Alex Woo’s jewelry has been delighting stylists, celebrities, and regular people like us. She is probably best known for her trademark letter and number charms that can be mixed and matched, (as well as charms featuring small animals and other figures), which make the perfect everyday accessory. But her offerings also include bolder styles and extend to rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces in different styles. Her designs are inspired by her travels, as well as her native New York City. She was named a Rising Star by the JCK Show Design Center and included in Crain’s Business’s “40 under 40” list of successful people in New York. All of Woo’s designs are made right here in New York City. We caught up with Woo recently to get to know her better…
ifashion: What is your favorite line to create, Spring or Fall?
Alex: My designs are classic and not really seasonal, however, I do enjoy designing my travel-inspired pieces because it’s a time that I can reflect upon a place I’ve visited, like Morocco, or Macchu Picchu. Traveling is another passion of mine, and I like to reflect that through my work.
ifashion: Who is your favorite designer?
Alex: Diane Von Furstenberg.
ifashion: What personal quality do you believe is reflected in your work?
Alex: I was born and raised in New York City – and it’s an important part of who I am, so I wanted to make sure that my designs reflect the energy and vibrant aspect of this city as well. I am very proud of the fact that my designs and jewelry are made in New York and I can continue to create opportunities to support local talent.
ifashion: Do you think a woman is sexier in sneakers or stilletos? Why?
Alex: Stilletos. Any shoe that elongates the leg makes a woman sexier.
ifashion: What is a tough lesson you have learned from being a designer?
Alex: Having your designs knocked off. I’ve experienced this from both large chains as well as fellow designers that exhibit at the same shows that I do. It’s really disheartening to see that especially from fellow designers given we’re all supposed to be original.
ifashion: Is there anything you would have done differently in your career so far?
Alex: No. I love what I do and the path I’m on.
ifashion: What was your most exciting moment as a designer?
Alex: Walking the Union Square market on a lazy Sunday morning and seeing for the first time, a stranger wearing one of my designs!
ifashion: Where do you see your line in 5 years?
Alex: Growing and expanding into new international markets. We’re getting there already though and we continue to ship globally. Today it was Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Russia!
ifashion: Where do you feel you were most successful and where did you feel at a low point?
Alex: Fortunately for me, this has been a very positive journey, and I think it can only get better.
ifashion: What do you think is the most important fashion piece a woman should have and a man should have? Why?
Alex: Just as every woman may have their favorite LBD, a woman should have a signature necklace. Everyone can wear a necklace, and I think it’s the perfect way to express yourself.
ifashion: What item do you think is worth splurging on?
Alex: A diamond pendant. Diamonds are always classic and looks great on everyone.
ifashion: How long does it take you to create a collection?
Alex: It can take anywhere from 1 month to a year to develop.
ifashion: Do you create your own drawings?
Alex: Yes – of course. I have a background in fine arts, and drawing is something that I always go back to.
ifashion: If you weren’t a designer what would you be?
Alex: A food and travel writer. I love to travel and I love to eat!
ifashion: What is your philosophy about the art of fashion?
Alex: Fashion is what you make of it. I like to keep an eye on the trends of the moment, but no one should be limited by it or follow it blindly. It is important to know what looks good on you, and my view has always been that classic pieces are always a good investment.
ifashion: What is one piece I should have in my closet this fall and what color should it be?
Alex: A tailored black blazer – you can never go wrong with this classic.
ifashion: In your opinion, what is the worst fashion faux pas a person can commit?
Alex: Leaving the house without at least 1 piece of jewelry!
ifashion: What is your favorite article of clothing that you own?
Alex: My Karl Lagerfeld denim coat.
ifashion: What advice would you give to someone getting into the fashion industry?
Alex: Have a distinct vision, and stay true to it.