Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist. http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.luxist.com/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com prods@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Producers) support@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Web Support) en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. View our terms of service here: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Pilates in Heels: The Experiment]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/04/06/pilates-in-heels-the-experiment/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/04/06/pilates-in-heels-the-experiment/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/04/06/pilates-in-heels-the-experiment/#comments pilates in heels
New York City fashion. In most ways, I feel like I've nailed it. How to pair black and wear color, how to sport statement pieces, vintage finds, silk, leather, carryall bags, tiny clutches, you name it. And yet when it comes to heels, I'm as clueless as a Wisconsin dairy farmer.

Don't get me wrong. I love a gorgeous pair of heels and I would love to pull them off effortlessly. I'd love to meet a 7-foot-tall guy and wear 6-inch stilettos 12 hours a day. But honestly, I find it hard to wear anything over 4 inches for an hour. It's remarkable how many girls in New York can pull this off. And like me, they're not all fashion editors with a car service. Like me, walking is their primary mode of transportation, and they clock miles a day without a change of shoes.

There are stories that heel masters like Victoria Beckham wear stilettos on the treadmill. (Don't worry it's a rumor; she only just started exercising). And sure, they admit, no pain no gain. But there's a difference between suffering a little pain for fashion and walking around like a defeated hobbit after the workday is done.

Is there something I'm missing? Is there a way to train your feet to withstand the pain? When it comes to learning, I'm an immersion type of gal. So I, with my friend Bryce Gruber over at TheLuxurySpot, decided to try a little experiment for the sake of fashion. In a new series, we're going to try out a variety of vertigo-inducing heels in the most inappropriate situations possible. An activity that's totally insane to do in anything but flats? We're there. Could we find out the hard way some tips and tricks for wearing heels? If I were to run a mile in stilettos, would it make wearing them to the office a breeze?

For the first run, we decided to start out simple, something active, but not too strenuous. What's the one place we regularly frequent that would draw stupefying glances our way as we treaded on $4,000 machines in sharp heels? Pilates. And to go all out for our stiletto workout look, we donned some fabulous leotards, courtesy of American Apparel.

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Pilates in Heels: The Experiment originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Fashionheelspilatesstilettos Ariston Anderson Wed, 06 Apr 2011 16:41:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Kimberly Ovitz Fall/Winter Presentation]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/22/kimberly-ovitz-fall-winter-presentation/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/22/kimberly-ovitz-fall-winter-presentation/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/22/kimberly-ovitz-fall-winter-presentation/#comments Kimberly Ovitz Fall/Winter Presentation
Bold new designer Kimberly Ovitz at only 26, proves that talent is not wasted on the youth. With her new collection, presented against a stunningly colorful background at Pace Gallery, this gifted lady is turning major heads in the fashion world.

If you haven't yet seen Tron, the 3-D film with a dubitable storyline but with epic impact on modern fashion and music, you're missing out. It was the first thing we thought upon entering the gallery. Finally these sharp cuts, powerful colors and easy-wearing fabrics seen on the silver screen are coming to life. Ovitz admits that her collection was not influenced by the film, but they do share a common interest in looking ahead to the future.

While Tron's futurism lays within the deep recesses of a video game, Ovitz draws her futurism from the works of Oscar Niemayer, a man credited with bringing modernism to South America. Niemayer is an architect who was never interested in lines or angles, but rather in curves found in the landscape of his own country or of the body of a woman, and representing those curves in his buildings. In her collection, "The setting is Brasilia," Ovitz tells Luxist. "A friend of mine passed away in Brazil, so I was very preoccupied with the country."

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Kimberly Ovitz Fall/Winter Presentation originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> andrej pejicbenefit cosmeticscamilla skovgaardkimberly ovitznew york fashion week fall 2011Oscar Niemeyer Ariston Anderson Tue, 22 Feb 2011 06:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Ally Hilfiger and Nary Manivong's NAHM Reinvents the Shirtdress]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/14/ally-hilfiger-and-nary-manivongs-nahm-reinvents-the-shirtdress/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/14/ally-hilfiger-and-nary-manivongs-nahm-reinvents-the-shirtdress/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/14/ally-hilfiger-and-nary-manivongs-nahm-reinvents-the-shirtdress/#comments

One of this year's most anticipated collection, NAHM, comes from an unlikely duo, Ally Hilfiger, of fashion royalty, and Nary Mavivong, who after living homeless as a teenager, pursued his lifelong dream of working in the fashion industry, a story that is told in the new documentary Dressed. The two have proven their worth as a young power duo, with enthusiasm and love of the craft that shows vividly in their Fall 2011 collection.

Continue reading Ally Hilfiger and Nary Manivong's NAHM Reinvents the Shirtdress

Ally Hilfiger and Nary Manivong's NAHM Reinvents the Shirtdress originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ally hilfigerdressedFashion Week New York 2011Nary Manivongtommy hilfiger Ariston Anderson Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Betsey Johnson to Show Runway Dresses on Real Girls]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/12/betsey-johnson-to-show-runway-dresses-on-real-girls/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/12/betsey-johnson-to-show-runway-dresses-on-real-girls/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/12/betsey-johnson-to-show-runway-dresses-on-real-girls/#comments

Last year, Marc Jacobs grabbed headlines when he picked a couple of girls off the street to walk his runway show. He just loved their style, much to the envy of wannabe models everywhere. This year Betsey Johnson takes it a step further. How much further? Luxist has the scoop.

We spoke to the amazingly down-to-earth designer at the Diet Pepsi lounge at Lincoln Center this morning, where she stopped by for a brief meet-and-greet. Dressed in her lucky studded New York belt, a draped Alexander McQueen scarf, and quintessential red lipstick, Betsey Johnson was full of a shocking amount of energy after her long week leading up to the tents.

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Betsey Johnson to Show Runway Dresses on Real Girls originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 12 Feb 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> alexander mcqueenbetsey johnsondiet pepsiFashion Week New York 2011lincoln center Ariston Anderson Sat, 12 Feb 2011 20:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Belle Fleur Candles for Valentine's Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/04/belle-fleur-candles-for-valentines-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/04/belle-fleur-candles-for-valentines-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/04/belle-fleur-candles-for-valentines-day/#comments

Of course it makes sense for one of New York's hottest florists to have founded a luxury fragrance house. Nothing quite captures the heavenly scent of fresh-cut roses, but Belle Fleur Home candles by Meredith Waga Perez come just about as close as you can get.

This Valentine's day Belle Fleur has put together an enviable package incorporating gems from both their home line and their flower studio. Your lucky Valentine will receive one of their infamous bouquet of flowers designed in a leather corset covered vase, as well as a Mayan Tuberose candle to keep the sentiment alive for days to come.

Ancient Mayan culture held the divine scent of the tuberose sacred to their goddess of beauty and love. With accent notes of gardenia, amber vanilla and ylang ylang, the Mayan Tuberose candle is an unforgettably rich scent sure to set a decadent mood in any home.

The Valentine's Day Special is $250, with delivery available within Manhattan. Call to order: 1.212.254.8703 and be sure to check out the complete home line including giftsets, home fragrance and more.

Belle Fleur Candles for Valentine's Day originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> belle fleurcandlesvalentines dayvalentines day gifts Ariston Anderson Fri, 04 Feb 2011 07:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Luxist Giveaway: Havaianas Love Sandals]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/31/luxist-giveaway-havaianas-love-sandals/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/31/luxist-giveaway-havaianas-love-sandals/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/31/luxist-giveaway-havaianas-love-sandals/#comments

If you're looking for an ideal casual Valentine's Gift, look no further than the new limited edition LOVE sandals from Havaianas. The Brazilian flip-flop giant has created the perfect mix of comfy footwear with an adorable red and gold design. If you're gifting your Valentine a classy ring, or any larger piece of jewelry, try tying it around a sandal strap as a fun way to wrap your gift. We love any gift that hints the spring sun is right around the corner.

The sandals are available exclusively on the Havaianas site for $24, and a small run is available for purchase now. Luxist has a pair to give away at random to one lucky reader. Just leave a comment on this post and we'll randomly select a winner this Friday, February 4th. Good luck!


