forest dwellers

"Skulk" is the collective noun for a group of foxes - something I didn't know until recently when I discovered this forest full of sterling silver critters by A Skulk Of Foxes. The jewellery label was launched last year by Melbourne designer Natalie Cirillo, who meticulously cuts each piece by hand. Featuring a matte satin brushed finish, they'll look great with whatever you're wearing, and due to their handcrafted nature, no two pieces are identical!

For me, the delicate silver silhouettes are brought to life by a flood of childhood memories - tales of the wonders and fears of the natural world and the characters we imagine living within it. Natalie drew inspiration from revisiting such fables with her two young daughters, as well as from her experiences living in London during 2005 where foxes roamed the streets surrounding her home. She was intrigued by the idea of forest animals making their way into the man-made, urban landscape - hiding in the shadows and slinking around under the cover of night.

Natalie's first collection includes pendants (pictured at top), chains (bottom left), brooches (bottom right) and earrings, with retail prices starting from AUD $66. I love the idea of the dual-pendant chain - particularly the Owl and Mouse combination pictured above! The range is currently available from Helsinki Bear in Melbourne, and Tinky in Newtown (Geelong, ph. 03 5222 8888). To see more & for further information, visit A Skulk Of Foxes' web site at www.askulkoffoxes.com.au.