It is time to raise your precious shields! Last fall, it’s in Paris that craftsmanship and heritage were celebrated amongst jewelers. In his own way, French designer Elie Top took part in that trend with bold and strong pieces that we could not help noticing.
Since the launch of his eponymous brand, Elie Top took a deep dive in a chevalresque inspiration taking us with him to pursue this bejeweled journey. Being the designer of the costume jewelry line for Lanvin for years, it’s not a surprise to only discover statement pieces to create a collection as a whole. Elie Top does not do little. He thinks, he imagines, then overthinks, studies, makes research, drafts, draws and needs to put everything on paper. A jewelry collection designed by Elie Top is like the gestation of a baby that finally comes to life in the most mesmerizing way.
The Lady of the Lake is the perfect mix between costume jewelry and modern pieces set with white opals, tourmalines or diamonds on blackened gold and silver inspired by the chivalry and its codes. Influenced by the legend of the Lady of the Lake, the French designer has given his oversized cuffs and pendant necklaces the look of precious shields, infused by the magic of Excalibur. Combining past and present, ancient and futuristic, his creations reveal an amazing duality echoing both sides of femininity. One being for protection and power and the other for seduction and tenderness. A velvet hand in an iron glove… some may claim.
Each piece is to be admired front and back. While the face shows off a shiny, smooth silver side set studded with gold, opal, diamonds, pearls and white topaz; the back cover lets flowers and foliage blossoming on a luminous silver openwork studded with gold. Arm yourself with a statement earring or shield ring, or adorn your arm with a blazon cuff to be worn as bracelet of strength. Modern yet timeless, Elie Top’s mysterious jewels have everything to cover the Ladies he likes with love and protection.
