A conversation with Elie Top



✨ “I love mixing styles, and I definitely consider myself a maximalist. Minimalism is not for me!” — @elietopofficial

We had the pleasure of catching up with the visionary jewelry designer to talk about his bold aesthetic, Italian influences, and the story behind his MAGICAL NATURE collection. From the legacy of Loulou de la Falaise to dreamy summer escapes in Greece 🇬🇷—this interview is a celebration of  creativity and timeless glamour.

What is your first memory of connecting with jewelry?

“I started my career as a costume jeweller, and my biggest influence comes from the 1980s—the era of oversized earrings and iconic designs by Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent.

The years I spent with Loulou de la Falaise were also incredibly inspiring for my later work. I love mixing styles, and I definitely consider myself a maximalist. Minimalism is not for me!” 😊

Which parts of the world have been most inspirational to your work?


Definitely Italy. I first visited Rome when I was just 9 years old, and even as a child, I dreamed of Italy—it left a huge impression on me. The country has been fundamental in shaping my design aesthetic. I especially loved visiting castles, churches, and historical landmarks. The richness of the culture continues to inspire me.


Tell us about the ‘MAGICAL NATURE’ collection.
It’s a mix of the exotic and extravagant—precious animals, skins, and textured finishes. I love combining materials like gold with silver and adding patinas. It’s all about contrast and depth.

The late ’70s and ’80s seem to be a recurring influence in your work. Can you tell us more about that?
Absolutely! Loulou de la Falaise’s style was a big inspiration. And I still have strong memories of the bold gold earrings women wore in the 1980s. That era's glamour really resonates with me.



Summer plans? Greece? Favorite Greek island?
Yes! Antiparos and Paxos are on my list this summer 🇬🇷

Collections available at Id Fine Jewelry in Athens 

And at shop my list 

The 70s Style Aesthetic


Imagine you are back in 70s and you are spending your summer at Capri. 

Browse and shop my list at https://shopmy.us/collections/1923290
In the 1970s, Capri was a glamorous yet laid-back Mediterranean getaway, and the vacation style for women reflected that blend of bohemian elegance, jet-set luxury, and Italian sensuality. Think of a stylish mix of Sophia Loren meets Talitha Getty—sun-kissed, effortlessly chic, and subtly decadent. 


They spend sunny afternoons tanning and socializing at famous beach clubs like La Fontelina and Il Riccio. 
Let’s explore what are the Key Elements of 1970s Women's Vacation Style in Capri:

Ypnosilk silk turbans 

Flowing Maxi Dresses and Kaftans With bold prints (paisley, florals, Mediterranean motifs) Emilio Pucci was famous designer at that time with his maximal and colourful collections.


Lightweight fabrics like silk, cotton, and chiffon styled with leather belts.

Inspired clothing by boho and Grecian silhouettes, Like Wide-Leg Trousers and Palazzo Pants.



High-waisted, paired with tucked-in blouses or halters. Linen or light cotton ideal for heat.

The shoes musts are hand made sandals, platform sandals or espadrilles.

Bikinis & Cut-Out Swimsuits

  • Triangle tops and high-cut bottoms.

    Some opted for crochet or metallic bikinis.

    Paired with oversized sunglasses and sheer cover-ups

Off-Shoulder and Halter Neck Tops, often styled with wrap skirts or sarongs.

Iconic Accessories and bold jewellery. 

Oversized straw hats or floppy wide-brim hats

Big sunglasses (think Jackie O. style)

Chunky gold jewelry or statement pieces in coral, shell, or turquoise

Wicker or straw handbags


Natural Hair & Makeup With Loose waves or updos with scarves or headbands And Bronzed, dewy skin with minimal makeup, Glossy lips and sun-kissed cheeks! 

Follow me on instagram for more inspiration 

elforell meets Elina Afentaki, fine jewelry designer

5 questions to Elina Afentaki, fine jewelry designer. A beautiful soul inside out, with sustainable mindset and unique designs. 

At the ID trunk show


1. Tell us a few things about your conscious mindset when creating high jewelry pieces in limited quantities.

To be very honest with you, aside from the conscious and sustainable approach and my strong stance against fast fashion, I deeply believe that jewelry evokes individuality. Many of the stones I use are rare and hard to source due to the geological and socio-economic origins they come from so naturally, they aren’t abundant.

But more than that, I love designing with a specific woman in mind. Whether it's through bespoke services or releasing limited pieces, my intention is always to create something that speaks loudly and truly. It’s about connection and emotional value, not mass production.

 Creativity is a gift that comes when it wants to. You can’t force it, you have to respect it.

 


2. What is your first idea or thought when designing a piece or starting a collection?

Honestly, it usually happens very randomly. I've noticed certain themes keep resurfacing in my mind; it's almost impossible to ignore them, even when I try (I admit that haha). Creativity is a gift that comes when it wants to. You can’t force it, you have to respect it.

