LAUNE x La Côte Club
Welcome to the world of La Côte Club, a fresh jewelry brand that's making waves with its unique designs and quality craftsmanship. Known for creating pieces that blend modern style with classic elements, La Côte Club has something for everyone looking to elevate their accessory game. Worn by celebs and influencers alike, the brand is equal parts timeless and elegant and perfect for the beaches of Saint Tropez. Learn more about the chic brand and some of founder Karime’s fav spots in the South of France below.
1. Tell me about yourself and La Côte Club. How was La Côte Club created?
I’m Karime Castro, the founder and designer behind La Côte Club. I started the brand in 2022 after leaving a corporate job and taking a year to reset. That time was about getting clear on what truly mattered to me, reconnecting with my passions, and figuring out how to build something of my own. When I first conceptualized La Côte Club, I imagined it as a lifestyle brand. But I kept coming back to jewelry, it’s something I’ve always felt deeply connected to. It has a unique way of telling a story, elevating a look, and becoming part of someone’s identity. I wanted to create pieces that feel timeless, bold, and sophisticated. I started small with a curated selection to see how it resonated. By 2023, I launched my first full collection, designed entirely by me. Each piece is thoughtfully handcrafted with recycled sterling silver, gold vermeil, and ethically sourced gemstones, with a strong focus on quality and sustainability.
2. What got you into designing jewelry?
It happened naturally. I’ve always been passionate about fashion, art and design, but for years, I prioritized the business side because it felt like the “practical” choice. Eventually, though, I realized that creativity isn’t something you can suppress, it always finds its way back. My design journey has been intuitive, guided by my personal taste and an appreciation for craftsmanship. I’ve learned through hands-on experience, studying materials, gemstones, and techniques, allowing both my creative and business sides to evolve together.
3. What is the LAUNE (mood) of La Côte Club?
The LAUNE of La Côte Club is vintage sophistication with a modern edge. It’s for women who are confident without needing validation. Their style feels effortless because it’s rooted in authenticity, not trends.
4. Your brand is rooted in capturing the essence of the Côte d’Azur. Tell me more about your inspiration(s).
The identity and name of La Côte Club come from my time living in Nice in 2016. There’s a distinct energy there, effortless yet powerful. I was drawn to how women carried themselves with quiet confidence that didn’t rely on trends or status symbols. It was about simplicity, attitude, and details that made an impact without trying too hard. I’ve always admired the icons of the Riviera, from the understated chic of the 1920s to the bold glamour of the 1970s, women lounging in silk scarves, bold statement jewelry and an unapologetic attitude. That spirit is something I try to capture in every design. I’m also inspired by architectural details, vintage jewelry, and archival runway collections. I love seeing how fashion evolves, how elements from the past resurface with a new perspective. For example, the bold influence of the 1980s has dominated for years, but now there’s a shift toward the fluid, effortless aesthetic of the 1970s. I enjoy translating those references into contemporary designs.
5. What does the design process look like?
It always starts with inspiration. I research current trends, not to follow them but to understand how to create heirloom-inspired pieces that feel modern, rooted in the past but designed for today. From there, I develop a concept for the collection. I start sketching, then create paper prototypes to test proportions and see how the design translates off the page. Once it feels right, I move to CAD to refine the sculptural details. Then, I collaborate with skilled artisans who bring the designs to life through physical samples. This stage is all about refinement, adjusting the weight, texture, and feel until everything aligns with the brand’s aesthetic and quality standards.
6. What’s next for you and La Côte Club?
I’m excited to expand La Côte Club beyond jewelry, introducing new categories that feel like natural extensions of the brand. I’m also focused on growing our presence in luxury retailers and collaborating with creatives who don’t just understand our aesthetic but genuinely resonate with it.
Rapid Fire:
1. Favorite La Côte Club piece?
The Charlotte earrings, they instantly elevate any look.
2. What’s one product you could not live without?
A signature scent.
3. What are three staple items that every closet should have?
A tailored blazer, a classic white shirt, and statement earrings.
4. Describe your style in three words:
Minimal, timeless, sophisticated.
5. Early mornings or sleeping in?
Early mornings.
6. AM or PM skincare?
PM, I love a good nighttime ritual.
7. Dream collab?
A summer takeover at Club 55, not just a pop-up, but an entire experience.
8. Favorite drinks spot in Saint-Tropez?
Le Tiggr, they have great martinis.
9. Favorite restaurant in Saint-Tropez?
Matsuhisa for the views, Loulou for a more casual vibe.
10. Favorite style icon?
Claire Rose, effortlessly chic.
11. Favorite movie?
Matilda, it’s a childhood favorite.
12. What are you loving right now?
The new pieces I’m designing for our next collection, I can’t wait to see them come to life.
