Get The Look: Rustic-Chic

If you haven't had the chance to check it out, the new Keltie Leanne Spring 2014 look book is now up on the website!

The look book was photographed in beautiful Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver by the talented Ainsley Rose Photography. I had envisioned an earthy and natural environment and the park provided the perfect diversity in terms of setting - situated right on the ocean, with tons of rich plant-life, and gorgeous lighting. 

In order to ensure that the jewellery and the beautiful setting be the focal point, I went with a simple and neutral color palette when selecting the clothing that would be worn for the shoot, and which would provide a lovely canvas for the jewellery rather than overshadowing it. I also wanted our model Cara to have a down-to-earth and appropriately natural appearance, so while she's not exactly wearing her hiking gear for this woodsy shoot, I did make sure to steer clear of anything too overdone or "city" looking.

This look is definitely the most casual of the four featured in the look book, but also one of my personal favorites. Rustic-chic may appropriately describe it, because the boots and denim make it a little bit cowgirl, but somehow the draped cardigan lends a soft and feminine element, and the bright lapis jewels are bold and glamorous. Here's how you can emulate this rustic-chic style yourself:

1.) Start with denim shorts and a simple tee or tank in black or another neutral colour (for example, grey or white). No stress if you don't have legs quite like Cara (me neither!) - go for a slouchier boyfriend cut, or wear a pair of your favorite jeans if shorts aren't your thing.

2.) Add a soft and drapey cardigan or cape like this one from Aritzia.  

3.) Throw on a pair of worn-in tall boots or booties. I personally love the look of Frye's, but still haven't splurged on my own pair!

4.) Now put on your favorite statement earrings, a long necklace with a bright-colored gemstone pendant, and some wrist sparkles for good measure. Cara wears our Catching Fire Earrings, Evolution Necklace and Yin Bracelet.

You're all set: you've got a look that's perfect for a casual coffee date, upcoming music festival or island getaway.

Date Night

Hey lovelies! With Valentine's Day around the corner, and a long weekend upon us, I thought I would share a little style inspiration for a date night out. I loved seeing what some of my fav fashion bloggers wore on this week's FASHION Style Panel, to showcase Valentine's Day outfits that are "Classy Not Trashy". 

My own take on this theme is equal parts edge and simple femininity. I am loving the rock 'n' roll look of coated denim, and think a skinny pair of these jeans would be totally va-va-voom with some great heels. While I've never been a pink girl, a pretty blush sweater and feminine accessories (our Conch Necklace & Pinwheel Earrings play the part well) are a lovely contrast with the sex kitten jeans and pumps, while a metallic clutch ties the whole look together.

What's your favorite date night look? Leave a comment below and let me know how you pull off sex appeal in a way that's all class.

Little Black Dress

I'll admit it - I'm not much of a dress girl. Don't get me wrong, I do love donning a great party frock on occasion, but skirts and tops have been the mainstay of my "dressy" and professional wardrobes. I suppose the versatility of a skirt is what makes me wearing a dress a somewhat uncommon sight. The couple of statement-making cocktail dresses I own have seen me through many a wedding reception, birthday party, you name it - which in reality means a handful of fancy occasions per year. So in fact, it's not just that I rarely wear a dress, but also, I seldom buy dresses because I don't feel I have many occasions to wear one. All of my dress-shy feelings aside, I recently realized there were a number of events coming up that required a new dress, and it dawned on me that the item that could cure my "dresses-aren't-versatile" thinking was a perfect, little black dress.

I managed to nab this adorable scoop-neck, full-skirted number from Aritzia, just hours before my fall launch event and I've got big plans for this dress. It's already seen me to a Thanksgiving wedding, replete with black tights and a cherry red cardigan, and it's due to make at least two more appearances this upcoming holiday season. 

A little black dress can be worn with basic black pumps, ankle booties or a bright pair of statement shoes like the pair shown above. Throw on a simple cardi, a sparkly jacket, or leather bomber, and you've got three totally different and fabulous looks going on. And of course, when it comes to jewellery, a LBD is the perfect canvas for any of your favorite jewels - I've shown just a few of our new Fall 2013 designs that I think would finish off this look perfectly. Patterned tights, a simple clutch or colourful scarf - the possibilities for accessorizing a LBD are endless. 

