VESPER OBSCURA

Independent NYC based designer Mia Vesper has been bringing the other worldly to this world since 2017. The transition from her eponymous label “Mia Vesper” to VESPER OBSCURA coincides with the shuttering of her ready to wear collection in order to focus on jewelry — including fine— and sustainable couture made from vintage and artisan-made materials.

Though she is self taught, much of Vesper’s work and ethos is influenced by the preternaturally stylish and dynamic women in her life and history. Her grandmother was Milwaukee Ballet’s costume director and the president of her regional Planned Parenthood, while her mother was an artist, primitive antiques dealer and wildlife rehabilitator. Folklore, folk art, texture, color, and handcraft form the lush core from which VESPER OBSCURA emerges, lending credence to the brand mantra: “Like nothing else on earth.”

The jewelry, made mainly from glass and semiprecious stones, is made to order and sells thousands of pieces direct to consumer each year. Since launching her brand, she has amassed a host of loyal clientele including Beyonce, Billie Eillish, Pete Davidson, Paris Hilton, Lena Waithe and Sophie Turner. In the words of WWD, the brand succeeds by “melding the worlds of art, commerce and fashion.” Pieces are eccentric but relatable; humorous but glamorous; sexy but sporty; precious but irreverent — a breezy contrarianism that is just as difficult to achieve as it is easy to like as it is surprising to see.

VESPER OBSCURA is the sort of fun you take seriously.