(Torrey West)
Kristin Cavallari is doing more than just "Balancing in Heels" — she’s making her mark as a jewelry designer.
The sun-kissed blonde has come a long way from her early days on "Laguna Beach" and "The Hills." In the following years, she became a designer, the proud parent of three children with husband (and Chicago Bears quarterback) Jay Cutler, and the author of the aforementioned self-improvement book/memoir chronicling her life as an entrepreneur.
And these days, she's also re-launching her Southern California-inspired jewelry line Emerald Duv.
Emerald Duv's new collection pays homage to this fashionista’s personal style with simple, delicate pieces that work for day or night, including golden cage bracelets, dainty ear cuffs and stackable rings, just to name a few. All the jewelry, which is named after distinctive, vibrant areas of the West Coast, is designed in Malibu and handcrafted in Los Angeles. But most importantly, any woman — regardless of age — can rock her pieces effortlessly like a style star.
Fox News Magazine recently chatted with Cavallari on Emerald Duv, her strong marriage, and whether we can expect baby number four.
FNM: You grew up in the public eye. How did this influence your new Emerald Dov collection?
KC: I was introduced to big designers at an early age since I was in the public eye. But because of that, I want fashion to be accessible and affordable for everyone. That’s why having Emerald Duv is important to me; everything is affordable, but trendy and chic. You don’t have to spend a fortune to look and feel great.
FNM: Which is your favorite piece from the collection?
KC: It’s hard to pick one, but I love the Calabasas necklace. It’s a great layering piece. I throw it on with any simple outfit and instantly feel chic.
FNM: So tell us, how can jewelry make or break an outfit?
KC: Jewelry can break an outfit if you have too much on. However, you can make an outfit with a statement necklace and a simple dress. Chokers are a huge trend right now, and I think they’re so sexy. Some trends I’m really into, style-wise, are chokers, lace-up shoes, lightweight denim, and the color orange/papaya.
FNM: What are three mistakes women always make with jewelry?
KC: Wearing everything at the same time: earrings, necklace, bracelets and rings. I never do all four. The max is three. Also, trying to match your jewelry to your clothing. I don’t like everything to be too perfect.
FNM: Any advice for mothers who want to look and feel stylish, but feel their hectic schedules demand a more practical look?
KC: You can be practical and stylish; it doesn’t have to be one or the other. With Emerald Duv especially, you can wear every piece with your kids because nothing is too big or too chunky. When it comes to the way I dress, I’m all about simplicity. Less is more.
FNM: What’s your relationship like with everyone else from "The Hills"?
KC: I still talk to almost all of the girls. There are some moments I’m not proud of [from the series], but ultimately it’s made me who I am today. I don’t regret anything; there is a lesson in everything.
FNM: In one interview, you credit therapy for keeping your marriage strong. What would you say to people who wouldn't consider counseing unless their marriage is truly in trouble?
KC: Relationships always have room for improvement. When you stop growing together as a couple and deepening your relationship, that’s why you’re in trouble. Why only put effort into a relationship when in a crisis or when it’s too late? I want my relationship to be strong and stay strong, which takes effort.
FNM: For busy moms out there, what advice can you give on keeping a marriage fresh and spicy?
KC: Change things up. Routine can become so mundane. Surprise your husband or wear some lingerie. It doesn’t have to be much.
FNM: Can we expect baby number four in the future?
KC: Nope!
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