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jewel of a boutique tucked inside downtown Minneapolis luxury retailer, MartinPatrick3, The Loupe carries a curated selection of some of the hottest names in designer fine jewelry. The store’s founder, Kiki McMillan, as well as the buyer, Kiley Colombo, are committed to amplifying the creative voices of the designers with whom they work, while also shepherding long-time enthusiasts and new collectors alike through the process of discovering pieces that allow them to express themselves through adornment. It was a treat to learn from Kiki what designers her clients are responding to and why, as well as to get some tips on places to go and things to do the next time we’re in Minneapolis.
Our jewelry designers are not just creators, they are artists, reshaping the narrative of what is cutting-edge in fashion and design.
Kiki McMillan
Image courtesy of The Loupe
COUTURE: What’s notable about your store? What is your unique point of view?
Kiki McMillan: I think of The Loupe not just as a store, but as a stage – set within the ever-enchanting world of Martin Patrick3. We exist in this dialogue of bringing in designers we love and believe in, and, in a way, we mirror the pursuit of bringing the avant-garde, the exciting, the utterly relevant to this unexpected, yet extraordinary, Midwestern space. Our jewelry designers are not just creators, they are artists, reshaping the narrative of what is cutting-edge in fashion and design.
Image courtesy of @theloupempls
What COUTURE designers are your brands responding to right now and why?
KM: When it comes to designers, our clients are absolutely enraptured by a few standout names. We are such admirers of Silvia Furmanovich. Every season, she dazzles us, reinventing her line with breathtaking techniques, drawing from rich artistic traditions. Each piece is an alluring one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Image courtesy of @theloupempls
Harwell Godfrey is breathing a fresh perspective and dynamic energy into the industry. We see a playful boldness emerging—our clients are craving something whimsical, pieces that don’t just elevate their wardrobe but bring a sense of fun, a dash of sparkle to their everyday style.
Image courtesy of @theloupempls
We, of course, always see our clients gravitating to Hoorsenbuhs for its versatility and hip, edgy designs; we are seeing a growing demand for heavier, chunkier jewelry for men. We constantly see men upgrading from their watch or bracelet stack, wanting more substantial gold pieces.
Image Courtesy of @Cardamommpls
Where’s the best spot in town to grab a quick lunch?
KM: I recommend going to Cardamom at The Walker Art Center for Mediterranean bites.
Where’s the best restaurant for entertaining clients or out of town guests?
KM: Mara Bar at The Four Seasons is absolutely gorgeous. We love going there when our designers are in town.
What’s your favorite bar?
KM: The Bar, Gore Gore Peku, at Kado no Mise is a great example of understated Japanese minimalist elegance. The focus is on whiskey, but everything is exceptional.
Image Courtesy of @artsmia
What’s your favorite local cultural spot (i.e. museum, gallery, theater)?
KM: The Walker Art Center for contemporary, and Mia for the classics!
Image courtesy of The Loupe
What’s special about your town?
KM: Minneapolis! It’s truly a hidden gem. What makes it so special? The people, of course. There’s this palpable sense of community here, a warmth. Everyone seems to know one another, and yet they remain wonderfully curious and creative, but always with that charming Midwestern sensibility, a groundedness. And, of course, you have this thing they call Minnesota Nice – a kindness, a graciousness that’s effortless. It creates an atmosphere where creativity can truly blossom, unburdened by pretension.
Image courtesy of The Loupe
Image courtesy of The Loupe
Image courtesy of The Loupe
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