Mink Schmink

Neon Goth Has Landed @ Mink Schmink

2011-07-23T16:25:00.000+10:00

The last week or so has been a flurry of activity in the Mink Schmink studio and we're happy to finally launch the new range: Neon Goth. The collection is a balanced mish mash of happy bright colours, textures, florals and skulls, taking goth to a whole new level.

Take a look and tell us what you think! We have even more in our Newtown store so if you're nearby, stop by and say hi and try a few pieces on! They are even brighter in real life!

SALE - All dresses now $20 or less!

2011-06-08T15:07:00.001+10:00

We've reduced our dresses down to $20 or less!! Get in quick!

Lots of styles perfect for layering so don't miss out.

While stocks last!
(Sorry, not available online)

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2011-05-12T13:06:00.000+10:00

The cold has arrived in Sydney and it's feeling like an early Winter. It's definitely cold enough to dust off those unfinished knitting and crochet projects from last year (at least that's what I've been telling myself!). Or start a new project and knit yourself something fantastic to keep you warm. But if you're a knitting novice like me, it's hard to make anything beyond a plain scarf.

So when we were hunting for winter goodies and came across these fabulous beanies hand-knitted in Nepal, we couldn't pass them up. How wonderful are these designs!! We love supporting talented people!

Check out more online!

You Tarzan, Me Jane.

2011-04-24T19:18:00.000+10:00

Get some vine action happening with these handmade wool felt scarves from Nepal. These gorgeous scarves have 14 flowers on each vine and look amazing wrapped around your neck! We think it looks best with block colours so make sure you keep your outfit simple with this one.

4 colourways to choose from. Which one's your favourite?

Available now from our online store

Something Old, Something New... Rubber Jewellery For Your Special Day

2011-04-15T10:21:00.000+10:00

Need some inspiration for your big day?

Need a necklace that's a bit different from the norm, and you're not into bling?

Have you heard of Marzio Fiorini?

Marzio Fiorini is the master of rubber jewellery. Yes, rubber. His collection is made from recyclable rubber in his workshop in Brazil. And I know you're probably thinking of black tyres, erasers and gum boot soles, but this is as far away in design (and smell) from that as you can get. Take a look at some of his designs:

Palmera Necklace (Available in White, Black and Red)

Graff Necklace (Available in White, Black, Red and Chocolate)

Angel Necklace (Available in White, Black and Red)

Angel Caliel Necklace (Available in White, Black, Red and Black/Silver combo)


Flower Necklace (This choker doubles as two bracelets as well. Available in White, Black and Red)

Here's a pic of the black Flower Necklace (isn't it gorgeous!?)

Mikinos Necklace (Available in White, Black, Red)

Rozas Necklace (Available in White, Black, Red, Turquoise)

OK, so the designs are out there. That's why they're so great!

Reasons Why These Necklaces Are Great For Your Special Day

No metal bits (great if you have sensitive skin)
No rubbery smell
Lightweight
Comfortable to wear all day
Easy to clean (just use a bit of mild soap and warm water)
Dramatic design without being blingy
You can wear it more than once (in fact you'll probably love it so much you'll wear it whenever you can)
It may be a designer piece, but it won't break the bank.
They come in different colours (great if you've got a colour theme happening)
You'll get compliments. Guaranteed.

Check out more of the range of Marzio Fiorini Rubber Jewellery at our online store. If an item is out of stock, get in touch with us and we'll order it in for you.

Here's more images from the Marzio Fiorini range. Enjoy!

Pretty Kitty Necklace for Lovers of Cute

2011-04-06T19:52:00.000+10:00

We get to see some really cute things in our hunt for awesome designer goodies for Mink Schmink. This one is a favourite of ours with its little 3D kitty charm and pretty oval frame. This is definitely one for lovers of cute. Check out the necklace and other cute designs at our online store.


Aww, what a cute little kitty!

Awesome long chain!

Kitty charm dangles from the pretty frame!

6 Quirky Designer Brooches To Make You Smile

2011-03-23T15:54:00.000+11:00

Brooches are making a huge comeback and coming into the cooler months, they are the perfect way to embellish your outfit. I'm loving these designs! They're great for wearing on your jacket, blouse, scarf or even your bag and will definitely add a touch of personality. Why wear all that black and grey on its own?

