Les Néréides

Stepping through the doors of the charming Victorian terrace that houses Les Néréides is like stepping into Sydney’s very own little slice of Paris. A luxury costume jewellery brand, Les Néréides was established by husband-and-wife design duo Pascale and Enzo Amadedo in the early 1980s. Despite being in existence for over 30 years, the brand has only recently made its way to Australian shores. Since opening in 2012, the flagship boutique has gained a loyal following and earned a unique place within Paddington’s exclusive retail precinct on William Street.

Upon entering the boutique, the sales assistants prove both highly knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about the brand (they also all happen to be French, naturally). Adding to the overall experience and in true Parisian style, Les Néréides also serves chilled flutes of French Champagne on Saturdays, much to the delight of customers and passersby.

The dreamy space takes its inspiration from nature. Each season sees new collections that embody creativity, imagination and an eye for detail. For example Spring Summer 13/14 saw ornate necklaces of summer fruit (clusters of grapes, cumquats, raspberries and cherries) alongside decorative hummingbird rings and sweet rose petal and daisy chain bracelets – a kaleidoscopic array of Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, semi-precious stones and hand painted enamel, intricately set into gold plated brass and sterling silver.