Friday, December 17, 2010

Brooches - History & Tips

















The bejeweled brooch was an accessory that arose from a practical need to attach clothing in the same way we now rely on buttons or snaps.  During the Roman Empire they were used to secure tunics and cloaks, and in the Bronze Age they were encrusted with  gemstones.  Scandinavian women often used them to secure their traditional pinafores.  During the Victorian era, women enclosed pieces of human hair and engraved inscriptions  to memorialize a loved one.  Queen Victoria's love of jewelry helped inspire a wealth of designs from wreaths to insects.  During the roaring 1920s, the fashion world had its way with what the French call a "broche." a skewer, or long needle. 

















The vintage inspired Stunning Baguette Brooch, $88, and it's new petite version, $48

Fortunately, brooches are still fashionable and wearable.  Here are our top five ways for wearing brooches today.

1. Add a designer touch to a simple shoe by having two petite brooches converted into shoe clips.

2. Wear one as a hair adornment. Ask your hair stylist to pin it in firmly or let us convert it into a hair comb for you.

3. A stunning brooch accenting a waist sash is still strong and a look we love.

4. An heirloom brooch is always special placed on your bouquet as a loving reminder of who it belonged to. If you don't have an heirloom, a butterfly, bee or dragonfly brooch will add a playful and colorful accent.

5. Add a brooch on a simple handbag or clutch. It will add a touch of sparkle for a completely chic look...even if no one notices, you'll know it's there.


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Unique Ways to Wear a Brooch
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DIY Bridal Bracelet & Brooch

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Meg Jewelry Winter Trunk Show


Our favorite holiday tradition continues...The MEG Jewelry Trunk Show.  Every December we have one of our favorite designers send to Chicago her unique and special collection of jewelry for brides, bridesmaids, and especially this time of year...gifts!  December always celebrates shopping local and buying gorgeous one of a kind things and MEG Jewelry is the perfect way to do it!  

MEG Jewelry Holiday Trunk Show
Saturday, December 18th ~ 11am - 5pm
Sunday, December 19th ~ 12pm - 5pm

Take a peek of some of the beautiful hand crafted gems she's brought before.  




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Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Fashion Managed Feature









Check us out!  We were featured in the Fashion Managed series on shopping local.  These lovely ladies stopped by our shop one afternoon to take a peek, and loved us so much they blogged about our little boutique!

"Left Bank Jewelry is a charming treasure trove of sparkly delights. You’re greeted by a pond of glittering stonesas you enter, as well as friendly staff. The decor nods to the Parisian blend of whimsy and sophistication. It’s a chic boutique that specializes in bridal jewelry and accessories, but doesn’t skimp on the fashion jewelry by any means."
Check out the rest of their photos and thoughts on their blog here!

Monday, December 13, 2010

Ultra Comfortable Wedding Shoe Video



We just had to share this lovely video of one our favorite designer lines...Angela Nuran Wedding Shoes.  We could gush forever, but will let the designer do the talking in the video.  Learn all about her fabulous shoes, Eternity, Astoria, and the brand new design Starletta (soon to arrive at our shop anyday now!).  Starting at $199, her shoes are the perfect treat for any bride! 

Where to Buy

Watch More Videos
Wedding Shoe Selection
Something Blue Ideas
Selecting a Wedding Video

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Monsieur Pamplemousse Jewelry Launch Photos

Here are some of our photos from our fun Saturday with Alex Agudo, designer of the Monsieur Pamplemousse. 





Friday, December 10, 2010

Holiday Gift Guide

Gift ideas for all the great people on your list!  Shop these and more fabulous gifts online at the LeftBankJewelry.com  And as always, gift boxing is completely free!

Best Friend...


Bride to Be...


Coworker...


Mom & Mother in Law...


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Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Circular Bridal Brooches

















A brooch is a perfect accent to any bridal ensemble.  With tons of ways to wear them, the possibilities are endless.  Get some ideas here.  Here are some of our newest and favorite round brooches.  A totally versatile shape that will look perfect during, and even after, the wedding!  Above, one of our most popular designs, the Ribbon Twist Brooch, $68.  Also available with pearls for $88, 2" in diameter.

















Casique, $56
2 1/8" in diameter

















Arrah, $88
2" in diameter, limited quantity available.

















Pinwheel, $88
2.5" in diameter

















Pemberly, $68
2" in diameter


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Monday, December 6, 2010

Monsieur Pamplemousse Jewelry Launch & Trunk Show

Photos by Element Studios, Inc.

Shop for everyone on your holiday and wedding list this December 11th & 12th.  It's our first ever trunk show with Chicago based designer Alex Agudo featuring his world travelers collection of semi-precious gems and pearls.  As part of our pledge to shop local this holiday season we're bringing the Monsieur Pamplemousse line in for a one of a kind jewelry trunk show.  Shop for special handmade baubles and gifts for everyone on your list, including bridesmaids!  No appointment necessary.  Stop by on Saturday to meet Alex in person and have him custom design something just for you.

Saturday, December 11th ~ 11am - 5pm *Designer Attended
Sunday, December 12th ~ 12pm - 5pm

Friday, December 3, 2010

Sparkly French Gifts

Perfect favors and gifts for your next French themed fete!

 Eiffel Tower Crystal Key Chain, $16

 Eiffel Tower Necklaces by La Vie Parisian 
Flat Crystal Eiffel Tower, $44 (top left)
Charm Amour Necklace with flat and 3D Eiffel Tower, $48 (bottom right)

 Fleur de Lis Mini Brooch, $12

 Fleur de Lis Cocktail Ring, $12

Fleur de Lis Keychain Fob, $16

Where to Buy

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Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Faux Fur Bridal Capes & Stoles

Just in time for the changing of the seasons, a beautiful look for winter brides, faux fur bridal capes and stoles.

















The style of our high quality faux fur capes and stoles are as special as the person wearing them.  These bridal capes are NOT costume by any means, but look like the real thing.  A high quality wedding garment, fully lined in satin and all seams are beautifully finished.  The unique bejeweled closure adds a couture element.  Each is delicately handcrafted with luxurious faux fur which is so soft and fluffy, you will probably want to wear it again for other special occasions.  For a glamorous look, add some opera length gloves for a true Audrey Hepburn feel.

















Available in three styles and sizes in Diamond White, Pale Ivory Tipped, or Espresso

Stoles $99 (Top Photo shown with the Glamoura Necklace, $129)
Caplets $149 (Above, shown with the Dallia Necklace by Haute Bride)
Shawl Collar Cape $149 (Bottom Photo, Shown with the one of a kind Mila Necklace, $269)

Sizes:
Small (Should fit US sizes 2, 4, 6)
Medium (Should fit US sizes 8, 10, 12)
Large (Should fit US sizes 14, 16, 18)




















Where to Buy

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