Obsessed: The Newest First Knuckle Ring

Introducing Catbird's Tomboy First Knuckle Ring! Chunkier than her dainty sister, the Tomboy is thickened up to 2.5mm for a slightly bolder look.  Just like the original, this bad boy is easy to wear and looks great on everyone.  Oh, and it can also be worn as a pinky ring, if you're into that. Available in yellow and rose gold for $138 and in sterling silver for a $48 steal.

Excuse me while I go swoon...

Do or Don't? Druzy Agate Stones

Confession: I can't be an impartial voice in this edition of "Do or Don't".  I am full-on obsessed with druzy agate stones these days. But I do want to hear what you think about them! To me, there is something so breathtaking and unique about each crystal-like stone.  These stones are complex and one of a kind - they're rugged and feminine, and natural and candy coloured, all at the same time. I love a good contradiction.

Do you think Druzy stones are a Do or a Don't? Vote in the comments below! 

1. Black Druzy Necklace, Margaret Elizabeth

2. Disco Druzy Studs, Max & Chloe

3. Black Druzy Ring, Max & Chloe

4. Two Stone Earrings, Margaret Elizabeth

5. 4 Stone Ring, Peppina

6. Druzy Cuff, CWonder

7. Gilded Druzy Ring, Robindira

8. Small Druzy Stone Studded Ring, CWonder

9. Druzy Smile Necklace, Max & Chloe

10. Pink Druzy, Cupcakes and Cashmere

Seasonal Look: Metallic Accessories for Winter

In my opinion, the best time for shinny, icy, metallic accessories is in the winter. The high shine finish is reminiscent of winter, snow, and ice and actually brightens an otherwise dull look.  So throw on your favourite metallic bracelet for a blinding arm-party or pop on those reflective sunglasses to keep the glare out of your eyes. Any way you choose to wear it, metallic accessories are just right for winter.

1. Alexander McQueen Metallic glossed-leather cardholder

2. Rebecca Minkoff Heart Bracelet

3. Deepa Gurnani Metallic Petal Cuff

4. Ray-Ban Mirrored Cats 5000 Aviator Sunglasses

5. Rebecca Minkoff Little Louie Metallic Leather Key Pouch

6. CC Skye Pave Studded Cuff

7. Hive & Honey Hammered Metal Cuff

8. Michael Kors Glam Studded High Top

9. Kate Spade Passport Holder

10. House of Harlow 1960 Skull Vial Necklace

11. Free People Metallic Belt

Trend Spotting: The ID Bracelet

This lovely little military-esque trend is hitting wrists in a big way. As far as I understand, the ID bracelet has been around for a long time - think 50 years. With it's simple, chunky, slightly androgynous design and with the ability to engrave it to make it a more personal piece, it's no wonder that this bracelet has been causing quite the stir for so many years. See my favorites below!

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs Standard Supply ID Bracelet

2. Noir Jewelry Classic ID Bracelet

3. Tiffany and Co 1837™I.D. Bracelet

4. Bop Bijoux Leather ID Bracelet

5. Urban Outfitters ID

6. Max & Chloe A.V. Max Gold ID Chain Bracelet

7. Ann Dexter-Jones Silver Medium RP ID Bracelet

8. Max & Chloe Robyn Rhodes ID Kai Block Bracelet

9. Rebecca Minkoff Pave ID Bracelet

10. Lauren Elan James Bracelet

Do you like this military inspired jewelry trend? Sound off in the comments below!

One Year Blogiversary!

I can't believe that today marks one year of blogging at Jolie Jouel!

Last year, on January 25th, I started a humble little jewelry blog, not knowing where it would go or how I would find the journey. Well, I love it! I simply adore researching and sharing jewelry trends, interviewing designers, and stirring up fun DIY projects to share. Blogging has been a great creative outlet for me and I've loved 'meeting' so many of you! Thank you for all your comments, thoughts and tweets! 

What better way to celebrate my blogiversary than with cupcakes?! From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading along!

Sweater: Nordstrom / Black skinny jeans: H&M / Jewelry: DIY Necklace and Bracelets

Line Lust: The Ropes Maine

The freezing temps have me dreaming about summer, water, boating, and bright jewelry.  All of these things things are synonymous with the fun jewelry line, The Ropes Maine. And the best part? These funky, nautical bracelets can just as easily be worn in the winter months for a casual and hip look complete with a much needed pop of colour. As far as I know, no other designer is using ropes as their main material in jewelry making, although I am sure the copycats are sure to follow.

