Christopher Collins recently featured his 2012 fashion collections at the Ahead of Fashion event, this past Wednesday, at the Julia Morgan Ballroom, in San Francisco, California, and used Sikara pieces to accent his already beautiful wares.

The Ahead of Fashion Event is held once a month, and features a bevy of Bay Area Angel Investors, who come to check out “entrepreneurs at the intersection between technology and the consumer, retail, and fashion industries”.

“It promotes a monthly event for a select group of companies to receive advice and access to capital through partnerships with industry experts and investors that have experience and extensive networks in the technology and consumer industries”.

  Christopher Collins chose the Jaipuri rectangle studs, and the five cluster Jaipuri studs, to add just a little bit of glitz to his wonderful ensembles.

Here at Sikara, we encourage women to celebrate themselves.  And on May 13^th, we encourage everybody to celebrate his or her Mom’s, or any woman that has inspired, and shaped you into the wonderful individual you are today. Since the staff at Sikara is so amazing, we figured the apple probably doesn’t fall far from the tree. So we asked all of our Sikara staffers to share a pearl of wisdom that there mother  has engrained into their heads.

Mousumi Shaw- Sikara Founder and CEO, with mom Shyamali :

“No experience in life ever goes to waste.”  She truly believes that you learn something from everything you experience whether it’s talking to someone, working somewhere, or traveling.  It will all be with some meaning.  That has truly happened with me building Sikara…I started working with my mom in her jewelry store at 12 years old.  Who knew it would come full circle!

Claire Simmons- Boston Pop-Up Store Manager- “She taught me how and when to hold my ground, when to let things go and how to play with the big boys (or girls). She also taught me how to make a mean cheesecake”

Erin Liang- Boston Pop Up Store Stylist

“My mom has said many wise things to me over the years but what sticks with me the most is her advice about taking all things one step a time. I know she is there for me every step of the way whatever those steps may be and whatever the context. She is the most supportive and caring person I know and has an amazing sense of humor. I am incredibly lucky to have her in my life!”

Vanessa Farrow – Director of Operations- “She always made sure my hair was done and looked nice – even as a little kid. That was very important. Even now, she still makes sure her hair looks nice anywhere she goes. And so do I!”

Sarina Wong- Austin Showroom Intern

“My mom always stresses the importance of spontaneity and having fun so I guess her words of wisdom would be something like: “Live life to the fullest!”

Marissa- Boston Pop Up Store Stylist- “In life, you need gumption and perseverance. Don’t ever give up.”

Cristina Moss-San Francisco Pop Up Store Manager

“My mom has always instilled in me the idea to do what you love, and to always make lasting memories no matter what. No amount of money is going to be able to bring back the time spent with loved ones, and always having the time and memories with them.”

Viviana- Boston Pop Up Store Stylist- “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Kristin O’Brien

“Always be able to count on yourself first and foremost to create your own happiness and to bring in your own security.”

Happy Mothers Day!

Love,

Sikara & Co.

The ponies are pretty of course, but how about those hats! The Kentucky derby is as much about over-sized fascinators, pretty pastels and and mint juleps as it is about the actual race. Spring for some bling this derby season. Here are some ideas on how to accessorize your Derby Duds like a true Southern Lady, even if you’re only passin’ through Kentucky:

Pretty in Pearls:

Udaipur Pearl Earrings

Positano Cocktail Ring

Bring the Bling:

Jaipuri Cluster Earring in Aqua Chalcedony and Smokey Quartz

Amalfi Open Sided Cocktail Ring in Aqua Chalcedony

photo by Mallorie Ekstrom

For those of us who love to shop for the latest and greatest fashions, the idea of being able to do it on another’s dime is a dream come true. This month’s Real Women, Real Style figured out how to make that dream her reality! After several years in the retail side of fashion, Kristy Downer started her own business as a Fashion Consultant and Personal Shopper. Kristy knows a good thing when she sees it and she discovered Sikara & Co. while shopping on Newbury Street in Boston for her private clients. Read more about Kristy and her tips on fashion, personal style and everyone’s must-have item! Check out her website to schedule an appointment with Kristy.
Sikara.: Tell us about your career in Fashion and how you started your own Personal Shopper business.

My discerning eye and love for fashion developed at an early age. I remember my Mother and Aunt getting ready to go out in there 80′s get-up and wanted so badly to be of an age that I could dress like them. I started working at a local clothing store when I was 16! After years exploring all different aspect of retail like management, visual merchandising and HR, I decided I wanted more. So I took the one thing that I LOVED about retail, styling people and helping them discover what really works on their shape. Next thing I knew, business cards were made. I started about two and a half years ago with just one client and helped her with all of her wedding outfits. I still work with her today. Then I started to build momentum from one client referring me to a friend, then to her friend, and so on.

