Sahlia Michelle is a Portland-based jewelry designer who creates timeless pieces that are equal parts feminine, edgy, and durable. Raw semi-precious gemstones, hand-pounded sterling silver and her signature molten silver droplets are the core elements of the latest collection. Combined with organic materials such as antler slices, feathers, and authentic stingray skin, the finished product captures Sahlia Michelle’s attention to detail and craftsmanship. Here is an interview with Sahlia:

Tell the story of Sahlia Michelle Jewelry Design. How did your business come to be?
I’ve always loved fashion and design. Even at a young age, I was creating and exploring different mediums of art, finding inspiration from the environment and my surroundings. After college, I developed a passion for designing art to adorn the body. I realized I had something more to offer the fashion industry, and established my business to share it with others.

What’s your design point-of-view or vision for your line?
I believe balance should be executed in each piece as well as in the overall collection. My collection has pieces that are just bold or just delicate, while others are edgy with subtle feminine details. My vision is to design jewelry that lets women feel confident and sexy.

Who has inspired you or been your role model along the way?
Mom—she inspires me with her own artistic talents and has always supported me from the start. Also, I think designers and entreprenesses like Alice Dobson (owner/designer Sofada) have a huge influence on me. Seeing other local artists create their own line, open a boutique, and make a splash in NY Fashion Week really puts “making it” into perspective. Now that’s something!

What is the next step for Sahlia Michelle?
I think it’s important to make my jewelry more accessible to customers. I’d love my next studio to be closer to shopping districts and more of a space where women can try on each piece and share good times with friends while they shop.

Could you offer any advice for young women who aspire to create their own business or art?
THINK BIG and follow through. Create a business plan, set goals, and get involved. Love what you do! Sometimes it will be difficult and you may want to drop everything, but don’t. Persevere and you’ll get closer to achieving your dreams.

What do you love most about what you do?
Creating custom one-of-a-kind pieces is a very rewarding aspect of my work. I love working one on one with a client to design the perfect piece for a special occasion.

Something people would be surprised to know about Sahlia Michelle …
Even though I love to get girly, I’m a tomboy at heart! I’m active and love doing adventurous outdoor activities such as boarding or hiking. I need jewelry that I don’t have to fuss with before I get on a wakeboard or go camping for the weekend—and yes, I do wear jewelry camping! My jewelry is designed to be as durable as it is beautiful.

Where can people find your jewelry in the Portland Area?
My new studio space in the Ford Building has the entire collection. The studio is open Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 1-6PM. I’d love for anyone interested to stop by the studio, or shop online. If you’re out and about on the town, my jewelry is also available at several local boutiques including; Sofada, Switch, Lizard Lounge, Radish Underground, ChapterFour, Suite 6, Hot Box Betty & Oxalis. Details & locations are available online at www.sahliamichelle.com.

2505 SE 11th Ave. Suite #352
Portland, OR 97202
(541) 513-8071
Website | Facebook | Twitter