defining "ultimate."

can there really be a shopping experience perfect enough to warrant being called "ultimate?" i mean, really? shopping? but think about it: what if all of the best options for something you wanted to buy could magically materialize in one place at one time? wouldn't it be easier for you to pick out the perfect pair of pumps? a suit? what if it was cars? or houses? ok, reality check.

but what if it was all the best options for one of the most important purchases you'll ever make? what if it was a carefully curated selection of engagement rings and wedding bands? you'll probably have the rings far longer than the pumps, suit, cars and house combined. and they're conveniently small and literally hundreds of rings to choose from can actually fit in the same place at the same time.

above: todd reed's imagination + raw diamonds = a fresh, unique, one-of-a-kind statement.

which brings us to i. gorman's ultimate ring event. because it is exactly that. twelve international designers, whose collections cover every category from classic to artsy to ultra-modern, will all be in the store, for two full days (february 24-25 if you want to mark your calendar now) to cater to your every whim. try on every ring in the place. talk to a designer about creating something that's "a little of this and a little of that." or brainstorm with any of them to come up with a ring that's yours and yours alone. ask questions. pick diamonds. sip champagne. take advantage of free parking (this particular ultimate event is really all-inclusive...) it's a very fun way to purchase something really serious. the ultimate in serious fun, i guess.

above: etienne perret's ceramic bands are stunning in their simplicity.

one last thought. in case you were expecting a dictionary definition, how about this: "being the best or most extreme example of its kind." yeah, just like that.