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Lori Hirshleifer’s Jewelry Philosophy: Feeling First, Rules Last

From Cartier to Chrome Hearts, the visionary behind one of fashion’s most forward boutiques brings style and spontaneity to her jewelry box. 

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Lori Hirshleifer. Photo by Shana Jade Trajanoska.

For Lori Hirshleifer, jewelry is less about formulas and more about feeling. As the creative force behind Hirshleifers, one of the most fashion-forward destinations in retail, she brings the same instinctive, playful approach to her personal collection as she does to the store. From her first Loree Rodkin skull ring to a cherished vintage Cartier Snoopy pendant, every piece tells a story—but how she wears them changes daily. Mixing metals, stacking heirlooms with modern designs, or looping a necklace around a handbag strap, Hirshleifer proves that collecting jewelry is an evolving art form—and that the most memorable style statements come from trusting your gut.

Some of Hirshleifer's iconic stacks. Photo by Melissa Butler.

How do you approach styling your jewelry on a typical day? Is there a go-to formula or does it change with your mood?

It’s all based on feeling. It happens really organically and always has. I started collecting jewelry a long time ago with my first piece being a Loree Rodkin skull ring and every day since then has been different, just like my outfits!  

What’s your philosophy when it comes to layering pieces—mixing metals, stacking rings, combining heirlooms with contemporary styles?

Again for me, it’s whatever feels right in the moment! I have no issue with mixing metals, I actually prefer to. I guess I typically start with what I’m wearing and then from there choose the colors I want to wear. Sometimes I’m very matchy and other times I’m chaotic! Ha! As far as combining heirlooms which contemporary styles I’m all for it. There’s no real formula!

Is there one piece in your collection that holds a special story?

There’s a few! I have a vintage Cartier Snoopy pendant that my husband got for me, my first Chrome Hearts bracelet…my wedding ring..the list goes on!

Courtesy of Lori Hirschleifer.

How do you like to incorporate vintage or family jewelry into your modern wardrobe?

Think less! Just do! 

How has your experience curating at Hirshleifers influenced your own jewelry aesthetic?

Buying for the store always influences my personal taste and vice versa. They’re so interlinked that I don’t really draw a distinction at this point! Sometimes I see new jewelry and I want it personally, sometimes it’s better for the store, and sometimes it’s both!

Are there any emerging designers or trends you're especially excited about right now?

Shola Brahnson is a new designer I’m excited about carrying in the store! As well as Nadine Ghosn who we have been big fans of for many years. I think just finding new ways to wear my jewelry excites me! Wrapping my necklace around my ankle or wrist or around one of my favorite bags and wearing as a bag charm!

How does your jewelry styling shift from day to evening?

It doesn’t really.

If you had to choose one piece to define your style legacy, what would it be?

My Cartier Snoopy! Fun, collectable, meaningful, and a reflection of me!

Courtesy of Lori Hirschleifer.

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