The Style File:

Stella & Dot Featured in Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop Newsletter

Erin — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:17:55 +0000

Stella & Dot was recently featured in the January 19, 2012 issue of actress Gwyneth Paltrow’s email newsletter Goop. This post is from the original newsletter and can be seen HERE. Sign up for the Goop newsletter HERE.

We called up Jessica Herrin, founder of Stella & Dot, and here’s what she had to say:

“Stella and Dot is an accessories company that sells exclusively through independent stylists who can set up their businesses from home. It’s a business in a box, that works when you want to work and that you can scale and grow without having to deal with accounting, fulfillment, raising capital, etc. I started the company in 2004 out of my living room. In 2007, after having two children, I was ready to raise capital and take the company to the next level.”

Stella & Dot’s formula for starting small and getting big in business:

“Passion is essential. You need to make sure that you’re passionate about the product you’re basing your business around and that you are soulfully connected to the mission of the company. When I started, I truly felt that I had something that needed to exist and I needed it to be successful.”
“Recognize that your original concept will evolve and that your product is completely separate from your business. You need to evolve both of these concepts separately and at the same time.”
“Get input from friends, family and people that you trust and iterate your idea over and over. Through conversations, your concept will evolve and grow strong.”
“Be tenacious. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. Recognize that your biggest failures are just a precursor to your success. If you fail fast and change your ideas by learning from your failure, your business will improve.”
“Don’t go it alone. Surround yourself with people who will support both you and your business. Make sure that you can share your goals with a partner or even a board of advisors.”

I wish I had known…

“I wish I had known that passion makes up for experience. In terms of hiring, if the person you’re considering bringing on to the team has years of experience and an amazing resume, it won’t get you anywhere unless this person is also as committed to and excited about the business as you are.”

Stella & Dot Necklace Featured in People StyleWatch

Erin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:00:32 +0000

My absolute favorite piece from the Stella & Dot Spring 2012 collection is the Serenity Statement Necklace, which was recently featured front and center in the January/February 2012 issue of People StyleWatch magazine in their “Guide to What’s Hot” article. Earthy blue-green jewelry is a big trend for Spring and this necklace is the perfect addition to any one’s wardrobe.

The Amalfi Collection: 3 Ways to Wear It

Erin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:24:17 +0000

The post was originally from the Stella & Dot corporate web site in the Stylewatch section, seen here.

One of the most talked about collections in our new spring line is the Amalfi Collection. Inspired by the sun-drenched colors and sophisticated classic-chic style of the Mediterranean, the Amalfi Collection is a nod to style icon, Jackie O. Our design team gathered inspiration from the vision of her walking down the streets of Capri wearing classic, tailored clothing and wanted to created fun, bold accessories to match her style!

Fast forward to today, and we’re offering a few fun ways to wear the collection, pairing up with some of spring’s hottest runway trends and of course Jackie O’s tailored, classic style.

Casual Friday: White was a major theme on the runway for spring and our Serenity necklace is the perfect piece to wear with this trend. Sport the necklace with a bright blue or green top and finish the look with our Bardot bangle (gold) for the perfect, casual spring ensemble.

Weekender: Our Bianca Tassel necklace is a bold, playful piece that really shines when when worn with a basic dress and strappy wedges. Keep it simple up top with our Essential Ball studs (gold) and then round out this flirty look with the Renegade Cluster Ring & La Coco clutch (black).

Date Night: As our Chief Creative Officer, Blythe Harris recently said, one of spring’s “it colors” is tangerine, and we’re loving the way this color pops when paired with our true-blue jewels. Try this trend in an evening look by layering the Millie necklace & Libby layering necklace (gold) over a bright shift dress & pairing with the Serenity small stone drops (lapis) for the ultimate statement.

