a double breasted coat in a bright color with a faux fur collar.

3) Rhinestone Studded Clutch, $9.80
A faux leather clutch that's perfect for a night out.

4) Antique Chains Bracelet, $4.80
Be unique and mix two metals in this chunky chain bracelet.

5) Belted Sweater Top, $11.50
A simple, but flattering top that looks great on everyone and comes in a variety of fun colors.

6) Sequin Knit Mini, $22.80
Be sparkly and comfy in this trendy, body conscious skirt.

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I don't know about you, but I was definitely pleased when I heard that studs were still in. Especially since I've rarely had time to stack up on many studded goodies. Even though my style is more girly girl, studs are such a great way to add that tough factor without looking like you're trying too hard. Go for just a touch on a ring or bangle. More adventurous? Try a hot studded vest or jacket. I'm currently on the looked out for the perfect studded boots.

1) Yumas Black Suede Boot, $150.00
2) Stud Leather Jacket, $290.00
3) Black and 18ct Gold Plated One Stud, $266.66
4) Studded Satchel, $595.00
5) Studded Vest, $24.50
6) Stud Strap High Heel Suede Booties, $587.50

PS! Follow us on Bloglovin'!!

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I have just recently found out about Katie Costello Jewelry and I think I am in love. I spotted a celebrity wearing one of her necklaces, and I couldn't keep my eyes off of it! I have been searching high and low for the perfect everyday necklace and she makes a ton of them. Not only that, but she creates the most breathtaking earrings, bracelets, and rings. And it just so happens to seem that every piece is perfectly tailored to me. There is not one thing on her site that I would not wear. My favorite piece is #5.

1) 3 Charm Necklace, $150.00
2) Peace Leather Bracelet, $81.00
3) Square & Peace Earrings, $46.00
4) Turquoise Drop Earrings, $58.00
5) Triangle Knot Necklace, $173 ($132 on Katie Costello's website)

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Vintage Earrings for $3.50


Real Gold Doggie Earrings for $10.00

Just a little announcement for those who might be interested, Eiboutique is selling jewelry (mainly earrings) for very cheap. The collection is huge, so check it out! (Though only Paypal is accepted unfortunately).

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I haven't indulged in my bracelet infatuation for quite some time, so I thought I'd release it on ST again. As usual, I'm attracted to non-flashy, earthy jewelery. So it was like finding a gold mine when I stumbled upon Staya Jewelry from flipping through a fashion magazine. Her prices are fairly more reasonable than other brand name jewelry I've found, which is definitely a plus in my book. Here are some of my favorite pieces.


$48


$38


$58


$38


$48

All of these bracelets can be found here.

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Hello ST readers! I'm so sorry about being MIA for the longest time. It's been a pretty busy two weeks, which is why I haven't had time to be online much at all. I hope everyone had a great Spring break, or for those who haven't had theirs yet, I hope you will have a fun, relaxing break. I definitely needed it to rejuvenate myself after a stressful week of finals. But now that a new quarter has started, I'll hopefully have more time to update.

Now onto the fashion! I've recently been gravitating toward more vintage-y, boho pieces when shopping. I don't know if it's just my personal taste or the sunnier weather. Either way, I love finding unique, no-fuss items that make an outfit look so effortless. I do hate it though when I run into a shirt or skirt I fall in love with, but then look at the price tag and I'm forced to sullenly put it back on the rack (ie: I found the cutest skirt last weekend, but didn't want to pay $60 for it). But lucky for me, Forever 21 has been stocked full of boho chic pieces that are way more affordable.

1) Tribal Mini Skirt, $15.80
2) Drew Platform Pumps, $22.80
3) Fringe Shoulder Bag, $24.80
4) Faceted Flower Ring, $5.80
5) Printed Banded Knit Top, $16.90
6) Painted Reptile Bracelet, $3.80

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I managed to catch the 2009 Oscars this year, and of course found myself anticipating all the amazing fashion. There were so many stunning dresses, shoes, and accessories. And so, I thought I would share my personal favorites of the red carpet.

