Style Focus, Jewelry: Interview with Michelle Gharibian

Although I never got around to updating you about some of my recent purchases while I was working on creating this website, one that particularly stands out in my mind is the charming bracelet that I bought from jewelry designer Michelle Gharibian via Instagram. Initially, I had learned about Michelle via another site when I was browsing through a list of photographers and artists; upon adding her and networking with her a bit more on other websites and communities, I realized that she’s actually a very talented jewelry designer! One day when I was browsing through my Instagram feed, I came across one of her bracelets for sale and absolutely fell in love with it. For your reference, here’s a peep at my beloved bracelet:

 

What I love about Michelle’s designs is that they have a unique vintage style to them, combined with some of the current trends that are common in modern jewelry designs. In example, you might see turquoise stones used in a traditional setting, but then paired with spikes. Her bib designs are particularly alluring; in Michelle’s store, you’ll often see very vintage main pieces accented by unique stone beads, contrasting gunmetal finishes, or rare pendants that you definitely wouldn’t come across at your typical mainsteam jewelry store.  She also makes a variety of hairpieces, which are very in demand in terms of current style trends.

 

While a lot of people would consider Etsy to be one of those sites where quality is questionable, I can say that the craftmanship of Michelle’s jewelry truly did impress me. A quick glance at her store reveals unbelievably affordable and stylish jewelry; however, when you finally receive your prized purchase, you realize that you have a truly unique and quality piece of jewelry that other stores and sellers would undeniably offer for a much higher price. I know for a fact that my bracelet will probably last for several years without any risk of breaking or falling apart from some flaw. I also have the pleasure of knowing that it’s one of a kind, which is one of the major preferences for me in terms of purchasing accessories and items for my wardrobe.

 

Just recently, I had the opportunity to interview Michelle to ask her a few questions about her jewelry designs and gain more insight into her experience as a designer.

When did you start making jewelry and what made you interested in it?
“I started designing and making things when I was 13 years old. I got into it because I have always been in love with fashion,  but I put it on hold until I was 18 and in high school when I got more into it. I even set up a booth at a local fair and I didn’t really have great experience. I know my work then wasn’t the greatest, it was something I just put away and forgot about. What really got me back into jewelry was the holiday season of 2011, I thought it would be nice to make my family gifts for the holidays and they all loved them. I started putting them on Instagram and others admired them as I did, so it just grew from there, and now I cannot stop!”

What is the most popular jewelry style that you sell?
“The most popular style that I sell are my cross bracelets and  skull bracelets. I know that they are both big trends right now, but I have my own personal twist that I use to create the pieces.”

As you’ve probably already noticed, there are a lot of stores that promote themselves on Instagram. Since you also sell jewelry via Instagram, do you think that photo communities like Instagram and Pinterest are a good way for sellers to get noticed?
“Oh yes! Instagram and Pinterest have really helped me show my work to the world! If it was not for both, I am not sure what i would be doing to be able to get where I have come now. Half of my customers are from Instagram, it’s a great marketing tool!”

What would you consider to be the top jewelry trend at the moment?
“Honestly, right now a big trend would be also moving a little past the summer colors and tones. I think skulls are still in style but maybe darker colors, or even thick bulky chains and rhinestones. Just anything that will really stand out on fall colored clothing. I think copper colors will really be in this season, which is perfect because I am expanding my line with more exotic metals, copper being one of them!”

For those who are huge admirers of your designs, do you have anything that you would like to announce in the future?
“I want everyone to know how much I appreciate all of the fans of my work! I will always keep my quality standard. I am also planning to work with different metals and do what I can to make my quality better. I am thinking about having a big sale to further expand my line with better pieces — see you there! And to anyone who might have questions, or if they want to buy anything… you can find me on Instagram, Tumblr, Etsy, or send me an email at koolba91@yahoo.com. Thank you so much for this opportunity, I love all of my supporters.”

To see more of Michelle’s beautiful designs, check out her page Lilacs In The Sun on Facebook, Etsy, Tumblr, or on her Instagram @mishmish789.