Damen + Division Jewelry

I discovered Damen + Division jewelry on a recent trip to Sofia Vintage. I saw this bracelet [see below] and I was immediately hooked. I obviously bought the bracelet…and I wear it almost everyday!

I knew I had to know more about this new brand, so I decided to check out the website. Here’s how the jewelry collection is described:

Damen + Division jewelry was born in the colorful, glamorous 70’s and 80’s. Rock n’ Roll and Disco culture inspired jewelry companies to create big, bold costume pieces. These statement pieces were the most desirable- the more oversized, the more overstated, the better.

This sounds like the definition of everything I could ever ask for in a piece of jewelry. So, because I am absolutely in love with this jewelry line, I knew I had to interview the woman behind D+D. Meet Chicago-based jewelry designer, Sonia Barrett…

Photo Credit

1. When did you start designing jewelry?

I made my first ring when I was a Sophomore in high school. It was the height of the grunge era, and I took an old ring I got from a thrift shop, chipped out the stone, and replaced it with a cardboard cut out of a sea monkey. I think I sealed it in with clear nail polish.

2. And when did Damen + Division emerge as a brand?

D+D was born in November of 2008.

3. Where do you draw inspiration from when designing your jewelry?

Mainly from the vintage materials I use. Whatever comes in really has a voice, and we try to listen to that. We listen to a lot of 70’s rock in the studio.

4. Are there fashion designers or other jewelry designers you draw inspiration from? If so, who?

I have a huge Kenny Lane collection- his good stuff, and also the schlock he sells to Avon, QVC… I like some of Bittar’s earlier work too. I have an amazing Bittar vermeil ring with a black skull on it I wear at least once a week since I bought it 7 years ago.

5. Why did you choose Chicago to “set up shop”?

No question. Chicago is my home. As a business owner my business should be where I am, not vice versa.

6. Where can Damen + Division be purchased?

Sarca; 710 N. Wabash and Sophia Vintage; 72 E. Oak St. in Chicago

7. What’s next for you and Damen + Division?

I want to do more cufflinks for men- and use butterfly wings!

Photo Credit

—————————–

So basically, I am obsessed with Damen + Division jewelry. I am not exaggerating when I say I would like to own every piece. If you take a peak into my jewelry collection, it’s very colorful, bold, vintage/vintage-inspired (specifically from the ’70s)…almost all costume jewelry. This is exactly what D+D is all about. Each piece is unique in its own way which is why this collection is so amazing.

For more about Damen + Division, check out www.damen-division.com