Vermillion Baubles and Bubbles

posted on: Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Our style guru Ellen Carey will be hosting a the show called Baubles and Bubbles at Vermillion this Thursday December 9th and Friday December 10th. Check it out if you can, it's sure to dazzle!
See details below.
Carole

4321 Lassiter at North Hills Avenue
Raleigh NC
919-787-9780

Yay George Eastman House!

Dear all,
If we needed any proof that the George Eastman House was the greatest institution to support, or that costume jewelry is the 'It' fashion accessory, our trunk show is proof enough. Over 500 people came through the door, and with 50% of proceeds going to GEH, the show was an immense success! When we receive the lecture from the event, we'll post it on YouTube, stay tuned!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

George Eastman House here we come!

posted on: Thursday, November 26, 2009

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the George Eastman House, it is a National Treasure in Rochester, New York. It houses one of the world's most important photography and film collections. Open to the public and just a stone's throw from so many geographic locations, it's worth the trip.
Oh, and by the way, CTVC is having a fundraising trunk show Dec 4th and 5th from 11am-4pm . I will also be speaking about the Art of Collecting on Saturday at 2pm.
It should be fun .
Carole

Panel Discussion at the Textile Museum

posted on: Friday, November 13, 2009

Wednesday nights’ event was a hit! I was joined by Julia Grieve and Nathalie Atkinson. The turn-out for our lively discussion, about fashion’s new trend, ‘upcycling’, was terrific- a full house! We focused our discussion on the creation of beautiful objects made from materials considered to have no intrinsic value. Also the idea of embellishing the "old" into new designs. There were some interesting comments and questions from the audience as well, and I would love to hear your thoughts on the subject!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Panel Discussion at the Textile Museum

posted on: Wednesday, November 4, 2009


On November 11th at 6:30pm I will be participating in a panel discussion at the Textile Museum of Canada with Julia Grieve (Creator of Preloved) and Nathalie Atkinson (fashion editor of the National Post). Join us for a thought-provoking, fashion-inspired evening on upcycling, the practice of making something old new and valuable.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

The Textile Museum of Canada
55 Centre Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
M5G 2H5t.
(416) 599-2911
info@textilemuseum.ca

South Carolina Trunk Show

posted on: Tuesday, November 3, 2009


Here's the scoop on an exclusive event taking place at the new luxury retailer PEARL in South Carolina. CTVC jewelry will be featured at the show, and our very own Guru of style, Ellen Carey of Seedhouse, will be on hand to accessorize you just in time for the holidays!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

November 5-7th, 2009
PEARL
453 West Coleman Blvd
Mt Pleasant, SC








Mrs O book by Mary Tomer

posted on: Wednesday, October 28, 2009

We just received a copy of the new book, "Mrs. O". A great read! Michelle Obama's wardrobe, like the woman herself, feels both inspirational and familiar. Combining high-end labels with more affordable brands, the focus is on craftsmanship and artistry. Mrs. O has ushered in a new era of "fashion democracy". Plus, there is a healthy representation of CTVC in her wardrobe and documented in the book! To see more, visit Mary Tomer's site http://mrs-o.org/ and view the Youtube clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMINBJO0efQ
Also, please click here to see a similar piece featured in the book.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Michelle Obama's Vintage Fashion Statement

posted on: Thursday, October 8, 2009

Check out this beautiful and creative arrangement of brooches Michelle Obama sported on her neckline at the 121st IOC Session at the Copenhagen Opera House on October 1st. Take Michelle's lead and try a great arrangement on your next outfit. We will be featuring some gorgeous brooches at an upcoming event at Stefanie's on October 15th. Please come by and check it out!
More info below.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

October 15, 2009 at 11:00am – 4:30pm and 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Stefanie's
446 Spadina Rd. Suite 202, Toronto, Ontario M5P 3M2
T: 416 488 5559
*A proceed of all sales will go toward supporting the Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF).

