FashionEtc.com May 2nd, 2024

Was there a rip in the time-space continuum? Have we magically been transported back to 1994? Because right in front of me at the Stuart Weitzman showroom is a pair of shoes I wore in high school. Oh, how I missed chunky-heeled oxfords.

This is what bringing the '90s back means to me. Granted, these shoes are better designed than the mall versions I wore 17 years ago, but give me a baby-doll dress, some thick tights, and an asymmetrical bob, and voilà.

(Those of you who remember those days are hopefully going down memory lane with me right now.)

There's no better way to start a cold, rainy morning than by heading to Bendel's and seeing jewelry by Prabal Gurung, Mark Fast, Joseph Altuzarra, Christopher Kane, and other designers. No, they haven't launched their own bauble lines—yet. They've teamed up with Atelier Swarovski for a sparkly collection of rings, necklaces, bracelets and more.

To say that each item was better than the one before is an understatement. I wanted almost every piece, and that's rare for me. Jewelry is very personal, and you have to find the right item that calls to you. Well, this entire collection was screaming out to me. My poor bank account.

We all remember the overloaded and, at times, tacky Rock & Republic denim line. The fit may have been great but the hardware and crystals were just a bit much.

Well, take away everything you didn't like and you have Ronan, created by Andrea Bernholtz, co-founder of Rock & Republic.

The line is mostly denim and shoes, but don't let visions of overly embellished jeans dance in your head. These are simple styles with clean lines. The pockets have just the right amount of detail. And though I think wide legs and flares can be sexy (especially the sailor boot-cut, $185), this denim isn't in your face.

In short: Act 2 for Bernholtz is hitting the right notes. Best of all, most of the jeans retail for under $200.