Like of the Week: Feather Extensions Are the Newest Trend to Hit Hair

They’re slowly infiltrating magazines, runway shows and city streets. Even celebs are finding these new extensions hard to resist.

Yes, feather extensions just might be this Summer/Spring’s biggest hair trend. These light and airy hair additives are not only eye-catching in an off-beat and fun way, but you can also treat them just as you would your own tresses – meaning they can be cut, curled, and styled just as you normally would.

Though it might seem like a tricky trend at first it can also be surprisingly versatile. Mostly made from the feathers of Roosters, these exotic extensions can be naturally dyed in an array of bold colors so the look can go from subtle to striking. Whether you opt for one, a few, or a whole section, these are sure to add some pop and pizazz to your hair and can even be worn by men.

If you’re in the NYC area there are a few salons that cater to this new trend, such as the Wendy Nichol Studio on Sullivan Street and Salon V in the East Village. The process is easy, taking about only 10 minutes with the feathers lasting in hair for up to 6 weeks. If the DIY approach is your style, there are also a variety of feathers to choose from on Etsy.com that come with in-depth instructions on how to attach them.

So take advantage of this new and exciting hair trend that’s sure to amp up your locks.

Dislike of the Week: Hairball Cat Creations

This goes under bizarre and just plain gnarly! I know my fair share of cat people and I myself have nothing against felines but this just seems like it teeters into the WTF zone for me.

Talented jewelry designer Heidi Abramson decided to celebrate the obscure National Hairball Awareness Day (don’t feel bad, it’s not marked in any of my calendars either) by using some of her own cat’s precious purged and up-heaved fur to shape and create some rather, err, original jewelry.

Yup, you read that right – hairball necklaces, earrings and cocktail rings to be exact. Okay, I’ll give her points for creativity but the thought of wearing something on my body that my own cat has vomited up is just a little too much.

Eh, to each their own, I suppose. However, is it just me, or does this cat look super pissed? He probably feels exploited. Although I’m not too proud to admit that I’d be pretty upset if I were a cat and my owner was making shit out of my disgarded fur balls too.

The nerve. I’m sorry, Heidi. Apologies, Kitty… but this is a FAIL.

Like of the Week: Unleash your Inner Traveler on a Budget with Plastique’s Acrylic World Landmark Jewelry

Plastique, an L.A. based jewelry Design Company, specializes in creating a variety of “plastic jewelry with a graphic designer’s touch,” and is incredibly successful at doing so. Each piece is fun, fresh and unexpected with a touch of whimsy to it.

From geometric patterned earrings in vibrant attention-grabbing colors to their truly impressive collection of acrylic world landmark rings and skyline necklaces, – featuring such great sites as the Taj Mahal, the Egyptian Pyramids, L.A.’s skyline as well as New York’s (not shown here).

Aside from their unexpected allure, the price tag on these babies is also surprisingly affordable, with some pieces starting at just $6 and most leveling out at about $26, you really can’t afford to go wrong here. Whether you need the perfect gift for the jet setter in your life or just want to add some pizzazz to your own jewelry collection, Plastique seems to have the right recipe when it comes to creating unique accessories that will not only stand out amongst the crowd but just may unleash your inner traveler.

Dislike of the Week: Semen-Inspired Denim…(Just What the World Has Been Missing!)

My good friend, Chelsie, lead me onto this week’s find, and kiddies, it’s a doozey. I guess I missed the memo stating that the hottest trend around was to look as though you’ve spilled a semen sample down the front of your jeans, but then again, I’ve never been a fan of denim appliqués – especially ones that resemble some of men’s strongest little swimmers.

San Francisco’s Butchered Designs, however, had a semen-inspired vision and thus, the delicately named “Cum Wad Pants” were born (heehee).  From what I have been able to surmise, they were first created in 2009 by Richard Oliva of Butchered Designs and though I can’t be sure how many were made, I have been able to find that the price tag for these were in the ballpark of $100.

One Hundred Dollars?! Give me a pair of jeans and a couple of issues of Jugs and I’m pretty sure I can find a guy somewhere who can authentically make these for free!