S: Did you follow this year’s Fashion Week? Which shows were your favorites?
I didn’t get to see all of them but from the shows I did catch I would say that Nicholas K, Nicole Miller and Nanette Lepore were amongst my favorites. I also very much enjoyed the creativity of Sarah Burton’s new collection for Alexander McQueen.

S: What item should every woman have in her closet?

A knock out dress that you feel sexy and confident in that you can just throw on and go.

S: Describe your Personal Style.
My style is ever changing with my mood and what I’m doing. If I had to put a label on it, I would say bohemian/rocker. I also never really wear heels. I’m usually in cowboy boots!

S: If could only keep one item in your closet, what would it be?

This is a hard one! It’s a strong toss up between my Rick Owen maxi skirt that is so comfortable and easy to wear OR my butter soft tan leather jacket by Theory, both of which I scored at The Closet in Boston.

S: Where is your favorite place to travel?

I need to travel more! I would say, so far, my favorite place to visit it North Carolina. I pulse for good food and good flea markets…oh and warm sunshine.

S: What inspires you?

Everything around me– I love to surround myself with positive, motivated people that help give me strength to strive for what I want. For fashion I mainly look to the streets. I’m constantly searching the web for street styles in different cities around the world. I’ll take one part of a “look” that someone put together in Copenhagen and find a way to make it my own.

S: What is your favorite Sikara piece?
I would wear just about everything in the store if I could! But one piece that I would wear everyday is the original Mexican Twist ring. I love how large yet simple it is. It would go with EVERYTHING!

Sikara's Mexican Twist Ring

S: Who are your favorite designers?
Rick Owens and Isabel Marant both have some of the most wearable and fashionable pieces that I have seen. But I must say, I’m a sucker for a great vintage piece of any kind. Be it a piece of clothing or jewelry whenever I wear my vintage pieces I get the most complements.

S: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
I have a tattoo on my wrist that says “Dreamer”, ever since I was a little girl my Grandmother told me to go after my dreams and to never let anyone stand in my way or tell me that I can’t do something. She is part of the reason why I have the confidence to peruse my Fashion Consulting business.

S: What is the best fashion advice you can give a man or woman?
Anyone can follow a trend, but to bring your own unique flair into play, well that’s the ultimate definition of style.

Sterling Silver and Copper bracelet and necklace from the Mexican Collection

This May 5th marks 150 years since Mexico soldiers conquered the French Imperialists, gaining independence for their country. At Sikara & Co, we think you should celebrate Cinco de Mayo with more than just margaritas!

Snag 15% OFF our entire MEXICAN COLLECTION in stores only!

SAN FRANCISCO SALE: Friday, May 4th 10am-6pm at 2 Embarcadero Center

BOSTON SALE: Saturday, MAY 5th 9am-8pm 250 Newbury St.

Claire Simmons, Erin Liang and Austyn Ellese Mayfield all in Sikara Jewelry

Sikara Boston’s Claire Simmons and Erin Liang were thrilled to join some of Boston’s freshest and most fashionable faces for the Coup Boston launch party on Friday April 27th at Moksa Restaurant in Cambridge. In the words of Editor-In-Chief Alexandra Hall, “Coup is the first word on living well in Boston, never the last.” This online magazine features the best in fashion, home decor, dining, beauty and travel. It’s no wonder then that Austyn Ellese Mayfield, Coup’s Managing Editor and a longtime Sikara fan, made sure not only to invite Sikara to the party but to wear it as well. Austyn really sparkled in Sikara’s Four Geometric Drop Earrings, the San Pietro Cocktail Ring and a limited edition bracelet all in Smokey Quartz. Claire and Erin opted for SIkara’s bestsellers, wearing variations of the Sikara Swirly. For the extra-fashionable party, Claire donned the Extra-Large brushed Vermeil Swirlies with her Aqua Chalcedony Vermeil ring. Erin opted for the sleek, deconstructed Mogul Swirlies also in Vermeil. The paparazzi’s bulbs were flashing and Sikara was, as always, Shining On!

