Robyn's Report

Red, White, Oh my.

2012-03-05T09:55:00.005-08:00

Not much has been appearing on the style horizon as of late. Thank goodness for the Oscars, where everyone showcases their newest and best in gowns, shoes and dazzling accessories. What trended this year? Red and white.

Jewel tones are still making waves in bright and bold solids paired with the ever-classic white. In addition to their coloring, all the gowns featured above have a long, sleek fit and simple elegance, with one sleeve or no sleeves. They might vary in design and draping, but one thing is for sure, classic colors are here to stay.

These gowns remind me of a simple candy cane, like our pewter candy cane ornament featured right. There are certain colors and traditions, like the candy cane, that will be around forever. A tree without a candy cane doesn't seem complete. Just as a wardrobe without classic solids is an empty closet. A traditional Christmas and a traditional gown are two things that will always be en vogue, even as styles change.

Photo courtesy of Star's Oscar fashion spread.

FREE Ornament set!

2011-11-23T12:40:00.001-08:00

Dress-a-Bear Auction

2011-10-13T11:06:00.001-07:00

The Lincoln Public Library in Lincoln, RI asked us to participate in their 2011 Dress-a-Bear silent auction to help raise money for library programs and materials. Above is our Gloria Duchin angel bear, dressed with wings and a halo along with a hand silkscreened Gloria Duchin tee shirt. Our bear is riding in a basket of clouds and includes two sets of our collectible angel ornaments for 12 angels in all!

More than 60 bears have been donated to the library including ours. If you live in the Rhode Island area, bidding on the bears begins on Monday, November 7th and ends on Friday, November 18th, with a gala party from 5:30-7:00 PM. For more information, please visit: http://www.lincolnlibrary.com/

Ice Cold

2011-09-28T09:05:00.000-07:00

Our last post was about fiery reds, on the other end of the spectrum we also have ice blue and silver, a classy and trendy pairing for the upcoming winter. Below, Blake Lively shows off the combination in two separate gowns that together are reminiscent of glittering ice crystals. Looking to add some frost to your tree? Below are some of our ice blue ornaments that would look great paired with large silver, glitter bulbs and translucent glass icicles.

Better off Red

2011-09-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

US Weekly released their fall 2011 fashion style guide and the pages were painted red. From shoes to pants to skirts to dresses, jewelry and shorts, everything this season is better off red.

For added fire, try pairing different russet hues together: brick and cherry or burgandy and fuschia. Or accessorize with a big and bold ruby ring.

Featured below is one of our favorite reds, our NEW pewter red wine bottle filled with red glitter and an adorable wine glass charm. And you can get it here before anyone else.

All That's Gold, Glitters

2011-08-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

The glitz is back as celebs step out onto the red carpet in golden dresses and gowns adorned with sequins, jewel and fringe for the maximum glam. Emma Roberts stepped out in a gold leather Miu Miu dress with a beaded collar. At her Horrible Bosses premiere, Jennifer Anniston went with a shimmering Valentino Couture dress with glitter and sequin details, and at her show in New Jersey, Taylor Swift dressed as a modern-day flapper with a fringed mini-dress. Each one of these golden girls shone from head to toe.But you don't have to be a celeb to shine. We've just released a new, matte gold filigree collection of ornaments. Each one is filled with Swarovski crystals in multiple cuts, shapes and sizes for all over sparkle. Available now, exclusively online.

Prints Charming

2011-07-27T07:57:00.001-07:00

What's in for summer? Adorable floral prints on fun, flirty, ruffles skirts and flowing sun dresses. Celebs are stepping out in brightly colored patterns large and small, and on Leighton Meester's Stella McCartney skirt (below) paired together.

Source: Star Magazine

This is a great summer look because it's feminine and sweet and can be dressed up with heels or dressed down with sandals. I think we'll see this evolve as the seasons change, with prints and patterns in deeper shades and longer dresses with the same tiered fabrics and ruffles.

Christmas in July. FREE KEYRING!

2011-07-06T12:34:00.001-07:00

Bling it On

2011-05-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

image from OK magazine.

The stars sparkle on the red carpet in sequined gowns from rose gold to midnight blue. The gowns range from cocktail length to skirts with draping trains for all-over glitter. With dresses like these, the celebrities minimized their jewelry and carried small clutches because their gowns shine on their own.

This is a trend we're happy to see making headlines since we love to use glitter in our designs. Above is our silvertone glitter poodle with a rhinestone collarm, our silvertone diamond ring and one of our new glitter intitals with a silver glitter star charm. The beauty of glitter is it can add glamour and whimsy to a piece.

Appreciation for our Troops

2011-05-04T12:27:00.001-07:00

Dave Rodgers, local RI native and former Navy SEAL, commented on the amount of skill and difficulty required in performing a successful mission such as this one. Although the names and identities of the highly secretive Navy SEAL team that killed Osama bin Laden will not be released, we can send them, and all of our troops serving overseas a hearty congratulations and thank you for their dedication and service.

Donations can be made to the Navy SEAL Foundation, benefitting U.S. Navy SEALs, SWCC, NSW Support Personnel, and their families.

Trend Flashback: Street Chic

2011-05-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

From our 2009 Trend Intelligence Guide, making a resurgence in popular fashion!

Street Chic is a youthful fashion trend reminiscent of the late 80's when graffiti art hit mainstream and teens danced to boombox beats in the streets of New York. Combined with some of today's newer styles, fashions include skinny jeans with oversize hooded sweatshirts painted in grafitti are or in bright colors with neon blue, yellow and green piping.

From People magazine, celebs like Khloe Kardashain, Anna Kendrick and Cameron Diaz are going street chic in brightly colored jeans, a fun way to break out of the winter blues for summer.

White Hot

2011-04-20T11:48:00.000-07:00

Who says you can't wear white before Memorial Day? The rules have changed. There are no rules! And celebs like Katrina Bowden and Busy Philipps are welcoming spring in fun, flirty, frilly white frocks.

White is a versatile hue that compliments a golden tan or fairer skin, brunettes and blonds, and provides a blank palette for accessorizing. What do you think? Who wears it best in this photo from Star magazine?

Pewter Perfection

2011-04-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

As we've reported before, metallics are shining for 2011. Gold, silver, bronze and the latest Hollywood fashion craze is pewter.

We're familiar with the metal, using it in our keepsake designs for over thirty years. Pewter is a popular substance for creating giftware and jewelry because of it's softness. It's easy to mold into intricate details and patterns and gives off a beautiful, matte sheen. Which makes it a perfect hue for red carpet gowns that mold to the figure and accentuate the natural glow of the wearer.

Sofia Vergara, Kerry Washington, Emma Roberts, Jessica Alba, Malia Akerman, and Blake Lively were all photographed in US Weekly wearing glittering pewter gowns in glam and classic styles, exposing the versatility of the metallic hue. We expect to see pewter becoming more dominant in fashion, giftware and home decor as the year continues.

Assorted pewter ornaments by Gloria Duchin.

What's Trending Now?

2011-03-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

City Garden from our annual 2011 Trend Intelligence(tm) guide, a perfect color and style trend for spring.

The concept of “going green” has evolved from a trend into a way of life. People are returning to a simpler time by changing the way they eat, clean, and shop. Labels like “local” and “organic” are important to consumers, as they are more interested in where their products are coming from and how they are made. This sentiment is becoming more and more important in the city, with the presence of farmers markets, the upswing of parks and public spaces, and the obsession with everything vintage.

In fashion, recycled metals are being made into chic jewelry and belts, paired with light and airy fabrics. Textiles are being dyed with vegetables such as beets and eggplant. Patterns and textures representing nature are found on the street and on the red carpet. A major trend in home décor is upcycling, taking the old and making it new, and when this isn’t possible, creating something new that speaks to the past. Retro chairs are refinished and paired with a reclaimed wood table. Plants are used to create an oasis amidst an inner city backdrop.

In Christmas décor, these same ideas hold true. Decorations are made from old or recycled items and scraps of unused fabrics. Ornaments represent nature in a modern, city-living kind of way. Trees are made from uncommon materials and are showcased as an art installation, while wrapping papers channel the past with their retro patterns.

Shop this trend with popular gardening keepsakes at gloriaduchin.com

Precious Metals

2011-03-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

Striking silvers and golds hit the red carpet at the 2011 Oscars ceremony. Halle Berry, Michelle Williams, Hilary Swank and other leading ladies decked out in form-fitting metallic gowns accented with jewels and feathers.

One thing you'll notice in the People Magazine photo above is the metallic hue of choice is predominantly silver. I think this is a trend that will continue through the year as silver gains its reputation for being the sleeker, shinier, more glam metal. Paired with bold colored accents, gems or sequins, silver looks rich and glamorous.

The Full Spectrum

2011-02-21T08:33:00.000-08:00

The New York Spring Fashion magazines shows designers using the full spectrum of color in this year's designs going from indigo to canary yellow.

Top: Maxmara, Cacharel, Emporio Armani, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein Collection, Prozena Schouler
Bottom: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Fendi, Prada, Versace, Akris, Diane Von Furstenberg

Top fashion designers are bringing spring to life with their multi-colored designs and we at Gloria Duchin are proud to present a new pet collection with the same brightly hued whimsy.

