Sustainable Jewellery Spotlight: Anuka





As the focus and conversation surrounding sustainable fashion and jewellery brands (very rightly) ramps up, I thought I'd share a focussed profile on Anuka.

Ethically sourced and hand-crafted by founder Francesca Kippax, Anuka is a Chester-based jewellery brand with a strong commitment to sustainability.  The labels beautiful, contemporary pieces are crafted solely from recycled and certified Fairmined precious metals - think, 100% recycled silver and responsibly sourced gold.

Every element is considered through a sustainable perspective, from development to their packaging recycled packaging.

I love Francesca's 'clean designs, clean ethos' and have often used Anuka's ethically sourced designs on both photoshoots styled on clients for television appearances.

But, until rather recently my very minimal approach to jewellery was streamlined to just my staple Missoma choker, engagement ring and simple studs that I'd switch out for thin pairs of small gold hoops every month - when I invariably tired of one style. Buying or wearing something other than my staples seemed so indulgent, like buying a new fragrance outside of Christmas.

However, since lockdown I've been finding more reasons to play around with accessories experimenting with layering necklaces and switching my very simple earrings out for more exciting alternatives - something I always do on sets and with clients but seemingly never myself. So I was thrilled when Francesca asked me to style and photograph a few of my favourite pieces whilst in lockdown.

Necklaces:


Typically, I go for delicate thin gold chains which I layer when I'm feeling very adventurous so wearing a thicker, necklace that was more collar than choker was out of my usual comfort zone. Yet, I loved it. I immediately felt more put-together and the combination of the LOKA Curve Hoop Earrings paired with the AMATI Collar Necklace elevated my whole look. Despite nowhere (bar the local Coop) being open I felt date night ready.



I played around with the length and styling of the MANI Adjustable Necklace, wearing it whilst working on emails from the garden layered with another necklace. I loved how subtle it looked and how playfully the three metals contrasted one another.


I styled the same MANI Adjustable Necklace solo with just a blazer, keeping the necklace in full focus. The positioning of the weighted Mani stone is completely adjustable, allowing you to wear it as high or low as you wish. Try styling yours turned around with an open back top, so the stone hangs between your shoulder blades.

 MANI Adjustable Necklace; Blazer, old Mango; Trousers, old Zara; Bracelet, KOLTI Cuff, Anuka

Rings


Now, as those of you who know me will know I'm super self conscious of my hands. So much so I spent years and y e a r s warding my boyfriend off ever buying me an engagement ring as I was so adamant I'd hate it. I often feel claustrophobic when it comes to wearing rings and rarely ever wear them - the only exception being my engagement ring which - until trying on Anuka's designs - was an anomaly and the only one I loved to wear.

Now, I have around five gold rings that I wear on rotation by Anuka. From hammered stacking rings and contemporary rings in squared shapes to those detailed in kinks and twists. The pieces are beautiful, ideal for layering, stacking or wearing solo. 


Earrings


As small gold hoops are likely my most worn piece of jewellery I thought I'd mix it up a little and literally expand my go-to's with the LOKA Curve Hoops: a mid-size contemporary gold earring which very much looks like a full hoop from the front and side. Ideal for day-to-night wear and perfectly sized to avoid all of your hair getting twisted and caught in the back (forever the bane of my life) these might just be my favourite of Anuka's LOKA collection.

Also, part of the beautiful LOKA collection, the Contour Earrings  a firm favourite of mine. Fluid, hand-crafted and contemporary these oval earrings are ideal for pairing with a simple white tee for everyday. Keep them in focus by tucking your hair back behind your ears, styling with a strapless or halter neck top and red lip.

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Black-owned Fashion Brands to Shop Now & Forever

As a Stylist I spent a lot of my time pre-Covid researching brands for clients, photoshoots and jobs. I've been taking a note of and saving the many Black-owned fashion brands and businesses that have been shared and shouted about over these past few days.

I've been doing my own research ready for when my work resumes as I can do more. I can call in from a more diverse assortment of brands for photoshoots and clients. 

I've shared brands across my Instagram stories as well as upon my grid but I wanted to also create a visual resource for myself and you. Something that I pledge to check in with once a month to see what I've been personally wearing and buying as well as what I have been bringing to and sharing with my clients. 

If there is any Black-owned brands that you love, or know of that I've missed and should be aware of please send me a link.

First up, Nubian Skin.


When I worked at LOOK Magazine I pitched and wrote a double-page spread feature that appeared both in the print magazine and online on fashion brands founded by women (you can read it here.). I was inspired to do this after coming across Nubian Skin online and really wanting to interview founder Ade Hassan.

Ade was 29 when she founded her company, the USP being that skin-tone hoisery is a basic in every woman's wardrobe. For women of colour this hadn't been an option until Ade launched her brand in 2013. Her top tip for women looking to start their own business was "really believe in the idea - if you're up at 4am working on this then you really want to believe in it, because trust me, you will be up at 4am."

Don't miss their athleisure inspired collection COCOA by NS designed for both men and women in the labels signature skin-tones.

