DECEMBER 2024
INTERVIEWS: VERONICA
THARMALIGAN
CHANTALLE
LUBERTO & BAHARNAZ
TRAVEL
DESTINATION
ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
DECEMBER 2024
INTERVIEWS: VERONICA
THARMALIGAN
CHANTALLE
LUBERTO & BAHARNAZ
TRAVEL
DESTINATION
ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
BY SHOTA BOCHORISHVILI
FASHION:
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EDITORIAL PRODUCERs
JOSE-MARIA
JIMENEZ
YASMINE KATEB
AREZOO JALALI
DARIA VALIGURAS
KRYSTLE LINA
JESSE GANT
YVES BRIGHT
JAMIE COATES
Dear readers,
FASHION EDITOR
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS retouchers
OLIVIA CRUTCHLEY
CLAUDIA LOMBARDO
SHARON JANE
KUCHMA OKSANA
BLUEMODE CREATIVE STUDIO
As the year draws to a close, we celebrate the spirit of the season with a December issue brimming with elegance, artistry, and timeless sophistication. This month’s cover star, DARIYA COLPO , embodies these very qualities. As the owner and founder of the I TALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE in Beverly Hills, Dariya brings old-world craftsmanship to modern luxury, curating pieces that are as bold as they are delicate. In our exclusive feature, she shares her journey and insights into building a brand that reflects both her heritage and her vision.
This issue also shines a light on the designers shaping tomorrow’s fashion. We sit down with BAHARNAZ and VERONICA THARMALIGAN , two visionaries redefining what it means to merge tradition with innovation in their designs. Their passion and dedication to their craft offer a glimpse into the future of haute couture.
In a special feature, we speak with CHANTALLE LUBERTO , a force to be reckoned with both on the runway and in the world of athletics. Her story of discipline, ambition, and beauty reminds us that the strongest designs are often those forged through hard work and determination.
No December issue would be complete without a touch of travel and holiday glamour. Our Travel section whisks you away to the winter wonderland of ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND , where luxury meets alpine charm in the most enchanting of settings. Whether you’re drawn to snow-capped slopes or cozy fireside escapes, this destination is one for the bucket list.
Finally, our editors have curated the ultimate Christmas Eve shopping guide, featuring 5 luxurious looks to ensure you dazzle during the festivities. From sumptuous textures to sparkling silhouettes, these handpicked ensembles promise to make this holiday season truly unforgettable.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. From all of us at QP FASHION MAGAZINE , we wish you a season filled with warmth, love, and, of course, impeccable style.
Warmly,
JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ Editor-in-Chief // QPmag
EDITORIAL: WALL FEMME
EDITORIAL: KOKO
COVER: DARIYA COLPO
EDITORIAL: IT GIRL
INTERVIEW: CHANTALLE LUBERTO
EDITORIAL: ROUTE 66
INTERVIEW: BAHARNAZ
EDITORIAL: EYE CANDY
SHOPPING GUIDE: CHRISTMAS EVE
EDITORIAL: BRIANNA BARDHI
INTERVIEW: VERONICA THARMALIGAN
EDITORIAL: MADE IN MILAN
TRAVEL: ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
EDITORIAL: BIRDS OF A FEATHER
TALENT: DARIYA COLPO @italianjewelryboutique
PHOTOGRAPHER: SHOTA BOCHORISHVILI @shotarry
fashion stylist: TATA KARTVELISHVILI @tata_kartvelishvili
MakeUp Artist: SKYE MACDONALD @skye_macdonald
WARDROBE PROVIDED BY TATA PR LA ARCHIVES @tata_la
PHOTOGRAPHER: DARIA VALIGURAS @valiguras
MODEL: SANNA BACKSTROM @sannabackstrom
AGENCY: ELITE MODEL MANAGEMENT NYC @elitenyc
PHOTOGRAPHER: ALINA @troyan_photo_ MODEL: KOKO ILSANKER @kokoilsanker
FASHION STYLIST: ALINA @troyan_photo_ MAKEUP ARTIST: VANESSA CISULLO @cisullo_makeup_artist
Total look GUESS
Interview by JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ
Step into the radiant world of ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE , where tradition meets innovation, and craftsmanship transcends generations. At the helm of this luxurious venture is Dariya Colpo , whose upbringing in Vicenza, Italy —a city renowned for its jewelry artisans—ignited her passion for the art of adornment. Dariya ’s family legacy, rooted in over 50 years of creating jewelry for some of the world’s most prestigious brands, inspired her vision to bring this unparalleled artistry directly to a discerning clientele.
