Senzu Style Insider

Of sun and ice, hockey and following your passion

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Tue, 14 May 2013 13:21:00 +0000

So in the last few weeks, since we’re back in North America, I’ve been completely hockey obsessed. I never thought I would get addicted to the NHL Playoffs, but here I am, with Leafs on the brain. It was to be short-lived though, as they didn't win the game last night. Now I’ll have to find another team to support for the rest of the Playoffs! Suggestions? ;-)

I never grew up with (ice) hockey. I grew up in The Netherlands, where we have soccer, and field hockey (click here for a funny video about the differences between Holland vs. The Netherlands). So the rules came easily to me (yes, I make off-side calls!), as they are very similar in many ways. I also grew up on skates; in the Northern province of Friesland, which has a lot of waterways and lakes. When we were lucky, the temperatures dropped below zero long enough for them to freeze over, and we’d skate on natural ice.

If we were REALLY lucky, the ice would stay long enough to have a 200km (!!) ice skating race known as the Eleven City Tour ('Elfstedentocht' in Dutch). Last time we had one was 1997. As a girl, we simply didn’t play ice hockey, but we speed skated, and those choreographically inclined would figure-skate. Suffice to say I speed skated!

Sometimes this cold-weather sport makes me miss winters, but more specifically ice. But then I remember the other 3+ months of the year that the weather is cold, miserable, drizzly (especially in The Netherlands; in Canada it’s sleet and sludge). Then I doubly appreciate that my business doesn’t tie me to one place, but allows me to bring my business with me to warmer climates.

A dear friend of mine on Fripp Island (home town of this year’s American Idol contestant Candice Glover: watch the video of her visit to her old workplace on Fripp Island here) very recently made a similar decision. Due to a back injury, she was sofa-ridden for about a month post-surgery, and even the slightest move was extremely painful. So she spent a lot of time just laying down, with her eyes closed, in her quiet surroundings, just reflecting on her job and life.

At the end of it, it crystallized into this deep conviction that she needed to do something completely different with her life and get back to her roots in writing and travelling. So she resigned her job as a wedding and sales consultant and will be embarking on a social-media inspired experiment that encompasses her two passions. Her site will be launching very soon and when it does, I’ll share it with you all.

For me, it was quite different. I was not exactly unhappy in my previous positions or enterprises, but they did lack a level of fulfillment that I now get with Senzu. Now I truly am grateful and inspired when I see customers appreciate and enjoy my designs and creations (like at the recent Ultimate Women’s Show in Hamilton, Ontario.)

When I talk to some of our Stylists and hostesses and hear the joy in their voices when they tell me of the fun they had last night at a Soirée they held or how they’re growing their own Stylist business, it makes me feel proud and excited.

Have you made a major change in your life recently, or stepped out on that ledge and jumped off into the world of self-employment? You have a dream business you'd like to get started with but are afraid to say so, out loud, to other people (it may just happen...)? Well, here's your chance! I’d love to hear about it all, feel free to share with us below, comments are open.

A travel day in the life...

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 17:05:00 +0000

Written on 09 April 2013, Taipei International Airport, Taiwan.

As you may gather from the above, I am in transit as I write this. We (this includes hubby) are sitting in the EVA AIR lounge in Taipei, on our way to Los Angeles. As crazy busy the last month or so has been, today has been remarkably calm and even peaceful. More on my recent activities in another post, soon.

We travel a lot, and this bi-annual transplant from Asia to North America and vice versa has become a regular pattern for us in recent years. My Senzu jewellery business allows (in fact encourages!) me to build my business internationally, and it logically follows our travel pattern: Canada, the USA and Thailand. So I will continue to nurture the international aspect of it, and enjoy being able to grow it in those places where we love to spend time and live. In addition, because my business is about jewellery, it is very mobile and easy to bring with me.

So what does such a day of travel look like for me? Well, here goes:

Curved Gold & Rhodium Bracelet
from our Elements Collection

7-7:30-ish. Check emails, Facebook and spend a little time on Pinterest (addictive!) on my iPad.

Received an email from my friend Melissa, who recently did a photo shoot for her hair extension business and shot some photos of the Senzu bracelet she bought from me. These are the shots, aren't they great?

I usually start my day in Thailand with the fresh mango smoothie our darling, yet wacky Isan maid has prepared for us. The deliciously sweet Thai mango is nearly enough reason by itself to move to Thailand.

8-9am. Game of squash with hubby. Sometimes he wins, sometimes I do. Today it is his turn to rule the court. A great workout nonetheless. Quick dip in our condo building's pool, then back upstairs to shower, dress and get some last minute packing done and get a few emails out.

Last Int'l Creators' Fair, so much fun!

10am. Email from a customer I met at the International Creator's Fair a week earlier. She would like to pick up her custom Senzu jewellery order and can I meet her at a nearby Starbucks.

We agree to meet at noon, as we've been playing tag for the last few days and this is the last chance before we depart for North America.

12-1pm. Meeting my customer at Starbucks, who loves her new necklace. When her friend joins her, we discover we know each other already from the Bangkok Photography Club. Luckily I brought some extra jewellery and she also places a necklace order with me. Yay! Always great to know your jewellery is appreciated (and even better to always have some on you)!

Custom Sterling Silver & Suede
Senzu Necklace

2pm. Got home in time to zip up the bags, hug the maid and her daughter goodbye for just for a few months and catch our car to the airport.

2:40pm. All checked in and sauntering through Suvarnabhumi (pronounced 'sue-wanna-boom') International Airport.

This is a great airport! We grab a quick, late lunch at the Italian pizza place and check into the lounge for a final few minutes of Internet and Facebook laughs.

Check out our poll about our new Facebook avatar. Like it, hate it? Let me know! Bye Thailand! See you soon and Happy Songkran (Thai New Year).

Bangkok is a crazy, hectic and crowded city, but it also is vibrant, creative, entrepreneurial and buzzing with energy. If you've never been, check out my friend Scott's company Smiling Albino for fun stuff to do while visiting. Being able to share our time between this metropolis and the calm, peaceful nature and organised small towns we find in North America allows us to appreciate both places even more. When in Canada or the USA, I certainly miss aspects of Asia (awesome food, foot massages, shopping, friendliness, nightlife).

Not lost and loving it...

When in Bangkok, sometimes we also miss things about Canada and the USA (fresh air, nature, quiet, lack of red tape). But wherever we are, that's where we make our home for the months that we are there, and enjoy all the things, people and experiences of that particular place. I love that my company is so well suited for mobile lifestyles like ours.

Still ahead of us before the day is over: an eleven hour, 40 minute flight to LAX. I don't mind the flight too much: watch movies and sleep! After that, collect our rental car and find a place to lay our heads for the night. Tomorrow is another adventure!

Styling it up in transit,

Cristel

Your Senzu Style Insider.

Senzu Jewellery & Accessories, Thailand - Canada - USA

Emerald looks good on real women!

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 09:22:00 +0000

Well, I must admit, I have been much amiss in keeping the blog updated with posts. I really have no excuse, other than that I've had to move house a couple of times and had been pretty busy with getting our home ready for sale. Oops, that sounds a lot like an excuse.... ;-)

Anyway, I am back on the blog now, and thanks also to my dear friend and digital nomad Carou Llou (check out her blog http://www.caroullou.com), who is also in Bangkok at the moment, I've renewed my enthusiasm for blogging.

I read over my past blogs post, and while I still enjoy reading them, I thought you all might enjoy a more personal take on fashion, rather than (or at least in addition to) what is disseminated from the various Fashion Weeks throughout the world.

Because let's be honest, would you really wear this to your local Starbucks?

This Alexander McQueen creation is certainly very elegant, but can you imagine yourself walking down the street with your latte in one hand, phone in the other, whilst trying not to trip over the dress' train?

(image courtesy of deepseanews.com)

So with that in mind, I thought I would see if I could take a few snapshots of a real person, who does not walk catwalks for a living, but a woman who works hard for the money (no, not the kind of work in Donna Summer's song!), sometimes working from home, sometimes having to commute by car, tram, train or metro. In other words, you and me. In this case, I'll be me, until I can find another willing fashion victim! :-)

Having tricked my friend Carou Llou into taking the picture of yours truly, check out this 'street style' fashion pic, incorporating Pantone's colour of the year 2013, Emerald.

This was a great outfit for going out. The dress is extremely comfortable, yet flattering to any body shape. It is faux wrap, so there’s no adjusting needed and has a inner skirt below the wrap skirt. The sleeves are full length, but because this is Thailand (hot, even at night!), I pushed them up to be 3/4 length.

