Jewelry Joins the Parisian 'Haute' World

Jewelry used to be the under-appreciated step-sister of the Parisian Haute Couture world - that apex of fashion events that brings the best and the brightest to the shores of the Seine twice a year.

To even be allowed to use the term “haute couture,” one has to follow a Miss Manners' rulebook full of do's and don'ts - with very few designers making the cut (only seven houses are showing this week, for example).

But this year, jewelry brands are finally allowed to show alongside the frocks - a first for the buttoned-up world of high fashion (see Nick Foulkes' informative article in Newsweek for an in-depth look at the topic).

Van Cleef & Arpels, Chanel and Dior are among the select few to join the 'haute' crowd. And while the haute joaillerie can be seen by appointment only, it doesn't stop the looky-loo in me from wondering what on earth could be in the coffers for those who can afford the best the jewelry world has to offer.

Here is a link to a previous 'haute' offering from Dior that's at the top of my covet list and a few shots of pieces from the Paris jewelry shows earlier this year.

Want more? Stay tuned for a recap of my favorite Paris Couture runway jewelry looks tomorrow - including some crazy cuffs from Chanel and fairy-tale sized necklaces from Jean Paul Gaultier.

Yum!

Jewelry Fit for Kings and Queens

Jewelry hounds, you may be the only folks who really understand this next sentiment. You know that moment when the jewelry stars align, and you see a piece of jewelry so perfectly designed - so beautifully crafted - so YOU - that you know it will be forever ingrained on the fashion-obsessed part of your cerebral cortex?

I just had that moment when reviewing the new Dior Joaillerie line - their royal ‘Kings & Queens’ collection by Victoire de Castellane. The jewels feature one of my favorite trends – skulls – in an adorable brooch and ring pair. Yes, you’re meant to buy them as a royal couple! Adorable!


Just look at these little beauties. Can you imagine the gasps as you wear the skull ring to your next big event? Or better yet? Imagine the skulls' shine as you reach for that orange chicken Lean Cuisine during your next trip down the frozen food aisle. Glamour, people. Glamour.




The collection is made out of diamonds, opal, jade, quartz and obsidian, which along with the skulls symbolizes “eternity”, according to Dior. I’ve not been able to track down price points - which I’m thinking is just as well.

The King and Queen pieces even have cute little names: Queen of Jadélénie and King Opal to name a few.

Sigh.


So have you ever had a jewelry epiphany that rivals my new Dior skull obsession? If so, share the wealth! And what do you think about the royals? You die? Or not your style?