Kara's World

 
One of the hottest accessory designers in the world will be touching down in St. Louis for a "Couture Cocktail Event" this week. Kara Ross will be in town to show off her amazing statement cuffs, rings and necklaces available through S. King Collection (www.skingcollection.com). I had the opportunity to chat with Ms. Ross via email (she made time while working her way through Dubai!) to learn more about her namesake brand.

What made you want to become an accessories designer? While on safari in Africa, my parents allowed me to choose a native gemstone of my choice to commemorate the trip. Once we returned home, I was told I could design and create a ring with the tourmaline I had chosen. To know that I could create something wholly original at thirteen years old really affected me.

How did you get your start? After working in advertising, I decided to become a certified gemologist. For years I designed for private clients, and then in 2002 I decided to launch a comprehensive line of fine jewelry. From there it snowballed and I now design fine jewelry, boutique jewelry, handbags and belts.

What was your inspiration for the spring 2010 collection? The collection was inspired by a few things – abundant ocean vegetation during a boat trip to Corsica, the raw beauty of the inner workings of mechanical structures, old-Hollywood glamour and deconstructed timepieces.

Do you have a favorite material or gem to work with? At the moment, fire opal. I really love how vivacious the colors are.

You must be constantly traveling the world - has a place you've visited ever been the start of a collection (in terms of inspiration)? Travel is my main source of inspiration. The starfish and coral pieces in my spring boutique collection were inspired by a boat trip I took last year with my family to Corsica.

You've created an accessory line that not only looks great editorially, but also in real life. It seems celebrities are feeling the same way about your line. Have you had any favorite red carpet moments with a celeb wearing Kara Ross? It’s been great having celebrities embrace my designs, but it’s just as exciting to see women wearing them on the street. Right now I’m having a favorite silver screen moment rather than a favorite red carpet moment – my handbags make a few cameo’s in Sex and the City 2.    

View and shop the line here in St. Louis on the following dates: 
Thursday, May 13th from 6-9pm
Friday, May 14th from 10am-4pm
Saturday, May 15th from 10-4pm
For event address and to RSVP, please email sdssk@aol.com