SHARONA HARRIS, F+H JEWELLERY
Unable to find jewellery with a style that was both feminine and masculine, Sharona Harris decided to design some herself and so F + H (femme and homme) was born. Having recently opened their first concept store at Habitat, we caught up with Sharona for a chat.
We’re honoured you chose Habitat to open the first F + H concept store. What attracted you here?
I love the vibe here at Habitat! It’s such a great community of local designers, entrepreneurs, amazing local food and creatives. There really is no other spot in Byron quite like it. I was actually trying to get a space in Habitat for almost a year before a retail opening became available, so I'm really happy to be here.
Describe the jewellery you're wearing right now?
Today I'm wearing my 'Mixed Up' chain necklace. It's the ultimate statement piece from this season’s chunky jewellery trend. We actually just had Justin Bieber request this necklace! Because this piece is such a statement, I like to pair it with a simple hoop, and I'm currently wearing our 'Ramones' chain hoop in a small size, which is perfect for everyday wear.
F + H is about the balance between feminine and masculine style. Why was this approach important to you and how do you find that equilibrium?
The balance of feminine and masculine in my designing is a reflection of my own personal style, because I like to feel glamorous when I dress, but not overly pretty or sexy. Instead, I like to balance my styling with a little bit of masculinity, like with boots, oversized blazers or tailored pants. When designing I create this balance by using strong modern shapes, with hardware or industrial influences and then balancing this with beautiful gemstones and a pop of colour.
Where and when do you find yourself feeling most creative?
Being creative is non-stop. It’s an all-day, everyday process. I'm constantly thinking of ways to be more creative in my business from social media, photoshoots, designing and marketing. Great ideas can come at any moment. However, for me to refine ideas I like to be alone in a really quiet space, like at home near my garden with no distractions.
How do you capture ideas when they strike?
When I get a great idea I make a rough sketch and design notes in my diary. The initial sketch really just needs to capture the shape, proportions and notes about the inspiration.
What’s the best thing about working in Byron?
Byron's a dream place to work and live, because it's great to be surrounded by people working by their own rules and valuing happiness and lifestyle over the corporate hustle. I'm rarely in the office after 4pm now and can’t wait to get outdoors at the end of the work day.
How have you built resilience through 2020 and the many challenges it’s posed?
I’ve always valued owning my own direct line of communication to my customers via strong digital marketing, because I like to control how my brand is showcased and the message we're projecting. So when Covid hit this year I was in a strong position to ride through the challenges because we'd already worked so hard on growing our audience, rather than relying on wholesalers. Working this way also allows us to be flexible and gives us the ability to react in a changing environment.
Where can we find you when you’re not busy running F + H?
I love starting my day with James and the team at F45. After hours, I love a walk around the lighthouse or a surf at The Pass. On weekends I love trying to get away on short road trips with friends and family to North Stradbroke Island, Yamba or Bellingen. We're spoilt with so many great beaches within a few hours drive.
Is it still a thrill when you see someone wearing your creations?
It’s still so exciting to spot people wearing my brand. I’m starting to see more and more of it, but it doesn’t get any less rewarding.
What’s something not many people know about F + H that you’d like them to know?
We're constantly trying to improve our quality and manufacturing process, while still being sustainably minded. We're doing this by always ensuring our quality is of the highest standard, so our pieces last many years, not just a season. And by producing in small batches to avoid any waste, every piece finds a home. We're also working with amazing craftsman that are members of the Global Responsibility Jewellery Council. They audit sustainable standards and practices in the jewellery industry and align with the 10 principles of the UN Global Compact.
If you could have anyone, alive or from the past, wear your jewellery, who would it be and what would you style them with?
I would love to style Grace Jones. She is an absolute icon and her music has been a huge influence for me. I would definitely style her with a dramatic statement piece like our 'Annie' chain necklace with onyx and topaz gemstones. I think she'd love it.
What have you got coming up between now and the end of the year?
We have an exciting new collection launching in November. It's got cool industrial shapes, balanced with pave set gemstones, for a touch of glamour, and a mixture of rhodium and gold plating. We'll be shooting the campaign for this soon in Byron, which is always fun!
To see Sharona's creations, click here, but why not come and visit the F + H concept store at Shop 42 at Habitat.
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