The Story Behind Detroit Wire Wear & Leather
Welcome to Detroit Wire Wear & Leather—where every piece tells a story, and every design begins with a spark of obsession (the good kind).
I'm Norma, and I'm so glad you're here. I'm a self-taught designer—an autodidact, if you like fancy words—with a lifelong compulsion to make. I've always been drawn to design that feels smart, bold, and intentional, and I don't stop until every detail is right. Honestly, I can't stop. Perfectionism has its perks.
How It Started
Detroit Wire Wear began years ago with my original wire jewelry designs, proudly carried by boutiques and the Detroit Institute of Arts gift shop. The name says it all: wire, form, structure, and a little Motor City grit.
Then came 2020, and like so many creatives, I hit the reset button. I started experimenting with leather jewelry—cutting it, shaping it, pairing it with magnetic clasps, chasing new ideas. One prototype turned into another, and soon, I had an entirely new line on my hands.
And so, the Urban Leather Collection Was Born
The Urban Leather Collection celebrates refined edge: leather in rich finishes—matte metallics, distressed classics, bold pops—paired with sleek magnetic clasped bracelets electroplated in fine silver over zinc for durability and style. These pieces are made for everyone and are to be worn, lived in, and noticed.
This isn't mass-produced fashion. Each design is handmade and intentional, guided by my relentless focus on quality, form, and fit. If a bracelet doesn't pass my perfectionist test, it doesn't leave the studio.
Why the Name Still Fits
Even though I've expanded into leather, "Detroit Wire Wear" still reflects the brand's roots. Eventually, you'll see a return to my sculptural wire jewelry designs on the site—bold, sculptural pieces that started this whole thing in the first place.
That's why the logo has Detroit Wire Wear & Leather as its full name. It's about evolution without compromise.
What's Next?
I'll be using this blog to share what goes on behind the scenes—the materials I love, upcoming designs, pop-up news, customer stories, and the occasional deep dive into the "why" behind a design decision (because, yes, every curve and clasp has a reason).
Coming Soon: “How to Choose the Right Bracelet for Your Style”
In a few weeks, I’ll be posting a helpful guide on how to pick the right bracelet for your wrist, your vibe, and your life. We’ll talk leather, color, textures, clasp mechanics, how to measure your wrist correctly, and even gift ideas based on personality types. You won’t want to miss it.
Thank you for stopping by—and for supporting handmade, independent Detroit-made design. This journey is just getting started.
Stay strong, stay curious, and stay wired.
With gratitude,
Norma
Founder & Designer, Detroit Wire Wear & Leather