Coming this spring at CVS stores, purchase personalized pet accessories: key chains, large and small pet tags as shown above with sayings just for you and your pet.

In Love with SAG fashion

2011-01-31T11:13:00.000-08:00

In case you missed it, the 17th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards aired last night with Black Swan, The Fighter and the King's Speech leading the way in film awards. The little black dress was a token staple on the red carpet, but some love was in the air as stars like Katrina Bowden, Julianna Margulies, Jennifer Lawrence, and Angie Harmon embraced the spirit of Valentine's day with daring reds, feisty fuscia and pale pink.

A great way to accesorize a bright colored dress is with a simple piece of silver jewelry. For your Valentine's date, we have our new solid heart charm bracelet embellished with a siam Swarovski crystal that you can personalize for FREE with a one letter monogram on the front! GloriaDuchin.com

Tickled Pink

2011-01-18T11:31:00.000-08:00

What better way to chase away winter blues than with vibrant, confident, flirty, honeysuckle pink? Recently named Pantone's 2011 "it" color of the year, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, Leatrice Eiseman says, "The intensity of this festive reddish pink allures and engages."

The Pantone website has suggestions for wearing it, decorating with it and even charging in pink. If you just want to add a dab of honeysuckle to your life, I suggest carrying it on your keys with our silvertone pink "kiss" lips keyring. Add a charm and you can personalize it with your name.

Looking for more pink? This article has sixteen more ways you can brighten your life.

Factory Closeout Store

2010-10-28T07:12:00.000-07:00

For the first time in our 30+ year history, we are opening our doors to the public, selling some of our closeout ornamets at up to 50% discounts. The store opens this weekend, Saturday October 30, and will be open every weekend from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through December 19th.

Featured are just two of the ornaments we are selling, but we have hundreds of designs including: Baby's First Christmas ornaments, Our First Christmas ornaments, Teacher ornaments, photo ornaments, angel ornaments in bronze, genuine pewter, champagne gold and silvertone. All of them made in Rhode Island. Some of the items retail for less than $1.

If you happen to be in the New England area or are planning a trip here for the holidays, we would be delighted to see you. You can print out the coupon below and bring it with you for a free candy cane ornament.

Gift with Purchase

2010-10-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

This fall we partnered with CVS to create a gift with purchase program for their beauty department. A colleague of ours recently forwarded us an article about the program from Women's Wear Daily, a leading fashion, beauty and retail publication.

In the article, Cheryl Mahoney, vice president of beauty for CVS said, "We spent a lot of time thinking about the fall event, and did some consumer research to tell us what customers wanted. We found that she would respond to a gift-with-purchase."

The charms (star and lipstick featured below) were offered free to customers who spent $15 or more on beauty products.

Readers, do you agree? Does a gift-with-purchase entice you to buy or are you more driven by discounts such as buy-one, get-one free?

Flames of Hope

2010-09-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday October 9, is the annual Gloria Gemma Flames of Hope, Breast Cancer fundrasier. The entire city of Providence will be dressed in pink for a 5K walk downtown with booths, food, entertainment and a special water fire.

We have designed a new line of breast cancer awareness keyrings especially for the event: ornaments, keyrings and pins that can be purchased at the ER Card booth for $10 and under. With each purchase, we will donate $1 to the Gloria Gemma Foundation to help futher awareness and prevention of breast cancer.

If you are in the area, stop by and show your support in the fight against breast cancer.

Silvertone breast cancer charms keyring, pink epoxy shoe ornament with ribbon charm, Hope pewter bracelet with ribbon charm.

Viva Las Vegas!

2010-09-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas is the glitz and glam oasis in the middle of a barren desert. Together, the two offer bold colors, sequins, muted naturals and radiant sunsets. These two opposites converge to make Las Vegas one of the top getaway destinations, and the people who go there celebrate all the beauty Vegas has to offer with varying fashions.

Each hotel and casino in Las Vegas strives to be the brightest and boldest with artistic displays, shows and attractions. To the right is a photo of a gorgeous waterfall in the new City Center at the Wynn Hotel.

During the day, dress is casual: shorts and t-shirts to remain comfortable while walking the strip in the desert heat.

At night, the dress becomes more ecclectic. You'll still see some lingering casual-wear, but it's paired with suits and cocktail dresses. Solid colors are more prevalent than patterns or prints, and the "Little Black Dress" is so common, it's almost the Las Vegas uniform.

If you want a taste of Vegas without booking a trip, take a sneak peak at our new crystal martini keyring. Set with pink crystal stones in varying cuts, colors and sizes, this silvertone keyring even comes accented with two crystal cherries.

Trend information gathered by Ted Smalletz.

Here Comes the Bride

2010-09-07T08:38:00.001-07:00

This past weekend marked the end of summer, but not the end of the wedding season. According to the BrideTide blog, June is still the most popular wedding month but it's followed closely by August and September, stretching into October. For all of those 2011 Brides-to-be, their wedding journey has just begun.

Last month, the country celebrated the wedding of former-first-daughter, Chelsea Clinton, to her longtime love, Marc Mezvinsky. The cake, featured here, was made by Maarten Steenman of La Tulipe Desserts in Mount Kisco, NY. It was a 4ft tall confectionary dream made with 360 organic eggs, 50 pounds of sugar and 1,000 sugar flowers. The 500 pound cake was assembled in a single 48-hour shift.

If you're looking for elegance on a smaller scale (and a more affordable budget) take a look at our silvertone wedding cake keepsake. Makes a great favor or table decoration and weighs less than a pound.

South Beach Style

2010-08-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

by Katie Stone

With hundreds of nightclubs, boutiques and restaurants, South Beach attracts a culture of shoppers and partygoers. During the daytime, the streets are filled with neutrals and floral patterns. For the night scene, girls go glam in flirty dresses with bolder prints and varying cuts. To beat the heat, women wear thong sandals with gold-studded details.

The perfect backdrop for all of this color and style is the classic-Spanish design houses. White with red tile, beautiful open archways and palm tree landscaping.

Katie Stone, born in Atlanta, Georgia is a former intern at Gloria Duchin. She is currently a rising senior at Harrison High School and has plans to study international business in college.

A Charmed Life

2010-08-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

Charms are dangling everywhere; on necklaces, keyrings, bracelets, backpacks and cell phones. We've talked about personalization before, and charms are the latest way people have found to express themselves. A charm can represent an interest, a hobby, a family member, a birthstone or a favorite color. Grouping charms together can add depth to a piece of jewelry, make a color statement, and become a custom accessory - just for you.

We are pleased to announce our own charm program, coming soon to the CVS beauty department. Shown are our silver glitter star charm and pink lipstick charm, each includes a spring ring to clip to a bracelet, necklace, purse or keying. There will also be a high-heel shoe and sunglasses charm in multiple colors.

Jersey Shore Style

2010-07-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

The second season of MTV's Jersey Shore premieres tonight, bringing bigger poufs, tighter abs and deeper tans. Whether you (admit to)watching the show or not, the seven Italian-Americans on the Jersey Shore have become influences on pop culture and fashion, even garnering a front page article in the New York Times Sunday Style section.

Snooki, one of the favorite cast members on the show, was featured with an interview with her father. He doesn't understand what draws people to his daughter, but one fan says Snooki is so appealing because of her "delicious artlessness". She isn't the only one. Snooki has 300,000 followers on Twitter and by the end of last season, the show had 4.8 million viewers.

The cast members' unique style and catch phrases are spawning a deluge of Jersey Shore merchandise, including exclusive hair products, T-shirts and jewelry. Take a sneak peek at one of our Jersey Shore designs, a silvertone dog tag, hand silk-screened with "Jersey Shore Princess" with a Swarovski crystal accent and a pink glitter heart charm. Coming soon!

Providence Trend Report

2010-07-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

The hottest trends in Rhode Island right now range from crazy patterns to bright colors for summertime. In Craftland, for example, the really bright colors like red, yellow, green, purple, and blue fill up the store. As far as jewelry, charm bracelets, antique necklaces, and dangle earrings are everywhere, with heart-shaped key charms being a major hit for the charm bracelets. Floral dresses, striped skirts, and printed t-shirts are also top wears for the summer. Simple is no longer in. For every outfit whether it be a dress, pair of jeans and a t-shirt, or skirt, make sure there is something to make it stand out. Add a big belt or a colorful necklace to complete the look. Make a statement with bold colors, different designs, or handmade items. Looking unique is the new trend.
Katie Stone, born in Atlanta, Georgia is interning at Gloria Duchin for the week. She is currently a rising senior at Harrison High School and has plans to study international business in college.

Totally Tribal

2010-06-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been uninspiring for trends, but finally something new has arrived that we can sink our teeth into. Aftrican-style tribal patterns in bright and bold colors with a hand-crafted feel.

Celebs like Nicky Hilton, Heidi Klum and Katy Perry have been spotted taking a walk on the wild side with tribal short sets, bags and necklaces. (courtesy of Star Magazine)

This is a trend we think will likely continue to grow and stay strong through 2011. For the winter season, add some ethnic flair to your tree by decorating with our hand silk-screened African animals collection, our leopards ornament shown below.

