When it comes to accessories, fashion goddess Rachel Zoe has it right: they can make or break an outfit. They can even help update last season’s threads…and bring them into Fall 2010 territory. We may not have access to RZ’s A-MAH-ZING bauble collection, but with a few key pieces this Fall, it’s easy to kick that LBD or basic tee up a notch.
To get the goods on this season’s top sparklers, we enlisted the help of jewelry designer Keri Starker. She believes that the key to personal style is in the finishing touches! Try out these trends, and your outfit is guaranteed to be bananas!
1.) Natural Elements: This season, go “back to the basics” with natural stones. Semi-precious (opal, rose quartz, garnet) and precious (think sapphire, citrine, ruby, emerald) are both all the rage. Pick one large, statement piece, like a funky pendant necklace, or go for the layered look. It’s big with clothing…and with simple, chain necklaces. If you’re looking for something low-key, don a simple drop earring, or slip on a cocktail ring. For a real “pop,” pair these rings and things with earth tones. Camel is Keri’s color of choice! She’s also a big fan of the fabulous, chunky knit sweater. Looking for something a bit more “loud”? Keri says the natural waves in these natural gems will also complement a basic animal print.
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2.) Chains: We’re back on the chain gang this season. Throw on one thick, chain necklace, or layer multiple strands for a “rocker chic” look. There are jewelry boxes full of color options at your fingertips, like gunmetal black, rose gold, yellow gold, even silver. For a twist on the look, mix the bold with the delicate by layering in pearls or ribbons, or find a style that incorporates both.
Keri recommends pairing these jewels with a basic tee and blazer, or crisp, white blouse and pants. You can also use them to funk up a sweater coat. Then, add a little edge with a pair of killer boots. For earrings, stick with a simple stud or pearl to keep from going overboard.
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3.) Vintage: Vintage pieces will always be staples. Rummage through family members’ drawers and see what you find! This season, the key is to mix the older baubles with a bit of “modern.” In other words, this is your chance to take what you have, and add a fun, new twist to it. That great pendant your grandma passed along? Thread a simple chain through it and mix it with a few rose gold strands. Take some of your mom’s 80s costume jewelry and throw on a nameplate or charm with your initials. Keri says that hoops are a classic, so put on your best pair to bring an outfit full circle. It’s all about finding what works best for you!
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On a budget? Keri says lower, priced costume jewelry is a great way to achieve these looks for less. We’re big fans of Temple St. Clair for Target, ShopTheLook.net and Rachel Rachel Roy. Hunt for trinkets at places you typically shop for clothes, like Free People or H&M. Also, check out your local thrift or consignment shop and see what old pieces you can make new again. Most importantly, have fun! You can find more information on Keri Starker’s jewelry at KeriStarker.com.
Keri Starker, a New York City based designer, offers a coveted, chic collection of one-of-kind, hand-made heirloom-bound necklaces, earrings, belts, bracelets, broaches, and more. Each piece - be it glamorous strands of faceted rubies, oversized emerald hoops, rudilated quartz pendants - evokes exquisite artistry, flawless attention to detail and the quality and uniqueness of each stone, which is hand-picked by Starker. She has been collecting the most extraordinary and opulent stones and breathtaking beads from her worldly travels for over fifteen years. Each one of her pieces is a veritable work of art. And she draws her inspiration from her personal journeys and trips to far away lands - "even if those trips are only in my dreams," she says, "There is something magical about having something no one else in the world has, something that exists only for you," says the designer, whose style ranges from sophisticated classic to downtown cool and everything in between.
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