Dolphins, whales and jewelry

Are you an animal lover at heart? Wanna be a marine biologist? Do you like handmade jewelry inspired by nature? Since childhood, I explored the lives of different animals and developed a deep love and appreciation for wildlife. In celebration of Earth Day, I shared my story alongside dolphins, whales, and other creatures, and how nature inspired me to design and handcraft jewelry.

You can watch this interview for RevelEleven, a dynamic community of women who are trying to change the world through inspiration, information and personal growth here.

Marine biologist, author and jewelry designer Maddalena Bearzi

Marine biologist, author and jewelry designer Maddalena Bearzi

5 must-have accessories

If you are not using accessories to maximize your overall style, you are missing out on a fun opportunity to look your best. The right accessories can tie the elements of any outfit together, presenting a cohesive look that will turn heads everywhere. Here are five accessory ideas that you can lean on to complete any of your favorite outfits.

Statement Jewelry

Do not underestimate the power of a statement piece of jewelry to add a whole lot of splash to your outfit. You can use the statement piece to play up what would otherwise be a plain outfit. Looking to add a new layer of fun to a simple cashmere turtleneck sweater? Try pairing it with a bulky beaded necklace. Or maybe sport a pair of glittery chandelier earrings.

If your outfit on its own is flashy, you will want to choose jewelry that is more understated. For example, a simple pair of pearl earrings is a good choice for a dress that already has a lot going on.

Belts

A classic belt can elevate any look. Not only do belts boast the practical function of holding your pants in the perfect place, but they can also add pizzazz to a variety of fashion pieces. Belts also have the ability to shape your figure.

For example, rather than choosing a boxy sweater dress on its own, try pairing it with a wide belt. Not only will the belt add an element of color and texture to the dress, but it will also break up the monotony of the one-piece clothing item while accentuating your figure. Your waist will instantly appear thinner when you use a belt in the right size for your shape.

Handbags

Every outfit needs the perfect handbag to match it and carry out the vibe you are looking to achieve. You will want your bag to match the occasion. Boho backpacks are great choices for a day trip while wearing a casual outfit. A clutch bag is a better choice for a night out on the town.

Choosing the right style, color, and material can elevate the overall aesthetic of your outfit in numerous ways. Not to mention, handbags carry a great functional purpose holding all of your essentials when you are out and about.

Shoes

Shoes are more than just a practical accessory. Your footwear can make or break your outfit, making it important that you choose wisely. Every closet needs a good pair of running shoes, a comfortable pair of heels in a neutral color, and a practical pair of boots.

From there, you can have fun by adding cool sandals, stylish booties, casual sneakers, and more. While it is always fun to use shoes as a fashion accessory, remember that comfort will always be the most important factor when picking out a pair of shoes.

Hair Accessories

While you are paying attention to your shoes, be sure not to neglect your head. Although simple bobby pins and hair ties will always reign supreme, do not be afraid to branch out with your hair accessories. This is an ideal place to experiment with different looks.

Try a bejeweled barrette, a flirty headscarf, a romantic bow, or a sophisticated headband. You do not need to have long hair to enjoy playing with hair accessories. Those individuals with shorter cuts will appreciate using decorative bobby pins or minimalist barrettes to keep hair out of the face.

With smart choices, you can use your accessories to inject an extra dose of style into your overall look. The right accessories can completely transform any outfit, giving you more style options every day.

This post is written by our guest blogger Sierra Powell. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a major in Mass Communications and a minor in Writing. When she's not writing, she loves to cook, sew, and go hiking with her dogs.

 

This handmade statement cuff is a perfect accessory for a distinctive look

This handmade statement cuff is a perfect accessory for a distinctive look

A statement necklace for 2021

Finally, it’s 2021. Do you like to start the new year with something totally unique around your neck? If yes, here is the perfect piece of jewelry for you. In the mind of the designer, this handmade pendant represents a large leaf of a ficus plant. This “foglia di ficus autunnale” is a one-of-a-kind pendant that makes a statement for its large dimensions and its distinctive Autumn tones. And it’s available in our online shop!

this original handcrafted pendant / necklace is made in silver and copper

this original handcrafted pendant / necklace is made in silver and copper

3 tips for your new jewelry business

In a recent interview for Thrive Insider, I was asked “what are 3 tips you can share with our readers as it relates to your industry?” Here was my response:

1. Don’t try to be trendy and choose quality versus quantity. Trends pass but great pieces are timeless.

2. Be different from others.

3. Be environmentally friendly: sustainable products are here to stay.

The Relitto Bianco ("white wreck" in English) bracelet / cuff is an one of a kind, stunning jewelry piece handcrafted in silver and solid gold. Its design is inspired by a shipwreck found in the ocean. It’s for sale in the online shop

The Relitto Bianco ("white wreck" in English) bracelet / cuff is an one of a kind, stunning jewelry piece handcrafted in silver and solid gold. Its design is inspired by a shipwreck found in the ocean. It’s for sale in the online shop

Homemade ketchup for cleaning jewelry

Got ketchup? Perfect!
Now, you can use it to clean your favorite jewelry. Ketchup polishes well brass and even bronze jewelry that has darkened over time. How to use it? Add a small spoon of ketchup on a clean cloth. Rub the piece until it shines, then rinse well and dry. This is another eco-friendly way to clean your jewels with something that you already have at home.

Continue to follow this blog for other sustainable techniques to keep your jewelry pieces like new!

The handmade and one of a kind “Riccio di mare” earrings can be easily cleaned with ketchup! Need a pair? check our online shop here

The handmade and one of a kind “Riccio di mare” earrings can be easily cleaned with ketchup! Need a pair? check our online shop here

3 in 1: mask holder + necklace + bracelet

Where do you put your covering mask when you are out and decide to take it off for any reason? In your pocket? In your hands? Under your chin?

As a designer - and dog owner who takes daily walks alone - I came out with a new idea. A unique mask holder that can also become an elegant (short or long) necklace and a boho wrapped bracelet. This “chela” mask holder + necklace + bracelet is inspired by the claw of a lobster and it’s handmade in silk and partially hammered brass. Need one? Just click here!


This versatile, one of a kind and handcrafted jewelry piece can be wear as an original mask holder / string, as an elegant necklace and a wrapped bracelet