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Love Me Tender -- Valentine's Day Gifts Any Woman Will Desire

Valentine's Day doesn't have to be as senseless, befuddling, and tragically disappointing as the star-studded film by that name. If you're coupled up, take the initiative to make the day special — cook a romantic meal and wear those shoes that practically beckon him to carry you into the bedroom and ravish you; light scented candles and practice those masseuse skills while wearing your sultriest lingerie; or buy some champagne and set it next to a nice bubble bath. And, if you're exchanging gifts with your better half, feel free to subtly give him some hints about what you want (bookmark this page on his iPad if need be!).

As for all you single ladies on the prowl, February 14th is not a day for mourning, and you certainly don't need a man to feel loved so focus on pampering yourself: indulge in some truffles, snatch up that purse you've been coveting for months, go out with your friends and flirt your little heart out. 

Check out some of our Valentine's Day gift ideas — these are beyond alluring, so get ready for some sparks to fly! 

This is only the beginning of our V-Day coverage so stay tuned for more gift picks!

 

Edmundo Castillo Guia Heels in Scarlet, $995. Available at Match at the Breakers (One South County Road, Palm Beach, FL). Call 561.659.8402 for more details.

Betty Boop would wink her little heart out, work those shoulders, and utter her coquettish "Boop-boop-e-doop!" saying with unbridled glee if she thought she could cleverly manipulate a man to buy her these patent leather and snakeskin sandals. And can you blame her? The polka dot detail at the peep toe opening is enough to make any girl swoon, along with the slim stiletto heel. And those cutouts at the sides? A peep show at its best! 

 

 

Rachel Roy Cord Stone Friendship Bracelet, $36. Available at RachelRoy.com

Valentine's Day isn't just for lovers — it's also a day to celebrate your friends and loved ones, those who have been pals and confidantes (cue the "Golden Girls" theme song). Show them how much you appreciate them by gifting them with a Rachel Roy Cord Stone Friendship Bracelet like the one pictured here, which features an antiqued gold metal chain wrapped with bright pink thread and embellished with faceted, round, flat-top purple stones positioned atop square gold stations.

 

 

 

Vera Wang Lovestruck EDP Spray, $68 for 1.7 oz. and $78 for 3.4 oz. Available at Sephora.com

The bottle of Vera Wang's Lovestruck fragrance is enough to give a girl butterflies — from the hot pink lettering used to write the word "Lovestruck" and the arrow piercing through the word to the bouquet of plum tulips and the netted tulle and metallic ribbon nestled underneath the floral shapes. But that's just the visual charm of this romantic scent, Vera Wang's ode to being hopelessly, blissfully, rapturously in love. With succulent pink guava and a zesty touch of mandarin leading to a bouquet of bewitching tuberose and soft, dewy lotus blossoms, this scent is more crush-worthy to us than Jordan Catalano was to Angela Chase. 

 

Carelle Rose de France Iolite, Diamond and Rose Gold Pear Cluster Ring, $4050. Available at Carelle.com

Three pear-shaped, lilac-colored iolite stones, with their surface completely covered with diamond-shaped facets, are grouped together to create a near-triangular shape reminiscent of daylilies. A round, darker purple, prong-set faceted stone is positioned at the center, resembling the flower's stigma. Three small diamonds with a total weight of 0.12 cts complete the design, accentuating the triangular form of this design. 

 

 

 

 

 

Pull-In Libération Corb Dentelle Bra, $59.99, and Libération Tanga Dentelle, $54.99. Available at Store.Pull-In.com

Any woman will feel like the mistress of a Parisian boudoir with these intimates from French brand Pull-In. The Libération collection manages to maintain the perfect balance between seduction and sophistication thanks to the careful craftsmanship, the usage of elegant Calais lace, and the choice of midnight blue lace juxtaposed against an ox blood red satin trim.

 

 

 

 

Godiva Gems Milk and Dark Chocolate Message Truffles, $20 for 32 pc. bag. Available at Godiva.com

Members of the French royal court may have feasted on bon-bons in the 17th century, but contemporary Queen Bees look to Godiva to satisfy their chocolate cravings. For Valentine's Day, Godiva has packaged its truffles in pink and red foil with messages like "Be Mine," "Kiss Me," and "Hug Me" printed on these wrapping papers and pops of gold along the twistable ends. The truffles are color coded so that the milk chocolate pieces are inside pink wrappers and the dark chocolate ones in red wrappers. As for the truffles, each one is a tiny slice of heaven and, when you bite into the cream chocolate exterior, it's like going through the pearly gates as you taste the creamy interior, otherwise known as true paradise.

