Presley Oldham, a jewelry designer and CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, made an unexpected move by adding clothing to his collection for his debut on the New York Fashion Week calendar. The decision to showcase both jewelry and clothing was driven by Oldham’s desire to create a complete world for his brand, allowing the jewelry to shine on a canvas of beautifully crafted garments. The collection featured showstopping pieces, including intricate beaded flowers from Oldham’s grandmother, Linda Oldham, who played a significant role in the creation of the designs. Through this collection, Oldham honored his grandmother’s legacy and showcased his emotional connection to her work.
In addition to the beaded flowers, Oldham incorporated glass beads, pearls, and other unconventional materials into his designs, collaborating with artisans from around the world to create stunning headpieces and fine jewelry pieces. The combination of jewelry and garments in the collection aimed to evoke beauty, elegance, and sensuality, with a focus on creating pieces that felt relaxed and effortlessly chic. Oldham’s use of luxurious silks, knitted thongs, and tops added a touch of sex appeal to the overall aesthetic, complementing the sultry nature of his jewelry designs.
Oldham’s presentation at New York Fashion Week featured a diverse cast of models, including his friends and actors like Cole Escola and Brandon Flynn. He engaged his family members, including his uncle and grandfather, in creating a vibrant backdrop for the show, further emphasizing the communal aspect of his work. The event attracted a crowd of fashionable guests, including designers Christopher John Rogers and Hillary Taymour, highlighting the strong connections Oldham has formed within the fashion industry.
Shortly before the presentation, Oldham received a nomination for a CFDA Award for Emerging Designer of the Year, a significant achievement for a jewelry designer. Despite the challenges and uncertainties of the past year, Oldham expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his creativity on a larger scale and pursue his passion for fashion. With his growing reputation and network of supporters, Oldham has the potential to establish himself as a sought-after jewelry designer for future New York Fashion Week shows and collaborations with other fashion labels.
Oldham’s success at New York Fashion Week and his innovative approach to combining jewelry and fashion demonstrate his talent, ambition, and ability to make meaningful connections within the industry. By tapping into his family’s artistic heritage and collaborating with skilled artisans, he has created a unique and captivating collection that celebrates craftsmanship, emotion, and style. Moving forward, Oldham has the opportunity to further expand his brand and explore new creative partnerships, positioning himself as a key player in the world of high-fashion jewelry design.
