Bungalow 8 has added a bejewelled feather to its cap: the indigenous concept store is now showcasing ‘Earth Princess’ by Swapna Mehta. The Hyderabad-based jewellery designer is responsible for creating refashioned vintage pieces that are so right for the festive season.
It’s unconventional
“When the bits and pieces of antique jewellery are brought in, I first try to restore them to their original glory by using similar stones and elements without tampering the old workmanship. Sometimes, the distressed pieces are left untouched to add character to the final product.”
It’s addictive
“It all started years ago when I was scavenging through the old bazaars and came across a lady who was selling her old jewellery. I asked her not to melt her exquisite old handmade pieces, but she had no interest in them so I bought them. This became an obsession and (luckily!) everyone wanted these because they looked modern and each one had a story to tell.”
It’s the best of both worlds
“These are my heritage-keepers of the past, and it gives me joy to handcraft them into wild and unusual pieces. These are creations inspired by various ethnicities and tribes, and synthesized into a visually modern concept.”
Watch out for…
“The timeless Kama’s bow, the bold Motherlode and the Khadi Heir on the Loom as they are easy to wear. They are extremely versatile and can be worn with a sari or your drop crotch jumpsuit.”
‘The Earth Princess’ by Swapna Mehta is available at Bungalow 8, Mumbai, Wankhede Stadium, North Stand, E & F Block, D Road, Churchgate, Mumbai.
