Crave an It bag but can't justify the splurge? The Lady Dior might just be your answer.

We are talking about the limited-edition Lady Dior palette, the star of Christian Dior's make-up collection for spring. It drew excited squeals when the regional press was given a sneak preview in Tokyo last October and is expected to elicit the same response when it goes on sale here today.

It will be available only at Dior's Takashimaya counter till next Thursday, after which it will be stocked at all the other Dior counters, including Tangs Orchard and Robinsons The Centrepoint, till April 15.

The $116 miniature of the French house's iconic handbag boasts the same quilted design, cane pattern and four letter charms that spell the brand.

Each compact contains two shades for the face, lips and cheeks, and there are two colour combinations to choose from.

The gem, which doubles as a handbag charm, is the latest in Dior's line of exclusive beauty baubles it dubs 'star products'.

The first, a gold compact called My Dior launched in 2001, took the form of the popular Saddle Bag designed by the label's creative director, John Galliano.

It promptly sold out and Dior staked claim on being the pioneer of limited-edition compacts that fuse fashion with beauty.

Four collectibles have since been created per year. All are designed by Galliano and run the gamut from rings and necklaces to handbag charms and bejewelled compacts.

'Limited editions and exclusive designs are a part of luxury,' says Simon Cerruti, Dior's international press officer. 'Star products are a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate both Dior couture and make-up products.'

The brand declines to give sales figures or say how many of each are produced every season.

Most are inspired by the luxe label's key fashion items of the season or its rich heritage.

Nearly all have become collectors' items as none are ever revived after they sell out.

Urban looks at the most popular - and prettiest - among them.

PAST COLLECTIBLES

Sparkling (2003)

The cute Dior dog tags featured on ready-to-wear bags were turned into twin make-up palettes with a chrome or gold finish. Adorned with a rhinestone-studded Dior logo, each contained a lipstick and lipgloss duo.

Dior Play (2005)

While successful, Dior's star products did not acquire cult status till the tiny die was cast. Already used as a handbag charm and then designed as earrings, pendants and brooches, it was reborn as a sparkly metallic compact with two lip colours that quickly sold out.

Pretty Charm (2006)

Inspired by the Pretty Dior costume jewellery line, this heart-shaped locket adorned with winking crystal pearl drops sure lived up to its name - a glam accessory perfect for the Christmas party season.

DiorLight (2007)

Strung on a black satin ribbon, the silver sphere studded with rhinestones was rolled out for Christmas that year. It held a gloss and mirror and doubled as a necklace.

Golden Dior (2008)

Another make-up jewel, this sculptural bijou for the summer collection was adorned with champagne crystals and housed an illuminating cream for the face, lips, cheekbones and eyes.