There are countless things I could recommend to you as spring-summer 2008's fashion must-haves. But the fact is: none of them really are must-haves.

The only trend you need to follow is your own. And the only fashion items you must have this season — and every other season — is your own treasured items.

What's your thing? It's easy to follow fashion but being stylish? That's a whole different ball game. Style is being savvy enough to know what works well together.

And sometimes all you need to do is add little accents and touches that'll elevate your look from 'status quo' to 'style queen'.

Chunky rustic jewellery, under-stated 'it' shoes, quirky brooches and tongue-in-cheek earrings all can add heaps of spice to any look.

You know who you are. You know your style. So, here are some examples of the hottest seasonal trends to make your very own.

Pianegonda

Italian jewellery brand Pianegonda's new jewellery collection is dedicated to super women. The chunky yet intricate precious jewels are created especially for women from all walks of life.

In today's society, women play diverse roles from mothers and wives to managers and sometimes, all at the same time. Pianegonda's new collection pays homage to the 21st century woman.

These gorgeous pieces of jewellery are not just for adornment but clearly come with a pertinent social consciousness that celebrates the professional and social power now available to women giving them the freedom and dignity they deserve.

Brand founder and designer Franco Pianegonda's jewels are innovative and full of emotion, expressing a true feminine force, the human progression, and the recognition of women's long fight in every culture.

The introduction of pink gold linked to the pure silver is totally innovative; new textures are created in three dimensions, amazing combinations of symbols are carved on charms with exceptional Italian goldsmith craftmanship.

These designs are created by the highest level of the traditional Italian jewellery: this season Franco Pianegonda creates an ode to his best collections: the diamond-cut snake chains oozes new appeal.

Pianegonda is located in BurJuman and Harvey Nichols, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai. Visit www.pianegonda.com for
more information.

Guiseppe Zanotti

Guiseppe Zanotti's new collection for spring-summer 2008 has a playful interpretation on everyday shapes, colours and materials. In this collection the classic flat pump is the key piece.

It embodies the season's mood of lightness and simplicity. Zanotti feels "it bears a discreet eroticism, which is, just for this reason, stronger, more sulfurous and more sophisticated.

Just as Catherine Deneuve was in the classic film Belle de Jour."

Zanotti's designs feature an array of luxury textures from soft calfskin to glossy patent leather painstakingly put together in vivid colours of ocean blue, cherry red and bamboo green.

Wear them to cocktail parties by moonlight or evening strolls by sunset: Zanotti's new pumps are the perfect signature accompaniment to your favourite pieces.

Guiseppe Zanotti is available at Harvey Nichols, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai. Visit www.guiseppezanottidesign.com for more information.

Les Trésors Cachés

Parlez-vous Francais? New British fashion brand Les Trésors Cachés (Hidden Treasures, in French) launches its debut collection of cool, urban and quirky accessories.

Les Trésors Cachés is for women with real passion; who are true to themselves and glorious enough to let their lights shine from within.

Now available in Dubai, the new collection features tongue-in-cheek lingerie-inspired accessories including classy corsages made from satin-finished bra straps and ethereal earrings made from slick suspender hook-ends.

The divine new collection also features sensual head and wrist bands made from intricate lingerie lace and vibrant belts (pictured left) created from plush lingerie elastic, adorned with Arabic and Hindi calligraphy.

Prices start from Dh75. Les Trésors Cachés is available in Boom and Mellow at Mall of the Emirates, and Five Green, Garden Home Centre, Oud Metha, Dubai.

For more information check out www.lestresorscaches.co.uk

By Olu-Kemi Komolafe, Special to Gulf News

Articles from the author

Spring-summer 2008's fashion must-haves