Lulabop

Based in Winchester, Lulabop is an independent accessories label, run by husband and wife duo Zak and Lula Smith. The pair design a selection of unique leather jewellery, by which the word "unique" refers not to the style, but to the process in which the jewellery is made - hand-sculpted with metal moulds they manufacture themselves.

Lula describes the leather to have a "buttersoft feel", almost like a "very fine glove leather". However, herself and Zak have also begun crafting jewellery with alternative materials, such as denim, but using the same technique to build them. The finished result is dissimilar in its vibe, yet equally as fashionable.

"Zac was influenced by an early tattoo artist, Sailor Jerry," explains Lula. But while tattoos tend to have raw connotations, Lulabop jewellery comes across as graceful. In fact, their designs have been eyed up for weddings, from which such interest has led them to incorporate their designs into handmade cuffs and fascinators - "The weddings keep coming back again and again. People want [our accessories] for special occasions."

The business was founded only in February of this year, but it is blossoming, with new customers inspiring new ideas for the Lulabop team. If you fancy taking a peek at their accessories, you can find them on Etsy and Big Cartel, or on the first Saturday of each month at the Boscombe Vintage Market, Bournemouth.