Here’s hoping that March is in like a lion and out like a lamb this year because on March 31, I’m packing away the tights for the season and accessorizing with bright, tropical colors. This pair of earrings by Melanie Auld would be perfect for the transition. They’re nearly three inches long, have a hint of sparkle and come in turquoise, coral or mother of pearl.
Let’s just start by saying that any brand citing Carmen Miranda as the inspiration for its newest collection earns a place in my heart. It’s just a bonus that the design duo behind Holst + Lee creates irresistible pieces of jewelry and, as you’ll see below, have incredible personalities. Natalie Holst and Rochelle Lee discovered their shared passion for design while working at New York’s upscale restaurants and nightclubs. They began creating pieces to complete their own edgy looks for work and soon realized other women wanted to wear their designs.
Shop It: Under the Sea Necklace, $475 // Papaya Tree Necklace, $235 // Turquoise Mesh Bracelet, $165 // Black Mesh Bracelet, $165 // Glass Menagerie Crystal Studs, $75 // Coconut Earrings, $155 (my favorite!) // Island Paradise Necklace, $225 // Midnight Storm Necklace, $235
After working in advertising for many years, Lee Renée decided to pursue her first love: jewelry design. She trained under St. Martin’s and London Hatton Garden’s finest silversmiths for three years, officially launching her brand in July 2012. Her collection is full of wit and whimsy and it’s probably no surprise that the Miami-inspired collection is my favorite. The Art Deco flamingos and the dainty pineapple pendant are irresistible.
Shop It: Pineapple Necklace, £89 // Rock Princess Ring, £144 // Cathy Heart Pearl Ring, £92 // Miami Circle Earrings, £118 // Heloise Drop Earrings, £135 // Juliet Bangle, £159 // Flamingo Necklace, £95 // Voodoo Legba Ring, £159 // Miami Arrow Ring, £58
This Van Cleef & Arpels ring absolutely breathtaking—and it should be, given its price tag. Get a similar look with cherry blossom ring from Shaun Leane (which is still a splurge at nearly $500) or pile on half a dozen dainty blossoms from Forever21 (start with this and this).
I’m rarely smitten with Banana Republic’s baubles, but this vintage-inspired aqua necklace is gorgeous. I love the ombre effect of the acrylic beads with a subtle string of rhinestones for just a bit of daytime glitz. Wear it now with a LBD and keep it in rotation as summer approaches. Wouldn’t it look divine with a breezy maxi dress?