Taylor Hill Launches Stone Fruit: A New Era in Demi-Fine Jewelry
Supermodel Taylor Hill is stepping into the world of jewelry with the launch of her new line, Stone Fruit. This venture, which debuts this month, marks a significant shift for Hill, who is not only a prominent figure in the fashion industry but also a creative entrepreneur. The brand is a collaboration with her sister, Mackinley Hill, who will take on the role of design director. Together, they aim to create a unique jewelry line that reflects their family heritage and personal aesthetics.
A Family Affair
Stone Fruit is more than just a jewelry line; it is a tribute to the Hill family’s roots. The collection features vintage-inspired pieces, including bangles, earrings, chunky rings, and necklaces. Each item is infused with personal significance, drawing inspiration from their grandmother’s love for bold statement jewelry. For instance, the “Stones in the Pit” earrings are designed in trios, symbolizing the sisters’ third sibling, influencer Logan Rae Hill. This familial connection adds a layer of depth to the collection, making it not just a commercial endeavor but a heartfelt homage to their upbringing in Colorado.
Mackinley Hill, who has been crafting her own jewelry since childhood, describes the pieces as “eclectic, bold, but wearable.” She emphasizes the importance of joy in their designs, stating, “We always want to do something really joyful that sparks delight.” This philosophy is evident in the collection’s vibrant colors and unique textures, which aim to evoke the essence of stone fruits-juicy, colorful, and full of life.
The Collection’s Aesthetic
The inaugural drop of Stone Fruit, set for September 30, features over 30 pieces that incorporate a variety of gemstones, including tiger’s eye, peach moonstone, mother of pearl, garnet, and lab-grown white sapphire. The design elements are carefully curated to reflect the sisters’ vision. For example, the oxidized sterling silver in the Disc bracelet and ear cuff, along with the ridged surfaces of the Barrel cuff and hoops, evoke the textures of nature, while the curved hardware in the Clavicle necklace and bracelet resembles organic forms.
Prices for the collection range from $100 to $500 for signature items, with statement pieces starting at $600. This pricing strategy positions Stone Fruit within the demi-fine jewelry market, appealing to consumers looking for quality pieces without the exorbitant price tags often associated with luxury jewelry.
Navigating the Jewelry Market
The timing of Stone Fruit’s launch is strategic. Despite economic uncertainties and consumer sentiment challenges, the jewelry sector has shown resilience, particularly in the luxury market. According to industry reports, jewelry sales have remained robust, defying broader retail trends. This resilience presents an opportunity for new entrants like Stone Fruit to carve out a niche.
The Hill sisters are keenly aware of the challenges and advantages of launching a brand tied to celebrity status. Taylor Hill expressed a desire for the brand to stand on its own merits, stating, “Hopefully people even discover [Stone Fruit] and have no idea that it’s even attached to me at all. That’s such a dream of ours … that people love the brand because of the brand.” This approach reflects a growing trend among celebrity entrepreneurs who seek to establish authenticity and connection with their audience beyond their fame.
Building a Community
In its inaugural year, Stone Fruit aims to foster a sense of community around the brand. The sisters plan to host pop-up events and outdoor activations to engage directly with consumers. This strategy not only helps in building brand awareness but also creates a platform for customers to connect with the Hill sisters and the story behind the jewelry.
The emphasis on community aligns with a broader movement in the fashion industry, where brands are increasingly focusing on customer engagement and experiential marketing. By creating opportunities for interaction, Stone Fruit hopes to cultivate a loyal customer base that appreciates the brand’s ethos and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Taylor and Mackinley Hill’s Stone Fruit represents a fresh perspective in the demi-fine jewelry market, blending personal history with contemporary design. As they embark on this entrepreneurial journey, the sisters are not just selling jewelry; they are sharing a piece of their family legacy. With a focus on community building and a commitment to quality, Stone Fruit is poised to make a significant impact in the jewelry industry. As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on this new venture, eager to see how it resonates with consumers and shapes the future of jewelry design.
