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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. View our terms of service here: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Bottega Veneta At Salone Del Mobile in Milan]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/31/bottega-veneta-at-salone-del-mobile-in-milan/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/31/bottega-veneta-at-salone-del-mobile-in-milan/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/31/bottega-veneta-at-salone-del-mobile-in-milan/#comments
This year the annual Salone del Mobile is being held from April 14th to 19th at the Rho exhibition center in Milan, Italy. There will be every type of furnishing imaginable on display from classical to modern design with an emphasis placed on high-end quality products. Last year over 300,000 people attended, and while the event is aimed at industry professionals, the show is open to the public on Sunday the 18th of April.

Bottega Veneta has chosen this venue to unveil some of their new design initiatives during the week long show. The Italian company known world wide for exquisite leather goods, particularly their woven bags, has chosen to celebrate Japanese culture and craft with a student design competition and various other collaborations with Japanese artisans. The lucky students from the University of Tokyo whose winning designs are chosen will be able to see them available for purchase in the company's Ginza store after the conclusion of Salone del Mobile. The collaboration seems to be a natural one, as Bottega Veneta has always shown an affinity for supporting the craftsman of luxury items, even opening a school in 2006 to train and support future generations of leather craftsmen. It makes sense that the company would be prone to exploring a relationship with another country's artisans.

Gallery: Bottega Veneta At Salone Del Mobile in Milan

Akita Cedar Wood PitchersEdo Kiriko Glass, Shippo Kiriko GlassHakone Yosegi Zaiku BoxPop-up Store BagsWine Opener



Continue reading Bottega Veneta At Salone Del Mobile in Milan

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Bottega Veneta At Salone Del Mobile in Milan originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bottega venetaCasa BrutusCasaBrutussalone del mobileSalone Internazionale del MobileSaloneInternazionaleDelMobileUniversity of TokyoUniversityOfTokyo Deb West Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Adorable Bunnies for Your Littlest Ones' Easter Baskets]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/23/adorable-bunnies-for-your-littlest-ones-easter-baskets/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/23/adorable-bunnies-for-your-littlest-ones-easter-baskets/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/23/adorable-bunnies-for-your-littlest-ones-easter-baskets/#comments
Centered in the middle of most all Easter baskets for children is the ubiquitous stuffed bunny rabbit. Often they can be found in unappealing pastels and made out of questionable fabrics. For those who want their littlest Easter holiday participants to have a super soft, squeezable bunny and do not want to sacrifice quality for cuteness D. Porthault has several options.

In Paris at the turn of the 20th century D. Porthault opened his first lingerie store. His wife later pressured him into expanding into selling fine linens. They were one of the first stores to carry printed sheets. The patterns were inspired by a love of Impressionist art and the gardens at Giverny. By the 1940' the company was printing the world's first printed terry towels and would soon expand their line to include sheets made of cotton percale and voile in addition to flax. The company moved into custom bedding and "Les Coeurs", still one of their most coveted designs, was inspired by the sketches of Duchess of Windsor.

Continue reading Adorable Bunnies for Your Littlest Ones' Easter Baskets

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Adorable Bunnies for Your Littlest Ones' Easter Baskets originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> D.Porthaultduchess of windsoreastereaster basketeaster bunnyEasterBasketLinens Deb West Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[A Beautifully Set Table by Small Masterpiece]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/21/a-beautifully-set-table-by-small-masterpiece/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/21/a-beautifully-set-table-by-small-masterpiece/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/21/a-beautifully-set-table-by-small-masterpiece/#comments small masterpiece
Spring is here and often is a time for entertaining. Invitations to weddings, bridal showers, birthdays and other occasions seem to increase with the onset of the new season. For those who find themselves hosting a celebration, Small Masterpiece is a very specialized event company that focuses on the tableware for intimate parties of every size.

Small Masterpiece has a unique antique collection of items that are an elegant and stylish substitution for the pedestrian choices commonly offered by rental companies. The extensive collection is available to augment an owner's personal tableware selection or to completely replace it by working with the client to create a new intimate design. Clients include both private citizens and event planners who understand that guests spend most of their time at the table and attention should be paid to every detail. If you are someone who wants something different, unique, timeless and has a real sensitivity to their party environment Small Masterpiece will be able to help you fulfill your needs.

The items in the rental collection are 100 to 150 years old and include:
  • Haviland Limoges china in various patterns
  • Early American pressed flint and glass goblets
  • Antique monogrammed sterling silver flatware and napkin rings
  • Slat folding lodge chairs
  • Primitive folding sewing tables
  • Reclaimed old bottles from Battle Creek, Michigan
  • Early American pressed glass celery vases and water pitchers
  • Heirloom damask table napkins from the U.S., Paris, and England

As one can see from the list above this is a carefully curated collection of antiques and vintage tableware that has completely redefined the notion of rental company and what they can provide. Currently owner Jason Murakawa is working with a prestigious event company in New York for a Florida based function as well as New York based fashion house style direction who is getting married in Los Angeles.

Gallery: Small Masterpiece

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A Beautifully Set Table by Small Masterpiece originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> chinaentertainingrentalrentalssetting a tablesmall masterpiecetabletopTableWare Deb West Sun, 21 Mar 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Taschen Opens in South Beach]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/20/taschen-opens-in-south-beach/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/20/taschen-opens-in-south-beach/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/20/taschen-opens-in-south-beach/#comments taschen storeThe legendary publisher Taschen is opening a brand new store in the heart of South Beach, Miami. For those of you who either live in the area or just can't get enough on the literary world even while on vacation the new space should be a welcome edition to a town not known for the pursuit of intellectual goals. That being said, Taschen is known for being not only hip and contemporary but a publisher with a long list of books that more staid institutions would be afraid to print.

As always the company is concerned with not only the design of their books but the atmosphere and space where their clients can explore their merchandise. The South Beach store is no exception to this rule. The store is one of only thirteen high-end storefronts located in a brand new building designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Maeuron. Customers can turn the pages of their favorite art books in a space created by Philippe Stark, the legendary Frenchman who has designed all the Taschen stores worldwide. The company commissioned British artist Toby Ziegler to design interior murals and a hand-poured terrazzo floor. In a nod to the location the floors of the space are composed of stones native to the area of South Florida.

The inventory at this store will include the publisher's art, photography, design, architecture, sex, travel , cinema and pop culture as well as a good selection of Portuguese and Spanish language titles. Like all things South Beach the store is planning to be open late until 10pm Sundays through Thursdays and 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays. If you'd like to celebrate the opening please join the store's celebration at 1111 Lincoln Road on Saturday March 20th from 4-6pm . The event will include drinks and music from DJ Faux Real and of course lots of books.

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Taschen Opens in South Beach originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> booksbookstoreMiamisouth beachTaschen Deb West Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Spectrem Group Reports That Millionaires Are On The Rise Again!]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/12/spectrem-group-reports-that-millionaires-are-on-the-rise-again/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/12/spectrem-group-reports-that-millionaires-are-on-the-rise-again/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/12/spectrem-group-reports-that-millionaires-are-on-the-rise-again/#comments
We've been reporting for a while now that the number of millionaires in the United states has been dropping. This is no surprise given the economic downturn the country has experienced. On Tuesday the Spectrem Group released a report stating that after a huge drop in the number of millionaires that the number of affluent households is starting to show signs of improvement.

According to their market research, after a sharp decline in wealth in 2008, the number of United States millionaires grew 16% to 7.8 million in 2009. The group reported that in 2007 a total of 9.2 households claimed millionaire status, the highest number in a ten year period that began in 1997. The Ultra High Net Worth households, considered to be those with a net worth of 5 million or more, also demonstrated a rebound of 17% to 980,00 in 2009. The market findings are based on the Spectrem Group's "Affluent Market Insights 2010" which is a survey that they claim has an error margin of plus or minus 4.4 percentage points.

The President of Spectrem Group George H. Walper, is quoted in the press release as saying it is" welcome news for an economy still working to recover." They conclude that while things are looking up due to the improvement of some asset classes the real estate market and general economy is still keeping the total number of millionaires well below its previous 1997 high. In an interesting related analysis, the company also researches a monthly Millionaire Investor Confidence Index which was down a point. It was also at the same level as the Affluent Investor Confidence Index (affluent being described as those with a $500,000 or over net worth) which is an unusual finding as the millionaires tend to be generally more optimistic than the affluent.

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Spectrem Group Reports That Millionaires Are On The Rise Again! originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> investor confidencemarket researchMarket-newsmillionairemillionairesspectrem groupSpectremGroupspendingultra high net worth householdswealthwealth survey Deb West Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[WWF "Earth Hour" Enjoys Continued Support from Luxury Hotel Chains]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/06/wwf-earth-hour-enjoys-continued-support-from-luxury-hotel-chai/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/06/wwf-earth-hour-enjoys-continued-support-from-luxury-hotel-chai/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/06/wwf-earth-hour-enjoys-continued-support-from-luxury-hotel-chai/#comments
The World Wildlife Fund is holding the annual "Earth Hour" climate change initiative on March 27, 2010. The organization urges people to express their concern about climate change with one simple act, turning off their lights at 8:30pm local time. Last year nearly one billion people participated in the event in 4,100 cities world wide.