Adopt-A-Pet Update

2010-05-10T11:10:00.000-07:00

This week our newest Adopt-a-Pet gift is featured in Life & Style magazine. It is an adorable GUND stuffed puppy with our Golden Retriever stamp necklace. The puppy barks when you squeeze him and you can personalize the necklace with engraving. The puppy and necklace come wrapped in a red gift bag with paw print tissue ready to send for Graduation, Father's Day, Birthdays or just because. Available exclusively at www.adoptapetgifts.com

We also had a guest entry up on the Halo Pet food blog last week about the entire Adopt a Pet Gifts line. You can read it here and learn more about what we're doing with Halo and the US Postal Service to help pets in need.

Think Pink

2010-04-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hollywood's hottest are stepping out in pink this spring going brighter and bolder than ever before. Kristen Stewart, Katie Cassidy and Kristen Cavallari were all spotted at red carpet events in hot pink. From In Touch magazine, designer Gaby Basora says the shade is confident and flattering on everyone. You can get your own hot pink summer fashions like the Rachel Rachel Roy twisted lace skirt shown below or the Rebecca Taylor strapless party dress.

Accessorize your pink spring look with our assortment of hot pink epoxy keyrings. Our silvertone shoe, cherries and lips keyrings are accented with glitter or CRYSTALLIZED Swarovski elements. Available NOW for under $10.

Command Attention

2010-04-19T08:54:00.000-07:00

Going green has new meaning this spring and summer with military and camouflage fashion coming back in style. Both Balmain's Christophe Decarnin and Marc Jacobs collections for Spring/Summer 2010 showed military looks on the runway, and the celebs have jumped right into fatigues and field jackets.

Who's wearing it? Gewn Stefani, Rachel Bilson, Rihanna, and Kate Moss to name a few, reports People magazine and WhoWhatWear.com.

We've spotted a similar trend in our collections as well. One of our always top performing ornaments is a pewter military photo frame with CRYSTALLIZED Swarovski elements. (shown below) For more information or to order, please visit http://www.gloriaduchin.com/

Pets on Parade

2010-04-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

On March 28, Macy's annual flower show in Manhattan opened with a parade of pets. The four-legged parade goers were dressed in their spring finest, from a cat in a mouse hat to a pig in a burberry coat.

From the New York Times

If you and your furry friends missed the parade, you can still dress your pet up in our Adopt-a-Pet ID tags and buy some jewelry for yourself! All of our gifts are MADE IN THE USA, lead and cadmium free so you can keep your loved ones safe and healthy. www.adoptapetgifts.com

In the Nude

2010-03-29T13:18:00.000-07:00

From the pages of the style magazines, it's obvious that metallics are still playing a major role in fashion. From gold, silver and bronze to the newest shimmering hue: NUDE. The glittering shade is a softer, more neutral golden tone that can bring out the healthy glow of any skin color.

Jennifer Anniston, Emily Blunt and Gwyneth Paltrow were all spotted in nude gowns this seasons.

Try mixing this new shade with other metallics. Our goldtone Faith bulb below is hand silk-screened with soft copper and blue metallic, accented with silver glitter, and tied with nude glitter ribbon.

Adopt a Pet Gifts

2010-03-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

Today marks the launch of our Adopt a Pet gifts, available for purchase at http://www.adoptapetgifts.com/. With each sale, you will be helping to feed the millions of homeless shelter animals across the country. In partnership with Halo Pets, we will be donating $1 from each item to the Halo Pet Foundation's million meals program.

The collection includes a variety of jewelry and accessories, all featuring the Adopt a Shelter Pet stamps offered by the US Postal Service at StampsToTheRescue.com. All jewelry items are lead-free, MADE IN THE USA, and most can be personalized with engraving for a one-of-a-kind gift.

Help spread the word! Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/adoptapetgifts and stay up-to-date on news, specials and contests. Enter our Name that Pet contest now and win an engraved dog or cat charms keyring. Two adoptable pets, courtesy of the Humane Society of Central Oregon and FreeKibble.com are in need of names. View their photos at http://www.adoptapetgifts.com/ and Tweet your entry using #namethatpet

A Night at the Oscars

2010-03-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

The stars made a statement at the 82nd Annual Academy Awards this past weekend by stepping out in stand-out colors and unique gown shapes says USA Today. From bold solids and patterned dresses to frilly pastels and glittering metallics, the formal wear came in every cut and hue.

Vera Farmiga of Up in the Air wore a bright fuscia Marchesa gown that she says, "Reminded me of a peony in bloom." Rachel McAdams opted for a pastel Elie Saab gown with a romantic watercolor feel. Sandra Bullock, winner of the Best Actress award for The Blind Side, glittered along with the Swarovski crystal curtain in her form-fitting metallic Marchesa gown.

Kathryn Bigelow made a splash as well, but not because of her formal wear. She is the first woman to ever win the award for Best Director for her work on, The Hurt Locker.

Decorate like a star with our pewter crosses that incorporate all of the hot themes from the Oscars: pastels, sparkling Swarovski crystals, and bold hues.

Feeling the Blues

2010-02-24T08:21:00.000-08:00

Both Town & Country and House Beautiful magazines say that blue is the leading color of the season. Is this trend perhaps due to the success of Avatar? Maybe. But interior designer Kristen Panitch says, "Blue is the most versatile color out there. It's subtle, It's strong. It's warm, it's cool, it's a neutral. It says a lot in a quiet sort of way. Blue never shouts." From cobalt to periwinkle, blue comes in all shades and depths making it a color that can be easily worn or draped on a wall.

Blue has always been a staple for the holidays. This year, decorate your tree with our blue glitter tree photo ornament. New for 2010!

Love is in the Air

2010-02-09T09:02:00.000-08:00

Love is in the air as we prepare to celebrate Valentine's Day this Sunday. Stars have already been spotted in their Valentine's Day jewelry and red mini dresses. You can be red carpet ready this weekend at a fraction of the cost.

Of course if you're looking for a special Valentine's gift, you can never go wrong with chocolate and jewelry. Go to your local CVS and purchase a box of Dove's chocolates and get one of our silvertone heart necklaces for FREE! Features a beautiful open heart design with a genuine Swarovski crystal packaged in a heartfelt poem box!

A Rainbow of Hues

2010-02-02T08:21:00.000-08:00

A rainbow shone over Hollywood and at the end, the pot of gold was the coveted SAG award. Stars dressed in vibrant jewel-toned gowns, or opted to go colorless, in dazzling white frocks. Below is just a sampling of the colors:

Christina Hendricks in a ruby red Christian Louboutin, Diane Kruger in a mustard yellow Jason Wu, Lea Michele in an emerald green Malandrino, Tina Fey in a sapphire blue Salvatore Ferragamo, and Anna Kendrick in an Alberta Ferretti. The celebs were not afraid to reach into the depths of the color palette to make their red carpet looks.

We don't shy away from color either here at Gloria Duchin. Get a special sneak peak at our new 2010 glitter initials in colors from pink, to purple, red, blue and green. Accented with silver glitter star charms and glitter chiffon ribbon for added sparkle.

The Golden Globes

2010-01-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

If you missed them, Avatar took home the prize for best drama, Martin Scorsese was awarded the Cecil B. DeMille Award and the stars arrived on the red carpet in a rainbow of colors. Halle Barry, Jennifer Anniston, and Penelope Cruz wore black. Emily Blunt donned soft rose, Sandra Bullock dressed deep purple and (shown below) Anna Paquin is in a gold Stella McCartney gown, Zoe Saldana in a cranberry Louis Vuitton frock and Kate Hudson in a white Marchessa dress.

For the upcoming fall season, we are really excited about the combination of cranberry and gold above. We feel it portrays a regal yet modern statement for holiday decor. Our new burgandy and gold filigree gift box debuted this season, and we are bringing it back for 2010.

Inside is a sneak peek at one of our new family hearts, but if you can't wait, we have some of our classic designs for sale at discounted prices to honor National Heart Month. Please visit us at: http://www.gloriaduchin.com/.

Tranquil Turquoise

2010-01-11T13:06:00.000-08:00

The Associated Press announced this weekend that turquoise was selected as the color of the year by color supply company, Pantone. It is a far cry from the hopeful shade of mimosa yellow that they designated for 2009, but Leatrice Eisemen, executive director of the Pantone Institute, feels turquoise is the perfect color for a new year: serene, invogorating and illuminating. Designer Lilly Pulitzer agrees, calling the blue-green hue "transporting" and "universally appealling".

We at Gloria Duchin have long been a fan of the color and use it often in our packaging designs, like our Serenity angel box below. We see turquoise making a strong statement in the fall and winter of 2010, paired with complementary shades of purple.

Fabulous in Fuscia

2009-12-22T12:40:00.000-08:00

Celebs are shedding their winter blues for brighter shades of fuscia and raspberry reports US weekly magazine. Red carpet divas like Selena Gomez, Ginnifer Goodwin, Mischa Barton, Nicole Kidman, and Sara Jessica Parker were all spotted this season wearing dark pink gowns in a variety of lengths and styles.

