< PreviousD A RE TO DRE AM INTER VIEW AND WORDS: NINA CA TT The NEWS Boucheron’s collections cleverly merge classic craftsmanship with contemporary designs inspired by the past, evident in the latest high jewellery collection, Histoire de Style, Art Déco, imagined by Creative Director, Claire Choisne Irrefutably renowned for creating exquisite high jewellery collections, Parisian jewellery maison, Boucheron has remained one of the most celebrated jewellers across the globe since its inception in 1858, founded by Frédéric Boucheron. Today, the maison’s storied heritage continues to fl ourish through innovative designs, dramatically brought to life by its remarkably skilled creative team. Bazaar Bride spoke to Creative Director, Claire Choisne to get an insight into the new high jewellery collection, Histoire de Style, Art Déco, and discovers how the house collaborated with NASA to create a truly out-of-this-world necklace. In one word, how would you describe Boucheron? Creative. What has been your biggest accomplishment whilst working with the jewellery house? One of my biggest accomplishments so far was when we unveiled the Contemplation high jewellery collection last year. Combining innovation and creativity with poetry and emotion, the collection was one of the most challenging to create, with the Goutte de Ciel necklace the most demanding. With this piece I wanted to capture what cannot be caught – a piece of the sky to wear around the neck. Finding the right materials to express the beauty of the cosmic sky was a challenge. For two years, we sought a material that could replicate not only the sky’s infi nite palette of blues, but also its fl eeting, near- impalpable essence. Finally, we came across aerogel, a NASA-designed material used on the outside of spaceships to gather stardust. There is only one person in the world that can shape this material – they work for NASA. It is important to know that aerogel is not a material that can be sculpted or carved very easily. We wanted a complex drop shape with special dimensions. What we wanted, and eventually achieved, had never been done before. It took a total of 857 hours to create this necklace. That sounds like an incredible project to have been a part of. Please tell us about the latest high jewellery collection, Histoire de Style, Art Déco? We chose Art Déco because personally, we love it! And also because it’s the style that best transcends time while remaining both classic and contemporary. The collection was inspired by our archives but I wanted to offer a modern interpretation. The archival pieces all featured clean lines. They are feminine yet masculine, and they are black and white with a touch of colour, which I adore. So I kept these elements in mind to create the new pieces. The collection is a declaration of freedom and style. What is your favourite piece? It is diffi cult to choose but if I have to, my favourite piece would be the Lavallière Diamant necklace which is inspired by a 1925 cravat. You can detach the central part and wear it as a brooch or a collar pin. This piece can be worn very elegantly by both women and men. This simple twist gives complete freedom to wear the piece in different ways. And what is your favourite engagement ring? The Vendôme Liseré ring. The black lacquer border enhances the central emerald- cut diamond just beautifully. It gives it an incredible modern touch while remaining timeless. For me, this ring is synonymous with elegance. What would you pair this with? A simple, yet elegant micro pavé band is what I love. It’s like a line of light on the fi nger. This style goes with everything. What is your most treasured piece in your personal jewellery box? That’s an easy question. Three years ago, we created a collection called Nature Triumphant, in which we made a set of nine rings. We called them Eternal Flowers . I love these rings because they express what I want to give creatively: the beauty of nature to live on eternally. How would you describe the Boucheron customer? I think about the character of the woman (and man). I imagine them as having a sincere love for jewellery and design. They come to us, to Boucheron, to fi nd pieces to reinforce and complement their own personal style. What is your vision and direction for the future of Boucheron? To constantly reinvent ourselves. To dare to be creative, and to always push the limits of jewellery whether with regards to the materials used, or the techniques applied. This will allow the wearer to assert their individuality through the pieces of jewellery they wear. Col Émeraudes pendant earrings with six emerald-cut Colombian emeralds with a total carat weight of 5.07, paved with diamonds, onyx and rock crystal, with black lacquer, in white gold and platinum Vendôme Liseré ring, set with a 0.5 carat emerald- cut diamond, paved with round diamonds with a black lacquer border, in white gold Chevalière Émeraude ring set with a 4.43 carat emerald-cut