{Style Expert} What Do You Think Of This Look?

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 November 7

When done right, the preppy look never goes out of style–just ask Ralph Lauren. But when done wrong, it can look dated or even silly. So what do you think–is this FOF adorably ivy league, or out of her fashion league?

Susan Grant: “This a a perfectly assembled, luxurious, safe preppy look. Fairly monochromatic, yet made interesting by its combination of textures. It’s the uniform of the Connecticut suburb where I grew up. Thank goodness for the diversity and feast for the eyes found in Manhattan.”

Susan Grant is merchandise manager for Muse, a full-service jewelry showroom.

Lovey Dash: “I personally do not care for this look, however it is preppy and pretty much in fashion these days. The color camel, the flat shoe  and the preppy car coat are huge this year. She could go without the belt and the top is, meh. Myself, I’ll take a pair of 5-inch heels, fishnets and a black leather coat any day….”

Lovey Dash is a Beverly Hills stylist to the stars. She was formerly in VIP sales for Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive.

Sherrie Mathieson: “I would always rather see a conservative, preppy FOF than an older gal who ‘blings out’ or overdoes her style. However the matchy-ness of her sweater and coat is a bit too cute and odd. Most of her outfit is fairly classic in concept, but the belted top is a mistake (chopping her figure) that a turtleneck alone would have easily corrected. She still has a girlish figure and just needs a bit of tweaking to reach her preppy potential.”

Sherrie Mathieson is a leading style expert and Random House author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool.

{Style Expert} “My FOFall Fashion Finds”

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 September 8

We sent our FOF style experts on a fall shopping spree…okay, okay, we sent them on a fantasy shopping spree. They returned with their favorite finds of the season — a gamut of gorgeous garb that had us awe struck and, we’ll admit, in some cases a bit sticker-shocked. It’s fun to play pretend, but it’s even more fun to fill your fall wardrobe AND have $$ left over to buy those Beauty Bash tickets you’ve been coveting. That’s why we’ve included “swap and save” options for each collection.

Terry’s fall finds:
Camel coat by Malene Birger ($830)
Save: Camel double breasted coat from Dorothy Perkins ($110)

Hera silk shirt dress by Trina Turk ($318)
Save: Sondra print wrap dress by BCBG ($168)

Bette Davis bracelet by Erickson Beamon ($855)
Save: Crystal mosaic bracelet ($85) paired with snake chain bracelet ($58) from J.Crew

Nightingale Tote by Givenchy ($1,730)
Save: Rock the Bag leather tote by Juicy Couture ($225)

Terry Gibralter is the founder of Bespoke Custom Shopping Tours, carefully-crafted shopping “vacations” and a self-proclaimed, “fashion-obsessed” FOF.

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Wendy’s fall finds:
Havsis knit top by Diane Von Furstenberg ($365)
Save: Poncho sweater from H&M ($19.95)

Classic collar henley shirt by Eileen Fisher ($188)
Save: Breezy blouse from Old Navy ($29.94)

Long skirt by Pauw ($160)
Save: Pleated maxi skirt from Yesstyle ($55)

Low wedge leather boot by Loeffler Randall ($695)
Save: Intyce leather boots by Steve Madden ($149)

Wendy Foster is head stylist and owner of the Wendy Foster boutiques in Santa Barbara, California.

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Susan’s fall finds:
Layered sleeve dress by Rachel Roy ($398)
Save: Black 3/4 sleeve jersey dress by Majestic ($130)

Skinny trouser by Rag and Bone ($290)
Save: Hilary Trouser in Tropical Weight from Not Your Daughter’s Jeans ($120)

Messenger bag by Givenchy ($1,660)
Save: Brompton satchel from J.Crew ($278)

Faux croc leather underground jacket by Royal Underground ($395)
Save: Moc croc scuba jacket from Dress Barn ($49.99)

Susan Hersh is a Ford model and the host and executive producer of Meet The Experts.