The Fairmont Hotel Group has been supporting the endeavor since its inception three years ago. The hotel group has come up with some creative ways to make "Earth Hour" an enjoyable experience for their clients who are at their properties spending money on a luxury vacation. Hotel guests at several properties can enjoy amenities such as; complimentary s'mores roasted at an ocean-side fire pit under the stars (The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii), candlelight dinners at various hotel restaurants (Hotel Vier Jahresseiten, Mara Safari Club, Fairmont Turnberry Isle, Fairmont Chateau Laurier) and even themed "Happy Hours" (Fairmont Dallas). Other offerings include the opportunity for guests to learn more about the environment with lectures by naturalists and even an astronomer who will use the opportunity of less ambient lighting to show off the night sky. The corporate side of the Fairmont group will also be dimming their lights and have recently moved into new LEED certified offices in Toronto.

Continue reading WWF "Earth Hour" Enjoys Continued Support from Luxury Hotel Chains

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WWF "Earth Hour" Enjoys Continued Support from Luxury Hotel Chains originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> earth hourearth hour 2010EarthHourEarthHour2010FairmontHotelslas vegasLasVegaslightswwf Deb West Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[American Ballet Theater Cancels New York Fall Season]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/05/american-ballet-theater-cancels-new-york-fall-season/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/05/american-ballet-theater-cancels-new-york-fall-season/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/05/american-ballet-theater-cancels-new-york-fall-season/#comments In another example of how the arts have been suffering during the economic downturn, the Wall street Journal reports that ABT will not be doing a fall season in New York this year. The dance company does not have its own theater and has previously conducted its fall run at the New York City Center. One of America's leading cultural institutions the company offers touring productions including performances in Chicago and Los Angeles this spring and summer. The company will also be in New York City at the Metropolitan Opera House for its traditional spring season.

American Ballet Theater is still planning to come to New York area but not until December and this time to Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Academy of Music has committed to a five year contract of ABT's new production of "The Nutcracker" choreographed by Alexi Ratmansky. Traditionally "The Nutcracker" is a big money maker for regional dance companies around the country and ABT is looking to cash in on that more predictable revenue source. David Koch, the Vice Chairman of ABT's board has already donated $2.5 million dollars towards funding the production.

New York City already has one "Nutcracker" performed annually since 1954 by the New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center. It is considered by many to be the traditional holiday dance performance to which on should take children, both who live locally and those who are visitng family, during the holiday season. It will be interesting to see how the competing versions of "The Nutcracker" fare against each other given the already limited interest that exists in classical dance.

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American Ballet Theater Cancels New York Fall Season originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ABTamerican ballet theaterAmericanBalletTheaterballetBAMdanceNew York CityNewYorkCityNutcrackerBallet Deb West Fri, 05 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Louis Vuitton Mon Monogram Service Now Available Online]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/02/louis-vuitton-mon-monogram-service-now-available-online-art/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/02/louis-vuitton-mon-monogram-service-now-available-online-art/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/02/louis-vuitton-mon-monogram-service-now-available-online-art/#comments
For some time it has been possible to personalize a Louis Vuitton bag at a number of flagship stores around the world. Now the service is truly global as it is available to all on their web-site.

There are three classic LV bags available for the online service: the Keepall, the Pegase and the Speedy. After choosing the bag and its size there are 17 different colors available for the diagonal or vertical stripes that will adorn your bag. You also have the option to put up to three initials on the bag with or without a "point" between the letters. There are cute features that let you reverse the colors, rotate your bag to view the monogram from all sides, and save your creation to finalize your selection later. If you decide that you must have an entire monogrammed set just push a button and your chosen monogram will be applied to other bags. If you'd like something more complicated, like your family crest, painted on your luggage you'll have to go to a Louis Vuitton store and discuss it with a sales associate in person.

The good news is that you receive free shipping with your online purchase, but be forewarned, the return policy is not the same for the monogrammed items and it can take up to 8 weeks for delivery. It is a bit funny that the web-site touts that there are over 200 million different combinations possible, so even though you are a carrying an LV bag it will be completely unique. However, it does beat tying a piece of colored string to the handle to differentiate your Louis Vuitton from all the others coming off the baggage claim rack at the airport.

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Louis Vuitton Mon Monogram Service Now Available Online originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Louis VuittonLouisVuittonMon monogramMonMonogrammonogram Deb West Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:03:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Custom Derby Hats to Benefit Retired Racehorses]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/02/custom-derby-hats-to-benefit-retired-racehorses/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/02/custom-derby-hats-to-benefit-retired-racehorses/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/02/custom-derby-hats-to-benefit-retired-racehorses/#comments
For some the first Saturday in May is all about the horses, and for others, the Kentucky Derby is all about the hats. There are very few occasions left in today's society where woman can wear incredible millinery creations that really bring back another era. For those who love both the hats and the horses, or are just in a philanthropic mood, it is not too late to support retired racehorses and be a recipient of a fantastic custom made hat to wear to the big day.

Maggie Mae Designs[TM] has teamed up with Old Friends to create a series of one-of-a-kind Derby hats inspired by specific retired racehorses. Old Friends is an equine farm that specializes in the rescue and retirement of pensioned Thoroughbreds. Many in the horse world were devastated by the death of Kentucky Derby winner Ferdinand in a Japanese slaughterhouse in 2002. In an effort to ensure that this never happens again the organization focuses on bringing at-risk racehorses, whose active careers are over to experience the dignified retirement they deserve. The only retirement farm to accept stallions, Old Friends is committed to providing a great retirement for these amazing athletes. The farm is open to the public and hosts tours daily.

Gallery: Derby Hats

Bull Inthe Heather HatWill's Way HatBlack Tie AffairCommentator Hat

Continue reading Custom Derby Hats to Benefit Retired Racehorses

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Custom Derby Hats to Benefit Retired Racehorses originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> hatshorsehorseracingkentucky derbyKentuckyDerbyMaggie Mae DesignsMaggieMaeDesignsmillineryOld FriendsOldFriendsthoroughbreds Deb West Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Palro Robot by Fujisoft: So Cute But What Does It Do?]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/20/palro-robot-by-fujisoft-so-cute-but-what-does-it-do/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/20/palro-robot-by-fujisoft-so-cute-but-what-does-it-do/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/20/palro-robot-by-fujisoft-so-cute-but-what-does-it-do/#comments
A big question is: Does the public care what it does? It seems that the products designed by the robot industry are caught somewhere between being a very expensive toy and useless. Ever since Rosie was introduced on the Jetsons in the 1960s there has been a collective fantasy that a real housekeeper robot will miraculously emerge on the scene to help busy people manage their lives. Who wouldn't be interested in a helping hand who could cook, walk the dog and in general help out around the house? The Roomba vacuum, which can help with cleaning up some extra pet hair, doesn't count! Video chatting has become a simple reality; where is our "Rosie"?

At the moment The Japan Pulse reports that the newest robot to hit the market is the Palro Robot by Fujisoft. Showcased recently in Japan this cute humanoid stands a little over a foot tall and performs a variety of tasks. Included in this robot's repertoire is the ability to interact with household appliances such as televisions and cameras, act on voice commands, read out weather and news reports and of course the ever useful ability to dance. For those of you technology geeks who want to know the specifics here they are: Palro comes with a 1.6GHz CPU Intel Atom CPU, 1 GB of RAM, 4 GB of flash memory, a 3 MP camera, Wi-Fi, 802.11 b/g/n, 3 megapixel webcam and a lithium ion battery.

The company plans to sell the robots starting on March 15, 2010 with the main market being research institutions but plans to sell it to the rest of soon after for a hefty price tag of 298,000 Yen which is over $3,000 US dollars for each humanoid pal! For those of you with some cash to burn Palro seems like an excellent luxury toy but I'm waiting for my "Rosie"!

Check out video of Palro in action after the jump.

Continue reading Palro Robot by Fujisoft: So Cute But What Does It Do?

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Palro Robot by Fujisoft: So Cute But What Does It Do? originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cutefujisoftJapanpalroRobotstechnologytoys Deb West Sat, 20 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Apprentice Trips by Fairmont]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/18/apprentice-trips-by-fairmont/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/18/apprentice-trips-by-fairmont/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/18/apprentice-trips-by-fairmont/#comments
Some travelers' idea of the perfect vacation involves complete and total rest, others find that it only takes them a day or two to recuperate from the daily work routine and they'd really like to expand their horizons while on vacation. For those of you who fall into the latter group but don't have a ton of time to research your options and plan a trip Fairmont Hotel Group has come up with a solution.

The new Apprentice Trips program recently launched by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts are targeted at those who'd like to learn something new or delve deeper into an activity that is already a hobby while getting away from it all. With twenty different packages to choose from there should be a package that suits almost everybody. Here is a sampling:
  • French Immersion Package: At the Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City guests will spend 3 hours a day in private French lessons, go on escorted tours of the city and chateau conducted in French, receive a souvenir French book as well as complementary buffet breakfast and a fruit basket upon arrival.
  • Behind the Brewery Package: This Boston based trip includes a private tour and tasting at the Sam Adams Brewery, a special beer pairing dinner in the hotel's dining room with a beer expert and an in-room Samuel Adams "Bucket of Cheer".
  • Heritage Takes Flight: Learn about Falconry and Bedouin beliefs while staying at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr in the United Arab Emirates.
  • Magic of Aromachology Package: based a the Fairmont Monte Carlo a master perfumer will lead guests to Galimard perfumery of Eze for a workshop, receive a 60 minute aromatherapy massage for two and buffet breakfast.

Some of the packages are week long excursions and others only require commitments of a day or two. There are packages that target athletes with hiking, surfing, skiing and golfing given the group's many hotels in more remote locations. There are other companies that offer more in depth learning trips but for those that find themselves heading to one of the Fairmont group hotels these activities might just add needed extra depth to your vacation.

