trend alert: egyptian style.

The fashion runways for spring, summer and fall 2009 showed off a plethora of Egyptian details. Take a look at the Egyptian-inspired dress shown here from Donna Karan’s collection. This is one of the hot trends of the season and I was eager to add some exotic details to my own wardrobe. I recently purchased a gorgeous, black, sleeveless, silk top from Karen Kane with a beautiful, wide, round collar reminiscent of Cleopatra-era fashion. I can’t wait to wear it on a summer evening.

If you want to add some Egyptian-inspired pieces to your own closet, look for fashions with draping fabric, ornate scrollwork, beadwork and wide round collars. And don’t forget gladiator-style shoes.

Inspired by the Egyptian fashions around me, my jewelry collection now includes a new necklace and pair of earrings available on my online shop. The Greek Key Design Necklace features an Egyptian-inspired bib design, golden beads and Greek key charms.

The Greek Key Design Earrings also feature a dangling Greek key pattern. Both pieces are a simple, glamorous way to add Egyptian beauty to your style.

Love, Pauline xoxo

guide to gold jewelry.

Gold jewelry is back – spotted on runways, adorned by celebrities and sold everywhere. There was a time when I wondered if gold would ever come back, and now it’s hard to imagine how it ever left the forefront.

With gold in demand, more questions arise about the gold jewelry available. Especially in a time of tight wallets we all need to know about quality and cost to make the best gold jewelry purchases. Below are some facts to help you.

Love, Pauline xoxo

What is the difference between gold-plated, gold-filled, gold and vermeil jewelry?

Gold-plated jewelry is the lowest quality of gold jewelry, but it is also the least expensive. With time its gold may wear away.

The gold on gold-filled and gold jewelry will NOT wear away. 14kt gold-filled jewelry contains less solid gold content than 14kt gold jewelry which contains less solid gold content than 18kt gold jewelry.

Because gold jewelry is quite a bit more expensive than gold-filled jewelry, gold-filled jewelry is a cost-efficient option for a high quality product.

Vermeil has the look of solid gold but it is actually sterling silver covered with a heavy layer of gold. It is a beautiful product made entirely of precious metal.

Does gold jewelry tarnish?

Solid gold does not tarnish. However gold jewelry including gold-plated, gold-filled, 14kt gold, 18kt gold, etc. has an alloy that can cause tarnish and discolor the skin. The higher the gold content, the less likely the jewelry will tarnish. Discoloration can be caused by cosmetics, humidity or perspiration. If your skin discolors from a piece of jewelry, try wearing pieces with a higher content of solid gold.

How do I care for my gold jewelry?

If a piece of gold jewelry is plated, use a chemical-free cloth to be sure that the gold doesn’t wear away. Otherwise gold jewelry may be cleaned using a polishing cloth. Do not expose jewelry to household cleansers or to chlorine in a swimming pool. Do not wear your jewelry when bathing. Store your jewelry away from sunlight in a zip bag or cloth pouch.

a fresh, new autumn has arrived.

Oktoberfest, Halloween parties, Apple picking, Family gatherings, Pumpkin carving, Leaf raking, Thanksgiving feasts – the activities and events of autumn are in full swing! Eager to dig out my cold weather clothing, I feel rejuvenated wearing outfits that have been stashed away for several months. With a fresh perspective I mix and match last year’s clothes in new, exciting ways. My wardrobe has new life! As always I am pleasantly surprised to find a few pieces that I had completely forgotten about. I find myself more interested in accessorizing with warm scarves and cute, colorful socks. I am also donning some of my favorite fall jewelry pieces, such as the six strand copper bracelet and matching earrings. Enjoy the change of seasons, the sound of leaves crushing under foot, the feel of crisp, cool air and the colors, textures and styles of a new season!

Love, Pauline xoxo

pauline morgan at michigan boutique.

I am happy to announce that Pauline Morgan jewelry is now being sold at Moxie’s Boutique in St. Joseph, Michigan. This summer while on vacation I discovered Moxie’s in St. Joe’s historic downtown. Eclectic and edgy Moxie’s is known for its fashion forward apparel and accessories. This inviting shop is filled with antique displays, vintage mannequins and funky decor that make it a truly unique shopping experience. I myself purchased some chocolate brown tops in fun patterns and I also spied some bold, stylish handbags that were very tempting.

The exciting news is that Moxie’s has enthusiastically added my jewelry to their merchandise! If you are lucky enough to check out this boutique, co-owner Monica and her daughter Jessica will be there to help you find something special. And don’t forget to check out their collection of Pauline Morgan jewelry. One of their favorite Pauline Morgan pieces is the Stella Necklace. Happy Shopping!

Love, Pauline xoxo

summer collection. summer trends.

Summer weather is here and I have been working enthusiastically on my new collection. There is nothing more exciting than purchasing pretty beads and dreaming up new jewelry designs. My current interest is in layered pieces that are romantic and vintage. The My Heart Necklace that I designed and pictured here features a wonderfully romantic, brass heart pendant. My recent jewelry has taken a turn toward timeless beauty and Victorian-inspired themes while using the vibrant colors of the season.

Summer 2008 is definitely all about color. Be on the lookout for jewelry that is punctuated by vibrant cobalt blues, cantaloupe oranges, canary yellows, leaf greens and pinkish purples. Vibrant colors have always filled me with life and energy, and I think summertime is one of the best times for wearing them. When you are shopping for clothes or accessories, don’t be shy…reach for color.

Love, Pauline xoxo