California at the age of 50 wanting a fresh start from the corporate world. While still trying to
figure this out, my new husband Allan and I took a trip to South East Asia.
In Vietnam I was struck by the hard working women, and for some reason, the ones stringing
pearls especially tugged at my heart and I wanted to help. One woman I met, Huong, invited me
for tea and we talked about her life, her small pearly jewelry business and her desire to do
business in America. I promised to help her and brought home 13 strands of pearls and a
renewed sense of purpose: helping women and children in need
The thirteen strands of pearls were quickly sold and the adventure took off as I began to buy
more jewelry and set up booths at the weekend markets and traveling around the US selling
pearls at women’s events. As my husband and I traveled to other countries such as India,
Turkey, Nepal, Thailand, France, England. and of course Vietnam, I began to meet other women
making amazing jewelry in other countries and finally opened a jewelry store in Coronado, an
island extension of San Diego.
The freedom and space of having my own store allowed me to start buying gemstones, charms,
beads, icons and medals for designing my own jewelry. However, when COVID hit, I closed my
store and moved into the studio apartment at my home and began to focus on building an online
presence.
I am fascinated by life and the aging process even though I keep forgetting that I will be 75 in a
few weeks. I love meeting people of all ages and my friends spans at least five decades. This
affords me the opportunity to constantly be in a flexible learning mode but also comforts me to
be with women older than me to experience their graceful aging.
Age is really a state of mind and a conscious choice about how I want to show up in life. I want
to keep dancing until the band stops
“It’s so cool to see a woman your age so hip”
They love my blue hair and my costume wardrobe from around the world.
I love wearing Indian saris and embellished long coats from Turkey
Yoga, I’ve been practiceing for over 60 years, not only for flexibility, but to quite my mind and improve my balance.
I experiment with different styles to keep myself from agaile and at the top of my game.
Yes, so much so I keep forgetting my age. The age range of my friends spans at least five decades. This affords me the opportunity to constantly be in a flexible learning mode but also comforts me to be with older women than me to experience their graceful aging. So much so it’s sometime hard for me to realize I am 75 years old.
That’s really a hard question for a woman who has a showroom full of beautiful one of a kind gemstone jewelry.
I love pearls with everything and the more unusual and funky the better.
I’m also drawn to bold, ethnic, chunky, over the top jewelry.
Every piece I design I would personally love to wear.
I never make jewelry just for popularity sake.
Chanel foundation for sure and always, flaxseed oil for cleaning and
three layers of drug store lipstick (Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink, Maybelline Super Stay Ink Crayon & No7 Stay Perfect lipstick.
Iris, of course and my blue hair was inspired by McKenzie & Child.
Zandra Rhodes showed me the importance of wearing the colors you love — not what your color seasonal palette is.
And Betsy Jonhson inspired mixing colors and textures and styles for a more original look.
That said I still love jeans and white shirts.
Favorite TV SHOW was AMERICAN BANDSTAND.
ANY THOUGHTS ON GETTING OLDER?
I’m in TWO of his books, the second edition of Advanced Style OLDER & WISER page 28, across from Carol Channing and the third book ADVANCED LOVE.
Advanced Love, Dolores and Allan page 72.
As to my thoughts on aging, it really is a state of mind and a conscious choice about how I want to show up in life.
I want to keep dancing until the band stops.
That’s a tough question because I have no desire to go back in time.
I’ve worked consciously to live in the state of mind of positive law of attraction, forgiving the past and making peace with the journey.
Those mistakes, missteps and screw ups I want to acknowledge and leave behind with self forgiveness.
Website :dforsythe
Instagram: dforsythejewelry
cindy says
I love Dolores’ style and spirit. She certainly does not look her age. It sounds like you have a few favorite colors in common as well. I love her positive attitude about aging. We all need to embrace it. I can’t wait to check out her jewelry creations. I am afraid I may get into trouble!!