I suppose then the craftsmanship of these pants would be lost. In the description it clearly states that 100 little swimmers adorn both the front and the back, so no style is compromised here! Oliva then goes on to say that he personally adhered 46 of them himself. Which begs the question; who hand-sewed on the other 54?

I was trying to come up with places where these would be perfectly acceptable in a social setting. Really, ask yourself, where would one wear these? A classy dinner with Grandma? While meeting the in-laws? Jury duty? A nice trip to the supermarket? These are the hard-hitting questions that may never, or probably, will never, be answered.

At the end of the day we can be thankful that for now, this non-existent trend has seemed to pass us unscathed for the most part. Jizz jeans, may you rest in peace (and never come back).

Like of the Week: Bevel Jewelry’s Angled and Developed Arc Hits the Mark

This was one of those happy finds one comes across when stumbling through the internet, and I have to say, it caught my eye immediately from the

'Vucub-Came' Earrings

moment I saw it!

The stylish and tribal jewelry company, Bevel, which means “to meet at an angle other than a right angle, or the slant thus forming” was created with a few things in mind:

“People have to find their own way, learn to discern evil, and use courage, and creative ingenuity to overcome evil, even when there are those who would hinder them are stronger and have more resources.”

It is believed each generation must overcome these obstacles and arc together “What we want to accomplish vs. who we want to be” and thus a line of intoxicatingly edgy and fresh jewelry was created. With names like ‘Sun and Moon Orbital’ and ‘Hero Twins’ you can tell there is a fine balance that Bevel delves into when creating these eye-catching pieces.  Each adornment has been given a story reflecting it’s features and how it fits into the Bevel Company’s vision and their overall viewpoints.

It may set you back a bit but these handcrafted accessories are sure to stand out are the perfect gift for anyone who is a fan of things both polished and rough around the edges. A perfectly pleasant contradiction, indeed.

Dislike of the Week: Jewelry Made from the Reproductive Organs of Animals…

Earrings with Horse Penis Slices

I was never very good at anatomy but I do know that this is pretty freakin’ off the wall. Ever thought of wearing a necklace made from the penis of a bull? How about earrings made from giraffe tails? If this sounds like it’s up your alley then you might share the same thoughts as German anatomist, Guenter Von Hagens, who believes that death only contributes to the lifestyle of the living and has created his own line of jewelry made from that of both animal and human slices (that’s right– I said human).

For those of you who are familiar with the Body Exhibit held here in NYC, the idea is very similar. Pieces of human or animal bodies, as well as various fruits (random?!), are sectioned off in slices to make anything from necklaces to rings and bracelets. Everything is handmade and there are a variety of carcasses to choose from, if that’s something that floats your boat…

While there is no doubt that this line of jewelry is both thought provoking and fascinating I highly doubt that I will be doling out earrings with horse penis slices this Holiday season. Mom, you’re welcome.

Designs by Theresa Dahl (Picture by Joel Weber)

Theresa Dahl is an artist who refuses to be confined when it comes to creating. After receiving her B.A. in Theatre Arts from Butler University she chose to focus on jewelry making and worked with a variety of materials, from papier mache to metal and resin.

Dahl has a fantastic lease on life and her jewelry reflects her carefree spirit balancing nature with a touch of whimsy. Her designs have been sold at Barney’s, Henri Bendel, Harrod’s and the St. Louis Museum of Art to name a few.

Her latest project has been creating pieces for Salon:Inventive Art Jewelry in an Inventable Space. This talented and driven group comprised of mostly Brooklyn-based art and jewelry designers has been a long awaited labor of love for exhibit creator, Mia Hebib. By bringing all of these talented and eclectic artisans together, the Salon exhibit has not only proven to been a truly successful event, showcasing the work of 7 incredibly brilliant creators, but it has also shown that with a little bit of ingenuity, collaboration and hard work, anything is possible.

Interview Questions with Theresa Dahl:

A.G.: What do you love most about designing and creating your own jewelry?

