Item of the Week: Chain Envy Necklace.
This week’s pick put me in a tizzy. Item of choice: the Chain Envy necklace.
This necklace pulled me different directions: it’s big, bold, hard, unusual, but at the same time refined, delicate, and sexy.
***Check these pics and more on our Pinterest page***
One thing is for sure, the Chain Envy is strong. Don’t tell me you wont feel like a warrior with this thing across your neck. Confidence levels boosted from a scale of cool cucumber green to fiery HOT chili red!! When envisioning the woman wearing this piece I see a city slicker movin’ and shakin’. Walking down the street late at night in the rain, yet somehow her conviction and poise keep her dry (no umbrella necessary).
FEATURED PIECES:
Layered Jacket by Rachel Roy
Double Layer Cami at Topshop
Slim Chinos at Golden
Leather Satchel at Branch and Birdie
Common Projects Sandal at Frances May
Chain Envy Necklace by betsy & iya
Brooklyn Bridge Cuff in silver by betsy & iya
Simple Sterling Rings by betsy & iya (preferably worn as knuckle rings)
To all the women out there with this necklace I tip my hat to you. You clearly know what you’re doing. ;)
xo,
Barrie
***Song of the moment: Good Time by Crystal Castles***
Kiawah Island Escape (slash: Design Retreat).
If I create from the heart, nearly everything works; if
from the head, almost nothing.
~Marc Chagall
This beautiful woven brocade work comes from a book I’m gathering much inspiration from called, “Great Masters of Mexican Folk Art,” from the collection of Fomento Cultural Banamex.
This is a cut from an image in the book, “Great Masters of Mexican Folk Art,” from the collection of Fomento Cultural Banamex.
Betsy, Iya, and baby Charlotte admiring my necklace.
My beautiful niece wears a knitted sweater from one of her Peruvian relatives. How could I NOT gather inspiration from this little thing.
I made a quick decision to join my family on the Island of Kiawah (off the coast of South Carolina) last weekend. I wanted to reconnect, to have some space to think, to dream big for this next collection. I needed to step out of my head for a minute, share coffee with my longtime coffee-mates (mom/sis) , hold my niece (who’s initials are CEO, btw), rediscover the roots, feel that momentum. Everything that I do informs the work. Then the work will go where it wants to go. It becomes my ultimate task then to listen and follow it.
Creativity is essentially a lonely art. An even lonelier struggle. To some
a blessing. To others a curse. It is in reality the ability to reach inside
yourself and drag forth from your very soul an idea.
~ Lou Dorfsman
I came back feeling reinvigorated with a sketchbook full of new work. Family, I love you so.
Your~ bets
***Song of the Moment: Whale, by Yellow Ostrich***
Music Moment: Easy Not Easy by Graves.
Hey lovelies.
I’m one of those girls that fancies herself a “music-to-mood matcher” of sorts. One that has just the right album for every occasion. When I’m feeling sassy I’ll listen to CrazySexyCool by TLC or The Writing’s on the Wall by Destiny’s Child, when I’m feeling nostalgic, any of the sweet sweet albums of The Zombies, or The Bee Gees. I think I’ve fallen in love with this way of listening to music because…
a) listening to the whole album gives me a good idea of where the artist is coming from. I’ve found that the order of songs means just as much to me as the lyrics do!
b) when hanging out with friends we get to swap artists we love. Our conversation seems to ebb and flow with the feel of each album.
I wanted to share the album Easy Not Easy from one of my long-time favorite artists Graves. I’ve had the honor of hearing him play live quite a few times in my friend’s backyard and those memories come back to me every time Spring arrives.
I recommend listening to this particular album while eating fresh goods from your local Farmer’s Market, while taking a bike ride through the country side, or relaxing with friends after a long spring day . Check out our Pinterest page for more breezy, lovely inspiration.
Two of my ultra favorite tracks are “Dirty Bird” and “Lincoln Continental.” And can we talk about his voice?! Dreamy. OH! and of course to keep it local, Greg Olin, the man behind the music is signed with Portland’s own Hush Records which houses some of the tastiest indie music.
I hope his jams find you well, in a spring-induced coma!
Love,
Kelly
***Song of the Moment: No/Where by Graves***
Item of the Week: Night Watch Ring (half-oxidized).
This weeks special betsy & iya highlight come from the new and lovely Lacey. Her choice: the Night Watch ring; half-oxidized (there are three four versions).
As I’ve said before, I love to seek the input of my co-workers and hear what they think of particular pieces. For example, Lacey’s interpretation of the Night Watch is “atmospheric,” “looming,” and reminiscent of armor. It does look like a little shield doesn’t it? Once Lacey said armor my mind started swimming: old, decrepit stone walls, family crests, steel armor, gallant steeds. If you watch Game Of Thrones you know what I’m talking about.
***Check out our Pinterest page***
Similarly, an outfit to accompany this ring should also embody a sense of structure, power, and protection:
FEATURED PIECES
Babe Sarah Dress at Frances May
Corner Coffee Shop Cardigan at Modcloth
The Jamie Tote by Hunter Pass Leather
338-29 Wedge by Finsk at Solestruck
The Colonel necklace by betsy & iya
Night Watch ring (half-oxidized) by betsy & iya
Take this ring and ride off into battle! That is, the battle deciding whether or not to spend your weekend relaxing in the sun, or taking part in epic adventures with friends! Perhaps both can be achieved…
Happy Friday!
Love,
Barrie
***Song of the moment: Bubblehouse by Medeski, Martin & Wood***