Bulgari has all but taken over the Houston fashion headlines this week, but since it is its 130th birthday we don't mind. Not only are they planning a big debut of their Houston Museum of Natural Science exhibit this Friday, but they are also unveiling their newly renovated Galleria store.
The Galleria has played host to the one and only Bulgari boutique in the Houston area since 2005 and to celebrate its big anniversary, Bulgari wanted to bring a little Italian style to the space.
"Houston and Bulgari have long enjoyed a romance with each other," said Bulgari USA President Alberto Festa, "Texas women embody the same qualities of beauty and strength that inspire our designs, and the new store will reflect that symbiotic relationship."
Walking into the store feels like entering an Italian jewelry box owned by a Marquis living in Rome but vacationing on Lake Cuomo. (Forgive my overactive imagination.) Modeled after the flagship store on the Via Condotti in Rome, the new space has all the Bulgari hallmarks, including Italian marble floors inlaid with the signature onyx star found in every boutique worldwide. A gorgeous crystal chandelier of interlocking hooks inspired by an original design by Giogali in the 1960s fills the space above the main display cases.
Silk screen prints of jewelry pieces and beautiful images of Bulgari collector Elizabeth Taylor wearing pieces from her personal collection decorate the walls of the main floor and VIP area.
Not to forget the passersby, a new window display featuring box in box design showcases the newest pieces with a gravity defying effect.
To cap off their big week, the BVLGARI: 130 Years of Masterpieces exhibition at the Houston Museum of Natural Sciences kicks off its six- month run this Friday, May 2.
Once this week is over, I'm going to need a stroll through Target to come down off this fine jewelry high. But until then, I shall bask in all the jeweled glory.