GREER’S BEST BUYS:Line encompasses Texas and England

One of my favorite jewelry lines, JudeFrances just happens to be designed by two inspirational Orange County moms, Frances Gadbois and Jude Steele. The duo formed a partnership nearly five years ago on a limited budget. Now they run a multimillion-dollar jewelry company. Frances grew up in the English country and leans toward timeless, classic designs influenced by architecture. Steele hails from Texas and adds an edgier flair to their jewelry. JudeFrances designs come in 18-karat white-and-yellow gold collection as well as a new chic silver collection combining diamonds and beautiful semi-precious gemstones. Interchangeable hoops and charms look divine for upscale and casual everyday looks, and we love their beautiful necklaces, bracelets and engagement rings.

Frances’s motto, “Just Go For It!” is also the title of their book, a funny and inspiring account of how they launched their business, juggle family, and were determined to settle for nothing but success.

JudeFrances can be found at Neiman Marcus at Fashion Island, as well as ICE Accessories at South Coast Plaza. To contact ICE Accessories at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa call (714) 432-7555. Call Neiman Marcus at Fashion Island in Newport Beach at (949) 759-1900. For details on the jewelry, go to www.judefrances.com.

MARCH OF THE FASHION

Original Penguin, once known as a suburban leisure brand (picture Bob Hope on the golf course circa 1960), has transformed itself into a hip sportswear company for men and women. Find the complete collection of chic everyday apparel at Fashion Island’s Original Penguin store, an O.C. exclusive. “Pete” the penguin is the company’s too-cute logo, and we love the affordability of the darling new swimwear, skirts, dresses, cords, men’s pants, shirts and more. Spring arrivals are sassy and witty. Women can pick from the Partners in Crime fitted cardigan ($99); the Grand Deceptions deep V-neck sweater in a tight fit ($69.99); and the Spring Fling Capri($29.99). Men can find the Don’t Know short-sleeve, button-down ($79); the Beyond Your Control short-sleeve shirt ($79); and the Natasha Loves me fitted polo ($59).

The store’s hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (949) 720-1560 or go to www.originalpenguin.com.

ONLY THE FINEST

It seems these days it happens as often as a solar eclipse, but certain occasions call for fine-tailored clothing. That’s when a visit to Bernini Platinum at South Coast Plaza is a must. It carries the finest names in European men’s clothing. All styles on the fashion spectrum are represented, from conservative to trendy. Hard-to-find, high-end designers include: D’Avenza handmade suits from Rome; English-cut Lou Myles suits from Toronto; impeccably tailored Vestimenta suits and jackets; and prestigious Belvest suits made from exclusive fabrics. Bernini’s own line of trim-fit jackets ($4,000) offer an awesome cut for in-shape men. Many say Bernini carries the best selection of neckwear in Orange County. Colorful Pancaldi ties are meticulously handmade in Bologna from premium silk jacquards.

You’ll be treated like a king at Bernini. The experienced staff will even make office and home calls for presentations.

Even the finest clothes are nothing without a great tailor, and Bernini’s got you covered there as well. The store on Level Two at South Coast Plaza is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (714) 432-1786 or go to www.bernini.com.

WOOF

Stop by Muttropolis at Fashion Island from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday with your pet for a “Howlistic Health and Spaw Day.” You’ll receive valuable health and wellness advice from pet nutrition experts, pet massage therapy, gourmet treat tasting, opportunity drawings and more. For more information, call (949) 717-6888 or go to www.muttropolis.com.

writes Best Buys, which runs Fridays. She’s the founder and president of www.greersoc.com, a free daily e-mail service that provides the latest in Orange County fashion, dining and trends.