Ahead of Natalia Vodianova's Love Ball charity auction, AnOther selects its five fantasy lots...
On Saturday night, Russian supermodel Natalia Vodianova will host the fourth edition of The Love Ball, in Monte-Carlo, in support of her charity, the Naked Heart Foundation. First held in Moscow in 2008, the Love ball has become one of the most prestigious charity events, with all proceeds going to benefit disadvantaged and special-needs children in Russia.
The setting is always exquisite – this year will see The Salle Garnier of The Opera de Monte-Carlo magisterially transformed into a ballroom, under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II and the Presidency of H.S.H. Princess of Monaco and H.R.H. Princess of Hanover. Love Ball 2013’s artistic direction has been entrusted to Vasily Barkhatov, the 29-year-old director who has previously staged performances for Mariinsky and the Bolshoi. Amidst the halcyon splendor of the opera-house the expected 350 guests will be transported back to the mythical Bal du Centenaire of 1966, organised on the occasion of S.B.M. 100 year anniversary celebrations.
Yet it is the Ball's charity auction, hosted by Christies, that is always the most exciting part of the night. From a Dior couture dress designed by Raf Simons, a tennis lesson from Rafael Nadal and a week's work experience at Chanel, this is one auction not to miss.
Here, AnOther presents its five favourite fantasy lots, with exclusive accompanying illustrations by acclaimed Dior illustrator Garance Wilkens. Which lot would you set your sights on?
LOT: One week's work experience at Chanel Paris. The lot is offered by Karl Lagerfeld.
LOT: Stunning one-off haute couture dress by Raf Simons who drew his inspiration from the original ‘Monaco’ dress designed in 1959. An opportunity to meet the most talked about designer of today during a private fitting. The lot comes with the original sketch by Raf Simons.
LOT: Two exclusive pieces of crocodile leather luggage for him and her by Berluti and Louis Vuitton. Both the elegant trolley bag for him in croco vert and the stunning hat box in burgundy are customised with Love Ball tags, which makes the pieces absolutely unique.
LOT: A special unique travel outfit designed and sketched by Karl Lagerfeld. It will be made for you and can be picked up at Chanel, 31 Rue Cambon in Paris. The lot comes with the original sketch by Karl Lagerfeld.
LOT: A tennis lesson from the 12-times Grand Slam champion and Olympic Gold world medalist Rafael Nadal. The meeting and lesson will take place in Monte Carlo in April 2014.
Text by Laura Bradley