Something else that is fabulous in fuscia is our silvertone pink flamingo ornament filled with bright pink epoxy. There is still time to find him and our other collectible ornaments at a retailer near you!

We will be closed for the holidays from December 23rd through January 4th, but we wish you and yours a merry season and a happy new year!

Colors of the Season

2009-11-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

The New York Times Sunday style section featured a beautiful color-blocked street fashion spread, inspired by the colors of nature. Central park is aglow with red, orange and lavender and the women of the city are shedding their black and gray for bolder colors.

The colors found in nature have always been my greatest inspiration when designing new collections and packaging. In fact, our Angels of the Season collection, available in stores now, was a concept based on the changing of the seasons and the new colors that each one brings.

The angels are packaged in collectible story boxes in shimmering metallics paired with bold hues, and each angel design represents a changing season and the joy it brings.

To find a retailer, please visit www.gloriaduchin.com

Angels Amongst Us

2009-11-16T11:53:00.000-08:00

As described in scripture, Angels are messengers and mediators, sometimes appearing in human form, sometime in spiritual form. Some people today claim to have seen an angel at some point in their lives, but a personal encounter is not necessary to believe.
from the American Bible Society's, Angels and Miracles

The importance of angels always swells during the holiday season as we celebrate the wonders that only Christmas can bring: faith, togetherness, and giving. Our new 2009 angel collection, Angels to Watch Over You, includes six individual designs, a perfect gift for someone you know who may need an angel this year.

The six designs are Love, Protection, Serentity, Prosperity, Dreams and Guidance, and each one is packaged in a collectible story box with inspirational scripture from the Bible. The collection is available at CVS stores for only $5.99 each.

All About Baby

2009-11-10T07:01:00.000-08:00

I just received the latest issue of the New York Times Style magazine and discovered it was all about baby, showcasing the latest in high-end children's fashions and gifts.

Designer Cynthia Rowley was featured in a two-page spread that focused on her family life and her exclusive baby collection at Babies R Us that includes adorable silver sneakers and tuxedo bibs.

Some of the other hot winter gifts included a therapeutic stuffed hippo by Renate Muller, a retro owl clock by the Vitra Design Museum and adorable monster boots and shorts available at kidorable.com and sweetwilliamltd.com respectively.

If you're looking for a silver shoe to put on baby's tree instead of his feet, check out our silvertone baby bootie keepsake available at walmart.com.

A Night for Frights

2009-11-03T06:49:00.000-08:00

Halloween came and went this past weekend, bringing with it the beginning of the fall and winter holiday season. Children and adults alike, dressed in their scariest costumes to indulge in tricks and treats.

On Sunday, the New York Times published their favorite photos from Christmas in New York. The residents of Chelsea, lined their stoops with candle lit Jack-o-Lanterns while Bergdorf Goodman's Fifth avenue window glittered with a crystal spider web. A wrought iron balcony in Gramercy Park is a veritable city-style pumpkin patch.

Hallweeen may have passed for another year, but there is no reason you cannot keep a piece of it with you. Our black glitter cat keyring is great for any time of year with a glittering stone collar. Available at select CVS stores.

Modern Goddesses

2009-10-27T07:59:00.001-07:00

The Wall Street Journal style section featured an article this past Sunday on the re-emergence of Grecian style gowns appearing in droves on the fashion runways and red carpet events. Designers such as Donna Karan and Monique Lhuillier presented their modern version of the toga during New York Fashion Week last month, the dresses characterized by draped or pleated fabric and ruching.

The popularity of Grecian gowns are due to their ability to flatter almost any body style and their comfortable femininity which is why celebrities like Hilary Swank have chosen to wear them for their premiere events.

Our latest collection of angel ornaments, the Angels of Inspiration, are crafted in similar gowns, with flowing bottoms and bunched sleeves. To find a retailer, please visit our website.

It's Never too Early...

2009-10-19T13:50:00.001-07:00

...to start your holiday shopping. Many of our retailers have set our Christmas collections and our customers have informed us that certain styles are already sold out. The Associated Press reported that retailers are favoring more traditional holiday decor this season; with red, green and gold, tartan plaids and family-oriented gifts and merchandise.

Our recent sales reports are reflecting the same trends. Our photo ornaments are wildly popular, as well as our family hearts and stars, and our remembrance collections.

To find a retailer, please visit our website http://gloriaduchin.com/features/?id=6

Mod Gets the Nod

2009-10-14T12:33:00.000-07:00

'With our continued interest in mid-century decor, it's no surprise to see pop art back for a visit' says Kim Cook of the Associated Press about Mod home decor making a comeback. 'Think of Roy Lichtenstein's blown-up comic book art; 2001: A Space Odyssey and Andy Warhol's Campbell's soup can.' The bright colors and sleek, space influenced designs are sure to bring a lively mood and a nostalgic feel to any space.

For some mod in your stocking this year, look for our silvertone lips keyring with red glitter and Swarovski crystal dotted "Kiss".

The Red White and Blues

2009-10-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

As a follow-up to last week's Emmy fashion report, US magazine spotted another color trend that appeared at the event: red, white and blue. Although not intentional, the rich jewel colors that the celebs chose for their red carpet gowns make a very patriotic color statement.

This bodes well for a resurgence in Americana themed fashion and home decor for this fall and winter. Some of our most popular Christmas ornaments are from our Patriotic collection, such as our pewter glitter flag heart with Swarovski crystals and our NEW "Made in the USA" blue swirl photo frame featured below.

Emmy Fashion Trends

2009-09-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

The weekly magazines released their Emmy fashion reports this week, forecasting several new trends in fashion and design. What I liked most about the gowns at the awards show was the use of color. Celebrities branched out from black, white and red, and incorporated fuscia, navy and shimmering gold.

Some of the other trends spotted at the event: intricate lacing as seen on Olivia Wilde's Marchesa gown, glittering stones and metallics seen on Christina Applegate and Sandra Oh, and ornate jewelry pieces such as large brooches.

When I was looking through the fashion pages at the use of color and stones, I thought about our pewter Mother heart and Father star ornaments. We updated them this year with fuscia and sapphire Swarovski crystals with matching chiffon ribbons. They make beautiful gifts for family members and add red-carpet color to your tree!

www.gloriaduchin.com

New York State of Mind

2009-09-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

The landscape of New York is in a constant state of evolution, from the Financial District to the Upper East Side. The island of Manhattan is currently going through an architectural Renaissance, modernizing the look of the city and turning once avoided neighborhoods into shopping and dining meccas. The lastest issue of Elle Decor, describes some of the latest additions to the city including the Bowery's New Museum pictured below, designed by Japanese architecture firm SANAA.

One of my favorite new sites to visit in New York is the High Line park. The urban park is a revitalization of a 1930s elevated freight train track and just opened to the public this past June. Visitors to the city can also stay above the park in the Standard New York Hotel (featured below). Although the skyline of New York City is always changing, the city always remains on the forefront of culture, fashion, architecture and design.

Beatlemania

2009-09-14T06:57:00.000-07:00

The remastered versions of the Beatles entire catalog was released on iTunes on 09/09/09, on the same day "The Beatles Rock Band" video game also hit store shelves. Their music has lived on for more than forty years, and their eccentric fashion sense that expressed the creativity and individuality of their songs has also proved the test of time.

Source: Design-Options.com

Bright colors, shimmering fabrics, sequins, glitter and military style fashion jackets are still seen on celebrities today. The Fab Four broke all of the rules in fashion and never stopped experimenting with their own style. Express yourself with some unique designs in your home, on yourself, or even on your Christmas tree this season.

Pewter butterfly with psychadelic yellow glitter epoxy by Gloria Duchin.

A Day at the Met

2009-09-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, my husband and I took a trip to New York City, to view two great exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The first was a photography exhibit entitled Napoleon III and Paris. Taken from the museum's personal collection, the photographs told the story of the changing landcape in Paris during the Second Empire. The city's narrow streets and medieval buildings were transformed into the broad boulevards and grand public works that define Paris today. The story of the revitalization was told through the photographs.

The second exhibit was Roxy Paine on the Roof: Mailstrom, a 130-foot-long by 45-foot-wide stainless steel sculpture created for the roof garden. The impressive sculpture gives visitors the impression of being immersed within nature.

Our last adventure in New York was to see the documentary, The September Issue, directed by R.J. Cutler about Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue Magazine. September is the Janury of fashion, so R.J. Cutler exposed the process of creating the September 2007 issue of Vogue Magazine that weighed almost five pounds. Currently the movie is only playing in New York City, but the national release is scheduled for this Friday. If you have any interest in the fashion industry, I would recommend seeing it.

Amethyst

2009-08-31T09:13:00.000-07:00

The deep and rich hue of Amethyst is taking the stage this fall in fashion, home decor and accessories. The latest issue of Elle Decor magazine published a feature on the regal color with samples of fabrics, evening gowns, rings and even drawer pulls all in the fabulous shade of purple.

