Design, muses and all things influential… we’re celebrating International Women’s Day with a sit down from RUIFIER Founder and Creative Director Rachel Shaw!

Q1. What has inspired you to get you to where you are in your career?

I‘ve always loved drawing and painting, which led me to study Jewellery Design at Central St Martins. Jewellery design appealed as I see jewellery as pieces of 3D sculpture or art that can be carried with the wearer wherever they go. Designing jewellery came to me very naturally.

Today, many of my designs are inspired by the happiness my lovable pet dog Taiki brings me every day. The world around me is also a huge source of inspiration; travel, art and architecture all spark ideas that I bring to the design process.

Q2. What did you dream of doing when you were a little girl?

When I was a little girl I actually wanted to be a cartoonist. Sketching has always been my passion!

Q3. Would you say Taiki is your muse?

Yes, Taiki is a big part of my design process. He comes to the office with me every day and is a vibrant member of the team. His happiness inspires me so much and I wish for all our customers to see and feel this feeling of joy through my designs.

Q4. Which powerful woman do you admire the most?

The late Georgia O'Keeffe is a woman that inspires me, as she was as much known for being an independent spirit and female role model, as for her innovative works of art.

Today, I find concept store Colette’s founder and creative director Sarah Andelman a true inspiration. Sarah’s knowledge, eye for an upcoming designer and hard-work ethic are renowned in the fashion industry. We were so honoured to see RUIFIER on display in Colette.

Q5. Which inspiring women would you love to see wearing RUIFIER jewellery and why?

We are very fortunate to have seen inspiring women including Reese Witherspoon, Jessica Alba, Ellie Goulding and Sophie Turner wearing RUIFIER designs. It is very flattering that such talented and independent women are wearing our collections.

Q6. How are you celebrating this year’s International Women’s Day?

I’ll probably spend the entire day at the RUIFIER office surrounded by my inspiring team. I work with great women on a daily basis; we have a very supportive, collaborative work environment.