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Linda’s fall finds:
Slim leather pants by Daryl K ($895)
Save: Isaac leather legging by BB Dakota ($144)

Fur trim coat by Robert Rodriguez ($995)
*Robertrodriguez.com for stores
Save: Black tweed coat with faux fur from Collection Debenhams ($115)

Animal print pumps by Kate Spade ($350)
Save: Leopard print brushed suede shoes from Topshop ($100)

Klimpton chantilly lace shirt by THE ROW ($1,525)
Save: Storm lace belted blouse by Free People ($46.99)

Linda Cohen owns her own consulting business specializing in retail merchandising.

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Diana’s fall finds:
Wild winter short poncho by Emilio Pucci ($1,150)
Save: Kimono Sleeve Sweater by Spiegel ($46.99)

Knit leggings by Akris ($895)
Save: Cable Knitted Leggings from Topshop ($45)

Hat with feathers by Trilby ($495)
Save: Floppy bow hat from Bakers ($32)

Lace gold cuff by Aurelie Biderman ($1,370)
Save: Yellow Stainless Steel Floral Filigree Cuff ($23.99)

Diana Tenes is a stylist, makeup artist and the author of 90% Off Every Day: A Pocket Guide to Shopping Second Hand.

{History} History of Handbags

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 September 7

Your handbag is a harbinger. According to FOF Deborah Chase, author of Terms of Adornment (Harper Collins) and creator of the No Nonsense Beauty blog, handbag styles arise as a response to women’s changing role in society. “We love our bags for what they look like,” says Deborah. “But styles emerge and endure because there is a reason for them.” So, no, you’re not imagining that designers are putting out larger purses every year. “Every decade bags are getting bigger because we have more stuff to carry,” says Deborah. Take a look at the evolution of handbags from 1800 to modern day. My, have our handbags grown….

(Meet Deb at Beauty Bash, Oct. 1 and 2nd!)

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{Style Expert} A batcave for your batwings

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 August 3

It drives us batty — that flabby, saggy skin under our arms that seems to droop ever lower as we age. So we called on our style experts to help us find the solution. Here, they share their best “batwing-busters,” for hiding the jiggle while keeping cool.

Lovey Dash: “I love this new line called Babakul–especially their cardigans. They’re drapey in the front with a sweater-like binding in the back. They’re roomy, look great over tees, and come in four colors. When you wear it, no one will detect your batwings.”

pictured: Babakul Waterfall Rib Cardi ($105)

Lovey Dash is a Beverly Hills-based stylist. She was formerly in VIP sales for Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive.

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Susan Hersh: “This season there has been a resurgence of blouses with bell, dolman or peasant sleeves. All are great to camouflage upper arm concerns.  The light blue Nanette Lepore shirt has feminine details that draw your focus to everything but the upper arms and silk fabric that floats off the body.  The Joie paisley printed soft cotton top has prints and pleats that also draws your eye away from the arm.”

pictured: (clockwise from left) Oonagh Tie Top by Nanette Lepore ($198) // Paisley Top by Joie ($184) // Silk Blooms Eternal Top from Anthropologie ($88)

Susan Hersh is a Ford model and the host and executive producer of Meet The Experts.

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Susan Grant: “I have Rick Owens scoop-necked, over-sized tees in multiple dark, neutrals and wear them over anything — either belted or tied low on the hips. It covers a multitude of flaws including flab on your upper arms, stomach or backside. And, it’s so light, it feels like you have nothing on.

Pictured: Rick Owens Lightweight Swing Tee ($352) // Ann Demeulemeester Long Wrap Around Belt ($130)

Susan Grant is merchandise manager for Muse, a full-service jewelry showroom.

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Sandra Soich: “For summer, I have two battle plans for batwings. Plan one: I wear a brightly colored bustier or tank with built-in bra, and over it, I wear a sheer tee in a neutral color made from linen or bamboo. Plan two: I wear a classic white blouse with a sleeve that buttons at the elbow. This piece moves easily from day into evening (for the evening, I just add more accessories).

pictured: LNA Clothing Basic Tank ($10) //  Zadig et Zoltaire Anyta Shirt ($195) // Anne Fontaine Milous Blouse ($395) //

Sandra Soich is wardrobe stylist to the stars and founder of YourFashionTherapist.com.

