History Repeating

1918. this is the year that one of the most collected, and loved lines of costume jewelry was born. Gustavo Trifari, Sr. and Leo F. Krussman founded Trifari and Krussman after having been in the business of manufacturing bar pins and hair ornaments. Together they ran a successful jewelry businees where Gustavo made the jewelry and Leo sold it. In 1925 Carl Fishel joined their team and thus the company became what we know today as KTF.

One of the most pivitol moments for the company however, was in 1930 when the European designer Alfred Phillipe joined in as the chief designer. Having vast experience in fine jewelry, his pieces had previously been sold at Cartier and Van Clef and Arpels in Paris. This was a defining point for the company, who began using brightly colored Austrian crystals, and began basing their designs on that of fine jewelry. Shorty after they were then referred to as the "Rhinestone Kings."

From the 1930's to the 1960's Trifari created exclusive designs for Broadway productions such as The Great Waltz, Roberta, and Jubilee with Ethel Merman. Stars such as Sophie Tucker, Lena Horne and Rosalinda Russell all wore jewelry specially designed by Trifari. 

Trifari Jewels of India Necklace ($2,398)

Here are a few interesting facts about Trifari: 

In 1941 the famous Trifari Crown Pin was introduced. Made of sterling silver and vermeil, with very real looking cabochons and rhinestones, it is one of the most collectible Trifari pieces today. 

In 1954 in a landmark federal copyright case, Trifari was awarded a judgement that established their fashion jewelry design as works of art, therefore allowing the pieces to be copyrighted.

In 1964 Gustavo Trifari, Louis F. Krussman, and Carlton M. Fishel took over their father's business and continued with renewed interest for beautiful costume jewelry, with the help of then First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy. 

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The Look

The holidays are officially upon us and the social season has kicked into full gear. With all the parties, galas, cocktail soirees and social gatherings to attend, its difficult to achieve a different look for every occasion. So in today's segment of The Look, we show you how easy it can be done by styling 5 different jewelry looks with 1 go-to black dress.

Option 1

Chanel clear and gold pendant necklace ($2,498); 1984 Chanel pearl necklace ($2,498); unsigned pearl, gold and rhinestone long chain necklace ($398)

Layer Up: select 3 necklaces that vary in length but share the same stone or colorway to achieve a perfect layered look. All 3 of these necklaces feature gold and either a pearl or round bead. For a more simple effect, just select one necklace and add an embellished clutch.

Option 2

Unsigned large pink collar necklace ($3,428); Kramer pink bracelet ($868); 1940's Coro Filigree hinged purple bracelet ($648)

Bold beads: a statement beaded necklace is a simple adornment that adds major impact to any evening look. The pale purple and pink color combo is an unexpected and fun alternative to a traditional pearl or metallic look. For additional bling add a bracelet or 2, keeping within the same colorway as the statement necklace.

Option 3

Thelma Deutsh pink earrings ($648)

Neck-Less: not feeling a bold necklace for a night out, opt for jeweled statement earrings that play off your bracelets of choice. These stunners are perfect for any occasion. 

Option 4

1960's unsigned long lariat style tassel beaded necklace in gold tones ($298); Sandor gold bracelet ($648)

1920's inspired: play up the flapper within you with a fun beaded tassel necklace. You can tie this bauble at various lengths to give you multiple looks in one. For an additional accent add a bracelet that features the same duo tone as the beaded necklace. Silver or gold accessories work well with this look which makes its a definite go-to for more then 1 occasion.

Option 5

1950's Napler gold bracelet ($498)

Wrist play: we love to double up bracelets or even play up both wrists with a bracelet each. Have fun adding and subtracting different jewelry pieces to create different looks for any occasion. The simple addition of any adornment can switch up your look instantly.

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Mood Board: Silver & Gold

Many believe that it's not apropos to mix silver & gold, whether it be within ensembles, accessories and especially jewelry. We say, out with that mindset and in with the idea that all metallics work well together, and most definitely silver & gold. Shine brightly with adornments that feature both silver & gold together, or create your own look by stacking mixed silver & gold bracelets. And if you happen to have a gold watch, you can most definitely wear silver jewelry, and vice versa. Have fun with this new metallic mindset and start mixing silver & gold.

Joseff of Hollywood gold toned necklace with star dangles and diamante accents, House of Lavande; Victorian sterling silver hinged bangle with etched flowers and leaves and gold overlay, House of Lavande; silver & gold sequin evening clutch, Badgley Mischka; black, silver & gold gown from Naeem Khan Fall 2010 and silver & champagne gown from Naeem Khan Resort 2011; silver & gold plate print, a modern throwback to Art Deco times Tweet

Hera Necklace

Creativity at it's best. That may be the best way to describe the latest treasure available at House of Lavande. The Hera necklace is a collaboration between two women with a passion for all things beautiful. Tracy Smith of House of Lavande and Jordann Weingartner of Jordann Jewelry began chatting and sharing ideas over a sketch on a cocktail napkin, and days later, Hera was born. 

