February 25th, 2009
My look always feels instantly refreshed with the addition of a new handbag, necklace or pair of shoes, which is why the accessory and footwear departments are the first area I visit as the new retail season unfolds. I seldom come home with new footwear because finding fab shoes is a tall order, but I usually do come home with other accessories.
I was particularly excited last week when I purchased two pieces that were out of my comfort zone and new for my style and wardrobe.
- Bracelet: I have never, ever worn a bracelet before last week. I like the look of statement bracelets, cuffs and bangles on others, but steered away from the look myself because I thought that the chunky styles I preferred would be too heavy and wouldn’t work on my dainty wrists. I also worried that they would get in the way when I worked. I was wrong. Now that I’ve found the perfect bracelet, I can’t stop wearing it. I was instantly attracted to this style because it reminded me of a necklace that I love. My new Chanel-esque bracelet is as light as a feather, fits well and adds textural interest to my outfits. Love it.
- Wristlet: This style of bag never appealed to me because I didn’t want to dangle something from my sensitive wrists or clutch it in my hand. But the colours of this wristlet launched me into orbit and forced me to give it a bash. To my surprise, it worked. It helps that it’s roomy and that I keep the contents of my handbag to a minimum. At first I thought I’d sport a wristlet at night only, but it’s coming out on work days and I’ve been comfortable wearing it. It’s not cumbersome and my wrists feel fine, even with the bracelet.
It’s the same story ladies. You’ll never know whether something will work until you actually try it . You change and items change. Wristlets and chunky bracelets are by no means new, but they are completely new for me. I’m excited to give my flat totes and necklaces a break for a while in favour of these items. They have successfully popped my existing clothes into the next season. I feel fashionably recharged.

My new bracelet was cheap as chips. I found it on sale at Macys for $20 whilst shopping with a client who bought one too. The green snakeskin wristlet was on sale at Club Monaco with an additional 30% off for the day. Wins for both my style and my pocket.
This entry is filed under Accessories, Individual Style.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
 
40 Replies
Posted on Wednesday, February 25th, 2009 at 8:22 am
Love the pooch! The clutch is nice too
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 8:36 am
I love the bracelet and bag! But the puppy steals the show.
Thank you for inspiring us to keep trying new things.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 8:47 am
It’s funny that you bring this up; I love a braclet. I normally wear a different braclet each day. A few years ago when I was visiting New York we went shopping in China Town and I found a great Lavendar Jade braclet at a very reasonable price, it is still one of my favorite. I am aways on the lookout for a good bracelet.
Theresa
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 8:50 am
They both look great! The clutch is gorgeous. Bit the Yorkie steals the show. Is that Rosie or Jasmine?
Trying something new is a lot of fun, isn’t it? I have been trying a bunch of new things ( for me) lately: more voluminous tops, really skinny (as apposed to slim straight) jeans, long blazers … I also have a few more things on my mind, such as leggings under casual dresses, and ( this is scary) some lightweight ( hopefully silk blend) cargo pants.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 8:56 am
Love that bracelet. I too, never wear bracelets because of my very small wrists. It’s nice to see that it can be done!
I have to say though, Small Puppy Friend is scrumptious and stole the show.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 8:56 am
The puppy is darn cute! I actually bought a smaller wristlet at Coach and can’t believe how much I use it – its perfect for a quick errand – particularly if you live in a city an walk everywhere. Just grab keys, cell phone, credit/debit card or a little cash and you are out the door!
Bracelets are so fun, but with so much time on the computer these days I find myself talking them off almost as soon as I put them on. Admittedly, sometimes they are worth the hassle
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 9:02 am
I bought teensy silver leather wristlets this year as “wrapping” for Christmas gifts (part wrapping part present), and kept one for myself. I’m looking forward to taking it as an evening bag while on holidays.
