5 questions with Bianca Bai

SINGAPORE — Fred Samuel was only 28 years old when he opened his first FRED store in Paris back in 1936, attracting an ardent following that included the likes of Marlene Dietrich, Princess Grace of Monaco and Yvonne Printemps.

Since then, Samuel has crafted a string of jewels for films, including the transcendent necklace containing 23 rubellites worn by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman and the decadent pair of yellow gold earrings worn by Caterina Murino in the 007 film, Casino Royale. FRED has also been a part of the LVMH group since 1995.

Today, his following includes Taiwanese actress Bianca Bai, who was one of the luminaries to grace the opening of the French jeweller’s first flagship boutique in South-east Asia at Marina Bay Sands.

Bai enthused: “I really love the Belle Rives collection. I like how the different coloured gems are carefully placed together; it really showcases the designer’s clever eye for detail and skill. It looks really good on any skin tone. I also really like the Force 10 collection because it is versatile. It can be casual, slightly masculine and very elegant at the same time, depending on how I dress. I actually wear the Force 10 bracelet every day!”

Don’t be quick to brush Bai off as being high maintenance, though; she has an endearing, child-like side to her persona.

“With the movie, Frozen, being such a big hit, I am actually thinking of dressing up as Elsa this Christmas!” she laughed. “But if I don’t dress up as Elsa, I will probably just wear something simple and comfortable, paired with a pair of heels or wedges which are more stable and better for walking.”

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My dressing is more casual and the item I like the most is a white crisp shirt because it is versatile and can be worn from day to night. I normally pair my white shirt with a pair of white jeans.

Q: So how do you jazz up your casual outfit?

A: I prefer unique jewellery, shoes and bags to match my outfit. For example, I prefer brightly coloured bags and shoes. For jewellery, I like classic pieces because I can wear them for a long time.

Q: What are some of your favourite accessories?

A: My favourites are bracelets and earrings. I believe that when you are unfamiliar with someone whom you are meeting for the first time, the jewellery one wears will tell you plenty about that person.

Q: Is jewellery a good investment?

A: I like to buy items that can be worn for a long time, maybe for 10 to 20 years. I feel jewellery is a good investment, something that can be worn for a long time. You can even pass it on to your children. I feel that every woman should invest and purchase some unique pieces of jewellery, be it bracelets, rings or necklaces.

Q: What are other items every woman should have in her wardrobe?

A: I believe that every woman should have white and black tops — be it shirts, singlets or tank tops — as these are easy to match and are comfortable; a scarf as it can keep one warm and stylish especially during autumn and winter; a comfortable pair of high heels as everyone’s feet is shaped differently, so it is important to find a pair that suits your feet well and a versatile everyday bracelet. Zhang Weifang

FRED is at The Shoppes At Marina Bay Sands, Canal Level, #B2-200.