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ZENA BAROUDI grew up between Lebanon and Paris and, believe it or not, first studied Business Administration at school. She however, always had an interest in design and jewelery and when presented with the chance to mix both, she eagerly took it. Her unique pieces use a combination of semi-precious stones, antique African and Oriental ornaments, feathers, colored threads, fabric and even scented wood.
What inspires you when you design your pieces?
I have always admired ethnic jewelery and handcrafted pieces. I mainly design necklaces and I start by working around the central piece, often an antique fabric or jewelery, by enhancing it and modernizing it.
Can you walk us through the process of designing one of your jewelery collections?
I never follow the same path. I let my imagination run all the way through the process, which means that I can change the design of the necklace several times before I finish it.
What are your favourite aspects/ downsides to what you do?
The challenge is to always come up with a new design that mixes modern and traditional components as well as different cultures. My unique designs means there’s only one piece; the downside to that is having to decline a client’s request for a replicate.
If you weren’t a jewelery designer what else would you design?
I think I would design clothes because I am very sensible and appreciative of any work involving handcraft skills.
Do you have any favorite pieces from what you’ve created so far?
The ones using Oriental fabrics or ornaments as they really speak to my roots.
Do you have any advice for upcoming designers who want to follow in your footsteps?
Never follow anyone’s footsteps, learn from others and go beyond.
How would you wear one of your pieces?
With a simple outfit to enhance the necklace.
What are your 5 must-have wardrobe pieces?
White shirt, black dress, pair of jeans, cashmere sweater, a colorful “Abaya”.
What else can we expect to see from you in the future?
The unexpected.
Written by EKAETE INYANG
Images courtesy of ZENA BAROUDI
Shop for ZENA BAROUDI here at DIABOUTIQUE.COM
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Custom designed jewelry came into existence as early as the 1800s and today they are very much used for their trendy as well as sophisticated fashion appeals. Custom jewelry means any type of jewelry that is made according to design details that are provided by the buyer. There are various reasons why jewelry buyers opt for custom jewelry instead of buying standard ready made jewelry. Custom jewelry is known for its high end craftsmanship and they are generally made in single pieces. They are all hand finished and perfect to wear for any occasion.