Travel Essentials

We're getting set for a little trip to Paris and it got me thinking about travel neccessities. We're flying with a soon-to-be one year making the need for planning and a very precise packing list quite high. Here are a few travel essentials off of my current Paris trip list.

1. Herschel Duffle Bag. The perfect carry on - loads of room and a stylish print (another fun print here.)

2. An iPad or tablet. Bring your music & apps with you and stay connected en route. Loving this Kate Spade iPad case.

3. Headphones. Block out 3B in style.

4. Jewelry. I like to bring a) stacking rings, b) a few dainty necklaces for layering, and c) a fun statement piece.

5. A travel journal. Jot down your memories in this Rifle Paper Co. journal so you'll never forget them. I also recommend taking notes ahead of time so you don't miss out on any key landmarks, must-try restaurants, and boutiques (write down those addresses!).

6. Ray-Ban New Wayfarers. I love this update on the original. Every holiday needs a good set of sunglasses.

7. Snacks. Snacks for me. Snacks for the baby. Neither of us do well going hungry.

8. A good read. This one and this one are high on my list.

Jewelspiration

Happy Monday! A little jewelry inspiration for your (maybe holiday) Monday. Enjoy!

*** All images and sources can be found on my jewelry Pinterest board ***

Designer Spotlight: Tracy Dungo of Kalaki Riot

When I first saw Tracy Dungo's jewelry line, Kalaki Riot, I was taken by its beachy vibe, the way it lends itself to layering, and the beauty revealed in its simplicity. Based out of New York City, but with a decidedly care-free vibe, Tracy's designs find have an organic feel and pair wonderfully with one another. 

Keep reading for more on Tracy's designer life and the inspiration behind her alluring designs.

1. Take us back to the beginning. How did you get into jewelry design and what, if any, is your training?

I never formally went to school for jewelry design but I took a jewelry making class in search of a creative outlet to my day job and was immediately hooked. Making those first couple designs come to life really was the coolest feeling. I spent most of my career working for a luxury retail brand and in publishing so those experiences really shaped my initial interest in creating a business around things I like to make and would wear.

2. Where do you draw your inspiration from?

A lot of things! Many times I’ll draw inspiration out of necessity. If I’m in need of a specific piece, like earrings I can wear every day, I’ll design some. I also love incorporating findings or concepts that I’ll discover on my travels, especially when I’m working a new collection. That’s a big reason why I love jewelry design- everything sort of becomes your own interpretation of whatever it was that originally inspired you.

3. Who would your dream client be?

All of my clients are dream clients! But I would probably freak out seeing Jessica Alba or the Olsen twins wearing my pieces. 

4. Being a jewelry designer, what do you like best about your job? What are some of the most challenging aspects of running your business?

How rewarding it is to see customers wearing and styling my work- it’s the coolest thing every time. As far as the actual business goes, I love being location independent and seeing the impact of the work I put in. In my previous careers, it almost felt like people would kill themselves over deadlines and projects and without seeing the end result or the impact that their work even had on the overall business at the end of the day. But now, I definitely see how things that I do (or don’t do) will affect my brand’s performance, which can definitely be challenging at times as well.

5. What is your typical day like? 

I’ll usually do benchwork in the morning so I can dedicate the rest of the day to meetings and the business side of my brand (i.e. marketing, partnerships, website, etc.). And I ship on specific days too (so I’m not running to the post office every day). It’s loosely structured but no two days are ever the same, which I love!

6. If you could go back and give your 20 year old self some advice, what would it be?

To identify your natural strengths and passions, and then strive to build a life around them so when the time comes, you can. 

Thanks Tracy! Looking forward to following along with your success and keeping my eye on your destination bar necklace - such a neat idea! 

Line Lust: Lauren Elan Collections SS14

I am thrilled to share Lauren Elan Collections' newest Spring/Summer line! After a brief hiatus following the birth of her daughter, Lauren is back, inspired, and better than ever. As always, the line includes plenty of Lauren Elan signature sparkle, pops of neon, and some heavier mixed metal stunners.

The SS14 line just screams summer. The colourful necklaces and bracelets are perfect for season; the sparkly pieces will have you ready the prettiest of weddings; and the elements of mixed metal can be worn just as easily for breezy days as for summer soirées.

Take a look at a few of my favourites below and check out the full spring/summer line at laurenelan.com.

Mother's Day Gift Guide

This year I'll be celebrating my very first Mother's Day! I can't wait to celebrate being the momma of my precious, loving, funny little girl. For me it's not about a gift. Really. My ideal Mother's Day would be spending the day with my little family and maybe getting a little down time or pampering along the way ;) And as for gifts? Here are a few fail-safe gifts that any Mom would enjoy.

1. Sparkle Talon Cuff, Campbell Give your Mom a little arm candy. She'll think of you every time she looks at her new sparkle.

2. Prosperity Candles (use code 'happymom' for 20% site until May 11) Candles for a good cause! Something Mom would be proud of.

3. Tory Burch perfume, Sephora The scent of a sophisticated woman. 

4. Clarins Beauty Flash Balm Pamper Mom with an indulgent moisturizer/primer/miracle cream. 

5. iPad Mini case, bright (Kate Spade) or Classic (Trask) Outfit her iPad with either of these stylish options.

6. Pendant Necklace, J. Crew You can't fail with a JCrew sparkler.

7. Sentimental Coffee Mugs Chapters Indigo here and here Tell her how you really feel...with coffee.

8. Mommy necklace, Jennifer Meyer The nameplate says it all...