KatieI had the pleasure of talking with Anna Sabino, jewelry designer and creator of Lucid New York. Her designs have been featured in top fashion magazines such as People StyleWatch and Vogue. From cocktail rings to necklaces, her designs are all about being whimsical and dreamy (my favorite in this bird necklace). But Anna is far more than just a designer. From supporting her favorite charity, MacDella Cooper Foundation, to riding a mechanical bull in Manhattan (yes, this is true!), Sabino loves to be out and about. Be a part of StyleHop’s latest contest and you could win two (yes, two) of Anna’s fabulous designs (Long Leaf Necklace and gold Leaf Earrings). But don’t wait, the contest ends Monday, August 3. 
Anna, how did you end up designing your own fashion line?
I used to blow glass and had a glass jewelry line. Then with time, I changed and started designing pieces with a more feminine, lighter look. Long pieces you can layer and charm necklaces are my specialty.
That’s great. On your site, you mentioned you get your inspiration from people watching. Where are your favorite spots to people watch?
The place where I live – Bleecker street is a perfect people watching spot. People come to Bleecker street from everywhere. They stroll, shop, eat. I think that’s where most trends get started. I also love going to shows and fashion events. Universities are great people watching spots as well.
Do you find a lot of inspiration living by NYU?
It’s very interesting for me – I can notice the trends at NYU but students seem to interpret them their own way. This trend individualization is really inspiring.
What was it like to see your designs in major magazines like Vogue and People StyleWatch?
Being featured in Vogue was very rewarding especially because it was my signature piece getting the Vogue editors’ interest. It was like a stamp of approval saying “your stuff is good, people like it.” We still sometimes call the Signature piece “the Vogue Necklace.”
Wow, I can’t even imagine. What are three things you can’t live without?
You probably think I’ll say an iPhone or my mac but I truly can’t live without traveling. Every now and then I just need to recharge and go away, even for a bit. Then I get back full of ideas, ready to reinvent the world.
I totally agree. I absolutely love to travel, as well. Ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
I’d like to expand Lucid New York and start designing other accessories offering both a luxury and a more affordable line.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a designer?
Be always open to receive criticism and treat is as constructive.
Anna Sabino
Your ultimate fashion icon:
Marc Jacobs – I admire this guy. He grows his empire disregarding all the people who whine about the economy and circumstances. Instead, Marc Jacobs just keeps opening stores and starting partnerships with other fashion icons constantly reinventing and growing.
Favorite fashion movie:
I’d have to say Sex and the City, just because this movie has been so influential, iconic I’d even say.
That is one of my favorite’s, too. What would you say your best & worst fashion moments have been?
The best fashion moment was my realization of the existence of all the wonderful trend/fashion community sites out there. Whether you log on to StyleHop, Polyvore, MyItThings or PurseBlog, you are surrounded by all these amazing people exchanging ideas and sharing things they love. I find it inspiring and fun.
The worst is the realization that some people are trying to fight it, not realizing the benefits of being in a community.
Thanks fr the shout-out! What’s your favorite thing in your closet right now?
All my funky clothes I brought from Tokyo, they’re so different and bring great memories.
That is amazing. I have always wanted to go to Tokyo. What advice you would give to designers trying to make it in the fashion industry?
It’s important to make what you love but creating for people is crucial. Do a lot of research. When I was starting as a designer I was asking everyone their opinion – friends, people at parties, the grocery store, post office, everywhere. Then I decided to go for it.
Make sure to participate in our contest and you could win a necklace and earrings from Anna’s line at Lucid New York!
