An interview with a sustainable stylist.
Cassandra Dittmer wears Helene Quan jewellery as she celebrates her honeymoon with her husband, Chinedum Nweze.
Cassandra Dittmer is a stylist and entrepreneur who specialises in ethical design. Based in both Los Angeles and Lagos, Dittmer draws from her vast knowledge of sustainable brands to ensure her like-minded clients have access to conscious fashion and jewellery from around the world. Championing a values-first approach to fashion, Dittmer not only puts sustainability at the forefront of her career but sees it as a philosophy that she incorporates into all aspects of her life.
Following her recent wedding in Puglia to Chinedum Nweze, Dittmer celebrated her honeymoon in Bali and brought along a few Helene Quan pieces that have become a staple in her closet. Dressed in soft, airy dresses against the lush Balinese backdrop, Dittmer is a vision adorned by Helene Quan jewellery.
Dittmer wears the Helene Emerald Green Leaf Earrings as she walks across golden sands in Bali.
Radiant in the tropical sun, the Helene Emerald Green Leaf Earrings shine against her satin gown. Dittmer built her honeymoon wardrobe around this hero piece, selecting outfits that complement the striking emeralds and pave-set moissanite wings. The Galaxy Ring also makes an appearance, with Dittmer opting to bring along several variations, including the Galaxy Orange Ring and Galaxy Black Enamel Ring. The sustainable stylist has developed a deep connection to these Helene pieces and sees them becoming heirlooms. “Her gorgeous jewels entered our studio and haven’t left because we keep finding ways to create beautiful stories together,” Dittmer raves.
The Helene Galaxy Orange Ring glitters amidst the verdant rice terraces.
We sat down with the international tastemaker after her whirlwind vacation to discuss her journey, her thoughts on sustainable jewellery and her experience styling the President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Janet Yang, for the Oscars this year.
Could you tell us a bit more about yourself and your journey to becoming an eco-conscious stylist and creator?
I have been a red carpet stylist for about 12 years. In my journey to starting my own styling business, I realised that I wanted to operate by a values-first approach, meaning I wanted to have my clients and collaborations lead our values.
Could you share more about your experience working with Janet Yang and styling her for the Oscars this year?
Janet is an incredible human and is so fun to work with. She is always willing and excited to push the boundaries and champion brands that explore our shared values. We are both passionate about elevating diverse brands that have ethical supply chains. We worked hard to ensure that her entire look was sustainable and brands that we are proud to collaborate with.
Why did you select the Galaxy Ring from our collection?
The colours on the galaxy ring were a match made in heaven for Janet’s red dress. We love this ring specifically because it feels like a really elegant statement. The quality is beautiful and the stones are quite exquisite.
Janet Yang graces the Oscar Red Carpet styled by Dittmer, wearing the Helene Quan Galaxy Ring.
What are some jewellery styling tips we should know?
I don’t think you need to overthink it with jewellery! Do a tone that is flattering on you and makes you feel good. I firmly believe in mixing metals and styles so that it feels uniquely you. Jewellery is meant to be loved and become heirlooms. I do believe in creating a bit of balance in a look. If you are quite simple with your look it’s a great time to layer on statement pieces.
Dittmer’s simple draped yellow gown complements the vibrant green of the Helene Emerald Green Leaf Earrings crafted with lab-grown emeralds and diamonds.
Dittmer showcases her approach to styling jewellery with the Helene pieces she selected for her honeymoon. Mixing white and yellow gold, she pairs the jewellery with simple silhouettes and colours, so that the sentimental pieces can shine in each look.
You’ve styled a plethora of notable people, from Samata Pattinson to Janet Yang, how do you select jewellery pieces that speak to your clients’ individual needs and tastes?
I always think jewellery is the most personal part of a client's wardrobe. I really believe that your jewellery is an extension of your personality. I always love when a client wears a piece of jewellery over and over again. I think the more something is loved the more it becomes a part of your style.
There seems to still be a bias in the consumer market against lab-created gemstones as being less desirable than their natural counterparts, even though they are more environmentally friendly and have fewer imperfections. What is your take on this?
I think that consumers have been taught for so long that natural diamonds are a really special investment. Initially, I think the hang up is the price point being cheaper and clients assuming the quality must be lower due to the price point. I think fashion is always slow to adopt innovative materials because there is a curve to understanding the value of lab-grown gems. However, I think that lab gems are absolutely on the way up with the increase in environmental purchasing considerations. Now that people have seen the quality can be achieved they are excited!
Your conscious label, CD Studio, seems to have a similar ethos to Helene when it comes to high-quality, long-lasting products that are sustainably made. Why is it important to you to support other sustainable brands?
Brands that are truly sustainable collaborate. It’s important to build community and learn from one another. I think to make a true and lasting impact no one brand can get there on its own.