Designing a Life of Meaning: Inside De Céa with Aley Vilches
Designing a Life of Meaning: Inside De Céa with Aley Vilches
Tell us more about who you are and what you do!
My name is Alessandra Vilches—most people call me Aley—and I’m the owner and designer behind De Céa, a jewelry brand based here in Los Angeles.
Aly wears The Arc Jean in Medium
What led you to start a jewelry brand?
I started De Céa in 2020, just after graduating college. Like many others during that time, I was navigating a lot of emotional stress and looking for a creative outlet—and ideally, another source of income. Jewelry had always been a passion of mine; I’d been making pieces for myself and loved ones since my teen years. But it wasn’t until 2020 that I decided to turn that love into something more serious and pursue it full-time.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
My design inspiration has evolved over the year. Céa is actually my grandmother’s last name, and in the beginning, the brand was very much a tribute to her. She was an incredibly elegant woman—often referred to as “una Santa,” or a saint. I drew heavily from that energy, incorporating vintage saint charms, gold, and pearls to reflect her timeless beauty. Lately, my inspiration has shifted toward my coastal lifestyle. Living by the ocean, being active, and spending time in nature have influenced my designs to become more organic and effortless. I now focus on creating pieces that are not only meaningful but also durable enough to keep up with my lifestyle—materials that can weather both waves and everyday wear.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about entrepreneurship?
It might sound cliché, but “fake it till you make it” really stuck with me. That, and the idea that growth only happens outside your comfort zone. Both have pushed me to take risks and believe in myself, even when things feel uncertain.
What is your most beloved jewelry piece, and what’s the story behind it?
Definitely my Furry Friends pendant, which I created in memory of my dog Canela—my sweet angel who passed away a little over a year ago. I took an imprint of her paw and pressed it into sterling silver clay, then fired it into solid silver. I never take it off. It's different from my usual pieces, but incredibly special because it means I carry a part of her with me wherever I go. I've also had the honor of creating similar pieces for others who’ve lost their furry companions. Being able to offer that has been so special.
Aly wears The Midrise Jort in Sup
What’s coming next for your brand?
I’d love to get De Céa into more retail spaces—maybe somewhere like Free People or Revolve. I'm also excited about doing more collaborations with other brands and creators. It’s such a powerful way to grow and evolve the brand, and I’m really looking forward to exploring what’s possible.
Aly wears The Arc Jean in Medium
How do you like to style Just Black Denim jeans?
I lean toward a minimalist style, so I usually pair my Just Black Denim jeans with a simple, flowy top or a classic tee. Now that it’s summer, I’ll finish the look with a ballet flat or I love a knee high boot. And of course, I always layer on my everyday jewelry—lately I’ve been loving a mixed metal stack and, without fail, a pair of pearl earrings.