Q&A with J. Maskrey, founder of Skin Jewellery

Many things come to mind when we think of London-based fashion designer J.Maskrey: Body jewellery creator, fashionista extraordinaire, shoe lover and designer to the stars.

Maskrey received her fashion breakthrough when Emanuel Unargo used her body jewellery to complete his outfits, replicating the dress straps in his Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2000 collection.  Since the beginning of her successful career, Maskrey has worked with an array of fashion/beauty houses and celebrities, including Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Alexander McQueen, MAC, Givenchy and many more.

After recently showcasing her newest collection of shoes in collaboration with Melissa in Singapore; We managed to score ourselves an exclusive interview with the designer. Here’s what she had to say.

MFA: You studied Finance and Classical Chinese at Auckland u niversity, how did that lead to your successful career in fashion? 

J. Maskrey: I took a makeup course in London upon graduation, as I was always interested in the Arts. I came up with the concept of skin jewellery in 1999 and from there, it lead to working with some of the biggest fashion and beauty houses like Alexander McQueen and MAC Cosmetics amongst many others.

MFA: How did you feel when Emanual Unargo used your body  jewellery in his Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2000 collection?

J. Maskrey: It was a dream come true, as I’ve always admired his amazing dresses. Our collaboration was perfect as skin jewellery is very much a couture product as well.

MFA: From skin jewellery to shoes, how did the collaboration idea with Maelissa come about?

J. Maskrey: I had the idea of working with plastic shoes back in year 2000 during my show in London Fashion Week. Taking my idea to the next level, I made the connection with Melissa and we’ve been collaborating ever since.

MFA: When creating a new collection, what is your method? Is it a q uick process?

J. Maskrey: I do a lot of research before I come out with a new collection. It usually takes a few months. I start by doing research, usually through watching old movies, looking at books. Then, I will have a meeting with my team, outline the ideas I had in mind and then we will all spend more time on research and drawing up more ideas.

MFA: Your list of celebrities include Rihanna, Kate Moss, Mariah Carey  and many more, what is that like?

J. Maskrey: Working with celebrities is nothing but a great experience. They are all very easy and inspiring to work with.

MFA: What is your personal style? Do you have any inspirations?

J. Maskrey: Feminine, practical and modern are words I’d use to describe my personal style. I dress for myself, as long as it looks good and I feel comfortable.

MFA: You have enjoyed many successes throughout your career, but  what is your one highlight?

J. Maskrey: Knowing and working with Alexander McQueen.

MFA: What are your thoughts on Asian Fashion-Singapore in  particular?

J. Maskrey: I love the Singapore style, very sexy yet practical. I like seeing the mix of dresses with accessories.

Take a look at our report on the Melissa Nation Fall/Winter 2014 Collection:

Shannon Gallagher