Shop Nubian Skin here, and click here to follow on Instagram.

Brother Vellies




Founded and designed by Aurora James, Brother Vellies is a Brooklyn based accessories brand. Founded in 2013 with the goal to keep traditional African design practices and techniques alive whilst simultaneously creating (and sustaining) artisanal jobs.

Expect one-of-a-kind sustainable handmade accessories. I love the idea of their Something Special subscription service (available globally) where you sign up and pay $35 monthly to receive a mystery treat made with love and designed to bring a little comfort and beauty during this difficult time. So far the monthly treats have included an Oaxacan mugs and cloud socks.

Shop Brother Vellies here,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Pyer Moss



Founded in 2013 by Kerby Jean-Raymond Pyer Moss completely reinvents itself as a label every season - click here to see their incredible visually evocative stories. Collaborating with artists and utilising their runway shows to combine storytelling, activism and debate. I'm trying to work out how to get my hands on their 'LADIES...' campaign tshirt (click here, you'll want it too) and have earmarked their incredible Reebok by Pyer Moss collection for my menswear clients.

Shop Pyer Moss here,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Sister Bozza



I came across Sister Bozza on Instagram and quickly added their gorgeous accessories to my saved 'Brands' section. From statement earrings in vibrant hues and more minimal pearl adorned golden styles to beaded and leather bags there's a carefully considered accessory for every occasion.

Shop Sister Bozza via their DMS.


Thebe Magugu



Eponymous South African label Thebe Magugu won the the prestigious LVMH award in 2019, becoming the first ever African designer to be awarded the highly coveted prize in its seven-year history.

Designed to seek new ways in which to present women with clothing that complies with and enhances the everyday. Whilst sticking to the labels pillar values of quality, novelty and culture. Expect sleek, fashion-forward designs adorned with motifs from the continent's storied past.

Founder and designer Thebe Magugu aspires to create 'smart, multifaceted clothing as valuable as their woman.'

I'm completely in awe of both the labels stunning imagery and approach to fabric combinations, cut and composition. I dream of creating images this beautiful.

Shop Thebe Magugu here,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

A A K S



Founded by Akosua Afriye-Kumi as a way to create sustainable jobs whilst also showcasing her favourite weaving techniques.

Each of AAKS bags are designed and handcrafted in Ghana by artisans, maintaining the spirit and durability of the labels ancestral counterparts and characterised by bright colours and detailing.

Shop AAKS here,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Tove Studio



Founded by friends Camille Perry and Holly Wright, TOVE was created with one goal in mind - to design modern clothing that fitted into busy lifestyles seamlessly. The London-based label produces each style in considered, small batches using luxurious fabrics.

Designed to be worn and mixed and matched season after season to create a timeless wardrobe.

Expect fluid silhouettes, relaxed tailoring and tonal palettes with a pop of red for good measure.

Shop TOVE exclusively at Net-a-Porter here, and follow the brand on Instagram here.

Tékoré by Estelle Jannot



Parisian brand Tékoré by Estelle Jannot is a modern fashion brand rooted in rich African heritage. Ethically made in Africa expect beautifully printed dresses.

Shop Tékoré by Estelle Jannot here,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Sika Designs



Inspired by the rich and diverse culture of West Africa, Sika Designs is beloved for the labels vibrant designs and rich fabrics - each fabric is carefully selected and curated from Ghanaian markets.

Expect beautiful dresses - I've got my eye on this asymmetric one, this striped one and this striped one.

Shop Sika Designs,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Mateo New York




Founded in 2009 by 2017 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalist Matthew Harris, Mateo New York was born from his desire to create unique fine jewellery.

An entirely self-taught designer Harris' work is defined by the labels use of diamonds, pearls and precious gem stones Mateo New York counts Rihanna as a firm fan.

Don't miss the labels bag collection.

Shop Mateo New York,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Vavvoune




Founded by self-taught designer Valerie Blaise VAVVOUNE is a Brooklyn based leather accessories brand. Crafted in NYC's garment district the sustainable label donates any unused and workable scraps of leather to art programs across America.

Shop VAVVOUNE,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Mie




Founded in 2018 Mie is a lifestyle brand focussing upon conscious fashion and nature-friendly designs.

Sustainability is at the heart of Mie. With each garment crafted from natural, biodegradable fabrics so that should their designs end up in landfill they will decay without causing harm to the environment.

Expect beautiful maxi dresses, linen jumpsuits and the most stunning selection of tops I've seen this summer.

Shop Mie,  and click here to follow on Instagram.

Rooper




Founded by Natasha Fernandes Anjo, ROOP is a sustainable accessories brand based in the UK. Handmade by Natasha from remnant or vintage fabrics each bag and scrunchie is a one-of-a-kind piece lovingly created in limited supply. Ideal for everyday wear and perfect for clients on the red carpet or at events I'll be keeping my eye on ROOP's latest drops.

Shop ROOP,  and click here to follow on Instagram.







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