Trends from JR Dunn

Key it in…

admin — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:08:31 +0000

Keys are a classic shape but interesting enough to add a playful touch to your ensemble. Investing in a piece of fine jewelry at this time, is especially good because it always maintains it’s value (take note: the price of gold is still rising!). The key shape is timeless and you’ll be wearing it for years to come. Bound to become an heirloom.

Roberto Coin Tiny Treasures Key Necklace

The Monica Rich Kosann key already has an antique feel

The Pianegonda signature key

Isabel Lucas: Unexpected Style Icon

admin — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:36:43 +0000

Spending most of her stardom low key, Isabel Lucas has been thrown quickly into the spotlight. I must admit I’ve never heard of her. As if the new Transformers 2 flick needs more hype, her media attention will definitely help even more. She co-stars in the movie with Shia LeBouf, who she was seen perusing with and Megan Fox. Come to find out, she is also the girlfriend of Entourage star, Adrien Grenier. She fight for animal rights. She joined in with Heroes girl, Hayden Panettiere to protest against whale hunting. Australian born, the reason she has my attention is for her impeccable style. She has an effortless beachy look yet she’s not afraid to take risks on the red carpet. I love the hat she rocked alongside her tv star beau. His style is pretty admirable too. Remember he was in The Devil Wears Prada. I would like to see her in some Marco Bicego jewelry. It’s a young line with a lot of color and texture. My dream look for the Aussie beauty is a simple stylish look that focuses on the accessories and can take you anywhere from red carpet to beach: lots of gold and glitz!

Some of her previous style choices, ensuring my confidence in her soon to be stardom, love that she had the courage to pull of this hat:

I love using contrasting colors, like the turquoise of this Marco Bicego bracelet with the purple

The citrine Marco Bicego ring complements the citrine in the bracelet

..and more gold with this Marco Bicego necklace and earrings

Quirky Batgirl Style with Jude Frances & Maggie Gyllenhaal

admin — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:45:46 +0000

As Batman Dark Knight continues to rake in the dough, Maggie Gyllenhaal, aka character Rachel Dawes has been on a promotional whirlwind. She plays the love interest of Bruce Wayne in the celebrated film. One to take fashion risks, she has gotten most of it right during these press events. She almost resembles a pin-up with classic make up and hair styles but is all over the board clothing wise. I like how her icy blue eyes always seem to be the focus. Although she was born in New York to filmmaker parents, she grew up a California girl. Jude Frances is a pair of best friends from Orange County with a passion for jewels. They have the motto “Just go for it” and their pieces are loved by women everywhere, including Oprah. I would love to see some of their pieces on Miss Gyllenhaal during her media montage. Jude Frances makes pieces for everyday wear and Maggie is just an ordinary girl being a mama, a movie star, (and part time batgirl) so they would flatter her look quite well.

Maggie in a batwing top in Barcelona

With her hair up, she definitely needs some black pearl earrings!

…and a right hand ring

With this outfit, I’d like to see a long necklace with the plunging neckline

…and some matching earrings

Lasso a Lariat Necklace

admin — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:49:33 +0000

Lindsay Lohan’s relationship status may be in question but at least she’s got something pretty around her neck. Due to the length of a lariat necklace, they’re very versatile. They are able to fit with any sort of neckline. If the fabgirls notice it, it’s fashionable in my book!
Here are some other lariat options:

Marco Bicego Gemstone & Gold Lariat Necklace

Mikimoto Pearl Lariat

Yvel Pearl Diamond Chain Lariat

Project Runway Afterthoughts: Portman & Hardy Environmental Duo

admin — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 16:21:22 +0000

Well like most fashionistas, Project Runway is a major obsession of mine. Last night featured the adorable Natalie Portman as a guest judge. Continuing with the green trend which I am actually quite tired of hearing about, they had to use organic materials such as jersey and hemp to create their garments. Doing good for the environment, however, should never get old. The dyes and heavy manufacturing of textiles has a negative impact of our environment. To add an even bigger twist, the designers were not able to shop for their own fabrics to create the model’s cocktail dresses. The models did the selecting of materials. It’s no secret that Natalie Portman is an environmental activist so she fit into this challenge perfectly. She even created a vegan shoe line which refuses to use animal products. 5% of sales from her shoes goes to charity. I would like to encourage a friendship between her and John Hardy. As spoken about before, he is a major environmentalist. His main cause is using bamboo instead of timber to build. He also works to offset carbon emissions. These two would sure have a lot to talk about! So looking at Suede’s design from last night made me want to accessorize it with John Hardy! After all, the talented Miss Portman said it’s something she would wear. Suede’s design was constructed of overlapping silk and hemp, beautiful! This challenge definitely promoted using organic fabrics so by purchasing a John Hardy jewelry piece, portions of the sale will be donated towards planting bamboo! Natural fabrics the Bali based Hardy, an environmentally friendly runway pairing!

