Our Designers: Mandy Wu

MANDY WU

Mandy's favorite piece, the Secrets necklace (in 14K gold above,
also available in rhodium).

A chemistry grad turned jewelry designer is not a typical transition you hear about when interviewing designers. Yet nothing could be more natural of a progression than this.

Born in the U.S. and raised in Singapore, Mandy launched her jewelry label after realizing her true passion lay in design.

Despite having no former training in fashion or design, Mandy’s bold and edgy designs stand out. “Drawing inspiration from tarot and ritualistic body modifications”, Mandy’s collection was “heavily influenced by the notion of self-empowerment and the questioning of one’s freedom to speak, act and love”.

Read on to find out more about Mandy's design process.

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Mandy. I'm the founder and designer of the jewelry label, MANDY WU. 

How did you transition from chemistry to jewelry design?

I was seeking a creative outlet. Jewelry design was a natural choice, because I've always perceived jewelry as a very personal and intimate way ofexpressing oneself. 

What was the inspiration behind starting your own label?

Having my own label in a way allows me to exert my point of view.

What types of materials do you use and why do you choose to work with them?

The materials I use range from various metals to fabrics to nylon chains. I usually decide on a material because it allows me to realize my vision for the collection. When there are more than one material for that, I would go for the one that allows me to play with it in an unexpected way.

What is your design process like?

Most times even before I start a collection, I already have a rough idea what I want it to be about. From there I would turn to my references, do some research, and then translate them into my designs. 

Tell us about your favorite piece.

Right now it's the Secrets necklace. The sewn lips is my take on the freedom of speech,or the lack of it. 

How would you describe your customer?

She is astrong and confident woman who's not afraid to embrace her femininity. She knows what she wants, and appreciates the eclectic & original. 

What is the most challenging thing you have faced so far? 

Striking a balance between the creative and business aspects of running a label. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of starting a jewelry label without having af ashion or design background?

Because I didn't come from a fashion/design background, I work on every design without any preconceptions. In a way, it also motivates me to draw inspiration from unexpected places. Having said that, I have to learn everything about managing a label as I go along and often that means learning from mistakes the hard way. 

Stop by our launch party at KAPOK next Wednesday (Sept 26th) to try on and purchase Mandy Wu's edgy jewelry!