N Unsteady Economy Has Changed The Retail Industry Across The

Elegance he

T A

of

Frugality

Jewelry and accessories for fashionistas on a budget

n unsteady economy has changed the retail industry across the board, and the fashion sector is no exception. Now more than ever, shop owners must do their homework to find accessories that are both à la mode and affordable. In this guide, we’ll share exclusive trend forecasts and tips from style experts. We’ll also uncover our collected cache of jewelry and accent pieces that customers are sure to love.

GREAT FINDS AT NYIGF

percent increase from the winter market. For more show information, including a list of exhibitors, visit www.nyigf.com.

EXTRA! EXTRA! MEDIA FEEDBACK

Consumer magazines, style networks such as Bravo and fashion blogs such as The Budget Babe (www. thebudgetbabe.com) have acknowledged the recession as a new opportunity for communicating moneysaving tips to readers. Even the famed Thursday Style section of The New York Times has featured articles concerning the abandonment of rash spending within the luxury market. Other media outlets have touted and praised clothing-swap parties, shopping at secondhand stores, clipping coupons and

Don’t miss Personal Accessories featuring Details this month at the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF), which runs August 15-20 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94 in New York City. This special section, which opens Sunday, August 16 in Javits, features 365 companies offering contemporary, budget-friendly fashion items. “The great majority — approximately 95 percent — of the division’s newcomers represent companies making their NYIGF debut,” says Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and senior vice president of George Little Management. “The other five percent of the exhibitors have moved into Personal Accessories featuring Details from other NYIGF divisions or are returning to market following an absence.” Located between the 8100 and 8077 aisles at the north end on Level 1 of Javits, Personal Accessories featuring Details has increased its space to 55,000 square feet for the summer show, which is a 30-

The Wrap-A-Round Clutch from cinda b (877/692-4632 or www.cindab.com) features two interior pockets and a detachable wrist strap. The clutch comes in 11 fashionforward patterns; it is shown in Bella Fiore Cocoa. Made in the USA, it is machine washable and stain resistant. Suggested retail: $42.

The Large Croco Grommet Tote from Mad Bags (877/623-2247 or www.mad-bags.com) is roomy with plenty of exterior and interior pockets. Shown in Dark Eggplant, it comes in four other colors. Suggested retail: $42.

seeking out half-price specials on beauty services. Needless to say, thriftiness is no longer taboo in the world of fashion — rather, frugality has become synonymous with practicality and intelligent allocation of well-earned income. What’s even more inspiring to consumers is that a number of famous designers are contributing exclusive collections to seasonal lineups within mass retail stores. In June, H&M announced a Jimmy Choo shoe line that will debut this November, and Gap Kids announced it will launch a winter children’s collection designed by Stella McCartney. In addition, various celebrities known for their style pointers are promoting simplicity and emphasizing quality over quantity. Many do so by endorsing everyday brands that are stalwarts in tradition. Project Runway’s style maven Tim Gunn demonstrates clothing preservation through his Tide commercials, and fashion authority Stacy London of TLC’s What Not To Wear is a spokeswoman for affordable, trustworthy brands including Dr. Scholl’s, Lee, Pantene and Woolite. Having worked with stars such as Angelina Jolie and Eva Longoria, stylist Michael O’Connor is an expert when it comes to Hollywood trends; he uses his inside perspective to show women how they can mimic their favorite celebrities’ styles on a budget. “One of the hottest celebrity fashion statements

26

by Ashley Trent

GIFTWARE NEWS

www.giftwarenews.com

This bold, candy-colored necklace is from Lenora Dame (610/458-3290 or www.lenoradame.com), a jewelry company founded by two sisters. The piece is part of the Retro collection, which features vintage-inspired designs in bright colors. The company has two other collections as well: Bohemian and Romantic. Suggested retail: $45.

