Dirty Librarian Chains was born out of designer Susan Domelsmith's frustration with being unable to find jewelry that possessed an edgy, understated and yet slightly askew elegance that reflected her own personal style. Domelsmith initially designed a few necklaces for herself comprised of vintage chains that were deconstructed and reconfigured through draping, knotting and tangling into new designs that could be worn in both casual and more formal contexts, pieces that were meticulously composed, but still exuded an easy, streetwise wearability. The necklaces soon caught the attention of Austin, Texas boutique FactoryPeople, which became Domelsmith's first retailer; Dirty Librarian Chains found a place alongside designers like Alexandre Herchcovitch, United Bamboo, Development, and APC, and became the store's best-selling jewelry line. Dirty Librarian Chains now counts stores as diverse as London's Harvey Nichols and Los Angeles' Filly among its stockists.
The current collection of Dirty Librarian Chains continues to incorporate reworked vintage costume jewelry that is hand picked from dead-stock as well as second-hand sources. A piece such as the Call Number necklace incorporates eleven gold and silver-plated vintage chains and four unique vintage charms. The materials and components of each design constantly change based on what is available, making each piece one of a kind as well as creating a unique history that arises from the interaction of individual vintage components.
Dirty Librarian Chains continues to receive extensive press coverage in publications like Nylon, Jalouse, Jane and Vogue China, as well as being featured on the cover of Teen Vogue (June/July 2006). Kate Hudson, Debbie Harry, Ellen Allien, Holly Williams, Peaches and members of bands like Ladytron, and The Donnas have been seen wearing pieces from the line.
For all press and wholesale inquiries, please contact Audrey Gingras at Archetype Showroom.