These new bib necklaces are the new must have fashion accessory!

 They can be worn with a simple t-shirt and your favorite pair of jeans, a cute cocktail dress or under a leather jacket. They can be dressed up or down, no matter the occasion.  Whether your going to dinner or catching a movie with the girls don’t forget to tie on your bib you will catch everything that comes your way! Especially the eyes

Cairo Muse: Noor

Noor, one of the first to hear about FashionThreads and spread the word amongst her friends, has always impressed me with her versatile style.  The editorial associate at Enigma is pursuing her career in the fashion industry attending the Dubai Fashion Week, store openings and more, she even got acclaimed by Grazia UAE as best dressed at the Dubai Fashion Week; but seriously, lets move on to her, yet again, amazing outfit.  The all black look Noor is sporting can be defined as elegant, timeless, stylish, and sexy; all without trying too hard!  Noor is sporting a LBD, every girl’s wardrobe staple; click here for my LBD article.  The fashionista topped it off with a perfect trench, which she kept looking young and modern when she pushed the sleeves up.  Then come the accessories, the suede boots are the perfect shape but the statement jewelry add a spark to  the all black outfit; the gold chain necklace and statement large ethnic rings worn on her hands painted with deep purple nail polish.  Take a cue from Noor, an outfit doesn’t need a lot of everything to look chic!

Noor's Statement Jewelry

More is more this season, so don’t be afraid to really go for the gusto with a fun piece like statement jewelry. Big, bold, and expressive is a “do”. Show people who you really are with  jewelry that shines and sparkles!

Rocking the statement jewelry.

This is a look that’s best paired with simple, chic clothes that will show off the jewelry to its fullest extent, like on these two celebrities above.

- Margaret Westenhoff

Grace Kelly Crystal Necklace

This brilliant necklace features 90+ Glass Crystals and a Silver Plated Spring Ring Clasp. Length: 17 inches. Handcrafted by Laura Stafford Jewelry.

Click above for Jackie O Necklace

Click above for Jackie O Necklace

Click above for Jackie O Necklace

Click above for Jackie O Necklace

This Triple-Strand Faux Pearl Necklace is a classic, inspired by style icon Jackie O.

It’s 18 inches long and features a Silver Plated Spring Ring Clasp.

Handcrafted by Laura Stafford Jewelry, it’s  truly stunning.

Check out my Brand New Store! Laura Stafford Jewelry is now on 1000 Markets.

I upgraded my e-commerce storefront from E-crater to 1000 Markets and it was so worth it.

Click above to visit Laura Stafford Jewelry

Just a few short weeks after the one year anniversary of Undercover Computer Geek, the site reached a whopping total of  15,000 views!

How It All Began

How did I choose the name Undercover Computer Geek? Well, to put it simply – nobody believed me when I told them I was really a computer geek at heart. So I decided that I would just let my work speak for itself.

I signed up to do a Co-op at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. My professor suggested that instead of doing the standard 7 – 10 page essay, I should just document what I’m learning by posting in a blog format.

Here’s my academic proposal:

I need to develop my skills. Being interested in communication and media and marketing is no longer enough. Although I’m going to graduate with a degree in Economics – it’s not my passion.

This blog will document my attempt to learn the world of internet marketing, the ins and outs of search engines, and online social media networks. I’m optimistic about the future and I absolutely believe that the internet is going to be essential – more so than it already is.

Undercover Computer Geek

I was focused on communication, media and marketing in terms of Web 2.0. My goal was to understand and simplify the world of internet marketing, the ins and outs of search engines, and online social media networks.

Along the way I discovered a passion for graphic design. Through online Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop tutorials, I taught myself how to be a better designer and how to create a presence on the internet.

My Portfolio

LauraStafford.com is my online portfolio.

What I’m Doing Now

Currently, I’m pursuing a love of fashion and design. As you’ve probably seen, Laura Stafford Jewelry is my handcrafted jewelry line. I create stunning Statement pieces that can be worn day to night.

Click the image to Shop Statement Necklaces

I’m using my social media skills and trying to leverage my knowledge of SEO and company branding through free online social networks.

