The flapper factor

The arrival of the flapper in the mid 1920s not only changed the social status of women, but it had a profound influence on fashion and style that continues to resonate today. Politically, women pushed for equal rights, they experienced the freedom of working outside the home and enjoyed greater mobility and disposable income. With...
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The Hope Diamond – Gem of mystery

Diamonds aren’t always considered ‘a girl’s best friend’ – in the case of the Hope Diamond, it was long believed to hold mystical powers and bring grief. Excavated from the Kollur mine in Golconda, India in 1642, the diamond was part of the famous Tavernier blue diamond (a whopping 115.16 carats the equivalent of 23 gms!). It...
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Loulou de la Falaise – a twinkling iconic star

‘She was the real thing’, these are the words often used to describe Loulou de la Falaise (1947-2011), fashion icon and muse to Yves Saint Laurent as well as a designer of fashion, accessories and jewellery in her own right. Born to an Anglo-Irish fashion model and a French marquis, Loulou modeled briefly for American...
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