Have you ever wanted to go into the mind of someone who crafts stunning jewelry? Fabienne Descardes is the designer-craftswoman behind Olé Bijoux. If you’re looking for some pretty pieces to put around your lovely neck, and to wrap around your wrist bone, look no further. Olé Bijoux will provide that, and that’s while saluting the heritage of its founder. The pieces are made with stuff like sisal…and if you think back to that episode of Haiti History 101 we had some time ago, sisal is a very important plant that grows in Haiti. In the 1950s, it was even used to create material for the U.S. Department of Defense.
Back to Olé Bijoux…yeah, the pieces are really exquisite, really pretty. The creative Kreyolicious girl behind Olé was more than happy to discuss the brand and the hard work she has put into building her jewelry line.
Kreyolicious: As a kid, what was your view of fashion?
Bright and bold. Everything made sense in color—hence my hue palette selection today.
Kreyolicious: How did you get drawn to fashion entrepreneurship?
My parents being fashion lovers, and coming from a large family with similar taste, our path were bound to cross.
Kreyolicious: Olé Bijoux…why that name?
Olé—for me—is that tasteful treasure inside a coconut. Olé is also a term of excitement. It stands for a rather strong presence, a statement, and owning the spotlight.
Photo Credit: Richard Lecoin
Kreyolicious: Did some of the jobs you held prior to starting Ole Bijoux help you in your journey as an entrepreneur?
Most definitely! I learned discipline, networking, and the importance of teamwork.
Kreyolicious: If you were to draw from the experiences you’ve had as entrepreneur, what would you tell someone who wants to do something similar?
I will narrow it down to three key words: passion, perseverance, patience. Everything you need is within you. Remain humble, share your wisdom, always remember to give back.
Photo Credit: Richard Lecoin
Kreyolicious: Do you have a favorite piece from your line?
Wow, tough choice… The edible discs, they exude the perfect blend of culinary and unconventional.
Kreyolicious: What goes into running Olé Bijoux?
Long production hours, constant creativity, meetings, inventory, order processing, and the list goes on.
Kreyolicious: Would you say that culture plays a role in your designs?
Absolutely! My West Indian roots reflects in all chosen materials, texture, concept and meaning. I keep the pieces edgy yet unapologetic with a Creole charm.
Photo Credit: Richard Lecoin
Kreyolicious: Entrepreneurship is known to be taxing, emotionally and physically. How do you deal when it gets to be too much?
I honestly take a break. Thanks to my awesome team…Richard Lecoin—proud face of the company and dedicated photographer. Margarette and Co of MCrochet—my aunt & knitting/crochet expert. Jimmy Cliff, my creative director/art/paint guru…Vana—my mother—and rep in Haiti. Family is my main support system. They keep me grounded, especially my precious little lady Leila.
Kreyolicious: What’s the next chapter for Olé Bijoux?
Handbags, headpieces—and a very unique boutique.
[Photos: Richard Lecoin ]
Visit Olé Bijoux on Facebook | Olé Bijoux on Instagram | Olé Bijoux on RawArtists | CLICK HERE TO BUY/SHOP FROM THE OLÉ BIJOUX COLLECTION |