this year is the whole idea of layering, mixing and matching,” says Michael. “This was very evident at this year’s Academy Awards, where Heidi Klum wore a stack of mixed bracelets up her arm. It’s a great way to draw attention to one specific area of an outfit and to create importance — and you don’t have to have a million dollars to do it. Also, it’s something that allows you the ability to take what you already have in your jewelry box and partner several pieces together to create a more important and unique look. Don’t be afraid to mix a few chunky, non-precious pieces together with your finest to create a great look.” Michael also recommends layering necklaces for a decadent, red-carpet look. “Chunky necklaces were everywhere this year! Similar to the layering idea with bracelets, you can also create a chunky statement necklace by putting a few together. Longer necklaces are perfect for this because they can be doubled, tripled or twisted with other longer necklaces to create importance. Try taking a strand of pearls and adding it into the mix to create some eye interest with the chain. Marion Cotillard wore a few layered and long for a dramatic effect during this year’s awards season.” Other key styles that Michael sees on the horizon include fringe, feathers, jewel tones and the classic combination of black and white. Experiment with these concepts in your store this fall and winter; consider the selection of products we’ve gathered. You and your customers will find that these pieces are ones to turn to year-round.

Inspired by the natural beauty of plants, the Blue Spruce necklace is cut from a sheet of metal and then cast from bronze. The focal piece measures 3” long and hangs on a 14k gold-fill adjustable chain that closes with a lobster clasp. Each necklace differs slightly. From Prismera Design; 516/355-8473 or www.prismeradesign.com. Suggested retail: $120.

Elegance he

T

Visit us at giftwarenews.com/readerservice 07.13.2009

12:12

GN20294_0809.pdf

GREAT SELLER! GREAT PROFIT! COLLECT ALL THE COLORS!

6 4 "
* / $

$23.95

Phone: 209-474-1118 zoppiniusa.com

4VHHFTUFE
3FUBJM

Visit us at giftwarenews.com/readerservice 07.15.2009

16:58

GN20312_0809.pdf

of

Frugality

The échange jewelry line from KimMarie Designs (612/940-3809 or www.kimmariedesigns.com) allows chain necklaces to be transformed by adding different drops and swags. Chains come in sterling silver or 14k gold filled. Drops and swags are also sterling silver or 14k gold filled and feature semi-precious stones including turquoise, quartz, lapis and freshwater pearls. Swarovski crystal designs are also available. Suggested retail: $40-$60 chains, $35 drops and swags.

KEY TREND: MULTIPURPOSE MUST-HAVES

There’s no doubt that consumers are innately drawn to items that they can envision pairing with a variety of outfits. A number of manufacturers have expanded this concept by creating pieces that feature transposable elements and embellishments. “I have a line of interchangeable jewelry called échange that was designed to be affordable, practical, yet unique,” says designer Kim Donaldson of Minnesota-based KimMarie Designs (612/940-3809). “The concept is a series of drops and swags that can be interchanged on silver or gold chains that can change the look and feel of one necklace. For instance, one could attach a turquoise drop to the chain during the day and replace it with a crystal drop on the same chain for evening. I designed the line so woman had the flexibility to enjoy many different looks without investing in numerous pieces of jewelry,

������������������������������ ��������������������������������

������������������� �������������� Visit us at giftwarenews.com/readerservice

from an economical point of view but also from an eco-friendly view of ‘reuse’ rather than ‘re-buy.’” Susan Fotos, a designer and retailer who created a transformable collection called Scenario (717/635-7992), agrees that versatility in an accessory is key. “As a retailer, I see that women want jewelry they can wear every day. They want something that is comfortable, yet distinctive and personal. With my versatile slide bracelets, women can select the components they are drawn to, from classic gemstones to playful, colorful enamels to sterling silver pieces, so that they may create bracelets that express their own style and mood.” Another playful accessory line, which features vintage-inspired designs that pay homage to style icon

Clips from Absolutely Audrey Shoe Clips (510/483-5188 or www.absolutelyaudrey.com) jazz up plain pairs of pumps or flats and are embellished with rhinestones, pearls, fabric or enamel. The new Amanda style, a floral-themed design shown in the center, comes in green, purple and clear. Suggested retail: $10$25 per pair.

Scenario (717/635-7992 or www. scenariojewelry.com) interchangeable jewelry was created by Susan Fotos, a designer and retailer from Pennsylvania. The line of handmade, sterling silver slide bracelets can be accented with various gemstones, sterling silver components and colorful enamel pieces that vary in price. Suggested retail: $150 bracelet.