* To enter, leave a confirmed comment below.
* The comment must be left and confirmed before February 4, 2011 at 5:00pm Eastern Time.
* You may only enter once.
* One winner will be selected in a random drawing and notified by email.
* One winner will receive the Love Sandals from Havianas, valued at $24.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia.

See full giveaway rules here.

This contest is now closed. Thank you for your particpation.

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Luxist Giveaway: Havaianas Love Sandals originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> havianasloveluxist giveawaysandalsvalentines day Ariston Anderson Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Le Meridien Grows into 2011 with the Creative Class]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/11/le-meridien-grows-into-2011-with-the-creative-class/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/11/le-meridien-grows-into-2011-with-the-creative-class/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/11/le-meridien-grows-into-2011-with-the-creative-class/#comments

It was a mere five years ago that Starwood took over Le Meridien, taking on a new direction for the global hotel leader, which today boasts 105 properties in 50 countries. After exiting 45 properties that weren't up to par with the brand, Le Meridien now boasts double digit growth each year, and added 20 new properties in locations like Panama City, Bangkok and Taipei. But it was in Philadelphia, in a former YMCA building that Le Meridien recently celebrated their big anniversary, at the flagship hotel that encompasses the brand's new mantra of old and new.

"It's a design led lifestyle," Eva Ziegler, Global brand leader of Le Meridien tells Luxist of the new direction. From the lobby's historical oak walls to the contemporary art hovering over the mantels, it was a scene taken straight from Paris, a city that has perfected the idea of aligning old with new. "We were going for the same elements that you find in the Louvre, for example, this very heritage foundation surrounded by a very modern element. It's a foundation of our design, having a wonderful historical building juxtaposed with a wonderful new design style." The landmark Philadelphia hotel marks just the beginning for where Ziegler and her team are taking the Le Meridien brand in the future.

2011 marks the triumph of a very successful social experiment in building a travel hub for the creative class. With Paris as her guide, Ziegler is continuing to focus Le Meridien properties everywhere on targeting creative minds and their cohorts and opening them up to a new experience through the lens of arts and cuisine.

This strategy began in 2006 when Le Meridien hired mastermind Jerome Sans as Global Cultural Curator, aligning an authentic cultural inventor to the brand. Out of that relationship grew LM100, a carefully chosen family of cultural innovators who work together to create interactive experiences unique to the hotel. The LM100 are filling Le Meridien's worldwide with a singular creative portfolio from food to drink to art to fragrance to set the new look and atmosphere of the brand against the more traditional landmark buildings they're housed in. The brand is currently working with 24 artists, including sommelier Linda Grabe, video artist Marcus Kreiss, master barista Fritz Storm, chef Jean Georges Vongerichten, artist An Xiaotong, and perfume designers Le Labo.

Gallery: Le Meridien Philadelphia

Le Meridien Philadelphia

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Le Meridien Grows into 2011 with the Creative Class originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> le meridienphiladelphia hotels Ariston Anderson Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Susan Sarandon's Spin on Business]]> http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/02/susan-sarandons-spin-on-business/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/02/susan-sarandons-spin-on-business/ http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/02/susan-sarandons-spin-on-business/#comments It was a direct trip from Miami to Marrakech, where she had been promoting her ping pong club Spin at the international art fair. From a black rubber-covered ping pong table to another one in the middle of a swimming pool, Susan Sarandon had her first taste of Art Basel. "Miami's a little too happening for me," she explained, begrudgingly remembering the over-aggressive paparazzi. "I couldn't even go to Art Basel," she said with the paparazzi popping around every corner. "It took a lot of energy to be calm. They didn't know how to do their job. Usually they stop after awhile."

Things were a bit more relaxed in Marrakech, where Sarandon was brought to honor friend Harvey Keitel at the International Film Festival. Dressed in a relaxed black blouse, and wearing a safety pin as an earring her daughter had given to her, Sarandon admired the gorgeous library setting of the Royal Mansour, the King's recently opened hotel palace, rumored to be one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. From what we saw of it, it was hard to argue. We spoke to Ms. Sarandon in the library of the hotel, an intimate oak-paneled room, where the paneled-ceiling open up just in case a guest desired to read under the night's stars.

It was Sarandon's third time in Morocco, and second time at the festival, where she herself was honored in 2006. "I love the food, the people, the music," she said, "everything about it."

While continuing with acting roles here and there, Sarandon's real passion lately seems to be running a business. With Spin clubs already in New York, Milan and L.A., Sarandon has plans to open clubs in Berlin, London, and a larger club in Westwood, she told Luxist. "We've been talking about Marrakech now. Because we were at dinner and all these people were like, well I play in team Morocco." There's no doubt ping pong is a huge conversation starter for Sarandon. "I was saying it's kind of like a tattoo. When you show your tattoo everyone starts undressing to show you theirs." They've even been approached by a huge cruise ship line to bring the Spin concept to cruise ships.

Continue reading Susan Sarandon's Spin on Business

Susan Sarandon's Spin on Business originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> marrakech film festivalsusan sarandon Ariston Anderson Sun, 02 Jan 2011 18:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Holiday Shopping Guide: Entertainment Classics]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/20/holiday-shopping-guide-tv-classics/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/20/holiday-shopping-guide-tv-classics/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/20/holiday-shopping-guide-tv-classics/#comments

Rare films, classic TV, revivals and revolutionary cinema. DVDs make great presents because they're great experiences, whether discovering the early works of Charlie Chaplin, reminiscing on a first date movie, uncovering the latest and greatest of art crimes, or journeying deep into the jungle into one of the greatest war films ever made. If there's one thing the end of year brings us, it's a host of new DVD releases, all specially packaged for gifting. Choose a film or TV set that a friend would be proud to have as part of their library. Here are our top picks:

Mad Men Season Three

With an ominous Old Fashioned decorating the cover of the new box set of AMC's groundbreaking show, the cover design foretells Don Draper's deadening downward spiral in the unparalleled Season Four. There's only one thing to hold us over until Season Five. Revisit Season Three for all of its amazing story turns: marriages crumble, agencies fall apart, hidden identities revealed, all amidst the backdrop of JFK's assassination, putting the 60s all into perspective. It's one of the few shows that delivers more and more with each viewing. Snap up this boxset and revisit the magic and tribulations of Madison Avenue in preparation for next year.

Continue reading Holiday Shopping Guide: Entertainment Classics

Holiday Shopping Guide: Entertainment Classics originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> box setsdvdsholiday giftsholiday shopping guide Ariston Anderson Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Holiday Shopping Guide: Inspirational DVDs]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/17/holiday-shopping-guide-inspirational-dvds/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/17/holiday-shopping-guide-inspirational-dvds/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/17/holiday-shopping-guide-inspirational-dvds/#comments

Some of my favorite gifts over the years have been the educational ones. The holidays give us much needed down time. It's the perfect excuse to picking up a new skill such as cooking, taking a journey of our planet with Oprah Winfrey, or exploring the history of our solar system. Here are the top new releases this season for some truly inspirational gifts.

Cooking From A to Zest

While we love to watch cooking classes on Food Network as much as the next person, we can't remember one instance of actually going off and baking that 7-layer meringue cake. Finally, a box-set that takes cooking from entertainment to instructional. The perfect present for the newlyweds or college grad on your shopping list, "Cooking From A to Zest" ($59.99) covers the basics and beyond. Your lucky gift recipient will perfect their knife skills and build an arsenal of sauce recipes. Here's hoping you'll be on the receiving end of a great meal well past the holidays.

