Vintage Filigree Jewelry

There is nothing more "old world" than vintage filigree jewelry. And, nowhere is it better exemplified than with Czech pieces from the 20s and 30s. These bohemian treasures are hard to find and coveted by collectors worldwide! The bracelet and necklace pictured above are excellent examples of why vintage filigree jewelry is sought after! To view more items like these click here.

Stay FABULOUS,

Carole

"To Match" - Archaic Fashion Expression

It used to be that fashion was all about matching, shoes to bags, pins to suits, gold with gold, etc. Today, anything goes. You have three favorite bracelets…wear them all together! Two costume necklaces and a real pearl necklace you think might just work…throw them on! It's all about spontaneity when it comes to accessorizing. Just look at the runway shows on style.com. The necklaces being shown include huge mixed media show stoppers. The bracelets are more familiar, the only difference being we never thought to mix them so casually. Accessorizing today is all about personal aesthetics. So, create your own unique "ensembles" and have fun doing it.
Looking for some inspiration? Check out our ideas in our Mix and Match spotlight.
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

It's in the Bag

In today's economy, when couture evening bags go for several thousands of dollars, vintage equivalents are a "cheap date"! And luckily they are still available. There is a wide variety to choose from, including; beaded, embroidered, petite point, corde, etc. As long as they are in good condition (no bead loss, clean metal frames) these time tested treasures are extremely wearable. They add an effortless sophistication to any outfit! Please check out my vintage purse trunk at Holt Renfrew on Bloor, as well as the purse category of this site for some amazing finds. We have a large inventory of purses, so feel free to contact us if you have a wish list!
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

Carole's Contemporary Designer Picks

As collectors, we all know that today's fare becomes tomorrow's collectibles. There are several Contemporary jewellery designers that I have started collecting. My choices are based on the quality of craftsmanship and personal aesthetics.

• Robert Sorrell, a New York designer who does a lot of work for Cirque de Soleil, is among my favorites. He works mostly with vintage stones. His jewels, although influenced by vintage designs, are uniquely his own. He is widely known for his cascading necklaces, his long elegant earrings, and fantastic cuff bracelets. He works alone and therefore has a small production. However, I have rarely seen a piece that I don't lust after!
• Alan Anderson, Canada's darling in costume jewelry is also a one man show. He searches for unique stones, mostly vintage swarofski crystals, and secures them in large claw settings. His large necklaces are spectacular, with wonderful, off-beat color combos. My pick with Anderson is his statement necklaces on japanned metal. Keep your eyes out for this new star!
• Next is veteran Lawrence Vrba, who once worked in the Miriam Haskell production house. Although many of his pieces reflect "a blast from his past" (think huge 5" flower pins constructed with shells and stones and mammoth Christmas tree brooches) they are objects of wearable art. Kudos to him for his continued collections.
• David Mandel, of The Show Must Go On, is well known for his life size lobster brooch, which sits on my desk when I am not wearing it. David Mandel definitely takes the cake for 'most over-the-top designer.'

If you haven't already been exposed to these talented designers, check them out in our Contemporary Collectibles Spotlight. You will not be disappointed!
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

Fund Raising Event for Sick Kids Hospital

Every year, our company partners with a foundation to hold a fund raising event, with a portion of proceeds going to charity. This season, we are excited to be showcasing a major selection of jewels, in hopes of raising funds for the Hospital for Sick Kids in Toronto. Jewelry from the collection dates from the Victorian Era to present day. 20% of retail sales will go to HSC. The event will take place at the Soho Metropolitan Hotel, Tuesday December 2, 2008 11:00-8:00pm, in the 2nd floor boardroom. 318 Wellington Street West, M5V 3T3, Toronto, Ontario.
The Hospital for Sick Children is Canada's most research-intensive hospital and the largest center dedicated to improving children's health in the country. We feel privileged to be part of their fund raising program. Please stop by and have fun selecting treasures for yourself and loved ones, while helping to fund a most worthy cause. I will be at the event, signing copies of my book, Fabulous Fakes, which will be available for sale. In addition, if you make a purchase from our site from now until the New Year, we will contribute 20% of the sale to the Hospital for Sick Children. We will also be accepting direct contributions to the HSC at the show. I look forward to meeting you on December 2nd!
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

*Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection is on permanent view at Holt Renfrew on Bloor, and White Bridal on Hazelton Avenue, Toronto.