Bejeweled "Stilettos"

There's something I just love about Amy Adams, and I'm really smitten with her ensemble at the premiere of Julie & Julia this past Tuesday in Hollywood. Here's the breakdown of her outfit: “Aphrodite” dress in white by RM by Roland Mouret, nude suede “Maniac” pumps by Brian Atwood, and drop earrings and diamond bracelets by Tiffany & Co.

Below is a close-up of her earrings. I really like the simplicity of the long, lean drop (often called a 'stiletto' earring) and the briolette gemstone at the bottom. Want to find something similar? Here's a few options to shop:

Laura Munder 18k Gold Aquamarine Briolette Diamond Drop Earrings

JewelMak 14k Yellow Gold Lemon Quartz Diamond Drop Earrings

Platinum South Sea Pearl Diamond Convertible Drop Stud Earrings

Ring Envy?

If you watch The Bachelorette, there's been much reported about the Neil Lane ring given to Jillian by her new fiance Ed (pictured above). Made from platinum and a pear-shaped diamond accented with baguette and round diamonds, it hasn't been getting very much love from viewers.

I have to agree, as much as I love Neil Lane, that this ring isn't my cup of tea either. Negative reactions have mostly been pointed at the pear-shape, but I don't think that's the problem. I think it's the combination of the pear with the baguettes which gives off a heavy 1980s vibe. To then plop that on top of an ultra-feminine, vintage-looking design doesn't make much sense.

Need more engagement ring inspiration? Shop our ultra-glam selection now. What do you think about Jillian's ring?

Summer Sparkle

The red carpet is starting to see a lot of Gucci's Fall/Winter 09/10 collection, and I have to admit that I'm a sucker for some sparkle, too. Both Sienna Miller (left) and Megan Fox wore pieces from the line at premieres last week, but I think it's Megan who pulled the look off.

Sienna chose to do a head-to-toe look that was, in my opinion, overkill. I actually really like all of the pieces separately (although the pants don't seem to fit properly), but it's not easy to combine three different sequin/metallic patterns without looking like a Vegas sideshow. Megan, however, chooses just a jacket (Gucci's “Exit 30″ black match blue micro jacquard silk lurex boxy spencer jacket) paired with black jeans and a simple black top. Just enough shimmer for evening but with a rock 'n' roll edge.

Like the edgy glam look of Gucci? Shop our selection, which includes handbags, watches, jewelry and accessories.

Saddle Up

Because we work with such varied and fantastic consignors, we often get very unique and special pieces coming through the door. Take, for instance, this very cool Hermès Brown Leather Close Contact 17” English Saddle. Made of brown buffalo hide and finished with Hermès-stamped silver studs, this piece is the real deal.

After a little bit of research, I found out that "close contact" means that the rider, saddle and horse will literally be closer together because of the thinness and positioning of this saddle, allowing for the most interaction possible. Like all Hermès leatherwork, this equestrian gear is beautifully made by hand with only the finest materials.

Think you have something special to sell on Portero? Check out our How to Sell page for all of the details.

Prolific Prada

I was intrigued by an article in today's New York Times ("Prada's Brainchild Takes a New Twirl") about some of the new projects Miucca Prada (the designer of Prada) is working on. Besides her obvious penchant for fashion, Prada has also had a long love affair with art and architecture, and her prolific relationship with Rem Koolhaas has produced two flagship stores (New York and Los Angeles) as well as sets for the brand's fabulous Milan runway shows.

Now, Prada and Koolhaas are collaborating on two art/performance/ exhibition spaces, one in Seoul (the Transformer, pictured above) and one in Milan. Prada has always been candid about her appreciation for fine arts in any form, and these new multi-use, shape-shifting structures will be able to present fashion shows, exhibits and even run movies.

Definitely check out this great slideshow of the Transformer project in Korea, and then be sure to shop our collection of Prada. We stock everything from shoes to bags to watches!

