DIY Bling
A weekend in Paris isn’t complete without a trip to Dessine Moi un Bijou, a chic jewellery boutique where DYI takes on a whole new meaning
DIY. It has spawned global commerce (Ikea), an entire television genre (Home & Garden et al), and now a sleek jewellery boutique tucked behind les grands magasins of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Former watch-maker-turned-jeweller Carine Allardi is the brains behind the catchy concept, allowing customers the chance to create their own precious and semi-precious rings and pendants. Channel Elizabeth Taylor with a diamond knuckle-duster, or keep it minimalist and chic a-la Jen Aniston. The process is simple: take in sketches or images, choose your favoured metals and gems, put a ceiling on your budget and, voila, your personalised bling is born. Basic designs start from about €900 and Carine is on hand to keep design-it-yourself virgins on firm – and stylish – ground. (No false promises here: if it ain’t pretty, she won’t waste your time.) The whole process takes about a month, but pieces can be sent via secure mail for transient travellers.
Official link for the boutique:
www.dessinemoiunbijou.com