MEET Jamie Lewin

Fashion designer, Vetted founder and stylist Jamie Lewin has helped women dress with intention for 25 years — and now she's sharing her sharpest edit yet. Meet our new Real Woman of REALM.

When I launched REALM Fine + Fashion Jewelry, my dream stretched far beyond designing jewelry. I envisioned building a community where remarkable women could cross paths, empower one another and illuminate their own unique brilliance. Through our Real Women of REALM events, I have met some truly magnetic souls who embody the heartbeat of our mission—souls like the beautiful Jamie Lewin.

Jamie is the mastermind behind Vetted magazine, an exceptional tastemaker and a multi-talented force. She filters through the noise of the fashion world and curates exactly what her audience should know about, wear and appreciate. Yet, what truly captivates me is her genuine, grounded nature.

Jamie is a woman after my own heart, sharing my obsession with the ultimate wardrobe baseline: a stellar pair of jeans and timeless black tank. Effortless, minimalist perfection. For Jamie, that clean foundation serves as a launchpad, providing the ideal backdrop for her signature style to take center stage.

Our photoshoot together was an absolute blast. Jamie brought the best energy to the set. She is so full of life and was willing to try any look we threw her way. I cannot wait for you to discover how Jamie styles her looks and her life—I just know you will be as captivated by her as I am.

Ann King Lagos
Founder + Designer
REALM Fine + Fashion Jewelry

Q+A with Jamie Lewin

What do you do for work?
I have been a fashion designer for the past 25 years. I've launched small start-ups, designed for brands such as J. Crew, Ralph Lauren and Piperlime and led global design teams at Gap. Today I consult for several brands providing creative direction, trend forecasting and designing collections. 

I am also the founder of a digital fashion magazine and weekly newsletter called Vetted where I bring a sharp edit from an industry insider's point of view. I cut through the noise with the trends that are worth knowing, styling tips women can emulate and where to shop for it all in one easy place. And I'm a stylist, helping women with everything from event dressing to closet edits.

I've been so lucky to be featured in InStyle, WWD, People, Philly Style and Main Line Today among others and was a finalist for Fashion Group International's Rising Star Award for Vetted.

for play?
Can work also be play?! I love what I do and am lucky that it's also part of what I do for fun. I love to travel and explore new cities, be active, go to the beach, check out museums, try new restaurants and spend time with family and friends. At home I love to get cozy with my husband and kids and watch movies together.

for others?
I've been the President of the Friends of Einstein Jefferson for the past few years. I am still heavily involved on their philanthropy board, running their breast cancer event every October as well as a holiday shopping event and fundraiser in December. I also mentor up-and-coming designers at Philadelphia Fashion Incubator (PFI), supporting them with design feedback, how to merchandise their collections and where to find the best resources.

How would you describe the difference between following trends and developing a true personal style and what is the first step someone should take to discover their own "personal uniform"?
I think it's great to be aware of trends but never let them define your personal style. If you feel great in something, you should wear it! Your personal style comes from knowing what works for you and consistently repeating the pieces or styling you love so that you become known for it.

You speak a lot about investing in functional pieces but is there one sentimental item in your closet that maybe makes no sense on paper, but you could never part with?
My mom's and grandmother's jewelry collections. I will cherish their pieces forever, even if I can't wear them all very often.

If you had to pack a suitcase for a week-long trip with only five "vetted" items, what would they be?
Oooh, that depends on where I'm going! But I'd say a pair of straight-leg jeans, a black blazer, a great tee or tank for layering, low-heeled black boots and a sleek belt. That one outfit can work for anything from meetings to dinner to exploring a city. Versatility is key if you can only pack five items.

We love your style! At REALM, we talk about our jewelry and Empresses having a "Classic, Romantic or Rock Star" vibe (sometimes all three). How would you describe your personal style?
I describe my style as Parisian meets LA—polished but with a relaxed vibe. I coined the term "Style With Tension" which is the balance in how I dress and style others. That means pairing masculine with feminine, polished with casual, soft with structure. I love when a person's style has some contradiction to keep it interesting.

Why do you love REALM?
Not only do I love each collection, I love what REALM symbolizes — the women, the ambition, the passion and the authenticity. We are all multi-faceted and can connect to REALM on many levels. There are so many pieces I'd wear to feel empowered and would love to give as really meaningful gifts.

What are your favorite pieces of REALM jewelry? Favorite REALM Collection and why?
I'm really drawn to the INSIGNIA Collection. I love the Empress ring and have worn it every day since I purchased it! I also love the Marquise Pavé Drop Earring in 18K Gold Vermeil + CZ Blanc and the Crescent Pavé Necklace Medium in 18K Gold Vermeil + CZ Blanc. (Clearly, I love the mix of gold with pavé stones!)

I connect deeply to jewelry that has meaning and to what REALM's Iconic Collections symbolize, from family to strength to courage.

How did you and Ann meet? What kind of connections did you have then? Now?
I first met Ann at a Main Line Today event where I was introduced to her by a mutual friend. Since then, I have been to REALM events and have gotten to know Ann more personally. She is a driving force with an incredible spirit! I admire her as a strong woman founder, mother and fellow designer. I look forward to seeing her new pieces, promoting them on Vetted and cheering on all her success.

What does it mean to…
Be Your Own Empress: Being an Empress means knowing your worth, believing in and betting on yourself no matter what life throws at you.
Reign Thoughtfully: I truly believe in the expression "A rising tide lifts all boats" and have always been a strong proponent of women supporting other women. We need to lift each other up — there is enough success to go around.

CONNECT WITH JAMIE