RISING STAR AWARDS

Dear Fragments Fans,
Happy Friday! How are you all doing?

Yesterday, we attended the Fashion Group International's Rising Star Awards, where one of our designers - MORITZ GLIK - was nominated in the fine jewelry category. It it truly an extraordinary honor to be recognized by the Fashion Group, and we were thrilled to accompany and support our very talented star, Moritz.

Norma Kamali spoke beautifully about always being a star and never giving up on your dream. We were so inspired and motivated by her words and it was a perfect start to the afternoon. Other notable speakers were Linda Fargo, Catherine Malandrino, Jamie Pallot and many more.
It was a fun and very special afternoon where we honored sensational young talents in the fashion and accessories industry. For those of you not familiar with Moritz's work, here are some images. He is a true talent - an artist - inspired by international culture, museums all over the world and antique jewelry from the 1700s/1800s. His jewelry is quite architectural, yet fluid, modern and incredibly beautiful. Working with full cuts, single cuts and rose cut diamonds as well as oxidized silver, yellow gold, white gold and white sapphire (where the diamonds are often enclosed) - Moritz never ceases to amaze us. His collection is available at Fragments: 212.334.9588, 116 Prince Street in New York City. Enjoy and have a great weekend! Love always, Janet.

Fragments Update!

Dear Fragments Fans,
How are you all doing? I know it's been so long since I have blogged - forgive me, we have been crazy busy! We just wrapped up at the ENK show last week and it was really successful. I saw lots of emerging trends - neon and bold colors like coral and turquoise in Miguel Ases & LK Designs. And on the opposite end, neutrals were also a big hit like in Millianna & Dana Kellin. I love watching all of the designers come out to display their newest creations and show the market what's next - it's very exciting! One of my favorite moments from the ENK show that you will also love was when I layered a Huichol beaded cuff with a Miguel Ases bracelet over it. We are so excited about this new combination - the response has been amazing and soon these bracelets will be available on Fragments.com so you can achieve the same look!

We're still in market and all of the stores are coming to visit to see & buy the latest in beautiful, unique fine & fashion jewelry. They're loving what they see from designers like Gem Kingdom, Wendy Brigode, Millianna, Dana Kellin, Miguel Ases, LK Designs, KALA, Shery Shabani and many more! Shades of honeysuckle are everywhere, the color of Spring 2011, and we're loving how everyone has incorporated it into their collections in different ways.
Fragments is also gearing up for CENTURION in Arizona, a fine jewelry show where two of our designers, Arman and Suzanne Kalan, will be showing their newest collections. We're having fun preparing and feel confident that this will be a very successful, exciting show. I'll be sure to fill you all in afterwards...
We have also been getting some amazing press! Recently our designers have been featured on the covers of Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Inside Weddings, Self, Women's Health and inside books including Vogue Gioello, JCK Magazine, Alexa, Harper's Bazaar, MUSE, MORE magazine, W, Houston Magazine and many more. We're so proud of our talented designers and there is nothing more rewarding then seeing them featured so prominently in the press.
I will be back with more next week! Thanks for reading our blog and remember to become our fan on Facebook for daily updates!
Love,
Janet

Art Basel Roundup!

Dear Fragments Friends & Family,

How are you all doing? Enjoying the beginning of the Holiday Season? I hope you're all having fun celebrating the holidays, giving and receiving lots of love and thanks, and admiring the sparkling lights all around us. I love it all.

Speaking of celebrations and special moments...I have just returned from an amazing week at Art Basel in Miami, Florida. There was sensational art everywhere I looked and in the most unexpected places. The week was filled with extraordinary talent, love, creativity and celebration - every second was truly exquisite. I am so proud of my daughter, her restaurant Wynwood Kitchen & Bar has been such a success since it's opening early last week - even being named the "hottest restaurant of Art Basel." How exciting and what an accolade! Here is a beautiful shot of a live performance one night at the restaurant:

And take a look at the outdoor seating - isn't it sensational? It's all about uniqueness and creativity, celebrating the world of art and the talent that's around us everyday. It is so inspiring.

This was one of my favorite exhibitions called "friends with you," - it is so happy and unique, too much fun and brings me back to my childhood. The exhibition is made up of all giant balloons in the design district.

Another amazing installation was by reknowned graffiti artist, PHASE 2. I find this to be incredibly edgy and modern - very exciting and of course inspiring. Art keeps me going - it always inspires me to seek new and unique talent in the jewelry world and bring it to the marketplace. This piece does just that - I especially love it's use of neon color. What a pop!

I also find this "Retna" for Primary Flights mural very intriguing. It's dark, but incredibly inspiring and very stylish and regal.

These are only bits and pieces from our amazing experience at Basel this year. I will be posting more photos on our Facebook fan page - Fragments Jewelry - please become a fan to see photos and stay up to date with Fragments news. Thank you all and have a wonderful holiday season!

