Fantasia di Natale: A Look at the Collection.

In my previous blog entry, I mentioned that my winter collection Fantasia di Natale is inspired by Italian designer couture, featuring exquisite pieces of jewellery that are urban chic meets fantasy.

Personally, l look up to Italian couture designers because not only are they trend setters of the fashion industry, their designs are always uber chic, stylish and elegant. Creme de la creme. This year, many top designers have introduced black satin and lace into their Winter '09 collections and their couture grace the pages of almost every fashion magazine you open.

DESIGN INSPIRATION

The design for "Christmas di Natale" is centered around the theme of european old world meets new world urban chic.

Design - I've always admired Italian architecture. The old building archways, the texture and intricate decorations craved into the sides of her building. However, I also love the contrasting look of new modern glass buildings against the backdrop of old milan. Just looking at the city makes you realise how rich in history Milan is. My jewellery designs are inspired by all that. From the intricate designs to the cut of crystals used to represents the stone and glass texture of the buildings, they recreate the opulence and richness of the old and new city.

Colours - I used a lot of gold, greys, browns, light blues and green.

Gold, grey and browns are autumn colours and they also reflect the colour of the streets of Milan during winter. It's the contrast of the glowing street lights against the old stone buildings that give Milan the winter fantasy feel.

The aqua blue and amethyst green represents the water canals of Venice in the day. On a nice sunny winter day, the water in the canals reflects a bluish green colour and it looks beautiful intertwining the city.

VERSATILITY

You'll definitely be able to find a piece of jewellery from this collection to complement your evening gown, adding that exquisite and glamourous finishing touch to your look. However, if you're in the mood for couture with an edge, you can kick it up a notch, turning the same jewellery into statement pieces for a vamp yet elegant urban chic look. Great for year end parties!

Be the belle of the party, whichever looks you choose.