T.D.: I just like making things.  I think it is a primitive urge, can’t help it.

A.G.: What are some of your favorite materials to work with and create with?

T.D.: I have used many materials over the years – Papier mache, window screen, liquid plastic, leather in addition to bronze silver & gold.  They have all been the right material at the moment.  It is not about the material, it is about the expression.

A.G.: How did you get your start in jewelry designing and what have you learned over the course of being a designer?

T.D.: I got into making jewelry sort of by accident.  I was making paintings and, along with a friend, Alice Rudell, stared making jewelry (the papier mache ) because we wanted to sell something.  We were very successful at Henri Bendel (the original one). I got the bug then and am still infected.

A.G.: If you could sum up your look and aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?

T.D.: Three words?  Who are we?

A.G.:You’ve worked for some very prominent jewelry companies, what have you taken from your experiences that you felt has made you a better designer?

T.D.: Working for other companies that do very commercial products has actually helped me in certain ways.  When doing something for mass consumption, your choices of style and material are very limited.  The limits force you to be more creative.

A.G.: Was there a piece from this exhibition that you’re most proud of? If so, why and what does it mean to you?

T.D.:I think the last piece I did is my favorite.  I had done the others a while back and this one was made just for the show. I don’t have a photo because I did it at the last moment.  It is called “Budding”.

To learn more about Theresa and her mythical work click here: www.salon-nyc.com/theresa-dahl/

Designs by Sarah Abramson (Picture by Joel Weber)

Sarah Abramson has a Masters of Fine Arts in Metal from the State University of New York and New Paltz and has had her work and designs displayed at various jewelry exhibitions all over the world. Her jewelry has been displayed in Florence, Italy, the Netherlands, Montreal, Canada, and currently Sarah is an artist in residence at the Museum of Art and Design here in New York City. Sarah has taken her love of two-dimensional drawings and used a variety of inventive techniques to generate her vivid and inventive three-dimensional creations.

If her charismatic personality is any indication of how invested she is in her work and her designs then I’m sure that we can expect a lot more from Sarah in the future. Her looks are fun, vibrant and eye-catching.

Her latest project has been creating pieces for Salon:Inventive Art Jewelry in an Inventable Space. This talented and driven group comprised of mostly Brooklyn-based art and jewelry designers has been a long awaited labor of love for exhibit creator, Mia Hebib. By bringing all of these talented and eclectic artisans together, the Salon exhibit has not only proven to been a truly successful event, showcasing the work of 7 incredibly brilliant creators, but it has also shown that
with a little bit of ingenuity, collaboration and hard work, anything is possible.

Interview Questions with Sarah Abramson:

A.G.: What do you love most about designing and creating your own jewelry?

S.A: I find it incredibly satisfying to take an idea from my mind, through my hands, to become a piece of wearable art. The things I make are distinctly my own- the aesthetics, themes, colors and drawings are very much my developed style. I like looking at the things I have made and noticing recurring visual elements that connect all of my jewelry.

A.G.: What are some of your favorite materials to work with and create with?

S.A:  I work with copper, vitreous enamel, and silver. Over the years I have experimented with other materials- alternative materials such as leather and rubber, or metals such as steel- but I always come back to the most basic jewelry making materials! I suppose I am traditional in that way.

A.G.: How did you get your start in jewelry designing and what have you learned over the course of being a designer?

S.A:  I have been making jewelry since I was a child. I have always loved the idea that I make something special, and someone I care about wears it. This close connection between the maker and the wearer/ owner is appealing to me.

I only became serious about making jewelry when I was 25. Before then I had been working in the fashion industry in Atlanta and was not satisfied with my job. When I began to think of other options that I wanted my career and my life to take, it became clear that making jewelry would be the right path for me. Originally I thought that I could learn the basic metals techniques and that would be enough, but after a year of intensive training at The Penland School of Crafts I realized that I wanted more from my creative work. I decided to pursue a Masters of Fine Arts in Metals in hopes that I would really find my unique voice. I believe that I did!

A.G.: If you could sum up your look and aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?

