I Will Walk 49 SQ. MI.

If you happen to be allergic to "it" bags, then you definitely need to consider 49 SQ. MI. The San Francisco-based designers found a way to make cool yet understated shoulder bags and clutches by combining colorful Italian leather with exposed stitching and subtracting the heavy hardware; their goal is an organic, artisanal feel. The reasonably priced label (the hobo pictured is $650) is available at boutiques across the U.S., including three here in San Francisco (Carrots on Montgomery St. and Muse Ten and Nest on Fillmore St.). To see the collections--Bigmouth Series and Artisan Series--visit www.49sqmi.com.

~Sata Schramm~

photo: www.marissacollections.com  

Everything in Nature Works Well Together

Similiar to nature itself, beauty is to be found in the details. Jewelry designer Betsy Barron’s collections have evolved naturally from her spirit within. Finding inspiration from natural surroundings, the sentimentality of Victoriana as well as loved ones, Barron’s quality, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces are meant to be worn close to your heart.

Barron’s aesthetic is best reflected in both her past and current collections. Tuned in and stirred by the environment Barron utilizes recycled silver and precious metals ranging from darkened silver, to 22K gold to her most favorite metal to work with, rose gold, which only a handful of artists are working with today. She manipulates nature, transforming these elements into twigs that resemble hearts, eucalyptus nuts, leaves, dragonflies, pinecones, seeds and florals on a much more delicate and tinier scale. Mother Nature can often be unpredictable and harsh at times and Barron’s pieces are weathered and hammered with many incorporating precious stones such as rough black diamonds, rubies, sapphires and scraps of diamonds to offset her pieces. Finally, each casting is carefully hand finished and handcrafted elements are added on. Each of Barron’s pieces romantically work well together and more than several can be worn together creating a layered, mixed look.

Barron summarizes her collections best saying that “everything in nature works well together…branches, leaves, blooms…just come together.” Find unique, timeless, collectible pieces that can be cherished for the moment and passed on for generations to come. Barron's pieces can be found at any of the Gallery of Jewels store locations and online at http://www.delamina.com/.

~Erika Lind ~

Photo: thing-sf.com/betsy

Unique Local Designs

The Mission Statement is a designer co-op lifestyle store in the Mission District in San Francisco. It is an adorable boutique where everything they sell is locally designed and handcrafted. The store is full of creative and interesting collections and a joy to visit and explore. By offering a wide selection of goods beyond just clothing and accessories, it is a true lifestyle store and an appealing destination you may find yourself frequenting with pleasure.

~Charlotte Gronseth~

Photo:www.missionstatementsf.com