15th Anniversary Trunk Show at Holt Renfrew on Bloor

posted on: Tuesday, September 15, 2009


We are proud to announce the 15th Anniversary trunk show at my flagship store, Holt Renfrew on Bloor, in Toronto, Canada. I approached them 15 years ago with a request to have a trunk show with my vintage jewellery collection. Instead, they took it on as a department, they branded us Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection, and the rest is history. We are now represented around the world. It could not have happened without the commitment and ongoing support of Holt Renfrew. Hope to see you at Holts on Bloor on Sept 17, 2009 for my personal appearance between 3:00 to 6:00pm.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Seeing Red

posted on: Monday, September 7, 2009


My dear friend Ellen Carey of Seedhouse in New York is my fashion Guru. She has predicted so many trends in fashion over the years. Sure enough, her red-hot color prediction was right on for this season, inspired by the Chanel Russian collection . That's great for Vintage Costume Jewelry, as red has always been sought after by collectors, in Bakelite, Sherman, etc. Here are some "dandies" I couldn't resist!!!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Favorites

posted on: Tuesday, September 1, 2009

I am constantly asked who my favorite vintage designers are. I love different designers for different reasons. I must say that I cannot refuse an unusual Henry Schreiner, any Coppolo e Toppo's, and Hobe's early filigree jewels. I would love to hear who your favorite designers are and why.
Carole

Textile Museum of Canada Exhibit

posted on: Wednesday, August 26, 2009


For all those who are making a trip to Toronto between September 23th and March 21st, we look forward to welcoming you to the exciting exhibit of my antique Quilt collection! Another one of my passions to share.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Texas Trunks

posted on: Friday, August 14, 2009

Great news!!!
Ellen Carey, who represents my collection in the States, and who is a true fashionista, is doing two trunks in Texas.

The store, Sloan Hall, is an upscale boutique, with a singular point of view. The owners are engaging , exciting men, who love what they do. Ellen, who has had successful shows of CTVC there before, is bringing a feast for your eyes! So, all vintage enthusiasts in San Antonio or Houston, hold these dates!

SAN ANTONIO - Wednesday & Thursday, August 26 & 27, noon to 6
Sloan/Hall San Antonio
5922 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209

HOUSTON – Friday & Saturday, August 28 & 29, noon to 6
Sloan/Hall Houston
2620 Westheimer
Houston, TX 77098
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Collectors Weekly

posted on: Thursday, August 13, 2009

I was recently interviewed by Collectors Weekly.com. I am very impressed with the clarity of questioning and the accuracy of reporting, and wanted to share this with y'all!
FYI Collectors Weekly is a very informative resource. I have put it up as one of my personal favorites.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Silk Flower Pins

posted on: Tuesday, August 4, 2009


These beautiful silk pins by Hattie Carnegie are perfect for the summer. Style icon Mrs. Obama recently wore a lovely orange one from our collection on a trip overseas. For photos and details visit Mrs.O !

Click here for more Carnegie pins in our collection!

Stay Fabulous,

Carole

Wood Jewelry From The Bakelite Era

posted on: Thursday, July 30, 2009

Shhh! Don't tell anyone. But the best kept secrets in vintage collecting today, are the wonderful Bakelite era wooden brooches. I never could figure out why they haven't been recognized for the wonderful "folk art" that they are! They're the best kept secret in the industry. Prices are still affordable. And the best news is that you can still find excellent examples of them. A great book on the subject is Wooden Jewelry and Novelties by Mary Jo Izard. For some fun brooches click here.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Mrs. Obama's Papier Mache Flower Pin

posted on: Tuesday, July 21, 2009

On a recent trip overseas style icon Mrs. Obama sported a fabulous vintage papier mache flower brooch. To see some of our pins from the same series please click here.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Fashion as Muse. An homage to the Models of the 40s-90s

posted on: Friday, July 3, 2009

For those of you living or visiting NY this summer, there is a terrific show at the Met. Wonderful installations of dresses worn by the top Models for Dior, Rudi Gurnreich, Yves St Laurent and Calvin Klein. It talked about the evolution of the model. A must see for all the fashionistas out there. Can't you picture Twiggy in this wonderful Judith Hendler necklace, for Courreges.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Celluloid Jewelry

posted on: Thursday, June 18, 2009

Celluloid jewelry, otherwise referred to as French Ivory, is a type of thermoplastic capable of creating countless color combinations as well as being easily pressed and stained with precision. The invention of celluloid in 1869 set the stage for the making of costume jewelry from synthetic materials. The production of these pieces was inexpensive, and done in large quantities during the depression era. If anyone knows what design houses manufactured celluloid jewelry, please share with us. We are always learning!
Check out our new spotlight for some lovely examples.
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

Miriam Haskell Rare Masterpieces

posted on: Wednesday, May 27, 2009





As a follow up to the lovely article in June's issue of W Magazine, I wanted to share some rare pieces from my personal collection, many of which I bought from The Moss' in the early 90s. These jewels rarely appear in the marketplace in original condition these days. When buying vintage Haskell, be aware that when pieces look "to good to be true"... they usually are!!!
To read the article, click here.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

