Dare to be different: Gold Edition.

"In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different."

Coco Chanel

Oh, the words of the great fashion designer. I couldn't agree more with these words of wisdom. I think most women would; after all, it's on countless facebook quotes. But I dare to point out that most young women I know act in a completely different way than Ms. Coco Chanel indicates. We need to have the David Yurman bracelet, Tiffany & Co. necklace, or John Hardy ring. We must be like everyone else.

Well I dare to be different. Don't let me mislead you; I do like some of these great current designs. I may even wear them occasionally (stacked and mixed with antiques of course!) I find more intrigue, though, in old findings. It's different. It's what we say we want to be.

Disclaimer: It's always okay to copy your momma.

There are a few vintage designers that I would like to tell you about. Of course there's the great Coco Chanel. She needs no introduction. But Chanel has peers that you may not be familiar with. I would like to introduce you to them.

Next time you're out antiquing, look on the backs of jewelry. You may recognize these designers after learning about them as I have. It's embarrassing how excited I get when shopping; it's like finding a little treasure when I recognize the designer. Shopping this way is certainly more fun than walking into Tiffany's and buying something with mindless pursuit. Okay maybe not. But you get my point.

Coco Chanel: the most chic in haute couture. Authentic 1980s gold earrings. These were clip ons, but made into posts. I saw a documentary on Chanel not too long ago. I encourage you to read about her life and success. It's very inspiring.

A little treasure chest of vintage findings.

Sarah Coventry: one of my favorites. In my mountain birthday post, you may remember the gorgeous bangle by this great designer.

Florentine jewelry box: Make sure it reads "Made in Italy" when antiquing as this one does.

Art designs: I look forward to finding more of these Art pieces! Pretty and dainty.

Florenza: Made in the 1930s and ceased operation in the 1980s. Most pieces have a Victorian look. This is a gorgeous brooch can also be worn as a show-stopping necklace because of the well-made pendant.

Miriam Haskell: Maybe my favorite designer. She made pieces in the 1920s-1950s. Even Joan Crawford and Lucille Ball wore her designs for professional and personal use!

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous." Coco Chanel