/ 19 August 2025

A Cool Brand Founder Shares Her Favourite Things

Minimalist fine jewellery label By Pariah is celebrated for its sculptural silhouettes, responsibly sourced materials and refined everyday pieces. From her own standout designs to the items on her new-season wish list, here’s everything its founder Sophie Howard is loving right now…

Elaine Lloyd-Jones

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1. The Party Piece

With statement, sparkle and just the right amount of edge, this piece hits differently. The Diamond Cluster is all about quiet flex: bold enough to turn heads, subtle enough to wear every day. It gives just the right amount of drama without feeling overdone. I love pairing it with a crisp white tee or slipping it on for dinner – it instantly elevates everything.

2. The Trainers

I have three colours of Nike Low Dunks on rotation. They’re easy, timeless and pull any outfit together. The shape is the right amount of chunky, and they work well with dresses, denim or tailoring.

3. The Swimwear

The neckline on this Asceno set is simple yet flattering. It’s a piece you can throw on and instantly feel good in. The fabric feels luxe without being too delicate, and it holds up beautifully in the water. Plus, Poppy (the founder) is an angel – everything she creates feels intentional.

4. The Dress

I’m a self-confessed lazy dresser so this Toteme dress ticks all the boxes. Chic, clean lines and not too try-hard, it goes with sandals, trainers or heels and somehow it always looks right.

5. The Bag

I’m clinging onto summer with this Loewe bag. It’s oversized in the best way – perfect for towels, unread books and enough snacks to last a full beach day. Both sculptural and totally unfussy, it’s a bag to grab without thinking.

6. The Sunglasses

Finally, an oval frame that’s actually big enough. This Jimmy Fairly pair sit perfectly on the face and feel classic without being boring. Because they’re soft, flattering and more elevated than a standard pair, I’ve worn them non-stop this summer.

7. The Transitional Denim

I’ve been living in maternity jeans and oversized tees all summer, and honestly, I’ll probably continue for the next couple of months. Comfort is the priority right now, but I’m still reaching for pieces that feel considered and put together. Toteme makes the best t-shirts and, surprisingly, H&M’s maternity jeans are a winner. I’ll layer with a blazer or a crisp shirt once the weather shifts – simple, easy and still me.

8. The Investment Piece

I love a stack – and now my wrist is getting the attention. The By Pariah classic diamond bangle is oval shaped, so it sits perfectly and moves with you. It’s one of those pieces that looks even better with wear. I went for the medium for a looser, never-take-it-off kind of fit and paired it with our classic gold bangle.

9. The Beauty Essential

This Chanel bronzing cream is summer in a pot. It melts into the skin, giving that soft, sun-kissed glow without ever going patchy. It’s glowy, but never glittery – just really natural. It’s my shortcut to looking alive.

10. The Beauty Tool

I don’t really use tools, but these are too good to ignore. The 111Skin eye masks give an instant refresh – like a full night’s sleep in 15 minutes. They’re my go-to before flights, shoots or when I’ve overdone the screen time.

11. The Suncare Hero

Heliocare’s Color Gel Oil is SPF and make-up all in one – no extra steps needed. It gives just enough coverage to even out skin tone while still providing protection. The texture is lightweight and non-greasy, which is rare for SPF.

12. The Scent

I’ve worn Aesop’s Tacit for almost a decade. I’ve tried to switch it up, but nothing ever quite compares. It’s fresh but earthy, clean without being clinical. It’s my signature.

13. The Podcast

I’m currently switching between The World’s First Podcast by the Foster sisters (chaotic brilliance) and Fashion Neurosis by Bella Freud. Both feel like sitting in on really good conversations. Fashion, family, feelings – they cover it all. I always come away with something to think about (or laugh at).

14. The Tablescaping Tip

Keep it simple and a little unexpected. I find that one sculptural flower, repeated, makes more of an impact than a complicated arrangement. It feels modern, thoughtful and unfussy. Bonus points for odd numbers and interesting vases.

15. The Bucket-List Hotel

I’ve been dying to go to Sussurro. It’s so considered and luxurious, but in the most low-key, quiet way. Only six rooms, each more beautiful than the last. Heaven on earth.

Follow @BYPARIAH

Emma Jackson/Sussurro

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