O G oo o d d o
Kristin Mariella Twin Within
Having represented Icelandic labels in fashion showrooms or at trade shows for over six years, Kristin felt the need to branch out on her own. So she started her own label in 2013 in Iceland, making her jewellery by hand for the first year and a half.
Her signature statement necklace designs are a fusion of both feminine and masculine elements, using a combination of fishing and climbing ropes, hardware, rubber tubes and magnets, she explains. “I believe you can create beautiful pieces from simple raw materials; it just comes down to creativity.”
After moving to Singapore, she looked for a way to outsource the production of her necklaces. Having developed a special connection to her jewellery through the hand- making process, however, she felt strongly that it had to be produced with love and care, and within ethical parameters. “I had no idea where I would find the kind of workmanship I wanted. Production by hand and according to fair trade practices isn’t exactly typical of most factories in Asia.” Her research eventually led her to stumble on a small advertisement for an organisation in Tagaytay City in the Philippines, under the auspices of the international charitable movement Focolare, which provides job opportunities for disadvantaged women. The rest is history, she says. “Before I knew it, I was on a plane with my husband and our then nine-month-old daughter to check out their facilities. We honestly had no idea what to expect, but our gut instincts told us to go for it!” Was it easy to take into account the ethics aspect of every step of the production process? Definitely not, says Kristin. “It took about a year to set everything up, and for us to be able to too runrru larger production numbers,num mbers, butb it was well worthwo orth the wait!wait Being sociallyso ocially responsiblerespon in theth he way we operateo is one of the core purposes of my business. Our vision is to give back, every step of the way.” This has taken her to other countries to look for production opportunities; now, she has some of her metal detailing crafted in Bali, giving back to a local community there too. Though it’s been tough, it’s been hugely rewarding both personally and professionally.
Despite living in a society where most of us don’t think about the origin of the things we buy, Kristin believes the fashion industry is leaning towards awareness. “The movement is definitely growing, and more people want to know where their products come from. I’m so proud to be part of this important change, and doing my part to grow it further!”
She also strives to make positive lifestyle choices for herself and her family. “I definitely live a more minimalistic lifestyle today than when I started working with the women in Tagaytay. I think I have less than 40 pieces of clothing in my wardrobe! I make sure my daughter plays with organic or natural toys, and that we don’t buy unnecessarily. I just try to be a lot more mindful of what I purchase. It’s a simpler way of life, but it’s been enriching.”