Vivien Walsh has been designing costume jewellery from her base in Dublin since 1984. Each piece is individually designed by Vivien and handmade in Dublin by her own specially trained team using semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals, delicate filigree stampings, pearls and glass beads collected from around the world.
Vivien’s jewellery is typically light in texture, reminiscent of a bygone era of true femininity and elegance. Her work has been regularly featured on the pages of the fashion glossies including Vogue, Glamour, Marie Claire and Elle and closer to home in Image, The Gloss, Social & Personal, Irish Tatler, Confetti, Irish Brides and Wedding Journal.
Did you always want to be a jewellery designer?
I have always loved jewellery. I think I get that from my mother, perhaps my father too, as he would always bring me when he was shopping for her.
What's the inspiration behind your creations?
I get inspiration from all around me. One of my favourite pastimes is trawling through markets when I travel and getting that little glimpse into the past. I like to collect old beads, pieces of fabric and old jewellery. Sometimes I use them in my designs to give them a new lease of life.
Where did you study? Did you do an apprenticeship as part of your studies?
I am completely self taught. My first attempt at jewellery creation was after a surprise discovery of a small bead shop in London in the early eighties. We didn't have anything like that here at the time. I was so fascinated, went straight home and began making immediately! And the rest, as they say, is history!
Was it tough getting started in business?
I don't think I really considered that I was starting a business .When I moved back to Dublin in the mid eighties, I continued with my hobby and sold jewellery to friends and family. The Design Centre had just opened on St.Stephen's Green and I took a space there with a host of other young creative people like Lainey Keogh, Mariad Whisker, Mary Gregory and many more. We were very enthusiastic and looking back now, very lucky to have had the opportunity to work in such a creative environment.
Is the fashion world as competitive and catty as it's made out to be?
Competitive, yes, just like any other sector, but I have never found it catty.
I have made great friends over the years and I find creative people to be very motivated and interesting.
What has been your greatest achievement in your career to date?
Still being here, doing what I love and making my living from it.
Describe your own personal style?
I am a laid back kind of person, so my staples are basic jeans and t shirts - always with a good bag and shoes!
Have you had to streamline your business as a result of the recession? How has it impacted you and your peers in the fashion industry?
A few years ago I anticipated a change coming and at that time decided to sell my retail outlet and concentrate on my online business. It allowed me to be more flexible and I was able to spend most of the last year in Italy, which I loved. Everyone has had to adjust and be more innovative and creative to deal with the situation we now find ourselves in. But being a small business has its pluses, you can move much more quickly and make the necessary changes.
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
I love being my own boss and the flexibility it brings - and I get to be creative all the time.
Where do you see the Vivien Walsh brand going in the future?
I want to continue to improve my online store together with a number of one to one events where I can meet my clients and develop my commissioned work.
