Showing posts with label Jewellery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jewellery. Show all posts

More than just a collaborator

Mihara Yasuhiro S/S 09

For eight years Japanese designer Mihara Yasuhiro has been collaborating with Puma on a line of wildly inventive sneakers that have certainly not gone unnoticed (with features like patterns, drips, fur, studs, stripes and metallics) and he has certainly helped take trainers to the next level. Dazed Digital caught up with the designer as s/s 09 sees the release of his first apparel line for Puma and this made me realise that he is more than just a trainer collaborator. I must admit that I am more aware of his collaborative work with Puma than his own line so the recent DD interview forced me to look at Yasuhiro's line and I'm glad that I did. It is plain to see that Yasuhiro wants to inject romance and some soul into men's dressing and until now it has not been on my radar.

Mihara Yasuhiro's s/s 09 collection was inspired by the charismatic and controversial artist Joseph Beuys. Paint was dabbed on the jersey pile and canvas lace up shoes made the artist theme explicit. The collection saw fine leathers bonded with jersey which were paired with sun bleached trousers...creating a worn, aged and sell-able collection. Personally, the highlights were the jewellery pieces adorning the models designed by Husam El Odeh, his designs have inspired me to experiment more with men's jewellery (of course I will take note of thesundaybest's warnings against piracy).

Babete jewellery

I always love discovering fabulous etsy shops and babette is my new favourite! Love these unusual and delicate pieces, I think the feather necklace is top on my list. Take a little visit to Geeta's lovely blog too.

babette

babette

All images via babette

Onyx feather

Have you heard about onyx feather yet? It's a beautiful new jewellery collection that was just launched yesterday by Sola from Washington, DC. Think beautiful vintage pieces reworked with a modern twist. Sola has created three unique collections each taking inspiration from a particular city. Cairo, Paris and Cyprus each have their own charm and appeal and her beautiful pieces echo their beauty. An added benefit is that a certain percentage from each sale goes towards an amazing organisation called Invisible Children.

Sola- onyx feather

Let's find out a little more about Sola...
Please describe yourself in 3 words
An idealistic, artistic dreamer.

City or country, where would you rather live?
The city.  I can fight a city insect. City bugs just want your left over Thai-food and they’ll go away.  Country bugs however… I fear. They don’t want leftovers—they chase you because they are bored and you smell nice.

How/why did you create onyx feather?
The huge disparity in wealth is something I’ve consistently witnessed in every city I’ve grown up in and something that I've never been able to ignore--especially the way it affects children.  I believe finding a niche that utilizes your strengths and passions to help people and simultaneously motivates consumers to assist in your mission is a realistic long-term way to battle the overwhelming need in underdeveloped countries. In my life that translated into  conceiving a jewelry line that reuses forgotten items to make a positive impact in the lives of overlooked people.  Invisible Children does this as well, they use innovative ways to advocate for former child soldiers and they do it exceptionally well—this why onyx feather supports them.

Onyx feather, Cairo collection

Did you study jewellery design?
No, I didn’t. I am self-taught. I learnt by taking necklaces apart and rebuilding them with the challenge of making them better than when I first found them.

Is your jewellery a full time job for you?
I wish! I work in media relations in an unrelated industry. It’s nice to have a balance sometimes.

Where do you find your inspiration?
Cities! Each collection in the line is inspired by a city. Every city is unique and filled with distinct culture and it’s lovely to be able to capture just a bit of that and share it with people who understand and appreciate it.

Onyx feather, Paris collection

Which is your favourite season?
Autumn because I love layering. I love the challenge of cohesively layering assorted textures, colors, and patterns. Summer drives me crazy because I can’t layer—well I could but I’d die of a layering-induced heat stroke.

Favourite thing to do on a weekend?
Sleeping in (rarely happens any more) and exploring the city for vintage jewelry. I love the vintage shop owners; they are a wealth of information and experiences.

What makes you smile?
Seeing my graceful roommate licking her plate after a good meal.

Onyx feather, cyprus collection

Do you have any tips for readers wanting to start an online shop?
Be organized. It’s the foundation of everything. Even a business that is more creatively-based needs to be very organized. The extra time you spend making those online file folders will save you hours later on.

And lastly, can you name a few blogs or websites that inspire you?
Gingervitis (her minimalist perspective on life intrigues me)
{Wit and Delight} (love her innovative way of presenting things)
The Brooklyn Circus blog (all about the styling. It’s brave and it works)
Garance Dore (her fashion photography captures people, not just their clothing)
Max Wanger (sheer brilliance!)

Thank you so much Sola! I loved your answers and getting to know you better, wishing you loads of success with your new venture!

Shop: onyx feather  Blog: onyx feather blog

Pretty jewels

I recently discovered, Inmost Light, a gorgeous shop on etsy selling the prettiest jewellery and dreamy photos too. I love the styling of all the jewellery shots and the pieces themselves are so delicate and whimsical. Take a look at the shop to see more... quite a few of these are going on my wishlist for sure!

Inmost light 1

Inmost Light 2

All images via Inmost Light

Genevieve Motley

Thanks to Gen for the lovely fox necklace and ring that I won over on her blog! Go check out Gen's shop here, it's full of sweet necklaces, earrings and rings and everything is super affordable!

Genevieve Motley

Genevieve Motley


Image credits: jewellery by Genevieve Motley, photo by me

What A Pearler

If jewellery is your thing and your keen to go a more understated gown and the wow with a gorgeous necklace then this little pearler could be what you're after. This shimmering Valentino pearl and Swarovski crystal necklace would catch many eyes and receive many oohh's and ahh's. That's the aim of a statement piece. Right? Available to buy online at www.net-a-porter.com for £275.







Posted by Emilie Harrison

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Behind the Scenes Fashion - Winter

Earlier in the year we shot the fashion story that's in the current issue. The palette is warm and welcoming, just right for the cold winter days we're experiencing here. As usual, our photographer Claudio Raschella, kept the mood light while Emilie and Annabelle oversaw each shot. The fashion shoot involves a lot of planning and preparation to bring it to fruition. Emilie spends a lot of time coordinating dresses with jewellery, shoes, hats and gloves from all over the country and even overseas. Annabelle and I plan the backgrounds and mood of the shoot and watch over everything to make sure it's running smoothly and on time.


Chris Geracitano makes a start on hair and makeup for our model Emma. She was so naturally beautiful, it didn't take much to get her ready for the camera. Emilie fixes the drop on the Culture Bridal Couture gown to ensure it is hanging correctly with gloves from the Adelaide Antique Market.


Emilie watches as Claude calls the shots – literally! One of the stunning pieces of jewellery loaned to us for the day from Lisa Ho.


Claude directs our model to achieve the shot he has in mind in a Rachel Gilbert gown and Prismera necklace. Annabelle is never far away, overseeing each shot with a smile on her face.


Claude reviews the pics as they load to his laptop – you can see the concentration on his face – he is a perfectionist. The model listens to Claude's directions before getting ready for the next shot in a skirt Emilie designed with talented designer Liva Loren, Ender Legard bustier from Net-A-Porter and beautiful Kailis pearl earrings and necklace.

Posted by Jane Cameron
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A Symbol of Love

Sydney based designer Marta Niegowska had a budding urge to create, so she took on the age old form of moulding wax into shapes to form her unique unisex jewellery collections that make the label Bilingual. After exploring a range of concepts and ideas, it was the series of interlocking silver rings made by Marta for her partner to wear while he was away, that got people talking and the designer soon found herself taking orders for colleagues and friends. She soon launched Bilingual at the Powerhouse Museum Youngblood Design Markets during Sydney Design Week in 2005. Marta explores various ideas through her pieces that induce humour or provoke thought. More than just a beautiful adornment, wearers of Marta’s designs are drawn to her concepts as much as her craftsmanship and she designs to open people’s minds to imagine what jewellery can be. Each collection of locally handmade rings, earrings, bangles, neckpieces and wedding bands engage the wearer with the symbolic nature of her work. More than ever before gents wedding rings, like the ladies, symbolise love, committment and personal taste, they must be something loved and cherished. Afterall, it will be worn for a lifetime to come. All Bilingual silver jewellery is made from 100% recycled Australian silver. To view the Bilingual collection of men's and women's pieces visit www.bilingual.com.au.


Facet


Momento


Destiny

Posted by Emilie Harrison
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Necklace Heaven

It's true, I am in love, in love with Elva Fields. I've blogged before and no doubt I'll blog again. Her pieces... well, I'm lost for words. If jewellery is your thing then one of her beautiful pieces would make a simply perfect accent to your look. I can imagine choosing the gown to go with the necklace rather than choosing the necklace to go with the gown. Each handmade piece features vintage elements wich makes them eco-friendly and super unique. They're truly pieces of art. Many of the pieces are one off and over 40 new pieces have been popped on her website for summer as of today so if you don't want to miss out get in quick. Once they're gone they're gone. Visit shop.elvafields.com for range details.





Posted by Emilie Harrison
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The Cape Pendant Collection

I just love everything about this first photo, the pose, the dramatic dress and the bright bouganvilla background...


Something equally beautiful is the new Cape Pendant Collection by Michael Chandler. The talented Michael has created a jewellery range based on traditional key plates (escutcheons). He was inspired by hours spent getting to know Antique Cape Furniture in the said department at Sotheby’s and Stephan Welz  and decided to create a jewellery range based on the key-plates found on grand old pieces of Cape Furniture.

These escutcheons are smaller versions of the originals, made from brass and sterling silver and combine traditional hand-cut work with laser technology, handcrafted by Nina from inkheart. I love these unusual pendants and the fact that they hold a little piece of history. I can't wait to get my hands on one! Plus they've just been featured at Christopher Strong’s Summer Collection at SA Fashion Week in Johannesburg, well done Michael!



