Q&A with Leila Kashanipour of LeiVanKash

Leila Kashanipour

We fell in love with LeiVanKash immediately upon seeing the gorgeous Olivia Palermo wearing a beautiful gold rose ring from the label. LeiVanKash is brainchild of Leila Kashanipour, a recent graduate from the famous Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design in London. Even before graduating, Leila began making her mark in the world of jewellery. Her pieces have already landed on the pages of ELLE, Tatler and Grazia, and will soon be arriving at Sophie's Closet. We recently caught up with Leila to discuss her inspirations, her personal style and future aspirations.


LeiVanKash Gold 'Olivia' Rose Ring (AED 1,520)

You went to Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design. Why did you decide to study jewellery?
Well I was very much interested in Fine Arts, specifically painting, when I applied to CSM for my foundation year. I thought that painting was what I wanted to pursue until I took a jewellery course. That's when I fell in love with the making process, the attention given to detail and giving an identity to each piece. So I applied for jewellery design for my BA and the rest is history!

What inspires your designs? Are you influenced by the art and design of your native Iran?
I get inspiration from everywhere! The way I feel, the gemstones I use, colors, nature, fine art and etc. For example vanitas paintings and memento mori were the initial inspiration for my 'Skullmania' collection. And of course, a lot of my pieces such as the 'Persepolis' collection is inspired by my Iranian background and culture. I tend to give my pieces an antique finish as if they were from the days of the Persian Empire.



Do you have certain designers that you admire?
I love the fine jewellery at Dior. There is so much creativity going on there -- it's breathtaking. I am also a huge fan of the Wendy Yue at Annoushka!

How would you describe you personal style?
Hm, hard one! I think I am what happens when London, New York, LA and Paris come together! As one of my good friends puts it "you are a hippie at heart, and your style is a mix between edgy boho chic and total rock chick."

What is your favourite piece from the collection?
The first piece I ever hand carved and my long-time favorite is the 'Olivia Rose' ring. It's very boho cool and it never goes unseen or without a compliment! My skull bracelet never comes off and has kinda become an extra organ. But each piece is special in its own way and they have all received a token of my love at one point.


Olivia Palermo wearing the 'Olivia' ring



What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
I was so honored that Olivia Palermo wore the now called 'Olivia Rose' ring and loved it! But I get proud whenever I receive feedback from supporting friends and fans who appreciate the work that I do!

Do you have any future plans that you can share?
My website is coming to life very soon and I am super excited about that! And on a totally different topic, I becoming a Mrs in July. The rest you will have to wait and see!

To reserve your very own 'Olivia' ring, please contact Sophie.