Wednesday, 6 April 2011

Saving Face

Saving Face: To keep your reputation and the respect of other people. Or the name of an exciting and original jewellery business that has only recently began designing for men. The design duo Kate Wood and Tiffany Pitchforth have been best friends for over 10 years, and their compatibility shows. “We don’t follow trends. And we’re not that girly either.” Kate confesses. “We both have degrees in design but neither of us wanted to sit at a drawing board for hours. We construct pieces [by hand] as we go along – and the spontaneity and creative freedom it gives us is far more enjoyable.” Their passion and personal tastes are reflected in the pieces. Whilst Kate is collecting all objects with a natural fabric, a good colour or a sensual texture [I like a mixture of leather and metal, quite masculine looking styles really], Tiff is inspired by simple lines, the aesthetics of Scandanavian and Dutch designers, and fine art within jewellery.



With a constant stream of jewellery being produced, you’d be mistaken for thinking ideas may be running short. “We’re influenced by a mutual love of travelling (the business was meant to be a side project to help them raise money to do a bit more globe-trotting together). Our inspiration can come from anywhere, you just need to keep your eyes open. We’ve recently been to Rio de Janeiro which has influenced our materials and even our logo”. The name for the business came about from their idea to contain a watch in all their pieces. “When we first started I worked a vintage watch into a necklace,” explains Tiff. “Recycling vintage watches, pieces that people once loved but have now discarded became our trademark. All of our pieces therefore and now one of a kind, unique and include a time piece. When it came to naming our business, it was Kate who recalled the saying ‘saving face’”.



Although the menswear collection will not include a time piece, they still include a vintage trinket. However, if you want to regenerate an old pocket watch don’t hesitate to ask. “We have a lovely studio in Elland in Yorkshire and we’re in the process of setting up our own website. In the meantime though, we’ve expanded all around the country and online with independent galleries, boutiques, Facebook and most recently, ASOS marketplace, all stocking our jewellery. We also create bespoke pieces for individuals at their request and vision.” With their highest priced piece currently at £200, Saving Face seems like a hidden treasure eager to be discovered.


-FB