Love,

Janet

Art, Jewelry & a Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello Fragments Fans and Followers,

How are you all doing? Getting into the Holiday spirit, I hope! I sure am. I am blogging from Miami, Florida with my family and lots of exciting things are going on. We're getting prepared for Art Basel, my favorite time of year where I get to indulge in the most sensational art and appreciate some of the most amazing talent that the world has to offer. The Wynwood Walls, located in Florida's art district (10 minutes of Miami,) are completed and absolutely exquisite. This is an art installation by street artists from around the world including Shepard Fairey, Kenny Scharf and other notable artists. Art is all about freedom of creative spirit, having the opportunity to see whats happening, whats new and what the future holds. This kind of exposure to the world of art allows me to grow personally, it gives me a creative edge. It allows me to have a true grasp of the avant garde, opens my mind to possibilities and inspires me to seek new talent in jewelry design. It's all about art, color, taking a risk and having fun with your creative spirit. Here are a couple of photos I've taken along the way...

And in more exciting news...my daughter Jessica, also opened Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, a spectacular modern American Brasserie and it's all about the art (and of course, delicious food.) The bar is designed by Shepard Fairey and the dining area is filled with paintings from Berlin artist, Christian Awe. The restaurant is on the corner of Northwest 2nd avenue and 26th street, right across the street from my son Joey's modern Italian cafe, called Joey's. So, this is what's happening and what's exciting in Wynwood. Here is a great photo taken inside the restaurant.

Lastly, all of my friends and colleagues are asking me what jewelry I will be wearing on Thanksgiving! I of course love the holidays because it's just another reason to get dressed up and indulge. I am wearing a Millianna antique gold bracelet and bib necklace because the beads have a delicious warm glow to them and the chunkiness will be a reminder of my own personal Thanksgiving message "too many desserts and stuffing and I can be chunky too!" Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

Janet

Designer Spotlight: Katie Decker

Hi Fragments fans and followers! How are you? How was your Halloween! I would love to see all of your costumes. Halloween is so much fun...

On another note, I am so excited to tell you about our newest fine jewelry designer, Katie Decker. At just 22 years old, Katie is being represented by Fragments with a fully developed and STUNNING fine jewelry collection. Katie finds the perfect balance between old world glamour and new school edge. Sensational and stackable diamond bangles and cuffs, incredibly vintage-like cocktail rings, layerable chains and stand out pendants - we can't get enough of this collection. All pieces are available in 18k rose, yellow and white gold and include diamonds and more! Be sure to check it out on our website, right here on Fragments.com.

It was my pleasure to spend some time with Katie and get to know her. I can assure you will love doing the same...

1. What is your greatest indulgence?

I LOVE to travel anywhere and everywhere. Experiencing new places and cultures is one of my favorite things to do.
2. Tell me your biggest fear.
Eating nuts or shellfish…I am allergic.

3. Your favorite red carpet moment of all time?

Eva Mendes in the white dress and turquoise and diamond Van Cleef and Arpels necklace. It was a major jewelry moment.
4. Your most treasured piece of jewelry, and why?

An amethyst ring my grandfather gave to me as a Christmas present when I was 10 years old. He was a jewelry lover too. I guess it runs in the family…

5. White gold, yellow gold or mix it all up?
Mix it all up and add some rose gold too!
6. Who is your favorite fictional character?

I used to read all the Nancy Drew books when I was a kid and pretend to solve crimes with my clipboard in hand. Aside from the fun of it I think she taught me to be imaginative and industrious.

7. Your greatest love is…spending time with my friends and family.

8. Who is your hero?
My mom. I do not think I would be where I am today without her.
9. Who is your favorite jewelry designer? (other than yourself)

Sevan Bicakci.

10. Who do you most admire, alive or deceased? My dad. He is the most disciplined person I have ever known and works extremely hard. If I only inherited half of his work ethic I think I am doing pretty good.

11. Your favorite movie? Almost Famous

12. Newspapers & magazines: print or online?
Print please– Vogue, Town and Country, Bazaar, Marie Claire – I love them all!

13. Your favorite ice cream flavor?

Mint Chocolate Chip and Cookies and Cream. A scoop of each would make the perfect dessert!
14. Facebook or Twitter?
Facebook

15. Style icon?

Grace Kelly—everything about her is sophisticated and timeless.

16. If you could design a piece of jewelry right now, based on your current mood and surroundings, what would it be?

Well since it is 85 degrees in Houston right now I am already feeling like designing for spring it would be a piece with big, bright colored stones.
17. Black or white?

Black 99% of the time. I do love white every now and then!

18. The best part of New York City is...Fragments! If you have not been you should go to look at all the beautiful jewelry.

19. Tell me your greatest asset and your biggest flaw. I am the definition of a perfectionist. Although it can be an asset I mostly drive myself and everyone around me crazy.

20. If you could have any piece from Fragments, what would it be?
A piece from Vibes because I love baroque pearls.

You can get to know Katie even better by taking a look at her interview with Fashion News Editor for Examiner.com, Virginia Nam. Enjoy!

xoxo,

Janet

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL: Nancy Bacich

Today's Designer Spotlight is a very special one. Nancy Bacich is a dear friend of Fragments, a fabulous jewelry designer and a whole lot of fun. I am so happy to have her back in our showroom with her edgy and unique creations - handbags, cuffs, layered mesh chain necklaces and of course, her staple item - the mesh wrap bracelet in a bevy of metals.

