NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 05: Fashion designer Monique Pean attends the Tanya Taylor fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2014 at Industria Studios on September 5, 2013 in New York City. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images)
Never in my wildest philanthropic dreams could I have conjured utilizing fossilized walrus and wooly mammoth ivory to provide clean drinking water to over 5,000 people for the next 20 years. Well, that is exactly what Monique Peán is doing through her unique approach to business and her creative jewelry. Monique was kind enough to spend some time with me at Couture 2011, and discuss her journey and inspirations into the future of her company and her designs.
I asked her bluntly, “Why”? “What was the initial “moment” for you”? Monique communicated the beautiful story of her sister who passed away 5 years ago at the young age of 16. Even at 16 her sister left a legacy of philanthropy. At the time, Monique was working at Goldman Sachs, and searching for “more”. ”How could I change my life and help others”? Change? Monique is an inspiration!!! Period… She took her love of art and culture and began working with indigenous artists from all over the world. She provides work for artists that help her create her jewelry by using conflict free and devastation free stones and recycled gold and platinum to create one of a kind pieces of wearable art. With the money provided through the jewelry sales she has been able to empower communities and individuals from challenging places like Haiti, Malawi and Mozambique. For the complete story and more information please visit her website at www.moniquepeán.com.
Monique’s beautiful jewelry collection consists of rare materials and at the same time providing a cool chic look. Monique combines geometric shapes with the brilliance of diamonds. Her use of bold black ebony contrasting with the fresh cool color of ivory is used to create bangles, bracelets, rings and necklaces. From what I experienced seeing her collection at the Couture Show, her pieces can become addicting. You just want to keep layering and stacking, which can become a bit costly, but how many times can you say your jewelry truly helps save lives.
I was so impressed having met Monique and learning more about her singular approach to fostering other artists as well as creating her own designs. The platform that she provides through the memory and spirit of her sister is both personal and global as she continues to grow helping and creating beautiful designs and relationships along the way. Thanks, Monique for the visit “in the house,” great luck with your endeavors into the future. Look good and feel good in MP.
