It’s always nice having admirers (thank you very much) and of course Oliver Goldsmith sunglasses have certainly secured a prominent fan base of which they should be proud. The clearly-coveted and totally talked-about OG has been spotted on faces, famous and fashionable, far and wide.
For A Captive, Royal Audience
Oliver Goldsmith played Prince Charming for Celebrity Royalty like Audrey Hepburn, top, The Rolling Stones, above, Michael Caine, Sophia Loren and Lady Gaga, to name a few. In addition they have catered to Fashion Royalty like the late great Mr. McQueen, not to mention Real Royalty like actress/princess Grace Kelly, a.k.a. Princess Grace of Monaco.
That’s right, OG shades are where it’s at. They are the commanding Pied Piper of Hollywood and its greater surrounding areas. When this leader in optical illusion strikes a pose, even skeptical famous faces are bound to follow.
Retro Specs
With summer upon us I’m getting totally passionate about three characters that have resurfaced from almost 50 years ago. They are Audrey, circa 1963; Uuksuu, circa 1964; and KoKo, circa 1966 and they’re all available at Barneys New York. I love each one of them so much for very different reasons.
The Icon
Audrey, $380, in beguiling black, is top on my summer shopping list. Named after the stunning yet delicate Ms. Hepburn herself, these OG’s will get you noticed. Believe me, you will definitely be identified at the scene in these striking statement-makers.
The Audrey makes flirting quite dangerous for its recipient, even if you are hiding those sexy eyes from the rest of the world behind such a supremely smooth structure.
You can pull everything together simply and effortlessly at the last minute with a pair of Audreys. All you need is a ponytail with these OG’s and you’re good to go for almost anything.
The Rebel
Uuksuu, also $380, is another magical pair that redefines making a spectacle of yourself. They’re outright odd with a cunning cut and claret color that I adore. So unbelievably chic. Must have. When looking through these quirky Rose-Coloured Glasses I am confident I’ll be seeing Strawberry Fields Forever.
The Classic
KoKo, $430, in rich gorgeous tortoise, goes with anything. It will always have the right of way in every given scenario because it’s a class-act. I dare you–no, I double dare you–to wear these rims anywhere at all. I’m positive they would be equally appropriate worn on a yacht in Monte Carlo as they would if you attended a simple summer wedding or spent a day running errands, if you’re not lucky enough to have a personal assistant. These are necessary accessories.
Four Eyes
You’re not seeing double quite yet. Just between you and me, OG’s are for our eyes only and they are downright dope. Now I’m going to tell you why. A defining cultural icon since 1926, real OG’s feature impeccable craftsmanship, and epitomize luxury and style. Cheap rims are okay for a brief fling and they may serve a temporary purpose, but they won’t last and usually aren’t equipped with proper UV protection.
Lasting Beauty
Poorly-constructed glasses never really look that sharp, even in the beginning, plus they often won’t sit right on your face, and of course they will quickly deteriorate. If you can afford it, you’ll appreciate quality frames. You might have to pay the price for their endurance, stamina and longevity, but few good things in life are cheap.
For Your Man
OG’s are a worthwhile investment for the man in your life, making a truly timeless gift if you’ve got the dough. Julia, owner of the L.A. boutique Gogosha Optique opts for a pair of OG Paw Paws for her husband Kjeld, above.
In this case you’ll get what he deserves. Your OG sunglasses will stand the test of time. In fact, they’ll probably last as long as he does, because quite simply, they are down for life.
Child’s Play
Have you ever seen such a fly little pair like this? I’m not kidding when I say these specs will look precious perched on the bridge of your baby’s nose, making a most memorable first or last impression for children ages 4-14, from the Mini Icon Collection. Render your kid’s mug unforgettable with itty bitty shades. Despite their tantrums they are adorable, even more so in a cool pair of OG’s.
Fear and Clothing
You may be completely clueless about what’s going on around you in the world these days, but at least you’ll look fabulous wearing a chic pair of shades by Oliver Goldsmith. They are the ideal accessory for reflecting on the good times.
Mob in style with your homies, like my main man Al Pacino from Scarface, or dress up like Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I love this song, by Deep Blue Something. Check it out.
If the cops come around asking questions, make sure you’re wearing the geometric Fuz, above, $430, from the Icon series.
Remember to keep your mouth shut and your eyes wide open so you can take it all in behind a slick pair of old-school shades courtesy of Oliver Goldsmith.
Your pupils may dilate, but don’t worry; there’ll be no damage done because your prized OG’s provide full protection from harmful UV rays and are sure to cut even the most blinding glare. This is one instance where being shady is very beneficial.
You can look pimp or pinup or princess, or all of the above, depending on your attire. Remember, it’s entirely your decision because you are the one calling the shots.
Oliver Goldsmith has put in some serious work designing specs for every conceivable strain of good taste. A real OG’s ulterior motive is to make you look good. In this world, that’s a refreshing change of pace. I’m jus sayin tho.
The Tucson Gem & Mineral Show is internationally-renowned, and it’s a unique opportunity to stay up with the latest in jewelry design and gems. This is where you see the innovators–it’s where you’ll find new ideas and trends, and it’s scattered all over the dusty desert town, which has grown enormously since I last visited.