Right now our absolute favorite of the wrap bracelet collection is this fabulous two tone rose and gunmetal available exclusively on Fragments.com and in our store (116 Prince Street, New York City) through the month of October. Other than it being incredibly chic, feminine, edgy and insanely comfortable, we are so in love with this piece because it's our way of giving back to something very special. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month - something that we know touches the lives of women worldwide every day. That being said, Fragments has collaborated with Nancy Bacich and Women at Risk in the fight against breast cancer. Women at Risk is an organization that educates and supports women who are at high risk for breast cancer. It is our greatest pleasure to support this cause alongside Nancy Bacich with this wrap bracelet, from which 100% of the profits will be donated to Women at Risk. We welcome and appreciate your support so very much.

Now...back to the Designer Spotlight, featuring Nancy Bacich. Enjoy! And please don't forget to spread the word about our amazing collaboration.

1. What is your greatest indulgence? curling my hair
2. Tell me your biggest fear. not curling my hair
3. Your favorite red carpet moment of all time? Desperate Housewife Eva Longoria on the Emmy red carpet in a coral gown with my gold mesh frame bag!
4. Your most treasured piece of jewelry, and why? on my birthday I found a citrine and marquesite star ring at a flea market and the dealer gave it to me!
5. White gold, yellow gold or mix it all up? I'm against that rule to take something off before you leave for the party...I say add!
6. Who is your favorite fictional character? Nasty Lu Lu...by Yves St. Laurent
7. Your greatest love is… my family and friends
8. Who is your hero? my Dad
9. Who is your favorite jewelry designer? (other than yourself) Tony Duquette
10. Who do you most admire, alive or deceased? Peggy Guggenheim, my sister Cathy
11. Your favorite movie? Fellini's La Dolce Vita
12. Newspapers & magazines: print or online? magazines
13. Your favorite ice cream flavor? ice creams counterpart...cookies!
14. Facebook or Twitter? Facebook
15. Style icon? KennyKenny, Lady GaGa
16. If you could design a piece of jewelry right now, based on your current mood and surroundings, what would it be? a mesh cross
17. Black or white? black AND white
18. The best part of New York City is... the skyline
19. Tell me your greatest asset and your biggest flaw. hmmm...that's too close
20. If you could have any piece from Fragments, what would it be? Janet's personal stash...priceless!

We hope you enjoyed today's very special Designer Spotlight! Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo, Janet

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: Mary Louise Designs

Today's Designer Spotlight features Mary Louise Young, the designer of Mary Louise Designs. A collection so fresh, fun, and edgy, Mary Louise's jewels are layerable, chic and infinitly wearable. Her pieces are timless, yet distinct and have a romantic feel. Her jewelry is designed using sterling silver beads dipped in 22k gold and white gold, mixed with semi precious stones, cubic zirconia and fresh water pearls. There is also a lovely spiritual element to Mary Louise Designs.


I had a blast asking her my favorite twenty questions and her answers are as fun and fabulous as her jewelry. Enjoy!

1. What is your greatest indulgence?
A good, strong massage, after a long productive day.

2. Tell me your biggest fear.
Fear that my line doesn’t sell for the season! Lol.

3. Your favorite red carpet moment of all time?
Angelina Jolie’s emerald earrings at the Oscars.
4. Your most treasured piece of jewelry, and why?
My grandmother’s antique locket dated back to 1817 with my children’s baby pictures in it.
5. White gold, yellow gold or mix it all up?
Mix it up!
6. Who is your favorite fictional character?
Fanny Brice from Funny Girl, with Barbara Streisand.
7. Your greatest love is…
My two children, Genevieve and Taylor.
8. Who is your hero?
Angelina Jolie, for all the charitable work she does.
9. Who is your favorite jewelry designer? (other than yourself)
Harry Winston and Van Cleef & Arpels for their classic, ornate designs.
10. Who do you most admire, alive or deceased?
My aunt, Genevieve Abraham, who is deceased. She was an incredible role model who always gave back twice as much. Her and her husband adopted five children, they were founders of St. Jude’s hospital, and they were involved in so many different charities.
11. Your favorite movie?
Pretty Woman.
12. Newspapers & magazines: print or online?
Vogue, Bazaar, Elle, InStyle. I watch The Today Show every morning and world news every night.
13. Your favorite ice cream flavor?
Vanilla. I’m simple!
14. Facebook or Twitter?
Facebook.
15. Style icon?
Audrey Hepburn because of her classic all around style.
Jackie O was a good runner up.

16. If you could design a piece of jewelry right now, based on your current mood and surroundings, what would it be?
Diamonds, romantic, and simple.
17. Black or white?
Black.
18. The best part of New York City is...
The food and the shopping.

19. Tell me your greatest asset and your biggest flaw.
My greatest asset is forgiveness, and my biggest flaw is impatience.

20. If you could have any piece from Fragments, what would it be?
Dual diamond 18K hoop earrings.

Be sure to check out Mary Louise Designs on Fragments.com!

xoxo,

Janet