The accessories (jewelry) are all from Senzu Style, from their Spirit Collection. They are brushed glass beads with dark polished metal beads in light and dark grey tones and go great with most colours. I am wearing the matching necklace and bracelet. Complementing it are the large hoop earrings from their Elements line in brushed grey rhodium (brass base, plated with rhodium).

The clutch is also a pretty grey, real leather with a bejeweled clasp.

My shoes this night were made by Wealthy in Thailand, black mix of gloss and matte, high heels with thin laces and I found them at a little kiosk in Siam Square market area.

So, if you have a cool picture that you'd like to share with fashion trends for real women, or if there is a trend you'd like to see me try on, send me a comment, link or an email through the blog!

As always, keep living in style, and see you at the next blog post!

How to wear Safari without going Zookeeper

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Thu, 19 May 2011 16:00:00 +0000

On the runways at the fashion shows in Paris, New York and Toronto, the safari trend made a strong comeback this year. Have you been scared to try this trend? Worried about looking like a zookeeper or actual safari guide? No more, because here’s Senzu’s easy how-to for this awesome trend!

Senzu’s Top 10 Tips on looking Safari Inspired:

10. Wear the trend, don’t let it wear you. As with many trends, the key to getting it right is not to overdo it. Cargo capris in safari green are fine, but then don’t add more pockets on the top too.

9. Keep the silhouette clean. Use the ever-present contrasting shapes rule: if you’re going flared or wide on your lower half (think wide pants, maxi skirt or dress), then make sure your upper half is more fitted. And vice versa. You don’t want to get lost in your outfit.

8. Go green! This is the perfect trend to go with earth-friendly fabrics. Organic cottons, the new (soft) hemp, linens and soft eco-cotton knits usually come in great designs that work the safari look fabulously.

7. Go green, again! Really! Khaki, kiwi, moss, wheatgrass, army green, beige, brown, emerald, taupe and grays are all great color options within this trend.

6. Monotone is exciting! The safari look is one look that works really well from head to toe in one color, or one colour range. It will pull your look together.

5. Off-set your safari. Using khaki and army green for your main item and then offsetting it with a contrasting colour such as canary yellow, bright white or black will give your safari look a modern twist. This works especially well at the office!

4. Belts to Boot! Strappy sandals and wedges work extremely well with this trend.

3. Safari looks best during the day, as it is usually a more casual look. To bring safari out at night, keep your silhouette very clean and minimalist, and accessorize!

2. Bring out the Animal in you! Yes, you can add animal print! Your most elegant option is to use it in accessories such as shoes and purse. For the daring ladies out there, try a animal print shirt, dress or skirt. It’s best to only use animal print in your outfit once, or it will look ‘tried too hard’.

1. Go bold on accessories! Think big leather purses; wide naturally toned belts that flatter your figure, and go for statement necklaces, hoop earrings, bracelets and African-inspired pieces. Senzu has lots of hoop earrings that were just added to their Elements Collection, and also check out the fabulous natural necklaces and woven leather bracelets in the Senzu Naturals Collection.

We’ve included a great Safari lookbook here to inspire you to try this summery trend. what do you think, are you game to try the Safari trend this year?

Your Senzu Style Insider,

Cristel

Accessories featured in this blog: Senzu Jewelry. Fashion and cosmetics by Elie Tahari, Ralph Lauren, Erin Fetherson, Revlon, Afterglow, Tod's and more.

How To Work this Summer's all-white Trend!

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Sun, 15 May 2011 16:00:00 +0000

This spring and summer a lot of awesome trends are hot (hopefully the weather will follow!). Today we’ll focus how to make the white-on-white trend work for you. It is easy to look fabulous in white! Here’s our Top 10 Tips on how to rock the white fashion trend this summer:

10. White is not boring! White looks great on all skin tones, and any outfit that’s all one colour will make you look leaner.
9. Silhouettes on the shade. The white trend follows this year’s silhouette guidelines; soft fabrics, feminine shapes and flowing lines. A-line skirts, maxi dresses, flare pants, peasant shirts, linens and ultra-soft cottons are all joining the party. Layering is done without adding bulk; if you go wide on the bottom, then keep the top more fitted, and vice versa.

8. It’s not all white! Whites and soft creams or off-whites can go together. Just try to keep it to one or two tones max, or it will look mismatched.
7. Casual of Dressy? Either one goes; a white Jackie-O style sundress with white scarf or jacket, white pantsuit, white cargo capris with a white peasant shirt or t-shirt, the trend works both for the office and weekend relaxed.
6. Nights in white satin? The white trend will carry you from daytime into the evening hours seamlessly. To dress white up more in the evenings, minimalistic lines work well at night and try wearing it with more jewelry or sparkling accessories, or change up footwear from ballerinas to wedges.
5. White hair? The white fashion trend looks awesome with any hair color, just as it goes nicely with any skin color. Wear hair up or down, short of long, up to you. A small hair accessory like a hair slide or clip always dresses up any outfit.
4. Keep an eye out! You don’t want to create too much of a contrast by distracting from with your all-white outfit with heavily made up eyes. The trend emphasizes natural colors and tones, so soft pinks, beiges and complimenting tones will make you look radiant in white. Soft tones in lipstick or a glossy lip balm are both great options for lips.
3. Show your heels. This summer the trend is heavy on ballarinas, strappy sandals, wedges and natural leather tones. To lengthen your silhouette, go with matching colours (whites) or skin tone neutrals on your tootsies. If your shoes are open, consider a French Pedicure for pretty, match-the-trend nails.
2. Belt it out! For a more dressy look, go with a thinner fitted belt that either blends with your all-white outfit or for a bolder look, pick a very bright orange, pink, green or navy colour. The casual, all-white look is best done with a loosely worn, wider, natural toned belt that is slung low on the hips. Great with cargo pants and a peasant shirt or longer t-shirt.
1. Accessorize white on white too! Senzu has a great range of natural jewelry, necklaces with white pendants, pearls, white Swarovski crystals, silver jewelry that will compliment your all-white outfit.

Check out these all-white lookbooks we’ve put together to give you inspiration. The angelic models and all-white fashion courtesy of Victoria’s Secret (all rights reserved), all jewelry by Senzu.

Let us know what you think of this trend?
Your Senzu Style Insider,

Cristel

Senzu’s Top 10 tips for a fabulous Wedding Day.

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Wed, 11 May 2011 19:32:00 +0000

With the Royal wedding bells still ringing in our ears, the 2011 wedding season is off to a great start. Sitting at Bronte’s Compass Restaurant recently, we witnessed at least 3 wedding parties taking pictures! Are you getting married this year or will you be attending a wedding? These tips will help you look fabulous and relaxed on the Big Day, whether you’re the bride or not!

Senzu’s Wedding Day Top 10 Tips:

10. Be a Girl Scout! Last thing you want to do is be stressed out on what’s supposed to be your special day. So plan ahead and be prepared. Keep a journal or to-do list to keep track of things to organise, and start on it early.

9. Call in the troops! Whether you are planning a big event or a small gathering, with or without bridesmaids, don’t try to do everything by yourself. Involve your friends, sisters or husband-to-be. They’ll feel honored to be part of the big day and proud to have helped make it a success.

8. Be Budget Savvy! Determine what you can afford to spend on your wedding and stay within it. Make a list of all the expenses related to the big day (dress, minister, flowers, tux rentals, thank-you gifts, marriage license, limo rental, entertainment, food, hall rental, etc., etc.) and figure out where to save and where you can afford to splurge. You don’t want to start your married life with a debt from your wedding day expenses. If you're in the Toronto area, this Senzu Style Insider recommends Bizou Catering for fabulous food and service at affordable prices.

7. It’s your party, do what you want to! Personalize your big day by making it unique to you. Get married on a boat; in your back yard; in your bare feet; in a purple dress; by your uncle the priest; wearing your mom’s wedding dress from the 70s; eloping to Alaska; or whatever! Make it your unique wedding event, and you and everyone will remember it forever!

6. Take it Easy! Make sure you get enough sleep in the few days before your wedding day. Nobody’s expected to sleep well the night before (jitters!), so get enough rest leading up to the big day; you’ll feel less stressed and look better too!

5. Smile! You’re getting married! The wedding day is just the beginning of the journey. Even if something does not go exactly to plan, take a breath and enjoy the rest of the day.

