By Romina Tobias
 It takes a certain genius to be a qualified accessory-designer. One has to be a meticulous engineer, a passionate artist, and a style maverick all rolled into one creative being.
Kira Ramirez, 26, has been creating hand painted accessories under the name EarthlyDelights since last year. “I started tinkering with beads, precious stones, buttons, chains and ribbons and making them into necklaces and rings during the summer of 2006. At that time, I knew I wanted to have a business of my own – something that I was passionate about and at the same time was fun to do. I am an accessory aficionado so I decided to make them myself and just hoped that people would appreciate and buy them,” she states.
She began with some self-study – relying on fashion magazines, online research, some trial and error. After six months, Kira took a class on beading and wiring techniques under Em Mariano. Armed with sharper skills and a head full of ideas just waiting to take form, she began to venture into the accessory business in April of 2007.
Her initial concerns had to do with the leap from a beloved hobby into becoming part of the accessory industry. She remembers, “At first I only made eight pieces because I didn’t know how people would react to it.”
It took only a short time to allay those concerns. Kira enthuses, “I posted them online and I was so overwhelmed with the response! Then a few weeks after that, Isa Alvarez of Make Love Not War boutique asked if I would be willing to consign my hand painted necklaces there. And three more stores followed suit.”
Kira discovered there was a huge demand for that certain inimitable and exquisitely designed accessory that could put a mark on fashion statements anywhere - and she was was more than happy to fill it.
What is the creative process behind accessory making? Kira reveals, “The theme is the first thing I am concerned with when making necklaces. Right now, I am preparing for my summer collection, which means bright colors, beach-inspired images, florals, etc.The pendants and other raw materials (beads, stones, wires, etc.) are sourced several months in advance which entails having to scour a lot of bead shops."
Kira shares the experience, “I also consult fashion magazines or books, look for fabrics with interesting colors and patterns for design inspiration. The actual painting [of the accessory] is done a few weeks before the target launch date. I must say that I am very fortunate to be able to work with a very good and talented painter whom I share my ideas with. Finally, the finished pendants are attached to either gold or silver chains with minimal beading as the pendants themselves should be the main attraction of the neckpiece.”
As much as possible, Kira tries to make just one piece per design. She also, under certain circumstances, accepts accessory customization. Who does Kira want to see wearing an EarthlyDelight necklace?
“I would like to see someone who is creative and playful wear my necklaces. [Socialite and celebrity] Tessa Prieto-Valdes is a good example—she’s fun, fearless and doesn’t take fashion too seriously,” Kira answers, “My necklaces are so versatile that you can wear them with anything! I initially presented it as an accessory you can wear to the beach – it’s pretty, colorful and waterproof! But I’ve seen customers wear it with the basic tee and jeans ensemble, others with a flattering low-cut dress and some even wear it to work.”
With a luxe line coming out soon, a bag collection and other delightful surprises on its way, EarthlyDelights will continue to flourish its gift of charm and artistry that paradoxically, is quite heavenly.
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