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Holiday Shopping Guide: Inspirational DVDs originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> dvdsgift guideholiday shoppingholiday shopping guide Ariston Anderson Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Holiday Shopping Guide: Gifts that Give Back]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/16/holiday-shopping-guide-gifts-that-give-back/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/16/holiday-shopping-guide-gifts-that-give-back/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/16/holiday-shopping-guide-gifts-that-give-back/#comments

End of year marks a great time to pull out your checkbooks and give to your favorite charities. But even when going through your holiday shopping list, there's always room for more giving. Here are a few gifts that are sure to please anyone on your list, from fashion to electronics, and more importantly allow you to help out a few more charities before the year is up. Here's are roundup of the top gifts that give back in 2010:

FEED x UNICEF Guatamala Bags

Handwoven tribal fabrics continue to make waves this season, with a new line of bags and wallets just released by Proenza Schouler. But to really make a dent this holiday season, go for the latest bag from FEED Projects. The new design made from traditional Guatemalan Ikat fabrics both celebrates women artisans and helps support UNICEF's nutrition programs in Guatemala. Available for $45 at Lord & Taylor stores and online.

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Holiday Shopping Guide: Gifts that Give Back originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> charity giftsgift guidegifts that give backholiday shopping guide Ariston Anderson Thu, 16 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Holiday Shopping Guide: Top Grooming Gifts for Men]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/16/holiday-shopping-guide-top-grooming-gifts-for-men/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/16/holiday-shopping-guide-top-grooming-gifts-for-men/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/16/holiday-shopping-guide-top-grooming-gifts-for-men/#comments

While it's arguably much harder to buy grooming products for men, who can often be pickier with the few products they opt in on, you can't go wrong if you choose a scent or grooming kit that matches their personality. This year's roundup of deluxe grooming gifts includes ideas that will suit the fashionable man, the classic man or even the practical man.

Tuscan Leather Holiday Set

Tom Ford's Private Blend collection Eau de Parfums are not for the ordinary man. Highly refined and beautifully packaged in a dark brown glass falcon, the Private Blend collection is for the man who cares as much about the blend in his sweater as the stitching in his shoes. This season Ford has created the ultimate gift set, honoring one of the line's most popular scents. The Tuscan Leather Holiday Set ($975) celebrates the gorgeous fragrance that captures the revered craftsmanship and love of details that can only be found in Italy. This chypre oriental is composed of black rose and black truffle concentrations mixed with saffron, and notes of oud and tree moss on top. The set is a must have for Tom Ford fans and includes: an Eau de Parfum Spray, larger size Eau de Parfum, Candle, Refillable gold atomizer with funnel and multi-use tray, sure to look amazing on any dark wood bureau top.

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Holiday Shopping Guide: Top Grooming Gifts for Men originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gifts for mengrooming gifts for menholiday gift guide 2010holiday shopping guide Ariston Anderson Thu, 16 Dec 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Holiday Shopping Guide: Top Beauty Gifts for Women]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/15/holiday-shopping-guide-top-beauty-gifts-for-women/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/15/holiday-shopping-guide-top-beauty-gifts-for-women/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/15/holiday-shopping-guide-top-beauty-gifts-for-women/#comments

The holidays mark the perfect time to update your look, your scent, or simply to protect the skin on your back. We rounded up the top luxe beauty gifts this season that will be a joy for anyone on your list to play with and experiment with. Help your friends and loved ones ring in the new year with a gift that will last well into 2011.

Sensai Cellular Lifting Series Set
The first name in Japanese skincare, Sensai, has earned a named synonymous with rich, moisturized skin. Whether dealing with harsh winter conditions or drying sun, nothing works better to moisturize and heal delicate skin. A new limited edition set ($245) features two of the most popular products from Sensai's new Lifting series, Lifting Cream and Lifting Essence, and a revitalizing Lifting Radiance 3D Mask. Featuring a near entire bottle of the Sensai Lifting Radiance Concentrate, formulated with Sensai's Natural Musculifter and Golden Camomile Extract, the mask guarantees a fresh, youthful face by New Year's through its trademark energy activation of muscle cells and microcirculation of the skin.

Sensai has another Limited Edition Gift Set from the Cellular Performance line ($130), which features Cellular Performance face and eye countour cream, inflused with Koishumaru Silk and Shilan Extract to protect against wrinkles and discoloration. The special box set also includes the Total Lip Treatment, which Scarlett Johannson calls her "favorite thing in the entire world...feels like a million bucks."

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Holiday Shopping Guide: Top Beauty Gifts for Women originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bobbi browncosmeticsfragranceholiday shopping guideperfumescentsensaitom ford Ariston Anderson Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Eva Mendes Dazzles in Prada in Marrakech]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/13/eva-mendes-dazzles-in-prada-in-marrakech/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/13/eva-mendes-dazzles-in-prada-in-marrakech/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/13/eva-mendes-dazzles-in-prada-in-marrakech/#comments
Promoting her new film "Last Night," at the 10th Annual Marrakech International Film Festival, Eva Mendes trotted down the red carpet in a festive layered silk Mauve Prada dress, each row lined with Moroccan-inspired fringe. "I'm wearing a cake!" she laughed.

The infectious energy of the city seemed to have gotten to Mendes as she made her way into the Salle Royale at the Palais des Congres. She smiled obligingly to international press and locals who came by for a peak at the Hollywood actress amidst sky lights and booming festival music. "It's my first time," in Marrakech, she said, "and I'm totally in love."

Luxist asked Mendes what was the most exciting thing she's done in Marrakech all week. "Exciting...well I saw some belly dancers last night and now I'm really wanting some belly dancing lessons," she told us.

"I've heard music on the red carpet before but it's never sounded this good," she told reporters as a sounding Arabic dance number accompanied came on the speakers. "I really feel like dancing to this," she said launched into her trademark shuffle.

In "Last Night," the tale of a businessman with a wandering eye, Mendes plays the other woman to a married man (Sam Worthington). But if Marrakech is any indication of her future characters, expect some serious dance roles in her future.

My trip to Marrakech was sponsored by the FIFM, but the opinions in this story are my own.

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Eva Mendes Dazzles in Prada in Marrakech originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> eva mendesmarrakech film festivalprada Ariston Anderson Mon, 13 Dec 2010 18:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The Third Act of Francis Ford Coppola]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/08/the-third-act-of-francis-ford-coppola/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/08/the-third-act-of-francis-ford-coppola/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/08/the-third-act-of-francis-ford-coppola/#comments

Francis Ford Coppola, just four days after wrapping his latest picture in Northern California, flew to the Marrakesh International Film Festival to share his knowledge of filmmaking with students at a special discussion at the Palais des Congres. Coppola is a rare talent in Hollywood, even rarer for his ability to create outside of the studio system. Luxist spoke to Coppola at a secluded library deep inside La Mamounia on how he's living his Third Act in life.

In what could be called his Second Act, Coppola was dealt a series of blows in big-budget productions, including a heavy legal battle with Warner Brothers over the rights to Pinocchio, and his abandoned utopian vision "Megalopolis." But it was only by delving into his businesses that he was finally able to find his true calling in cinema.

It was only after becoming incredibly successful through his hotel and wine endeavors that Coppola realized that his path was to write and direct deeply personal films in which he had complete control. "I looked at my daughter and I thought gee I taught her how to make a movie for $2-3 million. I can make a movie for $2-3 million. That's when I went off to Romania, very quietly, and made that first film."

The man who once rightly predicted film will go digital, swears by the new medium. Coppola is able to work under low budgets in order to finance his own films, nothing surpassing $7 million, often by working with new actors, and filming in locations where the exchange rate is favorable to the dollar. "I feel blessed. I mean how many filmmakers are given that blank check to say go make a film every year, two years?" he asked. Not many. And, if he ever finds himself without the means to make a movie, he says he'll use whatever resources he has available, even if it's merely an iPhone camera.

To be in such a position involves a fair amount of risk-taking, but even more so a sense of fearlessness. "I recognize in life from my own family, my own father, that people are obsessed with money and frightened about losing money. And somehow I never had that attitude," he said. "I never hesitated to put up my own money or lose money. And I did lose money. I bought the studio in Hollywood. I spent ages 40-50 paying back the Chase Manhattan bank, a big loan that I owed them. So I don't think you can live your life in fear of whether you're going to have money or whether you're not going to have money."