Click Above to Visit Laura Stafford Jewelry

]]> http://undercovercomputergeek.com/2009/10/27/are-you-ready-for-your-fashion-close-up/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 21:18:51 +0000 Laura Stafford http://undercovercomputergeek.com/2009/10/27/are-you-ready-for-your-fashion-close-up/

Silver Cluster Earrings by Laura Stafford - only $24.99

jewelry  is dramatic, yet sophisticated (and affordable!).

I love making jewelry that makes a statement and doesn’t break the bank.

The collection also offers many bold and beautiful pieces that can make the transition from day to night.

Bridal Briolette Crystal Earrings

Click image to visit Laura Stafford Jewelry

Shop the Collection

http://laurastafford.ecrater.com

WHEN JEWELRY NEEDS TO BE OVER-THE-TOP…

I was watching Project Runway the other day, and their challenge was to create on over-the-top look, something like a Bob Mackie piece, and of course, he was one of the judges.

The contestants had difficulty reaching beyond their usual boundaries. And I started thinking about jewelry. Sometimes you want to create pieces that are very theatrical, dramatic, glamourous, statement pieces. You want something that would attract someone’s attention across the room, as well as standing beside the wearer. In short, over-the-top.

One jewelry artist who succeeds well at this challenge is Mina d’Ornano, owner of MinaPoe in Paris, France. A Parisienne with Slavic origins, Mina d’Ornano was an actress, screenwriter and director before she decided to channel her creativity into fashion: “My fashion desires came from a feeling of frustration. Never finding what I wanted to wear finally inspired me”.

Inspiration and motivation are key themes behind her minaPoe creations – she is constantly on the look-out for the finest materials and has a preference for soft, luxurious and colorful fabrics, which she combines with precision and harmony. Her pieces have that sense of drama. They seem timeless. They catch the eye as would a chest of treasure. They surprise. They are playful. People see her pieces and want to talk about them.

Click above to visit Laura Stafford Jewelry

Over the last few months I have been designing and creating a handcrafted jewelry line that I’m really, really proud of. It’s stunning. It’s wearable. It’s affordable.

Laura Stafford Jewelry includes a fantastic range of necklaces - from the chic, sophisticated Audrey Hepburn Inspired Faux Pearl Necklace to the ultra-cool New York City – Black & White Triple Strand Statement Necklace.

To publicly announce the Grand Opening of Laura Stafford Jewelry, I wanted to create the most stunning ad campaign possible. I designed the advertisement above in Adobe Illustrator – I love it!

Unless you’re down here with me in Miami, or you’re still enduring the heat in the southwest, you are officially cold now. Hang in there. You can get warm feelings by just looking at what’s on eBay for Fall this week.

BaNaNAS. Dries van Noten shoes. $129.50 with just over a day left. WORTH IT!

Manolo Blahnik Boots. These are CCCRRRRAAAAAAAZZZZZZYYYYY!!!!!!. The cut-outs at the top are so hot. This is a must-buy if this is your size (7.5)!!!! $169.49 with one day left. Worth every cent and so much more.

Balenciaga Dress. Perfect in every way. $102.50, ending tonight!

A classy Salvatore Ferragamo purse. I love the heavy gold hardware. $76 with a day remaining.

I am dying over this Jean Paul Gaultier mesh top. I freaking LOVE it! $36 with just over a day to go.

Another Dries van Noten shoe the lady who can rock python. $76 with about a day and half left.

This Yohij Yamamoto coat is easily one of the coolest black coats I’ve seen in a while, due to cool geometry and alternating fabrics. $68, one day left.

I have no idea what year this BCBG coat came from, but it’s awesome and definitely a rare sort of thing with that vibrant blue fur. If you are the anti-wallflower who loves vintage stuff, this is for you. And it’s only $30 with a day remaining.

Charles Winston Rooster Ring. Something different, and something that would normally cost a lot more. $19 with 12 hours left.

Cynthia Steffe Coat. Retailed for nearly $500. Now $65 with 10 hours left. Over the last year I developed an addiction for everything lavendar, which, along with the wonderful price, is making it hard to ignore coat.

It’s Miu Miu. It’s Sparkly. It’s Bronze. I want it. Only $23.50 ending tonight.

Dries Van Noten Circular Scarf. These are getting more and more popular, so you’ll probably see circular scarves everywhere soon. I just love anything that’s yellow + neutral.

A rare oppoutunuty to get anything MK2k this cheap. It pays to search for lesser known labels – $9 with less than 24 hours left. This easily retailed for $250 or more.

