Review: Catbird's First Knuckle Rings

I just can't resist the look of a first knuckle ring. They're so unexpected and dainty and allow for the best type of layering. Catbird does these babies the best and I've been lucky enough to snatch up two of them to add to my ring collection.  My first, first knuckle ring was also Catbird's first - their classic hammered first knuckle ring in silver. And more recently, my thoughtful husband gifted me with their newest FKR, the Tomboy, in rose gold. I love throwing these rings on for an extra layer, a bit of unexpected style, and uniqueness.  

Here are the rings as they come - nestled in a little box, complete with black velvet. 

An important note on sizing:

I ordered my rings in a size 2.5. This is probably the trickiest part when it comes to ordering - finding your size. They try to help you out by giving the numbers "sizes" - as in XS, S, and M and so on - so you can kind of gauge/guess your size based on your normal definition of how large (or small) you are. My husband used this method, and guessed correctly.  I wanted a more precise approach and took to an online ring size finder to help me narrow it down. I used this one, but there are lots to choose from if you search around. 

First let's look at the original, classic hammered first knuckle ring.

Catbird says that these rings are also known as memory rings.  I agree. The more you wear this thin band the more it takes on the shape of your finger.  It's very thin so it sort of warps away from being a perfect circle, but I don't think this is bad thing. The fit becomes more precise, more unique, more you.  The biggest question I get about first knuckle rings is, "How do they stay on?" Well friends, they just do.  They look like they'd fall off, but they don't. I would likely go for a swim with one on, but for day to day tasks, they stay right in place.

Next up, the Tomboy!

If I had to pick a favorite, this would be it. It's still super dainty but with the added thickness it's more noticeable, shinier, and just looks better on my finger.  This ring has gone up to 2.5mm and it seems like the perfect thickness.  I also have a weak spot for rose gold, and this rose is just so pretty. This ring also feels slightly more secure, but like I said, these puppies just stay on and in place!

I hope that helps clear up any questions about first knuckle rings, especially the ones from Catbird. If you have further questions, leave them in the comments below. Have a nice weekend!

Trend Spotting: Wearing Your Watch On Top

The Winter brings its own set of fashion quandaries. From finding chic yet warm and dry footwear to how to showcase your watch and arm parties while wearing sweaters and layers. May I suggest a solution to problem #2? (Still unsure working on number 1...erg.) Why not try wearing your wrist watch on top?! I've been noticing some super stylish ladies rocking this trend all season long. I thought I'd share my stylish observation with you, dear readers. Enjoy!

pc: blue and yellow / with oversized clutch / black and white / red and navy

Would you wear your watch over your sweater or sleeve? Is this a trend you'll try before Spring arrives?

Do or Don't? Jewelry for the Wee Ones

I found the found the story behind these chubby little hands over on Odette NY's blog.  Apparently the daughter of a friend of a friend started trying on her Momma's jewelry and they snapped a pic. There is no question that these soft little bejeweled fingers are cute! But how young is too young for jewelry (aside from playing dress-up!)?

Do babies with pierced ears freak you out? Do you swoon over tiny silver baby bracelets? Vote in the comments below!

Trend Spotting: Floral Jewelry for Spring

The way I see it, the more that I post about Spring and Summer the quicker the remainder of the Winter shall pass. Agree? Should we make a pact to continue to look ahead?

I am loving the floral, bright, and pastel jewelry pieces that are appearing for in stores for Spring. I can't wait to dress up in something a little brighter and happier in a few months!

Here are my picks for Spring jewelry. {Warning, this post is J Crew and Anthropologie heavy, so if you're not a fan, you might want to look away. And...who arrrrre you?}

1. Doloris Petunia Ombre Squash Blossom necklace

2. Anthropologie Filament Earrings

3. Anthropologie Glinted Petal Necklace

4. J Crew Crystal color stone statement necklace

5. Anthropologie Heirloom Earrings

6. J Crew Beaded rose bracelet

7. Anthropologie Monte Carlo Necklace

8. Anthropologie Lombok Pendant Necklace

9. Anthropologie Royal Wreath Necklace

10. Anthropologie Twinkle Bloom Earrings

11. J Crew Fan fringe necklace

12. J Crew Neon flower bracelet

13. J Crew Mixed crystals necklace

14. J Crew Bright stone necklace

15. Anthropologie Blushing Pearl Bib Necklace

16. J Crew Pastel and neon statement necklace

Best of: 2013 Academy Awards

The Oscars are the pinnacle of award season fashion and last night the ladies did not disappoint! I for one was glued to my TV watching the 2013 Academy Awards. Well, to be honest, my favourite part was the pre-show, watching as dazzling gowns, drool-worthy jewelry, and steal-worthy beauty trends littering the red carpet.

