Weddings, birthdays, graduations, bridal/baby showers, anniversaries, Christmas, New Years Eve, girls' night... Parties happen year round, but this time of year is especially associated with getting family, friends and colleagues together.

Whether we plan to wear an outfit that's already in our closet, or we are planning to buy something new, it can be a difficult task to know what jewelry to wear. The necklace, earrings, bracelets and rings that we chose can make the difference between "That outfit is amazing!" to "What were you thinking?!"

I have put together a number of Party Outfits to give you a bit of guidance and inspiration for your next soiree.

For more information on the jewelry featured, simply type "Party" into the search bar on the top left corner of the Apostyle website to view the beautiful pieces shown.

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Long time friends, Jan and Jo are the dream team behind Toronto based jewelry line, Meiresthai. We wanted to learn more about them and their collections, and below is the Apostyle Exclusive interview with them.

The name Meiresthai, how is it pronounced and what does it mean?

Pronounced as mee-res-thay the name is of Greek origin and it means one’s reward in life. It’s the perfect word to describe a venture that has given us the gift of expression and creativity.

You are a Design Duo- when did you meet and how did you come about being in business together?

Jo and I met in the seventh grade. We started out just sharing secrets and now we have the pleasure of sharing a business. The start of meiresthai was a bit serendipitous. Jo had, for a couple of years, been asking me to start a jewellery business with her. I kept saying no so she eventually dropped it.   Then a year later I decided that I really needed to make a change in my life in order to find some passion again. I was looking for a sign and that very night she called to ask me to start a business with her. I took it as my sign and now the rest is history.

What inspires the designs of your collections?

Everything – and that is the best part of creation. There is so much beauty in this world and some of it can be visually loud and some of it may be very subtle. The inspiration could come from a great work of art or in the simple proportion of a line. We’ve had a collection inspired through a layered mood board and one inspired simply by the materials. It can really come from anywhere, but it culminates in a sense of play. You play with ideas, shapes, materials, textures and sometimes you end up with something completely different from what you had originally intended. We just allow the inspiration to start the journey.

Describe your customer in three words:

Stylish, Feminine, Quietly-loud

When you aren't working on your jewelry line, what can we find you doing?

Jo: working on photography, spending time with good friends, and probably checking my phone.

Jan: reading a book, practicing my sketching, and shamefully binge watching Netflix

What were your aspirations as young girls?

Jo: I wanted to be an artist, but I never really finished a painting because I always wanted perfection! Thankfully, I fell in love with photography and making jewelry, which are my creative outlets!

Jan: Indiana Jones. But that didn’t really work out, so in the end I really just aspired to be a strong, independent woman. It was something that my mother instilled in me and because she served as an amazing role model in my life, I’m proud to say it’s something I have achieved.

Best advice you've received or personal life motto/mantra:

Jo:   The best advice I’ve received is from my father: Don’t just dream about things, think about how to make dreams come true.

Jan: The best advice I’ve received is from my mother: “You don’t ask, you don’t get”.

Meiresthai handcrafted jewelry has quickly become an Apostyle favorite. Click here to shop the collection!

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If you have ever wondered what jewelry would compliment your body type the best, this post is for you!

What type of jewelry should I wear
for my body type?

Just like the clothes we wear and the haircut we have, there are certain styles of jewelry that can either highlight our favorite features, or distract from our least favorite.

But let me start out by saying this, I am a firm believer that if you love it, wear it! Even if it goes against some of these guidelines, you should choose what to wear because you love it, not because some blog said that it isn't "best" for your frame. Anything I write is simply a suggestion or proposal, not a set in stone rule. Keep these tips in mind as you select the jewelry you wear, or as you shop for new items. The goal is to give you guidance towards feeling beautiful and confident when you look in the mirror after getting dresses.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if a style you love isn't mentioned here as complimentary for you, it doesn't mean that it won't work. Try it out and see how you feel.

Complimenting Your Body Shape

Jewelry can bring attention to or take attention away from certain parts of your body. For features you want to highlight, you can wear bold pieces, layer up, or wear jewelry that falls in or around that area. On the other end of the spectrum, for features you would like to distract from, keep the jewelry around those areas light and sparse.

Art Deco(lletage)

If you want to bring attention to your décolletage, a chunky, bold, or short layered necklaces will do the trick. Also wear these items if you want to distract from your hips.