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Apprentice Trips by Fairmont originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> apprenticeFairmontHotelshobbylearningtravelvacation Deb West Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[$52,000 Diamond Dog Collar for Valentine's Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/13/52-000-diamond-dog-collar-for-valentines-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/13/52-000-diamond-dog-collar-for-valentines-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/13/52-000-diamond-dog-collar-for-valentines-day/#comments We've seen an explosion of luxury products for dogs in the past years. Gone are the days when pampering your pet meant ordering the extra-large dog bed from L.L. Bean and even they now carry a fancy orthopedic foam lounge for dogs. We've written about more expensive diamond dog collars on Luxist but the unique twist on this collar is that it has a practical application.

Dog-Power is offering a hand-crafted PetSafe diamond dog collar created by jewelry designer RenaMary. For those who want to dress their pets like royalty but still let them live an outdoor lifestyle this collar is for you. PetSafe underground fencing keeps your dog secure in your backyard and the price of the collar includes installation of the PetSafe system at your home.

The collar itself has a connecting heart motif which the designer felt represents the loving bond between an owner and their dog. In terms of the particulars the collar consists of over 18 carats of brilliant round cut diamonds of F/G color and VS1 clarity set in 18kt white gold and is 15 inches in length and 1 inch in width. Should you decide to purchase the collar it will be hand delivered to your home by Dog-Power owner Cherie Corso and creator RenaMary. Your pet will also will receive the bonus of being given a personal dog trainer and being named 2010 Pet of the Year.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the North Shore Animal League, the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization, located in Long Island, New York.

A point of consideration maybe the necessity to own a second dog, perhaps a German Shepherd or Rottweiler, to keep an eye on the pampered pup who is wearing such a valuable collar around the backyard!

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$52,000 Diamond Dog Collar for Valentine's Day originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> diamondsdog collarDogCollardogsnorth shore animal leagueNorthShoreAnimalLeaguePetSafe Deb West Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Sweet Treats to Send Your Sweetheart on Valentine's Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/sweet-treats-to-send-your-sweetheart-on-valentines-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/sweet-treats-to-send-your-sweetheart-on-valentines-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/sweet-treats-to-send-your-sweetheart-on-valentines-day/#comments
For those of you who want to send a delicious delicacy to the one you love on Valentine's Day there are some great mail order options. Whether you like cookies or chocolates there is something for everyone.

We write about Dean & Deluca a lot here on Luxist in part because they consistently offer quality products for the discerning gourmand from various manufacturers around the world. Their offerings for Valentine's Day are no exception:
  • From Valerie Confections an artisinal confectioner in Los Angeles, come chocolates designated as Pour Elle and Pour Homme. Each box contains 3 large chocolate hearts and 8 small hearts with the "For Her" gift box having traces of edible rose petals and the "For Him" gift box is completed with caramel and toffee filled chocolates. Each set of 11 pieces retails for $30.00 a box.
  • Chocolat Moderne in New York city is represented with a red box filled with 12 hand painted chocolate hearts. The $36.00 box contains two each of six different flavors.
  • For those who like their sweets from France, the Pyramide des Tropiques from Francois Pralus, is a great choice for serious chocolate lovers who are more interested in the chocolate itself than cute Valentine wrapping. A stack of 10 individual bars each made with beans from a different part of the world and a 75% cocoa content for $12.00.
  • Eleni's specializes in selling hand iced cookies. There is an adorable box of pink and purple XO shaped cookies 18 for $50.00 If you go to Eleni's web-site there are just under 20 different designs from which you can pick the perfect option for your sweetie.
All of these purveyors have their own web-sites and it is up to you to decide whether you'd like to comparison shop quickly through Dean & Deluca or take your time and order individually from the different stores. Either way you will come away "smelling like roses" but "tasting like chocolate" a perfect combination for Valentine's Day.

Gallery: Sweet Treats For Valentine's Day

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Sweet Treats to Send Your Sweetheart on Valentine's Day originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> chocolatescookiesDean DelucaDeanDelucaelenisheartvalentines dayValentinesDay Deb West Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The $10 Million Race to be Held at The New $2 Billion Meydan Track]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/the-10-million-race-to-be-held-at-the-new-2-billion-meydan-tra/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/the-10-million-race-to-be-held-at-the-new-2-billion-meydan-tra/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/the-10-million-race-to-be-held-at-the-new-2-billion-meydan-tra/#comments
The $10 million Dubai World Cup, the world's richest horse race, is slated to be held on March 27, 2010 at the new Meydan Racetrack in Dubai. The complex however is open and the first races of the season took place the last week in January at the start of the Dubai International Racing Carnival.

The new complex cost $2 billion to build and is quite unlike anything else in the horse racing world. In part this is due to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum the ruler of Dubai and the driving force behind the racing region. In something out of another era, he had a special route built to the venue just so he can avoid traffic and arrive by boat. The complex and the Dubai creek are now linked by a 4 kilometer canal so the ruler can travel with ease and avoid any log jams that build up in the falcon shaped parking lot which has a capacity for 10,000 cars.

Continue reading The $10 Million Race to be Held at The New $2 Billion Meydan Track

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The $10 Million Race to be Held at The New $2 Billion Meydan Track originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> dubaihorseracingMeydanracetrackworld cupWorldCup Deb West Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[A-Rod's $100,000 Baseball]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/a-rods-100-000-baseball-art/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/a-rods-100-000-baseball-art/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/a-rods-100-000-baseball-art/#comments
On February 4, 2010 an on-line auction was concluded for the baseball Alex Rodriguez hit to secure his 500th career home run. A-Rod was the youngest player to do so and only one of a total of 22 players to ever attain the distinction of hitting that many homers. The ball in question brought in $103,579.00. The only other Yankees to achieve the goal are two of the greatest, Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle.

The auction was conducted by SCP Auctions who stock their auctions with quality baseball memorabilia and cards. They are also responsible for the successful sale of Barry Bonds record breaking 756th home run ball for $752,467 in September of 2007. The company has over the years partnered with Sotheby's to sell some of the most important items in baseball history including the bat Babe Ruth used to hit the first home run in Yankee Stadium ($1.265 million) and the original contract for the sale of Babe Ruth from the Red Sox to the Yankees in 1919, as well as private collections of other sports superstars such as Ernie Banks, Honus Wagner, Casey Stengel and Pee Wee Reese.

The fan, supposedly a New York area college student, who originally caught the ball on August 4, 2007 had kept the ball in good shape and you could even see where A-Rod's bat connected with the ball. Also, MLB had in expectation of the important at bat pre-marked the ball "A 107" and then after the home run placed a hologram with a serial number on the ball. This insured that the anonymous Internet buyer is assured that they are receiving the real deal. There was some discussion by the New York Daily News that the ball was sold for much less than it might have garnered due to steroid use by baseball players. It also could just be the economy, still not a bad take for a fan just out for a day at the game.

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A-Rod's $100,000 Baseball originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> A-Rodalex rodriguezAlexRodriguezauctionbaseballbaseball memorabiliaBaseballMemorabiliahome run ballHomeRunBallmemorabiliaNew York YankeesNewYorkYankeessports memorabiliaSportsMemorabilia Deb West Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Lily Lodge Flowers the Antidote to Boring Red Roses on Valentine's Day]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/lily-lodge-flowers-the-antidote-to-boring-red-roses-on-valentine/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/lily-lodge-flowers-the-antidote-to-boring-red-roses-on-valentine/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/lily-lodge-flowers-the-antidote-to-boring-red-roses-on-valentine/#comments
Tired of overpriced not particularly beautiful red roses that often don't even open for Valentine's Day? Maybe your significant other doesn't even like roses? One woman I know married the man who finally figured out her favorite flowers were tulips and showed up with a bouquet of her favorite flowers rather than roses on Valentine's Day. Regardless of the reason, there are options available for those who want to give truly beautiful flowers to that important person in your life.

Ariana Lambert Smeraldo the owner of Lily Lodge, a spectacular flower shop in Los Angeles, California is no stranger to designer style. She was appointed West Coast Director of Stores and Public Relations of Bottega Veneta in 1998. It is not surprising that her store offers so much more than just the run-of-the-mill red roses. Just like many grandmothers have whispered to their granddaughters over the years that the women who choose Bottega know that their own initials are enough, Lily Lodge offers up floral arrangements for those with quiet but exquisite taste. Ariana understands that a combination of beautiful raw materials, a trademark style and understated elegance will always be chic.

Gallery: Lily Lodge Flowers

Continue reading Lily Lodge Flowers the Antidote to Boring Red Roses on Valentine's Day

Lily Lodge Flowers the Antidote to Boring Red Roses on Valentine's Day originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> antiquesbottega venetaBottegaVenetaflowersrosesvalentines dayValentinesDayvasevases Deb West Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[For Valentine's Day Tie Your Love Up In Pearls]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/05/for-valentines-day-tie-your-love-up-in-pearls/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/05/for-valentines-day-tie-your-love-up-in-pearls/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/05/for-valentines-day-tie-your-love-up-in-pearls/#comments
Some people have very romantic ideas about Valentine's Day. Notions that involve flowers, chocolates, a dinner at a fancy restaurant and love poems while others wishes are of a more carnal nature.

There has often been a correlation between the stores that sell intimate products and the seedier neighborhoods of any given town. Kiki de Montparnasse has always made sure that sexy and sensual does not have to mean low end and trashy. The flagship stores are located in New York's SoHo on Greene Street and in Los Angeles on Melrose Avenue and feature beautiful lingerie, jewelry and other objects of desire. The Las Vegas store located at Crystals in the MGM CityCenter is slightly more steamy, as befits sin city, with a Couples Dressing Room and Portrait Booth so customers can turn elegant shopping into foreplay. The company also features a well designed web-site which sells their products.

