Who would have thought tree fungus could be beautiful? In the hands of Caley Johnson, who creates high-drama headpieces under the label Miss G Designs, fungus and feathers and other natural elements become become stop-and-stare adornments ready for your next big entrance.
Lovely over long hair or short, the one-of-a-kind, handmade headpieces ($95-$275) range from smaller cocktail-appropriate creations to double-sided toppers overflowing with feathers, flowers and – yes – the aforementioned fungus, whose surprisingly sculptural appearance looks something like a cross between wafer-thin wood and sculpted paper. We caught up with Johnson recently to ask the San Francisco designer a few questions about her latest work.
What materials do you most enjoy working with?
My favorite materials to work with are feathers and tree fungus.
What’s the allure of headpieces for you? What do they bring to a person’s overall look that, say, another type of accessory does not?
The thing I love the most about my headpieces is that there is one for every woman, no matter her age, her build, her personality. It is women that inspire me. They are each so beautiful in their own distinct way, so different, so complex and so rich in color and depth. My headpieces reflect that beauty. No two are exactly alike. Each one evokes a different feeling, vibe or emotion….So I guess what makes them special is that they are really an extension of the woman wearing them.
How long does it typically take you to make one of your creations?
I honestly have no idea. I work on five to 10 pieces at a time. When I get stuck on one, I have learned to move on and come back to it when I feel inspired.
On a typical Saturday afternoon, where would we find you?
You would find me in my garage workshop making headpieces.
When you’re not working, where do you hang out in San Francisco?
I love to spend time in Golden Gate Park or at the beach.
Photography courtesy of Sidney Erthal for Miss G Designs