LA CONTESSA says
WE DO! AND YES I ALREADY HAVE GOTTEN INTO TROUBLE!XXX
Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says
I love Delores style, the hair the clothing and the jewelry! I am going to check out her blog and store.
As for you Elizabeth I cannot believe all that you have been through! The heal care system has failed you and that is shameful. I hope that you rest, relax and find some solace and peace from your illness. You are in my prayers. Please drop in somewhere over the next few months so that we know how you are feeling.
LA CONTESSA says
THE HEALTH CARE HAS FAILED ME BIG TIME ESPECIALLY WHEN I LEARNED THEY SAW THIS STUFF HAPPENING IN MY BRAIN IN 2017!!BUT NO ONE SAID A WORD!I HAVE GOT THE MEDS AND AM GOING TO HANG ON AS LONG AS I CAN TO SEE IF THEY WILL HELP ME!SO FAR SO GOOD ONLY DIZZY NESS WHICH IS NOTHING NEW TO ME!!!
I CAN DO THIS!
READING AND TYPING ARENOT EASY WHEN YOU ARE DIZZY……………THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING!
XXX
Sandra Sallin says
Wow! I can’t wait to go to see Dolores’s web site. What a fascinating woman. I love that she tried to help the women in various countries. Very impressive. But still love her look in a white shirt and jeans. Of course I love Brenda’s blog also. I’m going to look at that Maybelline lipstick. Check out sone pearls. I can’t believe that Kaiser is out of medication. Fingers crossed it works. Just a fascinating woman I’d love to meet.
LA CONTESSA says
WE DID MEET HER OR I DID AT CHATEAU BEL AGE FOR ARI’S BOOK SIGNING!!!YEARS AGO!
TIME TO MAKE THAT TRIP AGAIN!!!
SHE WOULD LOVE YOUR INSTAGRAM I THINK DOLORES FIND SANDRA SALLIN ON INSTAGRAM AS SHE IS 80 AND AN INFLUENCER!SANDRA IS ONE OF MY DEAREST FRIENDS!
XXX
Mary Ann Pickett says
Delores is an interesting and beautiful “ageless” woman! Love her jewelry!
Mary Ann Pickett says
Opps…sorry about misspelling Dolores’ name! Great post.
LA CONTESSA says
MANY MANY THANKS XXX
Kim says
Dolores is an inspiration. I cannot believe she’s 75 nearly. Impossible. She’s so full of passion for life and what she does. I especially love her hair and her mix of color! She had me at her favorite show is American Bandstand! Mine too. Thank you for this great series. You always bring joy to me with this feature. Cindy’s was great this week too. We need more inspiring women like this!
Love it. Kim
Josephine Floyd says
Another great interview Thankyou.
A big hug and prayer for you and your health to spring back to give you the fiesty strong body you need. Take care, rest and be calm no miracle happens in a day . Much love to you who nurtures others xxxxx
LA CONTESSA says
BLESS YOU JOSEPHINE!
SO FAR SO GOOD ON MEDS ONLY DAY THREE BUT I”M STANDING!!!!
XXXX
dawn darveau says
So glad to see your post today! Thank you for sharing these lovely ladies with us. I’m glad that Brenda’s blog is up and running again and thanks to you I have re-subscribed. Take care of yourself and do hope the new medication helps. Always look forward to your posts so this was a lovely surprise as I know you will be resting and focusing on getting better. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for being you.
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU DAWN………………..YOU MADE MY DAY!
XXX
Naila khan says
Loved reading about Dolores and how she was inspired by Jewellery to help other ladies in other countries. Can’t believe she’s 75 looks amazing.
Glad to hear you are now in receipt of your medication.
Take Care
Sandra Veum says
What another amazing feature on the fabulous, Dolores! I just love her spirit as well as the way she puts colors together and that jewelry is fabulous! Dolores you look absolutely stunning at 75 years young! I love hearing about all of your inspirational trips, that is truly inspiring to me! Thank you so much for sharing!
