As Couture opens, design expectations soar

Las Vegas--Couture show exhibitors enjoyed a welcome party at the Wynn Las Vegas Wednesday evening, with many not only expressing a positive outlook for the five days ahead but noting the strength of design in pieces they’ve seen from fellow exhibitors so far.

“I think there are so many great designers debuting unique pieces,” said Parulina’s Kuki Seth, who is introducing her Castles & Cages medieval-inspired collection at the show this year. “What’s happening in jewelry right now is so over-the-top. I’m so happy to be a part of that.”

Seth wasn’t the only party attendee to note strength in design this year; the Couture Design Award entries that had been placed in the display cases as of Wednesday evening created a buzz among the crowd.

In addition to trend-setting design, attendees at the party also expressed high hopes for business in the days ahead.

Patricia Syvrud, who handles international business development for Turkish jewelry brand Pinar Öner Design Atelier, said she and her designers were excited about the retailers who were attending Couture, as well as the individuals with whom they have appointments.

This is Pinar Öner’s second year at the show, exhibiting in Next Wave, and the designer introduced a “show special” this year, where any buyer who spends $15,000 with the company has a chance to win a six-day, five-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton in Istanbul.

Alp Sagnak of Atelier Minyon, who was a two-time winner in the Couture Design Awards last year, said this year, “It’s a buyer’s market. I want everyone to do six digits.”

Couture Director Gannon Brousseau expressed excitement for the days ahead as well.

“The salons look better than ever. Everyone is really excited for the show to open,” he said. “I’m blown away by the designs I’ve seen so far, and I know the retailers will be impressed as well. We’re looking forward to an incredible show.”

Throughout the show, Couture is hosting a number of social media contests for attendees, asking them to follow Couture on Instagram and/or Twitter to enter.

The first contest asks attendees to Tweet or Instagram a selfie of their jewelry “in action,” using the hashtags #Couture2014 and #ShowYourCouture for a chance to win a $300 gift card. The contest began Wednesday and ends Monday, June 2.

Attendees can win a $500 gift card to the Wynn shops by taking a picture