Get This: Bernard James and Feltraiger’s Jewelry Collab
Why men’s accessories?
Honestly, I didn’t hold accessories in such high regard until I understood the true meaning of style: attention to detail. One ring, bracelet, or any simple adornment can completely change—or enhance—an entire look. In the future, I look forward to designing head-to-toe looks, but I will always be sure to channel the same energy into designing accessories as well.
What sort of connection—geographically, emotionally, or otherwise—do you have with Brooklyn?
Almost everything about me is Brooklyn. Although I studied in Manhattan for most of my life (Collegiate School, New York University), I was born and raised in Brooklyn. Now I live and work out of a space not too far away from where I grew up. The pieces are all manufactured in Manhattan’s Diamond District and hand-finished in Brooklyn.
Having spent so much time in the borough, would you say that there’s a look specific to Brooklyn?
Of course. There’s something about the true merging of cultures that makes Brooklyn’s style so unique. Yes, America has been dubbed the “melting pot” of the world and New York City, especially, attracts a wide spectrum of individuals. But something about Brooklyn, and its authenticity, attracts and breeds unique creative souls with incomparable personal style.
Quick: Style an outfit around the pieces in the collection.
Not to be evasive but this a difficult question for me, just because I feel the pieces can be worn in so many different ways; I like to design pieces that you can wear for almost any occasion. But to respect the question, I’d keep it simple and let the pieces do all the talking. A V-neck [shirt], jeans, and a blazer to top it off never hurt anyone.