Fashion Brings Peace

In a post-genocide environment Willa Shalit spearheaded the Path to Peace project which developed an American market for Rwandan women’s crafts. The collection creates trade partnerships with artisans in recovering regions to bring the power of change to Africa and Indonesia.

In less than two years the project has achieved unparalleled success in bringing economic security to the women of Rwanda. Their are several items including bracelets ( O Bracelet and Sister bracelet), necklaces, baskets (which are the number one export out of Rwanda under the African Growth an Opportunity Act) and bowls.

Check out the entire Rwanda Path to Peace collection only at Macy’s!

Get Kristin Cavallari’s Look for Less!

Kristin Cavallari is one of those celebrities that can pull of sultry and smart all at the same time.  The crisp, white shirt and adorable scarf are perfect for the office.  And, to transform from librarian to lioness, simply remove the glasses!  Get Kristin’s look for less!

Introducing “Capture” by Twisted Silver

 

Twisted Silver continues to reinvent the world of modern jewelry and reinvigorate fashion lines across the globe.  Always inspiring, the creative visionaries at Twisted Silver have once again raised the bar on fabulous and funky with the new Capture necklace and bracelet.  City chic basic metal chain and a brilliantly designed over-sized SALVAGED toggle clasp, Capture will coolify any look with an essence of edgy, yet surprisingly sophisticated.  Both work beautifully as layering pieces or solo.  Necklace $80 bracelet $60  Available in blackened brass or antiqued silver. Available now at  www.twisted-silver.com.

Cross Your Heart

The following is guest post by Erika from Cafe Fashionista:  Believe me when I tell you this…you do not have to resort to the use of a frumpy fanny pack when you want a bag that features a functional flair. No dearests, just because you need a bag that is utilitarian does not mean it must possess every factor that makes up the u word…ugly. For practical use in terms of handbags, the most perfect solution is…the cross body. It’s a stylish little carryall that keeps your belongings close and your wardrobe looking just as upscale as it would should you be carrying a satchel; especially when you have the right one slung about you. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fred Flare “Mini Weave Townie Purse” I hope you’re wearing your preppy best, mes chers, for that is exactly what the Mini Weave Townie Purse calls for, what with its sophisticated camel coloring, woven detail, and antique slip lock closure. It’s a cross body that seemingly screams Ivy League; thus, you must accommodate it accordingly with boyish blazers, collared tops, and perhaps a splash of khaki or two. Faux leather with a buckled strap that adjusts to your liking, and the bearer of a slight cell phone pocket, there’s an element of saddle-inspired glory here that will make the timid equestrian inside of you bubble with glee. Giddy up, darlings! 

Topshop “Wooden Bead Cross Body Bag”When I saw the filmAlmost Famous, I fell in love with the wild-haired Penny Lane, a band-aid with a fabulous sense of style, and a dream of visiting Morocco. Perhaps it is her influence that has not only made me obsessed with the African city, but convinced that someday I will visit the exotic locale. Until that day, I am quite content with adorning my daily ensembles with Moroccan inspiration; in kind, thisWooden Bead Cross Body Bag is the perfect accessory to add to my collection. The bag is polyester, but the colorful beads covering its surface make it splendrous enough for a princess. I can see it now…walking through dirt-covered passageways as I peek into the booths of outdoor marketplaces selling all sorts of colorful wares, the Wooden Bead Cross Body Bag slung over my shoulder. Yes, it is the prime accent to accompany tropical dreams. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fossil “Fifty-Four Molly Studded Crossbody”Polished studs. Tassels. Drawstring upper. A keychain with a large skeleton key dangling to and fro. If it hasn’t hit you already, theFifty-Four Molly Studded Crossbody? Quite frankly, it’s a prime example of a fashionable crossbody bag. The muted mustard color makes it a neutral with a pop; while the silver hardware, shiny studs, and drawstring top are the quintessential additions that make this low-key look come across as very high fashion. Whether it’s a spa day with the girls or a trip to the mall, the Fifty-Four Molly Studded Crossbody covers it all. 

