Get The Look: Beachside Glam

Today I'm sharing how to get the beautiful "Beachside Glam" look from our Spring '14 Look Book. This style is super simple to emulate...

- Start with a simple maxi dress in a single hue. The strapless number below (from Splendid) or the gorgeous Pink Stitch dress in our look book (available at Yaletown's Fine Finds, for all of you Vancouverites) both have a sweet simplicity that serves as the perfect canvas for the rest of this look.

- Add a pair of strappy sandals. Gladiator-style flats keep things casual, while a chunkier wedge heel will dress things up for night.

- Pile on some juicy jewels: statement earrings, an eye-catching necklace and wrist adornments in colorful gems are the perfect fit. Our look features the Snake Charmer Earrings, Flora & Faceted Green Onyx Bracelets and Chrysalid Necklace. 

- Throw a soft pashmina or scarf in your hand bag to throw over your shoulders once the sun sets or if it's breezy.

 

Voila! You've got the perfect look for a dinner date on the patio, or afternoon persecco with girlfriends.

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.

A Little Romance

My guy and I tend to go pretty low-key on Valentine's. We both agree that there's no sense in paying a 200% mark-up for red roses on the 14th when by February 16th they're back to regular price, and the thought of fighting crowds for dinner resos doesn't do it for us. This being said, I see no need to hate on the day in it's entirety - even if you're not in a relationship. Rather, I use Valentine's as a sweet excuse to do something special with the ones I love - in my single days that meant wine and yummy eats with girlfriends, now, the man and I usually cook a special but low-keyed supper at home.

Here are a few ideas for a special Valentine's Day - and that won't break the bank:

- I adore this cute "Why I Love You Book" (available at Chapters). It's basically the chance to record your own love story and create a keepsake that you'll treasure for years to come. I bought one for my guy last year and filled out half of the book myself, and left the rest blank for us to do together.

- This "LOVER" mug is a sweet yet practical way of saying "Be Mine" to even the least sentimental recipient.

- Cook a meal for someone special and enjoy a low-keyed night in -- Shelley Adam's Whitewater Cooks series is one of my favs. Try the Moroccan Tagine for an exotic dish that will have your guest raving.

- Celebrating Valentine's can be as simple as a toast of bubbly - the "Villa Theresa Prosecco" as well as their sparkling rose, is a delicious (and organic!) bargain at only $18 a bottle.  

- Tulips are making an appearance in stores again - so skip the roses, and add some color to your kitchen table or say, You're awesome, with flowers, to a friend or co-worker. 

-Yes, jewellery is always a romantic gesture - though it doesn't need to come from someone else. Why not treat yourself to an item that you've been eying up forever, or alternatively, you could lend some help to the one you love, and drop a hint with our Keltie Leanne Hint Dropper. 

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.

 

 

Our Top Keltie Leanne Picks For The Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner, and we've got the perfect gift picks for all of the special ladies on your list! Here are some of our favourites from the latest collection, to suit every style and taste. 

From top left clockwise: Black Prince Necklace - $78, Coco Bracelet in Garnet - $70, Life Blood Earrings - $58, Journey Bracelet - $70, Wanderlust Necklace - $95, Celestial Necklace in Labradorite -$58, Renaissance Earrings - $68

The 12 Days of Keltie Leanne

In case you've been living under a rock (or possibly, are just in denial), the holidays are just around the corner. Hasn't 2013 completely flown by?? As a special way to ring in the month of December, we are planning an exciting 12 Days of Christmas promotion, or as we're calling it - The 12 Days of Keltie Leanne. From December 1st through the 12th, we will be featuring a different product or promotion every day, for one day only, exclusively online at keltieleannedesigns.com. 

What sort of goodies can you expect? Well, without giving too much away, think some of our most popular pieces at up to 50% off, special deals you can share with a friend, and more. This is your chance to shop for drool-worthy jewels for the holidays at special prices and promotions that you literally won't come by any other time of year.

I will send each day's holiday treat straight to your inbox - all you have to do is sign up here.

Plus, I will be sharing all of the details on my favorite social media sites, so be sure to follow along on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also search the special hashtag, #12daysofkeltieleanne.

Well, that's all for today! Don't forget to check out our booth at the Kelowna Christmas Show if you're in the Okanagan this weekend. You can find the information on that over on their website, or last week's Keltie Leanne blog post.

Have a wonderful weekend!

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.]

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?

