Massive 1980s VRBA Convertible Polynesian Inspired 3 Piece Set MRS Couture

Fabulous Polynesian-inspired jewelry set by Larry Vrba! This set features a collar-length necklace composed of faux pearls and carved seed beads with green spacer beads. The necklace pendant is an impressive floral bouquet composed of glass rhinestone cabochons and molded beads, as well as hand-molded polymer flowers (if you look closely you can see the artist’s fingerprints!). The bouquet sits in an urn with Polynesian-inspired carving. The floral earrings are also primarily pink polymer, and feature light green cabochon leaves. The bouquet and urn can be removed from the necklace and used as a brooch, a versatile choice indicative of Vrba’s innovative designs!

Lawrence Vrba began his career in 1969, working as a counter at Miriam Haskell; his talents did not go unnoticed, and he soon found himself designing jewelry. In 1970, when Miriam Haskell’s Head Designer, Bob Clark, left to work at Castlecliff, Vrba followed. Vrba spread his wings at Castlecliff, spearheading the famous Mayan collection, inspired by jewelry and adornments he saw on display at the Museum of Natural History in New York City. In 1973, after a two year stint at Castlecliff, Vrba returned to Miriam Haskell as head designer. Vrba continued to explore and expand the possibilities of costume jewelry, fashioning fine, unique pieces using materials he collected from across the globe. The Egyptian collection – perhaps his most famous Miriam Haskell collection- was inspired by materials he found while in Europe, and was featured in an edition of Vogue. In 1981s, Vrba left Miriam Haskell to work for Les Bernard, where his designs were displayed at Dillard’s for three years. In 1983 Vrba left Les Bernard to create his own eponymous business.

Vrba pieces are noted for their unusual materials, scale, and opulence!

Vrba has created pieces for theatre (including Broadway hits “Wicked”, “Exit the King”, “Blythe Spirit”, “Lend Me a Tenor”, and “Hairspray”, and the Metropolitan Opera), cinema, and private customers. His pieces have been featured at Bergdorf Goodman, Vogue, and Vogue Nippon. Clients include Beyonce, Angela Lansbury, Susan Sarandon, and Katy Perry.