Holiday Gift Guide: Gorgeous, artisanal jewelry and accessories for the discerning woman

I am a huge fan of artisanal jewellery. Yes, I do own a few pieces from fast fashion places (mainstream retailers) that I still wear and like, but my real love lies in work made by designers who do this for a living.

Handmade, ethically-sourced jewellery is my jam, and I really enjoy supporting small businesses of all sorts. I appreciate their work, their art and the love they put into what they do.

As much as I love thrifting, I also like buying retail for those special pieces to add an extra special something to an outfit.

Here are some of my favourite designers:

SQUEAK DESIGN – MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

I bought a Midnight Ink tote from them and I love it. Every time I use it, I smile. It is well made, lined in cotton, with lots of space and organization inside, and such a wonderful neutral print with interest.

My tote no longer exists on their site, but I found two other bags I love, namely this awesome bucket bag:

And this duffle bag:

MEL EN STEL – NYC, USA

I own one of her Flemish linen dresses from back in the day bought from the Sunday Brunch Dress Shop, and recently purchased the most amazing Kate khaki green cashmere blazer.

I got it in a US 6 because of my shoulders, and it fits well, although the sleeves are a little long, I don’t mind because it just makes it cuddlier.

Yes you heard me right – CASHMERE. BLAZER.

It is snuggly, chic and an incredible piece of artistry. I reach for it every time I am in my closet and am so pleased I shelled out for it.

She also sells pretty totes and I rather like this vegan obi belt as well.

NERVOUS SYSTEM

I rather like kind of graphic but science-y or math-related jewellery, and this Algal Bloom necklace from this shop has been on my lust list for a while.

I also LOVE these Cluster Earrings and these Root Earrings but don’t really wear earrings… I mean, I do, but they have to be clip-ons…

Instead, I also have my eye on this Cluster Necklace.

..or this rather unusual, flower-like Calyx necklace:

SELINA VAUGHN – FLORIDA, USA

She makes the coolest totes out of vintage burlap bags. I want one, but cannot justify the purchase. Yet. Hehe!

I have my eye on this one:

ALKEMIE

I own two bangles and a ring from them, and think their recycled metal jewellery is so pretty and well-made.

I would highly recommend the Sage cuff above. It is pretty, comfortable and my favourite out of the bunch.

I have my eye on their Starfish cuff too, but can’t justify it yet… as my wrists are tiny and I’d probably have to hike it all the way up my arm to have it stay on.

BUBBLEBOX – ATHENS, GREECE

Their wanderlust cuffs and rings are divine. I especially like the rose gold version of this cuff, which I own.

For Christmas 2016 only, use this code for 10% off:

MERRYXMAS10

SHEENA JEWELLERY – MONTREAL, CANADA

A shout out to my local designer Sheena. She is super nice, but more than that, her work is BEAUTIFUL!

Her lace rings are gorgeous, and on sale right now.

FEATHER & BEAN

Ever wonder where I get some of my most amazing obi belts? It’s from Feather & Bean on Etsy. My eye is wandering over to this one right now:

SMALL WORLD DREAMS – MACKAY, AUSTRALIA

I obviously don’t need any more bags, but this one is really tempting me terribly.

It’s the perfect mix of leather and print, and the print reminds me of a telegraph or morse code or something. Graphic without being overwhelming or too twee.

It’s also ethically sourced and made.

This other one is also on sale for around $196 AUD if you are interested, it’s the Flax Boho Bag.

I have more shops I love frequenting obviously.

Anyone interested in a Part Two of this Holiday Gift Guide?

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE SHOPS?

P.S. See all my other Holiday Gift Guides here.