Long and Lean

If you feel that you have a rounder shape, choosing long pieces of jewelry (earrings and necklaces) will create a slimming effect. Also layering up on long necklaces is a great trick! Think: Long & Lean.

If you want to lengthen your torso and appear taller, "V" or "Y" shape necklaces will do the trick (this includes lariats and bolo styles).

Did you say pimple?!

If you wake up with a pimple, distract from your face by wearing simple stud earrings and a long eye-catching necklace and/or a large pendant, or you could layer up with bracelets and rings.

Feeling Handsy

If you aren't fond of your hands, believe it or not, a chunky bracelet will draw the eye away from your hands and to the wrist. Wearing heavy, bold bracelets are a good pairing for smaller hands, whereas if you feel that your hands are on the larger side, opt for lots of small bracelets and a watch.

Busting Out

If you have a larger bust and want to guide attention elsewhere, steer away from necklaces that fall right on your chest and pendants that get lost in your cleavage. Eye-catching earrings are a great option, as are chokers and very short necklaces.

Swallowed Up

If you are petite, try avoiding very chunky, short necklaces as can swallow you up. Instead, opt for necklace lengths that fall between the chest and the waist to make you look taller. 

To learn more about how to accessorize, read my post on What Jewelry To Wear For Your Face Shape.

If you have further questions or comments, feel free to comment below or send me an email!

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Apostyle's Exclusive Interview with
the Designer of Lisbeth and
Birds of a Feather, Sophie Alden

The names Lisbeth and Birds of a Feather- where are the names from/why did you decide on them?

Lisbeth is actually my middle name. I always thought it was a pretty and unusual name and it was the first thing that came to mind when I was thinking of a brand name. It felt right because it is personal yet most people don't identify me with it  and it seemed to perfectly suit the style of jewelry. For Birds of a Feather, I always loved the saying Birds of a feather flock together and I wanted a name that was total departure from Lisbeth Jewelry.

How did you get into jewelry design?

I have always been creative and loved making things that I could actually use and wear. I got into jewelry design kind of by accident. I was working at a local boutique and we had a hard time finding local jewelry brands that suited the store and I thought 'hey! I could do that.'  I  was fortunate enough to take a year off to travel and live in another city. I spent all my time making jewelry and taking some courses. When I came home I created my line and first collection and it grew from there.

Who are some of your top fashion icons and why?

Obviously Kate Moss. I love the blend of classic/bohemian/rock n'roll which is totally my aesthetic. Sienna Miller would be another. I also really like Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow for classic elegance. 

What styles are you loving right now?

Well I'm loving that the 70's are big for Fall because that is probably my favourite fashion era. 

When you aren't working, where would we most likely find you?

Right now at home! I am actually just moving into a new house and have been spending all of my spare time renovating and decorating which is a full-time job but kind of a dream.

For people visiting Vancouver, which 3 places would you suggest they go to?

Only three! That's hard. One of a Few for shopping. Spanish Banks or Canoeing up the Indian Arm for outdoor activities. Dinner and drinks in Gastown/Chinatown. Bao Bei is one of my favs.

What the best advice you've been given? OR What's your personal mantra?

My personal mantra is "be the good you want to see in the world." 

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Instagram has become a source of inspiration, captivation, humour and emotion. With the millions of Instagram account holders, it can be difficult to find what you're looking for. Here are my Top 12 Instagram Accounts.

Disclaimer : You won't find any Kardashians, Beibers or Beyonces on this list. It wasn't accumulated by number of followers, likes or apparent celebrity status. This list was curated simply out of interest factor. If there has been, or will be, any Apostyle collaboration with anyone on this list, it had no effect on whether or not you see their names here, I've actually been following everyone on this list for quite some time.

Top 12 Instagram Accounts

National Geographic  |  @natgeo  :  You will be captured by the stunning photos from around the world that are featured by National Geographic's various talented photographers.

Jade Sheldon  |  @jade_melissa  :  Jade is the counterpart to the Endlessly Enraptured blog. Her Instagram account shows simple, yet beautiful, images of her daily encounters paired with elegant and eloquently written captions. 

Anthropologie  |  @anthropologie  :  Known mainly for their charming aesthetic, the Anthropologie account showcases both their clothing and home decor collections. Being a retail store, you won't feel like you're being sold on any items (although you will likely be tempted).