The creative genius behind the The Ropes is Shana Aldrich Ready.  She started The Ropes after being inspired by her surroundings in Maine.  With frequent trips to the beach with her son and her love of the ocean, it wasn't long before she started constructing bracelets from marine ropes and hardware. With a flare for mixing stylish trends with traditional materials from Maine's marine culture the result is unique and stylish seaside swag.

See below for some awesome photos of The Ropes bracelets and modeled on some hip customers. Is winter over yet? Get yours here! 

**All photos from Shana's awesome Pinterest boards**

Celebrity Jewelry Style: Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has an easy-breezy, laid back style that has earned her bagillions of loyal tween, teen, and adult followers. By day, the paparazzi catches her in loose tees, ripped jeans, and eclectic jewelry.  And for red carpet events she can be seen in the best dresses, blazers, and glitzy earrings.

If you're a fan of Selena's style I've rounded up the best of her jewelry and the most classic Selena pieces below. Whether she's on the red carpet or heading out for a casual sushi lunch, Selena always looks put together and comfortable. Enjoy the photos below of Selena Gomez's jewelry style and maybe you'll pic up a few more tips on your own! Here's a hint: For a Selena-esque look, opt for long necklaces, big earrings, and stacks of bracelets.

Get the look!

1. Miguel Ases Metallic Beaded Teardrop Earrings, Shopbop

2. Bop Bijoux Station Necklace, Shopbop

3. Adia Kibur Chain Dangle Earrings, Shopbop

4. Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Rayna Eye Lariat Necklace, Shopbop

5. serefina Tripe Wrap Heishi Bracelet, Shopbop

6. Adia Kibur Hammered Link Bracelet, Shopbop 

Are you a fan of Selena Gomez's jewelry style?

Warm Up with Leather Gloves

I went away skiing this past weekend and my Mom lost her leather gloves during dinner at an Italian restaurant. It was quite the mystery, let me assure you. It got me thinking about replacements and once I started doing a little online reconnaissance, I was happy to see that a ton of gloves are on sale at this time of year! Why not stock up while the prices are right? You never know where a glove thief may be lurking.

1. Bow Glove, Tory Burch
2. Lois Glove, Club Monaco
3. Pleated Leather Gloves, Browns
4. Burberry Wool Check Gloves, Saks
5. Studded Leather Gloves, C Wonder
6. Bow Leather Glove, Cole Haan
7. Rachel Zoe Haircalf Gloves with Signature Buckle, Shopbop
8. Black Chevron Quilted Driving Gloves, RAG & BONE
9. Diane von Furstenberg Two Tone Gloves, Shopbop
10. Leopard Gloves, Banana Republic
11. Pepe Jeans Joane Gloves, ASOS
12. Leather Heart Cut Out Gloves, ASOS

Get the Look: Classic Gold Stack

I found this image on Pinterest last night and fell in love with how striking yet uncomplicated it is. A good stack seems easy to create, but often times it can end up looking messy.  I decided to try to recreate this look with pieces I've found around the 'net. If you're interested in recreating this classic gold look, keep reading!

1. Gold bangle - Marc by Marc Jacobs

2. Brown leather watch - Michael Kors

3. Gold charm bracelet - Gorjana

4. Tiny heart bangle - Rings and Tings

Trend Spotting: Cage Rings

Lately I've been swooning over double-decker/cross/"X"/cage rings. I don't know if they have an official name, but any ring that has more than one band and is somehow interlocked has piqued my interest. There is something edgy and cool about this look that I just can't shake from head. So I started to hunt down the best cage rings on the internet that I could find. I'd take any one of these below!

1. Gorjana Lena Ring, Shopbop
2. ASOS Pack of Three Double Bar Rings
3. Crossing Ring, Catbird
4. Gold Textured Cage Ring, Bluefly
5. Eva Fehren Diamond X Ring, Barneys
6. Odette New York Klaia Cage Ring, Catbird
7. BIJULES Large Knuckle Ring, My Chameleon
8. Pink Circle Cage Ring, Colette
9. Gold Pavé Diamond Elijo Ring, Alexa Leigh
10. Bijules 3 Tier Ring, My Chameleon

What do you think of this trend? Would you wear a cage ring?

