Archive for June, 2012
Body Jewelry Update: Just a Girl and her Unicorn
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What’s a fashion princess’s favorite can’t-do-without accessory? Her friendly neighborhood unicorn, of course.
From hyper-realistic to cartooned and poster ready, the unicorn is making a major Summer comeback. Rainbow manes and fairy wings, spiraled horns and neon hoofs, there’s nothing that this marvel of fairytale stardom can’t handle with the utmost grace. (And did we mention that the unicorn color scheme fits in perfectly with the Summery palette of off-whites and pastels?) Time for a trip to the enchanted forest.
All fashion photography sourced via WGSN
The Guide to Modern Piercisms: Surface and Dermal
Posted by: | CommentsSo you’ve probably heard a ton of different phrases thrown around about body piercing, but how do you know what people are actually talking about? Depending on the region, level of expertise, and a number of other factors, different people will call different piercings and procedures by different names. Here’s a few suggestions that might help to sort it out:
Style
Most of us will call regular piercing, well, “piercing.” For dermals and surface piercings though, the terminology is a little more varied. Depending on where you live and who’s talking, you could hear any of these phrases:
Surface bar, staple, surface barbell, surface wire, U-bar: these are all references to the type of jewelry used in a surface piercing.
Punch, piercing punch, circle razor, dermal punch, hand punch, dermal razor: they’re all names for the device used to create a hole for dermal anchors to be inserted underneath the skin.
Dermal, dermal piercing, dermal anchor, microdermal, dermal implant, surface anchor: all phrases used to describe single point piercings.
Technique
Punch and taper: a surface piercing technique that used a dermal punch to make the entrance and exit holes for a surface piercing, along with a taper or dermal elevator to separate the skin in between from the subcutaneous tissue, creating a perfect staple shaped channel for the jewelry.
Double needle, two needle, over under: terms that refer to the use of two standard hollow piercing needles to create a surface piercing.
As with surface piercings, microdermal implants also have several methods still in use, including the use of a dermal punch, a single needle, or a needle and an elevator to create a dermal pocket for jewelry insertion.
International Body Piercing Day: Modern Celebration
Posted by: | CommentsToday, June 28th, has once again been declared international body piercing day, a fairly young event celebrated in piercing and modification communities worldwide.
The first official day was declared just last year, but already there are countless body piercers and tattooists who celebrate with client events, special promotions, and for some even free or severely discounted services. So why is the 28th of June our chosen moment? Because today is also special for another reason: it’s Jim Ward’s birthday.
As you may remember from former listings of his past achievements, Jim Ward is the father of modern piercing as we know it. Not only did he open Gauntlet, the very first piercing parlor in the United States, but he also pioneered several styles of piercing technique and body jewelry that are still in use today. The holiday itself was reportedly begun by a friend of the great Mr. Ward to continue his legacy of piercing education and promote safety standards within the industry.
Amongst Jim’s other credits: design and popularization of ball captive rings, publication of the most widespread modification magazine in America, PFIQ (Piercing Fans International Quarterly), and formation along with a few others of the APP (Association of Professional Piercers).
Fashion for Summertime Feet: Choosing a Toe Ring
Posted by: | CommentsAs the hot weather approaches and we put away those winter clothes for good, we can’t help but think… “What’s the hot summer look?” It’s natural for us girls to always want to be in style, have the latest fashion accessory, and stand out from the crowd. Well this summer, it’s all about adorning your lowest extremities- your feet.
When summer comes, everyone looks forward to showing off their newly painted toes and their hot new sandals, but what’s missing? A toe ring! Toe rings were introduced to the United States around 1973. They come in many shapes, colors and designs but they all give you that fabulous summer look. It’s also easy to coordinate them with matching toenail polish, ankle bracelets and cute sandals. Toe rings are that simple but classy accessory that works for all ages.
One type of toe ring is the invisible band. These offer a clean comfortable fit by using a clear plastic slip-on design, and they create the illusion that there is no band holding that beautiful gem or charm on your toe. These are sexy, chic and fun to say the least!
Another style is solid gold toe ring. These are the best type of jewelry you can choose for your feet because you don’t have to worry about them tarnishing or breaking, and 14kt or 10kt gold body jewelry really gives you that stand-out look.
You can also find unique toe rings that are beautifully hand crafted, and sterling silver toe rings that shine to perfection. Many of these are made with genuine diamonds, cubic zirconia gems, and SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS. The possibilities are endless.
Ever wonder which toe is best to wear the ring on? Well, you can generally wear a toe ring on either foot, on any toe, and you can wear more than one! Depending on the size and shape of the toe ring, you should choose which toe you prefer based on comfort, but there really are no rules with these. For many people, the most common is usually the second toe, which is probably the most comfortable. The awesome thing about toe rings is that there are so many to choose from and they are usually inexpensive, so it’s easy to build up a large collection. Change them to match any outfit or sandal!