Of course, here at Gloria Duchin, we spotted the growing amethyst trend last year and designed our new box for this season in a deep purple with a beautiful filigree design. Be sure to look for our ornaments in our new box at a mass market retailer near you this Christmas!

Zip it up

2009-08-25T11:24:00.000-07:00

On the trend pages of the new Star magazine, I found a new style emerging in fashion from shorts, to bags, to bracelets and shoes. Extraneous zippers are appearing in straight lines to zig zags, making a biker-inspired statement.

Looking for more biker-chic accessories? Try our pewter motorcycle keyring featured below.

To find a retailer, visit our website at www.gloriaduchin.com

Travels Near and Far

2009-08-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

For this year's vacation, my family and I took an Alaskan cruise and sailed the Inside Passage to the Hubbard Glacier. Glacier ice is greatly compressed and when up close, it has an amazing bright blue hue that appears to almost be layered throught the ice.

The water is pure, and the area attracts wonderful sea life like otters, seals and whales that we were able to view in their natural habitat. The scenery was breathtaking, and I was inspired by nature's palette of vibrant colors: sky blue, emerald green forest, and crystal white ice.

The shimmering crystal of a Winter Wonderland will be a popular decor theme for this season, featuring sparkling stones and pale sky blues, silver and white. Our new Winter Wonderland snowman collection will be hitting the shelves this season. The assortment features six adorable snowman designs, each packaged in a collectible story box.

Matte Gold Jewelry

2009-07-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

This week, I spotted a new trend in jewelry in the lastest issue of In Style magazine with cover model, Katherine Heigl. Bracelets, bangles, earrings and necklaces are turning gold, crafted in ornate filigree designs with bright stones and pearl accents. The pieces are large, and add a regal element to an outfit without costing a fortune.

Some of my favorite pieces for the holidays are from our matte gold collection as well. Below is our matte gold filigree cross ornament with a Swarovski crystal in the center, available at www.gloriaduchin.com.

Stay Cool in the Shade

2009-07-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

For hot summer trends nothing is more appropriate to report on then fun in the sun shades. In Life and Style Magazine this week, they feature a page of celebrity sunglasses.

The large plastic frames speak to the 70's and 80's, and the bright colors of turquoise, pink and purple make them fun accessories to coordinate with summer fashions. I also like that you can purchase a pair for yourself for around $10.

Life and Style suggests:
Women with a round or oval face look great in trendy Wayfarers, while shield styles flatter those with square or heart-shaped faces.

Still don't think you could pull off a pair of hot pink shades? Then accessorize more subtley with our genuine pewter cat eye glasses pin with Swarovski crystals!

Musical Influences

2009-07-07T09:07:00.000-07:00

I often discuss the great influence that celebrity culture has over fashion and decor, and the musical stars of our time have probably inspired more styles than any other.

The latest issue of Elle magazine is their music issue, and they point out several fashion movements over the decades that can be directly related to the pop charts. There was the 70's inspired peasant tops, the 80's inspired spandex and leather, the 90's flannel shirts and tattered jeans and today it's a mixture of everything in-between. Many designers and celebs are cashing in on this musical influence as well, such as Elle cover girl Gwen Stefani with her L.A.M.B. fashion line and Marc Jacobs with his rock and roll designs.

Coincidentally, millions of fans are in Los Angeles today to celebrate the life and mourn the passing of one of the most influential pop stars of our time, Michael Jackson. His red leather jacket and single-sequined glove started a worldwide fashion movement that will never be forgotten.

On the Streets of San Francisco

2009-06-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

I missed my blog posting last week because I was out of town, taking in the styles and trends of glorious San Francisco. The mood was upbeat and the residents wore their summer cheer on the outside in the form of bright neon colors in day-glo green, orange and pink. Coincidentally, the latest issue of People magazine features a spread on neon fashions, which after my trip, I would have to say is most likely inspired by the streets of San Francisco.

One of the more popular icons I saw was the Peace sign. Seeing young fashionistas with their peace symbol necklaces reminded me of the Haight-Ashbury district in the 60's. When I returned to Gloria Duchin, I took out our genuine pewter peace sign ornament, shown below, that looks exactly like some of the pendants I saw on the west coast.

We also had the great pleasure of seeing the Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams exhibit at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. It was interesting to see the similarities between the two artists impressions of nature, through paint and photography. If you are in the Northern California area this summer, I would make it a point to stop by.

Turning to Turquoise

2009-06-16T09:38:00.001-07:00

Turquoise is a trend that we haven't seen in a while, but it appears the bold and bright, blue-green hue is making a comeback. In Touch Weekly spotted celebs across the red carpet wearing mini dresses and jumpers in various shades of turquoise. The magazine suggests that you pair it with muted colors such as gold, black, and white to achieve the Hollywood look.

You can do the same for your Christmas tree with this year. Wrap your tree with gold wire ribbon and fill in holes with shatterproof gold bulbs. Then dress it up with our hand silk-screened turquoise and lavendar bulb ornament!

A French Wedding

2009-06-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

It's June so wedding season is in full swing. In the latest issue of Veranda magazine, they covered the wedding of New York interior decorator and stylist Kelly (Kapika) d'Halluin to Nicolas d'Halluin that took place in the quaint countryside outside of Paris.

The couple's color scheme was green and brown, and if you recall, last year one of our designers posted a blog about her sister's wedding that featured the same colors (A Naturally Modern Wedding). I think this shows us that naturals like brown, taupe, green and ivory are a continuing trend in the wedding world. So are natural elements. The d'Halluin wedding features a bouquet with butterfly accents, a wedding dress with feathers and table decor with log vases and model birds in their nest.

The natural aspects of the decor adds to the simplicity of an outdoor, garden wedding. Featured, below is our pewter lovebirds keepsake with crystal charm. This would have been a perfect addition to their wedding as a tie on around wine glasses or as a napkin ring.

Gloria Duchin Adds More Green to The Season

2009-06-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

Released June 3, 2009 - East Providence, Rhode Island

Gloria Duchin, Inc continually researches new ways to improve their operations, from designing new, trend-based keepsakes and gifts to making their overall production more efficient and environmentally-friendly. This year, Gloria Duchin is proud to announce that they’ve made greener changes to their 2009 ornament boxes.

The Gloria Duchin packaging has always been made from recycled cardboard, but the new boxes utilize an alternate coating that makes them 100% recyclable as well.

“Quality and design are our top priorities at Gloria Duchin,” says company President, Robyn G. Smalletz, “We spend the majority of our time investigating trends in fashion and color as well as manufacturing so that we can provide more value to our customers.”

Several years ago, Gloria Duchin added to the design of their boxes by printing a “To and From” area on the back. With their beautiful designs, a Gloria Duchin ornament makes a great gift for under $10.00 without the use of additional wrappings or bows.

The new ornament line can be found at mass market retailers nationwide this holiday season. For more information or to locate a retailer, please visit http://www.gloriaduchin.com/.

New Gloria Duchin "Family" Photo Ornament in their New 100% Recyclable Purple Filigree Gift Box!

Lined with Stripes

2009-06-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've seen stripes make headlines, but here they are walking down the runway and covering home furnishings from chairs to plates and even silverware.

"Thick or thin, multicolor or monochromatic, nothing brings a crisp edge to a room like a stylish array of parallel lines." says Anita Sarsidi of Elle Decor magazine.

Pair stripes with coordinating patterns or solids to give motion to your decor, and for Christmas try hanging your ornaments from your tree with multi color stripe ribbon.

Gloria Duchin silvertone initial "A" ornament with pink and brown striped ribbon.

Sparkle Up Your Space

2009-05-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not updating the blog last week, but I was out of town for the better part of the week. While I was out, I did find the time to glance through the latest issue of People though and found a great upcoming home decor trend from Dress My Nest's Thom Filicia.

I've noted several times in my blog that metallics are a hot runway trend(Metallics Continue to Shine). Filicia made the same observation and provides some suggestions on how to translate the red carpet into home decor.

Thom says, "Silver shoes bring that pop to an outfit. Silver home accents do the same for your interior."

How about bringing a little POP to your Christmas tree this season as well. Below is our dapped silvertone angel ornament. Look for her and more of our shimmering ornaments at great pricing this summer on Kmart.com and Sears.com!

The Names Have Changed

2009-05-11T09:43:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated Mother's Day, and as a mother, it is interesting to me to know what the newest moms are naming their babies. On Friday, the Social Security Administration released the top baby names of 2008 and Emma took the number 1 spot, leaping over Emily, which has been the leader for some time. I often comment on how pop culture influences fashion and decor, but the baby name list shows how it also influences our lives, or at least the names of our children.

The name Khloe made the largest leap of any name in the top 1,000. The "K" version of the name took a rocket ride from 667 to 196 last year which the SSA mused in a statement that reality TV star Khloe Kardashian was the reason for the Khloe climb. The name Miley also climed 100 spots to number 127 on the list. For boys, not a single name in the boys' top five changed positions: Jacob, Michael, Ethan, Joshua and Daniel all kept their places from 2007.

Just for fun, we've printed the top baby names from today and 50 years ago on the back of our Initial Impressions packaging for our silvertone initial ornaments. If you think the changes from year to year are interesting, look at what's happened in naming over the last 50.

