Why Influencers and Celebrities Love River Raine Jewelry

You know that statement jewelry you’ve been spotting all over social media—the kind that feels both modern and vintage at the same time? Chances are those bold pieces are from River Raine, a brand that’s quietly making a name for itself with influencers and celebrities alike. The force behind this rising jewelry line is Darlene Gilbertie, who turned her long-held passion into a thriving business, inspired by the unforgettable designs of the 80s and 90s. “I’ve always been drawn to those big, gorgeous pieces that really make a statement,” she explains. “It’s the jewelry I used to ‘borrow’ from my mom and grandmother—and usually didn’t give back!”

What began as a passion project has quickly become a brand to watch. Darlene, who spent over 15 years working in the media and entertainment industry in Los Angeles, never lost her childhood love of jewelry. However, her busy career left her little time to pursue her dream of creating her own line. “I was always obsessed with the glamorous looks of the 80s and 90s, so starting my own line was always a dream. I just didn’t have the time to make my dream a reality,” she shares.

That all changed in 2020 when the world came to a screeching halt. With the pandemic putting everything on pause, Darlene found herself with an unexpected opportunity to turn her lifelong love for jewelry into a business.
“It was a strange time for everyone, but for me, it was also this incredible moment to finally focus on what I really wanted to do. I was like, OK, the universe is telling you it’s time.”

Darlene dove headfirst into designing and building the brand. River Raine quickly developed a reputation for creating pieces that are bold and unapologetic and directly opposed to the dainty jewelry she saw online and in the world. Think chunky gold chains, oversized hoops, and rings that practically beg to be stacked. The brand taps into the nostalgia of vintage jewelry, but with a modern twist.

“We’re not following the minimalist trend,” Darlene notes. “Our mantra is ‘more is more.’ I want the pieces to make you feel powerful, like you’re stepping into a room and commanding attention.” River Raine’s appeal is its reimagining of 80s and 90s jewelry aesthetics. Darlene draws inspiration from the pieces she admired growing up. From bold earrings to chunky necklaces, River Raine’s pieces are a nod to the past but feel completely fresh for today’s trendsetters.

“There was something about the jewelry from that era—it had personality. It wasn’t afraid to be noticed. That’s what I love about it,” she says. Beyond its eye-catching designs, River Raine emphasizes quality. Each piece is crafted with a thick micron coating of 18k or 24k gold, so it not only shines but stays tarnish-free. While River Raine is still a relatively new brand, it’s already made waves on social media. Celebrities and influencers have helped bring the pieces to life, often showcasing how effortlessly they can be styled with both modern and vintage-inspired outfits.

“Social media has been incredible for us,” Darlene says. “It’s allowed us to reach so many people who are excited about our pieces. Seeing influencers and celebrities wearing River Raine is a dream come true—it makes the jewelry feel even more real and part of this larger movement.” Darlene attributes much of River Raine’s early success to the community she’s built online. “The women who wear our jewelry are bold and fearless. They aren’t afraid to stand out,” she adds. “That’s who I’m designing for—women who want to feel empowered, who love the idea of wearing something that has a story behind it.”

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The future certainly looks bright for River Raine, and if its rapid rise is any indication, it’s only a matter of time before this “under-the-radar” brand is front and center. As Darlene says, “We’re not just making jewelry. We’re creating pieces that tell a story and make you feel like you’re part of something special.”

For those seeking to add a little boldness to their wardrobe, River Raine is an expression of style, confidence, and a love for all things vintage made modern. With pieces that merge retro charm with modern-day edge, it’s no wonder women everywhere are swooning over this up-and-coming brand. “There’s a magic to it,” Darlene says. “And once you try on one of our pieces, you’ll feel it too.”

To see River Raine’s new collection, visit riverraine.com or check out the latest influencer spotted sporting the brand on Instagram.

Presented by APG