The Diasporic Comfort of Pearls and Lace

Entering AIDA’s new store on Hämeentie, Kallio feels like stepping into a familiar yet entirely unexpected space. The atmosphere is a juxtaposition of modern and traditional: Picture a vintage vase purchased from the busy streets of Mong Kok overflowing with freshwater pearls. At the next glance, you see the cutest golden amulets in the shape of a rocking horse, a boot, and a fish leaning on a vintage cigarette holder filled with, well, what else other than cigarettes?

The sweetness of these charms and pearls –  which, by the way, are all handcrafted in Helsinki using natural and recycled materials – might be the first thing that intrigues you, but they carry more meaning than you would think.

When brainstorming for this fashion editorial, I was drawn to what AIDA evokes—a sense of familiarity wrapped in modern elegance. The atmosphere of the AIDA shop awakened vivid memories of my childhood: hand-crocheted tablecloths spread lovingly over dining tables and the comforting glint of pearls on my mother’s jewelry. These details hit a soft spot, carrying the warmth of tradition and the intimacy of cultural memory. 

There’s something enchanting about the universal meaning of pearls and lace. They’re timeless and delicate, yet their significance is profound—symbols of heritage, femininity, and resilience. Pearls and lace become transformative when reimagined through the translucent, minimalist lens of 90s aesthetics —think of Maryam Nassir Zadeh-inspired sandals or pearl chokers.

It’s a perfect harmony of contrasts: structured yet soft, traditional yet rebellious, classic yet undeniably fresh. Paired with the 90s ethos of effortless cool, pearls and lace strike a delicate balance between nostalgia and innovation—a space where AIDA truly thrives.

All jewelry by AIDA