Extreme good taste is not something always associated with the rush of Christmas shopping, but in the calm yet vibrant environ of the Shop at the Old Fire Station, innovative, cutting-edge design is very much the focus of our Jewellery Showcase. These are not your cracker gimmicks, or your last-minute-order-online-stocking-fillers; these are delicious artistic designs that are durable and dazzling, by some of the finest bespoke jewellery creators. Six incredible individuals and two corking collaborations provide the fare, each with their own take on the making of modern, standout jewellery. Each is marvelous in their own way. As such, so as not to show any preference to any of the designers, I shall address them in alphabetical order.
Anabelle Lou uses traditional tapestry techniques in a startlingly invigorating way, adding isometric sharpness to a reverence for ancient methods.
Chalk, established by two London architects, design effortlessly stylish pieces also inspired by ancient aesthetics. The ‘Egyptian’ collection houses striking designs of the highest quality, crafted using acrylic, wood and leather.
Elin Horgan’s designs are subtle silver geometric links that move with the wearer. They are at once fine and precious, yet flexibly wearable.
Grace Hamilton provides a loving, handcrafted twist on traditional crochet and knotting techniques, with exotic influences shining through designs that are hand dyed and meticulously worked.
I Am Acrylic are a quirky duo who hand-make lovely colourful landscapes you can wear around your neck. Each design is unique and hand-cut by their trusty fretsaw.
Kirsty Fraser’s wearables are ultra-modern and clearly inspired by her love for architecture. Stylishly muted shines bring out the fine details of these cleverly manipulated stunners.
Sanni Falkenberg’s creations always have a natural rock or crystal at centre, used in a creative and beautiful way to evoke cosmic marvel in all who see – and wear – them.
The fine talents of Stay Gold Mary Rose takes vintage pieces of china and transform them into delectably delicate accessories, where new life is breathed into stunning ceramics. As you’ll have seen and read, our Jewellery Showcase provides an eclectic and immensely talented mix of vintage vogue, ancient chic and dazzlingly modernist designs, from a range of carefully selected and meticulously crafted materials. There is quite simply something to suit any taste. So, to get your hands on a handmade, unique, and meticulously designed gift, steer clear of Cornmarket, sidestep the Queen, and instead head down to Gloucester Green to delight at a fine collection of affordable and extravagant jewellery. It’s also worth bearing in mind that the Shop at the Old Fire Station is open right up until Christmas Eve, just in case… All photography (with the exception of the ‘I Am Acrylic’ design) was organised and supported by Oxford Fashion Week Photographer: Rob Gardner, www.robgardnerphotography.com Makeup: Jessica Tucker Stylist: Katherine McNeil Model: Cara Kealy For more info and interviews with some of the designers, check out the Shop at the Old Fire Station blog: Shop at the Old Fire Station