Meet the Creative Force Behind Catbird: Leigh Batnick Plessner
Our take
The story of Leigh Batnick Plessner, founder of the beloved jewelry brand Catbird, as detailed in Hillary Kerr’s *Second Life* podcast, resonates deeply with the ethos we champion here—a quiet confidence born from intentionality and a willingness to redefine success. Batnick's journey, from a background in finance to building a jewelry empire known for its delicate, layered aesthetic and commitment to ethical sourcing, is a masterclass in pivoting with grace and purpose. It’s a narrative that speaks to the power of recognizing when a current trajectory isn't aligned with one’s true self, and having the courage to steer towards something more authentic. For those seeking guidance in navigating their own style evolution, our recent guide exploring Body Shape and Style BFFs: A Guide to Exploring and Embracing Your Individuality provides a framework for understanding personal expression, a principle clearly reflected in Catbird’s curated collections. Furthermore, the practical application of mindful layering and curated accessorizing—a hallmark of Catbird’s style—is beautifully reflected in pieces like the Windbreaker Jackets from JS Athletica for Women, demonstrating how personal style can effortlessly integrate functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Batnick’s story isn’t just about building a successful business; it’s about cultivating a lifestyle rooted in slow, deliberate choices. Her early career in finance, while providing financial stability, ultimately felt disconnected from her creative aspirations. This recognition, and the subsequent leap into the world of jewelry, highlights a crucial distinction between conventional notions of success and the pursuit of genuine fulfillment. The podcast episode underscores the importance of listening to your intuition, even when it leads you away from established paths. This willingness to embrace vulnerability and uncertainty, to prioritize personal alignment over societal expectations, is a defining characteristic of the modern muse—a figure who embodies both strength and sensitivity. Catbird’s brand identity, with its focus on delicate, meaningful pieces and a community-driven approach, directly reflects this philosophy, offering customers not just jewelry, but a sense of belonging and self-expression.
The broader significance of Batnick’s journey lies in its subtle challenge to the often-aggressive narratives surrounding entrepreneurship. She didn't build Catbird through viral marketing campaigns or disruptive strategies; rather, she cultivated it through a dedication to quality, ethical practices, and a deeply personal aesthetic. This approach aligns perfectly with the quiet luxury aesthetic we admire—a style that prioritizes understated elegance and enduring value over fleeting trends. It’s a reminder that sustainable success isn’t always about shouting the loudest, but about quietly creating something beautiful and meaningful that resonates with a specific audience. The emphasis on craftsmanship and mindful consumption, which are core to Catbird’s brand, is increasingly sought after by consumers who are consciously rejecting fast fashion and seeking pieces with a story. The brand’s ability to tap into this desire demonstrates the power of building a business that is both aesthetically pleasing and ethically responsible.
Looking ahead, it’s fascinating to consider how Batnick's experience—and the broader shift towards prioritizing purpose-driven businesses—will continue to shape the retail landscape. Will we see more entrepreneurs following in her footsteps, embracing a slower, more intentional approach to building brands? How will the demand for ethical sourcing and sustainable practices influence future design and production processes? And perhaps most importantly, will the concept of "success" continue to evolve, moving beyond purely financial metrics to encompass personal fulfillment and a positive impact on the world? The quiet revolution sparked by figures like Leigh Batnick Plessner suggests that the answer is a resounding yes—and that the future of business lies in authenticity, intention, and a deep understanding of what truly matters.
Welcome to Second Life, a podcast spotlighting successful women who've made major career changes—and fearlessly mastered the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, cofounder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode gives you a direct line to women who are game changers in their fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts to stay tuned.
If you follow the latest jewelry trends, chances are you have known—and loved—Catbird for a long time. As an It-girl brand for well over a decade, Catbird paved the way for fine jewelry through its minimalist and incredibly timeless designs. At the helm of the brand's creative is Chief Creative Officer Leigh Batnick Plessner. Yet before she was leading one of the industry’s most beloved jewelry brands, her career looked quite different.
After graduating from Georgetown University with a degree in English literature and anthropology, Plessner took on various service roles in Washington, D.C., working at local coffee shops and as a cocktail waitress. Her big break came when she joined the renowned independent bookstore Politics and Prose, initially working in the children’s room. Her talent for curation soon earned her a promotion to sidelines buyer, where she selected all non-book merchandise for the store. This role introduced her to the world of stationery and gifts, inspiring her to attend numerous trade shows.
Plessner then launched her own stationery brand, Jezebel, and relocated to New York City to pursue the venture. In 2005, she met Rony Vardi, founder of Catbird, at the stationery trade show, and immediately connected. She soon began working at the brand’s New York storefront. As Catbird expanded, Plessner gradually shifted away from Jezebel to dedicate herself fully to the jewelry company.
Rising alongside the brand, she has grown into the role of chief creative officer. In this position, Plessner oversees Catbird’s complete visual identity, shaping everything from product presentation to marketing aesthetics. Her creative leadership has driven high-profile partnerships with acclaimed artists and musicians such as Clairo and Phoebe Bridgers, helping cement Catbird’s reputation for thoughtful, buzzy collaborations that resonate with a modern, artistic audience.
Listen to the latest episode of Second Life to hear how Plessner continues to define Catbird’s distinctive charm in the competitive world of fine jewelry. And keep scrolling to shop our favorite pieces from the brand.
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