 

 

Katrina Kelly Vintage Vine Earrings, $11,748. For a full list of retailers, visit KatrinaKellyJewelry.com

These gorgeous earrings feature a sculpted, radiating, pattern along their teardrop-shaped, 18k yellow gold frame, with rounded edges meant to resemble the movement of undulating vines. At the center of each earring, you'll find a teardrop-shaped, faceted ruby stone, accentuated by gold bead detailing along its perimeter. A tiny slither of space is left vacant along the interior of the earrings' frame, so as to make the design a bit airier and more ethereal. Diamond-shaped earrings posts with concentric bead detailing, meanwhile, complete the dramatic effect. 

 

 

 

Topshop Flower Twist Front Blouse, $64. Available at Topshop.com

Don't want to wait for that special someone to bring you flowers? Then swathe yourself in gorgeous blooms with this sleeveless blouse from Topshop, which features a zippered back, a demure rounded neckline, a center seam along the front panel, and a mottle twist detail at the waistline creating a slightly draped effect. 

 

 

 

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Eau de Toilette Délicate, $102. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks.com

When creating the latest iteration of his spectacular For Her fragrance, designer Narciso Roriguez revisited his original source of inspiration: a woman's innate grace and beauty. For this limited-edition version of the scent, Rodriguez sought to explore the more mysterious, elusive elements of femininity, resulting in a wistful, feather light fragrance that, when applied to the skin, almost makes a woman feel like she's radiating sensuality. Like the original For Her, Délicate features a musky heart, but fig notes replace the osmanthus notes in its predecessor's formula, yielding a more ethereal and mysterious composition.

 

 

 

 

The Macbeth Collection Petite Vase, $35. Available at TheMacbethCollection.com

Before breaking out the bubbly on Valentine's Day, chill it in a bucket-like vase from The Macbeth Collection. The Petite Vase (pictured here) measures 8.5" in height and 5" in width and features two welded handles along the sides for easy toting. You can pick from over 50 designs (ranging from houndstooth and polka dot prints to floral prints, ikat designs, nautical motifs, and more) and even monogram your vase to make it feel all the more personal.

 

 

 

 

Gas Bijoux for Swarovski Crystallized Love Earrings, $90. Available at Swarovski-Crystallized.com 

Double your fun with these gold-plated earring by Gas Bijoux, which feature Swarovski Elements details. The 0.25mm-long earrings are composed of two heart shapes, each featuring etched grooves for added texture and dimension. The top heart shape is slightly smaller and features another heart detail at its center, with a smooth golden surface and a single Swarovski Elements crystal placed slightly off-center. The bottom heart shape, meanwhile, features a cluster of clear stones at its center to create a playful posey-like form, along with five crystals at the bottom tip of the heart shape, in an arrow-like shape. Etched floral motifs adorn the bottom border of the heart's surface for a Renaissance-inspired feel.

 

 

 

Shea Terra Organics Premium Dark Chocolate Sugar-Stone Exfoliating Cream, $22. Available at SheaTerraOrganics.com

If you dream of rolling around in chocolate, like a strawberry being dipped in hot fondue, you'll love the Shea Terra Organics Premium Dark Chocolate Sugar-Stone Exfoliating Cream, which smells like homemade brownie mix (when it's perfectly mixed and smells so delicious you can't help but lick the spoon) thanks to the organic chocolate liquor and vanilla extract used to scent the product. Since it's rich in antioxidants, the dark chocolate in the formula also fortifies your skin, helping to make skin appear more luminous and supple, while organic shea butter softens and conditions. Organic sugar particles and volcanic stone polish off dead skin layers to reveal younger-looking skin without feeling abrasive or harsh (thanks in large part to the shea butter, which melts onto the skin and creates a protective layer of sorts).

 

 

 

Tsumori Chisato Shooting Hearts Dress, $468. Available at LaGarconne.com

Tired of following Katy Perry's advice to be a firework? Then aim to be a shooting star instead with this perky frock by Tsumori Chisato. Made in Japan, the rayon and silk dress features short flutter sleeves, a gathered waistline with drawstrings at the sides, and a rounded neckline with a front keyhole opening. The relaxed fit and light ruching add an easiness and a bit of edge to the adorable heart and stars print.