4. Dress Rehearsal. Lay out your entire wedding day outfit(s) the day before. Having everything ready for you when you get up on the day itself, including your make-up and hair accessories (if you’re doing your hair yourself), will allow you a few extra minutes to enjoy the calm before the storm, and you won’t be able to forget anything!

3. Eat that! Make sure to have something to eat for breakfast. Preferably something low-fat (non-bloating), with slow-releasing carbohydrates, such as oatmeal with blueberries, a nice bowl of granola with nuts and yoghurt or brown toast with a bit of fruit. You’ll need your energy for this busy day, and a solid breakfast will keep you on your feet, feeling better longer.

2. Emergency Kit: Check! It’s a good idea to put together a small kit with items that may come in handy in a pinch. Put items such as a travel-sized sewing kit (including a couple safety pins!), clear nail polish (for panty hose/stocking runs), an extra set of panty hose or stockings, aspirin in a small bag. Other handy items would be tissues, mints, tampons, hand cream, and band-aids. Have your bridesmaid, a family member or a friend hang on to it for you on the big day.

1. Wear jewelry that you’ll use again! Senzu has a gorgeous range of pearl, crystal and natural jewelry that will allow you to express your happiness and compliment your gown and overall look completely, without breaking the bank. And you’ll be able to wear it again and again, with jeans, cocktail dress or to the office.

Browse our extensive, 200+ jewels for the entire wedding party (they make great bridesmaids’ gifts too!), including mom and the groom!

Finally, there's The Ultimate Women's Show coming up this weekend in Hamilton. It's a great opportunity to get your girlfriends together and get some wedding shopping done, as there will be over 150 different booths with event organizers, fashion designers, wedding companies, venues, jewelry and much more. Senzu will be there also, please come see us at booth 236! For more info, check our Facebook Event Page.

Have a great Wedding Day!

Your Senzu Style Insider,

Cristel

How to create the New Boho Chic Look

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 11:53:00 +0000

With all the new exciting trends that came off the New York and Toronto runways recently, one of my favorites is the 'Boho Chic' look. It is a look that, if done right, can be worn for a weekend of lounging around and tripping around vintage fashion stores and markets, but you can also dress it up for at the office.

How can you put together the Boho Chic look without looking like a hobo? Here's Senzu's top tips of how to create this 2011 bohemian, city nomad look that is so trendy at the moment, with items you might already have in your closet:

10. The Shape. Boho chic does not necessarily mean baggy. But the emphasis is on soft, flowing materials that fit comfortably. Dresses, long shirts and embroidered accents are all good-to-go for this trend. To keep it chic, choose 1 item that's more hippie, but keep the overall look neat and trim. You don't want to overdo it and look like a 70's time traveller.

9. The Colors. Neutral with one accent color, like the blue embroidery in the shirt dress in our lookbook, or the bright orange top. Denim is a hot fabric for spring and summer this year, as is white. Bright colors like lime green, orange, fuchsia and yellow are perfect accent colors, but should be used sparingly in an outfit. Natural fabrics are always preferred. To recreate boho chic, go for the best quality pieces you can afford, and you'll be able to wear them with many trends to come.

8. Shoes. You'll want to keep the shoes trim and not too bulky. Great ideas are heeled sandals or wedges, sleek boots. Keep the emphasis on elegant and ladylike, not Birkenstock. Neutral leathers and soft tones are best.

7. Hair. Relaxed flowing tresses, or a sleep ponytail in the nape of your neck gives the perfect balance between boho and chic. Pixie haircuts also work great for the boho chic look. Accented with a small hairpin for the office or an artificial flower or feather for the more daring amongst us will rock the look.

6. Make-up. With your outfit creating most of the color splash, you'll want to keep make-up very natural looking. Think soft beiges and browns, soft pinks and greens. Play up your natural eye color with your shadow, soft pink blush and nude or pale lips keeps the look fresh and grounded. The key is to stay close to your natural skin tones, just enhancing it.

5. The Bag. Soft and big for casual occasions, or more fitted for the office, you can go either natural tones or play with the accent colors mentioned earlier. There are no hard and fast rules here, except we recommend keeping the shapes soft. Leather, cotton, or woven are all fine, depending on whether you are going more 'boho' or more 'chic'.

4. Creativity & Individuality. Make your look YOU. If you're naturally a 'boho chic' dresser, try this updated 2011 look with the candy-color accents and go for bolder accessories. If you're usually a more conservative dresser, try adding small bohemian accents to your usual look to get used to the trend. You'll love it!

3. Basic Pieces. If you have any of these in your closet, you can recreate this look. Or you can use this as a perfect excuse to go shopping! Denim shorts, shirt or dress. Linen anything. Maxi dress, the peasant shirt and skirt, caftan or tunics, boots, wedges, wide relaxed belts, candy-coloured accent pieces, and of course lots of boho chic inspired jewelry.

2. Putting it all together. Make sure your outfit matches. You don't want to look like you tried too hard or are wearing everything in your closet. Keep the layers minimal, one or two is perfect. Think maxi dress with fitted jacket, or pantsuit with flowing embroidered blouse.

1. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. Accessorizing is vital to create a boho chic look. It makes or breaks it, so choose with care. Natural materials such as woods, stones, pearls and crystals are great. Go for long necklaces, layered or leather bracelets and chunky rings. Earrings should be the opposite of your outfit: if your outfit is flowing and long, go for smaller hoops. If your top half is more fitted, try larger earrings, like Senzu's large double hoop earrings, pearl or dangling leaf/feather inspired earrings. Experiment with mixing and matching your jewelry. Senzu has a collection of over 220 unique and beautiful jewelry pieces that will help you put this look together fabulously ;-)

Have fun with the Boho Chic look and style up your day,

Cristel
Your Senzu Style Insider.
PS: Follow us on twitter (@senzustyle) and join us on Facebook.

Fashion Week Look Book III- Giovanna Randall's Honor Inspired

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 03:30:00 +0000

Our third and final Fashion Week Designer Inspired installment features designer Giovanna Randall with her label Honor, which made a huge debut just a year ago. She's already opening her flagship store in the prestigious Meatpacking District in New York City, at which Fashion Week this elegant and classy design made its first appearance.

Backstage at the show, Randall explained to NBC the inspiration behind the collection: "I see my muse as having been in Paris and lived there and been inspired by her surroundings...". Marie Claire describes her fall collection as packed with '70s-inspired chiffon cocktail numbers and minimalist-chic coats, all cast in a palette of neutral grays and camels punched up with the occasional hit of emerald or marigold. Randall told Marie Claire she had been inspired by the concept of "bound movement" and of the uptown girl displaced — picture a Parisian femme stranded in the Wild West. "It's all about texture-blocking and protective layering," Randall noted. "This girl wants to be free, but she's limited by her surroundings."

This Senzu Style Insider loves the cut, pale colors and soft fabrics used, which flatter every woman's shape. A perfect base to show off elegant jewelry! Her designs are suitable for all ages, and even her runway show was attended by everyone from celebrities, business women to fashion-conscious moms with kids in tow.

In this look-book image, we've combined a design from Giovanna Randall's signature label Honor of this year's New York Fashion Week with some of Senzu's jewelry collection pieces as well as other accessories such as footwear, purse and cosmetics that will allow you to recreate this on-trend runway look.

Watch this space for all the latest from Toronto's Fashion Week Runways, happening right now! Our own Sumitra Mahakanok is on the scene to report and represent Senzu.
Styling it up,

Cristel, Your Senzu Style Insider.
Featured in this article are the following Senzu jewelry:

Fashion Week Look Book II - Rachel Comey Inspired

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Continuing with our Fashion Week Designer Inspired series, following our look book post that was inspired by Chris Benz, this article is dedicated to another up-and-coming Designer that was much heralded for her current fashion designs: Rachel Comey.

Her self-professed momentary style obsession with copper hues and tones really speaks volumes in this particular design, which was highlighted on Style.com and could be described as 'preppy with a modern edge'. Her full collection slideshow is available here.

Rachel Comey, 37, harks from Manchester, Connecticut, and loves New York for The Garment Center and advises anyone considering New York City for a place to live to give it at least a year and a half before making any final decision.

Marie Claire recently asked the designer about the modest silhouettes and somewhat androgynous cuts she showed. "The collection has lots of visible slips and slits… It's about feminine underlayers with a menswear element," she said. This Senzu Style Insider opines that the collection is based on sleek yet comfortably fitting shapes, with lots of texture and pattern play. Plenty of femininity in the use of soft fabrics and accessories.

