As Seen on Tv

IN 1998, SHOSHANNA GRUSS founded a clothing company to create apparel that fit a more diverse array of body types. Over the past decade, she has focused on clothes that combine a classic flair with a modern edge. This month she’s making the move into accessories by launching her first jewelry collection, created especially for QVC. Shoshanna’s Fashion Jewelry Essentials debuts August 10 and features signature pieces like pear chandelier earrings in silver, gold or gunmetal; crystal bangle bracelets; and a reversible “statement” necklace.

“I’ve always wanted to create a jewelry line to complement my Shoshanna collection,” says Gruss. “Jewelry and accessories, to me, are an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe; they’re what make her look her own.” Her design aesthetic for accessories parallels that of her apparel. “It was important to me to create a jewelry line as versatile as my clothing,” she says. “I want women to have fun with my line and mix and match the pieces with everything in their wardrobe.”

When planning the collection, Gruss reached out to jewelry maven Judith Ripka, well regarded for her collections’ sophisticated beauty. Gruss is a longtime fan of Ripka’s work, so she was an ideal source from which Gruss could learn the art of jewelry design.

“I think Shoshanna is a very talented designer, and it’s been wonderful to work with her,” says Ripka, who launched her own QVC jewelry collection 13 years ago. “I’ve always loved her sense of style and contemporary point of view.” That style is epitomized by Gruss’ reversible necklace ($73): The piece has a matte side that pairs well with office wear or a jeans-and-T-shirt ensemble, but it can be flipped to the polished side for an elegant evening look. “Jewelry and accessories redefine the mood of an outfit, taking a look from sweet to chic, from classic to cutting edge,” says Gruss.

The items in the collection will allow any wearer to be comfortable experimenting with a variety of different looks. But if a woman is uncertain which pieces best accentuate her personal style? “Buy what you love,” recommends Ripka, “and it never goes out of style!”