Greece fashion Archives - Insights Greece

2022 Be Good To Me! Best Greek Lucky Charms to Buy

Every year Greece’s top jewellery designers create gouria or lucky ornaments that we can hang from our neck or wear on our wrist as a symbol of hope, dreams coming true and protection for the new year.

With all that the world has been going through, we need now more than ever some beautiful symbolic jewellery to offer us an added sense of strength and grace. Here we have selected the best and most classic brands for you to consider as a gift to yourself or a loved one.

Lalaounis

An inspiration to marine biologists, deep-sea divers and artists alike and a symbol cherished since the Minoan times that represented healing properties, coral has resilience and vulnerability at once that’s reminiscent of the human spirit. And this particular amulet (€290) comes with the added bonus of supporting a worthwhile ecological initiative. Famous jewellers Lalaounis write on their website: “In the depths of the Greek Seas lie the oldest, most complex and productive marine ecosystems: Coralligenous Habitats. They are some of the least protected habitats and their survival today is at great risk. With our 2022 good luck pendant, we wish to support the ARCHIPELAGOS Institute of Marine Conservation in their work to protect the biodiversity of the NE Mediterranean and to halt the ongoing destruction of Coralligenous Habitats.”

Insights Greece - 2022 Be Good To Me! Best Greek Lucky Charms to Buy

Antonia Karra

Antonia Karra’s macrame bracelet (€39) is her good luck design for 2022, depicting an engraved compass to lead you on the right path and always help you find your way in the new year. On a more esoteric level, the design is also a reminder to always follow your inner guidance.

Acropolis Museum

Designer Kostas Dimpoulos has chosen a classic Greek symbol of good fortune, prosperity, abundance and fertility that can arrive with new beginnings. His gold-plated brass pendant (€32) sold at the Acropolis Museum is an engraved pomegranate with a red tassel hung just above it. The pomegranate, the star component of the Greek New Year tradition that involves smashing the fruit into the ground in one’s front entrance, makes for a very hopeful gift.

Katerina Psoma

Be A Poem cuff €138 playfully combines rock chic with art deco glamour, this gold-plated cuff with the ‘Be a Poem’ affirmation written on is a reminder to live your life as if you are a work of lyrical art. Psoma’s All Fine pendant (€155) is a hopeful reassurance after trying times and ahead of more uncertain days ahead that everything’s going to be just fine. Gold-plated and decorated with colourful zircon stones, it can be just the right amount of sparkle to wear on a dreary day.

Zolotas

Cosmos is a collection of charms based on the celestial bodies and their orbits, which includes pendants and bracelets decorated with precious stones. The famous jewellery house says that the use of stones was very symbolic, “reflecting the four elements of the world: Emerald and Opal for Water, Tiger’s Eye and Malachite for Earth, Sapphire, Lapis lazuli and Amethyst for Air, Ruby and Agate for Fire.” The Cosmos pendants (€35) are designed to light our new year up, bringing to 2022 fullness and harmony, balance and peace.

Cycladic Art Museum

This autumn/winter hosting the ‘Ancient Kallos’ exhibition dedicated to beauty in antiquity, the Cycladic Art Museum has chosen a mirrored pendant (€75) as its good luck charm for 2022. The handheld mini mirror is meant to represent self-reflection as well as self-love in the coming year and beyond.

Marina Vernicos

With a nudge to biker bravura, angelic blessings, love and freedom of the heart, designer Marina Vernicos’ stand-out necklace (€38) depicts the number 22 in the shape of a heart with wings.

Benaki

Designer Niki Orfanou made her amulet (€30) inspired by a painting by Nikos Hatzikiriakos Gikas depicting a Hydra landscape, created this handmade good luck charm out of brass and silk. The charm is reminiscent of ‘fylakto charms made in folk tradition around Greece out of threads and beads and is sold at the Benaki Museum shop. Also at the Benaki is the ‘Angel’ charm for 2022 (€60) designed by Savvas Dimou and inspired by the sculptural artwork by acclaimed artist Yiannis Tsarouchis.

