I'm always on the look out for new brands and more places to buy jewellery. Yes, I like my instant bejewelled addition from the likes of Forever 21 - they serve a purpose and are great for those couple of times when you need something a bit different that you don't want to spend a fortune on. I'm a huge fan of Alex Monroe jewellery - as I mention, I often wear my bee necklace and it always gets great comments. But everyone wears it. Which isn't an issue per se but the Aquarian in me loves finding something new and unique.
So when a friend of mine I bumped into had a beautiful necklace on that I'd never seen before, I had no qualms about asking where it was from. (yes I come from the stable of "what's yours is mine and what's mine is mine") The answer was Bill Skinner.
I'll admit that the name was new to me but following a stint on google, I discovered that they were a local firm, literally in the next village along. Ridiculously exciting. But more importantly, I was so impressed with their jewellery that I asked if I could go and have a look at their boutique and work rooms. (first time in 16 months of the blog that I have ever so blown away by a range that I've asked to meet the designer)
Last week I went over to meet BIll and the team and had a tour of the design studios, work rooms and boutique. What an amazing set up and what a truly inspirational man. And what beautiful beautiful pieces.
Bill has worked for years with the likes of Asprey, Van Cleef and Arples, Garrards, Butler & Wilson and Vivienne Westwood. Whilst he does still design for other people and well known companies, he set up his own collection, under this name, in January last year with a hugely supportive and talented team behind him - watching one of his cohorts hand craft the most intricate petals on a flower was just mind boggling.
It is truly the most exquisite range and for the price, I don't think there is anything as high a quality or as unique on the market. I am now the very very proud owner of 3 pieces, one of which I have worn every single day since I got them last week.
And as a result of my visit, I am so so pleased to be able to offer you a 10% discount on all orders placed through the website. I think it lasts at the moment till June 12th but as I have been totally and utterly inept this week at blogging (so so sorry - small matter of house extension and complete renovation which is getting in the way, other work and a First Holy Communion to plan...) I'm going to see if they will extend it. And I'll let you know. The beautiful jewellery is also on sale at House of Fraser and ASOS and through lots of small boutiques round the country, but whilst it's quite widely available, it's not something you're going to see on every other person.
The code is DMBL40 (case sensitive)
Here are the pieces that I chose - firstly the
Emperor Coin Statement Necklace
And to match it as I am slightly obsessed with matchy matchy, the Emperor Coin Statement Bracelet.
Hopefully you can see the detail of the lion heads on the top of the reverse of each coin. Exquisite.
Now they are statement pieces - I have already worn them twice last weekend (see below) and they are the perfect perfect addition to my new Burberry dress and shoes. Outfit sorted for The Husband's Birthday dinner next week (the small matter of him being 40..!)
But possibly my favourite piece which I have been wearing every day is this Charm necklace. To replace my Alex Monroe Bee which has been retired for the time being as this one is so much more exciting.
Plus it has the addition on the back of a Swarovski crystal.
I chose the Mini Antelope Charm Necklace (you can't see the detail of the antlers - or little horns? - but they have the most intricate ridge detail on them)
But am also in love with the Mini Lion one
However the next item on my list without a shadow of a doubt is the Galloping Horse Bracelet. The detail on this is just incredible.
And also in Rose Gold.... how fab would be this be with my Michael Kors watch?!
As I do have a soft spot for bees though (bar the actual buzzy stingy variety) these are definitely on my list after the galloping horse bracelets. I love a long necklace and my pine cones from NW3 by Hobbs (which weren't that much cheaper than these and are just gold colour as opposed to gold plated) have served me very well.
Bee and Honeycomb Orb
Bee and Honeycomb Pendant
If jewellery is your thing or you're looking for a special present for someone, then please do go and have a look at the website as I really can't do the collection justice in my blog. And do take advantage of the 10% off - as I said I will try and get it extended but it's definitely on till the 12th June. Don't take my word for it - have a look on the website.
Advance warning as to how often I shall be wearing these pieces. (a lot) So far here are my pics of me wearing them.
And wearing them for two nights out. I got so many compliments on them - they really are true statement pieces. But just as easy to wear during the day
Black crepe top with foil sleeves - Cos
Sassie skinny metallic jeans - 2nd Day
Cream boucle blazer - Mango
Emperor Coin Statement necklace - Bill Skinner
Emperor Coin Statement bracelet - Bill Skinner
Snakeskin clutch bag - Michael Kors
Black gladiator sandals - Burberry
Blush silky vest - Cos
Cream boucle blazer - Cos
Paint splattered skinnies - Zara
Tan lace up shoots - LK Bennett
Tan leather belt - Primark
Emperor Coin Statement Necklace - Bill Skinner
Emperor Coin Statement Bracelet - Bill SKinner
De Manta tan clutch - Alexander McQueen
And wearing the Mini Antelope Charm necklace. The most ideal day necklace.
