Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Keeping up with Trends




I have always kept up with trends and I guess my mom and grandmother always did as well. I do appreciate the new exciting designs that come out on the runways and in the magazines, but I do think there is something to be said for those who create there own style. These unique individual styles and the designer trends seem to always have a foot in the past. This is why I have always worn a vintage mix with contemporary fashions, together they create my own thang. The trends this season are lavender, rose, colorful flowers, flowered jewelry and plunging necklines(the dudes will be phyched). Pulling a few of these together with a vintage redesigned handbag and jewelry will set your outfit apart from the rest. I have always believed no matter what your style is if you have confidence and own the look, you'll look great! Mix it up for a look that is yours. del.ico.us.

Monday, March 16, 2009

The Elegance of the 1940's and 1950's





The 1940's and 1950's were all about elegance and style. Ladies with their fitted suits and Kelly bags were so amazing! The Kelly bag was named after the movie star Jean Kelly, the picture of elegance and poise. Another star that personified this style spanning all the way through the 60's was my favorite, Audrey Hepburn. Could you get more style and grace? Filigree pins and beautiful classic strands of pearls were all the fashion in the forties. Coming out of the 20's and 30's Deco period with geometrical angles led the forties in with softer lines and shapes. Ladies clothing fit the curvy lines of their bodies and accessories were more feminine with ornate details and flowers. The fifties led them even further into bolder fashions. The alligator bags and very colorful patterns were all the rage. To set the perfect backdrop for these styles the home interiors changed as well. In both the forties and fifties the furniture style took a bold turn from their classic wood styles from the past. New materials such as Bakelite and acrylics were used with formed plywood and chrome. This was a very exciting time for designers, we still take many of our modern design concepts from this period. Mid-Century design was and is
revolutionary to the design world! You have recycled in style by wearing retro redesigned jewelry. lisascala.com

Monday, March 9, 2009

Gem Stone Beads





I have always been amazed that these beautiful, colorful gemstones naturally come from the earth. Since I was a little kid I have collected rocks for there great shapes and colors. The science behind it is fascinating, but there seems to be something spiritual to it! I am so lucking to have access to these wonderful gemstones to use in my work. I love how they accent the vintage finds that I love to use in my work. Some of my favorite stones are moonstone, jasper, agate, quartz, lapis, amethyst, rose quartz, jade, I could go on forever. Thanks mother earth!(I'm such a geek)

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

What is Retro Redesign?


I define Retro Redesign as the process of combining hand picked vintage pieces with the unique forms and colors of semiprecious gemstones into the perfect new creation... something old is made new again - a current fashion sensibility with a vintage edge.
The result is handcrafted artisan jewelry and handmade gemstone jewelry that is nostalgic, yet contemporary.
Handcrafted beaded jewelry and natural gemstone jewelry come alive like never before when thoughtfully combined with a compatible element of days gone by.
Freshwater pearl necklaces and handmade beaded jewelry on their own can be consideredunique handcrafted jewelry, to a degree, but watch what happens when they are melded with a component of yesteryear! Truly unique handmade jewelry is what Retro Redesign is all about.
Our vintage edge gemstone necklaces and other creations are examples of custom fashion jewelry at its very best. lisascala.com

Touch of Asia







I have always been attracted and influence by Asian art and antiques. The quality, incredible craftsmanship and design are just a cut above rest. The design aspect ranges from very intricate carving to a simple elegance. I love to find these vintage Asian treasures to use in my work, there's nothing better than starting with an incredibly crafted piece to work with. The piece guides the design for me, I just bring it back to the honor that it deserves or the original artist deserves. I am very lucky to have access to these parts through my families antiques business it's in my blood! If you ever get a chance to go to a museum that has Asian art or antiques you should take the time to check them out, you will be amazed! lisascala.com