Q&A: Jewelry maker Larrisa Loden on expressing ‘rebellion and progress’

Opening a store inside Mall of America is a major milestone for any company, so its no surprise Minnesota designer Larissa Loden felt her once small, handmade jewelry brand entered a new phase when she did just that earlier this year.

Larissa Loden Jewelry's new Mall of America store became the brand's second retail location when it opened in May, joining the original store attached to the company's headquarters in St. Paul, which opened in 2022.

In a Q&A with Bring Me The News , Loden discussed the new store, her introduction to jewelry design and the magic behind her "unapologetic, expressive and amusing" pieces.

Note: Some responses have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.

Q: Visitors from all over the world will now be introduced to Larissa Loden jewelry at Mall of America. How do you like to introduce yourself, your brand and mission?

When people come to any of our locations I like to introduce us as, we are a vibe, but we help you share your vibe, from our tiny little f-word studs, to a sentimental locket to remember your loved ones. We meet you where you are and everything in between.

Q: What inspired you to get started with jewelry design?

LOL, would you believe me if I told you it started at the Mall of America? Well, sort of. My high school art teacher left me a bead necklace she made me on my high school graduation chair. Then, later that summer when I moved to Minnesota, I got a job at the Mall of America at a bead store where you could sell consignment and, well, the rest is history.

Q: Some of the best-selling Larissa Loden designs feature swear words, which the brand doesn’t shy away from. What have you discovered about why these pieces resonate with customers?

We like to share your vibes quietly and that is what people want to do. I think all of us experience moments during the day where an f-word can just [lighten] the day. Also, I think for a majority of history women were told to not say “this”, wear “this” and this small stud is a sign of progress and rebellion.

Q: What experiences can shoppers find at your St. Paul and Mall of America stores?

Customers at both locations can get to experience our permanent jewelry and build your own necklace charm bar, which I love. It makes the whole moment an experience and then an item you get to keep. In addition, you can shop all of our best sellers, limited editions designs, and some really fun gift items I source from around the world. Current favorite is the disco ball planter we have.

Find more at larissaloden.com .

Related: California apparel company Marine Layer to open Mall of America store