Shop 'Til You Drop

By Brianne Harrison

It’s no secret that the economy is hitting businesses hard, and small and independent businesses are being hit the hardest. Those trying to make their living in fashion are being dealt a particularly difficult hand: even in the best of times, fashion is one of the most difficult industries to succeed in.

There’s strength in numbers, though, as well as an excellent opportunity for shoppers, and 25 independent and emerging designers from New York and New Jersey are gathering at Creative Conspiracy, a temporary retail space in Montclair, to introduce their collections.

For four days, shoppers can browse men’s and women’s clothes, jewelry, and accessories while also taking advantage of the entertainment and free services being offered. Sip a free mocktail while you shop and enjoy a discounted makeover, a free chair massage, or a free hair styling courtesy of Bangz Salon and Wellness Spa when you get tired.

Creative Conspiracy is a great place to find a perfect Mother’s Day gift or to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. Best of all, you’ll walk away with beautiful items and the satisfaction of knowing you helped a deserving designer who might otherwise not be able to keep doing what they love and do best.

Participating designers include J.B Born, B. Artise Originals, Sandra Baquero, Atlantis Jewelry, Marcelle Decaille, Vernakular, Devils May Care, Issy Salomon, Butter by Keba, A Seat at the Table, Pinnington Bags, Sierra Rising, Guerrilla Soul, Must-Have Accessories, Rhizome Design Concepts, Sohung Designs, Vanessa Ro Designs, Z Chocolate Candy, Amparo3, Park It Guides, NTR Designs, and Gail Toma. The event kicks off with a VIP opening on Thursday, April 16 and runs through Sunday, April 19 at 10 South Park St. in Montclair. To see a preview of the wares being offered, click here. For more information, visit creativeconspiracybyb.com.

Fashion Forward: Make a Statement with a Cocktail Ring

By Courtney Jones

Once regarded as a novelty item, the cocktail ring is now updated, revamped, and high-fashion. Recently seen adorned on the hands of many of fashion's elite, it is destined to become a must-have for this summer. They can be worn with nearly anything, and matching the ring to your outfit isn't necessary. Cocktail rings easily transform your look from casual to dressy by adding drama and glamour to any outfit. Available in more styles and prices than you have fingers to put them on, there ís a dazzling jewel to fit every taste and budget. Whether you choose a subtle or stand-out ring, this chunky trinket is sure to make you sparkle from miles away.

Magpie Jewlrey's turquoise/amber cluster ring ($168) is meant to stand out. This statement-making bauble is not for the faint of heart.

Amrita's elegant sterling silver and gold oval-shaped ring ($225, shown above) has a beautiful black onyx stone in its center.

This gorgeous Roberto Cavalli ring ($200) has a large pink glass stone with elegant detailing along its band.

If you're looking for understated elegance, try Monica Vinader's incredibly simple ring ($250). It has over-sized aqua chalcedony with a simple gold-plated border.

Fashion Forward: Eco-Friendly Fashion

By Courtney Jones

Researchers have found pesticides and chemicals at dangerously high levels in harvested cotton, but you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety. Going green doesn’t have to start with your gas pump -- it can start right in your closet.

Following the recent "go green" phenomenon, many designers are doing their part to contribute to the eco-friendly movement. Everything from bathing suits to denim can be found in earth-conscious materials so you can do your part to help the earth and look stunning while doing it.

Sworn Virgins is a three-year-old line that makes super-soft knits from a mix of pure bamboo and spandex. Their flowing Melanie dress comes in a beautiful shade of plum, and is the perfect evening dress at only $133.

Del Forte specializes in denim, and offers a wide selection of all the latest washes and styles. Their clothes are made from 100% organic cotton. Del Forte’s Flora Estrella wash has a classic look and fit, and is currently marked down to $99 from $190.

Complete your nature-inspired wardrobe with chic accessories. Ananas offers stylish bags made from abaca, a natural fiber found in a plant located in the Phillipines.

Strap yourself in for Beyond Skin’s shimmery T-strap Poppy sandal made from biodegradable synthetic leathers and spun polyester, which has a considerably lower impact on the earth than viscose. This earth-friendly and absolutely lovely shoe can be yours for $546.

New and Noteworthy: Luxe Link

By Kathy Shaskan

If you saw the recent TV reports showing scientists testing the bottoms of women's handbags for dangerous bacteria (and finding alarming quantities), you'll like this little accessory. It’s called the Luxe Link. It’s a hook-like gadget that unwraps and attaches to tables (perfect for restaurants), keeping your bag off the floor. The Luxe Link is available at Beval Saddlery in Gladstone.

Fashion Forward: Get Your Flat On

By Leigh Boriskin

Nothing feels like spring more than bright, bold, and fresh-looking accessories. And although the lovely ballet flat has been hitting the style scene with vengeance, this year's crop leans toward eye-popping hues that scream sunshine!

Bloomingdale's has stocked a slew of chic flats including BCBG's Carmen, an adorbale, woven patent leather, accessorized with a burgeoning flower; the essential slip-on is updated in juicy shades, as seen in the Reva by Tory Burch; and Via Spiga's sweet and sassy perforated Monica that keeps its elegance with a pointed toe and silver hardware.

Fashion Forward: Grab A Bag

By Leigh Boriskin

Not only are you set with their fabulous denim, but now, grab a hold of True Religion’s new spring/summer 2008 handbag line that came out with stylish vengeance in January. Supple tumbled, woven, and vintage Napa leathers, along with stamped python, patchwork denim, and narape have made their debut just in time for updated, fresh and light frocks for the warm-weather season.

