Alex Monroe

Bird in the nest ring by Alex Monroe
Bird in the nest ring

Following on from my discussion of birds as a trend, I'd like to introduce a British jewellery designer, Alex Monroe, whose designs I've really fallen for. They're delicate, pretty, and vintage-looking.

My favourite pieces are from 'The Poet and the Nest' collection and I particularly adore the 'Bird in the nest' ring above, with a pearl as the setting. As a child, I remember being enchanted by this sort of delicate, whimsical jewellery that was so personal to the wearer.


Diamond set heart locket with swallow by Alex Monroe
Diamond set heart locket with swallow


Little bird charm bracelet
Little bird charm bracelet


From his website:

"His designs are slightly quirky, sometimes cute, but always very feminine."

"Meander through the British countryside to the sound of birdsong. This lively collection captures the energy and spirit of our smallest native song birds. Pink and blue Topaz stones dance with Goldcrests and Reed Warblers among the branches and leaves of the summer meadows. Take a piece of summer with you where ever you go!"

Fans include Kate Moss, Britney Spears, Thandie Newton, and Amy Winehouse, to name a few!

Bird in the bush cups

Bird in the bush cups
Bird in the bush cups from Dutch by Design

In my search for all things birdy I came across these ever-so-cute bird in the bush cups. A thoroughly modern mug tree that you would be proud to leave out in the kitchen. I love the sheer simplicity of them coupled with the ingenious handles.

Poem by anon

Birds and more birds


Recently, I've been seeing birds everywhere. Whether they're used in graphics on websites like Laura Ashley and Graham & Green, or on the High Street with bird cage necklaces aplenty, it seems to me that our feathered friends have hit the mainstream as a trend.

It's not the bright, colourful flamingos or peacocks of last year, either. Instead they're the small, softly-coloured birds that you're more likely to find in your back garden.

Why is this? Personally, I think it represents a return to a more natural, organic, comforting symbolism. The bird imagery I'm seeing is delicate, pretty and vintage, evoking a mood more in tune with comfort, homeliness, and eco-friendliness. Take, for example, the Hampton Court flower show that I recently visited where "eco" was the word of the day. A lot of the stalls displayed many bird-inspired garden products, from plant supports to outdoor napkin holders... (check back later for my full report on this wonderful event!).

In tune with this, I'd like to share some of this great bird imagery I've discovered recently. Please visit my Polyvore set above to see some of what I think are the best examples of wallpaper, cushions and jewellery in this trend.

I'd love to hear your thoughts about this recent trend!

~ Wardrobe Update ~

Now that I am no longer pregnant and restricted to a very special section of my wardrobe I am keen to have a wardrobe update.  I have been scanning the pages of a few favourite mags (a very brief scan mind you as time is very limited).  Here are some lovely items I found while look through my Notebook Magazine





While not all of these are terribly practical for a breastfeeding mum, I do love to dream about what is now possible without a big belly in front - maybe a few more months before I can be this adventurous though!