To purchase, visit www.gloriaduchin.com or your local Menard's store this holiday season.

Coral's Making a Splash

2009-04-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of Elle Home Decor predicts that coral will make its way from the runway into the home. Branching patterns are woven into fabrics that take the form of tablecloths and curtains. Orange accent chairs have a smooth and natural, waterlike movement and walls are splashed with reddish hued paint.

If the evolution of trends stays the course then we are likely to see coral moving into the mass market segments by next year and possibly the holiday season with the warm autumn colors expanding into winter.

Grey Gardens

2009-04-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already seen the HBO original movie, Grey Gardens, I recommend that you do. The film is based on the lives of "Big Edie" and "Little Edie" Bouvier Beale, two charming eccentrics who were relatives of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. They led an interesting riches to rags life, ending up in almost total isolation in a decaying, 28-room mansion in East Hampton

While I was watching the film, I was enchanted by the decor of the mansion before the ladies ended up in squalor. The rooms were decorated in ornate, Art Deco style furnishings in rich purple and gold. This week's People magazine feature a snapshot of one of the rooms shown below.

I've mentioned time and time again that purple is a lead color in today's fashion and home decor trends. For a Grey Garden's style Christmas, look to our collection of matte gold ornaments, like the partridge in a pear tree featured above and tie it to your tree with rich purple ribbon.

Bo Knows

2009-04-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

Although the First Puppy will be officially introduced tomorrow, the news of the new addition to the White House has already been leaked. Senator Ted Kennedy presented "Bo", a portugese water dog to the Obama girls yesterday, and apparently he is a hit with the whole family.

Animal organizations are already predicting a surge in popularity for the curly haired pups, but before you start the hunt for one of your own, you can learn more about the breed on Petfinder.org and look for rescue dogs while you're there.

The Obama family will be busy outfitting the White House with the necessary toys, beds and aceessories for Bo. Some of my favorite pet places to shop are GWlittle.com and FetchDog.com, where you can get everything from personalized pet beds to 14K gold dog tags.

For Christmas, we suggest the Obamas hang Bo's photo from their tree in our pewter hydrant photo frame, NEW this year, filled with bright red epoxy and inscribed with "Little Stinker".

You can get one for your dog too this Christmas at one of our retailers!

Off the Shoulder

2009-04-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

Back in March when we reported on the Oscar's, we saw quite a few one-shoulder and sleeveless gowns on the runway. The single-sleeve gown trend appears to be growing in strength as shown by the photo spread from this week's OK magazine below.

Celebs are strutting down the runway in asymetrical gowns that emanate feminity. The difference between these dresses and those shown at the Oscar's is color. Ranging from hot pink to blue, with yellow and gold in between, it's clear that spring is on its way. The look is accented with delicate jewelry and strappy sandals.

From our collection, when I think of femininity, I think of our 3-Dimensional angel ornament with flowing gown and filigree detailed wings shown below.

This month, purchase her on our website and get FREE Shipping when you spend $50 or more.

Ohh Baby....FREE SHIPPING!

2009-04-01T07:29:00.000-07:00

The arrival of a new baby brings the promise of new experiences and joyful times. We have a timeless collection of Baby’s First collectibles to help capture these special moments. Through the month of April, we're offering FREE SHIPPING on Baby’s First gifts and more for purchases over $50 at http://www.gloriaduchin.com/!

Gloria Duchin Dimensional Silvertone Baby Bootie Keepsake with Engravable Bottom!

Our collection of baby gifts is created with memories in mind. Select designs are accented with glitter, Swarovski crystal, or can be customized with engraving so families can create personalized mementos for their children. Our keepsakes are made of the highest quality, guaranteed to preserve precious memories for years to come.

To start shopping, visit http://www.gloriaduchin.com/!

Dare to Accessorize

2009-03-31T09:52:00.000-07:00

While reading the Providence Journal this weekend, I came across an interesting article about accessories. You may not have been aware that New York is host to the Accessories Council, an advocacy group dedicated to the celebration of bags, bangles and shoes. Their ACE awards have honored top accessory designers such as Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs. Karen Giberson, their President says "Accessories are adventurous. You can go from looking like a lady to rock-and-roll chic in an hour!"

As designers of "jewelry for your tree", we know just how important the smallest details can be when dressing yourself, or dressing for the holidays. In accessories, Karen says the biggest surprise is Swarovski encrusted USB drives, like the one shown below.

For Christmas, we've mentioned Swarovski as an important element as well as the color purple, which Karen also sees emerging into the mainstream.

For spring, check out our bronze filigree dragonfly with a Swarovski crystal accent and lavender chiffon ribbon. For more spring and gardening keepsakes, click here.

Women with Wings and Wisdom

2009-03-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not posting an update last week, but I was out of town in Florida. While I was there, I was invited to attend the Women with Wings and Wisdom luncheon hosted by WXEL, the South Florida Public Broadcast Network. The luncheon honored accomplished women, Florence De George, Patricia Lowry, Lois Pope and Lilly Pulitzer for 50 years of a colorful life in fashion.

The event was held at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club in the Gold and White ballroom where we were presented with a fashion show of Lilly Pulitzer’s 2009 Spring and Summer line.(view the photos below)

One of the highlights of the luncheon was a presentation by world-renowned author and talk-show host, Suze Orman. I am a great fan of hers, so I was excited to hear her speak in person.

Suze donated her time to WXEL, presenting her “2009 Action Plan: Keeping Your Money Safe and Sound”. She spoke frankly to the audience about the current state of the economy, and left everyone with a copy of her new book. I continue to be impressed with her expertise and benevolent spirit.

Suze spent the entire afternoon at the luncheon, opening the floor to questions and mingling with the attendees. She was most generous with her time, and I enjoyed taking a photo with her below.

Photos taken by Deborah Garber

The Business of Color

2009-03-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Last week, I briefly touched on the business of color when I mentioned the article in the New York Times about Marissa Mayer, the lead in color, look, feel and functionality of Google.com. Over the last few days, I've seen more and more about how color influences life, from advertising to commerce.

The New York Times covered Lowe Worldwide, a London-based advertising agency with a client list that features top brands like Johnson & Johnson, Nestle, Electrolux, and Outback Steakhouse. The New York office recently moved and re-designed their office with color in mind.

"We wanted people to walk off the elevator and feel the energy of the agency.." says lead architect Charles Patten.

The feeling was achieved with brightly colored chairs like those shown below, as well as open work spaces and interchangeable color panels for employees to customize their desks.

For spring, Macy's is focusing their latest print ad campaign on color, launching into spring with a Welcome Back Color message shown below. A 2-page ad in the New York Times this weekend featured bright rainbow bands of color with images of colorful spring fashions and accessories. This also mirrors what I mentioned last week about consumers looking for a color pick-me-up after this trying season.

If you enjoy reading my blog, then take a look at our Facebook page for more products and information!

Color me happy

2009-03-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

The red carpet at the Oscar's was a mix of whimsy and elegance with celebs appearing in gowns of solid black and white to shimmering metallics and bold blues and reds. One shoulder and sleeveless gowns in fitting sillhouettes were the desired styles this year, but they were painted in every color imaginable.

Just watching the Oscar's my spirits were lifted by the vibrant colors on the carpet. A long and cold winter paired with difficult times has people looking for inspiration in fashion, boosting their spirits with bright yellow coats and purple heels.

Bill Cunningham of the New York Times, shows just this image with his photographs from the streets of New York, selected images shown below.

Color influences every aspect of our daily lives. Marissa Meyer of Google directs every color and design decision of the most widely used search engine. The spartan white design with splashes of blue, red, yellow and green mirrors her San Franciso penthouse. The design team at Google also discovered that blue links with a greenish hue are more likely to get clicked.

For a colorful tree this year, try a Miami design with brilliant pink, teal and purple and fun pink glitter Gloria Duchin Flamingo ornaments.

Oscar Gold

2009-02-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

Last week we talked about the golden Grammy's and this week, we're basking in the afterglow of the golden Oscar's. Last night, the 81st Oscar awards ceremony aired and several celebs took home a little golden man of their own. Stay tuned for next week when we post our full Oscar fashion coverage, but for now, enjoy more golden gowns courtesy of this week's People magazine.

Check out our matte gold filigree dimensional bulb to the left. This ornament features Swarovski crystal accents around the center. If you were watching the Oscar's last night, you may have heard them mention that the entire set is covered with Swarovski crystals!

Making Gold

2009-02-16T11:14:00.000-08:00

The 2009 Grammy Awards aired last Sunday, February 8th and many of today's top recording artists took home a golden Grammy of their own. (For the full list of nominees and winners, click here) The stars shined on stage, but some of the red carpet fashions left viewers wanting more (or less) with few celebs dazzling the crowd.

Star Magazine featured their picks of the red carpet in their latest issue, including the golden Zuhair Muhad gown worn by Carrie Underwood and the pale pink Basil Soda gown worn by Katy Perry featured below. Both form-fitted gowns are classic and elegant, flattering the wearers' slender silhouettes.

As seen from the Grammy's, metallics in both silver and gold are still hot for fashion and decor, but I think we'll see gold taking the lead as the months continue.

