Meet the Founder
KIlee Nickels
As the founder, creative director, product designer, and inspirational leader of Nickel & Suede, Kilee’s personal touch is woven into every layer of our brand. With a passion for encouraging confidence, self-care, and cheering people on with optimism, she empowers our team and community to embrace their uniqueness.
FOUNDER
In 2012 Kilee started her popular style and DIY blog, ONE little MOMMA. She shared her outfits of the day, thrifting finds and authentic stories that gained a following of loyal women. On the search for just the right earring for a daily outfit, she DIY'd one out of gold leather. The result was so unique that it inspired the begining of N&S. Her husband joined her as they launched Nickel & Suede in their basement in June of 2014.
ARTIST
As our Chief Creative Officer, design and creativity are the places Kilee shines. She is a fanatic about color, prototypes with paper and sharpies and still does the styling and all of the makeup for our shoots. She's an artist at heart and that's what inspires the unexpected, creative whimsy that is at the heart of the brand.
Boy Mom
Kilee is a mom of FIVE boys and yes, she is just as busy as you might imagine! Motherhood is her most treasured role and you'll often find one of her kids hanging around the office or setting up a lemonade stand out front. She is passionate about encouraging women to take time for themselves and growing their own skills and talents, even and especially in the thick of motherhood.
FUN FACTS
ENNEAGRAM: 3w4
ZODIAC: Leo
DEGREE: Nutritional Science
GO-TO NAIL POLISH: Black
FAVORITE MAGAZINE: ELLE
CELEB STYLE CRUSH: Anne Hathaway, Zendaya
FAVORITE WORKOUT: Running, Ballet
SUPERPOWER: Predicting trends
FAVORITE DRINK: Hot Water
HATES: Sleep
Since our start in 2014, there have been so many milestones. From opening our first store to selling our millionth earring, Kilee has been there meeting and greeting the N&S community like it's her job. Because kissing babies and really getting to know her customers is her favorite part of the job. We wouldn't be here without them!
Keep up with Kilee
Blog posts
With Love from Mexico
Our founder Kilee recently spent a week in Mexico. Save this post for outfit and accessory inspiration for your next getaway!
More Than a Mom
Kilee shares her most valuable lesson learned in early motherhood and the story behind this year's Mother's Day campaign.