Located in Beverly Hills , the boutique is a testament to her commitment to delivering not just jewelry, but a timeless experience. With a direct-fromfactory approach, ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE offers extraordinary quality at remarkable value, catering to those who seek exclusivity and elegance in every detail. From customized pieces to emerging trends like mix-and-match earrings, every creation reflects the enduring legacy of Italian craftsmanship.
TALENT: DARIYA COLPO @italianjewelryboutique
PHOTOGRAPHER: SHOTA BOCHORISHVILI @shotarry
fashion stylist: TATA KARTVELISHVILI @tata_kartvelishvili
MakeUp Artist: SKYE MACDONALD @skye_macdonald
WARDROBE PROVIDED BY TATA PR ARCHIVE @tata_la
ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE
Dariya, could you share the inspiration behind founding ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE and what led you to establish it in Beverly Hills?
I grew up immersed in the world of my family’s factory, in Vicenza, Italy , which has been manufacturing jewelry for the world’s most prestigious luxury brands for over 50 years. Being surrounded by unparalleled craftmanship and meticulous attention to detail instilled in me a profound appreciation for the excellence in jewelry. This legacy inspired me to create a boutique experience that brings the same elite level of craftsmanship directly to the public, offering limited and exclusive collections.
Beverly Hills , with its status as a global luxury icon, was the perfect location to bring this vision to life. It draws a discerning clientele who seek not only exceptional quality but also exclusivity and timeless elegance, making it the ideal setting to showcase the unparalleled artistry of Italian jewelry.
small, everyone wears a piece of jewelry. I strive to have something for everyone in the boutique, catering to all price ranges, so that every woman or man can feel special with what they wear.
Italian jewelry often carries a sense of legacy and heritage. How do you balance tradition with modern trends in your selections?
Balancing tradition with modernity is at the heart of our philosophy. While we honor the timeless techniques and motifs that define Italian jewelry, we also embrace bold, modern designs that cater to contemporary tastes. The key is creating harmony between the past and present, ensuring that every piece feels both timeless and current.
“We offer unparalleled quality with a value that is impossible to find elsewhere. ”
What is your vision for the boutique, and how does it stand out from other jewelry stores in the area?
The vision for the boutique is to create an immersive experience where clients feel connected to the rich legacy of Italian jewelry while having fun and enjoying a coffee or a glass of wine. The difference lies in the price—our jewelry comes directly from the factories in Italy, offering unparalleled quality with a value that is impossible to find elsewhere.
How do you curate the pieces in your collection? Jewelry is a necessity of daily life—no matter how
What are some of the qualities you think define Italian craftsmanship in jewelry, and why is that so important to you and your brand?
Italian craftsmanship is defined by meticulous attention to detail, innovative design, and the use of the finest materials. It’s a tradition passed down through generations, where artistry and technique converge to create something extraordinary. For me, preserving and showcasing this heritage is not just important—it’s a responsibility to keep this legacy alive and share it with the world.
Do you have any personal favorites among the pieces or collections in the boutique right now?
If so, what makes them special to you?
Yes, the most special piece is one that my mom made for me. I’ve been surfing since the age of six, so she created a necklace that features a surfboard, the waves, the sun, and two diamonds representing me and her. Like every Italian would say, la mamma è amore puro (mom is pure love).
Burgundy trench
ALEKSANDRE AKHALKATSISHVILI from TATA PR ARCHIVE
Earrings, necklace, bracelets and rings LISA COLPO from ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE
and rings
How do you approach customization or bespoke services for clients who want something unique?
