WHIMSY

As always, the best part of Sex and the City is the clothes. Even though SATC 2 was a disappointment for its storyline, acting, and well, pretty much everything else, the clothes … oh the clothes! It makes you want to shrug on some sheer, jeweled chiffon and tromp through the desert (well almost!).

Inspired by the fashions sported by my four favorite girls on their adventures in Abu Dhabi, I went in search of some easy ways to add that quintessential SATC glamour to my summer wardrobe (without taking a second mortgage!).

The easiest way I’ve found to glam up just about any outfit is through outrageous, trendy accessories, and Taqwa Iman has some of the biggest, boldest, bracelets that perfectly fit the bill. Best of all, these pieces are so reasonably priced, you can afford to go completely over the top, just like the SATC costumers!

My choices for the girls?

For Charlotte, the new Tri-Tone Cuff Bracelet, pictured. This oversized piece will add glamour to just about any outfit. I think that its exotic, intricate design and the interesting combination of metals would really appeal to her design background. Retail $12.50

More is always more for Samantha! The Fierce and Fabulous Bracelets pictured capture Samantha’s wild side with punches of bright orange, metallics, and of course, animal print. Retail $13.50

The more classic, no-fuss approach Miranda has always taken to dressing gets seriously jazzed up in SATC 2. To match the new, more adventurous Miranda, I might choose the lovely black and gold toned engraved Floral Bangle, pictured. A serious statement piece, this also has lovely details.

And finally, every SATC devotee knows that whimsical Carrie can wear just about anything and look fabulous. The unexpected combination of snakeskin and flowers of the Silver Stackable Bangles pictured would undoubtedly appeal to her inventive dressing aesthetic. Although the bangles are sold six at a time, I envision Carrie with at least 3 sets at once! Retail $10.00

To see the entire line of gorgeous accessories, visit Taqwa Iman.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM, Susan also writes for Susan Said What?!, It’s how you play the game, and Success Won’t Wait!

I’ve written before about the beautiful interchangeable bead jewelry from WHIMSY™ — definitely one of my favorites! From absolutely stunning rings to beautiful sterling silver earrings, WHIMSY has interchangeable jewelry that’s just your style.

Now you can win you very own sterling silver Juliet pendant and a wardrobe of three gorgeous beads from Eastern Trading. The Juliet pendant can be worn with a sterling chain, a ribbon, or black cording for a variety of looks. And of course you can change the bead for a new look every day!

This prize package of a striking Juliet pendant (chain not included) and three different Murano glass beads by Eastern Trading is valued at $150, so enter today!

5 easy ways to win:

1. Leave a comment with this post, 1 entry

2. Subscribe to Style on a WHIM, 1 entry (please leave a comment to let us know)

3. “Like” Style on a WHIM, 1 entry (please leave a comment to let us know)

4. Follow Style on a WHIM on Twitter, 1 entry (please leave a comment to let us know)

5. Click on and read another Style on a WHIM post, 1X (please leave a comment to let us know)

Already a follower?  Just leave us a comment that you follow.

Contest is open until midnight on June 16 and the winner will be notified June 17!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM, Susan also writes for Susan Said What?!, It’s how you play the game, and Success Won’t Wait!

6-17-2010 UPDATE: The winner of our contest is Alicia O. Congratulations

Now that summer is upon us, I need to do some serious reconfiguring in my closet. Our office is frigid in the summer — complete with spontaneous Arctic blasts — because of the industrial sized air conditioning. This causes a dilemma each morning as I dress. I certainly can’t wear a winter sweater in July (although sometimes I’d like to!), but I can’t wear short sleeves either.

My solution is a tank under a jacket. I am warm during the day, but can ditch the jacket if I have an after work dinner or (better yet) a date with hubby!

Finding tanks that don’t look too casual is a challenge. Most of the ones that I’ve found from Old Navy, Gap, etc. could easily be mistaken for my pjs… a no-no even in our casual office! I also want a tank with bit of style, so that if I take off the jacket, half my outfit isn’t missing.

