Remix Plastic

The Jewelry Edit had the opportunity to talk to Remix Plastic.

What was the first piece of jewelry you remember buying for yourself?

I recall a locket that I love – I don’t know where I bought it from, but it was a small golden circle and I put photos of my nana and aunty inside. I still have it tucked away in my jewelry box.

Where do you look for inspiration when designing pieces?

Because I work with recycled plastic, it is always the ‘waste’ material that inspires me. Most often it is the colours – with 3D printer waste, there is a huge range of bright, beautiful colours. I also focus on making New Zealand native plant and animal inspired pieces so plastic colour then leads me to consider what native it is most like.

What’s your favorite type of material to wear/work with?

I love working with 3D printer waste (PLA plastic) because it has bright colours, is clean when I receive it (unlike other plastics like bottle tops and coffee cup lids) and it melts beautifully. This means the recycled plastic sheets are easy to make and they laser cut with crisp, clean lines – making slick end pieces. They are very light to wear, you can forget you even have any earrings in!

How would you describe your personal style?

Second hand, environmentally friendly, nature-inspired chic – is that a style? Think floral skirts, merino, cotton, and linen fabrics and mix and match opshop finds.

Who/what are your biggest style influences?

My older brother had a big influence on me – very much a case of ‘he’s the coolest person, so I’ll try be like him’ when I was younger. Also, I have always enjoyed secondhand shopping and love finding interesting pieces to create unique outfits.

What’s the most special piece of jewelry you own? What’s the story behind it?

I have a beautiful pendant/brooch that my mum bought for herself that I ended up wearing so much she gave it to me. It is made from petrified wood found in the Nelson region of NZ. The stunning greens, browns and golden natural colours are contrasted with a decorative frame. So beautiful!

What’s one piece of jewelry you wear often, that you can’t live without?

The main jewelry I wear are my recycled plastic Huia Feather Earrings – this is the design that became wildly popular when previous NZ Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, wore them back in 2020. I love them because the white tips are eye catching and the black and white colours are elegant. I also love spotting other people wearing them when out and about. I always attempt to have a quick chat and thank people for their support if there is an opportunity.

What does New Zealand mean to you?

I consider myself very lucky to have Aotearoa as my Tūrangawaewae (‘place’). I have had numerous opportunities that I am very aware many women in other places wouldn’t have. For me to be able to follow my passion and run environmental companies is a privilege. Aotearoa is an inspiring place to live, with some of the most beautiful and rare wildlife in the world and the ocean is always within a couple of hours drive!

 

What is something special or unique about living and creating in New Zealand?

We are so tiny! In some ways this isn’t great for business because it means a smaller market – but for Remix Plastic it is lovely because I have very loyal followers and customers often return to purchase gifts for others. People understand what I am doing, and I am very grateful to have their support.

Why do you think it’s important for people to wear/own jewelry?

Jewelry is a great way for people to express themselves – I feel like anything close to our faces, like earrings and glasses, is something that we consider to be important in how people perceive us. 

What draws customers in to purchase jewelry from your collection?