S.A:  Monochromatic, gestural, minimalist.
I only use a black and white palate (well, recently I have added in tiny hints of color- red splashes, bright yellow edges). All of my work exemplifies my unique drawing qualities which are gestural, loose, yet styled lines.
You won’t find any bells and whistles in my jewelry. The glamour and beauty come from its quiet, unique aesthetic. There are no gems; there is little sparkle. Yet, the work is so detailed and tactile that it will draw an audience in for a closer examination.
A.G.: What was your inspiration for this art exhibition and what was it like getting to collaborate with so many other talented artists and designers?

S.A:  The pieces I made for this show are a step back from my typical studio practice. Basically, I wanted/needed to have some fun! For this show I made quick decisions, I changed the format (making necklaces, rings and earrings in addition to my typical brooches), and I challenged myself to not make things more complicated than they needed to be. I used pre-fabricated pin backs, I used waxed thread to connect my necklaces, I made elegant yet simple earrings. Instead of getting caught up in every little detail of the work, I allowed myself to simplify the work therefore moving through ideas more quickly. It was great.

As far as working with the other talented artists, that was truly a gift! I share a studio space with Mia and Greg so we were constantly checking in with one another- asking questions, getting feedback and advice- and building up the excited energy as we got closer to the show. I am really pleased to get to know Seohee, Theresa and Kate better and to show my work in the company of such fabulous artists.  I have been an admirer (and wearer) of Kristi’s beautiful work for many years, so I was pleased to see her new beautiful pieces. Overall, I really appreciate how diverse our jewelry is and I think that Mia did a wonderful job finding a well-mixed group of jewelers to exhibit.

A.G.: You’ve had your work displayed in some very prominent galleries, what have you taken from your experiences that you felt has made you a better designer?

S.A:  Pinbacks! That is probably the most important thing that I have learned over the last few years of showing in jewelry galleries. If the pinback doesn’t function properly, no one is going to pay for your work. After all, everything that I make is supposed to be worn, so the attaching mechanism better be easy to use and reliable.
In addition to this technical advice, I also think that be open to feedback from the galleries is really important. I always communicate with the gallerist about pricing, style, and what the clients are responding to. I try to steel myself before asking the gallery owner these questions.

A.G.: Was there a piece from this exhibition that you’re most proud of? If so, why and what does it mean to you?

S.A: Yes! I was really excited about the little silver earrings with the toxic-yellow tips. The day that I made these was interesting- the few days before I had been working on a neckpiece that I was not particularly excited about. That morning I found myself dawdling at home and avoiding going to the studio. When I finally arrived, I spontaneously decided to quit working on the neckpiece and start something fresh. Those earrings were the result, and they really are quite a departure for me. They have a tiny dash of color, they are simple, they border on being fashion jewelry. I was proud of myself for recognizing the stale-ness of the neckpiece and moving forward to create something that is new, interesting, and elegant.

To learn more about Sarah Abramson click below:

www.sarahabramson.us

www.salon-nyc.com/sarah-abramson/

Designs by Seohee Koh (Picture by Joel Weber)

An incredibly talented Metalsmith originally hailing from Korea, Seohee Koh’s jewelry uses disciplined edges and gentle overlapping techniques to create the appearance of delicately crafted gold and silver coiled in a perfect balance of simplicity in complexity.

Koh has attended and graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2003 and earned her Master’s Degree in Italy at the Creative Academy of Milan in 2006. She has spent time working at such prestigious brand companies as Liz Claibourne, the Movado Group and Tiffany and Co. to name a few.

Her latest project has been creating pieces for Salon:Inventive Art Jewelry in an Inventable Space. This talented and driven group comprised of mostly Brooklyn-based art and jewelry designers has been a long awaited labor of love for exhibit creator, Mia Hebib. By bringing all of these talented and eclectic artisans together, the Salon exhibit has not only proven to been a truly successful event, showcasing the work of 7 incredibly brilliant creators, but it has also shown that
with a little bit of ingenuity, collaboration and hard work, anything is possible.

Interview Questions with Seohee Koh:

A.G.: What do you love most about designing and creating your own jewelry?

