It’s time to put those sweaters and coats away and bring out the bikinis and classic one-pieces for your summer 2022 holidays, with the best Greek swimwear brands.
As the bright spring weather transitions into warm summer days, it’s officially time to ditch the winter wardrobe and start celebrating the summer season with some sophisticated new swimwear.
And when it comes to finding new summer pieces, there are so many options and designs to choose from, so we’ve rounded up the best Greek swimwear brands for you- that will have you looking cool and stylish this season!
Each piece is carefully thought out, as the modern, yet timeless designs are made for every body type; and their range can easily take you from a long, lazy day at the beach, straight to an outdoor bar for evening drinks. Holyday’s latest collection has us obsessing over their baby blue range!
A swimwear and resort wear brand with floral suits, classic bikinis and one-pieces; this year Georgia Theodosiou has added a few scoop neck one-pieces, and classic white bikinis. Our fave is the navy one-shoulder piece!
Each season, the designer experiments with new materials and styles- and whether it’s bold colours, classic black bikinis, or geometric patterns you are after- the 2022 collection has something to suit every style and taste.
Whether you are off to the Amalfi Coast, Cycladic islands, (or anywhere in between) this swimwear range is made for sunny European days and balmy nights!
Creating sophisticated and effortless swimsuits, Zeus + Dione has kept with the brand’s overall classic style this season, with the pieces being Grecian-inspired in both design and colour. For 2022, we can’t get past their elegant and timeless one-pieces!
Handmade ceramics have never been more popular and it’s easy to see why. Organic materials and perfectly imperfect finishes are at the forefront of décor and interior design- as people seek to reconnect with nature and themselves.
And there’s no denying Greece leads the way when it comes to ceramics, as this form of art has been a part of Greek culture since antiquity- with Ancient Greeks using ceramics to store oil, water and wine since the Bronze Age.
Led by brothers Efcharis and Nikos Paltoglou, the creators behind Homatino, this stunning studio in Athens goes beyond everyday ceramics. Featuring a wealth of knowledge and experience, thanks to their father Michael, who had a ceramics workshop in the 1970s and taught them from young- the brothers have now taken over creating bespoke art pieces that are simple yet stunning. Turning everyday items (think: candle holders, plates, mugs, vases and bowls) into masterpieces- each collection is carefully designed to be used as both dinnerware and décor.
Reminiscent of Ancient Greek artefacts, each item has its own unique character showcasing Efcharis and Nikos’ keen eye for detail and their age-old technique that includes some modern finishes.
“Inspired by clay, a simple raw material, using traditional techniques of the past, however, influenced by the contemporary way of life, we mold by hand, ceramic molds and shapes which aim to be a part of our lives for the following years,” they explain.
“We are a workshop that got its name from the etymology of the word ‘homatino’ which means made of fine-grained earth (soil) or clay. We chose this name bearing in mind who we really are. A local workshop which chooses to remain true to tradition, crafting ceramic objects, modernizing, protecting and promoting the work of the family business, with respect,” they add.
As a child, Efcharios says he “felt the need to create things with my hands. I expressed this need through clay and from the first moment I felt an overwhelming attraction to this simple material, without knowing of course that it would eventually become my profession.”
Nikos says it was in his adulthood that his “restless nature in combination with my heightened sense for creativity changed pottery and ceramics into one of my most enjoyable interests. After travelling through various parts of Greece and on a search, professionally, in various occupations, ceramics and pottery are what eventually won me over.”
The pieces, which feature organic shapes made by hand – reflect the tones and textures of Greece’s beautiful landscape and rich history and if you are in Kalogreza, Athens, you can visit the brothers’ studio, where you will be able to have a tour and check out the tailor-made pieces up close.
“We approach ceramics in an ‘earthly way’, attempting to create a harmonious balance among form-texture-colour and functionalism, giving it a rawness along with an elegant finish. A basic value is for each piece of ceramic work to send out the message of exemplary design, quality, timelessness and for it to be a part of the daily routine and way of life of each individual.”
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Ergon Mykonos
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.’
Hermès
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Whether your style is dainty and elegant or big and bold, Zénaïs Jewellery has a piece (or two) that can definitely be admired. The stunning and modern designs tastefully embrace the importance of Ancient Greek history and practices with symbols, heritage, and even the sourcing/production of each piece.
Owner and creative director Zoe Skiadopoulos launched Zénaïs with her elegant yet exotic collection, “Python” which embodies not only her theme of Ancient Greece but also sticks to the brand’s theme of embracing the curves and movement of life. This collection is the stepping stone and strong foundation of Zénaïs that is allowing Zoe to build her empire. IN+SIGHTS GREECE recently had a chat with the director about her striking designs.
Tell us a bit about your background and training in jewellery?