For a full recap on my favourite looks and trends that you can try at home, head on over to zuuzstyle.com! 

Spring Fever

 

<< Beautiful ombre coloured glasses and vases + shades of green pottery >>

Something about the dreary mid-February weather brings out the do-er in me. To combat the cold, I made this week about searching out fun colours, jewelry making, and planning fun events for Spring.  Here are few photos that have me gearing up for brighter weather and hopefully they'll inspire some colour in your life as well! Happy weekend :)

 << Nothing says Spring like waking up to fresh flowers >>

 << Beautiful cake stands at Chapters Indigo. Wish-listed for Spring get-togethers! >>

 << Getting crafty with bright friendship bracelets >>

 

<< Two new, sparkly necklaces I made this week. I've been wearing them non-stop! >>

<< A spiked necklace and embellished shoulders. The perfect pair >> 

Trend Spotting: Neon + Rhinestone Necklaces

This look is classic meets trendy; colorful meets demure; and ladylike meets street-style. The trend I am talking about is taking the classic rhinestone necklace and adding in bright pops of neon color. This trend has been popping up in many of my favorite stores and offers a fun and modern way to incorporate fancy rhinestones into your day-to-day style. From Tom Binns and Shourouk to American Eagle and Club Monaco, there is a neon rhinestone necklace out there for everyone!

Some of my favorites below!

1. AEO, Cord Charm Necklace

2. Windsor Store, Neon Rhinestone Collar Necklace

3. Dorthy Perkins, Pink Neon Ethnic Necklace

4. Tom Binns, Pinata Painted Necklace

5. Adia Kibur, Short Neon Stone Necklace

6.  Lovisa, Zinc Rhinestone Neon Rope & Pear Diamond Necklace 

7. Shourouk, Sierra and Cora Bamako crystal necklace

8. Club Monaco, Poppy Crystal Necklace

9. New Look, Neon Green Gem Drape Necklace

10. DANNIJO, Capucine

11. Tom Binns, Rainbows End Painted Necklace

Do or Don't? Jeweled Hair

What do you think of wearing jewelry in your hair? Is this look a 'Do' or a 'Don't'?

I for one love this look for special occasions. It's such an unexpected way to wear jewelry for a special night out! I especially love seeing this look on brides on their wedding day. Jeweled hair is perfectly romantic and is sure to make a statement. Did I mention I wore jeweled hair on my wedding day? Perhaps I am biased...

But what do you think? Would you wear some sparkle in your hair or is this look too fairy tale for you?

Colour Moment: Winter White Necklaces

February is in full swing and we have the snow to show for it here Ontario. While it can be a bother at times, it certainly is pretty. I've been seeing lots of sparkly necklaces lately that have been reminding me of the snow outside my window.  And let me ask you this, is there any better time to wear winter white than in the winter?! So stop acting like a snow queen and embrace the weather. Dress up with a little snowy sparkle and you'll be feeling more like an ice princess in no time.

Shop the look!

1. Ann Taylor, Large Pearl Statement necklace

2. Gemma Redux Mixed Metal necklace

3. Fallon Jewelry, FOREVER Regalia Bib Necklace

4. Banana Republic, Spring Fling necklace

5. Ann Taylor, Candy Coated necklace

6. Juicy Couture, Chunky Chain Necklace

7. Forever 21, Peter Pan Collar Necklace

8. House of Harlow 1960, White Sand Sunburst Necklace

9. Lauren Elan, Oliva Necklace

Jolie Jouel on Instagram

I am finally on Instagram! In a few short days I've become obsessed. How did I manage keeping up with all the pretty things and pretty people before my Instagram feed? Some of my faves are bloggers like Sincerely, Jules and Atlantic-Pacific; jewelry designers like Lauren Elan and Vita Fede; stores like Kate Spade and Anthropologie; and celebrities like Boo the dog and Jessica Alba. Yes, if you're not following Boo yet, he is a must. 

It's still really new, but I'd love for my readers to follow me here (username ashleighnim) for jewelry updates and day-to-day sparkle from the Jolie Jouel headquarters.

Back tomorrow with regularly scheduled posts! xx