Theodora Warre launched her eponymous brand in 2014, following a life-long obsession with jewellery. It would seem this path was inevitable: as the great-granddaughter of former crown jeweller, Harry Garrard, creativity was very much instilled in her sparkling heritage.
Theodora’s designs are predominantly in gold and silver combined with diamonds, rubies, pink sapphires and semi-precious gemstones to produce elegant and modern future heirlooms. Endlessly inspired but the talismanic nature of jewellery, her designs carry a personal meaning and a touch of the bohemia. In her own words ‘the Theodora Warre woman is a constant traveller with a love of exploration and discovery.’
This free spirit characteristic was imbued from an early age: “I consider myself very fortunate that my parents love travelling and as a result I grew up going on very unconventional holidays: they took me to India as a young child which I remember to this day. I told my mother in no uncertain terms that ‘when I grow up I want to live here’. Sadly that looks unlikely now but working there and travelling back and forth is the next best thing.”
These trips to India clearly left and indelible impression. Following studies at Chelsea College of Art and Design and the London College of Fashion and a stint working in Fashion Publishing, Theodora’s true calling was cemented in Jaipur where she studied gemmology and worked at the Gem Palace. Here she met the suppliers and stone-dealers that she continues to work with today: with a commitment to ensuring her materials and stones are ethically sourced, whilst preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Based at her studio in West London, Theodora spends much of her time in Jaipur visiting the workshops where her jewellery is made: India is a constant source of inspiration for her colourful designs. “I’m a Sagittarius with a love of change and exploration and travel is the perfect outlet for these characteristics – I am always inspired by new and wonderful places.”
Complete with her St Christopher necklace, and go-with-everything gypsy hoops, we delve into the travel psyche of Theodora Warre.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
A trip to Brittany that my grandmother took our family on. I remember it well as I discovered a life-long love of oysters – I remember everyone at the time being quite shocked that a small child liked oysters so much!
What’s been your most memorable trip and why?
My honeymoon: we were away a month and travelled to Japan and Bhutan, ending up on the beach in Thailand.
Where or what is your escape?
A long hot bath at the end of the day.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…
Somewhere hot and sandy: the Maldives looks like the perfect place to really unwind and relax.
My top bucket list destination is
I am dying to make a trip to Peru.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
Exceptional room service for breakfast.
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
I don’t need any. I have a really long list of places and countries that I am longing to visit.
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?
His Holiness The 14th Dali Lama.
What is your favourite hotel?
The Ritz Paris.
What’s on your travel playlist?
Simon and Garfunkel, Bruce Springsteen & Christine and the Queens.
How do you switch off?
On my yoga mat.
What is your number one packing tip?
Someone recently introduced me to packing in multiple smaller bags within my suitcase and I have never looked back.
Who is your favourite travel companion?
What is your most treasured purchase from your travels?
What are your jet lag recovery tips?
Where is home and what are your must-do’s for any tourists visiting?
What item of clothing/accessory is a suitcase stalwart?
My St Christopher necklace– the patron saint of travellers.
First thing that comes to your mind?
Hand-luggage essential?
Airpods and iPad.
Packing: roll or fold?
Fold.
Inflight book or inflight film?
Both.
Music or podcasts?
Music.
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
Snacking
Holiday tipple of choice?
Margarita.
Best shopping gem found abroad?
The list is endless.
Beach or City Break?
Beach.
Ultimate holiday treat?
No alarm.
Any Questions or Tips to add?