Bachendorf's

$12

The Magazine of Life’s Celebrations Spring/Summer 2017

YOU NEED MORE COLOR IN YOUR LIFE!

CONNECT WITH US Let’s Get Social

2017 TRENDS

What’s New & Next

THE YACHT-MASTER II The ultimate skippers’ watch, steeped in yachting competition and performance, featuring an innovative regatta chronograph with a unique programmable countdown.

It doesn’t just tell time. It tells history.

rolex

oyster perpetual and yacht-master are ® trademarks.

OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER II

CON T E N TS

Spring/Summer 2017

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S TO R E LO C AT I O N S : P L A Z A AT P R E S TO N C E N T E R 8400 PRESTON ROAD DALLAS, TX 75225 214-692-8400 GALLERIA LEVEL 1

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13350 DALLAS PARKWAY SUITE 1415 DALLAS, TX 75240 972-392-9900

PUBLISHED BY THE U B M FA S H I O N G RO U P PUBLISHER STUART NIFOUSSI E D I TO R- I N - C H I E F KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN M A N AG I N G E D I TO R JILLIAN LAROCHELLE D E S I G N D I R EC TO R HANS GSCHLIESSER P R OJ EC T M A N AG E R LISA MENGHI A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R

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MICHELLE BROWN DESIGNER JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI D I R EC TO R O F P RO DU C T I O N PEG EADIE D I R EC TO R O F P R E P R E S S JOHN FRASCONE

4 Welcome Letter

32 Men’s Style: Sartorial Luxury

8 Events at Bachendorf’s 10 Social Media

34 Timepieces: Omega Speedmaster Moonphase

12 Team Profile: Cindy Vinyard

36 New & Noteworthy

14 From the Runways

38 Wheels: The Need for Speed

18 Spring Gift Ideas

40 Travel: Simply Cuba

22 Bridal: Nearly Nude

42 Culture: What’s Old is New…

publication. All rights reserved. UBM Americas, 2

24 A Bachendorf’s Love Story

44 Food: The Big Cheesy

Penn Plaza, Floor 15, New York, NY 10121. The

26 Trends: Add More Color to Your Life!

46 Recipe: Napa Cabbage Slaw with Melon & Strawberries

28 Spotted: As Seen On…

48 End Page: The Language of Jewelry

30 Fashion: Attainable Chic

Jewelry has been enlarged to show detail. Due to the fluctuating prices of diamonds, gold and platinum, prices are subject to change without notice and may vary depending on size, quality and availability. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in this magazine, we are not responsible for errors or omissions. Accent® Magazine is a UBM®

publishers accept no responsibility for advertisers’ claims, unsolicited manuscripts or other materials.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. Printed In The U.S.A. Volume 15, Issue 1. ©2017

The Artisan Handcrafted Classic Chain Collection

John Hardy and Classic Chain Collection are Registered Trademarks.

welcome

To Our Valued Customers and Friends,

S

pringtime is the start of the year not only for the flowers, but for the fundraising efforts of many charities working diligently to better our community. The Bachendorf’s family is proud to have donated

to over 100 charities for more than 30 years. I have many fond memories from these relationships, including presenting a diamond ring on behalf of a Dallas organization to Linda Gray during her first season starring as Sue Ellen Ewing in the original Dallas television series.

Bachendorf’s strives to enrich the quality of life in Dallas and its surrounding communities through philanthropic giving, and we try to have the most profound impact possible. Throughout the years our focus has been on supporting children, victims of domestic violence, disease prevention, private schools and the arts. Our family will continue on the path of helping, joining our customers in giving back to the community where we live and work.

We are proud to be involved with many wonderful charitable organizations in Dallas/Fort Worth every year, from Cattle Baron’s Ball (which has generated over $71 million in 43 years for the American Cancer Society) to Capital for Kids, a network of volunteer professionals from within the investment management business dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children in need. I want to thank the organizations for their hard work and for the privilege of supporting them.

Please enjoy this edition of Accent magazine, and I hope that you will find time to visit us at Bachendorf’s to try on the beautiful items in this issue.

