Assassin of fashion finds holy enlightenment

In spite of his bloody name, FashionAssasin designer Alex Zabotto-Bentley is out to make a religious statement.
Teaming up with emerging Australian designer, Kellee Cruse, Zabotto-Bentley has launched a line of religious trinkets and accessories called Fashionassassin & Santos Wish Jewellery.
The first collaboration, titled 'Lost Horizons, was born out of the two designers' shared infatuation for Hispanic holy charms and rituals.
Cruse, who has spent years travelling throughout Mexico and Brazil, said she was particularly influenced by the number of locals wearing jewels and ornaments which bore the images of saints.
"I approached [him] because I love the artistic religious take Alex gives to his designs. Alex and I love dreaming up designs for our jewellery; we share bits and pieces of inspiration from around the world to generate new ideas."
The spring/summer 2006/07 collection includes a range for both men and women with virgin chains made from rosary beads, rosary bracelets, keyrings, bag chains and stud chains. Retailing at $129 for men's necklaces, $139 for women's necklaces and $79 for unisex bracelets, all pieces feature detailed etched medallions made from coloured moulted glass and oxidised metals and symbolise themes of hope, love, strength and success.
While this is the first collaboration between Cruse and Zabotto-Bentley, neither designer has ruled out the prospect of similar projects for the future.
"A project of this nature is ongoing, you can never have enough jewellery right?," Cruse said. "But we acknowledge the key is to utilise the Santos Wish jewellery concept when it really complements a range."
Currently available through select boutiques throughout the country - including Tuchuzy Bondi, Bare by Rebecca Davies and Melbourne's ZAYT - the Lost Horizons collection will also hit Myer stores from September.