Jolie Jouel FAQ

I thought I'd take the time today to get a little personal and answer some of the frequent questions that I get asked over email, blog comments, and twitter. I am always happy to hear from readers so never hesitate to send me an email or tweet! I never tire of discussing jewelry :)

Do you make your own jewelry? Is it for sale?
I have been "making jewelry" since I was a little girl at camp. Making unique pieces of jewelry has always been something I've loved and now, into my adult years, I am really enjoying exploring different designs and the creative process.  I do a lot of DIYs - you can find some here - and make things for friends and family. I also worked with Lauren Elan for about a year learning tips and tricks from her. I've sold a few items through the blog but don't have any official site set up for selling my pieces. If you ever see a DIY on Jolie Jouel that you like and want to buy, email me and I'll make you one!

Should I buy my girlfriend a yellow gold or white gold engagement ring?
My "How to Choose an Engagement Ring" post is by far my most viewed post.  I am guessing a lot of guys are googling for tips and come across this article. If you had asked me this question five years ago I would have told you to err on the side of caution and go for white gold or platinum. (Remember Carrie Bradshaw's reaction to her yellow gold pear shaped engagement ring from Aidan?) But since then, gold has come back in a BIG way. Gold rings, necklaces, and bracelets seem to be the top choice for everyday jewelry for a lot of girls who used to be loyal to silver. The other trend that has popped up is that mixing jewelry base metals is totally acceptable. Throwing on a bunch of rings in both silver and gold is modern and cool. Heck, throw some rose gold in there for the most current look. But back to engagement rings. This really is a personal choice. You need to pay attention to what your lady friend is wearing most days. If she favors silver, then white gold or platinum is safest. If she only wears yellow gold, you know what to do. It can't hurt to subtly ask either. I have no doubt she knows what she wants and hinting at it once will be enough to get a clear answer. And like I said, buying her a white gold engagement doesn't mean she can't ever wear her gold costume jewelry again. Mixing and matching is more than fine, it's on trend.

I am on a budget but love investing in jewelry. Where can I shop for trendy pieces that wont break that bank?
I am a big believer in being able to find quality pieces in your price range. No piece of jewelry is worth starving for. It's just silly to buy something you can't afford right now and there are lots of great options for quality pieces at affordable prices.

I look to stores like Zara, Forever 21 and American Eagle for trendy, affordable pieces. I know these pieces wont likely last forever, the silver plating might wear off or start to dull.  But sometimes I'll be pleasantly surprised at the quality! So for trendy pieces that might not remain in style too long - collar necklaces, monograms, nameplates - don't to break the bank. 

I love online shopping for jewelry and thankfully this tends to work out well. It is far safer than online shopping for clothes because fit is more standardized and you can’t pin or tuck jewelry the same way you can with clothes. Sometimes with clothes what shoes up in your mailbox is much different that what you saw online. So check the sale section on sites like Piperlime and Shopbop. They carry designer pieces and you can sometimes get a great deal. 

For online shopping I adore Catbird. I literally want every piece of jewelry from their store and they have a huge line of products with a big price range. I am especially a fan of their dainty stacking rings. Mr. Kate is another place I look for quality, hand made jewelry. Her stuff is a little more unisex and earthy, but I love that. Again, there is a range of prices so look for pieces you can afford.  She was one of my first online loves. 

I want to invest in one forever piece. What do you recommend?

For me, I am a rings and necklace kind of girl. Invest in a great statement necklace that you can wear with party dresses and jeans and a blazer. Gemma Redux is my go-to for statement necklaces. She uses high quality stones and mixed metals and all pieces are hand-made in NYC. Lauren Elan also has great statement necklaces with loads of color.

My second recommendation would be to invest in a great cocktail ring.  I never feel quite complete without a sparkly bauble on my finger. Cocktail rings are great for a night out and equally great for adding some pizzaz to your daily outfit. Anita Ko, Jennifer Meyer, and Jennifer Fisher all make swoon-worthy rings. 

What are your top jewelry trends for 2013?

Love this question. First knuckle rings, animal pendants, boyfriend watches, anything with evil eyes, and layered dainty necklaces. (I love Vale Jewelry for dainty necklaces.) 

What is your job?

I am a freelance writer and write mostly about fashion trends and interior design.  

Who takes your photos?

My husband takes any photo you see me in. So if I am modelling jewelry then that's him behind the lens! I take all other shots.  

That's it for now! Feel free to ask any additional question in the comments below. 

Hope this has been helpful! ~ ashleigh  

Celebrity Jewelry Style: January Jones

January Jones has an 'All-American' style when it comes to her jewelry choices. Choosing pieces that are reminiscent of the wild west and a little bit country, this gal favours turquoise stones, fringed tassels, and heavy hammered metal pieces. This actress also isn't afraid to take risks with headbands and hair pieces. I love that.

Love her modern take on country inspired jewelry? See below for more jewelry inspiration!