S.K.: It gives me energy to maintain my professional work by doing my own jewelry.  Also, having my very own work supports my creativity and gives me focus.

A.G.: What are some of your favorite materials to work with and create with?

S.K.: I mostly use Silver and gold.  Also, I like plexi glass as well. I made a few rings and brooch with geometric patterned plexi glass.

A.G.: How did you get your start in jewelry designing and what have you learned over the course of being a designer?

S.K.: I have been making and designing jewelry ever since high school, so it’s been at least 15 years.  I have done all kinds of jewelry designing and making jewelry such as working for fashion jewelry, fine and statement jewelry, custom jewelry, as well as making art jewelry.  And, I have learned that even though it’s all about jewelry, it’s all really different whether it’s fashion jewelry, fine jewelry and art jewelry.  That’s what’s fascinating to me the most.

A.G.: If you could sum up your look and aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?

S.K.: Geometry, clean, and light.  That’s what I’m interested in when I’m dealing with metal.

A.G.: What was your inspiration for this art exhibition and what was it like getting to collaborate with so many other talented artists and designers?

S.K.: It was great motivation for me to participate in this art jewelry show.  I used to make art jewelry a while ago in school, and I stopped making them.  And, I started working for companies, and a few years ago, I got an art studio and started making my jewelry line.  So, this was a great opportunity to get back and reconnect to my initial interest in art jewelry.  And, meeting other talented artists was very, very inspiring as well.

A.G.: You’ve had your work displayed in some very prominent galleries, what have you taken from your experiences that you felt has made you a better designer?

S.K.: Yes, I feel that I’ve become a versatile designer as I worked for fashion jewelry, fine and statement jewelry as well as making my own jewelry.  All these different experience required different skills like technical drawing, computer software, and hand craft skills.

A.G.: Was there a piece from this exhibition that you’re most proud of? If so, why and what does it mean to you?

S.K.: I like the “Continuous Square-able brooch” because when I started making this, I envision this little different than it turned out to be at the end.  The brooch was more logical, clean, and sophisticated.

To learn more about Seohee Koh and her work, check out www.seoheekoh.com or www.earbloom.com and www.salon-nyc.com/seohee-koh/

A Kate Cusack Design

There’s no denying that Kate Cusack’s detailed zippered creations are eye-catching and have a surreal quality to them. She has said that she enjoys working with everyday, “ordinary” materials, although there is nothing ordinary about her wearable art.

A graduate with her BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art and an MFA in costume design from the Yale School of Drama, Cusack’s flair for her stylish and trendy jewelry picked up in 2006 when she began to create series of necklaces, bracelets and brooches. Her work has been covered by and featured in a variety of fashion magazines from Marie Claire, Lucky and Vogue.

Her latest project has been creating pieces for Salon:Inventive Art Jewelry in an Inventable Space. This talented and driven group comprised of mostly Brooklyn-based art and jewelry designers has been a long awaited labor of love for exhibit creator, Mia Hebib. By bringing all of these talented and eclectic artisans together, the Salon exhibit has not only proven to been a truly successful event, showcasing the work of 7 incredibly brilliant creators, but it has also shown that
with a little bit of ingenuity, collaboration and hard work, anything is possible.

Interview Questions with Kate Cusack:

A.G.: What are some of your favorite materials to work with and create with?

All of my jewelry is created from zippers. I enjoy working with “ordinary” materials. I like to create polished, elegant work that a viewer can appreciate in a serious way, but then when the viewer notices whatever the object is made out of, it surprises them and brings a smile to their face. When I transform an everyday material into something elaborate, it reminds the viewer about the power of imagination and the joy of discovering a new view of something that would have otherwise been overlooked.

A.G.: You’ve had your work displayed in some very prominent magazines, what have you taken from your experiences that you felt has made you a better designer?

I’ve been very lucky with the press opportunities that I’ve had. Having my work featured in recognized, prominent magazines helps introduce my work to an ever-expanding audience.

A.G.: Was there a piece from this exhibition that you’re most proud of? If so, why and what does it mean to you?

