I tend to have a love - hate relationship with Accessories Magazine. On the one hand, they do have have some great information about the industry, and that includes jewelry. On the other two hands, it's not just jewelry but all kinds of other accessories (handbags - lots and lots - hosiery...as in socks for example, hats, etc.) and sometimes I don't see enough jewelry, and then there's the advertising. Considering the cost of this magazine, $43.75 U.S., you'd think you'd have a few less ads and a bit more content.

I will admit, though, they do seem to be continually on the cutting edge of fashion accessories, and they've proven it again with the launch of AccessoriesDirections.com:

AccessoriesDirections.com-created by the experts behind Accessories magazine-is the only online trend forecasting service devoted exclusively to the accessories business. And it's the only service that calls out the big trends then breaks them down by silhouette, color and material for each product classification.

Why so important? Trends are changing faster than ever, and both retailers and manufacturers know they must identify-and interpret-trends quicker and more efficiently. Private label merchandise is ever more essential as retailers recognize the need to differentiate themselves. In response, manufacturers of every classification are restructuring to provide customized programs and specialized buys.

Timing is everything. Detailed trend information for each season/market is crucial to ensure profits. Manufacturers must have adequate time to design, develop and stock the latest fashion merchandise (but not before retailers are ready to buy or after consumers have moved on to another style). Retailers are analyzing how often they buy and debating the timing of delivery dates.

AccessoriesDirections.com addresses all these needs. You will no longer have to guess which trends and categories will become the moneymakers. With this exclusive trend service, AccessoriesDirections.com shows you the way.

The service includes: European Trend Spotting (store windows and street shots in Paris, London, Milan, Barcelona, Amsterdam and St. Tropez); Previews of the Seasons' Five Big Trends; Runway, Sketches & Items; Materials & Components; Weekly Newsletter, and Live Trend Presentations.

Of course, considering I can barely afford the 40 plus price of the magazine, the cost of joining this digital jewelry and accessories fest is out of the question: $4700 for an annual subscription - yes, no decimal point honey! I know this site is meant for the big boys and girls in the industry - retail mainly - but it would still be nice to have a little slice left over for the poor jewelry journalist.