The DRAE COLLECTION team is proud to present our latest capsule collection titled
"DRAE IS FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE."
This collection showcases individuals who wear our jewelry and celebrates the diversity of lifestyles. Our latest capsule features Anaëlle, a talented young ballerina. We had the privilege of watching her dance and asking her questions about her passion. Through this capsule, you can enjoy several videos of Anaëlle dancing gracefully, enhancing our jewelry.
Our jewelry is designed for everyone. Simply loving them is enough for them to become essential elements of your daily life.
To highlight Anaëlle and get to know her better, we asked her a few questions about her passion.
At what age did you start dancing, and what prompted you to choose classical ballet?
I started dancing at the age of 3; I had so much energy to expend, and I loved dancing in the living room with my sisters. Recognizing this interest in movement, my parents enrolled me in classical ballet classes, with which I quickly developed a passion. So it's been 15 years since I've been training in ballet, and I couldn't feel more like myself than in a dance studio.
Why do you dance? How do you feel when you dance?
I started dancing at a very young age, and I also tried several other sports, but I ended up focusing on ballet. This art represents for me a long process valuing self-transcendence, collaboration with peers, and the transmission of an authentic story, whether narrative or not. There is always an idea behind a dance piece or exercise, and seeing that same idea come to life is what makes dance magical and so precious to me. It is full of emotions.
Was there a decisive moment when you knew you wanted to pursue a career in classical ballet?
At the age of 13, I left the family nest to join the École Supérieure de Ballet du Québec. Leaving my small region, Lac St Jean, was a decisive moment in my training as a professional classical dancer. Indeed, this decision involved enormous sacrifices for me, but from my first classes at this ballet school, I immediately felt at home. My welcome in this professional environment was so warm, and today, I consider myself extremely grateful to be able to follow this training gradually leading to the realization of my childhood dream, that of becoming a ballerina, making my passion my profession.
What motivates you to continue this art?
I have a deep conviction that my daily motivation comes from my strong tendency toward perfectionism. In dance, there is always a way to improve and surpass oneself. In reality, this is what I prefer about my discipline: the feeling of surprising myself by my ability to go beyond my own limits or those imposed by the coach. Ballet, whether mentally or physically, constantly challenges me, and it is this perpetual quest for performance achievement that nourishes my motivation, every day. Dancing with my best friends, working on exciting projects, and seeing the pride in my parents' eyes are also elements that drive me forward in my art.
Click here for discover the jewelry
Click here for discover the capsule on instagram
The DRAE COLLECTION team is thrilled to share a stunning collaboration with the Quebec-based swimwear company Mennillo for their latest campaign. This partnership has resulted in a captivating photoshoot, blending the elegance of DRAE's jewelry with the beauty of Mennillo's swimwear. A perfect fusion of two brands celebrating lifestyle, whether it be daily or by the seaside.
Mennillo swimwear is renowned for its impeccable fit, unrivaled comfort, and durability. With adjustable bikini tops at the waist and shoulders, every woman can find the perfect fit. The variety of styles offers a choice of coverage and personalized support, while the materials used ensure a flattering and gentle fit for the skin. Additionally, each piece is lined for maximum opacity and designed to withstand the test of time, thanks to high-quality materials and rigorous manufacturing processes.
In the previous photoshoot in South America, several pieces of jewelry were showcased to complement the refined aesthetic. Among them are elegant and sophisticated pieces that add a touch of glamour to every beach outfit. Whether delicate necklaces, sparkling bracelets, or elegant earrings, Drae's jewelry perfectly complements the ensemble and adds a dimension of luxury to every look.
Together, Mennillo and Drae create inspiration for everyone, where style and elegance meet to celebrate the beauty of life by the sea. A collaboration that promises to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Designed for the besties, lovers, secret admirers or just you.
This collection features mixed metals, cubic zirconias and puffed heart shapes. The pieces of Wild Heat were designed to give you endless possibilities of mix and match, making it the perfect collection to your day to night outfits.
The year 2023 has brought a surge of interest in heart-shaped jewelry. It has become a popular trend with fashion-savvy individuals and those looking to add a romantic touch to their wardrobe. From statement necklaces to charming earrings, this shape has become a classic staple in any jewelry collection.
