TIANNA BASTIEN: MAKING BOLD MOVES
TIANNA Bastien: mAKING BOLD MOVES
When you want to reach for something sensual, that always makes you feel beautiful, BSTRD jewelry delivers. The brainchild of Tianna Bastien, these delicate, beautiful pieces, with movement and personality, always help you look and feel your best. BSTRD was born from a desire to cater for women who don't fit traditional sizes for jewelry, whether it's a belly chain, a choker or a ring. It was Bastien's passion and tenacity to fight these models that led to the launch of her successful line.
The Jewelry Edit had the opportunity to talk to Bastien about what inspires her.
How did you come up with the name for your company?
About 10 years ago I was looking for a body chain for my size 10 body. They were nowhere to be found. All the body chains available were for a size 6, max. You could not buy a larger size ready made or made-to-order. So, I took matters into my own hands and sourced the materials and tools to make one for myself. I loved it so much I made a bunch of different types. Whenever I would wear them, people would always ask where I got them and how they could get one. Thus, bstrd was born. b-s-t-r-d actually stands for “basteroid” a funny name we came up with for our kids (Bastien asteroids) – and I realized that shortened, it could look cheeky if we just used the letters b-s-t-r-d. The concept is a little rough meets beautiful.
Where do you look for inspiration when designing pieces?
I’m a little bit fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants with this. Something will come into my head and I’ll design in, cast it, sample it and bring it to market. I don’t put out traditional lines and I definitely don’t put them out every season – I’m more for releasing pieces organically. In regard to inspiration, I’m loosely following trends and figuring out how to bring those into my unique styles in a way that’s got some longevity – i.e. a herringbone body and belly chain! I’m also always looking for ways to bring multiple styling options into my designs – I.e. belly chains that can be worn as wrap necklaces.
What are your favorite types of pieces to design?
Definitely body chains – they are so fun and really help to elevate any look.
How would you describe your style?
Eclectic! In my personal style like to mash up prints, colors, textures, everything. For my jewelry this shines though as well.
Who are your biggest style influences?
I love Alexandra Guerain and Aureta.
What was the first piece of jewelry you remember buying for yourself?
A pair of intricate seed bead chandelier earrings from a street vendor in Queen street in Toronto.
What’s the most special piece of jewelry you own? What’s the story behind it?
It’s a 10k gold fish necklace that my Aunt gave me. Every time she would wear it I would compliment it and say how much I liked it. The fish body has 3 joints so the body actually wiggles as you wear it – so well thought out!
What’s one piece of jewelry you wear often, that you can’t live without?
Anklets! I love that you never have to remove them and they just look so subtly beautiful.
How many pieces of jewelry do you usually wear at any given time? What are they?
Fifteen. Two anklets, one choker, three rings, one bracelet, six earrings and two ear cuffs.
What’s on your jewelry wish-list?
Actually it’s not for me! We are working on some really cool men’s jewelry that I’m excited for. Specifically a necklace with a fully functional screw driver bit!
Why do you think it’s important for people to wear jewelry?
I think whether it’s heirloom jewelry or fashion, no outfit is complete without some jewelry. Those little shines and sparkles just make you feel so good!
What’s something people should keep in mind when shopping for jewelry?
With so many types of gold these days, make sure you know exactly what you are getting before buying and what works with your skin.
What draws customers in to purchase jewelry from your collection?
Unique styles that you can’t find anywhere else