Sincerely, Lawrence Bock, President

The Galleria Mall - Level 1 13350 Dallas Parkway Dallas, TX 75240 (972) 392-9900

Plaza at Preston Center 8400 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 692-8400

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The O riginator of Cult ure d Pe arls.

S i n c e 18 9 3 .

EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DBA COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR JESSICA SMITH

AT BACHENDORF’S JEWELERS, WE CONTINUE OUR LONG-STANDING TRADITION OF HOSTING EVENTS TO ENTERTAIN CLIENTS AND BENEFIT CHARITABLE CAUSES.

DALLAS BAR ASSOCIATION EAJ RECEPTION CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Benjamin Pendroff, Grace Davis, Jessica Underwood and Allie Smith; Chris Simmons, Aaron Tobin and Brian Lauten;

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANA DRIENSKY

Karen McCloud and David Kent; Julie Abbey, Shonn Brown and Cheryl Camin Murray; Michael Hurst, W. Gary Fowler and Brian Kilpatrick

KIDNEY TEXAS BOTTOM LEFT: McKamy Tiner, luncheon chair; Lawrence Bock; Anna Bland “AB” Aston, president, KidneyTexas, Inc. BOTTOM RIGHT: Kendra Karlock; Andrea Alcorn, president-elect, 2017; Susan Russell

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY HERFURTH

LIFE LESSONS PATRON PARTY BENEFITING THE ELISA PROJECT SPECIAL APPEARANCE BY NANCY KERRIGAN CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Kelly Jameson, Jackie Moore, Michelle Berger and Nancy Kerrigan; Allison Byrd-Haley and Holly Prichard; Holly Quartaro, Rhonda Sargent Chambers and Nancy Kerrigan; catered by Priceless Catering; Kimberly Martinez, Melissa Rountree, Jennifer Passanante and Kristi Bare

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FOLLOW US • LIKE US • SHARE WITH US

www.facebook.com/bachendorfs

@bachendorfs

www.pinterest.com/bachendorfs

@bachendorfs

®ROBERTOCOIN

PRINCESS FLOWER COLLECTION

team profile DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO WORK IN JEWELRY? Not right away, but both my parents have quite a rich history in the jewelry and watch industry. Dad was a master watchmaker for over 50 years and Mom worked in jewelry sales during parts of her career and had extensive training in gemology. In that sense I did have a lot of exposure and grew up learning some things about the industry. However, when I was raising my children, I worked in positions that were a better fit for my children’s busy schedules at the time.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB? Customers! We have the most wonderful customers on the planet! I love helping to find those perfect gifts and being a part of their lives. Also, I love all my co-workers who became great friends.

FAVORITE DESIGNER? My favorite designers are Lisa Nik and Penny Preville. I love colored stone jewelry and Lisa hand-selects the most beautiful gemstones with rich color!

She comes to our store in person for all of her trunk shows and is very personable with our customers. I also love the beautiful vintage detail that Penny Preville jewelry offers. Both designers are exceptional!

CINDY VINYARD

FAVORITE PIECES OF JEWELRY?

LUXURY SALES PROFESSIONAL

I love it all! I have been known to stack bracelets and rings and layer necklaces. I love the classic looks in design. Clean styles with beautiful color stones are my favorites! I also have a diamond pendant that is very meaningful to me that I wear every day; our Bachendorf’s jeweler custom made it for me.

PLAZA AT PRESTON CENTER 19 YEARS WITH BACHENDORF’S

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE JEWELRY BUSINESS?

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WOULD WANT YOUR CLIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT PURCHASING A PIECE OF JEWELRY?

I began my career in the industry in September of 1998, when Mr. Harry Bock hired me to work at Bachendorf’s! I was seeking to transition out of the childcare industry, where I held a director position. I was an art major in college, so fine jewelry and giftware were the perfect fit. I began in our giftware and crystal department and learned all about our distinguished lines.