LA CONTESSA says
SO I COME SOUTH MEET UP WITH YOU AND WE GO SHOP AT DOLORES STUDIO!!!!XXX
Andrea Serrahn says
What a beautiful and charming woman! A kindred spirit in the world of fashion: chock full of colorful expression! Every time I see Dolores I get the tingles for the vibrancy of self expression that she brings to the table. I especially love her crediting Zandra Rhodes for coloring outside the lines.
Hilda Smith says
Dolores is fantastic and has such energy and style. Thank you for introducing her to us. I really hope you have the meds to sort out your problems. It is not nice to feel so unwell all of the time. And of course I follow Brenda and I too cannot wait for her book…. Hugs x
1010ParkPlace says
Dolores is from Cleyburne, Texas!! I know where that is. I have a friend from Cleyburne!! Tell her I’m a San Antonio girl. I love her colorful style mixed with ethnic pieces. Very chic and Boho at the same time. I’m happy you’ve finally gotten your prescription meds. Fingers crossed and a little prayer it’s the right one. And thank you, dear Elizabeth, for mentioning my blog! I’m happy to be blogging full-time again. I missed all of my readers because I’ve come to know their stories and to love them, like you love your readers. They become friends. xoxox, Brenda
Dee Tivenan says
Great inspiring post.
Thanks.
maywyn says
Thank you, Contessa!
Your blog post arrives at a perfect time. and with an uplifting interview! A gorgeous 75 years, a cute husband, beautiful jewelry, and clothes that can cheer up the universe!
Prayers for your good health & happiness
LA CONTESSA says
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL COMMENT!
THANK YOU!
XXX
Michele says
Wow! I’ll have what she’s having! What a delightful and inspiring story and interview. Thanks so much for sharing this with us. Definitely want to follow Dolores and her beautiful creations. I also want to check out Brenda’s blog and upcoming memoir. But foremost Elizabeth I want you to know how much you are being cheered on by all of us. You have such a great gift for bringing people together and especially supporting women. Sending you a big hug and wishes for all the good health you are so deserving of! Hope to see you soon when you are feeling up to it.
Xox
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU!
I need to be quiet and still for a bit longer especially as they increase the dosage……….BUT THEN LETS MEET UP!!!!
XXX
judith says
What a fun and fashionable woman Dolores is! I’m hesitant to even think about looking at her jewelry for sale, since I likely will not be able to resist. So happy to see your post today, Dear Contessa. I think about you nearly every day and send you good thoughts and wishes. Let’s chat soon. Take care and DO WELL on the new medicine!
LA CONTESSA says
SO FAR SO GOOD……………..I WILL RING YOU SOON!!!
XXX
Joyce Wycoff says
Dolores’s spirit is as colorful and generous as her fashion and jewelry! She brightens the day wherever she goes.
Penny Gunning says
Love you Dolores you are an inspiration to all…..
I love the wonderful things I have purchased and the stories that go with them. Hugs, Penny
Sarah London says
What an inspiration! And so gorgeous! Proving that embracing what you love keeps you young at heart .. and it shows!!
Lorna says
I love Dolores’s sassy style. She looks fabulous.
Hope you’re doing better and that your medication is helping. I will miss your blog but I know you need to concentrate on getting better.
LA CONTESSA says
AND I NEED TO WRITE YOU A LETTER……..IT WILL HAPPEN!
THANK YOU!
XXX
Lisa Thomson says
Great ageless style post, LA CONTESSA! Delores is beautiful, youthful and so incredibly talented. Her jewelry pieces are stunning. I love how she began her craft, by helping women in Vietnam. That is such a cool beginning to a successful business.
I hope this new seizure medication is the charm. You’ve been through too much. Hope you are beginning to feel better! xo
LA CONTESSA says
NO EPISODES WHILE ON THIS MEDICATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I MUST START THINKING ABOUT THE MOVES FOR MY HAPPY DANCE!!!
XOXO
Lisa Thomson says
YAY!! So good to hear!
Anita says
I just went to Delores’ website and purchased some awesome jewelry! Thanks, Contessa, for introducing me to this talented gal.
