LIFESTYLE
Gypsy
Gypsy: Jewelry for those who “Stray the Course”
An interview with founders Jeanette and Roger Simon
As a flight attendant, Jeanette Simon took every opportunity to travel, passionately
exploring fashion through the various cultures she encountered. In Turkey, Ottoman-era
jewelry resonated strongly with her, inspiring her and husband Roger to launch Gypsy in
2009. Based in Naples, Florida, the couple, along with their son Arron and his wife Annie,
import jewelry and accessories handmade in Istanbul using traditional techniques.
Q: Why does Gypsy focus on Turkish artisanry?
A:
Turkey is not only a trans-continental crossroads in the literal sense; it bursts with
a vibrant and harmonious blending of many artistic cultures, owing to its strategic
placement along the Silk Road. There’s no end to the inspiration and the level of
craftsmanship. We have, however, ventured beyond to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where we
source our hand-crafted silk and felted-wool scarves.
Q: What is your best-selling product?
A:
Definitely the Good Fortune Pomegranate Locket.
The pomegranate motif symbolizes fertility and good
fortune across European and Middle Eastern countries,
and has meaning in Islamic, Jewish and Christian traditions
alike. The locket is absolutely arresting when fashioned with
seeds of deep red-dyed jade. It definitely gets noticed as
something uniquely beautiful, which is what the Gypsy
woman is all about!
Q: What new products will you be introducing at
the winter NY NOW?
A:
We have a lot of new designs to introduce this winter,
including cuffs that feature a new dragon motif. The filigree
detail work make them appear delicate, while up close, the
dramatic dragons make a striking statement of undeniable
strength. It has everything we love – versatility in style, yet
distinctive and powerful symbolism. We also will feature
one-of-a-kind turquoise belt buckles, which are true
masterworks.
“Retailers who shop NY NOW have a good eye for
quality craftsmanship. They are globally minded
enough to recognize unique styles from other parts
of the world that are timeless in their beauty and
meaning.”
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