A Colorful Strand of Beads

I've always been drawn to primary colors.  Especially all mixed together in one place. So when my mom offered me my grandmom's multi-color beaded necklace, I scooped it right up.

The beads appear to be some type of small nut and the paint has a muted whitewashed effect.  I just love them.

I've been meaning to find a jeweler in Philadelphia that will re-string the necklace as a precaution.  It probably hasn't been worn in 20+ years and I'd be devastated if it broke.  (If you know of a good jeweler in the Philly area that can do this, please let me know!).

I wear this necklace with just about anything.  Doubled, tripled, knotted.  And I usually get a question or compliment.  I think that's what I love most about these old pieces.  That they all have a story. And when someone stops to ask you about them, you get to relive the memory, the person, and all of the wonderful emotions that come with them.

And while I don't have a specific memory of my grandmother wearing this necklace, I love that separated by a generation and a plethora of fashion trends, we share a similar taste.

And apparently a love of primary colors.

Metallic Strappy Heels from Atticville

Vintage Dress from Maeby Maeby Knot

Felted Necklaces from HGTV

50's Shoe Clips from Pistol Poppy

Repurposed Necklace from Little Chirps

Family Portrait Style Board by Uber Chic for Cheap

Pillow Cover from Fresh Vintage Design

DIY Necklace from Craftstylish

Louis XV Chairs from Patrick J. Baglino, Jr. Interior Design

Tagua Nut Coin Necklace from veronicarileymartens

Afghan from Dirty Birdies Vintage

Your Timeless Sense of Style?

Growing up, I used to hate being an only child.

I desperately wanted a sister - a best friend, partner in crime, someone to share everything with (including clothes. Especially clothes).

Now I realize she's been there all along.

My mother, like most mothers, has taught me many things. About life, love. Style.

I could spot cordovan before I could spell it. And I inherited her uncanny ability to spot the best deal in the store within seconds of entering.

I have also inherited many things from her closet. Only child = first dibs.

I'll tell you about my favorites here (the things I've borrowed). Part bauble, part heirloom, part how-to, part just-for-fun. And I hope to hear about the things you've borrowed and who you've borrowed them from.

I've learned a lot from my mom, and there's still much to learn. We may not always agree on what to wear or where what should go, but good taste and an eye for style do not come easy, and she has them both.

And I'm happy to borrow what I can.