I was always drawn to aesthetics and style so even though I studied law, my passion for creation and design drove me into the fine jewellery industry. Before founding my own brand, I was working alongside a few Greek designers where I had the opportunity to learn more about the jewellery and fashion industries (i.e. manufacturing process) as well as getting involved in many creative projects.
When did you launch your brand and what was the concept behind it?
Zénaïs was born in the spring of 2019 and I’ve been in love ever since. My first collection was Python, created to celebrate the importance of snakes in ancient civilizations as a symbol of rebirth, immortality, healing and strength.
Every Zénaïs handcrafted piece merges the world’s ancient heritage with modern energy. They are all made from precious materials while treasuring strong symbols and creating timeless style with an edge.
What inspires your creations?
All the designs are inspired by nature’s shapes and curves and represent life’s eternal movement.
How would you describe your brand?
Modern, elegant with an edge.
Are the materials sourced locally and where are they made?
Everything is sourced locally and ethically made in the centre of Athens, from local manufactures that produce jewellery with the ancient lost wax casting method.
Who are the pieces created for?
For all the people who cannot live without a little bling. I feel naked without my jewellery even when I go to bed!
Tell us about your latest collection?
Sahara Collection is all about the different textures and shapes of the desert. You can see the flow among the jewellery, the desert’s irregular textures and even the glow of the sun.
What is your favourite item in your range at the moment?
I’m in love with all my designs as each piece represents something different, but if I had to choose only one I would go with the Python large necklace. It’s the first design I created back in 2019. The rest followed.
What are the current projects you are working on and is there anything exciting coming up you would like to share?
Oh, apart from our latest Collection “Sahara”, we also launched our 2021 charm for good luck. It will be available until the first few months of the new year.
Where is your brand stocked?
We are located in Athens, Greece where everything is made with much love.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, of course, we do! Our designs have travelled across the globe; from New York to Mexico and Paris.
Though summer in Greece may not be on the agenda for some of us this year, Zoe’s pieces can be viewed at zenais.
Inspired by their admiration of Greece’s traditional craftsmanship and talented local artisans, visionaries Dimitra Kolotoura and Mareva Grabowski launched Zeus+Dione in 2012, creating a stunning and modern (yet timeless) brand that has now become one of the most sought after labels in the international fashion world.
Zeus + Dione is leading the scene not only for their immaculate designs- but also for placing a huge emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices. Each piece is proudly designed and produced in Greece, as one by one, the custom made textiles are weaved, dyed, embroidered, and cut by expert artisans using traditional techniques with sophisticated flair.
The collections focus on lifestyle and resort wear- think chic kaftans, classic capes, column-like dresses, intricate Doric detailing, stylish sandals, bold gold jewellery, and Cycladic inspired silhouettes.
With many of their stunning pieces now being stocked in cities all over the world- from London and Paris to Miami and Dubai; as well as being found on luxury online shopping sites such as Net-A-Porter, Farfetch, and Matches Fashion- IN+SIGHTS GREECE recently spoke with co-founder Dimitra about the brand’s ongoing success, her favourite places to travel, eat/drink, and shop in her beloved homeland!
What is the story behind the label?
Zeus+Dione co-founder Dimitra Kolotoura
Zeus+Dione was born from a passion to revive and redefine local craftsmanship and traditions. Mareva and I decided to start a brand that would showcase our country’s rich cultural heritage. It came from a romantic reaction to what was happening at the time in our country – a deep financial crisis. We wanted to create fine, sustainable clothes and accessories that would be designed and made in Greece. The concept was to produce something of high quality that would make us proud.
What inspires your creations and how would you describe your designs?
Our inspiration comes from the sky, the sea, the stones, and the rocky wild islands. With the aim of celebrating our heritage, very often our references come from folk costumes, Ancient Greek garments, marble statues, and modern Greek paintings. Artisanal finishes such
as cording (used in our blazers and dresses) are reminiscent of those seen in traditional Doulamas coats. Contrasting black and ivory handmade embroidery, tassels and fringing often seen on folk costumes, are used as design highlights within our garments.
Even though many of the pieces we have produced have often been adorned with intricate detailing that has deep-rooted connections to the past, the overall silhouette is streamlined and timeless, “Doric” as we say. There is also a certain simplicity to each collection we create. Some of the textiles such as the raw silks, crepe, and linen have a dry texture that marks the modesty of each item.
What do you love most about what you do?
I consider myself lucky, as I really enjoy every moment of my daily work life. The interaction I have with young creative people is such an instant energy booster. I love everything about putting together a collection, analysing the references, and choosing elements that highlight our vast heritage. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
Do you have a few favourite pieces from your latest collection?
Our new collection is 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. To commemorate the 200-year anniversary of the historic event, this S/S 2021 collection takes the revolutionary heroes and heroines, that paved the way for independence, as its starting point. I love the entire collection – there isn’t a single piece I wouldn’t wear. And I’m definitely going to wear the white “foustanela” skirt with the 400 symbolic pleats.
