Hailing from Toronto Above Average Studio offers jewelry that’s lovingly made. And rightly so, the founder Sarah Dunn is proud of that.
Expect gorgeous jewelry pieces at relatable price points, from retro-inspired snake chain necklaces to pearl earrings and to solid gold hoops that are oh-so-wearable you won’t take them off.
Felicity Carter: What was your first fashionable memory?
Sarah Dunn: Trying on all of my Grandma’s old costume jewelry. Her and I would sit on her bed and I would stack the pieces on! I still love to go through all of her pieces from time to time as it brings back so many fond memories.
FC: How, when, why did you get into the industry?
SD: I went to school for Fashion Business. I was required to do an internship and was lucky enough to land one with a local company called Muttonhead. They then hired me on once my internship ended, where I was able to take on a lot of different roles. I did everything from wholesale, to customer care and order fulfillment. I always knew I wanted to start a business of my own and the girls who started Muttonhead really inspired me to do so. After looking at the market and my personal needs, I found it difficult to find jewelry that wouldn’t tarnish, was affordable and was super simple. Thus began Above Average Studio!
FC: How would you sum up the aesthetic?
SD: Our aesthetic is very simple and classic. Each piece is created with the intention of it being worn everyday and to be kept in your jewelry box for years to come. Yes, there are more trendy pieces among them but we try to stick to high quality basics.
FC: Who is your customer?
SD: Our customer is definitely the person who likes to wear their pieces everyday and appreciates something more timeless over something super trendy.
FC: Currently which is your favorite piece and how do you wear it/them?
SD: Our Herringbone Chain! I wear it every single day and it doesn’t leave my neck. I’m currently 7 months pregnant, so it’s being worn with a lot of sweatshirts and sweatpants at the moment haha. That’s what I love about the piece though, it can be dressed up but also dressed down.
FC: What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve been given when it comes to handling the industry?
SD: Don’t take things personally. I currently run the business as one person and at times it can be hard to not take things super personally. I’ve learned to put it aside and focus on the positives. As well, don’t look at building a brand as a race. Do it organically, even though it takes more time. The payoff is worth it in the long run.
Shop the label on their website.
