Roberta May Designs - Our Approach

Roberta May Designs has a comprehensive and flexible approach to buying unusual collectable items and designing wearable accessories. Our products range from Upcycling 100% Cashmere and 100% Linen and Cotton to buying Vintage items that have a certain aesthetic appeal, or Jewellery that is a bold statement piece or subtle and refined.

Our experience brings to life items that have been discarded, or forgotten in the bottom of a drawer, to no longer being thought of as fashionable.

The aim of our upcycling projects is to bring that little extra something to an everyday item, thus creating something very special. We focus on the detail to make it attractive and original, something for our customers to enjoy wearing, or for gifting to a family member, a friend or work colleague.

Our aim is simple - to bring together items with good design and originality. Textures and colour are all central to our choices whether the items are salvaged, upcycled, vintage, or well-loved heirlooms.

This is the concept and basis of the Roberta May Design Collection

Our Story

My entire working life has involved some aspect of design, form and shape. After starting out in fashion retailing from which I absorbed important lessons about the elements of colour, shape and texture, I moved onto dealing in antiques while raising my two children. This was an interest and skill I inherited from my mother andit has stood me in good stead with anything design related. Whenever I see an antique or vintage item it has to speak to me. Then I want to know the history of the maker, how it was produced etc. as I find the stories of the production companies intriguing. If it is fabric or yarn I am enthralled by its production process over the years.

I moved from antiques to specialise in antique jewellery, then my interests took me toward modern jewellery. For many years I ran a highly acclaimed jewellery shop in the UK which was recognised for its unique choice of jewellery and accessories. People visited specifically to see the unusual and original items that I had curated for the shop. 

All of my experiences have created the person I am today.

I see in the design, textures, colour and the history and production behind the items, something fascinating, exciting and inspirational.