Hi! Do you mind introducing yourself?
Hi! I am Hilary, founder of De La Paix. Born in 2024, the brand is named in honor of Rue de la Paix, the iconic Paris street which opened in 1806 and has hosted the world’s greatest jewelers. With that legacy in mind, we are inspired to capture the beauty of vintage designs through a lens of accessible, ethical craftsmanship.
Where are you currently?
Mentally, France. Physically, Los Angeles.
How did you arrive at creating your line?
Some of my earliest memories are playing with my mum and my aunt’s jewelry, so I think my love of jewelry must be genetic. I first toyed with the idea 25 years ago but shied away from it for a career in marketing. While I would dabble by designing things for myself and friends here and there, finally, after 25 years, I revisited the idea and here we are.
What are three words that best describe the brand?
Sustainable, Heritage, Timeless.
What does a typical work day look like for you?
It is always a mix of glam and grit. After getting the kids off to school, I always start the day checking in with production. Everything is handmade and in addition to our main collection we do a lot of bespoke work. Making sure everything is on track and our customers are happy is the most important thing. Then I typically sit down to design - my favorite thing. My least favorite thing is editing, but I will spend time just playing with new ideas. Then I sit with the design team to review whatever collection or pieces are in development. Then it is off to meetings with vendors, sourcing etc. Usually by the afternoon I like to get out away from screens to walk or hike and clear my head and give myself a little creative white space. This doesn’t always happen but it certainly helps - mostly with the editing. Then myself or the team does a quality check on pieces going out that day and we close with shipping.
What about jewelry is so exciting to work with?
Each piece of jewelry tells a story. It has a meaning, marks a memory or celebrates a moment. So whether we are making something new that will become part of our customers story and their family heirlooms or we are reviving a vintage piece to give it a new life, I just love that each piece can spark a conversation.
Who is your ultimate jewelry muse?
My mum and my Aunt. I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by strong women in their opinions and sense of style and this line, in some ways, is a tribute to them and hopefully a legacy for my daughters.
Do you have a favorite stone?
Emeralds.
What is your favorite piece available at Broken English?
So hard to choose because I truly design what I want to wear, but currently my favorite piece is our Bouton 5 carat elongated antique cushion cut lab diamond ring. It is so yummy.
Is there anything new and exciting you have coming up?
Yes, always. We are working on some more substantial gold pieces - our customer loves gold and also a line of more delicate pieces to layer and mix more easily.
Best place to find inspiration?
Like so many people, travel and art. Any time or place when you are open, vulnerable and analog I find are the moments best met with inspiration and creativity.
Best soundtrack for designing?
Since seeing Oasis last year I have been on a 90s kick and it’s only ramped up with “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr and Carolyn Bessette”.
Best book you’ve read lately?
I just reread Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion. It’s a classic for a reason.
Best movie or show you’ve watched recently?
“Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr and Carolyn Bessette” and I am also rewatching “The West Wing”.
Best way to wind down after a busy season?
With my family. Being on the go is so hectic and hard. My two kids are just learning to surf and our current favorite thing to do on the weekends is go for a surf and then to Perry’s for brunch. That and a fabulous holiday!
