Image by Kat Harris[/caption]
I began working in bridal as a fit specialist and stylist in the 1970's and have always had a passion for bridal fashion. The collection was born 5 years ago. The love of all things vintage and the quality of the pieces made around mid-20th century were the perfect combination for a collection that I knew brides would love and would complement today's styles--from victorian to the late 20th century. The collection is made up of approx. 1000 pieces mostly made during the height of the costume jewelry heyday just after WWII.
The jewelry that becomes part of the collection is the object of a constant search--everywhere and anywhere I can find it. A lot of the pieces come from estates, having spent the past 60 years or so in someone's jewelry box or drawer. I look specifically for pieces that have been signed by the maker or fashion designer who commissioned it, or will buy an unsigned piece simply for it's good design. Condition is a big factor in determining whether or not to buy.  Early costume jewelry is a very collectable market and early pieces of good design in excellent condition are covetted by the collectors and therefore hold their value. The patina is beautiful real age, something that cannot be duplicated in new jewelry. The color of the metal is warmer, not bright, and looks better on the brides complexion. I love discovering a piece--perhaps findings I have never seen or superb castings--that I have never seen before. I have been in awe of the beautiful pieces I have found. Some of the designers came from a fine jewelry background and their designs reflect that (Marcel Boucher who worked for Cartier before he came to the US) Other pieces are signed by fashion designers, Hattie Carnegie, Elsa Schiaparelli, etc. These are among my favorites.
I have found that today's brides appreciate having a keepsake that they will treasure and wear again. I tell them that it is the one part of their ensemble that they will wear again and again and will become a very sentimental thing. I wish I had a brooch or earrings from my wedding day that I could wear today. The idea of having something old is your reflection on the past and jewelry is the perfect way to express that. These pieces compliment today's bridal gowns and can be combined with fine or new costume jewelry.
When I am talking about the pieces of the Something Old Collection you will hear me say "this is my favorite" over and over again! It changes minute to minute because when I hold a gorgeous, well designed, well made piece of vintage jewelry I fall in love with it instantly. My love of elements that were designed to specifically enhance the beauty of the woman wearing it has driven the collection and will continue to fuel my passion.
xoxo, TWD