LOVE your new bracelet!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 9:06 am
Thanks, ladies. That’s our one adorable baby girl Jasmine, who is almost 9 but thinks she’s a puppy. She likes to be in on the action. There’s no doubt that she steals the show
Tanya, I love that you’re always trying something new. I’m enjoying seeing you in more voluminous items and skinnier jeans. You go girl! Patience, I’m waiting to see you try something new soon too.
Steffie, there is hope for us dainty wristed gals. I never thought I could wear a chunky watch either, but after finding the right chunky watch, I do that too. Don’t give up.
Ashley, you’re so right. I’m glad my style has finally opened up to bracelets. I have a whole new world to explore.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 9:31 am
Angie – I saw that bracelet on your wrist Saturday andt thought it was so cute. And, I love the bag. I’ve been considering a wristlet to force me to carry much less. I like the fact that yours is a little larger than most. I love your puppy – what a cutie! My puppy wants a play date soon!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 9:34 am
very cute! You are a fashion ICON!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 9:36 am
Jasmine is adorable! I love the bracelet! I also noticed it during the swap, and meant to ask, since I remember you don’t wear them, Angie. I actually ended up buying the same clutch in yellow after long waffling, so it’s great to hear that the wrist strap works for you.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 11:02 am
Thanks for sharing your good example with us. We all seem to have these “rules” for ourselves and getting into something new can be so eye opening.
Love the bracelet and the puppy
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 11:17 am
The puppy is so cute.
I have enjoyed using a wristlet but didn’t know if it was really stylish. I found it so conveient. The one you have is stunning and I like the roominess it looks to have.
I love your new bracelet. I have been dreaming about getting a bracelet but haven’t found the right one yet. The color of your new bracelet is so beautiful on your creamy skin. I like the harmony there. What an eye you have for things.
Do you wear the braclelet and the watch on the same day.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 11:33 am
How fun to splash out and find new stylistic soulmates! Love both pieces, and think they suit you perfectly, Angie.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 11:47 am
Angie, what a fab bracelet! I always wear a bracelet or two (kind of a cultural thing). Mind tend to be more delicate ones but I would really like to get some chunky ones because I really like this look. I am a fan of wristlets – I always seem to be leaving purses behind and am consequently not much of a purse person. Wristlets are a little harder to lose!!
You advice on trying something new is so true but so difficult for those of us who are not fashion risk takers!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Love to see the things you choose, I so admire your style. It’s great to see you trying something out of your comfort zone and I agree that sometimes just a little something can really perk up your look.
I’m a huge bracelet fan and like to wear them layered (2 or 3 at a time) ending up with a look similar to yours. I also have small wrists and search high and low for bracelets I love that fit. Sometimes I alter them by removing links and re-working when necessary.
The wristlet is cute but Jasmine is cuter!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
You are a doll!!! (You didn’t confess it was your first when we were shopping!!!)
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Great post. Reminds me of something I want to learn about. Are there any guidelines for jewelry size and body “size”? For example, generally speaking, should ladies with average to “big bones” (opposite of small wrists) embrace or avoid chunkier bracelets? Or does it just vary tooo much with overall body shape + individual style and preference?
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
I love bracelets but they are impractical as they always clank when I type…
I only wear them when I go out.
As for wristlets, I like them, just haven’t found one I loved.
Fabulously Broke in the City
“Just a girl trying to find a balance between being a Shopaholic and a Saver.“
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Jasmine is so adorable!
I love both the bracelet and the wristlet. Even though they are new to you, you absolutely own the look. I’ve read it somewhere that it’s OK for petites to carry big bags but not the opposite (tall gals carrying small bags.) I wonder if that can be extended to other areas, like for dainty wrists to wear chunky bracelets, or dainty necks to wear chunky necklaces.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 1:19 pm
That bracelet is fantastic. Did you have to have it taken in to fit your wrist?
I like bracelets and used to wear them all the time – never wearing necklaces. For me, it was new to wear necklaces! But I’ve done a lot of new things since YLF.
However I prefer bracelets in the warmer months when I don’t have to pull on a coat – the lining can easily get snagged.
