Giorgio Armani has followed in the prestigious footsteps of Christian Dior to create a Swarovski crystal dress. The "Diamond Leaf" stone, which has a shape reminiscent of a leaf and a special coating to give a metallic, shadowy effect, was showcased on the dazzling finale dress at the Giorgio Armani FW 07/08 show in Milan. "Swarovski crystal brings a touch of magic to a dress, an ethereal quality, a lustre which never fails to captivate the attention," says Armani. "It was therefore a pleasure to be asked to create a new and unique crystal." Swarovski hasn't worked with a designer in this way since the Fifties, when a collaboration with Christian Dior produced "Aurora Borealis", a phenomenally successful stone that is still used extensively in the fashion industry. This year is shaping up to be a busy one for Swarovski - it is about to team up with designers such as Philip Treacy at Milan's Salone Internationale del Mobile exhibition and plans are already underway for October's enormous Fashion Rocks event, being held this year at London's Albert Hall. Also check out Gemma Ward in the latest Swarovski ad campaign below.
Brit designer Giles Deacon is dabbling in jewellery design. He teamed up with Evoke to create three ranges of pendants, bracelets, rings and earrings for them. Inspired by black and white, the solar planet system and skulls, the range includes Swarovski crystals. The playful collection will hit stores in September.
