A Choker's Delight

Balenciaga SS15

 

 

Balmain SS15

 

 

Balmain SS15; Source

What used to come in the form of a red or black ribbon has expanded into what we now know as the choker. Yes, chokers are hip again my darlings. It may not be the 90s anymore but I won't tell if you don't. This is one of those trends that gets revisited over and over again. This is one of those times I don't mind going through the time warp again. Check out the runway looks below featuring chokers. Aren't they exquisite? Whether you prefer your chokers on the girly-side or more hardcore there is surely to be one or two that meets your needs this spring. Lucky me, I never got rid of my chokers you see. Isn't it fun, not to mention inexpensive, when you can just shop your own wardrobe for a trend?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Celine Resort15

 

Cushnie et Ochs SS15

Tom Ford

Maiyet SS15

Nina Ricci SS15

 

Source

One worn by those whom mourned the loss of people whom met their death by guillotine during the French Revolution, by ladies of the night during the 1800s and by ballerina’s during the same era the choker has certainly come to adorn the necks of ladies from all walks of life during the present day.

Balmain SS15; Source

 

 

Balmain SS15; Source

Chanel SS15

Christian Dior SS15

 

House of Holland SS15

Lanvin SS15

I have had a tempestuous relationship with the choker for many years but I can’t deny I have always been fascinated with it. You see, sometimes I love it and at other times the idea of wearing one holds not an ounce of glee for me. I certainly want to hear, whether or not you feel the same way, but let’s first explore this fascinating neckpiece just a tad more shall we by considering its long and storied history:

• The choker was widely embraced by royals and those of lower classes during the late 1800s.

• It again may appearance during the mid-1940s and was compared quite humorously, I think, to a dog collar.

• The choker was the toast of many towns during the 1990s and was worn by those whom had a preference for styles as diverse as preppy and gothic.

• Celebrities in the 1990s and early 2000s gravitated towards chokers like nobody’s business.

• Watch a film or television show from the 1990s like Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Buffy the Vampire Slayer or She’s All That. They really were worn everywhere and by practically everyone.

I simply must go on about the variety of materials and gemstones chokers can be comprised of: diamonds, pearls, leather, silk and so much more. A choker never met a material or jewel it did not like.

 

Chokers are great for gracing the red carpet, the runway or the streets of a metropolitan city.

My goodness, chokers have made their presence felt lately. I guess I am back in love with them again for the present. Are you?

I made you think didn't I? So whether you think they are a go or a no-go share your thoughts.

 

 

All images are courtesy of Pinterest unless otherwise cited.

I am an online fashion stylist for Keaton Row so if you like my taste I hope you check out my site (http://www.keatonrow.com/sharonpate) and let me help you fill your wardrobe with a good luck charm or two. Happy St. Patrick's Day!

 

 

 

 

 

Thierry Mugler SS15

 

 

Tome SS15

 

Tory Burch SS15

Versace SS15

 

 

Bracelet Nation, Part 1

Cuff bracelets are so empowering. I believe it is because so many powerful fictitious and historical women, such as Helen of Troy, Cleopatra, Coco Chanel and many more are associated with this striking piece of jewelry. A cuff bracelet elevates the most simplistic outfit and is such an easy toss on item if you are in a hurry and need a finishing touch for your ensemble.

The variety of metals and natural fibers, such as copper, silver, gold, leather and wood, used to make cuff bracelets is a testament of the historical nature of this piece of jewelry.  Women of Greek-Roman, Egyptian, Native American and many more cultural and ethnic backgrounds often historically adorned themselves with a cuff bracelet. It is compelling that one piece of jewelry remains an enduring favorite centuries later.

I am currently very smitten with the cuff bracelet because it is such a versatile piece of jewelry. It is a powerful statement piece whether worn solo on the wrist or surrounded by multiple thin-band bangles and a watch which is the current trend.


The bracelets below are at the top of my list due to their striking yet elegant vibe. Both are a perfect match for a minimalist, streamlined outfit such as a sheath or shirtdress worn with a pair of pumps.

cc skye Turnlock Cage bracelet
$175, shopbop, www.shopbop.com



Juicy Couture B Wild Haircalf cuff bracelet, $88,
 revolve clothing, www.revolveclothing.com





Cuff bracelets enhance the following garments and outfits:

• A t-shirt and skinny jeans
• A sleeveless sheath dress 
• A maxi-dress

Remember to keep the rest of the jewelry worn with your outfit to a minimum. Cuff bracelets are best paired with either earrings or a necklace; not both. I personally prefer not to wear other jewelry with a cuff bracelet. This type of bracelet can overshadow other types of jewelry.