{DIY} Meet an FOF who makes her own clothes

There are “strokes of genius” and then there are “stitches of genius.” Karen Oliver has the latter. This FOF sews and crafts nearly her entire wardrobe, hundreds of gorgeous garments and jewelry that look like a million bucks but sometimes end up costing as little as $14 dollars.

Karen taught herself to sew at the age of 13. “I wanted nice clothes, but my parents didn’t have a lot of money to buy them for me,” says Karen. “The beauty of sewing is you can say, ‘I want that skirt in that green,’ and chances are you’ll be able to make what you’re thinking about.”

Once a week, Karen hits up her favorite fabric and bead stores in the Garment District, including Mood Designer Fabrics and M&J Trimming. (One time, she scored a yard of luxe Loro Piana cashmere for just $19 dollars!)  Sometimes she goes to buy fabric with an idea in mind, other times it’s not until she sees a fabric that the inspiration takes place. “My philosophy is, ‘how hard can it be’?'” says Karen.

Nearly every evening, Karen takes out her portable Bernina sewing machine and gets to work on the dining room table of her 1000 square-foot apartment. Sometimes she sews or beads through the wee hours of the night. One time, she stayed up the entire evening helping her friend, an editor at People magazine, sew something to wear for a gala. “The mark of loving something is you’re never tired while doing it,” says Karen. “I’m never tired when I’m creating.”

Take a look at Karen’s hand-crafted outfits below. Do you have a favorite?

Skirt,  jacket and belt: Made by Karen in a french silk faille from B&J Fabrics.
Blouse: Milly from Bloomingdales.”I would have made it myself but I ran out of time.”
Earrings: “They’re from a little shop in Paris. I’ve had them for 35 years.”
Necklace: “It’s vintage. My mother got it at an antique shop in Carmel, California.

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Tunic and wrap: Made by Karen. “The tunic cost me $14 to make and took about 3 hours.”
Choker: “I bought it in Cannes.”
Necklace (middle): “I got it in Mexico.”
Chain-link necklace: Made by Karen
Greek-key belt: Made by Karen

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Vest: Made by Karen with French-lace detailing
Skirt:
Made by Karen in cashmere. “I make this same skirt in every color. It fits just right.”
Blouse: Yves Saint Laurent
Necklaces: Vintage Chanel. “Yeah, I have Chanel pieces. But, I do them with my own twist.”

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Coat: Made by Karen. “It’s a knock off of a coat I found from Zara.
Belt:
Yves Saint Laurent
Skirt: Made by Karen. “It’s the same skirt [as in outfit 3 above], just in a different fabric.”
Scarf: Hermès

{Read the entire interview with Karen, here}

{Giveaway} A set of friendship earrings (a pair for you and a friend!)

FOF is giving away one set of these gorgeous friendship earrings (a pair for you and a friend!) from Gorjana. Enter to win by commenting below and answering: Which earrings do you like best, the circles or the doves?

Thank you for entering. This contest is now closed.

When an FOF friend let us in on the collection of friendship earrings and jewelry from Gorjana, we were all ears. They’re reminiscent of the “Best Friends” baubles we used to swap with our childhood bestie, but much more grown-up. A physical reminder of an emotional connection with a friend is still so soothing after all of these years.

Each jewelry set comes cleverly packaged with a note card bearing a unique friendship quote.

We couldn’t decide which we loved more — the sophisticated interlocking circles or the friendship doves. Can you help us choose?

Enter to win by commenting below and answering: Which earrings do you like better, the circles or the doves?

(See all our past winners, here.)
(See official rules, here.)

Contest closes March 24, 2011

{City Guide} Top Second-Hand Spots from Coast to Coast

Are you an Old Digger?

From a 1992 Armani Suit to a 1952 Chanel handbag, second-hand finds are a savvy FOF’s best friend. Here are 11 tried and true spots that FOFs turn to for timeless treasures.


1. William Temple, Portland OR
Portland’s better-vetted, lower-priced version of Goodwill sells furniture, vintage clothing and housewares. Proceeds support William Temple House’s mental health counseling, emergency social services and pastoral services. FOF Lisa Johnson says, “I love shopping at William Temple, a wonderful thrift store in Northwest Portland that my daughter turned me on to.”

2. Boomerang, Jamaica Plain, MA
FOF deeptodeep says, “My favorite place to shop is Boomerang, a large neighborhood thrift shop whose profits benefit Aids Action Committee. I find wonderful clothes there as well as cool assorted household items such as brand new West Elm sheer linen curtains that were $6 per panel (I purchased all six!) The stock changes constantly so there are always surprises and the potential for a score.”

