May 1, 2008

accessories bracelets new designers jewelry los angeles

Object Lesson

Snake Charmer

Keerstin Wintrup adds a twist to some new serpentine accessories. By Danielle Prescod

See larger image...

From the ancient Greeks to the Native Americans, classic leather-works have been inspiring love-worn, hand-me-down accessories for centuries. And Canadian-born, L.A. resident a Keerstin Wintrup is taking a cue from some of these ancient cultures to spin her own new "tail" in earth-inspired jewels.

Wintrup's braided leather bracelets and belts are designed extra long for wrapping and wearing in multiple ways and are made unique with a gilded snake head and tail, both ends of which are beautifully detailed. "I'm intrigued by vintage art-deco style jewelry, enamel pieces, and anything really intricate," she says.

Wintrup designs and constructs all of her accessories locally out of her Los Angeles studio. "I hand braid and assemble each piece," she says. "But I do have to thank the guy that hand-carved the snake hardware…he did three or more carvings before it was perfect."

This foray into accessories is a slight deviation from the designer's background in clothing design. But despite the switch, she doesn't plan on ditching her fashion past for good. "Jewelry is a bit more interesting to me at the moment," she says. "I love clothes, love sewing and designing. I have a few items I'm working on now, but I prefer to design on my own schedule…I just do what I want, and if people like it, I'm grateful."

Keerstin Wintrup bracelet, $134, and belt, $162, both available in Los Angeles at Creatures of Comfort, 7971 Melrose Avenue; 323-655-7855.

• Socialize this article
  Permanent link

• Email This Entry