I recently booked an early summer vacation. That’s right, in just a few short weeks, I will be basking in the warmth of the sun, listening to the soothing sound of the ocean, and enjoying being kissed by the kind of soft, cool breeze that only exists on tropical islands. Although I am tremendously excited about my trip, once concern I have is the amount … Continue reading Let’s go summer hat shopping together!
I first introduced you all to designer Barbara Campbell in October 2011, when I attended one of her trunk shows at Bloomingdales in SoHo, where she was showcasing her Black and Gold jewelry collection. This week I had the opportunity to catch up with the busy designer to learn more about her company, where she gets her inspiration from, and how her business continues to thrive in the fashion industry.
Where are you from?
I am a first generation Cuban-American, born and raised in Washington Heights in Manhattan. Both my mother and father were born in Cuba
When did your company launch?
The inspiration for my company began in Vermont in 2006, overlooking a lake in the green mountains. The natural beauty of the environment started merging with my design instincts. The company actually launched while I was on the beach in Montauk. Once again the natural beauty of the beaches and the ocean convinced me that designing accessories that were inspired by nature’s wonders was something I wanted to do. The company officially launched in the fall of 2007. Continue reading “Handmade Luxury: Interview with Designer Barbara Campbell”
Starting your own business is no easy task, especially in the fashion world, where competition is fiercer than an episode of Ru Paul’s Drag Race. So how does a young boutique owner stay on top of their game in a dog-eat-dog industry? We sat down with Michelle Akers, Owner/Buyer of the New York based online boutique Liveinfashion.com to find out.
Launched in December 2009, Liveinfashion.com, caterers to “the woman who is daring to be different.” The online store successfully sells out unique fashionable pieces, reflecting Akers’ eye for quality, and innate ability to sense what women covet when it comes to style.
Where are you from?
Wow…I was born in Houston, Texas then moved to Brooklyn, NY for a little while, then to Jamaica, Queens. Now, I live in Elmont, Long Island.
What inspired you to start you online boutique?
I remember coming home one night and just saying to my mom that I wanted to start an online store. I’m a very daring person, so when I dress people would always ask where I got certain pieces from. I decided that I wanted to be the source of “getting.”
How did you decide on the name?
It came down to either “love in fashion” or “live in fashion.” The slogan “Do you live in fashion?” just stuck and that’s how I chose the name. Continue reading “Do YOU “Live in Fashion?””
During New York Fashion Week, I was introduced to The SEAH Collection, an astrology-based line of luxury timepieces and jewelry. I immediately fell in love with the SEAH long earrings with yellow gold two-tone plating (pictured above) that I found, personalized with my astrological sign (Scorpio). I’m not the only fan, it seems. Even the big stars are in alignment when it comes to SEAH. No, I’m … Continue reading What’s your sign? SEAH Astrological Jewelry
Feast your eyes below on one of the world’s most expensive ear buds by Thomas Heyerdahl / Heyerdahl Jewellery of Oslo, Norway, which debuted in 2008. Made of 18 karat white gold and 204 diamonds, and limited to 1,000 pairs, the “iDiamond ear” is touted as the “world’s most exclusive earphones ever made.” It also costs up to $7,000. Now, if you’re like me, and … Continue reading Fashion Earphones
I thought it was absolutely hilarious when Renee Graziano accessorized her outfit with a brass knuckle purse when going to meet up for drinks with other members of the cast of “Mob Wives,” in the episode that aired this past Sunday. The bag she was carrying was the 1st edition Black Glitter Too Fast Brass Knuckle Purse, which has been discontinued. But, you can get … Continue reading Trend Alert: Knuckle Clutches
If you’ve been reading this blog long enough, you know that I love accessories. I’ve been very lucky to have been invited to the showrooms of many high-end designers to give you an inside peek of their latest collections. But, I am aware that not many of you can afford an $84,000 watch from Rafaello & Company (it doesn’t hurt to dream, though!). So, today, … Continue reading t+j Designs – Affordable & Stylish Jewelry
Last week, I had the amazing opportunity to visit the showroom of Rafaello & Company Jewelers. Located in New York City’s Diamond District, the company’s clientele reads like a who’s who in the entertainment and sports industry. Celebrities such as Drake, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Carmelo Anthony (NBA), and Dwight Freeney (NFL), to name a few, have all donned customized pieces by the designers – not … Continue reading Ice, Ice, Baby – Rafaello & Co.
It’s winter, and if there is one fashion accessory that never goes out of style during this time, it’s gloves. Gloves are a necessity for the cold, wintery weather, but that shouldn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style. Keep your hands warm and still be a fashion trendsetter with some of the cool picks below. Continue reading Baby it’s cold outside: Fancy Gloves
It is estimated that that almost 1.2 million people in the United States have HIV, and 1 in 5 of those are unaware that they are infected. HIV infection can lead to AIDS, and in order to bring attention to AIDS awareness, prevention and treatment, December 1st has been established as World AIDS Day. The theme for this year is, “Leading with Science, Uniting for Action”. … Continue reading Glam up for AIDS Awareness
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