When most people add accessories to an outfit it’s usually a bracelet or necklace, but what about a bejeweled belt buckle?

Sandra Russell has been hand crafting jewel-encrusted belt buckles for the past four years, in addition to some of her other artwork including glam dog tags that she calls “Girl Tags.” She stumbled upon making belt buckles by accident and hasn’t stopped since.

The process of creating one of these belt buckles usually starts at a garage sale, thrift store, or consignment shop where Sandra finds vintage and costume jewelry and other small trinkets that might be usable. Currently she likes using small shells for a nautical style and peace signs for a retro theme. After she brings her treasures home, she takes apart the jewelry to see how she can mix and match different pieces together. She then uses glass seed beads as the base and creates a fabulous buckle.

Sandra sells her belt buckles at private trunk shows, Yapa in Downtown Melbourne, Art Expressions in Downtown Eau Gallie, Longboard House on 5th Avenue in Melbourne Beach and on her website www.sandradeeart.com. She also creates custom orders from your own personal mementos; cameos have been popular recently.

Drawing inspiration from the materials she uses Sandra makes wearable art. She calls her buckles “the focal point of an outfit”. Whether you’re a little glam or a little hippy she produces something for every girl to enjoy.