Leonardo D´Almagro is not your average jewelry designer. He is a history maker- on his personal and professional life- someone who thinks outside the box, a dreamer.
He was the very first Latino jewelry designer that launched a new brand at Vincenza Oro in Dubai. You may have seen his work at the Paris Fashion Week, in beauty pageants in America, or on TV through reality shows like Desperate Housewives. He is a TV contributor himself in Univision. The hurricane D´Almagro is far from stopping anytime soon.
I had the pleasure to interview Leonardo D´Almagro in exclusive for Dubai Fashion News and here is the entire scoop.
THE BEGINNINGS
What made you become a jewelry designer?
Accessories are something that I am passionate about. They are the perfect complement for any look and people can show a little their personality based on the jewelry they are wearing.
Where did you learn to be a jewelry designer?
The process wasn’t easy and I’m still learning every day as I am self-taught. Still, I was able to be certified by the Jewelers of America Association. Every day we work in “baby steps” learning techniques, process and also trends.
LEONARDO D’ALMAGRO IN DUBAI
Please tell us, how was the experience of being the first Hispanic Designer ever to launch a new brand at Vicenza Oro and Vincenza Oro Dubai and what pieces you presented there?
Wow! That was a very humbling experience. Imagine being selected to launch on the most important jewelry show in the world and be representing the USA as a Latino designer in my first year as a jewelry designer! It really was amazing! I presented my whole first line. And I am very honored to have this privilege for 2 years consecutive.
Leonardo D´Almagro, any plans to return to Dubai?
VicenzaOro & Vicenza Dubai organization directly represented me during the Dubai Show since I was not able to be present personally. Being under their umbrella, was a great honor. Thanks to their support my brand internationally started her journey.
D’ALMAGRO WORKING WITH CELEBRITIES
What are the differences, and the challenges to work for a beauty pageant, reality show stars versus working on a collection on your own?
Well, let me clarify first. My relationship with the international beauty pageants (Miss Venezuela & Miss Mexico) and the cast of some reality shows, as well other TV hosts and Emmys award winners, is that I’m the jewelry designer they selected to accessorize them.
It is not a challenge at all, as we understand each other very well and they have been my greatest supporters. I am always thankful for these opportunities. Working in my collections means listening and respecting my clients’ needs.
NEW GOALS
You are now facing a big new challenge being the first Latino partnering with global jewelry manufacturer, Vaibhav Global Limited (VGL). How did this happen?
This is an honor I’m grateful for. I have been selected by the biggest jewelry manufacturer from India to be part of the prestigious company Vaibhav Global. I will have my show with my line in their shopping network in USA, UK, and Asia.
The way I see this opportunity is to be able to show our Latin youth that there are new areas to explore as careers and new markets where we could bring our culture, education, and skills. Now the plan is to continue my journey as their designer and like I always say, “baby steps”.
GETTING INSPIRED
What is your inspiration?
Well, inspiration is very subjective. My initial thoughts are always around people. I find inspiration in the women I met, looking at people, lifestyle and places I visit, culture in general. Sometimes the simplest thing can inspire us, we just need to be open and appreciate the beauty of everything.
Leonardo D´Almagro, When it comes to jewelry is OK to put a limit on the size of the piece?
That’s a personal choice since everyone should do what makes them comfortable and express with fashion how they are feeling. I believe there is no right or wrong. My personal advice is “own your style and embrace who you are”.
STYLING AND SHOPPING TIPS RIGHT FROM THE CREATOR
Any tips when it comes to shop jewelry?
I’m a believer of a balance of what it’s the latest trends combined with timeless pieces. Seasonal jewelry is fun, but it is all depending on your budget and what you want to achieve with your purchase- investment or just a seasonal accessory- Personally, I like both!
How can we know and difference fake versus real when it comes to jewelry?
All depends on what you are purchasing and your budget because, at the end of the day, the customer can choose between natural stones, synthetic stones, natural but enhanced, lab-created stones. My suggestion is to always read descriptions of the material and compare the price in the market, and after that select what works for you.
Men´s jewelry is not a trend anymore. Now is part of their style essentials. What are your top suggestions to buy it?
Each man has their own style and can select items according to their lifestyle and personality. One item I recommend for sure is cufflinks. You can wear them on any occasion, and they signal style and class. We have evolved to be more accepting of all kind of lifestyles and be more comfortable in our own skin. Personally, I like to see we can accessorize as much as we want without being judged. My style, as you can see it is very free. I wear whatever I want. The accessories don’t define me, I just wear them as I feel each day.
THE FUTURE
Are you working on a new collection?
Yes, my visit to India was not only to formalize my partnership and the new lines that are coming up with Vaibhav Global Limited this summer and winter. All of them are already on the production line.
What is next for Leonardo D´Almagro? What do you want for the future?
I hope health. I always have been very meticulous and planned my career. Now with this new journey professional and personal, I want to enjoy all the way and take one step at the time. Sometimes we focus too much on what we want to achieve that we stop enjoying the actual moment of the process. I want to be present, living every moment with my family and my career.
If you want to know more about Leonardo D´Almagro, check his website here.
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