Galas, Gowns and Grown-up Jewelry

Every jewelry hound knows the fall season brings with it all kinds of galas, opening nights and high profile fundraisers - perfect conditions for a good bauble hunt.

I love it when the grown-ups come out to play.

New York City Ballet's Fall Gala:

It's been a while since we've seen Sarah Jessica Parker on a red carpet, and she picked the tony occasion of the New York City Ballet's Fall Gala last night to grace us with a little Halston hotness and some great dress-up jewelry.

I love the necklace layering - not too matchy-matchy and just the right side of gaudy with the metallic sheen of her dress.  What do you think of the choice? Should she lose the longer look?


Los Angeles Philharmonic Opening Gala:

Eva Mendes lit up the left coast last night in a flowing Dior gown and sparkling Neil Lane jewelry that channeled old Hollywood glamour.

This diamond bracelet looks like it was made for her gown. Gorgeous!

Who are your favorite grown-up gamines to gawk at on the red carpet? Charlize Theron is another one on my list - despite her unfortunate gown choice at the Oscars this year.

Red Carpet Jewelry at the CFDAs

Jewelry and fashion design were honored last night in New York at the hottest ticket in town - The CFDA awards (aka The Fashion Oscars). While fashionistas like Jessica Biel, The Olsen Twins and Anna Wintour came out in couture classics, it was Gwenyth Paltrow who stole the show in my book.




Appearing arm and arm with Michael Kors, who was given the Lifetime Achievement Award, Gwynnie channeled Grace Kelly glam in a long, black paillette one shoulder Kors gown and simple diamond Fred Leighton drops. Now THIS is the way to wear black (see my earlier boring black rant for more)!




Coming in a close second was Sarah Jessica Parker, who was there to pay tribute to the late Alexander McQueen (one of my all-time favorite designers). McQueen, who committed suicide earlier this year, had one last line in the works, including this dress SJP wore to the event. And her Stephen Russell jewelry was pitch perfect - stunning diamond cluster earrings and a series of statement bangles (one of her favorite looks of late).



Check out Jewelry.com today for a roundup of the night's big winners, including the fab Alexis Bittar who took home the Accessories Designer of the Year award.