Art of Style

As we balance desire and responsibility, we find the best fashion is that which tells a story, displays a sense of artistry and is made with the kind of craftsmanship and attention to detail that ensures you’ll want to keep the piece forever.

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Though Naples Botanical Garden’s Hats in the Garden will take place virtually this year, that doesn’t mean you can’t don a fabulous topper wherever you are—and when that time comes, Marilyn Hellman’s boutique remains the resource for excellent millinery (and footwear, to boot!). For her house label, Hellman commissions European artisans to handcraft designs, like the Black Couture Fascinator—Pillbox Shape with Stiff Circular Netting, $798, and Flowered Embroidered Mesh, Laced Short Boot, $498; Marilyn’s on Fifth Avenue South, Naples.

Forget statement necklaces—to really standout, try an ornate collar! French-Brazilian designer Anne Fontaine may be best known for perfecting the white dress shirt for women, but her embroidered neckwear is equally stunning and made using time-honored Italian techniques. From top: Fabie Sequined Detailed Handmade Mesh Collar, $650, and Taslima Sequin Embroidered Tulle Collarette, $595; Anne Fontaine at Waterside Shops, Naples.

Hailing from Ontario, Jenny Bird creates pieces that are both minimalist enough to be worn often, while having an architectural edge that makes them interesting. All of her collections are inspired by what’s happening within and around her, like the Ora—Latin for “coastline”—collection, which reflects the natural, undulating shapes of the Earth. Clockwise from top: Ora Ring, $95, Bobbi Chain Necklace Large, $125, Double Carter Choker, $135, and Juno Huggies, $75; Jennifer’s at 13251 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

American designer John Cole uses only fine aniline-dyed crocodile hides for his collection of stylish handbags. Roma Tail Clutch, $750; Ncolor Salon at 4760 Tamiami Trail N., Naples.

New York-native Bibi van der Velden takes an artistic approach when creating her jewelry. She starts each design with a hand-drawn sketch, then employs unexpected materials, like mammoth tusk and recycled gold. Each delicate piece is like a miniature sculpture, with an exceptional level of detail detected in every design. Clockwise from top: Diamond and Opal Galaxy Necklace, $4,955, Mammoth Tusk Diamond Egg Earrings, $5,885, Stackable Topaz and Diamond Scarab Ring, $3,275, and Stackable Slug Diamond Ring, $4,420; Marissa Collections on Third Street South, Naples.

Photography by Craig Hildebrand