Accessories / Society

All that glitters: These are the season's most treasured accessories

By Sandra Hagelstam

Swarovski decorated leather heels, €‎1,250. Aquazzura. Three-dimensional embellished handbag, price on request. Valentino Garavani. . Photo: Gustav Almestål

Seasoned with a sprinkle of magic, these are the shoes and bags truly designed for the festive season

The season’s most coveted shoes and bags are unmistakeable treasures. Decadent and nothing short from magical are the accessories gilded in stones and studs. From a selection of sparkly sky-high heels to handbags designed to turn heads this season, these are the handpicked accessories highlighted in the December/January issue of Vogue Scandinavia. These bright doses of dopamine inspires a new way of dressing up again, and will act as the main characters of your winter wardrobe. This season all that glitters is truly gold.

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Crystal embellished leather heels, Є1,150. Mach & Mach. Photo: Gustav Almestål

Aquazurra’s 10th year anniversary collection designed in collaboration with Swarovski treats high heels as unique jewellery pieces. Featuring a feminine silhouette and sculpturesque heel embellished with precision-cut crystals and minimal PVC straps, the gem-like shoes are like an illusion in the form of footwear. The idea of a woman walking solely on crystals inspired designer Edguardo Osorio to create the Aura sandal that is truly the most decadent of its kind and nothing short of a collectors' dream shoe. For a maximalist take on this season’s sparkly trend, pair the shoes with Valentino Garavani VSLING extravagant handbag. The high glamour mini tote with 3D embroidery is best worn through its top handle and paired back with a tuxedo suit.

Metallic vinyl heels, Є980. Giambatista Valli. . Photo: Gustav Almestål

Metallic vinyl heels, Є980. Giambatista Valli. Sparkling handbag, Є1,850. Balenciaga. . Photo: Gustav Almestål

Noteworthy novelty heels have mesmerised throughout the past year and Giambatista Valli’s subtle take features a stiletto balanced on a single significant pearl. Crafted in a vinyl finish, this sandal is understated but never dull, oozing both a vintage flair and a futuristic aesthetic. Photographed alongside an iconic piece originally designed by Lee McQueen in 2009, the knuckle Box clutch remains a classic investment for a reason. Studded and embellished, the four set ring handle features McQueens signature skulls in a golden finish. Maximalism at its peak.

Further venturing into the world of handbags, sparkle specialist Aquazzurra's embellished Tequila clutch is like the bag version of Cinderella’s shoe. Covered in iridescent crystals with a hard acrylic case, the optimised wear comes through the interior that features a metallic leather pouch and jewellery-like clasp fastening. For a more recognisable take, Balenciaga’s top handle hourglass tote is from the more structured end of the party purse spectrum and as serious it-bag appeal. Inspired by Cristóbal Balenciaga’s iconic tailoring, the silhouette which has grown to a signature to Balenciaga is effortlessly adopted into this small tote. The subtle shimmer makes this bag an investment piece to last beyond the season.

Crystal rhinestone bucket bag, Є3,995, Crystal rhinestone heels in suede, Є1,500. Both Jimmy Choo. . Photo: Gustav Almestål

Leave it to Christian Louboutin to deliver a shoe with a captivating story. This towering Yazefine platform is part of the Loubi Mystery capsule collection that was inspired by the 1940s murder mystery game Clue. Designed together with Istanbul-born Parisian designer Yaz Bukey, the chunky heel and platform sole are crafted from ornate strass-embellished plexi, a trademark material used by Miss Bukey and a feature that runs throughout the extraordinary collection.

Equally show-stopping in its iridescent glory shines the Mach & Mach patent leather bag. Equipped with an embellished bow, a detail signature to the Tbilisi based brand founded by Georgian sister duo Nina and Gvantsa Macharashvili. Playing on the resurge of YK2 fashion, Mach & Mach’s bright designs are designed for the festive season, and this iridescent piece< allows for a wide variety of styling. More is more, should you wish to match the bag with a pair of Gianvito Rossi sandals with larger than life crystals. Crafted in metallic-effect leather, the Jaipur sandals are our top pick for a sparkling New Years eve party.

Crystal embellished handbag, €595. Stella McCartney. Saturated polyester heels with rhinestones, €1,995. Christian Louboutin . Photo: Gustav Almestål

Metallic chain heels, €890. Alexander McQueen. Embellished rhinestone clutch bag, €1,495. Aquazzura. .

Jimmy Choo’s noteworthy set of glitter accessories have proven their longevity throughout the years and continues to impress with their show-stopping designs. The Bon Bon bag is an effortless take on the bucket bag trend and dazzles in its all-crystal covered design. For some extra lift, opt for Mach & Mach newest style. The iridescent leather sandals with a disco platform and their signature double bow, crystal-embellished detailing. A extraordinary pair guaranteed to bring a more than a little bit of magic to your life.