Studio Friday: Wabi Sabi

Wabi-sabi (in Kanji: 侘寂) represents a comprehensive Japanese world view or aesthetic centered on the acceptance of transience. The phrase comes from the two words wabi and sabi. The aesthetic is sometimes described as one of beauty that is "imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete" (according to Leonard Koren in his book Wabi-Sabi: for Artists, Designers, Poets and Philosophers.

What imperfection are you struggling with in either your art or studio space? Is your ideal set too high? Do you put too much pressure on yourself? Try to see the beauty in its imperfection and celebrate it!!


"Nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect."
(taken from Wikipedia on the topic of Wabi Sabi)

I have said for years that my art work, and now my jewelry designs, will never be truly complete because there is always room for improvement.

Recently, I have moved to change the direction of my jewelry designs because, quite frankly, I was ready for a change. I am now working toward more simple, young styles, and am pleased by the outcome.

I hope that the new look will resonate with a younger crowd more than the designs of my past had. I enjoy sharing my work with people of all ages, but would be ecstatic to see my peers enjoying YD jewelry as much as I do.

This is why I have worked hard these last few weeks to find materials that will allow me to sell my new line, made with all sterling silver findings, at a reasonable price for a young budget (prices at $35.00 or less).


This, of course , is by no means the end of my design innovations, because I believe that, "Nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect".

Latest News

I told myself I wouldn't spill the beans before it was time, but I am just too excited. A YD website is currently in the works. It's nothing fancy, but it is quite clean and professional nonetheless. Customers will be able to buy Yvette Designs jewelry from the site. There will be a guest book, and a message board where YD customers and enthusiasts can send messages to me and to one another. I will keep you all up to date on the virtual boutique's progress as it develops.

Now, it's on to the latest fashions. Nude tone clothing is big right now, and I couldn't miss the opportunity to post this photo of the New York runway show from Burberry. These styles are so very me ten years ago, which would make sense because I was only a girl then. Though, somehow I can still strongly identify with these looks.


The shoes are very upscale boho. I remember having a similar pair, and all I could do was concentrate on not falling off of them, which I did a time or two. Ouch! I can imagine some young waif wearing them with a earthy hued tunic and a huge sling purse draped over her tan shoulder. She'd have on at least three strands of necklaces, an arm full of bangles, and of course, the Y.D. necklace below would complete the look rather nicely. Don't you think?

This is one of the necklaces that I sometimes put on the mannequin bust in my studio just so I can admire it. It's a quality control measure, really. Anyhow, I do hope someone buys this earthy gypsy like necklace soon because I have been fond of it since its conception, and every day I am loosing my resolve to part with it. For those of you who are interested in it, don't worry. If I am overtaken by this desire, and I haven't kept a thing I've made yet, it will quickly disappear from the pages of my Etsy store. Happy shopping everyone!

Cool New Stuff

Here are a couple new necklaces from the Y.D. chain collection. These have been a lot of fun to make. In times past my motto was "more is more", but this season's style has taught me that less really is more. Go figure!

I've been doing a lot of "window shopping" lately and am loving all of the breezy spring clothing out there. I've found that the pink Austrian crystal briolette necklace (top left) would be an excellent complement to the mostly black and white halter dress (top right) from Charlotte Russe.

Also, for some reason the chunky chain and pendant necklace (bottom right) reminds me of ancient times and would be perfect for the Roman inspired halter from Forever 21. The only thing needed to complete a look befitting a goddess would be a pair of strappy metalic sheen, flat sandals.

New York Fashion Week Jewelry Report : Necklaces

New York's fashion week has come and gone, but the trends will be with us through the spring and summer months. Are you up on the latest?

Necklace fashions are leaning toward a layer up aesthetic, as seen in Chris Aire, Ralph Lauren, and Carmen Marc Volvo's collections, to name a few. Simple pendants and chain in gold, and silver were seen in abundance on the runway. Chain lengths seem to vary from 16" to 20" .

In jewelry fashion, the colors that made the biggest statements were:
Southwest colors such as tan, clay, orange, brown, and...


sea inspired colors such as light blue greens, Caribbean blues, cool silver, and white.


Check back regularly for more jewelry fashion updates. Happy shopping, everyone!