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.

Head to your nearest newsstand, pick up the summer issue of Inside Weddings, and turn to pg. 145. As part of their ‘Objects of Desire’ story, Alex Woo’s sterling silver Vida Leaf Pendant is featured.  The Vida Leaf pendant is inspired by the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica.  Through the delicate canopy of leaves and design, the Vida pendant captures the spirit of life that envelops the land.  10% of the proceeds from each piece are donated to the Natural Resources Defense Council’s clean-air efforts. The NRDC’s mission is to safeguard the Earth; its people, plants, animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends.   So wear your Vida pendant as a reminder to appreciate all life, including your own, so take care of yourself and indulge into your desires.

Miley Cyrus must think American Idol and Alex Woo jewelry work well together.  The last time, she was on American Idol it was for their star-studded blockbuster charity event where she wore Alex Woo’s Little Star and Little Note. 

This time, the teen pop sensation came to serve as the contestants’ first guest mentor of the season and wore Alex Woo’s Vida Cuff during her own performance “When I Look at You”.  The song is from Miley’s upcoming movie “The Last Song,” which comes out on March 31st.

Prior to her strong performance and display of talent on the piano, she coached the 11 remaining competitors as they prepared to sing their pick from a list of every number one single in Billboard Hot 100 history and gave a few words of encouragement (and advice) to the contestants. 

Mixing compliments with suggestions on how to make the performances better, the below are a few her more interesting comments.

Tim Urban - ”I would give you two thumbs up. I think you rock. It’s not the personality he’s lacking. It’s just adding riffs or switching it up somehow.”

Lee Dewyze - ”Lee, I think, has an amazing voice. The only thing that is lacking sometimes is his stage presence. Give them a few notes they wouldn’t expect from you.”

Crystal Bowersox – “There were some times when she hit those high notes that it sounded gospel.”

Alex Woo's Designs for Giving

It’s time to give back! This issue of Town & Country is all about philanthropy. On the cover is Julia Koch (pronounced coke), a woman of manners and generosity originally from Arkansas. As Patrick McCarthy, who oversees the lives of the rich and fabulous in W and Women’s Wear Daily stated, ”Julia’s one of those people who occur in New York every few years… She’s beautiful, she loves fashion, she knows how to entertain, she’s married to an extraordinarily rich man. (David Koch)”

Julia Koch’s Personal style: “Simple during the day, but I love to get dressed up when I go out at night with my husband.”

Juila Koch’s Style icons: Betsy Kaiser and Babe Paley.

In the issue, Alex Woo’s Sweni Horn Bangle is featured as part of the designs for giving. Adorn yourself – and support your favorite charity. In this case the African Wildlife Foundation. Additionally, Alex Woo’s Vida Cuff is also worn on the town by Jessica Moment, co-founder of San Francisco’s Philanthropist boutique – the city’s first confluence of sophisticated shopping and old-fashioned altruism.

V-Day gift guide gives love good name

Surprise your sweetheart by making a romantic gesture for Valentine’s Day, by purchasing Alex Woo’s rose gold vermeil leaf earring from the “Vida” collection.  It is the perfect classic gift for ladies of all ages.  They are affordable, yet are stunning and unique.  Visit Alex Woo’s website to view store locations or to shop online!

Product Details: Vida Luxe Cuff in 14K yellow gold with diamonds

JULIE SATHER-BROWNE’S PITCH:  “The open, natural look of this cuff creates and airy feeling that makes a statement but isn’t overpowering, particularly with the scattered diamond leaves and matte finish.  It’s fashion conscious and feminine without being ufssy.  It can go anywhere, it’s seasonless and doesn’t need a specific occasion to be worn.”

TV’s hottest show is back. Gossip Girl started its second season as the most provocative and wildly popular teen drama show on the air. With a perfect mixture of edginess, drama, and sexiness the show exploded into the pop culture consciousness and the characters and plot just gets better and better…

“Never Been Marcused” - Episode 2

“The Dark Night “ (September 15, 2008) Hottie Nate struggles between his feelings for Vanessa (Jessica Szohr) and his more-complicated-by-the-day relationship with Catherine. Jenny (Taylor Momsen) risks losing her internship when she is caught critiquing one of Eleanor Waldorf ‘s designs. Alex Woo jewelry was worn by several of the cast members. The Little Luck Horseshoe and Sweni Earrings were worn by Vanessa. Jenny was wearing Alex Woo’s Little Faith Peace Dove and her dad’s date was wearing the Vida Pendant!

