Designer Dries Criel has a simple mission: redefine classics in a contemporary form. has a simple mission: redefine classics in a contemporary form. Through studying, re-imagining and revising classic lines and shapes, he enhances their beauty and blends the timeless with the modern. Dries designs for individuals with strong personalities who want unique jewelry that tells a story. Free from the constricts of gender stereotypes, he wants his jewelry to appeal to an age-defying generation of jewelry collectors who are not afraid to take risks. 

Dries has a background as a modern dancer, and the aesthetic correlations to his training can be seen in his bold use of curves in combination with clean, geometric lines. He is also continuously inspired by travel, antique jewelry, architecture and contemporary art, and the richness of these influences are evident in the creative sense of balance he applies to his designs, sometimes blending seemingly dichotomous elements in perfect harmony.

The BARE Fine Jewelry by Dries collection is crafted in 18k yellow, rose or white gold, and sometimes black rhodium. Utilizing white, brown and black diamonds, as well as an exclusive selection of carved stones such as jasper, onyx and richly saturated cabochon emerald, the resulting palette is pensive yet playful, experimental yet sophisticated. Dries’ work is fabricated by the best artisans in Antwerp, ensuring the quality, elegance and durability of his work is never compromised.

A relatively new brand, BARE Fine Jewelry by Dries is making its COUTURE debut in Design Atelier at our 2021 event. Dries is looking forward to presenting his vision to the COUTURE community and exhibiting among a group of artists whom he has long admired and whose work he respects tremendously. Already a well-known figure in his native Belgium, Dries’ reputation for bold collections was carried across the pond in 2019 by Lady Gaga, who commissioned a ring directly from the designer. By presenting at COUTURE, he hopes to further develop his collection internationally at the finest jewelry stores and clothing boutiques across the globe.

Dries has a background as a modern dancer, and the aesthetic correlations to his training can be seen in his bold use of curves in combination with clean, geometric lines. He is also continuously inspired by travel, antique jewelry, architecture and contemporary art, and the richness of these influences are evident in the creative sense of balance he applies to his designs, sometimes blending seemingly dichotomous elements in perfect harmony.

The BARE Fine Jewelry by Dries collection is crafted in 18k yellow, rose or white gold, and sometimes black rhodium. Utilizing white, brown and black diamonds, as well as an exclusive selection of carved stones such as jasper, onyx and richly saturated cabochon emerald, the resulting palette is pensive yet playful, experimental yet sophisticated. Dries’ work is fabricated by the best artisans in Antwerp, ensuring the quality, elegance and durability of his work is never compromised.