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The Third Act of Francis Ford Coppola originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> filmfrancis ford coppolamarrakech film festival Ariston Anderson Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Gael Garcia Bernal on the Past, Present and Future of Cinema]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/06/gael-garcia-bernal-on-the-past-present-and-future-of-cinema/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/06/gael-garcia-bernal-on-the-past-present-and-future-of-cinema/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/06/gael-garcia-bernal-on-the-past-present-and-future-of-cinema/#comments Actor, Producer, and Director Gael Garcia Bernal came to Marrakech to serve on the jury of the 10th annual festival, which brought together cinema from Morocco to Mexico. "It's incredible to be here, isn't it?" he announced, greatly enjoying the relaxed vibe of the festival. Bernal, who recently served on juries in Berlin and Cannes, seemed right at home in Marrakech, enjoying the city amidst his festival duties. "I had some time off and I was very happy to come and play around."

Among his many duties, besides critically viewing 14 films in competition, was to entertain the questions of the international press gathered. After Eva Mendes, a special guest of the festival spoke to journalists on how Latinos and other ethnic roles are very underrepresented in the film industry, Bernal replied, "Well maybe she should work in Latin America."

"I wold never play a Finnish guy, even though I look like one," he jested. "They would never call me because of my accent." To play devil's advocate on the topic, Bernal asked, "Do we expect films to be democratic? In a way, that gives a moral stature to films that they shouldn't have. Films should be completely free. If you finance a film in Mexico, no one's going to tell you 'we're not going ethnic.'"

I sat down with Bernal at the famous La Mamounia hotel to discuss just why Mexican cinema is at the forefront of international film, beyond the sheer talent of its actors and directors. When Amores Perros converged onto the international scene in 2000, "it was a very interesting moment in cinema in the world, because there weren't so many surprises," he said.

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Gael Garcia Bernal on the Past, Present and Future of Cinema originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gael garcia bernalmarrakechmarrakech film festival Ariston Anderson Mon, 06 Dec 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Opening Night at the Marrakech International Film Festival]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/04/opening-night-at-the-marrakech-international-film-festival/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/04/opening-night-at-the-marrakech-international-film-festival/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/04/opening-night-at-the-marrakech-international-film-festival/#comments

Cannes may still hold the key in the French-speaking world for film festivals, but Marrakech is quickly gaining rank. Not a film market like Cannes, the festival offers a greater joy: an opportunities for people around the world to converge upon this gorgeous city simply for the joy of cinema.

The Marrakech International Film Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary Friday night. The Opening Ceremony at the Palais des Congres hosted a slew of international film talent. Women walking the red carpet showcased their gorgeous couture caftans, as well as quite a few Dior evening gown numbers. Inside, guests were welcomed by the Royal Symphonic Orchestra, and a special score composed for the occasion.

John Malkovich, president of the 2010 jury, brought onstage the rest of his international team, including Faouzi Bensaidi, Dominic Cooper, Maggie Cheung, Gael Garcia Bernal, Irene Jacob, Benoit Jaxquot, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Yousra, all who welcomed guests in their respective languages. Keanu Reeves introduced his opening night film, Henry's Crime, in which he plays an apathetic tollbooth worker, who after wrongly taking the fall for a bank robbery, decides to initiate a real burglary at the very bank where he was arrested.

Following the film, over 700 guests joined the Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid for a special dinner to commemorate the event. No expense was spared at the sprawling Moroccan feast. Guests dined on a massive array of traditional dishes including chicken tagine, veal shank with eggplant, cumin fish, honey couscous, barley-filled pumpkin, and a variety of famous Moroccan pastries. The Royal Orchestra was on hand to entertain guests with decadent film scores.

Gallery: Marrakesh International Film Festival Opening Night

Opening CelebrationFestival Director Melita Toscan Du PlantierThe Royal OrchestraMarion Cotillard and Keanu ReevesCharlotte Rampling, Barry Levinson, Volker Schondorff

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Opening Night at the Marrakech International Film Festival originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> FestivalFilmJohn MalkovichKeanu ReevesMarionCotillardMarrakesh Ariston Anderson Sat, 04 Dec 2010 18:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Pierre Hardy x Sequoia Paris Jane Bag, Handbag of the Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/01/pierre-hardy-x-sequoia-paris-jane-bag-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/01/pierre-hardy-x-sequoia-paris-jane-bag-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/12/01/pierre-hardy-x-sequoia-paris-jane-bag-handbag-of-the-day/#comments

The Jane Shopping Bag takes two of the season's hottest trends, menswear and medicine bags, combining them with a retro flair for a style that is timeless and effortless. With black and brown accents, the bag can literally go with anything, and provides enough room to take along for a full day of errands. The soft leather in distressed goatskin provides a unique pattern, ensuring that no two bags will be exactly alike.

If there's one style lesson to learn from the French, it's to invest in a few wardrobe staples, and the rest will follow. Glamour girls Sophie Marceau and Julie Depardieu have long followed the house of Sequoia Paris, carrying their remarkably utilitarian yet stylish bags on their arms from the greenmarket to the red carpet.

Legendary designer Pierre Hardy has served as the line's Creative Director since its inception in 1988, when he sought to create a line of fashion handbags both decadent and useful. Sequoia Paris, sold in top retailers like Le Bon Marche and Printemps, has proven to be a signature in luxury-crafted French leather goods. Now, this classic line is coming stateside with a new collection intent on bringing the classic French style to an American market.

Available for $556 at Sequoia Paris.

Pierre Hardy x Sequoia Paris Jane Bag, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> handbaghandbag of the dayleatherpursesequoia paris Ariston Anderson Wed, 01 Dec 2010 17:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[A Regal Rental: The Royal Yacht Britannia]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/22/a-regal-rental-the-royal-yacht-britannia/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/22/a-regal-rental-the-royal-yacht-britannia/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/22/a-regal-rental-the-royal-yacht-britannia/#comments

For those looking for a British royalty tour, there are obvious places across England to visit. But if you want to try something a little different, Edinburgh, Scotland is home to a number of monuments that are rich in royal history. When it comes to recent history, nothing compares to the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is now permanently docked in the Port of Leith, Edinburgh.

"Britannia is special for a number of reasons," said His Royal Highness Prince Philip of the yacht, which launched in 1953. "Almost every previous sovereign has been responsible for building a church, a castle, a palace or just a house. The only comparable structures in the present reign is Britannia." Prince Philip attributes Britannia as a prime example of British design and technology of the time. The grand ship played home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family for nearly half a century, as well as host to kings, queens, presidents and prime ministers from around the world. World leaders from Sir Winston Churchill to Nelson Mandela to Bill Clinton are all a part of Britannia's gilded maritime heritage.

The ship herself is an intimate glance into the lives of the Royal family, decked out with comfortable casual furniture that recalls more a proper Caribbean estate than Buckingham Palace. The walls throughout are lined with aged family portraits. The State Dining Room is covered with gifts given to Her Majesty from her 968 official state visits all over the world, from rare giant shells to island wood carvings. No less than four royal honeymoons took place on board the Yacht, including that of Princess Diana and Prince Charles. A grand piano sits at the entrance, bolted down to the floor, which Diana herself used to play when greeting guests.


Gallery: Royal Yacht Britannia

Royal Yacht Britannia

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A Regal Rental: The Royal Yacht Britannia originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> englandengland travelhistoric yachtroyal yacht brittaniascotlandscotland travel Ariston Anderson Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Dunkeld's Best in Class Smoked Salmon]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/21/dunkelds-best-in-class-smoked-salmon/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/21/dunkelds-best-in-class-smoked-salmon/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/21/dunkelds-best-in-class-smoked-salmon/#comments

In my opinion few things compare to the taste of freshly caught seafood, that is until I discovered the taste of a freshly smoked fish. In the ancient cathedral town of Dunkeld on the banks of one of Scotland's most renown fishing rivers, the River Tay, is an artisan smokehouse that has for over 30 years prepared and smoked the steady flow of anglers' catches.

When you buy smoked salmon at a supermarket, what you're getting is a highly processed fish, manufactured in a rapid process that can take anywhere from six hours to a day from smoking to packaging. At Dunkeld Smokehouse, using traditional methods, the actual smoking process takes up to four days. Guests are invited to bring in their salmon catch whole at the end of their fishing day. Each fish is individually tagged and prepared to order. The salmon is hand cured in salt for up to a day and dry smoked in kilns using recycled whisky barrel chips from local distilleries for another day. After the smoking process, the salmon fillets are left to chill and mature for a further two days. Hot smoked salmon, another option, is smoked in a hot kiln, and the result is a flakier cooked fish. Customers can also request gravadlax, in which fillets are cured for five days in dill, salt, sugar and pepper.

