What is that around your neck? A statement…

Whilst I’m far more impressed with Michelle Jank’s work as a jewellery designer than her early noughties foray into fashion design, Jank’s ornate floral neckpieces from her SS07 collection didn’t really rock my boat.  As pretty as it is, it reminded me too much of those table centre pieces that 70’s housewives pride themselves on making with too many fake flowers, raffia and a lot of oasis sponge.  If I ever wore it, I’d feel like I’d have to be serving ham covered with pineapple rings as well on a scalloped edge plate.   

Jank’s new collection though is a different kettle of fish altogether, paring down to simpler, cleaner lines whilst still adhering to Jank’s motto of ‘bigger is better’.  She has been inspired by 60’s embellished collars and Egyptian regalia but has transplated these ornate references to laser-cut HUGE perspex pieces.  These are big visual statements using birds in flight and trompe l‚Äôoeil gem stones.  Though ironic takes on real ‘bling bling’ isn’t a new theme, Jank elevates it somewhat making you think that wearing her perspex pieces have the ability to be as elegant if not more so than the real thing.  I particularly think the pieces in clear, grey, white and black perspex are most effective. 

Jank’s intentions with the pieces are that they can be worn in different ways and by using ribbon ties as attachments, they’re not confined as neck collars.  I think with some extension, they could go around the waist or worn layered over each other.  A piece this big could even make an exaggerated bag decoration on a leather tote perhaps.  The size of the pieces, rather than being off-putting actually draws me towards them more as I so want this one piece to be the sole focus of whatever I’m wearing.  (I’m pulling one of her pieces for the photoshoot this weekend and it may be very painful to say goodbye to it when I have to return it….. )