Did Donna Kelce give Taylor Swift this red ‘87’ ring from a Kansas City jewelry shop?
Emily Bordner didn’t notice it at first.
After the AFC Championship Game, Taylor Swift walked across the Baltimore field, weaving through reporters and family members until she reached sweaty, victorious Travis Kelce. She wrapped her arms around the Chiefs tight end, then leaned in for a kiss.
Fans were captivated by the smooch, but Bordner was more interested in Swift’s hands. Internet sleuths seemed to think Swift was wearing a ring designed by Bordner. Was she?
More close-up photos rolled in, confirming that — yes — the ring that looks like Kelce’s “87” jersey was Bordner’s.
“We’re crazy thrilled it landed on her finger,” she said.
Bordner designs jewelry for her company, EB and Co., which has stores at 326 W. 63rd St. in Brookside and 327 W. 47th St. on the Country Club Plaza. Her jewelry is also available online at ebandcompany.com.
Bordner’s designs are illustrated by Danielle Gratton.
But how did Swift, perhaps the most famous person in the world, get ahold of a $14 ring from Bordner’s small business? Bordner has a theory.
Weeks ago, Donna Kelce — Travis’ mother — tried to order a pair of Chiefs earrings from her business. Unfortunately for Mama Kelce, they were sold out.
When Bordner found out that Donna had tried to buy her designs, she sent her several Kelce-inspired pieces: a headband, hair clips and the “87” ring. All were part of a new collection of Chiefs jewelry that launched at the beginning of the NFL season.
“(Donna) has been amazing,” Bordner said. “She gave us a five-star review on Google, and she’s been so sweet and supportive.”
Bordner hasn’t gotten confirmation, but she figures Donna likely gave her son’s girlfriend the ring.
Since Sunday, Bordner has sold more than 1,000 Kelce rings, which are available for pre-order. The Super Bowl is always a popular time to buy Chiefs gear, but Bordner said she’s definitely feeling a boost from Swift.
“She’s definitely moved the needle in my business in a significant way,” Bordner said.