Friday's Fab Etsy Finds: Neckwear

There are some days when you feel like standing out. You want to wear something with a little extra oomph. If your closet is leaving you less than inspired, neckwear could just be the missing element in your wardrobe. Neckwear is a fairly foreign concept to most women. Now I'm not talking a tiny little gold chain or rayon scarf. I am talking bold, unique statement pieces that can only be found in a marketplace like Etsy. Whether you are looking to set the next fashion trend or break out of your shell of shyness, these fabulous Etsy finds can help you achieve your fashion goals.

This dramatic neck ruffle is made from a rare and intricate soft French lac and tied together with two rows of cognac orange velvet ribbons. It would be perfect for adding a romantic flair to your work attire. Just pair the ruffle with a plain black or beige pant or skirt suit and a white button down shirt, leaving the top few buttons open.

This elegant neck shawl is crocheted from soft, white acrylic ruffle yarn with silver thread. It would be a great pairing with a low cut evening gown or satin cami.

Here is a floral bib made of ribbon flowers and yarn. I especially like this one because it has more of a casual feel. I would wear it with a white or lightly patterned crewneck or V-neck tee.

This necklace boutonniere displays a delicate arrangement of ivory and beige chiffon flowers with a maroon button center and is offset by the chunky gold-plated chain. This is a versatile piece that can dress up a refined outfit or bring a little funk to a casual one.

Wedding Trends: Boutonnieres

Like most girls, I am a wedding fiend. I could almost be an expert in the field of wedding motifs and details. And as with every era, there are trends in weddings. I’ll be doing a few segments on popular trends in many of the important elements of a wedding. I’ve noted a few of my favorites below that you may consider if you are currently or about to plan to your day.

The main fad in weddings overall is the rejection of a formal and/or modern wedding. Most people are opting for a more laid back setting for comfort. This isn’t to say that it isn’t a dressy occasion; it’s just not a black tie affair anymore. And modern, understated themes and decorations are being ignored for antique, intricate, rustic elegance.

I’ve started this series out small with a simple, yet decisive detail for the groom. Considering that the groom doesn’t have much leeway in terms of fashion, the boutonniere is a major piece of his outfit. Usually for prom, weddings and pretty much any other occasion, a man’s boutonniere is usually the uber-traditional rose, maybe with some Baby’s Breath. This has been the standard method of operation of men’s formal fashion for decades and possibly a century. Gladly, this boring cycle has been broken :)

Grooms (and probably more specifically brides) are now going for unique boutonnieres that haven’t been done before. The trend is becoming a simple, unexpected flower that fits the suit perfectly (which is usually no longer black as well). If the groom does wear a rose, it commonly comes with a twist now. Original boutonnieres can include a small shrub, berries, a pretty non-flowering plant, cloth or paper. A very innovative (but modern) one is an origami boutonniere. Depending on your wedding design, it could work in a classic or modern setting.

My favorite one I’ve seen so far is a cloth wrapped in green wire to make the shape of a flower. This gives a homey, casual yet antique complement to the groom’s garb. Also, there is a shift from a plain pin to more intricate fasteners and accessories, such as ribbon, feathers or fabric in any design that can be managed.

Although the boutonniere is only a detail, hopefully you now have some inspiration to put a tiny new spin on an old tradition for wedding day.