The Ring Thing

posted on: Friday, May 22, 2009

Who doesn't lust after humongous rings - perhaps 2 or 3 on one hand. Whether they be cocktail rings or other, these finger treasures always make us feel good! Check out our rings section, and you will see what I mean!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

What subjects would you like me to cover in my blog?

posted on: Monday, May 18, 2009

I would enjoy interacting with all you passionate vintage jewelry collectors and fashionistas. Please contact us @vintagecollection@caroletanenbaum.com with your requests. We look forward to hearing from you!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Son’s Day for Father’s Day

posted on: Friday, May 15, 2009


My extremely creative son is an avid vintage watch collector. He has developed this line of cufflinks, just in time for Father’s Day! They are made from very fine inner watch mechanisms. They range from $80-$120. I am doing a blog on them, because I cannot think of a more creative gift for the man (men) in your life. You can contact him directly @dantanenbaum@gmail.com
Stay Fabulous,
Carole








CTVC Spring Forecast

posted on: Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Where have all those long, gorgeous show stopping earrings gone? I think they are being replaced by gorgeous show stopper cluster earrings. And CTVC has great examples. Take a look, click here. The beauties above are by Robert, Circa 1950.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Spring has Sprung!

posted on: Thursday, May 7, 2009

Spring has finally arrived, and it's gorgeous! Birds are singing, flowers are blooming, and we've got some beautiful vintage finds ripe for the picking in our new spring spotlight.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

The Blues

posted on: Thursday, April 23, 2009

It's Spring time here in Toronto at a chilly 9 degrees, and everyone's got the blues. If you're looking to vintage for a pick me up, click here to see some blues we don't mind!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

CTVC and Grey Gardens

posted on: Monday, April 13, 2009

If you love vintage, please check out the HBO movie, Grey Gardens, premiering Apr 18 at 8pm. The jewelry was supplied by none other than Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection. In People Magazine this week, you can see a clear preview of our necklaces on Jessica Lange, a favorite of mine. She is wearing an emsemble of Czech necklaces from the 30's. How exciting!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Mother's Day

posted on: Thursday, April 9, 2009

If you are looking for something special for Mother's Day, you might want to consider a great name or initial pin, which always makes for a personal gift. We'd be happy to look through our collection to see if we can find the name or initials you are looking for. Or if you have an item on your wish list, just send us an email and we'd be happy to help!

In addition, in honour of Mother's Day from April 8th to May 10th Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection will donate 20% of all sales to Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Please help us support this important organization.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Why The Fashion World Has Turned To Vintage

posted on: Thursday, March 12, 2009

I am frequently asked why I feel the Fashion World is so attracted to Vintage. It is very exciting to take an "old piece" and recycle it into new concept. It makes a sophisticated and creative fashion statement. It brings back a sense of nostalgia with a present day point of view. So throw on an aunt's brooch with your long chain necklaces, or group your grandmother's bracelets with others from more recent decades. You will be adding your own personal touch to a very cultured "now" fashion statement! For some great couture pieces, check out our newest spotlight.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Day Handbags

posted on: Saturday, February 28, 2009


Vintage handbags for day use, whether they be Lucite or other materials, add a creative flair to any outfit! I love the surprise of a contemporary Armani suit , for example, paired with a vintage purse. To see some amazing hard Lucite purses, visit the newest additions to our site.
Stay fabulous,
Carole

Oscar Night

posted on: Monday, February 23, 2009

It was the night of the 81st Annual Academy Awards and it might have just been the best ever! I loved how they used previous winners as presenters for the actors, and of course the fashions were fabulous. Not to mention the bling, lots of big necklaces, multiple bracelets, and long statement earrings.
We were delighted Natalie Portman chose to accessorize with a stunning hard Lucite clutch from the Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection! Check out our beautiful selection of day and evening bags, as well as gorgeous clutches like the one Natalie wore.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Jelly Bellies

posted on: Wednesday, February 18, 2009

In the 40s, two major costume jewelry manufacturers, Coro and Trifari, launched a line of figural brooches called jelly bellies. A major part of these highly collectible pins, often in animal form, consists of a central lucite belly. They literally stop traffic when worn. I like to group them, when I wear mine. Check out this Trifari jelly belly fly brooch.
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

The Signature Style of Anne DiMartino

posted on: Thursday, February 5, 2009

I recently came across this great designer who makes pieces with remarkable color gradations. To learn more about this artist, see below.

