24 APRIL 2002
Diamonds were on display, but former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell was the real dazzler as she performed at the opening of Bulgari’s flagship store in Moscow last week. The Scream If You Wanna Go Faster diva took to the stage accompanied by nearly a dozen dancers and managed three stunning costume changes during her 30-minute set.

Watched by some of the wealthiest tycoons of Russian society, Geri’s high-energy act, for which she reportedly received a six-figure sum, wrapped up the two-day celebration that featured cocktails for 400 and a gala dinner. The lush surroundings included light projections of the Bulgari logo, and big screens which ran videos of famous celebs wearing the venerable firm’s pricey baubles. A selection of one-of-a-kind jewels was also brought in for the launch. “No expense was spared,” said an insider.

The Italian jewellers’ general director Francesco Trapani explained his choice of the British-born star to open the £43 million store, saying,“We like to mix various people and styles.”

The 30-year-old celeb was flown in directly from Los Angeles, where she’s staying at the luxury pad of good friend George Michael. After her high-energy gig, she headed right back to the sunny city, where she is working on an update of her autobiography.

Bulgari’s latest branch “stems from the desire to be strongly represented in the world’s major metropolises,” says Francecso. “Moscow is for sure one such place, characterised by a very special flair.” The new shop is near a multi-storey Giorgio Armani boutique, and Prada recently opened a store in the Russian capital.