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!

neon

Neon is cool again - I think we all know that by now! From runways to streets, we are literally blinded by the bright neon fashion. And again, being a jewelry fanatic, I prefer to go neon with accessories rather than clothing.

So, as you can see, I have a gradual plan here for "neon beginners" all the way to "neon experts", and it goes like this: 

1: "neon beginner"

via etsy

Girly, artsy, and minimal, this cute necklace is made of brass and hand-painted with hot pink acrylic. It's a great day-time piece to wear to express your inner "art student." 

2: "neon intermediate" 

via net-a-porter

You can never go wrong with a Marc Jacobs and that is indeed the case here. This adorable acetate neon star pendant is on a double-chain brass and neon set. It's cool, funky and very much reminiscent of the 80s playful neon craze. 

3: "neon advance"

via revolve clothing

This CC Skye Neon Multi-Chain Necklace is glam-rock through and through. Keep the backdrop simple; a plain black tee or a strapless would do the trick.

4: "neon expert"

via Juicy Couture

I love this neon bib necklace by Juicy Couture mostly for its versatility. You can spin it anyway you want: casual, sophisticated, or dressy. Wear it alone or layer with other silver-tone chains. 

Just remember, neon is synonymous with fun... so whichever you decide to go with, just have fun with it! 

classic

Every once in a while my eyes catch a truly classic piece of jewelry that is a wardrobe staple - something unique yet simple and practical.

The reversible gold-plated brass oval ring by Maison Martin Margiela (below) deserves the equivalent of an Oscar for "Best Picture." The meticulous design, the flawless details, the finish, and the creativity all around, makes this ring a must-have.

via net-a-porter

I love the subtle masculine undertones in its shape and design. It's simple and timeless, which is pretty much the secret recipe for a classic piece of jewelry.

Simplicity always wins.