Crown Jewel

In 2002, twin sisters Elizabeth and Kathyrn Fortunato formed Lizzie Fortunato Jewels after being inundated with sales requests from fellow Duke University classmates. The line's crafty, hand-woven pieces pack a thrifted punch and prove diamonds aren't necessary for high-end jewelry. Silk, hand-sewn leather, antique chains, vintage buttons, precious gemstones like Peruvian opals, shark's teeth, porcupine quills, Whalebone chips from a 19th-century French board game, and Wyoming arrowheads plated in brass and gold are just a few of the fanciful elements that keep this wearable line ahead of the pack.


And the talent runs throughout the Fortunado family. Not only does their grandmother make each sample, but she created the needlework for the horoscope bags. This heirloom-inspired belt is a perfect mix of granny chic handiwork and rich leather; I'm currently saving up for the Leo! J will be traveling extensively over the next 3 years and I plan to accompany him on many jaunts. I can't think of a better accessory for scouring and maneuvering through foreign flea markets!