Stylecritics had a Q & A with L.A. designer Devon Leigh, the winner of the 33rd Annual Dallas Award for Fashion Jewelry. Her line is an impressive collection of natural semi-precious stones with textured gold, hammered silver and lustrous rhodium. It’s versatile, unique and simply beautiful. If you think you’ve seen it before, it’s probably because it has been featured on Sex and the City, Oprah and in fashion magazines. Or maybe you’ve seen it on Elizabeth Taylor, Britney Spears, Kate Bosworth, Christina Applegate and oh, the list goes on.

Devon Leigh: I feel honored to be nominated with such amazing designers and to win this award was even more satisfying. This is an event that you cannot prepare for, but hope to be recognized for your work. I am very lucky to have such a supportive and loyal clientele throughout the nation!

S: What are your favorites pieces in your collection and why? Where do you get inspiration? Your collection is to die for!

DL: I really don’t have favorite pieces - I love them all the same. In some ways my jewelry is about evolution; my evolution as a woman, a wife, a mother and a designer. I design jewelry intuitively based on perception of style and beauty that is both decadent and elegant. The pieces in many ways reflect aspects of my own character, refined with a balance of adventure. One of my favorite things to do is pair an elegant piece with something as simple as jeans and t-shirt. The pieces really lend themselves to that - adding a touch of luxury to an otherwise casual look.

S: Did you always know you were going to design jewelry? How did you get into this business?

DL: I had an no idea I was going to design jewelry. I actually went to college for film and screenwriting and worked in the movie industry for three years before designing jewelry as a hobby. My small hobby which people connected and responded to immediately eventually turned into a full time career.

S: Do you need to go to school for this art?

DL: It comes naturally for me.

S: If you were to dress up a celebrity with your jewelry, what jewelry would go with that celebrity? Like Jennifer Lopez would definitely like to wear your bangles.

DL: Beyonce and Jessica Simpson would love my big, signature earrings. Yes, Jennifer Lopez would love my bangles and Kate Hudson would love my cuffs. Everyone would love my necklaces because they are so versatile.

S: Your advice to struggling designers out there.

DL: Patience is a virtue.

Check Devon Leigh’s amazing collection and prepare to drool!

The collection had me at bangles and cuffs, I had to look for my jaw - I think I dropped it! As a t- shirt and jeans person, I rely heavily on accessories. Devon’s pieces are just the things you need to complete your fashion statement. I love it!

Rating:  5

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