3. Albright Fashion Library, New York, NY
FOF Linda Rodin says, “I love the Albright Fashion Library. Everyone from a Meryl Streep to a runway model goes there to get clothes for events. If you have your eye on a $20,000 designer dress, you can rent it at Albright for $2,000 a night. Or rent a Hermes handbag if you want to look groovy for a weekend.”

4. GreenFlea Market, New York, NY
FOF micheled says, “”I find great deals at a fabulous flea market on 77th St. and Columbus Ave. I bought a Tiffany vase for 5 dollars there. It had some discoloration on the bottom, but I fixed it up with a green pen. I also found a gorgeous black velvet cape lined in white with a hood and a pocket for gloves. I purchased this little gem for about $45 have used it over the years.”

5. The Antiques Garage Flea Market, New York, NY
FOF Audgar says, “My absolute favorite place for a great deal is the flea market on W. 25th St. on Saturdays and Sundays! Grab a cup of coffee and get there early!”

6. Regal Rags, Annapolis, MD. 410.224.3434
FOF Sue S. says, “This small, consignment shop just outside of D.C. re-sells only designer clothes. No one ever wants to wear their designer duds twice, with all the fancy affairs in D.C., so here they are…worn once and some with tags still on. And, the prices are unbelievable; I bought a beautiful Ralph Lauren sweater (with the tags still on) for 5 dollars!”

 

7. House of Lavande, Palm Beach, FL
FOF Mary Nedvins says, “”Every piece of jewelry there has a history.  The pieces are classic but carry an emotional reference to eras of days gone by.  And I know that no one else will be wearing what I’m wearing.”

 

8. Trashy Divas, New Orleans, LA

FOF Marybeth Bond says, “When I was writing my book, 50 Best Girlfriends Getaways, so many women told me ‘We love to go to thrift shop with our girlfriends. We take $10 and try to get something really funny for the other person.’ In New Orleans there’s no place like Trashy Divas on Magazine Street.”

9. Couture Allure, online. 617.281.8133
FOF Debra J. Bartgis says, “I met the owner, Jody on eBay seven or eight years ago. She’s very discriminating, her clothes are unique and she’s an extremely helpful seller. She will give you her opinion if she doesn’t think something is right for you.”

10. Rusty Rose Vintage Clothing, Solvang, CA. 805.688.8031
FOF joanspeirs says, “Sometimes I find the best deals on eBay, but it can be time consuming. I prefer to go to my favorite second hand/vintage clothing store Rusty Rose.”

What’s your fave place to shop second-hand? Click here to add your Fab Fave Shop.

{Style Expert} My Obsession: Collecting Vintage Costume Jewelry

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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{Gift Guide} GIVE fab wearable gifts, RECEIVE a stunning wrap sweater

Falalalala, FOF Fashionistas! Our panel of style gurus picks the wearable gifts they’d love to give and get this year.

Plus, one lucky FOF will win the stunning Aztec Wrap sweater  pictured below. To enter, tell us in the comments below: What’s the worst wearable gift you’ve ever received?

Thank you for entering. This contest is now closed.

Black and White Aztec Wrap Sweater, $20
“These bold wraps are made from wool remnants taken from designers such as Armani, Chanel and Loro Piana. They’re made by an FOF; each one can be worn three different ways and the price point is so good, you wouldn’t feel guilty buying a few.” -FOF Geri Brin

A nostalgic Skate Key Necklace from DFB Designs, $89
“I wear mine every day!” -FOF Geri Brin

A wear-everywhere Moksha Scarf, $100
“Unlike a Hermes scarf, you won’t see these gorgeous designs everywhere and they won’t cost you an arm and a leg.” -FOF Geri Brin

{Geri Brin is the founder of FabOverFifty.com}

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Dannijo Stingray Cuff, $300
“This stingray “Zuma” cuff, also available in purple and teal blue, is a cheerful, seasonless accessory, appropriate to wear with anything from jeans or a  summer dress to a wool suit.” -FOF Susan Grant

Rabbit “Infinity” Scarf by Jocelyn, $198
“Just the right touch of fur to capture the trend of the season. It can be worn long or doubled for a cowl effect. Available in brown, black or grey.” -FOF Susan Grant

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

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Hooded Cashmere Poncho, $250
“This casual cashmere cape would work with leggings, slim jeans or narrow pants. I love the dark brown brown because it’s more universally flattering than black (especially as we age). It’s also a a great neutral when paired with black, navy and gray.” -FOF Sherrie Mathieson

