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Jewelry designer Kimberly McDonald will preview her new collection at the CIRCA Accessories Salon at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. We recently sat with Kimberly to find out what influences her style:
Name: Kimberly McDonald
Hometown: Asheville, NC originally. Now split between New York City and Los Angeles.
When did you first start designing jewelry?
For many years I worked with private clients as a curator for their jewelry collections. During this time, I facilitated various acquisitions from rare stones and antique pieces of import to new designs. It was during this time, having the benefit of learning from some of the most amazing jewelers of our time, I began creating distinctive pieces of my own. I did not launch my own collection, however, until 2007/08.
What was your inspiration for your current collection?
What inspired me? Nature. Nature is my inspiration for every collection. As is the juxtaposition between rough and fine, and the use of special, natural, and exquisite materials.
What pieces are you planning to show in the CIRCA Accessories Salon during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week?
I will be showcasing my latest creations, which will be available in stores in September (after the show). I am particularly excited about some of the brightly colored pieces, and as always, the magical geodes that are a cornerstone of my collection.
Who is your style icon?
To be honest, I don't have one. I am a fan of being your own person. I am a fan of every woman (and man) cultivating their own style. It is most important to be comfortable in what you wear- from clothing to accessories. Jewelry too. I love to see someone who is totally comfortable in their style. Confidence is the sexiest thing imaginable.
Do you have a piece of jewelry that has particular meaning for you?It may sound corny, but they all do. Because I do not mass produce, I literally design each piece, selecting the stone, what it will become, color of gold, etc. It is intimate. I love seeing the finished product and I love even more when I meet the person who ends up giving it a home. Fine jewelry is meant to be personal, special, unique and cherished. Not just another "thing". I cannot get on board with mass production, copies, or buying (or designing) on trend. I live for authenticity.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
My line is dedicated to nature, so this concept is the cornerstone of everything I do. From using materials (diamond slices, geodes, etc.) that are by-products of other mining operations (which slows down the eventual mining because it’s an additional element of production, and therefore I feel is better for the Earth) to utilizing recycled gold, conflict-free stones, and even donating proceeds from various collections to charities that seek to preserve our planet and protect vulnerable species. Nothing is better than nature and that is the core of my beliefs and my collections.
To preview Kimberly McDonald’s new collection, visit the CIRCA Accessories Salon Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center on Sunday, September 11, 201 Print this post