Who & What: Marion Cotillard wearing a Haute Couture Dior dress and shoes, and Chopard jewels.
Comments: I'm a sucker for dark, princess-y gowns. I think they're such a refreshingly different take on poufy, full-length dresses. The bright blue accents on top are sublte, yet keep the dress from fading into the background. And who doesn't love Dior?

Who & What: Penelope Cruz wearing a vintage Pierre Balmain Haute Couture gown.
Comments: Overall pretty simple, but the lace detailing takes it to a whole other level. It goes so well with her, and I can't get over the exquisite stitching on the dress!

Who & What: Anne Hathaway wearing an Armani Prive gown.
Comments: Another vision in white, Anne manages to look sleek and sophisticated in this strapless number. I love how the sequins start out small, and gradually increase in size as they reach the bottom of the dress. It's almost "fish-scale" like which normally wouldn't be appealing, but it works on her.

Who & What: Marisa Tomei wearing a Versace gown and Van Cleef and Arpels jewels.
Comments: Another extravagant dress that is toned down by it's amazingly simple color. The geometric shaping from the waist down give it some great visual interest to an otherwise subtle color tone. And she pulls the gown off so well.

Who & What: Vanessa Hudgens wearing a Marchesa gown.
Comments: I'm usually against mermaid style dresses, but the fact that its black doesn't make me think too badly of this design. The length is very appropriate for the Oscars, and black and white is always a classy combination.

Who & What: Natalie Portman in a Rodarte dress.
Comments: I love that she went for a gown in a eye-popping color. She manages to stand out from the rest of the red carpet fashionistas in a flattering strapless chiffon dress. It doesn't hurt that she look so amazingly gorgeous.

What were some of your favorites?

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I don't know how many of you have heard of the online store dubbed Bleu Dame. I actually first became exposed to it through one of the very first fashion blogs I used to read (unfortunately it's hardly updated now). They carry the "latest in designer inspired sunglasses, celebrity jewelry, gauze scarfs, hair accessories, bags & more." All of this for a budget friendly price.

I've been lusting after a pair of classic Ray Ban Wayfarers, but in a time like this I can't afford to shell out $140 for sunglasses. Luckily, Bleu Dame carrys very similar look-a-likes and in a variety of styles and colors (all for $12-$15).

And although they sell tops, I'd spend more time checking out their accessories. They have an amazing selection that'll be sure to catch the eye of every trend-conscious fashionista.

1) Foil Metallic Double Strand Braided Wrap Headband, $4.80
2) Luxe Medium Wispy Peacock Feather Earrings, $14.80
3) Black Heart 2-in-1 Mirror & Keychain, $8.80
4) Fringe Antique Print Scarf, $18.80
5) Louis Vuitton Inspired Millionaire Luxe Sunglasses, $5.00-24.80
6) Luxe Twisted Jeweled Metal & Suede Rope Bracelet, $20.80

I haven't ordered anything from here yet, but these are a few of my favorite pieces. Maybe I'll treat myself to some things off this list after I finish my midterms...

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Although you might not be thinking of lace in a weather like this (rain, anyone else?), it definitely eases my mind about what's happening outside by shopping for some Spring clothing. Lace was blatantly evident in Diane von Furstenberg's Spring 2009 collection, and it would be a great light, feminine piece to add to your wardrobe. I'm not sure about you, but I've never been too fond of the idea of lace till I looked at some less "fruffy" versions like these:

Splurge

1) Generra Pull On Lace Skirt, $99.00
2) Diane von Furstenberg Olvida Lace Top, $164.00
3) T-Bags One Shoulder Lace Dress, $278.00

Steal

1) Floral Lace Flutter Top, $19.99
2) Lacey Chiffon Blouse, $29.50
3) Floral Lace Shift Dress, $14.99

Smidgen

1) Silence & Noise Lace Leggings, $34.00
2) Lace Skimmer, $19.99
3) UO Mesh lace Necklace, $78.00
4) Apt 9. Lace Clutch, $23.80

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I love finding new stores to check out. I recently "bumped" into Tobi, which sells popular and some upcoming designer goodies. Of course this means that I can't afford more than half of what's on this site, but that doesn't mean I can't do a bit of "window" shopping. (You can indeed find things for a steal, such as sunglasses for as little as $35, but you've gotta browse).

