i think it is amazing how a small group of people choose the in colors for the whole country, if not the world. Fashion, cars, furniture they will all be made what a small group decides is the IN Color. it reminds me of my art school friend, i asked how do you tell good art from bad art. He told me a few people decide and eveyone follows them. i think if we all like the same thing then the world is boring. There are lots of choices out there. Be you.
I remember decorating windows in my family's retail jewelry store growing up. They never looked as good as I had pictured. Maybe is there an art school in town where we could ask a teacher if the kids could help decorate as a project or hire one of the students to do it on the cheap/internship? Maybe one of our customers or friends is an artist? we are hoping we can take a picture of one of our cases, post if on Facebook and ask if anyone has an idea on how to make it look beautiful on the cheap.
There is GOLD in our bodies! Over 96% of our body weight is a combination of oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen. While it's not the main ingredient, gold can also be found knocking around inside our cells. An average 70 kilogram human contains 0.229 milligrams of gold. This would form a cube approximately 0.22 millimeters along each side
When I think about music festival style, a few things automatically come to mind: denim cut-offs, flower headbands, fringe vests, bohemian frocks, strappy tank tops, fedoras. Festival fashion, for better or worse, definitely has its back-pocket trends that always return with a vengeance when all the summer staples officially begin.
Up ahead, I will bend the rules of "festival fashion" to rethink some key pieces you should consider packing when it's time to hit the road for the forthcoming music-imbibing months. You may even want to keep some of these in your "every day" ensembles. And, keep items like micro shorts, triangle bikini tops, sheer overlays, and kimono jackets in your closet... or in the donation bin. This year, it's time to update festival style in fresher, more unexpected and grown up ways.
The Printed Moto Jacket
Upcoming events such as Electric forest bring a certain type of crowd. The fans are more low-key, they're more about actual camping (than, say, glamping), and they're down with lazing around on the sprawling grass to hear the music rather than getting super-close to the stage. In a word, the scene is chill but eccentric and unexpecting— and the weather can be a bit, too. So, pick up a printed moto topper instead of the tired jean jacket. It will keep you layered and colorfully savvy in a crowd of baja sweaters and tie-dye T-shirts without looking like you're trying too hard.
Let's go thrift shopping!
The Bustier Swim Top
The weather in early summertime can be funny wherever you go in the midwest (and not in a good way). It might either be hot and humid in the upper 80s, or it might unexpectedly downpour with heavy summer showers. Yep, fun times. But, as they say, the show must go on, so do your best to prepare. Opt for a great swim top in the style of a bustier or crop tank - something that can easily pass for a regular top - that will dry quickly if the weather gods decide to punish us with rain.
Even Miley Cyrus can be super casual.
The Rave-On Pants
Summer is truly a raver's paradise in Michigan and beyond— it's no wonder night owls flock to ragers far and wide. With all the DJs and untz-untz to carry you into daybreak, you can skip the typical neon. Instead, opt for a dizzying, wildly-patterned pant — one that doesn't sacrifice on color — that will keep you comfortably moving all night long in the dance pit. Or switch it up and pair an airy solid colored cotton pant and a bright top. Be your own boss!
The Fringe-tastic Skirt
You can't go to a music festival without running into some kind of fringe. But, even with its ubiquity, it's still a tricky trend to pull off, which is why it's donned mostly on handbags or accented on a suede jacket. But if you ask me, I'm in the camp of go hard or go home when it comes to trends. This year, pull up a multi-tiered fringe skirt and channel your inner flapper when getting down to the next show at Founders or try it out at the farmer's market! And, to combat the eccentric Michigan weather, throw on a chubby cropped fur coat as the perfect, lifesaver layer for when the Lake Michigan chill starts creeping into the evening.
H&M, you did it again!
The Jump-Around Sandal
Michigan summers in Grand Rapids is not the kind of situation where you'd want to be wearing closed-toe shoes or booties in the thick of summer. But, there's a reason why most people choose to wear chunkier footwear during their favorite concerts: Dancing in thin-soled flip flops is not really a good look and will create an even worse look on your tooties for days to come. Not to mention, they're terribly uncomfortable after a few sets. This year, strap on a pair of flat, heel-back sandals that are perfect for jumping around, rocking out, head-banging, and all the dance moves your feet desire. My go to's this summer are my Sanuk Yoga sling backs. Try them and you'll never want to wear anything again.