 

Banana Republic Enameled Geo Bangle, $35. Available at BananaRepublic.com

Simple yet chic, this silver-plated bangle features slanted sides that create a Mod era-esque effect while the punchy honeysuckle pink enamel filling the bangle nods to the colors of the Swinging Sixties. 

 

 

Free Endearment Dana Rose Clutch, $375. Available at FreeEndearment.com

Embrace the spirit of Valentine's Day with this blush pink Dana clutch from Free Endearment, which features laser-cut heart details, along with a mosaic-like design of jasmine-like flowers and leaf-like shapes that read like a vine in an enchanted forest. This envelope-shaped clutch features an elongated tab that slips through an upward-facing bracket-like slot. A dainty chain link strap features a leather strip along its center to soften the metallic bits and make wear more comfortable.

 

 

 

LUSH Lots of Love Wrapped Gift, $49.95. Available at LUSHusa.com

What woman can't appreciate a hatbox filled to the brim with sensual bath and body treats? This particular box, however, is covered with a romantic design: a tree with red and pink hearts in lieu of leaves and lovebirds perching atop some of its branches. Though LUSH is offering customers a broad array of Valentine's Day-themed gift options, we're particularly smitten with this set, which includes the following items: Rose Queen Bath Bomb, Sex Bomb Bath Bomb, A French Kiss Bubble Bar, 1000 Kisses Deep Perfume, Ro's Argan Body Conditioner, and Lust Soap.

Shaped like a scoop of strawberry ice cream, the Rose Queen Bath Bomb is ideal for a long and relaxing soak since, not only does it contain fragrant rose absolute, but it's packed with rose petals that unravel as the sphere dissolves in the water. The Sex Bomb Bath Bomb, meanwhile, will bring out any gal's friskier side with a blend of jasmine oil, a known aphrodisiac, and ylang-ylang oil, clary sage, oil and softening soy milk. After a soak, you can pat yourself dry and feed your skin with some of the Ro's Argan Body Conditioner, which features argan oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, cocoa butter, cupuacu butter, Brazil nut oil, geranium oil, and rose absolute to hydrate skin, seal moisture within the epidermis, stimulate collagen and elastin production, strengthen the skin's natural barrier, and smooth and soften skin.

These three products alone will make any woman feel pampered, but of course: more treats are included. If you want to share an intimate moment with your beloved, reach for the lavender-scented A French Kiss Bubble Bar, which is shaped like a lemon meringue (or a Hershey's kiss, if you will) and dissolves in the water to yield a frothy, sudsy bath that's big enough for two!

 

The Many Dannijo Necklaces Worn by Angela Lindvall on "Project Runway All-Stars"

 

 

 

 

 

Lifetime threw us quite a few curve balls while shooting Project Runway All-Stars — first, casting the leggy blond supermodel Angela Lindvall as host in lieu of Heidi Klum, a smart move since the two are practically interchangeable in terms of physical appearance; benching judges Nina García and Michael Kors, with whom many viewers had grown frustrated (particularly after they chose Gretchen to win over Mondo in Season 8 and since Kors stopped doling out his side-splitting zingers during critiques), and swapping them with Marchesa co-founder and designer Georgina Chapman and Isaac Mizrahi (the former an enormous coup); and giving the ever-nurturing Tim Gunn a breather, inviting Marie Claire Editor-in-Chief Joanna Coles to function as the designers' mentor and the workroom mother hen (an unwise move given Coles' unapproachable, standoffish demeanor, which makes her feel as warm and motherly as an iceberg). Ch-ch-ch-changes indeed. Then again, given that they brought back some of the most talented, comical, and memorable characters of previous seasons, the potential ratings success of All-Stars was never in question.

Thus far, Project Runway All-Stars has managed to reignite our passion for a TV franchise that was quickly losing its luster, reminding us of why we tuned into the show in the first place. And, aside from a Muppets-themed challenge that felt redundant and passé, the feats posed to the contestants have been a healthy mixture of new design tests and of recycled but reinvented prior challenges.

We've been tuning in religiously and, of course, scrutinizing every pleat, seam, and drape. But we've also been studying what Angela Lindvall has donned on camera. And, since the very first episode, we noticed her appreciation (or her stylist's appreciation) for Dannijo jewelry.

Since I've loved Dannijo assiduously since I first discovered the New York-based brand, I've been quick to recognize the pieces gracing Lindvall's neck, so I'll break down the main three featured thus far.

