"Off the cuff..." (Part 5)

“I love cigarettes. Love them. I think the more positive approach you have to smoking, the less harmful it is.” --- Sienna Miller

Enjoy this week's installment of Cuff Mate's funniest series!

Bisous,

Lee

"What’s up London?” - Brittany Spears, addressing the audience at her show in Manchester, UK

“I learned through talking with my therapist that it is still cheating even if it’s with girls.” - Fergie

“I’m not a hero. A hero is a sandwich and I’m on a low carb diet.” - Shaquille O'Neal

Catalogue this...(Part 3)

Just in time for summer, this funky fresh neon cuff by Anthropologie --- my alllllllll time FAVORITE retailer (Did I mention it's my favorite???) --- is a wake cup call for your wrist. As in-your-face as highlighted sentences on clean white paper, this cuff screams for attention. Its brass base was first wrapped with neon yellow ribbon, then adorned with sparkling rhinestone gems and smooth creamy-looking beads. Offering even the most "color shy" an easy way to bring some vibrance to their warm-weather wardrobe, this cuff is such a ham!

Double Trouble...(Part 3)

Salut Cuffies,

Sleek and sophisticated --- these two celestial cuffs are the epitome of contemporary chic. Steely blue juxtaposed with highly polished silver is a glamourous, yet understated combination. On the left, the Italian made "Dare to Love" cuff by Zoppini has 40 gorgeous blue faceted spinel stones set on a polished stainless steel multi-rung band. The cuff on the right, by Just Cavalli (also of Italy) features reptile embossed blueish leather, metal braided detailing and a center logo. Refined to their core, these cuffs just work!

Bisous,

Lee

Steely Blues by colormeconscious featuring Betsey Johnson intimates

Items in this set:
SEE BY CHLO? LV537 WHITE/BIVE COTTON E3173, 210 GBP
Button jacket size 8, 460 GBP
rolled sleeve chambray romper, $435
Distressed denim cut-offs, $110
Begonia Butterfly Print Swimsuit by Bossamare, 130 GBP

In good company...(Part 6)

Who loves Paris in the springtime??? I sure do. Ms. Hilton's sunny smile matched her springtime digs as she shopped at upscale West Hollywood retailer Fred Segal early last month. Her bright buttercup maxi dress is set off by a "Deco Cuff Bracelet" by Lia Sophia in ... turquoise --- aka. "THE color of 2010" (according to the color industry forecasters at Pantone that is). The turquoise enamel, rhinestones and silver tones in this piece, as well as its belt-like design, make for an interesting combination. Though yellow and turquoise are an unlikely pair, a generous splash of white (in the trim of her dress, oversized shades and slouchy bag) help them blend perfectly. Fantastique mademoiselle!

Copy this look in Dannijo's version of our featured cuff. ("Tasmin Cuff")

Catalogue This...(Part 2)

Shout out to LuLu's for this wildly affordable and highly versatile hammered cuff. Its beaten metallic silver and large black onyx-esque focal stone give it a southwestern new age feel that will send it to the very top of your everyday essentials list. This Solar Eclipse Cuff is 7 inches long (one size fits most) and has an open back for easily slipping it on and off. Catering to the hip fashionista with a flare for the trendy --- and "Pepsi cola pockets", LuLu's doesn't disappoint.

Double Trouble (Part 2)

Salut Cuffies,

Spring has definitely sprung in these joyful green cuffs. Like plump caterpillars basking in the sun, their pale green tones set in shimmering golden makes for a delightful combination. Lilly Pulitzer's "Multi Later Gator" Liza Cuff is on the left. It features a multicolored enamel filled band and is 3/4 inches wide. On the right is a 1 1/2 inch chunky gold green stone fashion cuff by Zalina. Celebrate the season of renewal by reinvigorating your wardrobe with one (or both) of these lovelies!