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{Style Expert} Shape Up! Shapewear that puts muffin tops and rolls where they belong–on the breakfast table.

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 August 1

Body confidence expert Lisa Cole travels the country helping women find the undergarments that shape, smooth and tighten all their trouble spots. Having used her services firsthand, we know this woman has a gift. Here, she shares her 5 favorite shapewear solutions for FOFs.
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Trouble Spot: Back Rolls (or “back bacon” as Lisa calls them) and a saggy bustline.

Lisa’s Solution: A Shapewear Camisole provides an instant lift for the bust plus shape and support for trouble spots on the back.

Best Bet: TC Fine Intimates Firm-Control Full Figure Shapewear Camisole

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Trouble Spot: “Burrito Rolls” (the stomach bulge that appears in high-waisted pants and skirts)

Lisa’s Solution: “A shapewear brief eliminates lower belly challenges you may face while wearing skirts, dresses and other clingy garments.. Ideal for someone who wants to have control but not be smashed down.”

Best Bet: TC Fine Intimates Cuff Top Brief

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Trouble Spot: A thick waist.

Lisa’s Solution: “The Torsette. Va Voom! Is that you when you were 22? This amazing shaper narrows your waist and smoothes back rolls. Make sure you’re wearing the right size bra (very important). Perfect for evening and black tie dressing.

Best Bet: TC Fine Intimates Firm-Control Torsette
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Trouble Spot: Flabby thighs

Lisa’s Solution: “The pantliner is light as a feather and helps fight those cumbersome jiggles and saddle bags that can appear in skinny pants.”

Best Bet: TC Fine Intimates Pant Liner

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Trouble Spot: A shapeless rear

Lisa’s Solution: “We’ve all had issues with sagging, shapeless behinds. Hi-waist shapewear with bike pants help you keep it all together. It has reinforcement in the rear for shaping and lift.”

Best Bet: TC Fine Intimates Hi-Waist Bike Pant


Images via lingerie fit expert and TC

{Style Expert} Shorts for FOFs: The long and short of it

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 June 29

It’s the question that’s vexed us all summer (and every summer). Now that we’re FOF, should we wear shorts? Or are thigh-revealing garments better left to twenty-somethings? Our FOF style gurus give us the long and short of it.

FOF Sandra Soich: “On my last trip to NYC, I saw lots of young girls wearing short shorts with tasteful tees, thick belts, light scarves and perfect ballet flats. How adorable! If you’re FOF, swap in a wonderfully-safe bermuda short and a thin belt instead of a thick one. The bermuda, after all, is about the same length as a skirt. If you can wear skirts, you can wear shorts.”

pictured: shorts: gap, $14.99 // tee: jcrew, $27.60 // belt: felder felder, £82.50

Sandra Soich is wardrobe stylist to the stars and founder of YourFashionTherapist.com.

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FOF Donna Perone: “This summer, I’m loving two short alternatives: a beautiful print skirt, shortened to just above the knee and cropped pants. They can both be casual, worn with flats, or dressed up with a high-heel strappy sandal. But, let’s not rule out shorts entirely — a beautiful knee-length Italian denim short (with no holes or fading, please!) or simple knee-length cotton or linen shorts would work too.”

pictured: jean shorts: doncaster, $225 // cropped pants: doncaster, $215 // skirt: doncaster, $250

Donna Perone is the founder of Living Fit with Style, a New York-based personal training and styling company. 

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FOF Lovey Dash: “Like Peter Pan, I thought I’d never ever grow up. But, shorts gave me a reality check this year. Regardless of how gorgeous your legs look, short shorts should not leave the house when you’re FOF. I fell in love with a pair of cotton shorts from Billy Blues collection. They come in lots of colors, flatten your tummy, and the flare is not too wide. I wear them with ballet slippers but, they would also look good with thongs or a cute sneaker.”

pictured: shorts: billy blues, $174 // ballet flats: london sole, $215

Lovey Dash is a Beverly Hills-based stylist. She was formerly in VIP sales for Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive.

