Treasures for Loan
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In celebration of Coutts Jewellery Week in London, Browns is hosting a “My Most Treasured…” exhibition, which kicked off with a Daphne Guinness fête Monday night at the store. Chic Report found out what fashion insiders, who loaned their most valued pieces–sentimental and otherwise–to the exhibit, keep close to their hearts. For Francesca Versace, it was a Mickey Mouse watch gifted to her on her 14th birthday from uncle Gianni Versace; for Stephen Jones, a pearl tiara; for Natalia Vodianova, a pearl and skull necklace by Loree Rodkin which she lost in Shanghai but which Rodkin and Browns replaced for her; for Matthew Williamson, a charm necklace from his travels; for cobbler Manolo Blahnik, it was his favorite shoe, a coral concoction. Below, more explanations for why some items are so beloved:
John Galliano:
“Being in Browns is one of my most treasured memories,” he said. “When Mrs. B. put my graduate collection in the window, the adventure started!” Galliano chose a prototype dagger that he wears at his show finales, which sparked the Galliano Fine Jewelry collection. “It’s been a long time since I left St. Martins, but I still feel like a pirate that is plundering the globe for beauties, gold and gems of ideas. A memory, a moment, a person is the greatest treasure–but a diamond is a very good second.”
Alexander McQueen:
The Brit designer confessed to loving his dogs. “Juice, Callum and Minter–my treasured companions.”
Paul Smith: (a small train)
“My wife Pauline had this exquisite little train designed and made for me for an important birthday. I’m the most difficult person in the world to buy for because my shops are filled with so many different objects, curiosities, paintings, and much more. The train is so special to me; it is gold with black diamond coal handmade by J.A.R. in Paris.”
Daphne Guinness:
“I purchased this most beautiful, intricately designed wallet at an auction around 10 years ago. It’s from the late 17th century and it is worked in gold, silver, and brightly colored silks. The attention to detail in the characters, the design, and the way it tells a story never fails to surprise and excite me. I love the history behind this unique piece and it is, without a doubt, my most treasured possession.”