If you'd like to have a naughty Valentine's Day but still want to do it in luxury and style there are several products from Kiki de Montparnasse that might pique your interest. One is the Pearl Restraints, ten feet of strung pearls handmade by the craftsmen of E.R. Butler & Co. Each strand is finished with metal signature loops, can be worn as a necklace or full body jewelry, or just pull the pearls through the metal loops to create very fancy restraint cuffs. This item is a Kiki exclusive and sells for $2,400. They also offer regulation handcuffs covered in 24k gold with the key on a separate gold chain for $350.

If you'd like to invest in something a little tamer, they carry a large selection of body oils, scented candles and pretty lingerie including panties with a satin heart on the rear.

Gallery: Kiki de Montparnasse For Valentine's Day

Gold HandcuffsThe Muse Satin Panty

For Valentine's Day Tie Your Love Up In Pearls originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> handcuffskiki de montparnasseKikiDeMontparnassePearlpearlsromancesensualsohovalentines dayValentinesDay Deb West Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Bid Now on Designer Customized Barbies!]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/31/bid-now-on-designer-customized-barbies/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/31/bid-now-on-designer-customized-barbies/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/31/bid-now-on-designer-customized-barbies/#comments
Mattel has come out with a new concept for Barbie, teaching little girls early on in life that what every woman really needs is the perfect little black dress. Most women would agree with the company and most likely the all new Barbie Basics[TM] Collection will be a resounding success. Mattel has paired up with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) to celebrate the launch of the dolls which are wearing little black dresses and come with accessory kits.

Who better to inspire budding pre-teen designers than some of the big names themselves. Twelve of the CFDA fashion and accessories designers have created one-of-a-kind Barbies that showcase their unique talents and tastes. These Barbie dolls are currently up for auction on eBay and all net proceeds will go to support CFDA's educational initiatives and scholarship program. The designers include Issac Mizrahi, Betsey Johnson, Rachel Roy, Justin Giunta, Lorraine Schwartz, Alex Bittar, Monica Botkier, Deborah Lloyd of Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Albertus Swanepoei, Philip Crangi and Devi Kroell. The dolls went up for auction on January 28th and will be available to bid on through February 7th.

As of January 31rst some of the bids were up to as much $3,500 for Lorraine Schwartz's Barbie with Diamonds followed by the Kate Spade Barbie at $800. For those who don't have the funds to bid on the designer e-bay Barbies, Mattel will be giving away one of the new Barbie Basic dolls and accessory pack on Twitter from February 1st - 16th.

Gallery: CFDA Barbie Auction

Alexis Bittar BarbieBetsey Johson BarbieSubversive Jewelry Justin Giunta BarbieLorraine Schwartz BarbieRachel Roy Barbie

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Bid Now on Designer Customized Barbies! originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 31 Jan 2010 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Auctionbarbiebarbie basicsbarbie dollBarbieBasicsBarbieDollCFDAeBayIssac MizrahiIssacMizrahiMattelTory BurchToryBurch Deb West Sun, 31 Jan 2010 19:05:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Tourism Lagging in Japan So Pack Your Bags and Go!]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/30/tourism-lagging-in-japan-so-pack-your-bags-and-go/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/30/tourism-lagging-in-japan-so-pack-your-bags-and-go/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/30/tourism-lagging-in-japan-so-pack-your-bags-and-go/#comments
The Japanese National Tourism Organization announced that the number of foreign visitors to Japan are down. Just a year ago in 2008 the number of visitors to Japan was at a record high of 8.35 million and now the number has fallen by 18.7 percent to 6.79 million. It is the biggest drop in the rate of tourism the country has seen in forty years.

The decline is being attributed to the global economic downturn, a strong yen which makes travel to Japan expensive and fears over the swine flu. Interestingly the country's largest tourism markets are South Korea, Taiwan and China. Japan had been enjoying an increase of visitors for decades. In 1989 there were 2.84 million tourists and a decade later in 1999 the number had almost doubled to 4.44 million visitors.

Some of the biggest hassles one encounters when traveling revolve around other tourists. The best news for people who are interested in going abroad to a country whose tourism numbers are down is that they are likely to experience less crowded conditions at major attractions and even promotional deals from hotels with unexpected seasonal vacancies.




Continue reading Tourism Lagging in Japan So Pack Your Bags and Go!

Tourism Lagging in Japan So Pack Your Bags and Go! originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> JapanKyotoryokantourismtravel Deb West Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[French Champagne Loses To British Sparkling Wine in International Competition]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/30/french-champagne-loses-to-british-sparkling-wine-in-internationa/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/30/french-champagne-loses-to-british-sparkling-wine-in-internationa/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/30/french-champagne-loses-to-british-sparkling-wine-in-internationa/#comments The Bollicine del Mondo is an international wine contest organized by Italy's leading wine magazine Euposia. Held at the famous restaurant Antico Bottega del Vino in Verona, Italy the contest revealed a surprise winner in the sparkling wine category. The winner this year was Nyetimber's Classic Cuvée 2003 produced in Sussex. It is probably the very first time a British wine maker has held the honors of producing the best bubbly in the world.

The contest winner was chosen in a blind taste test by a panel of winemakers, oenologists, sommeliers and journalists and beat out such established makers such as Bollinger and Louis Roederer. There were 52 entries in the category and Nyetimber was the only producer to have two wines make it into the top 17. The Nyetimber 2001 Blanc de Blancs, which was also entered, came in 12th ahead of seven of the champagnes.

Certainly there has been a growing appreciation recently of sparkling wines that are made outside the Champagne region of France. In fact, many people never have been exposed to the lovely sparkling wines that come from other countries such as Prosecco from Italy and Cava from Spain. Not only are these wines often just as good as Champagne but their price tag is significantly lower. The sparkling wines from England are no exception and retail for around £25 to £30.

Another point of interest is that the grapes used in the winning wine are grown on vines in the south of England whose soil composition is very similar to that of the Champagne region. In fact Luxist reported in 2007 that French champagne maker Roederer was investigating buying land in the very area that the winning vineyard is located. Stuart and Sandy Moss who own the vineyard specifically chose the 120 acre estate for this reason and started cultivating the three classic champagne varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

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French Champagne Loses To British Sparkling Wine in International Competition originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> britishchampagnecompetitionenglandFrancesparkling wineSparklingWinewinewinning Deb West Sat, 30 Jan 2010 11:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Frederic Malle High-Tech Home Fragrance Collection]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/27/frederic-malle-high-tech-home-fragrance-collection/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/27/frederic-malle-high-tech-home-fragrance-collection/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/27/frederic-malle-high-tech-home-fragrance-collection/#comments
Really the high end home fragrance market has been mainly limited to candles. We've covered some of the very fancy and nicely scented candles on the market from such people as Jo Malone, Slatkin & Co., and even Manolo Blahnik. Other than candles, the pickings in the home fragrance category are slim have been relegated to very decidedly non-luxe manufactures such S.C. Johnson and their products such as Glade. Frederic Malle the Frenchman and driving force behind Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle with flagship stores in Paris, and now New York has decided to turn his attention to those used in the home.

On his web-site he states his home fragrance philosophy:
"You don't want to perfume a house the way you perfume a person. You don't want to cover up life's odors but you want to complement them."

Not only did Frederic and his partners create 9 new fragrances for the home but also 3 inventive ways, well two innovative and one standard, to diffuse your home with scent.
  • Fleur Mecanique: An 11cm red cube which met the teams requirements to be esthetically pleasing, silent (so that you could sleep right next to it), wireless (it recharges like a cell phone), and allows you to create a a natural scent of a fresh bouquet of flowers at will. It comes with 5 choices of fragrance refills.
  • Rubber Incense: a unique concept to replace lavender sachets, which often get musty over time, in small places such as closets, and car interiors. The 118g rubber mat emits perfume for a substantial time with out needing a refill or electricity.
  • Candles: 9 different handmade candle selections to choose from although it might have been interesting to dispense with this done to death format completely.
The Fleur Mecanique, available only in flagship stores, costs $380 dollars which includes one refill, and candles range in price from $85 - $125 dollars. If you don't live in Paris or New York you can purchase the rubber incense and candles on-line. The perfumes are available at one of the many stores such as Barney's that carry the fragrances (but not the home collection) worldwide.

Gallery: Frederic Malle High-Tech Home Fragrance Collection

Fleur MechaniquecandleRubber InsenceInterior of New York store

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Frederic Malle High-Tech Home Fragrance Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Fleur MecaniqueFleurMecaniquefrangranceFrederic MalleFredericMallehome fragranceHomeFragranceperfume Deb West Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Conan O'Brien Didn't Buy Mine That Bird, The Real January Thoroughbred Sales Results]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/25/conan-obrien-didnt-buy-mine-that-bird-the-real-january-thorou/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/25/conan-obrien-didnt-buy-mine-that-bird-the-real-january-thorou/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/25/conan-obrien-didnt-buy-mine-that-bird-the-real-january-thorou/#comments
For those of you who thought the sale of Mine That Bird to Conan O'Brien was the big news in thoroughbred racing, it was just a skit. The "real" Mine That Bird, winner of last year's Kentucky Derby and pictured above, has been on vacation in New Mexico since the Breeder's Cup Classic. In fact his trainer Chip Woolley reports that he does not intend to return the winning horse to racing until later in the season and possibly only running four races in preparation for the Breeder's Cup Classic to be held a Churchill Downs. Just as a note, there is discussion that no one would pay $4.8 million for him as he is gelding and can not be used for breeding which compromises his value compared to other Derby winners.

