A core group of fashion-savvy advisers contribute to The Honolulu Advertiser as members of our Fashion Forum, and when we have a meeting, you can be sure there will be lots of interesting vintage jewelry around the table.

Fashion-savvy folks such as our Fashion Forum members understand the value of vintage. Not only is a piece of vintage jewelry unique, it is often of higher quality than many modern pieces. In fact, some jewelry-making techniques are so labor-intensive that they are no longer commonly used today, so pieces made with those techniques can only be found in antique stores or at vintage shows, such as this weekend's Hawaii All-Collectors Show 2008.

Ming's is among the Islands' most iconic vintage jewelry companies, and Linda Lee, a longtime collector of Ming's jewelry, has graciously volunteered to provide free identification and appraisals of Ming's jewelry pieces throughout the two-day show. Be prepared to stand in line; last year the line to consult with Lee was constant. But, hey, while you're in line, it's also an ideal opportunity to see Ming's pikake, orchids, heliconias, anthuriums, tiki and fish designs.

Of course, jewelry isn't the only offering at the show. There are also vintage clothes, handbags, comic books, baseball cards. stamps, anime and much more.

The Hawaii All-Collectors Show 2008 will be held from 3 to 9 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow in the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall; $4 adults, $2 children 7 to 11.

DAN WEAVER DEBUTS FALL COLLECTION

Honolulu fashion designer Dan Weaver didn't get into "Project Runway" this year, but he came back from the L.A. auditions fired up and inspired to create an outstanding, wearable fall collection. His aesthetic has taken a turn from urban to a classic Americana concept featuring buffalo plaids and a silhouette that emphasizes the waist. And, of course, in keeping with current trends, there is a pop of color.

The collection will debut from 8 to 10 p.m. July 25 at The Loft, 115 N. Hotel St.

ANNE NAMBA SHOWS AT LA PIETRA

La Pietra's second annual premier art show will feature more than 40 of Hawai'i's most prominent artists and one iconic Island fashion designer: Anne Namba. Namba will show her latest collection, "Summer Magic," at 10 a.m. July 26, in the school's historic main building of the campus, which was formerly the Dillingham estate.

"Summer Magic" is a bold, graphic mix of prints and vintage kimono fabrics that, when mixed and matched with Namba's deft hand, take prints right into the realm of couture. The color story is a strong combination of red, cream and black.

For her show's bridal segment, Namba has created a collection of six versatile bustiers which can be worn by the bride, bridesmaid or mother of the bride. She pairs them with short skirts, long skirts, palazzo pants and even a coverlet for the mother of the bride. The bridal collection is presented in gold, seafoam, peach, rust and black-and-white.

The Art Show takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 26 at La Pietra, 2933 Poni Mo'i Road. Free admission, valet parking. Information: 922-2744.

ALL ABOUT SUMMER BEAUTY

Neiman Marcus will focus on summer beauty this weekend with special events that target skin, makeup and haircare. Today through Sunday is summer Beauty School, where shoppers can experience the latest beauty products to help them shine (in a good way) through the sizzling summer months.

From 1 to 7 p.m. today, meet Mary Neil, director of education for Fresh cosmetics. During her master-class event, shoppers can try the latest body and skincare products from the popular beauty line.

From 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. today and from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. tomorrow, learn how to protect, repair and style your hair during the hot summer months. Shoppers can also try the limited-edition Summer Hair Care line from Frederic Fekkai.

THE CANDY SHOP SWEETENS UP

Popular DIY hangout The Candy Shop will be closed from Aug. 1 through 7 for renovations. When it reopens, expect some changes. The owners are rebranding the shop as Queens, and they'll be bringing in new streetwear lines as well as their own logo T-shirt. The shop will reopen on that most auspicious date: 08/08/08.