[Jewelry] Alex + Chloe, Love Medals & Toodlebunny

Sparkly, shiny, loud and in your face. These are just a few of the terms that have come to define the bling wrapped around our necks, hanging off our ears, and even gleaming from our teeth. Bling tends to conjure up images of big-time celebs like Lil’ Wayne and Beyonce. But for most of us, the “ice” around our necks tends to fall short by a couple of karats. Luckily, some jewelry designers have come to the rescue.

L.A.’s Alex and Chloe has offered up unisex pieces for people seeking fun and innovative items with a minimalist aesthetic since 2004. The company has received huge response from its necklaces, earrings, brooches and eyewear made from acrylics, metals, gold and diamonds.

Alex and Chloe’s brand new collection, called “TAR,” takes cues from “objects found in the depths of the earth and sea.” One piece, a rabbit’s foot pendant, appears to be blackened in tar, but is tempered by a clean and simple antique-like chain. The future sees the designers taking it a step further with the release of a leather goods line.
For the compassionate, imaginative accessory enthusiast comes Vancouver’s own Love Medals. Worn on a lapel, around the neck, or as a bracelet, the pieces are reminiscent of war medals made from sterling silver and quality ribbon from Japan.

“Fashion-wise, there are small Love Medals for those who appreciate subtle accents to their outfit,” says designer Talia Alexander. “Then there are very bold pieces for those who want to make a statement… worn by Love Soldiers.”
Her latest collection features delicate heart lockets, chains, semi-precious stone beads, and Eastern- and Western-inspired charms. A high-end line and a project in support of peace in the Middle East are also in the works for Love Medals.

Meanwhile, Toodlebunny, who are also from Vancouver, offer an alternative approach to jewelry design. The collection features delicate, asymmetrical pieces with clean lines made out of 14-karat gold, hand-selected semiprecious stones and Swarovski crystals

“Asymmetry, yet balance, is one of the key elements of my design,” explains designer Trudy Wynans. “I love the challenge of designing asymmetrical necklaces as well as complimentary ‘mismatched’ earrings using the same disparate elements… When combined with each other they tell another story.”

Check out Alex and Chloe online and at various retailers around the world. Love Medals is available online and at boutiques in BC. Find Toodlebunny at various boutiques in Western Canada.

www.alexandchloe.com
www.lovemedals.com
www.toodlebunny.com

Words: Valerie Tiu