In the first episode, when Lindvall introduced herself to the Project Runway alumni, she was wearing the Dannijo Zsa Zsa necklace pictured above at top ($995 at Dannijo.com), a 16"-long necklace with diamond-cut triple links and H-shaped chain links along the collar area and, at the center, three medallion-shaped, oxidized brass plate stations with pink, tangerine, and emerald green Swarovski Elements crystals in rectangular, teardrop, and square shapes at their center. Oxidized brass snake chain strands encircle these crystals, rimming the periphery of each circular plate, completing the rocker-worthy effect.

Minutes later, when Lindvall announced the 99 Cent Store challenge, she again wore a Dannijo piece — this time, a multi-tiered bib necklace like the Soraya necklace ($495 at Dannijo.com) pictured above, second from top. Though Lindvall's version incorporated some chartreuse green stones, the silhouette was identical to that of the Soraya (which probably means hers was custom made). This statement-making necklace features five rows of oxidized, silver-plated round links with sparkling spherical beads positioned at the center of each link and, dangling from the bottom row, bulbous teardrop-shaped and smooth, horn-shaped beads and stones.

After hitting us with the Dannijo 1-2 punch during the season's premiere, Lindvall seemed to steer away from the New York-based jewelry brand — and then, in Episode 4, she again turned to Dannijo to spruce up the red dress she donned during the runway show. Before the designers showcased their gelato-inspired frocks, then, Lindvall graced the catwalk wearing the Dannijo Cota Necklace ($795 at Dannijo.com), a tribal-flavored, three-level silver necklace juxtaposes crescent moon, triangle, diamond, trapezoid, cylindrical, and circular shapes and which features faceted fuchsia and orange Swarovski crystals, along with turquoise and white cabochon stones. U-shaped shackles jut out of the top station with its three conjoined cylindrical tubes, along with the crescent moon-shaped center station. The necklace's pendants yield a total drop of 7", making this a bold chest piece.

We might not know who'll be going home this week but, at the very least, we can predict Dannijo will endure until the very end, adding some razzle-dazzle to Lindvall's ensembles.

 

 

New Noir Jewelry x Tokidoki x Barbie Collection -- With Imagination, Life Is Your Creation

 

Pyramid studs, enamel-plated pendants, conical spikes, clustered cubic zirconia stones, and neon-colored rope cords abound in most Noir Jewelry collections, all envisioned by New York-based fashion-stylist-turned-jewelry-designer Leeora Catalan. Despite the brand's name, then, Noir Jewelry's assertive, attention-commanding designs are anything but blacklisted, popping up in ever stylish gals must-have list. And, as if Noir's original pieces weren't desirable enough, the brand has also collaborated with such companies as DC Comics, Barbie, and Disney, resulting in special collections that capture the spirit of such pop culture fare as Batman, the Muppets, Catwoman, Supergirl, and Pirates of the Caribbean.  

Last spring, those dreaming of pink convertibles, genuine Kens, and dream houses swooned over the Noir for Barbie collection, which featured metal pyramid bracelets in a magenta color, necklaces with gold tone purse, hand mirror, and strappy sandal charms, and even a ring with a Barbie dream house positioned atop the band.

Now, Noir has unveiled the brand new Noir x Barbie x Tokidoki collection, available at Karmaloop.com. Given the involvement of Tokidoki in this particular collection, the pieces featured exude an even greater sense of whimsy — after all, this is the company that birthed such lovable characters as Mozzarella, a rifle-toting cow that extorts milk from schoolyard bullies but protects all well-behaved children; Sandy, a girl who dons a prickly cactus suit to function as armor, protecting her from the dangers of the world.

The Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie collection, then, includes visual references to the Barbie universe (plenty of pink, blond dolls in coquettish frocks, and hearts galore), while also integrating the cartoonish aesthetic and urban undertones of the Tokidoki world.

The pink "B" letter at the beginning of the "Barbie" logo, with its cursive-style swooping lines, appears etched in the gold tone hearts of the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Cross Bone Drop Earrings ($58 at Karmaloop.com). These heart-shaped charms are positioned directly beneath the faceted, conical cubic zirconia ear posts. These etched hearts take the place of skulls in the skull-and-crossbones iconography, so that overlapping gunmetal strips shaped like bones are located directly beneath these hearts. Lastly, golden conical spikes dangle beneath the crossbones, constituting the last element in the earrings' linear drop. The skull-and-crossbones reference, the incorporation of gunmetal, and the conical spikes all yield a tougher vibe than you'd expect from traditional Barbie fare, but the incorporation of hearts and pops of pink enamel add the requisite femininity.

