I went to Brazil to visit family and friends after two years. It wasn't a usual trip, as you can imagine. I was in Rio de Janeiro when the cases of Omicron were skyrocketing. I felt like I was in a video game trying to dodge the virus all the time. Plans got canceled. I couldn't see everyone or do everything I needed to do, either. Well, there's always next time, right?
Now, I'm in NY again. It's been so cold that it reminded me of an online talk I attended when I was in Rio. The speaker said it's important to allow ourselves to wintering. We should take it easy, move at a different speed because this is a time to replenish. Wintering also gets us ready for the seasons ahead. That's why I decided to take advantage of the snowstorm on Saturday to focus on a project. It worked out!
If you're going to a warm place in February, I'll share some tips on how to pack for a winter escape soon. I'm also planning a getaway trip. I do it every year. Stay tuned!
A client asked me to write about knee-high boots. Are they still trendy? Should I leave them in the closet for now? Take a look:
Let's talk about colors, shall we? If you had your color analysis done with me, you already know what contrast means. If you have no clue what I'm talking about, don't miss this post:
SMALL TALK WITH ANNA MACHADO SCHOELLERMAN, A PRECIOUS JEWELRY DESIGNER (after all, it is the month of love).
MC: What do people look for when they buy jewelry as a gift?
Anna:In my business, people look for a gift to show love, gratitude, or a celebration. They look for something meaningful, a way to express their feelings through a unique, personal object that can last for a long time. It's a perfect way to make someone feel special.
Sometimes, women buy jewelry for themselves because they feel they deserve it. There are always some positive vibes around creating/selling a piece of jewelry to someone with this intention. A piece of jewelry always brings immediate joy and excitement. It's a feeling of being appreciated. This isn't temporary. It's revived each time someone wears it. It's a feeling of connection that can evolve, transforming that piece into a good luck charm. It's also a sign of individuality when it's a custom-made piece. And this is what makes jewelry a remarkable gift.
MC: In general, what kind of jewelry do women want to have now?
Anna:I noticed that, regarding sustainability, they are paying more attention to the materials and labor conditions, fair mining, recycling, etc. The fact that a piece of jewelry can last for generations or be easily transformed or recycled is very encouraging. They care about the materials and how they are extracted and handled afterward.
I would also add social responsibilities, as in how much a company can give back to social causes. Some people feel less guilty about spending money on a piece of jewelry if they know a percentage will be donated to a good cause.
In terms of design, I think simpler pieces that don't have to “wait” for a special occasion. Something to wear every day if you feel like it. I love to wear my signature earrings with a T-shirt and jeans. Finding the perfect balance between what's special to you and also practical. It's adding some sparkle to your routine without much effort.
MC: What is trendy in jewelry at the moment?
Anna:I think nothing is trendy and, at the same time, everything is trendy in fine jewelry. A piece of fine jewelry usually survives all of us. It's not disposable. This is one of the reasons I love jewelry. It is beyond trends. It's made to last forever. It's strongly associated with personal values, stories, memories. So, if you love it, if it makes you feel good and special, it is your trendiest piece.
The source of the materials and how responsible these sources are for the environment are more important than the color of metal or gems.
I always tell my clients about the importance of wearing a bra that fits well. I know that many of you prefer to wear wireless bras or care about having more comfort when relaxing at home. However, it doesn't mean to wear old bras. There are other solutions. Livelyproducts have good quality and are cute. They are perfect if you look for high-style and comfortable underwear.
Thanks for being here! I wish you a happy Valentine's Day and a February with "a meaningful wintering".
See you soon,
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