In addition to my stalwarts Talbots and Ann Taylor, I’ve recently stumbled upon a wonderful company call Kate Boggiano. Kate Coxworth, president of Kate Boggiano, began the line back in November 2006. Their blouses and tops are of the highest quality and they offer ultra flattering fits!

One thing that really attracted me was that this company, though, was the clothing is manufactured in the U.S.  This ensures top quality and the fastest turn around time, something crucial for optimum, consistent fit!

In addition to gorgeous blouses and tops, the line also has stunning dresses, shirt jackets, tunics, and outerwear.  In fact, the most popular ruffled blouse, the Isadora, was featured in the October 2009 issue of In Style magazine.  The line has also been featured in Women’s Wear Daily, Lucky Magazine, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Chicago Magazine, Second City Style, and more!

Of the dozens of choices available, two of the Kate Boggiano tanks are just perfect for my needs. First, I absolutely adore the Sophie ruffle tank. This is created in a luxurious, washable silk and has a ruffle detail that is so current! With or without a jacket, this tank is stunning and is made so well, with an exposed back zipper for easy on and off (and no makeup smudges, either!). The Sophie tank retails for $189 and is available in either cobalt (pictured) or emerald.

The other is the Rosalie ruffle tank. This is fully lined, has handmade silk cotton ruffles and a back keyhole with button closure. The Rosalie comes in so many colors, it’s hard to choose. From green (pictured), to mushroom, fuchsia, white, black and (my personal favorite) turquoise, I want every single one! Crafted of silk with a cotton and poly lining, this is a dry clean only number and retails for $199.

In addition to a lust-worthy spring and summer line, I also found a clearance section that is truly a bargain hunter’s paradise! Beautiful wardrobe staples like a white menswear-inspired shirt with elegant French cuffs or a trendy black-and-white shirtdress are available at a serious discount. So visit the clearance section, too, and shore up your fall wardrobe in advance for a just fraction of these timeless garments’ original prices!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

Imagine it: You’re with your boyfriend on a romantic dinner date. Everything’s perfect—the mood lighting, the soft music, the food, the wine. You look into his eyes and you can just tell he loves you with all his heart, and you feel the same way about him. He’s usually so comfortable around you, but tonight he’s fidgety and seems nervous. The reality hits you when he kneels down in front of you with a small box. The whole world seems to stop as he slowly opens it…

But what does the ring look like? Is it antique or modern? Yellow gold, white gold or platinum? Is the diamond a princess cut? Round brilliant? Then there are the characteristics you can’t easily see….is it colorless or nearly colorless? Slightly included or very slightly included? Maybe very very slightly included?!

There are a lot of options to take into consideration when choosing the engagement ring that’s right for you, so imagine how overwhelmed your boyfriend must feel! You don’t want to pressure him, but you feel that things are getting serious, and you think he might need a little extra confidence to finally pop the question.

Abazias will give him that confidence, and a way for you to do your research and drop subtle hints! The homepage of the site has a diamond search feature with cut options and four different sliders for price, carat, color and clarity, so you can search for a specific diamond in a specific price range. Then you can “build” a ring with your chosen diamond (out of over 150,000 loose diamonds available!) and a whole slew of settings. The site will even save your ring, so next time you visit it, you don’t have to search all over again! And, of course, they have full descriptions of the different characteristics of diamonds (the 4 C’s), plus frequently asked questions and diamond “lessons” so you can feel good about your informed final decision.

This is seriously handy, ladies. Even if you’re not in a huge hurry to get engaged, this site is ultra addicting. And the idea of strategically leaving your ideal ring up on the computer screen for your boyfriend to see could possibly work. Or at least plant the idea in his head for the future!

With the help of the experts at Abazias, you can take comfort in knowing that your engagement will be truly magical and memorable—and a little less stressful for him!

Photo from Abazias.com

-Keri

One of my favorite comedies, the 2000 movie starring Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt, offered one …uhmmm… explanation. But my informal and extremely unscientific poll conducted at Thanksgiving yesterday, yielded quite another!

