The idea for Wear and Resist was born during the tumultuous political landscape of 2016 when all of a sudden I found I needed to wear a necklace that said 'resist'. Brexit had happened ... and then the rest.
With a British mum and and an American dad, I grew up in both the US and the UK, and the events of that year shook me to the core. I realised I had to find a way to channel my frustration and rage into a creative endeavour, or it would begin to eat me up from the inside. And I thought that if I wanted to wear jewellery that voiced my resistance and rage then other women would too. I also wanted to raise awareness and money for charities that were working to protect women’s rights, which were now under attack by Trump’s policies and the growing right-wing movement in the UK. I'm glad I didn't know at the time that it was all going to get so much worse.
I have always had a love of eye-catching jewellery, but I had such a strong urge to wear something that made an actual statement; something that speak to other women. Inspired by the jewellery worn by the suffragettes, I wanted to create designs that would demonstrate an allegiance to this suddenly urgent feminist cause.
Women's March 2017, London
I had my first prototype Resist necklace in my pocket and was already desperate to get them made. The march and Eliza's passion for the cause made me think I could really do this thing!
The Irish Referendum
I made Repeal necklaces and raised money for ARC in the lead up to the Irish Referendum on Abortion, and Feiminí was designed in collaboration with Irish Gaelic speakers reflecting this growing feminist movement in Ireland.
Power in Collaboration with Mary Beard
I was asked to make jewellery to celebrate the release of both editions of Mary Beard's Women & Power.
Small and sustainable
Wear and Resist has grown steadily each year, but it remains a small family business. I design and we make and send everything out from our Oxfordshire studio. Eliza is an amazing model and expert chain maker and my inspiration to keep going.
When I'm not making jewellery ....
I'm usually writing in this lovely oak summerhouse built by my husband, Matt, who is also a sculptor. (Any writers in search of a beautiful writing space get in touch!)
My books have been long listed for several novel prizes. I've always had a deep interest in both writing and art. I studied both at Uni and went on to get an MFA in painting and then worked at Sotheby's auction house for many years editing the magazine.
My ideal art collection
(which I am constantly perfecting in my mind) would consist entirely of text-based works and would definitely include this neon piece by Tracy Emin. My Incandescent design is a tribute to her work. I love fonts, and the use of text in (particularly) women's art.
I didn't know how to run a jewellery business before I started. I just didn't give myself time to think and did what I loved doing. I simply followed my own creative urges. I think this might be the only path to take if you want to love your job as much as I do!
Keep persisting,
Sarah
Let customers speak for us
I absolutely love it! I love wearing it, I feel like an anarchist ! Like I used to!
Thank you Sara. X
Such a cute little badge for my lanyard. As a teacher, I’m little restricted what messages I can have on a badge at school, but hope not hate is a winner. Looking forward to dark evenings so I can see it glow!
Bought the slate colour which is exactly as per picture. Text size is just right, not too large. Daughter loved it.
I bought 2 of these bracelets, one for me and one for my Mum. Life has been a bit rubbish, she always uses this quote. Shes super picky so I did think ‘hmm she probs won’t like it’.
I’d been scouring the internet trying to find something that had this quote on, I had an idea in my head. This was perfect. I love it so much. And what’s even better is my Mum LOVES it. The day after is given it to her she said ‘it glows in the dark’ (I said it was to keep her safe so that’s surely extra points for being cute?!).
We both love it. There are some amazing things on this website and I’ll definitely be back to buy more but these bracelets mean so much. Thank you!
Sarah Was ace, I mis-ordered and she contacted me having spotted that I might have and corrected it before even sending the purchase. Then it was quickly sent and arrived. Super happy and will continue to use Wear and Resist
Not too small or big, light to wear and so very pretty. I got comments from my colleagues immediately.
So many people have said that this is so me. It's fabulous.
I receive compliments every time I wear these and proudly tell folk they are from Wear & Resist. Mix & match is perfect. Just logging in now to buy another set in different colours as three just aren't enough.
Amazing and stylish necklace in some great options.
The legacy of the Suffragette movement is as relevant today as ever. There is still so much work to do and this brooch captures the spirit of the movement and the debt we owe to those who campaigned and to those who continue to work for the rights and welfare of women. The brooch is beautiful, and a real conversation starter. Sarah has outdone herself with this collection and I will wear my brooch with pride x
Arrived really quickly after ordering, beautifully packaged and love the item. It comes everywhere with me!
Amazing product - so many compliments!!!! Have sent the website link to lots of my friends
As soon as I saw these necklaces I knew I had to have them. Yeah, yep,I was having it! I have worn them nearly every day since I got them and everyone who has seen them loves them! I really love the wit and the design of your jewellery!
Love these necklaces - have worn them several times already.