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FOF Terry Gibralter: “FOFs can definitely pull off shorts! We’re not talking short shorts or hot pants here, but a nice fitting tailored short can be worn at just about any age.  The key is choosing a pair that works with your body type — the right length, the right fabric and also what you pair with them is important. That said, I still feel the best option for hot weather is a lightweight flowy skirt— there’s nothing cooler than that!”

pictured: black shorts: express, $29.99 // checkered shorts: jones new york, $35.40 // khaki shorts: not your daughter’s jeans, $74

Terry Gibralter is the founder of Bespoke Custom Shopping Tours, carefully-crafted shopping “vacations” and a self-proclaimed, “fashion-obsessed” FOF.

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FOF Susan Grant: “I’m definitely of the opinion that short shorts should be left to young, toned women. For FOFs, a loose, lightweight cotton dress or separates care more comfortable in hot weather than binding shorts. Ann DeMeulemeester makes loose, edgy tops, skirts and dresses which are easy to accessorize. Issey Miyake makes cotton knits that are comfortable and hand washable. For full figured women I always recommend pieces by Eskandar which create a very simple, chic, flattering line.”

pictured: black pants: ann demeulemeester, £515 // white pants: eskandar, $156

Susan Grant is merchandise manager for Muse, a full-service jewelry showroom.

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FOF Susan Hersh: “There is no reason for women to forgo wearing shorts. They are a staple for many sports such as hiking, golf and trekking. There are also ‘dressy-casual’ options. I like the Vince Silk-Contrast shorts that hit mid-thigh.”

pictured: khaki shorts: vince, $178 // black shorts: vince, $135

Susan Hersh is a Ford model and the host and executive producer of Meet The Experts.

{Fashion} Put some spring in your step!

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 May 4

This spring, FOF Shelley Zausmer is turning over a new leaf — she’s trading in her beloved high heels for comfortable, stylish flats. Since it’s been years since she’s shopped for anything below a 3-inch heel, she sought advice from our FOF style gurus on the new “Ask an FOF” section of FabOverFifty. Here are their picks for comfy-chic spring kicks, (almost) all for less than $160:

FOF Style Guru Linda Cohen: “The Cole Haan wedges are made with the same Nike ‘air’ technology used in their sneakers. They’re cushion-y with a modern wedge heel. The ballet flats have a rubberized sole. The slight heel makes them more feminine.”

Left: Air Talia Wedge 40 by Cole Haan, $119.95.
Right: Cece leather and canvas ballet flats by J.Crew, $128.
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FOF Style Guru Terry Gibralter: “The fact that loafers, spectators and brogues are in style this spring is great news for those seeking comfortable footwear!”

Left: Spectator oxfords by Candela, $158
Right: Keyman by Stuart Wetizman, $325
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FOF Style Guru Lisa C.: “I’ve had good luck lately with Sperry, the same company responsible for Topsiders. Also, ballet flats are still in style this season, you should be able to find hundreds [of pairs that] are adorable and comfortable.”

Left: Simple by London Sole, $165
Right: Madaket Slip On by Sperry, $67.99
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FOF Style Guru Linda Cohen: “The designers must have been listening to real women who want to be stylish without wearing a 5-inch platform! The ‘Thimble Clover’ by Clarks is a perfect example. The rubberized bottom and foam foot bed make them comfortable and the embellishment will make them your season’s favorite sandal.”

Left: Nasy by Corso Como, $159
Right: “Thimble Clover” by Clarks, $89.99
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FOF Style Guru Sandra Soich: “Toms are my weekend walking shoe this season. They are so comfortable. Neimans now sells exclusive styles of Toms with a sturdier sole and in fantastic tones such as a low-key pewter colored shoe I bought and wear everywhere.”

Left: Bennet Metallic Slip-On by Toms, $85.
Right: Air Bacara Ballet by Cole Haan, $148.
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Tips for Wearing Green Clothes

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 March 22

It’s not easy wearing green.

Green is a color that many women struggle with, according to FOF Jill Kirsh, “Hollywood’s guru of hue.” “It’s not in most people’s color comfort zone,” says Jill. “If you’re wearing the wrong green it can really age you, sallow your skin and make you look sick.