Your collections are all made in Greece. Tell us more about the materials used and artisans you work with, in order to to make each piece so special?
We are proud to say that we are of the very few brands worldwide that create our own fabrics. Each custom made textile is weaved, dyed, embroidered, and cut by expert artisans utilizing traditional techniques with a contemporary edge.
Zeus+Dione’s exclusive silk textiles are crafted uniquely for us in Soufli, a town in the Northeast part of Greece, with a long history of producing fine silk. Shirts made of this material are embroidered in Argos and Metsovo, while dresses and skirts are knitted by craftswomen of the Cyclades and Attica. Beyond the production of custom textiles, selected designs are adorned with traditional patterns and intricate motifs handwoven in Crete, ensuring an elegant signature collection each season.
How would you describe the current fashion scene in Greece?
It’s becoming extremely interesting with more and more brands creating and producing items with reference to our Greek heritage. It’s a very exciting place to be at the moment- not only for those in fashion but all creative types. Loads of artists, painters, multi-media creators, directors from all over the world are making Athens their home.
Can you share a few of your favourite Greek Summer destinations?
Coming from a country like Greece, it goes without saying that I have many favourite places. However, my number one destination is always my island, which is Syros – the capital of the Cyclades complex. A few more islands I love visiting over the summer are Tinos, Milos, Astypalaia, and Anafi.
Top spots in Athens to wine and dine your overseas guests?
The all-time classic venue for my overseas friends is the rooftop restaurant of the Grande Bretagne Hotel, with breathtaking views of the Acropolis. I would take them there for a sunset dinner. Another beautiful beach restaurant is called Krabo in the Athenian Riviera – a beautiful combination of relaxed food and a swim if the weather is warm. I can think of quite a few new entries to the Athenian scene, such as a Greek mezze restaurant Cherchez la femme and Ergon, which is an open kitchen, market-place with modern cuisine. My list is endless really, as the new culinary scene in Athens is exciting, vast, and ready to be explored.
A few of your favourite places to shop in Greece’s Capital?
I should mention here that we recently opened our flagship store in the heart of Athens, 6 Voukourestiou St, a small but wonderful Zeus+Dione shop full of surprises. I would start my shopping day here as I love to see how our collection is displayed and to curate some of our limited creations. I have to admit that I really enjoy shopping, and my two favourite stores in the city are Louisa and Enny di Monaco- they carry most of the well-known designer brands. At the same time, I love to navigate through second-hand shops that are spread around Monastiraki and also small ceramic stores that are situated in Plaka.
Lastly, what do you always pack with you when you travel?
I do travel a lot and I only take a few key pieces with me, as I always try to fit everything in my hand-luggage. I usually take two silk shirts, a pair of black jeans, a pair of cool-wool trousers, and I always pack a cashmere top. If it’s a summer weekend getaway, I just take Zeus+Dione kaftans and swimsuits!
Greece has become a hub for creative talents and a great source of inspiration for some of the most exquisite designs we’ve seen in a while. With the holiday season upon us, we have compiled a list of five young Greek fashion designers who will effortlessly dress your summer (and winter) days with their unique designs.
Designed by Adamantia Katsampi, a creative spirit, Esai is a clothing line for minimalists. It got its name from the Greek phrase ‘εις αεί,’ which means ‘forever.’ That’s the purpose of this brand; to design and create simple, contemporary, and stylish clothes that are never out of fashion.
The outfit I currently love:
Vassia Kostara
Vassia’s inspiration is mainly Greece with an international vibe. She sources unique fabrics from all over the world, while the design making and manufacturing is made in Greece. Her lines are relaxed, elegant, and make every woman feel special and beautifully dressed.
Designed and manufactured in Greece, Karavan is a brand that loves being Boheme and playful, while remaining elegant and simple. Marilou Katsoni, the founder of Karavan, finds her inspiration through art and prints. Her clothes are made for all ages and can be worn from day- to- night.
Inspired and founded in 2012 by Tonia Mitroudi, Nidodileda is a brand that aims to make every woman feel confident and unique. The designs are elegant, feminine, free-spirited, and ideal for special occasions.
Mallory represents all women of today: stylish, beautiful, and hard-working. It’s a brand created by Mara and Irene, that offers casual and elegant all-day clothes, evening looks, and beach styles.
collection, “Python” which embodies not only her theme of Ancient Greece but also sticks to the brand’s theme of embracing the curves and movement of life. This collection is the stepping stone and strong foundation of Zénaïs that is allowing Zoe to build her empire. IN+SIGHTS GREECE recently had a chat with the director about her striking designs. 
Every Zénaïs handcrafted piece merges the world’s ancient heritage with modern energy. They are all made from precious materials while treasuring strong symbols and creating timeless style with an edge.
the flow among the jewellery, the desert’s irregular textures and even the glow of the sun. 