It's no surprise that heart-shaped jewelry is making a comeback this year. Its romantic connotations and timeless shapes make it the perfect accessory to show off your unique style. Whether it's a sentimental gift for a loved one or a statement piece to add some sparkle to an outfit, heart-shaped jewelry is the perfect way to make a statement.
The rise of heart-shaped jewelry in 2023 has been a welcome addition to the fashion world and so it has in our newest jewelry collection. You'll find this timeless shape within our Twin Flames hoops, Hearts Become One necklace and Dare to Love necklace.
The classic tennis necklace trend is one of the longest-standing jewelry trends of all time. It has been seen on everyone from royalty to Hollywood stars, and it continues to be a staple in many jewelry collections. The classic tennis necklace is usually composed of small, round diamonds set in a continuous line, and it is meant to be worn close to the neckline.
For this collection, we've designed a necklace mixing the timeless tennis necklace with the heart-shaped trend to create our Hearts Become One necklace. It's the perfect touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit, and it is sure to be a timeless piece of jewelry that will always be in style.
Whether you’re looking for a classic, timeless piece of jewelry or a modern twist on a classic, the classic tennis necklace is sure to be a great choice.
2023 has already started off with some bold fashion trends, and chunky chains jewelry is no exception. Chunky chains have been seen on the runways and red carpets of some of the most fashionable celebrities and influencers. This trend is perfect for anyone looking to make a statement with their jewelry and add an edgy touch to their look. Not only are chunky chains stylish, but they are also a great way to express your individuality.
Our Chained 2gether necklace can be worn as a single statement piece, layered together to create an eye-catching look, or paired with other pieces of jewelry to add depth and texture. You'll also find our matching Double Date earrings designed with bold modular hoops that you can easily personalise.
So, if you’re looking for a way to make a bold statement in this year, these pieces are definitely the way to go.
A waist chain is a great way to add a bold statement to any outfit. Whether you’re going for an edgy, trendy look or a more classic, timeless style, waist chains can be the perfect accessory to help you make a statement. Waist chains can be worn loose, draped around the waist, or wrapped around the waist and tied in the back for a snug fit. Depending on the style, you can use them to accentuate your waist, add texture and detail to an outfit, or even add a bit of sparkle and glamour. No matter what style you choose, be sure to keep the rest of your outfit simple so the waist chain stands out.
When it comes to styling a waist chain, the possibilities are endless. You can pair it with a dress or skirt and a crop top, or wear it with a long, flowing gown for a more glamorous look. You can even wear it with a pair of jeans and a t-shirt for a relaxed, yet stylish outfit. See it for yourself how Jade & Megan styled their master piece of the collection.
‘This collection represents how we can be both delicate yet strong,’ Christen described.
With its intricate details, you'll find 6 jewelry sets of rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelet. Designed to last you as lifetime with its 14K gold plated material, this collection is divided in two different feel to bring out both delicate (Soft) and strong (Fierce) sides of Christen's essence.
New neutrals. A mix of delicate and soothing pastel colors with clear crystals giving a whimsical aesthetic to the collection. These hues give a refined and feminine touch to each item perfect for elevating basics. Based on a surrealist inspiration, Soft lends in a transseasonal appeal and versatility across these jewels. Intricate details are cropping up as a key design detail for the season.
Fierce is a collection featuring versatile pieces that can easily be worn from day to night without any effort. Statement jewelry is one of the main directions for accessories. We designed these pieces with a fusion of bold and minimal details for a more sophisticated approach and a feminine edge. Fierce is all about feeling confident and bold.
We wanted to make sure each piece would stand out on its own! The statement pieces from Fierce can easily be juxtaposed with the dainty pieces from Soft.
One other great aspect of these pieces is that they are all tarnish free and water resistant. Each material has been meticulously selected to ensure you can wear them all day long (even under water or at the gym).
Fall is approaching and we’re super excited to launch a brand new collection in collaboration with signer Clodelle - MUJER.
As per usual, we like to interview our collaborator to allow our community to understand the process of the collection as well as getting to know the incredible woman that is Clodelle.
DRAE: So tell me Clodelle! How did you first hear about DRAE?