What do you think about January Jones' jewelry style?

Colour Moment: Emerald Green and Gold

Emerald is Pantone's colour of the year for 2013. So it's no surprise that there are tons of beautiful emerald and emerald coloured stones popping in jewelry.  When paired with gold, the striking emerald becomes even more bold, creating quite the colour combination.  Here are some of my favorite emerald and gold jewelry pieces!

1. Kenneth Jay Lane Flawed Emerald Cabochon Bracelet, Shopbop
2. Kara Ross Emerald, Agate & Nugget Tiered Drop Earrings, Saks
3. Crystal Birthstone Expandable Wire Bangle, Alex and Ani
4. Michael Kors Crystal Bracelet, Shopbop
5. Charlene K Emerald Green Agate Cuff, Max & Chloe
6. Jennifer Myer 18K gold emerald ring, Net-A-Porter
7. Jennifer Meyer 18-karat gold emerald circle ring, Net-A-Porter
8. Jennifer Meyer Small Emerald Leaf Earrings, Ylang 23
9. Emerald Titanic Drops, BaubleBar
10. Aamaya by Priyanka Rose Emerald Ring
11. Michael Kors Cocktail Party Emerald Crystal Square Stud Earrings, Zappos
12. Charlene K Emerald Green Agate Cigar Ring, Max & Chloe

Best Of: Jewelry from the Golden Globes 2013

The Golden Globes were last night and there was no shortage of colour, sparkle, and glam on the red carpet.  Red was the popular gown colour of choice, there was loads of lace, and earrings were front and centre.

In the jewelry category my favorites were: Megan Fox's long pink earrings, Kate Hudson's melange of Jennifer Meyer rings, and Jessica Alba's sparkly Harry Winston necklace.  And I would be remiss if I didn't mention Sienna Miller rocking the one earring trend! Actually, she had three earrings on one ear, but her other ear was completely bare. This trend is crossing over to the red carpet folks!

pc: popsugar.com

DIY Friday: Gold Shell Earrings

This DIY was too good not to share. These earrings look like something you could, would, and should buy in a store. We have the creative brains behind Honestly...WTF to thank for this DIY. Full instructions can be found over on their blog.

All photos from Honestly...WTF. For full instructions, head over there!

Do or Don't? Oversized Scarves

The weather is certified chilly and scarves are becoming necessary (especially where I live!). Even if you're lucky enough to live in a warmer climate, aren't scarves just a fun accessory to add to your look? Scarves come in a range of colours, patterns, and sizes. You find dainty thin versions, thick wooly ones, and lush oversized - bordering on blanket territory - scarves. What do you think about the oversized scarf look? Is it a 'Do' or a 'Don't' in your books?

The oversized scarf trend, modeled by Mary Seng.

pc

Let me know what you think about oversized scarves. Sound off in the comments below!

This or That? Neons vs. Neutrals in the Winter

Do you like to tone down your look in the dreary winter months with soothing blush tones, standard metallics, and neutrals? Or do you prefer to combat the winter dull-drums with pops of neon and primary colours? I think both looks are appropriate and fun, depending on your mood. But where do you stand? Neon only in the summer? Or do base metals simply bore you?

Vote on your winter jewelry of choice - neons or neutrals - in the comments below!

pc: Brooklyn Blonde (wearing a neon Lauren Elan necklace) 

and Sincerely Jules (in a variety of neutral base metals)

Accessories Report: Small Cross-body Bags

Here's one of those posts I was talking about earlier that will stray from jewelry but focus on another fashion accessory.  I hope you enjoy the change! Without further ado...

I am in the market for a new, small, cross-body bag. I used to be the queen of over-sized sacks, but since switching to my first small bag (buy here) I can't seem to go back. Why do we need to carry around so much? Why does my left shoulder slope toward the ground? Kidding. Cross-body bags just seem so much more comfortable and there is something liberating about leaving the house with just your phone, some lip gloss, and a wallet. Here are the cross-bodies that are on my radar now.

1. Rebecca Minkoff, Mini 5 Zip Clutch 2. Rebecca Minkoff, Woven MAC Bag 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs, Phone in a Box Dots 4. Marc by Marc Jacobs, Classic Q Percy Bag 5. Tory Burch, 797 Crossbody Pouch 6. CC Skye, Studded Eden 7. Rebecca Minkoff, Eyelet Mini Sweetie Bag 8. Rebecca Minkoff, Mini MAC Bag

Obsessed: Winter 2013 Jewelry Inspiration

Out with the old, and in with the new! Here are some jewelry heavy images to inspire your jewelry selection, layering, and new buys for 2013. I am already compiling quite the wishlist! Oh, and wait until you see the last photo - cuteness overload!

