Lechelle Petite, a unique jewelry brand founded by Michelle J Tan, has garnered attention for its distinct, handcrafted designs. Known for their organic appeal, Tan’s creations showcase a blend of natural gemstones, unexpected pairings, and intricate craftsmanship.
Unique Design Aesthetic
Lechelle Petite’s jewelry stands out due to its unique aesthetic. Each piece combines various materials and colors in ways that are both surprising and beautiful. Tan’s designs often feature unexpected combinations, such as pearls paired with jadeite, tourmaline, and Swarovski crystals, as well as hand-blown glass accents.
“Most of the designs are one-of-a-kind,” Tan explains. “I prefer not to replicate my art, and often the gemstones I work with are unique and cannot be duplicated.” Every piece of jewelry is meticulously crafted by hand, ensuring that each item is distinctive.
While Tan is the driving force behind the brand, she has the support of a skilled team. This team handles the preliminary work, such as cutting gemstones, crafting gold components, and creating floral accents and small charms. Once these elements are prepared, they are sent to Tan’s home studio, where she assembles each piece personally.
“I drill the pearls at my studio desk, set them, and bring every single jewelry piece together,” she notes. “They do not come ready-made, and some designs require much more time than others.”
Rapid Growth and New Beginnings
Since its inception in 2020, Lechelle Petite has experienced significant growth. The demand for Tan’s unique jewelry has exceeded her expectations, prompting her to consider expanding her operations. She is now preparing to open a brick-and-mortar store for her online brand in October, allowing for increased production capacity and improved efficiency for her team.
“I’d never imagined opening a studio, as Lechelle Petite was always meant to be a small part of my life,” Tan reveals. The brand’s journey began during the COVID-19 lockdowns, a time when she found herself with extra time to explore her creative talents.
“I had just moved into my first home in 2019 and was alone in the house for months,” she recalls. “During the lockdowns, I rediscovered my passion for crafting. I started sharing my creations on social media, initially with friends and then with the public. I tested the market for my work, much like I had done years ago on LiveJournal.”
Early Beginnings
Lechelle Petite is not Tan’s first foray into the world of jewelry design. As a teenager, she had already made a name for herself by creating and selling jewelry online. “At that time, blogging was a big deal,” she reflects. “I designed my blogs on LiveJournal, Blogspot, and Xanga. When the Singapore LiveJournal marketplace emerged, I started turning my creations into wearables—earrings, necklaces, rings, cuffs, and more. That was my first taste of a business that performed rather successfully for a 15-year-old.”
As her business grew, so did her ability to incorporate higher-quality materials. Tan began using gold wire and various gemstones, starting with Swarovski crystals and eventually progressing to natural gemstones. She learned to work with these materials through techniques like wire-wrapping and gold casting, often collaborating with professional jewelers to create customized pieces.
A New Era in Jewelry Design
Tan’s return to the jewelry business with Lechelle Petite was a natural progression. She reconnected with her previous suppliers, who had also grown in their capabilities over the years. “From handmade creations, I gradually began working with pricier gems,” she explains. “The only difference now was that Instagram allowed me to connect with those who appreciated my art immediately.”
This connection has proven vital for Tan’s success. The online platform has not only allowed her to showcase her work but also provided a community of supporters who share her passion for unique and handcrafted jewelry.
Designing for Royalty
Tan’s distinctive creations have not gone unnoticed. Her work has captured the attention of high-profile clients, including members of Japanese royalty. This recognition is a testament to her dedication to craftsmanship and her ability to create pieces that resonate with a discerning audience.
Being commissioned to design jewelry for royalty is an incredible achievement for Tan, who remains grounded despite her rising fame. “It’s an honor to have my work recognized at such a high level,” she states. “I aim to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also carry meaning and significance.”
Future Plans and Vision
Looking ahead, Tan is focused on expanding Lechelle Petite’s reach while maintaining the integrity of her brand. The upcoming brick-and-mortar store will serve as a creative hub where she can work alongside her team and continue to develop new designs.
“My vision is to create a space that reflects the essence of Lechelle Petite,” she shares. “It will be a place where creativity thrives, and where customers can experience the beauty of handcrafted jewelry up close.”
In addition to opening her studio, Tan is exploring opportunities for collaborations with other artists and brands. She believes that working together can lead to innovative designs and fresh ideas, further enhancing the jewelry landscape.
Embracing the Journey
As Tan continues her journey as a jewelry designer, she remains committed to her roots. Her experiences as a teenager in the jewelry business have shaped her approach to craftsmanship and design. She is passionate about creating pieces that tell a story and evoke emotion.
“I believe that jewelry is not just an accessory; it’s a form of expression,” Tan emphasizes. “Each piece carries a piece of the creator’s soul, and I strive to ensure that my work reflects that.”
In an industry that can sometimes prioritize mass production over individuality, Lechelle Petite stands out for its commitment to handcrafted excellence. Michelle J Tan’s unique designs and dedication to quality are poised to leave a lasting mark on the jewelry world.
Conclusion
From her early days selling jewelry online to designing pieces for Japanese royalty, Michelle J Tan has demonstrated her passion for craftsmanship and creativity. Lechelle Petite is more than just a jewelry brand; it is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams and the beauty of handcrafted artistry. As Tan prepares to open her new studio and expand her brand, the future looks bright for this talented designer.
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