FASHION /
NEWS
March 4, 2015
(42) Jewelry Designer Stephen Webster
Avant-garde Yet Classically Inspired High Jewelry
An Interview with Jewelry Designer STEPHEN WEBSTER
As you can see from the jewelry by STEPHEN WEBSTER featured in the PHOTO GALLERY above, the designs and forms are voluminous, with a gothic-glamorous feel that is very much of the moment. Yet, they possess a vintage sensibility while remaining sharp and new. We spoke with Stephen Webster, who visited us from London.
“I want them to say, ‘I’ve never seen anything like this!’”
Jewelry designer Stephen Webster began his apprenticeship in goldsmithing and silversmithing at the age of 16. After creating pieces for renowned jewelers and private clients, he founded his own brand, STEPHEN WEBSTER, in 1988.
—Could you tell us about your design concept?
My concept is “Anything but ordinary.” As you can see, my personality is strongly reflected in the rock-inspired, message-driven designs.
—The fishbone necklace, for example, is a brilliant idea, truly unique.
Actually, I have a collection of glass fish figurines from Eastern Europe, dating from around the 1950s to 1960s. I have about 200 to 300 of them. I can’t help but buy them when I find them, which is a problem for my family (laughs). I’ve previously made brooches shaped like sharks and stingrays, and pendants in the form of pufferfish. I also undertake personal commissions if I become interested in a client's personality.
—Is this your 30th year as a jewelry designer?
I entered art school at 16 and have been creating ever since. I was a punk kid back then. After graduating from art school, I spent my apprenticeship years living in a London flat.
—You were a punk kid!
I don’t think there’s ever been a time with more energy fueled by a rebellious spirit than then. I don’t believe there’s been a similar movement in Britain since.
—Your work has a punk feel to it.
London has a soil that nurtures new creations, but people often tell me my work isn’t typically British. Perhaps it’s because my pieces are colorful, flamboyant, and often large, unlike the conventional, orthodox style expected from Britain. But I’ll take “punk” to mean “unconventional” and accept it as a compliment.
—Do you consider fashion trends?
I am conscious of color. However, I don’t change my style seasonally like in fashion. I want my jewelry to convey a consistent message.
—What are your impressions of Japanese men?
Although Japan is a conservative market, I find that men here seem to favor flamboyant items, and many are drawn to high jewelry. When STEPHEN WEBSTER was first introduced in Japan, the reaction was a bit hesitant, but I felt people were observing it very closely. I still want them to be surprised and think, ‘I’ve never seen jewelry like this!’
—I understand your brand has been available at Isetan Shinjuku and other stores since last year.
We launched in Japan in October 2004 with the opening of the Barneys Japan Ginza store. Since last year, we have also been available at Isetan Shinjuku, Shibuya Seibu, and Shinsaibashi Sogo. I really hope people will come and see the jewelry in person.
—Thank you very much.
Inquiries
High Jewelry Line
Stephen Webster Shibuya Seibu
Address: 2F, Building B, 21-1 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku
Tel: 03-3464-5310
Silver Line
Stephen Webster Isetan Shinjuku
Address: 1F, Main Building, 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: 03-3351-3521
Official Website: http://www.stephenwebster.com/
NEWS! | Brand's First Advertising Campaign Features Christina Aguilera
“I am truly honored to be doing my first advertising campaign with my longtime friend Christina Aguilera, who was also the main inspiration for this collection. I have always loved Hitchcock’s films, and it was a wonderful experience to project his classic atmosphere onto Christina Aguilera and my jewelry,” says Stephen Webster.
For Stephen Webster’s first global advertising campaign and the brand’s first foray into the women’s silver jewelry market, his muse Christina Aguilera, who inspired the new silver collection, appears adorned with bangles, rings, earrings, and necklaces from the new collection.