There were however the first legitimate thoroughbred sales of 2010 taking place recently at Keeneland in Kentucky. The January Horses of All Ages Sale was held at the facility from January 11-15th. For those who have never seen a thoroughbred auction in progress, below there is a short video clip to give you a feel of how it all works at Keeneland.

Like all luxury markets horse sales have been adversely effected by the economy and those in the thoroughbred sales business have been concerned about how their business will change. The sale took in $23,895,100 in five days which is down over 27% from last year's six day sale. There were fewer horses sold and in general everybody noticed the market's effect of the sales. That being said, there were some bright spots, most notably Bon Jovi Girl a multiple stakes winner went for $950,000. The highest price paid for a yearling was brought in by Medaglia d'Oro a colt going for $280,000.

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Conan O'Brien Didn't Buy Mine That Bird, The Real January Thoroughbred Sales Results originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> auctionconan obrienConanObrienhorse saleshorseracinghorsesHorseSalesKeenelandthoroughbreds Deb West Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The $10,000 Proposal Martini]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-10-000-proposal-martini/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-10-000-proposal-martini/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-10-000-proposal-martini/#comments
One of the signs that Spring must be just around the corner is not just that the days start to get longer, but that wedding and proposal specials start to proliferate. Many men must feel a lot of pressure to not only pick the right diamond engagement ring but to propose in such a manner that their fiance will have a great story to tell all of her friends, not to mention her mother. Some people are just naturally creative and others need a little bit of help and inspiration.

The Algonquin Hotel in New York City is prepared to help the creatively impaired, offering what is possibly the most expensive martini ever. The Grey Goose $10,000 proposal cocktail comes with a one-of-a-kind diamond ring placed in the glass. This specialty cocktail is served by a white gloved waiter in a crystal glass on a silver platter in the hotel's famous Blue Bar. The hotel arranges for clients to work one on one with a private jeweler to customize the engagement ring picking carat size, number of stones and the setting. The hotel needs at least 72 hours notice to set up this arrangement.

The hotel opened in 1902 and has long been famous for being the center of the city's literary and theatrical circles. If your intended is a big reader she might get a kick out of being proposed to in the same room where literary geniuses such as William Faulkner, Sinclair Lewis, and Derek Walcott spent their time.

As an aside, should the love of your life be more into spending time at the mall than the local library, Ivanka Trump is serving up a different offer at her Bridal Bar. Any diamond engagement ring bought comes with the "New York Proposal" package featuring a free night at one of the Trump Hotel Collection properties in New York City. The package also comes with complimentary long stemmed roses, champagne, dinner at the famed Jean Georges restaurant as well as breakfast in bed the next morning.

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The $10,000 Proposal Martini originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> AlgonquinAlgonquinHoteldiamond-ringdiamondsengagementengagement-ringengagement-ringsGrey Goosegrey goose vodkaGreyGooseGreyGooseVodkaivanka trumpIvankaTrumpmartini Deb West Sun, 24 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The Ultimate Gaming Table]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-ultimate-gaming-table/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-ultimate-gaming-table/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-ultimate-gaming-table/#comments Having all the correct toys has always been a part of the luxury lifestyle. Many of those who work hard also enjoy playing hard and want all the fanciest amenities brought right into their home, private jet or yacht. For those who like to play games Playerati has launched a new gaming table, which the Financial Times has called "The only one of its kind".

GameBar by Playerati is a unique marriage between a leader in the gaming world and the high end European home appliance manufacturer Gorenje. The table cleverly conceals a refrigerated core and with the touch of a button a bar rises from the table dispensing drinks and canapes to you and your guests. When you are done drinking your champagne and eating your goodies just press the remote and the table returns to normal so you can continue play. The bespoke gaming table can be configured to accommodate most games including poker, roulette, black jack and others. Seems like a great novelty item for those who already have the private screening room, personal gym and even better for those areas where space is at a premium such as private jets and yachts. It would be an excellent gift to put in the corner of the gaming aficionado's home office. This gaming table may appeal to developers of luxury casinos, hotels and nightclubs who want to add a special VIP table and give their facility that extra special edge to attract clients.

If you'd like to see the table in person its official debut will be at the International Gaming Expo being held in London's Earl's Court at the end of January.

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The Ultimate Gaming Table originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> GameBargaminghome entertainmentHomeEntertainmentInternational Gaming ExpoInternationalGamingExpoPlayeratipoker Deb West Sun, 24 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[New Aman Spa Opens at The Connaught in London]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/new-aman-spa-opens-at-the-connaught-in-london/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/new-aman-spa-opens-at-the-connaught-in-london/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/new-aman-spa-opens-at-the-connaught-in-london/#comments
The Connaught is one of London's most historic hotels, owned by the Maybourne Hotel Group which also runs Claridge's and The Berkeley. Located in the always fashionable Mayfair district, the hotel experienced a $140 million dollar renovation and officially reopened in April of 2008. The concept then was to preserve the authentic elegance of the renowned hotel, considered one of the crown jewels of London's luxury hotels, and to also bring the property into the 21rst century. It seems that the opening of the new Aman Spa is the final step to rejuvenating this grande dame and keeping the historic hotel relevant.

It was a clever choice for the Maybourne Group to open the first ever Aman stand-alone spa at their property as the Amanresorts are famous for their luxury spas in many exotic locations, especially in Asia. Built in the newly constructed west wing the modern Asian influenced design is an interesting contrast to the more traditional Edwardian feel of the Connaught. The treatments offered are inspired by the various traditional renewal traditions of China, Thailand, India and even The Americas. Examples include: a red clay body wrap with Navajo herbs, Thai herbal compress, or Chakra balancing treatment with essential oils and a Samadara facial technique. This makes sense as no one has ever raved about the fabulous traditional British spa treatments!

One particularly interesting aspect of the spa appointments is that guests are asked to book a specific amount of time at the spa rather than an individual treatment. This allows for a more bespoke approach as each guest confers with a trained holistic therapist to create a plan that meets their individual wellness goals. After a long day spent in what can often be a city enveloped in bone chilling dampness, a couple of hours spent in one of the five available treatment rooms (each with its own steam room, treatment area and music system) sounds like just the right antidote to what might ail you.

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New Aman Spa Opens at The Connaught in London originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Aman spaAmanResortsAmanSpaConnaughtLondonspa Deb West Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Ward Kelvin Jewelry Designer]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/ward-kelvin-jewelry-designer/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/ward-kelvin-jewelry-designer/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/ward-kelvin-jewelry-designer/#comments
We all read about the famous well known designers regularly and it is interesting to get to know some of the new faces in the luxury industry. Like many seemingly overnight sensations Ward Kelvin has been designing for other names you will recognize immediately, such as Tiffany & Co. and Ralph Lauren. He was also the designer behind the much coveted "Golden Compact" collection for Estee Lauder. An interesting tidbit of information, particularly for all of you aspiring designers, is that his first job after graduating form Pratt institute was as a toy designer. Believe it or not, this jewelry designer whose first collection was launched this past November at Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan once spent his time designing Happy Meals for McDonald's.

Ward comments that the move from toy designer to jewelry designer is not as big a stretch as one might think as they both require "ingenuity and a playful imagination". He hopes to bring a wit and spirit to all of his design efforts and honed his skills working for others. He has titled his first personal collection American Chinoise. The 40 piece collection is a modern interpretation of the style of the 1930's when all the Hollywood Regency houses featured chinoiserie bamboo and lattice interiors. As seen in the jewelry pictured, there is a lot of light and airy space in every piece and he wants the woman wearing a piece to feel "it was created effortlessly, by the chicest chinoiserie bird, as if it were creating its nest."

The jewelry in the collection is fabricated from precious metals such as gold and platinum, precious and semi-precious stones including diamonds, peridots, Mali garnets and is crafted in New York City. Ward Kelvin's beautiful jewelry comes with a serious price tag and the Bamboo Cuff shown above retails for $20,450. The pieces can be found at Bergdorf Goodman in New York and this coming April at Nieman Marcus in San Francisco. As with many of the more unique jewelry collections you will not find the items online but need to call the stores directly for details.

Gallery: Ward Kelvin Jewelry

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Ward Kelvin Jewelry Designer originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Bergdorf GoodmanBergdorfGoodmanchinoiseriediamondgoldnieman marcusNiemanMarcusWard KelvinWardKelvin Deb West Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Rent a Miami Mansion, Luxury Yacht and Get Super Bowl XLIV Tickets]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/rent-a-miami-mansion-luxury-yacht-and-get-super-bowl-xliv-ticke/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/rent-a-miami-mansion-luxury-yacht-and-get-super-bowl-xliv-ticke/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/rent-a-miami-mansion-luxury-yacht-and-get-super-bowl-xliv-ticke/#comments
Super Bowl XLIV's location in Miami, Florida provides the perfect opportunity to combine a trip to the game and luxury vacation. The Advantaged, a company that specializes in extraordinary home rentals and yacht charters, is prepared to help you organize your stay in South Florida. Whether your idea of the perfect view is from seats near the 50 yard line or from the pool deck pictured above (a real photo from one of their properties),they offer several options for those who would like to enjoy the area in true luxury.

