Shells, Ribbons and Pearls

We were having dinner with Kari and Ben when the subject of jewelry came up. In the conversation Kari came up with the idea that maybe Dad should buy her jewelry and Ben could buy mine! This is because she appreciates nice jewelry! She can glow with excitement at the mention of Tiffany's. I, on the other hand, have frustrated my dear H with the whole, “I’d rather have fashion jewelry” thing. Not that I don't appreciate some special timeless things, but I really like the easy, inexpensive come and go jewelry that changes things up.
So, I browse through the latest jewelry racks and get excited about a pair of earrings that go well with a certain dress, or a different twist on cute a necklace. So, for a fun post I thought I'd share what I've seen done with necklaces. Things anyone can do.

I bought a few yards of ribbon, got out some of my longer chains and changed them up a bit.

This is a choker made with a string of shells. I looped it several times, twisted it and then added the ribbon to tie it in the back.

A longer chain can also be folded once and tied with a coordinating color of ribbon.

I have an extra long sparkly chain from Indonesia and have enjoyed wearing it looped twice (still long) but looping it several times and adding the ribbon, gives it a totally new look.

This final collage may not quite do the idea justice, but I like the idea of mixing the old with the new. Pearls, really a timeless classic, have found their way back in again, and I like their simple elegance and reminders of the past. Who says you can't be classy and trendy at the same time?