The Elegant Muse Blog

Did you know that not all costume jewelry is created equal? One way to determine a quality piece is to look for a maker's mark stamped or engraved on the back of it. When I'm on a treasure hunt I first search for pieces that strike me (or even better, take my breath away!). Then I start searching for the maker's mark. If I find something like Weiss, Coro, Lisner, or Whiting & Davis, I know I've found a truly quality vintage treasure. These pieces have stood the test of time because of their meticulous construction. I love the fact that these lovely gems created for...

  Why is this? Each one of these necklaces is made using a petite antique button circa 1890-1930. They all have the same number of pearls for the chain, and the same number of stitches between each pearl. Yet, the lengths of these necklaces vary up to 1/2 inch in length! Have you guessed why? The reason is because each one is handstitched separately! If you've ever knit, crocheted, or performed any type of needlework art you understand tension. If not, allow me to explain. Tension in needlework is simply how tightly or how loosely one stitches. I think that...

What is my favorite gift? An experience! And for the last several years my dear husband has given me just that - tickets to the ballet for either Christmas or my January birthday. As we both used to be dancers, this is always a special event we enjoy together. This year we attended one of the most famous ballets, Swan Lake. Of course, I just happened to have a few antique swan buttons (c. 1890-1930) so what did I do? I made myself a swan necklace and earrings to wear to the performance! I felt quite elegant! I have a treasure trove...

Did you enjoy Season 2 of The Gilded Age as much as I did? I loved every minute of every episode - the plot, the characters, the locations, the costumes! And though writer Julian Fellowes included a variety of delightful story lines, I enjoyed the path leading to the opening of the Metropolitan Opera House best. The conflict between Mrs. Russell and Mrs. Astor was thoroughly entertaining. I even poured myself a sip of champagne to enjoy the oh-so-elegant and opulent final scene! Previously, I've written about my dreams of period drama characters wearing my jewelry designs, and I plan to have...

I love creating unusual and unexpected pieces (remember the buffalo pin?) so when I found a vintage bowling pin I knew it was right up my alley!  The pin itself was in great condition. Not wanting to spare a bit of glamour, I added a swirl of ebony rhinestones, a filigree backdrop and stitched onyx stones which I felt fit the mood of the piece better than pearls. I love how it turned out, and I’m sure the bowling league birthday gal who received it is having a ball wearing it as she sends her ball down the lane into...