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The joyful jewelry of gigi CLOZEAU is imbued with all the color and warmth of her upbringing in the south of France, as resin beads punctuate 18kt gold chain finished with hard stone charms, and diamonds catch the light here and there. Some pieces in the line borrow from the aesthetic of Catholic rosaries and medals, which for Gigi and her mother – also her business partner – represents faith in optimism and positivity. And who couldn’t do with a little of that right now?
Inspired by love, beauty and the simplicity of the outdoor existence of her childhood in the 1980s, Gigi took over the jewelry mantle from her father after he passed away, and her delicate, feminine beaded gold chains feature universal symbols of luck and love. As Paris Fashion Week begins, Gigi opens up about how her brand was born, and shares her favorite addresses in the French capital.
What initially brought you to the jewelry world?
My father was a jeweler, so growing up I was always immersed in the jewelry world. In early adulthood I spent a few years trying out other fields, but I was always drawn back to my roots! I knew I wanted to work with my family at some point, and with the combination of my father’s expertise that he passed down, the brand came about very naturally.
Tell me the story of the bracelet your father made for you as a baby
My father’s design focuses on very sculptural, graphical rings. He also used to play around a lot with enamel and different types of materials mixed with precious metals and stones. When I was born, he came up with a design that was light and delicate as all babies are! In my collection today, it’s known as the Classic Gigi.
How have childhood memories shaped your jewellery line?
Growing up in the beautiful south of France, life was heavily intertwined with all things nature and “joie de vivre”. So many symbols you can see in the collection today come from memories of family times, sunshine, and adventure from my childhood, as well as various symbols of luck and protection that I encountered later on in life.
You run your business with your mother, living between the US and France. How do French and Americans differ in the way they wear jewellery?
I think the gigi CLOZEAU line appeals to both markets since it offers a classic, timeless look that can be worn at any time, but also with the option of some fun, extra add-ons (charms, bold colors, etc) – there is truly something for everyone.
Tell me about your greatest challenge and greatest triumph during the time you’ve been running your jewellery business
My greatest triumph while running this business would have to be the fact that I have been able to carry on my father’s legacy – it’s something I am very proud of and know that he would be thrilled about as well. The biggest challenge is staying true and authentic to the core values of the brand, but we do our best to focus and keep it light.
Find out how Gigi nourishes both body and mind in Paris.
The best museums for exhibitions: Louis Vuitton Foundation or the Centre Pompidou
The best Paris flea market: Saint-Ouen
The best Paris shopping: the boutiques on rue Grenelle in Saint Germain, and the Marais
The best vegetarian restaurant: Le Lefkes
The best Japanese restaurant: Blueberry or Joia, with master chef Hélène Darroze in the kitchen
The best lunch spot: street food at the Marche des Enfants Rouge, rue de Bretagne
The best brunch: the terrace at L’Hôtel du Sentier, the menu is perfect
The best for evening drinks: The Hoxton Hotel
The best evening plan: a show at the Opéra
Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website.
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