Shay Lowe is taking the accessories world by storm. She has been recognized as one of the top accessory designers in the country and the Shay Lowe Jewellery Wedding Collection is exclusive to Kleinfeld Canada at Hudson’s Bay. Pieces are available in store and will also soon be available online. We caught up with her recently while she was in New York City working on her next project.
1. Tell us about your exclusive wedding collection for Kleinfeld Canada at Hudson’s Bay. What inspired you? What makes it unique?
I am so excited about this collection and couldn’t be more thrilled to have the collection exclusive to Kleinfeld Canada. The pieces are bold, beautiful, vintage inspired, and most importantly – you can wear them again. This was really important to me when designing the pieces. When you’re making an investment in your wedding accessories not only do you want to feel incredible on your wedding day but you also want to be able to enjoy the pieces for years to come. Many of the pieces in the collection are also great for bridesmaids and mother-of-the-bride. I wanted the collection to be all encompassing. The pieces are unique because they have that bold sparkle signature to Shay Lowe Jewellery, and they’re reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour.
2. Why is being in Kleinfeld Canada so exciting for you?
It is such an honour to be a part of Kleinfeld Canada. Everyone has heard of the TV hit show, “Say Yes to the Dress” based at Kleinfeld in NYC. They are a bridal institution. Having Kleinfeld come to Canada is so exciting for brides-to-be because there is truly nothing like it in Canada. The space is truly spectacular (over 20,000+ sq feet) and the collections are so beautifully curated. Their services are exceptional, their staff are best of the best, and they are dedicated to making your experience there one-of-a-kind. To be a part of this is something so important to my brand, and I love nothing more than making sure brides-to-be get that touch of sparkle they are looking for and making them happy.
3. What are the latest trends we are seeing in bridal accessories?
Going into 2014 there is definitely a bit of a colour trend with bridal gowns in the nude and soft rose tones. I designed a rose pearl statement necklace that is truly unique. Statement necklaces are still very on trend and are definitely a must-have on your special day. If you’re not wearing a statement necklace to the ceremony, you’re wearing one to the reception. Brides love making a change and adding that special piece to dance the night away! Headpieces and embellished belts are other top trends. There is a wonderful designer Erin Fitzpatrick who designs the most stunning crystal belts.
4. When shopping for accessories for their wedding, what should brides keep in mind? The style of dress? Wedding venue? Hair style?
You definitely want to make sure you are comfortable in what you are wearing, and that it’s something you feel totally amazing in. Statement necklaces look best with strapless gowns. The key is to make sure it’s sitting properly and at the right length. I always do jewellery fittings with my brides so that the piece sits perfectly. Sometimes we add extenders so that they can adjust the length in future.
You don’t want to wear everything at once – earrings, necklace, and a bracelet. It’s too busy. Keep the focus on one piece that doesn’t interfere with your dress. Having said that, I really think it is important to always have your ears ‘dressed’, even if it is a stud earring along with one other statement piece. Otherwise it looks unfinished. Your accessories should tie in beautifully with the overall look of your dress and theme of your wedding. If you are wearing your hair down and have chosen statement earrings as the focus – make sure they’re big enough to stand out so you can actually see the earrings.
5. Sometimes wedding accessories can be an investment. What advice do you have for brides who want to make smart choices in terms of fashion and cost? (Eg. choose something that you can wear in future?)
When investing in your wedding accessories, you want to keep longevity in mind. You want to be able to wear the pieces again and enjoy them.There is something out there for every bride in terms of budget. Go with what you feel is right and the most beautiful in!
Here’s a sneak peek from the Shay Lowe Collection.