Escapism and exploration plays a dominant theme where naturally found items such as seashells, natural stones and materials like raffia are incorporated in accessories and clothes. Nude colors such as beige, creamy hues and latte inspired by journeys to arabian deserts and safari expeditions become a summer staple as well as the calming pallette of muted blues and greens. In a stark contrast fashion runways have also favored neons and bold colors to add a pop to the season's looks.
Metallic shades and feather accessories make a big "out of the ordinary" statement in SS 2019 while tie dye and denim create a more relaxed feel. This season "nostalgia" also plays a big part to escape our digitally charged lives by incorporating elements and pastel hues like mint and candy pastels from the past.
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In this issue BijouxCloset talks to one of its most loyal customers about her passion of food and take on style while managing a hectic schedule in the bustling city of Toronto.
A bit about yourself: An actuary by profession, I have a passion for baking and creating plated desserts. My newest venture MavzMakes is all about catering sweet delights, whether its cakes, macarons or other mini desserts. Follow my instagram account @MavzMakes
Guilty Pleasure: Ohh this one is hard, there are so many but I have to say nothing beats a good gooey chocolate brownie. If I am in the mood for something a bit fancier, I don’t need to look much further than some of the great local patisseries here in Toronto.Favourite book: I currently read “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime” by Mark Haddon and loved it! For anything baking related I am currently pouring over “PÂTISSERIE” by Melanie Dupuis and and “Éclairs" by Christophe Adam.
Favourite Holiday: It’s a tie between Istanbul in Turkey, Sorrento in Italy and London, England. All of these places are flowing with great culture, art and food.
Favourite Jewelry to Pack: Did I mention I love accessories! Earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces - I find i’m always carrying a bagful when I travel. I have a number of chunkier bold statement pieces and also smaller elegant pieces. I like to be able to match something to each outfit.
Best Dining Experience in Toronto: Chef Claudio Aprile had a restaurant Origin near the St. Lawrence market neighborhood which my husband and I loved to go to for weekend brunch! Their glazed banana french toast with coconut, peanut brittle and pineapple is the best!
Your style statement: I love accessories! No mater what style i’m sporting, I will always use complementary accessories to finish my look. For clothing I like to mix it up, I don’t subscribe to any one particular style.
2. You can show everyone how cool and modern females manage without all the fuss of being dragged down by clutter in their big bags.
3. You want to embrace the minimalist style for summer to feel carefree and enjoy the outdoors.
Here are some stylish options to carry your essentials without all the weight.
]]>If you are escaping to a warmer, tropical destination for exploration, relaxation or an event this year, then pairing clothes and accessories wisely can take you from day to night seamlessly. Here are some suggestions to create easy chic looks for your next getaway.
Our first inspiration comes from the calm blue hues of the sky and ocean. We love batiks and dip dye accessories and pairing a Shibori print clutch and a bold statement necklace for effortless chic!
If you love whites then make the outfit fun by adding some color. White outfits are like a blank canvas and can be easily layered with accessories in vibrant pink or neon to evoke a fun and colorful Miami vibe without looking over the top.
Incorporate nudes and natural hues for a polished and classy fashion statement. Accessorize this look with accessories in darker or lighter shades to accentuate the natural look.
Minty hues always evoke a sense of cool freshness that comes with spring. If you are planning a visit to a museum or an art gallery, stir things up with a main piece in vintage mint and layer with metallic accessories.
Stripes are classic and most of us always carry a striped piece of clothing on our trips. A fresh take on a nautical theme is to mix stripes with graphic and metallic accessories for an edgy style statement.
Do write to us for style suggestions at info@bijouxcloset.com, we would love to hear from you!
]]>Classic black brings elegance to any party wear accessorized with vintage or matte gold hoops and a glittery clutch.
Dazzle at the dinner party in a green outfit complimented by a standout clutch handbag.
Gifts for the host and hostess
Practical gifts that can be used everyday make great gifts for the host or hostess.
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Cotton fabric is very popular in tropical countries due to its breathable nature. Knowing how fabrics are constructed allows us to appreciate the skill and mastery of artisans who produce one-of-a-kind-pieces that end up in our wardrobe.
Indigo-dyed cottons, Ikat, Block print, Tie-dye and “Ajrak” print fabrics all tell an artisanal story of designs and processes that are rooted in traditional printing and dyeing techniques.