Piercing Evolution: A Historical Timeline – The Modern Era
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………………..1978 Jim Ward opens the first piercing studio, Gauntlet, on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. ……………….. 1983 Australian company Ryebuck releases a publication about the cultural practices common to native peoples in Papua, New Guinea, including excerpts from the field notes of David Fitzpatrick concerning ritual piercing. 1989 Erl piercing is born when famous personality Erl Van Aken has his nose bridge pierced by an artist at Gauntlet. Circa 1990 Film star Madison Stone popularizes surface piercing of the skin above the collar bone, lending the piercing not only her persona, but also her first name. ……………….. 1992 Piercer Erik Dakota performs the first Daith piercing. ……………….. 1993 Popular rock band Aerosmith debuts a music video for their soon to be smash hit “Cryin,” featuring footage of actress Alicia Silverstone receiving a navel piercing from master piercer Paul King. 1994 Owners and employees from Gauntlet Inc, Body Manipulations, Primeval Body, and Nomad found the Association of Professional Piercers and begin publishing their newsletter, “The Point.” ……………….. 2004 Janet Jackson accidentally exposes her nipple piercing due to wardrobe malfunction during the half-time show at Super Bowl XXXVIII. 2004 – 2008 Studies and surveys are conducted in England, Australia, and the United States, hoping to determine a set of valid 21st century statistics concerning body modification. ……………….. 2009 “The Piercing Bible” is published. ……………….. 2011 Most pierced person in the world, Elaine Davidson of the UK, breaks the seven thousand mark in number of permanent piercings. |
2012
Jewelry Fashion Fix: How Beautifully Brit
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Flying the Union Jack
Finding yourself in love with all things UK? There’s no better way to share a penchant for bona fide British fashion than flying the Union Jack. On ears, lapels, fingers, navel, and toes, the simple and stunning UK flag is an element always in style.
Spot of Tea
To cook up some classic tea party style, all you need is a little touch of regal bling and an uber dose of pretty and feminine pastels.
A Marvelous Day Afield
It’s a little bit retro, with a hint of prim, and the perfect bit of modern classic. And there’s no denying that a rousing romp through the park finds its perfect companion in plaids and pinstripes.
Getting Punked
Searching for an upsweep to reinvigorate the punk aesthetic? Then turn to the source and pile on the spikes for a gently seventies nod to the birthplace of radical and revolutionary piercing fashion.
Pudding, Cakes, and Biscuits
What would afternoon tea be without a little sweet treat? Make friends with some frosting for a feminine flare that brings to mind the best of edible delights.
All fashion photography sourced via WGSN
Body Jewelry Update: the Cat’s Meow
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Anyone who has a pet cat (or two, or more) can tell you just how irresistible they are when they turn on the feline charm, so much in fact that our love of the furry set has carried over into all aspects of life.
Gracing everything from jewelry and accessories to apparel, decor, and upholstery, the congenial kitty has become a favorite fashion element. And who better to show your love of to the world? They may not be able to talk, but the affection of a feline snuggle speaks for itself.
All fashion photography sourced via WGSN
Piercing Evolution: A Historical Timeline – The Age of Discovery
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1530 The Spanish begin to record their experience observing ritual piercing amongst the native peoples in Mesoamerica, including the Aztecs and the Maya. 1700-1800 Explorers from Europe and Canada discover and name several indigenous tribes in the Americas, recording the ritual piercing common to many of them, including the Mandan (of the Dakotas) and the Nez Perce (of the Pacific Northwest). 1890 An article concerning nipple piercing amongst female members of the social elite is published in Vogue. Argument still continues over whether the narrative contained therein is truthful and serious, or primarily anecdotal. 1930 Fakir Musafar (then known as Roland Loomis) is born. He would later go on to become the driving force behind the Modern Primitivism movement. 1960s Photographer David Turton captures some of the first notable modern images of tribeswomen in the Omo River Valley region of North Africa wearing lip plugs and lip plates. 1970 The punk movement developing in the UK begins to embrace facial piercing as a means of artistic and political expression. 1975 Doug Malloy releases his first publication about body modification. |
Piercing Fashion Flash: the Magic of Americana
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Mood: Fun, youthful, and patriotic. The traditional American flag motif blends with modern punk and indie styling for an approach that gives the impression of underlying truth to national pride.
Color Palette: Red, white, and blue blend with metallic gold and silver, as well as brilliant yellows, lighter blues, and even hints of playful pink.
Inspiration: Nautical styling, re-envisioned super hero costumes and paraphernalia, and kitsch editorial fashion that mixes new American with native elements.
Practicality: Single pieces that speak for themselves are perfect to keep the vibe light and not contrived. Patriotism shows through in unique and attention grabbing items like crystal bracelets or strategically placed faux tattoos.
All fashion photography sourced via WGSN
Jewelry Fashion Fix: the Saturated Summer Solstice
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Fairweather Friendly
We all know that there’s nothing better than a long hot Summer day spent hanging out with our besties, so why not show them a little love.
Fun in the Sun
For a Summer full of sporting, high energy, outdoor fun, the best companion is bendable body jewelry that’s compatible with human skin and doesn’t strain under pressure.
Bright Beauty
Nothing is more lovely in the season of sun than hyper-saturated color smeared in all the right places. Think Tropicana with a modern twist.
Coloring Inside the Lines
Ombre effects are in Summer vogue, but it’s not just hair treatments that set off your favorite piercings. No time for vacation? Just send your ears on an island holiday instead.
Shades of Glory
What would Summer be without a dazzling pair of shades? Take along a little extra for a spurt of sun-soaked glory.
Naturally Stunning
The best part about being a solstice siren? The freedom to go natural for a Summer full of fun and memories with minimal upkeep.
Summer Skin
Whether permanent, paint, or press-on, bare skin is begging for a little color this season. And we’re perfectly happy to oblige.
