My Latest Obsession: Stella & Dot

The cat's out of the bag, I'm officially an independent Stella & Dot stylist!

In case you missed my last blog post, Chloe + Isabel announced the closing of it's doors. It took me a little time to move on and jump in to the next thing, but one day of friend of mine said, "Melanie, you've just got to do it, what are you waiting for?" That same day I started proudly talking about my new love and I'm now 100% fully immersed in Stella & Dot. I'm not gonna lie, I am completely obsessed! Come see why:

The Jewelry

I mean I'm a jewelry girl, are you a jewelry girl? I come from a long line of jewelry loving people. Even my Daddy wore jewelry. I love how eclectic Stella & Dot jewelry is. They've got all my moods covered from casual chic Monday to ride or die Saturday. My first head over heels piece so far is this rose gold necklace called "Fleur", gasp! I can't get over the $59 price tag, what a steal!

Apparel, Accessories, Handbags + More

I'd be happy with just the jewelry. But when you find a company with the style you're going for and then realize they've got your whole look covered, your heart skips a beat. Scroll back through my blog and you'll see this collaboration was meant to be.

9 out of 10 people I tell I'm moving to Stella & Dot say, "I love their handbags!" Naturally, I had to see for myself. I picked up the gorgeous "Crisscross Hobo" from the sale section. It's so perfect! Flat bottom, comfortable strap, pocket inside, pocket outside, neutral. You need this!

PS The glasses are S&D, too! Very lightweight, comfortable and stylish.

Value

Disclaimer: Almost 40 year old me is still somewhat stuck in the 90s. Remember when gas was 99 cents a gallon? Sometimes I still think I can run to JcPenny and find the perfect pair of earrings for my mom for $10. Those were the days, but let's get real! We were all shrouded in polyester and our jewelry looked like Barbies. My point is times have changed, thankfully! 2019 me wants ethically sourced, timeless jewelry that is not mass produced, and you get what you pay for. I think the value at Stella & Dot is exceptional given our in house, unique designs.

Speaking of value, our engravables are top notch and very reasonably priced. Hurry up and get this "Signature Engravable Hexagon Necklace" before it sells out like it's rose gold counterpart. It's super luxe. I was pleasantly surprised it was engraved and shipped the next day!

Value Added

There's so much more to it than a great product. To get back the "why" I do this, ultimately I value my time with family above all else. It's incredibly refreshing to find a company that empowers me to support my family by providing all that I need to successfully run a business from home. I realize a lot of women reading this are thinking about branching out into the world of entrepreneurship, but it's really quite scary. Why not let Stella & Dot assume some of that risk for you?

What will that mean for those of you coming along as customers? You can support my small business, but have all the benefits of shopping a stable, reputable, successful brand. I know you'll enjoy the fast and furious shipping and ease of returns and replacements. Did I mention killer host rewards and Style Club offers? We are going to have so much fun.

Community

And it IS fun! Is there anything better than shopping with friends? In my 3 years with Chloe + Isabel I learned that what keeps you going, gives meaning to what you do is not what you do but who you do it with. I am so happy I've found a new home in Stella & Dot.

Won't you come along with me? It just wouldn't be the same without you! Come check out my new Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Melanies-Style-Lounge-106340404041143/

Please use it as a jumping off point to shop, find my VIP community, reach out to me and learn more about Stella & Dot.

See you there!

Goodbye C+I - The End of an Era

On July 1, 2019 executive chairwoman Connie Tang announced the closure of Chloe + Isabel July 31, 2019 to it's community of merchandisers. The news came as a shock to our community. While the company put forth great effort towards growth and development, this nearly 8 year old jewelry empire simply could not achieve the trajectory necessary to withstand these hard economic times.

To say I will miss Chloe + Isabel is an understatement. When I began in May of 2016 I could not have imagined how far this journey would take me. I traveled to Montreal, Paris! But the real joy has been in the everyday conversations, sharing of ideas and inspiration with like minded women, and making of lifelong friends. I will treasure these jewels for a lifetime!

Be sure to shop your C+I wishlist before it's too late! Whether you've had your eye on the most recent Riviera Maya collection or have a mile long list you've created over the years, take advantage of the markdowns.

And please know that every purchase, every word of encouragement, every time you volunteered to host, to help, all of the shared pictures, every gesture big or small means more to me than words can say. This might be goodbye to C+I but I hope you'll follow me to the next adventure! It just wouldn't be the same without you.