I think I may have just cured my whole, dresses aren't practical, shopping mentality.

How To Layer Necklaces

Cee, from Coco & Vera, shows us layering done right.

Happy Friday! I hope you are as excited for this long weekend as I am! Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, and I'm looking forward to cooking up a turkey storm and enjoying some fun, r&r and adult beverages with friends and family this weekend. Plus, one of my good girlfriends is getting hitched on Saturday, so it's double the reason to celebrate in high style.

I've had a few customers ask me about the mystery of layering necklaces recently, so I thought I would share a few tips, to help clear up any question marks about how to go about this tricky business. Truth be told, there is no right or wrong way to layer your necklaces, however, there are a few things to keep in mind to help you answer the question, does this look alright?? before you walk out the door.

1.) Delicate pieces tend to layer best. That's not to say that chunky, statement making necklaces can't be worn together, but it's definitely a more challenging look to pull off. By sticking with simple, classic lines you can avoid overkill and keep your layered look subtle.

2.) Look for commonalities between pieces to help tie your look together. In other words, find a common element between the necklaces you're layering: maybe both pieces have a charm pendant, perhaps they share the same metal colour, have a similar silhouette, etc.

3.) Less is more. Okay, in fairness this is completely my own philosophy to abide by, but you know the saying that after getting dressed, you should always look in the mirror and take one accessory off? In the world of layering necklaces, if you've piled the pieces on and are feeling in doubt -- take one off. Ahh...that's better.

4.) Mix up the lengths. By varying the lengths of the necklaces you are layering, you can help avoid looking too "piled on" and really showcase the beauty of each individual piece.

And now, let's see some of these tips in action...

Mixed metals are anything but clashing when you tie the look together with complementary gemstones and in this case, two of the same design. The versatile length of our Satellite Necklace means these sparkly beauties can be worn as a perfect duo.

The delicate chain of our Celestial Necklace means you can wear two of these necklaces side by side. You could even add a third, longer gemstone necklace to this look.

One long necklace, one short -- complementary gemstone colors and delicate gold chain -- easy peasy.

Graduated layers and neutral gemstones allow this mixed metal, multi-coloured gemstone, trio of necklaces to be pulled off with ease.







And a final P.S. -- make your layered look the focal point of your style by keeping your outfit simple and chic. A basic black or white top is the perfect canvas for layered perfection.

So, can you pull off layered necklaces no problem? Be sure to leave a comment below with your own tips or thoughts on this style!

Hot Summer Nights

Happy Friday, Friends! I hope you are enjoying this warm summer weather we've been having as much as I am. If you haven't had the good fortune of all this sunshine we've been getting here on the coast, I apologize for being boastful, but we've had about a month plus of summer amazing-ness and I am praying that it lasts through to September! 

While this summer has been a pretty low-keyed one for me fashion-wise - lots of time spent wearing my workout clothes on the bike, or shorts and a tank top on our patio - I think it's high time I got myself prettied up for a night out on the town. 

Here's a simple and sexy summer look that would be perfect for a girl's night out, date night or summer wedding: start with a simple, bold-colored dress, add a pair of nude colored sandals or pumps, throw on a swipe of bright lipstick and stand-out accessories, grab a fun clutch and you're out the door. 

[Look shown: dress by Zara, shoes by Sole Society, clutch by Banana Republic, lip color by Maybelline, jewellery by Keltie Leanne Designs.]

Summer Lovin'

Hi Lovelies! I'm back from holidays, and after some seriously hot temps in Italy, am ready for summer here in Vancouver (fingers crossed it shows up this weekend!).

Summer is such a fun time for fashion - I love the bright colors, airy fabrics and general whimsy that seems to take over our closets in the warmer months. While I love a great pair of platform sandals and a pretty summer frock as much as the next girl, when the sun is shining I'm usually out and about exploring, so I need to be certain my outfits are both practical and comfy! 

Here's a look that I'll be wearing a ton this summer - a colorful top, denim shorts and functional accessories: a cross-body purse, flat sandals, and a hat to keep the sun off my fair skin (and bad hair days hidden away). Of course, I'll be sure to wear a few of my favorite ocean-inspired jewellery designs, to take this basic summer look from run-of-the-mill to fab. 

