Suzanne Kalan founded the jewelry brand of the same name over 35 years ago. With a passion for creating timeless pieces, the designer continues to innovate, bringing to life jewelry that combines classic elegance with a contemporary touch.
How do you come up with new designs, can you discuss your inspiration, what inspires you?
For me, the process of creating new designs is a journey that starts with seeing the beauty in the overlooked and the discarded. I have a passion for transforming things that are often considered unwanted into desirable treasures. This approach not only gives new life to materials but also challenges me to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional design. Inspiration, for me, is wonderfully diverse and can strike from many different sources. It might be the unique character of a person or granddaughter, the ambiance of a hotel or restaurant, or the dynamic nature of current fashion trends. Ultimately, the essence of my inspiration is about connection — connecting with the world around me, with the materials I use, and with the people who will wear my designs. Each piece I create is a confluence of these inspirations, crafted to resonate with the wearer and to bring a piece of the world into their personal expression.
How would you define the SK brand in your own words?
In my view, the SK brand stands as a harmonious blend of bold minimalism and sophisticated flair. Our essence lies in crafting pieces that are not just accessories but integral elements of a personal collection, designed to accompany an individual throughout their life's journey. We celebrate the art of stacking, offering a way to layer and personalize style, allowing our wearers to evolve their look over time while always remaining true to a core of classic elegance. Our creations are meticulously designed to be versatile and enduring, perfect for daily wear yet sophisticated enough for the most elegant of evenings. They are designed to transcend fleeting trends, embodying a timeless appeal that ensures they remain relevant and cherished, not just for seasons but for decades. I envision our jewelry as lifelong companions for the women who choose them, pieces that will witness and accentuate their life stories. It's about creating a legacy of style that's as enduring as the spirit of the women who wear our designs. I aspire for the SK brand to be a source of confidence and joy, a testament to a woman's journey, and a celebration of her individuality, today, tomorrow, and far into the future.
Who is the SK female that wears and collects your jewelry?
The SK woman embodies a unique perspective on style; she understands that it's not about following a single aesthetic but rather about using fashion as a canvas to express her personality. To her, jewelry is much more than an accessory—it's a fundamental element of her style narrative, a means of displaying her identity. She carries herself with a subtle assurance, possessing a clarity and purpose in her actions without ever imposing. She's approachable and charismatic, making genuine connections with ease. While she allows herself to dream and aspire, her feet remain planted. The SK woman views her jewelry collection as an evolving reflection of her journey, selectively acquiring pieces that resonate with her spirit and signify more than just material value. She's not just purchasing jewelry; she's curating a legacy, selecting pieces that reflect her growth, achievements, and the timeless elegance she embodies.
“I like to think of our jewellery as a lifelong companion”