BEJEWELLED TRIBUTE

With the Kellymorphose fine and high jewellery creations, Hermès pays tribute to one of the most iconic creations in its stable: the Kelly bag

- FRANÇOIS OOSTHUIZEN

Hermès first launched Kellymorphose - inspired by the Kelly bag and the components that make up one of the most coveted fashion accessories in the world - in February last year. Just more than a year later, Bangkok was the first Asian stop for an exclusive exhibition of more than 150 precious creations from the Kellymorphose collection; some from last year's inventory, but also with many new additions bedazzling the inspiring scenography at a completely transformed venue of Park Hyatt Bangkok.

For Pierre Hardy, creative director of Hermès Jewellery, finding inspiration from the Kelly bag - from the bag itself to the clasp and padlock - obviously proved to be an exercise in expressing classic Hermès design codes. "The Kelly bag elevates its functional components: the side straps, and an elemental clasp consisting of a turnlock, a plate and four studs. I do the same with Kelly jewellery, by reinterpreting or disrupting its original lines," he says. “I like movement - a chain that winds around itself, a ring that splits into two, a keychain that swings as you walk. I like capturing mobility without ever fixing it in place. I like the momentum of the body, which echoes creative momentum."