Bisous,

Lee

Glowing Catterpillar by colormeconscious featuring Arden B tops

Items in this set:
Jonathan Saunders Chester graduated print dress, 925 GBP
Chiffon Tuxedo Ruffle Tunic Tank - Women's Clothing and Apparel - Chic..., $39
Old Navy Womens Watercolor-Graphic Racerback Tanks, $13
Margo python pumps, $1,170
Tracey Neuls TNA911-GRN 2 Eye Star 2, 725 CAD

"Off the cuff..." (Part 4)

"What's Walmart, do they sell like wall stuff?" --- Paris Hilton

Enjoy this week's installment of Cuff Mate's funniest series!

Bisous,
Lee

"I love California. I grew up in Phoenix." - Dan Quayle

"My mother is Irish, my father is black and Venezuelan, and me? I'm tan, I guess." - Mariah Carey

"I definitely want Brooklyn to be christened, but I don't know into what religion yet." - David Beckham

In good company...(Part 5)

Molly Sims, the model turned actress famous for her role in the TV show, "Las Vegas" (playing opposite the delicious Josh Duhamel, I might add...hehehe), has recently turned jewelry designer. Sims has launched a new line of affordable, sophisticated, vintage-inspired designs, called Grayce (available on HSN). Her superb style sensibility is also reflected in her own effortlessly beautiful bijoux choices. At the Domino's 3rd annual Pre-Oscar gala held March 5th in Hollywood, Sims was spotted in this ginormous gemstone bracelet. A double row of what appears to be octagon cut ice blue topaz have been bezel set in gold (top row) and silver (bottom row). With Sims' sultry black dress, this cuff makes a bold and brilliant statement. Jackpot, girl!

Copy this look in Sims' own version of our featured cuff.

Grayce by Molly Sims Large Stone Stretch Bracelet

Catalogue This...(Part 1)

In "Catalogue This" (the second new Cuff Mate series) you'll find even more cool cuffs to "cop"...and this time from the online catalogues you've come to know and love. Today's installment is from Boden ---the effortlessly cool British retailer whose contemporary line of quality constructed, color-drenched and eco-friendly clothing for the whole family make it one of my favorite stores. The Colourblock Bracelet below is made of resin, and comes in pink, purple (shown), yellow and turquoise tones. Versatile and fun, it is most definitely a summer staple.

Double Trouble (Part 1)

Salut Cuffies,

Introducing the first of two new series on your favorite "cuff lovin'" blog. "Double Trouble" brings you TWO times the luscious cuffness in one post. Up first, take a gander at these demure lovelies. Evocative of the finest French lingerie, each cuff is strikingly feminine and sensual in its own little way. On the left is a nude and black lucite 2 inch wide Tarina Tarantino cuff that combines Swarovski crystals with glass pearls for an eclectic mix of posh and punk. The nude rope and crystal statement cuff on the right is by German designer Sabrina Dehoff. Its oversized jagged shape juxaposed with a row of glamourous crystals, in my opinion, make it visually stunning. What do you think???

Bisous,

Lee


Nighttime Nudes by colormeconscious featuring Miss Selfridge

Items in this set:
INTERPLANET Satin Dress w/ Lacey Hem, $160
Black and Nude Satin Dress, 45 GBP
Crystal embellished silk-crepe blouse, $2,385
Jacquard Cropped Trouser, $310
Privee chiffon plunge bra, $90

With cuff design in mind...(Part 5)

Soft Cyprus green flowers seem to dance with joy on this demure hand embroidered felt cuff.

Queen Anne's Lace Green Silk Embroidered Wrist Cuff by Waterrose

Waterrose is a refreshing sight on the vast Etsy landscape. Designer Rose's intricately embroidered cuffs made of hand dyed felt and lined with linen or silk are a delight. So soft and feminine, they make me ache for something hand crafted --- an heirloom only a grandmother could concoct. Read all about an artist taking needlework to new heights in this week's artist interview...

Q: What makes your shop unique?

I think the type of embroidery designs that I create make my shop unique. Embroidery seems to now be making a comeback, just like knitting. This comeback is important for all arts to keep them alive and appreciated.

