From Form to Fashion

Over the years, the names of many items evolve from what they were originally called to what we affectionately rename or nickname them today. Lately, I’ve noticed a lot of sellers and owners of those beautiful open work filigree Art Deco rings referring to them as 'Shield Rings.' Honestly, that’s not a bad nickname at all, as it really does capture the shape of these pieces. But what are they officially called? Is there an actual name that manufacturers and retailers from the 1920s and earlier used for them? The answer is yes, they have a name… and it’s known as a 'Dinner Ring.' Here are three documented instances of the term Dinner Ring being used for these so-called shield rings. The examples I picked cover a span of over 30 years, starting from 1918, when the designs were seen as fancy and new, all the way to 1951, when the style was still popular but had incorporated some minor retro streamline elements with less intricate filigree. This also highlights that not every dinner ring that fits in the classic 'Art Deco' look is automatically from the 1920s and 1930s.

1918 catalog

1931 catalog

1951 catalog

Tropical prints have a connotation for representing relaxed and beach-y settings (Jimmy Buffet anyone?) which can cause people to shy away from wearing them anywhere else. This summer Hawaiian inspired apparel has a place even outside of your dad’s shirt collection. Think of it this way, tropical is to summer what floral is to spring, so why don’t you celebrate the vibrant and carefree season, even if your plans don’t allow you any relaxation time. From the office, to a night out, no matter your style, expand your horizons while putting to rest all of the misconceptions about tropical prints.

1) for the office– If you’re stuck in back to back meetings, boost your mood and stand out in a palm print blazer or floral skirt. When it’s a complete scorcher of a day, take that white sand beach from your desktop background to your ensemble with bright, uplifting hues. Wearing interesting patterns and pops of color will bring life to your basic office gear and while remaining appropriately fashioned for the setting.

2) day to night– Just because you don’t live in LA, Florida, or anywhere with palm trees and beaches, you can bring the beach to you one piece at a time. Tropical prints have been popping up in more ways than teeny bikinis and beach wraps. Going out? try a sleek and modern two piece dress that can easily transition from day to night. Don’t like color? there are plenty of refined black and white options with palm leaf prints that still offer visual stimulation without the loudness of multiple colors.

It makes no difference where you live, what your plans are, or what your style may be, tropical prints can work anywhere. Step outside the beach and put on some tropical florals in the middle of the city or office. Accessorize with personal touches to finish off the look and make it unique for you. Not only will you look great, but there is no better way to brighten the summer office blues than bringing life into your look, especially in unexpected ways.

Authored by fashion stylist and blogger Sara Ramani of frombeginning2trend.com