Old school is the new cool: interview with jewellery designer Hannah Warner

You probably think signet rings are only worn by public school boys who hang around the King’s Road, but think again. Jewellery designer Hannah Warner has shaken up the old-school image with her brand new collection Skins, making signet rings cool again.

An accomplished designer at the age of 27, Hannah’s designs are edgy and fresh. The Upcoming caught up with her to find out more about the woman behind the skulls and bones.

What was the inspiration behind your new collection Skins, and which is your favourite piece from the collection?

Hannah Warner: I’ve always loved textures whether it be on clothing or jewellery. I’m currently making a series of leather jackets using skins with Jamie Strachan, so I wanted to experiment with casting these into metals, particularly the alligator and stingray skins as I knew the process would pick up the textures well. I love signet rings so decided to use these contrasting smooth and angled areas. My favourite piece so far is the lapis stingray signet.

How would you describe your own personal style: designer or high street?

I’m partial to a designer piece, especially jackets or handbags as I know I’ll use them over and over, whereas staple pieces for every day I will always buy on the high street.

Who do you admire the most?

All my friends and family; they keep me sane and thankful through everything.

Tell us about your collaboration with A. Sauvage. Who would you most like to collaborate with next?

A. Sauvage approached me to collaborate with him and create a jewellery line alongside his clothing brand. It started as men’s jewellery but soon became unisex due to the style and nature of both of our brands. To keep with the theme of his African-inspired collections we used tribal scarification as the subtle inspiration behind our designs. Given the recent trend towards accessorising boots and shoes with chains and other metal accessories, I would love my next collaboration to be with a high-end shoe designer.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day is always my birthday.

Which is your favourite London restaurant?

Shrimpy’s in King’s Cross – amazing cocktails.

What are your most treasured possessions?

Artefacts from my travels; I’m a real hoarder and never throw anything away. My studio is filled floor to ceiling with art books, shark jaws, animal skins, coral and furniture.

What is your favourite holiday destination and why?

I have many favourite places to go and try to explore new ones as much as I can, but New York I love. I used to live there, so have many friends there and a few favourite spots. The buzz is incredible.

What has been the proudest moment in your career so far?

I’d say it was being asked by Colette to do an interactive display for Parisian Vogue’s fashion night out with H&H nails; my collaboration was with Holly Silius. It’s one of my favourite stores in Paris and it was an honour to be part of it.

Diana McCormick

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