Lauren Conrad  |  @laurenconrad_com  :  I wasn't ever a fan of The Hills and it took me a little while to warm up to any Hills "celebrity", but I have turned to the Lauren Conrad side. I like this account not because of LC, but because of the team behind the LC brand. The style of the posts are classic, squeaky clean and fresh, and include fashion, home décor, recipes and positive vibes.

Baddie Winkle  |  @baddiewinkle  :  In complete contrast to the aforementioned, Baddie Winkle is a hilarious grannie with attitude. You know that when her bio says "stealing your man since 1928", you're in for some good laughs.

Green With Envy  |  @greenwithenvyca  :  Wishing I was better at anything to do with flowers, the arrangements that Jenn Chu puts together are inspiring and beautiful. Great for wedding ideas, or for fresh picks in your home.

E. Interiors  |  @einteriors.design  :  Featuring not only spectacular interior design and décor, they also have an eye for fashion and definitely know their style. Be inspired, or simply wish your were there (...in the marvelous, decadent spa-like bathroom.)

Humans of New York  |  @humansofny  :  Humans of New York shares the stories of real people in New York. Currently focusing on the personal stories of refugees from Europe, you will be hard pressed to look at those around you with the same eyes after reading some of these stories.
My only negative- makes me with there was an account like this for every major city.

Fashion Dads  |  @fashiondads_  :  We've all seen it or had a personal experience with a #fashiondad. This collection of photos is hilarious because we know it's real and true. No filters needed, no Photoshop and no set-up. The struggle is real, folks.

Dote Magazine  |  @dotemagazine  :  "A well-styled and meaningful life." That's what this magazine is all about. If you're done with large corporation publications that promote scandalous and unattainable living, and offer a narrow view on life and living, look to Dote. Their perspective is refreshing, inspiring and encouraging. The articles and imagery offer insight and promote deeper thought. This is one magazine that I will keep around to re-read for quite some time. If you aren't in YYC, you can read their issues online, and be sure to follow their Instagram account!

Lori Andrews  |  @theoriginal10cent  :  Feminist, photographer, interior designer, bike enthusiast (car de-thusiast)...there are few things Lori doesn't do. My favorite thing about her account are the photos of the Rocky Mountains. Clear, crisp and captivating- you will feel the chill of the winter air, or hear the trickle of the river, it's as if you were right beside her as she took the photo.

Apostyle  |  @apostyle_boutique  :  If you don't follow Apostyle already, you are missing out on daily jewelry features, tips & tricks, Sunday Outfit Inspiration (including How to Wear It and How to Make it Better), the Hump Day Jump, exclusive offers, customer shots, and so much more! I may be biased, but what can I say, I think the account is top notch!  ;)

There are a multitude of spectacular Instagram Accounts out there, and there really is something for everyone and for every mood. If you need to laugh, cry, be encouraged, find tips on just about anything, find someone to commiserate with...Instagram has it.

What are some of your favorite Instagram Accounts that you think we should all follow? Comment below!

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Apostyle outlines the best solutions for organizing your jewelry. We have ideas and jewelry storage solutions to suit any budget, space allotment and personal style.

How To Organize Your Jewelry
+ Tips, Tricks and Inspiration

Many of us have a tough time sorting through our jewelry and finding that specific piece to go with our outfit, leaving us annoyed, and our jewelry in an even bigger mess than it was before. If organization isn't your forte, you're tired of tangled necklaces, or you are looking for new ideas on how to organize your jewelry, you will find everything you're looking for here. You will find ideas and jewelry storage solutions for any budget, space allotment and personal style.

I have had a number of you comment about your jewelry organization (or lack of), and have heard things such as: you don't have a good place to store your jewelry, you have a tough time finding what you want each day, and one fantastic customer (you know who you are) asked me to write a blog about how to store and organize her jewelry. This is for all of you!

Best For Small Spaces or Travel

Whether you have limited space at home, or you travel a lot, a great item to have is a Jewelry Case. You can find them in various sizes to suit your needs and jewelry collection, come in many different styles (hanging or book-style) and price ranges. These types of cases can be difficult to find in stores throughout the year, but come Christmas season you may see them everywhere (I've seen them at Gap, Ikea, drug stores, department stores, etc). If you aren't willing to wait till then, you can find anything online at any point of the year (isn't online shopping great?!).