Q: How long have you been designing cuff bracelets?

Three years.

Q: Describe the cuffs you design (materials, style, special features etc.)

About three years ago we were traveling down the Pacific Coast Highway and we came to a quilt shop. I'm a quilter as well. As I walked around in the shop I found the most amazing bundle of felted wool. I didn't know what I was going to do with it. It sat on my design table for about three months and then I had an ah ha moment. I had been doing some embroidery and was wondering how to turn it into wearable art...well the wool felt was the perfect canvas.

Q: What type of woman do you imagine wearing your cuffs? (Include the name of at least two celebs that you think would love to rock your cuff and tell why...)

My buyers range in age from 18 to 80. Also a mom or two who have purchased a piece for their younger daughters for special occasions to keep as heirloom pieces. That is quite a question, what two celebrities I think would rock my cuff. While she isn't alive, I think that Katharine Hepburn would have been a perfect candidate. She had such class and style and was never overstated. And, also Katherine Heigl. I think that she is fun and spirited and appears to appreciate beautiful accessories.

Q: Finish the following sentence: "I consider myself a cuffie (lover of cuffs) because..."
...for me these cuffs are an extension of an art that I love doing. So I create cuffs because I want a customer to look at the piece of art and think about the design and the love that has gone into making this special accessory.

"Off the cuff..." (Part 3)

“I make Jessica Simpson look like a rock scientist." --- Tara Reid

Enjoy this week's installment of Cuff Mate's funniest series!

Bisous,
Lee

“The cool thing about being famous is traveling. I have always wanted to travel across seas, like to Canada and stuff." - Brittney Spears

“The Holocaust was an obscene period in our nation’s history. I mean in this century’s history. But we all lived in this century. I didn’t live in this century." - Dan Quayle

“I think gay marriage is something that should be between a man and a woman.” - Arnold Schwarzenegger

Cuff Love ...(Part 1)

Congratulations Carissa and Moon!

Salut Cuffies,

These cookies and cream inspired cuffs were a delight to design, and turned out so scrumptious, I just had to share...Southern cutie, Carissa Kollman contacted me about 6 weeks ago with a special request for her April 11th Charlotte wedding: Custom Corsage Cuffs for her hostesses! The design: Edgy modern in black and champagne to coordinate with her bridesmaid's dresses. The result: Four lovely cuffs that for some reason remind me of glammed up Oreo cookies.... Yum!

Bisous,
Lee

P.S. To find out more about Corsage Cuffs from Color Me Conscious, e-mail me today at colormeconscious@gmail.com. All cuffs are made to order, and come in any style and color palette imaginable. A memorable keepsake your maids are sure to love, it's a jazzy alternative to the traditional flower corsage, n'est pas???

With cuff design in mind...(Part 4)

Crisp and classy, this cuff will add just the right touch of western elegance to your spring wardrobe.

Romancing The Stone Cuff by SeptemberRose76

From her Anaheim home, Etsy newbie, Anna, crafts these southwestern chic cuffs, which she then sells in her meticulous on-line store, SeptemberRose76. Bold yet versatile, these beauties have the perfect balance of "cowgirl cool". Anna's store is simply choc full of cuffs (many limited edition or OOAK) and every bracelet uses real leather and is layered with semi-precious stones, wooden beads, shells and studded metallic accents. Read all about the genius behind SeptemberRose76 in this week's artist interview...

Q: What makes your shop unique?
As much of a trend-following fashionista as I consider myself to be, I really strive to make my pieces unique and different from anything you could pick up at a local boutique. I've had a love affair with cuffs since I can remember, and I always gravitate to the ones that are the most bold, stand-out pieces. I'm not a wall-flower, and I don't think the type of girl wearing my cuffs is either! These are truly statement making accessories, guaranteed to be noticed.