The Champion Super Bowl package includes:
  • A stay at one of three special Miami Mansions
  • Yacht charter of your choice, which stays docked in front of your mansion.
  • Four Super Bowl tickets
  • Limousine transportation to and from the airport
An example of a luxury property available in the above package is called the Venetian Mansion. It is a stunning 5,500 square foot waterfront home that features: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi, as well as Miami skyline and panoramic water views from every room. Another property they feature is called the South Hampton Villa a 7 bedroom, 7.5 bathroom property featured in the gallery below. The available yachts range from 40' to 155' and are fully crewed with personnel who are prepared to take their guests on whatever route or excursions suit their mood. They also offer custom packages where the client is able to mix and match from an extensive list of properties and yachts.



Gallery: Rent A Mansion In Miami For The Super Bowl

Continue reading Rent a Miami Mansion, Luxury Yacht and Get Super Bowl XLIV Tickets

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Rent a Miami Mansion, Luxury Yacht and Get Super Bowl XLIV Tickets originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> luxury vacationLuxuryVacationmiamirentalrentalssuper bowlsuper bowl XLIVSuperBowlSuperBowlXlivticketsyacht Deb West Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[D'Artagnan Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary with a 32 Star Progressive Dinner]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/17/dartagnan-celebrates-its-25th-anniversary-with-a-32-star-progre/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/17/dartagnan-celebrates-its-25th-anniversary-with-a-32-star-progre/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/17/dartagnan-celebrates-its-25th-anniversary-with-a-32-star-progre/#comments
True foodies think nothing of spending exorbitant sums on their passion. Fine wines, and four star meals, often in foreign countries, are their version of luxury. The names they drop are not Prada or Manolo but Keller and Ripert. Twenty-five years ago Ariane Daguin from France and her partner George Faisan started D'Artagnan. It was really the first company to focus on providing consumers in the United States with food products from Ariane's native region of France, Gascony. It has become the premier supplier of specialty food products from the foie gras to truffles to high end American restaurants and gourmet shops.

This February the company celebrates its 25th anniversary with a week long celebration in New York starting on February 17, 2010. The highlight of the festivities is a "32 Star Progressive Dinner" on Saturday February 21rst. The special event features celebrated chefs from the Gascon region of France in various four star kitchens around Manhattan. The evening kicks off with cocktails at 5pm after which the participants will board the "Armagnac-fueled" bus to experience each course at a different 4 star restaurant.

Participating chefs include:
  • Daniel Boulud with Jean-Marie Gautier, M.O.F. of Hotel du Palais, Biarritz
  • Jean-Georges Vongeritchen with Michel Trama of Aubergade, Puymirol
  • Daniel Humm with Jacques & Laurent Pourcel of Le Jardin des Sens, Montpellier
  • Thomas Keller with Hélène Darroze of Restaurant Hélène Darroze, Paris
  • Eric Ripert with Thierry Marx of Cordeillan-Bages, Pauillac and Philippe Urraca, M.O.F.

The above list is just for the main course! There are others chefs cooking their native cuisine for the other courses. Wines from top producers including Chateau Lynch Bages will be featured and Trou Gascon Armagnac will be served on the bus between courses.

The finale occurs at Le Bernadin where all the chefs will celebrate after dessert. Seating is limited and costs $600 per person for the evening.

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D'Artagnan Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary with a 32 Star Progressive Dinner originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 17 Jan 2010 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> 25th anniversary25thAnniversaryArmagnaccelebrity chefcelebrity chefsCelebrityChefCelebrityChefsDaniel BouludDanielBouludDArtagnanEric RipertEricRipertfine diningFineDiningfrench foodFrenchFoodnew york restaurantsNewYorkRestaurantsthomas kellerThomasKeller Deb West Sun, 17 Jan 2010 14:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[St. Cupcake Offers Bespoke Mail Order Cupcakes - Yum!]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/17/st-cupcake-offers-bespoke-mail-order-cupcakes-yum/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/17/st-cupcake-offers-bespoke-mail-order-cupcakes-yum/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/17/st-cupcake-offers-bespoke-mail-order-cupcakes-yum/#comments
Sometimes things that qualify as a luxury item are big and obvious; they are encrusted with diamonds, have a well known name and an expensive price tag. Other times luxury can be defined as something small that you do for yourself or a friend. A small Portland, Oregon bakery called St. Cupcake falls into this category of small personal luxuries.

This local bakery has started an online delivery service for their incredibly popular cupcakes. The luxury for the consumer lies both in the incredible wide range of flavor choices and in the fact that you can have home baked taste delivered to your door without lifting a finger. The inspiration for the mail order cupcake business came to owner Jami Curl after customers themselves mentioned trying to ship her delicious baked goodies to friends to taste. Jami thought that "we could develop some packaging and a technique that would allow us to ship the cupcakes so they arrive on the recipient's door step fresh and perfect."

Hence the wonderful and unique online cupcake builder was born. Customers can choose their cake flavors, their icings and their sprinkle colors creating a truly bespoke cupcake. Often this allows for even greater freedom as customers have come up with unique combinations never anticipated by the owners and not sold in the bakery. The cupcakes come in three possible package combinations of 3, 6 or 12 cupcakes. Flavors of cupcakes include the basic vanilla and chocolate as well as more esoteric flavors such as pumpkin spice, carrot and vanilla toffee. A true west coast shop there are even vegan selections for those with dietary restrictions. The buttercream frosting selections include unusual flavors such as mint and fudge while the sprinkle choices vary from standard jimmies to rainbow nonpareil and toasted coconut. It seems that the shopping ends up being as much fun as the receiving.

The cupcakes arrive in an adorable kit with an icing wand and decorating tips. A perfect gift idea for a birthday or even to send to your own family when you are too busy to make home made treats for your children. A simple little luxury ranging in price from $10.00 for three cupcakes to $35.00 for a package of twelve.

Gallery: Bespoke Cupcakes

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St. Cupcake Offers Bespoke Mail Order Cupcakes - Yum! originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 17 Jan 2010 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> birthdaychocolatecup cakesCupCakesmail orderMailOrderonline shoppingOnlineShoppingSt. CupcakeSt.Cupcakevanilla Deb West Sun, 17 Jan 2010 11:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Eat, Pray, Love Tour in Bali]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/11/eat-pray-love-tour-in-bali/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/11/eat-pray-love-tour-in-bali/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/11/eat-pray-love-tour-in-bali/#comments Elizabeth Gilbert wrote a memoir in 2006 titled Eat, Pray Love: One Woman's Search for Everything across Italy, India and Indonesia which became a national bestseller. The book takes the reader along the author's personal quest for equilibrium after a messy divorce and other life snafus. Really it focuses on one woman's question "What am I doing with my life?" Her journey's final stop is in Bali where she starts to find her center and balance. Her search is partially about finding love with an appropriate man but really more significantly learning how to know, love and appreciate herself.

Soon to be a major motion picture staring Julia Roberts the story so captivated readers that it was one of only two books to be on the New York Times Paperback Bestseller list every week of 2008. For those of you who made New Year's resolutions to really examine their life Spirit Quest Tours has organized an amazing spiritual journey to Bali based on the book. The trip will take place in May 2010 and can accommodate thirty-five travelers departing from either New York or Los Angeles. It is a good compromise for those who are not writers and can't leave their desk jobs for a year to travel the world and find themselves.

While the tour has been inspired by the book there are some key differences. First, the tour organizers don't guarantee that you will find love on the vacation and they do not make you stay in little cottages. They do promise that all participants will be pleased to stay in four star accommodations, eco-friendly and with spas, rather than the little cottages enjoyed by the author. The tour does include a visit with Ketut Liyer, an authentic Balinese shaman, who advised Elizabeth Gilbert during her four month stay in Bali. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit local temples, time for yoga and meditation, shopping for items made by local artisans and traditional Balinese dance ceremonies including the Kecak dance. To view the exact itinerary click here.

Will the trip change your life? Who knows, but it does sound like a nice vacation and that seems to be something that is on the top of many to do lists!

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Eat, Pray, Love Tour in Bali originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> balibalineseEat Pray LoveEatPrayLoveElizaeth GilbertElizaethGilbertjulia robertsJuliaRobertsLovevacation Deb West Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:03:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Luxury Super Bowl XLIV Travel Packages]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/11/luxury-super-bowl-xliv-travel-packages/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/11/luxury-super-bowl-xliv-travel-packages/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/11/luxury-super-bowl-xliv-travel-packages/#comments With just under a month left until Super Bowl XLIV it is time for fans to start thinking about making their way to Miami, Florida for the big event. If you are a Ravens or Cardinals fan you must be thrilled by yesterday's wins and we now have the final teams for the playoffs in the AFC and NFC. Whether or not there are clear cut favorites for this year's Super Bowl is still up for debate but you can count on having a fabulous luxury vacation and seeing the game if that is what your heart desires.

One purveyor of luxury sports event vacations is the company Fine Things Packages. They offer an "Ultimate Super Bowl Package" for upwards of $15,000 per person. The company prides themselves on being a leading provider of major sold out sports events worldwide, having the best service team in the industry and independent of all of the normal ties that often lead to a conflict of interest in the travel industry.

Some of the items this ultimate package includes are:
  • Four nights accommodation at the five star Four Seasons Miami
  • Round-trip first class airfare from anywhere in the Continental United States to Miami
  • One lower lever ticket between the 30 and 50 yard lines to Super Bowl XLIV
  • Ticket for the Saturday night party of your choice including - Playboy, Leigh Steinberg, Sports Illustrated, etc
  • Official NFL Hospitality
  • Access to NFL Gameday Fan Plaza
  • Various transportation from the airport, game, etc.

To see the exact specifications for this travel package click here. The company also offers more moderately priced packages starting at $4,350. the biggest difference seems to be in the quality of the hotels, class of airfare and stadium seat location. If the Jets, Ravens, Colts or Vikings make it all the way to the Super Bowl we know that their local fans could use to escape from the winter weather as well as go cheer on their home town favorite! Hope your team wins!

