Presley Oldham has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary talent for working with pearls, fundamentally redefining their aesthetic in contemporary fashion. Since establishing his brand in 2020, his distinctive creations, which incorporate pearls in imaginative and unconventional forms, have captured the attention of prominent figures in the fashion industry, including Gabriella Karefa-Johnson and Kaia Gerber. A notable early piece, the \"Rice Krispies necklace,\" playfully mirrors the texture of the breakfast cereal with its freshwater seed pearls, illustrating Oldham's innovative spirit. While this piece evokes a sense of nostalgia, it also serves as a testament to his ability to transform familiar concepts into wearable art.
Oldham's journey to creating his premiere fine jewelry collection was significantly influenced by his extensive travels through Asia, where he sought out exquisite gemstones. A visit to a pearl supplier in Hong Kong proved particularly impactful; he was deeply impressed by the sheer volume and exceptional quality of pearls cultivated through artisanal methods in China and Japan. This experience ignited a surge of inspiration, leading him to explore additional suppliers in Hong Kong and Tokyo, where he discovered a diverse array of precious materials, from vibrant indigo opals to sparkling diamonds. The collection began to materialize as he immersed himself in these natural treasures, incorporating baroque pearls with a sun-kissed pink hue, delicate strands of round pearls with a satin sheen, and oval pearls exuding a peachy glow. He also gained a profound appreciation for the intricate origins of his materials, learning about the extended periods required for pearls to develop their unique characteristics—five to seven years for baroque pearls and two to three for coin pearls—a knowledge he proudly integrates into his designs.
The debut of this collection at the W Hotel in New York City during fashion month showcased a fusion of Oldham's signature styles and his latest creations. The sunlit venue, adorned with his pieces displayed on elegant glass pillars and moss-green trays, highlighted the versatility and artistic range of his work. Beyond pearls, the collection seamlessly integrated elements from previous lines, such as handblown glass, vivid coral fragments, and found objects, underscoring his belief that the materials themselves are always the genesis of his designs. His recognition as a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist last year provided a significant platform for his imaginative vision. He debuted at New York Fashion Week with striking necklaces, intricate bodices, and innovative pieces featuring vintage beaded flowers from his grandmother, honoring her legacy by giving new life to cherished heirlooms. This commitment to personal history and material integrity continued this season with silver and gold pendants inspired by his grandmother's "worry stone." Oldham's collection also expanded to include more intricate hardware, such as diamond-dusted huggie earrings and stacking rings resembling meteorites, which fit seamlessly into his diverse and colorful universe of creations. These new additions, alongside items like the \"Flying Saucer necklace\" and \"Nova anklet,\" demonstrate his ability to combine organic elements with celestial inspirations. His buildable designs encourage wearers to experiment, as seen at the presentation where editors styled pearls as belts and layered various pieces. This playful approach has cultivated a loyal following, with fashion luminaries like Gabriella Karefa-Johnson and Henry Zankov incorporating his jewelry into their work. Oldham's fine jewelry collection, available this November on his website, ranges from $450 to $10,000, and includes a re-issue of the iconic \"Rice Krispies necklace\" in fine metals. This evolution signifies his growth as a designer, embracing adaptability while remaining true to the core elements that define his unique aesthetic.
Presley Oldham's innovative use of pearls and diverse materials in his fine jewelry collection transcends conventional design, offering a vibrant and versatile approach to personal adornment. His work is a celebration of both natural wonders and cherished personal histories, demonstrating that true artistry lies in the ability to find beauty in unexpected places and to continually evolve while honoring one's roots. Through his unique vision, Oldham empowers individuals to express their individuality with joy and confidence, creating pieces that are not merely accessories but extensions of personality and storytelling.