Vintage Costume Jewelry Finds at a Price That’s Precious.

In the latest issue of The Point magazine, coming out at Sunday’s Alameda Point Antiques Faire, I share pro tips in my Vintage Style Solutions column about how to shop for vintage costume jewelry. You can soon read the complete article by downloading the Point at www.alamedapointantiquesfaire.com or pick up a copy at the Point. Here’s a little preview and some wickedly whimsical jewelry to cast a spell on you. After all… it’s Halloween month, kicking off the season of giving.

Why overspend on trendy jewelry fashions that everyone else wears when you can find vintage costume jewelry for a price that’s precious? Every stylist knows that attending an event to find that someone else is wearing the same outfit is a fashion no-no. This includes your necklace, bracelets and earrings. Remember if you choose vintage costume jewelry instead you will be an original and stand out. It’s fun to buy mass-market jewelry but why not have an affordable treasure hunt at the Alameda Point Antiques Faire every month? I like to mix and match my modern and vintage pieces for a one-of-a-kind look.

Treat yourself with some eye candy to add to your holiday wish list. These signed costume jewelry pieces will be on display at The Alameda Point Vintage Fashion Faire on October 9, 2010. All items will be offered at Michaan’s Auctions in the November estate sale and the catalog will be available online.(I’ll be writing an article on buying jewelry at auction so do check back). You can also find similar high quality pieces sold by reputable dealers at the upcoming Vintage Fashion Faire (if you live in the Bay Area) for your glamourous holiday soirees.

Miriam Haskell signed earrings

Kenneth Jay Lane signed earrings

I’ve seen variations of these in editorials yet these are collectible and very special. These are perfect earrings for the holidays!

Hot Vintage Costume Jewelry Trends Now:

Rhinestones: What says party like rhinestone jewelry? Most of the rhinestones in style are fairly large and are often interestingly shaped. Look for a bib necklace or colored rhinestones for maximum impact.

Brooches: Brooches were popular in the 1950’s & 60’s and can be worn adorning anything from dresses to furs. Look for combinations of colored pearls, cut gems and rhinestones. Wear them in multiples for a major statement.

Eisenberg signed brooch

Originals by Robert signed earrings and brooch

(Hit the right note with this set!)

Cut Gems: Usually glass rather than actual gems (though I love real mineral jewelry). Cut gems in pastels and smoky shades are key in vintage jewelry.

Pearls: In various shades & hues never go out of style. In strands, ribbon-necklaces or in conjunction with other baubles, pearls are a wise investment, even if they’re faux.

Grace Kelly circa '60's, in multi-strand pearls, sailboat brooch & sleek sunnies.

Take these tips but read the whole article on how to shop for vintage jewelry so you don’t get blind-sighted by bling. Go ahead, pile on the pearls, and bewitch someone with your retro style. Sail away at The Point…

Please check back often. Stay Stylish in Vintage.