Pretty simple: they tell us what they want, and we go above and beyond to make it happen! Customization is an essential part of ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE . Every person deserves a piece that is perfect for them. Whether it’s sourcing the rarest stone, creating a custom piece from scratch with personal meaning, or crafting a design that is particularly dear to the client, we meticulously curate every detail to bring their imagination to life, and ready to wear!
What are some trends in fine jewelry that you’re excited about, and how are they reflected in the offerings at ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE ?
For example EERA , a brand we love and carry, coming from the visionary designers and founders Romy Blanga and Chiara Capitani , launched the trend of the single earring, that you can mix and match as you please. The possibility to play with your pieces, and have multiple combinations out of one piece is an essential that ITALIAN JEWELRY BOUTIQUE offers.
Do you host any special events or exhibitions to engage with the local community or attract new customers?
All the time, we love nothing more than hosting a great party where people can enjoy wine,
prosciutto, and beautiful jewelry. One of our signature events is called “Meet the Designer,” where clients have the opportunity to meet the actual creators of their jewelry, converse about their inspirations, and acquire exclusive, limited-edition pieces.
We also frequently collaborate with other artists. For example, last week, we hosted a party featuring Dave Locatelli , a world-renowned and Guinness World Record -holding pianist from Bergamo, Italy . Dave also happens to create sculptures under the name Any M All , which now became a permanent art collection at the boutique.
The events and the collaborations add a dynamic and artistic element to the boutique experience, making every event truly special.
What has your experience been like working with TATA PR LA as your PR agency, and how have they helped shape the brand's visibility and reach in the luxury market?
Working with TATA PR LA , under the guidance of an exceptionally talented leader, has been an invaluable asset to our brand. Their expertise brings a distinctive perspective, ensuring we are consistently connected with the most sought-after stylists and positioned at the heart of exclusive, high-profile events. They go above and beyond to secure our presence in globally renowned publications, amplifying our reach to a sophisticated and discerning audience.
“Beverly Hills draws a discerning clientele who seek not only exceptional quality but also exclusivity and timeless elegance. ”
INGOROKVA
Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings LISA COLPO from ITALIAN
JEWELRY BOUTIQUE
PHOTOGRAPHER: JOHN-PAUL PIETRUS @johnpaulpietrus
MODEL: SUZANNE EMANUELSON
FASHION STYLIST: WENDY TEE @wendtee
WARDROBE: GOMEZ-GRACIA LONDON @gomezgracialondon
MAKEUP ARTIST: DORITA NISSEN @doritanissenmakeup
Interview by JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ
Chantalle Luberto is redefining what it means to be multifaceted in today’s world. As a model, entrepreneur, and hybrid athlete, she has built an inspiring career that seamlessly blends fashion, fitness, and business. Her journey, fueled by discipline and an attitude of gratitude, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to personal growth and selfexpression. For Chantalle , every day begins with a promise to herself—a promise to pursue her passions with enthusiasm and purpose, balancing her diverse roles as a model, competitive athlete, and even a devoted pet mom.
MODEL: CHANTALLE LUBERTO @chantalleluberto
AGENCY: ELITE MODEL MANAGEMENT NYC @elitenyc
PHOTOGRAPHER: KRYSTLE LINA @krystlelina
MAKEUP ARTIST: PETRA D. @petradmakeup
Chantelle. you've successfully built a career as a model, entrepreneur, and athlete. How do you balance these roles, and what motivates you to excel in each field?
It is definitely a challenge to balance all of the roles in my life between dog and cat mom, model, entrepreneur, and athlete. everyday I stay consistent and that starts to become a habit. Everyday is a promise to myself to complete what I have to do and I wake up everyday so excited that I’m blessed to be able to do the things I do! How did your journey as an athlete begin, and what inspired you to pursue sports alongside modeling and entrepreneurship?