The question I posed to my girlfriends was simply, “What one holiday gift do you want most from your boyfriend/husband/significant other?” The answer was not a total surprise. Even in a down economy, the answer was overwhelmingly – diamonds! However, as we all know, the economy is a factor, at least for most gift givers. So, in the spirit of giving a girl what she wants, I’ve compiled a list of lust-worthy, fabulous jewelry that features those oh-so-sparkly gems.

For example, “Past, present and future necklaces” are always a favorite. For a sentimental holiday, try this 10k white gold, 1/8ct TDW diamond necklace from www.Overstock.com.  At $73.79 (over half off the original price of $149) you save a bundle and look like a hero!

Or, show her some love with these “Two Hearts Silver Earrings” from Giselle for Hot Diamonds (www.hotdiamonds.com), one of my absolute favorite firms for young, contemporary fine jewelry. Founded in 2001, Hot Diamonds has been the #1 selling jewelry brand in the UK for over 6 years and has taken the US by storm. In addition to great designs, Hot Diamonds pieces are also very affordable. These gorgeous earrings are only $80.

Slightly more of a spurge, but still under $300, I found this contemporary, 14K white gold diamond ring with a 0.11-carat round bezel-set diamond for $295 at www.Toxsur.com. Beautiful and elegant, this quite simply might be the most perfect present ever!

At these prices, diamonds really are a girl’s best friend!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, fashion blogger

 and sales manager for the WHIMSY jewelry line. Susan

also writes for http://mcneilldesigns.wordpress.com and

http://successwontwaitinc.wordpress.com

According to our most recent (and somewhat unscientific!) poll, the item most of you can’t live without for fall is…. the perfect cardigan! I can’t say I’m surprised because I am a huge fan of cardigans of all sorts.

The cardigan is such a versatile piece — you can shrug it on when you’re cold at the theatre, tie it around your shoulders if you get warm at a tailgate, dress it up with a silk scarf for work or throw it over a cotton sundress for the weekend. A cardigan is a real investment piece, but finding just the right one can be tricky.

One of my favorites is the “boyfriend cardigan.” Worn in the same spirit as this season’s trendy boyfriend blazer or boyfriend jeans, this cardigan reminds me vividly of 1950’s Varsity letter sweaters, brilliant autumn leaves and college football games. An infinitely more chic variation of this trend is Ralph Lauren’s Leather-Patch Wool Cardigan. This piece is made of lightweight merino wool and has adorable oval leather elbow patches. Luxurious in gray or black, this cardigan will set you back $345.

Another great look to snuggle into is the wrap cardigan. Not a cardigan in the strictest sense of the word (no buttons!), this sweater is still a must-have for fall. Anne Taylor’s version, a heavenly blend of cotton, cashmere and silk would be perfect layered with a sexy, lacy cami. This weekend staple is only $95.

But once the weekend is over, you don’t have to put your cardigans away! Some of this season’s longer sweaters even look right for work and can often replace a jacket. Paired with a neutral toned pencil skirt, pumps, and accessories like a twisted pearl choker, these pieces look fresher and more approachable that a stiff and serious jacket. One of the best and most affordable examples that I’ve found is the Applique Trim Cardigan from Twelve by Twelve at Forever 21. Perfect length, great colors and even a super fun jeweled and feathered embellished brooch (another hot trend). Super affordable (buy several colors!) at only $32.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, fashion blogger

 and sales manager for the WHIMSY jewelry line. Susan

also writes for http://mcneilldesigns.wordpress.com and

http://successwontwaitinc

On September 10, 11, and 12 Whitten’s Fine Jewelry will hold a Trollbeads Trunk Show. If you don’t know what Trollbeads are yet, you will soon! Modern Jeweler magazine names the beautiful Murano glass and sterling silver “personality” beads as one of the Top Trends of 2009 in their most recent issue.

Trunk Show Specials!

• First 15 people each day receive a free PAX bead with $50 purchase (retail value $28)
• Buy three beads, receive one free (bead of lesser value is free)
• Buy a 14-karat gold bead, receive a white diamond or black diamond bead free (retail value $52)

Visit Whitten’s Fine Jewelry at 4719 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington, Delaware.