Audrey Hepburn, comes from Crisa Barriball, owner and lead designer at Absolutely Audrey Shoe Clips (510/483-5188). “As we all know, fashion-forward footwear trends bear a hefty price tag, and designer footwear prices tend to be higher for embellished shoes,” she says. “Absolutely Audrey’s affordable alternatives offer a designer look for less while instantly updating any wardrobe to follow emerging fashion trends. Rather than spending hundreds of dollars on a new pair of shoes, women attach shoe clips on their existing shoes at a fraction of the cost. Without pinching the shoes, shoe clips expand the possibilities when attached on jeans, shirts, jackets, scarves, handbags, bikinis, flip-flops, hats and belts.”

SUGGESTIONS FROM STYLE ENTHUSIASTS

Giftware News contacted fashion bloggers, designers and trend-spotters across the country to discuss upcoming style trends for fall and winter. The result was an overwhelming response of industry experts who were eager to share their advice on suc-

cessfully creating fashionable looks for less. Keep their tips in mind when choosing fashion accessories for your store. “Although the fall/winter 2009 fashion runways were overrun by monochromatic looks and somber tones (presumably in order to draw attention to the increasingly popular architectural and textural elements), I personally enjoy getting through the winter by perking up the cold and gloomy days with a bit of color in my wardrobe. I believe that most women are like me and would rather infuse any outfit with at least a hint of a bright color in the frigid, overcast months, which is why I think that this year will exhibit a lot of dark colors (gray, black, brown) and neutrals (tan, white, cream) set off by bright pops of color, especially in accessories. This will create a playful peek-a-boo that is sure to be pleasing to the eye, combining the hottest trends from the runway with wearable aesthetics that will make women feel good when they leave the house. “Although I don’t personally subscribe to the trend, ’80s fashion seems to be going strong in streetwear, and the neon elements from those looks may just be the colors that find their way into popular use this year when contrasted with an otherwise somber ensemble. I prefer bright colors as one would find in a kaleidoscope or candy. “In order to pull off this fashionable balance on a budget, I recommend buying bright scarves (yellow, pink) and shoes (anything but black, white or brown) to offset otherwise monotone outfits. Main wardrobe staples should include one dressy black sweater, one pair of edgy black boots (for day wear or evening wear) and a great new pair of rich, somber slacks (such as slate gray or midnight purple). Skirts should also be kept dark, but will require an added modicum of visual interest to make up for their lack of color; volume, architecture and detail work are especially trendy. “Two surprisingly popular colors are marigold and pink, both in matte and metallic finishes. A solid dress in a surprising color hidden under a dark coat or cover-up, accompanied by dark tights and shoes, might be the perfect outfit this winter.” -“Style Bard,” fashion blogger (www. stylebard.com and www.stylebardshoes. com) “Statement necklaces have been all the rage for several seasons now and are still a top must-have for fall/ winter ’09. I think they’ve been so popular because you really get a big

bang for your buck, which as we’re all aware is important during this economy. They’re an easy and affordable solution to modernizing an existing wardrobe and come in a wide price range to fit most anyone’s budget. “You can never go wrong with

autumnal hues for fall and winter (think amber, smoky quartz, garnet), but this year you will also find bursts of bright colors such as hot pink and royal blue amongst the requisite black and gray. With that said, material seems to be of more importance

than color for the upcoming season — sequins, chunky gemstones, snakeskin, fur, pewter and bronze metallics. The emphasis seems to be on texture over color. “Personally, I feel vintage designs are popular because trends spread so