Zeus + Dione

Zeus+Dione’s lucky charm, for the new year, depicts the power number ‘22’, which is said by numerologists to double the power of anything. The design is inspired by retro mailing stamps which feature waves under the number; in this case, the waves are meant to amplify the power of the number and augur good luck, change and determination to head forward confidently toward change.

9 Leading Greek Jewellery Designers You Need to Know

Dior Through the Lens of Greek Photographers

French luxury house Dior invited 10 talented Greek photographers to capture their visions of the Grecian-inspired Cruise 2022 Collection at different locations throughout Greece, and the result is spectacular.

Mara Desipris, Christina Dimitriadis, Marilia Fotopoulou, Efi Gousi, Maria Koutroumpi, Dimitra Lazaridou, Ria Mort, Lia Nalbantidou, Ioanna Sakellaraki, and Olga Stefatou were all part of this artistic dialogue that “further perpetuates the spirit and power of Maria Grazia Chiuri’s creations for Dior, conceived as a celebration of local craftsmanship and savoir-faire. Discover the captivating beauty of these virtuoso interpretations,” announced Dior.

Collaborating with Grecian artisans and artists to realise the collection, Dior’s Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri has truly celebrated Greece for Dior Cruise 2022, which she described as a “tribute to the idea of community and a celebration of cultural exchanges.”

Dior arrived in Athens for its Cruise 2022 womenswear show in June this year and presented the collection and capsule at the awe-inspiring Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium entirely built of Pentelic marble; while the Cruise 2022 campaign was shot by leading fashion photographer Julia Hetta at the Temple of Zeus on the Ancient Greek archaeological site of Nemea.

The luxury fashion house has now released the latest images taken by each Greek photographer- giving a new perspective to the pieces, which are all inspired by Ancient Greek sites, temples, and costumes. The photos are featured in the latest issue of Dior Magazine- Issue NO. 36.

Ria Mort

Insights Greece - Dior Through the Lens of Greek Photographers

Maria Desipris

Ioanna Sakellaraki

Efi Gousi

Marilia Fotopoulou

Lia Nalbantidou

Olga Stefatou

Dimitra Lazaridou

Christina Dimitriadis

Maria Koutroumpi

Check out the entire collection here

© HELLENIC MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND SPORTS – ODAP – TEMPLE OF POSEIDON, CAPE SOUNION

Christian Dior Cruise Collection 2022 Dior French fashion Greece Greece arts Greece fashion Greece travel Greek photographers luxury fashion house

9 Leading Greek Jewellery Designers You Need to Know

When you’re seeking an original and elegant piece of jewellery– whether a ring, cuff, necklace or statement piece– you want something that will last a lifetime. To find that something special, a visit to some of the finer boutiques across Greece can be an obvious choice.

Indeed, Greece is home to some of the world’s most talented jewellery designers, who draw from hundreds of years of expertise and know-how to create truly memorable pieces- featuring gold, silver, pearl, diamonds and other classic gems.

With so many to choose from, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite Greek jewellers who are are leading the way with exceptional style, creativity and design.

Nikos Koulis

Nikos has established himself as one of the most sought-after designers in the country. With a Greek influence, Nikos mixes both classic and contemporary themes creating exquisite pieces that are loved by his loyal clientele worldwide. His pieces feature a range of diamonds of various cuts and colours, gold, rubies, emeralds, pearls and unique materials that stand out. With a flagship store in Athens, Nikos’ pieces are stocked in luxury boutiques all over Europe, America, Asia and online.

Insights Greece - 9 Leading Greek Jewellery Designers You Need to Know

Katerina Makriyanni

Katerina who loved art since young, could not resist continuing the family tradition. Having studied jewellery design in Florence, her love for creativity, the family business and her hometown Chania (where she resides and creates her magic) lead her to the field of jewellery making. Creating pieces that are ideal for every occasion, Makriyianni’s trademark fringed fan earrings have become a hit worldwide.