Q: How long have you been designing cuff bracelets?
I began crafting for September Rose very recently, in January of this year. I've worked in the fashion industry for the last 10 years, in various segments including buying, merchandising and, most recently, designing. I've been a swimwear designer for the last four years, but I've always secretly wanted to start my own jewelry/accessory line. Naturally, I already knew it would have to be my favorite accessory, the cuff! I have a huge collection of them, and am always on the prowl for that next, unique piece. I had all these ideas about what I thought would look cool, so I finally decided to make my own. I showed a good friend, and she encouraged me to move forward with trying to sell them......and that's how September Rose was born.

Q: Describe the cuffs you design (materials, style, special features etc.)
I am in love with the free-spirited meets rock n' roll vibe of the "boho chic" movement, so I tend to have a blend of both natural and metallic elements. All my cuffs are made with high-grade, genuine leather, and then embellished with semi-precious stones (turquoise is my favorite!), wood, shells, and all kinds of metallic studs. I think the combination of these materials, together with precise finishing techniques, give my pieces a rustic yet sophisticated feel. I want someone to be able to wear it with their white summer dress and sandals by day, and then jeans and sky-high heels at night.

Q: What type of woman do you imagine wearing your cuffs? (Include the name of at least two celebs that you think would love to rock your cuff and tell why...)
I would say that my product is geared towards a very hip, fashionable and celebrity/trend-driven female market. I would put my target customer's age range at about mid 20's to 30's. Particularly anyone who follows the "boho" style.... And definitely a girl who wants to command attention when she walks in the room! If I could get my jewelry on any celebrities, Rachel Zoe and Nicole Ritchie would be my top picks. I think they precisely embody the style, and way of eclectically mixing elements that I idolize.

Q: Finish the following sentence: "I consider myself a cuffie (lover of cuffs) because..."
...I am a confident, strong women who enjoys being noticed for her bold fashion choices.

Cuffed and Clustered...(Part 4)

Salut Cuffies,

At first glance, I couldn't quite figure this cuff out. So I took a second glance --- AND a look-see at the description (hehehe) --- and it all came together. San Fransisco designer/dancer, Liza of CBLadornments, created this expressive and modern looker using a technique she invented herself. Combining different textures of resin with other materials, her work simulates "captured motion". This particular piece reminds me of a bubbly cauldron of cherry flavored lava! Hand forged and encased in tin, recycled glass components add an eco-friendly touch. As grown and cosmopolitan as a "Cape Cod" (aka. Grey Goose and Cranberry juice) and the Manhattan skyline, this cuff deserves every bit of its double-take.

Bisous,
Lee

Enjoy this cluster inspired by today's featured cuff!

"With A Cherry On Top" curated by Lee Dorsey

Shackled in time...(Part 2)

Salut Cuffies,

Miles away from the Nile River lied a civilization in which gold had no monetary value. In fact, possessing gold was no measure of how rich or poor you were...It was there that the cuff bracelet continued its long journey through time. Where was this unique land??? Enter Ancient Peru, home of the Inca. Historians have discovered that the Inca believed gold was the male image of god. Result: The more gold jewelry you wore, the more "blessed" you were thought to be. Cuff bracelets were worn by everyone in Inca society. Though crafted of various materials, such as colorful braided fibers and good luck seeds call huairuro, it was still the gold cuff that was most popular and most admired. Inca women used them both in their everyday wardrobe and for special religious ceremonies --- and putting on their cuffs in the morning was probably as much a part of their daily routine as putting on their sandals. A pure gold cuff bracelet everyday??? Now, that's a civilization I could get used to.

Bisous,
Lee

Above: Princess Amanda "Turtle Love Affair" Cuff Bracelet (This polished goldtone cuff was inspired by the Incas of Peru --- who were renowned for their love of symbolism --- and is representative of the myriad of good luck symbols embodied by the turtle.)