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Dunkeld's Best in Class Smoked Salmon originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> dunkeldsalmonscotlandscottish foodsmoked salmon Ariston Anderson Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Raise a Glass with Boardwalk Empire]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/19/raise-a-glass-with-boardwalk-empire/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/19/raise-a-glass-with-boardwalk-empire/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/09/19/raise-a-glass-with-boardwalk-empire/#comments
Photo Courtesy of HBO

With the season finale of True Blood last weekend, dismayed HBO fans don't have to wait long for more cutting-edge drama. The much-anticipated 12-episode Boardwalk Empire premieres tonight at 9 PM, from Martin Scorsese and Terence Winter of Sopranos fame. Canadian Club, formerly thought of as your grandpa's whisky, received a new fanbase as the choice drink of Mad Men's Don Draper. Now Canadian Club goes further back in time, partnering with HBO as the unofficial sponsor of prohibition in 1920s Atlantic City.

Canadian Club features prominently in the plot of Boardwalk Empire as battling gangsters fight over wooden cases. During Prohibition, Canadian Club was produced legally right across the Detroit River in Windsor, Canada. It's rumored that it quickly became the favorite of Al Capone, who centered his smuggling business on the fine liquid.

Look out for specially branded CC bottles in stores nationwide, as well as special events as speakeasie-styled bars across Chicago, New York, Los Angeles and Philadelphia. And enter to win the Boardwalk Empire Sweepstakes for a chance to win your own suite for a year at Caesar's Atlantic City. To get ready for the show tonight, grab a bottle and mix up a cocktail. Exclusive recipes after. the jump.

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Raise a Glass with Boardwalk Empire originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Boardwalk empireCocktailshboMartin ScorseseSpiritswhisky Ariston Anderson Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The New kaplanMD Skincare & Beauty Line]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/07/14/the-new-kaplanmd-skincare-and-beauty-line/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/07/14/the-new-kaplanmd-skincare-and-beauty-line/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/07/14/the-new-kaplanmd-skincare-and-beauty-line/#comments

It seems like everyday a new beauty line is coming out of Beverly Hills, the home of gorgeous skin. Yet, we've stumbled across a line debut that is intent on building beauty from within by reversing the damage caused by time and environmental damage. The new product line, by famed dermatologist, Dr. Stuart Kaplan, features a variety of products with a minimum of 10 active ingredients, including kaplanMD's exclusive Phytogenic Triactive Complex, specially formulated to prevent and reverse skin damage.


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The New kaplanMD Skincare & Beauty Line originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> beverly hillsdr stuart kaplannight creamskincareskincare productsSkinCareProductstoner Ariston Anderson Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Heritage Aviation Creates Greener Private Flying]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/06/02/the-green-side-of-private-flying/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/06/02/the-green-side-of-private-flying/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/06/02/the-green-side-of-private-flying/#comments

Just how green can personal jet travel be? Well, not very. There's no doubt that traveling by private jet wreaks havoc on our carbon footprint. One company in Burlington, Vermont, has set out to create the most green private aviation company ever. Heritage Flight has for 25 years broken down travel barriers. Offering aircraft charters from Turbo-Props to Bombardier Challengers, they fly you around the world, anywhere, anytime. No lines, no hassle. International returns allow you to pass through customs hassle-free. Pilots will even change routes mid-flights if you change your mind between say the French Rivera and the Italian Seaside. Today, private aviation in Vermont is a $2 billion industry.


Gallery: Heritage Aviation

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]]> burlington vermontfbofixed base operationheritage aviationvermont Ariston Anderson Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Bacardi Debuts Torched Cherry Rum for Summer]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/27/bacardi-debuts-torched-cherry-rum-for-summer/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/27/bacardi-debuts-torched-cherry-rum-for-summer/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/27/bacardi-debuts-torched-cherry-rum-for-summer/#comments

Bacardi flavored rums are unlike any other. In a lineup of unmarked bottles, Bacardi blends always stand out as being the most fragrant. Whether you're a Limon or a Dragon Berry type of rum drinker, your preferred flavor will fill the room with aroma. I attended a Bacardi-hosted event to determine just how they make their varietals so intensely flavorful. In correlation with the summer launch of their latest flavor, Torched Cherry, Barcardi invited journalists to come and mix their own cherry rums.

After learning about each of the various flavors that go into Torched Cherry, we were given a selection of infusions to experiment making our own. While we were given five flavors to come close to the Bacardi original, we weren't given the entire lot of flavors in the mix, thus protecting the prized recipe.

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Bacardi Debuts Torched Cherry Rum for Summer originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 27 May 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> alcoholbacardibacardi rumcocktailsrumspiritstorched cherry Ariston Anderson Thu, 27 May 2010 16:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Tom Ford Launches Private Blend Lip Color Collection]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/14/tom-ford-launches-private-blend-lip-color-collection/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/14/tom-ford-launches-private-blend-lip-color-collection/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/14/tom-ford-launches-private-blend-lip-color-collection/#comments If there's one man who knows how to make a woman feel sexy, it's Tom Ford. And now, the famed designer and director is taking sexy straight to the place it matters most, a woman's lips. Ford launched his new lip line at his Madison Avenue Thursday night, where guests were invited to sip champagne and play with the new hues. In twelve jaw-dropping colors, the new Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color Collection will turn you from drab to glamorous in one easy swipe of a gold and ivory stick. "There is no more dramatic accessory than a perfect lip," said Ford. "It is the focus of the face and it has the power to define a woman's whole look."

Unlike most high-pigmented lipsticks, the Tom Ford colors are anything but drying. Each divinely-scented shade is full of rich, natural ingredients, including soja seed extract, Brazilian murumuru butter and chamomilla flower oil. The incredibly moisturizing blends wear for hours and go on like silk. With each shade evoking such brilliant luminosity, it's literally the only makeup you'll need to wear to brighten up your entire face.

And like Ford's Private Blend perfume line, the products can easily be layered to achieve greater depths of color. I achieved the perfect party color by layering True Coral with Smoke Red. With the expansive palette ranging from nude to pink to coral to red to purple, experimentation is a must. Nudes like Vanilla Suede form the perfect base, or can be paired with a deep smoky eye for an easy red carpet look.

The twelve perfect colors promise to deliver every woman her signature look. I opted for the darkest plum shade, named Black Orchid to match my favorite scent, and instantly found my new color. The rich creamy purple is the perfect new shade for any skin tone. It's decadent for night and yet powerful for day. From the impeccable mens tailored shirt to bespoke perfume, to gorgeous cinema, Tom Ford is a master in everything he does. Expect another surprise this fall in the Tom Ford Beauty line as he continues to expand his body of work.

The lip collection went on sale this week in select department stores. Vanilla Suede, the pale 60s shade has already sold out behind counters. Available for $45 from Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and Bergdorf Goodman and on the retailer's websites beginning June 1st.

Gallery: Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color Collection

Black OrchidBruised PlumCherry LushGinger FawnMoroccan Rouge



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Tom Ford Launches Private Blend Lip Color Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 14 May 2010 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> tom fordtom ford cosmeticstom ford lip colortom ford lipstick Ariston Anderson Fri, 14 May 2010 09:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Beyond Luxury: Du Parc Kempinski]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/13/beyond-luxury-du-parc-kempinski/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/13/beyond-luxury-du-parc-kempinski/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/13/beyond-luxury-du-parc-kempinski/#comments

Let the celebs take the lead, young and old starlets who rent out the Chauteau Marmont nightly, who'd rather pay for hotel service than sign a lease. For the busiest of the busiest, there's a certain satisfaction in knowing that anything you could ever need is just a bells call away. So what if you're looking for the five-star experience, but your tastes are more refined than the typical celebutante?

