We recently discovered new label Kashen Jewellery and were so intrigued with the unique and original designs that we simply had to find out more! Based in Perth, Kashen Jewellery was founded by Kasia Grzesiak. We caught up with her for a quick chat about her exceptional label and how she comes up with her distinctive designs.

What first inspired you to become a jewellery designer?

I have always been passionate about art & design and I happened to apply for the Jewellery Course at the Curtin University simply to see what it is all about and what skills and inspirations it will bring. After I have started the course I never looked back, I was creating wearable art and loving it.

Where do you draw inspiration from for your designs?

I draw inspiration from many different things, however I always choose the material first and that somehow always tends to dictate the feel of the entire collection. My latest collection ‘Empress of the Sun’ was designed in Winter however my inspiration for it was Summer, bright colours, maxi dresses and everything else that reminds you of that hottest time of the year. I wanted to incorporate strong colours and beautiful textures and leather was the perfect material for that, it is so versatile.

How would you describe your style of jewellery?

I like to create unique pieces that can be worn day or night. I try to apply contemporary but classic feel to my jewellery. My customers age varies between 17-60 years old, so I am glad that my pieces can appeal to such a broad range of women.

What materials do you use?

In my first collection ‘Áfter Midnight’ I used glass as a main medium. It is so unpredictable to work with, but the end result is always fantastic. In my current collection ‘Empress of the Sun’ I am working with different coloured and textured leather. I always wanted to make leather cuffs so it has been on my mind for a while to try it out.

Who would you love to see wearing Kashen Jewellery?

I would love to see anyone walking down the street wearing Kashen Jewellery to be honest! Kashen Jewellery has just recently been involved in a high fashion photo shoot so it will be really interesting to see the  pieces in that aspect.

What has been you biggest challenge so far in your career?

Juggling a full time job and starting your own business has been the biggest challenge. There is a lot of hard work and patience involved. I have very little time to myself!  I am very lucky to have very talented friends who have helped me with the website, photography and marketing so without them I would struggle quite a bit!

Who are your biggest role models?

I really admire Amanda Briskin (the founder of Mimco), Samantha Wills, Sophie Kyron and Carly Paiker. These ladies have built their fashion jewellery businesses from the ground up and now stock their pieces all over the world. They are a proof that if you are passionate about what you do and work hard enough to follow your dream it may just come true.

Describe a typical work day in your life?

I start off with coffee and checking my email. I work as a fine jewellery designer in Subiaco full time, so that is usually where you will find me during the day. After I finish there, I get home and work on my stuff which involves making new pieces and researching on advertising and marketing my business.

What advice would you give to other young women starting their own businesses in the fashion industry?

Have a website! There are so many fashion labels out there that don’t have their own websites. I think that you lose credibility and money by not having it, so it is definitely very important. It has been the biggest business tool for me so far.

What is next for you?

Working on the new collection is my priority as it takes a while to develop all the pieces. Stocking all around Australia would be a dream come true, so hopefully that’s what is in store Kashen Jewellery.

We are in love with these pieces! Kashen Jewellery is a label to watch! Have a look at the full collection here

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