These whimsical brooches are all constructed from layers of engraved and polished acrylic for a bit of depth. Prices range from $25 - $30. All brooches available from the Mink Schmink online store - Limited stock.

Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! Oi! Oi! Oi!

2011-03-13T13:50:00.000+11:00

Precious Limb Bangle by Emily Snadden

I read about the 2011 International Jewellery Design Excellence Awards today and found out that an Aussie got a Merit Award for her stunning "Precious Limb Bangle". Designed by Emily Snadden, it's design depicts the natural folds, creases and wrinkles typically found in the Australian salmon gum. Congratulations Emily!! We love seeing Aussies do their thing on the International stage.

It's a prestigious award since the entrants can only quality to enter if they have won an officially announced jewellery design competition over the past two years. With over a hundred entrants and the quality being so high, it really is a great showcase for the World's talented Jewellery Designers.

Bullfinches Necklace by Ilgiz Fazulzyanov

This year's "Champion of Champions" Award went to Russian designer, Ilgiz Fazulzyanov, for his "Bullfinches" necklace, which depicts the birds in snow. There's a lot of work in this piece and the craftsmanship is amazing. Birds and nature have been really popular in the last few years and I suspect we'll see a lot more of it to come.

This one was my personal favourite out of all the awards given. It's designed by South African designer, Kristen Malan, and it's called "Molecular Truth". Simply stunning.

Molecular Truth by Kristen Malan

Well, what do you think? Love it? Hate it? I have a feeling we'll probably see some trends trickling down from these designs.

A New Look For Mink Schmink

2011-03-10T20:27:00.000+11:00

Welcome to 2011. Yep, I know it's March already. How time flies huh!?

It's been a long time since the last blog post and there's lots to catch up on. Our website has been streamlined and redesigned, our range has grown to include more designer goodies than ever, and we've even given our store a revamp to improve your shopping experience with us. And that's the short version.

Here are some pics to show you how the store looks now:

Our funky counter area

Colourful jewellery collections

Lots of goodies to look at

Our new fashion area with our wonderful change room built with 3 doors

Shiny shiny floor (hand polished with love!)

Cabinets filled with gorgeous goodies!

It's looking pretty snazzy don't you think? You can see more pics in our facebook album. It's not until we do a big revamp like this that we realise just how much work goes into the little details. We spent 2 days (and nights) doing this ourselves (I gotta give props to all the visual merchandisers out there who do this for a living - you guys have a challenging job).

We've had loads of positive feedback from customers since we did the revamp. What do you think? Any ideas on how we can improve it?

We'll be at the Markets this Sunday

2010-10-29T23:08:00.000+11:00

http://www.southsydneymarkets.com.au/

If you're going to be around South Sydney this Sunday, drop by and say hi. I will be there with some fabulous bargains as well as some new jewellery and collectables that have just arrived. Just look for the Mink Schmink stall.

Some of the specials:
Earrings start from $5 - Bangles start from $5
Plus heaps of reduced clearance stock (necklaces and bangles) at up to 50% off

New Winter Goodies In Store For Under $30

2010-06-23T14:59:00.000+10:00

Polka Dot Scarves have arrived at Mink Schmink - Available in Pink/White, Red/White, Black/White and White/Black. Made from cottony goodness, these soft and tasselled scarves are nice and long - perfect for layering and adding some colour to your outfit. $22 each.

Jungle Beanies are back - we have 15 designs to choose from now! These quirky beanies are full of character and personality. Why not have some fun with your headgear this winter! Forget the chain store beanies that are cheap and nasty and support fair trade by buying a jungle beanie.

All are handcrafted in Nepal with 100% Wool outer and lined with super warm polyester fleece. These beanies will love you as much as you'll love them! We guarantee that these beanies will get some conversations going too! One size fits most - great for kids, teens and adults. $29.95 each.

We're 3 Years Old!

2010-06-17T11:23:00.000+10:00

Wow - Mink Schmink is 3! How time flies! The store has grown from strength to strength and we have our wonderful customers to thank for their support and love. Keep spreading the love people!

