A few weeks back we were emailed by Alana from Fashion Weekly, she wanted to interview Skye, the head honcho behind Ruby Olive Jewellery.  Here's a taster of the what she had to say:

Tell us about yourself? Where are you from? What is your educational background?

I grew up in Brisbane, I’m the eldest of 3 with 2 younger brothers. I’ve always been fascinated by textiles, colours and fabrics and have made ‘things’ ever since I could remember.

After finishing school I studied a BA (Arts) and a BA (business) degree and at the same time started designing and making jewellery and handbags to sell at markets and local boutiques in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley. After I graduated from university I continued to design my jewellery and bags, but I felt I was quite young and inexperienced in the business world and felt I needed to gain some ‘real world’ experience. I saved all my money and bought a one-way ticket to London. My plan was to stay 1 year…but I fell in love with Europe, found myself a job working for a large high street retailer and stayed for 8 years. I did as many design courses as I could at London’s Central St Martin’s College of Art and Design. I started at the bottom and worked my socks off, I was fortunate to be able to travel to many parts of the globe with my job and by the time I left London I was working as an Accessories Buyer for 80 stores.

When I came back home to Brisbane I brought back with me a wealth of knowledge and some fantastic experiences…I decided I was ready to start up my business again.

What does fashion mean to you?

Self expression. Confidence. Fun. Spirit.

What inspires and motivates you as a designer?

I take inspiration from my travels and the people I meet. Travelling is such a big part of who I am and if I can’t get somewhere physically, I’ll look at stunning photos and read books and articles to create a picture in my head. I’m so fascinated by different cultures, people and places around the world. I’m in love with colour (in a big way) and just love dreaming up new colour combinations. I’m also fascinated by how things are made…so much so that when I’m travelling and see a local craftsman making a piece of jewellery I can’t help but stop and admire.

My motivation to design is all about creating something more than a product…my aim is to create something that inspires, gives confidence and creates a story.

When did you realise you wanted to become a jewellery and fashion accessories designer?

I’ve always made all sorts of things and since I was about 14 I can distinctively remember sketching bags. I never really believed it would be my career though as so many people said it’s not a ‘profession’ and it would be ‘too hard’. I’m so glad I was stubborn and did it anyway.

To read the rest...visit the Fashion Weekly website.

Thanks Madison Magazine for featuring our Sicilian Puzzle Bangle $30 and our Camellia Resin Ring $22. 

We LOVE Madison Magazine! xxx

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