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When the iPad was first announced we knew the standard fancy accessories and protective cases wouldn't be far behind, but this Wood Case from Vers is actually pretty unique. Handcrafted of bamboo and hardwood it's made to protect your iPad in luxurious style without going the route of gilding or crystal encrusting. It features a top-loading slipcase design with a soft, scratch-resistant lining, openings for the volume control and 30-pin connector, 4mm walls for a solid and substantial feel, and an optional stand for vertical display. A classy and contemporary way to personalize and protect your trendy new gadget. $80

Via Acquire

For the most part iPhone apps are available to anybody who wants to buy and download them, but not only does Apple's iVIP Black come with the highest price tag of all its apps at $999.99 but there's a vetting process that includes a personal interview to ensure you're really a 'High Net Worth individual' before they let you install it to your phone. So what do you get for going through all that trouble? A one year membership in a concierge service that will hook you up with special VIP opportunities and deals at the touch of a button, no matter what time of day or where you are, provided you're in the UK where the service provider (iVIP Ltd.) is located. They also offer the ability to personalize your iVIP Black membership, which automatically gives you a lifetime membership and includes access to exclusive perks like entourage services and access to private islands.

No worries if you don't qualify (or are just too cheap) to spring for the full iVIP Black treatment as there's also iVIP Blue ($16.99) and iVIP Red (free), and of course there's always our free and awesome Luxist App also available for download on iTunes.

Via JustLuxe

The Apple iPad has finally arrived and if history has taught us anything it's that now we brace for the flood of accessories, attachments, and bling that is sure to follow as Apple enthusiasts around the world embellish and personalize their beloved electronic gadgets. From the outside the iPad looks like a larger, wider version of the iPhone (see all the specs and functions described in detail on our sister site Engadget) which means there's little in the way of embellishable surfaces -- just the back and that singular front button. I'm guessing we'll be seeing some gold-plating and diamonds in the future, plus some interesting protective cases and of course engraving of all kinds.

If you're planning to get an iPad what accessories or personalizations will you be looking for? I'm gonna aim high and dream of a stylish but simple Louis Vuitton sleeve.

Katherine Hughes, of Stuart Hughes, has designed what is likely the world's most expensive iPod. The iPod Touch SUPREME's body was re-formed using 149 grams of solid, 22-carat gold, with a rear Apple logo from 21 grams of gold that houses 53 VVS1, color F diamonds. The front outer section has been set with 300 VVS1 diamonds, also color F. The main navigation buttons has 12 diamonds of the same quality set in 16 grams of gold, all of which surround a single cut pink 2.10-carat diamond, color G-H. A true limited edition -- only three available. £139,995, or $231,776 USD at today's exchange rate.

Every once in a while a design pairing is initiated that really works. It is no surprise that the new collection Mulberry has unveiled for Mac products falls into this category. Mulberry Creative Director, Emma Hill, is a Mac user herself and in a press release stated that she is "thrilled to launch our first collection for a whole host of Apple products including the MacBook, iphone and iPod." Consumers most likely will be excited as well when they see the marriage of Mulberry craftsmanship and practical solutions to keeping one's electronics protected without losing anything in the style department.

The collection features nine pieces including MacBook and MacBook Pro bags and sleeves as well as cross-bags for the iPhone or iPod touch. They have kept the exteriors of some of the most iconic Mulberry designs, including the Bayswater for women and the Brynmore for men, and adapted the interiors with features such as padding, pockets and headphone access. Some of the smaller items in the collection feature a bold smugged leopard print while the larger bags sport Mulberry's classic natural leathers.

Prices range from $250 - $1195 and the bags are currently in stores and available online after December 1st. It is not startling to see good creative ideas for accessories from Emma Hill who has previously worked her magic with Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs and The Gap. Those of you who are Mac aficionados still traipsing around with a ratty backpack or generic black shoulder bag should definitely look twice at this collection. Quite possibly it is time for an upgrade that has nothing to do with the software on your computer.

Apple season is in full swing. Do you know your Granny Smith from your Gala, your Rome Beauty from your Braeburn? This guide from the U.S. Apple Association will help you choose the right apple for your eating or cooking pleasure.

