This post is for anyone who is unfamiliar with her work...
"Have you always been interested in jewelry design?
One of my fondest memories of my childhood was a safari to Africa with my parents at thirteen. To commemorate the trip, they allowed me to choose a native gemstone of my choice. When we returned home, my parents let me design my own ring with the tourmaline I chose. I still have the ring today. To know that I could create something wholly original at a young age really affected me.
What is your outlook on fashion/ personal style?
I think fashion is such a personal thing--just like appreciation for art--you may love it and the person sitting next to you may hate it. It doesn't make one right or wrong or better or worse- it's just a personal feeling. I find as I get older I am not as concerned with how people view me as long as I feel as if I'm in a good place. I do what I feel is right and comfortable for me. I like, most importantly, feeling comfortable, I hate feeling confined and fussy.
Who is your favorite designer?
I love vintage clothing. I think the word "vintage" is thrown around casually; to me good vintage is from quite a few years back! A few designers I love are: Bonnie Cashin, vintage Pucci, Schaparelli, Courreges, Halston, Zandra Rhodes, Mary McFadden, and Geoffrey Beene.
What is good taste to you?
Relaxed elegance, high quality, and good manners.
What is high quality to you?
The focus nowadays is on mass production--the positive side of this is that it brings the prices down and makes merchandise more attainable for everyone. On the other hand, it lessens the opportunity for uniqueness. Quality sometimes is affected because of mass production; manufacturers are concerned about getting the job done quickly, the cost, etc. When you're focused on limited edition or very small production runs, you can afford to spend more time, effort, and attention on the quality and uniqueness of the product. Attention to detail is key-- I love to see an artist's hand in a piece that he\she created whether its in a unique textile piece, a beautiful hand sewn bag or piece of clothing, a beautiful tabletop piece, or a painting or sculpture. This is what I strive to do in both my jewelry and handbag collections.
What do you think your pieces to communicate to those who wear them? What story do they tell?
I think that my pieces communicate modern elegance with an appreciation for the past and the world around me. Every where I go, foreign or domestic, I try and explore vintage stores, flea markets, bazaars (if they have any), and museums. Fashion to me is about incorporating all that I see and enjoy.
How do you imagine the woman that wears your collections?
A woman with an independent and unique sense of style, classic yet willing to take risks and stand out.
If you were going to be a gemstone, what would you be and why?
Rutilated quartz because no two pieces are the same; each piece is unique and surprising in its own way.
What do you think is the most beautiful fashion item or accessory you own?
My two daughters are the most beautiful things in the world to me. Fashion and accessories are constantly changing, my style is continually evolving, but they remain my two favorites."
*All images and quoted text take from the Kara Ross website
-E