Lofty Living - Mother's Day Trunk Show

Happy Friday, Everyone! I hope you had a wonderful week, and have lots of fun plans lined up for the weekend. The weather here in Vancouver is supposed to be spec-tacular, so I'm hoping for lots of time on my bike and patio beers!

I wanted to let you all know about a fun event that I'm going to be taking part in, next Saturday, May 11th, from 11am-5pm. The lovely Lofty Living in New Westminster is hosting a special Mother's Day Jewellery Trunk Show with a bunch of their favorite designers, and I'm thrilled to be a part of that mix. 

 
If you're not already familiar with Lofty Living, they are a beautiful home decor, furniture and gift boutique; think yummy Voluspa candles, colorful throw pillows, accessories and more. In addition to jewellery designers like Social Experiment, Alden Rae and erinlaura, Lofty Living will also be hosting Jackson Rowe (one of my fav local lines of chic scarves) and yummy treats from Chez Moi Macarons. Finally, they will be offering a special, 1-day only 20% off discount on the various trunk show collections. 

Again, the event will be held on May 11th, from 11am - 5pm, at 616 Columbia Street in New Westminster. So grab your mom for a fun girl's afternoon of shopping, and I can't wait to see you there!

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?

Continuum Collection

Hello all you lovely readers! As most of you know by now, we are thisclose to the online launch of our new Spring collection. In an effort to refresh and make space for the new jewels, some of our designs are being retired from the line. This being said, there are some Keltie Leanne pieces that have proven to be more enduring than the rest - items that I am being asked for and re-stocking in our boutiques, time and again, and to be honest, I really couldn't bear to see them go! Not to mention the fact that I would hate for all of you fantastic customers not to be able to get your hands on these sought after items :)
 

A few of the designs in the Continuum Collection.

Thus, I present to you the Continuum Collection - a collection of our most timeless and popular Keltie Leanne pieces. We will continue to build and grow this collection over time, as our company evolves and we introduce new collections and say goodbye to some of the old.

Which piece in the Continuum Collection is your favorite?

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

A Word on Jewellery Care

Hello lovely readers! 

Today I thought I would take a moment and say a few words about caring for your favorite jewels. I was inspired to write this post after getting a call from one of my customers who was very sad to report that one of her bracelets from my collection had broken. I told her I would be happy to repair the piece for her and was thrilled to hear how much she loved this particular piece. Very much, she answered, "though I guess I probably shouldn't wear it to bed." Oh dear...

Can I just say, ladies, please don't wear your favorite jewellery to bed! Okay, your wedding rings I can make exception for, but really, if you want your pieces to live a long and happy life - and not strangle yourself with your necklace while sleeping - it's really not the best idea. I have one girlfriend who told me she loves one of her Keltie Leanne Designs necklaces so much, she wears it in the shower (just, no...don't do that). So, a few words on this topic:

1.) Gemstones are delicate! - some of them are quite soft, and if faced with certain stressors they can discolor, or fracture or dull. I'm not saying to keep your jewellery under lock and key, but unnecessary elements like soap, excessive sunlight, water (especially chlorinated pool or saltwater) are just, well, unnecessary. Same goes for metals, like gold fill and sterling silver. Check out my post here, on a simple jewellery storage trick to keep your pieces in tip top shape.

 2.) If you wear your jewellery while playing sports, sleeping or otherwise engaging in er, frisky behavior, they are liable to get damaged. So take a minute and leave that pretty gemstone pendant in your locker when sweating it out at the gym.

3.) Handmade and high quality materials does not mean invincible. Yes, we take every step necessary to ensure that Keltie Leanne creations are resilient and will last under normal wear and tear. But this does not mean that that long, delicate chain necklace you love so much, can withstand the same sort of abuse that a more sturdy accessory, like a metal cuff, might handle. Remove scarves with care (I've heard a couple of sad scarf vs. necklace stories lately, and let's just say that scarf won), and un-do the clasps on your bracelets rather than rolling them over your hand to remove them - even if it fits.

4.) The backings that come with your earrings are not just "part of the packaging" (as one customer mistakenly thought). All of our earrings come with a pair of backings that we suggest wearing, to help prevent losing them. You can also pick up a package for a few dollars at your local bead or craft store - Country Beads on West 4th in Vancouver carries them.

So how are your own jewellery care habits measuring up? Do you treat your favorite pieces with love, or do you have your own jewellery neglect stories you'd care to share?

PS - One time I lost one of my all-time favorite sterling silver bracelets...only to find it one year later in the washing machine door sealant. Surprisingly, it was not as clean as you might imagine.