The winning Project Runway Design by Suede accented by more subdued jewels

…and some sterling silver and diamond post earrings

The Green Challenge:

John Hardy Bamboo bracelets

Moneymaker Cameron, Spend on Mattioli

admin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:52:00 +0000

Moviemaker Cameron Diaz was named the top female moneymaker. While a down to earth Orange County girl, her style never suffers. Her effortless style is disheveled, yet put together. She likes to add bold bursts of color with accessories so Mattioli would fit nicely into her jewelry wardrobe. She said herself she likes her looks to be able to take her look anywhere. The Vertigo Collection by the famed Italian designer is also one to go off the beaten path but their baubles fit nicely with whatever else you place on your body. Mattioli were the first ones to introduce chocolate gold in their Cacao Collection. The jewelry has a modern sensibility with classic craftsmanship. Most of Mattioli’s modern, sophisticated pieces are based on the link and constructed out of yellow, white, chocolate, and rose 18K gold. I would describe them as a playful costume jewelry look but constructed into fine jewelry out of genuine diamonds, gemstones, mother of pearl, and gold; very fashionable. Cameron is one of America’s Sweethearts and Mattioli is one of Italy’s greatest imports. A step above the rest, like Miss Diaz, these quirky adornments by Mattioli are a splendid way for her to put that loot to good use.

Here are some jewels to add to Hollywood’s golden girl’s look. The yellow tones in her hair and skintone work quite well with the Golden jewelry. These blue mother of pearl earrings set off her electric eyes and she is often see in turquoise tinted stones.

This gemmed out Mattioli belt would be great worn loosely around the waist

And the orange mother of pearl ring adds just one more colorful touch and matches the tank

Hello Kitty Goes Legally Blonde

admin — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:34:58 +0000

Legally Blonde: The Musical is bringing all things girly and pink to the forefront. Bailey Hanks was crowned the new Elle Woods on MTV’s series Legally Blonde The Musical. The darling girl from the South had to learn to be more California. I sure hope she likes pink because as well all know, everything blush is favored by the flaxen one in the movies. Flaxen haired blonde, Bailey was even quoted as saying of Elle, “”I have some big pink pumps to fill.” Plus, she’ll be in a pink promotional frenzy and needs to be dressed the part. What accessories would better accent the rosy look than Hello Kitty? She’s a female classic but Kimora Lee Simmons presents pretty Hello Kitty fine jewelry featuring genuine diamonds, gemstones, enamel, and plenty of precious metals. So Bailey for all your pinkness as far as jewels go, Hello Kitty can meet those needs.

Princess Kitty Necklace with Pink Sapphires and Diamonds

Michele Watches are Interchangeable with Hello Kitty watch straps

A Pleasantly Pink Dress

Pink shoes are another major trend this summer

Presenting Bailey Hanks, Pink Princess

Spot this Bling!

admin — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 14:34:28 +0000

Diamonds aren’t just a girl’s best friend anymore. Men adorn themselves in the genuine white stone now too. Plus, people aren’t just making friends with diamonds but also gold, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and the list goes on!

Play Name Those Jewels

A Bracelet Isn’t Meant to be a Weapon!

Luxe Jewelry Crafter, Cartier Creates a MySpace?

Hayek Cash in that Ring for Some Coin

admin — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:25:11 +0000

Is Salma Hayek too hot to settle down? Apparently so, I mean she had a billionaire fiance, François-Henri Pinault (his family is estimated to be worth over $7 billion). He gave her the adorable bambina, Valentina. I guess she’s just not ready to tie the knot. Well she at least take advantage of that big bauble from on her left hand and buy some new ice! Instead of eating pints of ice cream, cash that sucker in and spend! Her ex is CEO of the Gucci/Yves St Laurent luxury goods division. She’s a classic style. She sticks to form-fitting dresses and womanly silhouettes, often having a business suit attire. With that pretty bronzed skin, I’d accent it with some yellow gold, some Roberto Coin. She does like to play with her jewelry and so does the famed Italian jeweler. After all, she does have a fondness for the Italian fashion duo, Dolce & Gabbana. For such a womanly body, I like this pink enamel and diamond ring set in rose gold from the Roberto Coin Cobra Collection. The pink tones are going to pop beautifully against her dark features. Given the ginormous size of her engagement ring, we’ve still got some money to spend so I’d put something on the neck and wrist too. Fortunately, Roberto thought of all that and made the exotic pattern in a necklace and bracelet too perfect for an exotic beauty like Ms. Hayek!

A Stylish Agreement

admin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:02:31 +0000

In Style iced out! The classic trends magazine came up with a list of some favorite jewelry designers that I must say I am in agreeance with although there are a few more I would have added to the list. Here are my own top ten jewelry designers.