Among the cotton fabrics Khadi is a simple 100 percent natural hand spun cloth.The interlacing of threads provides maximum passage of air to the body creating a cooling effect, making Khadi an ideal summer wear.
Our first stop for textile shopping was Karachi where we visited two of the most popular places for cotton fabric.
To purchase Khadi cotton fabric a visit to its namesake store in Karachi is a must. Khaadi first made its name specializing in hand-loomed Khadi fabric for “Kurtas” (tunics). Established with the intent of reviving the age old heritage of hand spun fabrics, the store has quintessentially earthy wooden interiors and is packed with eager customers on any given day. Vibrant printed fabric hangs invitingly on wooden racks while the home interior line emulate the vivacious prints and traditional patterns that defined the khaadi brand.
A visit to atelier KOEL is also a must for textile enthusiasts. KOEL not only delights the visitors with a treasure trove of block printed fabrics, hand spun yarns and "Ajrak" prints, but provides an unexpected retreat with a tranquil spa like environment. KOEL wad established by its founder Noorjehan Bilgrami with a vision of reviving the dying art of hand block printing and to re-introduce fabric produced from hand looms.
Visitors enter into an open space with its calming aqua features, Frangipani trees, white washed seating and simple architecture that brings a feeling of serenity to its visitors. The KOEL enclave is also home to a cafe and exhibition space.
With so much variety it is difficult to be satisfied with just a few pieces and if you don't keep your shopping under control chances are you will return with a suitcase filled only with beautiful fabrics.
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One of the most exciting things on every bride's wedding to-do list is to figure out the gifts for her bridesmaids. It is probably smart planning to think ahead of time about getting something special for your friends who will rally around you, spend endless hours helping you choose your gown and flowers, organizing parties and be there for you on your special day looking after all the little details to make this day as perfect as possible!
One way to show your appreciation to the bridesmaids for their patience,creativity and endless cheer would be to select individual gifts matching their personalities and preferences. It is hard to select gifts that will meet everyone's liking and since bridesmaids don’t have registries, you sure could use some inspiration to help get this task off your long to-do list!
An important point to consider is deciding on the type of gift. Would like to give gifts that your bridesmaids would simply keep aside as mementos or gifts that they can use everyday. A pair of crystal earrings, bracelet or a necklace will make a great finishing piece for your bridesmaid dresses and something that they can use on several occasions. You can also customize such gifts by putting them in a keepsake box with a group photograph from the bridal shower to make it into a precious memento as well.
A card case, a journal or a wallet are all great gift ideas to give something thoughtful yet practical. Shop our carefully curated bridesmaid collection to find the perfect bridesmaid gift to thank your girlfriends for being part of your wedding.
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Shades of pink bring vibrant energy and are great to shrug off the winter blues.
Dreaming of summer? Step into the tranquil marine hues with stripes and chevron prints. Marine can be easily coordinated with beige, white and lemon yellow colors.
If you are an art aficionado getting ready for your next adventure go with graphic scarves mixing neon and grey shades. Neon yellow lifts the dullness of grey and charcoal. Go with tribal and graphic accessories to show off your artsy side for a visit to museums or galleries .
]]>This year we look to past issues of vogue as well as iconic pieces of vintage costume jewelry for inspiration. Carefully sculpted and executed jewelry designs in gold tone were introduced by couture houses in the past to finish an outfit. In these days of Avant garde, chic layering pieces of gold tone jewelry with casual outfits such as white shirt and denim is common and not just confined to formal wear. You can pair high shine cuffs and statement necklaces in gold with dark denim and heels for an edgy empress look or layer gold bracelets for an amped up glam effect with minimal outfits. In winter accent the neckline with a bold collar necklace or layer with gold necklaces of varying lengths to bring your sweater to life.
For major impact, look for high quality statement pieces of jewelry. If you are wondering what constitutes high quality investment pieces of jewelry then look for well crafted sturdy pieces with hefty chains and carefully executed details. Chrisitian Dior guides us about jewelry with a statement that the quality of stones, the design of the jewel and the perfection of workmanship are much more important and that heavy gilt jewelry gives a nice, bright richness to the clothes. There are many contemporary designers who create high quality innovative luxury costume jewelry that will be worth the investment but will not require you winning the lottery or end up consuming your year-end bonus.
Have a go at creating your glam look by pairing solid color outfits whether dressy or casual with unique gold-tone bijoux for a bold statement and have fun!
