shoulder dusters

"Shoulder Duster Earrings" are often very dramatic and theatrical. And because of that, they require a certain type of posture, confidence, and attitude to look fabulous.

They make a bold statement and let your inner-gypsy out (just remember not to go overboard.) There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a pair of "Shoulder Duster Earrings":

1. Be bold
2. Keep it simple
3. Go for chain as opposed to bling
4. They should hit within an inch of your shoulders (no shorter)
5. Ideally, they should be set on a stud (never on a hook because the weight would be off and they would look cheap)

Here are a few of my favorite "Shoulder Duster Earrings" for you to check out (below):

via rockandchain.blogspot.com

1. Guess Silver Tone Chain Earrings
2. Leslie Danzis Gunmetal Shoulder Cubic Zirconia Duster Earrings
3. Soo Ihn Kim Portia Knot Earrings
4. Max & Chloe Real Jewels Long Chain Earrings

Hold your head up, look pretty, sip on a glass a wine, and show off those pretty long strands of chain when you hit the town this summer!

geometric

I have had a number of friends asking me about stacking bracelets recently and also where to get good ones without having to spend a fortune because they do add up (pun intended).

Today, I am wearing a simple ensemble by Forever21 (below: be sure to check out the Instagram feed for pics), mixing a stretch bracelet (Contract Geo) and a set of gold bangles. 

via Forever21

I love the geometric design and the deco-inspired black/white/gold combo. The bangle is the perfect size and so easy to mix and match with other pieces. 

Forever21 has an amazing collection of bracelets and bangles this summer. I have selected a few favorites with the same color palette below.

rockandchain.blogspot.com via Forever21

You can check them out here: top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right. 

Stacking begins with a focal piece and any of the above bracelets could do that for you. Then keep adding other smaller bangles/bracelets to build your "arm candy." I am more of a purist and less willing to mix colors but if you really feel like it, go ahead and throw in a colorful piece, too. 

sail away

There is something magical about the beginning of summer. Summer means fun. Summer means blue sky, sunshine, beach, and the ocean. And, of course, nautical fashion embodies all the sentiments of summer: effortless, fun, and very colorful.

Nautical-inspired jewelry can be either super-sophisticated (think the Hamptons) or care-free and playful (think SoCal.)  I have selected a few pieces (below) that will be your besties this summer.

via von mauer

I love all the color and sparkle of these fun Betsey Johnson Yacht Club Sailboat and Anchor Linear earrings (above.) It's also refreshing to see blue/yellow replacing the more traditional blue/red color combination.

via J. Crew

This classic J. Crew Anchor Bead Pendant necklace (above) is perfect for any occasion, from business meetings and happy hours to pool-side parties and weekend strolls.

via Max & Chloe

The Ben Amun Blue Cord Gold Plated Bangle by Max & Chloe (above) is gorgeous solo or as part of your stacked bracelet ensemble.

via Kate Spade

And last but not least, this sweet and simple Sailor's Knot Ring by Kate Spade (above), which is a really great everyday piece to wear.

I have given you the "tools", now go "build it", make a splash, and remember to have fun!