Consider the thistle: disregarded by some gardeners as an inconvenient weed, it actually contains plenty of precious medical and nutrient properties. Indeed, the thistle developed its prickly and rough exterior over time as survival strategy to keep away wildlife, making it one of the most resilient flowers in nature while growing its own specific kind of beauty.

As we see it, the thistle is a classic case of form following function, and as so often with nature, function can take some curious forms. But it is precisely the shapes that are not so obviously pleasing at first sight that we often find the most intriguing at second sight.

After all, the entire premise of CLINQ is based on a simple question: What would happen if we considered the common hair clip a thing of beauty, a piece of jewellery even? Sometimes, asking the right question can lead to the most surprising results.

And so, with our EDITION #11, we celebrate the thistle and all those wondrous forms of nature that are often neglected – because there is more to the thistle than meets the eye.

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Since our very first collection, all CLINQ styles have been named after women we admire. Scientists, writers, politicians, sportswomen, entrepreneurs, designers, activists, or simply women who achieved extraordinary things in their lifetime, often against all the odds and constraints of their time and society. To celebrate our 10th edition, we produced a small booklet that profiles 10 of the women that have served us as continuous inspiration and reference point. It comes free with every order from the CLINQ store, as a small thank you for your loyal support.