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Luxury Super Bowl XLIV Travel Packages originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Cardinalsfour seasonsFourSeasonsLuxury vacationsLuxuryVacationsmiamiRavenssuper bowlSuper bowl XLIVSuperBowlSuperBowlXliv Deb West Mon, 11 Jan 2010 07:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Winningest Jockey in 2009 Pulls in $18,571,171 Million by a Nose!]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/10/winningest-jockey-in-2009-pulls-in-18-571-171-million-by-a-nose/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/10/winningest-jockey-in-2009-pulls-in-18-571-171-million-by-a-nose/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/10/winningest-jockey-in-2009-pulls-in-18-571-171-million-by-a-nose/#comments Garrett Gomez took the title for top earning jockey in 2009 with $18,571.171 in winnings beating out Julien Leparoux who finished up with a total of $18,560,565 in earnings. Gomez who won the national earnings title now for the fourth consecutive year in a row won "by a nose" so to speak.

The feat was accomplished in his last race of the year as Gomez had left the title hanging in his competitor's hands until the last day of 2009. Leparoux, who had returned to his native France to be with his family, started off the day $26,994 ahead of Gomez, who only had two mounts scheduled in the eight race program. Gomez finished the second race last earning only $400 and his win on Fund Raiser in the fourth race still left him trailing by $194 dollars with no more horses left to ride.

Fellow jockey Martin Pedroza "conveniently" felt ill and Gomez took over his mount for the eighth and final race of the day. As all starters in California are guaranteed $400 dollars just for running the race Gomez did not have to win to pull ahead of Leparoux and finish with the coveted national earnings title. That did not stop him from piloting Cenzio to a win and picking up the $10,800 purse giving him at total earnings of $18,571,171, which was $10,606 more than Leparoux.

The record for the most consecutive national earnings title is held by Bill Shoemaker who won it seven successive years from 1958 through 1964. For those who are curious how the Kentucky Derby winning Calvin Borel fared, he finished in 14th place on the final list with a total of 853 starts and $9,244,647 in earnings.

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Winningest Jockey in 2009 Pulls in $18,571,171 Million by a Nose! originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 10 Jan 2010 21:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Garrett GomezGarrettGomezhorse racingHorseRacingjockeywinning Deb West Sun, 10 Jan 2010 21:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Rent an Entire "Town" for Your Ski Vacation]]> http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/06/rent-an-entire-town-for-your-ski-vacation/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/06/rent-an-entire-town-for-your-ski-vacation/ http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/06/rent-an-entire-town-for-your-ski-vacation/#comments
This is great idea for those who have a large group or want a very different type of vacation from the usual ski-in ski-out luxury condo complex found at most ski resorts. Even the finest hotels at the various alpine resorts tend to feel all the same after a while, most likely due to the design concessions needed to build on the side of the ski slopes.

Dunton Hot Springs is located in a beautiful Colorado valley right near Telluride. It is a fully restored ghost town set in a pristine Alpine locale near the Dolores River which you cross to reach the resort. Comprised of 12 unique cabins surrounding the communal Saloon and Dance Hall; this is no hokey rendition of what a western town should be, but rather a carefully crafted authentic setting where each cabin is decorated individually. The idea was to retain all the original character but to add a touch of European flair.

Even though the flavor of the resort may be rustic the amenities are not. Full business services are available as well as activities like heli-skiing, trout fishing, and rafting. Guests can choose to explore the surrounding land by foot (hiking or snow shoeing), cross-country skiing, or on horseback. The resort meals feature local ingredients, in the late summer you will find wild mushrooms gathered from the surrounding mountains on the menu, as well as wines from the resort's own vineyard Sutcliffe Vineyards.

True to its name there really are hot springs at Dunton. The springs found at the resort are of the calcium bicarbonate type with iron, maganese and lithium found in the waters. Guests can enjoy the springs in the 19th century Bathhouse, pictured above, and Well House cabin, in two pools on the property, or under the stars at the source or on the river.

If you'd like to "rent the whole town" the resort holds a total of 42 guests. For $10,000 - $17,500 a night depending on the season you can provide your guests with food, lodging and use of all the property's facilities. Seems like the ideal location for a family reunion ski trip or intimate winter wedding. Cabins may also be rented individually and vary in size some holding just 2 people and others 6 to 10 guests.

Gallery: Dunton Hot Springs

Bath House Interior

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Rent an Entire "Town" for Your Ski Vacation originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> coloradoDunton Hot SpringsDuntonHotSpringsski vacationSkiVacationSutcliffe VineyardsSutcliffeVineyardsTelluride Deb West Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Eat Pizza on Your Fine China and Other New Year's Resolutions ]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/31/eat-pizza-on-your-fine-china-and-other-new-years-resolutions/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/31/eat-pizza-on-your-fine-china-and-other-new-years-resolutions/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/31/eat-pizza-on-your-fine-china-and-other-new-years-resolutions/#comments So often New Year's resolutions seem to be about the things that no one wants to do: lose weight, go to the gym, spend less money or quit smoking or drinking. Here is a little different take on how to approach 2010; remember to keep your luxury items in good shape and stop saving all the better things in your life for special occasions.
  • Use your fine china. If you can stomach it, turn your special occasion plates into your every day dishes. This same attitude can apply to your fine crystal too. Really both can be put in the dishwasher on the fine china and crystal setting as we reported earlier this year.
  • Clean your diamond jewelry and make sure you get out of the house enough to wear it. If you have pearls examine them and decide if they need to be restrung.
  • Keep your Manolos, Jimmy Choos and any other designer shoes in shape. Bring them into your local shoe repair and have soles attended to, broken straps fixed and scuffs polished away. You can bring your fine leather goods, such as handbags in for the same treatment.
  • Drink champagne, not just on New Year's Eve, buy a case and open a bottle at least once a month.
  • If you have a wine collection go through it and make a list of the bottles that are properly aged. Invite friends over and open your wine when it is in its prime. If you don't have a collection start one.
  • Plan a nice vacation and make the time in your life to take one or two with the people who are most important to you.
  • Buy new socks and underwear. Upgrade and look for the nicest undergarments you can find. If you enjoy matching sets buy one for each day of the week.
  • Replenish your fine stationery supply. Make sure you have plenty of notes on hand to thank all the people who are going to give you great gifts or invite you for the weekend in 2010!
  • If you have a watch collection, rotate the watch you wear weekly. Even if they are valuable, take them out of the leather storage box and enjoy. Time passes quickly.
  • Keep your silver polished. If you need to, set aside a day a month to check on silver frames, platters, candle sticks and flatware to see if tarnish has accumulated. If it has, use a cloth or polish handy so that if you decide to use your silver it is ready at a moments notice.
  • Cook with luxury ingredients, have special vinegars, truffle oil, saffron and other delicacies in your pantry.
  • Go out for dinner. At least occasionally try a high-end restaurant in your area. If it has a sommelier have them recommend a wine you've never tried before. Ask them give you the label to take home at the end of the evening, it is an easy way to keep track of new wines you enjoy.
  • If you have fine rugs, have them properly repaired and cleaned.
  • Get a massage it can be good for your health.
  • If you have a beautiful home, or a special bottle of scotch, invite people over and entertain. Life is better when shared with friends.
Last but not least, if you are fortunate enough to have a luxury lifestyle: count your blessings, enjoy and use your beautiful possessions, share your life with friends and family, and give very generously to those who are less fortunate.

Happy New Year!




Eat Pizza on Your Fine China and Other New Year's Resolutions originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> fine wineFineWinejewelryNew Years ResolutionsNewYearsResolutionsvacationwatch collectionWatchCollection Deb West Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Parajumpers Ski Wear: American Inspiration, Italian Style ]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/30/parajumpers-ski-wear-american-inspiration-italian-style/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/30/parajumpers-ski-wear-american-inspiration-italian-style/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/30/parajumpers-ski-wear-american-inspiration-italian-style/#comments The new winter 2010 ski wear line from Parajumpers is out and again demonstrates how well Italian design can interpret a very basic American item and make it chic.

People often remark when they travel to Italy, that while the Italian woman standing next to them may be wearing an almost identical outfit, she looks chic, and they look, well, just not. When American culture is looked at through an Italian lens the result tends to be a perfect confluence of good old-fashioned practicality and hip European design.

The Parajumpers ski wear line is no exception. The new 2010 line is clearly influenced by American military wear. In fact, according to the web-site, the name Parajumpers is inspired by the 210th Rescue Squadron stationed in Anchorage Alaska. Apparently this elite group is trained for the toughest missions around the globe and use their intense training to save lives. The ski wear line is the brain child of Massimo Rossetti, an Italian sportswear designer, who has spent years crossing the United States to gain inspiration for his fashion lines and introducing iconic American brands such as Woolrich to the Italian marketplace. He has also worked with some of the biggest names in fashion such as Valentino, Ferre, Coveri, Canali, Benetton, and many more.

The brand has attracted a following of stars from both the the world of sport and the silver screen. Actors Jennifer Garner, John Hamm and Mario Lopez have been spotted wearing the jackets as well as star skiers Janne Ahonen from Finland and Anja Paerson from Sweden. It seems that this further illustrates the point that this line of ski wear is both fashionable and appropriate for those who plan to use it for more than just strolling around a ski town during a film festival.

The 2010 jackets can be found on-line at ski.com at prices ranging from $525 to $899 depending on the model and at retailers world-wide.







