Swarovski Christmas Jewels Collection 2008

As Christmas is approaching, what better sparkling companion of this special holiday than Swarovski. Whether you want to decorate with crystals or give someone special something just as special, Swarovski has it all. The Christmas Jewels Collection for 2008 features many jewels inspired by snowflakes and stars, in silver, gold and clear crystal shades.

This beautiful star hair clip has a shimmering design with Black Diamond, Silver Shade and and clear crystal pavé and it is priced at CAD $105. This would not only make a great gift for someone over the holidays but it is also a beautiful accessory that would give some sparkle against the winter cold weather outside. One of the most beautiful pieces in the collection are the set of gold plated necklace, earrings and bracelet with bezel set clear crystal chatons and antique square cut Moonlight and Silver Shade crystals. The necklace is priced at CAD $220, the earrings at CAD $65, and the bracelet at CAD $260.

If instead you wish to have something even more gentler or are looking for something extra loving to give, heart pendants and swan engraved rings are your choice. The Signature Ring is not only appealing because of its classy shape but it offers something dreamy and magical with the Swanflower(TM) motif gleaming in clear crystal pavé. It is priced at $ CAD120. The mini heart and butterfly pendant is an excellent choice for any occasion. The heart is in faceted clear crystal and butterfly in Light Rose crystal and it is priced at CAD $55. You may also like the Emotion Pendant which is Rhodium-plated with open heart in clear crystal pavé and smaller heart-cut crystal. It is priced at CAD $105.

Louis Vuitton’s Diamond Flower Collection

Louis Vuitton have launched two patented diamond cuts based on their infamous monogram flowers; the round cut flower diamond and the pointed cut flower diamond. These stunning cuts took over three years to develop and have between 61 and 77 facets, which is absolutely amazing as a typical diamond has about 58 facets! The diamond beauties were mixed to create the collection Les Ardentes, which means “the blazing.” The sparkling collection features a bracelet, two brooches, a pair of earrings, a necklace and a ring. The collection is really beautiful and I especially love the bracelet which combines a diamond ribbon as well for the ultimate French romantic elegance.

The New Chanel Homme Collection starring Scott Schuman

Scott Schuman more commonly known as the creator of the popular fashion blog “The Sartorialist” photographed Chanel’s new Homme Collection for Fantastic Man magazine Issue #8. Schuman is known for taking beautiful “real people” photography and this absolutely reflects his outstanding style. It has got to be one of the best fashion editorials for some time now and many people are already in love with the photo shots. Probably not many know that one of the world’s most prestigious fashion house, Chanel is making menswear. It sure isn’t as popular as the womenswear and the jewellery line, but Chanel menswear is gaining speed and attention! This new collection is rich in fitted black pants tucked in suede ankle boots, dark heavy coats, fitted blazers with scarves and my favorite - the black and white tweed loosely fitted coat with the pearl necklace.

Trend Spring 2009: Huge Earrings!

It is no secret that I love huge jewellery, anything from enormous necklaces, rings, bracelets and of course earrings! So, you can imagine how excited I was that huge earrings are the next major trend for Spring/Summer 2009. Also featured on the British Vogue Loves, these Zac Posen Spring 2009 earrings are a grand highlight! The chandelier style beauties are danggling, huge and a definite show stopper. Whether you chose silver styles, Swarovski sparling crystals or tribal colored stones, do not be afraid to experiment and let your imagination fly just as long as they are large. In fact, the larger, the better! Just remember to pull your hair back either in a French chic ponytail or styled into a quiff like in the Zac Posen fashion show. And of course, do not over-accessorize when you wear these beauties: chose simpler clothes and only one more accessory so that their magic appeal takes center stage.

Caribbean Blue Beauty: Larimar

Larimar is one of the most unique and rare gemstones in the world as it can be found in only one location on our planet; the Dominican Republic. This Caribbean Island is a jewel on its own with its white, soft sandy beaches and unspoiled, rich nature but it is also the only home of the blue jewel beauty. The legend of Larimar has it that people on the island used to collect the blue gemstones on the beach until one day they could not find them anymore. Therefore, they started to explore upstream and came across a rock formation which was the source of the precious beauties. The natives called the stone “Blue Stone” as they believed that it came from the clear blue sea. But in 1974, the Dominican Miguel Méndez while walking on the Dominican beach saw a flash of the blue gemstone and called it Larimar, taking his daughter’s name Larissa and combining it with the Spanish word for sea “mar.”

Larimar is a variety of pectolite and it is thought that the stones may have formed as a result of volcanic eruptions. Although pectolites may be common, the unique blue color, also called the volcanic blue, is what makes Larimar so incredibly precious. The rare jewel is used in jewellery for necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets. It is usually combined with silver but higher grade stones can be also produced in gold. The colors of Larimar vary from white, light blue, green-blue and deep blue also known as volcanic blue. The quality grading is according to the color, with white being the lower grade and volcanic blue is the highest grade. Larimar is a true Caribbean beauty. Its blue charm and rare quality will make an everlasting impression on you and having this jewel will forever remind you of the turquoise waters of this far paradise.

