FASHION DESIGNER BELOVED OF THE STARS CELIA KRITHARIOTI

ON HOW HER IDYLLIC SUMMER HIDEAWAY ON THE GREEK ISLAND OF IOS FEEDS HER CREATIVE SPIRIT

Greece's top fashion designer Celia Kritharioti is constantly inspired by her beautiful homeland - its art, history and, of course, its landscapes. In Athens, she and her husband, shipping magnate Nikolas Tsakos, enjoy spectacular views of the Parthenon from their historic home near the Acropolis. And when summer comes, they always head to their retreat on the Aegean island of Ios, where sea meets sky in an endless symphony of blue.

Celia's love for Ios - where the poet Homer is said to be buried shines through in last season's couture collection, entitled Deep Sea.

The sensuous, often diaphanous creations were a siren call to her many celebrity fans, who include Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Zendaya.

This autumn, Celia adds royalty to that impressive client list, having been chosen by Greece's Princess Theodora to dress her for her much-anticipated September wedding.

Naturally, in the build-up to the big day, she appreciated more than ever the precious peace of Ios, where she and Nikolas have enjoyed so many happy times with their children Panos, Irene and Elizabeth.

Celia, what can you tell us about this magical place?

“It’s an island paradise in the middle of the Cyclades archipelago. The name Ios comes from the ancient word ion, meaning flower.

“My family are sailors. We docked here one night about 15 years ago seeking shelter from strong winds. The next morning when the sun rose I saw these gorgeous quiet beaches and immediately fell in love.”

So you bought a house here…