Braeburn: This apple originated in New Zealand in the early 1950s, as a chance seedling with Lady Hamilton and Granny Smith as possible parents. Now grown in the United States, Braeburn is a multipurpose apple good for all types of apple uses. Its color varies from orange to red over a yellow background. This crisp, juicy apple has a rich, spicy-sweet flavor. U.S. Braeburns are available beginning in October through July.

Cameo: This new apple with an old-world name was discovered as a chance seedling in the late 1980s in Washington state. Cameo makes its appearance beginning in October. It bears red stripes over a cream-colored background. Extra-crispy Cameo has a sweet-tart taste. This apple resists browning, making it a natural choice for salads and fruit trays. Cooks, please note that Cameo's extra-denseness takes a bit longer to cook.

Cortland: This variety originated in the late 1890s in New York state, a cross between McIntosh and Ben Davis developed at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station. Sweeter than its McIntosh parent, with only a hint of tartness. Cortland has tender, snow white flesh that resists browning, making it an excellent choice for salads, kabobs and garnishes. The Cortland is available September through April.

Empire: Empires premiered in 1966 in the Empire State of New York, a cross between Red Delicious and McIntosh developed by the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station. This crisp, juicy apple has a delightful sweet-tart flavor and creamy white flesh, making it a good all-purpose apple. Stake out your Empire between September and July.

Fuji: Originally developed in Japan in the late 1930s and named after the famous Mt. Fuji, U.S.-grown Fujis began appearing in markets in the 1980s. Fuji is a cross between Ralls Janet and Red Delicious. This variety's popularity is skyrocketing, thanks to its sweet flavor and firmness. Fuji apples are bi-colored, typically striped with yellow and red. They are available year-round, beginning in September.

Gala: This variety originated in New Zealand, a cross between Kidd's Orange Red and Golden Delicious. The Royal Gala strain was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, who deemed it her favorite during a visit to New Zealand. It was brought to the United States in the early 1970s, and is now one of the country's most popular apples. This crispy, juicy, very sweet apple is ideal for snacking. Galas can vary in color, from cream to red- and yellow-striped. U.S.-grown Galas are harvested beginning in mid-July, and are typically available year-round.

Ginger Gold: A Virginia grower discovered this apple sprouting amid the ruins of a hurricane-devastated orchard in the late 1960s, and named this greenish-gold, sweet-tart apple after his sweetheart. Its parentage includes Albemarle Pippin, a favorite apple of Thomas Jefferson. This early-season Eastern apple is great for salads, and cooks well too. Available in limited but growing supplies starting in mid-October.

Golden Delicious: This old favorite was discovered as a chance seedling in 1890 in Clay County, W.Va., and was originally named Mullin's Yellow Seedling. Renamed in 1916, its parents are thought to be Golden Reinette and Grimes Golden. Goldens have a pale yellow skin, sometimes with a red blush. Mellow and sweet, all-purpose Goldens are great for eating out of hand, baking and salads. Golden's crisp, pale yellow flesh resists browning, making it a good choice for salads and other dishes. Goldens appear on the market in September, and are available year-round. Cooks, note that you can reduce the amount of added sugar when making pies with Goldens.

Granny Smith: This Australian native was discovered in 1868 as a chance seedling by "Granny" Anne Smith of Ryde, New South Wales. One parent might have been a French Crab Apple. Grannys are known for their distinctive green flesh, which sometimes bears a red blush, and their very tart flavor. An all-purpose apple, Grannys work equally well as a snack or in pies and sauce. U.S. Grannys are harvested beginning in August, and are available year-round.

Honeycrisp: This apple has a honeyed, mild flavor and a crispness deemed explosive. Crispy, juicy, and sweet, this popular newcomer is a cross between a Macoun and a Honeygold. Honeycrisp's skin is a distinctive mottled red over a yellow background, with coarse flesh. This apple is good for snacking, salads, and sauce-making, and stores well. Honeycrisp was developed by the University of Minnesota. Harvested beginning in September, supplies are limited but growing.

Idared: Introduced in 1942, this Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station product is a cross between the Jonathan and Wagener apples. It has a tangy flavor like the Jonathan, but is much larger. It has a bright red skin, and firm texture. This apple is good for snacking and holds its shape ideally for baking. Available from September through June.