Stella & Dot Rebel Pendant Featured in Real Simple Magazine

Erin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:02:06 +0000

The fashion press continues to be abuzz about Stella & Dot. Real Simple magazine featured Stella & Dot’s new Rebel Pendant Necklace in the February 2012 issue in a fashion spread. The graphic gold necklace was shown layered over a bold, color blocked dress and slick hair. It’s the perfect compliment to any outfit, providing enough “wow” factor while still being modest, feminine and simple.

Get The Look: Emma Stone

Erin — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:24:47 +0000

I’ve always loved Emma, but now I am absolutely loving her style! She has been choosing from very fun, flirty and bold style choices lately. For the 15th Annual Hollywood Film Awards Galas, she chose a playful, pleated beige Jonathan Saunders frock (which happens to be from his Spring 2012 wedding dress collection, who knew?) and nude Christian Dior sandals. She paired it off with bright bold fuschia lips and large, green Irene Neuwirth statement earrings.

Get the look for less with the Mina Mesh & Lace Dress from Asos.com. For the shoes, try Betsey Johnson’s Tinaaa Pump for a funky, edgy vibe, or go with Jessica Simpson’s Ediea Nude Bow Platform Pump for a feminine look.

I love that Emma Stone mixed the funky and bright with the classic and neutral. Her playful hot pink lips and fun green earrings look fabulous with her red hair and classic pin curl updo.

Get the look for less with the large green Serenity Stone Earrings from Stella & Dot, and mark. Lipclick Full Color Lipstick in Tutu.

Stella Steal: Chantilly Lace Cuff

Erin — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 03:09:50 +0000

This lacy cuff was Stella & Dot’s best-selling sku number during the last half of 2011 for a reason – it’s simply irresistible. Inspired by an old lace handkerchief, the golden beauty was painstakingly designed with love by Stella & Dot Chief Creative Officer Blythe Harris. I recently ran into this other golden beauty in the December 2011 issue of Allure magazine: the Aurelie Biedermann 18-karat gold dipped lace cuff for, oh, just $1,890 on Net-a-Porter.com. Stella & Dot’s Chantilly Lace Cuff is half the length, but about ten times cheaper, at just $98. The matching Chantilly Lace Earrings – which are equally exquisite and don’t look matchy-matchy when worn together – are also exceptionally affordable at just $49.

Oh, and P.S., the Chantilly Lace Cuff also comes in limited edition black – so gorge and goth – and found HERE.

Kathie Lee Gifford Wears Stella & Dot Necklace on The Today Show

Erin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:10:56 +0000

Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb have raved about Stella & Dot jewelry on their morning talk show, and today Kathie Lee was spotted wearing the fabulous Femme Fatale Necklace from Stella & Dot on The Today Show’s 4th hour of “Kathie Lee and Hoda.” [Monday, December 19, 2011] The two hosts looked great as they laughed and joked about the recent “imaginary boyfriend” skit on SNL this past weekend.

Lara Spencer Wears Femme Fatale Necklace on GMA

Kathie Lee and Hoda feature Stella & Dot Bracelet in “Favorite Things” Segment

Stella & Dot Bracelets Mentioned as Kelly Ripa’s Favorite Things on Live! With Kelly

Erin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 23:44:53 +0000

The fabulous TV host Kelly Ripa loves Stella & Dot jewelry! She has worn several of our jewelry pieces on her morning talk show Live! With Kelly (formerly known as Live! With Regis and Kelly) on ABC. This morning she featured all the Stella & Dot bracelets for $40 or less as one of her favorite things! [Friday, December 16, 2011] They are the perfect gift to give any woman on your list, from your mom to your BFF to your babysitter. Layering bracelets are a huge trend for Fall 2011 and for Spring 2012 – so give the gift of style with some layering bracelets from Stella & Dot! >> SHOP HERE

See what Stella & Dot jewelry pieces Kelly has worn on the show!