In good company...(Part 4)

1 vintage Fred Leighton cuff on your right arm + 1 vintage Fred Leighton cuff on your left arm = Twice the ice! (And is twice as nice...) Best Supporting Actress nominee Maggie Gyllenhaal proved the truthfulness of this equation at this year's Academy Awards when she donned these two stunning cuffs. The 32 year old actress known for her "interesting" red carpet choices, scored big with a pair of
jewels that matched perfectly with her black and blue Dries Van Noten gown. The platinum cuff on the left incorporates diamonds with a 1920's emerald, sapphire and diamond brooch turned cabochon. On the right is a 1940's 18kt gold and diamond cuff --- both perfect examples of Fred Leighton's unique reborn vintage aesthetic . Kudos MagPie for the whole look...I know a fellow cuffie when I see one!

Arrested developments...(Part 3)

Salut Cuffies,

Get up close and personal with this "wildly" sophisticated cuff from Rachel Leigh. Launched by former Yves Saint Laurent publicist Rachel Bravman in the Fall of 2004, the Rachel Leigh brand has become a favorite among celebrities --- Paris Hilton, Halle Berry, and Rhianna just to name a few. What I like about Bravman's pieces is that they are both accessible (Many online boutiques carry the line. Try Shopstyle.com!) and moderately priced enough (bracelets ranging from $47 to $326) to satisfy any fashionista. This Olivia cuff has sweet details like braided gold bows that make it fiercely feminine. Gold-plated with an pumkin orange snake embossed leather inset panel, it measures 1 1/2 wide and has a hinged closure. If you're smart, you won't let this lil' number slither past you...

Bisous,
Lee

Fall in Love by colormeconscious featuring Miu Miu coats

Items in this set:
Ava ridged satin dress, $600
Gabardine tulip-skirt trench, $1,260
Jean Shrimpton Photograph
Women's shoes/bags: Lovely People Ambrose - Orange, $100
Patent Smocked Tote, $72

With cuff design in mind...(Part 3)

"Stir It Up" in this laid back, chunky and colorful, upcycled cuff.

Beer Bead Cuff Bracelet by Electric Penguin

This week's talented cuff creator is Pam --- a Philadelphia based designer whose work has a relaxed island vibe. Her cuff bracelets (the one above made of wood tube beads hand wrapped with beer labels) channel a Jamaican sunset, pair of steel drums, and a glass of warm rum. In her reasonably priced Etsy shop, Electric Penguin, you'll find uber funky bracelets, earrings and necklaces often combining hemp or leather with glass or ceramic beads. Read all about this down-to-earth soul in this week's artist interview...

Q: What makes your shop unique?
It's fun, funky, cool, eclectic and NOT the same type of pieces you see all over Etsy (my apologies to those sellers!!)

Q: How long have you been designing cuff bracelets?
Since October 2009 - not long at all!

Q: Describe the cuffs you design (materials, style, special features etc.)
My favorite is made of beer beads (upcycled beer labels on wood tubes) with brown leather. I also make them with ceramic tubes and hemp.

Q: What type of woman do you imagine wearing your cuffs? (Include the name of at least two celebs that you think would love to rock your cuff and tell why...)
Definitely someone not wanting the same old, same old! And not too formal either. I'm thinking Demi Moore and Courtney Love.

Q: Finish the following sentence: "I consider myself a cuffie (lover of cuffs) because..." ...they're chunky and eye-catching!

Cuffed and Clustered...(Part 3)

Salut Cuffies,

This sunny cuff lit up my day. Made of recycled fabrics (The outside is from a vintage tablecloth, can you believe???), vintage hand-tatted lace trim, a soft cotton lining, and two white yarn buttons, it adjusts from 7 inches when both buttons are secured to 8.5 inches when only one is buttoned --- perfect for a small wrist gal like me! Besides cuffs, Helsinki designer Tuija, specializes in re-purposed goods such as pillow covers and bags --- and all seem to be inspired by the simplicity and purity of the Scandinavian countryside. Something about the golden yellow and homespun aura of this piece makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Like playing "He Loves Me Not" with a hand full of dandelions, this cuff is a smiley face for your arm.

Bisous,
Lee

Enjoy this cluster inspired by today's featured cuff!
"Sunny Delights" curated by Lee Dorsey