Swarovski recently unveiled its Fall/Winter 2018 Collection at St. Regis Kuala Lumpur. Creative director Nathalie Colin and Southeast Asia managing director Aymeric Lacroix were both present at the glamorous #BrillianceForAll gala, held at the hotel’s grand ballroom.

Select guests were given a chance to wear pieces from the brand’s fantasy-themed collection. It was a night of glam where we learned more about Swarovski’s history. Production numbers featured contemporary dancers and Malaysian singer Yuna, who performed while bedecked in Swarovski crystals.

Talking with Colin was an enlightening experience, her warmth and drive inspiring. She said she combined several contemporary techniques while still remaining true to Swarovski’s heritage.

From perfect symmetry, Swarovski’s 2018 holiday collection features more surprises of asymmetry, plus a mysterious play on light. Colin suggested investing in a statement or conversation piece that can complete a look.

The “Brilliance For All” event marked Swarovski’s 123 years of commitment to contemporary designs and craftsmanship with “Swarovski Brilliant 8: A Tribute to Women Who Sparkle.”

The roster included Neelofa, Venice Min, Nittha Jirayungyurn, Melissa Koh, Elizabeth Rahajeng, Olivia Lazuardy, and Filipinos Marie Lozano and Nicole Andersson.

For Colin, every season is a starting point, but not exactly a blank page. She compares the creative process to that of cooking a different meal that will surprise guests, yet still have a link to previous meals.

She often tells the team that if they aren’t exciting themselves with the design process, they will never excite anyone in their stores.

Escapist

Swarovski channels escape from today’s stressful lifestyle with this collection that instantly reminds one of enchantment through its intricate designs and carefully chosen tones of jewelry and accessories.

It’s about layers this holiday season—from long pendants and charms to bold cocktail rings, accent cuffs and lavish earrings. The stunning pieces bring life to everyday looks, whether one is dressing down or up.

For the Remix Collection, Colin envisioned a woman who wants to express more of her personal style through mixing and matching pieces that need not be from the same family. To her, this season is all about versatility.

Charms include pavé letters and colorful birthstone elements. Great inspiration comes from imagery of a mystical forest as seen in the asymmetry of the Magnetic family with insect motifs such as a spider brooch with Swarovski crystal Pointiage detail and mixed metal tones.

The March family of woodland animals (fox, owl, squirrel) is in golden metallic tones. It has that quirky touch, yet remains sophisticated.

The Louison family takes inspiration from frosted winter leaves for dazzling gifts for the confident woman who can adjust to any situation.

Atelier Swarovski

Another surprise on display during the gala were pieces from Atelier Swarovski, featuring collaborations curated by Peter Pilotto (Arbol), Mary Katrantzou (Nostalgia), Anna Dello Russo, and Tabitha Simmons.

All four were given the freedom to showcase their craftsmanship and the art of crystal cutting and innovation.

Atelier Swarovski usually presents jewelry and accessories during New York, London, and Paris fashion weeks together with the evolving Core Collection.

On display at the gala as well were five dashing looks from Swarovski’s Fall/Winter 2018 Couture Collection straight from Paris Fashion Week.

Swarovski is available in Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-La, Rustan’s Alabang Town Center and Rustan’s Ayala Cebu, and at Swarovski boutiques owned and operated by Stores Specialists Inc. at Newport Mall, Robinson’s Magnolia and Estancia Mall. Follow @ssilifeph and @rustansph on Instagram