Overalls have quite the storied history: Arriving on the scene as staple for farmers, workers, and militia in the 1700s, the uniform eventually made its way to the mainstream circa 1960. In the '80s, the silhouette had a major pop-culture moment (que acid-washed and with one shoulder unfastened), and in the '90s, it became the style du jour for toddlers (OshKosh B'Gosh, anyone?).
What's up, childhood?
With its comeback hitting the streets by some of our favorite celebrities, it's easy to see this onesie's permanent place in the fashion cycle. But, though we're embracing the look, it can be tricky to ditch its not-so-grown-up feel. Believe me, if your hippie aunt lives in overalls and Birkenstocks doesn't mean you can't. So, to keep the overalls trend moving well beyond our #ThrowbackThursday, here are a few styles to keep in mind when taking on this look.
Hang on to your hippie!
Below are some #ThrowbackThursday worthy looks that scream fashion forward. Have your favorite way of styling overalls? #sjstylechallenge to share your history defying frocks. Happy styling!
Grown-up adventure, clearly.
Totally "grown up table" worthy.
Tomboyism with a twist!
As summer approaches, and temperatures are on the rise, we usually imagine florals, bright colors, and white sundresses when it comes to our wardrobes. Although if you're anything like me, you're looking for the unexpected. You're looking for something that's always worked for you and isn't necessarily a summer color. Yes, I'm talking about the coveted dark colors. Black and dark gem tones are a part of your personal color palate and it can be difficult finding the perfect summer outfit in the menagerie of pastels in our stores. So how do you find the right outfit to suite your taste keeping your keen sense of style and your comfort (have you ever tried wearing a black tank top in 90 degree weather?NOT pleasant)
Fear not, there IS a way to do #allblackeverything in your summer wardrobe without walking around fanning yourself constantly or feeling like Wednesday Adams.
Try this sleeveless black jumpsuit from H&M for instance. This is your single-piece solution because it satisfies your color requirements while keeping those areas more prone to perspiration uncovered. Now, you can walk around the city or hit a beach BBQ without worrying about dried, white pit-stain situations by the evening. (Sorry for the visual, but you know what I'm talking about.) And, the fabric is light enough that even if you get a little sticky throughout the day, all it takes is a passing breeze to air right out. Pair it with a matching black pump or a hot unexpected unexpected color.
Another way to add essential darks to your summer wardrobes is all in the accessories. Some of my favorites are a good pair of black tennis shoes.
Siegel Jewelers' favorite accessories to add some black in your summer wardrobe OR spice up your black wardrobe with some color is our new Andrew Hamilton Crawford pieces. http://www.andrewhamiltoncrawford.com/
Have some great ways of incorporating dark colors in the rising temperatures? #sjstylechallenge to share!
In high school, I joined competitive cheerleading, mostly because my friends were in it and at competitions and games we got to cut class (also, who DOESN'T want to be a cheerleader in high school?) After long nights, early mornings, sore muscles, and friendships that will last a lifetime, there is one staple that I stil carry in my outfits today: bodysuits. That’s right! To me, bodysuits are among the easiest pieces of clothing to wear, thanks to their layering capabilities, body-hugging qualities, and endless variety in design. I can’t think of a piece of clothing that you will get more use out of.
After my sizeable bodysuit hiatus during my college years (I had all but forgotten them since the polka dotted iterations of my youth), I rediscovered them within the past year, finally seeing them for the true wonderment that they are. The one-piece acts as a base upon which you can build, and because it comes in so many varieties, you can utilize a bodysuit in every conceivable look. You can wear one to work — under a blazer, with a pair of high-waisted pants or a skirt. Taking one from day to night just means ditching your blazer on your way out. Because of their versatility, bodysuits are a no brainer and very well the hardest working piece in your closet.
At this point, the only question left is what type to buy? Look below for some of my favorite varieties of bodysuits and how to wear them.
Bathing Suits As Bodysuits:
Believe it or not, bathing suits are useful even outside of the pool. It's tank top appearance under sheer shirts and shorts are perfect for hot summer months and you're sure to be ready for a impromptu pool party.
Lingerie As Bodysuits:
Lingerie brands can even make magic with ladylike lace styles that are too good to be kept private. Pair with your favorite jeans for an effortlessly beautiful casual look or with leather shorts and jacket for a going out look. Throw it with your favorite pearls and your golden.
Ready-To-Wear Bodysuits:
Ready-to-wear favorites from Free People and H&M are my personal go-tos. Their cotton composition and no-fail fit also makes bodysuits easy to embrace. Their spandex-like fabrication provides a less-intense, Spanx-like effect creating the perfect layering tee or tank that never bunches or comes untucked. The sleekness isn't only about ease of wear; it also makes it impossible to NOT feel sexy and sophisticated. One part comfortable underwear and one part effortless layering piece equals the perfect wardrobe staple.
Bathing Suit as a body suit: The Clashist
Lingerie as a body suit: Free People
There's something to be said about the woman who still dresses to the nines at the airport. Some words that come to mind are elegant, evolved, and respects the true glamour of travel without limping the half mile trek to the end of the terminal. I understand that there's no reason to wear your Sunday hangover clothes when you're out in public, putting a little effort in goes a long way. Think of it this way, the outfit you wear on the plane is also the first thing you'll wear at your destination, after all, so your first impression's at stake. However, if your clothes prevent you from getting past security swiftly, booking it to your gate, and sitting comfortably for your three to 13 hour flight, you've got to rethink your priorities.
Between pajamas and formalwear, there is a whole other word. A world that will not only get you snuggly in your seat but can also make you look like a functioning human after landing. Below are some of my favorite go-tos to consider before booking my Uber ride to the air port.
Silk-blend button-ups: Although it seems light and airy, silk is actually a very warm material. Steer clear of a 100% silk top as silk tends to wrinkle easily. Still afraid of wrinkling in your poly-blend? Try a fun print, you are on vacation after all.
Scarves: One of the most transitional accessories in the book. Snag your favorite scarf to snuggle up into deep into your on-flight movie binges or favorite book. You'll appreciate the extra warmth by way of a higher neckline and appreciate the structure and polish it brings to your outfit upon arrival.
Slip on shoes: Plane cankles... better known as plankles are very much a reality with the sedentary travel such as flying or car rides. Loafers with a low ankle that are easy to put on after a flight or during airport security are necessary. Plus it gives your whole outfit a bit of professional polish especially if you're feeling as fresh as your in flight snack. Toms shoes are my favorite go to. Try a zip boot if you're not ready to bear your tootsies. It is "Michigan Spring" after all.
AK Rikk's-Grand Rapids
The Poncho: As luck would have it, capes and ponchos are everywhere this season. Not only does this item of clothing looks high-fashion, but let's be honest: It's a blanket in disguise. Additionally, it allows you to quickly cover up the crazy layering you had to resort to in order to make more room in your carry-on.
H&M
Fashion hoodies- slim fits, substantial hoods, and materials outside of the normal cotton high school locker room sweatshirt make fashion hoodies appropriate for everyday wear. Just be sure to not pair it with sweats!
Venus
Compression legging-believe it or not, a good legging that really sucks things in will keep your swelling at bay. I would recommend the medical-grade ones that mean serious business, but jogging leggings and performance legwear will help, too.
Lululemon
What's your favorite travel necessity? #sjstylechallenge to show us your favs. Safe and stylish travels, everyone!
When I was a little girl, my mom and dad would read to me every night. So much so they took to creating imaginative stories based off my favorite stories incorporating me with their respective heroines-my favorite was their rendition of Alice in Wonderland where I would travel life through the rabbit hole with Alice and her friends.
March is reading month, so what better way to celebrate than emulate our favorite storybook characters? We all have connections to books and the stories they tell-even Hollywood has taken to basing many of their blockbusters including The Hobbit, Paddington Bear, The Hunger Games, and most recently Cinderella. Many of these movies inspire their respective season’s fashion as well.
Since we never truly stop dressing up after our inception of discovering our mothers high heels and our father’s ties who’s to say we can’t get in touch with our inner child and play around our style based off our favorite storybook character
Below are some ideas to jog your memories of some of your favorite books!
