Downton Abbey Style on a Budget

As I anxiously await the new season of Downton Abbey in January, I am designing and making new jewelry for my Etsy shop, Boheme Bijou. As this is the second day of the federal government shutdown, I am also thinking of keeping my prices affordable, offering upstairs style and quality on a downstairs budget. Here is a preview:

SUMMER Cameo Jewelry SALE!!

BOHEME BIJOU  welcomes summer with a fantastic sale on handmade Downton Abbey inspired cameo jewelry. Save 15% off original prices now through 7/7/13. This elegant collection features unique Victorian and Edwardian era designs.  Happy Summer!!

 www.etsyonsale.com/shop/bohemebijou

BOHO BOGO!!

I am thrilled to announce my first ever BOGO SALE in my Etsy store, www.labohemebijoux.etsy.com. It runs from AUG 30, 2010 through midnight SEPT 6, 2010.
That's right, you fashionistas know the drill BUY 1 and GET 1 Half Off. BOGOs are especially great when there is an abundant selection of your favorite things in your favorite stores. But most important, the BOGO sale is a wonderful time to practice one of my favorite shopping rituals, "one for you; one for me"... Ahhh the thrill of hunting and gathering. Well enough blogging; start shopping!! And always, have fun.

What's New? Nouveau

Wow, the month of August is here already and before you know it, the mega September issues will be on the newsstands. Now is the perfect time for Fall previews and that includes checking out jewelry for the the 2010 Fall/Holiday season. So what's new for Fall at La Boheme Bijoux? Glad you asked-- Art Nouveau and Art Deco inspired vintage glass cabochon jewelry. I love using these rare and richly textured vintage components for modern jewelry. They add interest and personality to your wardrobe. With the current state of the economy, I believe there will be a greater focus on updating your wardrobe basics with unique accessories. For example, you may not be able to afford the Red Door Spa, but perhaps you can treat yourself to a new tube of Red Door lipstick. Same philosophy! You get a little lift without blowing your budget.

So grab a cup of tea, browse my shop, and get a jump start on your Fall jewelry collection. The new vintage offerings are the perfect little treasures for a wardrobe pick me up or lonely jewelry boxes waiting to be filled.

MEET ME IN OLD TOWN

This weekend, July 16-18, 2010, marks Old Town Alexandria's first annual Christmas in July celebration. This festive, family-friendly event is being hosted by the Christmas Attic (www.christmasattic.com) and the businesses of Union Street, Old Town Alexandria. The holiday activities that are scheduled include holiday cookie tastings, ornament making demonstrations, tours of historic Union Street, and last but certainly not least, pictures with Summer Santa (July 17, 18).

The literal phrase of Christmas in July was started in July 1933 at a girl's summer camp in North Carolina; they celebrated with a Christmas tree, gifts, and a visit from Santa Claus. The term received national attention with the release of the Hollywood comedy film, Christmas in July, in 1940. Christmas in July celebrations are a great way to escape the intense heat of summer by enjoying holiday activities that remind us of cooler temperatures.

Stop by the Christmas Attic this Friday from 6-9 pm to view my latest creations.

See you there!!

The Tudor Rose Earrings

The Tudor Rose earrings are the latest additions to my handmade jewelry collection, La Boheme Bijoux. The collection features jewelry inspired by the historical costumes in some of my favorite period films and television series. In this case, my visual inspiration comes from the film, "Shakespeare in Love" .

The historical inspiration for my design is the Tudor Rose of England. The Tudor rose takes its name and origin from the Tudor dynasty. It is symbolic of the co-joining of the House of York ( White rose) and the House of Lancaster (Red rose) by Henry Tudor when he brought an end to the War of the Roses. It is sometimes called the Union Rose. The traditional Tudor rose is usually depicted as a double rose with white on red.


My interpretation of the Tudor rose features vintage style dark silver filigree with sweet little aluminum roses in a rainbow of gorgeous colors. When I saw these lovely beads, it was love at first sight or as the French say, "coup de coeur" (to fall madly in love). I added a bit of sparkle with Swarovski crystals. The result - Tudor Rose Earrings.


All of my handmade jewelry designs start with the bead and end with what I hope to be beautiful vintage inspired baubles that compliment the modern wardrobe.