The Thirties...Fashion and Costume Jewelry...Part 1

The thirties brought glamour and glitz! Tight clinging satin evening gowns worn seductively by Hollywood stars. In Paris, Vionnet became the "architect among dressmakers." Vogue featured Schiaparelli in 1933 whose padded squared-off shoulder styles were daring. Her designs were hits with Anita Loos, Marlene Dietrich, Gloria Swanson, and Lauren Bacall. In Hollywood, Greta Garbo's slouch hat, Katherine Hepburn's loose trousers, Joan Crawford's ankle-strap shoes, and Marlene Dietrich's men's attire influenced fashion all over the world.



Costume jewelry became very popular during the depression. Designers of precious metal jewelry turned to costume jewelry for economic reasons. Materials like plastics, glass, imitation stones, ceramics, enamels, shells, wood, and leather were used to create unique pieces. Miriam Haskell's ultra-feminine designs and Schiaparelli's whimsical creations were popular as well as rhinestone and plastic jewelry from the local five-and-dime. Large rhinestone pins, brooches, and clips were created to accessorize Eisenberg & Sons dresses, which became more popular than the dresses themselves. Hobe used semiprecious stones and sterling silver in floral and Asian motifs. Alfred Philippe the well-known European jewelry designer joined Trifari and created "real-looking" costume jewelry.

See my lovely vintage and contemporary estate jewelry at beachcats bargains eCrater Store

The Story ~ Viva Beads Eco-Friendly Clay Bead Jewelry

Viva Beads® was created by two mothers who set out to make a better life for themselves and their families. Jill Manzara, a single mom of two, and Lori Mottlowitz, a mother of four girls, discovered an existing artisan technique, by which endless design and creativity could be unleashed.


That technique is called "caning" and it is applied to polymer clay that is layered to create a design. Slowly whittled down and hand rolled into beads while keeping the integrity of the design. The beads are then baked, cooled and strung into a unique creation...similar to layering techniques of Venetian Glass, layering polymer clay presented an extraordinary opportunity to creatively design products, beginning with the original line of Viva Beads® handmade clay beaded jewelry.





With no financing, experience, or education in importing and distribution, Lori and Jill had to take the long and difficult road to slowly build their business. It is a story of inspiration that has amazed many as they watched the two women chase their dream from a kitchen table top to a multi-million dollar enterprise.

The word "Viva" means a salute to life, and thus has been the anchoring energy behind their name. It is their mission to share hope, joy, and passion for life, with everyone who wears Viva Beads®.

'beachcats bargains' has been a proud seller of VivaBeads® for several years... I carry Necklaces, Bracelets, Earrings and Keychains...and Rings are on the way! Visit my store for other styles & colors.

Each piece comes 'Gift Ready' with a Care Card and Lovely White Organza Bag!