All images can be found on my Pinterest. Follow along here!  You might be especially interested in my jewelry board. 

pc: theyallhateus.com / Refinery 29 / Sincerely Jules Blacks / Gold Stacks / Blair Eadie / Glitter Guide / Refinery 29 / Atlantic-Pacific / inspired-design.tumblr / Ashley Olsen / Sincerely Jules Blush Tones / misszeit.tumblr / Colored Nails and Rings / Sincerely Jules More is More / Diamonds and Bird /  Fancy French Bulldog

Colour Moment: Rose Gold and Black

We all know that rose gold is the metal of the moment. Boyfriend watches, dainty necklaces, and thin rings abound in quirky and unexpected rose gold. One of the best colour combinations with rose gold, is black. Wear your bf watch with a black blouse and you'll see how it really pops. The same goes for black diamond accents within the jewelry. While white diamonds can get lost in the piece, black really stands out and creates a look that is bold and modern.
Here are a few of my favourite rose gold and black jewelry pieces:

Clockwise from top left:

Ron Herman, Black Diamond Arrow Twist Ring / Catbird, Blanca Monrós Gómez Flat Band with 14 Black Diamonds / Ariel Gordon Jewelry, Little Thorn Necklace / Gemvara, Evil Eye Pendant / Catbird, Bittersweet NY Teensy Black Diamond Ring /

Get Organized, 2013 Style

The start of a new year feels fresh and exciting with seemingly endless possibilities for new goals and changes.  For me, the new year always signals a fresh start and a chance to get more organized. Pretty calendars abound, new pens and paper products call my name. As I enter a new chapter of life, preparing for a wee baby to join our family, I am going to need to more organized than ever before. Not only do I have to keep track of my own appointments and deadlines, but a Little One's as well. Oh, and try to keep up with my writing on top of keeping him/her alive. Here are some products I have my eye on to help me with this goal. Do you have any tips for staying organized?

1. Free People Desktop e-Calendar, free download / 2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Wallet / 3. Diesel Watch / 4. Paper Source 2013 Paper Source Art Grid Calendar /5. Kate Spade 2013 Desk Top Spiral Calendar / 6. Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C. /

Important Note: I know this post wasn't very jewelry heavy, but for 2013 I am expanding Jolie Jouel to include all accessories.  Jewelry will definitely still be the main focus, but now and then you'll see handbags, shoes, scarves, tech accessories and more. Hope you enjoy the variety every now and then! xx

Year of the Snake Jewelry

According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2013 is the year of the snake.  This isn't something I typically follow but I looked it up, out of interests sake, to see what our 2013 baby would be. It made me wonder if we'll start seeing more snakes in art, culture, pop references and even jewelry in 2013!  Here are my top choices for 'Year of the Snake' jewelry.

1. Rose Gold Snake Ring with Diamonds, Catbird
2. Jacquie Aiche Snake Flat Bar Ring, Shopbop
3. Snake Bangle, Catbird
4. Jennifer Zeuner Skinny Diamond Snake Necklace, Shopbop
5. House of Harlow 1960 Snake Bangle, Piperlime
6. Mummy Snake Bangle, Mr. Kate
7. Snake Hoops, Catbird
8. Diamond Snake Ring, Colette
9. Aurelie Bidermann Snake Mamba Bracelet, Shopbop
10. Dogeared Snake Earrings, ASOS 

Will you be sporting any snake jewelry in 2013? 

Perhaps a great gift for an expectant 2013 Mom? ;)

Hello 2013

Happy New Year!

I spent the last week enjoying time off with family and friends. Sometimes a break from the computer is just what we need in order to recharge and realign priorities, right? The pause has been wonderful, but I am looking forward to getting back into the blogging routine and jewelry inspiration game!

Here are a few of my jewelry shots from the holidays. Enjoy!

jewelry:

photo 1: gold snake ring, Catbird / nova Letter "A" necklace, Lauren Elan / gold shark tooth necklace, Vale

photo 2: necklace, random

photo 3: silver bangle ring, by me / silver stacked rings, random

photo 4: fringe necklace, American Eagle (similar here) / silver twig bangle, Mr. Kate / silver squiggle bracelet, by me

Someone special made an appearance in this out-take. I am excited to share my biggest project for 2013 with you guys - a baby! We're 17 weeks here :)

How was your break? Any jewelry requests for 2013?