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Chilly breeze in fall puts shopping for warm woollies and cosy layers at the top of our to do list. This year maxi scarves held at the waist by knotted belts and bold blanket style wraps took center stage at fall 2015 runways making them the "IT" accessory.
Warm scarves and chunky wraps are a staple wardrobe accessory particularly for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore or waterfront, visiting festive bazars or spending a laid back evening by the beach.
If you are daunted by the outdoors and dullness in winter, here are some tips for staying stylishly warm using woolly textiles as inspiration for all your cold weather escapes.
Bold Prints and Colors
Make a fabulous style statement with bold prints and deep hues to pop your solid color outfits.
Create a Wild West cowgirl bandana vibe with triangular scarves. This style will keep your neck and upper chest warm leaving your arms free for selfies!
The Maxi Scarf Runway Trend
Maxi scarves created a huge buzz when designers around the world showcased the look on runways for fall 2015. Add a dose of runway to your look with wide blanket style scarves slung loosely on one side or held in place by a belt, a style popularized by Burberry Prorsum and Etro.
Choose natural fibres such as pashmina, cashmere or soft wool over synthetic so that your skin can breathe and be free of allergies.
]]>Preppy with plaid: You cannot go wrong with a plaid and stripes blazer or scarf. Plaid has been a popular print for handbags and shoes as well.
Feminine flourishes: Use Poms poms, bows and lace embellishments or pearl and floral jewels for a dose of feminine chic.
Dots and hearts: Keep your things organized with functional but fun and quirky carryall cases with dots, hearts and handmade illustrations.
Statement Necklaces: Statement necklaces trend is here to stay. Style your basic solid with a statement necklace or layer with pieces of varying length.
Stack 'em up bracelets: Pile up several skinny bracelets or a set of multiple bracelets on your wrist. Beads, leather, chain are all favorites for this season.
Small dose of animal print: Animal print can be tricky. One accessory with animal print is enough to inject a dose of sophistication. Pair with denim or tan outfits.
Pocket memos/journals: Use pocket memos and mini journals for notekeeping where ever you go. It is more stylish than electronic devices!
Portable adhesive notes: If you are a sticky addict, the portable adhesive notes are your best aid. Enclosed in color jackets these are easy to drop in your bag and head to the library!
Wristlets: Perfect for the time when you have books or backpacks to carry. Wristlets cease to be just utilitarian with so much variety and has become a staple for the wardrobe.
Small handbags: Swap your bulky oversized handbag for small crossbody or slim clutch when you want a slim streamlined look for the evening or dinner out with friends.Summer is all about getting out and enjoying the beach, traveling to exotic destinations, visiting flea markets or going hiking at a nature conservancy. Leaving the cold winter behind, summer dressing embraces a laid back style in sun-washed blues and bright whites. Nautical and surf inspired accessories in marine and aqua hues are a perfect choice to add some chic to a simple cotton sundress or a loose and slinky chiffon kaftan. You can't go wrong with basic whites shirts and tops that can be accessorized for any occasion.
Whether you are dressing for an evening poolside dinner, a garden party or a beach event, a white tunic or dress can be your got-to outfit. Most people are well stocked with white shirts and can probably unearth a trunk full of whites as summer approaches.
Here are some great ideas on how to add some chic to your white shirts or tunics this summer.
1. For a minimalistic look accessorize a white V-neck cotton top with precious metal and watery hued stone trinkets to add just a touch of metallic shine and nautical color.2. For a dressed up soiree look add a statement necklace to your silk or chiffon white top.
3. To go a refined polished look for an evening go with monochromatic contrast and put on pretty shiny crystal baubles.]]>
Clutches and wristlets are the it accessory for summer wardrobe! Most handbags get loaded with far too much stuff that is rarely used. Looking for keys and small items can sometimes get annoying and hanging handbags on chairs in tightly packed seating areas is just not practical! For most women, carry out essentials comprises their cell phone, keys, credit cards and lipstick when making a quick trip to the mall or out for dinner/movie. So why not downsize and swap the handbags for wristlets and clutches to get instant access to your essentials.
A wristlet looks like a large coin purse or a pouch that you can conveniently wear on your wrist and some even come with inside pockets. Very convenient if you are biking, out strolling or great for campus especially if you carry a backpack.These days pouches come in a variety of designs and materials and have moved away from being just a basic accessory. Pouches are also a popular choice as they can double for wristlets and clutches and are a handy accessory to travel with. Store chargers, cosmetics, business cards or jewelry in a pouch and drop it inside the handbag.
