Kingdom of Jewels

A few weeks ago the Swarovski lookbook landed on my doorstep enticing me with the new season's sparklies aptly named, Kingdon of Jewels.

I have been swamped with work at the moment so this has been my first proper opportunity to have a flick through and see what I fancy for my wish list.

According to Swarovski, 'this season reveals an aristocratic and multicultural muse whose spirited style combines heritage and modernity.  In this collection, we are led into a realm where jewellery and accessories boast a fashionable hint of rock and baroque'.

Well this appeals to the 'rock chick' in me, I love how Swarovski constantly veer away from it's fine crystal background to challenge key trends of the season by setting it's own high standard of stunning, fashionable jewellery, evolving from it's more traditional roots.

The SEXY bracelet.  I love the mix of golds, bronzes, silver and pewter in this bracelet as well as the slightly aztec look about it.  It reminds me of a Pamela Love bracelet I own, I think they would look brilliant stacked on top of one another.

The SWORD ring.  More mixed metals, which I just love. I am all for mixing up silver, golds, coppers, rose golds and pewter, I love the depth and modernity of it and teamed with a mix of textures as we do with this sword ring, it becomes the jewels that legends were made of.

The SKETCH cocktail ring.  Well everyone likes, a l'il bit of bling every now and then.  This is a real statement piece that packs a punch on it's own never mind teamed with some blingy buddies.  Made from one of my favourite stones, black agate encased with a sunburst of crystals.

Those are my top picks so far but the more I delve into this lookbook, the bigger my wish list gets, uh-oh!

Roll on payday! ;)

x

Swing, Sing and Shine with Swarovski

The Swarovski lookbook landed on my doorstep this week and for a magpie like me, turning each page was met with 'ahhhs', 'oohs' and 'want that one!'.

Swarovski's spring/summer 2012 collection "Swing, Sing and Shine' is a tribute to vintage styling and an ode to the lights, camera and action of the entertainment world.  Creative Director Nathalie Colin uses the collection to tell the story of a young woman as she evolves from a student to that of a starlet becoming accustomed to fame and the limelight.  The collection takes us through themes using pastel colours and shapes associated with the swinging 'sweet sixties' and the glamour of 'in the spotlight'.

I adore the the mix of colour, texture and material used in this collection from the bright gems of the Rainbow Earrings, the pearl and fabric mix of the Ribbon Necklace and the masculinity of the Motaigne chain necklace.

Rainbow Earrings

Ribbon Necklace

Monochrome: Montaigne Necklace (Want this!!)

Monochrome: Remix Bracelet

Vintage Glamour: Reception Bracelet - perfect for a Bride!

 So many stunning item.  I feel like this collection is bigger and better than ever before.  There is something to suit all tastes, whether you are preparing for a school prom, your perfect wedding day or simply looking for some gorgeous statement pieces for everyday wear.

What I also didn't realise is that Swarovski also have Hello Kitty and Disney collections.  I know how many of you love a little bit of kitsch in your life so thought I would includes some examples of the fun yet glamorous and chic offering from Swarovski.

Hello Kitty Chic Earrings

Hello Kitty Glamour Necklace 

Disney Thorn Rose Ring

Asides the stunning jewellery and sparkly bits and bobs, I was quite taken by the imagery used in the 'Swing, Sing and Shine' in particular the make up (naturally).  Graphic Fluoro pink liner accentuated the shape of the models eye on an otherwise neutral lips and cheek.

Front cover of lookbook

Does anything take your fancy then?  I love a good old browse round a Swarovski store in all it's sparkling glory.  Think I will go in and take a look at some of these items in the flesh,  after all my birthday is only a few months away ;)

x

Shoulder to Shoulder

I am a big fan of shoulder embellishment - always have been.  Hence my feathered cape, fur cape, plethora of crystal shouldered tees and love for shoulder pads... I love the arrogance, the glam and the confidence that comes with strong shoulders, harking back to the days of the 'power suit'.

Images like this simply encourage my love of the shoulder embellishment and take it to a new level in the form of an ornamental decoration or costume jewellery.  I believe this is called Epaulettes but if anyone would like to correct me feel free.

Natalie Portman looking fierce

I have seen a few celebrities sporting the look from Natalie Portman to Gaga but I was completely sold after seeing a truly exquisite pair at the Scottish Fashion Awards.

My jaw literally dropped in awe of the breathtaking adornment gracing the ever so chic shoulders of Swarovski Creative Director, Nathalie Colin at this years Awards.  Laden with swarovski crystal naturally, the beautiful work of art cupped Natalie's shoulders connecting with sparkling chains garnishing the decolletage.

You can just about see Nathalie's shoulder decoration pictured here at the Scottish Fashion Awards 2011.

So this really brings me onto - how can I find me some of this shoulder bling?  I have toyed with making my own but can't work out the best materials to use.  The wonders of Etsy has led me to stumble across some absolutely stunning epaullettes but at sky high prices.  Is it worth it?

Absolutely stunning and ever so Gaga, I love the juxtaposition of the spikes and crystal while an array of chains drape the body.  You can find this for sale on Esty here.

Another stunning pair found at the same Etsy store have a more military feel.

I love how these ornamental creations can be worn over clothing or on bare shoulders.  It beats a statement pair of earrings anyday.  They can so easily transform the simplest of outfits into something quite spectacular and certainly attention grabbing.

 I am pondering over whether they are really worth the cost or if I can find a cheaper supplier elsewhere.  I have got to get me a pair of these one way or another so the search will continue until I exhaust every avenue.

Has anyone else come across these delights and can recommend a retailer?  Even better - any DIY tips?

x