Fashion

De Beers Illuminates Paris with New Flagship Opening Gala

Author : Gloria Vanderbilt
Published Time : 2026-01-28

De Beers recently inaugurated its largest global flagship store on Paris's esteemed Rue de la Paix, hosting a star-studded gala that seamlessly blended high fashion with exquisite jewelry. The event, held amidst the Spring 2026 Couture season, attracted a distinguished list of celebrities and friends of the house, transforming the evening into a luminous affair. This grand opening underscored De Beers' enduring legacy and its forward-looking vision, offering an immersive experience that highlighted both the brand's heritage and its future aspirations in the world of luxury diamonds.

The celebration commenced shortly after the conclusion of the Spring 2026 Couture presentations, providing a glamorous respite for guests from the demanding fashion week schedule. The new 5,000-square-foot boutique, now De Beers' most expansive retail presence worldwide, became the epicenter of a dazzling gathering. French cinema icons Isabelle Huppert and Adèle Exarchopoulos were among the early arrivals, with Exarchopoulos making a stylish statement in a men's jacket from Lanvin's Fall Winter collection.

The guest list further expanded to include prominent figures such as brand ambassador Adwoa Aboah, alongside Chase Infiniti, Jodie Turner-Smith, Shunxi Zeng, and Taraji P. Henson. Renowned art gallerist Emmanuel Perrotin was captivated by the store's sophisticated design, which notably featured a wall constructed from kimberlite, the geological source rock of natural diamonds. Perrotin mused about the artistic potential of the space, noting an undecorated wall on the second floor as an ideal canvas for one of his artists.

A highlight of the evening was the appearance of English singer Lily Allen, who emerged from one of the boutique's VIP lounges, styled as a classic English library adorned with South African art. Allen, sporting a chic high ponytail, opted for a minimalist yet striking ensemble: a glossy black leather trench coat paired with sky-high heels. This choice allowed her magnificent necklace and earrings from De Beers' latest high jewelry collection, the Echo parure, to command attention. She shared with Vogue that her outfit was deliberately classic to complement the unknown selection of jewels she would wear.

As the night progressed, the festivities transitioned to the historic salons of the Hôtel d'Evreux on Place Vendôme. Here, Lily Allen underwent a quick costume change, shedding her trench coat for another captivating black outfit. Buoyed by the immense global success of her recent album, "West End Girl," Allen delivered an electrifying performance, enchanting the audience with a medley of three songs: "Sleepwalking," "Tennis," and the crowd-favorite "Pussy Palace," which prompted a spirited sing-along. Following Allen's performance, DJs Agathe Mougin and Sydney Lima took over the decks, maintaining the high energy levels well into the night, further amplified by an impromptu piano performance by Charly Voodoo.

Emmanuelle Nodale, De Beers' new CEO, encapsulated the essence of the event, remarking, "This is what De Beers is all about." She emphasized that the house transcends mere diamonds, embodying a rich tapestry of history, heritage, vibrant energy, profound emotion, and, crucially, an element of delightful surprise. The evening served as a testament to De Beers' multifaceted identity, celebrating not only its exquisite craftsmanship but also its capacity to create memorable experiences that resonate deeply with its clientele and the broader cultural landscape.