Q&A with Dinny Hall
To celebrate the launch of ‘The Elm Leaf’ installation in Marylebone Village, we are celebrating the rich history of the area and the retailers who make the vibrant village come to life. We caught up with jewellery designer and founder, Dinny Hall to find out what inspired her passion for jewellery.
You’ve been in business for over 39 years. What does the Marylebone Village store mean to you?
I'm extremely proud to have a store in London's most central village on Marylebone Lane. It is an area where I used to wander as a student and in particular, I would collect buttons from The Button Queen. I do remember the area seeming wonderfully Dickensian, but with an immense amount of charm which it still retains.
How has Marylebone Village changed in the time that you have been there?
Marylebone Village has always had character and housed independent stores and restaurants. Paul Rothe & Son, which has been on the Lane forever, always has queues outside and we have David Penton & Son -the smartest hardware store in London right next to us! Sure, it's changed and it's a lot smarter - but all for the better to revive and thrive.
The new 'Elm Leaf' Installation welcomes visitors to the Village. Can you describe a signature Dinny Hall piece that acts as an introduction to the brand?
I would say that it's not one individual piece of jewellery, but a whole category that my brand is known for - The Hoop Earring. I've designed more hoop earrings than any other item of jewellery over the years and you will find a wonderful choice in the store.
Why should everyone visit your Marylebone Village store?
Because as Marylebone Lane is part of London's hidden heritage, so are we! We have been designing and making jewellery quietly leading the way for many years and our stores are in the few proper London villages - Marylebone Lane being the heart.
What’s your proudest achievement to date?
In terms of my career, it is an achievement in itself to still be designing, making and retailing desirable and wearable jewellery 40 years after bursting out of Central St Martin's Jewellery Degree course. That the designs should still be relevant today for all generations is perhaps what I am most proud of.
What can we expect from Dinny Hall in the next year?
Next year, it is forty years since Dinny Hall became a brand, and by that, I mean not just me at a workbench with sketch book in hand. I was already selling in Liberty, Harvey Nichols, Browns as well as all over the USA then Japan - I was in my twenties! I am working with my fabulous team to create a celebratory collection. I'd like to tell the story of my brand in 2025 and hope that it is inspirational to others.
The Elm Tree in Marylebone Village has stood in the same place for decades and has survived many challenges. Do you have an item/object that has stood the test of time in your life?
Of course, it is a piece of jewellery that has stood the test of time and remains with me, in my jewellery box wherever I go - a gold Amethyst ring from my mother. It has led me on to design and make versions of it over the years. I have memories of her wearing that ring when I was a child - kissing me good night and smiling with joy.
