Yasmin Kuhn Design

Perhaps it's winter doldrums nipping at our psyche that has us turning our thoughts, ever so early, to the coming of spring (the dance of bright colors, the wispy feminine fabrics, the sprightly footwear). So, yes, perking up is in order, and Yasmin Kuhn's cheery jewelry pieces are a flawless tonic for battling the blues.

Emulating flower lei silhouettes, Kuhn, a RISD graduate, bundles clear and frosted acrylic beads in chunky arrangements, some monochromatic, others with scattered colors. Most selections are available as a single 20" or in a longer 36" length that can artfully be wrapped around the neck several times.

To view styles and store listings, visit the designer's Web site.

Best of Etsy: Paraphernalia

This post is part of an ongoing series highlighting noteworthy jewelry selections available on Etsy, the mammoth online marketplace for handmade goods.

British designer Paraphernalia paints a very distinct world with their jewelry collection filling its Etsy shop with acrylic pieces screened with vintage wallpaper patterns and illustrated prints. Whimsical necklaces shaped like paper doll dresses, skinny ties and floppy bows brush shoulders with floral crescent-shaped pendants. Somehow it all works. It’s hard to pick just one as a favorite, but we think the batik necklace from the Chroma series is pitch-perfect for the summer.

To view styles and purchase visit Paraphernalia’s Etsy Shop.