Jonagold: A blend of Jonathan and Golden Delicious apples, New York native Jonagold offers a unique honey-tart flavor, and crispy, juicy nearly yellow flesh. It debuted in 1968, a product of the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station. With a yellow-green base skin color and a red-orange blush, it is excellent both for eating fresh and for cooking. Jonagold is typically available October through July.

Jonathan: This variety of apples was discovered in Woodstock, N.Y., in the 1920s and is known for its use in pies and applesauce. This crimson apple with occasional touches of green has a spicy tang that blends well with other varieties in sauces and cider. Jonathan is typically available from September through April.

McIntosh: This old, well-known variety was discovered as a chance seedling by John McIntosh in 1811. Its deep red finish sometimes carries a green blush. Juicy, tangy, tart McIntosh has a tender, white flesh. It is best used for snacking and applesauce, but some people enjoy its tart flavor in pies as well. Cook's hints: McIntosh's flesh cooks down easily; if pie making, cut your slices thick or add a thickener. This apple is typically available from September through May.

Newtown Pippin: Also known as Albemarle Pippin, a favorite variety of Thomas Jefferson. Discovered on Long Island in 1759, this apple is one of the oldest original U.S. varieties, helping to launch the U.S. fruit export industry. Newtown Pippin is a distinctive green, often with yellow highlights. Its aromatic, tangy flesh makes the Newtown great for use in pies and applesauce. Primarilly a processing variety, most U.S. supplies are used commercially. Newtown Pippin is typically available from September through December.

Pink Lady: Notable for its hot pink skin color and lily-white flesh, this Southern Hemisphere native is now being grown stateside. A cross between Golden Delicious and Lady Williams, crunchy Pink Lady has a unique sweet-tart flavor described as "Gala with a zing." Pink Lady is great for snacking, slicing, or dicing on a salad, and for baking. This apple appears in mid-October, one of the last varieties to be harvested, so supplies often are available through late spring or early summer.

Red Delicious: This most widely recognized of all U.S. apple varieties originated in Iowa in the 1870s. This sweet, crispy, juicy apple varies in color from striped red to solid midnight red. Western Red Delicious are elongated in shape, with pronounced "feet"; Eastern-grown Delicious are more round. This apple is best eaten fresh or in salads. Red Delicious apples are available year-round, starting in September.

Rome Beauty: Referred to as the "baker's buddy," this apple was discovered as a chance seedling in the early 1800s on a farm near Rome Township, Ohio. Famed for its storage qualities, this mildly tart apple is primarily used for cooking and is especially good baked or sautéed. The Rome apple is typically available beginning in September.

A laptop case needn't make you look like a Star Trek enthusiast or some sort of overgrown schoolchild, yet most such designs leave a lot to be desired aesthetically. That's especially true when it comes to sheathing the larger sort of laptop such as the Apple MacBook Pro 17". A stylish machine like that deserves an equally stylish case, however. Chic luggage and travel accessories company Tumi has come to the rescue with the Villa 17" Computer Brief (above). Made from the finest Italian texture coated canvas with luxurious vachetta leather trim and polished, nickel hardware, it features a padded laptop compartment, interior organizer pockets, and an adjustable, removable shoulder strap.The case complements the rest of Tumi's refined, elegant and classic Villa Collection, targeted to the sophisticated professional, featuring a range of designs for every requirement.

On New York City's pricey Fifth Avenue forget Tiffany & Co., the Apple store might just be the hottest address. Bloomberg reported this week that Apple's store on the popular shopping street could have annual sales of more than $350 million. It may just be the highest grossing store on Fifth Avenue beating out stores like Tiffany & Co. and Harry Winston.

Sam Gustin, writing for our sister blog Daily Finance, is skeptical of the figure, saying that the idea that Apple sells around $1 million in merchandise in that store every single day might be a bit of an optimistic number. He interviewed a retail analyst who also expressed a bit of disbelief but entertained that it could be possible. New York City stores are rules unto themselves and the store is located in one of Manhattan's most visited areas and is open 24 hours a day. Also any Apple aficionado in the area will tell you that the store is often packed with people. Also while Tiffany and Harry Winston and other luxury retailers may attract a great deal of window shoppers Apple tends to attract those interested in buying more than looking.

