Firstly, you always look so amazing. How did your background in styling and fashion morph into jewelry.
When I was younger, I did some commercial modelling, so I was familiar with being on set. My first fashion internship was for a web magazine and I was in charge of the marketing team, so I got to reach out to Canadian designers and pull pieces for shoots. At that time, I didn’t see “styling” as a destined profession, but I knew one day I wanted to run my own company.
Designer Lisa Gozlan sporting jewelry from her eponymous collection.
I like that you were already looking ahead.
Yes, I worked in retail for a number of years and earned a degree in Retail Business at Ryerson University, so dealing with customers came naturally. I fell into jewelry about eight years ago and launched my first online store, “Renard Jewelry,” (Renard is my maiden name) and was literally learning as I went.
Yes, but I don’t think most “learners” got the attention you did with your early wrap and reclaimed wooden bead bracelets.
Yeah, those were already big hits long before celebrities like Snoop Dog and Alessandra Ambrosio started wearing them. Then they really took off!
That kind of endorsement must have made you feel good.
I think it really took time to develop confidence and all these experiences combined lead me to where I am today. When I joined forces with my husband we launched “LRG Fashion” in 2017, because we both loved to source rare and hard-to-get fashion pieces. We charged a commission for sourcing finds, like sneakers that were on worldwide waiting lists, and it was a big hit.
So that was the official beginning of your stylist career?
Yes. My clients starting asking me to help them plan outfits with all the pieces I was sourcing for them. Every time I’d meet with a client, they’d ask, “Lisa what are you wearing? What bracelet is that? Where are those earrings from?” I realized there was a niche in the market for slightly more affordable, high-quality everyday jewelry. I mean, I wanted to stack my rings but found the cost of multiples prohibitive. I knew if I felt that way, others must too.
You also have a family connection with the biz.
Yes! The Gozlan name has been a staple in the jewelry industry for over 50 years and my husband Ryan is the 5th generation in his family’s business.
How does Ryan influence you?
When I found that gap in the market for affordable pieces and had so many people asking me what kind of jewelry I was wearing, Ryan said, “It’s time we brand you!” It was from there that Lisa Gozlan Fine Jewelry was born.
OK, you won’t like to hear this but, while I love jewelry I sometimes think of it like dessert after a big meal – you can take it or leave it.
Unfortunately, I can’t agree with you there – no bias! I think jewelry, more than ever, is becoming an essential part of every woman’s outfit. I would equate jewelry to dessert in one way though: it is the cherry on top of all outfits!
Great point!
I can’t tell you how many times people notice my jewelry before anything else I’m wearing. Sure, it’s not essential like underwear, but I would put having a nice piece of jewelry right up there with investing in designer clothing or a new pair of shoes. Our point of difference is that we are providing great jewelry with a price tag that’s affordable for the younger generation and millennials who like to think outside of the box.
What’s your advice to those who aren’t savvy with jewelry – how can they start incorporating it into their wardrobes?
I think jewelry has become a necessity just like carrying a purse. A simple pair of everyday gold hoops can completely change your overall mood and brighten your outfit. It can make a basic T-shirt or sweatshirt look glam. But this doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.
Model wears E001 Hoops and N001 Tennis Necklaces from Lisa Gozlan Fine Jewelry.
What are good “starter” pieces then?
Invest in pieces that go seamlessly with your everyday wardrobe. Our E001 is our most classic hoop and it’s a perfect size for every day and outfit. A 10-karat or more gold chain looks good on its own or layered with more necklaces. And opt for rings that are a minimum of 10-karat gold, so you never have to worry about them tarnishing when simply washing your hands.
The E001 hoop earrings from Lisa Gozlan Fine Jewelry.
What about more directional pieces?
Jewelry definitely follows trends. Think of those wild and colourful statement earrings of the ’60s. Jewelry is the same as fashion – everything comes back around. Right now, paperclip chain necklaces are a hot trend and older style Cuban-link chains are also still very big.
What’s it like working with your husband?
Ryan is my best friend so it’s pretty amazing that we get to plan our life together around the business. We have our ups and downs living and working in a tight space, but we’ve managed to find a good balance so far. We try and find time at night to relax and have a glass of wine and not talk about work, but as two entrepreneurs who are always striving to discover and set the next trend, our minds are constantly on the move. Both of us are always thinking, “OK, what’s next?”
Off topic, your skin is glowing. What’s your secret?
It’s for sure Charlotte Tilbury’s “Light Wonder Foundation.” I use it every day and I’m hooked! Otherwise, I’m pretty simple with my skincare routine. I use Yon Ka cleansing milk (also doubles as eye makeup remover) and moisturizing cream by Guinot. My mom used it when she was younger and she has beautiful skin so I trust it.
Lisa proving that jewelry does make a basic tee look glam.
What inspires your jewelry designs?
The inspiration for our core collection was three rings that my father-in-law Alan Gozlan had designed years ago. They were classic designs that clearly stood the test of time. I love looking back at different eras, particularly the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. I’m also inspired by travel and by what’s at my fingertips on Instagram and Pinterest – they help me build mood boards.
I love that your pieces are very affordable but can be upgraded to real stones.
Yes! We have a one-of-a-kind custom section that’s handled by Ryan who works hand-in-hand with our factories, model maker and diamond dealers to ensure our customers get only the best products. We do everything from custom bridal to creating one-of-a-kind pieces – the sky’s the limit and anything can be done.
Describe your collection in five words.
Classic. Timeless. Edgy. Trendy. Chic.
The best compliment you’ve received?
I get compliments about my epic ring stacking game and nail art (it’s Top Nail Spa in Yorkville) on a daily basis, but the biggest compliment is that our pieces are beautifully made and comfortable.
Lisa’s ring stacking game and nail art.
What’s next for Lisa Gozlan Fine Jewelry?
Well, I can’t give away any big secrets, but there will be lots of new products and pop-ups in 2020, and a bigger focus on building personalization options for our customers.
It seems like your collection is just as much about passion as it is business.
I hope so. I’d like to think I fall into the category that Warren Buffet described when he said, “In the world of business, the people who are most successful are those who are doing what they love.”