Urban Outfitters “Urban Renewal Remade Leather Cinch Bag” There’s no better way to remain eco-friendly than by recycling, which is exactly how the Urban Renewal Remade Leather Cinch Bag was created. Now, it looks like a trendy little treat with an odd, yet completely chic shape; but in a past life it was a vintage leather skirt worn for nights of dancing. Trimmed with cinched detailing, and home to an interior pocket kept hidden via a zippered closure, each Urban Renewal Remade Leather Cinch Bag arrives looking slightly different than the last, while retaining the same classy silhouette that keeps passersby in awe. Unique and useful…what more could you possibly ask for? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charlotte Russe “Peace Sign Cross-Body Purse”Sometimes the best way to get a message across is via unspoken words. And nothing speaks louder than this Peace Sign Cross-Body Purse. The brown, crinkled faux leather adds a very worn yet wondrous look to the whipstitched, tassel-embellished artistry; while the studded peace sign emblazoned upon the fold-over flap casts just the right amount of glitz and glamour upon the boho beauty. Tossed over a flowy dress with dusty boots and you’re bound to be the belle of the bohemian ball! 

Have you crossed your heart yet? 

Fashionably yours!

Contest Update: Win a Free Scarlett from Je’Marie PurseHook

Update: The winner of the Je’Marie PurseHook is Joyce G. with the following comment:

If I had to choose, it would be the Scarlette-Giraffe. Animal prints will always be popular and will never look out-dated. The Giraffe print will bring out the animal in me. Not only that, but, they are such a necessity to ones accessories. I truly mean that! Women will most always carry a purse and will have to relax it from their grip most anywhere they will take it. What better way to say, I care about my accessories.

Congratulations Joyce and a big thank you to all of you who participated!

 

From the makers of the incredible Pursehook comes the adorable Je’ Marie Scarlett.  Scarletts are a great way to enhance the look of your handbag with a simple clip. It instantly adds a new chic look to your bag making it a perfect accessory year round. Every Scarlett is made of the highest quality poly-lycra fabulously printed on both sides.  

 

How to Play: Simply go to pursehook.net and pick your favorite Scarlett pattern.  Come back to FashionGrail and let us know what pattern you liked the most and why.  Winner gets to keep the pattern they selected!

 

Contest runs from Wednesday July 29 to Wednesday August 5.

 

Winner will be randomly selected.

 

U.S. and Canada residents only.

Contest Update: Win A Free Oval Link Bracelet

Update: The winner of the oval link bracelet is Jenny with the following comment: I just LOVE that bracelet!  ”I’d wear it with **Courtey…One-of-a-kind Sterling Silver Freeform Modern Chandelier Hoop Duster earrings with Amethyst Accent and Sterling Tassle…Alchemy Collection.”

Congratulations Jenny and a big thank you to all of you who participated!

Designer Mary Jo from Mercurios has gracioulsy offered to run another contest on Fashiongrail.  This time, she’s donated a stunning oval link bracelet with an s-hook closure and interlocking Hematite dangle (bracelet size is 7 1/2 inches).  Hematite is said to offer many mystical benefits:  great for calming and stress; brings peace, self-control and happiness; dissolves negativity; amplifies intuition and spontaneity.  When it comes to her creations, Mary Jo is au naturel (she doesn’t use molds or patterns and everything is hand made.  

How to play: Go to Mercurios and pick your favorite accessory.  Return to Fashiongrail and leave a comment to the following question: “What would you wear it with?”  Winner will be selected randomly.  Have fun and good luck!

The contest will run from Monday, July 20 to Friday July 25.  The winner will be selected on Saturday, July 26.  

BVLGARI’s Save the Children Campaign

2009 marks the 125th anniversary of Italian luxury goods company Bulgari.  In honor of the year, Bulgari has chosen to support Save the Children’s Rewrite the Future Campaign.  Essentially, Bulgari has created three special pieces of limited edition jewelry to celebrate their 125th anniversary.  When one is purchased , $60 will go to Save the Children’s “Rewrite the Future” campaign.  Bulgari has released two of the rings over the last few months, and the newest piece is a pendant being sold for $290 (see picture below).  Willem Dafoe, Terrence Howard, Ben Stiller, Isabella Rossellini, Ginnifer Goodwin and many more celebrities have posed with the jewelry to draw attention to this cause.  Click here to view a fan-uploaded video of them during a photo shoot.

Contest Update: Win A Love Quote Scarf From Chickdowntown.com

Update: The winner of the Love Quote Scarf is Maria Mares with the following comment: “My favorite is the Yumi Kim Sachiko Cream Okeefe Top! HOT!”

 

Congratulations Maria and a big thank you to all of you who participated!

