Jewellery designer Michael Mercanti parties until 3 a.m. most nights (The Social and Amber are favourites), but he calls it research. Speech, the 22-year-old’s man-friendly line of metal-and-leather necklaces, bracelets and rings, is inspired by rock ’n’ roll and crafted for the young glunge (grunge meets glam) set. Launched in fall 2008, it’s already been hyped on international fashion blogs—and, yes, local dudes are wearing it, too. Currently sold at the Queen West boutique Carte Blanche, Mercanti’s pieces are beloved by guys who have “confidence and a harder edge.” We chatted with the up-and-comer about his guitar heroes, magazine collection and good luck charms.
Michael Mercanti designs for men with confidence (Photo by Jenna Marie Wakani)
How did you get started in jewellery?
I used to intern at [streetwear boutique] Bully on Queen Street—it’s closed now. I designed their first collection of necklaces and helped with the clothes, too. That’s where I learned how to work with leather and hardware, like rivets and buttons.
Hardware happens to be the name of your second collection. What’s it like?
It’s mostly in silver, with a lot of vintage and rock elements. The line is for guys, but if a girl’s brave enough…
Are you designing for women?
Yes. I’m starting to do more necklaces with leather and studs. They’re inspired by gladiator and Native American style but are modernized with studs and chains. Girls can wear those.
Mercanti's pieces (Photo by Zach Hertzman)
What do you predict will be popular with men?
I just sold a big order to a boutique in Australia. They love the rings I made out of bent nails.
If you could collaborate with any designer or brand, who or what would it be?
Ksubi. They’re a great brand, and I love the way they make clothes. I’d love to work with Marc Jacobs because he seems like such a crazy, interesting, cool guy. But Hedi Slimane [formerly of Dior Homme] would be my number one.
What do you read for stimulation?
I collect old fashion and music magazines. But lately, because I’m broke, I’ve been reading more stuff on-line. But I still buy two magazines every month from Pages: i-D and Wonderland.
Which rock stars have influenced you the most?
David Bowie is amazing, and Joy Division’s music really touches me. I also just saw The Cure at Coachella, and it was incredible—like an electric shock.
‘man-friendly line of metal’ nice. love the new stuff on your site Mercanti.
June 8, 2009 at 2:09 pm | by casie stewartThe Speech website is just as gorgeous as his jewellery http://www.ssspeech.com/
June 8, 2009 at 2:14 pm | by VaneskaThis is so RAD!!!
June 8, 2009 at 4:47 pm | by SaraMERFUCKINGCANTI……..
June 8, 2009 at 11:14 pm | by unibomberAn interesting look into a new upcoming designer is always interesting. I hope he is successful and that we see more of his works in the future.
June 11, 2009 at 4:04 am | by Jack