Chloe + Isabel Semi-Annual Sale + Clearance Summer 2017

Eeeekkkk!!!! The Chloe + Isabel semi-annual sale and clearance snuck up on me! I was over here trying to summer and boom, there it was. And in just one day, items are already flying off the shelf. I simply couldn't leave you, my lovely reader, in the dark! These are the best prices of the year.

As always, I have some lovely styled pictures for inspiration, recommendations from my jewelry box (lucky you, getting them at a deep discount!), and a little motivation...read on to the end!

Here are the must haves from this amazing sale:

1. The Hero Collection

I only recently discovered this cool, edgy, versatile collection and am not sure what took me so long! The semi-precious black stone and howlite combination is perfection. I think I was scared of the glass and tassel but they've grown on me. And the top layer of the convertible necklace is the only thing I brought with me camping and it went with every single top I brought.

Clearance is the perfect time to try something out of your comfort zone, if you're on the fence. Reminder: the tassels are removable!

Necklace on the left: Here
Right: Here
Matching bracelet (not shown): Here
Ring (not shown): Here

2. The Golden Lotus Statement Necklace

To me it's crazy to see pieces from the new collection marked down, but there it is. Don't be intimidated by this magnificent collar, it's much lighter and more delicate than you'd imagine. Maybe Golden Lotus isn't your style, but it really is a great time to buy statement pieces, the prices are unreal! But seriously, this one is awesome.

Necklace: Here
Matching wrap bracelet (not shown): Here

3. Anything Aventine

The only explanation I can come up with as to why they'd give away this statement necklace for $37 or it's super popular sister the convertible layered necklace for $35 is that everyone has one because it's stunning.

While I was writing this, the pendant sold out. I'm serious guys, if you see something you need, act fast.

Statement earrings (not shown): Here
Matching ring (not shown):  Here

4. A Convertible Necklace

Our signature style, and on sale! We do the hard work (perfectly match the layers), you wear it with everything! Each layer can be removed for a whole new look, and interchanges with layers from other pieces collections.

Medina Necklace: Here
Minaret (not shown): Here multi-color, Here in blue hues

5. Something Giftable

I gave this gorgeous pendant to my mom for Christmas, she wears it often. Green is something I've only recently discovered to be a neutral. It goes with so much, definitely capsule worthy.

We also have a candle for just $7, charms prices $4-11 (this is my fav), and even a few hair accessories like these, perfectly priced for your gift stash.

I could go on and on, but while I am, the styles are selling out! So I'll end on this note.

Need An Excuse to Shop the Sale?

If you're in my VIP group, you may have already heard about my fundraising efforts to help fund the Anderson's adoption of little Lian from China. This week only, I will donate 30% of purchase made through the Anderson Adoption Fundraiser Pop-Up. You can read more or skip shopping and donate Here.

Not only that, for every $50 spent in July, you'll be entered into a giveaway! Only catch, you have to join my VIP group to enter, but I promise you'll love it there anyway: Join Here.

Occasionally, one might see so many things they "need" that they start thinking about becoming a merchandiser for the discount. If this describes you, shoot me a quick email and let's talk. Find me at moderntypography@aol.com and read more on that subject Here.

Back to the sale, you can find it all Here! But for a very limited time. Be sure and stop back here and share what you love! And go!

The Chloe + Isabel Friends & Family Semi-Annual Sale & Coupon Code + Spring Collection Reveal

I love it when a Chloe + Isabel sale coincides with a catalog release. Add to the fun, perfect timing for Mother's Day gift shopping (for me)!

If you see something that you can't live without, be sure and use the code FFSPRING17 for 25% off your entire purchase! This offer ends May 1st, don't wait.

I'm not going to waste much time talking. Here's are the lovelies from the new spring line. Click on the pictures to add them to your wish list. First, the apple of my eye, the new Art Deco.

This vintage inspired, eye-catching line was intended to grace the necklines of 2017 brides and bridesmaids. But, like many of our previous wedding minded styles, it's clear this collection will last far beyond that special day.

I'm skipping the wedding part and going straight for happily ever after in this dainty, silver necklace and all the things to match it.

I don't have the full collection, yet. But I simply couldn't resist this unique brooch. It converts into shoe clips!

My Yosi Samra flats (thanks Stitch Fix for the idea!) couldn't be happier.