For the holidays, check out our matte gold filigree collection.

More Gifts to Love

2009-02-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

CVS pharmacy is running a special for 2-days only! Buy $9.99 or more worth of Dove chococlates and get one of our silvertone heart pendants with a Swarovski crystal for FREE. If you miss the sale, the regular retail is only $2.99 which is still an amazing value for this beautiful necklace.

Pair the necklace with some of the other great gifts below from People magazine's Valentine's gift guide. A book of romantic love letters and a set of cupcake bathbombs is sure to impress you're sweetie.

For even more ideas, check out our website for Valentine pins, keyrings and more! http://www.gloriaduchin.com/

That Special Something

2009-02-02T12:07:00.000-08:00

The Wall Street Journal reported last week that Cupid is the latest casualty in the pullback economy. Valentine's shoppers are expected to spend 16.7% less this year compared to last year and look for less expensive ways to say "I love you."

If you're one of those still looking for that special something, look no further. Below are some of my favorite gifts for the season, many of which were featured in the Sunday edition of the New York times and most of them can be yours for under $20.00.

1. Small Stump's Forever Cupcake is baked from plaster to last a lifetime. $14.00 at roseandradish.com
2. USB mix tape by Suck UK for $20.00 at Henri Bendel in NY
3. Marc Jacob's Love Story clutch $795 at Barneys NY stores
4. Handmade DEBO superheroes by Kamibashi bestow special "powers" like making sure your new honey is a good kisser. $10.00 at kamibashi.com
5. Gloria Duchin silvertone heart necklace with pink Swarovski crystal accent available at CVS stores for $2.99
6. Gloria Duchin pink swirl "kiss" lips keyring with Swarovski accent at Walmart.com for $8.88.

Pearls of Wisdom

2009-01-26T12:19:00.000-08:00

Glamour is more restrained as fashion takes a cue from the recent economic woes and pares down with more muted hues and subtle jewerly. Pearls are making a comeback in Hollywood because of their modest elegance seen on Salma Hayek, Katherine Heigl and Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon (right). Pearl drop earrings and vintage style pendants with pearl centers are also making a comeback.

Carolee crystal flower ring, carolee.com and white akoya pearl earrings, pearlparadise.com

I've also seen a continuing trend of star-shaped jewelry. If you recall, back in July, we first noticed star jewelry in the entry, A Star Spangled Affair.

To the right is one of our pearl accented ornaments. This goldtone bulb is hand silk-screened in metallic purple and teal with Swarovski and pearl accents.

Inauguration Day 2009

2009-01-19T11:28:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the 56th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, DC. To celebrate, I've listed some Inaugural fun facts below.

The retail network QVC has already sold more than 100,000 items related to Barack Obama's election. - Associated Press

Between 1.5 million and 3 million people are expected to attend inauguration ceremonies in Washington, D.C. - The Washington Post

The Obamas will attend 10 official Inaugural Balls, one more than President George W. Bush and Laura Bush attended in 2005. - Presidential Inaugural Committee

The most popular Inaugural Ball will be the Illinois State Society Ball. Tickets for that party were sold for $1,150 to $6,500. - The Washington Post

There will be 5,000 Porta-Potties available on the National Mall and along the Inauguration Parade route on Inauguration Day. That's one for every 300 people. - National Park Service

Between 15,000 and 18,000 volunteers will be used to help coordinate and work at the various Inaugural events. - Presidential Inaugural Committee

Barack Obama will take the oath of office using the same Bible upon which President Lincoln was sworn in at his first inauguration. - Library of Congress

George Washington delivered the shortest Inaugural Address. It was 135 words. - Library of Congress

President Herbert Hoover's 1929 Inaugural ceremony was the first recorded by talking newsreel. - Presidential Inaugural Committee

President Harry S. Truman's inaugural speech in 1949 was the first to be televised. - Presidential Inaugural Committee

The first Inauguration ceremony broadcast on the Internet was President Clinton's second inauguration in 1997. - Clinton Presidential Library

If this has you feeling patriotic, view our collection of Americana themed product on our website, all made right here in the USA. One of our most popular items is this genuine pewter flag photo frame featuring glitter stripes and a Swarovski crystal accent.

Brides turns 75

2009-01-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

For three-quarters of a century, Brides magazine has been printing tips and wedding fashion for eager brides ready to set foot down the aisle. In their 75th anniversary edition, there is a feature on wedding gowns and how the styles have changed over the years.

One of my favorite dresses is this one from 2006 with cascading tulle tiers by Lazaro.

2009 also marks our company's 30th anniversary and we have produced an ever-changing line of wedding keepsakes and Our First Christmas ornaments over the years.

One of our timeless gifts is our 3-tiered silvertone wedding cake which can be customized with engraving on the base to be used as a personalized placeholder or an Our First keepsake.

Birds of a feather

2009-01-07T11:23:00.000-08:00

We're back from our holiday vacation and looking forward to what fashion and style may bring for 2009. So far, I see a continuation in the trends of '08, bright colors and a variety of metallics from steel to bronze. I've also noticed that designers and decorators alike are incorporating feathers into their designs, creating an aura of old Hollywood style. Below is a photo of the latest from the Ralph Lauren collection with glittering gold gowns and feather topped hats.

We've introduced new designer keyrings for this year available at walmart.com in the same glamour style. Add some bling to your keys with our high heel pink peep-toe keyring and our pewter martini keyring with Swarovski crystal!

Santa Claus is Coming...

2008-12-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

This Sunday in the New York Times style section, journalist Bill Cunningham posted his photos from the annual December 13th Santacon convention in New York City. Started in 1994 in San Francisco, the celebration has spread to 72 cities in a dozen countries. This year in New York there were close to 5,000 Santa's flooding the streets of Manhattan.

Here at Gloria Duchin, we have our own parade of Santa ornaments from classic St. Nick designs to more whimsical glitter Santas. You can view them on our website at http://www.gloriaduchin.com/.

This will be our last blog of the year, so we wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. RobynReports will resume on January 5, 2009.

Let it snow!

2008-12-15T11:33:00.000-08:00

This year the snowflake has become a style icon, gracing everything from Tiffany bracelets to decorative soaps. Snowflakes and winter themed merchandise are a great way to celebrate the season without decking the halls in red and green. Just like real snowflakes, snowflake gifts come in unique shapes, styles and sizes.

One of our most popular ornaments of the season is our "One of a Kind" pewter snowflake with Swarovski crystals.

For a retailer, please visit us at http://www.gloriaduchin.com/

Tie it in a Bow

2008-12-08T13:49:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, I had a chance to review the latest edition of the New York Times style magazine. Known as a leading publication for fashion forescasting, this issue again, did not dissapoint. While looking through, I found a feature on the most adorable satin pumps, all in bright jewel tones and covered in oversized bows.

I see much more of this appearing in fashion and home decor's future. Fashionistas will convert to escapism with bright colors and girly accents.

For the holidays, dress up your tree with our very own pewter high-heel shoe ornament with purple glitter bow!

Take a tour of Gloria Duchin, Inc.

2008-12-01T13:47:00.000-08:00

We were selected by Crown Point Production’s to appear on their World’s Greatest program that highlights the world’s best companies, products, people and places. Gloria Duchin, Inc. was chosen because of our continued success, high-quality products and innovation in seasonal trends and design.

You can take a tour of Gloria Duchin, Inc. and learn more about how your favorite ornaments and gifts are designed and produced. The segment will air on the ION network tomomorrow, Tuesday, December 2 at 11:00 a.m. EST/PST and 10:00 a.m. CST/MST, Wedenesday, December 3 at 7:00 a.m. EST/PST and 6:00 a.m. CST/MST, and lastly on Thursday, December 4 at 6:00 a.m. EST/PST and 5:00 a.m. CST/MST. For local channels, please visit www.iontelevision.com.

Float like a Butterfly

2008-11-26T05:23:00.000-08:00

In Ancient Greece, the word for butterfly means soul and in Chinese culture, two butterflies together symbolize love. I think that is why butterfly gifts are among the top for this Christmas season since they respresent the true spirit of Christmas...love.

The latest issue of Town and Country features a variety of butterfly gifts that you can give this year from pendants to notecards.

One of our top sellers at GloriaDuchin.com is our genuine pewter filigree ornament accented with Swarovski crystal featured below. Available on our website for $9.99.

For a fun holiday tree, create a spring garden tree. Fill in holes with bunches of dried flowers or silk flowers then hang glass bulbs in soft greens and browns, finish with organza ribbon and an assortment of our pewter gardening ornaments like our filigree butterfly.

Bronner's Christmas Wonderland

2008-11-20T08:04:00.000-08:00

On the cover of the New York Times Sunday Styles section this past weekend was an article covering Bronner's Christmas Wonderland based in Frankenmuth, MI. Covering 2.2 acres, Bronner's is the largest year-round Christmas store in the country featuring an assortment of trees and holiday decor from all over the world. Within the sea of holiday merchandise, most retailing under $10.00, you'll also find our collectible ornaments.