Christian Dior black leather gloves. A classic staple, currently at $21 with just a day remaining.

A truly gorgeous Louis Verdad houndstooth wool blazer in brown and pale blue. So feminine. And just look at the awesome lapel and all the leather accents… I might have to get this one.

Prada Boots. $51.50 with 4 days left.

Joan Boyce Bracelet. I love all her pieces. $70, ending tonight.

I can’t believe a Marni leather coat is only $92 with 3 days left. The retail on this had to be at least $1700… no seriously… that’s what Marni coats cost.

Bottega Veneta crushed velvet boots. Only $45.44 with a day left.

Lovely vintage Christian Lacroix sunglasses. $124, just over a day left.

A chic Marlowe cashmere sweater with attached scarf. I am seeeeeeriously wanting this.

Take advantage of a good price on a great Cole Haan bag while you still can. $51 with 3 days left.

I had to include this Dries van Noten Coat. I mean, come on. $152.50 with just over a day left. People are going bid agressively on this.

Did you win something awesome on eBay lately? Send me a pic at elanarobinson@gmail.com, and tell me all about it so I can show it off for you on the blog!

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT underestimate the impact of powerful jewelry. Bold colors, luxe materials, large links and shiny metal can literally transform your weekend wear to something club-appropriate in a snap of a finger. No need to wash it, scrub it, fold it, iron it or dry it; and it won’t kill your tootsies at the end of the day, either. In fact, with a killer necklace dangling next to that beautiful face, no one will even look down to see what’s on your feet. Plus, you don’t have to pair other accessories with it, so it cuts your prep time into just four easy steps: Dress, shoes, necklace, purse. Done!

Katherine Heigle, Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon and Sandra Bullock all look stunning in a simple dress and a WOW necklace. And First Lady Michelle Obama is probably the woman who single-handedly brought back the statement necklace, as she re-introduced American women to the sheath dress, to biceps, to statement jewelry, and to the importance of wearing them all at once.

As you’ve probably seen, the statement necklace is BIG this season. And I don’t just mean big in size, I mean bigger-than-big in the same way that leggings have taken over our weekend wardrobe, replacing our trusty jeans and sneakers. The huge necklaces are already showing up on A-listers and have been touted by fashion editors in every magazine, from the budget-friendly to the couture-focused. Glamour magazine’s Suze Yalof said that “a big, fab necklace is the ultimate confidence booster. A bold one draws attention to your best feature: a beautiful smile!” And fashion designer and Project Runway guest judge Michael Kors agrees: “Know the power of jewelry. There’s nothing like a necklace with some dramatic, colorful gemstones (faux or not) to make a woman look like a million bucks.” From chains to pearls to plastic, the statement necklace can be found in any material, in any store, and at any price. If you want to go neon or spiky, by all means, buy the cheap-y necklace and be on your way. But if you plan to embrace this trend — one that will be, no doubt, as long-lasting as those leggings — then spring for a statement piece that you truly adore and that will go the distance.  Stella & Dot jewelry offers instant impact, major style and high quality for an affordable price and offers dozens of on-trend, statement necklaces to fit any budget, including several faves that have already been featured in InStyle, Marie Claire and Cosmo this season. So, have fun and take your pick:

1. not ready to put away your favorite dresses yet? throw one on over a white t-shirt and ta-da! you have an outfit that will work with the changing seasons we are now encountering. pair with leggings or opaque tights.

dress: $22 at forever 21

2. not ready to bundle up in a bulky, wool scarf yet? bring out your inner punk and wrap a checkered scarf around your neck to add a little color to your outfit.

scarf: $10 at a stand at warped tour lol

3. add a professional flair to a t-shirt in jeans with a button up jacket or blazer. works for casual Fridays at the office or with heels for a night out

blazer: $30 at kohl’s

4. if you are short on time and have absolutely nothing to wear, throw on a piece of statement jewelry to add instant style to your white t-shirt.

necklace: $8 at an antique show

5. just because winter is around the corner, it doesn’t mean you have to dress in boring shades. let the color live on in the form of brightly colored cardigans!

cardigan: $15 at old navy

6. if your not into the checkered scarf look or think it’s totally “out”, try a silk scarf that even your granny would be proud of.

