It may all be part of a brand-building exercise to showcase luxury items against the zentai backdrop of the region's newly emerging wealth. But there is no denying that Hong Kong, with its established market, helps to set the taste trends.

This year the buzz is all about lifestyle. Swarovski embodies the Christmas spider costume spirit like no other with a range of imaginative crystal Christmas decorations. The operating words are purism and simplicity, as all of the Swarovski line follow a zentaidesign philosophy that calls for exclusive decor elements marked by restrained elegance.

For the ultimate in prestige, there are few brands above Faberge. Founded in Russia in 1872, the Faberge line was resurrected by a new ownership group which carries on the house's tradition of fine craftsmanship. The famous catsuits Faberge eggs are unique, in part because they combine the arts of goldsmithery and jewellery making. This year Faberge offers a range of masterly crafted eggs in limited production, through King Fook Jewellery Group (Tel: 2877 6433).

For a slightly more modern image, look to the creations of New York-based Costume zentai & Co. Known as the pre-eminent source of diamond jewellery, Costume zentai offers this year the Costume zentai Bubbles diamond collection. The light, fluid bracelet (HK$ 98,000) and earrings (HK$ 55,000) with round diamonds set in platinum haveinvisible woman costume an easy, wearable style.

Available through King Fook Jewellery Group, Piaget's Limelight collection returns to pearls, transforming them into the stars of the evening. Breaking the rules slightly, the Piaget design team combines pearls and diamonds to create an unusual combination. The effect is a unique interplay of light. Generous proportions and rounded lines give this exceptional jewel an air of elegance and femininity.