FASHION BY THE RULES – Gretchen

Ann–Christin Hoffman grew up with the smell of fresh leather as this was the family business in Germany. This was not about design, this was about the ”skin business.” Ann-Christin had other plans for herself as she had been born with a talent – drawing. Following her God given talents, she pursued her education in England and as luck would have it, her final project was to design as pair of gloves. The award winning design was then taken and applied to the family business and was to be the precursor of the Gretchen business of today. (www.mygretchen.com)

The gloves were only the beginning of the burgeoning business, as with time, she expanded her product selection to include handbags and belts. Her products are a stunning testament to good taste and fine workmanship that is rarely found at these prices. The company, which was formed with Michael Georg Schmitt in 2004, has now become an international business spanning many of the international markets.

Ms. Hoffman has reached almost every age bracket with her diverse designs as well as with her diverse product categories. She makes sure that everyone can afford to own a wonderfully handcrafted piece of leather that will last many years and beyond just a trend.

Gretchen is literally an old German name meaning “little pearl.” The name clearly is demonstrative of the design philosophy of the company. In her own words, “To create precious and sensual accessories for ladies, each of them individual, unique and beautiful by nature, like a pearl.”

Don’t forget to look for me on Facebook, www.examiner.com ,or http://datingsymbol.com/category/beauty-and-fashion/.

Beautiful Bags by Brynn Capella

“ … the sprit of individuality combined with classic elegance and everyday casual.”

A love of music, fashion, architecture, nature, and shape inspired designer Brynn Capella to start her own line of handbags. From friends to family, each unique creation is named after someone close to Brynn who inspired her (and the look of the bag). A Southern Californian living in Chicago, Brynn combines the SoCal and Windy City aesthetic in each of her creations.

Brynn’s experience in the music industry has made her a favorite among rock stars including KT Tunstall and Katy Perry (see Brynn and Katy chilling above!).

We love this versatile oversized Heather envelope clutch made with soft leather in various colors. It’s inspired Brynn’s love of pop and modern rock—“simple design with a touch of rock n’ roll.”

For a unique, inspired design to carry all your ‘ish look no further then the fabulous rocker-chick Brynn Capella.

Bejeweled Clutches, A New Years Eve Must Have

Clutches by ShylaB

… 3 … 2 … 1… HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Cue: Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?

New Years Eve fashion decisions are vital, life-altering decisions in the eyes of many-a-women. My best friend Meghan is a make-up artist. Poor Meggy’s been fully booked since Halloween! It’s true; the ladies love to look hot on New Years Eve. After all, everyone wants to look sexy while sipping champagne! And to further up the sexy ante, this year’s must-have accessory is an embellished and beautiful bejeweled clutch…to go with that great party dress you bought last week.

The following are definitely drool worthy:

The Judith Leiber rectangular, black bejeweled clutch converts from a clutch to a shoulder bag. At $3,995, I wonder if it also converts into a small airplane …(for that price it should!)

Devi Kroell also carries a dazzling embellished silver clutch for a mere $1,290.

Prada, ohhh naughty little Prada, with your naughty little dahlia satin jeweled clutch for $1,036.

The stunning little pink satin devil by La Regale is only $45, and just as show-stopping.

The gold sexy little kitty is made by Italian designer Ripani and bejeweled with gold and bronze metallic at $198.
The green hinged baguette with cinched green pleather by Cynthia is $65 and uniquely elegant.

crystal clutch garden by Didesi

While some of these designs are a bit on the pricey side, rest assured that H&M, Forever 21, and Target have equally fabulous jeweled clutches too. Remember that fashion is crucial, but the best part of New Years Eve is having fun and celebrating the new year with those you love most.

Also, the real must-have accessory to party it up on New Years Eve is a designated driver. Be safe, look fabulous, and Happy New Year from all of us at Oligoville!