Say you want Swiss chocolate delivered on a silver platter at 2 AM? Or the latest in Davidoff cigars, custom-designed for you and your closest mates? Or a Givenchy oil massage in your own living room? A programmable bathtub filled with hot water waiting for you when you come home from the slopes? In-house private trainer? Curated wine collection, from surrounding vineyards and beyond? The list goes on. What if I told you, there's not one, but three concierge services at your beck and call? And this isn't a hotel, but a private residence, located at one of the most gorgeous sites on the planet? The trend has picked up on luxury private residences from New York to Dubai, and now the five-star home is coming to the heart of Europe.

Meet the Du Parc Kempinski, a new private residence building encompassing 21 apartments and three penthouses at the top of Mont-Pèlerin, Chardonne, that aims to meet luxury expectations above and beyond the call of duty. It's a new renovation of a 1906 Belle Epoque hotel that has welcomed guests like Victor Hugo or Pierre Cardin over the century. I was part of a recent tour of international journalists, all brought to the Lake Geneva region to experience the amazing location. While the famed hotel was in its initial stages of regutting, with planned balcony expansion and an axing of the annex ballroom, there was a faux model apartment set up for prospective buyers to peruse, showcasing state-of-the-art technology and a lush purple color scheme. Our group was brought to the high mountaintops of Vaud to see this amazing spot on planet Earth, overlooking the largest lake in Europe, majestic snowy mountain tops, and UNESCO-recognized vineyards. It's a place completely secluded yet quickly and easily accessible to Geneva. At the Du Parc Kempinski, we witnessed a way of life apart from any other.

Gallery: Du Parc Kempinski

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Beyond Luxury: Du Parc Kempinski originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 13 May 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> du parc kempinskigenevalake genevaswitzerlandvaud Ariston Anderson Thu, 13 May 2010 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Lady Gaga and Terrence Koh Auction Famed Piano]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/12/lady-gaga-and-terrence-koh-auction-famed-piano/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/12/lady-gaga-and-terrence-koh-auction-famed-piano/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/12/lady-gaga-and-terrence-koh-auction-famed-piano/#comments Two young artists who are turning the pop culture world upside down, Lady Gaga and Terrence Koh, joined forces last month in Toyko for GAGAKOH!, a legendary performance at club Tabloid. Only 900 lucky guests got to witness the debauchery. Koh created a one-of-a-kind piano for the event, in his signature white, as well as a five-foot-tall papier-mâché bunny head, a tribute to his spirit animal.

This month, they're auctioning off the piano and bunny head, which is signed by Gaga herself, through CharityBuzz to benefit the Art of Elysium, an amazing organization that encourages leading artists to dedicate their time and talents to kids undergoing serious medical treatments, empowering them through creative outlets. Past supporters of Elysium include Kanye West, Graham Nash, Eva Mendes, Joaquin Phoenix, Elijah Wood, David Lynch, Hugh Jackman, Ben Affleck, and many more.

Koh and Gaga first collaborated for the 2010 Grammys, designing the two-headed piano that Gaga played with Elton John. He has since designed the piano Gaga played for the February AmfAR Gala and most recently the GAGAKOH! instrument. As Gaga and Koh continue to use these 88 pearl designs for her over-the-top performances, here's your chance at obtaining a piece of art and pop culture history, while benefitting a more than worthy organization. Bidding ends Thursday, May 13 at 1 PM EST.

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Lady Gaga and Terrence Koh Auction Famed Piano originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 12 May 2010 04:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art of elysiumcharitycharity buzzLady Gagalady gaga pianoterence koh Ariston Anderson Wed, 12 May 2010 04:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Inside Europe's Largest and Grandest Hotel Suite]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/11/inside-europes-largest-and-grandest-hotel-suite/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/11/inside-europes-largest-and-grandest-hotel-suite/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/11/inside-europes-largest-and-grandest-hotel-suite/#comments

If you're looking for a world-class hotel experience in the heart of Europe, you'd have trouble finding any experience that rivals the Geneva Suite. The crown jewel of the Grand Hotel Kempinski, at 11,690 square feet, boasts the reputation of being the largest free-standing hotel suite on the continent.

So what do you get for the price of 50,000 Swiss francs (approximately U$S 45,000) a night? To start with, corner views that look out onto the gorgeous Lake Geneva with a prime view of the Old Town and the famous Jet d'Eau, sparkling over the water at sunrise. The duplex is comprised of two living rooms, three master bedrooms, four bathrooms, one with a private steam bath, and a full-service kitchen, complete with a personal chef to cater to any culinary whims guests may have. Additional rooms include an office, a state-of-the-art gym, and a billiards room. Private butlers are on hand to attend to any guests' needs.

I toured the Geneva Suite at a recent presentation for the Du Parc Kempinski private residences. Overlooking the lake, and the majestic buildings across the water, it's a perfect setting for either business or pleasure. "With the Geneva Suite, we wanted something unique, down to the last details. I believe we have succeeded in creating an exclusive suite on a truly grand scale," said Michael Henssler, General Manager of the Grand Hotel Kempinski.


Gallery: The Geneva Suite


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Inside Europe's Largest and Grandest Hotel Suite originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 11 May 2010 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> du parc kempinskigrand hotel kempinskilake genevalargest hotel suite in europeswitzerland Ariston Anderson Tue, 11 May 2010 11:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Conservation International's Seas of Hope Bash]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/10/conservation-internationals-seas-of-hope-bash/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/10/conservation-internationals-seas-of-hope-bash/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/10/conservation-internationals-seas-of-hope-bash/#comments

As BP's latest stumble over stopping the flow of upwards of 200,000 gallons of oil into our oceans reminds us, we don't need an excuse to start protecting our marine ecosystem now. While oil officials volleyed the blame back and forth, in another corner of the world, at New York's Museum of Natural History, Conversation International offered a new kind of hope, this past Thursday at their Seas of Hope Celebration gala.

Under the infamous blue whale hanging from the Museum's ceiling, New York revelers pooled together to offer a new kind of solution, donating toward Conservation International's mission of empowering local communities to care for nature and humanity. After an address from JP MorganChase CEO Jamie Dimon on the role of finance in sustainable growth, and an overwhelmingly successful fundraising appeal for CI's Protect an Acre program, guests retreated to the gallery halls for an after party sponsored by Havaianas.

The quintessential Brazilian brand teamed up with CI to protect the country's Albrolhos region, an area on the South Atlantic that contains some of the world's richest coral reefs. Albrolhos serves as breeding ground to the Southern humpback whale population, with nearly 10,000 members, and also represents several species of corals, mollusks and fish that are exclusive to the area.

Gallery: Conservation International and Havaiana's Seas of Hope Celebration


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Conservation International's Seas of Hope Bash originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 10 May 2010 06:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> conservationConservation Internationalcoralhavaianasmuseum of natural historynew york museumnew york museumsocean Ariston Anderson Mon, 10 May 2010 06:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The Perfect Margarita for Cinco de Mayo]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/05/the-perfect-margarita-for-cinco-de-mayo/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/05/the-perfect-margarita-for-cinco-de-mayo/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/05/the-perfect-margarita-for-cinco-de-mayo/#comments

The perfect tequila is neither too sweet nor too salty. It's made from all natural, high-quality ingredients. And, it has just the right amount of kick to accompany your guacamole. This year, celebrate Mexican heritage right on Cinco de Mayo with CORZO's Evolutionary Margarita, designed by Mixologist Jonathan Pogash.

Gone are the days of mixing margaritas with sugary Triple Sec or additive-laden tequilas. "The use of savory ingredients in this drink is one of my favorite trends that we're currently seeing a lot of at the bar," says Pogash. The Evolutionary Margarita is the prime example of fine tequila cocktails today, made from delicious fresh peppers and lightly sweet blue agave nectar. The combination perfectly complements the naturally sweet CORZO Reposado, which is made with twice the agave plants of normal tequilla as well as a triple distillation process to achieve the uniquely smooth CORZO taste. And with a green lime and red pepper garnish, colors from the Mexican flag, it's a perfect cocktail for the fifth of May.

