Collectors Gallery - Brussels

In Brussels we happened upon a lovely jewelry boutique called the Collectors Gallery. The woman working (Shu Shu - spelling?) was so wonderful and accommodating. The gallery has a range of unusual jewels at a range of prices. I bought this praline ring by Nikki Boden for around $35, but there were rare Lagerfeld for Chanel runway jewels as well. I told Shu Shu how much I love Chanel and she actually let me play with the collection of gorgeous bangle bracelets. It is a wonderful place to check out in Brussels. Below are some other Nikki Boden designed rings that I want. I'm hoping to carry her jewelry when we finally start our Etsy store!

Crystal Head Vodka

I don't want to Martha Stewart out here, but I think that this vodka would be a great party favor or center piece for a Halloween party. I just want it, I like the object, plus they have a funny ad campaign with Dan Aykroyd. Justin says that he saw this at Bev-Mo, it is $42.00 (I think), usually I buy the cheap stuff at Trader Joe's. I suppose you would just have to buy this once and then refill with cheap stuff later, it is an investment vessel! http://www.crystalheadvodka.com/related_sites

Decorative Arts Museum - Paris

While in Paris, I went to the Decorative Arts Museum which was having a retrospective of contemporary fashion from the 70s and 80s. This is the first part of a two volume retrospective, so the next exhibition will be 90s and 2000s. The 70s-80s portion is closing October 10, but if you are in the area in the next couple days, go and check it out. My favorites were represented YSL (of course), Miyake, Kenzo, Kawakubo, but to my surprise I left totally enamored by Cacharel and Jean Muir. I'm going to have to do more research on them, but the clothes that represented them were stellar. The fashion show that played with the Cacharel exhibit, was fun and gorgeous, it kind of remind me of what Laura Ashley might be like if it was less Little House on the Prairie and more Parisian.

Tous Leather Bracelet: Within Reach!

I posted about this Tous leather bracelet earlier, not realizing that it is a mere $69.00! The dark colors are sold out on the website, but the pink is not, and I think the pink is really cute. I mean I still can't get it, but it is definitely affordable. http://tous-shop.com/product/1079/14/27/1/1/LEATHER-BRACELETGARDENFUCHSIA.htm#

A Couple More From Lydia Courteille

Here are a couple more exquisite rings from Lydia Courteille. I'm sensing a new jewelry obsession totally out of my league. Courteille's website is magical, take a look:
http://www.lydiacourteille.com/page-9-the-9-planets.html

Gothic De Luxe

It is no secret that I like gothy fashion, well, high end gothy fashion. This fall there are some great gothy fashions, especially unaffordable but exquisite accessories! I'm still not sure about the sheer lace dresses. Well, I'm warming up to them after the delight that was the Geoffrey Beene dress on ebay. Anyhow, I especially like the leather bracelet by Tous circled above. Upon second look though, check out those cross earrings by Lydia Courteille. If I didn't only have one earring hole (the other closed up and I'm afraid to get it pierced again) these would be on a dream jewelry list. Below is a cool ring also by Lydia Courteille, that is currently on the dream list. The ring is made of gold with diamond detail with an ancient Middle Eastern amulette within.

Classic French Nautical - Saint-James

While in France, I couldn't help but notice the brand Saint-James. It is a high quality prep-nautical brand, that is both stylish and practical for the often cold coastal climates of France. I love that the clothes are simple and classic, but also have really lovely details like the large pearl buttons, which gives it a feminine elegance which usually isn't seen in most nautical wear. To check out more Saint-James go to http://www.saint-james.fr/