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Figural Accessories (And Why We LOVE Them)
Figural Accessories (And Why We LOVE Them) by Morgan Watkins
For fashion lovers across the world, accessories add a bit of joy and pizazz to everyday life. It’s not a coincidence that women adore receiving handbags and jewelry as gifts: accessories make people happy. But out of all the jewelry out there that could make a girl smile, figural jewelry is at the top of the food chain. With their cooky shapes and fun motifs, figural accessories are the perfect way to spice up any dull outfit. Keep on reading to get the lowdown on these fun fashion pieces.Although figural jewelry has been created since man first began constructing jewelry during B.C. times, it was around the 1940s that figural jewelry reached vast popularity among the masses. Accessories became a way of accessing happiness in otherwise dark times, as The Great Depression had just run its course and World War II was at its heyday. Thus as a means to inject a bit of sparkle and sunshine into the mundane, downcast nature of everyday living, figural jewelry was a great fashion escape.
(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/starfish-figural-sparkling-sea-hair-pin-accessory)
For those who are still a bit unsure about what figural jewelry and accessories are, they’re basically pieces that depict figures such as animals, human shapes, fruit, flowers, and more. The most common form of figural jewelry is the brooch or pin, but necklaces, bracelets, and rings are also apart of the figural family. These whimsical pieces can be fashioned with all kinds of materials, ranging from sterling silver floral pins dazzled with multicolored gems to simple copper rings topped off with beaded strawberry shapes.
(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/whimsical-watermelon-fruit-novel-approach-pink-gree n-figural-wooden-handcrafted)
Bringing the witty, fantastical fun of figural accessories into the modern world is notable and revered designer Betsey Johnson. Most famous for her out of this world handbags, Betsey is a vintage goddess designing for the most fearless women in fashion, including the likes of Katy Perry, Rachel McAdams, and Taylor Swift. Her bags have come in a gaggle of varying shapes, colors and sizes, ranging from bright pink flamingo crossbodies to typewriter inspired shoulder bags. Johnson keeps an air of magical whimsy both in stores and on the runway, finishing off her shows with spontaneous cartwheels that are as gleeful as her designs.
(Image from https://wanelo.co/p/32633388/betsey-johnson-typewriter-satchel-dillards)
DORIAN Designs, also known for producing wild figural jewelry in the 1980s, creates animal inspired pieces that are sure to pique the interest of any animal lover. The brand’s vintage accessories are greatly detailed, hand-carved and hand-painted to perfection. Animals like horses, bears, and leopards (oh my!) swing from cord to create necklaces of novelty and amusement. As perfect conversation starters with great personality, DORIAN Designs’ necklaces have you covered for figural jewelry with a bark that’s as fierce as its bite.
(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/dorian-designs-whimsical-figural-horse-necklace-han dpainted-wood-large-figural-authentic-vintage-jewelry-signed-collectible-talkingfashion-1 )
With endless possibilities stemming from figural jewelry, there truly is something for everyone. You can show off your love for animals, rep your admiration for gardening, and even sport your fascination with cars: all you have to do is find your perfect piece and rock it like its 1940. For the best of the best in figural accessories, or to sell your own novelty vintage jewelry, check out talkingfashion.net!
(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/sailboat-sailing-sea-boat-figural-pin-brooch-whimsical -orange-large-pewter-gold)
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Designer Spotlight: Angela Caputi
Designer Spotlight: Angela Caputi
By Paige Mckirahan
(photo credits to advancingwomenartists.com)
This week, we figured that it would only be appropriate to spotlight one of our favorite Florentine designers, Angela Caputi, as she is a lover of the cross motif. Working out of a small shop in the historical "Palazzetto Mediceo", this bijoux aficionado has been creating pieces reminiscent of 1940s American Hollywood since 1975. Her brand quickly became popularized in the world of couture costume jewelry, catching the eyes of consumers, museums, and high fashion stylists alike. These pieces of art are heavily researched and always evolving; her signature style involves pieces that are created using simple materials with a variety of curated colors and shapes. In her domination of the global market, her creations have seen many movie sets and high fashion shoots since the brand's conception. Interested in owning one of her awe-inspiring bijoux artworks, click here to see what we have to offer! For more on her story, we invite you to visit her website.
