Meet the Tipperary designer bringing colour to autumn jewellery trends

Sitting down with Maura Bourke, the designer and creative force behind Thurles based jewellery brand The Messy Brunette, we chat about the inspiration behind her colourful, handcrafted pieces and what we can expect from this autumn’s jewellery trends.

Maura creates colourful wooden jewellery inspired by everyday objects, geometric shapes and bold colour and what began as a creative hobby has grown into a successful Irish jewellery brand, known for its lightweight statement earrings and playful aesthetic.

September often feels like a second New Year. Do you see customers approaching jewellery purchases as part of a fresh-start mindset?

September definitely marks a shift. For me, it's less about back to school shopping and more about customers beginning to think ahead. By then, I'm already preparing for the busy autumn and Christmas season, and a lot of customers are too. Stockists are ordering for the months ahead and shoppers are starting to think about gifts and special occasions. It's a season of planning and looking forward.

How can jewellery help people feel more confident when returning to work, study, or new routines?

Jewellery is an expression of who you are. My pieces are colourful because I love how a pop of colour can completely transform an outfit. Even if you're not naturally confident, adding a bright pair of earrings can lift your mood and make you feel more put together. It draws attention to your face and gives you that little confidence boost before you head out the door.

Can jewellery become part of a daily ritual, much like skincare, exercise, or journaling?

Absolutely. I think it's part of taking care of yourself. You get dressed, maybe do your skincare or makeup, choose an outfit you feel good in, then finish everything off with a favourite pair of earrings. They don't have to be big statement pieces, even simple studs can make you feel polished. It's those little rituals that help you start the day feeling your best.

Are there materials, colours, or textures in your current collections that reflect the warmer, cosier mood of the season?

As autumn arrives, I naturally gravitate towards richer, more muted colours. I still love bright colour, but I also enjoy working with earthy greens, warm browns and softer neutral shades. Then, as we get closer to Christmas, I start introducing more shimmer and glitter for party season. It's a lovely progression through the year.

What design details are you personally drawn to this season?

I'm always inspired by geometric shapes and clean lines. Inspiration really can come from anywhere, it could be the shape of a mug sitting on the kitchen counter or an interesting pattern I spot during the day. This season I'm enjoying combining those simple shapes with natural looking materials and softer autumn colours.

What jewellery trends are you seeing for late-summer and early-autumn weddings?

People seem to be looking for pieces with a subtle shimmer rather than anything too bold. I have pebble drop earrings with just a touch of sparkle that catch the light beautifully. They're elegant enough for weddings but versatile enough to wear again afterwards, and I think people really appreciate jewellery that works for more than one occasion.

Which piece from your latest collection best captures the mood of the coming season, and why?

I'm working on some new pieces using a beautiful brown wood I recently found, paired with softer neutral materials. They feel really natural and versatile, perfect for wearing during the day and then dressing up in the evening. For me, they really capture that cosy autumn feeling.

If you could define this season's jewellery mood in three words, what would they be?

Colourful. Happy. Uplifting.

What's one jewellery trend you expect to see everywhere this autumn?

Versatility. I think people want jewellery that works with everything, pieces you can wear every day but that also look great for dinner, an event or a night out. Timeless styles in earthy colours will be really popular.

Which item of jewellery should everyone consider investing in this season?

I'd always recommend a really versatile pair of earrings. For me, that's my Paint Splatter Earrings. They actually came about by accident while I was experimenting with colour, but they've become one of my signature designs. They work with almost any outfit, whether you choose the white or black background, and they're the kind of earrings you'll find yourself reaching for every day.

Interview from August/September edition of Tipperary Life magazine