Jill believes “everyone can wear every color. It just depends on finding the right hue.” Here, she uses her fool-proof system to help you find the most flattering shade of green.

First, decide which of four hair color categories you fall into: golden browns/redhead, deep brunette, ash blondes/grey or warm blondes.  Then, read below to discover Jill’s recommended shade of green for you.

“Look at how olive brings out the warmth of FOF actress Catherine Keener’s hair and evens out her skin tone,” says Jill. “The wrong shade of green, such as a mint green would look like hospital scrubs on Catherine. It would gray her skin and make her hair look brassy.”

“Emerald green is just right for a deep brunette like FOF Oprah Winfrey,” says Jill. “True, clear colors such as emerald against her dark hair make her features pop. The wrong green for a deep brunette such as Kelly green would yellow her skin and fragment her features.”

“Mint green is fabulous choice for someone with ash blonde or gray hair,” says Jill. “It works with FOF actress Helen Mirren’s cool, silver hair. Everything is in sync and vibrant. On the other hand, olive would wash her out, give her an unhealthy glow and give her hair a greenish tint.”

“Kelly green can make a warm blonde look vibrant, fresh and younger. It brings out FOF Kim’s best features. Mint green would make her hair look brassy.”

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Jill Kirsh sells her color system through Soft Surroundings including her ultimate makeup kit, lip kits, a patented swatch book and an on-the-go mini compact. For more information, visit Jill’s page at Soft Surroundings.

Images via FanPix, The Complex Media, Tech Digest and KimCattrall.net

Best Exercise Clothes for Women Over 50

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 January 12

Our style expert, Linda Cohen, is an FOF fitness fanatic. A runner who practices yoga and weight training, Linda has sweat through more tanks and track pants than she’d like to admit. Here, she reveals the problem-solving workout wear that stands the test of time–and treadmill.

Problem: I need a yoga pant that won’t highlight my lumps and bumps during downward dog.
Solution: The Groove Pant from Lululemon, $98. “My tried-and-true yoga pant. The fabric never stretches and always holds you in even if you’ve gained a little holiday weight. You can wear them all day and feel dressed and not sloppy.”

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Problem: My fitted t-shirts are hugging my belly fat.
Solution: “Underarmour’s Shortsleeve t-shirts ($24.99) have a flattering, looser fit that won’t cling to rolls or bulges. Plus, it keeps it’s shape after many washes and the patented material prevents odor.”

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Problem: I need a jacket that zips over my sweaty workout wear so I look pulled together when I run to Starbucks.
Solution: “Lululemon’s Stride Jacket is sophisticated, cool and, perhaps most importantly, long enough to cover your butt. I wear mine with a t-shirt and jeans when I travel. The black stretch fabric never fades.”

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Problem: I need workout pants that are comfortable, but aren’t ratty college sweatpants.
Solution: “Nike has designed great fits for three different body types.The BE BOLD pant ($60) has a slim cut and a low rise if you’re ready to flaunt that toned bod. The BE STRONG pant ($60) is relaxed to the knee to balance out your hips and the mid-rise helps shape your butt and prevent ‘muffin top.’ The BE TRUE pant ($60) has a looser fit but is still flattering and slimming–never sloppy.”

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Problem: I want to run with abandon, but my flapping underarms make me want to run and hide.
Solution: “The Athleta Long Sleeve Wickit Workit T ($44) keeps your arms covered and cool with breathable, wicking fabric in five pretty colors.”

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Problem: I need workout clothes that hold up to wear and wash but don’t cost a fortune.
Solution: “Workout clothes do take a beating, so there is value in spending a bit more on items that will last. Gap Body has a wonderful line at a fair price–the quality is good and the fabric doesn’t fade. I’ve also bought the Champion products at Target which are lighter weight and fit well. Pants are just $19.99 and they have plus sizes up to 3X. My one suggestion: Wash them in cold water or they will fade. Finally, the accessories at Old Navy are bright fun and cheap. Love this Crossbody workout bag for $12.50!”

