The Glam Rock Pop of Jewelry: Karen Ko of k2o

From finance to fashion, designer Karen Ko of k2o shows us that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. After studying and working in the aforementioned field, Ko did a 180 and landed herself at the Fashion Institute of Technology here in NYC. The result was k2o: a head-turning jewelry line with plenty of spunk to spare. ”k2o by Karen Ko is designed for the stylishly daring woman with an independent edge. The k2o pieces selected reflects this season’s hottest fashion trends that will be sure to turn heads,” says Ko to Fab.com, where her designs are currently on sale.

two + seven: After studying and working in finance, what was the turning point that brought you to jewelry design?

Karen Ko: It was during my third year working in finance that I realized something was missing in my life – I was lacking creativity in my career. As a result, I decided to take what I have learned from finance and make the leap into fashion. Since then, I haven’t looked back!

2+7: Was the transition in careers difficult for you?

KK: I have to admit it wasn’t as simple as I thought it would be. I did have to start from scratch again – I went back to school to earn a jewelry design degree at FIT, learned everything about the fashion industry and how it works, and build a completely new network.

2+7: Tell us about the k2o customer. Who is she, what does she like, and why her?

KK: The k2o woman is a multi-faceted, stylish woman who knows who she is, has her own style, and enjoys standing out from the crowd.

2+7: What is the inspiration behind each of your three collections, Glam, Rock and Pop?

KK: Our k2o GLAM collection is inspired by NYC’s social life – the galas, the red carpet events, the benefits and private parties. Our k2o ROCK collection is inspired by the rock revival, downtown style. Our k2o POP collection is all about colors and the designs are inspired by the most current trends in fashion and color.

Mod Ball Ring

2+7: Do you have a favorite piece from your collections?

KK: This is a tough question since I would wear every single of my designs. I suppose the one piece I could not live without would be the k2o Gold Mod Ball ring that is made with 24kt gold Swarovski crystals. I ALWAYS get tons of compliments when I wear that ring. I am also in LOVE with the k2POP rings – the bright colors are perfect this season’s color blocking trends.