Colombian emerald, paved with diamonds and rock crystal, in white gold and platinum T H E J E W E L S in white gold and platinum Ve w cu r T H E J Goutte de Ciel necklace in rock crystal paved with diamonds and set with a drop of rock crystal in aerogel, in white gold 30 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 Lav alliè re Dia m an ts m ult i-w ea r n ec kla ce p a v e d w ith d ia m o n d s a n d o n y x , w it h b la c k la c q u e r, in w h ite g o ld Cla ire Ch oi sn e HBBR_019_030_NewsJewels_11662382.indd 3027/04/2021 12:25:35 PM31 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 The NEWS ANNE BARGE S/ S22 From feathers and fringing to voluminous layers of tulle, the new-season bridal and haute couture collections are full of enchanting inspiration. Allow yourself to be swept away by the sheer romance of it all… Compiled by NOUR BOU EZZ Words by NINA CATT HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3103/05/2021 10:47:52 AMPerhaps bridal’s biggest trend that never goes out of style; whether you glide down the aisle swathed from head-to-toe, or opt for an elegant trim. Lace will always add an element of opulence to your big-day ensemble. The CATWALK REPORT ELIZABETH FILLMORE A/W21 ANNE BARGE S/ S21 JUS TIN ALEX ANDER A/W21 FENDI S/ S21 ANNE BARGE S/ S21 MONIQUE LHUILLIER BRID AL S/ S21 LA URA BIA GIO TTI A/W21 ESPOS A S/ S21 ANNE BARGE S/ S22 Lace Intentions 32 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3203/05/2021 10:48:01 AM33 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 Abandon traditional white and make a statement in the decadent shade for a truly show-stopping look. Black Swan An elegant sprinkling of sparkle will add a glamorous touch to your gown that’s guaranteed to catch the light. Glitz & Glam ELIS ABETT A FRANCHI A/W21 MOSCHINO P /F21 ELIZABETH FILLMORE A/W21 GIAMBA TTIS T A V ALLI A/W21 S TEPHANE ROLLAND HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ZUHAIR MURAD BRID AL A/W21 MILLA NO V A S/ S21 ZUHAIR MURAD BRID AL S/ S21 ANNE BARGE S/ S21 CHANEL HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 GAB Y CHARBA CHY A/W21 ELIE S A AB HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 V ALENTINO HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3303/05/2021 10:48:36 AM34 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 L O K OMO TIV A A/W21 Suits You Make your ‘something new’ a statement trouser ensemble – the perfect choice for a momentous wedding march. ANT ONIO GRIMALDI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 GEORGES CHAKRA HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 FRANCESCA LIBERA T ORE A/W21 ELIE S A AB A/W21 ELIE S A AB HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 OSCAR DE LA RENT A BRID AL S/ S21 F ARHAD RE HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 VIVIENNE WES TW OOD BRID AL A/W21 VIK T OR & ROLF BRID AL A/W21 ANT ONIO GRIMALDI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 Go for the best of both worlds with a silhouette that will suit any modern-day princess. High-low ZUHAIR MURAD BRID AL A/W21 HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3403/05/2021 10:49:02 AM The CATWALK REPORT 35 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 Bold Shoulder More is most defi nitely more when it comes to this trend, with statement shoulders taking centre stage for sartorially savvy brides. ANT ONIO GRIMALDI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 VIK T OR & ROLF BRID AL A/W21 GEORGES CHAKRA HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 VIVIENNE WES TW OOD BRID AL A/W21 RAMI K ADI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ELIE S A AB HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ESPOS A S/ S21 LA URA BIA GIO TTI A/W21 S TEPHANE ROLLAND HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3503/05/2021 04:29:02 PM The CATWALK REPORT 36 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 In Plume RAMI K ADI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ELIE S A AB S/ S21 IRIS V AN HERPEN HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 OSCAR DE LA RENT A BRID AL S/ S21 ANT ONIO GRIMALDI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 GIAMBA TTIS T A V ALLI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 F ARHAD RE HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ELIE S A AB HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 MONIQUE LHUILLIER BRID AL A/W21 GIAMBA TTIS T A V ALLI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ANNE BARGE S/ S22 ELIE S A AB HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 Float down the aisle in a full-feather gown or opt for a subtle trim. Feathers are fashion’s way of adding interest and whimsy. HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3603/05/2021 10:49:35 AM37 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 ELIZABETH FILMORE A/W21 VIVIENNE WES TW OOD BRID AL S/ S21 MILLA NO V A S/ S21 Embody bohemian