It’s no surprise that we love seeing how our fans style their ALEX AND ANI jewelry. Whether through a mixed metal bangle set or a stack of meaningful rings, each style statement is an empowering expression of originality.
In celebration of self-empowerment, we’ve collaborated with fashion blogger Odette Wakim (@odettemariewakim) of Sparkle in Gold. We invite you to learn about her personal story and how she styles her ALEX AND ANI Chain Station expandable necklace to reflect her unique personality.
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What is your background in? Did it inspire you to consider this as a career?
As a child, I dreamt of one day working for a fashion magazine where I would be able to write, live, and breathe fashion. My love for fashion led me to study fashion merchandising and design at the University of Rhode Island. I knew once I graduated that I wanted to eventually work for myself, I just did not know how. I never thought that one day my job would be that of a blogger, but it truly encompasses everything I love – fashion, writing, and building a platform full of life and style.
What challenges have you encountered and how did you overcome them?
I think finding my voice in a career that tends to be over saturated has and continues to be the biggest challenge. It’s hard not to compare or doubt that I am creating great content, but I have learned to keep my focus on myself and be proud of the work I am creating.
How do you handle criticism and what do you believe it teaches you?
I try to not to take criticism personally. If the critiques are true, I take a moment to really comprehend what the person has to say, and make a game plan on how I can do my best to make a change. If the criticism is false, I turn the other cheek and don’t let it bother me.
What is your personal definition of success?
Being truly happy. Yes, I have plenty of goals that I want to reach, but it’s being truly happy throughout all of the work, progress, and growth that makes it all worthwhile.
What advice do you have for others trying to break into the scene?
Always be yourself. It’s so hard not to compare yourself to other people in our industry and wonder if you should be more like them. The answer is no, always no. Be you and you will create beautiful work.
What sort of characteristics and/or values do you look for in brands that you work with or purchase from?
I love working with brands that have a strong philosophy and mission behind the product they are creating. I also value brands that give back to the world through charities or to communities in need.
What particular ALEX AND ANI symbols or pieces resonate with you?
The Endless Knot has always been one of my favorite charms to wear as a bangle or necklace charm. I believe that we are all divinely connected through love, and the Endless Knot perfectly embodies that.
How does ALEX AND ANI play into your unique style?
I love wearing ALEX AND ANI jewelry because each piece has a meaning that calls to someone differently. It’s amazing how we are all in a sense wearing similar pieces of jewelry, yet for all different reasons. I choose ALEX AND ANI pieces that resonate with my feminine style, yet have a personal meaning behind them.
What’s your go-to accessory and why?
I love to wear my ALEX AND ANI Chain Station expandable necklace! It goes with any style or outfit I am wearing, and it’s fun to choose which charms I want to wear on it that day.
Do you have a signature “look” when styling your ALEX AND ANI jewelry?
I love dainty or feminine jewelry, so I tend to go for more of the delicate pieces that when all paired together, look amazing!
#CARRYLIGHT is a call to action – a global movement to spark a flame of peace, love, and hope. In tandem with our LIBERTY COPPER Collection, featuring original copper preserved from the Statue of Liberty’s centennial restoration, we are illuminating the world in unity, creating one light indivisible. What do you #CARRYLIGHT for?
I #CARRYLIGHT for my boyfriend, Najib. He is the backbone to all the endeavors I have started and supports me through it all – even on the toughest of days!