How designer Melissa Curry created a collection of life-affirming jewellery

Jewellery designer Melissa Curry was born in Sligo, but it was her passion for travel and adventure that inspired her eye-catching pieces. Her love of traditional Irish symbolism blended with her appreciation of the designs and patterns she saw in other countries, making for a distinctive mix of influences.

"I travelled all over the world in my youth," says Curry. "I developed a fondness for tribal and ethnic accessories", which are a way of life, as are accessories in our own Celtic heritage. So that's really where it all started. Moving to Paris highlighted this and made my dream more real."

When Curry set up her Parisian jewellery brand, her unique designs became sought after, and were soon stocked in boutiques in New York, Japan, Paris and London. Her regenerative vision and powerful design brought collaborations with leading brand names such as Absolut, Swarvoski, Toni & Guy and Phillipe Stark @ Bon.

"I was chosen by Liberty of London to be their Millennium Designe," explains Curry. "I also collaborate with KISANY Living Linens, a project that supports women in East Africa. We worked on a campaign called Give Work, which highlighted the importance of giving work to women and their communities. It was developed by the Sisley Foundation and Kisany."

This month, Curry is also involved with the Irish Fashion Collective event in support of St. Joseph's in Shankhill. Designers including Curry, Don O'Neill, Deborah Veale, Helen Steele and more will be showcasing their latest designs, with all funds going to support people who suffer from dementia, as well as the families who care for them.

For Curry, the event is a combination of two of her passions; design and support for families. "I am a mum to a child who has had significant challenges in his life without much support. I value the support St. Joseph's give to people, and the hope and dignity they give to families and their loved ones. I admire Deborah Veale for stepping in and cheering them on."

Curry will be showcasing pieces from her recent collection, including brightly coloured statement necklaces and delicate gold bracelets embellished with inspirational mantras such as 'Success'.

"My recent work is BYOS (Be Your Own Self)," she says. "It's a collection that aims to motivate and celebrate people on paths to greater self-esteem. It promotes the values of success, happiness, balance, love, opportunity, and our warrior spirits. The collection is built around our human values and needs."

Her 'Success' bracelet is a beautiful piece, subtle yet glamorous, and the perfect accessory for women who want a reminder of their goals and personal power. But don't take our word for it - just look at the calibre of women who are wearing it. "The BYOS 'Success' bracelet has been worn by celebrities such as Saoirse Ronan, Arianna Huffington - and it was even gifted to Michelle Obama! It is now worn by thousands of women all over the world," reveals Curry. Suitably for someone who is inspiring powerful women in both the arts and the business worlds, Curry is currently focused on developing her own brand and expanding upon its success and potential.

"I am currently working on expanding the BYOS brand and being more inclusive after popular demand," the designer says. "We have a full men's collection coming out in November. I am also developing a collection called 'Warrior', which celebrates inner strength. We have also become a part of the Google Start-Up Programme, so this is an exciting time. We are working towards a whole new beginning."

Melissa Curry's jewellery can be bought on Virgin Atlantic as well as in Kalu Emporium in Naas, and Khan Blackrock. See byos.melissacurry.com, @byosbymelissac on Twitter and @byosbymelissacurry on Instagram.