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The Perfect Margarita for Cinco de Mayo originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 05 May 2010 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cinco de mayococktail recipescorzocorzo reposadomargaritamargarita recipetequila Ariston Anderson Wed, 05 May 2010 18:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Ladurée in Geneva]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/05/laduree-in-geneva/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/05/laduree-in-geneva/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/05/laduree-in-geneva/#comments

Geneva is such a fashion-forward and international city that nearly everything is in walking distance. Staying at the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva, in less than ten minutes walking distance, I could easily access Rolex headquarters, the Patek Philippe museum, a Pathé cinema, and shopping boutiques from Hermes to Hervé Léger. On one morning stroll across the lovely pedestrian bridges crossing Lake Geneva, I happened upon the world famous Ladurée shop.

It makes perfect sense that Geneva, the French capital of Switzerland would have a 19th century-decorated outpost, in the style of the Paris original (founded in 1862) that put macaroons back on the map. The small boutique has the macaroons shipped fresh several times a week from the Monaco Ladurée laboratory. Having tried numerous examples of New York's macaroon forays, I was excited to finally try the real thing. These small round crisp cakes, filled with a soft creme center were available in a myriad of delicate flavors, including mimose, figure datte, black currant violet, rose petals and lily of the valley.

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Ladurée in Geneva originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 05 May 2010 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> genevaladureemacaronmacaronsswitzerland Ariston Anderson Wed, 05 May 2010 14:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The Spa Givenchy at Le Mirador Kempinski]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/04/the-spa-givenchy-at-le-mirador-kempinski/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/04/the-spa-givenchy-at-le-mirador-kempinski/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/04/the-spa-givenchy-at-le-mirador-kempinski/#comments

When visiting the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland, the first feelings you get are an overwhelming sense of relaxation and calmness. Surrounded by such gorgeous mountains and an expansive pristine lake, it's a feeling that can't quite be replicated anywhere else in the world. Taking advantage of this prime location, Le Mirador Kempinski has set up one of the world's leading tranquility centers, the Spa Givenchy to truly maximize their of their renown offerings of de-stressing and beautification. Facing a one-of-a-kind view of the Swiss Alps and Vaud coast, spa visitors are treated to a double dose of well-being.

The Givenchy Spa features a huge 90 square meter suite, as well as jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, and massage rooms, all accompanied by premier Givenchy treatments and products.

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The Spa Givenchy at Le Mirador Kempinski originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 04 May 2010 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> givenchy spaLake Genevale mirador kempinskispa treatmentsswitzerland Ariston Anderson Tue, 04 May 2010 16:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Joanna Maxham Gallery Clutch, Handbag of the Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/03/joanna-maxham-gallery-clutch-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/03/joanna-maxham-gallery-clutch-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/05/03/joanna-maxham-gallery-clutch-handbag-of-the-day/#comments joanna Maxham gallery clutch


This season, tiny and dainty clutches have been overshadowed by their sturdier alternatives. If you're not walking a red carpet, there's no reason to downsize your belongings into a credit-card sized pouch. Joanna Maxham's oversized Gallery Clutch is the perfect daytime clutch, when you want to keep your belongings minimized without being weighed down by a huge bag. And, the elegant embossed-snake leather, signature to her latest collection, can be taken out well into the night. Shown above in Snake Pearl, it's a subdued hue that will complement any urban chic look. The Gallery Clutch retails for $395. Each bag is completed in gold ribbed lining and includes a detachable shoulder chain and key chain ring for maximum versatility. Maxham, an American designer, produces each piece in limited qualities out of a small atelier in Italy. They're guaranteed modern styles made with impeccable craftsmanship that will last for years to come. Check our her site for more bags from her current line.

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Joanna Maxham Gallery Clutch, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 03 May 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> clutchgallery clutchhandbaghandbag of the dayjoanna maxham Ariston Anderson Mon, 03 May 2010 17:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Don Valente Distillery Tour]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/30/don-valente-distillery-tour/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/30/don-valente-distillery-tour/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/30/don-valente-distillery-tour/#comments

The Ruta del Tequila in Jalisco, MX is an established UNESCO Cultural Site. With gorgeous blue agave as far as the eye can see, the tequila trail is a must-see for aficionados of the spirit. A hot air ballon trip covers the agave trails, the areas of el Arenal, Amatitán, Tequila, Magdalena y Teuchitlán. To really experience the Paisaje Agavero, or agave trail though, I recommend renting a car and grabbing a map to really experience the distilleries up close.

Just as important as the larger world-class distilleries in Jalisco are to the story of tequila, are the smaller, family-owned ones. I visited one such distillery, Don Valente, which is run completely by nine family members that each hold a different position in the company from designer to lawyer to sales.

The 15-year-old distillery does everything in-house, from cooking agave to hand-printing labels on aluminum, a process called repujado. When piñas, or hearts of the agave plant, are taken to Don Valente, they are placed face down in the brick oven in the shape of a pyramid to cook for 48 hours. In this formation, steam is more evenly distributed throughout the piñas. The family kindly passed around cooked piña to taste, part of which was tough like sugarcane and part of which was soft and insanely sweet like a sugar-saturated melon.

Click through the photo gallery to discover the Don Valente tequila process from piña roasting to pressing to distillation.

Gallery: Tequila Don Valente Distillery



My visit to Jalisco was sponsored by Tequila Cazadores, but the opinions expressed in the article are 100% my own.

Don Valente Distillery Tour originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> agaveagave trailjaliscopaisaje agaverotequila Ariston Anderson Fri, 30 Apr 2010 11:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Is Your Tequila Authentic? Behind the scenes of the CRT]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/29/is-your-tequila-authentic-behind-the-scenes-of-the-crt/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/29/is-your-tequila-authentic-behind-the-scenes-of-the-crt/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/29/is-your-tequila-authentic-behind-the-scenes-of-the-crt/#comments

In 2009 136.4 million liters of tequila, made from 924.7 thousands tons of agave, were exported from Mexico, and those numbers are increasing every year. The U.S. is the largest importer of tequila, followed by Germany and Spain. How do you know what you're drinking is the real thing?

Just like Champagne or Cognac, Tequila is protected by state of appellation. Jalisco is one of only five Mexican states that are allowed by law to produce tequila, and takes the majority of the industry, as it serves as home to 95% of the world's agave plantations. The entire industry is regulated by the Consejo Regulador del Tequila, which tests samples from the more than 1200 labels from 150 distilleries produced in Mexico to ensure that quality standards are met across the country. And, because agave can grow virtually anywhere, international offices track down falsely labeled tequila bottles in places as far as India or New Zealand. CRT teams pressure local governments to take the offending spirits off of the market. International groups also work to make sure that authentic tequilas that are exported remain of consistent quality.

Overall, there are two types of tequila, both made from the White Tequiliana Weber Blue agave plant. For premium tequila, spirits are made from 100% agave. The rest, which is still considered tequila, just a lesser quality, is made 51% from the sugar of agave. Among these two, there's young tequila (gold/silver), reposado (rested) which is aged two months or more, and añejo which is aged in oak for more than a year. The rare extra añejo tequilas are aged for more than three years. Mexico's Minister of Health regulates any sweeteners, flavors, or colors that may be added to a blend.

So before you think sampling tequila 24/7 might be one of the world's greatest jobs, let's take a peak behind the scenes of the 15-year-old Consejo Regulador del Tequila, a watchdog group housed in a gorgeous modern building in Guadalajara, with walls filled with fine examples of agave art. The Mexican government's Ministry of Economy sets the standards for tequila across the industry, and the CRT ensures that these standards are met for its 150 members.

