Do you remember the last time you were frustrated at not being able to afford a cute accessory? Or perhaps you could afford it but you were unimpressed with the decadent price tag?
Jessica Tichonczuk experienced the same frustration when she paid $19 for a pair of black button earrings. Rather than walk away disappointed, Jessica decided to do something about it by creating her own accessories label. In October 2010, Black Diamond Accessories was born.
Described by Jessica as young, bright, playfully gothic and different, Black Diamond Accessories often feature an eclectic mix of skulls in all shapes, sizes and colours. Non-skull items range from the colourfully unique to gracefully dainty with cameo inspired hair clips and the occasional pearl.
“We all need to feel special,” Jessica commented. “I try to cater for mainstream fashion as well as the severely different person wanting to come out in each of us. There are no restrictions based on conformity or potential fashion faux pas here: just originality and fun!”
All the necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are handmade by Jessica who has always been very creative. “Put numbers in front of me and I will freeze like a deer in headlights, but give me a paintbrush or a pair of pliers and I will create something new,” she said. Prices typically range from $15 – $30 per accessory but there are items as cheap as $6 available.
One of the most distinctive items is the Skull Bracelet, which also happens to be Jessica’s favourite. “There are so many colours to choose from and the shiny faceted black beads make them cute and feminine,” she said. “I think they would go really well in Dangerfield.”
Getting Black Diamond Accessories into Dangerfield is currently on the to-do list for Jessica but she is looking to improve her business knowledge first by enrolling into a short course.
Currently she sells her products via Facebook and at local markets and emphasises the importance of supporting handmade and local Australian products. “Trust that the time spent making paired with the quality materials used reflects the price of these precious handmade treasures,” Jessica said.
When she first started Black Diamond Accessories, almost two years ago now, one of her first customers was a designer in the fashion business who gave her some tips and directions on where to source product. Now that she has been managing solo, Jessica has some advice for anyone else wanting to travel down the same path.
“Follow your heart in your design. Be different but not so different that people are going to be scared to try your new and daring style.”
Jessica’s Black Diamond Accessories is only one of many fledgling businesses relying on the support of fellow Australians. Buying handmade products can often be more expensive than buying from mainstream retailers but the difference is right there in the manufacturing.
Jessica’s designs don’t see the inside of a factory or warehouse. They see the love and care of an individual who is giving her dream the chance to grow into something big. These accessories have a life of their own and in taking one home you not only can use that accessory as motivation to continue striving for your own pursuits, but as a memory of the time you opted to support the Australian and not the conglomerate corporation from overseas.
Jessica’s designs will be on show at the South Melbourne Style After Dark Night Market every Thursday night, from March 1st. It runs for 8 weeks from 5.30pm – 9.30pm.
For all the latest market times and locations, as well as to check out her fantastic range, make sure to visit the Black Diamond Accessories Facebook Page.
