Bracelets & Bathing Suits

Now that it’s actually time to enjoy the waves, it’s also time to fill you in on the real Mystic Wave—the copyrighted jewelry design by Mystic’s Thomas H. Dexter of .

Dexter designed the Original Mystic Wave—a bracelet with a curved wave line—in 1981, about six years after the master jeweler opened for business. Beginning in Factory Square 36 years ago and then moving to the West Main Street block that later burned out his business and others in 2000, Dexter & Company continues to thrive at 36 W. Main St. with a successful mix of traditional and mariner-themed jewelry.

You’ll find beautiful wedding and engagement rings, some of which are custom designed, along with watches for women and men. You’ll also find an extensive selection of earrings, necklaces and bracelets, many of which have been handcrafted by Dexter.

The wave design ranges from $30 for a baby’s bracelet, to about $55 for a woman’s silver bracelet and close to $1,000 for a wider, solid-gold version. Dexter, remembering lower prices not too long ago, seemed almost apologetic, as he has watched the price of gold and silver escalate, especially recently. When he started his business, silver went for $1.50 an ounce and gold for $50. Now, gold is about $1,530, with silver $36.

While prices have changed, Dexter’s inventory has a timeless quality with its mariner-themed designs, evident in items such as his Sailor’s Knot bracelet, also called a Turk’s Head Knot in gorgeously braided gold. He’s also designed bracelets adorned with a silver or gold scallop shell, starfish or lobster. You’ll also find silver and gold bracelets with a series of linked scallop shells or sand dollars.

And, make room on your charm bracelet for any number of ocean-themed designs, including a lobster, lobster pot, sand dollar, sailboat, starfish, lighthouse or conch shell.

Dexter said about half his inventory is handcrafted. It also is affordable, with half comprised of items under $100. One of my fun favorites, a pair of gold post miniature lounge chair earrings come in just above that number, at $135. 

Down the street, across from the Mystic train station, Mystic meets Maui at Seasonal Outfitters with a line of beautifully made Letarte bathing suits, boasting a Handmade-in-Hawaii label, Maui specifically.

Seasonal Outfitters at 15 Roosevelt Ave. (Route 1), carries other designer lines of bathing suits and cover ups, including DKNY, Gottex, Nautica and, my favorite these days, Miracle Suit. It really does make you look 10 pounds lighter in 10 seconds – or at least it makes you feel better now that you are no longer that skinny kid who could fit into anything.

The airy, renovated space that opened in December also carries kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, along with lots-of-things summer, including French starfish barrettes and pretty pony tail holders. You’ll also find bikinis, hats, sandals and casual evening wear, along with selections of suits for boys and girls, and even beach toys.

As the store’s name implies, when the seasons change, so will the inventory.

Right now, though, Maui time sounds pretty fine.