
When former civil rights attorney Alexis Ander Kashar made a career jump to become a jewelry designer, the core elements of her work didn't change all that much—there are more parallels between lawyer and designer than one might suspect, she says. Sure, the day to day is different, but the designer insists that both occupations allow for one key thing: advocacy. In both roles, there exists a platform and an opportunity to make your voice heard.
Through Kashar's debut line of pendants, which proudly feature the American Sign Language symbol for "I love you," she has been able to connect people from many different communities. The designer and founder of RoseBYANDER (opens in new tab), who herself is deaf, says that once she began donning her necklace, she "engaged in so many meaningful conversations with friends and strangers who are intrigued [by] the pendant or want to share their own experiences. Unexpected connections are constantly made as a result of those conversations."
In honor of International Week of Sign Language (September 20-26), Marie Claire spoke with Kashar about her collection and the importance of "showcasing the beauty of deaf cultures and languages throughout the world." Kashar explains: "There are 200 known sign languages, and there are 70 million deaf and hard of hearing people around the globe, and 48 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the USA alone." Her pieces represent love, inclusivity, and belonging—statement jewelry with a message.
Kashar's pieces come in a a variety of metals, diamonds, and colored stones, and at a mix of prices (starting at $239). Join in on the celebration of this week and shop some of our favorites from the collection below:
Katie Attardo is the Accessories Editor at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion and jewelry-related.
-
This Year’s Hottest Wine Club
The subscription service made by wine lovers, for wine lovers.
By Sponsored
-
Found: Bracelets to Fall For
Get ready to mix, match, and stack.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
Jamie Lee Curtis Posed Topless on a Magazine Cover at 50 and People "Lost Their Minds," Apparently
Why are people like this?
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
The 12 Best Leather Totes for Women in 2023
The unsung heroine of your bag collection.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
The 21 Best Watches for Women in 2023
The real MVP of your outfit.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 14 Best Affordable Jewelry Brands of 2023
Every one of our favorite pieces retails for less than $150.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
Fashion Test Drive: Celine's Teen Besace Bag
Our Style Director takes Celine's new bag out for a spin.
By Sara Holzman
-
The 15 Best Chelsea Boots for Women in 2023
Bring it on, cold weather.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
The 22 Best Summer Boots You'll Abandon Your Sandals For
Perfect for pairing with your floatiest dresses.
By Julia Gall
-
The 13 Best Vegan Leather Handbags and Purses of 2023
They're stylish and sustainable.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
25 Summer Hats That'll Instantly Transform You Into A Hat Person
Shield your face from the sun in style.
By Gabrielle Ulubay