the creative process

one of my favorite parts of what I do is custom projects. whether it be bridesmaids necklaces, a bridal headpiece, a necklace for a black tie event, or a necklace for my mom to wear with one of her new tunics (she definitely benefits from having a daughter who designs jewelry!)--I love being given a theme or color palette and the opportunity to design a piece.

so here is my newest custom project: a necklace for moi to wear to a friend's wedding later this month!!

this is the dress I'm wearing (its by kara janx and its my friend's favorite dress in my closet):

the wedding is going to be in tribeca so I can go a little trendy (as opposed to pearls). i've decided to go big and colorful.

step one of my creative process: throw lots of gemstones on my work desk

step two: start playing around with different combinations

stay tuned for step three (finalizing the color combination) and step four (construct the necklace)! and feel free to post a comment if any particular color combo strikes your fancy :)

clothing + sparkle

I am constantly searching for dresses, skirts, and tops that complement my designs. this past spring, when searching for a dress for a friend's birthday party, I came across the amazing designs of "Project Runway" alum Kara Janx. It was love at first sight on saks.com. I wore the dress with my signature necklace to the Ace Hotel and received more compliments than I can count.

here I am in my jewelry studio modeling the Kara Janx dress with my signature necklace and glitter shoes!

my signature necklace, www.katiebartels.com

The fun didn't end there...about two weeks later I got the opportunity to meet Kara at a personal appearance at Bloomingdales! Not only is a fabulous designer, but she is also an incredibly down-to-earth and genuine woman. It was such a thrill getting to meet her and I picked up some more designs to pair with my pieces (photos to come in the future). check out her designs at www.karajanx.com

me (wearing my wood and coral necklace!) with the fabulous Kara Janx!