The winter 2025 edition of Melee the Show is almost here, bringing a fresh wave of innovative designs to the boutique jewelry scene. The event kicks off in New York from February 1 to 3 before moving to Tucson from February 5 to 7, featuring a stellar lineup of both established and emerging designers.
Founders Lauren Wolf and Rebecca Overmann are particularly excited about welcoming first-time participants, describing their work as "inspiring, bold, and a true showcase of diverse artistry in jewelry." Since its modest beginnings in 2017 with just 13 brands, Melee the Show has grown exponentially and will now feature 67 designers at this year’s event.
“We’re thrilled with this year’s lineup,” say Wolf and Overmann, who are both accomplished jewelry designers themselves. “It’s incredible to see the creativity, craftsmanship, and vision these designers are bringing to life, and we’re especially eager to introduce new faces in Tucson.”
Spotlight on New Designers
First-time exhibitors at the Tucson show include Paola Zovar, Studio Baharra, Siri Hansdotter, Renata Cambauva, Heather Guidero, Human Design Studios, and Seth Michael. These designers are expected to bring fresh perspectives to the world of jewelry design.
Returning to the New York show are regulars like Ciara Bowles, known for her vibrant gemstone designs, Fannie Thomas with her sculptural creations, Mariko Tsuchiyama’s modern pearl pieces, and Manuk’s Workshop, whose innovative diagonal rings gained significant attention at Paris Fashion Week in 2024.
Among the new talents, French designer Paola Zovar is gaining a following for her personalized Totem tag necklaces and use of negative space. Seth Michael’s intricate jewelry inspired by the natural world is sure to captivate attendees, while Heather Guidero’s blend of unusual stones and modernist influences promises to stand out. Siri Hansdotter’s strikingly sculptural, organic designs are also set to make a significant impact.
A Trade Show by Creatives, for Creatives
Wolf and Overmann founded Melee the Show to offer a more meaningful experience for both buyers and jewelers. Designed with a focus on creativity, the event is smaller and more manageable, allowing for better curation and a more engaging environment for visitors on both sides of the stand. The Tucson show, launched in 2022, joins the New York event, and the Paris edition debuted in fall 2024, helping brands expand their global visibility.
As they prepare for the winter shows, Wolf and Overmann expressed gratitude for the people who make Melee the Show possible. “We’re excited to see this year’s show come to life, and we are grateful to our returning designers, whose passion continues to inspire us, as well as the new designers bringing fresh energy and exciting perspectives.”
Melee the Show will take place at The Lighthouse Chelsea Pier in New York from February 1 to 3, and at Stillwell House in Tucson from February 5 to 7. For more details, visit meleetheshow.com.