Creative Guru Michelle Cardone

At Livewell, Michelle combines her passion for graphic design, jewelry, and marketing to help us look our best. Meet her in this month’s guest interview.

When and how did your passion for jewelry start?

I think I was born with it. I was an artistic and crafty kid, and at around thirteen I began to make and sell jewelry at local craft shows. But I absolutely fell in love with antique jewelry on my first trip to the Portobello flea market in London when I was fifteen.  Ever since I have been an avid collector and flea market goer.

What was your first purchase?

I coveted a Victorian sterling silver stamp holder that hung on a chatelaine –  short chains that Victorian women would wear attached to their belts, used for carrying keys or other items. It’s stored away in one of my many jewelry boxes. These days I’d say I yearn for English Georgian pieces, fine jewelry from the 70’s and 80’s, and vintage YSL.

How do you express your passion for jewelry?

I have always worn a ton of black and use my jewelry to make a statement that either dresses up or dresses down my look. I wear things that I love. Today I am wearing a vintage cabochon moonstone ring on my pinky finger.

What did you study in art school?

Graphic design and advertising. I had concentrations in both metalsmithing and photography.

Where did that lead you professionally?

I worked for over 20 years as a creative director at Conde Nast  for several of its magazines –  Glamour, Lucky –  and then I ran the corporate design department.

Have you had a best job?

At Conde Nast, I was surrounded by the best creatives in the business and I loved it. But Livewell has been my favorite job yet. I feel like Livewell is the culmination of my passions: design, marketing and jewelry. And I love the team. It is small, but it’s a powerhouse of uber-talented and inspiring women.

What inspires you about Livewell jewelry?

I love Claire's designs and how classic the pieces can be, but always with a bit of edge. I love the way Livewell pieces can take jeans and a t-shirt or leggings and a sweater to a whole new level. Polished and chic.

What do you like most about the Livewell brand?

Claire’s commitment to simple, beautiful designs is one thing I love. I also really appreciate the total trust I get with Claire. That trust empowers me to do my best work.

Do you have a favorite piece?

It’s hard to choose just one, but definitely the flatend for every day. I love the big chunky chain necklaces with a stone pendant as a statement piece.

 Finally, what is your ingredient for a life well lived?

 Creativity