Sources:
Angela Caputi: History. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.angelacaputi.com/en/history/
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Faith & Fashion
Faith & Fashion by Morgan Watkins
Although styling looks with religious jewelry is not a new concept, it seems to be having a major moment in the fashion universe. The latest Heavenly Bodies Met Gala and exhibit resulted in looks so exquisitely sultry, it should be a sin. But what are the true origins of Catholic inspired fashions, Christian cross necklaces and other religious dressings that have been commodified for the general public to wear? Keep reading to learn more about religious jewelry.The Cross
Cross necklaces have been a symbol of faith for followers of Christ since the times of the Roman Empire in the 4th century. Not only does this powerful accessory show Christian, or Catholic, faith, but it also serves as a form of spiritual protection for the wearer. These necklaces can also be gifted to individuals at baptisms and confirmation ceremonies, with simple crosses or embellished ones showcasing diamonds and even birthstones. For decades, the spiritual significance associated with cross jewelry has faded as icons in pop culture, like Madonna and Billy Idol, have turned the spiritual items into fashion fads. Cross necklaces have also been worn in political contexts to criticize popular religious beliefs that work towards shaming women for their individuality and sexuality. But no matter the rhyme or reason for wearing necklaces with hanging crosses, a lot can be said about their staying power in the fashion world. Paired beautifully with delicate lace, cross necklaces can create a look so stunning, you’ll be in heaven.
Prayer Jewelry
(Image from https://www.malaprayer.com/blogs/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-mala-pray er-necklaces)
Prayer jewelry quite possibly holds even more religious significance than cross necklaces, and have not been brought into mainstream fashion as a superficial accessory. Various religions hold onto beaded necklaces representing various purposes. Islamic prayer beads typically have 100 beads, while those of the Baha’i religion have 95 or 19, with a grouping of 5 beads hanging below. Sikhs, Hindus and Buddhists wear what are known as mala prayer necklaces, which are worn not only around the neck, but also around turbans and wrists. Malas typically have 108 beads made of natural materials like sandalwood and lava stone, and are said to have originated in India during the 8th century. Mala became popular in countries like China, Korea and Japan before hitting Europe during the late Middle Ages in the shape of the Catholic rosary. Roman Catholics, like most other religions utilizing prayer beads, used rosaries to count prayers and other acts of worship, as well as provide security. These necklaces characteristically feature 59 beads, but before beads came around, a popular way of keeping track of prayers was by tying knots or fastening berries, pebbles and/or bone discs onto necklaces.
Fita do Senhor do Bonfim
(Image from http://www.sensationalcolor.com/color-meaning/color-meaning-symbolism-psychology/b ahia-bands-brazilian-wish-bracelet#.W7-v8WhKhaQ)
Similar to prayer necklaces, Fita do Senhor do Bonfim, or ribbon of Bonfim, are essentially wish ribbons. Dating back to 1809, the ribbons, also known as Bahia bands, were originated by the African religion of Cadomblé. They were initially called “measure of Bonfim” because their size equated the length of the arm of the Jesus Christ statue perched upon the main altar of the Bonfim Church in Salvador, Brazil. Measuring 47 centimeters long, Bahia bands are commonly worn around the left wrist, on the ankle, around hats and necks, and are even tied to the gate of the Bonfim Church. When tied in three knots, a wish can be made. Customarily, the ribbon is gifted to an individual and is tied to the receiver’s wrist by the gifter. The band must fall off the body naturally over time, or the wish will not come true. These accessories also represent good faith, and the color of the band symbolizes specific orixás, or divine forces of nature. For instance, the color red represents passion and strength, yellow equates to success and intelligence, and orange signifies courage, energy and joy.
Accessories like the ones mentioned above can have deep meaning for a variety of people and cultures around the world.While appreciating the artistic and aesthetic elements of religious styles in fashion isn’t a sin, it is crucial that everyone, from runway connoisseurs and everyday individuals, know and respect the rich history behind the symbols they wear.
References
Coscarelli, Alyssa. “Is It Okay To Wear Religious Symbols For Fashion?” Refinery29, 4 May 2018, https://www.refinery29.com/cross-jewelry-trend.
“Everything You Need to Know about Mala Prayer Necklaces.” Mala Prayer, https://www.malaprayer.com/blogs/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-mal
A-prayer-necklaces.