“Bonfire of the Vanity” (November 11, 2008) Blair (Leighton Meester) does not approve of the new man, Cyrus Rose (hilarious guest star Wallace Shawn), in her mother’s life, so she makes it her mission to break up the lovebirds by any means necessary. Throughout the episode, she is seen wearing her “signature B & W” jewelry from Alex Woo.

Christina Applegate with Alex Woo Vida Earrings

Samantha…WHO? That’s what Sam Newly irresistibly played by Christina Applegate would like to know! Upon waking up from an eight-day coma she can’t remember a thing — not her boyfriend, her parents, her job, not even herself. Although some things are best left forgotten Sam is determined to dig up the “goods” on herself. With a little help from her ex-boyfriend ex-doorman her too (make that two) few friends and slightly odd parents Samantha gets a once in a lifetime opportunity to become a bad-girl-gone-good. If you missed the first season, indulge yourself in the ultimate do-over fantasy with the fresh new hit comedy created by Donald Todd and Cecelia Ahern.

In the first episode, Christina Applegate wears Alex Woo’s Vida Earrings after teaming up with her mother for a dance competition in order to beat her mom’s nemesis. Lighting up the dance floor with some unusual moves, Samantha exemplified the true meaning of “Pura Vida” (see left). In the second episode, Christina sports Alex Woo’s Narissa Earrings perfectly at poolside.

One of the most successful anchors and news reporters of her generation, Diane Sawyer possesses a combination of poise and intelligence that audiences respond to and that has lifted her from the ranks to become a chief asset of ABC News. Currently a co-anchor on Good Morning America, she has been named one of the 30 most powerful women in America by Ladies Home Journal and ranked 62nd on Forbes’ “The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women” list in 2007.

Sawyer began her career in broadcasting in 1967 in Louisville, Ky., where she was a reporter for WLKY-TV until 1970. A native of Glasgow, Ky., and raised in Louisville, Sawyer received a B.A. from Wellesley College in 1967 and completed a semester of law school before deciding on a career in broadcasting.

On the show, Diane wears Alex Woo’s Vida Earrings.

By Porsche Slocum

In this month’s edition of Essence magazine, the editors tell you to love your body and provide black women an easy summer shape-up guide for arms and thighs, belly, and how to keep those sexy curves. Plus a special feature with gorgeous Gabrielle Union. As one of Black Hollywood’s “It” girls, Gabrielle Union always puts her best stiletto forward. One glance at her flawless skin, svelte body and impeccable style and it’s evident that Union only gets better with time.

The picture-perfect actress shares her beauty and fitness secrets and admits that learning to love her body was a spiritual and physical process. “It’s definitely about getting on the path to being the person you want to be,” she said.

Throughout the years, we’ve admired her ever-evolving style and hair transformations. Whether you prefer her short and sassy or long and luxurious, Tinseltown’s girl-next-door is always a mane attraction.

In the perfect fit feature, Alex Woo’s jewelry including the Vida pendant beautifully fit these models with long dresses in every shape and size.

Denise Richards: Setting the Record Straight
In this issue of Us Weekly, the Hills star Heidi Montag makes an emotional decision to forgive the man who humilated her and asks Spencer for a ring, while Denise Richards dishes all. Part of celebrity’s biggest scandals, Denise talks about ex Charlie Sheen, Heather Locklear and admits she has “a weakness for guys that have dark hair and are passionate in bed, what is wrong with that?” So whether you are team Denise or team Charlie or have no care, there is no question she is looking very stylish wearing Alex Woo’s sexy Vida Cuff.