I grew up as a competitive gymnast since the age of 3. Being competitive and physically active has been engrained into me since I started gymnastics and without it I don’t feel complete. I started running a lot and fell in love with the process of training for the Hyrox competition. This sparked my passion again for competing and training as a hybrid athlete and it also isn’t too harsh on my body so I can balance it very well with modeling!
As both a model and an athlete, how do you manage the physical and mental demand of such diverse careers?
“
is every moment or collaboration is special and different. You get to meet so many different creative minds that collaborate together on a project to make magic. You learn so much from everyone and meet so many different minds it’s truly amazing.
Glamour and femininity are key themes in your work. How do you balance these elements while ensuring each piece feels fresh and modern?
I love all things feminine. And I love all things glamorous. I just love beautiful things. It's in my DNA. So it's only natural that when I am designing that this is where it all begins for me.
Everyday is a promise to myself to complete what I have to do”
If something is important to you, you make time for It. I try to live my life with an attitude of gratitude. There are days where I’m not motivated to train or days I feel like I’m not good enough. But I’ve learned to not let my feelings take over because they are temporary in that moment. I know what I love and I know who I am and at the end of the day I am one step closer to my dream goals.
As a fashion model, can you share a standout moment or collaboration that has been particularly meaningful to you?
The one thing I really love about this industry
Before I design I ask myself "Is it uniquely feminine?" and "Do I think it will make a woman look and feel special?" If I can answer yes then I can begin.
Are there any lessons from sports, like discipline or resilience, that you've applied to your other pursuits?
Oh, most definitely! Discipline in any field is key to success. Being regimented and steadfast is so important to me to ensure my goals are met each day. You can really only rely on yourself to be better in any sport and the same applies with your personal life.
What challenges have you faced as an athlete in balancing the expectations of the fashion industry, especially regarding body image and fitness standards?
Thankfully, I haven’t really faced any challenges regarding my body because I believe in how I feel. I’m very confident in my body and having a healthy lifestyle produces a body I truly love. It’s hard work balancing a fit and healthy body but nothing meaningful comes easy.
How would you describe your personal style, and how does it reflect your multifaceted personality?
My personal style is very edgy yet classy. I love to wear a lace satin dress with a leather jacket thrown over. I also love to wear cute gym sets
whether I’m going to train or going for brunch. This kind of represents my personality because I grew up with my brother and a lot of boys in our family so I was a bit of a tomboy but I idolize my mom who is a very girly girl so I love blending both together!
Do you have a dream collaboration in the fashion world, whether as a model or an entrepreneur?
There are so many! But I absolutely love Victoria Beckham´ s style. It would be a dream to work with her clothing and makeup line!
Who are some of the individuals or moments that have inspired your journey in fashion, business, and athletics?
My mother, 100%!! She has inspired me so much on my journey in fashion and business. She is such a fashionista and I have learned almost everything about fashion and life lessons through her. Also Brittany Furlan Lee , I call her my LA sister! She makes the most amazing pieces of jewelry that scream with her personality and I rock one everyday. Not only that but she is the kindest soul and such a business woman who always looks good! I look up to her confidence so much!
As someone with such a diverse portfolio, what legacy do you hope to leave behind in these industries?
To show others that confidence and self-love is
everything. No matter what people or society say, you are you and that’s what makes you special. So rock that!
Are there any athletes or mentors who have significantly impacted your journey, andhow do they inspire you today?
YES! I have two people who inspired me actually. First Corey Brueckner , who has been my coach and friend. She introduced me to the Hyrox and to the love for running. She has taught me so much about how strong I truly am mentally and physically. She is Wonder Woman. And also Meg Jacoby , who has given me the motivation to keep going even when things get tough. She is one strong mama and her strength mentally and physically in the Hyrox has motivated me in this sport.
Looking forward, how do you envision combining your passions for athletics and fashion to create a lasting impact?
I would love to show women and men that fashion and athletics can be one. To look good is to feel good and to feel good is to look good. If you don’t invest in taking care of yourself first then the rest will crumble and in modeling and in athletics you need the strength to keep going and to believe in yourself. Athletics has built the confident mind I have now and that truly carries over in modeling and in life and I hope to share that with others in these industries!