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Problem: I need need body-shaping sneakers that don’t look like orthopedic old-lady shoes.
Solution: “I just started wearing Reebok’s Easy Tone ($79.98) sneakers to the gym in October, and I feel a difference. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and they’re helping me tone my thighs, calves and butt. It is like having twice the workout. I recommend trying them on in the store because they seem to run a bit small.”

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We’d love to get your recommendations. What’s your tried-and-true workout gear?

{Style Expert} My Obsession: Collecting Vintage Costume Jewelry

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 January 5

Coco Chanel introduced the first vintage costume jewelry in the US with a line of large “statement” pieces designed to look like frogs and flowers. They were a runaway hit. Women loved the idea of bold, affordable jewelry that reflected the latest trends. Today, vintage costume jewelry is one of the hottest collectibles on the market, with thousands of women (and men) combing flea markets, estate sales and eBay to find classic pieces from the 20s through the 70s.

These 3 FOFs have turned their passion for vintage bling into pretty profits–not to mention hours of obsessive fun. They explain why it’s become so popular and how you can get started collecting your own.

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Pamela Wiggins
Location: Austin, TX
Owner, Chic Antiques by Pamela Wiggins, collector and co-founder of Costume Jewelry Collectors International.
Favorite designers: Schreiner and Napier


Why are people so obsessed with vintage costume?
I think it’s being driven by the revival of the 50s and 60s look–Mad Men has something to do with it. But more than that, the designs are classic, the pieces are beautifully made–much nicer than most contemporary costume jewelry–and the brand names–Chanel, Dior, etc–are hot right now. Plus, it’s affordable. You can still get a vintage set from Trifari that looks dramatic and gorgeous for $100.

How did you get into collecting?
I went to an estate sale with my mother–who owned an antique shop–and bought some Miriam Haskell pieces that I knew were good quality, even though they weren’t really my style. I ended up selling them and I was hooked.

Why do you like Schreiner and Napier?
I like the blingy stuff from the 1950s. Schreiner used a lot of unique stones and creative designs. Napier made a lot of “boutique” jewelry in the 1950s–more upscale pieces made in limited quantities of 300-500.  They’ve recently gained more of a following, but you can still get a nice set for around $150.


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Marie Galterio
Location: New Jersey
Owner, letsgetvintage.com
Favorite designers: Ciner, Trifari, Sherman, Swarovski and Jomaz


How did you get started collecting?
I loved jewelry from when I was young. In my teens, I decided that rings would be my trademark, so I started looking for costume rings. I visited antique shops and flea markets, bought what I liked, and many of them ended up being collectibles. Eventually I had so much, I thought, this is something I’d love to go into business doing.

What’s your favorite part about being a collector?
It’s not a bread and butter business, but it is something that has afforded me the opportunity to connect with people all over the world.  I’ve sold to people in Italy, Spain, Japan and Australia.  Many times, my customers become my friends. I send them little hand-written notes with their orders.

Why are these your favorite designers?
They worked with the finest stones, and their superior workmanship and design contributed to the jewelry looking very much like “the real thing.” Many of the vintage costume jewelry designers designed for fine jewelry stores before they made the transition to costume jewelry. Their standards were high and they brought that standard to their costume pieces. Ciner is still in operation today and still producing fabulous jewelry that is often mistaken for ‘the real thing.’

I tend to gravitate to certain pieces from each designer that make a statement; the statement usually being, ‘You’re taking me home!’

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Annie Sherman
Location: Hawaii
Owner, Annie Sherman Vintage Jewelry
Favorite designer: Juliana


How did you get started?
I collected vintage jewelry most of my adult life. I just like bling.  You know how women are.  And with vintage jewelry there’s so much bling, and it’s affordable.  I could not buy a big diamond as a young woman . . .

Tell me about the photo of Dolly Parton.
Oh, I just love her!  She bought one of my pins. This is a photo of her with my friend when she received the pin. If I were ever to meet her in real life I would go weak in the knees.

Why do you love Juliana?
The bling! The pieces are not signed but very recognizable. One look at it you know what it is. The stones are bigger and it’s more flashy and colorful.


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