Chicago - June 06, 2005

Broaching the Subject

Molly Holtzer Necklaces

Pity the broach.

Last spring it was the darling of the fashion world. Then it got demoted to an accessory: Just clip it on your belt! Cluster a few together! Add one to your headband! Wear them on your shoes! And then the final blow — beaded necklaces. Broaches, who?

Lest you forget, designer Molly Holtzer has introduced a new twist on the classic. Her necklaces take the weight out of vintage pins. Gone is the heavy mass of rhinestone and gold; instead her designs have an almost ethereal quality. Set on gold-filled loops and attached to chains embellished with beads and stones, they hang effortlessly around your neck.

Holtzer scours antique shows and thrift shops for unique pieces. Standout designs incorporate bright floral pins, cameos, and gold butterflies — which means you may have to toss your long wooden beads aside.

Like they say, what goes around comes around.

Available online at mollyholtzer.com.