PARTS by Heather: Something For Everyone

Jewelry for Women of All Ages, Shapes, and Styles

Feb 25, 2009 Andrea Beca

Part two of an exclusive interview with jewelry designer Heather Mandin, which addresses the styles, price range, and wide appeal of PARTS.

Heather Mandin has had her own independent like of one-of-a-kind jewelry – PARTS by Heather – for over two years now, and she prides herself on creating designs that appeal to all ages and budgets. Suite101 met with Heather to discuss what she has to offer, and to introduce her newest line.

Suite101: What kind of woman wears PARTS by Heather?

Heather Mandin: The woman that dares to be different and stand out from the crowd. Whether she's 18 or 70, PARTS has something for everyone, including avant-garde bridal designs.

Suite101: Where can one purchase PARTS, and what kind of price ranges are available?

Heather Mandin: PARTS are available online – there is a wide selection of pre-made designs, and clients from anywhere in the world can also work with me to create fabulous custom pieces. They are also available at the stores that are listed on my website and at the PARTS studio by appointment. There are always new things brewing in the studio that are not available online, so it's good to stay in touch. I feel it's important to note that PARTS only uses sterling silver and 14-24k gold (except in some reworked pieces where the metals vary), solid stones and precious and semi precious stones and gems.

Prices range from $25-$85 for hair accessories made from vintage reworked feathers and findings, $45-$250 for a pair of earrings, $70-$950 for a necklace, $50-$350 for a bracelet and $30-$50 for a cluster ring. People often make the mistake of assuming that they cannot afford unique, one-of-a-kind or custom jewelry, but there are quite a few designs in the $40-$150 range. And remember, it is always worth it to splurge on a piece that you know you'll be the only one wearing, or on a design that was customized specifically for you!

Suite101: What's your favourite jewelry trend right now?

Heather Mandin: I guess I don't really follow the trend in jewelry, but I do like that designs are taking a bolder, less symmetrical appearance these days.

Suite101: If you could design for any celebrity, who would you choose to work with?

Heather Mandin: Well, I really appreciate Maggie Gyllenhaal's sense of, "screw you, I'll wear whatever I want and look hot in it because I have the confidence of a firecracker." I would love to design something for her. Sienna Miller, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Halle Barry also have such a beautiful grace and sense of style. Really, designing something for any celebrity would be a dream come true.

Heather's newest pieces utilize antique feathers as their centerpiece. "An updo looks great with the Garbo clip and the skinny feather hair bands can be worn tiara style or just at the crown," says Heather. "The great thing about the feathered pins and hair clips are that they are so versatile - I clip them onto lapels, dresses, jackets, scarves and even hats!"

PARTS by Heather feathered accessories start at $35 for a skinny hair band and range up to $85 for a clip. Larger pieces and custom designs are also available. For more information, visit the PARTS by Heather website. And find out how it all started here.

The copyright of the article PARTS by Heather: Something For Everyone in Jewelry is owned by Andrea Beca. Permission to republish PARTS by Heather: Something For Everyone in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.