LA CONTESSA says
THRILLED YOU FOUND TREASURE THERE AS I DID!!!
XXX
D. A. Squires says
Another fabulous introduction — but surely the numbers were transposed–57 must be correct!!! Will peruse Dolores’s website etc. Such beauty and color and marvelous perspective on aging… loved reading about her life, her point of view and gorgeous jewel creations…such a treat, dear Contessa. Prayers that this time will be the charm and the Rx will be just right. Will miss you so much… will email and snail mail to check on you!
Sending love XOXO
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU DEBBIE…………I just need to rest my neck and eyes………………..and FIND THE RIGHT MEDICATION!!!!
HUGS TO YOU
XOXO
Kathy L says
Delores is another style treasure! And you, Elizabeth, are a blogging treasure! Happiness and good health to you both. I hope that your new med brings you the help you seek. x&o
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU VERY MUCH KATHY!
XXX
Juliet says
So enjoyed today’s feature on Delores! And, she lives on Coronado … my favorite place on earth. You know that grabbed my attention. I wonder if I’ve been in her jewelry store … II’m sure I have. I’m sorry to hear it closed during the pandemic, I’ll check on her website. I just love her style, approach to life and love of color. xo
Marleah Krohne says
Thank you for introducing us to Delores.
Such an exciting and interesting life with so many glorious travels.
Going to follow her now.
Elizabeth you’re right – the system let you down. Hoping this RX works for you.
LA CONTESSA says
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
XXX
Ginger says
Another fabulous Ageless Style feature! Dolores is so vibrant, caring and creative! I could literally feel her energy coming through her words! Thank you Elizabeth for sharing the amazing women you know! And I’m a big fan of Brenda’s blog and all of her writings and am so excited to read her upcoming memoir. Good to hear your feeling a little better and hoping the new meds work perfectly. We are all rooting for you Elizabeth!
Stephanie says
Dolores is a beautiful inspiration…love her creative and colorful style. Thank you, once again, for introducing us to another ageless beauty.
Sending love and positivity as you navigate life with this new medication. Fingers crossed that this is going to be the one!
xx
Stephanie
aka tendrheart4
Barbara spain says
Wow and WOW! Dolores’s colorful global fashions are beautiful as well as inspiring! I love it all! And her wonderful positive attitude is,well,outstanding! Dolores’s positive energy radiates from the lovely pictures she shared for your blog. I am definitely going to visit her website for more fashion inspiration!
Rosemarie says
Good morning
A fabulous post on Dolores! She’s inspiring with her creativity and helping women and children in need. This interview was a “day” brightener. I’m with her in being fascinated by the aging process. Age is definitely a state of mind. I say to people at times if you don’t like your age – try reversing the numbers – 73 = 37. You might like the number better tho of course at times the number could make you older – 67 = 76.
Dolores personifies a zest for life! I really liked her comment “I want to keep dancing until the band stops.” An excellent outlook on life.
So important for all of us to keep agile as we age.
Glad you’re feeling better CONTESSA. Hope you are on the right track. If you need inspiration for moves for your upcoming Happy Dance – do check out Mick Jagger!
LA CONTESSA says
YOU ARE HYSTERICAL!!
XOXOX
Robin says
Dolores has a wonderful attitude. So vibrant. Love her colorful outfits and fun jewelry.
I certainly hope this medication does the trick, and does not make you queasy. I understand your wish to take time off from social media. You need all your energy.
Baci di Umbria, Robin
Sheila from the Luncheon says
What an inspiring lady Dolores is. Thanks for the post. Wishing you the best in your journey to better health. It’s a treat to read your blog and your transparency of life. Blogging has allowed us to meet so many interesting and beautiful people, you included.
Blessings.
Jacqueline says
She looks amazing …… what an inspirational woman. XXXX
Annie Diamond says
What a fun read! I love how she was able to transition her business to online during the pandemic. She’s as resilient as she is creative!
xx