When something speaks to me and I can envision it clearly and tangibly, I know it’s time to grab my pencil and start designing. It’s a very intuitive, almost spiritual process..!

The designer

3. Your very first jewelry memory? (Design and concept)

I know you’re asking about the first piece I designed, but I'd rather share the story of a ring that was given to me by my mother. I must have been around 12... I used to wear it on my thumb because my fingers were so tiny, and it didn’t fit anywhere else.

I grew up surrounded by women who saw jewelry as both ornament and necessity. That ring, though, had deep sentimental value. I never took it off, until I lost it in the sea. It had shaped my finger in the same way it had shaped me. Gone with the ocean… along with my memories, and a lot of sorrow. That was the first time I truly understood how jewelry can carry stories and emotions.


 

4. Your top Elina Afentaki jewelry picks for summer? (Key pieces, layering tips, etc.)

I’m a layering girl through and through. I love stacking bracelets, necklaces, rings, and even earrings. When I design a piece, I always think about how it can be played with, transforming earrings into pendants, breaking down earrings into minimal versions… 

 

I just love exploring the versatility of fine materials.

 

Although I often say "less is more," with jewelry I believe "more is more"! My must-haves this summer are my bangles which are perfect for stacking my Apollo Hybrid Necklace Charm and my new seashell mini hybrid apollo collection. It's inspired by the god of the sun, Apollonas, and sea urchins - something I used to collect with my dad during childhood dives. It’s sentimental, symbolic, and warm, just like summer. I wanted to create something beautiful that reminds people of sunny days, cherished memories, and the light we all carry within us.

Founder of ID Irene Deros & Elina Afentaki

 

5. A moment you are proud of.

That's such a powerful question and honestly being proud of myself hasn’t always come easily. After years in the industry, through both challenging and joyful collaborations, I can say the moment I'm most proud of is when I finally took it all in.

I’m proud of who I’ve become emotionally, of how I’ve stood up to situations that once intimidated me. As a woman in this industry, it’s often felt like I had to work twice as hard especially when compared to someone older or more traditionally experienced. It’s a constant battle to prove yourself.

But today, I sit here and feel proud. Proud of growing, of learning, and of finally allowing myself to feel that pride. For many, that kind of self-recognition isn’t easy. But it’s necessary, and I hope more of us learn to embrace it.


 You can find the collection at ID fine jewelry. 

Neso Studio x Ypnosilk

Introducing Silk Talismans. A creative collaboration with @neso.studio and @ypnosilk.studio.


Fine Jewelry pieces in gold and silver dressed in fine silk ribbons.


Handmade 🪡 by talented @its.upcylo

Find the collection at Neso boutiques in Athens & Naousa Paros


A creative conversation with Ralph Masri


Meet the designer: 5 questions to the Lebanese fine jewelry designer Ralph Masri! 


His precious designs are personal favs for Celine Dion, Taylor Swift and many more Hollywood stars who admire Ralph”s bold, architectural style.


How did your journey with jewelry begin, and what inspired you to start your own brand?

 

When I was younger my parents worked in the jewelry field so it’s something that was always in the background growing up, but I was never actually interested in pursuing this path until my foundation year at college in Central Saint Martins in London when I discovered my genuine love for it. I had always enjoyed art and crafting objects with my hands as a child and the sculptural aspect of jewelry really drew me in, as well as my love of sketching and designing. Upon graduating with my BA in Jewelry I decided to move back to Lebanon to launch my eponymous brand - we have incredible craftsmanship in Lebanon so it seemed like a natural place to be based out.



·        What is your personal favorite piece and why? 

 


It’s hard to have a favorite piece - it’s like picking your favorite child! But the classic Arabesque Deco ring has a special place in my heart as that was my first hit, and it basically launched my brand. Gigi Hadid first wore it many years ago, and the rest is history!

 

The ultra chic owner of ID, Irene Deros

·        Your designs are timeless, versatile, bold yet delicate, and often feature a touch of color. How would you describe your signature style?

 


I’d say first and foremost it’s modern. I love architecture and geometry so my pieces tend to be very sculptural. I really enjoy playing with colors so I make sure to incorporate that into my designs, especially with color contrasts. 

 

·        You split your time between Barcelona and Beirut—two dream destinations! Do you have any favorite spots or hidden gems you’d recommend?

 


Beirut is my home and my favorite place in the world, and it’s basically one giant hidden gem. I would recommend people think about visiting this summer because it’s finally coming back to life after a very difficult period.

 



·        What’s your personal motto and the secret to your success?

 

What matters to me most is peace of mind and happiness, which can sometimes clash with running a business. Making money is important but at this stage I only do things and work with people I enjoy, and I’m only interested in selling designs I’m proud of. 


Now available in Athens, at the ID and online : Ralph Masri
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