Rachel Burklund Designs

Archive for April, 2010

Jewelry Trend… MORE: unique, one-of-a-kind, avant garde

Monday, April 12th, 2010

jewelry

We want MORE! That is the current mind set. Having a beautiful product is not enough, there has to be a “MORE” factor… the jewelry has to be of lasting value, it has to be ultra unique in design and created with new materials and it has to last the tell of time with a timeless, collector quality.

A few designers who are designing with these additional  values are Cathy Waterman, who is using calming inspiring messages integrated into her elegant gold rings. The word “listen” is written in her beautiful jewelry pieces, for example. Or, Dean Harris who’s amazing raw stone necklaces are all about the unique, one of kind feel you get from his stones. He is using the stone to be the focus, giving high value to obtain such a rare unique gemstone. Similarly, Rettore is creating edgy, super avant garde jewelry items integrating oxidized silver with black diamonds and hints of gold. The designs are so innovative. The after effect of the sterling silver with slight oxidation gives a sea urchin appearance to the design. This cutting edge technique gives the cuff bracelet extreme character and a timeless nature.

House of Waris is also using materials and fresh design ideas to give their brand a sought after label. The materials are dark and edgy giving this ring featured, a particular one of a kind feel, covered in black diamonds and oxidized gold it has a fresh style we all crave. Cocktail rings are completely now, receiving more attention than wedding rings. With cocktail rings and right hand rings there are no limits, the stones are over-sized and the details are exquisite and outrageous, there are no rules and the more they are broken the better! The last designer who I feel is at the top of the charts is Alexis Bittar, with his Lucite bangles that are adorned in beautiful stones, they are totally fresh and in a class of their own. Lucite is an amazing material and Bittar has dominated the market with his fresh chunky necklaces and large cuffs. He does it all, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, you can have a whole Lucite family with Alexis Bittar and still feel like you could own his whole collection, his pieces are so unique that they each have their own style.

Fave 5: jewelry, fashion, style blogs I adore

Tuesday, April 6th, 2010

blog

There are so many brilliant blogs, it is inspiring to read about where designers and stylists get their tips of the trade and what motivates them in their careers. I also read a variety of blogs and would love to share them with you and also hear what you are reading too. So here they are, my fave five.

1. Decades Inc.

Vintage oh beautiful vintage. Decades in LA houses the best vintage collection, period. Their pieces are exquisite stunning collector items. I love looking, and window shopping to see what is new in this amazing shop. When in LA I always make it a point to stop in for a visit. I am always impressed!!

2. Garance Dore

Garance is not only a very talented stylist and photographer, she is also a brilliant artist. Her illustrations are so graceful and elegant. Her photography has a romantic feel mixed with this super edgy totally Parisian chic. I love it! Watch her video posting of Fashion Week Fall/ Hol ‘11, you will adore it!

3. JAK & JIL BLOG

Beautiful photographs, incredible style and a diverse range of clothing, this blog is one to follow. I love the layout, the typography but most of all the content is spot on with some of the freshest style. They capture the zeitgeist of fashion.

4. The Glamourai

The Glamourai is pure inspiration to me. She is a jewelry designer, clothing designer, and all around creative genius. She creates wearable art that is one of kind not reproduced and extremely unique. I love to support other artists and designers and give each other credit and appreciation. She deserves so much respect!

5. Jewelry Business Guru by Cindy Edelstein

Cindy is always progressive with the latest jewelry trends and what is happening. She gives much needed news on the industry and provides valuable interesting information. Her articles are current, to the point and provide much depth.