Sherlock Holmes
Paddington Bear
Eloise
#sjstylechallenge with your literary looks.
And don't forget Daisy Buchanan from Great Gatsby!!
It seems like every spring, without fail, we remove our dark, vampy frocks fully ready to replace them with a crop of pastels. But, if you’re like us, you’re only thinking one thing: "yawn, again?" This season, mint green, baby blue, and lilac just feel so...expected.
Here at Siegel Jewelers, we’re all for breaking the rules. Thankfully, our favorite gemstone colors are on board too! March's birthstone color, aquamarine is all about putting a twist on spring's classical seasonal colors and will leave you feeling more fabulous and less Eastereggy. With spring 2015 releases that are coming up dusty rose, plum, and even deep green, aquamarine serves as a tasteful and fresh compliment and stands alone as a bold color. What great ways could you put a fresh edge on spring this year? #sjstylechallenge to show us your stunning spring creations.
Winter white is one of those fashion tropes that sounds fun...in theory. For some, white is an intimidating color. The mere thought of wearing it head-to-toe is reason enough to slip into an all-black uniform, your winter MO. (I speak from experience when I say being clumsy comes by nature sriracha, coffee, and red wine is the moth to my outfit's flame.) But, this is the season of second chances. Whites can service appropriately for a casual stroll downtown, weekend brunch, or even a fancy get-together. Personally, I can't think of a color more refreshing than white to brighten up the darkest of the year.
From dove, to ecru, to natural, there are many monochromatic ways to wear white thoughtfully throughout the remaining winter months. Even if you can't commit to the entire look just yet, grab a few colorful accessories to help you ease into it with confidence... sans stains. My go colors are gold, silver, and dark red. Sick of these drab winter days and want to create an eye catching neutral look? #sjstylechallenge with your best ideas. Happy styling!
Tis the season of wearing layers. We're wearing them on our commute to work to keep warm only to make a total transformation once we get to the office. Truly it is the midwestern way. While the instinct to wear tons of clothes is a natural reaction to the weather, expert layering is way easier said than done. And, quite frankly, a lot of layering tactics only SOUND good in theory. I think we can all remember the last time we thought "just pile on the clothes and mix all the patterns I want, everyone else will be doing the same thing", but in reality it can quickly lead to sloppy, bulky puff human. Don't be that person.
Been there bro...
Here are a few ideas to get your gears rolling when choosing your outfits this week
-Super-ladylike items, like velvet textiles, mixed with menswear-inspired pieces.
-A tucked-in top with a pleated skirt with a cardigan is proper and professional. But if you're feeling extra sassy, bust but a leather jacket to add a chic edge-a great look for day or night.
-Sales associate and event aficionado, Adibe shows us how it's done...
Be sure to #sjstylechallenge with your winter-friendly frocks and as always, happy styling!
Look outside the window. Do you want to go out there? Neither do I especially now 6 more weeks of winter have been expected (thanks a lot Phil!) It's cold, wet, slippery, and dark. The rare 40-degree day just serves as a reminder of how far we have to go until May. While I may not be able to break Mother Nature's dreary spell quite yet, there is one color that can lift our spirits and get us actually excited to head out into the winter wonderland: a pop of purple!
I speak from experience when I saw that there’s a strong correlation between wearing a killer color and a stellar mood. If it’s going for a bold all over look or peeking a hint of color with an amethyst tone, there truly is no wrong. Serving as February’s gemstone, amethyst is the perfect color to play up during these dreary days. How will you incorporate this truly bold and brilliant color in your wardrobe this week? #sjstylechallenge to show me your spin on this traditionally royal color!
It's easy to get attached to the same type of outfits each week, especially in the winter. We've bitten the bullet and are finally going de-cluttering the closet and organizing our drawers. Going through our stacks of unending tried and true sweaters, jeans, and "go-to" work pants, there is a glimmer of what once was showing it's familiar face. Yes, that's right I'm talking about the yellow blazer you wore to every post graduate interview in the summer of 2012, the tutu skirt in a daring color Carrie Bradshaw MADE you get.