Hours:

• Thursday 10-6
• Friday 10-6
• Saturday 10-4

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, fashion blogger

 and sales manager for the WHIMSY jewelry line. Susan

also writes for http://mcneilldesigns.wordpress.com and

http://successwontwaitinc

Since 1977, artist and jeweler R. Craig Whitten has created one-of-a-kind jewelry for discriminating clients. From coast to coast, his pieces are designed to showcase each client’s individuality. His original designs can be seen regularly gracing instantly recognizable faces in music, television, stage and fashion.

The following interview explains his dedication to the use of recycled materials, his love of great design and most importantly – what’s next for the WHIMSY™ line.

How did the WHIMSY™ line come about?

In 2008, I created a very special ring as a gift for my wife Cynthia. She’s a huge fan of Murano glass bead jewelry, but she couldn’t find an attractive ring that would incorporate the beautiful beads. So, I created a simple, elegant piece that highlighted the beauty of the beads and allowed her to change them easily to match her various bracelets and outfits.

After seeing the ring, her friends and coworkers began asking for rings for themselves and to give as gifts. In 2009, we launched WHIMSY™, a collection of interchangeable bead rings that are uniquely customizable.

The WHIMSY line is created entirely using reclaimed and recycled sterling silver, 14-karat gold and gemstones. Why did you decide to use reclaimed materials in your designs?

It’s about being responsible. Everyone still wants beautiful jewelry and lots of style. They don’t have to sacrifice style in order to use reclaimed materials. With the WHIMSY™ jewelry line, the two come together for some truly gorgeous jewelry that you can feel good about wearing!

Why do you think it’s important for the jewelry industry to “go green”?

If we don’t who will? This may be a small step, but it’s a step in the right direction.

Where do you get your materials?

We purchase “old” gold, sterling silver and gemstones directly from consumers, rather than use post-industrial scrap materials. We also produce on-site. So we can say with certainty, that the WHIMSY™ jewelry line comes from 100% reclaimed materials.

What’s next in the WHIMSY™ line?

A new collection of ring designs is in process, with a release date for fall 2009. We also have several other pieces to add to the line, some of which also incorporate the use of glass beads. A third collection release is planned for spring 2010.

How can people purchase your products?

Our website is www.whimsyworldwide.com and includes an easy-to-use Store Locator. For convenience, there is also on online shopping option.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, fashion blogger

 and sales manager for the WHIMSY jewelry line. Susan

also writes for http://mcneilldesigns.wordpress.com and

http://successwontwaitinc.wordpress.com.

Last night, one of country music’s biggest stars, Darius Rucker, performed at the Delaware State Fair. Rucker, formerly of Hootie and the Blowfish, brought the house down. As fellow performer Chuck Wicks said in a tweet that night — Delaware may be small, but we’re loud! 

Julianne Hough and Wicks opened the show for the enthusiastic audience. In addition to their tremendous success in the country music arena, you may also recognize them from Dancing With The Stars.

A shower didn’t seem to dampen the spirits of fair-goers, because as I looked out the windows of the Harrington Casino, the carnival rides were still running and the crowds had donned ponchos, determined not to let the rain put a stop to their fun.

I also dropped off swag baskets backstage for the performers — each containing fabulous luxury items and service from our great state. They included:

WHIMSY

Jewelry line created by nationally acclaimed, Delaware-based designer R. Craig Whitten. A Whimsy ring is an interchangeable bead ring crafted of reclaimed sterling silver. Also included were several Murano glass bead to transform the ring’s look. www.WhimsyWorldwide.com

Pike Creek Coffee

Without question, Delaware’s best coffee! Award-winning coffees included Pike Creek Coffee’s exclusive blends: Greenville Blend, Organic Bolivian, Jamaican Me Crazy, Bananas Foster, Morning Foglifter, Organic Mexican Decaf. www.pikecreekcoffee.com

Winterthur Museum and Gardens

Authorized story of the founding of America’s premiere museum and the country’s largest collection of American antiques by the DuPont family dynasty. Minimum of six passes (or more) to the annual Point-to-Point Steeplechase as well as six passes (or more) to the exclusive Jockey Club luncheon. http://www.winterthur.org/calendar/point_to_point.asp

Currie Salon and Day Spa

Four salons and spas of distinctive design, each staffed by professionals with an unwavering commitment to service and detail. For over 30 years in business, the name Randy Currie has been synonymous with professionalism, creativity, and leadership in the salon industry worldwide. Currie was named the “Beauty Entrepreneur of the Year Global Salon Business Awards” in both 2004-05 and 2006-07. Products included exclusive hair care products, and customized spa day for men or women. http://www.curriedayspa.com/

You’ve been Sentenced!