Pearl & Rhinestone Shag Necklace, Champagne, $315
“A lovely pearl collar provides interest to any simple neckline and reflects light onto the face.” -FOF Sherrie Mathieson

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

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Carolina Amato Gloves, $33-$120
“I love all Carolina Amato’s gloves. They’re whimsical and the price points are great.” – FOF Linda Cohen

Embellised Clutch by Roberta Freymann, $95
“You can wear this with dark colors in the winter or white and colors in the summer.” -FOF Linda Cohen

{Linda Cohen is head buyer for the FOF shop, has her own fashion consulting and merchandising business and owned a clothing store for 27 years.}

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Restoration Hardware Monogram Cashmere Robe, $249
“A cashmere robe is the ultimate indulgent luxury. They run the gamut from pricey ($3000) to affordable ($300-ish). I’ll take the one from Restoration Hardware (when did they start making robes in addition to door knockers?) for $249. It’s a classic shawl-collared robe with patch pockets. And you can have it monogrammed for the same price. I would monogram it, ‘YAY.’” -FOF Gail Garramone

Tahitian Pearl Studs with Diamonds in 14-karat White Gold, $275
“Pearls are my jewels of choice. Whether milky white or midnight dark, I love the way they pick up the warmth of your body. My ideal would be a Tahitian South Sea pearl necklace with matching earrings, but for the same price I could get a mansion in Westchester. So instead, I’ll take Ross-Simons’ Tahitian pearl studs with tiny diamonds (hey, they’re still diamonds) for $275. I hope my husband is listening. I would wear them 24/7, except in the shower. Pearls do not like water.” -FOF Gail Garramone

{Gail Garramone is a veteran V.P. of Liz Claiborne Inc. where she traveled around the country with Tim Gunn producing fashion workshops.}

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Nars Bento Box Lip Gloss Kit, $125
“The packaging of this Nars lip gloss set is divine. Two pots of gloss–pink and red–both exquisite shades, and a beautiful Asian-inspired lip brush. I would LOVE to get this gift.” -FOF Terry Gibralter

Antipast Socks, $25-$38
“Antipast socks come in amazing patterns and colors; in short, long and even over-the-knee styles; and they are made in Japan from very high-quality yarns. They’re a lot of fashion bang for the buck!” -FOF Terry Gibralter

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

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Anne Fontaine “Lea” Blouse, $295
“There’s nothing like a crisp white top with just about any type of bottom. Ann Fontaine’s white blouses are works of art, from the very simplest “Lea” ($295.00), a short sleeve satin blouse, to the most ornate. “Luca’s” feminine neck and cuffs are great for day or night ($250.00).”  -FOF Sandra Soich

“Linda” earrings from Gemma Redux, $198
Gemma Redux features modern costume jewelry with a twist. Gems can be pricey, but you can purchase, the “Linda” earring ($198.00) to give the Anne Fontaine blouse a modern and sophisticated look. -FOF Sandra Soich

{Sandra Soich is a highly sought-after celebrity and commercial stylist who offers personal wardrobe consulting through her website, YourFashionTherapist.com}

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Enter to win a stunning Aztec sweater wrap by telling us in the comments below: What’s the worst wearable gift you’ve ever received?


{Style Expert} Retro not ridiculous: How to achieve a “hippie chic” look

Two FOF style experts, Gail Garramone and Marilyn Kirschner, share secrets to looking hippie chic–not hippie dippy.

“The 60s had some great looks,” says Gail. “But it is important to know how to bring them back without looking like Joan-Baez-Gone-Bad or like you should be carrying around a lava lamp.”

Both experts agree that FOFs shouldn’t be limited to cliche fashion rules (“I am a firm believer that one can basically wear anything if one knows how to do it,” says Marilyn.) They offer these ideas–not commandments–for working Woodstock into your wardrobe.

6 Fab Hippie Chic Pieces and How to Wear Them


Examples:  Laguna Cuff by Soft Surroundings (left), $94.95 and Turquoise Buckle Leather Belt (right), $599 from Ralph Lauren

“Turquoise jewelry, whether in the form of a statement necklace or a cuff, makes for beautiful accessories.” says Gail. “Cinch a white button-down blouse with a turquoise belt. A big piece of jewelry slung low on the waist can make an unexpected statement–and hide a pooch!”

Foolproof pairings: A monochrome palette; shirt and pants or a dress in either brown, white or black.


Examples: Autumin in Philadelphia Tie Dye Silk  Fringed Scarf from Etsy seller, WarmFlashes (left), $29, Nepal Bag by Flora Bella from the FabOverFifty Shop, $412

“Tie-dyed accessories are fabulous because one piece can incorporate so many colors. A brightly tie-dyed pashmina shawl becomes a neutral that you can wear with just about anything,” says Gail.

