Fashion
Bespoke Bijoux à la Celia
Celia Palathinkal’s jewellery interprets abstract ideas and traditional forms into tasteful modern aesthetics
Words: Rochelle D ‘souza Images: Celia Palathinkal
Ask any woman and she’d tell you that a piece of jewellery isn’t just an embellishment that she merely pairs with her ensemble. For most of us, every piece is associated with a different emotion or a different style statement that we intend to make when we put them on. Ask any woman and she will tell you that she won’t walk out the door without at least putting on a pair of stud earrings. No, jewellery isn’t just for decoration but serves a more profound role for a woman, and no one understands this better than Celia Palathinkal.
So when Celia graduated from design school a few months ago she decided to pursue a career created what she loved the most, jewellery. Armed with a degree in fashion and lifestyle accessories from NIFT Chennai, this Kochikaari began to create bespoke bijoux inspired by everything from Kerala’s most popular art form, Kathakali to magnetic fields.
“When I set about designing jewellery I wanted it to be more than just accessories. I believe in the simplicity of design and minimal is the way I go and I am captivated by form, structure and essence. It’s all about the aesthetic appeal. I have mostly had a tendency to work around themes with some sort of cultural significance and experiment with forms and silhouettes, to create balance in an imbalanced space.” says Celia who is all set to launch her next collection. She says that the biggest part of her gilded journey has been her family who has wholeheartedly supported and inspired her.
Many of Celia’s one of a kind pieces feature sharp edges and sleek lines with modern aesthetics but she says that she isn’t keen on putting a label on or categorizing her works. “I wouldn’t label my jewellery under traditional or contemporary or modern. I believe that my pieces are the physical form or representation of myths, stories and lore of the land. For example, the Kathakali series, which was my second line, is an interpretation of the traditional folk art form. Kathakali is most often associated with to temple jewellery and traditional forms and design and initially it was challenging for me to design it in my aesthetics. Creating modern pieces of jewellery on something so traditional is my way of taking this art form into the future.” she said.
Celia’s pieces took centre stage at FWD Life’s latest cover shoot with AishwaryaLekshmi. She says that more than the final outcome, the whole process that she truly cherishes the most. “Designing is wonderful process from conceptualizing to executing the end product. Through my designs I wish to communicate to my clients and I believe that the people who pick up my pieces are ones who share a passion towards history and culture.” she told FWD Life.
Celia is currently working on her third line of jewellery. This time her inspiration comes from magnetic fields react and their reaction to the substances in the environment. “It’s something that I have been very amused with and I am trying to bring this concept into my jewellery.”
You can catch a glimpse of Celia’s marvellous creations and maybe get a piece for yourself at ‘Kochi On FLEA.K’ which is to take place on September 9 and 10 at the Toc H School Grounds in Kochi.
Fashion
The Year of Statement Hat
When Anya Taylor-Joy stepped out at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in Jacquemus’ Le Chapeau Bomba, a delightfully oversized raffia hat it was clear that this accessory had become the season’s ultimate statement piece. The fall 2024 runways echoed this sentiment, with Chanel and Prada showcasing hats as the new must-have. Think of Sarah Jessica Parker’s oversized Maryam Keyhani creation, worn on the set of And Just Like That… earlier this year, or Margaret Qualley donning Chanel’s nautical style at Cannes. These hats are for the main characters who command attention, making a bold statement long before you arrive.
Altuzarra’s fall 2024 collection featured boxy headpieces on some models, each designed to evoke a specific character. “It was about finding joy in wearing a complete look, fully embodying a character,” explains designer Joseph Altuzarra. Interestingly, this was the label’s first foray into hats beyond casual knit and woven styles. ‘We didn’t plan to sell them,’ Altuzarra admits, ‘but they ended up being a hit.
Similarly, milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara has experienced a surge in demand. Although she launched her brand, Gigi Burris, in 2012, she only opened her first store late last year. “During leaner times, when people become more selective with their spending, they seek joy in thoughtful purchases,” she explains.
After years of embracing a more casual style, we’re now gravitating toward all things expressive. Maximalist content creator Sara Camposarcone has been embracing pieces from small brands like Potion23, renowned for its whimsical, witchy hats. “I feel like I can now wear bolder headpieces that complement my extravagant outfits,” Camposarcone shares. “Since discovering vintage fashion, I’ve developed a passion for finding great vintage pillbox hats or a 1920s fascinator.”