Visit us at giftwarenews.com/readerservice

AUGUST 2009 07.17.2009

10:57

GN20049_0809.pdf

29

Elegance he

T

of

Frugality

quickly in this viral age that those really into fashion (who also tend to be concerned with expressing their style in a unique, singular way) have turned to vintage in order to own pieces that no one else will have. You see it on every level — from the indie girl with no money who scours thrift stores for the perfect, non-mass-pro duced A portion of the proceeds expression of a current of the Courage Within trend to the famous necklace is donated to the starlet who purchases National Coalition Against a vintage Valentino, Domestic Violence. Made guaranteeing she will be of hand-hammered silver the only one on the red and copper, the necklace is made in Solstice Designs’ carpet in that dress. Of course, this is heavily (313/724-9400 or www. connected to what the solsticed.etsy.com) studio in Dearborn, Michigan. fashion industry is putSandra Boulton, president ting out, because we all of the company, says the know it borrows genernecklace is easily wearable ously from the past, and for women of all ages who what the big players can use it as “a talisman create and publiin support during divorce, cize is in large what battling cancer or the loss forms trends. of a loved one.” Suggested “Furthermore, eretail: $45. commerce sites such as eBay also perpetuate the popularity of vintage. It ups accessibility and has provided a whole new means for indie designers and self-proclaimed style-makers to spread the word of what they deem cool. “One of the benefits the recent focus on accessories has is that accessories tend to be ageless, which allows everyone to participate without the risk of looking inappropriate. Take the above mentioned statement necklaces — a large beaded necklace looks just as fresh on a 21-year-old in a party dress as it

The Om necklace from Handmade Expressions (512/535-5228 or www. handmadeexpressions.net) is a fair-trade item handmade by artisans in India. A small pendant hangs on a thread twisted around a cotton string; each necklace measures 17.5” long. Suggested retail: $10.

30

GIFTWARE NEWS

www.giftwarenews.com

FASHION SHOW CREATOR

Jenni Izzo is a 2009 graduate of Drexel University in Philadelphia. For a senior project, she organized Green With Fashion, an impressive event that not only explored trends in sustainable design, but also raised money for charity. Consider hosting a similar event in your own store. To learn more about Green With Fashion and to view photos, visit www.greenwithfashion.t83.net. Jenni is an account coordinator at a public relations agency in her hometown of Winter Springs, Florida. Q: Why was it important for you to start an eco fashion show?

does on a woman in her 50s who is wearing it with her business attire. So again, I would have to say large statement necklaces are great, and I would also include cuffs and bangles. That’s another big trend that anyone can wear regardless of age.” -Aimie Dukes, jewelry designer for Ferociter (www. ferociterstyle.com) “Every designer this fall seemed to have two things in common in their collections: purple and lots of hardware. The purples ranged from deep plum to soft lilacs. For hardware, handbags were heavily embellished with chains, locks, brackets and studs, primarily in gold. These bags had almost a rocker edginess to them. “A sparkly bag is a great way to brighten up the mood with the dismal economic situation. On the

A: Most people were shocked to see that all the items in the show were made of eco-friendly materials, and that’s exactly what I hoped to accomplish. I wanted to show people that you can help our environment and still look great. Q: Who attended the show? Did it generate interest among local retailers? A: Most of the attendees were from Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. I was really happy to see a lot of local retailers come out to support the show as well. Many local designers were able to attend the show, which was great because they were able to see their pieces come down the runway. Many businesses in Philadelphia are shifting toward a more sustainable philosophy, so the show was of high interest to them. Q: Tell us a little bit about the money you raised for charity.

Murval’s (305/715-9066 or www.murval.com) Mod Crock lunch bag lets ladies lunch in style. Shown in orange, it is also available in pink, green, black and brown. The bag has two large exterior pockets, a fully insulated interior and a zipper closure. Suggested retail: $33.

Artist Jennifer Northup makes her jewelry by hand out of recycled flatware in her Los Angeles, California studio. “My fascination with silverware patterns and antiques began when I was a child wandering around my greatgrandmother’s inn on the coast of Sydney, Australia,” says Jennifer. “When I inherited the collection, I started Silver Spoon Jewelry (562/426-9774 or www.silverspoonjewelry.com). Everything is based on heirloom patterns from the 1800s to early 1900s.” The company’s collection includes necklaces, rings, bracelets, watches and more. Suggested retail: $64.

