
The Edit: Design icons
As we welcome the return of The Makers’ Market at The Royal Exchange this month, we round up our favourite pieces that exude fine taste and craftsmanship, available from our luxury retailers
BOODLES MOSAIC ASHOKA EARRINGS
A collection described as ‘an ode to the hexagon’ may not seem particularly thrilling, but these stunning platinum drop earrings by Boodles showcase the heritage brand’s exclusive Ashoka cut diamonds to perfection. £15,000; Boodles at The Royal Exchange
SMYTHSON SOHO NOTEBOOK
A must for any self-confessed stationery addict is a Smythson notebook – in particular, the company’s instantly recognisable leather Soho notebook in lapis blue, with its signature gilt-edged, pale blue featherweight paper. £170; Smythson at The Royal Exchange
VASHI SKYLINE DIAMOND RING
A relative newcomer to the fine jewellery scene, Vashi is tearing up the rulebook with its unrivalled bespoke service, which allows customers to create unique designs from scratch. Of course, the brand also has some modern classics available straight off the shelf, as it were. We love the striking Skyline ring, with its contrasting diamonds that subtly reflect London’s iconic architecture. £11,500; Vashi at The Royal Exchange
GEORG JENSEN HK PITCHER
Scandinavians are renowned for their excellent design ethos, which essentially revolves around simplicity and minimalism. Danish brand Georg Jensen is no exception; famed for its stunning silverware and contemporary jewellery. This sleek mirror-shine pitcher, which was designed by legendary sculptor Henning Koppel in the 1950s, is considered an icon of Danish design. It’s sure to receive admiring glances from visitors, whether used for dining or as a decorative object. HK Pitcher, 1.9l, £325; Georg Jensen at The Royal Exchange
JO MALONE LONDON LIME BASIL & MANDARIN CANDLE
Back when it first launched in the mid-1990s, Jo Malone London was a game changer. From the unusual scent pairings to the minimalist black-and-white packaging, its candles became instantly covetable. When it was introduced to the range way back in 1999, the zesty Lime Basil & Mandarin scent became a bestseller – and over 20 years later it’s still one of the brand’s most popular buys. £50; Jo Malone London at The Royal Exchange
FORTNUM’S ST JAMES TEA FOR ONE
If you’re serious about your tea, then Fortnum & Mason is your one-stop shop for all your beverage needs; from limited-edition loose leaf blends to opulent accessories. This clever teapot-and-cup set for one is a delicate and beautiful piece adorned in Fortnum’s elegant chinoiserie and bamboo design. Perfect for afternoons when you fancy yourself on the set of Bridgerton. £150; Fortnum & Mason at The Royal Exchange
ASPINAL OF LONDON LION TRUNK
Aspinal of London’s boxy “trunk” bags are fabulously alternative (and practical). The special-edition lion head design, with its door knocker-style central detail, black velvet and studs is ladylike yet edgy. £595; Aspinal of London at The Royal Exchange
ELSA PERETTI OPEN HEART PENDANT
Italian fashion designer, model and philanthropist Elsa Peretti is responsible for many of Tiffany & Co.’s most iconic jewellery lines. She was employed by the company in the mid-1970s, and by 1979 was its lead designer. Her collections, which include “Bean”, and “Bone cuff” have even been commemorated in institutions such as the British Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Perhaps her most recognisable design is the fluid “open heart”, inspired by sculptor Henry Moore, which ‘celebrates the spirit of love’. Elsa Peretti Open Heart Pendant in rose gold, £1,100; Tiffany & Co. at The Royal Exchange.