As the arrival of the AoF Designer Boutique is fast approaching, it’s only right that we give you an inside look at some of the Canadian talent that will be featured at this year’s event. First up, we have exquisite jewelry designer Kristen Laborde.
Kristen
Laborde
Canadian-born jewelry designer Kristen Laborde specializes
in one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces that are both eclectic and reflective of the
season’s latest trends. Drawing inspiration from diverse ethnic backgrounds,
this world traveler uses semi-precious stones, metals and beads to craft
multifunctional pieces that cater to the needs (and budgets!) of the modern
woman.
Kristen, who is always in pursuit of
small gem and metal dealers, has traveled to places such as Italy, Chile,
Spain, Hong Kong, South Africa, Berlin and most recently, London, for
inspiration. It was her time living in London, England that influenced her new
architectural lines, which integrate creative combinations of metals and stones
that work brilliantly together.
While living in Toronto, her designs were featured in mainstream
publications such as Flare, Strut, Canadian Living, Zoomer, The Toronto Star
and The National Post. Her pieces have also been photographed on celebrities,
and worn by well-respected fashion editors like Zoomer Magazine’s Suzanne Boyd
and Elle Magazine publisher Sue Prentice. They’ve even made their debuts in hot
music videos! Kristen’s work also includes a partnership with Canadian
designers Nada and Jessica Biffi to create a jewelry collection that would
compliment their lines for Toronto Fashion Week.
Acknowledging the woman’s desire for individuality in her
designs, Kristen challenges her customers to stand out from the crowds and have
fun with fashion.
“I like to create a
strong piece that can be worn more than one way so that it can change with the
mood of my customer.” – Kristen Laborde
