We're in Venice, the city that inspired poets and novelists like Byron and Hemingway, and painters like Monet and Turner, not to mention the countless auteurs, artists, and romantics who have travelled to its overflowing banks for a glimpse of their muse. But it is not them but a 92-year-old woman named Patricia Eisenbeiss who figures prominently on my highlights reel of the trip.
We met at the Buccellati gala at Fortuny Factory, in a glamorous see-through marquee that has been erected specially for the evening. Under a clear Italian sky, I discover a host of interesting things about my distinguished seatmate. Originally from Pennsylvania, now residing in Monaco, Patricia has lived an eventful life on different continents. Though it has been four decades since she came to Singapore, her daughter (the statuesque woman sitting across from her, who like her mother, is decked out in Buccellati jewellery) has visited more recently, staying in the Armenian church compound for the two weeks she was there.
The conversation runs politely but in a sprightly manner.
She seems impressed that I'm a magazine editor, but I am obviously even more impressed with her, especially when I discover that she is a VIP who has generously loaned a diamond Opera bangle to the exhibition that I will be visiting the next day. "I've been collecting Buccellati for many, many years," she informs me matter-of-factly, before recounting how the bangle was a surprise gift from her husband who knew that she had been eyeing it for a long time.
The next day, as I embark on my three-minute walk to the exhibition from my hotel, I can't help but think about the
convivial atmosphere within the marquee. With VIPs rubbing shoulders with members of the media, and the Buccellati family playing host, the evening felt less formal than the usual soirees, and more like a big 300-guest wedding with extended family who have come together to celebrate.
This story is from the June 2024 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2024 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Just A Hint
Conspicuously More Understated Than Their Gem-set Cousins, These Subtle Rainbow-coloured Watches Are No Less Defiant In Their Insistence On Optimism And Style.
A cultural Conversation
With its Made of Makers programme, JAEGER-LECOULTRE has built a community of like-minded creatives who place innovation, craftsmanship and precision at the heart of all they do.
The Inner Lives Of Clothes
Compelling Fashion Doesn't Have To Be Ostentatious Or Overtly Conceptual, But It Does Need A Clear Identity And Character Of Its Own.
Journey to the WEST
Time to slip into some chaps and saddle up. Fashion's biggest brands are taking a turn at the rodeo.
The Mai Effect
Fresh off her cover shoot for ELLE Singapore-draped in head-turning Bvlgari jewels-Davika Hoorne radiates the charm and allure of a woman who's both wildly ambitious and perfectly content in her own skin. Here, the 32-year-old Thai-Belgian star reflects on two decades in the spotlight, and why she's not done dreaming just yet.
in Conversation
Cartier creative director MARIE-LAURE CÉRÈDE delves into the Maison’s haute joaillerie timepieces, while highlighting the importance of creativity and a happy team in her chat with CHARMAINE HO.
SPIRIT OF Samba
ENJOY A RIOTOUS NIGHT OUT WITH YOUR WELL-HEELED FRIENDS AT SUSHISAMBA SINGAPORE. COME FOR THE DRINKS AND STAY FOR THE REVELRYBUT DON'T FORGET TO DRESS THE PART.
What dreams May Come
Life as an actress can be an emotional roller coaster. Crazy Rich Asians star CONSTANCE LAU shares the highs, the lows, and everything else in between.
OF WOMEN & SINGAPORE
From fashion trends that capture the cultural zeitgeist, to introspective opinion pieces about a life best lived, fashion historian NADYA WANG charts 31 years of ELLE Singapore history through its pages.
SPA AWARDS 2024
50 WINNING BEAUTY TREATMENTS TO GET YOU LOOKING FABULOUS FROM TOP TO TOE.