Featured on The Tonight Show, Today, and in numerous national publications, Delaware’s newest game is seriously hilarious. In addition to the original game, there were several “add-on” decks or specialty-themed decks (Sports, Sci-Fi, Cuisine, etc.) including a Pop Culture deck. www.McNeillDesigns.com

Autographed copy Saratoga Days: A Look Inside Racing’s Greatest Meet, by Sean Clancy

Local author Sean Clancy is a racing legend. During his career as a jockey he won a total of 152 races over the course of 13 years and a national championship in 1998. He was also the 10th highest winner of all time upon his retirement in 2000. In addition to his books, Sean is a contributor for the Daily Racing Form, The Blood-Horse, Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred and Newsweek among others. http://www.seanclancybloodstock.com/cms/

Delaware Today Magazine

2009-2010 Ultimate Guide to Delaware. Produced by Delaware Today, the definitive authority on the best that the state has to offer – from people to places to products and services. www.delawaretoday.com

-Keri

French fashion? Mai oui!

Travel and Leisure is one of my favorite magazines. Maybe it’s because I don’t get to travel all that often, except to places like Disney World (I do have three children, after all). But reading about fabulous, exotic locations in that glossy magazine soothes a bit of my travel bug.

The July issue featured the World’s Best Awards – resorts, lodges and hotels that simply define luxury. A gorgeous shot of Domaine Des Hauts De Loire in France (World’s Best Inn) immediately captured my attention. Soaring ceilings, detailed mouldings, spectacular carved mantles and furnished with a traditional French je ne said quoi…

I was in heaven and instantly envisioned myself as a guest, then quickly did a double take. My vision was of myself gliding (10 pounds thinner) through the magnificent space, perhaps having a cup of tea snuggled close to the blazing hearth… wearing denim capris and a tank. Hmmm…maybe not. A gorgeous, elegant space like this calls for extra special wardrobe — a French wardrobe.

Now, I have never been to France. However, my husband grew up in Switzerland, so he spent quite a lot of time there. He also has a great “eye,” so last night we discussed at length how much better dressed Europeans are than Americans in general. We agreed — French women have a certain air about them, a confidence to pull off ensembles that would look distinctly out of place in your average American suburban shopping mall.

So, to revamp my Domaine Des hauts De Loire fantasy, how do I achieve French chic without resorting to the vintage Belle Epoque styles recently sported by Michele Pfieffer in Cheri?

My rules for fabulous style with a decidedly French finesse:

Black. A great unifier and oh-so-sophisticated. Europeans wear black in every season. Even a relatively inexpensive outfit looks better in black.

Legs. American women are so programmed to wear jeans or pants, we forget the incredible allure of a swinging hem and glimpse (or more!) of toned leg.

Shoes. I don’t mean sneakers, flip flops, or (heaven forbid!) Crocs. I mean shoes. Real ones made of leather, preferably with a bit of a heel (although embellished ballet flats or high boots are also acceptable).

Good bags. Bags don’t necessarily have to be designer. Great lines are crucial. Also, size matters! Nothing looks worse than a woman with a tiny bag and the some huge, hideous, canvas freebie tote with a slogan emblazoned on it. Go for a larger bag or carry less stuff.

Body conscious designs. Belt it. Cinch it. We all know that French women are notoriously thin. But you can enhance your own silhouette with form fitting designs that create the illusion.

Personality. Hard to define, but easy to spot. Create a signature look. A scarf in the hair, masses ropes of chains/pearls, a hat. Choosing to dress with flair requires a certain degree confidence. People will stare – and that’s okay – because tomorrow they will copy your look.

–Susan