advertising feature Modern, fun and playful BONNIE Montgomery established her online jewellery store Bonty to make the “contemporary, fun and playful style” that she loved accessible to everyone, while creating a platform for up-andcoming jewellery designers to promote their work. Bonnie meets designers who fulfil the criteria of contemporary, original and quality designs, and promotes their labels via social media and markets. She enjoys establishing “links and connections to new and creative people, and getting to know their creative work.” Pieces from all the designers Bonty represents will be showcased at the Hustle&Scout markets on September 27, so that people can “feel and touch the designs. It’s a great way for people to get to
Original designs by
SUSAN FLOWER
know the designers and their work.” Bonnie has been involved with the last two Hustle&Scout markets, and is looking forward to seeing the new venue. “The markets are a great event for Canberra, Tegan has done a great job in promoting and selecting designers and collectors. We feel very privileged to be accepted,” she says. Jewellery can be purchased at the markets, but the purpose of the Bonty online shop is that it can be accessed anywhere and customers know that they are getting a particular flavour of product that has been made with integrity and quality. Email contact@bonty.com.au or visit bonty.com.au
made from beautiful 100% linens, silks and satins All designs are made in Australia – proudly supporting local business
Flower power of textiles
Susan Flower black skirt with art.
TEXTILES tell so many stories of women’s lives, creativity and spirit, says fashion designer Susan Flower, who will be at the Hustle&Scout markets to showcase her new designs for spring. Having heard such good things about Hustle&Scout from the very first event, Susan says she’s looking forward to being a part of it. “I’ve always loved sewing, designing clothes, sourcing textiles, using natural linens and cutting cloth on the bias,” she says. “I also enjoy using traditional textiles – African cloth, Japanese shibori and kimono, sari silks embroideries, weavings and Amish quilts.” Susan says she enjoys meeting women who are wearing her designs, “especially when they tell me they have bought many of my clothes, worn ‘em
www.susanflower.com | susan@susanflower.com
Not quite a semi circle – blue. REB0264.indd 1
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lots and loved them to bits”. For spring, Susan has designed a linen bias skirt incorporating an original watercolour painting by Sydney artist Sandy Shilansky. “I love Sandy’s work and we’re both thrilled with this wearable art collaboration,” she says. “Another of my favourite items is the bias pocket dress. The idea popped out of my head one day, a dress with many different combinations of fabrics and ways to wear it, fastened with kimono-covered buttons (or not), tucked in as pockets (or not). Women can style it in so many different ways, expressing their own unique style and personality.” Visit susanflower.com
Natural and down to earth ACCESSORIES that are stylish and effortless, made entirely of natural materials and fabric while also being mindful of our environment is the focus of Australian label Woodfolk, says owner Julia Denes. They make jewellery, accessories and homewares, and Julie says that each Woodfolk product has been carefully designed to be simple yet striking, comfortable to wear and soft to touch. Woodfolk products are designed in Australia and handmade both in Australia and by Nepali craftspeople, throughout local and remote areas of Nepal. “The craftspeople create beautiful and quality accessories through
traditional carving, natural dyeing, weaving and knitting techniques,” says Julie. “Working with those that are disadvantaged is a hugely important part of Woodfolk. “We have chosen to work with both smaller family-run businesses as well as women-focused organisations, providing them with financial assistance in order to help support them to build a better future for themselves and their families.” Julie says they also carefully consider their packaging, and use 100 per cent cotton jewellery pouches that are handmade in Nepal.
Barb Mickelson babsmickelson@hotmail.com • 0427 005 054 facebook/BMdesignsheadwear At the Old Bus Depot Markets every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month
Visit woodfolk.com.au
CityNews September 18-24, 2014 19