After a few years, I was excited to move into the jewelry department. Having the experience in giftware and then learning about jewelry and timepieces turned out to be a great advantage in my career.

I laugh when I tell some of my customers how long I’ve been with the company and what my original thought was when I began my journey at Bachendorf’s. I live a considerable distance from our store and have a very long commute. I intended for this job to be a “stepping stone” out of my previous career and did not think it would be long term. Well, as it turned out, I have loved our company and have been so blessed by the Bock family, my longtime co-workers (who are also wonderful friends), and our amazing customers who I consider to be family! It is such an honor and privilege to be a part of our customers’ life experiences and help them find that perfect piece of jewelry or watch for those special birthdays, engagements, graduations and anniversaries. I have so many stories that I will treasure for a lifetime!

The Bock family has a rich history in offering the finestquality jewelry that you will find anywhere. You can feel assured you are purchasing the best! I strive to give you the most pleasant and professional experience possible. Your happiness is the most important thing!

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WEREN’T IN THE JEWELRY INDUSTRY? It is hard to imagine not being in this business, but if I were not, I would pursue fitness and wellness, helping people with health issues to improve their quality of life.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK? My husband and I serve together in a marriage ministry called Re-engage at Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, Texas. I spend time with my beautiful one-year-old granddaughter—I love to spend as much time with my children and family as possible. I cycle at White Rock lake, I run distance races and love to do sprint triathlons!

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from the

RUNWAYS

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ALL CHOKED UP 6

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1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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RUNWAY IMAGES COURTESY OF ACCESSORIES MAGAZINE

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VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description

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FROM THE RUNWAYS

White SPECTRUM PENNY PREVILLE

18K WHITE GOLD CRESCENT COLLAR NECKLACE WITH DIAMONDS 1.91 CTW, $7,995

PESAVENTO STERLING SILVER WITH RHODIUM PLATING DNA SHINE SINGLE-STRAND BRACELET WITH HEMATITE AND FRESHWATER CULTURED PEARLS, $260

BACHENDORF’S 18K WHITE GOLD NECKLACE WITH TWO PEARLS AND 420 ROUND DIAMONDS 9.25 CTW, $21,000

14K WHITE GOLD HERO OCTAGON EARRINGS, 20MM WITH 112 DIAMONDS .43 CTW, $2,450

CHANEL J12 WATCH, WHITE CERAMIC AND STEEL, DIAMOND INDICATOR, MOTHER-OF-PEARL DIAL, $6,550

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FROM LEFT: MICHAEL KORS, CAROLINA HERRERA, CHLOÉ, VICTORIA BECKHAM, ZAC POSEN / FIRSTVIEW