I met several incredibly talented artists and saw a myriad of pieces that I longed for during my scavenger hunt filled with treasures of jewelry, geodes, fossils, dinosaur bones and other rarities.
From strands of swollen Tahitian pearls priced at around $11,000 to a breathtaking, fiery Australian opal ring for a cool 30 grand, it was a visual feast for any beauty-lover, and so many things caught my attention. But here’s what captured my wallet.
Sweet Child O’ Mine
For my niece, who reminds me of the Guns ’N Roses song, and possesses the most innocent vivid blue eyes that speak of the sea, I am infatuated with a new stone: Larimar. A marbelized milky delicate blue-hued rock found exclusively in the Dominican Republic, it’s reminiscent of, basically, a cloud-dappled sky. I bought her a heart-shaped Larimar pendant, set in sterling, $25, and matching chain from the good people at Larimar USA.
Golden Boy
For my nephew, who looks like a Huntington Beach surfer and who’s gifted at anything he cuts his teeth on, I bought an authentic shark tooth, $1. This kid already has it all, so I wanted to give him something very special. There were a million teeth to choose from, but I found the one I liked most with regard to color and curvature, and the great guy I got it from sold me everything I needed for my gift. He taught me how to use E-6000, a clear super adhesive that you can get at Michael’s Crafts for three bucks. It took two minutes to glue a silver bracket on the back of the tooth so it can be worn on a brown leather cord, but about 45 minutes for me to understand the simple directions written on the label. Total cost: $7.
There’s No Place Like Home
For my mother, who has a heart of gold and nerves of steel, I bought a giant coral-inlaid silver Tibetan pendant, $80, from S & J’s fine jewelry courtesy of Sonnie and Jack Crowder in Suwanee, Georgia.
Kiss the Rings
With Georgia on my mind, I snagged a couple of Tibetan rings from the same vendor, S & J’s, for myself. Both intricately etched and filigreed and crafted from solid brass, the first one features an enormous oblong black onyx set high on the hand for a lot of vertical depth and drama; the second one is narrow and long, about two inches, covering the first knuckle. It is punctuated with an ellipses of red coral. They are both quite stunning, and cost 70 bucks each.
Every gift was handpicked for its recipient, and just like the individuals themselves, each is unique.
The night ended in a wonderful dinner with a friend from high school, Tam, and her beautiful, precocious daughter. It’s been great seeing you all, and to all a good night.
Hi guys. Today I am writing you from Tucson, Arizona. I’ve attended the annual world-renowned Gem & Mineral Show, and discovered a handful of gifted artists whom I will share with you.
I’ve met some unforgettable new people, and connected with some old friends. I’ll be delighted to introduce you to them as we continue our journey together.
Due to this little detour, the nutrition installment regarding Food Predators will be delayed. Because of valuable reader feedback, I’ve decided instead to give you tips on how to Shake Things Up, With Precision.
There are a few factors to consider if your shakes don’t possess their desired flavor or consistency, consistently. So stay tuned for that little morsel on meal replacement. We’ll get back to the Food Predators later.
In the meantime, I’d love to tell you about some of my discoveries and purchases at the Gem Show, so keep reading!
We like it a little hardcore, and so does fashion. Jewelry designers are greeting that demand with edgy luxe accessories that are bold and beautiful. Let everyone know just how hard you really hit it with some of these most spectacular statement pieces.
The stunning vertebrae cuff by Jennifer Fisher, $1,250 at Barneys New York, is four inches of gold-polished brass and makes a striking arm ornamentation when it accompanies jeans and a black sweater now, or a sheath dress against bare skin as spring approaches. Dressed up or down, wear someone else’s spine on your sleeve and watch heads turn.
Betsey’s small skull stud earrings, $30, are a decidedly more delicate approach to the deceased. From her Dark Forest Collection, the feminine little things feature heart-shaped eye sockets, opalescent gems and a sweet black bow.
Alternately, you could always wear the oversized Alexander McQueen ring, $290, from Saks Fifth Avenue, adorned with a whimsical bee in Swarovski crystals.
Or invest in a quality umbrella with striking skull knob by the luxury Italian Pasotti, pictured below on Italian fashion blogger Chiara from The Blonde Salad.
You can read more about our love for the unsurpassed quality and beauty of the amazing Pasotti umbrellas here, on BSSTW.
For a slightly less macabre approach, we look again at the designs of Jennifer Fisher. The brass bullet cuff, $915, is two inches wide of pure hardcore.
These pieces work for any season and countless occasions, and just like a bullet, it only takes one.
Perhaps rapper Eminem could conjure several ways to turn a phrase, but here at BSSTW, we will flatly admit that we cannot think of anything out there that can be likened to Pantone’s color for 2012–it’s named Tangerine Tango, and the fashion and beauty world is eating it up. A bit of a visual oddity, the vivid, saturated, iconic orange is now everywhere. It seems as though you cannot escape it.
The tangerine tones are coming from the European runways. Irreverent, rebellious and bold by nature, they are sure to attract attention, and with any luck, a bit of controversy.
