ABOUT MIMI
Born and raised in the Lower East Side of New York City, American designer Mimi So founded her namesake luxury lifestyle brand in 1994. Inspired by her personal experiences, playful spirit, and instinctive, modern style, Mimi is an influential designer who brings the chapters from her past and present to life throughout her collections.
The daughter of second-generation artisans, as a young girl she spent countless hours exploring rare gemstones and high jewelry in her parents' atelier, where she developed a deep appreciation for old world craftsmanship and exceptional materials. Her passion for graphics led her to the renown Parsons School of Design, where she honed her skills and built the confidence to start her brand.
After saving every penny from design commissions, Mimi So was the first woman to open a boutique on New York’s famous 47th Street Diamond District. In the late 90’s, she attracted a strong celebrity following, drawn to her unique style – fine jewelry for fashion.
As a pioneer of fine jewelry in sync with fashion, Mimi designed seasonal, limited collections for different personalities and moods. And yet, her jewelry always seems timeless.
Discovered by Sex and the City’s costume designer, Mimi So jewelry was featured regularly since the first season, and has become a go-to among the music industry. Today, her pieces can be found on the red carpets for the Oscar’s, Grammy’s, Golden Globes, and Met Gala.
In 2007, Mimi So was one of the first jewelry designers to be admitted onto the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Known for mentoring young talent, she sat on the admissions board for 7 years, and ultimately the CFDA executive board for another 7 years.
Today Mimi So is highly regarded in the fashion and jewelry community, recognized as a Dreamer, Artist, and Activist. She lives in NYC with her husband and children, while spoiling her beloved toy poodles, Chester and Cowboy.