PHILLIPS HOUSE

FROM THE RUNWAYS

Vacation INSPIRATION DOVES 18K YELLOW GOLD AMAZONITE BREEZE NECKLACE, $1,668

CARRERA Y CARRERA

MARCO BICEGO 18K YELLOW GOLD AND MIXED STONE SINGLE-STRAND BRACELET, $835

18K YELLOW AND WHITE GOLD ROMANCE EN EL TORO MINI NECKLACE, $2,950

LISA NIK 18K YELLOW GOLD OPAL, TANZANITE AND DIAMOND DROP EARRINGS, $9,680

FROM LEFT: MICHAEL KORS, ZAC POSEN, TIBI, TIBI, 3.1 PHILLIP LIM / FIRSTVIEW

18K WHITE GOLD ASYMMETRIC EARRINGS WITH PERIDOT AND DIAMONDS, $5,600

RINA LIMOR

JOHN HARDY STERLING SILVER TURQUOISE ORB CUT RING, $495

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FROM THE RUNWAYS

Dark TEXTURES DAVID YURMAN WAVERLY LIMITEDEDITION RING WITH FACETED OPAQUE RUBY AND PAVÉ BLACK DIAMONDS 3.17 CTW, $4,200

ROBERTO COIN 18K YELLOW GOLD THREE-CHAIN NECKLACE WITH BLACK SAPPHIRES AND DIAMONDS 1.7 CTW, $24,020

DAVID YURMAN 18K WHITE GOLD PAVÉ STUD EARRINGS WITH 1.35 CTW BLACK DIAMONDS, $4,900

LAGOS

FROM LEFT: VERA WANG, 3.1 PHILLIP LIM, 3.1 PHILLIP LIM, ZAC POSEN, VERA WANG / FIRSTVIEW

BLACK CERAMIC CAVIAR BRACELET WITH FIVE 18K GOLD BEADED STATIONS, $1,800

OMEGA MOONWATCH DARK SIDE OF THE MOON CO-AXIAL CHRONOGRAPH 44.25 MM, $12,000

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bridal

Nearly

NUDE Looking for a unique engagement ring?

Lay your love bare with diamond shades from champagne to carnation.

W

ho could forget the 2015 Met Gala, when Beyoncé stepped out in a nude-colored sheer ensemble that perfectly complemented (and barely covered) her skin. The only thing preventing her trendsetting, jaw-dropping style achievement from falling to the depths of a risqué faux pas were a few very strategically placed warm-colored gemstones.

While the focus wasn’t necessarily on her jewelry that evening, one could argue that her entire ensemble was jewelry in and of itself.

Nevertheless, from that point forward, diamonds in warm, beige-ish tones (known as “nude” diamonds) started popping up on scores of other celebrities—and on ring fingers—all around the world.

Of course, the color diamond trend is nothing new. For years, fancy color yellows have been popular alternative choices for future brides, while “chocolate” and black diamonds have made their presence known in fashion jewelry for well over a decade.

While classic white remains the spectrum’s supreme ruler in terms of popularity, in reality diamonds are available in a whole host of hues. According to the American Gem Society, color in a diamond is actually caused by a flaw in the stone, with the value of that color varying based upon its rarity. (In case you’re wondering, red is the most uncommon and valuable of all diamond colors.)

Right now, nude diamonds that range from the faintest beige all the way to warm blush are the most fashion-forward choices. And if a scroll through any stylish young woman’s Instagram or Pinterest feed isn’t enough evidence of this, then consider the fact that Beyoncé not only wore them to the Met Gala in 2015, but again in 2016.

For everyday fashionistas, nude diamonds can provide an additional option for creating a unique, customized look, as no two beige stones are quite the same. In addition, these warmer tones often conjure an impression of vintage or heirloom-quality jewelry, making the pieces seem all the more special and differentiated. It’s no coincidence that these warmer colors often appear in marquise or pear cuts—shapes associated with antique jewelry—adding to their vintage feel. In addition, nude diamonds are often set in yellow or rose gold, which helps bring out their warm glow and highlights their traditional appeal.

It’s certain this trend isn’t going away anytime soon. From the runways of Paris and New York to the aisles of a wedding near you, nude diamonds are enjoying a moment of exposure. —BY ADAM GEBHARDT

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are Trade Marks of The De Beers Group of Companies. ™

and ®

© Forevermark 2016. Forevermark ®,

It’s a long journey to become the one.

In our constant pursuit of absolute beauty, every Forevermark diamond undergoes a journey of rigorous selection.

This is why less than 1% of the world’s diamonds are worthy of the Forevermark inscription – our promise of beauty, rarity and responsible sourcing.

engagements

A Bachendorf’s Love Story Jack and Leni found romance in Paris and Patagonia.

Leni, give us some background. How did you two meet?

While we laugh about this now, we actually met at a club in Dallas.

(Not the usual place to find husband material, I know!) We met in early June 2012 and started dating on December 29th, 2012. Right after that, Jack asked if I would join his family in England for Christmas and spend a few days with them before we left for Paris.

On our first day in Paris, Jack took me to see the Eiffel Tower.

As we were walking, he turned around, looked me in the eye and said, “Leni, we have been seeing each other for quite some time now, and I wanted to ask you to be my girlfriend. I love you very much and I have enjoyed our times together, but I would like to know if you would accept me as your boyfriend?” Of course, I said yes—with a big smile on my face! Under the magical tower in the most romantic place in the world, who would say no? From then on I knew that my relationship with Jack was starting off just right and I couldn’t wait to see what the future would bring for us.