Inspired by Rachel Comey's copper-infused outfit on this year's New York Fashion Week runway, we have combined some of Senzu's jewelry collection pieces as well as other accessories such as shoes, purse and scarves that will allow you to recreate this on-trend runway look.

Senzu Style Insider's next blog post will feature the Designer Label Honor, so watch this space!

Styling it up,

Cristel, Your Senzu Style Insider.

Featured in this article are the following Senzu jewelry:

SZ9BR10 - Scratched Rose Gold Layering Bangle

SZ9BR4 - Scratched Rose Gold & Hematite Curved Circle Bracelet

SZ9EA36 - Scratched Rose Gold & Hematite Curved Circle Earrings

SZ9BR5 - Scratched Gold & Rhodium Cuff Bangle

SZ9EA40 - Scratched Rose Gold XL Hoops

SZFBR9 - Golden Layering Bracelets

SZFBR10 - Silvery Layering Bracelets

SZ9EA32 - Scratched 18k Gold Huggie Hoops

SZFNL41 - Play on Shapes Necklace

Fashion Week Look Book - Chris Benz Inspired

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:24:00 +0000

With Toronto Fashion Week kicking off this week, Senzu's Style Insider decided to get everyone warmed up with a taste of where the up-and-coming Designers of the recently held New York Fashion Week find their inspiration.

As reported by Marie Claire's fashionista bloggers and others, among of the bright new Designers stealing the show in New York this year was Chris Benz. Chris grew up in Seattle in the 90's, attended Parsons School of Design in New York City, interned with Marc Jacob and presented his first ready-to-wear collection in 2007 to high acclaim at that year's New York Fashion Week.

"I was inspired by Savannah, Georgia," Benz told MC during his audience-packed presentation. "I've been working so much with SCAD (the Savannah College of Art & Design, where Benz is a mentor), and the city has this haunted beauty about it… It's very old-fashioned. I was thinking about the influx of edgy art-school students into a historic place."

This Senzu Style Insider has visited the beautiful city of Savannah many times and it is certainly a place infused with history, quirky style and old-fashioned elegance. One visit and you're sure to fall in love with it.

Benz mentions Savannah's "gorgeous graveyards" as inspiration for this specific look. He also expresses a nostalgia for the past and his designs reflect a certain carefree, relaxed spirit and a 'don't take yourself too seriously' attitude with a decided vintage touch.

In this look-book image, we've combined Chris Benz' signature design of this year's New York Fashion Week with some of Senzu's jewelry collection pieces as well as other accessories such as boots, purse and hat that will allow you to recreate this on-trend runway look.

Senzu Style Insider's next blog post will feature Designer Rachel Comey, so watch this space!

Styling it up,

Cristel, Your Senzu Style Insider.

Featured in this article are the following Senzu jewelry:

SZ9EA20 - Fuchsia Oval Cut CZ Silver Earrings

SZ9PE12 - Fuchsia Oval Cut CZ Silver Pendant

SZ9EA12 - Swarovski© Magnificent Magenta Hearts

SZ9PE5 - Swarovski© Magnificent Magenta Heart Pendant

SZFBR5 - Black Beaded Charm Bracelet

SZFNL43 - Circles Necklace

Thinking of Japan

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 09:10:00 +0000

Of course we are all just glued to the television at every spare moment of our day, and Japan is I am sure in the forefront of everyone's mind, so in this blog post I won't be talking about Senzu jewelry or designs. I'd like to tell you about my visit to Japan and the impression of the people and country that it left on Brad and me.

We have only been to Japan once, not counting the times we came just through Narita International Airport on transit. We had the pleasure to visit Japan in the spring of 2005, during the time of the famed flowering of the Cherry trees. There were cherry trees everywhere, branches heavily loaded with pretty pink cherry blossoms. The Japanese people love taking pictures with the flowers, have a picnic below the flowered canopy and all in all it was a very jovial atmosphere.

Via a semi-professional marathon-running friend I had been invited to run the Nagano Marathon as an invited athlete, which was an enormous honor, considering it was my very first marathon. Before we proceeded to Nagano, we had the chance to explore some of Tokyo, see the famed temples and in Kyoto the famed geisha areas, which were just gorgeous. Beautiful wooden structures, elegant ladies in traditional geisha attire and the whole artistic and graceful culture that went along with that. The Japanese temples were as historic oases in the midst of modern Tokyo, with the Zen gardens and uncluttered, calming grounds.

The Japanese people we had the pleasure to meet were as diverse as you would find anywhere; hip, trendy and funky (especially in the cool Roppongi area), the all-work business people on their cellphones, elderly people playing games in the parks. Everyone treated each other with respect and consideration (something that even an earthquake and a tsunami does not shake, as the TV is showing us), and there was a genuine interest in getting to know you. We had a fun afternoon when I was asked to speak at an all-girls school, and rather than ask me about the upcoming marathon, the training or preparation, the girls were just like high school girls anywhere; they wanted to know about boys and life back home!

Brad and I both came away from Japan with very pleasant memories, and with the intention to return to Japan for future visits to see more of this amazing country.

So we join the rest of the world in praying and hoping for Japan's recovery and think of the Japanese people in this time of hardship. For links on how you can help, I recommend visiting the 'How you can help' page of CNN, for reputable aid agencies and other organizations.
With warm thoughts,

Cristel
Your Senzu Style Insider.

Culturally Inspired, Fashionably Colorful

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:22:00 +0000

Wow, here we are in March already, and Spring is only 6 more weeks away! Time to lighten up the outfits along with the weather and channel a bit of Spring in your look too.

The 2011 Naturals Collection was launched with the addition of 3 very unique necklaces, each inspired by different places and peoples of the multi-cultural, colorful and sensual continent of Africa.

Madagascar Midnight was inspired by the innumerable stars that sparkle bright in a dark nightsky above the warmth of a wood fire, and those are the colours that come back in the necklace. It looks great on a solid-color outfit or simple dress, adding a touch of tropical and sensual élan with the depth and sparkle of the warm tones of the necklace. A true statement piece.

The city of Zanzibar, in all its spice trade glory (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, pepper), quintessential lanterns, pearlescent sandy beaches and its beautiful people was the inspiration for the Zanzibar Spice Necklace. This necklace is so versatile, it looks great on a LBD for evening events or on any daytime outfit, ranging from jeans and white t-shirt to natural tones and everything solid-colored in between.

Finally, African Dreams was inspired by a trip Brad and I did in the beginning of 2010, when we visited Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Namibia, and had the immense pleasure of meeting different tribal peoples in all these countries. Their colourful dress, jewelry, headdresses and the simplicity of the beaded jewelry is reflected in this Senzu homage to their beautiful sense of style. I personally love the fact that there are 4 different ways to wear this necklace, and they all create a different look, with just 1 necklace. The colors are bright and really pop, yet they complement one another.

For those who’d like to see some pictures of our trip and the people we met there, please visit Brad’s photography site, www.bradmol.com.

I find inspiration for jewelry designs all around me, in my everyday life in Asia, traveling around the region or on trips like the one to Africa last year, and from the colors, textures, shapes and the feelings those images impress upon me. Where do you get your creative inspiration?

Styling it up,

Cristel, your Senzu Style Insider.

'It's Elemental, my dear Watson' -behind the scenes at Senzu's Elements Spring Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 05:16:00 +0000

With Valentine’s Day come and gone, and New York Fashion Week in full swing, today’s blog post we are going to take you behind the scenes of how our 2011 Spring Elements Collection was designed.

Overlooking Hong Kong Harbour

When we sat down to determine what the look for Spring 2011 was going to be, we knew we wanted to make sure that whatever the look, the jewelry had to be light and versatile. For our Elements line we really wanted to go back to the basics; using clean, natural lines, shapes that look great on any facial shape and body type and play with texture.

For our Naturals Collection, 2011 would be the year of warm tones, inspired by Africa and tribal jewelry. More on this collection and the trip that inspired it in the next post!

When we went to Hong Kong in early Fall 2010, our goal was to work with out manufacturers to create these looks exclusively for Senzu, and the results are now online at Senzu.

Rose Gold & Black Hematite
plated Senzu Jewelry.

The 2011 Elements Collection has already become a great addition to the Senzu jewelry lines. The simplicity of the shapes, being mostly round and oval shapes, flatter all facial structures and soften those with more angular jawlines (like myself!). Hoops are the most popular type of earring for most women because it is so versatile and timeless, that we included a variety of sizes and twists on the hoop theme.