White linen tee - Zara
Distressed straight leg jeans rolled up - Zara
Floral blazer - Zara
Rose gold Gigi Sandals - Sam Edelman
Emperor Coin Statement bracelet - Bill Skinner
Mini Antelope Charm pendant - Bill Skinner
Tan belt - Primark
Fuchsia Roxanne tote bag - Mulberry
White vest - Primark
Purple and yellow beaded silk top - Anitk Batik
White skinny jeans - Boden
Rose gold Gigi sandals - Sam Edelman
Emperor Coin Statement bracelet - Bill Skinner
Mini Antelope Charm pendant - Bill Skinner
And a quick change for going out last night.
White vest - Primark
Purple and yellow beaded silk top - Anitk Batik
Distressed skinny biker jeans - By Malene Birger
Navy jersey waffle blazer - Next
Tan lace up shoots - LK Bennett
Emperor Coin Statement bracelet - Bill Skinner
Mini Antelope Charm pendant - Bill Skinner
De Manta tan clutch - Alexander McQueen
Can we all notice as well my blow dry which lasted for FIVE DAYS!!!! And the colour as well which has been returned to my natural hue (greys are not natural before anyone asks). Thank you to the wonderful Daniel Jordan and colourist Louise for making me look human again. (my tip to anyone wanting a blow dry to last - don't have any product put in it. Works for me)
Tomorrow I shall be back. You may have noticed a couple new additions to my wardrobe above which I should probably fess up to.....
Those necklaces are indeed exquisite. Thanks for sharing (and for discount code) - love the bee & honeycomb pendant :-)
ReplyDeleteGorgeous aren't they? And you're more than welcome xx
DeleteSigh, I wish I had good hair
ReplyDeleteLooking good and coin necklace is indeed gorgeous
Thanks love- you will see the necklace up close next week!
DeleteGreat outfits as always Kat, you have helped me decide to order the navy next blazer. I wasn't sure if it would be the right length as I am also 5'10 but seeing you wear it, it's looks just right. I just need to be as confident to wear the big heels, I will wear up to 3" heel but over that I start stooping, you must have a very tall husband :) WH
ReplyDeleteOh I'm so pleased - about to blog about the jacket actually. And you go with the heels. my husband is 6ft1 so I'm probably sightly taller than him on occasions. Don't tend to stand next to him much though!
DeleteWell, knock me over with a feather!!! Is that a NEXT jacket I spy???!!!!! LOL! Stunning jewellery - and how lovely that you were able to go and see how it is designed and made. Looking gorgeous as always, Kat!
ReplyDeleteYES IT IS!!! I am totally in love with it. About to blog about it. x
DeleteReally, really love that jewellery and love the prices. I really want the oak and acorn stuff and the bee and stacking rings. I'd prefer if they were solid gold though, does he do anything in solid gold?
ReplyDeleteI'm sure he does commissions so it's worth emailing and asking. It honestly is the most gorgeous gorgeous range of jewellery. The attention to detail is extraordinary. x
DeleteWow how amazing is that lion! Nice catch up on outfits too!
ReplyDeleteThe tiny lion is one of their best sellers. Gorgeous. (and thank you love!)
DeleteDamn you!
ReplyDeleteHAD to pop to Otford this morning and treat myself to a bit of bling! Well, my divorce is nearly finalised so I thought I'd treat myself to a 'Bee ring' lol
It's a gorgeous gorgeous shop isn't it! Did you mention my name? Did they give you 10% off? I LOVE the bee ring x
DeleteHi, yes I mentioned you and I got a discount, cheers x
DeleteI'm loving that floral blazer on you Kat, I saw it in store the other day and thought it looked nice but looks even better on x
ReplyDeleteSome of the Bill Skinner is on sale on Asos now. You have to look in the outlet section though, for some reason the discounted pieces don't come up if you search using his name.
ReplyDeleteLoving this range! Thanks for bringing it to my attention!
ReplyDeleteHi Kat
ReplyDeleteI have just come across your wonderful blog on Bill Skinner's jewellery range- and what a range it is, so so unique! I'm mean't to be saving for our wedding next year, but alas I think I might just HAVE to purchase the Emperor Coin Statement Necklace (..and maybe the bracelet too, you can't have one and NOT the other!! ). You wear them so well!
Emi x
http://emiloudesigns.blogspot.co.uk