Similarly, the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Open Ring ($50 at Karmaloop.com) has the exact same shape as the floating rings we see on the fingers of rock and pop icons like Rihanna, but instead of studs, spikes, or faceted stones on each side of the open ring, you'll find a star shape on one end and a heart shape on the other. Filled with white enamel, the heart shape again features the "B" logo, while the star shape on the other side of the open ring features the heart and crossbones motif affiliated with Tokidoki etched in black enamel.

Those who think the Malibu Dream House is the pinnacle of artistry will appreciate such pieces as the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Airplane Ring ($72 at Karmaloop.com). This ring features a simple golden band and a slanted bar welded to its top surface, with a pink-and-white enamel airplane detail positioned near the top of the conical shape. Reminiscent of the Barbie Glam Vacation Jet, this airplane detail inverts the jet's color scheme, so that the plane's exterior is mainly white with pops of honeysuckle pink along the bottom surface, and the Barbie logo and Tokidoki logo etched on either side of the tail. Conical golden spikes protrude out of the aircraft engines and aqua blue enamel details denote the windows on the sides of the jet.

Another darling design for true Barbie-loving belles: the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Girly Necklace ($92 at Karmaloop.com), which features a 30"-long gold metal chain and a miniature figurine of a child-like Barbie with her blond hair in a high ponytail, her blue eyes detailed in enamel against the mirrored gold of her visage and body, her hands tucked inside white gloves, her figure in a pink enamel A-line dress, and her feet in white booties.

The "Life is plastic, it's fantastic" philosophy couldn't ring any truer here — even if most of the pieces were made of gold-tone metal with hints of enamel.

 

Tracking Down the Jewelry Seen in "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"

 

 

 

By now, you're probably rather familiar with the movie poster of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo in which Rooney Mara appears topless, the film's release date printed in bold numbers to cover (albeit incompletely) the pierced nipples that, if fully exposed, would cause a major uproar among "family values" crusaders. If you look closely at Rooney Mara's hand, the one clutching Daniel Craig's arm, which is itself slung over her chest protectively, you'll notice Mara is wearing several rings in her character's signature goth style. In her role as Lisbeth Salander, Mara sports these very same rings throughout the film, complementing her razor blade pendant necklace, lip ring, nose ring, and the black spiral earrings dangling from her lobes.

Well, I set out to investigate who designed the jewelry seen in the film and, as it turns out, one of my favorite jewelry designers, Jules Kim, is the lady behind the rings Lisbeth Salander rocked while executing her stealth cyber operations, solving a decades-old crime, and exacting revenge on a merciless rapist. Kim's Bijules line is centered on many of the same principles that we associate with the character of Lisbeth Salander. Her pieces all have an air of unapologetic confidence, a dark beauty that will frighten some and fascinate others, and a slightly lethal quality that makes them feel treacherous yet titillating. It's only fitting, then, that two of her most in-your-face pieces would wind up gracing Mara's fingers for her role as Salander: the Bijules Bony Knuckle Ring ($264 at BijulesNYC.com), meant to be positioned atop the knuckle and featuring two pieces of metal shaped to resemble femurs and curved into a two-tier design; and the Bijules Mini Curved Bar Ring ($238 at BijulesNYC.com), a slightly rounded version of the Bar Ring that Kim considers the staple of the Bijules line, with a gleaming top bar that can cover up to three fingers. 

Salander's tribal-flavored earrings, meanwhile, were designed by Tawapa, an organic jewelry brand that specializes in pieces made of organic materials ranging from coconut shells and exotic woods to post-consumer water buffalo horn and fossilized ivory. Though many of the brand's earring designs mimic those seen in the film, the Horn Night Shade earrings (starting at $41.25 at Tawapa.com) are the closest approximation, with their spiraling shape and the small hook-like details along each curve of the glossy black buffalo horn.

So there you have it, folks! If you're feeling like rocking a subversive look these days, you now have the right weaponry to do so.

The Manolo Blahnik for TOUS Mary Jane Pendants Are No Urban Shoe Myth

 

 

The Manolo Blahnik Mary Jane Pump has risen to legendary status — in no small part due to its role in a Sex and the City Season 4 episode in which Carrie Bradshaw stumbles into Vogue's fashion closet, eyes as wide as Augustus Gloop at the chocolate factory, and, upon seeing Blahnik's Campari black patent Mary Janes, squeals in delight, confessing she had dismissed these then-hard-to-find beauties as an "urban shoe myth." 

