MEET THE CREATIVE: KELSEY ARMSTRONG
A multi-disciplinary artist and founder of haricot vert (air-ee koh ver), Kelsey’s travels and appreciation for cultures inspired her to get into the arts. Studying abroad in France helped her find her love for creating, through mixed media and collage. Later leading her to New York where collage turned into wearable art through jewellery creations, sparking the birth of haricot vert.
Hey Kelsey, how’s your day going?
Hi! Today is a beautiful day—I woke up feeling excited to create and to be around people who inspire me.
Firstly, would you like to tell our Oafs a little bit about yourself?
I’m a Brooklyn-based mixed-media artist working across jewelry design and collage. I’m also the founder and creative director of Haricot Vert—a whimsical dreamworld that invites creation and curiosity.
What inspired you to start Haricot Vert?
I noticed that collage as a medium wasn’t really present in the jewelry space, and I realized I wanted to bring those two worlds together. From there, I began building a universe for girls like me.
What inspired the name?
I went to school in France and speak French, and I always thought haricot vert was the silliest phrase. It reminds you not to take things too seriously—and that’s exactly the spirit of Haricot Vert.
If you could give yourself one piece of advice when starting your brand, what would it be?
Ideas are beautiful, but they take a lot of hard work to come to life—and you don’t have to do it alone. It’s okay to let people in and allow them to help you build something bigger than yourself.
What’s your favourite bespoke piece you’ve created?
I created a custom basketball charm hoop for a women’s sports bar in Brooklyn. It was really special to me because I love women’s sports and bringing femininity into that space.
Your shop looks incredible, and we can’t wait to visit one day—what went into creating the dreamworld?
Thank you so much! While it feels dreamy now, it came from countless sleepless nights—construction, getting dirty, a lot of DIY. But all of that led to a space I can honestly say is my favorite place on earth.
Who are some creatives that have inspired you along the way?
Walter Wick, the creator of iSpy, and Tavi Gevinson, the creator of Rookie Magazine.
Spitfire questions...
Pizza or pasta?
DUH—pizza. I’m a New Yorker.
Favourite city?
Tokyo, for its maximalism.
One thing on your bucket list?
Learning a third language—Italian feels especially beautiful to me.
You can only wear one for the rest of your life: necklace, earrings or bracelets?
Earrings. All the way.
Any last words for the Oafs?
If you’re a creative person looking to start something of your own, just remember—anything is possible if you set your mind to it. But don’t forget the hard work that comes with it. That’s where the magic really happens.
