MEET THE DESIGNER
MEET IZZY
THE FOUNDATIONS
Rhimani was born and raised out of my student house at Newcastle university. In my attic bedroom on a crowded desk rammed with neglected textbooks, tangled headphone wires, half-eaten Dairy milk Fruit & Nut and my latest Depop purchases (all averaging £10 or less), I started making beaded jewellery. I did not have a creative background in jewellery but the idea of making something and proudly selling it sparked something in me.
BEHIND THE CREATIVITY
Today I still design each item at Rhimani, it’s easily my favourite task. My process starts by simply gathering colour inspiration. This could be outfits that catch my eye, like an iconic Harry Styles playsuit, a gallery-worthy piece of wall art, or some audacious stage design at Glastonbury. I take notes/photos of these items and bring them back to the studio.
Back on my work top I spend time sketching and experimenting with these different ideas, honing in on those that truly shine. After several samples and drafts, I produce a final design and it’s time to pass it on to our team of jewellery makers.
RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS
First thing someone says when you mention you design jewellery…
“Wow, is that full time?”
First best selling necklace you designed…
Our Simple White Beaded Necklace. It’s a Rhimani staple.
First online review that stuck in your mind…
“Pretty enough.”
First item you believed would be a bestseller but in reality it flopped…
Our Daisy chain necklace, I quickly discontinued it.
First thing that annoys you in any conversation when talking about a female founded small business…
One thing that can be a bit frustrating is when people focus too much on the 'female-founded' aspect and not enough on the incredible products and ideas founders bring to the table.
First dream Rhimani ambassador… Lily Allen