Soft, airy and great with any outfit, the Love Quote Scarf is a must-have celebrity favorite.  Crafted from Italian linen and embroidered with an inspirational quote, affecionado’s like Lauren Conrad, Jessica Alba and Sienna Miller use the Love Quote Scarf to accentuate any ensemble with style and flair.  This contest is sponsored by Chickdowntown.com, where discerning fashionitas can find anything from vintage clothing to fabulous shoes.  Check out some of my favorite new designers, Yumi Kim and Mystique.  Yumi Kim, for the unfamiliar, opened her first store in NYC in 2008 attaining immediate success with her collection of designer clothes.  Her contemporary line is inspired by vintage prints and silhouettes with a touch of funk and urban feel.  Savor some of her gorgeous summer dresses at chickdowntown.com including one of my favorites, the Hippie Floral Sari Maxi Dress.

Product Description: Love Quotes Peace Wrap Scarf.  A drift of color to accent any outfit, the beautiful, semi-sheer scarf features delicate hand-knotted self fringe and a soft drape. 50 % viscose and 50 % linen.  72” long and 36” wide.  $88.

How to Play: Check out new designers Yumi Kim and Mystique at chicksdowntown.com.  Return to Fashiongrail and leave a comment to the following question: “What designer item is your favorite?”  One winner will be randomly chosen.  The contest will run from Monday, July 13 to Monday, July 27. U.S. residents only.  Have fun and good luck!

Looking for more free stuff?  Look no further than Amy, the owner of chickdowntown.com.  Amy’s on Facebook and Twitter and loves to give away giftcards and lots of other free goodies!

 

Contest Update: Win An England’s Belle Peacock Hair Pin!

Update: The winner of the England’s Belle Peacock Hair Pin is Cafe Fashionista with the following comment: “Upper East Side is my favorite, favorite piece of the lot!  I would wear it with black skinny jeans, sleek black mid-calf boots, a cropped black blazer, and miles of white draping pearls – I believe that the pops of red within the feathers would provide the punchy color that my all-black ensemble was lacking. Also, this particular piece reminds me of a flapper, so I wouldn’t mind donning it with a short red or black fringed flapper dress – so elegant”! 

 

Congratulations Cafe Fashionista and a big thank you to all of you who participated!

 

Designer Blair Nadeau launched her first collection entitled Modern Vintage English Luxe this past Spring and so far the response has been overwhelming for her hair pins, headbands and cocktail hats.  Dress up a jeans and tee look by adding a casual yet elegant Girl About Town, or stand out in the crowd at a party by pairing Lady Duchess with your cutest little black dress.  Each Feathered Design is handcrafted using the finest hand selected materials and created with meticulous perfection.  All Feathered pieces are custom made to order and comes shipped in its own beautiful box for safe keeping.  Check out blairnadeau.com for more!

Contest: Win A “Casual Friday’s” Necklace

Update: The winner of the casual friday necklace is Lauren with the following comment  ”http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13118276 this is a great necklace to wear with a short pearlescent gold dress. I would want to wear one that is high waisted and fuller at the hips like this: http://s2.thisnext.com/media/230×230/Forever21-gold-dust-strapless_67857A93.jpg I would also pair that with some sexy pin up pumps with an ankle strap in cream.“

 

Congratulations Lauren and a big thank you to all of you who participated!

This week Fashiongrail features another incredibly talented artist, Anca Ariciuc, who opened her Etsy store Anca NY in 2007.  “I only like to make one of a kind pieces,” said Anca, “because for me beauty is sprung from the act of creation.”  Anca explains that the “Casual Friday’s” necklace was inspired by jewelry scraps that were taken apart and put together in other incarnations.  Anca did have a specific muse in mind when she created the Casual Friday’s necklace: “The wearer is funky and young; funny and outgoing. She likes to mix and match, and her outfits always hold an element of surprise.”  I love it!

 

Product Description: Casual Friday’s Necklace.  Retail value $50.  Two-strand asymmetrical necklace in antiqued burnished brass finish. The necklace is an eclectic mix of chains, a few charms and olivie green beads, and 19 mother of pearl coin beads.  The necklace measures 20″ at the shorter strand and 23″ at the longer one. The tassel at the bottom is 4″ long (50 cm, 57 cm, and 10 cm respectively).  Closes in the back with a lobster claw clasp.  All metal is non allergenic (no nickel in the plating). The contest will run from Monday, June 29 to Friday July 3 winner will be selected on Saturday, July 4.

 

How to Play: Go to  Anca NY and pick your favorite piece.  Return to Fashiongrail and leave a comment to the following question: “What would you wear it with?”  Make sure you name the piece you picked!  The most creative answer will win!  Have fun and good luck!

 

Canada and U.S. residents only.

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