DRAE: And what made you want to collaborate with us?
DRAE: That's so nice to hear! So then, once you accepted, how did you get your inspiration for the styles of your collection?
C: I wanted to create a line of jewelry that would have a lot of personality and delicacy, but also a certain audacity that would stand out.
DRAE: I can tell you succeeded since this is exactly how I would describe the pieces of MUJER.
DRAE: So that people can understand the idea behind the campaign, can you describe the concept behind the collection and the photoshoot?
DRAE: I think people will recognize you in this campaign. And what was your favorite part in the process of creating the collection?
C: First of all, how welcoming the team was! Then, I would say the trust and complicity in the evolution of conceiving the collection. And finally, to see the product come to life, which is an incredible feeling.
DRAE: And so would you say that developing products is something you would see yourself doing again?
C: Without hesitation!
DRAE: Amazing! We’re happy to know that your experience with us made you like the process!
DRAE: Now let's talk a bit more about you!
As most people know, you’re a rising singer! You even launched your first album Gemini last May. Is this your full-time job or do you do something else?
DRAE: Interesting! And then, where did your passion for music come from?
C: Music has always taken a big place in my life. It’s one of the arts that I appreciate the most. Music transports you elsewhere, allows you to connect to other cultures and joins the whole range of emotions.
And do you have any other passions or hobbies that might surprise us?
DRAE: Oh wow! I didn’t know about this. And what does a typical day in Clodelle’s life look like?
DRAE: Haha! I absolutely understand.
DRAE: I also wanted to talk a little more about fashion as you have a very unique style that we all love here at DRAE. So, if you had one piece of advice to give to people, what would be your fashion essentials for a successful look?
DRAE: Beautifully said! Speaking of your style, how would you describe it in a few words?
So, other than this collection. Do you have any projects you are currently working on that you can share with us?
C: Yes, but it's a secret for now! I’ll keep the surprise for you for 2023! :)
DRAE: Ouuu! We can't wait to find out. Also, do you speak any other languages?
C: Yes, I am trilingual! :) I speak English, Spanish and French.
DRAE: That’s impressive! OK. Now, time for a crunchy question! What's your biggest fart peeve?
C: I really have trouble with pretentious people. I like simple and down to earth people.
But one of my biggest pet peeves is when people poke their plates (making lots of annoying noises) when they’re at the table. I also can’t stand when people eat with their mouths open.
DRAE: Hahaha… I LOVE this!
DRAE: Now, let’s go with a more serious question. What would you like people to remember about you the most?
C: I would like people to remember my compassion (That I really care), my generosity and my kindness.
And to end on a high note. If you had one piece of advice to give people, what would it be?
C: Do not call me in the morning before 10 AM. HAHAHA!
No, seriously. Listen to your gut feeling and don't be afraid to take risks! I think living in your comfort zone is suicide for self-development. My POV. :)
DRAE: That is a GREAT piece of advice.
Thank you Clodelle for taking the time with me today. We can’t wait for people to discover the beautiful and outstanding jewelry pieces that you designed with Aurelie. And we’ll see you at the event of your collection launch!
You can shop the collection here.
]]>As you probably already know, this month is an important month for the black community. In order to highlight the issues that the community still faces to this day, we wanted to give the chance to one of our clients who are facing this reality to tell us her story and reality of being a black woman.
Today we are interviewing Agnès Nekaa, one of our clients whom we had the chance to meet during our last photoshoot. We simply connected with her vibrant personality and, since this is a subject that is close to our hearts at DRAE, we wanted to give her the chance to delve into the subject and share her point of view with us.
DRAE: So Agnes, could you start by explaining a little more about the Black History Month?
A: Black History Month means a lot of things! It was celebrated for the first time in 1976, in the United States. This is a month that particularly comes to celebrate black excellence and to commemorate the path we have traveled. To do this, we highlight the Afro culture through music, reading books addressing the accomplishments of black public figures and then we discuss among ourselves the various hardships that we have to live in everyday life.
DRAE: And can you tell us a bit more about the challenges the black community faced at the time?
