Society of Wanderers...
Society of Wanderers grabbed my attention from the moment I laid eyes on their curated collection of sophisticated bohemian homewares... Moroccan wedding blankets, yes please! The globally sourced pieces are timeless, ethnic and often vintage. They are ethically sourced from tribal people and artisans who create the authentic, handmade, unique wares. The resulting look creates a classic, textured, eclectic home that tells stories of far away lands.
Founder of Society of Wanderers, Briony Delves, had a change of heart and career after 14 years in the fashion industry and years of globetrotting, she made the move to study Interior Design at RMIT in 2013. As the fab Julia Green fromGreen House Interiors wrote "Briony felt compelled to unearth and bring home beautiful timeless, often vintage decorator items found in far away lands, so that she could create a home that told the story of her travels. And so began the journey, as the namesake ‘Society of Wanderers’ suggests."
Tell us about Society of Wanderers and how/why you started it?
The brand was started while I was studying Interior Design at RMIT and had just purchased a new home with my partner. I had collected information on where I could source various products that I had discovered while travelling. I bought a few pieces that I loved and sold them in local home ware boutiques, it grew from there.
We love your sophisticated Bohemian style – where did your love of Bohemian home wares and interiors come from?
I spent a lot of time overseas in Europe and Asia as a teenager and loved the old buildings, antiques as well as the culture and historical stories of the items I saw. I loved what my parents bought back with them and found the pieces so much more interesting and beautiful than the run of the mill products in stores at the time.
Can you tell us about the creative process you go through when choosing products for Society of Wanderers?
My inspiration always comes firstly from the traditional patterns and designs of other tribes and cultures. The meanings of patterns and historical uses of the products is always a factor in my selection. I choose products that will stand the test of time in interiors and definitely products that I want in my own home. I do a great deal of research into the different levels of quality available and how it has been used in interiors in the past. I refine my research until I’m confident I am presenting a true classic of long lasting design and quality.
What does a typical day involve for you?
My 11 month old and I begin the day walking to our local café and then along the beach. I do most of the work for the business myself so packing orders, answering emails and working on new products. This all goes late into the night when my suppliers are just getting to work in other corners of the world.
What can we expect next for Society of Wanderers?
I’m working on a collection of new Moroccan rugs, cushions and throws as well as constantly curating more vintage collections.
Do you have any Top tips for creating an effortlessly chic bohemian styled space?
Choose pieces that you love and search everywhere from op-shops to high-end boutiques. Don’t think too hard about matching colors or styles. If you’re really lacking confidence, stick to neutrals with colour in one area like rugs or artwork.
Who are your favourite designers/bloggers/artists for inspiration at the moment?
I love artist Craig Waddell’s work, the textures and colours are amazing. Artist Prudence Caroline for her layered colour. Stylists Marie Olsson Nylander and Paulina Arklin for scandi goodness. My favourite current architects are Fearon Hay but I’m always inspired by mid-century design, especially local architects like McGlashan Everist.
Photography and styling credits:
Photography - Cricket_Studio
Styling - Julia Green - Green House Interiors
Styling assistant - Noel Coughlan
Society of Wanderers here - Instagram here - Stockists here
D + P