I pride myself in finding designers that are up and coming or the new “it” person to watch, in the fashion world. Eddie first came into my radar when he won a CFDA award in 2010. After interviewing him I came to find that he has been commissioned to design jewelry for the likes of Marchesa, Proenza Schouler and Josph Altuzarra. His approach is modernistic with a nod to architecture with its geometric shapes and sculptures. I saw his collection at an trunk show at Neiman Marcus and realized what caught my eye from the start, the guy is uber talented. Bottom line-Eddie Borgo is hot and his designs are going to stand the test of time!

SH – Where do you get your inspiration from?

EB – I like to visit the New York picture library. It has a vast catalog if imagery that tracks the visual history of New York through the decades.

SH – What girl do you design for?

EB – Women today understand that jewelry helps to define your look – without taking it over. I love to see women choosing modern jewelry that speaks to them; layering pieces that make sense together; wearing their costume alongside their fine jewelry.

I am most inspired by the women who surround me in my life; unique and beautiful, elegant and educated, steadfast and inimitable, evolving and human. I aways consider this spirit in my work

SH – Who gave you your first big break?

EB – In 2002, I began to create custom pieces for stylists such as Tabitha Simmons, Camilla Nickerson, and Patti Wilson. In the Summer of 2008, I was asked to create the jewelry for Phillip Lim’s SS09 show, at which time I launched my namesake collection.

SH – Tell me about your men’s line?

EB – We launched the men’s collection in 2010. I look to male icons in my research for the collection: Mic
k Jagger, Robert Mapplethorpe, David Bowie, Keith Richards and Iggy Pop. The men’s jewelry market is changing. There were a few brands that had cornered the men’s jewelry market, and those shapes and finishes no longer feel modern. Men are looking for classic everyday pieces that are well designed: a simple pendant in a new shape, a modern signet ring, or a classic ID bracelet with an interesting closure. My men’s collection is a new interpretation of those steadfast ideas.

SH – Did you always know you wanted to design jewelry?

EB – I studied art history in school and became fascinated by the history of adornment. I love the idea that d
ifferent symbols can help to establish a wearer’s identity.

SH – If I wanted to start collecting Eddie Borgo jewelry (which I do) what piece should I start with?

EB – I always recommend starting with out signature cone bracelet. I admire it for its simplicity in design and unique craftsmanship. The bracelet is also offered in a range of scales, colors and materials.