Monica Vinader

Monica Vinader is now a regular in glossy magazines such as Vogue, Harpers and Grazia, with a celebrity following including Cameron Diaz, Keira Knightly and Cheryl Cole.

We talk the award winning jewellery designer about the inspiration behind her collection, success and what motivates her.

How long have you been designing jewellery for?

I started working in the jewellery industry straight after graduating from Art School in London. From then I went on to design bespoke collections, and set up my brand 5 years ago.

What motivates you?

My family and my surroundings motivate me. I am always full of ideas, often more than I can execute! I’m a perfectionist and am motivated by doing things to the best of my ability

Would you say your designs reflect you personal style?

Absolutely. I have a very busy lifestyle and as well as the business, have a 4 year old daughter, so I like to wear simple, chic clothing, and add a touch of decadence with lots of colourful jewellery.

Please explain the design process in creating a piece of Monica Vinader jewellery?

My designs are based on semi-precious stones, which are bespoke cut for us and I often start by finding a beautiful cut of stone, then working round that to find a design that will showcase it to it’s best. I carry my sketchbook with me wherever I go and am inspired by art, nature and architecture, so my designs are often developments of sketches I may have done the week before at my home in Norfolk, or the year before on holiday!

You already have a celebrity following from Cheryl Cole, Dannii Minogue and Keira Knightly, who else would you like to see wearing Monica Vinader?

I would absolutely love for my pieces to be worn on the red carpet. Penelope Cruz is a favourite of mine and I would love to see Sarah Jessica Parker adorned in Monica Vinader!

What makes a woman stylish?

I think being comfortable and confident with your look is the key. Style is not always about following the latest trend. A woman who mixes her clothing and accessories, wears pieces she has picked up over the years and wears them in a way that reflects her personality is often a more stylish woman than one dressed head to toe straight off the catwalk.

What is your favourite piece of jewellery and why?

My engagement ring. I designed it with my husband and we very much wanted to make a fantastic piece that would suit my lifestyle and that I could wear all the time. I have worn it every day since and it get many compliments!

What are the key jewellery Trends for A/w 2010?In our AW 10 collections, the focus is on soft shapes and as always, striking colours. Our Nugget Collection incorporates organic shaped, multifaceted stones, encased in Sterling Silver or 18ct Gold Vermeil with a gentle hammered finish.

And friendship bracelets are proving to be THE thing to wear. Our Fiji and Rio Bracelets have become phenomenally successful and we have extended the collection with new Metallic colours and the introduction of the Mini Fiji Bracelet. Each comes with their own meaning and are a fantastic gift!

What are your style rules for wearing Monica Vinader?

There are no rules! If you love a piece of jewellery it should be worn however and wherever you like. Our customer is generally women who are not afraid of enjoying their jewellery every day, not just special occasions: on holiday, at parties, collecting kids from school or going to work.

5 things we should know about Monica Vinader?

1. I’m Spanish born but have travelled the world and lived in various countries including Mexico and Argentina.
2. We are opening our 3^rd Monica Vinader store in Spain in the coming weeks! 
3. I have a beautiful daughter Scarlett, who inspires me everyday. 
4. I used to run a fishing lodge with my husband! 
5. We won UK Jewellery Brand of the Year in 2009.

What can we expect to see from Monica Vinader for S/S2011?

We have big plans! We have just rebranded and are currently in the process of launching our new look across stores and will be re-launching a new and improved website in the coming weeks. 2011 is also the year we plan to open our first London Store which I am incredibly excited about.