Before her fascination with costume jewelry design, the Tennessee based artist was sculpting and designing dolls for some of the world’s largest doll companies. This art form took a turn when DiMartino became compelled to teach herself the lost art of costume jewelry making; an endeavor she has pursued ever since. Aficionados of the DiMartino Originals™ line purchase the artist’s jewelry for its exquisite quality in design, color and materials. Working with a myriad of gemstones and rhinestones in a multitude of colors, shapes and sizes the artist unleashes her muse to bring each and every one of a kind 14K gold plated masterpiece to fruition.

DiMartino creates pieces that are unique and one of a kind. Variations on a theme are inherent as the artist satisfies the palette of the discriminating collector. In accommodating customers, special commission pieces are created as well which include her signature Rhinestone Collars, Parures, Demi-Parures and her new line of DiMartino Originals™ Figurals.


Anne DiMartino may be contacted via email at starter@dtccom.net.

It Doesn't Get Better Than This for CTVC!

posted on: Thursday, January 29, 2009

Hello! Canada Magazine hit the stands today with an amazing article on Carole and her collection. We couldn't be happier about this wonderful coverage! How great to be included in these exciting times.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Patriotic Jewels

posted on: Friday, January 23, 2009

As an ex patriot of the USA, I cried, I laughed and I listened with a new feeling of hope that I haven't felt for a long time, for a new beginning for America. My kids were watching me watching the inaugural day on CNN. This election renewed my patriotism once again. So I pulled out my duplicates from my personal collection. They were generally produced during and after the war to remember loved ones. I wear them to remind me of the pride I feel for this Obama Administration. A great book has been published on this topic "A Tribute to America" by Carla Ginelli Brunialti. Be sure to take a look at our new Patriotic spotlight.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

The Famous Brooch

posted on: Thursday, January 22, 2009

Check out page A3 of the Globe and Mail for a great article on our famous brooch, 'The Pin with Provenance'! Or click here to see the online version. Also featured in the Toronto Star, this brooch has taken on a life of its own!
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

CTVC on the First Lady, Continued.

posted on: Wednesday, January 21, 2009

The buzz at CTVC has been wild today. So much interest from the media! We will be featured in the Globe and Mail tomorrow in the style section as well as the Mrs.O Blog. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and comments.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Michelle Obama Wears CTVC!!

posted on: Tuesday, January 20, 2009

We are so excited…Michelle Obama wore a Victorian brooch from the Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection at the Inauguration ceremony yesterday. The brooch took on the appearance of a necklace as she wore it close to the collar. How bold and creative of the First Lady to wear an historical brooch in keeping with theme of the day! It is not surprising to see someone with so much style and class opting for unique vintage pieces. Visit the National Post's Blog and FirstwaterNews.com for more details.
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

The Victoria and Albert Museum

posted on: Monday, January 19, 2009

The V&A Museum have their permanent collection of jewelry on display. As with everything in that museum, their collection of jewelry is spectacular. It dates from ancient times and goes right to the present. The display is enough to make you drool. They published a catalogue that represents the scope of the collection. What a treat. I was thrilled to see a pendant by Robert Kulicke, NY, as I was given a similar one in the 70's by the artist. You never know!!!!
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

Canada's Answer to the Golden Globes

posted on: Wednesday, January 14, 2009

After seeing the Golden Globes, I am reminded of the exquisite show stoppers by Canada's own Alan Anderson. Anderson searches for unusual vintage stones and creates some of the most beautiful necklaces I've seen. Check them out in our newest spotlight! You will be the"Bell of the Ball".
Stay Fabulous,
Carole

Disney Charms

posted on: Thursday, January 8, 2009

A 30's curiosity. I was walking through the Palm Beach Gem Jewelry show a few years ago (just looking, of course) when I came upon this exquisite platinum, enamel and diamond Disney charm necklace. The story was that a member of the original family was gifted this for a first anniversary. I was blown away, mortgaged my house, my children, and bought it. Note the incredible detail of each charm. We'll never see another! Click here to have a look at some other great charms.
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

Designer Figurals

posted on: Thursday, January 1, 2009

Chanel shocked the world in the 20's when she produced her iconic pot metal frog brooch, a bold departure from the tailored elegance that branded her collection. She claimed that jewelry shouldn't be made to make one look nice, it should be made to adorn. Her influence on the industry elevated the role of costume jewelry to that of major fashion accessories. Since then, every designer has used figurals as part of their oeuvres. Snakes, flowers, birds... here are a few delightful examples.
Stay FABULOUS,
Carole

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