A non-traditional take on a classic, utilitarian material, Shana Aldrich Ready’s jewelry line, The Ropes is a colorful ode to her Maine roots. “I always had a farfetched dream of trying to bring my design skills back to Maine,” says Ready. “I like the idea of visiting different metropolitan cities but then coming home to Maine to interpret and digest everything.”

Inspired by the nautical materials and the rich marine culture of her home state, Ready launched The Ropes in March 2011. “The Ropes actually started completely accidentally,” she says. “About two years ago now I was just messing around with rope I had around the house and ended up making two bracelets for myself.”