Parisian jeweller house Repossi is entering a new chapter in the Middle East. Following major boutique openings in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, alongside the newly redesigned Dubai Mall store, the Maison is strengthening its ties with a region that has long embraced its sculptural aesthetic and avant-garde spirit. Known for redefining Place Vendôme codes since its founding in 1957, Repossi continues to blend heritage with modernity through architectural design, artistic collaborations, and a bold creative vision. As the brand expands its footprint across the GCC, CEO Anne de Vergeron reflects on the Maison’s evolving presence, the enduring relevance of its design language, and the future of Repossi’s distinctive universe.
Repossi has strengthened its footprint in the Middle East with new openings in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, as well as the renovation of its Dubai Mall boutique. What makes the region such a significant market for the Maison?
The Middle East is a truly significant market for Repossi because of its deep appreciation for contemporary art, artistic expression, and exceptional craftsmanship. These values align perfectly with Repossi’s core identity and vision. We found strong resonance with our values among local clients who are increasingly connoisseurs. The region’s cultural affinity for creativity and heritage, exemplified by institutions like the Museum of Diriyah Art Futures, makes it a significant area for our presence and growth.
The Dubai Mall boutique redesign signals a renewed architectural and retail vision. What were your priorities for the renovation, and how does the new space reflect Repossi’s identity?
Our priority for the renovation of the Dubai Mall boutique, as part of our new retail design concept being rolled out across the Middle East and Asia, was to create a modern, minimalist venue that not only embodies our unique identity but also resonates with local culture. The new space pays homage to the Maison’s emblematic aesthetic codes, drawing inspiration from Japanese minimalism and artistic movements such as the Bauhaus, as well as the visionary architecture of Oscar Niemeyer and Tadao Ando. We aimed to create a luxurious “jewellery box” experience, where every detail is handcrafted and contributes to an environment of understated opulence. The colour palette reflects the brand’s DNA and its connection to the region, creating a sophisticated setting where our unique pieces can truly shine.
How do you adapt the Repossi boutique experience to different cultural expectations while staying true to the Maison’s DNA?
While expanding our presence in the Middle East, we ensure that our boutique experience remains true to Repossi’s DNA by emphasising our core values: exceptional craftsmanship, contemporary design, and avant-garde vision. We recognise and respect the cultural nuances of the region, which often include an exquisite design and a strong sense of exclusivity, as well as appreciation for heritage and meticulous attention to detail.
Repossi is known for its avant-garde approach, often pushing boundaries in form and structure. How do you balance that modern edge with the house’s heritage and longstanding traditions?
Each generation captured the essence of its time. Since 1957, we have focused on reinventing the classic jewellery codes while always staying true to our heritage and highest craftsmanship standards. Repossi embodies an avant-garde femininity, where the refined discretion of its creations is enhanced by strong cultural references and a strikingly distinctive design language. Over the past 20 years, our creative studio has challenged the traditional jewellery codes, upholding the highest standards of design and craftsmanship rooted in Place Vendôme. Our iconic collections, such as Serti Sur Vide, Antifer and Blast, are perfect illustrations of this reinterpretation of traditional jewellery standards.
This has been a big year for the Maison in the region. What has the reception been like in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh since the openings?
The reception in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh has been very encouraging. We’ve observed a strong interest and enthusiasm for our brand and its unique offerings. This positive reception reaffirms our belief that the Middle East is a dynamic market where consumers appreciate Repossi’s artistic vision and contemporary design.
Repossi’s high jewellery collections continue to draw attention for their sculptural design language. What can you tell us about the creative direction behind the newest pieces?
High Jewellery has always been at the heart of Repossi, and it is the true expression of our style and craftsmanship. The Blast High Jewellery collection is a celebration of opulence and the radiance of gold, embodying Repossi’s legacy of craftsmanship since 1957. Drawing inspiration from the Maison’s heritage, the collection reinterprets the concept of fullness through the motif of an infinite gold thread, sculpted into bold and sensual forms. Blast pays homage to both primitive and modern arts, blending ancestral influences with contemporary design to create minimalist yet bold, sculptural pieces.
On the fine jewellery front, how do you continue evolving your signature collections without losing their essence?
Our approach is rooted in understanding that each generation breaks the codes of the past to reinvent them. We achieve this by continuously reinterpreting the design, looking for a new pattern and ensuring that our pieces remain relevant and captivating. For instance, the Serti sur Vide collection, even after 10 years, remains relevant due to its minimalist design and adaptability. We aim to offer pieces that are both stylish and timeless, yet personal and versatile, allowing them to be dressed up or down and worn alone or layered.
Innovation is a longstanding part of Repossi’s story. Where do you see the next wave of creativity emerging?
Repossi loves to experiment with new techniques and new designs. Artistic collaborations are key for us.
The Middle East has a strong appreciation for craftsmanship and bold design. How does this influence the maison’s approach when creating or curating collections for the region?
Repossi’s universe is perceived as ultra-contemporary and distinct from traditional jewellery. What our clients seek above all is a strong creative vision and bold design, far from easily recognisable or codified styles. We are continuously inspired by the region’s sophisticated audience, whose appreciation for contemporary art, design, and cultural refinement reflects our own creative direction. This inspires us to bring to life exceptional pieces available exclusively in the region. This shared sensibility allows us to introduce exceptional pieces designed exclusively for the region.
With multiple regional openings coming in a single year, how do you approach long-term growth in the GCC?
Our vision for long-term growth in the GCC goes well beyond increasing our physical presence. It is rooted in a deep appreciation for local culture, thoughtful artistic partnerships, and an ongoing commitment to understanding our clients’ preferences. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and tailored experiences that honour the region’s heritage while reflecting our avant-garde DNA, we seek to establish an enduring, meaningful presence in the GCC.
Repossi collaborations with architects and contemporary artists have been central to its identity. Are there new cross-disciplinary partnerships on the horizon?
Collaborations with multi-disciplinary artists are integral to Repossi’s identity, as they allow us to explore new dimensions and infuse our Maison with diverse perspectives. We have a history of artistic dialogue, initiated with MoMA and Centre Pompidou, and our recent capsule collection with The Invisible Collection and artistic collaboration with Sterling Ruby is a testament to this. We are constantly looking for new cross-disciplinary partnerships that will challenge traditional codes and bring fresh perspectives to our creations, whether in jewellery design or other creative fields. We have a number of exciting initiatives planned for next year, including a significant celebration of our 40-year presence on Place Vendôme!
As CEO, what has been your most meaningful milestone with Repossi so far, and what ambitions remain at the top of your list for the coming years?
My most meaningful milestone as CEO of Repossi has been driving the brand’s geographic expansion, particularly with a focus on the Middle East and Asia. Witnessing an exceptional reception of Repossi’s new openings in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi has been incredibly rewarding. I feel there is room for growth in both regions for Repossi.
By Lindsay Judge
