What I Want Right Now!

I don’t know about you but I always have a few items that I’m coveting for myself or my home. As soon as I think I’ve cleared the backlog, new things appear on my radar. Honestly, I don’t know where the wishes come from… it isn’t really like a social feed or things I find in my inbox. Usually, it’s triggered by lived experiences: either something I already own and love (and want more of) or something that is missing in my wardrobe; often accessories. It might be a super sultry summer, and I don’t feel I have the right attire for that environment. Or, the season changes and I get confused about what to wear, and then I want something new. Or sometimes, it is stalking a store or website I love (Ex: Molli Paris, Ralph Lauren Europe, or for home 1st Dibs, although I do love a big box store for seasonal goods). But right now, I’m exploring some recent purchases and things I’d like to own.

Vintage Costume Jewelry, especially old Jcrew.

Here is what I’m thinking about now… I was just in France, where I have all of this Jcrew costume jewelry from the 1990s or early 2000s. It’s really good. It instantly dresses up a shirt, dress or sweater. Wearing it immediately made me want more, as it is such a fun accessory and so easy to play with. I also love that it isn’t too dear, and having been the victim of theft, I tend to prefer costume jewelry now. I found a few I like on Etsy, but if you google, Jcrew vintage costume jewelry, you will find other resellers.

I have one in my collection that is a bib collar with a tie at the back, but I think I prefer these chunky chains. You can also play with the length really easily with these chains. I think this style will be particularly useful during the holiday season, but I wear mine year round. Such a great way to add some personality to a linen dress or shirt.

Vintage 1950s Beaded Collars, search Made in Japan

As I was searching for vintage Jcrew jewelery, I came across the brand, Baar & Beards, with hand sewn beaded collars, made in Japan, from the 1950s and ’60s, worn over sweaters and even as a necklace, if you turn it around backwards. These are gorgeous items that would add a vintage flourish to any sweater or even a t-shirt. Make sure to check to read the description detailing the condition and the circumference, as I’ve seen many that are 14″ and could end up quite tight around your neck!

Candlestick Holders and Vases (or Both)

I honestly can’t say no to a candle holder, particularly a vintage one. The more the better, in my opinion, when grouping them anywhere: on a table, a credenza, a shelf. I used to collect vintage brass ones (make sure they are straight from all angles before purchasing) until I decided I had too many. But I recently saw something I had to have that converts candlestick holders into a vase by flower arranging brand, Hanataba. I immediately ordered 6! I think they will look amazing on a table, with the brass vintage candlestick holders, some with candles, and some with flowers.

Ralph Lauren Shorts

I never seem to have enough clothes from Ralph Lauren. I LOVE the brand. Sometimes they have different offerings in Europe vs the US, like the Wimbledom clothing items (I tried many of these but the unisex sizing doesn’t work, for me anyways). When on vacation or when it’s hot, I really like to dress down around and I think these shorts are perfect. Whether for cleaning, yard work, or quick errands, you look more put together. I’m also tempted to try this pull on Men’s pair called the Prepster. I think they’d look equally cute with a tee, button down or linen blazer.

Japanese Woven Handbag:

A new handbag is an instant, seasonal way to update your wardrobe and make you feel like you have something new, with the added bonus of being able to use it everyday. I really like to contrast the seasons by using a woven bag in fall. I think it adds a lovely texture and usually a nice contrast to the fall/ winter colors you may be wearing. I have just discovered this brand called Tousket, and it seems that they offer workshops as well. I’m eager to learn more about this amazing brand and you can bet that I will be ordering one of their bags! They are gorgeous!!

Brass Leaves:

I was in Milan for Salone, and dined at a restaurant that used metal olive tree leaves as the floral arrangement on their tables. I thought this was such a clever idea. I searched and searched for similar products, but never found it’s likeness. But this year, Ferm Living’s Christmas decor features some brass oak leaves in two styles. They are meant to be hung on a tree, but I am thinking of fashioning a stand to make my own tabletop decor. Either way, they’d look lovely on a tree or on your dining table.

Another Bag:

Finally, another bag, another situation that requires it. I have begun swimming for exercise, and wow, its amazing but also requires a lot of gear (ear plugs, anti-fog mist, goggles, kickboard, poolboy, etc) that you need accessible right next to your swim lane. And of course, everyone has the same gear, so it is essential that I get a cute bag to keep mine in. I think this would do the trick, stylishly: