Kelly Doust introduces readers to her wonderful world of reviving and customising vintage pieces, while bringing a modern and unique twist to wearing vintage clothes – Dita Von Teese
Made by White
Loveless Swan brooch, Made by White
I’ve gone brooch-mad for these new pieces by Lyndsay White of Made by White. Each would be the perfect adornment for a full-skirted fifties day dress – very appropriate for the weather we’re having.
Get your legs out, ladies
This is TMOD
Introducing Georgie Swift and Milenka Osen, the clever design duo behind TMOD (Turn Me On Design). J’adore the antique feel of the scratchie card range (available from Paper2 and various other retailers) and swivel signet rings, in particular. Love the atmospheric, slightly eerie home page of their site, too – enjoy browsing.
Dinosaur Designs
Pieces from the new 'Insects' range
When a company becomes so very successful and prolific, it’s easy to assume production processes take place offshore, and in factories rather than studios. Not the case for Dinosaur Designs, which has grown organically from a stall at Paddington Markets to the huge business it is today, while still producing locally and by hand.
I simply love the maker’s marks witnessed in every single resin piece – they have such integrity. And the new ‘Insects’ collection has me swooning as much as the coral-inspired pieces from 2010 did.
Behold – aren’t they divine?
A timeless bowl
Silver and resin
Earthy indeed
Last year's 'Coral Sea' collection
Tiny animals
Sir Beauty B.Dandy sculpture, Felieke van der Leest
Check out these strange & unusual pieces by Dutch artist/jeweller, Felieke van deer Leest (first spied on my lovely mate Olivier’s blog, Dossier 37). Imagine attempting the crochet work on these!
Wild.
New Polli pendants
The Owl & the Pussycat pendant by Polli
I’m going through a bit of a jewellery moment, and my latest obsession is gold. When I was younger, you wouldn’t have caught me in it: I found gold way too gaudy, and was more about the silver, leather and fun resin or wood beads and bangles you could buy on the cheap from Thai street markets. But I think I’ve grown into it, maybe in the same way you grow into pearls. And the faux kind is even better, if you ask me. Think about arms full of clinking Indian bangles and sparkly accoutrement – the perfect way to jazz up an otherwise plain outfit.
Polli have a beautiful range of kohl gold jewellery which I’m just loving at the moment. Check it out – they wear well, aren’t anywhere near as exxy as the real thing, and update your look with each new season.
Kirstin Ash jewellery
Kirstin Ash pendants
Jessica of Coco Repose visited last week for morning tea, and was wearing the most amazing necklace by Kirstin Ash. This is really beautiful vintage-inspired jewellery, made with rare papers and prints from earlier eras. I’m definitely buying… the only question is, how to choose just a few pieces, or even one? Seriously gorgeous.
Heart & wishbone pendant by Kirstin Ash
Various Kirstin Ash pieces
The clever woman herself
Revival of the friendship bracelet
Remember braided friendship bands from high school? I’ve been noticing a lot of playful new jewellery lately, which reminds me of times before I sought more precious pieces in silver and gold.
I’ve had this crescent moon charm hanging about in my jewellery box for years now, but never wore it. Here I’ve braided it into some bright red tapestry thread and created a strap which adjusts – I’m happy it’s found a new home, where it can finally see the light of day.
Bejewelled Bespoke
Bouquet of Roses necklace
Chrysanthemum stud earrings
Check out these lust-worthy items available for sale on Etsy through the Bejewelled Bespoke shop.
Item description for the Statement Rosette Bib Necklace below:
“Strips of different silk fabrics ranging from chiffon to washed silk are rolled into fabric rosettes and embellished with Swarovski pearls and crystals. Finished with a double sided velvet ribbon, and handsewn silk backing, this is one amazing necklace. Perfect for that special occasion, party, cocktail, wedding, bridesmaid outfit…or just because you are fabulous.” Dee-vine.
Chiffon, Tulle and Cotton Rose Bib Ribbon Necklace
Victoria Mason jewellery
'Take a seat' necklace by Victoria Mason
Happy new year! I think I’m going to love you, 2010.
This is my new favourite necklace, purchased from Reclaim in Summer Hill. Check out Victoria’s site for more gorgeous creations. J’adore the pencil shaving. Cute, huh?
Plus, a crafty heart pendant for you below:
I love you this much
Crocheted jewellery
I met designer Kristen Masters at Julie Paterson’s shop, Cloth Fabric in Surry Hills because Julie now stocks some of her fantastic jewellery range.
Kristen’s inspired by the materials she uses and their possibilities, as well as by crochet technique. Says she, “I collect old bead necklaces and buttons and odds and ends from op shops to embellish some of the pieces. It’s all pretty new and I am constantly experimenting and coming up with new things.” What a wonderful way to recycle old materials that have seen better days.
At this stage you can only buy these unique handmade pieces from Cloth or direct through Kristen’s new blog, but they’re well worth checking out for their intricate, avant garde beauty.
I’m particularly loving the two on the second line down. So fab.