Cristina Vitiello sold her first jewelry designs in 2005. Four years later you can find her eclectic, whimsical pieces sold at high-end boutiques around the country, she has gained the attention of Jill Scott and Rihanna, and will be showing as a vendor at Philadelphia Fashion Week.
Check out her site
How would you describe your aesthetic?
Cristina Vitiello: I’m always looking for fun, new ways to make the sophisticated and classic look modern and fresh. It is also important for me to make my pieces timeless. I want my customers to be able to wear something over and over again without worrying that it will be out of style next season.
What inspires you?
Cristina Vitiello: What inspires me the most is definitely the color, shape and weight of the stones I source. Often times I’ll buy a stone without having any idea about what the end product will look like. The stone really determines the piece. I love laying lots of different materials out and combining stones that complement each other. On the other hand, when I am really in the “design mode” I like to challenge myself by putting together materials that in no way shape or form go together. It’s like a puzzle to get them to fit and when they do, the result is original, unique, and unexpected.
What unique element are you bringing to Philadelphia Fashion Week?
Cristina Vitiello: I think I will bring a young and fresh perspective to the jewelry component of Philadelphia Fashion Week. I am 24 years old and while I have always made jewelry for myself and others growing up, I only really started my business a couple of years ago and it is just now starting to gain momentum and buzz. I am excited to check out the other designers and learn from them and hopefully people will feel the same about Cristina V.!
What music do you like to listen to while you work?
Cristina Vitiello: I love all kinds of music but have a soft spot for rock and classic rock while working. Its art form inspires me to think outside the box and its relaxing at the same time. Artists that frequent my playlists are Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan.
What person, company or organization would you most like to collaborate with?
Cristina Vitiello: When thinking about the future and possible partnerships and collaborations, I would love the opportunity to work with a young and upcoming designer, such as Alexander Wang, and his exciting design team. At the same time, I am continually impressed by the timeless designs of a designer such as Ralph Lauren.