Ten Dazzling Jewelry Designers

1. Chopard: This is the big jewelry company that Canne! These Swiss people is one of the shiniest stars at the Cannes Film Festival. They even have a partnership with the festival. Chopard designed The Golden Palm Award. The Chopard Award is handed out to new talent in the industry, a male and female revelation. The goal of the relationship between these two giants is to promote creativity in the movie business. Although they make watches, they are proving the Swiss are good at other things! This has helped boost Cannes as not just a European event but an international one. Chopard pieces are not for the faint of heart but one looking to stand out in the crowd.

Gwyneth Paltrow handed out the Chopard Award this year, looking ever so lovely in her jewels.

2. David Yurman: Controversy always creates hype. Using “Cokate” Moss as his spokesmodel right after her arrest, garnered him attention. His black and white advertisements are artwork in themselves. Kate is often photographed his long chain necklaces. Yurman also produces bold cocktail rings. His pieces are classic and basic. His concepts are “All American” and he strives to be a leader in premier jewelry and watches.

3. Stephen Dweck: An avid rock collector from New York City, Mr. Dweck got his start by partnering with fashion designers and showcasing his jewelry on the runways. The most famous piece from this guys was worn by Drew Barrymore. It was a mother of pearl collar that featured the gemstone still on the oyster’s half shell. Mr. Dweck willl travel around the world to collect gemstones for his works and brings elements of nature to every article especially considering a beetle named “Adam” that he incorporates in every piece. All of the pieces are one of a kind. This is all quite apparent with a glimpse of these colossal creations.

4. Judith Ripka: The talented Miss Ripka sets out to design jewelry that can be worn everyday. She is inspired by her European clothes designing mother. Mama taught her to find beauty in everything around her. A strong woman, Judith employs almost all women at her company. Her mission is to design jewelry with simple elegance that can be suited for any role a woman plays in her life. She embraces color and has quite an extensive palette. Kate Hudson embraced her inner Judith while waiting to become a mom herself.

5. Kenneth Jay Lane: Previously a shoe designer, Kenny boy started designing for classically famous females such as Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn (yes eventhough she was in Breakfast at TIFFANY’S!) in the 1960s then Princess Diana before her untimely death. Nowadays, thanks to home shopping network QVC, he is making it to the masses. Some celebutards are so dedicated they stated they would rather go naked than without KJL. His artsy accessories are quite quirky and costume. He even wrote his own memoir Faking It about stealing designs from Bvlgari and his adventures in faux jewels.

6. Pianegonda: A contemporary mixmaster of high fashion and Italian jewels, Franco Pianegonda is fairly new on the scene (1994 was his big break). Nonetheless, this makes him fresh and youthful. Assembled in Italy, his jewelry is like a sculpture worn on the body. He is passionate about inspiring dreams to the wearers. The pieces are constructed of hardwares like sterling silver, gold, and brass. Queen of the parasol, Rihanna, has been photographed in these avant garde pieces.

7. Kwiat: The darling diamond jewelry is another red carpet favorite. They are a little more old fashioned in their approach maybe partly due to their 100 year heritage. The collections have an antique feel to them and even feature brooches and clip earrings. In an effort to modernize their image, they paired up with fashion designer David Rodriquez to create a diamond strapped dress for Carrie Underwood at the Country Music Awards. They have been seen in many American Idol appearances so that makes sense. Another piece of art fabricated by the famed diamond designers were portraits of screen legends like Marilyn Monroe emblazoned with diamonds. Kwiat crafts their diamonds based primarily on cut to receive the most brilliance with the goal in mind to make create an heirloom piece.

Carrie from Sex and the City adorned in a Kwiat brooch

8. Bvlgari: This Italian corporation started by Greeks produces jewelry fit for mythological royalty! The products are modeled after ancient Greek and Roman art with au corant touches. It is pronounced with a “u” but spelled with a “v” like the old time Romans did. These luxurious jewels are incredibly detailed and the collections are eclectic. The empire has been extended into accessories, perfume and even hotels. The pieces are so desired and such a status symbol that they’re replicated. Due to that fact, each genuine piece has a serial number. Lucy Liu wore not only rubies from Bulgari but also carried a clutch at a regal whiskey event.

9. Roberto Coin: Not just your average Italian jewelry designer, Mr. Coin looks to constantly evolve the style of jewelry. In fact, he says that changing style is his style. He is dedicated to red. Every jewelry item has a ruby hidden somewhere which is said to bring a woman happiness and luck when in contact with her skin. He also donates to Youth AIDS. His jewelry is fun to wear. He even made a piece mocking a chili pepper spiced chocolate bar and a purse made entirely of gold thread and chains. Roberto’s style is for a curious, passionate woman.

10. John Hardy: He may not be related to the Ed, but his designs are just as rockin’! With Bali being his main residence, that is where he obtains the vision for his intricate pieces. He learned his craft from the master silversmiths of the island he lives on. He believes in “sustainable luxury”, that you can produce quality items while maintaining a healthy environment. His pieces are diverse and colorful. The fine construction work can be felt through the hammering, filigree, and flattening, and oxidation. Plus, he donates money to the preservation of ecosystems. With this bracelet, 26 bamboo trees are planted!