Now, you can put your best foot forward in more ways than one, thanks to the Manolo Blahnik for TOUS jewelry collection, a collaborative effort that features sterling silver, gold vermeil, and 18K gold pendants all shaped to resemble this iconic pointy-toe Mary Jane design, with its slim strap and dainty button closure. 

Prices range from $155 to $1,500 depending on the precious metal and the length of the chain selected. If, for example, you're looking for the most extravagant piece in the collection, opt for the Manolo Blahnik for TOUS 18K yellow gold and diamonds pendant ($1,499 at Shop.Tous.com), pictured here at top, which features gleaming yellow gold and an 0.008 ct. diamond stone at the button closure of the Mary Jane pendant's strap detail.

Those looking for more affordable options can select between the Manolo Blahnik for TOUS 18K gold-plated pendant with 31 1/2" chain ($499 at Shop.TOUS.com), which feaures a gold vermeil finish over sterling silver, or the Manolo Blahnik for TOUS 18K gold-plated pendant with 17 11/16" chain ($279 at Shop.TOUS.com), which is slightly cheaper thanks to its shorter chain length.

Sterling silver options, meanwhile, include the Sterling Silver Manolo Blahnik for TOUS with 31 1/2" chain ($279 at Shop.TOUS.com), pictured second from top, and the Sterling Silver Manolo Blahnik for TOUS with 17 11/16" chain ($155 at Shop.TOUS.com), which is nearly identical to the latter but features a shorter chain that hugs the neck a bit more closely.  

How's that for a myth-busting jewelry collection?

Metal Mesh Masters Whiting & Davis Launch Jewelry Line

You probably associate Whiting & Davis with glamorous, sparkling mesh hobos, clutches, and wristlets in styles ranging from Victorian to disco-influenced, but your understanding of the 136-year-old brand is bound to change as it forays into new territory: fashion jewelry. This season, Whiting & Davis is unveiling its debut jewelry collection, consisting of simple silver and gold pieces that play with the brand's signature woven mesh techniques.

Take, for example, the Whiting & Davis Silver Collar Necklace with Signature Cut Stone ($625 at WhitingAndDavisCollection.com), pictured at top, an 18"-long, collar-style, sterling silver mesh necklace with a V-shaped accent at its center and a faceted, teardrop-shaped stone dangling from this widow's peak. The ring mesh used to create the necklace recalls the chain mail armor sported by medieval era knights, while the gemstone accent infuses a precious, dainty feel to the otherwise hefty piece.

Pictured second from top, the Whiting & Davis 18K Mesh Drop Earrings ($750 a WhitingAndDavisCollection.com) demonstrate how many aesthetics can be referenced even when using the same material. These 1.75"-long, 18k gold mesh drop earrings feature bulbous shapes that resemble tiny eggplants and are so lightweight that they sway freely, conjuring up an airy, free-spirited, whimsical feel.

One of the most versatile pieces in the collection is the Whiting & Davis Sunset Necklace ($375 at WhitingAndDavisCollection.com), shown third from top, which features four mesh strands in gold, silver, brass and copper vermeil, all twisted together and secured by silver metal rings at the ends. Measuring 18" in length, this piece was inspired by the ray's suns as it sets on the horizons.

Another standout: the Whiting & Davis Silver Lace Earrings ($125 at WhitingAndDavisCollection.com), which feature two slim, slanted, sterling silver bars along each side to create the triangular frame and, dangling from the base of the triangle, flaunt intricately crocheted ring mesh that fan outs along the bottom of the earrings, creating a beautiful arch of tiny metal rings.

Can you mesh with it?

 

Be A Whistleblower And An Ambassador For Peace With Falling Whistles' Necklaces

 

Rather than months or even years of market analysis by suit-wearing entrepreneurs, civic-minded jewelry brand Falling Whistles wasn't born of one single idealist's vision, his hope of shedding light on the harrowing and oftentimes forceful enlistment of child soldiers in the war still ravaging the Democratic Republic of the Congo. When he first traveled to the Congo region, Falling Whistles founder Sean Carasso wasn't fulfilling the role of war correspondent, down-in-the-trenches philanthropist, budding diplomat, NGO coordinator, or medical care expert. He was simply there to support the labors of his friend, who had just founded TOMS Shoes, a company built on a "One for One" model whereby, for every pair of shoes sold, another pair of shoes is donated to a child in a Third World country. A show of support for his buddy, however, turned into an eye-opening experience, a life-changing moment that would force him to redefine his goals in life.

