The New Emily P. Wheeler Collection Takes Major Inspiration From Tie-Dye
We’ve always loved the Emily P. Wheeler approach to jewelry: bright, bold, and entirely unique fine jewelry—and she’s done it again.
We’ve always loved the Emily P. Wheeler approach to jewelry: bright, bold, and entirely unique fine jewelry—and she’s done it again. The latest collection, Resistance, draws inspiration from the global art of tie-dye.
It’s not the first time we’ve seen fine jewelers turning to tie-dye from inspiration, with Marlo Laz and Harwell Godfrey playing with the art as well. The Emily P. Wheeler Resistance collection is an exploration of color, texture, and history, pulling from centuries-old resist-dye traditions and the designer’s own personal archive of vintage tie-dye T-shirts.
There are six subcategories of the collection: Helix, Arashi, Pollack, Batik, Spiral, and Ripple.
Helix
The Helix subcollection resembles its tie-dye namesake pattern created by twisting fabric into a tight spiral before applying due. The pieces follow the distinct color bands seen just before the fabric is opened to reveal the final burst pattern.
Arashi
Arashi, meaning storm in Japanese, comes from the traditional resist-dyeing method that produces diagonal, wind-sweap streaks. The Arashi subcollection follows suit, with cascading pieces that evoke rainfall in motion.
Pollack
Paying homage to American textile artist Courtenay Pollack, this subcollection follows Pollack’s Geometriart technique developed in the 1960s—denoted by intricate geometric folding and dyeing methods that result in symmetrical, mandala-like patterns.
Batik
Batik’s resist-dye technique that originated in Indonesia—using hot wax to draw or stamp intricate designs onto fabric before dyeing—is echoed through this subcollection’s distinctive motifs.
Spiral
Probably the most recognizable of tie-dye patterns, it’s clear where the iconic swirl is interpreted into this subcollection.
Ripple
As its name states, the ripple and wave-like patterns of this style are obvious in this subcollection. A hand-etched ripple effect characterizes its signature rings.
“Tie-dye has transcended its origins to become a powerful symbol of creativity and cultural storytelling. With Resistance, I wanted to honor the global artistry behind these dyeing techniques while reimagining them through the lens of fine jewelry. It’s about celebrating craftsmanship and color in a way that feels both rooted in tradition and completely unexpected,” brand founder Emily Wheeler tells Haute Living.
Our Favorite Pieces from Resistance
Photos courtesy of Emily P. Wheeler.
