Bruce Oldfield creates the most expensive abaya

The abaya that Bruce has created is covered in 4,668 individual diamonds with a gold weight of 359.7 grams of white gold. The total carat weight of the diamonds is 85.13 carats, and the colour of the stones is g/h and clarity is vs quality. The diamonds are supplied by bespoke London diamond dealer Harriet Crosley of Crosley Diamonds.

The abaya that Bruce Oldfield has created will be on sale at £175,000 with a donation going to Islamic Relief, (a global relief charity) at a major British luxury brands trade fair, taking place at InterContinental London Park Lane on Saturday, August 2nd and Sunday, August 3rd 2008, titled 'The Saudi Gulf Luxury Trade Fair'.

Other iconic brands and designers who were represented at the press conference to promote the trade fair included Harrods, Sotheby's Realty, Aston Martin, Soane, Donna Karan, James Purdey & Son, Mathaf Gallery, Kashket & Partners, Asus, Louise Mariette Hat Couture, HSBC Premier, Conduit Capital Liquid Funds and Ammonite 2000. There will be over 56 companies exhibiting at the event.

The trade fair is in conjunction with the Arab British Chamber of Commerce, and has been created to boost and create new business opportunities for British and Britain based companies, in the luxury brands sector, who are aiming to develop or further develop business with the affluent Gulf consumers during this difficult economic climate.

Electronic violinist and former model Linzi Stoppard (daughter-in-law of Academy Award winner Sir Tom Stoppard) modelled the abaya at a photo call and press reception today at the InterContinental London Park Lane.