"We don't communicate with strangers very often," says Michelle Jank. "I think a successful design is something that makes someone smile and talk to you."

Jank's playfully elegant jewellery does just that. Being a magpie collector, the Australian beauty madly collages together antique lace, vintage bows, outsize silk flowers and pearls to create one-off treasures that make a stand for individuality in this mass-produced world.

From time spent treading the runways as a model, to being Creative Director of renegade streetwear label Ksubi, to styling for Vogue, and of course being launched into the fashion stratosphere as one of Australia's most exciting talents with her own "demicouture" label, Jank's diverse CV takes in every part of the fashion world. "I think the variety is what keeps me inspired and sane." She credits the amazing buzz she received on her first shows (which Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts raved about, and led Patricia Field to put Sarah Jessica Parker in a Jank creation to promote Sex And The City) with giving her "freedom to do what I wanted from the outset. Its amazing when people take a chance on you."

Now based in Paris, she's concentrating on her jewellery for now, being the first craft she learnt aged 14. "Accessories play a great role in transforming and adding a personal touch to your clothing." She cites the "whimsy and escapism" of Victoire De Castellane's work for Dior as an influence, but all inspiration usually starts from her diary. Her S/S 08 collection, dubbed "Suspended Reality", retains her love for "big format pieces" but marks a departure from her signature style with a newfound minimalism. Inspired by Egyptian regalia and sixties-style beaded collars, birds hover mid-flight and trompe l'oeil gemstones glisten, playing with traditional ideas of beauty. "I like the notion of challenging people to think about adornment in different ways. I think people forget there can be more poetry in daily life."

While her jewellery, sold in boutiques like Colette and Dover Street Market, is gathering serious buzz, don't rule out a return to the catwalk when the time is right. "I can't wait to work with my creative family on a show again. We always try and push the boundaries - make it a little escape from reality and hopefully leave people thinking."
Of the future, she says, "My ten year plan is to be in a garden digging up carrots in a vintage Christian Dior ball gown." A beautiful dream, just like her work.