[Look shown: tank top by Splendid, hat by Volcom, sandals by Sam Edelman, denim shorts by Adriano Goldschmied, purse by Madewell, jewellery by Keltie Leanne Designs]

Sunday Brunch

The past couple of weeks have flown by even faster than they usually seem to, so today I'm totally having one of those, I can't believe it's Friday! moments. Which of course leads me to thinking about weekend plans and all of the little treats I'm looking forward to - a few drinks with girlfriends at the end of the work day, the chance to bum around the house in my PJ's extra long tomorrow, and if I'm lucky - brunch at one of my fav restaurants with my guy or good friends. And while weekend brunch can easily be an excuse to just throw on any old comfy t-shirt and jeans in your closet, I personally see it as a chance to get a bit put together for a fun, lingering outing. 

So, in celebration of the beautiful spring flowers and slightly warmer temps, here's a look I've styled that's perfect for Sunday brunch. While I'm not normally a very "flowery" girl, I just love the fun, floral pants and jeans I've seen in stores lately, and think they're a great way to add mega punch to any look. Throw on a lightweight sweater, plus buttery leather jacket and simple flats, and cap off the look with bright accessories like our Calypso Earrings and Blue Lagoon Bracelet. You'll be set for a morning (or afternoon) of indulgent eggs benny and lattes. 

Do you love brunch at much as I do? Any restaurant picks you'd love to share?

Spring 2013 Look Book, First Look

Hello all you lovely people! It's finally starting to feel like Spring here in Vancouver, and I couldn't be more excited to have all of my new Spring 2013 designs out in stores and on the website. If you haven't had the chance to check out the new pieces yet, head on over to www.keltieleannedesigns.com, stat! 

Today I'm thrilled to be giving you a sneak peek at the Spring 2013 Look Book collaboration we've done with Vancouver-based fashion blogger, Alexandra Grant, of To Vogue Or Bust. If you follow her blog, you know that Alex is the perfect representation of the type of casual, West Cost elegance that defines our brand and especially, this marine-inspired new line.

The full look book will be released this Good Friday, March 29th, but in the meantime, here are a few sneak peeks of this dreamy, coastal collaboration.

Working Girl

"What do I wear?" is the age-old question us women ask ourselves, and one that can get especially tiring when you need to look polished and professional for an office environment five days a week. Fortunately very few office jobs require a completely “buttoned-up”  dress code nowadays (at least for us lucky ladies), which means that we can inject a bit of personality and fun into our wardrobes while mixing and matching pieces we'd actually be caught dead in over cocktails with the girls. 

This look is the perfect example of getting the most mileage out of the items you wear at both work and play – the bold blouse would go great with a pair of skinny jeans, and this pencil skirt is actually a dark denim, lending a youthful vibe to a more conservative silhouette. Paired with a classic handbag and fashionable pumps, all you need to throw on is a couple of unique pieces of jewellery and you’re set for success.

January Look: Recipe for Casual Chic

Happy New Year's! After a relaxing few days following the Christmas rush, I am back in action and planning fun new things for Keltie Leanne Designs in 2013. I'm excited to be working on our new Spring line and pursuing lots of other ideas and opportunities and can't wait to share all of our goings on with you!

Despite the fresh start a new year brings, the cold and rainy Vancouver weather can sometimes leave us locals feeling stuck in the doldrums by January, so here's a little outfit inspiration to keep you comfy while looking cheery and chic this month.

Do you find January an exciting fresh start, or are you itching for summer already? 

A Head Start

From top left, clockwise: Energy Necklace - $55, Sodalite-ful Earings - $58, Coco Bracelet in Onyx - $70, Black + Gold Studs - $55, Captured Light Necklace - $110, Fresco Bracelet in Turquoise - $70

If you're anything like me, December arrived and you thought, Christmas? It's still days away...which means I also haven't even begun to think about Christmas gifts. Okay, maybe "thought," but my actual shopping is still to be done. 

And chances are, even if you're not quite as disorganized as I am, you have a special lady or two in your life to buy for - whether your mom, bestie or sister - so I thought I'd give you a bit of a "head start" on some Keltie Leanne gift ideas. These are some of my top picks for all of the different women on your list, regardless of style or taste. They are all available in our online store, or this list of amazing Lower Mainland retailers.

