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Hartford Women's Style ExaminerRebecca Giantonio
While working as a designer’s assistant in New York City, Southington native Monique Malkowski watched gorgeous jewelry made that would have emptied her wallet. Four years later, she took what she had learned in the fashion industry and created Silent Gypsy, a line of unique, free-spirited mixed-metal pieces under $100.
The pieces are a mix of brass, silver and bronze in a range of designs, from long chains that can be layered or wrapped twice to big cocktail rings, chandelier earrings and unforgettable charms adorning necklaces and bracelets.
“In my designs, there are no rules,” said Malkowski. “There are no matching sets, but all the pieces can be mixed and matched. The line mirrors my no-effort, little-thought style.”
The line, which launched in June, took only four months to create. “It was a lot of trial and error,” said Malkowski. “I’d wear if out to see if it fell in a weird place or worked with outfits. I only design jewelry that I or my friends would wear.”
When asked about the line’s unique name, Malkowski explained that jewelry is a silent expression of who each person is, and gypsies have an appeal that comes from being comfortable in their own skin. “I love their look – they wear every article of clothing and piece of jewelry they own.”
Malkowski has a similar style sense. “I love to wear skinny jeans and a tank and pile on the jewelry. It’s easy, and you can wear these basics more than once by simply changing the jewelry you wear. Accessories are a great way to easily update your wardrobe.”
Preview Malkowski’s line below, then check out her Web site to see the full line and purchase pieces.
Orion Necklace, $69
Cobblestone ring, $35.jpg)
Rosary key necklace, $56
