Paris Spring 2009: Hermès

I am in love with the cactus desert sands of the Hermès runway! Designer Jean Paul Gaultier took the Hermès collection for Spring 2009 straight to the wild wild West and it was a pleasure to watch. The runway show was opened by none other than supermodels Stephanie Seymour and Naomi Campbell. The equestrian heritage brand, Hermès which is well identified by the sophisticated world traveler is safe in the creative hands of the talented designer Gaultier. The classic house scarf was creatively twisted into a bandanna and ponchos were made elegant by square-cut cashmere knits and day dresses. The much desired accessories of the brand were stunning including the soft suede riding boots, the riding gloves, the exotic crocodile clutches, the canvas and leather suitcases and the fringed Birkin bags.

* Hermès Paris Spring 2009

Contemporary Jewellery: Barbara Uderzo

Now, I have to agree that the Italian contemporary jewellery maker, Barbara Uderzo, caught my eye when she introduced the Chocolate Jewellery earlier of this year. The necklaces, rings, and bracelets were made by chocolate and cocoa and specifically designed “as romantic items for couples to eat together.” According to Barbara Uderzo, it is fundamental for her “to work with meaningful forms, because a jewel’s value isn’t only the preciousness of the material, or the manual execution but it has a special link with the meaning of designs.” And truly, she has made some incomparable designs.

Besides chocolate, her rings are made from wax and wick, wood and earth, colourful plastic, and miniature cactus (Look below!) These are definitely fun, charming and surprisingly wearable. So, whether you want to indulge in chocolate for a little romantic night with your significant other, or you want to show your sense of unique style and taste, you will certainly find something extra-Italian-special for yourself.