This accessory designer channels her journey with cancer through positivity — with her uplifting, inspirational jewelry collection
Some individuals cower in the face of adversity others create and become stronger. Entrepreneur Simone I. Smith chose the latter.
Wearing jewelry is an extension of individual style — including mine. Whether I adorn myself with costume, fine jewelry, or the occasional seasonally themed pieces (my sparkly ghost studs are currently on heavy rotation for Halloween) — it represents my mood on any given day. Jewelry has the power to elevate, transform, brighten or, in some cases, outshine an outfit. And whether your style is conservative, daring, or whimsical, there are countless jewelry brands out there to choose from to bring your look to life, but none as personalized as Simone I. Smith’s.
I recently came across the transformative jewelry collection launch in midtown Manhattan. The woman behind this enchanting brand is African-American and steeped in Hip-Hop culture. I enjoy writing about these two topics and would love to see them covered more by mainstream media, so I chose to do so.
The array of hoops in all sizes instantly captured my attention upon setting foot in the mini showroom. There were small rectangular/round hoops, large hoops with affirmations, and hoops with blinged-out, silver, rose gold, or mixed metals. Then I spotted earrings reminiscent of my youth: doorknockers. If you aren’t familiar with the design, they are earrings urban youth wore in the mid-80s to 90s, fashioned after Hip-Hop that embodied strength typically made from gold, and have made a welcomed comeback. I was instantly transported back in time — and I savored the moment. The nostalgic ride left a lasting impression on me. I wanted to know more about this designer.
How did the collection come to be?
Smith’s inspiration for starting her jewelry collection began after her bout with cancer; learning from the experience and emerging even stronger motivated her to become an entrepreneur. The cancer survivor, advocate (oh, and by the way, wife of Hip-Hop legend: LL COOL J), and entrepreneur didn’t start her jewelry line on a whim.
After being diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer (stage III chondrosarcoma) over 17 years ago, her initial surgery altered the lollipop tattoo she had cherished. No longer recognizable, it prompted her to launch her signature design: the lollipop pendant, The Sweet Touch of Hope. A portion of the sales from The Sweet Touch of Hope collection goes to the American Cancer Society to fight against the disease. Following the assortment of colored lollipop necklaces came personalized necklaces with empowering phrases like pray, queen, slay, and blessed, to name a few, plus other necklaces, bangles, and rings with similar messaging.
In 2018, Simone partnered with Grammy-winning R&B and Oscar-nominated singer Mary J. Blige to create a collection inspired by their long-time friendship named Sister Love. In the friend’s line, you can find statement pieces symbolizing strength, perseverance, and faith, paying homage to their relationship. According to Smith, “Sisterhood is the best hood, and we want to show women that we can uplift and inspire each other. Two friends can simultaneously work together and be fun, fabulous, and successful.”
Her support for loved ones doesn’t end there. Smith has earrings featuring the Rock The Bells logo, the namesake of her husband LL COOL J’s (otherwise known as James Todd Smith) company, to honor the titans of old school and classic Hip-Hop.
The path to success hasn’t been easy for the mother of four and grandmother of two; since founding her brand in 2011, she has created three jewelry lines, a hat collection, and a luxe lacquer line named “Around the Way Girl” — she was the muse behind her husband’s rap hit.
“As a Black female designer, I’ve had to knock down many doors — and still do — to prove myself and carve out a space in the industry for my brand. I want to inspire the next generation of young Black designers to forge their path and continue to break down barriers,” says Smith.
Words to motivate the next crop of BIPOC fashion disruptors, for sure. Click here to browse and shop Simone I. Smith’s jewelry.
*Simone I. Smith's PR team provided all photos.
