June 22, 2011

That Special Find? Buy It When You See It !

How many times have you been somewhere, your one and only time being there, and not bought what you really wanted? I used to have so many regrets upon return from a trip- years ago. So now my mantra is: buy it.

I would obsess and obsess about the wallet, the Italian jewelry, the outfit, the leather pocketbook, the boots---oooh the boots-and I’d end up calling overseas, reminding the salesperson who I was, and describing the item- and then would pay to have the item shipped to me. And I couldn’t rest until it was done- anyways- no more of that craziness- I just buy it when I see it.

It was impossible to let go of desiring that special something, whatever it was. But that feeling has mellowed somehow now. First of all, aging is kind of good to us in that way. It seems to either enhance or diminish certain idiosyncrasies. The ones it enhances we just have to live with; and the ones that aging diminishes, well, be thankful.

Nowadays, even though it is certainly true that we enjoy a global marketplace, and that stunning Italian necklace or soft leather pocketbook you passed up could possibly be found online, better to be safe – and then enjoy the excitement of unpacking when you get home.

June 13, 2011

Summer Bracelets- Colorful Bracelets with Swarovski Beads

Enjoy these fresh and colorful stretchy beaded bracelets. The sun is shining and we are looking forward to summer in the city and at the beach.


May 23, 2011

Summer in the City

Rabens Saloner fitted dress
134 EUR - youheshe.com

Flower sandal
$56 - topshop.com

Shoulder bag
$115 - serenaimports.com

Necklace
$275 - serenaimports.com

R J Graziano gold bracelet
40 EUR - stylebop.com


This is my first Polyvore creation. What fun! Do you remember Colorforms???

May 9, 2011

Cleaning Out The Closet

I spent three hours in my closet the other day. No kidding. Out with the old, in with the new. Even though trying on clothes, and deciding what stays and what goes can be tiring and a bit tedious, the end result is so satisfying. It has been proven to me over and over again: less is more.

I usually end up with two piles, plus a cleaned out closet. One pile is “get rid of it, you’ve never even worn it –aka “you’ve worn it a million times, time to go” and the other pile is “Not ready to get rid of this yet, guess I’ll decide next year”. I try to keep the latter pile as small as possible, and try to be brutally honest.

Here is where the fun begins- time to put outfits together and be creative. Can I wear last year’s top with a new scarf or a new Italian necklace? How about those tight Italian jeans with this year’s new wedges? What about that 10 year old dress from Florence? What can we do this year that's new? I love letting my own style and personality come through in my choices. Mixing designers is one way; I also like layering and mixing textures.

The easiest way for me to dress is to keep my clothes neutral and add pops of color with accessories. I do this with scarves, belts, Italian jewelry, a watch, sometimes an Italian handbag. But I’m careful to never overdo it.

And really, in addition to all of the great fashion items of this season, one of the best accessories is a great lipstick, and THE best accessory is a smile. Try it on- you’ll feel great.

April 27, 2011

Mother's Day Gift Ideas for the Women we Love

Looking for Mother’s Day gift ideas? I know, it can be a tough one. Does she like chunky necklaces, beaded necklaces? Maybe Murano glass jewelry? The truth of the matter is, the lucky recipient adores you. And she’ll no doubt love whatever you get her because you are an important person in her life.

Just the fact that you’ve put thought and care into getting your mother or sister or loved one that perfect gift is enough for a woman to get all choked up. Take it from one who knows. I’m the type that gets all teary eyed just spending more than 30 seconds in the Hallmark aisle at CVS.

Please visit us at Serena Italian Imports!

For a few creative gifts, here’s a collection of Italian jewelry and other Italian ideas that might help.
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