As the first month of spring nears its end, an early Easter is right around the corner, with it the spirit of hope and new beginnings. Ushered in by pastel tones, bunnies, and chocolates, the impending spring equinox holds something for everyone, be it quality time with friends and family, crafts and festivities, or escapades in nature. And while you’re basking in the festivities, why not add a sophisticated touch to your Easter celebrations with a sartorial take on one of the world’s oldest decorative traditions? The egg. Its ornamental origins can be traced back to ancient times—where ostrich eggs embellished with gold and silver were placed in the graves of the Sumerians and pre-dynastic Egyptians as early as 5,000 years ago, long before painted eggs became part of Easter traditions around the world.
In the Easter of 1885, Russian jeweller Gustav Fabergé crafted the ‘Hen Egg’—first in a series of 54 jewel-encrusted eggs for Alexander III of Russia, who was so impressed by its grandeur that he appointed Faberge the supplier for the Imperial court. His legacy lives on to this day, and his descendants have expanded the reach of his legendary hand-embellished eggs, most notably to the realm of fine jewellery. Similarly, the eponymous brand of legendary handbag designer Judith Leiber, dubbed by Vogue as the ‘Fabergé of handbags’, has recently re-released seven of its most iconic styles of ‘The Egg’. One for every decade for the brand—a further testament to the egg’s timeless appeal.
Those looking for a subtler touch can embrace the simplicity and sophistication of the egg shape, which has inspired designers for centuries, influencing everything from architecture to fashion. From its smooth, organic curves to symmetrical form, we’ve seen a plethora of designs inspired by its silhouette, whether it be in two-dimensional renderings like egg-shaped vintage luggage pieces of the ’50s and ’60s, or in three-dimensional, such as Simone Rocha’s iconic egg bags that embellish the unshelled egg’s immaculate, smooth curves with pearlescent finishings.
Whether you plan on spending the weekend at services, travelling, or catching up with friends and family, consider channeling the spirit of Easter with Vogue Singapore’s edit of egg-inspired accessories—from the classic to the whimsical.
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Judith Leiber Couture 60th Anniversary celebration egg (limited edition 1990's), $7,400
Available at Judith Leiber Couture.
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Fabergé Egg necklace 18kt yellow gold heritage diamond locket necklace, $22,049
Available at Farfetch.