Polina Ellis

Athens based jewellery designer Polina Ellis is an archaeologist and fine artist that transcends and transforms the inspiration of her life experiences and academic studies into a unique design with symbolism. Pairing strong lines with clean forms, Polina creates pieces of subtle luxury that adhere to Ancient Greek ethos. Her pieces are sold in her showroom at Kifissia and selected retailers in Athens, Mykonos, across Europe and the USA.

Yannis Sergakis

Yannis is the descendant of a well-established family of Greek diamond traders. He was drawn into the alluring world of precious stones from a young age and after studying gemology and design, Yannis created his own luxury brand. Working mainly with gold and diamonds, he creates stunning pieces that can be worn both day and night. With a flagship store in Athens, Yannis’ pieces are stocked all over the world and online.

Ioanna Souflia

Ioanna’s homeland of Greece has an unmistakable influence on her designs. Born and raised in Athens, Ioanna trained in the Greek capital, London and France. Influenced by her contrasting training the designer’s aesthetic is shaped from the unique pairing of opposing elements. With a strong Art Deco influence, her pieces are elegant and striking.

Christina Soubli

Christina’s collections are soft and feminine and are inspired by a different mood, a story or experience that triggers her creativity. Christina has been distinguished with significant awards, including the Worshipful Company of Goldsmith’s Award of Jewellery. Her work has also been exhibited in some of the most prestigious galleries and stores worldwide, where she has received numerous outstanding reviews.

Lito Karakostanoglou

Having starred in international runway shows by Kenzo and Jean Paul Gaultier, the Athens-based jeweller creates delicate and feminine designs. Lito is a fusion of the old-school feel of traditional jewellery mixed with contemporary influences marking a new era for craftsmanship. Her collections exhibit a perfect mix between the designer’s Greek heritage, her mastery of traditional techniques and her artistic instinct.

Christiana Kafa

Christiana is a Greek Cypriot jewellery and accessories designer, who launched her first line in 2014, featuring a range of bracelets, rings, earrings and necklaces in silver and gold with precious and semi-precious stones. Her jewellery pieces, which are minimal and simplistic are stocked worldwide.

Ileana Makri

Fascinated by the warm and exotic allure of her rich Greek culture and nature, Ileana’s creations feature a wide range of powerful symbols from the Mediterranean- in a simple and sophisticated way. Her creative collaborations with some of the world’s leading fashion houses have led to the creation of iconic collections that have attracted the attention of A-list celebrities. With a flagship store in Kolonaki, Ileana’s pieces are also stocked worldwide.

Main Image by Ileana Makri

Greece fashion Greek designers Greek fashion Greek jewellers Greek jewellery Ileana Makri Nikos Koulis Polina Ellis Yannis Sergakis

7 Greek Swimwear Brands You Should Know

When it comes to swimwear, Greece certainly knows how to do it right. The country’s seemingly endless summers, stunning beaches, and love of the outdoor lifestyle make Greek designers leaders on how to dress for a long day out in the sun!

And let’s be honest- a good swimsuit is an integral facet of a summer wardrobe; so here, we round up Greece’s coolest swimwear brands (inspired by the Aegean Sea) to have on your radar, because there’s nothing quite like summer in Greece!

lile Du Soleil

This new brand was born on the Ionian island of Corfu and launched in April 2020. With “The island of the Sun” as its main inspiration, the brand’s SS 21 collection features limited-edition swimwear designs that are elegant and sophisticated. Using high-quality fabrics and premium local craftsmanship; each piece is sleek, minimal, and crafted in a way that makes the wearer feel stylish and confident.

Insights Greece - 7 Greek Swimwear Brands You Should Know

Stefania Frangista

Stunning swimwear that embodies joyfulness and femininity- Stefania Frangista’s brand aims to be modern yet classic, unique yet sophisticated, high-quality yet sustainable. The designer’s pieces celebrate, sculpt, and protect the form while aiming to leave as little environmental impact as possible.

Ancient Kallos

With simple and striking designs that will last almost a lifetime, Ancient Kallos is renowned for its ready-to-wear collections. Clean considered lines and romantic cuts set the mood for nostalgic and classic swim sets and one-pieces. This season there is a one-piece and a bikini swimsuit featuring the traditional Akrokeramo design.

