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CCXX diamond belt buckles, inspired by equestrian lifestyle, are as though you’re wearing jewelry around your waist. Equestrian Stylist got exclusive access to speak to designer, Karen Stefani. She takes us through her journey of designing these elegant belt buckles and her inspiration for her art. The buckles can be worn on satin, velvet or a variety of leather straps. Wear them with a pair of breeches, or a black-tie dress, and you’ll feel like a queen either way. With carat weights ranging from over 3-10 carats, the diamonds are highest clarity set into white gold. CCXX recently expanded their retail presence to the Wellington/Palm Beach area and will be carried by Michelle Farmer Collaborate at the International Polo Club throughout the Palm Beach Polo season, though orders can also be place through the website here.
1 ) How did CCXX Designs come about?
I have always appreciated accessories, and one of my favorites has always been a belt buckle. For years, I waited for a designer to offer an elegant diamond belt buckle. I envisioned pairing it with everything from a gown to my everyday denim. I longed for something that expressed my personal style over a brand, and more special than a plain leather strap. Knowing what I wanted, I began sketching my designs. My designs were inspired by my admiration for estate jewelry. That is how the collection and the brand evolved.
2) The belts look like they would be stunning with a pair of breeches, any pictures?
The buckles have so many magnificent looks , but yes, worn on a pair of breeches is one of my favorites. Recently Paige Bellissimo was featured in the IPC magazine wearing the Minerva design from my collection. In addition, Katherine Bellissimo donned a CCXX Designs buckle for Sunday Polo at the International Polo Club.
3) It’s luxury jewelry on a belt, what is the most popular piece?
Yes, it is fine jewelry, but something a woman can slip on every day. The buckle is a piece of jewelry you don’t need a special occasion to justify wearing. When I put on fine jewelry, it gives me an emotional effect. I want women to wear it for themselves. There is an inner confidence and radiance that comes from wearing something truly beautiful. My first collection is the Goddess Collection, which celebrates the strong virtues of women. When you ask what is the favorite, it is difficult to pick. That is what people love about the designs; they each have a uniqueness that attracts different buyers. That being said, if I had to pick, the Juno, with the sapphires is very popular. What is so extraordinary about my pieces is that the designs can be customized. I recently had a customer request the Juno with emeralds in-place of the sapphires, which was gorgeous.
4) Where do you find inspiration for CCXX Designs?
A few of my Goddess designs were influenced by eras of the past, but truly different details of art and architecture can stir me to begin sketching. A lovely piece of lace that caught my attention is how I began sketching the Terra. My next collection, which I am working on now has a whole different look, but I prefer to keep the details of that one under wraps for now.
5) Where is CCXX Designs retailed?
Currently, CCXX Designs can be purchased through Michelle Farmer, Ahee Jewelers, and Zeiben-Mare.
6) Will the brand be displayed or showcased at any events?
Michelle Farmer will showcase the buckles in her IPC shop throughout polo season in Wellington. I am also in the process of working on some additional upcoming trunk show events.
7) Tell us anything more about CCXX Designs…
One of the wonderful elements of the buckles is that CCXX Designs offers many different leather strap options. It is fun to wear the buckles with a red alligator strap during the day, then at night switch to a black alligator or satin for night. The versatility is endless, but most of all, the buckle becomes a signature of your style, your own brand. Throughout history, buckles were an emblem of honor. With the Goddess Collection, women can honor their own outstanding virtues, or simply because it reflects their inner beauty.
