(^32) | marieclaire.com.au
FASHION FIRST
When it comes to envy-inducing
accessories, the world is your
oyster, says Australian label Kailis
DESIGNER DOSSIER
PEARL
ARDOUR
P
earls tend to fall into one of two
polarised categories: your grandma’s
straight-laced, stuffy strands or
costumey trend pieces that come and
go with the seasons. Jewellery brand
Kailis, purveyor of pearls for more than 40 years,
is forging a happy medium.
The label has its roots in the crystalline blue
waters off the north coast of Western
Australia. In 1977, genetic researcher
Dr Patricia Kailis sold her car to set
up a pearl farming business, opening
Broome’s first pearl jewellery store
with her husband the following year.
Fast-forward to now and each
Kailis piece is studded with exquisite
oceanic gems (predominantly hand-selected
Australian South Sea pearls), but design
inspiration extends beyond nature. “Most of our
pieces are geometric in form and have a
contemporary, Art Deco feel,” says head of design
and production Julian Power. Think luxurious
pearl rings crowned with brilliant diamonds,
striking pendants sprinkled with rubies and pink
tourmaline, and shapely silver designs that offer
an accessible pathway into pearl jewellery.
Next, the brand plans to amp up the surprise
factor with the launch of a playful bohemian
collection and even a unisex range – though the
classic appeal of lustrous orbs will always remain
at the core of Kailis. “Our pearls are natural, they
last the ages and are passed down through
generations,” says Power. “We hope our designs do
the same. We want our jewellery to remain
relevant in 10 years, but still be very stylish.”
“MOST OF KAILIS’ PIECES
HAVE A CONTEMPORARY
ART DECO FEEL”
- Julian Power,
head of design and production
Kailis Twin Pearl cuff,
from $895BELOW, FROM LEFT
Kailis Serendipity Trio
ring, $1925, and
Nyx necklace, $795.TEXTBYKATHRYN^ MADDEN.