Local designer brings fashion to the back

In today’s fashion-conscious society, first impressions are often made through the observation… In today’s fashion-conscious society, first impressions are often made through the observation of clothing and accessories. Designers say you never get a second chance to make that first impression, but for Cheri Hayden, fashion is all about making the “grand exit.”

Hayden, a designer from Greensburg, Pa., recently shed new light on jewelry everywhere. Her invention, The Backlace, is a necklace, but with a twist.

Unlike most jewelry that focuses on the neck, the ears and wrists, The Backlace concentrates on the back, allowing women to wear jewelry that goes against the norm and luxuriate in the idea of being different.

“I like different things, something that not everyone has,” Hayden said.

Fortunately for Hayden, she won’t be the only person wearing her unique jewelry — The Backlace is in high demand. With pearls and crystals being the most popular trend, Hayden hardly has any time to breathe.

Putting extreme effort into her work, Hayden said she handcrafts The Backlace with only natural stones, creating the most soigne piece of jewelry many will ever see.

Can’t find a Backlace to match that stunning dress in your closet? Upon request, Hayden can customize her Backlace to fit your fancy. Although Hayden recently trademarked The Backlace, she feels her pieces should be unique to her clientele.

A horse-lover at heart, Hayden has even managed to customize her Backlace for the equestrian lover. Complete with horse charms and horsetail bracelets, admirers can purchase Hayden’s equestrian jewelry at Equine Chic in Ligonier, Pa.

Including jade, opal, garnet, amethyst, pearls or crystals, The Backlace strives to make every woman’s dream come true.

Angie Piper, a customer from Greensburg, said, “I was privileged of receiving the first Backlace. Cheri is a natural at the Backlace designs. Her favorite is to work with pearls. I told her she is like a piece of sand in a shell, through time she’ll turn into a pearl.”

But her fan club doesn’t end with women daring to be different. Hayden’s dog, Lilli, has her very own Backlace too. In fact, Hayden says Lilli hates to leave the house without her handcrafted rhinestone pearl necklace.

As if Hayden’s hands aren’t already full, she also creates matching earrings, as well as hairpins, broaches, rings and anklets from her Hempfield Township studio.

So, what’s next for Hayden?

2005 presents endless possibilities for Hayden and her supportive husband, Dan. Hayden plans to frequent trunk shows where she first received unimaginable recognition from Martin Thornburgh, designer for 2Be Bride.

Hayden plans on doing photo shoots where her Backlace will appear in bridal magazines nationwide.

“It’s all happening so fast. Just last September, I didn’t know anything about the business, and now I’m learning business in a fly. It’s all really interesting,” Hayden said.

Hayden’s ultimate goal is to have celebrities wear her beautiful Backlace at major events.

But with her commitment and the ever-growing popularity of her creation, her dreams may not be too farfetched.

Miriam Day, a close friend, calls Hayden “an innovator who possesses the qualities of a true designer.

“Hayden has the willpower, the grace and the drive to be successful,” Day said.

With her dedication and distinct style, Backlaces are deemed directional, leaving retailers cues to follow today and for many years to come.

To find out how you can snag your own Backlace, visit The Backlace portfolio at www. TheBacklace.com or call Hayden’s Hempfield Township Studio at (724) 832-1609.