Shabby Sisters is the sparkly brainchild of sisters-in-law Kylie and Julia. Offering gorgeous yet affordable jewellery that can be ordered from the comfort of your own home, we chatted with Kylie to find out more…
What was the inspiration to start Shabby Sisters?
Quality jewellery that is unique and affordable. Frustrated at how expensive beautiful pieces like pearls could be, we were convinced we could offer pieces that our customers would treasure without paying a fortune for them. With this in mind we set about creating a collection that was anything but shabby.
Where does the name Shabby Sisters come from?
It was the first name that popped into my head, combining my sister-in-law’s favourite design style, shabby chic, and our relationship. We spent the next month trying to come up with something that had a little more sparkle and then settled on our original choice. It was the perfect fit.
What do you love most about jewellery?
I love that jewellery can make a statement and transform an outfit from mundane to magnificent. There is also history and emotion connected with each piece. Take an engagement ring or earrings that have been given to you as a gift, for an example. They hold such memories and become part of your story. I have a beautiful pair of south sea pearl earrings I received when my son was born and every time I wear them I think back to that time and, one day, they will be his to give to someone. That’s something that you don’t always have with fashion and it is why the Shabby Sisters Collections always feature timeless pieces that are just waiting to be part of your story.
What is your favourite piece from your collection?
This is such an unfair question, it’s like asking which of your children is your favourite. The one on the highest rotation in my wardrobe is without a doubt the pearl collar. For such a statement piece of jewellery it is so very versatile and, without fail, I always receive compliments on it whenever I wear it. It is also great to be wearing something so unique that you don’t see on everyone else.
How do you source your pieces?
Shabby Sisters pride ourselves on offering unique and timeless pieces. We source our jewellery from boutique suppliers and designers rather than mass produced collections – so we are always individual and eternally elegant.
Where do they come from?
We are proudly an Australian company and where possible we try and source from Australian suppliers and designers. We supplement our local products with pearls from China, which ensures high quality and diversity in style at a very reasonable price. As we work closely with the pearl farms we have also had our own designs created.
What pieces of jewellery should every woman own?
Pearl Studs – If you only have one pair of pearl studs they should be a 7-8mm pearl stud which is the perfect size to be worn with or without a necklace. If you are lucky enough to have two pairs, add a 10-12mm pearl stud to your jewellery box. This larger size adds an updated twist to the classic pearl stud.
Pearl Necklace – Like a little black dress, every woman should have a pearl necklace because it is such a versatile classic. Ideally, choose one long enough to wear as a single strand or doubled over for a shorter style. Traditionally this length is called an opera necklace and is anywhere from 28 – 34 inches long.
Bangle/Cuff – There is so much going on around the wrist with rings and watches (not to mention the practicality of playing “Jingle Bells” every time you hit the keyboard or reach for the mouse). So, the best bangle or cuff you can have in your personal collection is a simple one. Worn on its own for understated elegance or used as the foundation for your next arm party, a bangle / cuff is a must have.
Chandelier Earrings - Finding a perfect pair of chandelier earrings is like finding the perfect pair of black high heels that you can wear all night. They need to be big enough to give you some bling, elegant enough to be make a statement whilst being comfortable and light enough to dance to the B52s Love Shack. Our favourite chandelier earrings in the current Shabby Sisters Collection are the Vintage Sophia.
A Time Piece - Everyone should own a fabulous watch, either sleek and sexy or chunky and full of character, a watch is the perfect foundation to add bracelets, bangles or rings to.
Do you see jewellery trends each season? What sort of pieces should we be wearing this winter?
Jewellery has evolved beyond an after thought to a seasonal trend. Like a fabulous bag or stunning pair of shoes, jewellery has become a central part of what we wear and how we wear it. When I choose and outfit I start with my jewellery and plan everything else around it.
One piece you should add to your wardrobe this winter is a statement necklace. Long and layered to throw over those winter woolies or shorter Peter Pan-style collar necklaces are on trend for the cooler months. Lots of texture (think chains, leather and feathers) and colour at varying lengths are perfect.
Expect to see a big shift towards vintage-style pieces and pearls for Spring / Summer 2012, thanks to the magnificent Catherin Martin and her collaboration with Tiffany & Co on The Great Gatsby.
Visit http://shabbysisters.com.au/ to see the full collection. In the meantime, here are our favourite picks…
Sonia’s Pick: ‘Vintage Amelia’ Earrings ($50.00)
Melinda’s Pick: ‘Princess Fiona’ Bangle Stack ($30.00)
WE ARE GIVING 2 LUCKY SHOP ME CHIC READERS THE CHANCE TO WIN OUR FAVOURITE PICKS FROM SHABBY SISTERS!!
All you have to do is leave a comment below saying which of our picks is your favourite and what outfit you would wear to debut the piece.
The competition closes on Wednesday 9 May 2012 at 11.59pm EST. Entries will be judged on creativty. GOOD LUCK!!
GIVEAWAY CLOSED: Congratulations to our two winners Rhi and Tamsin! A huge thank you to all of our readers who participated in Shop Me Chic’s first giveaway, there will be plenty more to come! Don’t forget to check out the comments to see Rhi and Tamsin’s winning comments.
Stay Chic,
Melinda & Sonia. xx