In this exhibit, I introduced two of my new brooches which feature only the metal teeth of the zipper. This is a new approach to working with the zipper and I am excited about the various possibilities. (www.salon-nyc.com/kate-cusack/)

Other FAQ’s Provided by Kate Cusack:

Zipper Brooch by Kate Cusack (Picture by Joel Weber)

You have a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art and an MFA from the Yale School of Drama. How has your costume design, sculptural/wearable art and experiences with theater and window dressing influenced your zipper jewelry?

I think that my experiences at MICA opened the door to the realm of “anything is possible.” Annet Cowenberg (fiber artist) taught a class in which she told us that any

material can be either a line or a plane and from that you can make anything else. For an assignment, we had to make a list as long as we could of materials that fell into the category of a line or a plane—for example a piece of spaghetti can be a line, and a piece of paper can be a plane. To make clothes, we weren’t restricted to fabric, to make sculpture we weren’t restricted to marble. It is very freeing when you can let you imagination and your creative eye tell you what to do. At Yale, it was surprisingly quite the opposite, in my experience. A great value was put on historical accuracy, as far as costume design was concerned. To me that approach created a definite lack of freedom or creativity (of course this is a great simplification). I think now, I am more aware of historical references in my jewelry design and the importance of solid research, as a result of my studies at Yale. I think all of these experiences—costume design, window display, sculptural/wearable explorations—culminate in the Zipper Jewelry. They all relate to the body, and combine those theatrical influences and love for the transformation of unusual materials.

Can you explain the process in creating each zipper piece?

When I begin a new piece, sometimes I work directly from a sketch, and other times, I sketch three-dimensionally on a dress form. Whether the idea starts two dimensionally or three dimensionally, all of the Zipper Necklaces are shaped on a dress form. This ensures that the piece will relate to the body. Sometimes my designs are inspired by the zipper, itself, and other times, I imagine the design and then choose the right zipper for the project.

Is recycling an important aspect of your zipper jewelry? If so, how?

The Zipper Jewelry is not made from zippers exclusively for the sake of being “recycled.” I enjoy the idea of it being eco-friendly, but the majority of my zippers have never been used before and are purchased in the garment district. In my studio when I am making a piece, I do save all the scraps and often make new pieces of jewelry from discarded end-pieces. I like that idea of making use of everything. It also becomes dangerous, because I rarely throw anything away, and as a result, my material stock-piles overflow.

Your artist statement mentions that you approach jewelry design as a visual artist rather than fashion designer. How does this approach affect your zipper jewelry?

Because I see everything as an artist, it means I am freed up from certain constraints that typically come with certain professional approaches. I can see the material for what it is, what it “should” be used for, and then I can decide how I want to re-imagine it. As a jewelry designer, I don’t set out to make a necklace with beads or sterling silver, but instead, I manipulate the zipper into shapes that are like beads, and I make a comparison between sterling silver and the base metals used in zippers.

To check out more of Kate Cusack’s stunning pieces click here: www.KateCusack.com and www.salon-nyc.com/kate-cusack/

Designs by Mia Hebib (Picture by Joel Weber)

Mia Hebib, curator of the Salon exhibit is no stranger to the world of design. Born in Bosnia and then raised in Croatia where she attended the School for the Applied Arts and Design, it was only a matter of time before fate carried her over to the United States where she continued her education at the Savannah College of Art and Design and received her B.F.A. in Metals and Jewelry in 2001.

Shortly after she came to New York City and worked for a variety of design companies from Liz Claibourne to Henri Bendel and Tory Burch before she started her very own jewelry studio under the name of Oblik Atelier (“Oblik” being a Croatian word translating to the English “shape”.)

Her exquisitely detailed jewelry uses repetitive lines in silver to create emblematic shapes and patterns and her impressive work never ceases to amaze.

The Salon project is one she has been working toward for some time and has been a long awaited labor of love. This talented and driven group comprised of mostly Brooklyn-based art and jewelry designers have shown that with a little bit of ingenuity, collaboration and hard work, anything is possible.