Designed 14-year-old designer, Leslie Hsu, the luxurious, boho-chic collection is as bright, beautiful, and bold as they come. And, she's had some practice: Her creative vision previously went into her bag lines for Calvin Klein, Tahari, and Ugg Australia.

Fashion Forward: Man Love

By Leigh Boriskin

It’s hard to believe that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but it really is! This year, forego the predictability of a terrycloth bathrobe, or a DVD in favor of something a bit more stylish for your fashion-forward man.

Paul Stuart is known for elegant simplicity for both men and women. From clean and classic shirts, to dapper shoes, and weekend essentials, a gift from here will surely have your honey smiling.

Bring the love out in him with either the handmade 7-fold tie in silk satin ($197.50), or a handsome pair of Angel & Devil 14kt gold cufflinks ($347), pictured above. Both a little sassy, but surely sweet, on the 14th, show him some fashionable adoration.

Fashion Forward: Sunshine Garb

By Leigh Boriskin

Resort season is in full swing, and what better way to dress yourself for those hot days on the sand, and cool nights on the boat than with a stop at one of Lilly Pulitzer’s shopping meccas. Her clothes are available at the following signature boutiques: Paradise in Summit and Morristown, Palm Place in Manasquan, and Leapin' Lizards in Ridgewood. Also available at department stores throughout the Garden State.

Lounge by the pool in one of Lilly's delicate tunics that are hard to pass up including the Calliope and the Shelby.

Hit up the golf course in a preppy, but whimsical sweater such as the Gloria Striped Crew, or the Nancy Argyle.

For the walk to the beach, shopping around town, or heading out to a tropical feast, step into the comfort and style of a flat sandal, whether it be the Mckim, or the Flutter.

Fashion Forward: Fashionably Frugal Jewelry

By Leigh Boriskin

With original pieces that resemble vintage finds in rose gold, matte metals and antique silver, AllisonDanielDesigns.com is an accessory haven. Her rings and earrings are spectacularly romantic. Her necklaces look like they have been pulled straight from your grandmother's jewelry box and her belts are handcrafted works of art. Although some of her pieces top out at $300 to $400, most are happily under $100.

The Jazzy Rose Ring ($48) is as bold as it is beautiful. Finished in either matte gold, antique gold or antique silver, its intricate detailing and strong presence will make your lucky finger pop. For your next night out, why not design a ring for your outfit? The Swirly Ring ($68) can be fitted with any stone including ruby, topaz or garnet. Finished in either matte gold, antique gold or antique silver, this ring is a knockout. The striking black background of the Black Enamel Cuff ($60) makes a high-contrast statement of beauty and elegance. Paired with a few gold bangles, ($45 each) and your wrist will be jingling in style.

Allison Daniel Designs is sold at Elle Squared, 1140 Town Center Way, Livingston, 973.533.1111

Fashion Forward: Cuff Yourself

By Leigh Boriskin

For the past few seasons, bold jewels have been nothing less than hot on the fashion scene. From chandelier earrings, to long and chunky necklaces, an all-black ensemble instantly transcends from dreary to sensational when paired with just one of these must-have accessories.

Metals, enamel and even plastic materials are stealing the scenes when it comes to this stylish arm wear. For spring, pair a cuff below with summery whites during the day, or eye-popping hues at night.

Edgewater’s Ambience sells a knockout Snake Skin Cuff by Ted Rossi NYC. Slip on this arm candy for the perfect amount of sex appeal with unmistakable edge.

Add a dash of color that will brighten up any mood with the Tapered Bangle by Alexis Bittar, available at Juli Mei LLC in Spring Lake.

Let our your inner wild side with this Enamel Elephant Bracelet by Kenneth Jay Lane available at Saks in Hackensack or Short Hills. Adorned with crystals and jewels, this black and gold stunner will catch onlookers’ eyes.

Fashion Forward: Step Into Sales

By Leigh Boriskin

On December 26th, savvy shoppers can count on one thing: Sales! From the gifts that you just had to snag for your loved ones to the dress you bought for Christmas Eve, now is the time for the discounts to begin.

With New Year’s Eve sneaking up on us in less than one week, the accessory that will make you shine (and also the most expensive) has been kicked down a few notches just for you.

To complete your outfits for this final bash of the year, hop on over to Georgio in Englewood for a pair of stylish Jimmy Choo’s or hip Miu Miu’s. In Haddonfield, Benjamin Lovell Shoes will fit your foot with fabulous Sam Edelman’s, or for a snowy evening, a coveted pair of Uggs. Finally, Blueberry Lane in Upper Montclair will have you looking effortlessly chic in flats or knee-high boots by Delman, or charming ballet’s by London-based French Sole.

Fashion Forward: Clutch and Go

By Leigh Boriskin

With the holiday season upon us in full force, our best party frocks are stepping into high gear. From beaded to tulle, to chiffon-trimming and lace overlays, one final touch will make your outfit pop with sophistication and unrelenting style: The clutch.

Perfectly fitting into the palm of your hand, the evening clutch has little room for error, or anything else for that matter! When grabbing onto this trend, bring only the essentials: keys, cash and gloss, and nothing more.

Stop into Knit Wit in Margate to pick up Moyna’s bronze beaded clutch, which will add just the right amount of sparkle to any outfit.

Add a serious pop of color to your LBD when you carry Lauren Merkin’s fuschia sequined clutch, available at Neiman Marcus at The Mall at Short Hills.

When both silver and delicate ruffles are in the mix, what woman could ask for more? Snag up Santi’s ruffled clutch at Willow St. Boutique in Summit to add a final touch of glam that needs nothing more.