My favourite designers are Haider Ackerman, Kaufmanfranco and vintage Saint Laurent, and I always wear one of my sustainable cuffs. The cuffs elevate my casual jeans and t-shirt attire yet also give an ‘edge’ to my glamorous cocktail outfits. I usually pair the cuff with my black gold MESH ring which is very rock n roll…”
Diane Kordas, Jewellery Designer
New Yorker Diane Kordas began her career as a fashion designer after graduating from Parsons School of Design. Her beautiful jewelry has a chic ‘rock and roll’ vibe that perfectly suits her well-travelled international friends and clientele. Based in London, Diane finds inspiration during annual holidays to the Greek islands with her husband and family…
C&B: “Diane, firstly, congratulations on being named on the CITY & BEACH INTERNATIONAL BEST DRESSED LIST 2025. The list has taken quite a while to compile in full – however, you were always top of the list! We love your effortless style and your jewellery pieces; how do you personally define your style, and in what way has it evolved over the years?”
DK: “My personal style is based on my attitude towards life which is looking effortless but also fun with an ‘easy glam’ sensibility. My style always held this foundation which is also reflected in my collections at DKJ…”
C&B: “You mentioned your favourite designers above but which fashion era would you say has been the most inspirational to your style?”
DK: “I love the 70’s as there weren’t any rules and it was very individualistic period; the 70’s were anti-conformist and in my opinion it began the ‘casual chic’ approach to fashion…”
In my handbag I carry my MZ Skin spf 50, two pairs of ‘Local Supply’ sunglasses by Gabriele Hackworthy, MZ Skin Micro Tighten Eye Serum and MZ Skin volumizing lip protector – which is beyond amazing – and my DKJ x Connolly evil eye zip key chin pouch which holds my earphones as I’m always listening to podcasts…”
Diane Kordas, Jewellery Designer
C&B: “Yes, the 70’s were all about freedom of expression! Right now, what is your favourite piece in your wardrobe, and why?”
DK: “That’s definitely a toss up between my leopard Saint Laurent long dress (above, left) – which I always hand-carry when I travel as it’s so fabulous – and my gold beaded Kaufmanfranco gown that I wore to my daughter’s wedding, it zips off into a mini dress! It’s HOT!”
C&B: “Your gold-beaded dress is incredible – and the images from your daughter’s wedding look like something out of a Ralph Lauren commercial! When you think back over the years, which other outfits have been your most favourite?”
DK: “It’s funny – even though some of my most treasured pieces are long dresses, my favourite outfit is usually a great pair of jeans, suede knee-high Saint Laurent boots, and one of my Animal Kingdom blankets as a wrap (above, right). It’s simple, luxurious with an edge and I express my personality through the animal motif I’m wearing…”
My favourite flower? I love a deep purple hydrangea!”
Diane Kordas, Jewellery Designer
C&B: “Yes, the animal motif blankets are just gorgeous – a lovely shape and the perfect size. Reflecting on outfits you’ve worn recently, have there been any events that required you to wear something extra-special?”
DK: “Not long ago, I attended the 10 year anniversary party for Chiltern Firehouse (currently closed) which was black tie with mask – and NO phone! That was super fun and decadent and I loved that phones were banned. Everyone was ‘in the moment’, connecting and having a blast – and nothing was documented, thank goodness! Whoa!”
I’m aware of trends but I never let trends dictate my style. Leopard is trending now, for example, so I’ll usually pair my vintage leopard coat with a pair of cool jeans or black wool shorts and tights for a more elevated look…”
Diane Kordas, Jewellery Designer
C&B: “As you travel a great deal, are you able to offer any tips for maintaining a stylish yet comfortable look when on a plane?”
DK: “Cashmere! I usually wear chic baggy pants with a black or white t-shirt, clean trainers, cashmere jumper and one of my Animal Kingdom blankets. It’s so chic and warm for the plane and looks beautiful draped on my shoulders…”
My favourite places to hang out are ‘Dorian’ in Notting Hill, ‘Katrins’ in Mykonos, ‘Marvin’ in LA – and my favourite boutique hotel, hands down, is ‘Kalesma’ in Mykonos!”
Diane Kordas, Jewellery Designer
C&B: “How do you approach sustainable fashion, and are there any eco-friendly brands you particularly love?”
DK: “Interestingly, I recently launched ‘The Huntress’ collection of sustainable cuffs made from apple skins, ostrich from the meat industry in South Africa and off-cuts from leather suppliers in the UK. Lastly, as a fine jewellery brand, we adhere to the Kimberly Process and always do our best to use recycled gold as much as possible. I’m also a fan of Stella McCartney, Veja and vintage clothing…”
CONTACT: http://www.dianekordasjewellery.com
