Moving from New York City to Los Angeles, I’ve noticed the strong surf culture here. While there are definitely surfers on the East coast it just is not as prevalent. In Los Angeles, you see women and men, of all ages, with their gear almost all year round. It is a way of life when you live near the beach. In the early morning on a weekday, you can see surfers returning from the ocean, rinsing off with water from the back of their trucks (towels discreetly placed), changing into slacks and button-downs and heading to the office as a regular routine. What a life!
I think that the sunshine, blue skies, the outdoor lifestyle and the people who live it, have shaken off the creative cobwebs and provided inspiration for my latest line of men’s jewelry, called DAWG. As it turns out, the stones that I was attracted to at this year’s Tucson Gem Show were very masculine. The colors and shapes were bold - mostly jaspers - striated jaspers in whites and browns, peppermint jasper in elongated oval shapes, pendants in greens and yellows; onyx, bright yellow African trade beads; even pearls. It wasn't long after that that I decided to make a men's line inspired by the stones themselves and the men who live here.
I find that men on the West Coast are not afraid to adorn themselves as a way of expression. After all, look at all the beautiful tattoos. As I was working I really felt that what I was doing was a celebration of men. I wanted to see them in hip as well as dressy neckwear. Some of the collection is an attempt to replace or add to the subtle gold chain. Today, men are as aware as women of the importance of taking care of their bodies through exercise and diet and of course, fashion...whether it is hipster or surfer, casual or dressy men want to be attractive. There is an old saying that "the clothes don’t make the man" and that extends to jewelry as well.
And, if you happen to enjoy the company of a four legged friend - we have something special for your pooch too. Beasty Bling, neckwear for pets is designed so that your dog can be as unique and expressive as you. The new pet jewelry designs would befit a beach dog for any occasion; barbeque, sailing or a beach side wedding.