No, when we met I was not looking for any type of relationship and the last thing I wanted was to start a new one. But, when we tell God our plans, he laughs at us right?

When I met Jack I didn’t think that I was going to spend the rest of my life with him, but I knew that we would be good friends. I loved his English humor, his charm... and he is pretty fit for an English guy!

At the time Jack was traveling Monday through Friday and we would only see each other sometimes during the weekend. We didn’t plan to be in a relationship, but we enjoyed each other’s company and looked forward to seeing each other whenever he was in town. As time went on, we started to spend more time together. Then I realized that God had placed an amazing man in my life, and from then on, I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him.

Jack, tell us about your experience buying the engagement ring.

I really wanted to get something special for Leni, so this took a little bit of time. I imagine most guys go through the same thing: first learning that buying a ring seems to include thousands of options, and second paying close attention to the hints (the magazines left around, the liked photos on Instagram)! If you get those both right I think any guy can make the right choice.

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PHOTOS BY PHOTOS BY: ALLIE PEARSON - HTTP://WWW.NOELPHOTOCO.COM

Was it love at first sight?

Tell us about the proposal from your point of view.

Why did you choose Bachendorf ’s?

Jack planned the most thoughtful, magical and romantic trip to Patagonia, to Torres Del Paine National Park, in Chile. We have always dreamed of visiting this place together and little did I know that this trip would be the one that would change our lives forever.

We traveled together to the see the masterpiece of huge mountain peaks, bright blue glacial lakes and glistening glaciers.

We have always dreamed of doing this together and on June 30th, 2016 we hiked the most iconic parks of Patagonia. After eight hours and 20km of trekking, we finally made it to the top of the mountain referred to as “the base of the towers.” That’s where Jack asked me to spend the rest of my life with him.

As nervous as he was, he got on his knee and said: “Meu amor, I asked you to be my girlfriend under the tower in Paris.

I brought us to the end of the world and trekked 20km to three larger towers in Patagonia to ask you to be my wife. Will you marry me? Of course, with tears and smiles, I said YES! It was the most romantic proposal of all time and when I saw my ring, I almost died. He did such a great job picking the perfect setting, the perfect cut and diamond size. I was so shocked that he even picked my favorite designer!

Bachendorf’s has a great reputation in Dallas and I wanted to be sure we could find a special diamond. After many discussions with Paolo, we landed on the perfect cut and setting.

Jack, when did you decide to propose?

Leni and I have had the chance to travel to some amazing places over the last four or so years. Whether it be walking the streets of Milan, enjoying the quaint canals of my hometown in the UK or sunning it up in Dubai, Leni and I get to spend a bunch of ‘air time’ together. I think you know when you can spend 15 hours next to each other in a closed cabin and then arrive and have amazing vacations together, it is meant to be.

Leni, did you have any suspicions that Jack was ring shopping?

No, I had no idea. But I knew that Jack would do a great job because he has great taste in things. I always knew that Jack wouldn’t disappoint me when it came to buying the most perfect ring. We talked a few times about the style and the cut I wanted, but we never looked at rings together. I just assumed that Jack knew me enough to know my style and exactly what I wanted.

“As nervous as he was, he got on his knee and said: ‘Meu amor, I asked you to be my girlfriend under the tower in Paris. I brought us to the end of the world and trekked 20km to three larger towers in Patagonia to ask you to be my wife. Will you marry me?’ Of course, with tears and smiles, I said YES!” 25

trends

Add more

COLOR TOYOUR LIFE!

T

hink about how certain colors can “take you away” to a special place. Give you a feeling, a sense of calm and serenity, or of excitement. That’s what colored gemstones do for me—and I’m not alone.

For the lady who usually defers to diamonds, adding color to your collection can seem daunting. Will I have enough opportunities to wear it? Should I get my birthstone? Should I buy a stone to go with a specific outfit?