Clutches are irreplaceable accessories for evenings out or at parties when you don't want to be weighed down by a handbag. While traveling a smart approach would be to carry at least two clutches that can be paired with day and evening wear. Browse our selection of wristlets and carryall accessories.]]>
Here are a few tips to look stylish at weddings without stress.
1. Relax have fun planning the wedding details!
2. Rummage through your wardrobe for nude, pastel or black dresses as these are easy to accessorize with jewelry and work well with makeup.
3. Plan early so you can shop around and buy things slowly and not all at once.
4. Keep a budget for nail and hair for the perfect finishing touch.
Looking for wedding bijoux and accessories? See our bridal collection.
]]>Simone is a trendy tastemaker. Her sense of style influences others. She is in her element working with stylish icons and mixes bold pieces and colors to create her look.
The Creative Modernist
Monique loves to visit museums and read about art and culture. She takes a journey into the past and drives inspirations from vintage couture to create a modern new look.
Allure Féminine
]]>This year you have decided a tropical getaway is just what you need to re-energize yourself! You want to look the part when you arrive at your destination.
We share your excitement that a relaxing getaway is in your future! Here are a few tips to help you pack your capsule wardrobe for the lazy day by the pool or an exciting evening on the tropical resort.
1. Blue kaftan paired with espadrille wedges. An essential uncomplicated look for resort wear great for short trips to town or to relax under the sun.
2. A colorful light weight scarf that can be used as a beach cover up.
3. A pastel or white color dress with a small box clutch with a shoulder chain.
4. Bijoux for day and evening wear.
5. A journal to document and sketch for a literary tour.
So we do need a variety of accessories to style our look but this does not mean that we have to empty out the bank account by spending on very expensive accessories. Instead opt for good quality, reasonably priced accessories that have great aesthetics.
Here are some suggestions for getting great pieces for less at Bijoux Closet. Curate your closet by adding good quality accessories that will not only define your style but are affordable as well. See our jewelry collection and handbags collection
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The art of bathing lies in cleansing the body and rejuvenating the mind. In Turkish and Moroccan hammam/bathing ritual, this is achieved by scrubbing the body with black soap in a steamed space to alleviate the stress and strains of everyday life. Some spas add scented candles for the added benefit of aromatherapy and calming effect of soft light.
In the past, luxurious bathing rituals were not limited to hammams alone but also existed in the private baths of some. Marie Antoinette was known to have a ceremonious bathing regimen and took her baths wearing a loose fitting flannel chemise created by her perfumer Fargeon so as to not expose herself to the gaze of her ladies in waiting. Marie insisted on frequent baths and her bathroom at Versailles still exists with simple dove grey walls and a sloping tiled floor for the water to drain away.
Marie commissioned soaps scented with herbs, bergamot and amber adding drops of essence of lavender or essence of lemon in her bathwater. Her baths were perfumed with sachets containing a mixture of blanched almonds, pine nuts, linseed, lily and other assorted herbs and oils were placed in earthenware dishes to purify the air. Such were the preparations for a luxurious bath.
These days washing with a bar of soap is looked upon as a luxury of the past when people pampered themselves and took time to enjoy every day experiences like reading books or sitting for meals at a beautifully laid out table.
Unwrapping a bar of soap that comes in a beautiful package and smelling the subtle scents gives us a pampered feeling, relaxing us, and for this reason bar soaps are experiencing a resurgence.
Beautifully wrapped or boxed scented soaps make great gifts for a variety of occasions and some of the boxes can be reused to store small items. Scented soap bars made from plant ingredients are more environmentally friendly and can be stored in a dresser drawer to fill it with the delicate aroma of scented soap.
Is the appeal of a bar soap nostalgic or a small bathing accessory that promises a luxurious spa like experience? In either case we can allow ourselves to be charmed by a rejuvenating cleanse with a sweet scented soap bar.
"Fragrances are imbued with the magic to transport us. In a split second, their nuances, their accents and their vibrations sweep us away into either the past or the future".
Elisabeth de Feydeau
See our Collection of scented soaps in This N That
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The name Birkin brings to mind images of the coveted luxurious Hermes Birkin handbag. But how much do we know about the fashion and style of celebrity icon Jane Birkin who was the inspiration behind the famous Birkin bag. Well before the Birkin bag came into existence this trend setting icon was rarely seen without a wicker basket hanging from her arm instantly making wicker and raffia bags popular and fashionable. Jane B's style was bohemian easy elegance and created an unforgettable look with her wicker basket.