PILGRIM Jewellery Sale!

2010-06-10T15:35:00.000+10:00

Ok Ladies, if you've had your eye on a bit of PILGRIM bling, now is the time to make your move!

All of our PILGRIM Jewellery is on sale for June only and is only available in the store. First in, first served.

Prices start from $27.95

Check out pics of what's on sale!

New Jewellery: Paper Art Bracelets

2010-05-31T12:28:00.000+10:00

These are a bit of fun to brighten up your outfit! Each bead in the bracelet is covered in paper art - while I wouldn't recommend washing the dishes with it on, it certainly looks great for a fun day out! These new designs are our favourites - which do you like?

Limited stock - $15 each

Jewellery Trend: Cowgirl

2010-05-14T19:06:00.001+10:00

These just arrived in the store today and we're in love with it's sassy styling! Yeehaaa!

Paper Art Earrings

Wild Wild West Long Necklace, Cowgirl Hat Earrings.

Wild Wild West Necklace (White Gold Plated)

How Will You Keep Warm This Winter?

2010-04-22T16:18:00.006+10:00

The weather has been four seasons in one week lately, but I know what's coming... Cold, cold and more cold. We've past the halfway point in Autumn and while it might be 27 degrees Celcius today, I can feel a change in the weather.

When it gets cold I am going to be prepared - Wooly socks: check. Scarves: check. Insanely cute animal beanie: check.

You can get the mouse beanie in our online store!

Yep, our wonderful animal 'jungle beanies' are back in stock and we have some new designs to add to last years most popular designs.

Each one is fleece lined, has long ear flaps and ties, is made from 100% wool and is handcrafted in Nepal. What better way to show your support for fair trade while looking good?

Yes, these are real beanies. And yes, they really are as cute as they look. We have 12 different designs at the moment but we'll be adding more to the range soon. We'll keep you posted ;-)

While you may or may not like Paris Hilton,you have to admit, the mouse beanie looks super cute!

2 New Pilgrim Jewellery Collections Have Arrived

2010-04-14T16:55:00.000+10:00

These have just arrived in the store! They are even prettier in person and are perfect for any season.

Harmony Collection

Globular Collection

Zipper Art Jewellery

2010-04-03T15:23:00.000+11:00

Zipper Art has landed in Australia!

How fabulous are these jewellery pieces!? These have just arrived from USA and we adore them!

Earrings $10 pair, Bracelet $15 and $19.50, Necklace $27.50 and $35
Pink, Red, Blue, Green, Yellow (All with Silver Zip) and White (Gold Zip) sets also available.

Where's Alice?

2010-03-15T18:25:00.002+11:00

I have always had a soft spot for teacups and teapots (as many of you would know) but now I love them even more since Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland came out. Suddenly they are turning up everywhere! I've been scouring the net to see what kind of jewellery the film and story have inspired and I'm pleasantly surprised.

What do you guys think of this trend? Love it? Hate it?

Where's Alice? by minkschmink featuring Disney Couture jewelry

Items in this set:
Angelic Pretty Rose Printed Dress w/Ribbon, $215
Lio Suede Mary Jane Flats in Noir, $290
Large cream suitcase with stud detail, 520 GBP
Designer Jewellery Jewelry Fashion Costume Vintage Accessories..., 350 GBP
Gunmetal New Bow Diamante Heart Bracelet, Vivienne Westwood, 180 GBP

Ok, I know what you're thinking... That's a lot of moolah to spend on some designer goodies, but we can dream right?! And in the mean time, you can still get your 'Alice' look with my teapot and teacups range of jewellery available in store (cheeky and shameless plug, I know).

For your viewing pleasure... Here's the trailer for Alice in Wonderland:

The 80s Are Back!

2010-02-18T13:51:00.000+11:00

I'm pretty excited to hear that the Powerhouse museum has an exhibition about the 80s - a decade where I spent a lot of time with my Cabbage Patch Doll and Punky Brewster Doll, a decade where perms where HUGE and so were shoulder pads and belts, a decade where waistlines were high and neon colours were cool...