A: In all honesty, I won’t be able to comment on all the challenges of the time, but those who have definitely marked our history and on which the majority of stereotypes and prejudices with negative connotations have arisen are the following: the slave trade, segregation, Blackface, colorism, fetishism and the lack of representation of black people in the media, in the artistic field, in the school environment and even in the workplace.
DRAE: And if we look at today’s reality, what would be the similar challenges that the black community in our country still faces?
A: The list is horribly long! Unfortunately, the problematic source of all these challenges in Quebec, in my opinion, is that our society does not sufficiently recognize systemic racism. Our society should consider this issue more seriously as it’s still omnipresent in several important institutions. People should take the time to think about intervention plans, programs, etc. which aim to create a better "living together". This is a big issue for my community given that the system is preconceived by ideologies that aim to make us look like school dropouts, street gang members or others that can lead to unfortunate situations related to racial profiling, for example. The political leaders of our country should use their influence on society to help the black community in these challenges and thus give them the chance to have a better quality of life.
In addition, I can say that one of my personal challenges is the reflex of repeatedly questioning myself in front of white people, to constantly debunking all stereotypes about black men and women. Every time I go on a job interview, despite my background and skills, I always wonder if my skin color and the prejudices attached to it, will question my qualifications. This thinking follows me every day. In my opinion, we are held back in several spheres of our lives because of the media and movies which often do not present a positive image of the black community.
DRAE: If you're comfortable telling us a little more about it, could you tell us what it's like for you to be a black woman on a daily basis? Are there still injustices that you suffer from regularly or occasionally?
A: I have a lot to say about this. One day I was reading a book written by an incredible man who greatly influenced my field of study, as well as the woman I am today. His name is Doctor Denis Mukwege. He’s a gynecologist and activist who dedicated his life to women in eastern DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo) who were victims of sexual abuse used as a weapon of war, by creating "Cité de la joie" an establishment where he was treating and saving with his team thousands of women for more than 20 years. I discovered it during my identity quest at the age of 15. Then, by dint of reading books and watching documentaries on his devotion to the women he took under his wing, I finally began to realize the emotional and social charge that it takes to be who I am in this world.
There is a pejorative image that has been circulating regarding the black African woman for a long time. Apparently, we are submissive to our illiterate spouses and spend our time reproducing so that our children end up on the streets begging.
Being a black African woman means that every day, I expect to have to educate an individual about the injustices that women in general, black people AND Africans face! Whenever I hear comments today such as "Right… the women of West Africa are all submissive, like the hostages of Boko Haram (Nigerian terrorist group)", I just can’t hold myself but to heave very long sighs of discouragement.
Despite everything, I would not change my place for the world. Since the 15-year-old Agnès opened her eyes and accepted her origins, sex and skin color, she spent her time learning and educating herself on the subject. The black woman, African or not, is endowed with an inhuman resilience. I find that life has shaped us so that no matter what obstacles are presented to us, we emerge as warriors. There are no two people like us!
DRAE: We can imagine that it’s not an easy reality for you. However, would you say that you have observed an improvement from society in the inclusion of the black community compared to your childhood?
A: Definitely, yes! The improvement is not obvious, in my opinion, but it's there. Although, I believe there’s still a great lack of representation in the Quebec media. I would like for my future children to be able to identify with black men and women without having to interpret the role of the villain or of negative stereotypes.
We are still far from the desired result, but I remain optimistic. I’m also happy to see that black women are finally embracing their beauty. There are a lot of Instagram accounts that share images of black women at their best, and I think that's awesome. It's a sad truth, but I think it's a nice way to get revenge on non-blacks who told me that black women were ugly or not smart when I was in high school...
DRAE: We can imagine how frustrating this must have been and still be today to be facing such injustices. And what could people do to help the black community in spreading the message of inclusion and equality?
A: Listen! The writer Naomi Fontaine wrote in her book Shuni a passage that resonated with me a lot: “If you really want to help the Innu, and I think you do, why not start by asking them what you could do for them.“ She was speaking to a childhood friend, Julie, a white woman, who wanted to help the Innu.
I think a lot of people want to help out and be allies. However, as many people may think, it’s not by imposing their own ideas that they will make themselves useful and make a difference. You have to be on the ground and listen, collect testimonials to know where to start. Black people are best qualified to know what they need.
