15 Facts with Shawna McBean of Vibe Jewels
Get to know Shawna McBean, who opened her boutique Vibe Jewels on Hudson’s Warren Street in 2017. Below, she shares how growing up in NYC influenced her style and why good vibes are imperative.
I grew up in Harlem. Back then, it was a community of families that would raise you and look out for you. In the city, you grow up with a natural grind and hunger because you have access to making your dreams a reality. Native New Yorkers are a different breed.
My store is only open on the weekends, so it’s a great excuse for me to escape the city (where I still live part time) and have the best of both worlds.
In my store you’ll find fashionable, wearable pieces at affordable prices from a selection of small and local designers.
Opening my space in Hudson was an accidental treat. Prior to setting up shop here, I traveled around the country doing pop ups, events, and trade shows. After a one time visit, I fell in love with this small, charming town and decided to take a chance — five years later, I’m glad I did!
My first job in the fashion industry was at Zara.
After years of modeling and retail experience, I decided to take all the knowledge I’d acquired and birth my own passion in 2010: Vibe Jewels.
I always have a great playlist to set the tone. For a Sunday: “Summertime” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong; for impromptu dancing with a client: “A Night to Remember” by Shalamar; and my Bossa Nova playlist to set the mood anytime.
The most “New York” thing about me is that I can’t drive ... yet.
I attended LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. It was a melting pot of cultures from goths to B-girls, and everyone took a risk in expressing themselves through art and fashion.
Vibe is an energy, so I like to greet all clients when they come through the door because I feel like they’re coming into my home.
I’m a true city girl that likes to dress up for dinner, and I’m also a social butterfly. To me, Hudson is very laid back and more casual in comparison. When I’m here, I try to infuse a casual-chic vibe.
My great grandmother was a seamstress who took pride in herself and was well dressed everywhere she went. I would sit by her while she was sewing and take the scraps to create clothes for my dolls.
I also design a limited capsule collection of silk and linen tunics, kimono jackets, and wrap dresses. Unlike most designers, I come up with the designs after I choose my fabric for the season ... and I create based on how they speak to me. It’s all a vibe!
I believe that the clothes shouldn’t wear you. You bring your own vibe to the clothes
Lastly, I couldn’t have gotten through the pandemic without family and gratitude.
By Anna Deutsch
Photography By Casey Kelbaugh
Volume 5