Photo by Erick Jacobs for Boston.com

Last month Project Runway’s Christopher Collins asked Sikara to partner for styling his new fall looks with Sikara Jewels. Christopher Collins is one of the fashion industry’s freshest faces! Having been a star behind the scene for years, Christopher came into the public scene in 2010 while competing against nine other designers during season 8 of Project Runway. He made it all the way to Mercedes Benz Fashion Week during his season and that was only the beginning of his success! Working with Tadashi and Dina Bar-el in Los Angeles before launching his signature line with best friend and business partner Erica Tanamachi in 2008, Collins is fast becoming known in the fashion and retail world for his incredible fabric choices and mastery of the ultra flattering silhouette. Sikara staffer, Denayja Reese had the opportunity to assist on the shoot and interview Christopher. See what this San Francisco based designer has to say about inspiration, his latest fall collection and why he loves Sikara & Co.!

Sikara: Describe your design aesthetic in three words?

Christopher: Beautiful, fresh, effortless                          

S: What inspired your fall 2012 collection?

C: Southwest meets 5th Avenue

S: Who has been the biggest influence in your life? 

C: Passion has influenced the choices I’ve made.

S: What was your most memorable moment on Project Runway?

C: Showing at NY Fashion Week in Lincoln Center.

S: Where are your favorite places to go in San Francisco?

C: I’m always finding new places to love in San Francisco.  Number 1 favorite place is Golden Gate Park and any place where I can see the bay.

S: Who are your style icons?

C: Isabella Blow, Joy Bianchi.

S: Is it challenging having a business partner who is also your best friend? 

C: Ha!  It’s the best.  We have a great relationship and makes working together fun.

S: What is your favorite place to travel to?

C: Favorite place on earth is Kauai.

S: How do you relax and maintain balance in your life with such a hectic schedule?

C: I live in Marin so when I go home I am surrounded by nature and earth- no fashion.  I also like to read, it takes me out of the moment and into my imagination.

S: Name one item of clothing or an accessory that you would save in a fire?

C: My grandmothers vintage fur stole, its gorgeous and has more sentimental value than anything I have.

S: Tell us what you love about Sikara Jewelry?

C: It goes with EVERYTHING! And doesn’t overpower fashion and the overall look.  Every piece compliments her.

S: What are your favorite and least favorite trends for spring?

C: I love the bright color phenomenon and don’t really dislike any trend in particular.  Any trend looks bad when they are not used in a flattering way on a person’s body.

Check out Christopher’s website for more info on where you can get this fabulous collection!

http://christophercollinscollection.com/

Sikara utilizes semi-precious stones to create our Modern Fusion Jewelry and we like to take the opportunity to highlight each birth stone we use every month! This month, is Aquamarine, which is a precious stone and can be very expensive.

If there is a March baby is your life that you want to get a little something special and sparkly but can’t afford aquamarine-Sikara is here for you! Our semi-precious aqua chalcedony stone is featured is much of Sikara’s line, is gorgeous and a fraction of the price of aquamarine! Read on for some of our favorite new pieces featuring the aqua chalcedony stone! There might be a gift for your March baby!

These gold and aqua earrings from our Egpytian collection are only $115 and perfect for a March baby with understated, classic style!

If your March baby all about attention? Then gift this Capri inspired ring from our Italian collection!

This is a combination that few could resist! Beautiful stones and sterling silver settings make this necklace and bracelet a winning pair for one lucky March baby!

Happy Birthday! From Sikara!

They say they “save the best for last” and that phrase is never truer than at Paris Fashion Week!

After three weeks of fashion around the world, from NYC to London to Milan, Paris is where the fashion really takes flight!

Trends like exaggerated sleeves and loose silhouettes are taken to new levels in Paris!

The big trend was black and white but far from blase with splashes of bold color or graphic print! Here are our favorite looks!

All photos from NYMag.com*

Top: Andrew Gn and Bottom: Cacharel

[Read more →]

South by Southwest is a yearly music, film, and interactive festival. It highlights the latest, greatest and very best in music, film and technology. Since the world famous festival is in our hometown of Austin, TX, we figured it was our duty to make sure you’re flying sxsw in style and (hopefully) in Sikara! Denim is a favorite fabric to bring comfort with casual style and this spring, it has been reincarnated! You can find chic denim looks in skirts, shirts and even dresses. Here are some of our favorites from J.Crew (all available online) paired with sparkling Sikara pieces!

For all of the fashionable film lovers and creators: Pair a tailored denim skirt and top together with funky bangles and cool earrings for a polished look!

If you want to be a sexy tech guru without looking tart-ish, try this figure flattering but conservation denim dress with a flashy lemon quartz ring and matching earrings to add color!

If you’re just there for the music, play it as cool as you can in shorts and a button down denim shirt! Pair the look with a funky bracelet and necklace, so you won’t have to worry about jewelry flying off while you’re rockin’ out!

Whatever is on your SXSW agenda, have a great time, do it all with style and celebrate yourself!