FRĒDA WOMAN SERIES: RAYNE SCHLOSS
Major fangirl moment. Wave hello to Rayne Schloss, founder of Only Made and this month’s FRĒDA Woman! Megan (our co-founder) has been wearing one of Rayne’s necklaces for years, so when we teamed up with her to make anklets–we couldn't contain our excitement and wanted to introduce you to the woman behind it all.
From how she got started to building community in Brooklyn, here’s a little bit about Rayne.
TALK TO US ABOUT YOU.
My name is Rayne, and I’m a New York-based accessories designer. I founded Only Made four years ago from my apartment. Initially, the focus was on handmade pearl jewelry, but it has since expanded to include metal pieces, leather goods, and homewares. I've been in marketing professionally for the past decade, but I started dabbling in jewelry making in high school. When the pandemic hit and I couldn’t find the type of jewelry I wanted, I decided to create my own.
WHERE DO YOU GET INSPIRATION FROM WHEN CREATING?
I find inspiration in everything around me—from colors and shapes to food. For example, one of my earring designs, the “Papa” (potato in Spanish), is inspired by the shape of a potato chip. I believe beauty can be found in anything, and my pieces often celebrate the beauty of irregularity.
TELL US ABOUT THE ANKLETS.
I’m thrilled to partner with you in this way! These anklets have been a part of our collection since the inception of Only Made. They’re crafted from freshwater pearls, and each piece features organic shapes that make them unique. The natural shine and luster of pearls make them perfect for everyday wear.
HOW DO YOU BUILD COMMUNITY WITH ONLY MADE?
Only Made has really pushed me out of my comfort zone. As a naturally introverted person, building Only Made has allowed me to connect with some amazing people. Our community is incredibly creative and diverse, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with people who resonate with our products.
WHAT IS SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE?
I am completely self-taught. I have no formal training in jewelry making or design, but with the help of technology and online resources, I believe there are few things you can’t learn on your own.
WHAT’S YOUR MANTRA?
Find the beauty in all things!
WHAT ITEMS IN YOUR CLOSET MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD?
Getting dressed is one of my favorite rituals. I’m a huge fan of well-made shoes—they’re often the starting point for my outfits so my shoe collection is really special to me. Since starting Only Made, jewelry has become an essential part of my wardrobe. It’s the final touch that completes my look and ties everything together.
QUICK FIRE:
FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING BROOKLYN-BASED?
I’m a native New Yorker, so I have a deep love for this city. Despite the challenges of being an entrepreneur here, no other place inspires me quite like Brooklyn.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT?
I’ll keep this one close to my chest because it’s my weekly go-to spot. The team knows me by name, and it’s like my own version of Cheers. They serve the most delicious Frito Misto and the best espresso martinis in the city.
FAVORITE THING TO DO IN NYC?
I love strolling around the city. There’s so much to see and draw inspiration from—whether it’s the art, the people, or the architecture itself.