The continuing theme throughout the Elements Collection though is the unique ‘scratched’ finish on each and every piece. This finish adds interest and depth to each jewel, and gives it almost a matte look. As always, we looked for a strong and allergy-safe base material (brass) and added luxury premium materials such as 925 sterling silver, rose gold and 18 karat gold plating, as well as rhodium and black hematite. This gives the Elements Collection a great variety of colours and looks, in necklaces, earrings, bracelets and bangles.

I’ve been wearing the new Elements pieces a lot, and both in Canada and here in Thailand there has been a great response to the collection. Which brings me to the second bit of news: Senzu jewelry is now also available in Thailand through our sister company, Senzu (Thailand) Limited! Visit our senzustyle.com contact page for all the details.

Tomorrow night Senzu will be participating in The Wine Ladies Dinner in Support of The Heart and Stroke Foundation. In this month of love and Valentine’s Day, it is a great opportunity to support this very important organisation. Enjoy a great wine-paired dinner at Cucci, swag bags with Senzu jewelry in it, and bid on the Inori© for Senzu Stainless Steel & Crystal jewelry set in the silent auction, all for this amazing cause.

We hope to see you there!

Cristel,

Your Senzu Style Insider

This is not a jewelry blog post

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 +0000

Rene Magritte - This is not a Pipe
and this is not a post about
jewelry, or is it? ;-)

“Many of life's failures come from people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." - Thomas Edison.

I thought it would be a nice change to talk about something other than Senzu jewellery for a change (though I am always happy to talk about that!). So I thought it would be more interesting to give you a bit of an insight as to why we started Senzu, and what challenges come with building your own business.

Playful Metal Colours Necklace
& matching bracelets
SZFNL37

The quote this post started with was tweeted by Bear Grills, one of my favorite personalities on the Discovery Channel. I love his ‘can do’ attitude towards any situation he’s dropped into or that crosses his path. In one way, he is the ultimate boy scout; always prepared. On the other hand, he improvises when he does not have a particular tool to get him out of a pickle. When he can’t have elk steak in some tundra he’s stuck in, he opts for catching something or eating bugs. Ok, I would not go that far, but the underlying idea is flexibility and adaptation to your environment. It was also tweeted the same day by Anthony Robbins, the well-known self-improvement and inspirational speaker. The bottom line is, don’t give up too soon! If you truly believe in a project or concept, the business model and the strategy, then go do it! Nay-sayers be damned ;-)

Multi-Tone Metal Chain Necklace
SZFNL45

For me, I always wanted to get back into in the jewelry industry. Many years ago, when living overseas, for a while I worked with another jewelry company that used a proven, no-pressure networking sales method and I got a taste of it, and ever since then it was always in the back of my mind to return to that industry.

If I had given up on this idea for a jewelry business concept over 15 years ago, Senzu would not exist today. Timing is everything, and the rest is enthusiasm and perseverance!

So if you’ve ever had the idea to start your own business, work for yourself (no boss!) or work from home, then why not grab the bull by the horns and make 2011 your year? There are lots of options out there, a Senzu Stylist bring one of them.

Next blog post I'll talk about the advantages and challenges of being your own boss as well as working from home.

Until then, Style it Up and Happy Year of the Rabbit!

Cristel, your Senzu Style Insider.

2011 Spring Spirit Collection launched

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 06:44:00 +0000

This blog post brings some great news: We have just launched our new line of Spring jewelry as part of our Senzu Spirit Collection!

SZFNL42: http://bit.ly/goNvbl

When we developed this Spring range of jewelry, we put the emphasis on fun and lightness. Our aim was to create a line that is versatile yet elegant, so you can wear it with a suit or with a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. The jewelry will work great throughout the spring and into the summer, as weather warms up and clothing layers are shed.

There are 11 new necklaces and 4 bracelets that all follow the Senzu mandate of good quality materials and a unique design that you'd only find at Senzu. Using aluminum and other light-weight metals and materials such as cotton, brass and glass, of course all lead-free, nickel-free and cadmium-free, the line is centered around the continuing trend of metallics and plays with textures, shapes and tones within the colour ranges.

This year's Pantone colours, Silver Cloud as well as Russet and Silver Peony, are well represented in the collection, either on its own or in combination with gold and silver tones. As the quintessential neutral that consumers can rely on to coordinate with everything in their closet, Silver Cloud it is one of the most versatile colours in this year's range.

SZFNL37: http://bit.ly/goSZc1

Senzu features it in the form of smokey, opaque glass beads that have been worked into both necklaces and bracelets.

As Chrissy Lorenzo mentioned in her article on this year's Pantone chosen colours and their effect on mood: "Why does silver cloud seem to go with everything? This hue is multi-faceted and has many undertones. When paired with a deep purple, for example, blue-ish undertones in this color will come out for a seamless match. When paired with white, it will have a cooler, lighter look. For this reason, it's a great color to play off what's already existing in your wardrobe! Why you should wear it: gray-blue colors have a calming effect and inspire relaxation and creativity. A perfect color for a wall in your office, or a blazer for work. It will center you and leave you focused."

SZFNL38: http://bit.ly/ecfIbk

The warm chocolatey tones of Russet come back also in one of their wood and glass beaded necklaces.

I've given you a sneak peek at some of the pieces in this blog, now go check all of them out on www.senzustyle.com!

It is also posted it on Senzu's Facebook Page photo album, a great opportunity to 'like' our page and stay up to date on events, promos and special offers for our Facebook fans ;-)

For daily updates and more 'insider' info, follow us on Twitter @senzustyle and @cristelmd.

Styling it up!

Cristel,

Your Senzu Style Insider.

The LBD & other styles that never fade, literally!

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 13:57:00 +0000

Good morning everyone,

Having just come back from Shanghai on a Senzu sourcing trip, I was welcomed by some good news out of England this morning. It just goes to show you that true style never goes out of fashion and never fades away. Now we can actually say this and mean it literally, thanks to the scientists at the University of Leeds, who came up with a black dye for fabrics that does not fade in the wash. It was about time, right? ;-)

As was reported on also in The Toronto Star a few days ago, Partick McGowan and colleagues at the University of Leeds are proud of the dress because “black is the hardest colour and the most sought after. More than 50 per cent of clothing is black.” Glad to hear I am not alone in favouring this colour as a basic! It is flattering on most people, makes you look a bit more lithe and goes with nearly anything. Plus, the little black dress is one item that nearly all us ladies have at least one of, in our closets.

Though I am not big on techie-speak, I thought it was worth quoting Mr. McGowan's process to create this little miracle (Nerd alert: science paragraph coming up!).

The eco-friendlier process behind the dress and the dyes “turns a traditional problem in polymer chemistry on its head,” said McGowan. The process uses PLA or polylactic acid, a polyester derived from renewable sources. “It biodegrades, it is carbon-neutral, and it doesn’t rely on products from the petroleum industry,” he told The Star.

“We’ve eradicated the wet-dyeing step and achieved a homogenous colouration.” Fabric dying traditionally uses oil-based material, lots of water, high temperatures, and creates considerable waste. Each type of textile needs to be dyed differently or takes the colour differently, even in the same garment. “The dye actually stays attached to the polymer. When you wash your PLA fibres, it doesn’t come out.”.

Separate research is developing hair dye “without some of the chemicals perceived to be nasty. Organic is one of our goals.” concludes McGowan. Now would that be nice, to be able to colour your manes without all the horrible chemicals?

When Sumitra and I started Senzu, we also wanted to ensure the colours and materials in our jewelry were long-lasting, which is why we love our Stainless Steel line.

It is also a recyclable, very durable, non-staining, hypo-allergenic, and long-lasting material that will keep the same beautiful sheen, look and colour for a very long time with minimal care.

Just like the non-fading LBD!

Styling it up with a wink and Senzu jewelry of course,

Cristel,

Your Senzu Style Insider.

PS: Don't forget to join our FB page too, for all the latest updates, and follow us on Twitter @senzustyle

Fashion Colour Report for Spring 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 14:41:00 +0000

Good morning and I hope you've had a great start to the New Year!

This blog post is all about colours. What's hot, and what's not? We asked the experts! This spring 2011, with the help of the colour 'authority', Pantone, the feature colour for all of 2011 has been named as Honeysuckle, however of course we are not monochromatic, monotone or one-size-fits-all people, and inspiration and colour-plays can be found everywhere around us.

