Q & A: Exclusive Interview with Chicago Native Jewelry Designer, Dana Levy

Dana Levy, a third generation Jewlery Designer, who grew up in Chicago has not only her family name but has made a name for herself. Dana’s line of jewelry, Dana Rebecca Designs, reflect the things most important in her life, her family and travels; her pieces themed from exotic locations with the namesake of her family and friends. Having come from an artistic family and studied business at the University of Texas in Austin as well as Germological Institute of America in Carlsbad, California, you could say Dana was molded for the jewelry design industry.

Haute Living sat down with this seasoned jewelry designer for an exclusive interview.

Haute Living: How did you get started in the industry?
Dana Rebecca Designs: I grew up in the jewelry industry so most would say it is in my blood. My dad is a jewelry manufacturer who has taught me everything that I know. One summer in high school, I traveled with my dad on a buying trip and fell in love with the idea that I could create and design jewelry. I launched my first company and collection at the age of 16 and have been creating jewelry ever since.

HL: What jewelry trends do you predict for the Fall?
Dana Rebecca Designs: Fall trends are going to be brighter and bolder than ever. The use of neutrals will remain but accessories and accents will become more lively and pronounced.

HL: Which celebs wear your jewelry?
Dana Rebecca Designs: Gwyneth Paltrow, Demi Moore, Carey Mulligan, Megan Fox, Emma Roberts, Amber Heard, America Ferrera, Julie Bowen, Olivia Wilde, Minka Kelly, Zoe Saldana, Salma Hayek and Carrie Underwood, and just last recently, Mila Kunis.

HL: Which celebs are you dying to have wear your jewelry?
Dana Rebecca Designs: I’d love to see Natalie Portman or perhaps Reese Witherspoon. They are both beautiful and sophisticated and DRD would look fabulous on both them. I feel my brand reflects their sense of style.

HL: What designs can we expect from you in the future?
Dana Rebecca Designs: I often surprise myself so I think that question is very hard. I haven’t been able to predict what will come out during the creative process but I’m certain there will be more and more one of a kind pieces, that’s my specialty. I will always continue to push the envelope with color, shape and creativity. I love to use bright, eye-catching colors in my collection so expect to see some exquisite usage of color, that’s for sure!

HL: Where do you get your inspiration from?
Dana Rebecca Designs: My collection is inspired by my travels around the globe from the likes of Africa and Asia to Europe. Each and every individual stunning piece exudes a foreign culture from within. All my pieces are named after family members and my closest loved ones.

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