Image via The New York Times/Prada

The Platinum Standard

I had a wonderful lunch yesterday with some members of the Platinum Guild team. PGI (Platinum Guild International) is an organization that promotes platinum jewelry to both the trade and the consumer, and even better for me, they work with editors to show us all of the newest and most beautiful pieces available.

I find that a lot of people don't know the difference between platinum and white gold, so here's a little intro primer straight from PGI:

–Platinum is a naturally white metal so it will not cast any of its own color into a diamond.
–Usually 95% pure (by comparison 18 karat gold is 75% pure), platinum never fades or tarnishes but keeps its natural white color for a lifetime.
–As platinum is so pure, it is naturally hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin.
–Found in very few places around the world, platinum is 30 times more rare than gold.
–Platinum does not change shape or wear away so precious stones are held firmly and securely.

Most people only think of platinum for an engagement ring or wedding band, but there are plenty of companies making beautiful, fashionable jewelry and watches out of platinum. This is particularly a great choice if you have any metal allergies because platinum is hypoallergenic. Plus, it just feels luxurious and sturdy in your hand--ounce for ounce, platinum is heavier than white gold.

Want to see some of my favorites on Portero? Check these out:

Tiffany & Co Platinum Diamond Hexagonal Band Ring sz 6.25

Patek Philippe Vintage Platinum Diamonds Manual Winding Women's 3267/32 Watch

GIA Certified Platinum 3-Stone 2.40 ctw Diamond Ring sz 6

Gumuchian Platinum 2.75 ctw Diamond Clip-On Floral Earrings

IWC Pilot Chronograph Platinum Men's Automatic Watch

'Mad' Style

Since the third season of Mad Men is premiering on August 16 (hurrah!), there's been a lot of talk surrounding the Emmy-winning drama. The upcoming season is set post-Cuban Missile Crisis (which means 1963 or after), so the clothes are a bit less 1950s and a bit more swinging '60s.

I personally can't wait to see what the costume designers come up with. So many stores and brands are really embracing this '60s office-chic look (check out Banana Republic's take on the trend, complete with a contest to win a walk-on role) and I think this will be a look that's hot straight through fall.

Want some ideas of how to incorporate Mad Men style in your own wardrobe? Here are some pieces that fit the bill perfectly:

Hermes Black Crocodile Sac Ring Bag @ 85% off

Rolex Vintage 1956 Precision Stainless Steel Manual Men's Watch

GIA Certified 5.85 ctw Blue Sapphire Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring sz 6.25 @ 59% off

Corcord Vintage 14k Yellow Gold Women's Quartz Watch

Chanel Vintage Cream with Fuchsia Camelias & Bijoux Trim Silk Scarf @ 54% off

Steal Her Style: Kristen Bell

Even though I just posted about Kristen Bell the other day, she's been looking particularly cute lately. That's why I thought I'd put together a group of accessories based on the outfit she wore to a Cosmopolitan party last week. I'm surprised to like her pairing of bubble gum pink with bronzy-metallics--I think it's a great way to make the super girly dress look sophisticated.

Although it's hard to tell in the pic, Kristen's sporting a champagne diamond ring by Le Vian. I'm a fan of this Gunmetal 18k White Gold Ruby Brown Diamond Woven Cocktail Ring sz 6.25. This one piece makes enough of a statement to keep the rest of your jewelry subtle, or not wear any at all.

Kristen's is printed, but you can't go wrong with this Calvin Klein Large Bronze Metallic Clutch Evening Bag. The size is just right to fit all of your essentials without scrambling for space.

Last, pick up this Hermes Miel Alligator Gold Buckle Belt to pull it all together. These three pieces will always look great together, so you could pair them with anything from a pair of jeans to a cocktail dress.

Louis Envy

It certainly seems like Aussie model Miranda Kerr has little to worry about. She's a fixture on the Victoria Secret scene, her boyfriend is heartthrob Orlando Bloom, and she looks this good even when traveling across the world.

One easy way to look like you're living the jetsetter's life is to splurge on a set of designer luggage. Miranda chose Louis Vuitton– a dog carrier, a rolling suitcase and the luxurious Mahina bag.