Q & A: JENNI IZZO, CHARITY ECO

other hand, designers definitely kept some classic, safe pieces in their collections with dark navy blues, reds, and browns in simple shapes. The detail on these bags was subtler with pleating, some ruching and quilting. Some handbags for the fall have little to no detailing. “At Handbag Heaven, most of our customers have been purchasing bags with florals, giraffe patterns and bright colors. They fall into the category of shoppers who are looking to have fun with their handbags. Our shoppers are using their purse to brighten up their mood. A bold, red tote is classic but can still add a punch of color to an outfit.” -Alessandra Souers and Kim DeMeester, representatives for www.handbagheaven.com “As far as color trends go for fall and winter, I would say it’s usually the typical black-and-gray combinations. But I think that gold and camel, beige and taupe colors will play a big part as well as

A: All profits from the show, which totaled a little more than $4,000, were donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). Gretchen Rossi from Bravo’s Real Housewives of Orange County was nominated for LLS’s “Woman of the Year” title at the time of the show [she was inpsired to support LLS after her fiancé died of leukemia last fall], so she and Slade Smiley [also of Real Housewives] generously chose to fly out to Philadelphia for the event in order to raise awareness for the event and support the cause. Q: What are some must-have eco fashion accessories for retailers just venturing into the green industry? A: I absolutely adore the jewelry from Cheeky Monkey Jewelry (www.cheekymonkeyjewelry. com). They provided a necklace for each model in the show and even donated three pieces to the raffle. All items are made with both recycled and agentium sterling silver, as well as recycled diamonds and fair-trade gemstones. In addition to looking great, portions of the proceeds from the collections support The Humane Society of the United States. Isabella Grace Originals (www.isabellagraceoriginals.com) is a local Philadelphia designer who makes beautiful accessories out of recycled materials. She makes everything from rings and necklaces to brooches and headbands. And because the items are found, recycled items, you will never be caught wearing the same accessory as someone else!

the continuing love of sequins. Those two accents, especially when combined with black, can really change the entire look of an outfit. “As much as I enjoy trends and like trying them out, I think it is wise to opt for styles and colors that work with your shape and skin tone. Adding pops of color is fun in the crisper and chillier months. So, for fall and winter, even though I like to wear a lot of blacks, grays and browns, I spice them up with brighter hues such as gold, hunter green and magenta. It makes me feel less drab and monochromatic. “Some key wardrobe pieces that frugal women should invest in for fall/winter [and that retailers can recommend to customers visiting their store] would be: • Black or dark-gray coat. I would invest in a well-made coat that will last through fall and winter. The best thing about investing in a good coat is that you can throw it on over anything; then just add a colorful scarf, a pair of boots, and you instantly look put together. • Fitted black blazer. You can throw this on over most anything and look put together, too. Something like this is great for the fall when it isn’t quite cold enough for a heavy jacket, but you still need an extra layer. • Cardigans in any and every color. I own a million and love layering with them. Wear one under a blazer or by itself with a tank underneath and a belt over the top. It gives you a very tailored look without much effort. • Black, patent-leather flats. They are casual enough for walking around at work, but they are also great for transitioning to nighttime if you don’t want to wear heels. • Belts, in two sizes. The first should be a thick, wide belt with elastic in it — buy it in black and brown. The second essential size is a thin, patent-leather belt, one in black and then one that is a matte gold. • Tights are another staple that I literally have in almost every color. But if you are not wanting a bold color on your legs, just stock up on a couple pairs in black and gray. Try them in fun, monochromatic colored patterns — it adds an interesting element without standing out too much. • Scarves. I have a ton of scarves in every color and pattern. They are another way to spruce up an outfit without much effort. For instance, if you wore a simple blouse and skirt and basic heels, just throw a colorful scarf around your neck and you can make the whole outfit pop. • Gold or silver accessories. I am

personally a gold person, and I love my thick gold cuff. I wear it with everything. Silver is pretty as well. I also wear gold hoops with everything and a simple, thin, gold necklace. • Along with investing in a good jacket, I would suggest doing the same

with a bag. Find one that will go with almost everything in your wardrobe that you wear day to day. Nighttime bags are different, and you can have fun with small, inexpensive clutches. I like black leather bags or shoulder bags in a rich, caramel color. It will

go with black, brown and gray. It’s perfect for the fall and winter months, but it will also transition well into spring and summer.” -Christine Cameron, wardrobe consultant, personal stylist and founder of Style Pill (www.mystylepill.com)