Citing exotic destinations like Africa, India, Peru and Turkey as inspiration for Spring 2011, designers worldwide continue to satisfy consumers’ need to escape everyday challenges and dreariness with intriguing color combinations that transport them to foreign lands and exotic cultures.

“The colors that designers have chosen for the spring season present an interesting marriage of unexpected warm and cool tones,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “By cleverly combining complementary colors, those that are opposites on the color wheel, they have created a striking intensity to the palette. These unique color combinations make it possible for consumers to pair existing pieces in colors traditionally associated with fall, with new favorites to punch up springtime wardrobes.”

Senzu is also playing on the same contrasting, yet complimenting aspects of colours and textures this spring and summer. Without giving all our plans away, we will be introducing a range of 27 new earrings, necklaces and bracelet sets into our Elements Collection that will really pop. Watch our website, our @senzustyle tweets and this blog for updates when they will become available!

Of course, our Senzu jewellery already represents a voyage around the world, with pieces this year from India, The Kingdom of Thailand, China and Malaysia.

Silvers, yellow and pink gold tones, as well as the more muted black rhodium and charcoal grey hematite continue to be important base colours to bounce the brighter colours off. As the Pantone colour specialists put it in their 2011 Colour Report: "Another dependable background color, Silver Cloud, is the quintessential neutral that consumers can rely on to coordinate with everything in their closet."

Which for Senzu means that we will shortly also be introducing, handmade by our jewellery artists in India, a great new line of fun jewellery for our Spirit Collection. That's all we'll say for now, you'll just have to follow us on twitter, our Facebook Page and of course the Senzu website for updates and to get it before everyone else! ;-)

Sumitra is off on a well-deserved vacation this week as she worked throughout the holidays, and I will be departing for Shanghai on a sourcing trip this Sunday, so the next blog will be from the great city of Shanghai! We've never been there before, so Brad and I are really looking forward to sharing our new experiences with you.

2011 will truly be a year of hot Senzu jewellery, travel, global influences and intra-cultural experiences! Style it up with me!

Cristel

Senzu Interview for Biz Opportunities - Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 04:39:00 +0000

Good morning everyone,

A few weeks ago we at Senzu had the honor to be asked for an e-Interview with Biz-Opportunities.biz, and were contacted by Ms. Angela Shupe with 11 questions. The Business Opportunities Weblog is a moderated list of legitimate business opportunities for entrepreneurs. It will be posted on their website on the 21st of December 2010, but you get to see the questions and my answers here first, in this 2-part blog post. Part 1 was published on this blog last week, here's the conclusion! It was my pleasure to do the interview and I hope you enjoy reading it here and on biz-opportunities.biz from 21 December onwards!

6. What separates your business and opportunity from the competition?

- Senzu is very young, and therefore the market for Senzu Stylists is still wide open. Other companies may have been around longer, but people are ready for something new and fresh, which is reflected in our designs as well as our business model.

- Senzu Stylists are not bound by any territories; all of Canada is wide open, so lots of room to expand their sales!

New Bracelet in Senzu's
Stainless Steel Collection

- Senzu Stylists can track their commissions and orders online.

- The Senzu website sets us apart from much of our competition. It allows our Stylists to sell direct from the website and also track their sales and commissions right there. It is very mobile-device friendly, so Stylists can have the Senzu e-Boutique at their fingertips wherever they are. In today’s world of smartphones and iPad-type mobile devices, we believe that it is important to offer our Stylists the best advantage in direct market sales. The website supports our Stylists and our Stylists support the web site, it is a symbiotic relationship.

- Our jewellery ranges in price from $8 to $154, with the average piece being about $40, so it is very affordable for every budget.

- Senzu carries a Stainless Steel Collection, all made from 316L stainless steel, which is 100% hypoallergenic. A great advantage, as some people have allergies to silver, gold or other metals.

- Senzu also has a Naturals Collection, made from all natural products such as silk, cotton, semi-precious stones and wood.

7. When was it launched, and how has it grown since then?

We first formed Senzu in early 2010 and we had our Soft Launch Party on the 29th of September. About three weeks later, in late October 2010, the e-Boutique went ‘live’ and online ordering has begun. We’ve had quite a few Soirées since then, both hosted by us as well as by hostesses for our Stylists. We’ve been using this first Christmas season mainly as a vehicle to get the word out in Oakville about the Senzu company, the Senzu jewellery and we are already registering new Stylists in and around the Greater Toronto Area.

8. Do you have any goals you'd like to accomplish in the next year or so?

Our main goal is to grow our network of Stylists and our sales of course, throughout Ontario and Canada. We will continue to create beautiful, affordable jewellery and by doing so, our Stylists will find that it sells itself. Our focus is on supporting our Stylists in their Senzu business and encourage their sales by continuing to enhance the website, the Stylist webportal, an easy to understand commission and downline structure and great customer service and Stylist support.

9. What are some lessons your business has taught you?

New Earrings in Senzu's
Stainless Steel Collection

Together with my husband Brad, both Sumitra and I have run (and still run) many businesses, but this is our first business supported by an online store. I love browsing through our own e-Boutique! I have learned that for as many people there are in the world, that’s how many tastes and styles there are. I am inspired by working with the designers and manufacturers to develop great looking, high quality jewellery for Senzu. For Sumitra, this is the first time running a business in Canada. I think for her it is a breeze, compared to the challenges of doing business in other countries. Of course we all love being active in an industry that deals with such an exciting product as well as giving people the opportunity to change their lives and offer them a chance at financial freedom.

10. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

A Senzu Stylist’s earnings are only limited by their imagination and efforts. Based on our records, our Stylists typically do around $1200 in sales per Soirée (our home party), which means about $300 in commissions for them, for just about 3-4 hours work. In addition, anyone can be a hostess (those who host a Soireé) and potentially receive hundreds of dollars in free jewellery, compliments of Senzu. Our Stylists have no minimum sales requirements, but no maximums either! Anyone can become a Senzu customer, hostess or a Senzu Stylist. Our Senzu jewellery is high quality and attractively designed and priced, so it practically sells itself.

11. Any advice you'd like to offer fellow entrepreneurs that are just getting started?

Immerse yourself in the industry, read up on your peers, their experiences and be open to advice from people who’ve been there. Don’t give up on your own concept but be prepared to adapt it to what the market will support.

Read the complete interview at www.biz-opportunities.biz from 21 December 2010 onwards.
In the meanwhile, a quick reminder to all our readers that Senzu has express shipping and can still deliver your shipments (within Canada) to arrive in time for Christmas, which is only 5 more days away!

Styling it up!

Cristel

Senzu Interview for Biz-Opportunities: Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 03:06:00 +0000

Good morning everyone,

This past week we at Senzu had the honor to be asked for an e-Interview with Biz-Opportunities.biz, and were contacted by Ms. Angela Shupe with 11 questions. The Business Opportunities Weblog is a moderated list of legitimate business opportunities for entrepreneurs. It will be posted on their website on the 21st of December 2010, but you get to see the questions and my answers here first, in this 2-part blog post. It was my pleasure to do the interview and I hope you enjoy reading it here and on biz-opportunities.biz!

1. Tell us a little about Senzu Style.

Senzu is Canada’s newest direct sales company that focuses on fashionable jewellery and emphasises stainless steel, sterling silver and other high quality materials that are accented with freshwater pearls, Swarovski© crystals, cubic zirconias and other top quality features. It is based right here in Oakville, Ontario.

SZSN5, Stainless Steel, Pearl & Onyx

2. What inspired it?

The name Senzu was inspired by the Japanese word for Style. I have lived in many countries in Asia for many years and still spend a lot of time there now. Sumitra, my business partner, moved from Thailand to Canada just about 18 months ago, so our inspiration is found in the East. We have tried to translate the elegance, grace, beauty and modern advances we encounter there into beautiful, very wearable jewellery here in Canada.

3. What are some of the more popular products that you offer?

Our most popular line is the Stainless Steel Collection. One of the first jewellery we started with are our stainless steel and freshwater pearl necklaces and matching earrings, set in dual tone stainless steel and cubic zirconias. It is available with white, pink or black pearls and looks great on everyone. It is a contemporary, modern woman’s take on a classic look. But we have already expanded into 5 unique Collections: Stainless Steel, Prestige, Elements, Spirit and Naturals.

4. Tell us a little about your Stylist opportunity.

Senzu’s Stylist opportunity is a chance to get into a direct sales organisation while it is still young, with an opportunity to grow your network of customers and sponsored Stylists along with the company. By joining now, you get in on the ground floor and have a chance to help shape this organisation and have a say in how it develops and expands.