“It would be a dream to work with Victoria Beckham´s clothing and makeup line!”
PHOTOGRAPHER: NICHOLAS BORSODI @njb3photo
MODEL: KYLA SHAY @kyla.shay
AGENCY: THE INDUSTRY MODEL MANAGEMENT LA @theindustryla
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & FASHION STYLIST: MAUREEN BORSODI @thelalook
creative assistant: KHAVORY LEE @khavory.lee
MAKEUP ARTIST: ISABEL WILLIAMS @mymakeupbible
Top L’AGENCE
Trouser FAVORITE DAUGHTER
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings NATALIE B JEWELRY
Vintage pieces curated from stylist’s closet
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings NATALIE B JEWELRY
Boots BOBBLES & LACE
Jacket AVEC LES FILLES
Sheer tank STYLIST’S OWN
SLVRLAKE
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
HJANE JEWELS
Top JEN’S PIRATE BOOTY Denim SLVRLAKE Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Dress LIONESS
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings NATALIE B JEWELRY
Boots BOBBLES & LACE
Top HALMUT LANG
Pants BOBBLES + LACE
Dress SUSANA MONACO
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings HJANE JEWELS
Boots BOBBLES & LACE
Top BOBBLES & LACE
Trouser RE/DONE
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings HJANE JEWELS
Hat STYLIST´S OWN
Top BOBBLES & LACE
Trouser RE/DONE
Belt LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings HJANE JEWELS
Hat STYLIST´S OWN
Dress ASTR
Belts LOVESTRENGTH
Earrings NATALIE B JEWELRY
Watch VINTAGE CARTIER (STYLIST’S OWN)
Interview by JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ
In a world where fashion often serves as a fleeting expression of trends, Tannaz Amirian stands out as a designer dedicated to weaving stories of heritage and individuality into every piece she creates. As the founder of BAHARNAZ , a brand celebrated for its unique fusion of Persian artistry and contemporary style, Tannaz transforms cultural inspiration into wearable art.
With over eight years of experience, she has mastered the delicate art of blending tradition and modernity. Her designs, characterized by intricate Persian calligraphy, luxurious materials like velvet and satin, and meticulous craftsmanship, resonate deeply with those seeking elegance and cultural depth. BAHARNAZ is not merely a fashion label; it’s a movement that celebrates heritage while empowering wearers to embrace their unique narratives.
Tannaz, it is a pleasure to interview you for our magazine. Can you share your experience about what you do?
With over 8 years of experience, my journey with Baharnaz has been one of passion, creativity, and perseverance. Designing for me is not just about making beautiful clothes—it’s about storytelling and creating connections. I take immense pride in blending traditional Persian artistry with modern silhouettes, offering my clients something unique and deeply personal. It’s an experience of bridging cultures and redefining the way we look at fashion. Every detail in my work, from the calligraphy to the craftsmanship, reflects the values of elegance, individuality, and timeless design. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of seeing my creations worn by incredible individuals who connect with the stories my designs tell. Seeing how my pieces make people feel powerful and unique is what keeps me inspired every day.
What was the biggest challenge in your career?
in a competitive industry, has demanded resilience, determination, and a clear vision. These challenges have been invaluable in shaping both my brand and my approach to business.
What makes you happy, what are your goals, and some advice for humanity?
What brings me joy is the ability to create something that resonates with people on a deeper level—designs that tell stories, honor heritage, and empower the wearer. Seeing my clients feel confident, beautiful, and connected to their roots through my work is incredibly fulfilling.
“Seeing how my pieces make people feel powerful and unique is what keeps me inspired every day.”
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing price and quality in a competitive market while maintaining the integrity of my designs. As a designer, I aim to deliver the highest quality, but ensuring affordability without compromising craftsmanship is a constant balancing act.
