Summer is finally here. How'd it get here so fast? In Fort Collins, temperatures are continuing to rise as we enter another heatwave. We don't know about you, but when the weather starts to rise above 90 degrees, we tend to feel uninspired and a sort of 'brain-fog' when it comes to getting dressed in the morning. Times like this are when it's key to reach for easy, uncomplicated pieces in your closet and focus on ways to add interest with accessories.

How to refresh your classic pieces and create a wardrobe that will never go out of style.

A guide to styling a white button down; a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Introducing Talisman Fine Jewelry and the Designer

Vanessa Barcus

 

Talisman Fine Jewelry is a collection of sculptural, sustainably-made fine jewelry that evokes an abstract, modernist sensibility with an ancient feel. Designed by Vanessa Barcus, the line is entirely handmade using old-world lost, wax casting techniques in recycled 14k gold. Although designed as heirloom jewelry for everyday wear, the pieces each have a strikingly substantial look. 

 

Q1. What differentiates Talisman from other fine jewelry brands?

Vanessa: I design and hand make every piece, completely offline and the analog way. And when things are handmade you're going to feel that difference, you're going to feel that person's energy on it. My pieces also have a bit of weight on them because they're not hollow, unlike a lot of mass-made or machine made jewelry. Talisman jewelry stand on their own aesthetically and are made to be worn everyday. They ride the lines between everyday jewelry, sacred adornment, and art because they are sculptural too. 

 

Q2. What are the sustainable aspects of your jewelry?

Vanessa: I create products with intention and try to use as little new material as I can. All of my jewelry is made with recycled 14k gold, any diamonds I use are reclaimed instead of ones that are new or mined, and my packaging is wooden so it's reusable. Every process I can control, I try to do as sustainable as possible.

 

Q3. What was it like learning the metalsmithing and other creation processes? Was it something that you were always interested in?

Vanessa: I never thought I would be doing this when I was younger. I was more on the business side of fashion and owned a boutique in Denver called Goldyn. But jewelry making really called to me once I started learning metalsmithing and casting, and it really took over. It's been a really interesting journey and definitely challenging. You have to have a lot of patience, things take a lot of time especially the way I make my pieces, but I enjoy it. It's kind of zen to me, like meditation. 

 

Q4. What are the care instructions for your piece and how durable are they? 

The good thing about wearing solid gold is that you can shower in them or wear them in your sleep and they, for the most part, aren't going to tarnish. But they can become dirty, so even scrubbing them gently with dish soap is going to get rid of most of the grime. 

 

Experience the timeless elegance of Talisman Fine Jewelry, crafted with the highest quality material and craftsmanship to be cherished every day and treasured for generations to come. Adorn yourself with the essence of enduring beauty and leave a lasting impression wherever life takes you with these cherished pieces. 

How to style Tibi Fundamentals; timeless and versatile pieces that were designed to create space in your wardrobe for creativity and experimentation.

Ulla Johnson brings us the perfect collection for transitioning into fall. Printed with warm, radiant, and neutral patterns, Ulla Johnson is not willing to let us stray too far from embracing natural elements this fall. From gowns to knit turtlenecks, this Ulla Johnson collection is sure to add some statement pieces into your wardrobe.

About Tibi: Tibi is based off of the idea that fashion can be an expression of contradictions like bold and understated, masculine and feminine, and youthful and sophisticated. Designer and creative director, Amy Smilovik aims to create styles that allow women to express their personality while looking effortless and polished. Tibi is dedicated to creating quality pieces that will serve as fundamentals as well as a form of expression. 

Sophisticated and sexy, Sablyn pairs luxe cashmere and silk to create a beautiful and cohesive collection. Read more about the brand and the items available at Tula.

Effortless, sustainable, and versatile, the Frank and Eileen "Eileen" button down is a staple for us at Tula. Read more to find out about this piece and how stylist Taylor would style it. 

Effortless, chic, and subtly bohemian, we can't get enough of Raquel Allegra. Read to learn more about the designer and her fall collection inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe and New Mexico memories. 

This spring we are looking forward to incorporating more color into our wardrobe - allowing it to feel new, peaceful, and inspiring. We have favorited the colors "mother of pearl", "shades of butter", and "mango sorbet". Keep reading to see how we have styled these tones to create an elevated spring outfit.

We are planning to fill our spring with patio parties, wine-tasting, brunch with friends, and outdoor concerts. What are you excited to do? Whatever it may be, we have styled looks that will make your spring outings feel that much more effortless and joyful.