Interview with Jane Winchester Paradis, Founder of Jane Win

The Basket Weave series continues with a look at brands built on storytelling and enduring design. For Jane Winchester Paradis, founder of Jane Win Jewelry, jewelry has always been more than an accessory — it is a marker of memory, connection and personal meaning. In this conversation, she shares how those early influences shaped a brand known for its symbolic coin pieces, and how a deeply personal approach continues to resonate with a growing community.

What first inspired you to start Jane Win, and what did those early days of building the brand look like?

I have always loved jewelry. As a kid and young adult, we celebrated milestone moments with jewelry — a gold bracelet for graduation, something small and special in a blue box at Christmas. Jewelry takes me back to a specific moment or event and holds real meaning for me. I have been trained to believe that jewelry is something to be treasured, not just because of the value, but the emotional connection.

Fast forward to my adult life — I had been working for a large fashion house for years and started to get that “itch” to create something of my own. I was traveling non-stop and saw my kids getting older — I wanted more flexibility, and I wanted them to see me build something from scratch so they knew it could be done. I had this dream of creating connections with people through jewelry, and that inspired the “words” and direction behind each piece. Eventually, that turned into double-sided coin jewelry, which is the core of our business today.

The early days were very grassroots — I was sketching designs at my kitchen table, working closely with factories and personally packing orders. It was scrappy, but incredibly fulfilling. It was fun, but also so challenging. I always have an optimistic view, but starting something from scratch is hard, and I may have underestimated that! Over time, the reward has been establishing pieces that carry a story, and I love connecting directly with women who are drawn to that.

Before launching Jane Win, you had a career in branding and marketing. How did that background shape the way you approached building your own jewelry brand?

Ohhh, I love that question. I hate how “marketing” can feel like a bad word. I’ve always approached Jane Win as more than just a jewelry brand — it’s a storytelling brand. From the very beginning, I was focused on building a strong point of view and authentic connection. Every coin, every symbol, every word we use has intention behind it. Branding taught me the importance of consistency, clarity and really knowing your customer — and I think that’s been a huge part of our growth.

Jane Win is known for its symbolic coins and meaningful motifs. Do you have a personal favorite pendant or piece you find yourself wearing most often?

That’s like picking a favorite child! BUT, I always wear the PEACE coin as a reminder of my dad. Since we launched GRATITUDE, I can’t seem to take it off, as I am so humbled and appreciative of all that I have. And on the fun side — I have been loving lots of chains double-wrapped, true neckmesses with gold, pearls and coins.

Where do you most often find inspiration when designing a new collection? Travel, history, vintage jewelry or something else entirely?

All of the above, truly. I’m endlessly inspired by history and vintage coins — the idea that something can carry value and meaning across generations is so powerful to me. Travel is also a huge influence, especially being in places with rich culture and symbolism. But honestly, a lot of inspiration comes from conversations with our customers — their stories, their milestones, what they’re manifesting in their lives. That is where GRATITUDE came from — our customers were seeing the good in their lives and appreciating all that they had and we wanted to give her a piece to recognize that.

As a founder and creative, what has been the most rewarding moment in building Jane Win so far?

The most rewarding part has been hearing how our pieces become part of someone’s story. It’s so funny — when women tell me about seeing others in Jane Win, the first thing they say is, “Someone came up to me and said, ‘Is that a Jane Win?’” And then they share the reasons why they chose that piece with each other. Whether it’s a gift to mark a milestone, a reminder during a challenging time, or something they wear every single day — it’s incredibly meaningful to know that Jane Win plays a small role in that. Building a community of women who connect through these symbols has been mind-blowing — that people who do not know each other will strike up a conversation because of their necklace and then share their stories and connect. Truly incredible.

How do you describe your personal style, both in jewelry and in fashion?

I’d say my style is classic with a twist of personality. I love timeless pieces, but I always want there to be something a little unexpected — whether that’s a bold coin, a bright color as an accent, or an unexpected accessory. I go through stages where I am much more bohemian, but I come back to simple favorites. As I have gotten older, I invest more in pieces — the elevated ballet flat, the perfect cashmere sweater, a classic tailored blazer. My fallback plan is a monochromatic, layered camel/cream/white look — it always makes me feel pulled together.

For spring and summer, what are the pieces you find yourself reaching for most often?

In the warmer months, I love layers — gold chains mixed with turquoise or mother of pearl and pieces that catch the light beautifully. I’m always stacking bracelets — the warmer it is, the more jewelry layers I put on! Summer is a time when I am most whimsical with jewelry — we have evil eyes and fish, fun pieces.

THIS OR THAT?

Gold or silver?

Gold, always!

Delicate layers or bold statement pieces?

Both, but I love combining them. A bold coin or two with delicate layers is my go-to.

Engraved keepsake or symbolic coin?

Symbolic coin, of course.

Woven basket bag or structured tote?

I LOVE a giant woven basket for summer!

Espadrilles or sandals?

I am dedicated to a Grecian sandal. Elevated and comfortable.

Beach weekend or city weekend?

Any place with water! Beach or lake!