Additionally, introducing cultural and artistic elements into modern fashion while keeping them relevant to a global audience has required constant innovation and creativity. Building a brand from the ground up, especially
One of my goals is to bring talented artists from my home country to the global market, providing them with the platform and support they need to showcase their work. I believe in nurturing creativity and helping underrepresented talent shine. Entrepreneurship is also a personal passion of mine—I strive to not only build my brand but also inspire and uplift others in the creative and fashion industries.
My broader vision is to expand Baharnaz globally, sharing the beauty of Persian artistry and craftsmanship with the world. I hope to inspire others to embrace their heritage, be bold in their self-expression, and appreciate the stories behind what they wear.
As for advice to humanity, I would say: Find your passion and stay true to it. In everything you do, strive for authenticity and excellence. Fashion, like life, is about expressing who you are—embrace individuality, celebrate diversity, and always be kind. Through creativity, unity, and supporting one another, we can build a more beautiful and compassionate world.
Designer & Founder
“Through creativity, unity, and supporting one another, we can build a more beautiful and compassionate world. ”
PHOTOGRAPHER: JESSE GANTT @jesseganttphoto
MODEL: SHEA MCLOUGHLIN @shea_mclo
FASHION STYLIST: SARAH TAVERNITI @sarahtaverniti
WARDROBE PROVIDED BY MAISON PRIVÉE LA @maisonprivee_la
HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST: MONIQUE MAZER @makeupbymazer
Cream mesh polo shirt
WEISHENG PARIS
Off-white rosa lace tights
SWEDISH STOCKINGS
Cream mesh polo shirt
WEISHENG PARIS
Off-white rosa
lace tights
SWEDISH STOCKINGS
Sheer one shoulder top with purple swirls
CHERESHNIVSKA
Sheer one shoulder top with purple swirls CHERESHNIVSKA
Blue stripe suit CHARLES & RON Gold pendant links/ball chains earrings
Blue stripe jacket CHARLES & RON
Gold fringe earrings with UFO ships ATRA NOVA BY SHEILA B
For a luxurious Christmas Eve dinner, the right outfit makes all the difference. Whether you're hosting at home or attending an elegant soirée, these five curated looks will ensure you're dressed to impress. Here’s your ultimate guide!
MURAD
PHOTOGRAPHER: ANTOINE VERGLAS @antoineverglas
MODEL: BRIANNA BARDHI @briannabardhi
FASHION STYLIST: ALICIA ROSATO @alicia.rosato
WARDROBE: ARCHIVES @archivestylingstudio
HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST: LUCIE LETZ @lucie_hair_mua
photographer´s assistant: MICHAEL PUSHKARSKIY @pushkarskiy_dp
PRODUCER: LERA LOEB @leraloebfilms
Top VINTAGE
ALLURE LEATHER
Shorts THE KOOPLES
Interview by JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ
In a world where fashion often serves as a fleeting expression of trends, Tannaz Amirian stands out as a designer dedicated to weaving stories of heritage and individuality into every piece she creates. As the founder of BAHARNAZ , a brand celebrated for its unique fusion of Persian artistry and contemporary style, Tannaz transforms cultural inspiration into wearable art.
With over eight years of experience, she has mastered the delicate art of blending tradition and modernity. Her designs, characterized by intricate Persian calligraphy, luxurious materials like velvet and satin, and meticulous craftsmanship, resonate deeply with those seeking elegance and cultural depth. BAHARNAZ is not merely a fashion label; it’s a movement that celebrates heritage while empowering wearers to embrace their unique narratives.
Veronica, can you tell us about your journey into the world of fashion design? What inspired you to start your own brand?
