Walking into Faye Kims eponymous atelier is a little like uncovering pirate treasure. Tucked away at the woody northern end of downtown Westport, the quaint boutique exterior belies the rich and glittering artistry within. Precious stones and metals are Kims medium, and the pieces she creates are so skillfully made as to render them timeless.
Fine jewelry has always been an investment, whatever the economy, Kim told me recently as she walked me through her showroom, her easy elegance evident throughout. So I try to create pieces you dont want to shelve when the next trend comes along.
Kims pearl pieces are a perfect example of her thoughtful marriage between classic and contemporary. Pearls can feel really stuffy or dated, she explained. But it doesnt take much to update them and make them more versatile. She incorporates larger, hand-crafted clasps and oblong-shaped pearls that give them a decidedly edgier feel. One can imagine a young Audrey Hepburn, in all her quirky style, happily draping her graceful neck in strands of Kims pearls.
But pearls are just the beginning of what youll uncover inside Kims store. I like to do funky stuff on leather cords. I love turquoise and moonstone, she smiles. And I always make sure that we have a great selection across price points. In addition to custom designed diamond engagement rings and elaborately woven gold bib necklaces, Kim also designs charms and casual earrings at prices under $50. Theyre great for girls, bridesmaids, even young moms. And because Im independent, I have the flexibility to do these things.
Whether you have a piece you want to update or youre in the market for a new heirloom, Kim can help you create exactly the piece youll cherish for years. My inspiration is in the life thats all around usthe people, the colorsits everywhere. Kims inspiration may be ubiquitous, but the pieces she creates are one of a kind. Thats the alchemy of her artistry.
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