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Behind the Label | Pichulik

?Jewelry is not a necessity but a choice; it connects women with their sense of self pride and self worth ? says Katherine-Mary Pichulik, a trained artist, pastry chef, and the designer of the Cape Town-based jewelry collection PICHULIK. This artisanal collection of accessories is inspired by travel and the traditions of the women artisans that craft each Pichulik design. Read more about the story behind this bold collection and check out Katherine-Mary?s favorite haunts in Cape Town.

How does travel inspire your collection?

I am currently in Istanbul looking over the Blue Mosque. I am taking in the country's colors, smells, textures, and sounds. Because each PICHULIK piece is handcrafted, the local traditions of every country we visit is very important. Each country also has unique ways of wearing garments and national motifs that populate their visual language -- these too can be a focal point for a design.

Describe the Pichulik brand in 3 words.

Brave, because the women who make the pieces and the women who wear the pieces are courageous. These neckpieces bring together a community of women across social and economic barriers.

Alchemy, because we change aterials through design. Through the healing process of weaving and touch, each piece champions change and healing.

Connection, because jewelry is worn close to the skin. The PICHULIK woman has an intimate relationship with her pieces. The jewelry connects female lineages and artisans in craft circles across cultures.

Jewelry is not a necessity but a choice; and it connects women and their sense of self pride and self worth. This is all expressed through wearing items that make her feel beautiful.

Your collection of products keeps growing. What creative endeavors are on the horizon?

Many interesting collaborations -- we're having a movement into garments and additional accessories. The most exciting endeavor is the capsule collection with brand Kat van Duinen called BARAKA. It's inspired by North Africa and the Middle East; and it premiered at The Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Cape Town on July 26!

Who is your muse? Describe the woman who wears Pichulik.

If the PICHULIK brand were a person she would have a wicked sense of humor and a strong yet inspired presence. She would have kind, wise eyes that speak of many journeys through exotic lands. She would smell the way jasmine smells in Johannesburg at the end of winter: promising spring. She would taste of pomegranates from Granada and rose syrup from Morocco.

What do you love most about Cape Town? Please name your top 3 spots for shopping, eating, and sleeping.

Its palette. I see everything in Cape Town as teel and pink -- the majestic Table Mountain puts us in this enclave on the tip of Africa. One of my favorite sites is Mount Nelson; a heritage sight that revisits the colonial charm of a bygone era.

Stroll down Bree Street, a new vein in the lifestyle of Cape Townians! On the first Thursday of every month, the whole area stays open late with bustling galleries, art projects, and general jovial behavior. Have a drink at Clarkes and check out the skate park in The Pit. Stroll into Chandler House, a treasure trove of Cape Dutch contemporary and wild design and interiors (in winter, expect gluvine served in test tubes). Buy beautiful, local made leather bags at Missibaba, statement jewels at Kirsten Goss, and patterned textiles at Skinny la Minx. You can find a nice assortment of South African designs at SAM. Don't miss the tasty cured meats and fine wine at PUBLIK, bratwurst and beer on tap at &Union, and Israeli food at Sai Baba. Also check out the amazing rings at Olive Green Cat!

Globetrotter Stats

Souk or Department Store?

Souk

DIY or Concierge Service?

DIY at times. But when I'm over-traveled and tired, concierge is a dream!

Buy Everything or Buy Nothing?

Buy things you can't stop thinking about (not useless junk). Spend money closest to the person who makes it -- ie. the city's local designs, but it's best to buy directly from designers.

Camping or 5-Star Hotel?

Boutique hoteling or beach hut bumbing.

Drive or Be Driven?

Depends on whether I'm in a congested city or exploring countryside.

Room Service or Street Food?

Street food (often room service is overpriced and underwhelming)

Lots of Luggage or Carry-on Bag?

I aspire to have a carry-on however last-minute packing leads to overpacking and many unnecessary things!

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