Inspired by a necklace worn by her mother in the 70s, designer Jeannine Denholm's La Bijou Belle 2008 jewelry collection offers a fresh take by using crochet rather than traditional metallic chain.  A throwback to laidback yet elegant Bohemian style as well as fashion greats including Coco Chanel and Christian Lacroix, La Bijou Belle's hand-crocheted pieces have the look of metal chains but are lightweight and durable.  Crochet tassel bracelets, single stone lariats, pearl and multi-stone tassel necklaces round out the collection, which features smoky quartz and white jade stones.  Handmade at La Bijou Belle's studio in downtown Los Angeles, pieces retail from $120 to $180.    

Unique features of La Bijou Belle:

• Perfect for layering
• Ideal for summertime and the beach
  no need to deal with hot metal jewelry on warm summer days
• Safe for women with metal allergies
• Crocheted chain is washable and won't fray
• Pieces are more flexible and less prone to break than traditional metal chain
  great for moms with curious small children