Foolproof pairings:  Dark jeans and a dark-colored top.


Example: Declarative Peasant Blouse from Anthropologie (left), $58. Julietta Blouse by Trina Turk (right), $73.99

“Peasant blouses are great way to show a little skin without having to show your arms,” says Gail.

“What you don’t want is for it to resemble a maternity top, worn loose and unbelted,” says Marilyn.

Foolproof pairings: Wrist jewelry or slightly dangling earrings. Sophisticated high-waisted trousers or skirt.


Example:  Suede Tassel Boots in Brown from Soft Surroundings, (left) $159.95, Tessa Fringed Boot by House of Harlow (right), $350

“Hippie-style, over-the-knee boots in brown are just a fabulous essential,” says Gail. “They can have a hint of fringe but don’t overdo it.”

Foolproof pairings: A skirt that just skims the top of the boots or pants such as cords in brown or black or dark jeans. A slouchy leather or suede bag.


Example: “Karelia Coat” from Anthropologie, $248

“If you are FOF-fearless, a patterned coat is the ultimate,” says Gail.

“If you opt to wear a statement-making patterned coat, make that the one thing that is special,” says Marilyn. “Keep everything else solid, lean, clean and simplified.”

Foolproof pairings: A neutral monochromatic palette; off-white pants or narrow cords, army green cargos or indigo jeans. A knitted cap or fur or faux fur hat, suede boots (either flat or low wedge), and a timeless tote, satchel or shoulder bag (that are more sporty or casual than dressy).


Example: Faux Fur Vest from Eddie Bauer, (left) $99, Fur vest from Ebay, (right) from $20

“Fur vests may be a bit funky but are also classic enough so that it’s easily workable into a wardrobe,” says Marilyn. “It could easily add pizazz to basic separates. While they are always in style, they are even more so this season.”

Foolproof pairings: Neutral-toned (off white, ivory, cream, camel, brown) underpinnings such as a chunky turtleneck and narrow jeans or chino-type pants. Tall, brown, flat- or low-heeled boots.

Marilyn Kirschner has been Editor-in-Chief of the Internet Magazine Look-on-Line since 1995. She has appeared multiple times in Bill Cunningham’s ‘On the Street’ columns in The New York Times, and in February 2000, she was the subject of an 18 picture profile. Marilyn started her career at Seventeen magazine before landing at Harper’s Bazaar, where she remained for 21 years. She collects vintage fashion and is a personal shopper and wardrobe consultant. For more information, contact her at marilyn.kirschner@yahoo.com.

Gail Garramone has 15+ years experience in the fashion industry. She is a veteran V.P. at Liz Claiborne Inc. where she traveled around the country with Tim Gunn producing fashion events and fashion workshops.

Image of Ali MacGraw via I’m the It Girl

{Business} Ramona Singer’s Art Deco Jewelry

You may know her as the manic mom on Bravo’s hit TV show, The Real Housewives of New York. And yes, Ramona Singer is definitely Type-A. But whether you jeer her or cheer her, it’s that over-the-top drive that helped Ramona escape her troubled upbringing and achieve her dream: A fashion career in New York City. FOF talked to this wife, mother and businesswoman about what it takes to make it. Plus we got a glimpse at her lovely new jewelry line for HSN. It will be featured on HSN this Sunday at 3 – 5 a.m. E.S.T. and 3-5 p.m. E.S.T.

Enter to win these gorgeous earrings (worth $299) by commenting, below!

Where did you grow up?

Stratford, New York–a very rural area.  My backyard was apple orchards, deer and squirrels. My dad was an engineer for IBM, but most of our neighbors were farmers.

Did your mom work?

She got married when she was 18–she was pregnant with me. Then she had three more kids right away. I was her little helper—the laundry, cooking, cleaning.

Did you go to college?

I went to the fashion buying and merchandising  program at FIT, and then I transferred to Albany State for business. I was always a worker—I actually put myself through college.  After two years, my father said, ‘You’re just going to get married and have babies, I’m not going to pay for any more school.’ So I declared myself independent, got loans for school and worked two jobs while I got my degree.

How did you become so driven?

My parents had an abusive relationship—physically and emotionally. My mom would always say to me, “Don’t end up like me. You have to make your own money. Follow your passion.” And I always loved fashion…

What influenced you to like fashion?

My mother. Everyone else in Stratford was wearing jeans and t-shirts, and I was changing  my nail polish every day to match my dress! I would sew my own clothes because my father was very frugal.

What was your first business in New York?

