By Alison McGill
Fashion is having a love of nostalgia. Vintage has never had a bigger moment with everyone from brides to celebrities (Jenna Ortega, Olivia Roderigo and Zendaya to name a few) wearing treasures from the past. In the accessory space, jewellery with an heirloom feel is all over the runways with brooches, pearl pieces, charms, medals and lockets being standout pieces.
Old world talismans were another main character. Formally defined as an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune, talismans are said to produce magical or miraculous effects. Talismans are typically inscribed, jewelled pieces, most commonly worn on as a necklace. The current rise in popularity of these lucky charms can be attributed to a few factors. Two of the biggest: A love for a maximalist approach to layering accessories, and wearing jewellery pieces with meaning.
Handcrafted talismans have always been specialty of bluboho, the Canadian fine jewellery line beloved for its storytelling-driven pieces. Bluboho’s latest collection safe travels, wild heart is a collaboration with the dreamy Caribbean island of St. Kitts and the first drop (this collection will have three chapters) features a sparkling trio of charms inspired by the spirit of travel and adventure. These talismans are perfectly in step with this season’s love of sentimental style; and the vision behind the collection actually comes from a meaningful moment in the life of bluboho founder Maggie Aurocco.
“When we began this collaboration with St. Kitts, it felt like kismet,” shares Aurocco. “As a child, my mother would tuck a St. Christopher charm into my hand before every journey—a tiny token of protection,” “When I first stepped foot on the island, St. Kitts wrapped me in her spell: I was struck by its emerald hills rolling into turquoise waters, salt air rich with stories, and the kindness of the locals that felt more like family than strangers. This collection is a love letter to that spirit: a keepsake of guidance, beauty, and the courage to follow your heart wherever it may lead.”
Crafted from recycled 14K gold (or sterling silver), and ethically sourced gemstones, the hero talisman of the collection is the St. Kitts protection charm detailed with emeralds and diamonds, and etched with the words “Saint Christopher protect us” on the front, and “May your path be open & the stars bring you home,” inscribed on the back.
We love the idea of wearing this talisman as a singular statement piece, layering with other charms and necklaces, or even tucking it into a safe space during your travels to provide protective energy.
