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The Art of the Mix

June 18, 2026

The Art of the Mix

Jessica McCormack on everyday diamonds, clashing styles and why the most interesting things live between opposites

There’s a particular kind of elegance that comes from refusing to choose. Masculine or feminine. Vintage or modern. Formal or undone. For British jeweller Jessica McCormack, the magic has always lived somewhere in between.

Perhaps that’s why her work feels so at home at the boutique of Hotel Il Pellicano, where guests can now find it. Both share an instinct for contrasts that somehow resolve into perfect harmony. 

Born in New Zealand and based in London, McCormack has built a world around what she calls wearable luxury: jewellery that carries the craftsmanship of heirlooms but belongs firmly in everyday life. Her philosophy is simple. Diamonds are far too special to remain in a safe.

For this edition of The ISSIMO Edit, we spoke with Jessica about duality in design, the understated luxury of Il Pellicano, and why the most enduring style is often the least prescriptive. The conversation arrives as Jessica McCormack has brought her jewels to Hotel Il Pellicano for a special trunk show earlier this month. 

Your jewellery often lives in the space between opposites: high jewellery that can be worn every day, heirloom craftsmanship with a contemporary spirit. Why have you always been drawn to those contrasts?

Jessica McCormack: I think duality in design is what makes a piece of jewellery truly wearable. I always want to create pieces that balance elegance with practicality, and antique with contemporary features. I like the idea that a piece can feel like high jewellery but still be easy to wear, whether it’s during the day or evening. That contrast is what makes it interesting: jewellery that feels considered and special, but never so precious that it can’t be worn.

Your designs are inspired by antique jewellery and centuries-old techniques, but they never feel nostalgic. How do you strike a balance between honouring the past and creating something relevant for today?

Jessica McCormack: I’ve always been inspired by antique jewellery and traditional craft techniques, but I’m not interested in recreating the past. What I take from those references is the level of craftsmanship, reinterpreting classic features in a way that feels relevant today through wearability and the way a piece sits within modern dressing.

Il Pellicano has its own unique duality: glamorous yet understated, elegant yet deeply relaxed. What similarities do you see between the hotel's aesthetic and your own approach to design?

Jessica McCormack: Il Pellicano has an understated luxury to it. Nothing feels overworked or forced, but everything is considered. That balance between elegance and ease is something I try to emulate in my own designs.

You grew up in New Zealand, built your business in London, and are now collaborating with one of Italy's most iconic hotels. How have these different cultural influences enriched your creative perspective?

Jessica McCormack: Each place has shaped the way I see design in a different way. Growing up in New Zealand gave me a real appreciation for nature, while London taught me about craftsmanship and history. Italy, particularly the Mediterranean, brings another layer of inspiration: a sense of ease, beauty and living effortlessly with your surroundings.

Many people save their most precious pieces for special occasions. You've built a brand around doing the opposite. What happens when something traditionally reserved for rare moments becomes part of everyday life?

Jessica McCormack: I think it changes the relationship you have with your jewellery. When something is reserved only for special occasions, it can start to feel formal and too precious to be worn. But when you wear it every day, it becomes a beautiful addition to your character.

If you had to describe your ideal summer style in terms of contrasts, what elements would it combine?

Jessica McCormack: My ideal summer style is a balance between something smart and easy. A crisp shirt worn on the beach with some Gypsets, or something a bit more structured, like a Torque necklace, paired with a very simple staple tee.

Jessica’s ISSIMO Picks

Jessica McCormack: Jessica’s approach to style has always embraced unexpected pairings, so it’s only fitting that her ISSIMO selection follows suit. Think ISSIMO La Posta Vecchia Unisex Boxer paired with the clean lines of the Lido Lido Swimsuit Tre, a Lisa Corti Sarong thrown on after a swim, and the ISSIMO Mini Tote Bag Il Pellicano accompanying the day from beach to aperitivo. Different moods, different textures, one instinct: dress by feeling rather than rules.

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