Take a look through our selection of LV luggage, most of which is about 50% off retail prices. Even if you're not quite as put together as Miranda when you're running through the airport, at least your totes will be in top form.

How do you Clutch?

I was looking through pictures of Vogue’s 1-year anniversary party for 3.1 Phillip Lim’s L.A. store held yesterday, and came across some great examples of the different styles of clutches popular right now. First of all, I love Lim, and secondly, I love the event's host Rachel Bilson (above, left). I think she has great effortless style--I mean, how many people could carry off a shiny shorts-suit?

Here she paired her Lim ensemble with a chic snakeskin bag. Go for snake if you like to mix-and-match patterns, because the natural look of the skin will always have variation. Want to get the same look? Try this Kotur Ayers Snakeskin Natural Pleated Clutch or shop our selection of snakeskin clutches.

Lisa Love, West Coast Editor of Vogue (above right) chose to go with a vintage leather envelope clutch. This is one of my favorite looks for a not-too-dressy event. Steal Love's style with this Bottega Veneta Vintage Bordeaux Woven Suede & Lizard Bag or shop our excellent collection of vintage clutches.


Lastly, take a look at cute Kristen Bell (above). She goes very Audrey Hepburn with a classic black satin clutch. (I'm coveting the whole outfit--plus those amazing diamond bracelets!) Check out this Judith Leiber Black Satin & Austrian Crystal Clutch Shoulder Bag if you like her style.

Images via Just Jared

Behind the Brand: Gumuchian

As a journalist, I'm always very interested in the history of a product or specific company. That's why I was excited to get this short video in my inbox this morning--it's the history of jewelry brand Gumuchian. This family-owned business got its start in the diamond trade, and today they're making gorgeous fine jewelry.

Want to learn more? Get the inside scoop on the company by watching the video above.

Also, be sure to shop our extensive collection of Gumuchian jewelry. If I had to pick, I would go straight for these:

Gumuchian Platinum Diamond Deco Drop Earrings. Very chic, and they'll stay in your jewelry box forever.

Gumuchian Matte 18k Yellow Gold Platinum Green Tourmaline Diamond Ring sz 6. The exceptional gemstone color paired with matte gold gives this stunner a gothic meets fashion feel.

Understanding Rolex

Ever wonder exactly why a Rolex will set you back so much? Yes, there's a coveted brand name attached, and sure, the watch is made of precious materials. But understanding exactly how much time, precision and artistry goes into each timepiece explains quite a bit about the price tag.

Take a look at the short video above for detailed information on the creation of a single Rolex, then shop our selection at fantastic values.

Video via RolexSavings

Hot Hobos

I'll admit I have a bit of a girl-crush on Rachel McAdams--how beautiful does she look here filming Morning Glory in NYC? I am also smitten with her Givenchy "Medium Eclipse Hobo". There's something about the boho-chic lines of a hobo that seem just perfect for summer. Plus, the slouchy, oversized shape allows you to really fit in all of your necessities.

We have a really fantastic collection of hobo bags right now, many of which would be a perfect summer handbag. Here are my top three Portero picks:

Carlos Falchi Metallic Light Gold Python Tote. The gold goes with anything, and the snakeskin says luxe all the way.

Bottega Veneta White Leather Signature Woven Stitched Leather Medium Hobo Handbag. The smaller size and light weight means it's the perfect day bag. Plus, you can never go wrong with the iconic Bottega Veneta basket weave.

Yves Saint Laurent Black Patent Leather Capri Large Flap Hobo Bag. This will take you through all of the seasons and never look a bit dated.

Boy Bands?

No, I'm not talking about pop music groups, I'm talking about engagement rings for men. Haven't heard of it? Well, according to Details magazine, men are 'increasingly wearing engagement rings' after being proposed to or after proposing themselves. In the story called "Would You Wear a Male Engagement Ring?" Guys weigh in on the debate.

