Memphis is brimming with talent, and lately I’ve been running into fashion and jewelry designers that create the most beautiful, intrinsic pieces. I first met Talibah Arnett about 2 or 3 years ago while hanging out with a mutual friend. It was in a casual setting (just a group of creatives at an event), and we chatted about meeting up in the future to see if we could collaborate on anything, but “life” got in the way and it never happened. Talibah moved to New York for a few years (in addition to designing jewelry she’s also a music artist), but she recently moved back and we were able to reconnect!

Her jewelry line, Pretty Bull, has been making waves in the city and beyond. The handmade, delicately design pieces were created for the every woman. While Talibah herself has calm, understated style (and disposition; she’s super sweet with an infectious smile), her jewelry line definitely makes a statement. You could be a minimalist or love a more eclectic, bohemian aesthetic and still rock her designs.

Take a peek at some of her newly designed pieces while getting to know a little bit more about her and her line.

What first led you to jewelry design?
When I was a kid, my family and I celebrated Kwanzaa. It is encouraged to make gifts or to gift something that the receiver has to make. My father bought me a beading kit when I was 12. The bug got me then.

Why the name “Pretty Bull”?
I was looking to name the brand something catchy and I went with Pretty Bull because I’m a cute Taurus (lol). I was super into studying astrology at the time so it just came out.

What does a typical day in the studio look like for you?
I start the day printing order sheets to gauge my workload. My space starts clean and ends up a mess as I’m hammering and beading all over the place. I take a lot of photos of my product in the studio and I take dance breaks fairly often.

Where do you draw inspiration from?
Honestly, my design style directly develops with my own style. I make pieces I want to wear first and adjust for the customer as I get to know them. For example, when I first got started all of my earrings were huge because I love big earrings. As I got more feedback, I noticed a lot of women like smaller pieces so I make sure I include that, which has given me a deeper appreciation for subtlety. I seek to make pieces that serve as an accent to natural beauty but stand out enough to start a conversation.

What is your favorite part about being a designer?
Well, I always have new jewelry. Also, I get to spend my time using my mind to be creative and make money off my intuition.

Who is the quintessential woman that would rock Pretty Bull?
I think she is a natural beauty. She is explorative, specifically of herself. She has classic style but likes to take risks.

How do you like to wear your favorite pieces?
I’m the type of person that has staple pieces and will wear them daily until something else encapsulates me. Right now, my favorite things are my vintage Guess jeans, an oversized sweater and a beret or headwrap. My style is basically my Mother circa 1996. I really like basic clothes well combined and perfectly fitted with loud jewelry and a bold lip.

What would you do with three more hours in your day?
Read and Sleep.

What’s your vision for the future of your brand?
I just want to get better at what I do by collaborating with other talented women. I’d like to see my brand help me to travel the world to inspire, challenge and connect.

Thanks Talibah! Visit www.prettybull.com to shop the full collection. 

Fashion interview memphis creative Pretty Bull Talibah Arnett