Summer Loving: What I'm Loving Lately

Love them or hate them, Birkenstocks have been riding a wave of popularity for the past few years, and I'll admit that I've fully embraced these comfy, German-made shoes. 

I especially love the "Gizeh" style of Birkenstock sandals, which somehow seem a little less hippie-ish than some of the other styles of this shoe. Bonus: unlike many other pairs of sandals, Birks have a supportive foot-bed that mean long summer strolls are totally do-able.

 

Our Blush Necklace is the perfect piece for summer: the iridescent pink moonstone looks gorgeous against sun-kissed skin, while it's neutral color means this piece can be worn from day to night, with any outfit.








 

Elizabeth Gilbert's The Signature Of All Things is the perfect summer read for lovers of historical fiction and strong female protagonists. 

This epic novel features a rich cast of characters and an unlikely heroine - Alma Whittaker, a brilliant 18th Century botanist who embarks on extraordinary adventures while exploring the spiritual, sensual and natural worlds.

The Signature Of All Things is a beautifully written, engaging, and masterful book that is a must for your holiday reading list. 

I stumbled upon this delicious fragrance after eying up it's beautiful turquoise & gold packaging while browsing at Anthropologie. 

One whiff of its heady and nostalgic scent and I was hooked. Scents of warm weather goodness including sea salt and coconut emanate from this limited edition perfume by Land Over Sea.

A Resolution You Might Actually Keep

Happy Friday, Friends! January is well underway, and many peoples' New Year's resolutions have already been tossed by the wayside (it's not too late to jump back on that train, people - I know you can do it!). 

I've never been a huge fan of resolutions, though my boyfriend and I have been embarking on a series of "January Food Challenges" over the past 3 years which have pushed our culinary skills, not to mention, self-discipline. January 2012 brought a month of vegetarianism, while January 2013 was a month-long gluten-free diet. This year I proposed we do something really crazy to push our limits, so alas, we've forgone booze for the month. Seriously, though, I will be okay, though I admit that our hankering for beer has us planning to purchase some of the non-alcoholic version, just so we can pretend.

Today I thought I would share some resolutions of a slightly lighter nature: Jewellery Resolutions. I'm sure, after all, that we can all make a small change to either push our fashion comfort zone a bit further or drop those bad habits that we just don't feel like breaking. (Mine? I store my jewellery in my street shoes when I'm doing barre class. Safekeeping? Perhaps. But nonetheless, not the best place to keep delicate, pretty things). Here are a few ideas for your own 2014 Jewellery Resolution:

In 2014 I will...

• Take off my jewellery before bed, no matter how lazy or tired I am.
• Decide that maybe I can wear silver/gold after all, even though I always say it doesn't suit me.
• Put my jewellery in a safe place when I'm done wearing it (no more leaving it on the bathroom counter/bedside table/shoes *cough*)
• Treat myself to a special piece that I've been eying up forever. Just because.
• Try a jewellery look I've been afraid I can't pull off (layered necklaces? a major arm stack? mismatched earrings? statement necklace?)
• Wear backings on my earrings - no more earring singletons.
• Not wait for a special occasion to wear that really sparkly/bold/expensive piece of jewellery - today's the day! 

As for me? I have a bit of a strange discomfort wearing a necklace and earrings at the same time. I know, it's sort of bizarre, but I just end up feeling like it's somehow overwhelming, that there's way too much happening in a small frame of vision. I've been working my way around these feelings though, striking a compromise with myself that it's okay to wear both, as long as the earrings are tiny and/or the necklace is long, so there isn't too much jewellery action in too close of proximity. So for me, I'm resolving to get past my "issues" around earrings worn with necklaces - with the help of a good jewellery therapist of course. I'll let you know how I go :)

What's your resolution, jewellery-related or otherwise? Leave a comment below - I'd love to hear!

Jewellery As Art

Happy Friday! I hope you're having a great week, and looking forward to some holiday fun this weekend. I wanted to let you know that I am holding an impromptu contest over on my Facebook page today, so if you aren't already a fan (or if you are, but haven't been there to check out the contest yet), be sure to take part here.

Today I wanted to share some photos from an awesome little collaboration with my friend, artist Amanda McCuaig. Amanda does amazing watercolour paintings, and she recently offered to come do a live painting session at an open house I held for some girlfriends a couple of weeks back. The subject? The Keltie Leanne Designs logo and some select jewellery pieces.

Below are a few of my favorite shots from the event, including the end result. Isn't she amazing? I can't wait to frame the designs and put them up in my studio.

You can check out more of Amanda's work on her website mettlelurgy.com.

 

 

Fall Lust List

Happy Labour Day Weekend! While it is technically still summer for another three weeks, the cooler, wet weather we've had this week has me dreaming of fall fashion. As much as I love the warm summer months, autumn is always a fun transition to make wardrobe-wise: cozy sweaters, great denim, rich colors and fabrics, plus lots of lovely layers. Here are a few pieces I'm lusting over for Fall.