Zeus + Dione

This timeless brand has risen to international fame; offering design-led innovation. With attention to detail, and quality craftsmanship, Zeus + Dione’s sophisticated and effortless swimsuits arrive to make the modern woman look and feel their best. In keeping with the brand’s overall Greek feel, the pieces are Grecian-inspired in both design and colour.

HOLYDAY

Classic swimwear through and through. If HOLIDAY Swim doesn’t spark memories of spending time on a Greek island, we don’t know what will. Each piece is carefully thought out, as the modern, yet timeless designs are made for every body type and can easily take you from a long, lazy day at the beach, straight to a fun evening of dancing and drinks.

Mitos

Beautiful, must-have pieces that are executed to the highest standard- each design is treated as a piece of art. With an emphasis on fit, simplicity, and fabric, Mitos celebrates the female form with premium swimwear that enhances and endures. Influenced by art, life, and Greece (of course), Mitos designs blend retro nostalgia with crisp, clean lines.

Maa Boo

Maa Boo launched in 2013 and soon evolved into a swimwear brand offering a wide range of fits and shapes, respecting and celebrating the multiple facets of the female form. Created with an intention to celebrate all bodies, their collections immediately gained a reputation for their sophisticated but joyful patterns, contemporary cuts, and the soft buttery fabrics that shape each body in the most flattering ways.

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Stunning Designs Honouring 200 Year Anniversary of 1821

This year, March 25 marks the 200-year anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. Celebrated as a National holiday, the Greek Revolution is one of the most significant moments in Greece and Europe’s history.

To commemorate this remarkable day, many designers in Greece and around the globe, have honoured 1821 with Greek War of Independence inspired items; and we have selected our favourite pieces- from Ancient Greek sandals and silk scarves to candles and bookmarks- these are our top picks celebrating an extremely momentous occasion with style, elegance and creativity.

Ancient Greek Sandals

Christina Martini, the co-founder and creative director of Ancient Greek Sandals has teamed up with Marios Schwab, the new design director at Zeus + Dione, to create a stunning nine-piece capsule collection with Greek craftsmanship at its core.

Insights Greece - Stunning Designs Honouring 200 Year Anniversary of 1821 — Ancient Greek Sandals

Zeus + Dione

Greece’s leading lifestyle brand has dedicated its new Spring Summer 21 collection as a tribute to the “1821” national anniversary. “As we all know the year 1821 marked a turning point in the story of modern Greece. It is the year when, after centuries of Ottoman rule, a rebellion erupted that subsequently led to the establishment of the country the way we know it. This S/S 2021 collection takes the revolutionary heroes and heroines, that paved the way for independence, as its starting point,” says co-founder Dimitra Kolotoura.

Ergon Mykonos

Using classic and sustainable materials and manufactured by locals around Greece, this Mykonian based brand has released a stylish collection inspired by the conquering warship that Laskarina Bouboulina used during the Greek revolution.

Hermès

Luxury house Hermès has collaborated with Greek artist Elias Kafouros for a limited-edition silk scarf based on the letters of the Greek word for Freedom, “ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑ”. Available at the Hermès Athens store from 26th March 2021, the fashion house will donate part of the proceeds for each limited-edition scarf sold to ‘Sotiria Thoracic Diseases Hospital of Athens.’

NH Museum

The National Historical Museum, located in the Old Parliament building in the centre of Athens has released a ‘Freedom Or Death’ Lucky charm for 2021, inspired by symbols of the revolutionary flags.

CHOE Candles

Luxury candle brand CHOE, based in Corfu, has designed a candle inspired by Dionysios Solomos, whose work had a monumental influence in uniting Greeks and creating a common national identity following the 1821 War of Independence.

Superga

Leading Italian shoemaker Superga has collaborated with Greek artist Konstantin Kakanias for a limited edition canvas trainer, which comprises 200 numbered trainers for men and women.

Thalassa Collection

Greek design store Thalassa has released a cool collection of men’s ties including a Tsarouchi and Evzones print, inspired by the Greek Revolution of 1821.

