Behind the Collaboration: Crafting the RPZL x Grey Bandit Seashell Hair Extension
Some projects come along unexpectedly, weaving their way into your life at the perfect time. Last summer, I had the opportunity to collaborate on a truly unique project: designing and handcrafting a custom seashell hair extension for the RPZL x Grey Bandit collaboration.
This collaboration came about in a beautiful way, RPZL’s founder approached me asking if I could create the shell extension by hand.
Bringing each shell extension to life was a labor of love. Every single step was done with care:
Shell Selection: Carefully hand-selecting each cowrie, spiral and conch sell, along with the perfect pearls.
Wire Preparation: Measuring and cutting the wire to exact lengths for consistency.
Wire Wrapping: Individually wrapping each shell, link-by-link, to create seamless connections.
Assembly: Deliberately piecing each component together, making sure the connections were seamless and fluid, creating a flowing, wearable chain.
In fact, some days I was wrapping shells on the shoreline, balancing creative work with family beach trips — keeping creativity and family side-by-side.
After assembly, each extension was carefully packaged to preserve its form.
Rolled into poly bags
Protected in bubble pouches
Labeled with individual style numbers
Every detail was handled by hand ensuring the final product felt as intentional as the creative process.
Seeing the extension come to life in RPZL & Grey Bandit’s campaigns—and featured across social media and editorial outlets—was surreal! For me, the project underscored what I value most: taking raw materials and transforming them into something meaningful and beautiful.
Want to see more from this collaboration? Watch the entire RPZL x Grey Bandit x MerCurios playlist here.
From the studio, through the stories.
This space is an open journal of sorts—where stories, symbols, and small moments gather. Some entries trace the creative process, others reflect on inspiration found in nature, history, or daily life. All are woven with the same intent: to offer a glimpse behind the relics and the meanings they carry.
Explore More Stories
Observations, outings, and discoveries—from the shoreline to the pages of a book—that inspire and inform the work.
Quiet musings on creativity, meaning and the seasons of life.
Stories, folklore, and meanings woven into each stone and symbol.
A glimpse behind the studio doors. Where modern relics take shape, and creative process meets play.
Fresh pieces and shop updates— what’s newly crafted and ready to find its wearer.
On styling, wearing, and the art of personal adornment.
Creative tutorials, care tips, and process highlights.
Markets, workshops, and special events — spaces where stories and people meet.
Important updates, news and what’s on the horizon.
