An Oprah-Approved Jewelry Designer Just Launched a New "Black Love" Collection
Jewelry designer, Simone I. Smith (who just happens to be LL Cool J’s wife), just launched a meaningful new collection and recruited some of her fabulous (and famous) friends to show off the wares. Niecy Nash, Vivica A. Fox, Kym Whitley, and Cookie Johnson are a few of the names modeling the four-piece "Black Love" capsule, which centers around a Black fist motif, in a campaign inspired by velvet paintings that decorated the walls of Smith’s childhood home.
“The fist symbolizes freedom, unity, and self-love,” Smith tells Oprah Daily. “The Black Love collection is so important to me because it represents the beauty of Black culture and our powerful future. It represents being proud of who you are. My sisters in the campaign all represent Black love to me. They are truly unique, joyous, vibrant bosses who embody the beauty of being Black and loving the skin they’re in.”
Smith, who started the brand in 2011 after beating bone cancer, is known for her signature nameplate necklaces and oversized hoops (her since sold-out heart earrings were on Oprah’s Favorite Things list last year), which she reimagined in an edgy mismatched pair featuring the emblem. A chunky pendant necklace makes for a solid layering piece, or rock the double fist cuff on its own for a statement look. We particularly gravitate towards the hand-painted enamel ring for its arty vibe.
The best part? In addition to the thrill of something new for your jewelry box, 10 percent of the proceeds will be donated to Color Of Change, a non-profit civil rights organization.
“I partnered with Color Of Change because they fight for justice and equality in the name of love for Black people,” explains Smith. “Color Of Change demands justice for Black communities, which includes protecting Black people’s businesses, art, love and joy. This is why I named the collection Black Love.”
Check out the pieces here and shop our favorites from Smith's core collection below.
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