At his Paris fashion show on Sunday, the ever-entertaining Karl Lagerfeld debuted a new line of luxurious mink-covered scooter helmets with built-in iPod capability. The over-the-top accessories were created in collaboration with French luxury helmet maker Les Ateliers Ruby and Apple. They're road legal and feature full carbon fiber shells and ultra-soft burgundy nappa lambskin linings. The iPod hookup lets you pipe music directly to the earpieces.

Lagerfeld, who also heads up Chanel and Fendi, showed matching mink vests and other garments in the futuristic fashion show for his eponymous label. Apparently the haute helmets are Lagerfeld's comment on the recessed economy. "Now everyone is on scooters, even chic women, so we had to do the helmet," he explained. No word yet on when the helmets might be made available for sale or what their price would be, but safe to say they'll be extremely expensive.

Bose is out, the iHome is in. The iHome is made specifically to house your various Apple devices and the sound it creates packs a punch!

The iHome devices are equipped to operate with iPods and iPhones as well as Zunes and most MP3 players with an audio cord - or even Bluetooth technology.

The range runs from $49.95 to $199.99 and any order over $99.00 comes with free earbuds. Our pick? The Rotating Alarm Clock, $79.99, at right. Check out the gallery to see what it does (it flips!), and for more cool products like the color-changing iPod player.

Shop the iHome store here (finally, a music site that doesn't crash your web browser).

Despite theories that it would be consumers who were in short supply this holiday season, it seems that Apple is having trouble keeping up with demand.

After a highly successful limited-release of its iPod Touch earlier this year, the company is now running short of other models, notably the formerly-ubiquitous iPod Nano and iPod Shuffle at mass-retailers like Target and Best Buy.

Analysts estimate Apple will sell close to 21 million iPods in the December quarter, up 90% since the fall.

[via AppleInsider]

According to Fashion Week Daily, Apple may soon add an iBangle to its army of i-ness -- yes, a bangle bracelet that sits on the wrist while your tunes blast through wireless headphones. The aluminum bangle will feature a trackpad so your finger can slide and tap its way through your music.

Worried about fit? An inner air chamber will simply inflate so the bangle remains steady, particularly helpful if you're taking it on a run or hike. Designed by Gopinath Prasana, the iBangle currently exists in concept only...but hopefully not for long. No word on an ETA or price.

[via Fashion Week Daily]

The new iDesk clearly mimics Apple's design ethos: minimalist, sleek and mostly white, or at least mono-chromatic. The iDesk is German designer Paul Bichler's study in the modern workstation -- no drawers, no detailing -- though the desk does handily store cords and wires for all your existing Apple products. It retails for $3,100.

[via Born Rich]

Orbino Luxury Cases recently debuted the Arista case for Apple's MacBook Air. This bag is so clean and classic that I'd love to carry it even without a laptop, and with the rich color choices, I might even be persuaded to break away from my traditional black. Handmade by a single artisan in Orbino's Naples, Italy, workshop, the case is made from vegetable-tanned Tuscan leathers. Features include plush padding to protect your laptop, a gusseted front pocket, an iPhone/cell phone harness and an adjustable shoulder harness. The case is hand lacquered and has buffed, four-coat edging and hand-stitched detailing. Custom options to up the luxury quotient include being able to order a case made-to-measure and/or in limited edition skins such as crocodile, snakeskin and ostrich.

Prices start at $349; lifetime guarantee; worldwide shipment available.

According to Harvest Spirits a premium vodka doesn't have to start with grain or potatoes, and they're proving it by making a fine vodka out of something completely different: apples. Core vodka hails from New York and although it starts out as a simple apple cider it ends up as anything but -- try a triple-distilled 80 proof vodka with a complex and unique flavor profile. The farmers that started Harvest Spirits first had the idea to make a vodka out of apples for several reasons (they're one of the most noble of fruits, they're sometimes called 'the fruit of knowledge,' apple cider used to be the most popular American beverage) but mostly just because they grow so many of them. When life hands you apples, make apple-based premium vodka.

Look for Core vodka for sale in bars, restaurants, and liquor stores in the New York area for around $35/bottle. Also keep your eyes peeled for more goodies from Harvest Spirits in the future, they have their eyes set on a signature gin, brandy, and schnapps.

Via Martini Groove