Felt hat -- despite not really minding the rainy weather, I was slightly horrified by the reminder of what it does to my hair. A chic wool felt hat (this one is a fantastic trilby style by French Connection) is the perfect way to keep stylish when the weather is wet.

Black booties-- I have worn the caramel colored leather booties I bought last year to death, so think it only makes sense to add a basic black pair to my collection. I love the quilting and buckle detail on this Sam Edelman pair, and think they would look equally cute with deconstructed jeans for play, or tights and a skirt at the office.  

Rich gemstone accessories - These two pieces - the Finery Bracelet in Garnet, and our Wanderlust Necklace, featuring gorgeous labradorite - are my two top picks from the upcoming Keltie Leanne Fall 2013 Collection. 

Luxe leather handbag - I am completely in love with the recently launched line of Mackage leather bags. This merlot messenger bag is enough of a neutral to carry me through the season (and hopefully many more), but is different enough to stand out. I'm not sure it's in the budget this year, but a girl can dream, right?

Versatile dress - I don't buy dresses that often (skirts and tops always seem to deliver more wardrobe mileage), but when I do, I like to make sure it's something that is versatile to style. This cute little number from Aritzia would look fantastic a multitude of ways - with a leather vest, layered with a colorful floral scarf, paired with bold tights - you name it.

Now it's your turn to tell me - what items are on your fall lust list? Leave a comment below, and be sure to link with photos!

Pack (Jewellery) Like a Pro

Hey Everyone! It's another week come and gone, and my summer vacation is drawing ever near! My boyfriend and I are soon off to Germany and Italy for two weeks: Germany - to visit his family & friends, and then Italy - to fulfill my longtime dream of eating pizza for every meal, beautiful coastlines and the good life under Tuscan sun. I promise that I will try my best to come home after it's over! In the meantime, with holidays on the brain, and many people planning their own summer vacations, I thought I would share some of my own jewellery packing tips. 
 
Jewellery is a great way to maximize your wardrobe while you're away, not to mention the fact that it is generally lightweight, and takes up little suitcase space. That being said, there's no need to drag your whole jewellery collection with you. 

Here's my own recipe for what to pack to ensure you have the most versatile bunch of items with you, that are simple to mix and match, and will suit any range of occasions. 


1.) Dramatic Earrings - these are the perfect way to dress up any look and an easy way to take your daytime outfit to night. Just throw on some bright lipstick, heels and a pair of statement earrings, and you're set to go.

2.) Delicate Earrings - whether you pack your favorite pair of studs or a tiny and feminine pair of earrings like our Sea Foam Earrings (shown above), a simple pair of delicate earrings are perfect for every day wear.

3.) Statement Necklace - dress up a simple tank dress for a special dinner out or wear over a crewneck sweater in chillier weather.

4.) Long Necklace - great for wearing on it's own, or layered with a shorter necklace.

5.) Chunky & Delicate Bracelets - pair them together, or wear each on its own. The delicate piece is perfect for everyday wear, while a chunkier bracelet or cuff will elevate an evening look.

6.) Short Necklace - A 16 or 18-inch necklace is perfect for any occasion. 'Nuff said. 

Do you bring much jewellery on holidays? I'd love to hear your own go-to pieces to pack, so leave me a note below and let me know!


 

Amazing Amazonite

Seven Seas Necklace - $55

Hey, all you beautiful people! Today on the blog I wanted to share a bit about another one of my favorite gemstones: amazonite. Amazonite features heavily in my latest collection, and customers are loving it's gorgeous turquoise color! When I first spotted the beautiful amazonite I used in the Spring line, it was really the starting point for the whole collection - the bright and juicy gemstones reminded me of warm weather and days by the ocean, and I just knew this gem would be a focal point in the new line.   

Reef Bracelet - $85

Amazonite can range in color from pale blue, to the deep blue-green shade seen in the Keltie Leanne Spring line. This mineral can be found in the United States, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Australia and Namibia, while the gemstone used in our collection is Russian amazonite. 

Style blogger, Marion Berry, wearing the Refresh Necklace

The healing philosophy of gemstones tells us that amazonite enhances communication, especially when worn at the throat, and has powerful healing properties. Amazonite is said to get it's name from the Amazon River, where many deposits of this mineral have been found, and is sometimes referred to as the "Hope Stone" because it is thought to inspire confidence and hope. 

Which of these amazonite pieces is your favorite?

Mother Knows Best: Mom's Gift Picks

Happy Friday, Beauties! In case you've forgotten, Mother's Day is drawing near (Sunday, May 12th), which means it's time to start thinking about how to honor the special moms in our lives. A mother's love is probably the fiercest thing you'll ever get to experience, and if you're a mom yourself, I'm sure you'll agree (though no little kidlets for me - yet!).

