August 5, 2005

Accessory Friday-On the Rise Awards from Style Bakery

Style Bakery has just announced their winners for the first annual "On the Rise Awards" which recognizes "the hottest emerging designers and hippest online boutiques." Today for Accessory Friday, we are going to look at some of our favorites from the award winners.

The first we would like to point out is the handmade jewelry of Grace Chan of Indulgems. She uses gemstones to make most of her jewelry, and the pieces really stand out. Chan makes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and soon rings, all with a delicacy and classiness that we know will stand up to the test of time. Although it's very hard for The Shirt Snob to choose favorites out of this wonderful collection, we must say we are very fond of the 18KT Gold Tourmaline Briolette Bracelet, the White Druzy, Rock Crystal, Moonstone and Freshwater Pearl Wire Work Necklace, and the Eternity Knot Necklace.

Next are the designs of Meredith Loughlin of Pellemelle, who just started her company in 2004. While she also makes bracelets and headbands, we are more of a fan of her belts. Known for her colorful leathers and great patterns and very unique buckles, these belts are fun and funky. Our favorites are the Embossed Suede Belts, the Embossed Metallic Sash Belt, and the Eastern Sun Sash Belt. You cannot buy her items off the website unfortunately, but much of her collection is at online boutiques such as Luv Charlie and Lyrical Beauty as well at many stores throughout the country.

Last but certainly not least is Ileana Rodriguez of india*romeo. A big fan of all things vintage, Rodriguez makes a bunch of cute items, including bags, hair accessories, earrings, and pins and brooches. We especially like her purses because of their homemade feel, the Swirly Print Vintage Tote, Greenie Handbag, and the Yellow Poppies Handbag being our favorites. Her Beaded Hair Pins and Flowerbands are also great, bringing out a school girl feeling inside of us that works great with fall coming up. The best thing about Rodriguez's designs is that they are all very reasonably priced. If you are interested in Rodriguez, also check out her blog.