Designed by Zwart in her Santa Monica atelier, Azlee (which combines her first, middle and last names) is the convergence of her personal and professional journey. Raised between Colorado and California, Zwart grew up surrounded by both nature and design. An early interest in photography propelled her into a career in fashion, before moving to Guatemala to work for a fair-trade non-profit organization. Here she stumbled upon metal working and fell in love with the art of jewelry making. Immersing herself completely, she developed a deep appreciation for the process of crafting something from nothing, shaping raw materials into wearable objects.

Surrounded by the striking landscape of Lake Atitlan, Zwart became inspired by the rugged geometry of the terrain, the fluidity of water, the ever-changing play of light and form. Elements she started to incorporate in her designs early on, and that inform the brand’s aesthetic to this day. Azlee’s pieces are deliberate in design, restrained silhouettes in a color palette that draws from the natural world.

Working in design and sustainability upon her return to the US, Zwart cemented her commitment to building a responsible business. Since AZLEE’s inception, she set out to support marine conservation and preservation. An avid surfer and scuba diver, she has witnessed first-hand humankind’s impact on the marine ecosystem. In a continued effort to foster a more conscious relationship with the planet and craft a better future, a portion of each sale is donated towards an ocean-related cause.