SZEA8, Stainless Steel
Freshwater Pearl & CZ

5. What is included, and how much does it cost?

Right now it only costs $75 to register as a Senzu Stylist. For that you get 50% off all of your first sample order of jewellery, then 30% off all your subsequent orders. Usually the beginning Stylist’s sample order saves them so much, it covers the cost of their registration fee. Apart from the discount, the starter kit also includes personalized Senzu business cards, promo cards, hostess invitation cards and other marketing materials that will help them get their Independent Senzu Stylist Business started successfully. Stylists make 30% profit on anything they sell from their own inventory, but there is no obligation to purchase stock. Of course wearing Senzu jewellery yourself does make selling it even easier! We encourage Stylists to refer their customers to the senzustyle.com website as well. When their customers buy online, the Stylist also makes 30% commission on any of their online sales, and Senzu handles everything from payment, gift wrapping and shipping directly to the customer.

Next blogpost will answer her questions about what sets Senzu apart from the competition, our goals and what the business has taught me, so come back and read Part 2 in the next few days!

Styling it up!

Cristel

PS: Don't forget to vote in our Christmas Shopping Poll on the right! ->

Read About Us here!

Introducing: The Senzu Prestige & Naturals Collections!

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 04:45:00 +0000

Good morning everyone,

Today it is my pleasure to introduce two new Senzu lines of fine jewellery today; the Senzu Prestige Collection and the Senzu Naturals Collection.

The Prestige Collection focuses on genuine 92.5 sterling silver and are considered statement jewellery, and high elegance. We have included a limited number of pieces that are made with Swarovski© crystals, with my personal favorite being the Swarovski© Divine Rock Earrings and Pendant. In addition to Swarovski©, you'll also find top quality cubic zirconia statement earrings and pendants, which most of the time include elegant silver necklaces. Many of the new jewellery pieces in this collection is handmade for Senzu by Artesans in Thailand, a country known for its creativity and craftsmanship especially in silver. The gorgeous jewellery in our Prestige Collection brings your look to the next level and would be very well suited for evening wear, as well as to dress up your daytime outfit. New jewellery pieces will be added to the Prestige Collection shortly, so be sure to visit the Senzu website.

Twilight Agate Silk Choker
Necklace - SZWNL1

The Naturals Collection was created to introduce jewellery based on natural materials. The first jewellery featured in The Senzu Naturals Collection is a handcrafted silk choker necklace with Agate stones, both beautiful gifts from Mother Nature. These necklaces are available in a trio of Agate stone colours, named Fire, Forest and Twilight. Agate is a semi-precious stone that is characterized by its fineness of grain and brightness and range of colours and because it is a made-by-nature item, each Agate necklace is unique and a little different in colouring and shape. The Naturals Collection will focus on the beauty found in natural stone such as Agate and Turquoise, as well as other natural materials. New jewellery pieces will be added all the time, so be sure to visit the Senzu website regularly.

Today was Senzu's first annual Holiday Soirée and it had a great turnout! More about our Soirée in the next blog post, as well as an interview with Sumitra, my partner-in-Style who hosted it.
Styling it up until then!
Your partner-in-style,

Cristel

Christmas Shopping - fun or fright?

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 05:11:00 +0000

Good morning Stylistas,

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? I always find that I have these great ideas throughout the year for presents, and I think to myself: 'I should write that down for Christmas, so I'll remember'. Invariably I don't and then December arrives and I am scrambling to think of what to buy friends, family and co-workers.

Luckily, this year will be much easier for me, now that I have the perfect source for gifts for most of my friends and family with Senzu! Now if I can just get around to getting my orders in, in stead of working on all other aspects of the business ;-) At least I won't need to drive to the mall through sleet and snow, sit in traffic jams, fight over a spot closer to the mall entrance, and then wrestle my way through the mob in the stores. Most likely I'll be doing most of my Christmas shopping the easy way; online, in my pajamas, on the sofa with my iPad, relaxing with a nice cup of green tea and listening to some music. This is especially convenient now, since I will be in Thailand over the Christmas holidays and a lot of my friends and family are scattered all over Canada, the USA and Europe!

However, I do enjoy shopping 'out' as well, especially at events that support local businesses and the community we live in. That's why I look forward to hearing from our Stylist David Lecitra how much fun he had at the Eglinton Community Centre Holiday Fair this coming Friday the 26th of November, where he will be hosting our booth together with my partner-in-style, Sumitra Mahakanok. Come see us there if you are in Toronto! We'll have some great new Senzu jewellery there.

We're also excited about the upcoming First Annual Senzu Holiday Soirée right here in Oakville on the 1st of December. A lot of people have confirmed their attendance, so it promises to be a great party at a beautiful lakefront setting. We'll have the Christmas décor and Christmas tree up, so it will be a fun way to welcome the last month of 2010. Please RSVP to join Sumitra, if you haven't yet, this will be an event not to be missed! Also, you never know if @Santa_Claus might show up, now that he's following @senzustyle on Twitter!

It will also be a bit of a celebration, since it will be 2 months since we had the unofficial 'Soft Launch' of Senzu. Plus, we will be at 150 unique and beautiful Senzu jewelry pieces. We started off with just 46, so we've tripled the selection! To celebrate, we've joined with Swarovski© Elements to create some beautiful crystal pieces that will be online in the next few days. There is just a limited quantity, so if you'd like them for Christmas, please contact Sumitra to order.

Besides the Stainless Steel Collection, we now also have the Spirit Collection and the Elements Collection. Another 2 Collections will be introduced very soon, so if you haven't yet, browse our website and discover great new Senzu jewellery!

Wishing all our American friends and fellow Stylistas around the world a very Happy Thanksgiving and a great weekend!

Styling it up,

Cristel

How to recreate the 'Mad Men' 60s chic today.

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 07:25:00 +0000

Good morning fellow Stylistas,

With the new Season of Mad Men underway, the latest 60s style revival has reached a new level of excitement in the fashion world, from the runways to looks seen on the street by ordinary mortals like us.

The characters of Betty Francis (played by January Jones), Joan Harris (Christina Hendricks) and Peggy Olson (Elizabeth Moss) have become the personifications of elegance, style and female empowerment, and the looks they sport in the show are being recreated by women around the world, who love the femininity it exudes. So how to recreate that 60s elegant and stylish look without looking old-fashioned?

So to help you put together a '60s look using pieces in your closet (or as an excuse to go shopping) here's Senzu's Top 10 Tips for '60s Chic today:

10. Show off your curves! Keep it form-fitting on top, flowy on the bottom. A-Line skirts flatter every shape. Dress it up with a little jacket for the office, or a cardigan for a more casual look.
9. Go floral! Soft coloured floral dresses, skirts and tops add a feminine touch. If wearing a flowered dress, keep all your other accessories and shoes in matching solid colours.
8. Use 1 bold colour for an elegant monochromatic look. Gem colours are very on trend right now; emerald greens, ruby reds as well as royal blue and purple.
7. High heels will add drama to your look. Flats will make your look more casual. Nude tones are great at elongating your legs visually.
6. Emphasize your waist. Synch it with a narrow leather belt in contrasting colours or a fabric belt in the same pattern as your dress.
5. Clutch your purse. A small purse or clutch that compliments your look without overpowering it.
4. Up your 'do. The 60s style trend is great if you like wearing your hair 'dressy'. Elegant buns, high ponytails, but also pretty hairbands are all back in style.
3. Love your Eyes! Ultra-feminine eyes with 'cat-eyes' lined eyes. Bring out the eyeliner and 'Bardot' your look for that extra va-va-voom.
2. Luscious Lipstick in bold reds work best for this '60s look. For a less dramatic look, go for pale pinks. Keeping cheeks light and soft will give your eyes and lips centre stage.
1. Accessorize with Senzu jewellery! Especially pearl earrings and pearl pendants, as well as oversized pendants on long necklaces work really well to recreate the look.

Check out Senzu's new Elements Collection, with some beautiful sterling silver pieces, as well as unique designer long pendant necklaces in brass with silver, rhodium or pink gold plating. Very elegant and these are only going to be available for a limited time (nickel-free and lead-free, as all Senzu's products are).

There is still time to confirm your attendance to Senzu's Holiday Soirée on December 1st, in Oakville, Canada. It promises to be a fun get-together; perfect to get the Festive Season started in Style. Bring a friend along and be the first to look and purchase new Senzu jewellery creations that with Swarovski(c) crystals and silver that won't even be available on the Senzu website yet.

