Sophie Buhai — Kick Pleat
Sophie Buhai designs sculptural, bold jewelry that is handmade in Los Angeles. Previously, Buhai was one-half of the line, Vena Cava. The jewelry itself is simple yet striking, using architectural sterling silver and hand-cut wood.  Read on for our interview to learn more about what inspires and moves her.

 

WHY START A JEWELRY LINE?

I did an Art/Designer residency in Italy and I needed to pack materials that could travel on the plane. I packed a lot of beads and metal parts and ended up making a jewelry collection while I was there.

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR FALL 2015 COLLECTION?

I was looking at a lot of sculpture books such as Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and Brancusi. I was trying to make jewelry that felt like mini objects.

WHAT KIND OF WOMAN IS WEARING YOUR COLLECTION?

I really love my customer. She is ageless. I sell to women from 30-90. She loves art and is thoughtful about the pieces she invests in. She wants things that will last.

WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL UNIFORM RIGHT NOW?

A white shirt, jeans, bun, silver jewelry. If I want to dress it up I will put on black wide leg pants, blazer and red lipstick.

SOPHIE BUHAI — KICK PLEAT

WHAT IS THE AESTHETIC OF YOUR HOME?

It's very spare and calming with time worn objects. Someone called it "Sophisticated Primitivism" and I loved that!

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO BEAUTY PRODUCT?

A nice, pigmented lipstick.

HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE IN YOUR LIFE?

It's a constant struggle! Acupuncture, long California walks and disconnecting from e-mail after 7:00 every night. Also, a good social media diet is necessary to stay sane. Reading actual paper helps. A good glass of Tequila in moderation is nice medicine.

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