Go With The Summer Flow...
Photo credit: @kristenbairdjewelry
In Kristen Baird's Splash bracelets
When it comes to summertime jewelry, it's important to choose wisely. After all, no one wants to be weighed down in piles of gold or silver on hot, sweaty days and balmy nights. Our guiding style principle: keep it light, chic, and impactful (with a capital I).
Cue Kristen Baird’s Splash cuffs.
With her love of fluid form and organic shapes, the founder/designer of the namesake fine-jewelry brand creates the kind of cool pieces people want to wear while heading out for ice cream, dining al fresco, or sunning on the patio. We're currently crushing on the natural vibe and wave-like patterns and shapes of Baird's sterling-silver Splash bracelets. They're summer perfection on a wrist.
The collection includes several distinct pieces that reflect the beauty and movement of the ocean. No surprise there, since the Savannah, GA-based designer takes much of her inspiration from nature and her environs. "I inject my work with colors and textures, juxtaposing forms both geometric and fluid—as though the designs might have sprung organically from the serene coastline of Georgia or the glorious hills of Tennessee," she says.
Along with taking notes from Mother Nature, Baird's Southern upbringing—chockfull of sweet-tea sipping, field frolicking, and gardening with Granny—informs her authentic and charming designs. "Each piece has a sense of nostalgia and an essence of freedom," she says.
Backstory shared, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the cuffs, aka your new partners in style. Pop them on with everything from ladylike sundresses and denim cut-offs to swimsuits and, mm-hmm, sweats.
Splash Cuff (and Mini)
Wonder Woman alert! This cuff pulls no punches. At two-inches wide, the oversized piece is a one-and-done that makes a statement without trying too hard. The silver cuff's rippled edges coupled with Baird's delicate swirling wave pattern make a magical combo. Bohemian babes, girly-girls, and urbanistas alike are sure to fall hard. Prefer something a touch more subtle? Go for the mini version, which measures 18mm in width.
Splash Gem Cuff
Like your textured silver with a side of gems? Baird's signature cuff, punctuated with a pair of sparklers at the ends, is your spirit bracelet. And with more than thirty gemstone options, wearing multiples is the way to go. (Our dream combo is a triple stack of amethyst, turquoise and onyx.)
Did we mention this bracelet is affectionately referred to as the O-Cuff? That would be O for Oprah, as Baird explains: "Right before I left for my Alumni Atelier residency in France [in 2019], I received a text message from a source at my alma-mater Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) who said a special guest was going to be gifted one of my Splash Cuffs from the SCAD president during commencement. I was thrilled, but didn't realize the depth of this news until I received another text saying that Oprah was the recipient! Every time the cuff comes up in conversation, so does O-Cuff. And, hey, I'm 100 percent OK with that."
Splash Bangle
Sleek and chic, this bangle is the girl-next-door of the group. It's impossible not to fall for her breezy simplicity. Thankfully, the signature Splash ripple pattern and waved silhouette prevents it from entering snoozeville territory. Similar to the Gem Cuff sans gems, the bangle makes a fabulous stacking companion with any and all of her siblings.
Splash Pearl Cuff
Now this is how you do modern pearls. The thick silver cuff paired with large freshwater pearls is a keeper. As far as the pearls, there are choices to be made...as in white, peach, or lavender to punctuate the ends of the cuff. Each one is a vibe unto itself. For more drama, select the dark patina finish (in the area behind the pearls). Compliments to follow.
OK, it's go Splash time.
Editor: Samantha Durbin Wordsmith/Curator: Gail Goldberg
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