Closeouts. Clothing closeouts. I started it in my 30s and I worked like crazy. When I married my husband I had a million dollars in the bank.

When did you meet Mario, your husband?

Not till I was 37.  I was a dater and a skater.

So you would run from commitment?

I was always picking men who were cold and aloof and then trying to get their attention. Before Mario I was in a serious relationship for five years with a man who would never commit. I finally worked on myself and got out of that.

Good for you. And how did you meet Mario?

He saw me the first time at the gym wearing one of those crazy 80s workout outfits—the leggings  with the g-string.  Remember?  Later, he saw me in a restaurant and asked me out. We’ve been married for 18 years. We just renewed our vows.

What made you do that?

I see a lot of couples who get divorced when their kids go away to college.  They don’t know what to do with themselves. Now my daughter is 16, and she’s getting more independent and I realized she’s going to be gone in a few years. I need to focus on my relationship with my husband and reaffirm my commitment.

When did you start the jewelry line for HSN?

After I started doing [Real Housewives], that got my adrenaline going—my creativity. I wanted to be on HSN, so I cold-called them, and they suggested I design a high-end jewelry line with real diamonds and gemstones

So you design it?

Yes. It’s modeled after my favorite style: estate, art deco jewelry.  Things that are classic but always in style.  You can wear them for 30 years and pass them to your daughters.

What’s your favorite piece?

I love them all! They’re like my children. But in the September collection I love the gold vermeil peices and the signature cuff bracelet. The wider, wood cuff is also great.

What’s the single most important thing you’ve learned in your career?

My mother was right. To be successful, you have to be passionate about what you do. You have to love it.

Enter to win Ramona’s lovely art deco HSN diamond hoop earrings by leaving a comment, below: What’s your favorite guilty-pleasure television show?

Thank you for entering. This contest is now closed.

{Timeless Style} Sally Hilkene

“I was making jewelry in high school,” says accessories maven, FOF Sally Hilkene. Today she continues to design pieces for her Kansas fashion and accessories mecca, Churchill. Her passions and fashion have hardly wavered. “I’m jeans, boots and a lot of great jewelry with a simple white shirt or a turtleneck,” she says about her style. “This photo from when I was 14 looks like it could have been taken recently.”

“My parents used to take us on educational trips when I was young— Europe, Russia, USA and Canada–and buy us a charm in every place. As I got older I started collecting big, huge charms. I have a charm bracelet with the old charms and mix them with the big, fabulous ones I have acquired in my travels.” FOF Sally Hilkene

{Street-Spotted} Yael Nadiv

“My clothes are a backdrop for my jewelry,” says FOF Yael Nadiv. We spotted Yael sightseeing in New York with her friend, Régine Illi (from last week’s Street Spotted). She had just finished showcasing her own jewelry designs at a trunk show at Henri Bendel. “It was a success, but I’d still like to see my jewelry sold in more stores!”

Name: Yael Nadiv

Age: Over 50

What do you do? I’m a jewelry designer. I have my own company, Onyx.

Where are you from? Originally from Israel, but now I live in Zurich.

How long have you been friends with Regine? Just a few years. We met when I brought my jewelry to sell in her museum shop. She is the shop manager at the Rietberg Museum.

The jewelry looks great on both of you, but you two have very different styles… Yes, she’s more eccentric. I’m very plain…very classic. Little detail, good quality. I usually wear a white t-shirt and jeans, you know.

Who are your favorite designers? Bottega Veneta, Donna Karan and Dries Van Noten

On Yael:
Jewelry – handmade from her jewelry company, Onyx
Dress– “I don’t remember. It’s like 100 years old. I don’t take much when I travel. I just take a dress and then you don’t need anything else.”
Bag– Made in Italy
Shoes– from Switzerland, and made in Italy.

Photos by Katherine McPherson for FabOverFifty.com

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{The Insider} Attention: El Paso FOFs! Ippolita Trunk Show Tomorrow at Tres Mariposas

Ippolita’s handcrafted jewelry combines the rich Florentine aesthetic of her Italian heritage with a modern flair. Her pieces pair brilliantly colored gemstones with her signature 18K gold, sterling silver and rosé collections. Ippolita jewelry has added sparkle to the Glitterati for over ten years, since she launched her 18K gold collection at Bergdorf Goodman in 1999.

“I make jewelry that is personal, wearable and effortlessly chic,” says Ippolita.

Representatives from Ippolita will be on hand tomorrow at Tres Mariposas with preview merchandise.


Tres Mariposas
5857 North Mesa
El Paso, Texas
915.584.4444

Images via Ippolita

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