AW24 : Behind the collection
A JOURNEY OF PLAYFUL CREATIVITY AND UNIQUE EXPRESSION
As we step out of the autumn and winter seasons, I’m excited to share the thought process and inspiration behind the AW24 collection—a playful departure from the usual, and a reflection of where Merchants of the Sun is headed creatively.
DESIGN PROCESS AND INSPIRATIONS
For this collection, I wanted to break away from the conventional and explore designs that felt fun, fresh, and unique to Merchants of the Sun. The collection draws inspiration from unexpected symbols like the inflated balloon dog and baby mushroom man—playful elements that you wouldn’t traditionally see in men’s jewelry. It was about starting from scratch, letting go of any preconceived notions from past collections, and not allowing previous jewellery trends to dictate the creative process.
One of the design challenges I leaned into was translating these playful symbols into 3D, sculptural forms that could wrap around band rings. As all our pieces are hand-crafted in wax, this required countless attempts to perfect. A technique that proved instrumental was carving the symbol once in wax, creating a mold, and then gluing the repeating elements onto a blank band face. This process brought to life the Doberman Crown and Talking Heads rings, while another version featuring apes didn’t quite make the cut.
I also wanted to bring in some streetwear influences—particularly stars, flowers, and checkered patterns, which are making waves in fashion right now. You’ll notice this especially in the Sojourner Band and the All I See Is Stars ring, both featuring bold, repeating star motifs.
PERSONAL REFLECTION AND GROWTH
This collection was also deeply personal. For the first time in a long time, I allowed myself the space to truly create without a strict deadline. Stepping back from the business side of things, I gave myself permission to take time—time to think, to experiment, and to let inspiration come through without pressure. It was a liberating process that reminded me of why I started designing in the first place.
Interestingly, this journey mirrors my own personal growth. After years of constantly optimizing, streamlining, and pushing harder, I realized I needed to step back, ‘de-optimize,’ and create space for nothingness to let creativity flow. This shift allowed me to identify gaps in the current range and fill them with designs that felt authentic and new.
CONNECTING WITH OUR AUDIENCE
For our customers, AW24 is about continuing their journey of self-expression. Each piece is designed to layer onto existing collections or stand boldly on its own. Whether it’s the stackable pieces or the bolder statement rings like the Doberman Crown, I wanted this collection
to offer something unique—something that’s not already out there.
On a deeper level, this collection is about finding beauty in the everyday. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the small moments, and being present. That’s something I leaned into while designing these pieces, and it’s a sentiment I hope our customers feel when they wear them.
LOOKING AHEAD
The AW24 collection has been a turning point for me creatively, and I believe it showcases what we, as a brand, are capable of. I’m excited to explore this more refined approach to design and continue pushing the boundaries of premium jewelry.
As for what’s next, I see the upcoming spring and summer in Australia embracing preppy fashion—think loafers, baggy jeans, button ups and ties. Styles that I believe will compliment these sort of fits are oversized chains, understated stacking rings, and bold statement rings. We’ll be incorporating these elements with color through gemstones and enamel to complement the evolving style landscape.