I was born in Chennai , lived there until I was 12 and moved to Paris . Even though I am and will always be a Chennai girl I wouldn’t say it’s just my Chennai background that shaped my work. It's much deeper than that, being of Tamil origin and growing up in that culture and being immersed in all the colorful sarees, gold jewelry and accessories of Chennai , Tamil Nadu and India contributed tremendously of course. But it’s mostly by watching my mother do her shopping for sarees and jewelry that I learnt how to mix and match colors and jewelry patterns that are not common combinations. The stories she would tell me about her mother, my grandmother helped me develop an eye for fashion and colors. I guess it is safe to say that it is kind of in my DNA… in the 30s and 40s my grandmother was very avant-garde and a style icon in her city. Even before Fashion Week existed, she would tell her tailor to make an outfit inspired by a movie she saw and she turned heads wherever she would go with her sarees and would always mix match her gold jewelry. My mother was the same. She would place custom orders at the stores for sarees and gold jewelry with unusual color combinations that would throw off and surprise the sales people, and they would even warn my mother that it was not going to look pretty etc. She would be so sure of her choices and of course the results were always amazing, and the store would order more and sell out each time. She was a trend setter and couturier herself. She would tailor clothing for herself and us (me and my brother) that would always have a wow factor to it. My mother had a very keen eye for fashion and what would be trendy in the future. So, I grew up observing all this and unconsciously soaking it all in. Ultimately,
this is what led me to combine saree raw silk and jewelry techniques. Growing up in south of France and then mostly in Paris helped me to grow an eye for styles and being ahead of the game for sure. When I moved to P aris, France I was scouted on the streets and became a model. I worked with major brands in Europe and Asia and walked the ramp for Paris Fashion Week for Haute Couture . This experience expanded my vision for style and fashion and increased my knowledge and acumen for textures, patterns, styles and to add that je ne sais quoi to my pieces.
Was there a particular moment or experience that solidified your decision to become a designer?
“Growing up mostly in Paris helped me to grow an eye for styles and being ahead of the game”
Not in a million years would I have guessed I’d be a designer. I got into university at 16 to become a doctor that was my plan A I loved to help people from a very small age, so that seemed the perfect choice to help sick people to get better, but life happened and I ended up doing a double degree in international business and biology. Moved countries and went to live in London and then LA . I did some style consulting when I was in Europe and USA , it is the best feeling to see someone’s face light up when they look in the mirror after their makeover, how excited they were to find themselves confident and ready to conquer the world. This helped me develop my own style which mixes Indian boldness and French sophistication. I would always carry an accessory that was from India every time I went out and people would always stop me and ask about it. This is how the idea was born, I realized this is a unique combination of fabric and jewelry that could resonate with women around the world.
What is the core philosophy behind your brand? How do you aim to connect with your audience?
My vision for my collections and my brand in general is to empower every woman to cultivate her uniqueness. My bags and jewelry
are a symbol for women to find and nurture the graceful authority and the regal elegance that exists within themselves. To own a Veronica Tharmalingam handbag and jewelry is to dare to express this inner warrior queen everyday with class, authenticity, confidence and style. This is tied into the names of each piece, which take inspiration from unique women from the past and present. The brand is all about timeless statement pieces and layering, which is a current trend but it’s been the brand’s DNA from the beginning.
How do you balance creativity and functionality when designing your collections?
I am an original tomboy and also a practical person I need fashion to be practical and I do not like heavy handbags, so I made it a point to make my bags as light as possible without compromising on quality. Even with the intricate art work you will see on them we picked very light and high-end materials. Another problem I wanted to solve was to have actual space inside the clutch for example. So many people complain me including about their clutch or evening bags not having space to put basic essential things inside them. So, even my smallest clutch can fit a phone, lip gloss, car key and 1-2 credit cards (YES!! For real). Another thing I wanted to ensure was that these bags were versatile. By changing the way the straps hook onto the bags you can achieve multiple looks.
My jewelry collection started off as my own private collection that I hand-picked from skilled artisans around India. I had not initially planned to bring these to market, but again, the positive feedback I got whenever I would wear these led me to start thinking about incorporating them as part of my brand. I developed a deeper relationship with the artisans and they are now part of the team and
work on statement jewelry pieces, we started off as high-end jewelry line with very few pieces or one-of-a-kind items, now we have expanded to a more everyday wear pieces and custom fine jewelry.
Sustainability is a growing focus in fashion. How does your brand incorporate sustainable practices?