My mom & I at my 30th birthday, last May

When you see a mom in action, you just know that they will truly go to the ends of the earth for their kids - even when that love can get a bit big and sometimes even, er, crazy. Yes mom, of course I wear my helmet on my bike, and yes mother, I will be careful to keep an eye on my purse, and good GOD mom, I'm 30 okay?! But maybe that's just what it's like for me with my mom...

Over-the-top moments aside, my own mom is possibly my biggest supporter and cheerleader, and I couldn't ask for a better woman by my side to encourage me in my dreams and pursuits. This is a lady who asks me for a new stack of business cards nearly each time we see each other, and who gives me the play-by-play with each new, prospective customer she meets, or the compliments she receives, while wearing my designs. Naturally, then, I thought I would ask my lovely mom, Jan, for her top Keltie Leanne jewellery picks for Mother's Day. All of her choices are from the new Spring collection, "because if I had to choose from your entire line, I would have about 20 pieces that are my favorites." Moms are really great for the ego sometimes, aren't they? So, without further ado, here are Jan's Mother's Day Keltie Leanne gift picks:

 


Clear Skies Earrings - $72

"These earrings have such beautiful gemstones; I love the shape of this design - the cluster, and in these colours - it's fabulous."

Ocean Spray Bracelet - $110

"This piece is so elegant and classy - but also a bit edgy! The pearl fringe is almost spiky looking - classy and fun."

Seaside Earrings - $85

"These are my Mother's Day present this year; usually I drop hints, but this year I have made a special request for this pair of earrings. I love the three gemstones, and the three colors. I also like how the shape stands out with my short hairstyle."

Sand Spit Necklace - $105

"I'm normally more of an earring girl, but I love the contrast of the earthy, rutilated quartz, and ocean-colored turquoise in this necklace. The colors remind me of the ocean and the sand, and the way it hangs is very unique and different."

Blue Lagoon Bracelet - $80

"While I love the turquoise in this piece, my favorite part is the chain wound through it. It really adds something unexpected, the way it snakes through the stones." 




Thanks so much for your input, Mom! 

If I've ever been told I have an eye for style, I can assure you it's from my mom (although my dad does have an extremely impressive shoe collection...). Do you love buying jewellery for your mom, or if you're a mom yourself, are there any special items that you'd like this Mother's Day?

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 Sneak Preview

With the launch of our new Spring collection just around the corner, I thought I'd give you all a little sneak peek of what's to come. The new line was created with my (desperate!) longing for warm weather and beaches in mind, and celebrates fresh, ocean-inspired colors and designs. I found myself being drawn to lots of yummy blue and green gemstones when planning the collection, and basically wanting to make a drastic departure from the rich, deep colors we saw in our accessories and closets this Autumn and Winter. Yes, it may still be dreary and grey in the parts where many of us reside, but I trust that this line will take you from cozy sweaters to breezy maxi dresses in no time at all.

Arc Necklace in Peruvian Opal & 14-Karat Gold Fill

Ocean Spray Bracelet - Freshwater Pearls & 14-Karat Gold Fill

Seaside Earrings - Sterling Silver,Turquoise, Chrysophrase & Lapis Lazuli

Win Your Own Energy Necklace

I’m excited to have been featured on online lifestyle e-zine, Modern Mix Vancouver, this past week. Editor Vanessa Choot approached me after seeing my designs at Fine Finds in Yaletown and asked if she could profile the business and of course I immediately said yes! 
 
As a part of the feature, Modern Mix is giving readers the opportunity to win one of our coveted Energy Necklaces. This piece combines the bold orange of carnelian and pretty yellow citrine on a lovely gold vermeil chain and retails for $55. It’s super easy to enter the contest - just check out the feature here for all of the details on how you can win, before January 20^th.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

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?

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?

Oh, Coco...

One of our most popular designs, the Coco Bracelet is available in three different gemstone colors - turquoise, onyx and lapis lazuli. The piece features smooth round gemstones interspersed with tiny gold-filled beads and a brushed gold vermeil coin bead. I called this piece the Coco Bracelet after my lovely friend, Dominique, from Hive Mind Millinery, said it reminded her of Coco Chanel. I agree that this bracelet carries a special lady-like flair and think it is a perfect accessory for any woman who loves pretty, feminine things! I've also been told that customers love to wear this piece with the Fresco Bracelet in it's complimentary color, or with one of our tiny Faceted Gemstone Bracelets. I would love to introduce the Coco Bracelet in a new color or two for Spring 2013. What do you think? Is there a color you'd love to see the Coco Bracelet in next?

PS - You didn't hear it from me, but word has it that one of our favorite fashion bloggers may just be planning to give away one of these pretty numbers very soon!