Topple and Burn

Topple and Burn: protest jewellery from London

Topple and Burn is a London-based jewellery brand that presents itself as a campaign of rage as much as an accessories label. It designs hypoallergenic necklaces and earrings, free from nickel and copper, and ships its orders from London within three working days. Shipping is free on orders over £50.

Origin and evolution of the brand

The company was born by accident in the summer of 2017, when its founder, Libby, was looking to raise funds for her refugee charity, Calais Action. In 2016 she had commissioned a necklace with the slogan “Fuck the Tories” for personal use; a year later she created a rudimentary website to sell more units by pre-order to friends and donate the profits to Calais Action. The necklace went viral, attracted the attention of the national press and celebrities such as Lily Allen, and generated hundreds of orders that the newly formed team managed to handle. Members quit their jobs, new designs followed and demand remained high. In 2020 the company changed its original name to Topple and Burn to represent broader causes.

Charitable commitment

Since its beginnings, the brand has used its products to raise funds. With the support of its customers, since 2017 it has donated tens of thousands of pounds to various causes, including food banks, refugee organisations, inclusive community spaces, organisations working in Palestine, LGBTQIA+ and trans rights organisations, organisations supporting survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, sex worker support networks and abortion funds. 10% of profits goes to the Trussell Trust.

Team and structure

The company describes itself as a small, growing team, with a working environment, suppliers and wages it is proud of, and uses sustainable materials wherever possible. The team is led by Libby as founder and CEO, with store managers in the UK (Lauren), the United States (Jenny), the European Union (Cha) and Australia (Pat), as well as Rebecca in press and public relations and Meric in design.

Recognition and clientele

The brand has been described as “cool AF” by The Huffington Post. Its customers include MPs, Hollywood stars, pop stars and comedians. The company says it has received numerous stories from people who feel empowered wearing its jewellery, important conversations started and minds opened.