Yannis Sergakis

This talented Athenian jewellery designer has created a porcelain piece inspired by the ‘fustanella’ – the most visible item of the uniform worn by those who fought the Greek War of Independence.

Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum has commissioned many local artisans to create a series of objects to commemorate the bicentennial of the Greek War of Independence. From ceramics and pendants to coffee mugs and books, there is so much to choose from.

Grecian Chic

Designer Elena Zournatzi has created elegant 1821 inspired silk scarfs including the “Fermeli” and “Tsarouhi” based on the waist coast and shoes of the ceremonial uniform of Evzones. All scarfs are printed in limited pieces.

Museum of Cycladic Art

This gold plated charm is inspired by the 200 year anniversary of 1821 and the most famous footwear of Greece’s mainland until the 19th- beginning of the 20th century. The Tsarouhi became a historic symbol of the revolution of 1821 as part of the soldier’s attire.

Ancient Kallos

Greece’s fashion brand Ancient Kallos has dedicated the anniversary collection 1821 to “Bouboulina” praising the dynamic figure of the Greek heroine Bouboulina- honouring the feminine power and instinct. The inspiration for the designs is mainly the traditional costume of Bouboulina.

Callista Crafts

This gorgeous handmade leather pochette, created in collaboration with Greek street artist, Cacao Rocks comes in a limited edition of 50 pieces only, each piece contains the edition number internally.

1821 Greece Greece fashion Greek designers Greek history Greek Independence Day Hermes Zeus + Dione

Greece’s Leading Bohemian Luxe Brand Loved by Free Spirits

Loved by free spirits, beach lovers, and creative types, Nidodileda embraces flowy fabrics, mixed patterns, and a laid-back eclectic style that we can’t get enough of!

Featuring rich colours and textures, mixed and matched with a modern flair to create luxury and sophistication, once you slip into one of their boho dresses or any piece you’ll understand why it makes women feel elegant and feminine.

Nidodileda was formed in 2012, when designer and founder, Antonia (Tonia) Mitroudi, decided to create her own clothing brand based on the principle of designing clothes to make you feel confident and free.

The brand’s core lies in designing handmade clothes, using high-quality fabrics and manufacturers. From flowy maxi dresses to dreamy pants with exotic prints, this boho brand is effortlessly soft, feminine, and stylish.

We recently spoke to designer and founder Tonia about her designs and upcoming projects.

Tell us a bit about your background and training in the fashion industry?

I was lucky enough to be able to fulfill my studies in Milan at Marangoni Fashion Institute and after in Barcelona at IED School of Design. Right after I returned to Greece and worked as a fashion stylist for fashion magazines (L’officiel and many others) and soon I got to experience the fashion industry through the Greek press for nearly seven years.

When did you launch your brand and what is the concept behind it?

Leaving the world of fashion through the Greek press, I managed to make my dream come true with a series of fortunate events that helped me build Nidodileda, slowly and steadily. It all started in 2012 when I designed the first collection and was so curious if the girls out there would understand our concept through our designs… and they did! Our philosophy is for all the “Nido” girls to feel free and beautiful, independent, and strong. A never-ending story about looking at things from the most beautiful perspective.

What inspires your creations?

I get inspired when I travel, and I try to travel a lot in order to do so. Now, given the situation, my inspiration comes from all the things I love such as music-which I can’t live without- going to the beach and staring at the sun and moon at nights and spending quality time with people.

How would you describe your brand?

Nidodileda has grown from a free spirit bohemian brand to a Luxury Bohemian chic brand. She has grown from a girl to a woman and I couldn’t be more proud.

Are the materials locally sourced and where are they made?

We try to enhance the local industry of course and we are very happy about the revolution in materials and quality. All the designs of the fabrics and materials are created by our partners in Europe. Through my travels, I try and seek new ones each time in order to be unique and different.

Who are the pieces created for?

The pieces are created for me and you! For all the women out there that dare to be different and that are looking for a unique piece for their special occasion. This is exactly why we refer to the pieces as “Wardrobe treasures”.

Tell us about your latest collection?

