Face Time

If iphones and crackberries seem omnipresent these days, it's because they are - iPhone sales doubled last quarter. While that's great for Mac-lovers everywhere, some of us fashion enthusiasts are having a hard time accepting our way of keeping an eye on the clock has changed. Though the watch is seemingly becoming obsolete, the accessory has extended its life line by serving fun over function. For example, Dolce and Gabbana's Fall '09 collection featured chunky necklaces as an homage to the grandfather's pocket watch. Now Tom Binns has jumped on the bandwagon with his collection of faceless timepieces ranging in colors from neon to classic gold. As for what the future holds for the classic timepiece... we'll just have to watch out next season.


What You'll Need:
Link watch
Metal paint
brush

This project can be done in one of two ways. If you like the watch dial and link band as is, simply use a brush to paint over the face of the watch in a neat circle. Try to match the paint as closely as possible to the original metal. If you'd rather the entire watch be one color, simply spray paint the entire thing.


xx,CC

Barbarella

The seemingly bleak economical and environmental outlook these days leaves people yearning for protection and security. This climate can't help but impact designers during their creative process, so it is no wonder tougher, utilitarian jewelry is making its way onto the scene. Case in point? Staple Brit label Burberry Prorsum and the recently launched Dannijo. Both lines used barbed wire as inspiration for bracelets that send a "Don't mess with me" message. Juxtaposed with dainty, ethereal dresses, these bracelets will keep you looking sharp all spring!

From left: Dannijo bracelet; Burberry Prorsum bracelet

What You'll Need:
3 yards thin leather cord
Jewelry clasp
One bead
Superglue
Scissors

Begin by cutting two pieces of cord, each one yard long. Tie a knot at one end, then twist the two strands together and tie another knot about six inches from the opposite end. Slip on your bead then tie another knot, adding your jewelry clasp, to secure it in place. This serves as the length of the bracelet that you will wrap around your wrist.


Now it is time to make the barbs. Cut your remaining yard of leather cord into five inch pieces. While pinching the small piece of cord to the bracelet with your thumb and forefinger, wrap the loose end around itself and over the end you are pinching about three times. Leave the last loop a bit loose and slide the end of the cord under the loop, which acts as a knot to keep the barb from unwrapping.


Put a dot of superglue over the knot and snip off the excess cord. Make one barb at four inch intervals along your entire bracelet.


xx,CC