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Parajumpers Ski Wear: American Inspiration, Italian Style originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> jennifer garnerJenniferGarnermario lopezMarioLopezMassimo RossettiMassimoRossettiParajumpersparkaski wearSkiWear Deb West Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Can You Get Wild Caspian Sea Caviar for New Year's Eve? ]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/29/can-you-get-wild-caspian-sea-caviar-for-new-years-eve/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/29/can-you-get-wild-caspian-sea-caviar-for-new-years-eve/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/29/can-you-get-wild-caspian-sea-caviar-for-new-years-eve/#comments Luxist has been following the availability of wild Caspian Sea caviar for years. Caviar aficionados remember the first ban on Beluga caviar that went into effect in September 2005 that made it illegal to import the delicacy to the United States until it was lifted by the United Nations in 2007. Since the removal of the ban, coveted wild Caspian Sea caviar has been available but the prices have been astronomical and both the availability and quality spotty.

According to David Rosengarten, a food and wine writer, cook book author and former host of an award wining Food Network television show, it may not be possible to buy anything other than farm raised caviar for New Year's Eve. He reports in Tasting's, his ezine, that Petrossian, winner of the Luxist Reader's Choice Award, will not be selling anything but farm-raised caviar and none of it from the Caspian Sea. He also states that we shouldn't despair as their are so many delicious alternatives to the original Beluga caviar. Among his favorites is Petrossian's Avelrta President caviar which is farmed in northern California from white sturgeon.

A discreet phone call to Petrossian revealed that it is in fact accurate that they have recently sold out of their supply of high grade wild caviar which was retailing for a whopping $20,000 a kilo. Assurances were made that the supply is fluid and that there will be more available. You may have to win the lottery as the price of the wild caviar is in the category of "if you have to ask, you can't afford it". That being said, Petrossian is committed to retaining wild caviar for their VIP customers. For the rest of us, they provide an incredible selection of varieties of farmed caviar.

The silver lining to the shortage of the wild Caspian Sea caviar is that it gives us all a good excuse to break free from the traditional definitions of what is the "best" caviar. Let your taste buds decide which variety and style of farm raised eggs you like the most.

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Can You Get Wild Caspian Sea Caviar for New Year's Eve? originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> caspiancaspian seaCaspianSeacaviarNew Years EveNewYearsEvePetrossian Deb West Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Give Yourself a Gift, Let Someone Else Do the Wrapping! ]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/give-yourself-a-gift-let-someone-else-do-the-wrapping/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/give-yourself-a-gift-let-someone-else-do-the-wrapping/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/give-yourself-a-gift-let-someone-else-do-the-wrapping/#comments It does not matter what holiday you celebrate this is a busy time of year for everybody. Whether you are going to holiday parties or entertaining visiting family members or working extra hours nobody has enough time to get everything done that is on their list. Sometimes the person who needs the perfect present is you, and often what we really need is not another cashmere scarf but an extra pair of hands.

How about treating yourself to a little luxury this season? Let Papyrus wrap your gifts for you. There are over 170 branches of Papyrus both in the continental United States as well as stores abroad in Canada and Hong Kong. Started in 1950 by Marcel and Margrit Schurman the company features retail stores that carry high quality products in an inviting setting. What many people may not be aware of is that the retail locations offer a gift wrapping service.

A consumer can enter with an unwrapped gift, choose a wrapping paper by the sheet from the display wall, and the store's staff will carefully wrap the present for you. They also have on hand boxes of varying sizes, rolls of gift wrap for extra-large presents, as well as a variety of ribbons and cards. As one might expect this does not end up being an inexpensive venture. You pay for all the products you need at the store and then there is a gift wrapping service fee added for the labor involved in the process.

Call your local store to see what they charge for the service but to give you an idea I was told that the sheets of seasonal themed wrapping paper cost between $4.95 - $5.95 per sheet and that the service charge for the average sized shirt box would be about $5.00 (provided I brought my own box).

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Give Yourself a Gift, Let Someone Else Do the Wrapping! originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gift wrapgift wrapping serviceGiftWrapGiftWrappingServicePapyruswrapping paperWrappingPaper Deb West Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Tips for Tipping]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/tips-for-tipping/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/tips-for-tipping/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/tips-for-tipping/#comments It is unfortunate that holiday tipping causes so many people anxiety. We all want to be generous but need help figuring out who to tip and how much or what to give.

The golden rule seems to be that cash is king. That being said, a small gift demonstrating that you know people's likes and dislikes is a nice touch, usually best appreciated when given in addition to cash inside a card. Don't give liquor or chocolates unless you know it is a favorite item of the recipient. If you don't like to give cash there are now gift cards for everything under the sun including, Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, gas stations, local restaurants, town parking meters and more.

There are people like your nanny, housekeeper, driver or dog walker that you may depend on everyday. In this instance a holiday tip more closely resembles a corporate bonus. Depending on their length of service, cash or a gift equal to one or two weeks of salary is the minimum and can be significantly more if they are a long term employee.

Continue reading Tips for Tipping

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Tips for Tipping originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gift cardsGiftCardsholiday tippingHolidayTippingtips Deb West Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Commission A Portrait in Gems ]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/comission-a-portrait-in-gems/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/comission-a-portrait-in-gems/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/comission-a-portrait-in-gems/#comments
To be filed under bling with a capital B or even lite-brite gone luxe; Gemstone Creative has come up with a concept to provide bespoke mosaic artwork to those who have cash to burn.

To be fair, the art of making mosaics has been around for centuries and has always had a tradition of patron sponsorship. Taking their inspiration from the Moors, the Mughai Emperors and the powerful Byzantines, whose completed mosaics often contained precious stones and gold leaf, Gemstone Creative's bejeweled mosaic concept does not seem quite so outlandish. The roots of the idea can be found in historic practices around the globe.

The London based company is the brainchild of Mark Hirschel and Sarah Stultman who have assembled talented individuals in the fields of mosaic art and jewelry setting to be able to bring this unique concept to the marketplace. The artists including, Adrian Firth, Tessa Hunkin and Claire Milner are classically trained, have their art in private collections and in international shows such as the London Art Fair. The pieces can be fashioned from diamonds of various colors, rubies, emeralds, sapphires as well as a selection of semi-precious stones such as peridot, and amethysts. They make a promise to consumers to use only ethically sourced stones in their mosaics. For the most part, if you can dream it up the artists can make it happen, although the company does need to be able to acquire the correct volume of stones for your piece.

So how much does all of this cost? Well it does depend on the size of the piece, as well as the market price of the stones and setting you choose. As an example, an 8inch x 8inch piece will contain at least 2,600 stones while a larger piece measuring 24inch x 24inch would contain over 22,000 individual stones. As an estimate one can figure on the smaller portraits starting at £25,000 and easily surpassing the £1 million mark if a piece is made entirely of diamonds and set in platinum. It is no wonder the company states in its press release that the portraits are the "ultimate luxury possession".

If your pockets aren't as deep and you like the concept they will also make pieces out of Swarovski Crystals that start at a much more reasonable £2,750.

Gallery: Gemstone Creative

Tiger on the wallQueen ElizabethTigerMarilyn MonroeJay-Z




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Commission A Portrait in Gems originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Adrian FirthAdrianFirthBejeweleddiamond artDiamondArtdiamondsGemstone CreativeGemstoneCreativemosaicswarovski crystalsSwarovskiCrystals Deb West Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Definitely Not the Girls Next Door: Fraulein by Ellen von Unwerth]]> http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/definitely-not-the-girls-next-door-fraulein-by-ellen-von-unwert/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/definitely-not-the-girls-next-door-fraulein-by-ellen-von-unwert/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/definitely-not-the-girls-next-door-fraulein-by-ellen-von-unwert/#comments
Who better to capture the carnal beauty of some of the most stunning women around than Ellen von Unwerth . She has been one of the world's premier fashion photographers for many years and Taschen is publishing a collection of her photographs. A former model, before stepping behind the lens, she worked in front of it for 10 years and it shows in the sensuality she elicits from her own subjects. Her photos have been featured in the editorial pages of Vogue, Interview and Vanity Fair and she has been hired to create many advertising campaigns for some of the biggest names in fashion from Chanel to Guess and Victoria's Secret. Her work has also been shown in numerous exhibitions internationally including at MoMA in Queens.

This collector's edition features sexy photographs of Claudia Schiffer, Kate Moss, Eva Mendes, Lindsay Lohan,and too many more to list. The images are in both black and white as well as color and present a very different impression of women as sensual beings than the stereotypical "men's" magazine. While the photographs often feature their subjects nude or in lingerie the women are never objectified but rather seem to be expressing some aspect of their own femininity. Many images are previously unpublished and have been part of the photographer's personal archive for the past 15 years.

The limited edition series of 1,500 numbered and signed copies is a 482 page hardcover book in a clam shell box and retails for $700. Taschen will also be releasing 100 Art Editions which include one of two silver gelatin photographic prints by Ellen von Unwerth and will retail for $1,800 each. Pictured above we see a sample of Ellen Von Unwerth's work featured in the book, a photograph of Claudia Schiffer, titled: TEDDY London 2006.

Gallery: Fraulein by Ellen von Unwerth

UP STAIRS Paris 1996Cover Art for Fraulein by Ellen von UnwerthANNA NASS Paris 1995

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Definitely Not the Girls Next Door: Fraulein by Ellen von Unwerth originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Claudia SchifferClaudiaSchifferEllen Von UnwerthEllenVonUnwerthfashion photographyFashionPhotographyphotographyphotossexyTaschen Deb West Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:02:00 EST Luxist