the style observer is about putting it all together

head gear that’s earthy with urban appeal

July 22nd, 2008 · posted by Madeline Rhodes in accessories trends

It looks as though the headband trend is making a resurgence! No surprise given that it goes perfectly with the of the moment bohemian style. It’s an earthy, yet urban, way to wear your hair. It’s reminiscent of the flower child of the 60’s, but modernized and glamorized. I have a feeling people either totally love these headbands or think they are completely awful. Personally, I am a huge fan. Similar to when the jumpsuit trend presented itself earlier this summer I’m sure some of you are saying, “are you kidding!”, but why not give it a try! The other fun thing about this hippy-like trend is the possible “do it yourself” factor. Head over to Michaels, A.C. Moore, or your local mom and pop fabric store, locate your favorite ribbon, lace, leather or elastic and a few bucks later bring home this stretch of wonderful headband-to-be and stitch it heavily where the ends meet. Even easier - simply knot it and, Viola! You’ve got yourself a headband! Now, the trick is to wear it out and keep it on your forehead all night. Pair this bandeaux trend with some comfy jeans and a peasant top for the ultimate laid back hippy look or you can opt for an Olsen type of feel by donning one of these with a boho chic ensemble or a goddess-like maxi gown. Other celebs that totally rock the bandeaux band - Mischa Barton, Molly Sims, Sienna Miller, and Nicole Richie.

free-spirited headgear in this observation:

Top Row:

  • feather suede headband @ Urban Outfitters
  • double braided headband @ Urban Outfitters
  • ‘The Starlet’ headband @ Lavender Girl


  • Middle Row:

  • fine jersey braided belt in asphalt @ American Apparel
  • daisy strand stretch band @ Free People
  • kimono head band @ Free People
  • linked head wrap @ Urban Outfitters


  • Bottom Row:

  • chain headband @ Free People
  • beaded stretch headwrap @ Urban Outfitters
  • shiny royal blue headband @ American Apparel

  • boho jewels

    July 17th, 2008 · posted by Madeline Rhodes in $ $$ bohemian bracelets charms jewelry looks necklaces rings

    Adorn yourself in a daring combination of jewelry - raw stones, intricate bead work, feathers, crystals and leather. These are pieces that connect you to the powerful Boho movement as well as our beloved earth. These downright earthy and decadently glamorous pieces are available on many well-visited websites as well as tons of indie boutiques online! Lovemadds, Free People, and Made with Love in Brazil are great resources for these pieces if you really want to tap into the natural aspect of this trend, while sites like Pretty Black and Erica Weiner offer a different Bohemian approach incorporating rhinestones, faux tiger teeth and other wildly interesting imagery. If you think you already own some pieces that fall into this category, then go get them! Combine looks reminiscent of Sienna Miller and the Olsen twins - looks that emanate wild freedom, yet have been beautifully put together. Other style icons who are glammed out boho style and may offer some inspiration are Rachel Zoe, Nicole Richie, Maggie Gylenhall, Carrie Bradshaw and Kate Moss. The Boho style, full force, may not be for everyone, but you can certainly find your niche with the wide varieties it has to offer. Things to look for when picking out Boho jewelry are the use of lavish icons and imagery, bold stones, flowing pieces like fringe and strands of leather or fabric, lots of layering and grouping, wild use of color, and an over all look of achieving a perfected look through minimal effort. We Boho chic queens like to give off the idea that we just threw on whatever was on top and came out looking marvelously planned out.

    Boho pieces in this observation (clockwise):

  • Devendra necklace @ Erica Weiner
  • Crystal Tourism necklace @ Erica Weiner
  • Sword & Stone necklace @ Erica Weiner
  • charm 40 @ Pretty Black
  • charm 28 @ Pretty Black
  • crossed-stich cuff @ Free People
  • Kingston bangle @ Free People
  • Shoreline ring @ Free People
  • Imenja necklace @ Made with Love in Brazil
  • citta bracelet @ Lovemadds
  • love to go around charms @ Lovemadds

  • lost art found

    July 15th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ Jordan Betten clothing tops

    He refers to himself as “an outsider artist”, but I think he’s the purest form of an artist that there is. Jordan Betten may not have any formal training, but his absorption of life and all the characters in it helped him find an outlet in his raw talent. It’s his experiences that have given his art existence, and the utter reveal of his core in his work has brought him great success. The free-spirits of the world were among the first to feel the magnetizing nature of his designs. So, it’s no surprise that the Rock & Roll culture loves his stuff. Jordan has created a label that is perfectly suited for some of your favorite bands. Lost Art is sexy, earthy, edgy, and cool. When you look at his work, you become intent on seeing more. It is soon obvious that you’re seeing more than Jordan’s art, and for a moment you’re a voyeur looking into his soul. That is the kind of experience you only get when someone becomes one with their craft. You may be wondering how you can become part of the magic that he creates… grab one of his T-shirts or Tank tops. That way, his art can serve as an inspiration to you daily.

    Gabrielle Sanchez’s gems speak for themselves

    February 12th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $$$ Gabrielle Sanchez earrings jewelry rings

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    Gabrielle Sanchez’s designs bring out the true nature of the material she is using. Any embellishment she utilizes is to facilitate the inner beauty of the piece. The jewels have a sensuous, earthy feel, as well as a refreshing whimsical spirit. They are unexpected and not a bit ordinary, providing warmth and light to anyone who wears them. Spring and summer season is all about embracing the elements of nature, and fashion designers are always inspired by it. We think Gabrielle’s jewels will work beautifully with the styles for next season, and it is a brilliant way to complete your look.