The news that a Hermès Birkin handbag has sold for a record $300,000 couldn’t have come at a better time for Prudence Hopkins. She is just about to unveil a host of designer handbags and other accessories at a special auction preview in London.
The news that a Hermès Birkin handbag has sold for a record $300,000 couldn’t have come at a better time for Prudence Hopkins. She is just about to unveil a host of designer handbags and other accessories at a special auction preview in London.
“Christie’s Hong Kong auction on June 1 proves what specialists like me have known for some time,” says Prudence. “Fashions may change, but true classics never go out of style and there is a widespread and growing desire to acquire the best, whether it is handbags and accessories, clothing or jewellery.”
Prudence, who has put together a stunning catalogue of treasures for the July 6 Objects of Desire auction at Sworders of Stansted Mountfitchet in Essex, has joined forces with West End silver dealer Daniel Bexfield and hair and make-up stylist Sergio Giannasso to throw a preview party in Cecil Court, just off St Martin’s Lane in the West End on the evening of June 21.
Billed as The Three Stylists, the event takes place at Daniel’s chic boutique gallery, where he is putting together a special display of silver accessories and accoutrements to complement highlights from the auction that Prudence will have on display.
Meanwhile, Sergio will work with Prudence to create several ‘looks’, using models brought in specially for the evening, so that visitors can see how to combine the best in hair and make-up styles with the best in stylish clothes and accessories.
Daniel, Prudence and Sergio pose outside Daniel Bexfield's gallery
They will also be able to view the auction highlights in person, as well as the catalogue’s full range on screens specially set up for the event. What’s more, although the auction itself won’t take place for a further two weeks, party-goers will be able to leave bids on items they take a shine to there and then, as well as having access to the best of Daniel Bexfield’s display on the night.
Add to all of this a complementary glass or two prosecco and Cecil Court should be abuzz for Mid Summer’s Night.
“This must be the first time three different stylists have come together to create an event like this that shows fashion fans what they can find at auction and among the dealing community,” says Prudence. “It’s exciting because the three of us bring complementary skills and knowledge, as well as our own audiences, together to promote what we do. And everyone can have fun while we do it.”
Daniel is equally enthusiastic.
“I have a lot of loyal clients who will enjoy taking part in something a little different from the norm, and I know this will attract new people to the gallery. I always welcome the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for the objects I deal in with new people, and this event will do just that, as well as being a fun afternoon for everybody.”
Sergio, who has worked with many of the top names in fashion and styling, is delighted to bring his talents to the party.
“I was immediately attracted by the originality of the idea,” he says. “I have known Daniel for some time and love all the fantastic things he has in his gallery. Seeing the sale highlights from Sworders’ auction there as well was just too good an opportunity to miss, and I look forward to adding to the fun on the hair and make-up side.”
If the best in the best in designer and vintage handbags, fashion couture, scarves, pens and other accessories is your thing, come along between 6pm and 9pm to Daniel Bexfield Antiques at 5 Cecil Court, London WC2N 4EZ. The items from the sale will also be on show at the gallery from 11am to 5pm.
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