MAJOR CRUSH

If you know me or have followed along for some time you'll know that I don't wear a lot of jewelry. But, when I do wear jewelry I only like to wear very special, quality pieces. I like when jewelry has a story, a powerful message or a special someone behind it. I've partnered with Shane Co. to share with you my Valentine's Day must-have jewelry because they are a company that offers those treasured gems.

Sometimes we see dollar signs when we think of shopping at a jewelry store, but I had no idea that you can find real gold and real silver items at Shane Co. for reasonable price points of under $200. Plus, with every purchase you make at Shane Co. you receive a certificate of authenticity. Many of us have probably spent similar amounts of money on jewelry that isn't even the best quality or guaranteed to give you timeless satisfaction.

I love this infinity collection by Shane Co. because the best way I can describe my love for my husband and kids is "infinite." This diamond bracelet and matching ring are modern and simple, but eye-catching. They are definitely high on my Valentine's want list.

Yellow gold, rose gold and silver are all on trend right now. You can mix and match them without wondering if they "go" together. I liked stacking these gold and rose gold diamond rings for understated, daily sparkle. 

In the past I haven't gravitated toward heart shaped jewelry, but when I saw this simple heart necklace I really loved it. It's one of those necklaces you would expect to see every woman wearing because it's sweet, delicate and can be layered with other jewelry.

This gold tassel bracelet, on the other hand, is that kind of unique piece that I'm always looking for. To put the bracelet on, you simply slide the gold ball down and slip it on your wrist. It's a design you would think you would see other places, but I never have! This bracelet is at the top of my want list!

If you're in the market to buy someone special a gift but you don't know what to get them, you can take this quiz to see what they might like. To see more things I'm crushing on you can check out my MAJOR CRUSH Pinterest board. Plus, you can enter to win $1,000 to Shane Co. by designing a Valentine's card, click here to enter.

Photos by Rennai Hoefer

Sustainable Statements

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Let me introduce you to Elk. They are an Australian based apparel and accessory company that focuses on great design and sustainable practices. Elk only produces two collections a year ensuring that their clothing is of the highest quality and well-designed. All of the wood that is used in their accessories comes from sustainable timber sources, and almost every other material is locally sourced reducing the amount of energy and gas it takes to ship materials. They are automatically cool in my book because of their eco-friendly practices, and their style is icing on the cake. This wooden, beaded necklace is a new favorite of mine. It makes such a statement! You would think it's really heavy, but the wooden beads keeps the necklace nice and light.

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I've worn it with my chambray shirt to dress up a classic closet staple, but I love how it completes the boho vibe of this Ted Baker outfit.

Go check out Elk's latest collection of accessories and apparel. They also create pieces for men, so make sure to shop for your boy too.

Photos by Liz E Studio

My Favorite Accessory: Hats

Hats are one accessory I can always have more of, I'm not sure what it is about them; maybe because putting on a hat makes you look mysterious? Or more likely, because putting on a hat hides your bad hair day. Whether it's a wide brimmed fedora, an athletic baseball cap, or a Jil Sander veiled beanie, a hat is the perfect topper for any outfit. hats6

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Images by: Grazia.it, We Wore What, Garance Doré, The Blonde Salad, Jak & Jil

Gold Belts

There is an accessory missing from my closet that I REALLY want right now...A gold belt. However, my waist is just a tad larger than normal being 7 months pregnant and all. haha. So, that shopping trip will have to wait a couple months longer, but that doesn't mean you can't go snag one. Belts have been a popular accessory for a long time now. Granted, the width of belts has dramatically changed from thick to thin, but they remain a fashion accessory must have nonetheless. Braided belts were extremely popular this past spring and summer, but as the fall approaches and people start thinking about the holidays, gold belts will take over.

Gold is THE metallic of choice in fashion. Even in interior design gold has made strides toward center stage. So, my recommendation is to invest in a gold belt. It can be skinny or go up to 1.5 inches, but I probably wouldn't go any wider.

Not sure if this trend goes with you fashion aesthetic? Here are several examples ranging from professional to bohemian to inspire you.

Image Sources: A pink dream, Who What WearPinterest, unknown, Your Fashion Inspiration, Lilac Chiffon, unknown, Glitter Guide

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Golden Bits

Gold has made its way back onto the fashion scene stronger than ever. It's so strong that home interiors have also embraced it once again as well. I love it because gold looks WAY better on olive skin than silver. WAY better! haha! I'm ready to jump head first and buy a gold dress or top, but if you're hesitant to love this metallic start with bits and pieces.

Check out my shiny little finds...

Items: ZARA gold top, Marcia Moran Gold studs, Hammered 7 Band Gold Stacking Set, Stella & Dot Pegasus Necklace, Gold french manicure, ASOS ballerina flats, Bando gold scarf