Denise Richards Brief Bio
Born on February 17, 1972 in Downers Grove, Illinois, she moved to California to attend high school at El Camino High class of 1989. After graduation, she began to pursue her acting career in Los Angeles and broke out with “Starship Troopers” and “Wild Things”. Other notable films include James Bond’s “The World Is Not Enough”, “Scary Movie 3″, and “Blonde and Blonder.”

This Minute You Want to Know About…

The premier magazine that offer’s revealing, insider’s look at all the trends and personalities important to the entertainment industry, Us Weekly is packed with fascinating celebrity news reports that take you way beyond the headlines covering the romances, the scandals and the people behind them.

Tis the season to make a difference! The best presents under the tree will not only wow loved ones, but will also help out worthy causes. Whether you’re going green like Leonardo DiCaprio is or have a heart for orphaned kids like Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt do, there’s something just right in Us’s roundup of celeb-endorsed goodies.

Natural Resources Defense Council – Katharine Heigl adores Alex Woo’s 14-karat yellow-gold and diamond necklace. 10 percent of sales goes to the environmental action group. Featured is Vida Pendant. Other items from the list included Jessica Alba’s Gucci Indy bag for UNICEF, and Jessica Lopez’s Aristabrat onesies for Women in Distress.

Given the many vivid palettes and flattering styles available for bridesmaids, mixing and matching dresses come naturally.  In this photos, Alex Woo’s Vida Cuff is featured.

Shimmer&Shine:  Alex Woo’s Vida leaf necklace in 14K rose gold and diamonds, which is inspired by the foliage of Costa Rica, is featured in the Shimmer and Shine story.

The TrendWrap:  Jingle, jangle, an arm full of bangles! Lots of skinny bangles stacked for maximum impact are summer’s must-have accesory, and those sparkling with diamonds are power packed.  Mix and match a bunch to create a personal declaration of style!  Photographed are Alex Woo’s Sienna bangles.

Jingle, jangle

Fashion & Style: Purchasing Power

Town & Country features the latest in luxury, from beautiful homes, sumptuous dining to exotic locations. In 12 gorgeous annual issues, Town & Country covers the arts, fashion and culture, bringing the best of everything to America’s trendsetters. This month – a special philanthropy issue – Iman’s latest role as a crusader for kids is featured alongside articles about the power of giving.

As America’s premier lifestyle magazine for the affluent, Town & Country shares and shapes its readers’ discerning tastes in fashion and this month fashion Alex Woo’s stylish Vida Cuff is sumptuously photographed and featured.

The most widely read magazine in America, Parade Magazine generally needs no introduction. With a circulation of 32 million, it began as a small publication and sold on newsstands for a nickel. Today, PARADE is carried by nearly 400 of the nation’s finest Sunday newspapers and reaches 74 million Americans every week who value it for the fun and information of Personality Parade and James Brady’s celebrity profiles.

In this week’s issue, the former Will & Grace star, Debra Messing, talks about her jump to the big screen, working in Australia on her new movie, The Starter Wife, and more. In the interview with James Brady, she reveals “It’s a dream part for an actress. But it also parallels my life in that, after eight years on Will & Grace, I’m starting over. When we wrapped our series last year, I asked myself, ‘What do I do now?’” After five Emmy nods, in this new movie, she leads the sexy, savvy and wickedly funny tour de force about life after divorce and one woman’s quest to redefine herself.

In the photo shoot by Timothy White, Debra Messing was photographed wearing a number of Alex Woo’s accessories from the Chiara earrings, Sienna bangles, Narissa Earrings, and Vida Pendant.

Of the two boys on the cover of Vanity Fair’s Green Issue, it’s hard to say which one is more irresistible: Leonardo DiCaprio or Knut, the three and a half month old polar bear cub. Featuring a 20-page spread with environmental notables and celebrities, and powerful articles highlighting environmental concerns and eco-power glamour and passion, Vanity Fair’s commitment to reporting on the threat to our precious environment is impressive.

On the Fanfare page, “Green Treasures” included Alex Woo’s Vida Collection, inspired from her trip to the lush rain forests of Costa Rica. Ten percent of the proceeds from each piece goes to support the Natural Resources Defense Council’s clean-air efforts.