One more thing, Michael happens to be a bit of jack of all trades when it comes to art, so apart from his fabulous new jewellery collection, he also makes the most gorgeous porcelain vases and busts, embroidered cushions and the list goes on. Pop over to his blog, Chandler House, to discover more!


Image credits: 1st photo by Mert & Marcus for Roberto Cavalli via Fashion gone Rogue, fashion shots by Simon Deiner for SDR Photo, all other images via Chandler House

The Princess Diaries

It's often said that tiara's are for Princess and unless you are, of course, a Princess you do not wear a tiara. Pfffttt... who says you can't be a Princess for a day? If you opt for this little sparkler I think you'll feel like a Princess long after the wedding. At roughly AUD$328 it's a piece that will be passed down from generation to generation, making it a prized possession and will, no doubt, become sought after amongst the girls in the family. Now... start the search for your Prince! Available to purchase at www.net-a-porter.com.


Louis Mariette Alexandra crystal tiara £183

Posted by Emilie Harrison
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Armelle jewelled beauties

I am totally head over heels for these necklaces by Armelle! The coral branch or 'Oui' charm necklace would be first choice, but then again the clover leaf and horse shoe are just as gorgeous! Take note friends, remember, it's my birthday coming up soon!



All images via Armelle

Yes, You Can Borrow That!

It's a well known fact that buying a designer dress is an expensive excercise. It's always the way though, you see a dress you love, check out the price and bang, you feel a shot of pain running through your heart. It's also an expensive exercise dressing your bridesmaids. Why should you be forced to skimp on quality all because of price? Fear not, I have news you'll be thrilled to hear. Can I Borrow That is a new online Australian store specialising in the hire of designer dresses and jewellery. From Versace and Gianfranco Ferre to Just Cavalli and Dolce & Gabbana you can find the designer dress you love and hire it for that special occasion, wedding, engagement party at a fraction of the retail price. There is a try on option for clothing, as well as a purchase option on some of the jewellery. You can even score yourself the exact pieces worn by Charlotte, Samantha, Miranda and Carrie in Sex and the City 2. Talk about chic! Visit www.caniborrowthat.com.au to browse their wardrobe and to find out all the info.


Versace AUD$329 to hire


GF Ferre AUD$139 to hire


Just Cavalli dress AUD$189 to hire


Limited edition Rodrigo Otazu necklace available to purchase for AUD$415 was made famous by Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City 2

Posted by Emilie Harrison
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Fields on Holiday

I've blogged about Elva Fields and her beautiful jewelery before. You take one look at bher pieces and you find yourself ohhhing and ahhhing... simply amazing! Her latest 2010 Holiday Collection, inspired by easy and effortless glamour, is made by hand in her Kentucky studio and incorporate vintage elements, making each piece eco-friendly and unique. Prices for earrings range between US$46-$98 and necklaces range between US$178-$398. The collection will be available come November online at www.elvafields.com and at various retailers across America, including select Anthropologie stores. I think her pieces would make truly amazing additions to a spectacular wedding or bridesmaids gown.





Posted by Emilie Harrison
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Put A Ring On It

If you are dreaming of a diamond ring, are patiently (or not so) waiting for him to pop the question or are on the hunt for your engagement ring and happen to have an iPhone then I suggest you hop to it and download the new and free Tiffany & Co Engagement Ring Finder app. The app allows you to select your perfect Tiffany diamond engagement ring, from viewing the range of styles to learning about the superior qualities of Tiffany diamonds. The app also includes an accurate ring sizer, the first tool of its kind from a jeweller, that lets users determine their size by placing an actual ring directly on the screen and aligning it with the correct circle in the guide. Can it be made any easier for the boys?? Genius! The rings are shown true-to-size and each style can be viewed with diamonds of six different carat sizes. You can also zoom in on a ring's details, pair the ring's with wedding bands, and save or share your favourites via email, facebook or twitter. Surely it can't be easier to give that certain someone a hint, hint, nudge, nudge* with this app?! To top it all off you can, after it's all been chosen, make an appointment for a diamond consultation via phone or email. Prices will appear in your countries currency. To access this amazing app simply visit iTunes to download and get diamond hunting!









Posted by Emilie Harrison
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Fields of Sunshine

I know we mere mortals in the southern hemisphere are celebrating the first day of winter today however jewellery designer Elva Fields is excited to announce today's launch her Summer 2011 Collection. "We're continuing Spring 2011's celebratory feel with bold, saturated hues that only the warmest summer sun can bring," says designer Emily Wheat Maynard. "Summer 2011 is all about letting the sun shine, highlighting happy, brilliant style with radiance and color." Handmade in her Kentucky studio, each piece incorporates vintage elements, creating truly unique and eco designs. You all know WSG has been a fan of Ms Fields for a long time. Keep an eye out for one of her creations in our winter issue, on sale Australia wide on the 15th June. Available to buy online at www.elvafields.com.







Posted by Emilie Harrison
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