While the ringing in of the new year has been celebrated around the world, lucky number 13 is already proving not to be so fortuitous for all. Vionnet owner, Goga Ashkenazi, and boyfriend, Lapo Elkann, heir to the Agnelli Fiat Empire, were robbed while on vacation in Uruguay. Thieves broke into the couple’s holiday beach home and stole 17 pieces of jewelry, estimated to be worth USD$4.6 million, as well as USD$33,000 in cash. The couple were in the house while it was being robbed, though they were unaware of the intruders’ presence.
Kazakhstani-born billionaire Ashkenazi, who is based in London, acquired the recently revived Vionnet in 2010, taking on a hands-on role at the fashion house, whose fans include Madonna, Diane Kruger, and Zoe Saldana. She is also the CEO of MunaiGaz Engineering Group, and attributes her wealth to the oil and gas sector, of which she is a player across Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan.
Elkann, who previously dated cousin and model, Bianca Brandolini d’Adda, is referred to as the “Lapo of Luxury” in fashion circles, and heads the Italian Independent brand. He also launched a book this season titled, “Le regole del mio stile” (“The Rules of My Style”).