Gallery: Behind the Scenes of the CRT

Continue reading Is Your Tequila Authentic? Behind the scenes of the CRT

Is Your Tequila Authentic? Behind the scenes of the CRT originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> consejo regulador del tequilajaliscotequila Ariston Anderson Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Enjoy Tribeca Film Festival at Home]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/28/enjoy-tribeca-film-festival-at-home/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/28/enjoy-tribeca-film-festival-at-home/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/28/enjoy-tribeca-film-festival-at-home/#comments 2010 marks the eighth year running that Robert De Niro brings his sweeping film festival to the island, and the first year you can experience Tribeca Film Festival Virtual, where you can watch world premieres, shorts, live red carpets, panels and more all from your living room. To celebrate the 2010 Tribeca FF, Stoli, the official vodka and signature sponsor of the fest, has teamed up with B.R. Guest Restaurants to include a special "Leading Lady" Cocktail on the menu, designed by Master Mixologist Eben Klemm, featuring Stoli Vanil, crème de cacao, fresh Blackberries and Blackberry liqueur. The cocktail is available at all B.R. Guests restaurants including Dos Caminos, Blue Water Grill, and Blue Fin during the festival. If you're not in New York for the festival, or near a B.R. Guest restaurant, you can enjoy Tribeca Film Festival Virtual with your own Stoli cocktails at home.Mixologist Charlotte Voisey has designed a series of cinema-inspired cocktails to premiere throughout the festival at exclusive-after screening parties Luxist has the signature cocktail recipes to make at your own cinema events.



Stoli O Cameo
3 parts Stoli(R) Ohranj
2 parts fresh grapefruit juice
1 1/2 parts simple syrup
1 part fresh lemon juice
Dash of pomegranate juice or grenadine
Mix all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker and strain into a chilled martini glass.

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Enjoy Tribeca Film Festival at Home originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 23:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cocktailsdrinksstoliTribeca Film FestivalTribeca Film Festival 2010vodka Ariston Anderson Wed, 28 Apr 2010 23:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Belvedere & Matthew Williamson Team Up for Summer]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/28/belvedere-and-matthew-williamson-team-up-for-summer/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/28/belvedere-and-matthew-williamson-team-up-for-summer/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/28/belvedere-and-matthew-williamson-team-up-for-summer/#comments

Belvedere Vodka has long had its hand in the world of fashion, as a longtime force behind Fashion Week after parties. Now they're literally dabbling in design, partnering up with noted arbiter of style Matthew Williamson, to release a limited edition kaftan in celebration of Belvedere Vodka's new flavor, Pink Grapefruit.

"My design for the Belvedere Pink Grapefruit collaboration was inspired by the vitality of sultry high summer evenings," said Williamson. "Incorporating a vibrant sun-drenched palette, the print is evocative of exotic destinations ventured by the modern-day, global traveler."

Williamson's kaftans are effortless and versatile, made from delicate, lightweight silk that's perfect to wear from the Hamptons to Dubai. And his collaboration with Belvedere sets the tone for a fun and chic lifestyle and both brands emulate. These bright neon colors and lively tropical pattern are already making me yearn for hot summer nights.

"I am thrilled to collaborate with a brand like Belvedere, which embodies a contemporary sense of luxury and vigor," said Williamson, "and the limited-edition kaftan was designed particularly with that kind of woman in Mind." MisShapes' DJ Leigh Lezark will model the kaftan for a launch party in May. You can pick up the kaftan at Matthew Williamson Stores and online beginning May 13th, the official launch date of Belvedere Pink Grapefruit vodka.

See the kaftan up close after the jump.

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Belvedere & Matthew Williamson Team Up for Summer originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> BelvedereBelvedere vodkamatthew williamsonvodka Ariston Anderson Wed, 28 Apr 2010 08:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Touring the Tequila Cazadores Distillery: Does Listening To Mozart Make For Better Tequila?]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/27/touring-the-tequila-cazadores-distillery-does-listening-to-moza/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/27/touring-the-tequila-cazadores-distillery-does-listening-to-moza/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/27/touring-the-tequila-cazadores-distillery-does-listening-to-moza/#comments
To understand the story of Mexico, one must look at Tequila, a beverage that earned its roots from the Aztec goddess of agave Mayahuel, all the way to the early 1900s when Mexican revolutionaries took the drink as a sign of rebellion and strength. After thousands of years of growth and development, today, tequila represents the modernization of Mexico.I journeyed to Arandas in the highlands of Jalisco with a group of journalists to see the process of one of Mexico's finer brands, Cazadores.

Indeed, Tequila Cazadores' three labels together constitute the #1 selling premium tequila brand in the world. We began in Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, already, 5,000 ft above sea level, and drove two and a half hours further up into the mountains. The farther out of the city we drove, the greater abundance of blue agave fields we saw, entering into the Agave Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And the farther up we drove, the redder the soil became, each mile out achieving a greater and deeper shade, revealing the high concentration of iron and minerals in the soil, resulting in a sweeter and less fibrous agave plant. Tequilas from the highlands tend to contain more fruit notes such as citrus, pear and orange, while tequilas from the lowlands tend to have more herbal flavors such as mint and grass.

A unique tequila undoubtedly is made through a unique process. At Cazadores, after the agave cores are cooked under 24 hot waterfalls, they are sent to the mill where they are cut, shredded and squeezed. The agave juice is fermented for four days with yeast in steel vats, without any chemicals or preservatives. And in the tradition of Cazadores creator Jose Maria Bañuelos, the fermenting juice must listen to classical music. A firm believer in the Mozart effect, aimed to create harmonious vibrations in the fermenting juice. Indeed, yeast is very sensitive to sound. Talk or shout into a vat and the yeast moves. With Mozart playing around the clock, the music had a soothing effect on the yeast to create the most desirable must, or agave juice.

Gallery: Cazadores in Arandas

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Touring the Tequila Cazadores Distillery: Does Listening To Mozart Make For Better Tequila? originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> jaliscomexicomozart effecttequilatequila cazadores Ariston Anderson Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:03:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Bacardi Goes Green for Earth Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/22/bacardi-goes-green-for-earth-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/22/bacardi-goes-green-for-earth-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/22/bacardi-goes-green-for-earth-day/#comments

Two new tourist attractions opened in Puerto Rico for Earth Day. Bacardi Rum unveiled the first ever industrial scale wind project on the island, two wind turbines which can be seen from miles away. The turbines are expected to generate enough electricity to power tourism related activities at the Casa Bacardi Visitor Center at their distillery outside of San Juan. Now the quarter of a million visitors who come to the Center each year can truly learn about and enjoy rum guilt-free.

Bacardi is no stranger to corporate responsibility and environmental leadership. "Here in Puerto Rico, Bacardi pioneered and patented the anaerobic treatment of distillery wastewater now used by other companies around the world," said Jon Grey, vice president of global operations for Bacardi. "We use this anaerobic digester technology to treat wastewater which derives energy. In that process, micro-organisms naturally degrade waste materials, creating biogas, or methane, in the process." These natural biogas are fed into boilers which help power the distillery. The process saves roughly half of the energy required to run them, reducing the need for imported gas or oil.

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Bacardi Goes Green for Earth Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 22 Apr 2010 04:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bacardibacardi rumBacardiRumgreenPuerto Rico primaries vote US statehoodturbine-pointswastewater systemswindmills Ariston Anderson Thu, 22 Apr 2010 04:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Christie's Green Auction, Saving The Planet Through Art]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/21/christies-green-auction/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/21/christies-green-auction/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/04/21/christies-green-auction/#comments
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day this year, Christie's has joined forces with NBC Universal to auction off a host of celebrity experiences, world-renowned art, and luxurious travel packages. In addition to a live inaugural Christie's Green Auction on the 22nd, they've partnered up with Charity Buzz to host an online auction with such prizes as a golf outing with President Bill Clinton or an all-new Lexus Hybrid 250h. And the entire event is carbon neutral. Among the spectacular artwork up for bids is Damien Hirst's All You Need is Jealousy, The Salt Pit by Matthew Ritchie, and a Broken Record Beatles Art collage from our favorite young art duo Robi Walters and Leanne Wright, signed with the support of Sir Paul McCartney himself.


Proceeds will benefit the Central Park Conservancy, Oceana, Conservation International, and the National Resources Defense Council.

Christie's Green Auction
April 22 at 7.30pm EST
20 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY

Through May 6 at CharityBuzz.com.

Christie's Green Auction, Saving The Planet Through Art originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> central park conservancycharity buzzchristiesconservation internationaldamien hirstearth daygreen auctionoceana Ariston Anderson Wed, 21 Apr 2010 18:01:00 EST Luxist