It all started when Carasso met five young boys, all under the age of 15, who had escaped two of the rebel armies only to wind up imprisoned in a military encampment, treated as enemies of the regime, knowing their future would probably involve even more fighting — but, this time, for the National Army. As Carasso spoke to the young boys, he learned that most of them had been kidnapped from their homes, separate from their families, beaten, tortured, forced to handle weapons, and thrust into the ranks of rebel armies. They recounted stories of countless other child soldiers, many of whom were placed on the front lines (quite literally), armed with nothing but whistles, which they were asked to blow if they spotted enemy combatants in order to warn the soldiers trailing behind them. These children essentially served as human shields, their unarmed bodies completely vulnerable to oncoming barrages of bullets, their lives at constant risk.

Horrified by what he'd seen and heard, Carasso made it his mission to involve the United Nations and Unicef and, with their help, free the five boys locked up in a cell for circumstances beyond their control. He discovered tons of bureaucratic are tape but, eventually, the boys were released. 

But there was so much more that could be done to help all the other children like them, particularly those whistle-blowing boys forced into the front lines. The image of these child soldiers haunted Carasso well past his return to the US.

Then, something unexpected happened: a friend gifted him with a whistle. Every time Carasso wore the whistle around his neck, he was asked about its meaning, its symbolism. A light bulb went on inside his mind: What if he created his own whistle necklaces and use them to raise awareness about the war in Congo? Shortly thereafter, Falling Whistles was born.

Each Falling Whistles necklace educates people by simply jump-starting conversations. The premise behind these pieces, then, is that open and honest dialogue is the first step toward a peaceful Congo, toward finding plausible resolutions to the existing conflicts in the region and to brainstorming about ways to advocate for those affected by war.

Fashion stylist and creative consultant Jennifer Margolin is currently curating the Whistles for Peace in the Congo sale event at AHAlife.com, during which customers can buy five different types of necklaces, with each etched whistle pendant measuring 3 5/8" in height and hanging from a nickle-plated ball chain or a suede strip  ($44 each at AHAlife.com). Shoppers can choose between: a gunmetal whistle on a nickel-plated ball chain, a black whistle on a nickel-plated ball chain, a bronze whistle on a black suede strand, a copper whistle on a black suede necklace, or a limited-edition brass whistle on a brown suede strand. All of the necklaces were manufactured in London using conflict-free materials sourced from Germany.

 Join the movement and become a whistleblower for peace.

Breathe Fire Into Your Look -- New Swatch Year of the Dragon Watch

Come January 23rd, it's Enter the Dragon time. No, we're not referring to a Bruce Lee marathon but, rather, to the official start of a new Year of the Dragon. Deemed the mightiest of the twelve signs in the Chinese zodiac, the dragon is said to be an independent thinker with a fiery character and an ambitious disposition that often culminates in professional success. Those born in a  Year of the Dragon (1976, 1988, 2000, and 2012, for instance) are said to possess these traits, though their specific attributes can be further distilled by looking at whether they're Earth, Fire, Water, or Air Dragons. 

To celebrate the Chinese New Year and the commencement of the Year of the Dragon, Swatch released the Year of the Dragon watch ($65 at Swatch.com), which features an inky blue illustration of the revered fire-breathing creature along the white silicone band, its whiskered head, pointed horns and clawed hand positioned along the upper half and its scaly tail undulating along the bottom half of the watch. Fire balls and cloud-like formations float around the mythical creature, while whimsical, Pop Art-ish arches made to resemble rounded ocean waves are stacked atop one another at the very bottom of the strap, near the row of notches.

The watch's dial, meanwhile, features a geometric grid of lines that adds a dose of modernity to the piece, balancing the traditional dragon symbolism and the Chinoiserie-worthy blue-on-white color scheme .

Even if you weren't born in the year of dragon, you should still scoop one up — after all, dragons are believed to bring good fortune in China and they've long been affiliated with imperial power. 

 

 

Shimmering New Year's Eve Fashions To Shimmy Stylishly Into 2012

Mirrored balls dropping at the stroke of midnight. Firework displays synchronized to classic symphonies. Fistfuls of glitter and confetti dancing in the air. Bubbles rising in freshly poured champagne flutes. Metallic party horns with tinsel-like fringe touting the promise of a brand new year.