Visit us at giftwarenews.com/readerservice 07.15.2009

17:29

GN20163_0809.pdf

AUGUST 2009

31

Special Extras Stunning bags and jewelry make gifting a snap

Cynthia Bloom Collectible Jewelry’s (512/7797737 or www.cynthiabloom.com) Milonga Collection is named after an Afro-Argentine dance rhythm. The line is a tribute to designer Cynthia Bloom’s love of dance and her Argentinian grandmother. Each necklace in the collection features a unique button as well as various Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls and antique Czech glass beads. Suggested retail: $125.

The Stephanie bag from Vera Bradley (888/855-VERA or www.verabradley.com) is a great carryall that measures 14” x 9.5” x 6”. It is shown in the company’s Carnaby pattern. Suggested retail: $68.

Chelsea Taylor Beads, distributed by y2 Sisters Inc. (866/965-5793 or www.y2sisters.com), come in 21 colors and feature Swarovski crystals. The handmade, mixand-match beads can be strung on a beaded chain in an endless amount of combinations. Shown are the best-selling, round-shaped beads. Suggested retail: $49 each. These colorful earrings from Dunitz & Company (323/769-8600 or www.dunitz.com) feature Czech glass crystal beads. Suggested retail: $30.

Dogeared’s (888/846-0444 or www.dogeared.com) “Not Older, Wiser” necklace features a trendy owl charm. The charm is available in sterling silver or gold dipped, and it can be paired with either a sterling, goldfilled or navy waxed-cotton chain. Suggested retail: $92 sterling charm on sterling chain.

These stylish earrings are from the Trend and Seasonal collections from Oak Patch Gifts’ (800/824-2374 or www.jodycoyote.com) Jody Coyote line. Suggested retail: $14.99-$19.99.

32

GIFTWARE NEWS

www.giftwarenews.com

From Demdaco’s (888/336-3226 or www.demdaco. com) Words of Mine line are these charm necklaces designed by artist Ali Chovanec. Eight designs are available, and each features a sentiment on the front and a charm on back. Suggested retail: $14.

These hammered bar post earrings from Evelyn Knight Jewelry (415/824-1006 or www.evelynknight.com) are plated in 22k gold and are set with topaz stones. All jewelry from the company is handmade in its San Francisco studio. Suggested retail: $25.

Kate & Sara’s (772/287-9555 or www.kateandsara.com) line of quilted cotton handbags and accessories come in fashionable patterns, such as the Medallion style shown on the Madison tote bag. The bag features multiple pockets and a zipper closure; it measures 14.5” x 10.5” x 3.5”, and the strap drop is 10”. Suggested retail: $26.

Annaleece’s (619/401-6700 or www.annaleece.com) latest pink ribbon pin, Angel of Hope, was introduced in January to continue the company’s support of breast cancer awareness and research for a cure. A portion of sales from the pin will benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The pin design centers around an angel, the symbol for hope and remembrance, which is made from rose and clear Swarovski crystals. The pin features a 22k-gold and rhodium finish, and its ribbon is accented with pink enamel and Swarovski crystals. Suggested retail: $40.

Flaunting a global-inspired color palette are the Talitha Imari Pattern Bangles from Two’s Company (800/896-7266 or www.twoscompany.com). Suggested retail: $15 each.

Made of pliable plastic, clips from The Clever Clip Company (877/303-2547 or www.thecleverclip.com) can be worn in a multitude of ways and come in black, bronze and blond. They can be decorated with handmade, addon embellishments called Tattle Tails. Suggested retail: $10 three clips, $12 per Tattle Tail.

Fashion earrings from JJI International (866/7328668 or www.jjiinternational.com) contain no lead or nickel and will not tarnish. Suggested retail: $8.99-$10.99.

View our entire line at

www.baekgaardltd.com 800.323.5413 Visit us at giftwarenews.com/readerservice 07.17.2009

11:57

AUGUST 2009

GN19849_0809.pdf

33