[rebloged from examiner.com]
There is a secret child within all of us and one of the things that seems to be a common thread amongst all kids, of any age, and that is we all love a treasure hunt. Then if you add the unexpected pleasure of being in the presence of one of the great unsung heroes of the fashion jewelry business ... well then …. This was an experience that needed to be recorded in words. The hours spent at CJS will interest those who have more than just a superficial interest in fashion. By this, I mean for those who have a great respect for fashion and design as well as those who possess a deep seated interest about the history of fashion including the pioneers who were the foundation of what it is today.
From Wikipedia... With the advent of the Mod period (1960’s) came "Body Jewelry". Carl Schimel of Kim Craftsmen Jewelry was at the forefront of this style. The Boston Museum Of Fine Art recently displayed Carl Schimel's "Chastity Belt" created in 1969 in their "When High Fashion Inhaled The '60s—'Hippie Chic'
Carl Schimel and his brother Marty spearheaded, if not discovered or possibly invented, the contemporary or fashion jewelry customer. Rather than appeal to the burgeoning disposable income housewife, these guys broke ground for the future and possibly seeded an entire industry with their originality, creativity and vision. The brothers were responsible for such innovations as wrapped/caged in wire stones and body jewelry. They were indie creators who were prescient some 50 years ago and whose influence is still felt on an international basis.
So that being said, let’s fast forward to present times and we find Carl Schimel and his daughter Elyse literally buried in history with a business that defies any present day business model. Carl and his daughter have created a haven/goldmine for fledgling and seasoned designers where one can wallow in the history of what was and test their creative limits once through their doors. Imaginations are de rigeur here and making dreams come true are possible here by literally rolling up your sleeves and digging through a treasure trove of materials. You will find beads that boggle the mind, chains, and stones of every conceivable size, shape and color, and finished jewelry and parts that span half a century. You might find “blanks” used for Judith Leiber minaudieres as well as the contents of those precious evening bags and yes they are bona fide “real.” You might find pearls of any size and color or seamless beads or those hand blown beads from Venice! This is visual overload!
Their business is structured as a “go to” destination in a way that allows for literal and total immersion and exploration of materials. Imagine in this day and age being able to buy raw materials or even ready-made items that are sold by the pound. Please keep in mind that this is not a tourist or entertainment destination but literally a hidden treasure buried in a nondescript building on one of the many streets that were once part of the millinery/garment center of NYC. They cater to “the trade” as it is aptly named!
The father and daughter team have cultivated a devoted coterie of international designers, creative directors and historians who can surround themselves in a world that once was as well as a future of what might be. The Schimel’s are wildly knowledgeable and welcoming so not only do they grant you access into their inner sanctum but they will also share their philosophies and experiences. For me, it was a coming home of sorts, as it reminded me of my times at Miriam Haskell when I could just “get lost” in the inventory/history of times gone by.
Big thanks to CJS Sales, Carl and Elyse, for welcoming me into your amazing world….