Being engaged myself, I can see why women might want their fiance to wear a ring before the big day. Hey; if we are pointing out to the world that we're off the market, why shouldn't you? But there's also something fun and traditional about waiting to see the band on his finger after we're actually married.

What do you think about this subject?

If you're looking for a band for your betrothed, check out these options on Portero.com:

Links of London Textured Sterling Silver Band sz 8.5

Tiffany & Co Three Row Rope 18k Gold Band Ring sz 8.5

Portero Salutes the 4th

Although Independence Day just passed, I forgot to post this really cool image created completely from a selection of Portero's merchandise on Polyvore. Did you know you can head over to Polyvore to style your own outfits while shopping at the same time?

Check out these user-created sets that contain merchandise from Portero.com.

Sweet Skins: Nancy Gonzalez bags

I really like this '60s mod-inspired look on Hayden Panettiere. I definitely covet the cute Elizabeth and James dress, but I'm most drawn toward her bright purple Nancy Gonzalez clutch. (Although I'm not sold on the purple/pink color combo in this case.) I do love the addition of a bright bag in summer, especially when it's one of Gonzalez's exceptionally-made exotic skin totes.

Portero continues to stock quite a few of Gonzalez's bags, which is good news for shoppers. While the bags are a bit pricey, there's no doubt that the details make the price understandable. The designer uses materials like ultra-durable and luxe python and alligator, and the shapes are so classic that you never run the risk of being out of style. If I had the choice, I'd snap up this Nancy Gonzalez Grey Columbian Crocodile Shoulder Tote in a heartbeat. So chic!

Image via Just Jared

Amazingly, I found a photo that shows exactly how Independence Day looks from my own neighborhood. Pretty nice, right? No matter where you're celebrating the 4th of July, I hope you get a moment filled with family, friends and fun!

In honor of a weekend off, enjoy 10% off on us. Just enter code JULYTEN at checkout* and take advantage of holiday savings through Sunday, July 5.

As always, thanks for shopping with Portero.

*Discount excludes Hermes Birken handbags.

Pic of the Day: Marc Jacobs

You've got to appreciate Marc Jacobs' sense of adventure. Here he is, out and about in New York City, casually sporting a red kilt and a black Hermes Birkin bag. And, you know, why not? The man is a fashion icon and I think it's great that he plays around with gender-specific clothing and accessories and has fun while doing it.

Want to buy your own Birkin? Here are some of my favorites currently up for sale on Portero:

Hermes Brand New 30cm Vert Anis Swift Leather Birkin Bag

Hermes 30cm Barenia Alligator Birkin Bag

Hermes 35cm Camel Suede Birkin Bag

And don't forget to check out our excellent selection of Marc Jacobs accessories!

Art Investing 101

I can give you tons of tips for buying jewelry, watches and handbags, but I am no expert in art. Don't get me wrong--I love looking at art, and I know what I like, but sometimes it's better to get advice from someone with a bit more expertise. That's why I wanted to direct you to a great piece on Luxist called Ten Tips for Investing in Art.

Here's what author Tom Johansmeyer has to say in his intro:

If you put any faith in conventional wisdom, the best time to invest is when the market is at the bottom. So, there's no time like the present to put some cash into the fine art asset class. Hey, what passes for a solid performance these days is more than 70 percent off last year's levels. Before you invest anywhere, it pays (sometimes literally) to do your homework, and this is especially true with the art market. A fourth grade math education equips you to watch a stock prices ups and downs – and it is supplemented by what we pick up on the nightly news and (I hope) on the likes of BloggingStocks and DailyFinance.

Art, however, is different.

To understand this market, you're staring down the task of learning thousands of years of product history, in addition to a relatively illiquid marketplace in which prevailing tastes play a major role. You can carve this mammoth amount of information into smaller pieces, but you still need to identify a starting place. It's easy to get intimidated ... and also unnecessary. Take a look at the 10 tips below to make the art market a bit more accessible.

Definitely head over to read the piece in its entirety. Then, head over to Portero's art section that contains everything from Picasso to Warhol. There are definitely some great investment pieces available!