Ever wonder how magnificent pieces of jewellery (what we can only call ‘masterpieces’, because they are just so stunning) are made? Look no further. This book ventures into the exclusive Van Cleef & Arpels Mains d’Or (‘Golden Hands’) atelier and explores the many considerations made by jewellers, setters and polishers in creating one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s a must-have for those who are intrigued by the craft of jewellery – but really, who would be able to resist 200 pages filled with images of the most beautiful gems and jewels? Click here to see our story on some of the world’s largest diamonds.
Did you know that, had he not become a fashion designer, Giorgio Armani would have been a film director? An oh-so-cute childhood portrait of the designer greets you on the cover of this 576-page heavyweight – with personal notes and biographical glimpses into his life interspersed among the brand story. Get to know the stories behind the beloved designer’s 40 years in fashion, told in sequences, as if it were a film. This is a fashion fairy tale as told by the legend himself, accompanied by 300-plus visuals including stunning images of fashion icons shot by renowned shutterbugs like Herb Ritts, Mario Testino, Annie Leibovitz, and Steven Meisel. It’s like attending an intimate dinner party with the best of the best in fashion.
If you thought opposing opinions make for a disastrous partnership, think again. Valentino creative directors Maria Grazia Chuiri and Pierpaolo Piccioli’s collaboration since 2008 is proof that opposing views can result in a spectacular creative chemistry that changes the modern fashion landscape – as is this delicious 400-page stunner. The thing the designers share in common? A love for the Eternal City. Rome is the clear inspiration for the pair as they intertwine heritage, tradition and innovation into the house of Valentino’s signature aesthetic. The lush slipcover will entice you even before you turn the pages, but go on, peek inside – we’ll wait as you catch your breath.
We are utterly obsessed with this extravagant, 326-page anthology wrapped in a luscious red slipcase. The fashionistas lining up at Pradasphere in 2014 were as well. This is not merely an archive of the brand’s most recognised pieces and inspiration since the brand’s birth in 1913; this elegant tome also delves into the themes that are oh-so signature Prada: Excessivity, Animality, Modernity. Showcasing everything from A-list fashion show invites to prized possessions, you’ll also find examples of collaborations with revered directors such as Wes Anderson and Ridley Scott in the form of advertising and films. Don’t forget to also check out our story on the Fondazione Prada!
‘The sky’s the limit’. This is the motto of Graff founder and diamentaire extraordinare Laurence Graff. And this ambition is on full show in this glittering book. It takes you through Graff’s 60 years in the business, with personal accounts from both Laurence and his closest circle. But what we love most is the eye candy. Drool over the sumptuous photos of the world’s most breathtaking gems, including the incredible 603-carat Lesotho Promise (cut into 29 perfect, sparkling gems and set into a necklace) and the stunning 118.08 carat Delaire Sunrise yelow diamond, which made global news long before the term ‘bling’ was even coined.