Come to think of it, a lot of my fondest childhood memories are soaked in 80s events and paraphernalia (Lego Sets...Scott and Charlene's wedding on Neighbours...Dresses with puffy sleeves ala Princess Diana... Cassettes...Rollerskates...Getting a Culture Club showbag from the Easter Show...)

*Karma karma karma karma karma chameleeeee-onnn*... ahem.. where was I?..Oh yeah, the exhibition.

For those of you old enough to have lived through and experienced the 80s I highly recommend visiting the Powerhouse Museum to see 'The 80s Are Back'. They've painstakingly put together 'relics' of the 80s. From Music (who can forget Madonna's 'Like a virgin'?), Fashion and Design, to Video Games, Partying and the AIDS Crisis.

For those of you young enough to be discovering ther joy of the 80s now during what's been called the 'Neo-80s', you'll love this exhibition too. I bet there'll be lots of "That's so nasty!" but even if you go for the gawkfest, you'll have fun too. You'll see where a lot of the 80s fashion came from and what inspired it.

And for the Michael Jackson fans, his sequinned jacket and glove will also be on display!

Children of the 80s rejoice!

Images via Powerhouse Museum

Why Did I Wait So Long?

2010-02-16T09:04:00.006+11:00

Over the last year I have been working hard at designing and making my own line of acrylic jewellery. It's been truly rewarding and I love every minute of it. Even more rewarding is the positive feedback I've been getting from the customers in the store. But what if you can't get to the store to see it?

Yep, I know... I need to put some photos of it up on the web. So last week I bought a photo tent set up with lights. Boy, I've gotta say, it was well worth the investment (why did I wait so long?!).

I'm happy to share these photos with you all - mind you, these are my first attempt at this kind of photography myself so if you are photographically minded and have any tips for me I welcome them.

I've only done a few with a black background (and I can't wait to do more with other colours) I hope you like them - tell me what you think!

Geometry Bangles with Line Engraving in Clear and White Acrylic

Geometry Necklace with Sterling Silver Chain

Tea for Six Necklace

Double Teapot Necklace

Horsey Necklaces

Lace Heart Reversable Necklaces in Clear and White

Arcade Necklace in Frosty Ice

70+ New Sale Items To Make You Smile

2010-02-11T16:14:00.000+11:00

There's a lot of jewellery in our store. And now there's even more in our online store! Yippee!

I've just uploaded more than 70 jewellery pieces that are on sale - so if you can't visit us in person you can at least see a bit more of what's on sale (and hopefully snap up a bargain before someone else beats you to it!).

I've added lots of necklaces, earrings, rings and some brooches and bracelets too ^_^ I think if you have any birthdays or special occasions coming up, there could be some great present ideas to be had.

I have limited quantities of each, but there are literally more than a thousand designs in the store, so if you can pop into our Newtown Store, you'll find so much more! In the meantime, be sure to check our online specials!!

Here's a taste:

Romance Necklace ~~$29.00~~

Save 20%

Now $23.20

Romance Ring ~~$27.00~~

Save 20%

Now $21.60

Heart Earrings in Antique Gold Finish ~~$15.00~~

Save 20%

Now $12.00

How you can save 30% on Tatty Devine

2010-02-05T13:00:00.001+11:00

We're having a sale and now you can save 30% on Tatty Devine's AW09 Collection! Wuhoo! Purchase online at our online store or visit us in person (457 King St, Newtown NSW 2042)! We'd love to see you so drop by and say hi!

Design Spotlight: Ivy Design Picture Table

2010-01-04T23:20:00.001+11:00

Now here's a clever piece of furniture that makes good use of space. Verena Lang's design company Ivy Design is producing these clever tables that fold up and become a picture frame for your favourite large prints. They're a little pricey at EUR1440 (made in Italy and this price is before shipping), but worth the kudos for the design....Now we just need IKEA to come up with their own flat pack version :P

Bridge Design in Holland

2010-01-04T20:58:00.000+11:00

Yes, this is a real bridge in Holland. This certainly brings a new perspective to draw bridges. You wouldn't want to get stuck on the bridge with this design. I'd like to see what Hollywood could do with a car chase scene with a bridge like this!

Via Frozenly.com