Every aspect of the necklace offers inspiration and meaning.  Beginning with the name, Hera. The Greek goddess of women and marriage, Hera was also the wife of Zeus. The locket in the center is inspired by a vintage House of Lavande locket and is engraved with peacock feathers. Symbolizing the sacred animal of Hera, the twelve amethyst stones represent the watchful eyes of her and the peacock. 

The Magnolia, a representation of beauty, determination and passion is the symbol of Jordann Jewelry. Taken from inspirations in Jordann's life that helped her to always succeed, the magnolia represents the excellence that every woman strives for in their social, personal and business lives. Her mother's love of flowers and her fathers favorite word, perseverance are the meaningful elements that went into the design of the beautiful flower.

 The personalization that the necklace offers ensures a special meaning for the receiver, the giver and anyone who may hold a deeper meaning to the wearer. Engraved on the back is a mantra shared by both Tracy and Jordann. "Embrace Your Dignity, Persevere...Protect, Love and Nurture Your True Beauty". Words every woman can appreciate. There is also a place for engraving on the front of the locket and two places for pictures on the inside of the locket. 

We hope you find as much inspiration and love in wearing this piece as we have found in creating it!

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The Look

This winter try mixing up your look with a statement scarf + necklace duo. Whether you're rocking a scarf for warmth or an added adornment to your ensemble, scarves can be worn with jewelry. In today's segment of The Look, we're showing you how to style a layer of long necklaces with a scarf for a boho chic look, a drop necklace + dresser fur wrap for an evening out, and a luxe fur collar and statement necklace combo that will instantly make any of your go-to jean and sweater pairings special.

Option 1

Unsigned long gold tassel necklace with blue glass beads and gold filigree balls ($698), 1950's unsigned very long blue and moonstone beaded necklace ($398)

Boho Chic: We love this look as a go-to everyday, dress up with a pencil skirt and bootie for work, and skinny jeans and boot for the weekend. Light weight scarves like this one are perfect year round, so its fun to add layers of long necklaces to mix it up. When selecting which necklaces to pair up with a scarf like this, stick with one color that's featured in the scarf, and opt for necklaces that vary in length.  

Option 2

1960s unsigned black necklace ($280)

Luxe Look: We love a sophisticated look, and this combo is perfect for any special occasion. When selecting the right jewelry piece choose a necklace that compliments the fur wrap and doesn't compete with it. We love how this necklace looks as though it could be a part of the wrap when worn together, yet can also stand alone as a statement necklace when the wrap is taken off.

Option 3

 

1980's Unsigned multi strand gold necklace with multi colored disc dangles ($598)

Fur Fabulous: Fur accessories are one of the hottest trends this winter and a must-have for any fashionista. Whether you're wearing fur paired down for a casual look or dressed up for evening, don't shy away from an added piece of jewelry as well. For a successful pairing of fur + statement necklace, focus on one piece that hangs perfectly within the collar shape of the fur, and has complimenting colors. Keep the rest of your look sleek and simple so the eye is drawn to the fabulous neck embellishments.

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Boutiques For All

When you think of Google, you undoubtedly think of things like creativity, search engine mecca, and a company famously known for innovation. What I'm sure you don't typically think of is FASHION. Well my friends, that is about to change.

Last week Google launched it's newest site for all of us to obsess over. Boutiques.com. The best way to describe this goodness is a hybrid version of shopstyle.com, polyvore.com and singer22. A place where you can gather inspiration, styling tips, create your own 'boutiques' and best of all SHOP!

Categorized by celebrity, designer, blogger, retailer, trend, style genre, etc... there is virtually hundreds of ways to find what you are looking for and even more ways to get there through the avenue which inspires you most. So go explore Boutiques.com and try not to waste the rest of your day while doing it! Tweet

Exciting News

If your in New York City this holiday be sure to check out the magical holiday window dislpays at Henri Bendel where House of Lavande is featured. The displays which were unveiled this past week feature The Nutcracker theme with life size ballerinas, mice, a 6-foot-tall Nutcracker, and a Christmas Tree accessorized with mini monitors playing footage from the New York City Ballet. Taking center stage in the Bendel window are thee ballerinas, one masked as a mouse, doning exquisite House of Lavande jewels. J'Adore the Holidays!

This week be sure to pick up a copy of Vogue Best Dressed, the special edition of Vogue that just hit the newsstands. Not only does this special edition feature the world's best sartorialists, it has an insider's guide to America's top shopping, which includes House of Lavande! Check out our House of Lavande online boutique to see some of our special adornments, and take advantage of our styling services to help you select the perfect holiday gift. Tweet

Mood Board: Byzantine Beauties

Jewel colors, rich details and opulent embellishments inspired by the Byzantine Empire are popping up in modern day fashion and accessories. These inspired styles transcend time thanks to the likes of Coco Chanel and Alexander McQueen who have featured luxe Byzantine inspired details throughout their collections. 