What about you? Have you started (or finished) your holiday shopping yet?

Good to Go

Vancouver is a relatively casual city, but that's not to say a girl shouldn't look chic while she's on the go. 

 

This outfit is one I'd wear whether at brunch with my guy, or out for an afternoon of shopping with a girlfriend. A simple swap from these flat booties to a fun heel, and the cross-body bag for a sparkly clutch, would easily take this look from day to night. Of course, our Diamante Necklace & Rock Candy Bracelet add a  touch of bling that we can't resist. 

A Few Of My Favorite Things

My mom always says that she loves all of us kids the same, but I'm afraid when it comes to my own creations I do play favorites. These are currently some of personal favorite Keltie Leanne pieces.

1.) Maven Bracelet in Tundra Sapphire - I love the autumn colors of these pretty little gemstones and it's sleek design suits my simple tastes perfectly.

2.) Glamazon Earrings - These earrings are the first pair I ever designed and I still wear them at least a few days a week! Simple, yet striking, this shoulder grazing pair makes any outfit a little bit more chic.

3.) Eye of the Tiger Necklace - The tiger's eye gemstone on this necklace is so gorgeous and I love the contrast of it's golden colors with the beautiful blue sodalite gemstones adorning the gold-filled chain. Plus, the length of this piece is adjustable so I can wear it with various necklines.

4.) Luce Necklace - Labradorite is one of my favorite gemstones - I love the iridescent colors in this unique gem - so the effect of a whole bib of these little beauties is something I can't resist. 

5.) Olive Branch Earrings - The color of these olive jade gemstones is bold and unique and I love the way they shimmy and move from the hand-hammered horse shoe frames. 

6.) Cleo Bracelet - While I'm a sucker for all of our tiny faceted gemstone bracelets, the Cleo is currently my fav. A photograph really can't do justice to the sparkle and shimmer of these deep blue sodalite gemstones, and I also love the unique gold-filled chain. 

What about you? Is there a particular Keltie Leanne Designs piece that you love?

Black & Gold




Keltie Leanne Bracelet & Necklace, J. Crew Purse, Top Shop Belt, Kate Spade Watch, Enzo Angiolini Shoes

Black and gold is a big trend this season, though in my opinion, it's a classic pairing that can never go wrong. Accessories are a great way to incorporate black and gold into your look, whether as a chic accent against an all black ensemble, or in contrast to casual denim or bright pops of color. In addition to these two pieces from our line, the Black + Gold Bracelet and Stud Earrings add a subtle black and gold injection to any outfit, and for those who prefer slightly more delicate wrist candy, the Fresco Bracelet in Onyx is a gorgeous option.

Do you have any favorite black and gold clothing items or accessories that you love?

Girls & Gems Jewellery Night

With the holiday season around the corner, I thought it was the perfect chance to provide a fun opportunity for a group of girlfriends (though boys are always welcome!) to get together and shop for party baubles and sparkly Christmas gifts in a relaxed and fun environment.

How it works: I will come to your home or venue with my collection of designs, while all you need to provide is your group of friends (though chocolate and wine never hurt things!). It's a great chance to scope out and try on all of the Keltie Leanne pieces you've been eying and maybe even get some of your holiday gift shopping checked off the list. With beautiful, handmade pieces ranging from $40 - $160, there is sure to be something special for all of the ladies on your list. (And let's face it, that's usually when you end up finding the best items for yourself - or is that just me...?) Best of all, as the gracious host you will be treated to some special treats and discounts just for organizing such a posh affair.

If you're interested in hosting your own Girls & Gems Jewellery Night this holiday season, drop me a note at info@keltieleannedesigns.com so we can coordinate. I promise it will be heaps of fun and the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with your group of girlfriends!

Leather Love

Zara tote & t-shirt, Aldo booties, Danier jacket, Gap skirt

Leather (both real and faux) is huge this Fall, whether it be in the form of small embellishments, a fab accessory, or worn as a larger statement piece (how gorgeous is this skirt?!). This lambskin leather jacket is one of my personal wardrobe staples, and these are a few of my other "currently coveting" leather items.

What do you think of the current leather trend? Are there any items you have your sights set on?