Dogeared knows how to charm Mom
The name may sound strange, but it makes sense to Marcia Maizel-Clarke, founder of Dogeared Jewels & Gifts. She came up with the name because it suggested a well-loved heirloom book with folded-over corners marking favorite pages.
Based in Culver City, Dogeared has been crafting affordable baubles — a pair of diamond earrings sells for less than $100 — for more than 18 years, and has jewelry that would appeal to a mom on her special day, a bride or a single gal who appreciates the “Sex and the City” franchise. The line is sold at Nordstrom, Planet Blue and the company’s own e-commerce site, Dogeared.com.
Maizel-Clarke is a former buyer for Macy’s who would bead necklaces “just for fun” in her off hours to sell at the Rose Bowl Flea Market. A fellow buyer suggested she try wholesaling to retailers, and eventually she and her husband, Merlin Clarke, pooled their resources full-time in Dogeared, which they operated in Venice before moving three years ago to an office park near Westfield Culver City.
Maizel-Clarke’s 85-person company manufactures here in the United States with an eco-sensibility, and Dogeared’s charms are crafted from recycled sterling silver. Sale promotions have always been directed toward fundraising for nonprofits such as One Voice, which helps families living at the poverty level, and, more recently, the Beauty Bus, which brings grooming services to the homebound and terminally ill.
For Mother’s Day, Dogeared is offering charm necklaces for all types of moms from a traditional pearl pendant ($42) to a “karma” hoop ($58) that would appeal to a yoga devotee. Other charms celebrate new motherhood ($56) or the “wise owl” mom ($58). All necklaces are available in gold-dipped sterling silver for a slightly higher price.
On June 1, Dogeared launches its first bridal collection featuring gifts such as a sterling-silver bracelet with “dearest” spelled out in gemstones — diamond, emerald, amethyst, ruby, emerald, sapphire and topaz ($252). Classic pearl jewelry for that special day includes strands ($112 for large pearls), earrings ($52) and bracelets ($72).
And Dogeared partnered recently with HBO for a “Sex and the City” charm collection in advance of the movie sequel May 27, featuring symbols from the series with catchphrase packaging. For instance, a heart charm ($54) reads, “Love is a label that never goes out of style.” Other charms are a Park Avenue street sign, a cosmopolitan cocktail glass, the Eiffel Tower and a stiletto — Manolo Blahnik, maybe? Dogeared will be hosting a launch party for the “Sex and the City” collection May 22 at Ron Robinson at Fred Segal Melrose from 2 to 6 p.m. (RSVP to sharon@ronrobinsoninc.com).
Sales
Montana Avenue Sidewalk Sale Saturday: More than 60 area merchants are taking it to the streets, offering tables and racks full of goods up to 90% off retail. Participating stores include Planet Blue (up to 70% off), Leona Edmiston (up to 90% off), Sean Shoes & Menswear (50% to 90% off) and London Sole Shoes (up to 50% off).
Montana Avenue between 7th and 17th streets, Santa Monica. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Openings
Privé Saturday: Laurent Dufourg opens his fifth Privé Salon this week in the Malibu Lumber Yard. Privé Salon Malibu was constructed with eco-friendly materials and sustainable design features, the company says. Haircuts start at $30 for kids, $75 for men and $125 for women, with blowouts starting at $65. Hair color begins at $90. Privé Malibu also stocks exclusive products, such as Concept Vert and Formule Aux Herbes.
3939 Cross Creek Rd., Malibu. (310) 456-7600. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
https://www.privesalon.com/home.html
Baxter Finley: Men’s grooming brand Baxter of California on May 1 opened an old school-style barbershop — no facials here. Buzz cuts are $20; men’s haircuts are $40; shaves, $40 (haircut and shave, $75); and mustache/beard trims are $15. Baxter of California products are available along with Dr. Bronner, D.R. Harris and retaW from Japan.
515 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood. (310) 657-4726. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. https://www.baxterfinley.com
Revival Vintage: Nikki Swasey relocated her funky glam vintage boutique from Sherman Oaks to Beverly Boulevard near the Grove, with a grand opening April 28. Revival Vintage stocks designer labels Gucci, Chanel, Lanvin, Christian Dior from the 1950s through the 1980s as well as private-label finds from fine department stores. Clothing prices start at $65. Accessories range from $35 for decades-old earrings to $1,500 for a Chanel bag.
7403 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles. (323) 933-3708. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday though Saturday. Call for Sunday hours.
https://www.revivalvintagela.com
Lake Boutique: On May 1, Melissa Lovoy reopened her cozy French bakery-style boutique on Silver Lake Boulevard featuring contemporary women’s fashion, apothecary and bedding. Lake carries cult brand Isabel Marant along with By Malene Birger, ALC, Current/Elliot, Rag & Bone and others.
1618 ½ Silver Lake Blvd., Los Angeles. (323) 664-6522. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Monday.
Events
Madison Pool Trunk Show Friday: Madison in Pacific Palisades holds its annual Pool trunk show featuring swim fashions from the L.A.-based brand. Prices start at $105 for bikini bottoms and $120 for tops. At the event, guests will receive complimentary beverages, summer beauty gift bags, snacks and an opportunity to win a one-night stay at the Parker in Palm Springs.
1017 Swarthmore Ave., Pacific Palisades. (310) 459-7755. Noon to 5 p.m.
https://www.madisonlosangeles.com
