I recently went to a “Bangle Bar” party. What is that, you ask? Well, it was for a jewelry line called “Alex and Ani”. They make necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets; hence bangles. I wasn’t sure if I was at a Barney’s clearance sale or a Crystal Meth party (I haven’t been to either by the way, but I do watch Sex & The City and Breaking Bad). It’s like the “Blue Stuff” Walt put out. It was a PR party to bring awareness to the brand, so the bangles were free. I’d say complimentary, but then people ask “Are they free?” Free, complimentary, gratis, swag even. People love free anyway they can get it. A pen, a box of mints, a chapstick, even a yardstick; I’ve seen it, they love it! But unleash some fashion forward ladies on trendy, cool, complimentary bangles (plural, you were able to build a bangle ensemble) and… Watch Out, mass destruction. My brother was there to witness this and from a man’s perspective, he was truly boggled at how these bracelets were like crack. I have to say I “fiended” a little myself (picture below).
The party was set at a private home with the bangles all along the mantle. Would you believe if I told you that they brought the painting above the mantle down? I mean literally DOWN by pushing and nudging their way to grab bangles. I’m happy it wasn’t my place. These bangles are worth fighting for, although I would say that is not really the mission statement of the company. They take a more zen-like, spiritual approach, promoting consciousness and unity by enlightening the mind and empowering the spirit, not going gangsta on your fellow bangle-party goer for some freebies. I digress. There are many reasons I love this line, but the one that means the most is that they are eco conscious.
Carolyn embraces a philosophy that is based upon using eco friendly, recycled materials made entirely in the United States.
The owner and designer, Carolyn Rafalian, uses reclaimed metals. On Alex and Ani’s site, in the “eco friendly” section, they state that “Carolyn embraces a philosophy that is based upon using eco friendly, recycled materials made entirely in the United States. Because of this, Alex and Ani is able to purchase metals from local mills who have received recycled scraps from refineries, which in turn, use those pieces and sell their scraps back to the Mills. Carolyn believes that by creating designs that support the environment and encourage social consciousness, consumers can use their purchases to make a difference in protecting our planet and our future.” Green With Tiffany loves that! Named after her first two daughters, Alex and Ani have been around for over 10 years. The bracelet, or bangle (as it’s referred), I’m writing about is their signature patented bracelet I understand Juicy knocked off (shhhh). I won’t tell if you don’t :0. Truly gifts that you can keep giving as you build a bangle ensemble for friends and family. Check out their site at www.Alexandani.com
