Charleston designer Mary Norton’s ability to create one-of-a-kind works out of overlooked and damaged vintage accessories transcends ordinary fashion and enters the realm of the art world. Norton is the creator of the Moo Roo line of handbags — celebrities including Halle Berry, Tina Fey, Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, and Miley Cyrus have been seen rockin’ her purses — and she and her team have been working on a new line of up-cycled vintage furniture and home décor, Moo Roo Renew. You can check out her latest pieces in the Homes for the Holidays: Moo Roo Renew Pop Up Shop, which will be open Dec. 6-12 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. The pop up shop is at 439 King Street, above Juanita Greenberg’s.
Her new home line features a variety of vintage styles from a wide range of time periods including the Victorian and Baroque eras. As for motifs, the uniqueness of each distinct item prevents repetition in Norton’s works of art. “I take broken things and make them into one-of-a-kind treasures,” she says. “Although, someone did describe it as ‘Barococo rock and roll on crack.’”
Norton is grateful Juanita’s is allowing her to use the space above the restaurant for her shop. Even the location for the pop up shop fits in with the theme, Norton says. “I’ve taken a broken down space and turned it into a hidden gem.” In addition to the Moo Roo Renew items, the store will feature the artwork of artists Patch Whisky and Crosby Jack. A few of their smaller works will be displayed in Baroque frames made by Norton.
Continuing the “Homes for the Holidays” theme, Norton will donate 10% of all proceeds to Habitat for Humanity. “I figure that since I’m launching a home line, I wanted to help provide homes for others,” she says. “I’m so lucky to have a home. I feel that it is my responsibility to help others.”
You’ll be able to peruse her line of purses and accessories at the pop up shop as well. For more info, check her website at marynorton.com or call (843) 813-6139.
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