Of recent, I have had a craze over accessories. After becoming my mom`s secret stylist our focus has been on 'accessories' namely - jewelry. It`s always those final touches that can either make or break your outfit. I was recently introduced through a mutual friend to this super creative jewelry designer. I was told I should check out her work, so I followed the advice and fell in love! From the recent spring collection there were many statement pieces that I felt would go awesome with any kind of outfit and reach many different customers. So I felt it only right to talk with her about this outstanding line of hers.
What`s your name, and where are you from?
My name is Joi French I'm originally from Newark, NJ and Brooklyn, NY.
What is your background in design? Did you always have this passion when you were younger, did you go to school for it?
I am a self-taught designer but I have always done this since I was younger. I used to make outfits for my stuffed animals out of my mom's hosiery! My educational background is communications and PR.
What`s the one piece of jewelry you own that is like your prized possession. One that is not of your own brand.
Honestly I don't have one sad to say. My family used to buy me so much nice jewelry, fine jewelry and I would always lose it! One earring would go missing, a necklace. They and I gave up! I think that's why I make fashion jewelry versus fine.
If you could wear one piece of jewelry for the rest of your life what would it be?
Probably this simple silver lariat I made. It has a feather on the end. It's versatile like me.
Do you remember the first day you decided you wanted to create your brand? What was that day like, and how long ago was it?
I always knew I wanted my own line/brand, even when I was in corporate America. I started it officially January 5th, 2010
* EARRINGS *
How did you come up with the name 'Pirate Romance', is there a story behind that?
I wanted something catchy and memorable of course. It's also a nod to one of my favorite brands, Australian line, Romance Was Born.
When you design your items where do you base your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from everything and anything virtually. I am an extremely visual person so I can see a color, a shape and want to translate that into something wearable. I am also very much inspired by pop art.
What message do you hope to bring to women through your jewelry?
My message is to essentially not to be a sheep. You can wear custom and exclusive pieces without breaking the bank or wearing what everyone else is wearing. Be bold, don't be afraid to have people look at you.
Do you plan to expand your brand past just jewelry?
Yes, I am launching menswear with tee's and crew necks that line is called Crimes Against Thugs. Also a women's dress line entitled MANNEKIN (mannequin). Both will be available in August for autumn, winter collections.
Where can people contact you (facebook, twitter, ect) , and purchase your jewelry from (online, stores, ect)
My company's twitter is www.twitter.com/inpiratewetrust and you can also like us Facebook at www.facebook.com/inpiratewetrust.
I have an online store at www.inpiratewetrust.com and you can find my pieces there and also at various retailers such as Karmaloop (online), House of Adrene (Atlanta, GA), and Number-A (Los Angeles, CA)
RINGS BRACELET NECKLACE
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