Interview Questions with Mia Hebib:

A.G.: What do you love most about designing and creating your own jewelry?

M.H.: I really like the freedom of sitting in my studio and seeing a 2 dimensional idea take shape in 3 dimensional world. It is the most satisfying feeling. Being that for many years my designing was only on paper, there is something so remarkable about using your hands and bringing a shape, a wearable piece of art to life

A.G.: What was it like spearheading an event with such a talented group of artists and designers?
What inspired you to go through with it and do you think you will organize one again in the future?

M.H.:  It was challenging, but I learned so much. I think I timed it right and i have to say without sounding too proud that everything went so well. There was not a single glitch in the process, I believe that I was ready to take this challenge on and see it through. This idea came because thus far I have not found “the perfect” space to showcase my work, and this search finally led me to create one.  It was wonderful to work with my friends and colleagues. They were eager to help and they trusted my vision. I am honored that they believed that I can pull this together without having any prior experience. Their belief and help made this possible. I also could not have done it without my partner in crime, Kevin Grevemberg. He is a furniture designer and has an engineers mind. He helped me bring my sketches and thoughts to life. I am so grateful that for the last 10 years he has collaborated with me on all of my projects. He is also the first person to stand behind my crazy ideas! I am not sure what my next plan is, perhaps taking the show on the road if there is an opportunity. For now I need to focus back on Oblik Atelier and also take a bit of rest before I embark on the new project. Being that this was so successful I am sure there will be some new incarnation of this type of event.

A.G.: What are some of your favorite materials to work with and create with?

M.H.:  Well I have grown to like silver, as much as it is messy and dirty and takes time to get it to look good. I like that I have established a relationship with silver. It is an on-going dialogue and I am persistent to continue.

A.G.: How did you get your start in jewelry designing and what have you learned over the course of being a designer?

M.H.:  I started in Croatia, I was 15, so that was 16 years ago. I got into the jewelry and metals program because it was the smallest in the design school and people did not covet the limited spots. I found that painters and sculptors were slightly snooty, so I looked for a more laid back place. Honestly I am not sure how I even got in there. My first love and passion in life was music and I sang professionally since childhood, art school just happened, no intentions and no plans. I am a bit of a perfectionist and I want to see something through when I get started and this happened with metal. I have been working on it off and on for the past 16 years and I believe that only recently I feel comfortable and confident in my work. I hope that will inspire me further and bring my creations to the next level, whatever that might be.

A.G.: If you could sum up your look and aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?

M.H.: Modern, architecture, rhythm. My pieces are clean, modern, sometimes inspired by architecture, but mostly driven by simple desire to play the basic elements of design; dot, line, shape form. My designs tend to revolve around repeating one simple element and that creates rhythm and brings my music background as an essential element of my life.

A.G.: Was there apiece from this exhibition that you’re most proud of? If so, why and what doesit mean to you?

M.H.:  I was very pleased with “It looks like unknown pleasures”, albeit not perfect and not as long as I wanted it to be, this piece is where I find Oblik and my expression to be at its “almost” best:). It is one of those rare pieces that I look at and am completely inspired by its existence. I think it also opens a new direction which I will most likely be playing with going forward.

To learn more about Mia and her spectacular line of jewelry as well as other projects please click on the links below:
www.oblik-atelier.com
www.salon-nyc.com/mia-hebib/

Like of the Week: Klik Klik’s Futuristic Accessories Show Magnets Can Be More Than Just Child’s Play

Klik Klik's Magentic Jewelry

Now how bad ass is this! Imagine if you could design and then recreate your own jewelry in a matter of minutes. Then, when you get sick of it, you can just take it apart and invent something completely brand new! Well, the future has arrived because that is exactly what you can do with new magnetic jewelry kit and collection, titled, Klik Klik, inspired by Brooklyn-based designers, Al Kelly and and Kellar Williams.