By the way, these flats come in a ton of colors. Follow this Amazon Affiliate link if you "need" some (size up if between sizes).

These clips stay in place, don't ruin your shoes, and don't hurt your feet. I don't know how they accomplished this but I'm sold.

I love the more comfy ballet flat version, even with a little "something blue" for brides and bridesmaids, but I know most brides will be wearing heels.

How cute are they on the back of these pumps?

I'm delighted to see so many new silver options. The Juliet collection caught my eye immediately. 

While Art Deco satisfies my longing to dress the part of Down Town Abbey or The Great Gatsby, this collection charms my feminine, romantic side.

The Juliet Petite Collar Necklace pairs perfectly with this lacy, cerulean, Mystree top I snagged from Tag Boutique. In the light it gives of slight blush and baby blue hues.

Deeply regretting not picking something from the Rosette collection right now. Next time! Here's a taste.

Chloe + Isabel has so much more than jewelry, as many of you know. I had to splurge on some new Jen Atkin hair accessories. No matter which style I'm wearing around my neck, these stylist clips are a must to keep this hair tame.

This set comes in a gold/rose gold option and silver/hematite.

Clearly I'm going to need this color way, too.

I suppose I do have enough to tide me over, like the Wishbone Pin Set.

And my feather bun cuff, but we all know I'm wearing that everyday as a bracelet cuff.

By the way, last chance on all of those Rebel pieces. Adios Fall 2016 catalog.

Saldy, Summer 2016 is fading fast as well. If you need this wide brimmed straw hat, jump on it. It's limited stock! All these bright, happy Positano inspired pieces are limited, as well.

I wish I'd snapped a picture of my sister wearing this necklace with a mint greenish, light turquoisey tee on Saturday. We almost wore the exact same outfit to my son's soccer game!

All this talk of summer reminded me of this:

"I don't mean to brag but I can still fit in the jewelry I wore last summer."

I don't mind so much that my clothes from last summer don't fit quite the same. This means I get to buy more goodies, like the other Mystree top I grabbed from Tag. Look at how perfectly it goes with my new (though not new to our brand) Lunette Long Pendant Necklace.

There are SO many things I'd love to show you, but the absolute best way to catch the latest styles is in my Facebook VIP group. Don't be shy, we aren't some huge group of force added, faceless people. Just a funny, kind group of women who like to spend our lunch breaks looking at pretty things.

See you there!

This post contains affiliate links. I love Chloe + Isabel so much I became a merchandiser AND blog about it. Feel free to email me with questions about either at moderntypography@aol.com. Read more on the opportunity here.

Bloggin Ain't Easy

Let's talk about blogging for just a minute, shall we? I know, you came here for the pretty things, and I promise there will be plenty of that.

But can I just stop for a minute and tell you how difficult it is to find the time to blog? Thanks for following, though the posts be far and few between.

The good news is, faithful followers, that I only blog when I have something really good to share, like the amazing new collection from Chloe + Isabel for Spring!

Pastel Wrap Bracelet

The colors, the shapes, the stones, the versatility. It's all the things I hoped for.

Sunset Vista Convertible Necklace

Every piece I put on is my new favorite piece.

Braided Bracelet

An unexpected favorite, Turkish Delight.

Turkish Delight

I might be just a little obsessed with styling my Chloe + Isabel pieces with my new Fossil Watch.

Fossil Watch

I can't wait to play with this one, headed for my mailbox now!

Multiple lengths = my cup of tea

Parisian Belle

I also had to have the new open ring, because adjustable means so many ways to style!

Sunset Vista Wrap Ring

View the entire collection here:

Modern Jewelry

Are you interested in learning more about our brand and the opportunity?

Click here to find out more.

Happy Monday!

Golden Tote Review June 2015

Yesterday I was pleasantly surprised to find Golden Tote on my doorstep, just 1 week after ordering!

This is my 5th order, and it just gets better every time! Isn't this month's palm tree design beautimous? Perfect for the beach this summer!

If this is your first time hearing about Golden Tote, I'm glad you stumbled upon this review! Golden Tote is a unique online shopping experience offering both boutique women's clothing and accessories, as well as personally styled totes full of clothes. If you ask me what sets Golden Tote apart from the rest, it's the incredible value, fresh new styles every month, and a one of a kind facebook trading group.

If you like options, Golden Tote's got em!

