Meg Galligan of Margaret Elizabeth Jewelry embodies the essence of a Glitter Girl. A former Google employee, Meg decided to focus on fulfilling her passions full-time—channeling her colorful energy into an exquisite jewelry line. Travel is this gem guru’s primary inspiration—unmistakably expressed in the unique beauty of her designs. From charming cocktail rings to one-of-a-kind works, Meg’s mission is a clear one: to help women sparkle from the inside out!
Photography: Jennifer Kay
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Tell us about Margaret Elizabeth Jewelry.
We’re all about fun, colorful, versatile jewelry at Margaret Elizabeth! We design for the woman on the go who wants stylish, chic accessories. Our goal is to bring out the vibrancy of every woman who wears our pieces.Meg sitting at her desk in her SF office. Wearing a cheetah sweater from Jeremys (old), skirt fom Zara, wedges by Ferragamo (similar here). Ophelia Cocktail Ring by Margaret Elizabeth.
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You worked at Google before deciding to do your jewelry business full-time. Was it a hard move to make?
It was a hard decision! I really loved working at Google—being surrounded by so many amazing people, having the stability of a big company—but I’m so glad I took the plunge to pursue Margaret Elizabeth full time. It has been an incredibly rewarding year and I’m really excited to see where we go next. -
What inspires the pieces you make for Margaret Elizabeth?
Everything! Traveling is probably the biggest place of inspiration. I love seeing the fashion, culture, and style of other places and translating that back into our work.Margaret Elizabeth office
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How would you describe your personal style?
I love color, bold prints, and a healthy dose of sparkle. My closet is full of classic pieces that I like to pair with fun, on-trend looks. Most days, though, I’m wearing jeans, a t-shirt, and a long druzy pendant. -
Do you have an accessorizing routine? Have you ever planned an outfit specifically around a piece of jewelry?
I don’t necessarily have an accessorizing routine, but I rarely leave the house without earrings. I find that earrings really brighten up the face—so whether it’s a pair of studs or something bigger, earrings are always part of my ensemble. As for planning an outfit around a piece of jewelry…absolutely! When I go to put together an outfit, I typically think about the jewelry first and the clothes second. -
Does living in San Francisco influence how you dress?
Definitely! The San Francisco weather (one minute sunny and warm, the next minute foggy and cool) has pushed me to dress in many layers. I like mixing patterns and textures, which is convenient, because SF leaves me without a choice! -
Kate Spade vase & Margaret Elizabeth bangles
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Favorite item in your closet?
One of my grandmother’s silk bathrobes.Shoes by Valentino
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Where are your favorite places to shop in SF? Online?
I love Heidi Says on Fillmore Street, Jeremys in SOMA, Britex fabrics downtown, Erica Tanov…the list goes on! Online, I love Calypso, Asos, Ebay, Shopbop, Tibi… -
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Dress by All Saints & Earrings, Bangles, Rings by Margaret Elizabeth
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Ring, Bangles by Margaret Elizabeth, Meg’s grandmother’s glassware
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How do you spend your Sundays?
Lazily!
I love visiting a good brunch spot (favorites near me include Zazie’s, Outerlands, Mission Beach Cafe) and hanging at the beach with a stack of magazines or a good book. If it’s a beautiful day, I like to explore Land’s End. -
How do you sparkle?
Spending time with my friends & family…lots of travel…and an armful of bangles!Top by Madewell, Jeans by Madewell, Bag by Clare Vivier, Sunglasses by Madewell
