The Loves of My Life: Alexia Karides

      The most memorable interviews are typically the most personal. In Loves of My Life, we delve into the lives of individuals behind their artistic pursuits, posing the essential questions we are eager to learn about—their favorite restaurants and date-night venues, what's saved in their Instagram folder, the piece of jewelry they treasure most, and the hidden items at the bottom of their bags. In essence, these represent the genuine loves in their lives. Next, we feature Alexia Karides, the jewellery designer and founder of YSSO. What is your top restaurant in the world, and what do you order? It's tough to select, but I immediately think of Cantina in Sifnos. This small eatery at the edge of the old town is a dream come true—the food is fantastic, blending modern and traditional flavors, and the wine is superb. The experience of feeling secluded while being in the heart of a vibrant Aegean restaurant is unmatched. Is there anything in your wardrobe that carries special sentiment? Any clothing items that belonged to my mother! From sweaters to jeans, I adore wearing her vintage pieces not just for their belonging to her but also for their outstanding quality, proving that good design and craftsmanship remain timeless. What do you often find at the bottom of your handbag? Photography has always been my passion, which is why I manage all our YSSO campaigns myself. I always carry my Leica D-Lux 8, a travel-friendly camera that is much more compact than the professional models I use for campaigns. Its beauty lies in delivering high-quality photos from a small camera. (Image credit: Getty Images) The Cycladic Island of Sifnos, Greece. What's your signature fragrance? I enjoy switching my perfume with the seasons or different phases of life; for instance, I have a scent that vividly reminds me of my time living in Brussels. However, my current obsession is Lys 41 by Le Labo because it is both strong and complex. If you could only vacation in one place for the rest of your life, where would you choose? I fear being cliché, but I must say Greece. It offers everything—from mountain skiing to incredible summer trips amid diverse landscapes and social scenes. I'm always on a quest to discover my favorite location in Greece. Each new visit reveals another spot to explore, which I find endlessly captivating about my country, and I doubt I will ever tire of it, no matter how many years I continue my exploration. We've caught you on a rare day off. How do you spend your free time? I relish going to Love Supreme on Golborne Road for yoga, followed by Klear Labs for a blue matcha. I enjoy watching films, so catching a movie is definitely part of my evening plans, or I might spend time at the Royal Academy of Arts, browsing the gift shop. What's your hidden date-night gem? Dorian in Notting Hill, just off Ledbury Road. It strikes the perfect balance of intimacy and vibrancy, with warm lighting, excellent food, and a fantastic wine selection. It feels like a cozy escape from London. (Image credit: Future) What’s one clothing item you could never part with, and why? My YSSO jewelry. It’s more than mere adornments—it carries a personal significance. Each piece holds a story for me, whether from my mother’s design archive, my own creations, or collaborations with their own narratives. I wear YSSO pieces daily, not just because we design them but because they hold memories I carry wherever life takes me. What’s currently your most-played track on Spotify? I love "Cumbia Sobre El Mar" because it evokes summer memories and I have a deep appreciation for Latin music—it resonates with Mediterranean culture yet remains distinct. The song expertly blends the timeless rhythms of Colombian Cumbia with modern electronic elements, creating a beautiful connection between old and new, while honoring tradition and pushing musical boundaries. What’s your favorite Instagram account to follow, and why? I adore the art and interiors account, @objet_la_ny. It offers a glimpse into an authentically curated world, akin to someone’s personal moodboard. It's not one-dimensional; it has depth and variety that encourages the discovery of beautiful, timeless objects and furniture. If we explored your Instagram Saved folder, what would we find? Great question! It's fascinating to sift through the saved items to see what inspires you without any external judgment. My folder contains a variety of interiors, mid-century furniture, art, and aesthetically pleasing images. As a photographer, I'm particularly influenced by color, shapes, and textures, so my saved folder reflects the imagery that resonates with me. (Image credit: Future) Where do you find inspiration, and where do you go for fun? For inspiration, I love visiting the Tate Modern gift shop! It's packed with beautifully curated design and art books. For fun, I enjoy going to the House of KOKO in Camden. What's one beauty or self-care product