Also I won’t wear bracelets to work because of the clanking issue. I watched a VP on a video conference the other day and the clanking of her bracelets as she waved her hands around was very distracting. But there are all kinds of rules for what to wear on video cam (for example, pearls are far better than gold or silver).
The wristlet clutch – I would love to find one myself. They make soooo much sense.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Jasmine does steal the show. Our pups always do.
I love how the bracelet matches your look. I’m with Fabulously Broke in that I tend not to wear them as they clank with I type. Interesting that I don’t have that problem with my watch, which I always wear. Maybe it is whatever you get used to.
The wristlet looks great too. But unlike you, I don’t keep my “stuff” to a minimum. My wallet alone is heavy.
I love hearing when you try something new. You encourage us the get outside of our comfort zone and you are always correct with your recommendations. Thanks Angie!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I’m finding your black jacket absolutely amazing; love the fit and the bow, it’s my fetish atm. =p
Cute puppy!!!!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
an inspiring post! target has some cute croc clutches as well, they look classy in person. good to know club monaco has one as well, i’m going to have to check that out
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
The bag and bracelet are okay, but the dog is to die for!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
You’re all lovely. Thank for the compliments. Eva, I knew you’d especially like this post.
Julie, thanks for noticing my new bracelet at the swap. Good eye! A roomier clutch is key. I often end up carrying Greg’s wallet which fits in comfortably too. Our girls would love your gentle Maddie. They’re the size of her head, but if there are toys and treats involved, they’ll have a fabulous time together.
Marianne, you and I are Club Monaco clutch twins! I love the yellow one you got too.
San, I wear my watch and wedding ring every day. I wear my new bracelet on the other wrist. When I do, I don’t wear a statement necklace at the same time ( and I don’t wear earrings). My specs are enough.
Shana, I hope you find great chunky bracelets. I can see them working into your look. And by all means try a wristlet. I’m sure you won’t lose it!
Shiny, I did not need to have the bracelet altered. The size was perfect. I guess I type in a different way. My wrists don’t rest on anything – they stay mid air so no bracelet clanking. It was fine when I worked with my client too. It’s the perfect bracelet!
Alldoneup, that’s actually a shirt dress, and not a jacket that I have on. I like to wear those over skinnies. I’m glad you like it too. The fabric is utterly delicious. Just the tiniest bit of sheen.
Karyn, you crack me up. The totally accidental and un-staged shot of Jasmine in that picture is priceless. I couldnlt believe it when I saw the picture.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Oh what fun, my favorite subject. I LOVE your baby Angie! We have 2 yorkie’s also. The possibilities with jewelry are absolutely endless!! 2 bracelets together to make a statement necklace just to name one…(of course this depends on the style of bracelet but most lobster or toggle clasp one’s will work). I love your choices, very nice! The wristlets are my favorite for when I don’t want to keep track of a purse nor do I want a strap across my chest from my cross-over bag. I can easily fit cell phone or bb, lipstick, $$, license, etc. in. The snakeskin is AWESOME! Bracelet is gorgeous as well!
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
Wow, you have really broken out of your comfort zone! Hurray! You really do practice what you preach. So what’s next, Angie? Earrings??
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Ever since I came back from my trip to China, my style is a lot bolder and I cut my hair shorter than what I’m used to. Now, I’m all about getting out of my comfort zone. I bought a small shoulder bag a few weeks ago and I sport a lot of accessories such as belts, necklaces, scarves and bracelets lately. It’s such a nice change from the dull me.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
love the wristlet!! good job
i think i have seen it before, can you share what brand it is?
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 5:35 pm
I’m sorry Angie, but no item of clothing will ever be as fab as an adorable little pooch! I was too busy being sucked into Jasmine’s big puppy dog eyes to even notice the foreground.
BUT now that I have noticed, I really like both pieces. I’m surprised you found a bracelet though. Usually even the stretchy sorts are too big for me. It looks great though. I too have been feeling a bit tired of necklaces every day. We seem to be on the same wavelength, hence my post about earrings in the forum.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 6:02 pm
Great choices Angie. Green is my favorite!