We put together a Mad Men '60s Stylebook with products readily available at The Bay, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Aldo's, H&M, Mango and other main street retailers, and of course Senzu Jewellery to inspire you to create your unique Mad for Mad Men '60s style elegant look:

Let me know how you recreated the '60s elegance in your look? I'd love to see your personal take on this '60s trend!

Your Senzu partner-in-style,

Cristel

Senzu at Events for a Cause

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 06:14:00 +0000

Good morning dear Style Fans,

A quick post today with an update on what we at Senzu have been up to this past week! It has been a busy and social one, with a number of great events that Senzu participated in.

Wednesday was the Oakville Chamber of Commerce's Business After-Hours Networking Event, which took place at Cogeco Canada in Burlington. Quite a few of Oakville's business leaders attended including Senzu's Sumitra. Here's a snapshot of Sumitra at the Oakville Chamber event, with Warren F. Boyd, gemologist of note and President of R. T. Boyd Limited.

The Wine Ladies Holiday Special in support of the United Way was the second event this week that Senzu attended with much gusto. The event, which was held at the Otello's Banquet and Conference Centre was the second Wine Ladies Event Senzu enjoyed the pleasure of participating in (the first one being the Silkeborg opening of Café Borg for the Angels Project Charity Evening). Quoting @thewineladies' tweet the day after:"...a Fabulous event! It was a roaring success and so much fun."

Senzu's Sumitra Mahakanok, Maureen Mol (above) and her husband John, as well as Senzu Stylist David Lecitra (left) who attended, could not agree more and Senzu was happy to donate Our fabulous crystal heart necklace set to the Silent Auction to help raise funds for The United Way cause. We will soon be posting pictures of the event on our Senzu Facebook Page, and if you have pictures of us at the event, please share them there as well!

There are a number of upcoming events that Senzu will be holding, including:

- This Wednesday the 17th of November will be Senzu's David Lecitra's Stylist Launch Soirée. David is our first (and as yet only) male Stylist, so please support David and start your Christmas shopping at his Soirée!

- 27th of November Senzu Stylists and the gorgeous Senzu Jewellery can be found at the Christmas at the Beach Craft Show at the Beaches in Toronto.

- The 1st of December marks the First Annual Senzu Holiday Soirée, held at a lakefront private estate in the Bronte Area of Oakville. If you'd like to attend this RSVP event, please contact Sumitra or myself or confirm via the Facebook Event Page. In connection with this, Ms. D.e.v.a, also known as Elizabeth Correia, our newest Senzu's Stylist in Brampton, is also doing a blanket drive for the homeless. Please check out her blog if you'd like to donate, follow or participate in her girls' empowerment events and groups (next event is on the 27th of November, some seats are still available!)

- 4th of December will find Senzu Stylists and a great selection of Senzu Jewellery at the Sunrise Residences Christmas Fair.

While I am in Thailand, working with our manufacturers and artisans on great new products (more stainless steel and silver earrings being added this week!), as an active member of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce, this past weekend I had a chance to volunteer and husband Bradley Mol to play golf at the First Annual Beaver Invitational Golf Tournament for Khun Mechai's Village Development Partnership and Thai Fund Foundation’s community projects. No prizes won, but excellent funds raised for those two worthy causes and another wonderful tradition started!

We hope we will see you at one or all of these events and if you'd like to host your own Senzu Soirée and earn beautiful free Senzu Jewellery, contact Sumitra or myself today!

Styling it Up,

Cristel,
Your Partner-in-Style.

How to look Glam Rock Chic this Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:31:00 +0000

Good morning fellow Stylistas,

Have you ever thought about a particular fashion trend and thought; ‘Ah, I wish I could pull that off...’? Well, mine is Glam Rock Chic!

How to create the look end up looking either like a member of KISS or a grungy biker chick, especially since the metallics and black/grey tones are such hot hues this winter.

This week I decided to research how to look Glam Rock Chic without channelling ZZ-Top or Gene Simmons.

Check out these celebrities’ chic and glamorous rock style:

Gwen Stefani, Debbi Harrie, Ashlee Simpson, and Madonna show how Glam Rock Chic can be timeless and ageless!

In my reseach I was helped by my friend Tasmalee, the very talented graphic designer over at Innovasia Graphics (who does a lot of our design work), who naturally masters the look regularly. I also drew inspiration from InStyle Magazine and CTV's Fashion Television Jeanne Beker.

Here’s Senzu's Top 10 Tips to looking Glam Rock Chic:

10. Keep colours basic & the lines simple: blacks, gunmetal greys and other metallics are very on trend right now. A clean silhouette flatters your shape, too many layers add bulk and frumpiness. Think leggings, straight or skinny jeans, pencil skirts.

9. Go graphic! A graphic T, printed dress or shirt is great to use as your base color palette.

8. Keep the feet feminine; with slinky boots, strappy sandals and boldly colored heels.

7. Add leather, but just 1 piece: Biker, military-style and bomber jackets are all hot right now, or go for the leather pencil skirt. However, too many leather pieces = biker, so use sparingly.

6. Big hair is Glam! Wear it up in a high, messy ponytail, devil-may-care down or short and spikey.

5. Smokey Eye. Go for metallic golds, silvers, black, white and purples. Add sparkles at night! Keep lips neutral to draw attention to the eyes; the windows to your inner Glam Rocker.

4. Continue to look by adding a leather studded clutch or satchel bag.

3. Belt it out. Chunky buckle belts help define your shape and glamorize your overall look. Great way to add some rock chic to soft sweaters!

2. Exhude confidence and smile! Believe you’ll totally rock the glam chic look and you will!

1. Accessorize with Senzu Jewellery! Senzu's Stainless Steel and Spirit collections lend itself perfectly for many looks, including Glam Rock Chic!

We put together a Stylebook with products readily available at Danier Leather, Victoria’s Secret, Sketchers, Miss Sixty, Lucky Magazine, The GAP, of course Senzu Jewellery to inspire you to create your unique Glam Rock Chic:

Boots during the day or heels at night, this Glam Rock look is chic anytime!

Pair up your Glam Rock with worn jeans for a more casually chic look!

Let me know how you style it up? I'd love to see your personal take on the Glam Rock Chic trend!

Your Senzu partner-in-style,

Cristel

Senzu blogging from Macau, SAR!

noreply@blogger.com (Senzu Style Insider) — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 12:55:00 +0000

你好 (nǐ hǎo or hello) My stylish friends across the oceans!

Your Senzu Partner-in-Style is blogging all the way from Macau, SAR China this week, where we are just taking a little side trip after spending the better part of a week at an enormous Fashion Accessories trade show in Hong Kong.

I love going to Hong Kong, to catch up with friends and also it is such a vibrant, fast-pace city! High fashion abounds on his unique, mountainous, work-hard & party-hard city-island.
Brad and I stayed at The Upper House in Central Hong Kong, where, when sipping on a cocktail one evening at the Gray Café Lounge & Bar atop the hotel, we had to vacate our harbour-view table to none other than Mr. Hugh Grant and entourage!

The Hong Kong trade show was a success for Senzu, as we laid foundations to work with a number of new manufacturers and designers on exclusive, beautiful new designs for us. I won't spoil the surprise just yet, but keep an eye on our Senzu website for gold, silver and rhodium plated designs that will wow!

Red Artisan Beaded Necklace $20

Meanwhile we've also added a number of 4 new necklaces to the Senzu Spirit Collection, elegantly extra-long (105cm), with glass seed and glossy shimmering beads in red (great for the Festive Season!), black, gunmetal grey and creamy white tones, handmade by artisans in Thailand. Check them out here.

Also, in the Stainless Steel Collection we've added some very handsome accessories for the fellows: a very cool, rubber watch-style bracelet in two tones, as well as a trio of cuff links. Great gifts for the holidays!

This Senzu Style Insider will be heading back to Bangkok tomorrow, to work with a very special Thai designer on some unique designs that will soon also be coming to Senzu.

Partner-in-Style Sumitra is keeping very busy with hosting Soirées, helping our new Stylists get started and we hereby welcome David Lecitra, our first male Stylist, to Team Senzu! Also our new e-Boutique is booming, since our online store went 'live' last week. So avoid the Christmas rush, traffic jams and crowded malls this festive season and shop on www.senzustyle.com!

Style it up!
再见 (zài jiàn or see you again) from your Senzu Style Insider,

Cristel

In Times Square, Hong Kong.