Featured above on Live!, left to right – top row: Vintage Twist Bracelet in gold, Tribute Bracelet, Copper Cupchain Bracelet, Harlow Bangle, Nugget Wrap Bracelet in silver, Clover Single Leather Wrap Bracelet in metallic, Vintage Twist in silver, Prosper Bracelet; Left to right – bottom row: Prosper Bracelet, Nugget Wrap Bracelet in gold, Clover Single Leather Wrap Bracelet in metallic, Vintage Twist Bracelet in silver, Nugget Wrap Bracelet in silver, Vintage Twist Bracelet in gold, Revival Bracelet, Copper Cupchain Bracelet, and Tribute Bracelet.

Other bracelet options for $40 or less: Wishing Nugget Bracelet, Soiree Pave Bracelet, Toujours Bracelet & Foundation Bracelet >> SHOP HERE

Other gift options for $50 or less: Panther Pendant Necklace, Glint Flower CZ Stud Earrings, Together Forever Necklace, Chantilly Lace Earrings, Deco Stackable Rings, Leather Key Pouch & Deco Drop Earrings >> SHOP HERE

Introducing Stella & Dot Premium Signature Gifts & Tech Cases

Erin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:07:27 +0000

What’s the perfect hostess, teacher or babysitter gift? Do you need a gift topper to go with that new iPad2 you’re giving your teenage daughter or the new iPhone 4S that you’re giving your wife?

Introducing Stella & Dot’s new line of gift products and tech cases. The signature Stella & Dot “Joy” Candle features hand poured soy wax and a lead-free wick, all lovingly made in the USA. The scent features bright fruity notes of fresh limes and mandarins complimented by hints of peppery basil and aromatic white thyme.

In addition, the new Stella & Dot tech cases are fabulously chic — perfect for your wife, sister, friend or favorite teacher! The Stella & Dot iPad is signature embossed and lead- and nickel-free. The iPhone case is durable and super cute, featuring Stella & Dot colors and signature print. It fits securely and tightly to protect your iPhone 4 or iPhone 4S.

Stella & Dot Clearance – While Supplies Last!

Erin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:52:37 +0000

Just in time for the holidays, be sure to take advantage of the sale & clearance items from Stella & Dot. As we approach the new year, we will launch our new spring jewelry collection. So we are making room for the new by discontinuing many great pieces, including the lovely Jacqueline Statement Necklace, the sparkly Jill CZ Hoop Earrings, the wear-anywhere Clover Drop Earrings, and the feminine CZ Cross Necklace, all seen below. All sale and clearance jewelry pieces are on sale up to 70% off and they are while supplies last – so hurry before they are gone for good!

Stella & Dot Necklace Featured in US Weekly’s “Last Minute Gift Guide”

Erin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:06:22 +0000

The best-selling, lovely Third Times a Charm Necklace was recently featured in this week’s US Weekly magazine with Khloe Kardashian on the cover. The whimsical, playful necklace features rose gold, yellow and silver tones, so it’s easy to mix and match, and perfect to wear with any style outfit. It’s also quite long, but delicate and feminine. Also called a “junk charm necklace,” this trend from Stella & Dot jewelry is all about feminine, fun and funky layering pieces that quikcly update any wardrobe. Plus, the 3 symbolizes unity, simplicity and perfection, which is a wonderful gifting message for any one on your gift list.What does the number 3 mean to you?

Get it in time for Christmas! Order online at www.stelladot.com/emarkland
by December 21st, and receive it by December 23rd!

Stella & Dot Ring Featured in Real Simple Magazine’s Holilday Gift Guide for Women

Erin — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:44:52 +0000

The best-selling Soiree Trio Ring from Stella & Dot can be worn with everything – and on anyone. That’s probably why the editors of Real Simple featured it as a hot gift idea in the magazine’s December 2011 issue in their “Holiday Gift Guide for Women” article. The cocktail ring is adjustable, so it can fit ring sizes 5 to 8, and it features a silver, hematite and gold soiree ball, so you can mix metals and wear it with anything. Lovely!