Our SS’20 was introduced as “New Jade and the Whites”. It is inspired by precious and semi-precious stones with my favorite gemstone the New Jade that symbolizes balance, cleaning the mind and soul, reduces negativity and anxiety. The collection has a color pallet of nude, gold, rose gold, and soft pastels, and the “whites” collection fits perfectly as it was my dream to create a collection with a white base.

What is your favourite item in your range at the moment?

In each collection, I always have some pieces I distinguish and wear nearly every day from day to night. This season it is the “Niobium” kimono from the Whites collection and the “Iolite” kimono. Also if I may I will say “Dean” Dress from our capsule collection.

What are the current projects you are working on and is there anything exciting coming up you would like to share?

We are thrilled to announce that we are soon moving our HQ offices to a bigger space and opening our first flagship store! We will be able to introduce to everyone our brand philosophy and all aspects of Nidodileda, such as our NidoHome collection and Bridal collection. We assure you there will be many more things coming!

Where is your brand stocked?

We are stocked in Greece.

Do you ship internationally?

We ship all around the world!

How would you describe the Greek fashion scene in 2020?

I find the Fashion scene very promising and full of action! It is great to see talents out there creating!

How would you describe your own style?

I would like to say Bohemian eclectic with a twist!

On another note, tell us your favourite Greek holiday destination?

My absolute destination is the island of Serifos, as it combines amazing beaches and food and beautiful sceneries that are breathtaking. I can now add the island of Koufonisi for the exact same reasons!

nidodileda

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Your Curated Guide to Greece

2022 Be Good To Me! Best Greek Lucky Charms to Buy

Every year Greece’s top jewellery designers create gouria or lucky ornaments that we can hang from our neck or wear on our wrist as a symbol of hope, dreams coming true and protection for the new year.

Dior Through the Lens of Greek Photographers

French luxury house Dior invited 10 talented Greek photographers to capture their visions of the Grecian-inspired Cruise 2022 Collection at different locations throughout Greece, and the result is spectacular.

9 Leading Greek Jewellery Designers You Need to Know

When you’re seeking an original and elegant piece of jewellery– whether a ring, cuff, necklace or statement piece– you want something that will last a lifetime. To find that something special, a visit to some of the finer boutiques across Greece can be an obvious choice.

7 Greek Swimwear Brands You Should Know

When it comes to swimwear, Greece certainly knows how to do it right. The country’s seemingly endless summers, stunning beaches, and love of the outdoor lifestyle make Greek designers leaders on how to dress for a long day out in the sun!

Stunning Designs Honouring 200 Year Anniversary of 1821

This year, March 25 marks the 200-year anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. Celebrated as a National holiday, the Greek Revolution is one of the most significant moments in Greece and Europe’s history.

Greece’s Leading Bohemian Luxe Brand Loved by Free Spirits

Loved by free spirits, beach lovers, and creative types, Nidodileda embraces flowy fabrics, mixed patterns, and a laid-back eclectic style that we can’t get enough of!

Your Curated Guide to Greece

Every year Greece’s top jewellery designers create gouria or lucky ornaments that we can hang from our neck or wear on our wrist as a symbol of hope, dreams coming true and protection for the new year.

French luxury house Dior invited 10 talented Greek photographers to capture their visions of the Grecian-inspired Cruise 2022 Collection at different locations throughout Greece, and the result is spectacular.

When you’re seeking an original and elegant piece of jewellery– whether a ring, cuff, necklace or statement piece– you want something that will last a lifetime. To find that something special, a visit to some of the finer boutiques across Greece can be an obvious choice.

When it comes to swimwear, Greece certainly knows how to do it right. The country’s seemingly endless summers, stunning beaches, and love of the outdoor lifestyle make Greek designers leaders on how to dress for a long day out in the sun!

This year, March 25 marks the 200-year anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. Celebrated as a National holiday, the Greek Revolution is one of the most significant moments in Greece and Europe’s history.

Loved by free spirits, beach lovers, and creative types, Nidodileda embraces flowy fabrics, mixed patterns, and a laid-back eclectic style that we can’t get enough of!

The Athens Guide