I also wanted to have the Veronica Tharmalingam brand be synonymous with sustainable fashion. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting and I want to keep our carbon footprint as small as possible by only sourcing materials already available locally in the market. Each season we use raw silk that is already produced for various events in India and thus we do not produce any additional material for the brand specifically. Same goes for the jewelry - I choose materials from what is already present and available. We also keep the numbers limited to be more sustainable too, we will only make 100-150 units per handbag model. The handbags are also made to order so unless someone places an order, we do not start making it. Of course this means that there is a wait period for each bag, but it truly means each bag is unique to you. Veronica Tharmalingam is also about giving back to the community so we want to give up to 30% of all profits to charities that are close to our heart.
What does your creative process look like, from ideation to the final product?
As we are a sustainable brand we always use and repurpose what is already available so it’s actually a team work with my artisans, they propose materials and initial designs that they’d like to see for the next season, I look at that then I get my inspiration for the collections and we start to design our pieces. My favorite time of the process as this is when creativity happens. And my dream team of artisans bring
“My jewelry collection started off as my own private collection that I hand-picked from skilled artisans around India”
thousands of years of expertise to every piece, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail and bring my vison to life. We just launched our new collection Belleville right on time for the holidays. You can find it here: www. veronicatharmalingam.com
Are there any specific materials or techniques that you love working with? Why?
I love working with baroque pearls as the most as they are all weirdly shaped and yet so perfect, just like us humans. Because of their unique shapes even if I create the exact same bracelet or necklace, it would still be unique and different. But my current favorite is jade, as we just finished our Belleville collections with jade beads in so many shades of green. Something about the deep green of jade makes me dream and travel beyond. Our Belleville collection is inspired by the Parisian hot spot Belleville and its rich cultural history, artistic heritage, and unmatched elegance, this collection offers a refined fusion of luxury, craftsmanship, and bohemian charm—perfect for those who appreciate beauty in its purest form. The Belleville Collection is a tribute to Parisian sophistication and global allure. Every piece embodies the spirit of Paris , seamlessly blending classic luxury with a contemporary, artistic edge. Whether you're looking for a statement necklace, an elegant gemstone bracelet, or timeless earrings, the
Belleville Collection offers exquisite designs that transcend trends and become part of your legacy.
How do you stay inspired and avoid creative burnout in such a competitive industry?
I don’t put pressure on myself to be absolutely creative all the time. I let it happen and trust the process. When I sit down in front of the pieces/ materials I want to work with, I am calm and trust myself, the magic happens every time. I get so absorbed in it. It is my favorite moment.
As a founder, what challenges have you faced in building your brand, and how have you overcome them?
When I started this brand, it was about shinning the light on the craftsmanship of Indian artisans so I proudly put Made in India . The struggle was to educate people on raw silk and jewelry making. Most people do not know about raw silk because they hear the word silk and they think of a silk scarf how its delicate, how raw silk is a completely different product and its sturdy and is a heritage piece or how jewelry making originate from India centuries ago and every jewelry maker around the world learn to make their jewelry from those Indian techniques still, or how Indians artisans are exploited by major brands in fashion for their skills and never given credit for. The journey continues!
“When I sit down in front of the pieces/materials I want to work with, I am calm and trust myself, the magic happens every time. ”
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PHOTOGRAPHER: JAMIE COATES @jaime_coates.photographer
MODEL: SOLANA COSTA @solanacostag
AGENCY: THE INDUSTRY MANAGEMENT LA @theindustryla
MAKEUP ARTIST: KATHERINE THOMAS @katherinethomas_mua special thanks to IKON MANAGEMENT @ikonmanagement
Sheer knitted v-neck long sleeve top & OTHER STORIES
Cosy club borg
& OTHER STORIES
Sheer knitted v-neck long sleeve top & OTHER STORIES
MASSIMO DUTTI
Anika beaded clutch bag
ANTHROPOLOGIE
embellished pearl bralet NEVER FULLY DRESSED
BY ALINA