The kits come fully equipped with 300 magnets in a variety of shapes to fully let your creative mind take flight. With 28 metal wands, 56 polished cubes and 300 nickel-plated spherical magnets, there’s no limit to what you can create. From delicate chokers to ornate bracelets, necklaces and armbands – everything you need to configure your own show-stopping accessories can be found in this one dynamic kit and the best part is, it’s only $65!

Not only is this a fantastic gift for anyone with an artistic eye and passion for fashion, but the Klik Klik website even has an online gallery where you can see how numerous designs are constructed with step-by-step video instructions on how to recreate these looks on your own.

I can’t say enough awesome things about this cutting edge and innovative collection. If this is the future of fashion, then consider me on board!

Dislike of the Week: The New Face of Sleepwear – Blanket meets Burqa?!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MthSUD8cMqk

Ooooookay, where to begin, wheeeeeere to begin…

I have to admit I sort of love this commercial only because whoever created this is clearly going on the assumption that people are stupid enough to pay $14.99 for a flap of fabric that hangs over their faces like a burqa in an attempt to get some shut eye.

Then there is the name of this fearless product: The Snazzy Napper. I have yet to meet anyone who could put these two words in the same sentence let alone the same product, so kudos to their branding team, I guess.

The Snazzy Napper

Next, I’d like to discuss the infomercial that introduced all of humanity to this monstrosity that’s claims it’s got your solution to sleep no matter where you might be; the bus, the park, or maybe the waiting room of your dentist’s office while waiting for the pesky teeth cleaning.

Yes siree, we have a real winner when it comes to human intelligence. I think my favorite part in this infomercial might be how this one woman decides to just bust out this fabric, face-cover-up while sitting in what appears to be a waiting room with other normal and civilized-looking people sitting right next to her. What’s even more hilarious is that they just go on about their business and completely ignore the fact that there is a crazy person taking a nap with a sheet over their head. Now THAT’S some acting!

I don’t know what’s worse, the fact that there is a cartoon sheep mid-leap wearing sunglasses emblazoned on the front of this sorry excuse for a blanket or the fact there is a larger size (for $24.99) that resembles a Snuggie for when you REALLY want to make people around you uncomfortable.

Either way, when it comes to the Snazzy Napper, kids, just say NO!

Like of the Week: Adventurous Accessories for those with a Bolder Palette…

Bijules

Our dear editor Carlos brought this super fabulous site to my attention and it’s right on the money when it comes to creativity that’s bold and edgy. This innovative NYC-based jewelry company, Bijules, created by designer, Jules Kim, is a visual feast for the eyes and carries a wide variety of offbeat and eye-catching accessories that are anything but mainstream!

Offering up collections from such lines as Scream and Spirit (featuring precious metals contorted and created to look just like human bones), Disarming Weaponry (which showcases sturdy neck baubles configured to look like machetes and switchblades) and Hairem (a line of earrings created from hand-dyed synthetic hair in a variety of eye-popping shades with names like “En Fuego” or “Cookie Kahn Monster”).

While many of these purchases will run you a good chunk of change, it can’t be denied that this is the ultimate site for those who like and want bold statement pieces that take center stage.

Items from Bijules have been advertised in Elle, NY Mag, and Nylon just to name a few with clients ranging from, Karen O, Shakira, and Santogold.

Dislike of the Week: Hairy Apparel

Hairy Underwear Collection

Okay, if you’re grimacing at the computer screen right now, you’re not alone. This is certainly a “WTF were they thinking?” type of situation.

This interesting apparel comes from Finnish design team, Nutty Tarts, (which on it’s own just sounds unappetizing) and is all about embracing your true hairiness. The ‘Hairy Underwear Collection’ is a unisex line that is sure to raise an eyebrow or two with its screen-printed hair against a bright white backdrop.

I have to say this is so odd it makes me a little bit uncomfortable. You can buy pieces individually or purchase the whole set, which includes “hairy” underwear, undershirt, leggings and even comes with a brown paper bag to wear over your head for those oh-so-terrible  “Bad Hair” and “Bad Face” days. Yup, that’s really how they advertised it on the site.

Then again, if I had to wear any of these items I might opt for the bag over my head too.

Papery Headgear