Moreover, the inequalities and forms of discrimination that we experience on a daily basis are perpetuated by a society shaped in the image of the will of the white man. So, white men and women have no choice but to feel concerned by all this, since it’s people who look like me who suffer the consequences of the actions that have been or are being taken by people who look like them. Too many individuals are still comfortable in their ignorance and it’s essential that society get out of this denial to face the problems and listen to the solutions that my community wishes to put in place.
DRAE: So where can we get more information on this and related topics?
We feel so lucky to finally be launching our very first capsule collection, an opportunity we could not be more grateful for, and wanted to share with you the behind the scenes of this amazing collaboration with Anouk. So let’s get started!
DRAE: So, Anouk, since not everyone might know who you are and how did we end up creating this new collection with you, how about explaining how this all started? How did you first hear about us?
A: I had the chance to meet Aurelie for the first time, 4 years ago in 2018 (time goes fast !). She introduced me to her jewelry brand and I could tell how passionate she was. I immediately loved the entrepreneur vibe. It was a real crush! Since then, I’ve followed the brand on Instagram in their daily life and evolution.
DRAE: We couldn’t agree more, this is definitely our founder’s vibe! And so, what made you want to work with us?
A: Easy question! For me, DRAE is a company where you can be your true self and where “the sky's the limit”. The team is composed of girls that I can relate to because of their hard work, creativity and human personality. There’s nothing more essential for me than to work with a team where I feel 100% at my place and respected. I just knew that our collaboration would be a real success, it was at this moment I said “Lets go!”
DRAE: We’re so grateful to have our first collaborative collection with you. So now, could you tell everyone how this idea started?
A: It all started with a simple Instagram DM from Aurelie (DRAE’s founder). I remember when I opened the message, I was super hyped, because I was offered the opportunity to do a collection of what I really want : my choices, my ideas, my concept. It has always been important for me that every project reflects who I am, and with DRAE it was possible. As I’m also a “feeling” kinda girl, I just had a good feeling about it. This is where it all started.
DRAE: Of course, we wouldn’t want to do a collection with you where you’re not included in the whole process. Speaking of which! What would you say you loved the most about working with us?
A: I’ve honestly always felt part of the family. With the girls, the atmosphere is always pleasant. It’s like they’ve always been MY girls!! Whenever we see each other at the office or in between our 10000000 voice messages, the vibe is always super positive, respectful and fun. I feel lucky that I can now consider these girls as my friends.
DRAE: Aww! This is so sweet. You’re definitely now part of our family and there’s no word to describe how we all feel about this beautiful collab. I don’t think our readers are ready for what we’re about to show them. Could you tell us where the idea of I AM came from?
A: It’s super important for me to have concepts when I do projects. I think the more meaning you’re giving to a collection, the more interesting it becomes, and even more people can identify themselves to it.
I AM wasn’t my original idea. Initially, I wanted to include a powerful word on one of my necklaces. So I asked my community which word they most identify themselves to. When looking at the answers, I realized that there were so many words that I couldn't choose only one. That’s when I came to the conclusion that choosing a word would be similar to imposing something on my community. I also told myself, "We’re constantly changing, evolving and learning every day. So it's impossible for one word to be enough."
That's when I told myself, "the only thing that is certain is that we’re a whole of our own. We are, WE and just that, should be enough to love ourselves." Then I brought up my idea to the team and, instantly, it was a no-brainer for us. We found our collection’s name: I AM.
Take a look at the collection here
DRAE: Isn’t it a beautiful philosophy?! So now that we’re just a few days before the launch of the collection, what would you say was your favorite part in the process of this collaboration?
A: The Photoshoot, without any doubt! DRAE’s team was IN-SA-NE
Whenever I do projects, it's important for me to include my friends, to encourage them and mostly because it's simply fun to work with your friends. As for the photographer, I went with my best friend, Guillaume Landry. I'm pretty picky when it comes to my photos and Guillaume knows exactly what I like. So for me, it was the perfect match and the pictures are INSANE!
DRAE: I think I can speak for the team to say that we CAN’T wait to share the pictures of this photoshoot! To let everyone understand why we’re so excited about the shoot, can you tell us a little bit more of how it went, what was the concept of the shoot. I’m sure they would want to know!