Yes, gals, New Year's Eve is all about shimmer and shine, and your outfit should reflect this thematic thread— which, of course, means plenty of sequins, paillette panels, glitter embellishments, metallic beads, and embroidered colored crystals and stones.

Here, we've amassed some of our top picks for pulling off a festive New Year's Eve look.

Dannijo Esme Earrings, $295. Available at Dannijo.com

Like chrysanthemum firework formations, these clip-on earrings feature prong-set, elliptical shaped Swarovski crystals with pointed tips and diamond-shaped facets along their top surface. Round colored crystals adorn the center, while a brass metal plate surrounds this nucleus.

 

Robert Rodriguez Silk Sequin Panel Dress, $1126. Available at FarFetch.com

This simple beige dress features a toga-like braided rope belt at the waist and a dazzling rectangular panel made of tiny gold sequins along the front of the short-sleeved frock. 

 

French Connection Friday Clutch, $118. Available at Nordstrom.com

There's an Art Deco quality to this envelope-shaped clutch thanks to the gradient black, charcoal, gray, and pale silver sequins used to adorn the inside of the petal-like shapes which, together, form a floral design reminiscent of tropical water lilies. Each rounded petal shape is outlined by two rows of black beads and the black cotton backdrop features scattered black beads. The clutch itself measures 10" in width, 5" in height, an 3" in depth, making it roomy enough to carry all your New Year's Eve must-haves.

 

 

Pelle Moda Favilla Evening Sandal, $195. Available at JildorShoes.com

This pewter-colored leather sandal gives you quite the height boost thanks to the 4 3/4" heel and 1" platform, but it makes an even taller style statement thanks to straps embellished with seed beads, round faceted rhinestones, tube beads, and more. Though its design is fairly standard, the diagonal slant of the center strap and the way it seems to caress the top of the foot, makes this piece feel sexy and timeless.

 

 

 

Fiona Paxton Sequin Collar Necklace, $178.16. Available at US.ASOS.com

Worthy of a Roman goddess, this Fiona Paxton necklace rests right at the base of the neck, creating a collar-like effect. Four rows of golden beads discs are layered atop one another and trimmed with a double strand of round black beads along the inner edge, while a square clasp fastener keeps the piece perfectly positioned.

 

Citizen Eco-Drive Silhouette Crystal Bangle Watch -- A Time To Shine

With the global warming scenarios presented in An Inconvenient Truth becoming less of a theoretical discussion and more of a survival of the species affair, we all need to make a conscious effort to liberate ourselves from an battery-reliant existence. After all, the batteries needed to power everything from wristwatches to alarm clocks, remote controls, digital cameras, stereos, computers, recorders, cell phones, and electric razors all involve an environmentally hazardous manufacturing process — mainly, the manipulation of toxic substances like cadmium, cobalt, and lead. Rechargeable batteries represent a change in the right direction, but they can hardly be considered green — after all, once they end up in landfills, they can crack and leak toxins that pollute the soil in which they're buried, the surrounding air, and even nearby water sources. A truly environmental approach, then, involves the complete eradication of batteries and the search for alternate sources of power — chiefly, solar and wind power.

Luxury watch brand Citizen has been at the forefront of this eco-conscious effort thanks to its Eco-Drive collection, which consists of quartz watches that rely on solar conversion panels and energy cells that harness this converted light energy to properly function. These energy cells don't have a life span so that, technically speaking, you may never have to worry about replacing a battery again (score!). 

The latest addition to the Citizen Eco-Drive collection is the Silhouette Crystal Bangle ($200; visit CitizenWatch.com to locate a retailer), a slip-on watch with black dial, a round case measuring 21mm in diameter, and Swarovski crystals encrusted into the bezel. Not only is the water resistant timepiece a greener alternative to standard watches, but it's notably sleeker thanks to a streamlined design that's dainty without feeling too precious or princess-like. Along the top and bottom of the dial, you'll find a glistening, high polish, lengthy, rectangular link with a cut-out shape at its center. The other watch links are smaller in size, square with off-center bars connecting them together.

I've rarely found a woman's watch I was compelled to wear regularly, finding them either too cumbersome and bulky or too precious, with pink metallic details and pearl dials that made me positively nauseate. The Citizen Eco-Drive Silhouette Crystal Bangle, however, is small enough in size to feel feminine, but it still has enough of an industrial edge to maintain its cool factor. 

Does that make me an environmental law-abiding citizen? I like the sound of that!