It’s the time of year when people start to bring out their warm and cozy clothing.  Sweaters, jackets and shawls all get a workout when the leaves start to color and the air feels a little crisp in the morning.
But what’s a fashionista to do if you don’t want to look like everyone else in the same fleece jacket or bulky sweater?
Check out what the indie designers are doing, of course!
Etsy has more than 200 pages of sweaters alone.  That’s not including other cool-weather clothing like shawls, wraps or jackets.
If you’re in the market for something new and cozy – …read more

Eliza Page is a unique jewelry boutique, based in Austin, Texas.  They specialize in high quality, handmade jewelry, with more than half of their designers coming from inside the city.
Their jewelry is modern, elegant and very wearable!
I’m quite taken with several pieces that use large, clean pieces of faceted semi-precious stones like garnet, topaz and amethyst.  The stones are handled simply with gold bezels and findings, which means the stones really get a chance to shine on their own.
Designer Suman Sharma created these stunning smoky topaz tear-drop earrings, finished with 14kt yellow gold (also available in the same stud style …read more

I think you all know that I’m a big fan of indie designers – but did you know that the Beauty & Style channel has our very own indie style blogger?
Kim writes Indie Style File (and is celebrating her blog-birthday next month!) where she covers the best of independant style from all over the world.
Buying indie allows you to directly support the designer – you’re not paying for a team of ad execs, or for massive offices…
Of course, my favorite reason to shop indie is that you can find amazing accessories like…

Paloma’s Nest “Words on Wood that Wrap Around Your …read more

I’d definitely wear this funky ring from Quercus Silver:

The ring is a one-of-a-kind and handmade from sterling silver & resin.
image source:  Quercus Silver

I’m loving these steel & washi-paper chokers from Shanalogic:

The paper is covered with resin, so they’re quite sturdy.
The one downside?
The necklace I really want is sold out!

That goldfish choker is filling me with jewelery lust

I’d like you all to give a warm welcome to the two newest members of b5 media’s team!

Kim is writing “Indie Style File” where she profiles fabulous finds from indie designers.

Meieli proves that fashion isn’t just for the size 2 gals in the crowd – “Dapper Divas” is all about fashion for the plus-size fashionista!

I’ve seen some fabulous cocktails rings lately!  I think they’re a great accessory to dress up your little black dress – or even to add some style to a pair of skinny jeans & a cute blouse
I’ve been mooching around etsy and have found some very cute rings – want to see?

This is a sterling silver & synthetic sapphire ring, by LeeLoo Studios.

Also by LeeLoo Studios, this cocktail ring is sterling silver & synthetic ruby – I’d definitely wear it.

I love the vintage feel of this fused glass cocktail ring by Sour Kitten Glass!

You could also go for …read more