The Style File’s Holiday Gift Guide: Don’t Forget the Hostess

Erin — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:29:10 +0000

We all have festive holiday parties to attend this time of year, but how many times do you rush to the local supermarket for a bottle of generic wine to give to your gracious host? Or give a candle or picture frame? Or perhaps you forget a hostess gift altogether? While all of those are great (don’t get me wrong, I loooove a yummy candle!), why not stand out from the pack and choose a hostess gift that’s special, fun and different? Here are 5 hostess gift ideas that are all less than $50 and just-different-enough.

Note: Growing up, my mom kept several giftables in a box in her closet. From a necklace that she might have found on clearance at Mervyn’s to a candle to a book, there were several options and several price points. Before a party, she would look through the box to pick out her hostess gift. Brilliant! It looked like she spent time & money on the gift, but really, she just shopped her own closet (so-to-speak). If you find a great deal, consider buying in bulk and stashing them away as gifts.

1.) Melted Bottle Serving Plates, $10 – $40
These are super cute and your hostess will be able to use it immediately! Bring some cheese to go along with the serving platter and you’re good to go! Wine bottles are the most common, but you can also find liquor bottles and small beer bottles. Gift your hostess with her favorite drink board — Grey Goose for the martini maven or perhaps a Corona lime plate for the laidback lassie. Or you can choose a platter in her favorite color, and you can even engrave the wine bottle with something funny or sentimental.

Check out Porter House Crafts and Mitchell Glassworks for great options. Winetini has liquor bottles & custom labels to choose from, and in addition to wine bottle plates, they offer shooters, salt & pepper shakers, night lights and bowls! Also, keep your eye on local artisan events, where you can find these for cheap and you won’t have to pay for shipping.

2.) Erasable Bottle Stoppers, $14
These eco-friendly and kitchen-friendly stoppers from Placetile.com make great hostess gifts and are the perfect stocking stuffers. Use for wine, vinegars and olive oils; and write a message to the recipient. Also, check out the erasable menu & message boards and place cards – also great hostess gifts!

3.) Leather Key Pouch, $44
Give your glam hostess a fun place to hold the little things, such as keys, lip gloss, business cards or credit cards. This supple lambskin leather Key Pouch from Stella & Dot is embossed with a snakeskin print and is the perfect shade of metallic – not too gold, not too silver.

If your hostess is jewelry obsessed or just a jet-setting diva, check out the Travel Jewelry Roll from Stella & Dot, also just $44, and it comes in either navy or teal.
4.) Memo Chalk Kitchen Planter, $15
Plant basil, parsley, cilantro, mint, thyme and more this memo chalk planter from Joanne Hudson! This little DIY gift is perfect for the hostess who loves to cook and appreciates organic and eco-friendly finds. to give to your hostess. You could even have buy a mini watering can or garden tool to tie around it. Or include some colorful pieces of chalk. She’ll be reminded of you every time she reaches for fresh herbs.

5.) Custom Chocolate Bar, $6 and up
Create your own custom chocolate bar for your hostess at Chocri. Choose a base chocolate – milk, white, dark and a milk/white combo – and add in any ingredient and mix-in, from everything from dried fruit to chilis to nuts to cinnamon. Add a special sparkle, too, with real gold flakes, or make it personal with a “Thank You” topper.

More hostess gift ideas….

* iTunes gift cards are often overlooked but everyone loves them! You could even download a ready-made playlist for the party!

* These quirky high heel ice cubes are fun – and funny! Everyone will giggle as they sip their vodka soda.

* Give your bookworm hostess a breathtaking, hand painted bookmark from Bernard Maisner… Or a journal, notebook or latest best-seller.

Stella Steal: La Coco Curbchain Necklace & Bracelet

Erin — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 07:25:10 +0000

Curbchain jewelry was a foreign concept to me until Stella & Dot introduced their La Coco Curbchain Necklace in their Fall 2011 jewelry collection. Well, the shiny, thick chain jewelry has become a huge trend this season, reaching everything from handbags to ballet flats to statement necklaces — and reaching retailers high and low, from Neiman Marcus to Kohl’s to David Yurman.