Fashion
The Iconic Bags and Their Names
Handbags are more than just functional accessories; they are statements of style and symbols of status. Over the years, several handbags have achieved iconic status, becoming synonymous with luxury and timeless fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic bags and the stories behind their names.
Hermès Birkin
Origin: The Birkin bag was born from a chance encounter between actress and singer Jane Birkin and Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1981. Birkin mentioned her struggle to find a perfect weekend bag, leading Dumas to design a bag tailored to her needs.
Icon Status: The Birkin is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high price tag. It has become a symbol of wealth and luxury, often with a waiting list of years.
Chanel 2.55
Origin: Created by Coco Chanel in February 1955 (hence the name), the Chanel 2.55 was revolutionary for its time, introducing the concept of a shoulder bag, freeing women from the inconvenience of clutch bags.
Icon Status: With its quilted leather, chain strap, and distinctive CC lock (added in the 1980s by Karl Lagerfeld), the 2.55 remains a timeless piece, beloved by fashionistas worldwide.
Louis Vuitton Speedy
Origin: Introduced in the 1930s, the Speedy was designed as a smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Keepall. It became particularly popular in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn requested a smaller version, leading to the creation of the Speedy 25.
Icon Status: Known for its classic monogram canvas and practicality, the Speedy is a versatile bag that has remained a staple in the fashion world for decades.
Dior Lady Dior
Origin: First presented in 1994, the Lady Dior bag was initially known as “Chouchou.” It gained its iconic status when Princess Diana was photographed with it in 1995, leading to its renaming in her honor.
Icon Status: The bag’s signature cannage stitching and dangling Dior charms make it instantly recognizable. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.
Gucci Jackie
Origin: Originally called the Fifties Constance, this bag was renamed the Jackie after Jackie Kennedy was frequently photographed carrying it in the 1960s.
Icon Status: The Jackie bag’s hobo shape and piston strap closure make it a timeless piece. It has seen numerous revivals and remains a classic in the Gucci lineup.
Prada Galleria
Origin: Named after the historic Prada boutique in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Galleria bag epitomizes the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Icon Status: With its clean lines, structured shape, and Saffiano leather, the Galleria bag is a symbol of modern elegance and understated luxury.
Fendi Baguette
Origin: Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the Baguette was named for its shape, resembling the French baguette loaf, and designed to be carried under the arm.
Icon Status: Popularized by its appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Baguette became a must-have accessory, famous for its countless variations in colors and materials.
Balenciaga City
Origin: Introduced in the early 2000s, the Balenciaga City bag, also known as the Motorcycle bag, was designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. Its casual yet chic design quickly gained a cult following.
Icon Status: Known for its slouchy silhouette, distinctive hardware, and tassels, the City bag became an icon of the 2000s and continues to be a beloved piece.
These iconic bags have transcended fashion trends, becoming enduring symbols of style, craftsmanship, and luxury. Each bag tells a unique story, adding to its allure and making it a coveted piece for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Investing in one of these iconic bags is not just about owning a stylish accessory but also a piece of fashion history.
Cover Story
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s Traditional Ladakh’s Heritage Attire
As Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities come to an end, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja chose to dress in Ladakh traditional garb. The event featured a number of topics, with India’s rich past being the focus yesterday night. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja emphasized this by dressing in Namza Couture, which was established in 2016 by Padma Yangchan and Jigmet Disket and is renowned for its commitment to Ladakhi fabrics.
The Mogos, a gown-like item with a shimmering zari border and pistachio green brocade, was part of Sonam’s ensemble. She wore a rani-pink shawl called a “Bok,” which is usually made from silk or goat skin and is worn to keep warm by the locals. This outfit was made of silk by Benaras artisans, and it had intricate phoenix embroidery, which stands for knowledge and vigor. It also had a crane image, which stands for prosperity and peace.
Her jewelry selections also honored custom; she wore a neckpiece set with diamonds and an emerald stone in the center. She accessorized this with striking statement rings and copper handcuffs, all tastefully matched with pearl earrings. She chose metallic juttis to complete her look, and she carried a bespoke purse by re-ceremonial.
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