Precious is priceless

jewellery

This week You! talks to US-based jewellery designer Samreen Vance who offers unique ornaments for the brides-to-be...

Bridal jewellery designer Samreen Vance’s passion for ornaments led her to design gold-plated statement pieces and sterling silver jewellery using different semi-precious stones for the modern bride. “I just followed my dream and it was in 2012 that I launched my label ‘Samreen Vance’ in Iselin, New Jersey,” she shares. This week You! talks to this talented designer about her design philosophy...

You! What inspired you to become a jewellery designer?

Samreen Vance: While growing up I used to love everything about the beauty and fashion industry, and of course jewellery was a major part of it. So becoming a jewellery designer was a natural process.

You! Do you design your collection keeping the latest trends in mind?

S.V: Of course, I keep the latest trends in mind when designing any piece. Because my specialty is bridal jewellery so I mostly focus on the modern bride who prefers traditional pieces with a touch of contemporary. However, I like to add my own touch to each piece as I want to set trends and not follow them.

You! What sort of women does your jewellery line cater to?

S.V: I mostly design bridal ornaments so it definitely caters to the brides-to-be. My jewellery is reasonably priced and is perfect for those girls who cannot afford real gold sets. Also my line caters to the woman of today who is stylish and is looking for something exclusive.

You! Why do you think women should wear designer jewellery?

S.V: I believe that a woman should wear whatever makes her feel comfortable and happy - be it designer jewellery or not.

You! How many exhibitions have you held so far - locally & internationally? Any up-coming exhibition?

S.V: I have had more than 20 exhibitions up till now. In December, I will be holding an exhibit in Lahore and then in Los Angeles in February 2017.

You! Tell us about your latest collection?

S.V: Currently, I am focusing on my new collection ‘Aroos-e-Ziba’ which literally means ‘A Beautiful Bride’. My designs are a true reflection of the richness and diversity of the sub-continent that reveals the true beauty of a woman, as well as her bold and edgy attitude.

You! Do you believe in repeating your designs?

S.V: Basically, I create pieces that are one of a kind and I try my best to bring my client’s vision to life for their special day. However, taking old designs and recreating them in unique ways to get in line with the current trends is something everyone does in this industry. And that is what helps us designers gather more ideas for exclusive trinkets. 

You! Do you design every piece yourself?

S.V: Well, the idea always starts with me but I cannot take the entire credit myself. I design the pieces and then my ‘kaarigar’ put in their hard work to create them. In my opinion it’s all about team work. 

You! What distinguishes your jewellery from other designers?

S.V: My quality and workmanship. Also, my jewellery is unique, affordable and that is what distinguishes my designs from the rest. You can checkout my website: www.samreenvance.com

You! What makes your line so special?

S.V: My creations are vibrant and ornate. I believe that jewellery should be eye catching and make the wearer feel like royalty no matter how big or small the piece is.

You! Is your jewellery made of pure gold? Which gems and stones do you usually use?

S.V: I use a lot of semi-precious stones; my jewellery is nickel-free, lead-free and 24 karat gold plated. I never compromise on the quality and finish and use the highest standards in manufacturing techniques.

You! In your opinion, what qualities should a jewellery designer posses?

S.V: One should be very creative, imaginative and technically sound. A sense of design is imperative. Precision and attention to detail are also equally important for a successful jeweller. It’s also important to have a working knowledge about manufacturing. One should be well-versed with the fashion industry on the international front too.

You! How would you describe your personal style?

S.V: Fun, quirky, elegant, and eccentric.

You! Any plans of expanding your brand? Have you thought of opening your jewellery store in Pakistan?

S.V: Absolutely! I love to dabble with new things and I know where my strengths lie, so expanding is definitely in the plan. Well, opening an outlet has surely crossed my mind, but not as yet.