Bottega Veneta’s silk blend petal hip dress, $2,650, from Barneys New York, can be worn casually for day with bare legs, flat sandals and a pedicure in the aforementioned Essie polish, above, or dressed up at night simply with a cashmere shawl.
Even in intimate circles, orange is making its presence scandalously known, as in this coral-lined lace bodysuit by luxury lingerie I.D. Sarrieri.
So as you can see, orange can be naughty or nice, depending on just how far you want to take it. Did you see the article on Tory Burch’s fab accessories, crafted in saffron saffiano leather, here on BSSTW? They mean business.
In fragrance also, the sweet, unmistakable orange is leaving its trace.
Her Orange Blossom body oil, $65, gives your legs an irresistible sheen and delicious fragrance. You can get it at Nordstrom.
Keep your eyes peeled for this juicy citrus. You will see it again and again in fashion and beauty, and of course you will absolutely fall in love, and learn unrivaled respect, for this complicated, intense, rich, ripe hue. Now that’s a rap.
So many striking looks on the Red Carpet at the 2012 Golden Globe Awards. Here are my favorites. Each gown is unique with regard to fabrication, cut and color.
Angelina and Brad.
Angelina never disappoints, and her appearance at the 2012 Golden Globe Awards was not an exception. Looking ravishing in a champagne satin Atelier Versace off-shoulder gown with scarlet detailing, Angelina was accompanied by husband and Best Actor nominee, Brad Pitt, who looked dashing in Salvatore Ferragamo.
The stately actress, director, and mother of six was a stunner with her inarguable grace and elegance.
Crimson lips and matching polished toes were the bright accents, along with a satin envelope clutch.
Simple knotted hair showcased Angelina’s graceful neck, amazing bone structure, perfect skin and Lorraine Schwartz earrings.
With all eyes on Angelina, she kept the makeup glamorous but minimal, emphasizing her stunning jade eyes with corner lashes and neutral, smoky tones.
Evan Rachel Wood.
Alive with iridescence, Evan Rachel Wood wore custom Gucci Premiere, and she wore it well. Rich shades of moss and teal–embellished with fish scale paillettes and ostrich plumes–was an exotic departure from the rest of the gowns that graced the Red Carpet.
Natalie Portman.
Forever a lady, Natalie Portman, in Lanvin. Natalie was unique in pink, wearing a side-bustled gown with cranberry accent and burgundy clutch. Tiffany & Co. jewelry. Clean makeup, short neutral nails…a refined look for the new mother.
Dianna Agron.
This Glee girl looked glorious in a Giles red ruffle-tiered ensemble. The bodice is fabulously laser cut with swans.
A pretty little ribbon diamond bracelet from Fred Leighton is all she needs.
Helen Mirren.
Always the epitome of appropriateness, Helen, 66, wore a rich navy blue Badgley Mischka gown with just the right amount of décolleté and simple, platinum accessories.
Nicole Kidman.
Versace hugs every curve on this statuesque stunner. The shirred silver gown, from Versace’s Spring 2012 collection, is embellished with gold studs. Straight hair and a nude lip complete the Grecian Goddess.
Madonna & Andrea Riseborough.
Madonna’s new protégé, Andrea Riseborough, wore an innocent Vivienne Westwood corseted creation from the Gold Label Spring 2012 collection. Madonna, on the other hand, is clad in Reem Acra from the pre-Fall 2012 collection. Slightly Medieval in mood, Ms. M accessorized the gown with a single, leather fingerless glove and diamond bracelets by Neil Lane.
Going back to her roots, literally, Madonna wears a bold cross around her neck and deliberately dark roots.
You may have seen the stunning Miranda Kerr, 28, strutting her stuff at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York November 8.
Although Miranda is one of the original Victoria’s Secret Angels, she perpetually wears the smile of something slightly more mischievous. Another permanent fixture on her appearance is the loyal, cherry red purse that never leaves her side.
Saffiano leather is where it’s at. You’re going to see it everywhere. Prada, Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren are configuring saffiano into luggage, belts and wallets for both men and women. Saffiano purses are popping up constantly.
I am crazy for Badgley Mischka’s saffiano handbag in red with striking gold hardware, below. It sold out nationwide.
Tory Burch is using the unique crosshatched Italian leather elegantly when she fashions gorgeous goodies for gadgets, like this shimmeringly chic iPad case, $225, below.
Another coveted commodity, this product also sold out and can be difficult to find.
If you have your heart set on this statuesque golden guard, you will probably have to search online.
To dress up the rustic feel of the textured skins, Burch often applies metallic finishes or produces them with a high-shine glaze like patent leather.
There’s no mistaking these two in a lineup. When you’re on the go and reaching for something fast, the conspicuous accessories will most definitely stand out in a crowded purse.
And although they also come in other colors, the slightly scandalous, illicit inmate orange is by far my favorite. There’s something bold and deliberate and unapologetically glam about the bright tangerine hues that I just love.
Due to its unique texture, saffiano leather is water repellant and resists scratching. It ages fabulously, so unlike some things in this disposable society, your leather lovelies are guaranteed to last. They just may hold up for 25 years to life.
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