There are so many ways to connect up with Lola, the black pug, and me! We're getting our jewelry designs wired in all over! Good thing there are 2 of us to manage all these connection points. :)
email: sara@twinkle-studio.com
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Whew! That wore Lola out...
Buying a new holiday party outfit just may not be practical this year. That does not mean, however, that you can't look fabulous. Here are 5 ways to bring glamour into your holiday attire at minimal cost.
1. Buy one basic piece and have accessories turn it into several glam outfits. Holidays are the time when you can revel in such bold and sparkly accessories that your clothes can be just the backdrop. Turn a simple outfit (think little black dress or sweater set) into several different looks with accessories such as twinkling jewelry, colorful wraps, thick belts, statement shoes, and evening handbags.
Of course, I recommend my jewelry that can be bought online at Esty. Mention "I Love Blog" during your purchase and I'll send you a free pair of earrings. Valid through December 31, 2008.
2. Buy a festive top and pair it with jeans or pants you already own. Face it - at most holiday parties you're only really noticed from the waist-up. Invest in a trendy top and pair it with black pants or dressy jeans that you already own. Go for satin, velvet, or any top with shimmery adornments. Choose a rich, vibrant color that you don't normally wear such as garnet red, vivid purple, or electric turquoise.
3. "Re-make" something you already own. You probably have several outfits you've worn once to a special occasion in the past. You wouldn't feel special wearing them as-is again, but with very little effort, these existing pieces can me new and fabulous! Some ideas for you (or your tailor) to try:
- Using fabric glue, add sequins or a satin ribbon the bottom of a skirt or on the outside seam of a pair of pants or jeans
- Replace the buttons on a cardigan twin-set with rhinestone or big pearl buttons
- Make a pretty belt out of thick satin ribbon and tie over a tunic or button-down shirt
- Raise the hem of a dress or add a ruffle to lengthen it
4. Share with a friend or relative. If you have special occasions on different dates and you're the same size, consider splitting the cost of an outfit. Accessories, including jewelry and handbags, are perfect for sharing even if you're not the same size.
5. Shop thrift stores and discount stores. Thrift stores are an excellent source for classy vintage items that are perfect for the holidays. Chance are you'll be getting a party outfit that someone has only worn once. Discount stores have excellent options for the holidays including velvet pants and satin shirts. Most parties have dimmed lighting, so nobody will notice that the quality is not haute couture.
Converting a pair of vintage screw-back earrings to post or dangle earrings is a wonderful way to bring a sparkly classic into modern times.
Leave a message on this post and you can win these delightful earrings! Drawing will be held on November 28.
STEP 1 - Find a pair of screw-back earrings that have the metal loop on the "top" part of the earrings. Generally these are post-style earrings and not dangling ones. This photo shows the kind of earrings you'll need to work with. Ask your Gramma or go to an antique store to pick up a pair.
STEP 2 - Cut the screw-back off the earring with wire clippers. I always wear safety goggles when clipping because these old, brittle pieces fly all over the place. Be careful to just cut off the screw part because you're going to need the metal loop piece.
STEP 3 - Sand down the metal loop where you just made your cut. Generally this cut will be pointy and sharp. I use a little sanding block, but any kind of sandpaper will work. This is for your own safety!
STEP 4 - Using a round-nosed pliers, bend the metal loop to create a small full-circle loop. Again, this metal is brittle so you won't have the opportunity to bend and re-bend this many times. The metal finish will flake off, or worse, it will break.
STEP 5 - Choose your new earring base. This can be a post or a dangle-style. There are lots to choose from.
STEP 6 - Use a jump ring to connect the earring and your base. You'll ned this to ensure the earring is hanging in the right direction.
You're done! Again, I'm giving away these beauties to one lucky reader on November 28. Just leave a message on this post to be qualified. Cheers!
There are more than 120 items online at my etsy site: click here to browse and shop.
Mention "I Love Blog" and you'll get a free pair of earrings with purchase through December 31. Swanky!