romance in lace layers, vintage embroidery and retro silhouettes for a surprisingly fresh look. Boho-chic MARCHES A NO TTE BRID AL A/W21 GIAMBA TTIS T A V ALLI A/W21 ERDEM S/ S21 FENDI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 ERDEM A/W21 FENDI HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 CHRIS T OPHE JOS SE S/ S21 Playful Prints Have fun on your big day with playful graphics and bold prints. Perfect for the bride looking to inject a little colour into her look, this eye-catching trend is equal parts classic and fashion-forward. CHANEL HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3703/05/2021 10:49:59 AM The CATWALK REPORT Pump Up The Volume Your big day calls for a big dress. Create your very own fairy-tale moment with luscious layers of tulle, romantic ruffl es and bold details that will bring all of the drama. ESPOS A S/ S21 T AL KEDEM HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 VIK T OR & ROLF BRID AL A/W21 ZUHAIR MURAD BRID AL A/W21 INBAL DROR S/ S21 ANNAKIKI A/W21 GEORGES CHAKRA HA UTE C OUTURE S/ S21 KRIK OR J ABO TIAN BRID AL ANNE BARGE S/ S22 MARCHES A NO TTE BRID AL A/W21 JUS TIN ALEX ANDER A/W21 38 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 HBBR_019_031to038_Catwalk_11654642.indd 3803/05/2021 10:50:17 AM39 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring / Summer 2021 The TALKING POINT BREAKING TRADITION Founder and managing director of Dubai-based Carousel Events, Zainab Alsalih explores the trends that are at the forefront of many modern-day weddings As a wedding planner, I have the privilege to plan weddings for many culturally diverse couples, and with each culture, there are numerous traditions that are cherished. However, we have also begun to slowly see some couples moving away from certain traditions, to create a more unique and personal experience for their special day. While some customs are very fi rmly set, and couples, no matter how unique or original they want to be, will still preserve them, other traditions are less sacred, and are beginning to fade away. There are many examples. Some brides and grooms are opting out of staying away from each other until the ceremony. They want to share every moment of the journey together, leading up to the wedding. Another new trend we are seeing is the fl exibility of attire when it comes to the guests’ dress code and also for bridesmaids. In most cases these days, bridesmaids choose their own individual style, and no longer have to dress in matching gowns that tradition once dictated. The way couples are choosing their design theme is also changing, and we are seeing a more personal approach. The classic white look, while beautiful and timeless, is no longer a given, and brides and grooms are going bolder and more eclectic. Even the traditional wedding cake, once a required fi xture of any wedding, is now being replaced with dessert bars. This is driven by sheer pragmatism, and the emergence of the foodie culture. Why have one cake, when you can have dozens of different desserts? Of course, I love a beautiful wedding cake, and budget permitting, we say have both! One of the traditions I personally love, but I’m seeing begin to fade away, is the first dance. Couples are opting for a more ‘party’ approach, and they want to hit the dance floor with their friends and family, right from the very start. Finally, another one of the traditions that is changing and evolving, is the wedding speech, which is customarily given by the groom, and also his best man, but is now also being given by the bride. A great speech becomes a truly memorable part of the wedding, but a bad speech can haunt the bride forever, so I recommend brides have a brief outline of the speech prepared in advance, and while the tear-factor is always a big draw, the laugh-factor is becoming a bigger one. A wedding speech needs to be meaningful, emotional and authentic, but more than that it needs to bring joy, and make people feel they are part of the celebration. The wedding speech is also the perfect opportunity to give those you love a personal mention and a lasting connection to your wedding. Tell stories from the past, reminisce about how you met the groom or your friends, reference an important life event or milestone you have shared, speak about how they may have inspired you, supported you, lifted you, or simply made you laugh. In the process of telling these stories, you may indeed make people cry, or better, you may make them laugh, but most of all, you will make them feel forever connected to you. Finally, when it comes to wedding speeches, or any speeches for that matter, always remember, short is sweet, and the last thing you want to do is ramble on too long, and on that note, we end. IMAGES: DANIELLA BAPTISA Left: Zainab Alsalih. Above: A bridal bouquet created by the team at Carousel Events; One of Zainab’s happy couples HBBR_019_039_TalkingPoint_11651794.indd 3927/04/2021 12:27:57 PMNext >