From MSN: Pearls are a Jewelry Essential

One of the highlighted articles on MSN today caught my eye: "5 Jewelry Essentials." The link showed a woman wearing - what else - pearls!

Indeed, the Pearl Necklace was listed third among the editor's picks of "looks that last." Rounding out the list? The Bangle Bracelet, the Gold Hoop Earrings, the Cocktail Ring, and Diamond Stud Earrings. About pearls, editor Shannon McCarthy writes, "Nothing polishes up an outfit more than a strand of lustrous round pearls. The 18-inch "princess" length is timeless, and a pearl millimeter size between 5 and 8 works day and night. South Sea and Akoya types are rare and their price reflects that. Freshwater varieties can be almost as round and creamy, but worlds more affordable."

So true! That's why Pearls in a Pod specializes in freshwater pearls! They are so beautiful, so timeless, and they work not only in that classic strand, but in so many fashionable styles - hip, trendy, retro, contemporary... the possibilities are endless with this gem!

If you don't yet own that classic string of pearls, drop us a line or come see us at one of our November events! We have an anniversary coming up, and that means we're giving away presents!!! And discounts, too. Stay tuned for details!

See It On The Evening News

While my husband is gnashing his teeth over our falling stock, I'm distracting myself by checking out the anchor's necklace...Katie Couric's of course, not Tom Brokaw's. Anchorwomen and news talk show hosts are very astute at selecting a necklace or earrings to enhance their looks. Have you ever noticed how some of their guests never quite achieve the same polished look as their host? TV regulars are usually great at jewelry accessorizing since you only see them from the waist up. In the 80's the popular heavy chained choker was actually called the "anchor" necklace. So when you get up to get your husband some aspirin, double-check the women on the news. Take a second look at Hilary's or Rep. Nancy Pelosi's necklace, Gov. Palin's brooch, and Condaleeza's pearls while you pity those poor guys who only get to wear ties. At least we can wear some jewelry to cheer us up!

Did It Just Wink At Me?

My sister has a favorite explanation for succumbing to a purchase. She simply states, "It winked at me." When something "winks" at Kathy, we all know how irresistible it had to be. Really, this is a good rule to follow for an unnecessary article, regardless if the expense is big or small. Is it something so desirable, unusual, or perfectly suitable, that it actually does more than just call you over to take a look? If you walk away without it, will you later regret it? Is something telling you to take it home and you will love it for a very long time? Sometimes it's a good thing to give into such a passionate purchase. How will you know you should really buy it? Next time just ask yourself, "Did it just wink at me?"

A Cherry on the Sundae

Have you ever been served a chocolate sundae without a cherry? Never! You don't need one to make it taste better, it already tastes great. You can always skip the whipped cream and nuts, but the cherry--well, without one it isn't a real sundae! Sometimes, when I look in the mirror I know something is missing--it's the cherry--the one accessory that finishes the outfit.

Next time you feel something is missing with your appearance, think of a cherry. It's simple, sweet, and colorful. Now, what piece of jewelry will fill that roll? Is it a pair of earrings that brings out your shirt's color, or maybe some beads, pearls or an enhancer that highlights your dress neckline? The cherry is that one accessory that goes on top and makes it all so delicious!

The Red Carpet Winner

What did you wear to the Emmys? I wore black, always a good choice--shorts, sandals and a tee. I toasted the winners with pizza, beer and a bored husband. But I ate it all up, especially the red carpet. There was definitely a trend going on, bright beautiful gowns with plunging, strapless and bare shoulder necklines, but oddly, very few necklaces. The earrings were prominent, large, dangling sparklers and THE accessory of the event...cuff bracelets! Marcia Cross, Tina Fey, Vanessa Williams, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Cynthia Nixon were a few of the 40% of stars to select a wide bracelet as their most prominent accessory. Well, I have less than a few occasions when chandelier earrings are called for--but a bracelet is something I can wear anytime. Be it a metal cuff, strands of pearls or several circles of colored beads worn together on your wrist, this accessory can be tailored, festive or a bohemian look. You can wear bracelets to work, shopping or, on that rare occasion, when your husband takes you out for Italian instead of pizza delivery!

Words

The Unfortunate Dress

My daughter recently described a speaker she saw as "so wonderful, but she was wearing an unfortunate dress." Did you know your message can be diluted or less effective because of your choice of attire? Next time you have an important meeting or presentation, be certain you take extra time chosing your clothing and accessories. When in doubt, go to a single color suit, dress or jacket. Frame your face with attractive earrings--pearls, simple medium sized hoops or large studs, and wear strands of beads or pearls either within your shirt collar or along your neckline. It's attractive, effective and shows confidence!