Water Jewellery: Carolina Bucci Exclusive Limited Edition

The Florence-born and raised jewellery designer, Carolina Bucci has created a limited edition collection to support WaterAid’s work. WaterAid is a charity which helps some of the world’s poorest people to have access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. The exclusive jewellery Italian designer has created two pieces; a drop pendant necklace and a bracelet, both of which will be on sale from the end of July until the end of December of 2008.

The lucky tie bracelet is made of 18 carat gold and soft grey silk and it is priced at £295. Each bracelet bought would guarantee safe water and sanitation to a family of four. The drop shaped pendant necklace is made of 18 carat gold and covered with white and blue diamonds, costing £2595. An entire village is equipped with a lasting supply of safe water and sanitation when somebody buys one of these necklaces.

“I am really excited to be collaborating with WaterAid on these pieces of jewellery”, says Carolina. “WaterAid’s vision of a world where everyone has access to clean water and sanitation is one which I believe passionately in.”

The beautiful pieces are available from the Carolina Bucci boutiques, Browns and other selected retailers worldwide. For more information, visit her website.

Fashion: Yachting

Going on a yacht and sailing away is becoming more and more about fashion than the sport itself. We have seen famous designers, such as Roberto Cavalli and supermodels, such as Kate Moss indulge in this hot lifestyle over the summer. Yachts are also the set for many designer photo shoots and music videos. Yachting has also inspired many design collections with its crisp whites and linen long dresses. And who can forget the never-ending nautical trend? Many designers have also made collections especially for cruising and “boat dressing.” Whether you will chose to sail from Positano to Provence or from Venice to Santorini, the sun-drenched coasts, the azure waters and the Mediterranean breeze will be the perfect combination to your upscale fashion sense. Now, here are a few tips for your yachting adventure.

Hot Bikini: Chose a beautiful and glamorous bikini. Softer colors and golden tones are preferable. You may chose bandeau, triangle or a one piece bikini. Keep in mind that the most important thing for a bikini, is to feel comfortable and sexy. You can slip into some tiny Brazilian cuts like Rosa Cha or chose from the variety of swimwear at Victoria’s Secret.

Cover-up Essential: As it gets quite windy on the yacht, you need to have a cover-up. Remember to chose wisely in order to be color coordinated with your bikini. If your bikini is neutral, chose a pattern and bolder cover-up. You can be more elegant with a Kimono-style or crocheted cover-up.

Hat Must-Have: Hats are very important and here is your chance to experiment with an extravagant hat. You may chose over sized crocheted hat with large decorations. Just remember that it should fit you well, so that you do not have to chase it in the sea.

Sunscreen: You should enjoy the sun to the fullest but be extra careful. Sunscreens are extremely important to ensure that your skin will be youthful and glowing. Remember to apply the lotions regularly throughout the day and do not forget to protect your face, lips and hair also. If you chose to wear lip gloss, be sure to apply sunscreen on top of it. As an alternative, the Balm Shelter Lip Gloss is a moisturizing, sheer gloss with SPF to protect and it comes in all shades. Aveeno offers good face and body sunscreens and Fekkai has some great leave-in-conditioners with activated UV shield to protect your hair!

Accessorize: Sunglasses are your absolute most important accessory. Remember that fashion and protection will go hand in hand. Over sized glasses are still in but you can experiment with the patterns and colors. Bags are a necessity. Louis Vuitton offers great beach bags, large but classy enough to show your fashion sense and practical side. Jewelry becomes more important as the sun sets. Chose one center piece and remember that less is more. You may decide to wear a large turquoise ring or a white pearls necklace.

Dress Appropriately: When on the yacht, fancy dresses and shoes are not needed. However, when stopping at ports and going to the fancy coast restaurants, note that cotton, linen and silk materials are impressive. White is the queen of chic but do not underestimate all shades of blue. You may chose longer or capri linen pants and short silk dresses. Shoes are preferably wedges or comfortable high slides. The materials can be colorful fabrics and even decorated with crystals or flowers for a more fancy look. Remember that gold tones are especially stunning with a golden tan during summer. If you are looking for high fashion, Chanel never disappoints with Resort wear and its Cruise Collections.

Sea Scent: When going out at night, make sure you bring your sea adventure to the inland. Eau d’Italie from Positano, Italy is a collection of shower gels, scented soaps and perfumes inspired by the world famous five-star Positano hotel La Sirenuse hotel on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. This fragrance is so cultural that it is sold only at the hotel and a few London boutiques. It has a fresh and seductive scent especially for the summer months.

Bring Your Camera: You will be spending unforgettable moments at sea. The adventure-romance combo should be pictured. Explore the coasts and azure waters, and at night have some fun time in your fashion outfits and golden tan.