UNISEX HARDWARE FOR THE ROYALTY IN ALL OF US
Story by Julia Brucculieri
Photos provided by Kueen
Jewellery has been an expression of the self for as long as it has been created. It can be used as a status symbol, or simply a tool of personal style. But who ever said jewellery had to be either for a girl or a boy?
The designers behind Kueen, an androgynous jewellery label based in New York City, believe that acessorizing is for girls, boys and everyone in between. Quite simply, their jewellery is made for the king and queen in everyone – hence Kueen (king + queen = kueen). Hand-crafted using new and recycled materials, Kueen is made for the most fashion forward of people. Most of their pieces are one-of-a-kind, just like everyone who wears them. The idea for “sexless” jewellery came about after seeing New York City fashion boys in high heels, like Marcus Holmlund and Jordan Fox.
The designers behind Kueen (fittingly, The King and Queen) prefer to stay anonymous “to let the gems do the talking,” says King. Queen tells me that they want the people wearing the jewellery to really appreciate the craft and hard work, not just the “provocateurs behind it.”
“Would people actually wear Britney Spears’ perfume if her face wasn’t on it? I am not implying that we are famous or have some profitable credibility – it just gives us artistic freedom.”
King and Queen are inspired by the creative type – “poets, thespians, and people who carry themselves elegantly and wear low back dresses.” King adds, “gypsies, vagrants, vagabonds, the sexy type” to the list. Their jewellery is made to feel good. Queen tells me, “When I put on a fresh new chain necklace or bracelet – I feel like I’m flying. I feel like more people pay attention to me. That is the power Kueen can have on everyone.”
When asked about the possibility of expanding beyond jewelry, Queen says, “I think underwear would be the next project. Keep the sex drive driving.” King adds, “We’ve been thinking of reusable condoms to help the Green movement.” (I’m not so sure how I feel about the latter, but, go green?!)
There is no doubt that Kueen oozes sex appeal and confidence; the pieces add that extra oomph to any outfit, and based on the latest campaign, these pieces are strong enough to be the outfit. And, although the designers remain [personally] unknown to the world, one thing is certain – their accessories are definitely for those who want to be noticed.