Fashion jewelry featuring a curbchain style generally runs a few hundred dollars. If you’re looking to splurge on a substantial 10kt – 24kt curbchain knockout, then get ready to pay the substantial price tag: about a grand and up.

Get the same look, but for a lot less, with the Stella & Dot La Coco Curbchain Necklace & Bracelet for way less than $100. This shiny piece works double duty too — Wear as one long necklace or detach the clasps to make it into a shorter necklace and a matching curbchain bracelet. Brilliant!

Left to Right: Lanvin Rhinestone Link Bracelet from Neimen Marcus, $770; Gold Curbchain Bracelet from Kohls, $100; Stainless Steel Curbchain Necklace from Kohls, $245; Sterling Silver David Yurman Curbchain Necklace from Neiman Marcus, $1650.

Stella & Dot La Coco Curbchain Necklace & Bracelet, Gold $89, Silver $79 at www.StellaDot.com/Emarkland

Trend Report: Statement Pearls

Erin — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:50:47 +0000

Pearls are a must-have in every woman’s jewelry collection. Stand out in the crowd this holiday season in some fabulous statement pearls. Here are some of our favorite looks and style tips!

The Isadora Pearl Bib combines the classic look of pearls with a modern twist. For a causal tailored look, we love this piece with a simple tank and blazer, over a pair of great fitting denim. Keep your credit cards and cell phone in your Soho Wristlet for a casual day around town.

Pearls are the perfect accessories to take you from day to night. We love the classic look of the Sofia Pearl Bib Necklace over a simple black dress for the office. Then switch out your office bag with your La Coco Clutch in black to take your look into the evening.

The Astor Five Strand Necklace has surprising elements of color and sparkle, and we love how the stone bring out the shimmer in this dress. Take along your La Coco Clutch in pewter for a fun night out.

3 Ways to Update Your Wardrobe for Holiday 2011

Erin — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 04:24:19 +0000

Stella & Dot’s Chief Creative Officer Blythe Harris shares her style tips to update your wardrobe for this year’s festive holiday season. Who says you can’t wear your cocktail dress two years in a row? Update your look on a budget by incorporating bold color, playing with accessories and experimenting with texture. Blythe’s tips will have you looking glamorous and festive in no time!

1.) Add Bold Color – Red is a hot color this holiday season and the bold festive color looks terrific with ivory pearls. Try the Sofia Pearl Bib Necklace and the gold Devi Bangles from Stella & Dot. Bright cobalt blue, purple and teal are also popular colors for holiday 2011. The key to wearing bright colors is to pair them with a neutral — dark jeans, black, brown or khaki — and add an equally interesting and a fun accessory. The Pegasus Necklace is featured in the video, above, and is surprisingly versatile, lightweight and easy to wear.

2.) It’s All Accessorizing – Update last year’s dress (or, heck, even your dress from five years ago!) with fun accessories. Colorful heels or a hot caged booty are both on-trend and super fun. Add a belt, scarf, or an armful of bangles and wrap bracelets to change the vibe of any outfit. You can turn any black dress into a glam outfit with the Metropolitan Mixed Chain Necklace from Stella & Dot. Or go for a rocker-chic look with the Femme Fatale Necklace. Just have fun with it!

3.) Incorporate Texture – Texture is huge this season, from tweedy collarless jackets to corduroy skinnies to the color-blocked suede heels that are all over the malls right now. Choose one of two textures to experiment with, and don’t be afraid to mix something tough with something soft, such as silk with leather, or suede with modal cotton or jersey. You can also add texture in with your accessories: Try the Chantilly Lace Cuff or the Pegasus Necklace from Stella & Dot.