Ribeiro, Patricia. “A Traveler’s Guide to Bonfim Church.” Trip Savvy, 30 June 2017, https://www.tripsavvy.com/bonfim-church-salvador-brazil-1467851.
Smith, Katie. “Bahia Bands: Brazilian Bracelet Color Meaning.” Sensational Color, http://www.sensationalcolor.com/color-meaning/color-meaning-symbolism-psych ology/bahia-bands-brazilian-wish-bracelet#.W7-yEGhKhaS. -
Gift Giving 101: The History of the Custom and How to Be a Good Guest
Gift Giving 101: The History of the Custom and How to Be a Good Guest
By Paige McKirahan
‘Tis the season for giving; whether you are the giver or the receiver, there is no denying that this custom is synonymous with the Christmas season. It is hard not to wonder, though, where and when this tradition began. As most traditions and customs do, this one originates in ancient Rome and is a relic of the winter solstice in December. This was celebrated in Rome with gift-giving and continued on as Christianity became more widespread. The date of Christmas was decided sometime in 330 AD and was claimed to be associated with the birth of Jesus; after this milestone, the custom was associated with the story of the Magi presenting gifts to baby Jesus. Along with that, some legends also base this idea of gift giving on Saint Nicholas, a fourth century Greek Bishop more affectionately known as Santa Claus. Presently, it is estimated that there is over $5 billion spent each day during the shopping season alone as the holiday has become somewhat commercialized.
(photo credits to clickorlando.com)
We feel that gift giving can still be personal, and love the idea of hostess gifts. This branch on the gift giving tree is a huge part of etiquette and they are appropriate for casual dinner parties, formal dinner parties, holiday events, weekend visits and housewarming events. These gifts typically are something for the home or in the instance that the event involves a meal, they tend to lean towards wine or desserts. In some countries, this is gift is obligatory and considered a second nature when visiting someone’s home.
If you’re heading to a holiday party over the next month and are scrambling for that perfect gift for your favorite hostess, TalkingFashion has you covered! From salt and pepper shakers to vintage table lighters, we have something for everyone! Head over to our décor collections and you’re sure to be the talk of the party when you walk in with one of our little white boxes!
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Fashion’s Favorite Gifts
Fashion’s Favorite Gifts
By Paige McKirahan
Hello TalkingFashion lovers! It is finally December; since its the season of giving, we feel that there is nothing better to give or receive than the gift of fashion! If you’re one of the elves who has made a dent in their holiday purchases with our cyber sale last week, you’ve got the right idea! But if you’re like me and haven’t even came close to formulating gift ideas for your loved ones, not to fear; the perfect holiday gift inspiration is here! We have decided looked at some of our favorite fashion fanatic’s holiday gift lists and found some great ideas for the most flamboyant to the most minimalist on your list. Read on to see our top five gift ideas from the industry's finest and how you can find similar items in our store to get that quick holiday fix!
Marina Larroude, fashion director at Barneys New York, says she looking for shine this festive season.
She would love to add more sparkles to her wardrobe for the holidays; she specifically mentioned a sparkling Sonia Rykiel bag, but you can find some shimmering pieces right in our collection!
Dion Lee, women’s ready-to-wear designer, is all about giving jewelry to her loved ones.
The talented creative claims that the only purchase she's made so far this winter is a custom jewelry piece. She finds jewelry to be one of the best gifts because of its “intimate and timeless” feel. We agree, Dion!
Rickie De Sole, fashion director at W, is hoping for a new timekeeping piece this Christmas.
He claims that classic watches that go with everything are essential to ones outfit; this is proven by the fact that he's worn the same watch since college! He loves the Chanel Boyfriend style, and it has been the only piece that have prompted him to consider breaking his longstanding devotion to his current watch! Check out a similar style below!
Michelle Cordeiro Grant, founder and CEO of Lively, is all about vintage pieces with a story.
Number one on this boss woman’s list is vintage scarves or other vintage accessories from secondhand stores! She loves when her gifts have a story and a well known history as it adds new depth to any classic piece.
Tanya Taylor, Toronto-born designer, is in the market for beach-inspired fashions!
This colorful designer loves all things tropical; this ocean affintity stems from her son's name, which is palmer! Palm themed accessories and earrings are a sure to be a success under the tree this year!
To shop any of the items you see above, click on the image to buy with ease! For other gift options, head over to our collections and start checking off those items on your list!