scarf: $6.99 at forever 21

7. if you haven’t heard by now, plaid is in. very in. wear open or closed over your t-shirt with some layered necklaces to avoid the “farmer effect”.

shirt: $15 at forever 21

8. keep warm this fall with an Amelia Earhart inspired leather bomber jacket. looks great with jeans & uggs for the cool days that are upon us.

jacket: $29 at target

want to know other ways to get more wear out of those basic items in your closet? suggest some items for me to review and see what I can come up with! you never know what new ideas you will get… I’m just sayin’

Our 2nd annual fall fashion show was absolutely AMAZING! The  store was packed and we drew a crowd outside that tried to get peak at all the excitement brewing inside.  All of the models looked stunning. Immediately after the show guests rushed the racks to grab their favorite items that they saw on the catwalk! The show  featured custom pieces by Leanne of L Designs, FLIRT cuffs, and all the new HAWT styles at www.joeyeric.com.  DJ Maxx set the atmosphere with cutting edge music.  Special thanks to all that made this event a HUGE SUCCESS! The event was such a hit that we have decided to add an annual SPRING FASHION SHOW as well beginning March 2010, stay tuned. Here are a few pics from the show. To view our photo album, become a FAN of JOEY ERIC on facebook! Also, click link http://bit.ly/WwoP1 to view article about the event.

Join us on facebook and TWITTER for all things fashionable and fun!

super model- Shanee

super model- Acacia wearing a JOEY ERIC circle scarf

Joey Eric's very own...IVY!!! work it!!!

amazing model- Ms. Keisha!

 

GO Kelsey!!!

Fall is in the air and instead of an annual contemplation of packing up and moving to the tropics, I’m offering you an alternative: embrace this season with a gorgeous statement necklace-the hottest accessory for fall.  Statement necklaces are practically an essential when the cold weather hits because anything less is guaranteed to get lost in sweaters and layers upon layers of clothing.  It just makes sense to don something with more substance to complement the heavier fabrics and textures in your fall wardrobe. Added bonus: try one of these necklaces with your neutral fall staples and watch your look effortlessly come alive. It’s the easiest and most economical way to rework what’s in your closet and look fabulous as ever (recession be damned).

Here are some of my favorites with suggested clothing pairings to give you some inspiration:

This is a Swarovski crystal and feather necklace paired with a chocolate vest for a casual glam look. It’s a no brainer to pair this piece with an evening outfit but what I wanted to show here is that you can make it appropriate for daytime as well. I also thought that the simple bangle set in the pic is a nice complement to this statement stunner.

This is my absolute favorite one of a kind necklace made from vintage blond mink fur and a silver necklace with polki stones. The necklace clips into the fur collar and looks fantastic with a simple black top. In the summer you can unclip the fur collar and wear the beautiful silver bib part of the necklace on its own.

Velvet is huge this season so I though it would be nice to accessorize a velvet jacket. This bright pink jacket looks great with a touch of a burgundy garnet necklace. The monochromatic palette creates a sophisticated silhouette that’s eye catching without being gaudy. I also love pairing the 60 inch garnet chain necklace with this look to add interest beyond the neck area. This type of chain necklace looks great when worn at its full length for the evening, but can be wrapped around your neck several times for a daytime, work-friendly look.

Two necklaces are combined to create this look. One is a bold carnelian, gold vermeil, and citrine piece and the other is a long simple carnelian string. Here again I like to create visual interest around the neck and bust area and then weave it down through the rest of the ensemble.

This bib is executed in a classic combination of black (onyx) and white (rainbow moonstone). I like it paired with a green blouse with a black and white paisley print for unexpected color and print combinations. This piece would also work wonders worn with a head-to-toe black and white palette-timeless, chic, and sophisticated.

And the finale…drum roll…Zsa Zsa sporting her own version of a statement necklace: sequined pink tulle!

Please note you can find most of the necklaces featured here under “New Arrivals” on www.tribalcouture.net as well as under “Necklaces.” Some of these will be available for purchase on the website in a couple of days but most are already listed.

Anéis em ouro onde você pode reproduzir qualquer vila ou casa, ou cidade com um preciosismo inacreditável: trata-se do trabalho da Philippe Tounaire, uma joalheria francesa. Para exemplificar, vejamos Paris e Nova York:

Quer ver como faz pra pedir um e o processo de cada modelo?! Olha só:

Incrível né?! No site têm muita coisa linda, as coleções são muito bacanas.

