I always find it a bit hard to pull off classic jewellery without looking planned, presented and somewhat forced, which is why Primadina really stood out for me when a friend raved about the pieces for a solid week and a half. There's a spontaneity and beautiful imperfection in every single piece that, I think, makes designer Dina Afrahim's work so ridiculously attractive and versatile despite individual boldness. Here's what Dina has to say about how she goes about Primadina:
Starting out:
Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, Ca... But it's not what you think. I was wearing some pieces I'd just designed, and a woman stops me, "Where did you get that necklace, I must have it." I was about 18 years old at the time, and all I could think is, this woman is decked out in designer and she wants my necklace? I blurted out some number and without hesitation she replies, "So whom do I make the check out to?" Unconventional start? Yes. But that was the beginning.
The Vibe:
Exotic chic, with a modern attitude. All Primadina pieces are an eclectic mix of rough-cut gemstones, and luxurious gold. They all have the unique appeal of being hand-hammered, a bit unpolished, and statement making. When designing, I had to make sure each piece could stand alone, while still harmonious when worn together. It was important to me to create pieces that complement each other, rather then compete for attention. The vibe? Golden Goddess.
The Inspiration:
How I feel, and how I want to feel. Life experiences make us who we are, and we are constantly changing our moods. All I know is jewelry makes me feel good. I'm attracted to stones and the energy they exude. It's innate... I feel, I do, I wear.
The Trends:
Bold, asymmetrical designs with lots of texture. We are going to be seeing elements of nature both color and texture being incorporated in jewelry. Perhaps "stripped" stones like Agate can be used to create a "woodsy" visual effect.
We are also going to see a ton of All-metal jewelry, where you can expect a raw, unfinished, chunky look. Silvers and white metals are still hot, but this year the number one spot is gonna have to be yellows and shades of rose to deep gold.
On Bloggers:
I think they are super. Sharing information, trends, hobbies, fashion... Bloggers are sharing parts of their personality and personal experiences. And whats more, it can be totally anonymous. People are willing to share more, and disclose their thoughts when they know they wont be judged. In many ways, it's like reading someones diary. It's honest, and I like that.
Blog on bloggers!
Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, Ca... But it's not what you think. I was wearing some pieces I'd just designed, and a woman stops me, "Where did you get that necklace, I must have it." I was about 18 years old at the time, and all I could think is, this woman is decked out in designer and she wants my necklace? I blurted out some number and without hesitation she replies, "So whom do I make the check out to?" Unconventional start? Yes. But that was the beginning.
The Vibe:
Exotic chic, with a modern attitude. All Primadina pieces are an eclectic mix of rough-cut gemstones, and luxurious gold. They all have the unique appeal of being hand-hammered, a bit unpolished, and statement making. When designing, I had to make sure each piece could stand alone, while still harmonious when worn together. It was important to me to create pieces that complement each other, rather then compete for attention. The vibe? Golden Goddess.
How I feel, and how I want to feel. Life experiences make us who we are, and we are constantly changing our moods. All I know is jewelry makes me feel good. I'm attracted to stones and the energy they exude. It's innate... I feel, I do, I wear.
The Future:
I'd be lying to your face if I said I had an actual "plan." The truth is I don't plan, I dream. I have to say I've been very fortunate that celebrities around the world have chosen to wear Primadina, but I am always thrilled when I see a passer-by strut by me wearing one of my pieces. In a perfect fantasy, Primadina would be in boutiques worldwide. Celebrities, artists, bo-ho, up-town, down-town...Primadina has something for everyone.
I'd be lying to your face if I said I had an actual "plan." The truth is I don't plan, I dream. I have to say I've been very fortunate that celebrities around the world have chosen to wear Primadina, but I am always thrilled when I see a passer-by strut by me wearing one of my pieces. In a perfect fantasy, Primadina would be in boutiques worldwide. Celebrities, artists, bo-ho, up-town, down-town...Primadina has something for everyone.
The Trends:
Bold, asymmetrical designs with lots of texture. We are going to be seeing elements of nature both color and texture being incorporated in jewelry. Perhaps "stripped" stones like Agate can be used to create a "woodsy" visual effect.
We are also going to see a ton of All-metal jewelry, where you can expect a raw, unfinished, chunky look. Silvers and white metals are still hot, but this year the number one spot is gonna have to be yellows and shades of rose to deep gold.
On Bloggers:
I think they are super. Sharing information, trends, hobbies, fashion... Bloggers are sharing parts of their personality and personal experiences. And whats more, it can be totally anonymous. People are willing to share more, and disclose their thoughts when they know they wont be judged. In many ways, it's like reading someones diary. It's honest, and I like that.
Blog on bloggers!
Thanks Dina!
I am such a sucker for bright stones... I absolutely die every time I scroll through her work :)
Check out more of her work HERE.
*love*
xx