A: Absolutely! So the shooting was separated into 3 parts. We first arrived at the studio and let me tell you, it was… FLABERGASTING! We could not have found a better place to do the shoot. Then after settling in, we first took photos just with me and my beautiful jewels. Then, in the second part, we recorded a video of our concept with different people. After that, since we had extra time, we took some pictures of the people who came for our video. When I tell you that the team was INSANE, it's true.
DRAE: What a day! And can you explain where you found these people?
A: Yes! For the promotional video, it was important for me to use people from my community. “Ordinary" people, like me. I AM is a community. That's why I made a call to everyone on my network. I received more than a hundred applications. Among them, I chose about fifteen people to be part of the video. I then added my best friend, 3 of my friends (because I wanted men too - jewelry is not just for women), my sister and my mom. The cast was AMAZING!
Before the shoot, I even created a group chat on Instagram so we could get to know each other and that group was a true success. Also, the models were unfailingly professional, generous, kind and INSANE (again)! I can't thank them enough for trusting me with this project.
I have no words to describe the energy of that day. However, I did get a few chills (a lot) on that day.
DRAE: I think we still all have chills from that day! OK. Now, could you tell us what can people expect from this collection?
A: I AM is a true and unique concept, just like you. Everyone will be able to recognize themselves through this collection.
DRAE: We’re so excited and can’t wait for people to see it for themselves! Now, since not everyone necessarily knows you, how about some more personal questions to get to know you a little more. Starting with telling us what’s on your bucket list?
A: I'm not really a "Bucket list" kinda girl because my bucket list would always change. The only thing that has never changed is that I want to go to Italy and Spain. I'm more of a mood board girl since II like to focus on things one year at a time. If you want to know what’s on my list this year. Well, I would love to skydive and go on a trip with my sister Maude!
DRAE: Traveling is also on our bucket list this year, I think! So what’s in your travel essentials bag?
A: Besides my passport, cards and money, it’s certain that I bring:
A lypsyl
Socks
Concealer
My bikini
DRAE: Bikinis and a concealer is for sure a must in every woman's life! And we’re all about feeling elevated at all times. When we look at you, we can tell you’re a beautiful confident woman. What would you say is your success to be this confidant?
A: I’ll tell you a story!
Still in elementary school, in grade 3, my mom bought me colorful, flowery (but intense flowery) pants. When I arrived at school, the guys in my class laughed at my pants. I remember being embarrassed, wanting to disappear. As the day progressed, the comments continued. I was so fed up and humiliated that I told a boy in my class, "I like my pants so if you don't like them, look elsewhere. I don't talk about your dragon shirt, so don't talk about my pants" and he stopped.
I shortly realized that you have to own up for yourself. If you take ownership of yourself, people can't feed you with negative comments or even bully you. The only reason people criticize negatively is to get a reaction, to diminish someone, and to come in and shake a person down. When these people don't succeed, they move on to the next one.
It is also important to be well surrounded and to have healthy friendships that accept you as you are, 100%. Toxic little comments like: what you're wearing is funny, what's with the style, I'm thinner than you but it doesn't matter, your feet are so ugly, you have a lot of pimples compared to me, etc. It's a NO!
The key: know yourself, take responsibility and be well surrounded.
DRAE: Such great advice. Thanks for sharing this story with us. And how about your favorite staples right now?
A: I would say the candles. There's not a day I don't light a candle.
DRAE: Right! Especially these days, with COVID who turned us all into homebodies! How do you like to relax after a stressful day of working from home?
A: Light a candle, put on a jazz playlist and do a skincare routine.
A: SELLING OUT the collection I AM by Anouk !
DRAE: I think that also applies to us! We just can’t wait for it to be available. Let’s finish with one last question before we let you go. What best piece of advice you’ve received you would like to share with us and our customers?
A: My father recently said to me, "Daughter, you only have 24 hours in your life. Tomorrow is never guaranteed. Do what you want to do now. Don't wait."
If not, I often tell my friends, "Everything happens for a reason. Life is good. Trust life."
Shop I AM by Anouk Lauzon
]]>