1. $49 Small Tote: Choose 1 item, receive 1 surprise item
2. $149 Large Tote: Choose 2 items, receive 4 surprises
3. $99 Surprise Tote: Receive 4 surprises
4. Boutique Orders: Shop online, no surprises
You can also add items from the boutique to tote orders at discounted prices!
5. Mystery Totes: Annual sale, amazing price!

This month I went with the large tote; at just $25 an item, why not!

Shipping is free for orders over $149, and I love picking out a few things and being surprised with the rest. I can't wait to see what you think!

First up, my sisters pick. Size twins = tote sharing :)

We are not really twins, this is me. I am holding her clothes hostage! 

She has great taste, I loved this one, too. It's a great cut and color for summer.

Golden Tote calls it the Fun & Fresh Tank, brand Oat & Fawn.

Can you spot #3 in this picture?

This came in 2 other colors, including a really cute elephant print on black

and a multicolored geometric floral pattern which I almost snagged.

You'll see, once you decide to give it a try.

It's nearly impossible to pick just 2!

I haven't quite graduated to buying 2 totes at once, but I'm all for add-ons, like I did this pretty pleated blouse by Naked Zebra. You may recognize it from my Dailylook Elite Review.

I loved it, but for $50 I just couldn't keep it, and Dailylook Elite and I broke up. So, I added it to my Golden Tote for just $30, score!

It's perfect for Maxi skirts!

I think next month I'll pick up another, it comes in a gazillion colors.

Next, my chosen item, the Nautical by Nature Dress in navy and white by Esley.

This was sort of an impulse buy when the Puella swing I wanted was sold out. Somehow I pictured it differently in my head.

  

Obviously, this dress didn't work out for me, which is okay. I really wanted to try something out of my comfort zone, and in all fairness, Golden Tote did describe it as bodycon fit. It's a really cute dress, just not on me! I had no trouble selling it in the trading group.

Next up, my surprises! This time around, I tried to be a little more open minded with my style profile. I chose casual, classic and feminine as my favorites, and asked for long, loose fitting tops, casual weekend wear or clothes for wearing to the park with kids.

When I saw this Peach Love top, I immediately thought of my sister!

She recently adopted an adorable little critter named Dojo. He's not a dachshund, but we actually grew up with one. When I sent her a picture of this, we both had a good chuckle!

Unfortunately, it's just not her style, or mine. I posted this for sale and immediately someone responded with a picture of themselves with their dachshund! Our GT trading group is full of creature lovers, and they carry quite a few critter prints for that reason!

Since I already have a big smile on my face from thinking about my old dog, that poor poor blind, deaf old dog, I thought I'd share this next surprise. This also took me back!

This lime green top is from Pink Note and has really interesting mesh detail at the shoulders.

It's super soft and definitely my casual, throw it on with some jeans style.

I guess my sister and I can duke it out over this one.

We just have to figure out what to wear under it.

I think it would be cute over a bathing suit at the beach.

Here's another beachy surprise, definitely a California girl feel about it.

Don't be jealous. Yes, they sent me the Priddy by Puella Swing Tank.

I'm also wearing the Rose Gold Arrow Glasses I added to my tote from the boutique for just $9!

 People will not stop messaging me about this tank!

Unfortunately, it's just too big on me, and "oat" is just too close to my skin tone.

If only the colors on the back were the main event, and not the party in the back!

Here's the last surprise, which I'm still on the fence about. It's from Skies are Blue, one of my favorite brands. I have several of their items from Stitch Fix, another great styling service. But I'm unsure on the fit. I'll let my sister try it on, too. Because, well, if it looks good on her then I have to keep it for myself! Just kidding, she deserves it.

I styled it with a belt, it has a simple elastic waist. I love the colors and the pattern! Reminds me of a few Gilli maxis I've seen for twice the price.

 If you like what you see and want to request it, I will pin these all later. Follow me here: https://www.pinterest.com/moderntypo/

All in all, I think Golden Tote is doing a really good job of picking out clothes for me and I really look forward to every box! If you want to give it a try, I'd love it if you used my referral! As you can see, $10 goes a long way with Golden Tote!

Here it is:

http://www.goldentote.com/index.php?route=common/referral&referral=176e8084e079478b

Be sure to follow me on Facebook to get updates and spoilers:

https://www.facebook.com/moderntypographyblog

The July chosen items will go live July 6th at 9am PST!

Be sure and register ahead of time and get started on your style profile!

Have a golden day!