Stella & Dot Necklace Featured in Harper’s Bazaar UK

Erin — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 03:29:09 +0000

The fabulous Rio Triple Strand Necklace from Stella & Dot was recently featured in the December issue of Harper’s Bazaar UK. Layering jewels for a bohemian look is a popular trend right now, even across the pond! Try pairing the it with the the Rio Coin Bracelet for a complete look.

Are you in the UK and want to learn more about Stella & Dot? We just launched in October 2011 and are looking for women just like you who want to be a part of the Stella & Dot experience. Please contact me for more info: itsthestylefile@yahoo.com

Trend Report: Discovering Textures

Erin — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 03:06:12 +0000

This blog post is originally from Stella & Dot’s corporate Stylewatch blog, seen HERE.

Combining textures is all over the runway this season, and a hot topic for every editorial feature. And while textural blending is most commonly seen in apparel with combos like leather and lace or tweed and satin, we’re loving the idea of blending textures by way of accessory! Accessorizing with interesting textures, like a silky top paired with a texture-heavy statement piece, is a fun and easy way to embrace the trend, and we’re all about making trends accessible. See our favorite combinations and style tips!

Statement necklaces aren’t just for special occasions anymore, they are the perfect piece to easily dress up a casual outfit and bring in the “wow” factor. We love the feathering texture of the Pegasus Necklace; it is visually interesting, yet surprisingly easy to wear. Wear this over an open neckline (think silk or velvet for a festive feel), or over a pop of color (Did we mention that mixing bold colors with different textures is hot right now, too?). Finish the look simply with our Essential Ball Studs, and you will be turning heads.

We love the versatility of the Plume Brooch for the office. The duo toned feathers and sparkly stones, add a subtle touch of glamour that’s appropriate for day or night. Pin the brooch to accent a sweater or blazer, or for our favorite look, pin it onto our Astor Five Strand Necklace, and finish the look with Tudor Studs. The array of textures worn in jewels will make the rest of your outfit effortless. Just slip on a fitted dress and classic pumps to support the look!

Lace is by far one of the most popular textures of the season. Our Chantilly Lace Cuff and Chandelier Earrings have all the intricate details of lace, and give every outfit the ultimate touch of glamour. We love starting with an elegant LBD little black dress, adding in the chandelier statement earrings, then finishing with a soft, feminine updo, simple eyes, and a bold lip. Step up the look even more with the matching cuff, or even the Metallic La Coco Clutch for an unforgettable night out on the town.

Now that you have a few tips on how to bring in texture to your winter look, we challenge you to come up with some of your own head-turning ensembles, paying special attention to textural blending!

Stella & Dot Pendant Necklace Featured in More Magazine

Erin — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:09:17 +0000

And it’s in the press again! The lovely Snake Orb Pendant Necklace from Stella & Dot was featured in the November 2011 issue of More magazine (featuring Mariska Hargitay on the cover) in their “Under $100 Chain Gang” fashion feature. The Snake Orb Necklace is a flirty, feminine take on the animal trend; check out Stella & Dot’s Serpent Bangle to finish the look.

Stella & Dot Leather Wrap Bracelet Featured on GMA’s “Secret Deals, Steals & Discounts” Segment

Erin — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:17:05 +0000

Morning talk show is loving Stella & Dot! TV news anchor Lara Spencer featured the Pyramid Double Leather Wrap Bracelet from Stella & Dot on Good Morning America this morning [Thursday, October 27, 2011 on ABC's Good Morning America] in their “Secret Deals and Steals” segment. For 24 HOURS ONLY get this leather wrap bracelet in cognac at 50% OFF – Pay only $29 for the bracelet, which normally retails for $59! Enter promo code GMAOCT at checkout. Offer only valid until Friday, October 28, 2011 at 10am PST/1pm EST. Click HERE to shop now. Also available in Green.

Lara Spencer Wears Stella & Dot Necklace on GMA

Tory Johnson Features Stella & Dot Business Opportunity on GMA

Lara Spencer Wears Stella & Dot Bib Necklace on GMA