A look from Lee McQueen's last Alexander McQueen collection, Fall 2010; "The Kiss" by Gustav Klimt; Coco Chanel portrait by Cecil Beaton; Pierre Hardy multi-colored heel; Sandor signed ornate clamper with clear, emerald, and yellow glass stones, House of Lavande; 1930’s Czech card case with bezel set pink, green, and blue stones on the top of an etched paisley pattern, House of Lavande Tweet

History Repeating

Joseff of Hollywood

This week we take a look back into the beginnings of one of the most fun, and most collectable designers of costume jewelry. Eugene Joseff, also knows as Joseff of Hollywood.

Born in Chicago in 1905, Joseff had charisma and personality that would take him far in life. In 1930 his jewelry business began to take shape. This was also the time when Joseff met his friend Walter Plunkett. Walter produced a movie in 1934 titled "The Affaris of Cellini" and to Joseff's surprise there on screen was the lead actress in meticulously dressed 16th century costume wearing 20th century jewelry! Joseff thought this was an enormous disservice to the industry and told Walter he needed to do something about it. Walter then challenged Joseff, saying "If you think you can do better, go ahead!" So he did!

From this point on Eugene Joseff's career took off. He was the premier jewelry designer for the film industry from the 1930's and beyond. He designed jewelry for films such as Gone with the Wind, The Three Musketeers, The Wizard of Oz, and many, many more. Contrary to normal business practice of the times, Joseff never sold his jewelry to the studios, only leased them out as they were made. Thankfully for us, because now we are able to collect, wear and enjoy his pieces today!

Joseff of Hollywood gold leaf necklace ($1,498)

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The Look

Get more looks out of your wardrobe by adding a bold pendant to your favorite day separates and go-to little black dresses. 1 statement piece can equal endless stylish ensembles depending on your mood, season or occasion. In this segment of The Look we show you that 1 vintage Lanvin pendant works perfectly by day and night.

Lanvin Paris signed gold snake chain necklace with three interchangeable lucite pendants in green, red, and brown, ($2,498)

Option 1

From day to glam. Trend-on pieces like grey, pops of leopard and monochromatic tones are great for effortlessly chic day looks. Take your look up a notch by adding on the vintage green Lanvin pendant.

Option 2

Dress with a twist. Give your LBD's a new life with a punch of green & gold. For night opt for a pendant you would normally wear casually during the day. The plunging v-neckline of this little black dress is a perfect fit for a bold necklace. Tweet

Mood Board: Color Color

Miuccia Prada is always setting trends, collection after collection, and these bold orange earrings remind us of all that's Prada and trend-on for resort and spring, color color! Whether you showcase bright color in a small dose like these must-have earrings, or find inspiration via vintage Pucci, this season it's all about color color.

Prada resort 2011 collection; Prabal Gurung SS 2001; Veruschka wearing Emilio Pucci in the 1960s; 1970's Selini signed mod orange and black earrings, House of Lavande; Celine canvas and leather bag, barneys.com Tweet

Sweet Scents

For the past few weeks now we have been on the hunt for the perfectly scented Lavender candle. Well, we have found it! Seda France Lavande Provencale candels are the newest addition to House of Lavande. They are a fantastic holiday gift, or even a great 'just because' thoughtful gesture. You can pick one up here at the store, or at the House of Lavande online shop and we would be more than happy to send one (or a few) your way!

The box is a decorative statement in itself, a pagoda style purple and green delight with a tassel on top!

Seda France Candles ($32.00)

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The Look

A great to-go look year round is a nautical inspired striped top paired with a classic black blazer. This look works well for business casual, weekends away or even dressed up for dinner with friends. In today's segment of The Look, we're showing you 3 different necklaces that will instantly give a maritime look various options apropos for any occasion.

Option 1

 

*Unsigned 1980s clear and gold necklace ($448)*

This is the perfect look for a day at the office, work meetings and lunches out. For an added dose of fun add in a great cocktail ring.

Option 2

*Thorin & Co diamante necklace ($1798)*

Go bold with a statement necklace for a night out, it instantly glams up the casual striped tee and blazer. Pair up with a skinny dark denim jean, black legging or bondage black skirt. Killer sky high heels will finish the look off.

Option 3

 *1970s unsigned gold necklace ($848)*

A longer gold necklace with fringe-like details gives you a boho luxe look perfect for the weekend. A signature piece like this adds a dose of glitz without going overboard. Pair down with chic flats or an equestrian style boot, by evening dress up with a pointed pump.

