What’s Old is New Again Circa Suzy line Transforms Vintage Treasures

The local San Diego-designed Circa Suzy line transforms vintage treasures into contemporary statement jewelry

For La Jolla-based designer Suzy McCabe, it all began with her grandmother’s jewelry box.

According to Suzy, "I’ve always had a love for vintage jewelry, going back to when I was very young - - being mesmerized by the sparkle and shine of the rhinestones, pearls, and baubles in my grandmother’s jewelry box. Growing up, my mom and I scoured flea markets, antique fairs, and auctions, searching for vintage treasures.

My appreciation for fine jewelry from the past has continued to this day. During my world travels, I’ve amassed a large collection of vintage designer necklaces, bracelets, brooches, and earrings. I felt called to "re-imagine" what was so beautiful in their glory days, and make them relevant to women today - - ultimately having them handed down as a legacy to the next generation of fabulous women."

The result is the Circa Suzy line of Vintage Couture Jewelry, a bespoke line of wearable art lovingly designed for today’s woman with modern moxie. Each handcrafted treasure blends quality vintage jewels, semi-precious gems, pearls, or antique findings. These contemporary statement pieces exude the exquisite detail and craftsmanship of yesteryear, with the style and dazzle of a spectacular bygone era.

Handcrafted in her studio overlooking the ocean, each exclusive piece is a unique heirloom with a modern flair - - perfect paired with everything from jeans to gowns.

Her designs have captured the eye of some of the world’s most respected actresses, entertainers, and producers, including Kim Novak, Leslie Caron, Luci Arnaz, Illeana Douglas, and Diane Baker, all of whom have Circa Suzy pieces in their private collections.

Suzy began creating her first designs while watching Turner Classic Movies. She got hooked on films from the past and fell in love with the genre, which evolved into her design inspiration. Suzy shared, "I was captivated by the glamour and style of Hollywood’s leading ladies. Similarly, I appreciated the beauty and meticulous craftsmanship of high-quality vintage jewelry. With my designs, I want to pay homage to jewelry artisans from the past, and re-awaken their pieces to create fabulous designs that make any woman feel like a star."

In 2016, she was asked by the network to create an exclusive line inspired by their film library, and designed for the unique tastes of their fans. The result was the Circa Suzy for TCM Collection, which debuted on the popular TCM Fan Cruise and was also spotlighted at the network’s renowned Film Festival.

Some of her designs are directly inspired by classic designs from notable films, including the multi-strand pearl charm bracelet laden with heavy golden lockets and coins worn by Grace Kelly in Hitchcock’s thriller Rear Window, re-imagined by Circa Suzy with vintage glass pearls and original 50’s charms. Or her modern twist on Audrey Hepburn’s pearl strand dazzler from the classic scene in Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Suzy’s next collection also followed in the footsteps of old Hollywood glamour, partnering with La Jolla’s mecca for film stars, La Valencia. For this historic international destination, Suzy designed the Circa Suzy for LaV Collection, inspired by the hotel’s seaside beauty and distinct style -- available exclusively at the property and at www.lavalencia.com

Some of her designs even transform classic pieces that did not originally begin as jewelry. Her Three Graces necklace features a circa 1880s hand-etched Italian glass focal point depicting three Greek goddesses, originally used for table place settings in the late 1800s.

In 2016 Suzy took her collections to the runway, as the only jewelry designer selected to participate in Fashion Week San Diego, the largest public/industry fashion event in California.

Her pieces have also been featured in trunk shows, and with limited edition availability at Olivine Gabro and designer Katie Fong’s boutique in Greenwich, Connecticut; Tucker’s Point in Bermuda; and at Capri at Bellagio, in Las Vegas.

Known for their dazzling diversity, the Circa Suzy line currently encompasses several stunning collections: 

·       The Resort Collection: Inspired by the vibrant colors and textures of the islands.

·       The BoHo Collection: Adventurous, eclectic pieces featuring antique coins, unique timepieces, and vintage leather -- bold with a twist of the old.

·       The International Collection: Cutting-edge designs blending precious and semi-precious stones, and high-quality materials from around the world. 

·       The Demure Collection: This delicate, stunning necklace collection is for the young and young at heart.

·       The Bridal Collection: Exceptional statement creations for the Bride, Bridesmaid, or Mother of the Bride.

Suzy also works directly with clients to create affordable custom-designed pieces blending treasured family jewelry, or pieces from Suzy’s collection - - perfect for special occasions or once-in-a-lifetime gifts.

Today, Circa Suzy is a uniquely independent brand offering necklaces, bracelets, hair ornaments, earrings, and accessories,and in select fine retail locations.

Private trunk shows, wholesale, and consignment partnerships are also available.

To learn more, contact designer Suzy McCabe at 612-804-9452.