I love the bracelets, but can’t wear them when I work on the computer. Every once in a while I wear one to the office and that end up laying on my office desk after the first 10 minutes of the day. I make jewelry and the chunky styles have been really popular last couple of years.
Wristlets are within the list of my essential wardrobe items during workdays. I generally carry my laptop and some papers with me along with my notepad so I like carrying them in a small backpack. I carry my wristlet in the backpack when I have the backpack on and take it out to go to lunch or anywhere after work. It is a stylish way to carry what I need when I don’t have to carry the laptop. Same applies to not nly backpack but also other briefcases.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
I’m glad you’re excited about new bag and bracelet, Angie. They look beautiful.
I have very small wrists, and weirdly enough, I always gravitated towards more chunky bracelets (I think partly because they tend to hug my wrists and don’t interfere with computer mouse).
I really like what you said: “You’ll never know whether something will work until you actually try it.” I’m learning to be more open minded and not to dismiss items based on how they look on a picture or on a hanger, and try things on whenever possible.
Adorable Jasmine makes me smile
That’s a terrific pic.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
Fab ideas, Jewelry Girl. I hope I hope you post some of your jewelry creativity on our forum.
Laura, I have something else new up my sleeve so stay tuned.
CaramelBlondie, the wristlet is from Club Monaco.
Legacy of pearl, I have clients that use clutches and wristlets daily and pop them into their computer bags. It’s a great solution.
That’s music to my ears, Lena!
Great question Rose and thank you for responding, Julia. You are spot on. There is chunky and there is “delicate chunky”, if that makes sense. You can’t carry off a super chunky piece of jewelry if you are small boned. There have to be dainty details to the piece. My bracelet is a good example. Super models are rarely small boned. They are average bone size, always broad shouldered, tall and skinny. Their height and broad shoulders helps them carry off chunky pieces even though look delicate. Interestingly, I have two normal boned, size 6, petite clients with very broad shoulders. They wear chunky jewelry and oversized totes better than I do.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
I had noticed the bracelet in yesterday’s pictures too, and had been wondering about it (knowing that you usually don’t wear them). It’s beautiful, and thanks for reminding us that it’s good to try new things once in a while.
I love the idea of a wristlet too, especially after reading your remark about popping them into your computer bag. I hate having to lug around two bags.
Jasmine is the star of the day though, what a delicious photo moment!!
(Oh and can’t wait to see what else you have up your sleeve;-)
Posted on February 26th, 2009 at 3:05 am
I love the wristlet, amazing colors. I use them all the time for the same reason as Inge. They fit so nicely into the computer bag. What I am most curious about is the black shirt/dress you are wearing. I love the look! Were you wearing it for clothes swap too with the blue jacket?
Posted on February 26th, 2009 at 7:28 am
I had to read that twice. never worn a bracelet? Even as a guy I’ve gone through many bracelet phases. But then I’m so desperate for the lack accessories guys can (appropriately) wear, that the minute something like a bracelet for men even approaches the mainstream, I’m on that trend.
The wristlet got a cool wild side to it with those colors. But everyone is right, the dog steals the pic.
Posted on February 26th, 2009 at 9:42 am
That’s observant, Danja. I was wearing this black shirt dress under my turquoise trapeze jacket for the Clothes Swap. These pics were taken moments before Laurel fetched me (we car pooled to Julie’s house).
Posted on February 26th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
[...] cardigan or classic black handbag into the wardrobe mix might just feed your fashion rut. So try something new and purchase fun items that make you [...]
Posted on March 3rd, 2009 at 8:08 am
[...] and day clutches: These were new styles for me to sport during the day and they’ve become my go-to bag this [...]
Posted on July 16th, 2009 at 7:14 am
Reply
You don't need to be a member to leave a reply, but if you do sign up it won't be necessary to provide your name and email address every time you do so.