Susan Domelsmith

Susan Domelsmith, the creator and designer of the Dirty Librarian Chains collection, is an Austin talent "blazing new trails".

I dropped by the Dirty Librarian Chains Trunk Show at the Factory People to meet the designer. She made a special stop for the two-day trunk show before meeting her family for the holidays. The Dirty Librarian Chains collection of necklaces and earrings range in price from $25 to $240 making it easy for anyone to afford a piece with an "elegant beauty, edgy and humorous twist".

Building from her success in Austin, Susan now lives in Brooklyn where she continues to earn international buzz.

(Above: Designer Susan Domelsmith wearing my favorite piece (Card Catalog LKBK Small) from her current collection)

Q: What inspired you to start your collection?

I had been looking for a specific type of necklace for awhile, but I was unable to find the perfect one. One day, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a necklace for myself. I went to a thrift store, bought a few necklaces, and then proceeded to deconstruct, tangle and mix them up until I had several new pieces that I loved!

Q: What inspires and influences your designs?

I have always had a love for vintage and antique furniture, jewelry and clothing. I see so many different vintage jewelry pieces everyday, so they definitely have an influence on my designs. I also like things that are elegantly beautiful but still have an edgy and humorous twist. My classical training in studio art also has a huge influence on me.

Q: What are a few top picks on your play list?

Music has always been a big part of my life. I listen to music all day long as I am making jewelry, so it is also a very important influence on the line. Here is a list of the things that I have been listening to the most lately: No Comprendo mixes by Prince Language, Rub N Tug, Out Hud , BBC Radio 1 (I love learning about new artists!), Old Disco like Patrice Rushen, Most of the bands on DFA (especially LCD Soundsystem- their 45 minute Nike track is amazing!) and NPR (I've got to stay on top of current events!)

Q: When did you realize you had a following?

Lately I have been meeting people that are already familiar with the line already without me having to describe what I do. It still amazes me when people I've never met before know who I am!


Q: When did you move to Brooklyn?

I moved there in January of 06 from Texas, so the winter surprised me! I've been living there about a year now.

Q: What advantages does living in Brooklyn afford you?

It is really easy to meet people that are creative and working in really interesting fields. I love the energy and the excitement that the social environment of New York offers. All of the fun things to do in the city are also a huge draw for me.

Q: Is there is a reason behind the Lola Bag?

Suzie Rapp, of Rapp and Posavek, and I have been friends for a long time. We worked together at a vintage store (Flipnotics) through college, and have stayed in touch over the years. We also both worked for FactoryPeople, and thought it would be amazing if we could come together to create a bag with a detachable necklace for the handle.

(Take my word - I have touched this bag and the leather feels like butter and the dettachable chain is completely signature. Simply click to shop.)

Q: Where can we find more Dirty Librarian Chains?

I sell to about 20 stores nationwide, as well as to Harvey Nichols in London. You can check out dirtylibrarianchains.com to see my complete list of stockists.

Q: How has Le and Thomas of Factory People helped in taking your first steps with Dirty Librarian?

They were very supportive of the line from the very beginning. I started wearing the pieces I had made into the store while I worked for them, and Le and Thomas decided that the line would work well in the store. I started bringing in pieces that I made and they were selling out, so I brought more and more. They really kick started my career! FactoryPeople is such an amazing space, and being able to sell my jewelry alongside such amazing brands is such an honor.

Q: What are your next steps?

I have a Dirty Librarian Chains men's jewelry line in the works as well as some higher end pieces. I also want to do more custom pieces for my customers. There are a lot of ideas bouncing around in my head all of the time, so hopefully they will become a reality soon. Stay tuned!

Shop: Dirty Librarian Chains in Austin TX at the Factory People or contact susan@dirtylibrarianchains.com for ordering information.

(photo credits: Dirty Librarian Chains)

designer insider
posted - beth / 1:43 PM / 12.24.06