HANDBAGS & ACCESSORIES

For over a decade, Kendra Scott has been crafting jewelry that helps women harness their power of self-expression. The Austin, Texas–based designer has developed a timelessly vibrant collection of precious and semi-precious gemstones that fuse wearability with affordability.

Gone are the days of donning statement jewelry only for special occasions. Kendra’s exquisite pieces are designed to be multifunctional, so you can transition your look with ease for every occasion. The Thread phoned the accessories guru and asked her to share a few stylish pointers on how to maximize your summer style with a few bright and bold baubles.

“I really strive to make pieces that can go from the soccer field to the boardroom to a gala, because I believe that the right accessory can do just that,” says the busy mom-trepreneur. “You can easily wear a fabulous pair of chandelier earrings or an incredible statement necklace with jeans, a T-shirt and a cute blazer at work, then amp the look up for evening by throwing on a little black dress with fun bangles and a cocktail ring.”

Kendra (pictured above at her office) incorporates her accessories philosophy into her own everyday personal style, choosing to always wear just one standout piece. “Coco Chanel had a great saying about accessories: ‘Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.’ I always think about that when I’m getting dressed,” says Kendra, who believes that piling on too many pieces can dilute the power of the statement piece.

With so many jewelry options, how does a girl edit cleverly? Kendra advises a less-is-more approach. “If I’m wearing a big statement necklace, I’d wear small stud earrings and maybe just a simple ring. When I’m wearing huge chandelier earrings, I’m probably not going to wear a necklace. Instead, I might wear an awesome cuff, because those are far enough apart that they are not going to distract from one another.”

Styled: British model Jourdan Dunn shows how layering stones and beads can give a simple tank a little earthy texture that’s effortlessly chic.

Get the look: Kendra Scott ‘Elle’ Small Oval Earrings, Kendra Scott ‘Rayne’ Stone Tassel Pendant Necklace in Turquoise

When it comes to being well put together, it’s clear that accessories have the power to revive—and revolutionize—any outfit, and Kendra agrees. “First off, jewelry doesn’t have a size, which is a beautiful thing when you’re a woman. Jewelry always fits, so even if you’re having one of those days when the scale is not tipping in the direction you would like it to, you can put on a beautiful piece of jewelry, and the way you’ll feel—as well as your outfit—comes alive.”

Kendra tells The Thread that you should think of jewelry as just one aspect of the accessorizing process. “A simple navy blue dress is just that: a simple dress. But add a hot pink or turquoise earring, and all of a sudden, that outfit has come to whole different place. I really believe that your accessories (shoes, handbag, belts, hats)—and not just your jewelry—can add that extra oomph to take an average outfit and make it extraordinary.”

The Beauty of Bali: Kendra Scott ‘Elle – Small’ Earrings,‘Carla’ Oval Stone Earrings in Abalone Shell, ‘Valora’ Filigree Bib Necklace in Turquoise Magnesite, ‘Isha’ Mixed Stone Rings in Fiji (set of 3), ‘Maritza’ Ring in Ivory Mother of Pearl, ‘Island Escapade – Nalin’ Collar Necklace in Bali

Last year, Kendra took a trip to the Indonesian island of Bali and fell in love with the tropical landscapes, the people and the vibrant local textiles. Her getaway provided the inspiration she needed to create the summer 2013 collection dubbed Island Escape. “This collection, you’re going to see a lot of use of shells—abalone, brown mother of pearl—and intricate filigree detail. We even used Balinese wood in some of the pieces,” says the jeweler, who wanted this line to reflect the beautiful architecture and hand-carved wood moldings seen in the temples and archways of the island.

Casual and cool: model Amanda Norgaard stacks a few pieces around her neck and wrist to make this T-shirt-and-jeans look into something both comfortable and classic.

Get the Look: Kendra Scott ‘Elise’ Pendant Necklace in Turquoise Magnesite

The designer made her mark in the industry by referencing fashion trends and adding a timeless factor. “My grandmother celebrated her 101st birthday this year, and when I started out, a lot of my inspiration came from the great jewelry she collected from the ’20s to the ’70s. Many of her pieces are relevant today, so I sort of took that timeless quality to develop my own collection.”

Discover the classic versatility of the Kendra Scott collection.

−Qianna Smith
Photos by David Heiser, Kelly Rucker & Whitney Radley