1) Prairie Underground Mothette Dress, $253
I'm always on the look-out for unique pieces, and this dress is definitely one. The detail and nipping make the dress ultra-feminine, but in no way would you be uncomfortable in this cotton, jersey material.
2) Toywatch Plasteramic Watch with Crystals, $295
I'm not a big watch fan, but this is so clean and simple, I'm in love!
3) Allison Daniel Chinese Knot Ring, $28
I have an addiction to gold rings, and this one even comes with an adjustable band. It would be a perfect addition to spice up my cocktail ring collection.
4) Super Shield Sunglasses, $178
These glasses give you the perfect vintage feel, but keeps modern with some gold detailing. It would be amazing to have these on hand when the weather here gets confused and acts like it's spring already.
5) Joie Abby Tunic Top, $104
Embroidered tunics are perfect to slip on when you're feeling a bit lazy. They practically accessorize your outfit for you!
6) Sam Edelman Mariella Heels, $129
I adore Sam Edelman's designs, and this is no exception. Especially with it's subtle, but glamorous faux snakeskin straps.
7) Grey Ant Cardigan Sweater, $319
Although this is way too pricey to add to my cardigan collection (only nine so far), it's still worth a look with its decorative prints and stripes.

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The upcoming break and the available time I'm going to have to go shopping is making me day dream about all the goodies I want to add to my closet during Thanksgiving weekend. It actually rained for the first time here since I've been at school. Not that I'm a huge fan of rain when I have to walk around dripping to all my classes, but it definitely signals the start of the cold, but cheerful holiday season. Even though it technically isn't even Thanksgiving yet, I'm already picturing my Christmas party outfits, presents under the decorated tree, and sharing delicious meals with family and friends.

Since the upcoming holidays are putting me in a cheerful mood, I thought to put together a wishlist of designer items I'm coveting. I'm already imagining what I'll pair up each piece with!

1) Kenneth Jay Lane Flower Cuff, $143.00
2) Juicy Couture Patent Driver Gloves, $125.00
3) Dolce Vita Leather Bomber Jacket, $495.00
4) Monrow Tuxedo Jacket, $295.00
5) Corso Como Metallic Floral Punched Flats, $140.00
6) Sergio Rossi Dody Knotted Platform Sandals, $650.00

1) Milly Flower Cap, $150.00
2) Kenneth Jay Lane Oval Ring, $77.00
3) Love Quotes Hand Knotted Fringe Scarf, $88.00
4) Juicy Couture Beaded Charm Stretch Bracelets, $68.00
5) LeSportsac Large Weekender, $98.00
6) Kenneth Jay Lane Leaf Cuff, $88.00

PS, I think I'm mentioning Thanksgiving in every single post I updated this week. I'm sorry! Can you tell I'm excited? I'm leaving for a long drive home tomorrow, but I will get the second part of the "Dress Like..." post up as soon as I get back. Stay warm!

♥ Celeste

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One of my favorite fashion accessories are jewelry. But specifically bracelets because I love to pile on thin bangles, string bracelets, and wooden beads to create a slightly boho-chic look to any outfit I'm wearing. One of my favorite bracelet designs are by Orka Mesica. If this name is familiar with you, then I'm not surprised. If not, then maybe you've already seen some of her designs but just didn't know it! Her Hollywood clients love piling on her beaded bracelets decorated with 14K gold rings. Her most popular item at the moment seems to be her friendship bracelet for $125 (which can be seen on celebrities such as Lauren Conrad).

Here a couple bracelets that caught my eye:



















(On the left): Wooden Beaded Bracelet $135.00. (On the right): Single Beaded Bracelet $130.00.

♥ Celeste

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