A front-runner in the world of jewelry, and a favorite among many stylish celebrities, LEIVANKASH has proven to be a true melting pot of Leila Kashanipour’s Persian heritage and her urban life in London. After graduating with a B.A. in jewelry Design from Central ST Martins, Leila established her own company in 2011, and made her beautiful creations available for every woman who appreciates style and luxury.

You studied Jewelry Design at Central St Martins and immediately launched LEIVANKASH. Have you always been interested in jewels and jewelry design?
Initially my plans were to study chemistry and fine arts and go into restoration & conservation of paintings. My goal then was to study at an American university, major in Art & do a minor in Chemistry but then things changed as they always do… I applied for a foundation course at Central St Martins as my art background in fine arts was pretty strong. I attended a 1 week jewelry making course during my foundation year and that’s when I realized what my real passion was ….and here we are now.

As an Iranian living in London, how much does your upbringing influence your work?
Upbringing, society, culture, values and your origins always play a huge role in what you ought to be, and as a designer, what you create. It has evolved from collection to collection, but I definitely started with lots of Persian references.

How do you get inspired for a new collection?
I get inspiration from everywhere. From my culture, background, fashion, conceptual art, street style, social media movements, trends, travels and nature.
For AW15 & SS16 collections with Oculus & Oculus Rose that was presented in Paris, the inspiration was very much about my life in London, the London skyline, & the city’s architecture. I wanted to keep the feel minimal, architectural, abstract and clean and create a collection that is fresh and different to our classics.

Your jewelry has been seen on an array of fashionable “It girls” like Kendall Jenner and Rita Ora and has been featured in top magazine editorials; what do you accredit to your immense success?
It’s always encouraging, endearing and overwhelming to see your designs being appreciated and adored by others besides your close friends & family. However, I get the same feeling of enjoyment when I see a cool girl or a chic woman wearing LEIVANKASH

What is your most cherished jewelry piece, something you may pass down to your children one day?
When I was very young, my grandmother gave me two art deco rings that I cherish and still adore! I love their vintage feel. From my father’s side, my grandmother gave my mother a diamond necklace on her wedding day that was then passed on to me on my wedding day. Both have rich sentimental value for me.

Is there a piece of jewelry you never leave home without?
My wedding band always stays on. And my LEIVANKASH daily wear changes depending on the outfit but I always wear my creations without fail.

What is your typical workday outfit?
In winter it has to be jeans, booties, and a cool loose jumper.
In summer as its more inspiring it will be very colorful, light and exciting!

Yalda Zacca