Let's be honest, even the most meticulous of closet cleaners has a dedicated area where rarely worn clothes live in purgatory. We're not saying there's anything glaringly wrong with these clothes. They fit, they're free of rips and stains, and they've served you well in the past but now service as more of a wildcard than anything. Essential as they once were, you can't see beyond how you used to wear them to figure out what to do with them now and yet they still find a way of sticking around in your closet. Your statement color and style may have shifted gears, but that doesn't mean that you're ready to make like Elsa and "let it go".
That's right, you don't need to fret or feel shameful of your perfect "going-out" top from junior year or those kelly green pants you "had to have". You can hold onto your oldies, and flip them back into goodies as long as you approach them with a fresh set of styling tricks. These closet curveballs deserve a second chance. Challenge yourself to bust out of the black and grey pack and add some spice to your wardrobe and be sure to #sjstylechallege when you snap your creations. Happy styling!
Siegel Jewelers manager, Miranda matches a sherbet tone with a heather grey. Winning combination.
'Tis the season to be in love. And, Siegel Jewelers just so happens to be the epicenter of all things romance, especially during the holidays. That said who better to turn to for style insights than some of our favorite couples? I asked the most adorable pairs in the store all to share some of their best pictures displaying their favorite holiday frocks, ins and outs of gift-giving) along with their thoughts on why this time of year is the best. See, love actually is all around.
CJ and Jason
-What are some of the best and/or worst parts about being in a relationship during the holidays?
CJ: "The best is having an extended family but at the same time we have to make everyone happy so we end up eating three different dinners on holidays and probably gaining more weight than people that only have one family to satisfy, haha!"
-What's the most embarrassing anecdote from holidays past?
CJ: "It's no surprise that I am extremely awkward so when passing large dishes it's a little bit harder for me. I literally spill the beans out when holiday dinner."
-What song describes your relationship?
CJ: "There's no one song in particular. I would say any song we can rap too. We love to be goofy."
Jan and Jim
-How did you meet?
Jan: "Jim and I met many years ago in our Catholic Central High School study hall. WE reconnected at our 50th Class Reunion. Jim was living in Montana and Jan was in Caledonia, MI. Married four years later!"
-If you could give your significant other anything what would it be?
Jim: "I would give her anything she wished for."
Jan: "I would give him anything he wished for."
What are your favorite holiday foods and drinks?
Jim: "Most foods and drinks during the holidays...no favorites."
Jan: "Christmas Eve is my favorite. My familiy's Christmas tradition is Breakfast for Dinner where I make a yummy egg strata served with mushroom sauce, Jim's best ever bacon, hash browns, Swedish/Irish rice pudding, fresh fruit, sweet rolls and Harvey Wallbanger cake. Mimosas, Bloody Marys and Irish Coffees are also enjoyed!"
Miranda and Adam
What is your favorite holiday food/drink?
Miranda: “Cider, it is warm and comforting like a blanket.”
-What holiday song best describes your relationship?
Miranda: “All I Want For Christmas Is You. It reminds me of my favorite holiday movie, Love Actually. Also, my husband and I celebrate the holidays without buying each other gifts because it makes the memories and time spent together more special.
-Describe your holiday in 3 words.
“Comforting, meaningful, & rejuvenating.”
During Prohibition, a celebratory cocktail was about as big a status symbol as anything you could wear. Balancing a Tuxedo No. 2 or a Mint Julep between your fingers and making sure that everyone noticed your illicit beverage was just second to the lavish accessories adorned the fingers, necks, heads, and wrists of their owners. Just short of wearing a laser on each hand (which technically wasn't possible yet until the 1960's), women of the era looked to bigger-than-life accessories to complement their glasses. One in particular, the ever-customary cocktail ring was given this name out of this idea and, like every trend born from demanding attention and instant glamour, cocktail rings and other statement pieces make a come-back each holiday season.
