I have always loved fashion and all that comes with it— especially jewelry. My mother is a stylish lady whom I consider to be my style icon. So, I guess you could say that Plume began when I was a young girl, sifting through my mother’s closet and treasure trove of a jewelry box.

However, education took a leading role in my life as a fashionista. Although academics did not come naturally to me, I worked hard and eventually went on to study politics at U.C. Berkeley. I was going to be a lawyer. But upon graduating, the thought of law school— three additional arduous years of studying information and memorizing facts— was out of the question.

All the while my interest in fashion and jewelry never subsided. After much thought and research, I choose to return to school at Parsons School of Design in New York City in order to study fashion. To date, it was the best decision I have ever made in my life! Parsons opened up a new world that was creative, exciting and full of opportunity. Although school was extremely challenging, I discovered I had an aptitude for design. Finally, something came naturally— and I knew I had found a career path.
While at Parsons, I interned for fashion designer Yigal Azrouel. After graduation, I became his assistant designer. I officially started Plume while working for Azrouel.

Plume was a side project that grew out of necessity. I would make gifts for friends’ birthdays and necklaces because they were less expensive to make than buy. I’m sorry to break it to you all: The fashion design industry does not pay well (not at first, anyway). In fashion, you pay your dues for years; therefore, you must love it beyond a paycheck.

Little did I know that gifting jewels to friends was a great marketing strategy. I started receiving orders from my friends for their friends and family members. A year later, along with a Dummies guide on how to start your own business, I was running my own small jewelry business. Now, three years and going strong, Plume is available in boutiques and department stores worldwide.

It is interesting how all of my experiences from Berkeley to Parsons have contributed to my sensibilities as a jewelry designer. Every collection tells a story, and although Plume is not political, it pulls from historical bits and pieces of the past. Also, my fashion background is ever-present in my designs— fabric is always worked into the line.

In the future, I’d like Plume to continue developing and growing as a business of fresh and interesting designs. I am also exploring my options in becoming a “green,” or environmentally-friendly, jewelry design company. Please stay tuned and keep in touch!

Pamela Johnston is the owner and designer of Plume Jewelry Collection. Her line is available at various boutiques and department stores in Manhattan, as well as online at www.plumejewels.com.