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Come November

If you haven't checked out the latest issues of some of your favorite magazines this month, you should be sure to pick them up. Full of ideas for fall, and beautiful finds from House of Lavande, you surely will not be disappointed! Two of our favorites this month are the glam, ultra chic spread featuring Anne Hathaway in Vogue, and the 1950's retro looks in Harper's Bazaar.  Be inspired this fall to mix vintage into any look!

November Vogue 

House of Lavande diamante necklace ($348)

November Harper's Bazaar 

House of Lavande Napier gold button earrings ($198)

House of Lavande gold locket necklace ($848)

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Day Tripping with Bergdorf's

Ever dream of having the chance to create a masterpiece like the magical holiday windows at Bergdorf Goodman? Well, here's your chance. Beginning Friday, the famed fashion windows facing Fifth Avenue will be shuttered as the uber talented visual design team creates this year's holiday window delights, and you have the chance to participate by designing your own holiday window through Bergdorf's Polyvore Holiday Windows Challenge. Using some of the inspirations and fashion favored by their visual team this holiday season, dream up your own Holiday Window and submit your collages between Friday, November 5 — Friday, November 12. 
Think you’re up for the challenge? Check out 5th at 58th, Bergdorf's blog for more contest and prize information. May the best window win! Tweet

Mood Board: 70s Redux

The 70s is making its way back into all things chic and fabulous, and style icon Bianca Jagger is the quintessential queen of inspiration for this look. Showcase glam goddess with sleek ensembles paired up with strikingly bold accessories. This look screams sexy cocktails and late night discos, perfect for the upcoming holidays.

Louis Vuitton S/S 2011 Look 1; stylish revelers at Lanvin New York Halloween Bash; 1970s Lanvin brown and clear necklace, House of Lavande; style icon Bianca Jagger; Gucci clutch; Christian Louboutin gold-studded PVC heel, Barney's New York Tweet

History Repeating

One of the delights of vintage jewelry is being able to read, explore and discover the history and stories that are behind each designer and piece. This week we are featuring one of our favorite designers here at Lavande, Hobe.

Jacques Hobe began designing fine jewelry in the late 1800's in Paris. He was considered a master goldsmith and producer of fine jewelry throughout Europe. In 1925 his son, William Hobe came to the United States to sell costumes to Florence Ziegfeld of the Ziegfeld Follies, and left with a request from Ziegfeld to create a line of jewelry that was inexpensive to be worn by the showgirls. William then started the company Hobe Cie Ltd. NY and began producing Hobe costume jewelry.

Throughout the 1940's and 50's Hobe produced jewelry for  many major Hollywood movies and  actresses and was also used in many fashion advertisements. The slogan "Jewels of legendary splendor" was featured in an ad in the 1940's.  It explains well how the brand was considered unmatched in quality, and was and still is regarded as one of the best costume jewelry companies in America.

Hobe bracelet at top: 1950's ($5,798) | Hobe peridot ring ($1,748) | Hobe multi stone brooch ($848)

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The Look

Today at House of Lavande we are introducing a new series, The Look. Each Monday we will be posting an outfit and showcasing 3 various ways to accessorize that one look. The Look will also highlight 1 key piece of jewelry and we'll show you 3 different ways it can be styled. So check in with us every Monday to get style inspirations on how you can instantly update your look.

Today's highlight piece is a Lanvin dress, perfect for a day at work or drinks & dinner after.  We've selected various pieces of House of Lavande jewelry to show you how easy it can be to create a style all your own.

Key Piece = Lanvin dress that easily takes you from office to fun

Option 1

A statement necklace is the easiest piece to select that will instantly update any ensemble. When choosing a piece to best fit your look, keep in mind of neckline and style of the dress or top your wearing. We love this bold vintage YSL necklace because the gold and brown accents compliment the fabric color of the Lanvin dress perfectly and the pop of green adds interest.
*YSL green necklace ($1,648)

Option 2

There's a huge trend right now of playing up your wrists. Have fun mixing and matching various bracelets to create a layered look. To help keep your layered wrist look apropos, select bracelets that have the same color of metal for a base and try various width and embellishments. For evening or a downtown edge look, think about playing up both wrists and add an additional bracelet.
*1940 Trifari gold bracelet ($448), unsigned bracelet ($548), 1960s unsigned gold square link bracelet with flower ($248), Harman gold bracelet ($1,898)

Option 3

To add a graphic punch to this chic Lanvin dress, we love the idea of a graphic earring. For a more simple approach, choose one large earring and keep the rest of your look simple. For a bold approach, you can pair any of these options up with a necklace or bracelet. We recommend evening only for the latter approach. For a classic twist to a modern dress, pair up with a drop peal earring.
*1980 unsigned diamante earrings ($648), 1970 Les Bernard brown earrings ($498), 1980 unsigned gold earrings ($448), 1980 unsigned pearl earrings ($398) Tweet