The luxurious Hermes Birkin bag was created for Jane B in the 80s based on her need to have a bigger bag which could hold all her items. Later on Hermes introduced Birkin handbag limited editions in exotic skins with a waiting list of 2 years or more. Jane Birkin's name was now associated with a handbag that was in complete contrast to the carefree wicker basket look. Perhaps it was the spirit of the 60s and 70s era where the image of flower girl and carefree attitude was so in fashion, whereas, the Birkin bag was a product of the opulent 80s that craved decadent luxury. Fashion repeats and we believe the wicker basket look is making a comeback once again!
Women all the over the world have been captivated with the story of how the idea of Birkin bag was conceived and countless books have been written celebrating the Birkin. One such book is "Bringing Home the Birkin" by Michael Tonello, a former makeup artist and hairdresser who moves to Spain to sell Hermes luxury scarves on eBay and discovers the demand for Birkin. Written in an engaging and light hearted travel memoir style, Tonello describes his experience of acquiring and selling Birkin handbags. The reader is transported to Michael Tonello’s world of luxury, travel, socializing and humorous encounters all to sell the coveted Hermes Birkin bag and all things Hermes.
As a celebrity icon Jane Birkin was the name that launched the Birkin handbag by Hermes, however, what has kept it as one of the most sought after handbag despite the hefty price tag, is the fact, that it is promoted as a bag that one cannot just walk into the store and purchase but has to be acquired after years of waiting.
That is not to say the wicker basket look is no longer available for devoted followers of Jane B's french chic style, in fact, there are quite a few designers who produce newer versions of the original Jane B basket for those who love that look!
When it comes to traveling the effortless chic look may not come naturally to everyone. Shopping at the last minute within a budget can be overwhelming. If you have no room to splurge, don’t despair. You can always get great style inspirations from the globetrotting veterans who have mastered the cool elegance of stylish travel.
Here is a list of essentials that will make you look put-together as well as keep you comfortable.So time has come to look at popular fashion trends for this year and what will be trending in 2015. Here is what some of the leading stylists are predicting for 2015.
Accessories are huge!
"Faux bijoux are the greatest asset to a wardrobe and costume jewelry is all about style''- Iris Apfel.
Most people have a smart casual dress code for every day and would like to look good without looking like they are trying. Show off your style by accessorizing your everyday wear with a piece of jewelry to add impact and polish to your look. If you want to transition from day to dramatic evening, keep your favorite statement accessory in your bag and go from day to evening in a second. From Celine’s shoulder grazing earrings to tribal statement necklaces, there is a huge variety of dramatic jewelry styles to select from.
"I HAVE ENOUGH JEWELERY"- said no one ever.
Style Trends, Fabrics and more...
Retro / Vintage: The 60s and 70s style inspiration has been and will continue to have a strong influence.]]>
Édouard Manet born in 1832, was the eldest son of an official in the French Ministry of Justice. Manet depicted social scenes of Parisian life in his paintings which often included very detailed images of women and men’s clothing. In the late 1800s scenes of bourgeois life were in vogue. It could also have been Manet’s own deep interest in fashion that led him to paint exceptional details of clothing in his paintings such as “the Balcony”, “In the Conservatory”, “A Bar at the Folies-Bergère” and “Le Printemps”(Spring) which fetched a price of sixty five million at a recent auction at Christie’s. The scenes and style of clothing depicted in some of Manet's paintings even though fictional were considered far more daring than what was socially acceptable at the time and caused a big sensation.
“Le Printemps” a Manet masterpiece depicts actress Jeanne Demarsy in a floral dress and bonnet taking a walk in the Luxembourg Gardens as a tribute to the season of spring. In his painting “In the Conservatory”, Manet depicts a fashionably dressed young lady, a boutique owner sitting on a bench gazing in the distant while a man standing behind the bench leans forward to look at her. The details of their ensemble are fascinating and convey that the couple belonged to the style conscious bourgeoisie.
All the Impressionist paintings at the time of Manet depicted urban life, fashion, being out and about in the city and capturing contemporary ideas. Perhaps Impressionist painters such as Manet could be considered as pioneers of fashion photography who fused fashion and surreal social scenes to create pictures that manage to captivate people and remain conversation pieces long after their time.
Le Printemps by Manet
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