During the season, Bronner's employs 600 staffers and entertains 2 million customers per year. The author of the article found it impossible to resist the magic of the season while visiting the store, and ended up purchasing an assortment of pet ornaments. If you are in the Michigan area, I encourage you to visit Bronner's, and if not, you can purchase our pet ornaments from several retailers. To find one near you, please visit our website.

Gloria Duchin pewter paw photo and pewter angel chihuahua with Swarovski collar

Initial Impressions

2008-11-10T12:09:00.000-08:00

I just received my copy of Town & Country magazine's December issue that includes an extensive holiday gift guide. One page features monogrammed gifts including everything from jewelry to customized wrapping paper. I've noted that personalization has been a continually growing trend in the gift market, and it's something we've centered our business around.

Page from Town & Country Gift Guide

A monogram or an engraved ornament makes a wonderful gift for the holidays. If you live near a Menard's store, you can find our Initial Impressions ornaments featured below. We can also engrave monograms on a variety of genuine pewter ornaments in the custom imprint area of our website.

Let your voice be heard

2008-11-03T09:18:00.000-08:00

After months of waiting, the day to make our decision has finally come. Tuesday, November 4th, marks the next Presidential election and I urge everyone to let their voice be heard and exercise their right to vote.

If you are unsure of the polling location for your neighborhood, you can visit http://maps.google.com/vote, enter your address and Google will show you where you need to go. The polls are open until 9:00 p.m. tomorrow, so everyone should have plenty of time to cast their ballot.

To get into the spirit of the election, visit our website and view our assortment of patriotic ornaments and gifts, all made right here in the USA.

Pewter flag and pewter flag photo frame with glitter available at www.gloriaduchin.com.

The Recessionista

2008-10-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

With the economy's current state, it seems that everyone is making budget cuts and luxuries are the first things to go. I read an interesting article in the New York Times this past Sunday about the Recessionista. As they define the term, a Recessionista is "the new name for a style maven on a budget". Some retailers like Payless and Target are ahead of the game for the discount chic, offering designer clothing at low prices.

The same follows in our business of Christmas decor. Early retail reports suggest that seasonal sales will be strong at mass market retailers. Our business model has always been to offer our customers designer holiday decor at low prices, so you can still decorate a beautiful home for the holidays without breaking the bank.

Gloria Duchin enamel photo frame ornaments available for under $6.00 each!

Hot Sellers!

2008-10-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

As the holiday season approaches we are surprised and excited at the early response of several of our holiday ornaments that are out in the market place! Inspiration, photo designs and whimsy seem to be setting the trend this season.

Photo ornaments for wedding, baby, children and pets are popular as well as some of our remembrance and inspirational angels. Military and patriotic ornaments are also among our top sellers along with snowmen. Below are some of our featured ornaments that you can buy now. For a list of our retailers, please visit GloriaDuchin.com.

Gloria Duchin pewter "Always in Our Hearts" Angel Photo Frame, Gloria Duchin Pewter Snowman with Snowcones and Gloria Duchin Blue "Superhero" Star Photo Frame.

Made in the USA

2008-10-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

With the current state of the economy, it is important for us as consumers to spend our dollars wisely. We can all do our part to stimulate growth by looking for the "Made in the USA" label on the products we do buy. We are proud to say, that in our 30 years of designing and manufacturing, we continue to make our ornaments right here in the USA, supporting American jobs and promising our customers high quality at competitive prices.

There are other USA made products that you can buy this season that will promote growth for our country, such as Vermont Teddy Bears or American Apparel Clothing. Together, we can rebuild our great nation. Support local business and let your voice be heard by going out to vote on November 4th!

Pewter Military Photo Frame Ornament designed and manufactured by Gloria Duchin in the USA. Available at kmart.com for $6.99.

Think Pink

2008-10-07T13:41:00.001-07:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and the cause is showing an overwhelming amount of celebrity support. Celebrity designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Adina Reyter created exclusive jewelry and fashions to support the cause. Christina Applegate recently opened-up to Oprah about her experience with cancer, and the celebrity backed, StandUp2Cancer organization conducted a telethon last month to raise awareness and funds for treatment. It's clear that pink is the hottest fashion color around.

Some other celeb-endorsed products include Hanky Panky panties and gourmet chocolates available at someonespoilme.com, as well as a Denise Richards designed pink tee for the Capsule collections and DVD's for the Cure available at foxstore.com.

In our own collections, we have a variety of keepsakes designed to show your support for Breast Cancer research and awareness including our pewter pink swirl epoxy support ribbon, our pink lady pin and our pewter "Hope" heart.

Anything Goes

2008-09-30T09:30:00.000-07:00

For color, anything goes according to the runways at the Emmy's. Brights like hot pink and canary yellow, soft hues like pale blue and beige as well as black and white, silver and glitter. The uniting theme is escapism, using fantasy colors and styles to create a "fun" look.

Top: Vanessa Williams in Kevan Hall, Christina Applegate in Reem Acra, Kyra Sedgwick in L'Wren Scott
Bottom: Heidi Klum in Armani Prive, Brooke Shields in Badgley Mischka, Mariska Hargitay in Carolina Herrera.

Some of the common themes in the Emmy gowns are one shoulder styles, wraps, and slim-fitting gowns. I think this all speaks to "playful elegance", that we will continue to see emerge in fashion and home decor.

A Bright Future

2008-09-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

Usually when the fall months arrive, the pages of the fashion magazines turn from bright summer colors into cooling grays, blacks and browns. However, this season, I am seeing colors brighter than ever, mimicking mardi gras and peacock plumage.

From Harper's Bazaar feature of Roberto Cavalli line

Jewel tones in hues of bright green, teal, purple and fuscia are accented with yellow greens and pale blues. Colors can be paired together as solids or twisted into patchwork patterns like the Cavalli gowns.

Our Secrets of Angels ornament collection features brights for the holidays. We mixed the colors of the outer packaging with the inserts for a background that makes the metallic pewter angels POP!

Hippie Chic

2008-09-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

"According to the New York Runways, nothing is out of style", quips the Wall Street Journal in an article covering the spring fashion shows. Alice + Olivia designer Stacey Bendet says she wanted to "mix up hippie and hipster" for her collection. What this includes is a lot of fringe on clothing, handbags and boots as well as floor-length floral dresses. The look is updated, fun and flirty, but also speaks to the casual escapism of the 1970's hippie style. Bright colors, flowing fabrics, comfort and confidence are they key.

Shown: Fringe Sweater by D&G, Fringe Handbag by Tory Burch, and Pewter Peace Sign ornament by Gloria Duchin.

For those who hung onto some of those vintage fashions, get them out of storage, air them out and get them ready to wear for the upcoming season!

A Naturally Modern Wedding

2008-09-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

Color Trends… Chocolate, Chartreuse, and Cream

Robyn asked me to post the blog this week after spotting the recent color palettes this fall highlighting chocolate brown paired with chartreuse green.

When my older sister got engaged last December, she knew immediately what colors she wanted all the elements in her November wedding to be. From the Invitations to bridesmaid dresses to table settings, all elements would revolve around the color scheme chocolate brown, chartreuse green, and cream. Chocolate brown has been a classic autumn color for a number of years, but pairing it with bright pops of chartreuse green makes for a fresh and modern statement. Incorporating cream as a base color for the invitations and table setting adds a soft lightness, rather than the harshness of a pure white.

My sister and I teamed up in designing the invitations and all other printed elements. We found the colored stationary we were looking for at Paper Source, and were even able to come up with new ideas then what we had originally planned. While designing I found a versatile leafy vine element that we used on the invitations, RSVP cards, Thank You cards, and all name cards and table markers for the reception. A similar floral vine pattern is embroidered on the sashes of the chocolate brown bridesmaid dresses we found through Simple Silhouettes. Each bridesmaid, along with the bride, will be carrying a bouquet of varying white flowers.

The reception, which will be held at Woodend Sanctuary, a preserve belonging to the Audubon Naturalist Society in Washington DC, will carry on the same color theme. The tables will be set with a cream pintuck tablecloth and the brown cherrywood base plates. On top of that will be a plain twill white napkin folded around the menu printed on chartreuse cardstock and accented with a brown grosgrain ribbon. In the center of each table will be an arrangement of natural gourds and vegetation in fall colors scattered with white flowers similar to those of the wedding party’s bouquets.

From the location to invitations, every aspect is sure to use both nature and color to the best of their ability in creating a naturally modern, and unmistakably autumn wedding.

posted by Kate Huot

World's Greatest

2008-09-03T07:27:00.000-07:00

We've been busy in the office this week, preparing for our "World's Greatest..." national television segment. Crown Point Productions will be here this week filming us for their show that features the world's greatest companies, products, people and places. We have been selected to appear on it in October. (read the full press release here).

In preparation, we've been decorating new trees in our design studio, based on our 2009 trends. We have our pink pop art tree with bright pink, green and purple ribbons and ornaments. We also have our Secret Agent black tree with silver ornaments and ribbon, as well as our silver tree with red and white accents including our pewter candy cane ornament.

During the show, I'll let you know how to create fantastic and affordable holiday tree designs in your own home, so be sure to check back to the blog for dates and showtimes!