Kimberly McDonald’s fine jewelry collection has become a constant on red carpets and, most recently, was selected by Michelle Obama to wear at the 2013 Inaugural Ball. Each piece is handmade and her signature look comes from the geodes and slices of agate used that, many times, are surrounded by precious gems and reclaimed gold, making every earring, bracelet, ring, cufflink and necklace truly one of a kind. She recently launched a home décor collection to add a new area for her designs to shine. We are thrilled to have Kimberly with us today as StyleBlueprint’s FACE of the South.
How did growing up in the South, in North Carolina, influence your designs?
I love the South. I find the women to be very stylish. They dress. They do their hair. You don’t find many grungy types down South. Jewelry is a part of being put together, which is something that was infused into me by my mother, grandmother, great grandmother and pretty much every Southern woman who has ever been influential in my life. Also, manners do count. Ugly behavior equals an ugly person!
When you were in high school, what did you envision your career would be?
Veterinarian or psychologist. I think that’s why I now have several dogs and a fascination with human behavior.
The following grouping of photos are from the Facebook page of Jewelry by Kimberly McDonald, to let you know why we are so smitten:
How did living in Paris influence your career path?
Like almost everyone who visits Paris, I was always captivated by the art and architecture. When it comes to fashion, the French have the biggest and most recognizable brands in the world. I attribute this to the fact that designers in France are protected against copies, unlike here in the US. I also think that I learned NOT to follow trends in Paris. Do the French have the newest bag, newest clothing styles, etc.? Yes. But, they mix them with other brands, vintage pieces and various price points. I really learned to be comfortable in my own style in Paris.
How do you ensure that your design ideas are pure and original? I ask, as so many seem to be knocking off your ideas these days?
This is a strange but true response: I do not read magazines. I do not want to be influenced by what someone else is doing. I don’t even want it in my brain! I know that doesn’t cover 100% of the exposure but it is a choice I made when I decided to do my own work. I can say with a clear conscience that no other designer or brand has inspired me in any way. Not reading magazines also helps me avoid the sick feeling I get when someone takes my ideas and tries to claim them as their own. It used to upset me a lot, but I am learning to accept that not everyone has my creativity and that I am very blessed!
With the launch of your home interiors collection, do you have any other expansion plans on your mind?
I would like for people to associate the name Kimberly McDonald with eco-conscious luxury style–from fine jewelry and home accessories to, well, the sky’s the limit in my mind!
What was it like to have Michelle Obama wear your jewels at the Inaugural Ball this past January?
Well, I knew for a while that it was a possibility, and it was really hard to remind myself that it was only a possibility. I did not know until the moment the First Lady stepped out from behind the curtain to dance with her husband that she had selected my pieces. It was amazing! When one of the most stylish and recognizable women on the planet, who could wear anything she wants from any designer or brand, chooses your work, you kind of get really quiet. And, I think it took three days for me to stop the perma-smile. I mean, that’s like the biggest red carpet with only one star, and she picked me! (And Jason Wu, who was a dream to work with!)
Was there a moment that you knew you were not a struggling new designer anymore and that you had truly “arrived”?
To be honest, my path was really unique. I was happy as a curator of private jewelry collections (where I got my start). I don’t ever think that I struggled. I am very thankful for this. It was a bit surreal to me the day the buyer from Bergdorf Goodman called me (at that time I worked from home) and asked to see my work. I still remember how I didn’t believe it was really her and I had her hang up and email me! Long story short, it was my first meeting, and my first YES and it felt like a million bucks.
As far as feeling that I have arrived… I don’t really have that sort of mentality. I am still surprised when I meet people and they actually know my name or my work. It’s humbling. I mean, I get to do what I love, with materials I am fascinated by, with people that I adore. I have the best relationships with the top retailers around the world. I am thankful every day. Whether I have arrived or not, I feel like the luckiest girl in the world.
Do you personally attend each trunk show?
No, I don’t. I am actually really shy. I try to make it to each store once per year. But, I am very lucky to have an amazing team who are all as passionate about what we produce as I am. They know all about the process and they are great people.
What is the best professional advice that was ever given to you?
My friend and fellow jewelry designer Nicholas Varney told me: “Buy what you think is beautiful. If you do that, you will always end up with a beautiful final piece.” Â It is true. I take that with me any time I am looking for materials to work with.
When you have guests over, do you have a go-to meal that you love to prepare?
Oh, gosh! Why do you have to call me out like that?!?! Â I don’t cook. I make a mean smoothie, though. If you are ever in LA, pop over and I’ll make one. Or a frozen margarita. Same concept!
Where can Saturday nights find you in Los Angeles?
More likely than not I am at Katsuya on Hollywood. Then home to hang out with my pack of dogs. They love to lay all over me while I’m on the sofa catching up on all the reality shows I have dvr’d all week. Real Housewives, anyone?
What is a luxury that you allow yourself easily?
Weekly mani-pedis. I justify by saying people have to see my hands a lot, but I secretly love it!
What do you do to relax?
I try to make Sunday my real rest day. I love to drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu for brunch at Geoffrey’s. Or some window shopping on Robertson. Or, a nap on the terrace in the sun (again covered in puppies!)
What books are currently on your bedside table (or Kindle)?
Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra and a couple of books on Rumi’s works.
Do you have any great adventures planned for the rest of 2013?
These days, everyday life is an adventure, and I’m loving it!
If you close your eyes and imagine your happy place, what do you see?
Lots of rocks and lots of animals, especially my pups, with a lot of outdoor space near the ocean. Lush vegetation, scores of blooming plants, good music. Kind of like being in Kona, but with all my “stuff” with me!
Name three things you can’t live without (excluding God, friends and family!).
- Rocks
- My pups
- Music
Thank you, Kimberly!
To find out more about Kimberly McDonald and her collection, as well as her upcoming Spring 2013 trunk show schedule, see: www.kimberlymcdonald.com.
Photos today are by the lovely Ashley Hylbert: www.ashleyhylbert.com
Your StyleBlueprint AI Companion
