About Ingrid & The Wilde Things
Sometimes, in the wind of change, we find our true direction.
In 1989, I stood in awe, before the Great Pyramids of Giza,
the opportunity of a lifetime, on an archaeology trip with Sydney University. The desert heat shimmered, I stood with dropped jaw at the foot (or paw) of The Sphinx and something inside me shifted.
Within moments, I knew. The job I’d left behind in Sydney - 60 hours a week, highly paid and life consuming - wasn’t for me any longer. My creative soul needed space to breathe. I returned home to Melbourne with sand in my shoes, stories in my heart, and a clear decision: I would design jewellery and build a business that meant something, giving myself 2 years to do it.
By early 1990, I had my first commission - from none other than bridal designer Mariana Hardwick. That led to a flourishing jewellery studio, specialising in handcrafted wedding pieces and bridal tiaras. One of my most joyful moments? Designing jewellery for the beloved Australian film Muriel’s Wedding.
But Where The Wilde Things Are was never just about sparkle. It was about connection. Adventure. Storytelling through the things we choose to carry. It was about the freedom of working from a home-based studio with my 2 much loved, well-travelled cats.
From Cairo to Kolkata, and Every Market in Between
Over time, my journey took me far beyond the studio - from the woven treasures of Aswan and the peace (vegan) silk-spinners of Assam to flea markets in Paris to eco dye textile workshops tucked into the hills of Ubud. With every trip, I gathered not just materials, but meaning.
What began as a jewellery label evolved into a curated collection of sustainable bags, handmade accessories, and ethically sourced goods, created in collaboration with artisans, family-run businesses, and women-led collectives around the world.
Today, I still design my own jewellery label and continue to work closely with our talented makers - especially in India, where our much-loved stonewashed jute and canvas bags are handcrafted in Kolkata using eco-friendly fibres. Everything is chosen with care, designed with purpose, and made to journey with you.
A Brand with Heart (and Paws)
My border collie, Finn, comes to the studio with me every day. He helps me pack your orders, guards parcels on our post office runs, and even joins me at Pilates. He’s more than just my companion - he’s my daily reminder of what truly matters: creating a business that’s grounded, personal, and full of heart.
Together, we run Where The Wilde Things Are from our studio in Olinda, nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges- where parcels go out with love, and everything starts with intention.
What We Believe
🧵 Craftsmanship Matters
We honour slow processes, traditional techniques, and the hands behind every stitch.
🌍 Style with Soul
Our pieces are designed to be used, loved, and remembered - not just worn.
🌿 Sustainability, Always
From natural fibres to low-impact production, our commitment to the planet is woven into everything we do.
🤝 Connection is Everything
Each product is a story- from the artisan who made it to the journey it will take with you.
Carry the Journey with You
We hope that when you wear one of our pieces - whether it’s a hand-stitched linen scarf or a jute crossbody bag - you don’t just see beauty. You feel history. You feel care. You feel the freedom to wander and bring home stories.
Because the things we carry should carry meaning, too.
With love,
Ingrid & Finn
xox