Here are two of my favorites - a book style organizer from Clos-ette, and a hanging system from The Container Store.

From Clos-ette, the Signature Travel Jewelry Case allows you to add or remove the ultra-suede pages to accommodate what you need and it will solve all of your organization, jewelry protection problems. This is a great solution for travel or if you don't have the counter or drawer space for other organizers. Below is an image of these fantastic cases.

Another great space-saving option is to get a hanging organizer. These are great because you can hang them in your closet, door knob, back of the door...just about anywhere, and they don't take up any space. Tougher to find in stores, but easily found online, these are generally more cost effective than a book-style system. Below is a picture of one from The Container Store.

Grown Up Jewelry Box

When you read "jewelry box" do you instantly think of the childhood music box with a spinning ballerina? If you do, we may be kindred spirits. But long gone are the days of my jewelry collection ever fitting in something like that. I now have a more adult version- multi levels, velvet lined and much more grown-up (although I do wish it would play music when it opened, perhaps something by Mariah Carey or Fugees). I love having this because it sits on top of my dresser and is a great way to keep my earrings and rings separate from my necklaces. The one I own is by Umbra, and though no longer available, they have a number of great jewelry boxes and storage solutions you should check out. Another good place to look is The Container Store, they have some very nice and practical boxes that won't be an eye-sore on your shelf or counter.

Acrylic

Acrylic isn't just for nails back in 1999. Using Acrylic organizers for your jewelry (or makeup) is a simple, modern way to store your pieces and thanks to the opacity, you can easily find what you are looking for without having to open every drawer or box. You can get a larger display to put on a counter or shelf, or you can get a smaller unit to fit inside your drawers. Again, from The Container Store there are many different designs you can get at different price points. For all of you Canadians, another place to look is Home Sense.  

The Cadillac

A wall mounted jewelry organizer is the Cadillac of all organizers. Large and in charge, this type of design requires space, costs more than other styles of organizers, and you need lots of jewelry to fill them! Well, maybe not. They do come in different sizes, but when it comes to these, size matters. Go big, or go home. Apart from having a ton of space to put all of your jewelry, they also come with interior lights and a mirror. If souped-up Cadillacs, complete with hydraulics, wheel spinners and tinted windows is what you want, there's a jewelry Armoire for you! The best of both styles I have found are from Hammacher Schlemmer, a company known for quality.

My Personal Favorite

If you want to save money on actually buying jewelry instead of just storing it, Ikea has the perfect solution. Giving up a sock drawer, I bought the Ikea Komplement drawer inserts. I cut one to fit in the bottom of my drawer, and another so that it rested on the top of the drawer, creating a multi level jewelry drawer. These felt inserts have different size compartments for different items, and the soft felt won't scratch your jewelry. Cost effective and customizable, this is my go-to!

Additional Jewelry Storage Tips & Resources

- Any flatware drawer tray can be used for jewelry, make up, toiletries, etc. Find one that you like and it's ready to go! Place it in a drawer or if you don't have the space, you can just as easily put it on a shelf.

- Small zippered plastic bags are the perfect solution to keeping your jewelry from getting tangled, scratched and tarnished. By keeping your jewelry in individual bags you can easily see what's inside and save time by sorting through tangled chains or opening boxes. You can find these at dollar stores, craft stores (like Michaels), or party suppliers. I get mine from Creative Packaging because of their great variety of sizes.  

- To make your morning routine easier, organize your necklaces by length. Grouping together the short lengths, medium lengths, and long lengths in separate spots. This will help you grab what you need according to your neckline and layering needs. To read the blog about Necklaces and Necklines, click here. Not sure how to layer your necklaces, click here to read our Ten Simple Guidelines To Layering.

For even more ideas, here are some additional links to blogs, DIY ideas, and stores to help you with all your jewelry organizational needs:

- Martha Stewart : Making your own wall mounted jewelry cabinet

- Gurl.com : 14 Easy Tips On How To Organize Your Jewelry

- WhoWhatWear.com : Inspiring Ways To Organize Your Jewelry

- Curbly.com : Ikea Hack: How to Make the Ultimate Jewelry Storage Solution

- Temptalia.com : How to Store Jewelry

- Etsy Sellers

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