I have always loved Madeleine Albright.

My dream as a girl was to become the first woman Secretary of State. It was the only secretarial job I was ever interested in. I still imagine it as my dream job. You get to travel all around the world as a person of influence, representing great power,and meet really interesting, history-making individuals. Albright beat me there as a history-maker herself, and as it turns out, some equally formidable women have since followed in her path.

I, of course, admire her as a woman of intelligence, depth, and substance. Secretly, however, I am heartened that a woman can accomplish so much, undeterred by really unfortunate hair. Of all my physical insecurities, hair has got to be number one. Like Madeleine, I too have really thin, fine hair. Her’s is more of a receeding hairline, where mine is more like my dad’s – a thinning patch right on top. (Maybe this wouldn’t bother me so much if I were tall.) So please, if you see me on the street, try not to stare at my head. I work very hard to maintain the illusion of “normal”.

And now I have another reason to love her even more: Today I have learned that she has a new book coming out called Read My Pins. Apparently, she used her jewelry as a diplomatic tool back in the day. Oh, as if I didn’t love her enough, to find she can accessorize with style and wit! What better way to make a point than with a pin?

I have decided that I shall adopt this practice. I have always loved “statement” jewelry, but I think I can take this to a whole new level. Now, anyone know where I can get a skull brooch that shoots lasers from its eye sockets?

This cute Alexis Bittar bubble/shell ring is similar to a ring that my sister bought me last year around Christmas. This is great edition to any fashionista’s wardobe.

Since this is my first official Tribal Couture blog entry as a first order of business I’d like to welcome everyone to jewelry our site (www.tribalcouture.net) and my blog.

I’m going to steal a line from Rachael Zoe when I say “excessories* are everything.” This seemed to be a fitting topic for my first blog for 2 reasons: 1) Most of Tribal Couture collection is defined by this Rachel term 2) Many people are extremely intimidated by bold, dramatic jewelry.

In the interest of brevity, I’d like to focus this entry on discussing the statement rings subset of the bold jewelry world. Here’s my response to the most common concerns I get from buyers:

Concern #1: “Where will I wear this?”

My Response: Everywhere! Cocktail rings are no longer a red carpet only piece. In fact what makes them a jewelry must have is that they easily transition from a jeans and cami accessory to an evening gown accessory. They add glamor and style to the most basic of outfits. On top of that they’re effortless to match with virtually any ensemble and take a second to throw on as you’re running out the door. Check out my favorites that are both glam and versatile posted throughout this blog entry (available for purchase at www.tribalcouture.net).

Concern #2: “I’m too short to wear big jewelry” or “My hands are too small for a large ring”

My Response: If you have a small frame it’s all the more reason to wear bolder pieces! Now, I’m not suggesting that you get blinged out in large jewelry head to toe if you’re five foot nothing (in fact very few people can get away with wearing several large pieces at once regardless of height). However, I am saying that bold jewelry adds some strength and attitude to your look that can be especially beneficial for women with smaller frames that don’t naturally command attention.  As far as hand size is concerned the truth of the matter is that as long as your fingers are proportionate to your hand (size and length wise), statement rings will look fabulous on you! The only time I would advise against investing in a large ring is if your fingers are particularly short and stubby in relation to the rest of your hand. If that’s the case avoid drawing attention to your hands and opt for a statement necklace instead.

Concern #3: “I can’t pull off this look.”

My Response: This one trips me up every time! It’s like women get stuck on this image of themselves that they conjure up in their minds and unfortunately lots of the time it’s not a pretty picture. We tend to wait to get thinner, richer, prettier before we deem ourselves worthy of commanding attention. Well ladies, take a page from the guys’ playbook and get over it! Enjoy and learn to appreciate who you are now and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone every now and again.

Bold style projects strength and confidence which is always sexy. So for all the delicate flowers out there who stumble on this blog, I suggest you get past your fears of big pieces and give a statement ring a try. For women with larger frames it goes without saying that larger pieces are ALWAYS the way to go. Wearing an itty bitty chain or ring will drown out the jewelry and make your body seem gigantic in relation to the pieces you’re wearing. NOT flattering!

*excessories = larger than life pieces of jewelry. i.e. chandelier earrings, cocktail rings and statement necklaces.