The accessory's history and impressive, "Where'd you get that?" allure, makes it absolutely necessary to break one out as you're knocking 'em back this holiday season. Wear them to the cocktail parties, of course, but I think the piece is cool enough that it doesn't have to be saved for special occasions. It looks just as good with cardigan sweaters and boyfriend jeans while sipping happy hour beer as it does with little black dresses and swizzle sticks. That said, raise your glass (or tumbler, or flask or cardboard coffee cup) to the best statement pieces of the season and be sure to #sjstylechallenge or email me at rachel.h@siegeljewelers.com with your go-to statement pieces and their respective outfits. One of our favorite statement piece lines at Siegel Jewelers? Our Andrew Hamilton Crawford line shown below. Happy styling!
A hearty happy birthday to Siegel Jeweler’s very own Custom Queen, Maria G! Amazingly talented in her own unique way, Maria can be found creating breathtaking bobbles or greeting and helping our customers with her award winning smile and sparkling personality.
Birthday months can be a great time to reflect on your past year and what you hope to accomplish in years future. Between the hustle and bustle of holiday sales and special orders, I was able to snag Maria to get her thoughts on this year and beyond.
What was your favorite birthday gift?
"My family comes to visit for the holiday season around the same time as my birthday. That in itself is a gift and it happens every year!"
What have been some highlights for you this year?
This year I was given custom work and buying duties. This gave me a great sense of belonging in the store and I've been able to use these skills to assist associates and customers with my product knowledge. I've also gotten many referrals from people in West Michigan which has helped my community engagement."
What are you looking forward to this year? What are your goals?
"One of my goals is to manage my time better. I feel this will make me more organized and I hope to use free time to give back in the community and take more time for myself."
Below, Maria’s preppy motif can be complimented perfectly with a tanzanite, December’s birthstone and birth flower, poinsettia and to create the perfect blingy birthday girl look. Be sure to stop by Siegel Jewelers this month to check out our awesome array of tanzanite and to wish Maria a happy birthday!
Have a go to tanzanite piece or love the jewel tone? #sjstylechallenge or email me at Rachel.h@siegeljewelers.com to share your ensembles!
Estate tanzanite pendant in yellow gold: Siegel Jewelers
It's the time of year we yearn for since flying the coop, your schedule next week is blissfully bare. Between "flopping on the couch catching up on premium cable" to "lounging on the chair as Mom makes your favorite homemade meal," you're fabulously free of work meetings, laundry, rush hour traffic, and Tinder dates. However, the inevitable case of cabin fever comes creeping in by Day 3 of your home bound stretch. Like clockwork, your friends from back home have also returned for the holidays. Feeling similar pangs of overly shut-in syndrome, your phone will start ringing with invitations for impromptu reunions to catch up and reminisce on the "good ole days".
From relaxed soirees to occasions of a more structured persuasion, catching up with old buds is inevitable. Although they might remember you as the one who always wore "those crazy cropped cardigans" or rocking "homemade highlights" (aka the skunk tail), you have (thankfully) moved on. To help them create new, Hollister-free memories of you, here are a couple suggestions of what you should consider packing to make the most of typical casual and formal hometown holiday occasions.
At your local Coffee Shop with your Study Buddies: This coffee shop was home to you and your fellow queens of cram in April when you studied for that AP European History test. You might have scored yourself a 5 (and really, what can you say? You and La Belle Epoque just clicked), but you also made plenty of awesome memories along the way. Show them that you're still the goofball you were, just a bit more polished. A classic sweater and motorcycle jacket are total coffee-shop staples, but that skirt and satchel make the outfit yours.
Attending Your Official 10-Year Reunion At The Nicest Hotel In Town: Let's face it, you'll need a showpiece accessories to give you something to talk about while you try to remember where you knew the name-tag girl. Be advised, your high school reunion isn't a place to show your classmates every inch of your body (apologies in advance to Romy and Michele). Keep it classy and quirky in a sleeved dress. My suggestions-long fringes, funky embellishments, or an electric color along with an interesting topcoat to assure no coat-check blunders. Show your peers you deserved that "Best Dressed" superlative in a "Most Likely to Succeed" attitude.
Have a "go-to" going home frock you want to share? Send your award winning and grandma approved staples with #sjstylechallenge or send them torachel.h@siegeljewelers.com
Siegel Jewelers' bead collection, Chamilia, made Oprah's Favorite Things List. From charms to bangles & bracelets, Siegel Jewelers has the Chamilia jewelry you want!
