It's no secret that the trends of the past have influenced the style of today. Bold, unconventional, and innovative styles can leave impressions for decades, and though you may recognize the historic origins of today's trends, do you recognize their designers?
To Celebrate Women's History Month, we want to introduce you to 5 iconic women designers who changed jewelry forever.
1. Elsa Schiaparelli (1890-1973)
I'm sure you've heard of Coco Channel, but do you know her rival? Introducing surrealist designer Elsa Schiaparelli!
Schiaparelli was the first female designer to be featured on the cover of Time Magazine. Her bold designs attracted confident, independent women of her time, and world renowned creatives, such as Katharine Hepburn and Salvador Dali. Just like you, we think Elsa would've been a Brax Girl, as she is credited with inventing one of our favorite shades, Shocking Pink!
Pictured below is Marilyn Monroe wearing Shocking Pink
2. Paloma Picasso (1949)
Does the name ring a bell? As the youngest daughter of Pablo Picasso, Paloma Picasso was born with artistry in her blood.
Known for her use of color and semiprecious stones, she reinvented costume jewelry! Although she was a luxury designer, she wanted to make her jewelry more accessible and in 1980 was invited to become a jewelry designer at Tiffany & Co. Her signature collection, Paloma’s Graffiti, changed the world of fashion, as she took what was considered vandalism and crafted it into coveted designs. Take a look at some of her vibrant jewelry below.
3. Marianne Ostier (1902-1976)
Ostier’s jewelry was defined by organic textures and intricate designs. Her background in painting and sculpture helped to shape her signature abstract style. Ostier mostly created pieces for private clients, rather than mass producing styles, so her work may be less well known today, but it is certainly rare and treasured!
Pictured below is Queen Geraldine of Albania's Ostier Tiara 
4. Jeanne Toussaint (1887-1976)
Do you love Cartier’s Panthère designs? Meet the woman who inspired & popularized the iconic style: Jeanne Toussaint.
Appointed as the Director of Fine Jewelry for Cartier in 1933, she used her “Toussaint Taste” to influence the most elegant women of her time, such as the Duchess of Windsor. Her daring designs were both avant-garde and rooted in realism. Toussaint’s influence can still be seen today, as the panther remains a beloved and highly coveted symbol from Cartier.
Pictured below is Anne Hathaway wearing a glamorous Toussaint design that was featured in the 2018 film, Oceans 8
5. Suzanne Belperron (1900-1983)
Every piece by Parisian designer Suzanne Belperron was unlike any other. She tested boundaries, working with semiprecious stones, “virgin gold,” and the most unusual materials, even vegetables! Belperron’s style was so unique she didn’t even bother adding a signature, "her style was her signature."
Pictured below is a vintage Belperron piece
SEE EVEN MORE OF THESE GROUNDBREAKING DESIGNS ON OUR INSTAGRAM @BRAXJEWELERS