Made in Dade

It's no secret that I liken myself to a bit of a Carrie Bradshaw. I live in New York City, I'm a writer, I live for fashion, and I'm single. I think it's safe to say that the similarities end there, but nevertheless, I feel myself channelling her from time to time when I'm in bed with my laptop.

Carrie popularized a number of items: the flower pin, Christian Louboutins, and visible bra straps. One of her most notable accessories, however, was the Carrie necklace.



I never thought much of this; I'm more of a monogram girl. I do like that it's slightly ironic. As Charlotte York once said, there is more to being Jewish than jewelry, but I'd be lying if I said it wasn't a prominent part of our culture. I grew up around people in the jewelry business; my mother is a designer and has the belief that too much is never enough.

My own jewelry theory is incredibly low key. I think part of the reason that I love my Cartier Love bracelet so much is that it doesn't come off. I never have to worry about losing it. I'm constantly searching for something that feels like mine. While shopping with my parents this past Saturday at Henri Bendel, I finally found my version of the Carrie necklace.



While perusing the many glass cases, my father pointed out a row of area codes adorned to silver chains. Without missing a beat, I hastily shouted, "I WANT 305!" We scanned across the line and with within seconds my eyes were met with that beautiful combination of digits. Within moments, it was mine and around my neck.

For those of you who don't know, 305 is the (original) area code for Miami. I was born and raised there and my heart aches for it a little bit every day. Back when Lilly first opened up shop, 305 was also the area code for Palm Beach. (The Southern preppy capital now shares an area code with Boca. Tragic.) Dade County now has several area codes, but 305 will always be the first.

It used to be both cool and prestigious to say that you were from Miami, and now I'm not so sure. I haven't lived there in ten years, and the city seems have to have changed for the worse in my absence. My memories, however, remain clear and delightful. I had the most amazing and privileged childhood and I wouldn't trade a single second of it for anything.

This is such a fun piece and I love wearing it. It's the tiniest bit ghetto in a cute way, but then again, so is Miami.