Should I purchase one that represents my anniversary?

My advice: you only live once, so take the risk! Own the color that has you entranced and gives you a special feeling inside. Consider your hair shade and complexion, as well as the jewelry you already have in your collection. When a jewel is able to pair well with your existing pieces, like a fine wine paired with a cheese, you’ll know you found the perfect match.

If you choose the right gemstone, it can help your personality shine through. Having one in an uncommon cut, such as a checkerboard, can add extra sparkle and shimmer to your look. Or consider the ancient (and now popular again) cabochon cut, which acts like a mirror to reflect different shades and tones of the gem being worn.

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Whenever I’m looking at a cut, dimension is the first thing I check for. The ability to catch the eye and make others want to look deeper into the stone is one reason gems are so unique and special.

Layering and stacking new colored gem pieces with your existing look can be easier than you think. You don’t always have to be so matchy-matchy; in fact, it’s much more fashion forward not to be! Buy bangles with blue gemstones like aquamarine and blue topaz to stack with your sapphire tennis bracelet. Layer on a necklace in green (the year’s hottest shade) to bring new life to your amethyst pendant. I also find that yellow and orange gemstones can add a splash of freshness to almost any palette popular today. They will play off the light whether day or night, and they look different every time they’re worn. Sapphire, topaz, garnet, citrine, quartz, tourmaline and spinel all come in these bold warming shades.

With our favorite designers turning more and more to colored gemstones, it’s easier than ever to add a pop of natural color to your jewelry wardrobe. Start standing out.

—BY BENJAMIN GUTTERY

Marco Bicego Mini Jaipur necklace in hand-engraved 18K yellow gold with mixed gemstones.

Know Your Diamond CARAT WEIGHT

COLOR GRADE

CLARITY GRADE

CUT GRADE

Look for diamonds graded by GIA, the creator of the 4Cs. Learn more at 4Cs.GIA.edu

CARLSBAD

ANTWERP

BANGKOK

DUBAI

GABORONE

HONG KONG

JOHANNESBURG

LONDON

MUMBAI

NEW YORK

RAMAT GAN

SEOUL

TAIPEI

TOKYO

spotted

AS SEEN ON ‌

Our favorite stars share a love for our favorite brands!

BY JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

Sara Bareilles in Marco Bicego at the Oscars.

Katie Holmes in Penny Preville at a film screening.

Janelle Monae in Forevermark at the Golden Globes.

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Damien Chazelle in Jaeger-LeCoultre with Emma Stone at the Venice Film Festival

Octavia Spencer in Forevermark at the Oscars.

Governors Awards.

S A P M A e th at n oi C Helen Mirren in Roberto 29

fashion

veteran of the women’s wear industry, Emily Brickel Edelson spent five years as a fashion illustrator, hanging out at trunk shows, boutique openings and backstage at fashion week sketching models. Today, she’s busy giving everyday fashionistas the illustration treatment.

Brickel Edelson co-founded Chic Sketch, an app that invites users to upload a photo of their look and receive a custom sketch by a real fashion illustrator. Each drawing is personalized so no two are alike. Chic Sketch users can also watch a feed of the latest sketches as they roll in, view time-lapse videos of the illustrators at work, and check out trending fashions. The point, Brickel Edelson says, is to make a high-fashion experience more accessible.

“People loved watching me draw these sketches at shows, but the average person wasn’t able to get it done unless they wanted to spend a few hundred dollars,” she says. Chic Sketch illustrations cost $10.

The service is a joint effort between Brickel Edelson and her now-husband Jordan Edelson, an app developer. (“We married technology and fashion, literally,” she jokes.) The pair launched Chic Sketch at New York Fashion Week 2015, and Brickel Edelson says her team of illustrators has since delivered “tens of thousands of sketches.”

“It brings the fun back to fashion,” she adds. “For me, fashion is about inspiration. I love inspiring people to feel good about themselves no matter what they look like. People will come in and say, ‘Oh, don’t sketch me—I didn’t wash my hair, I’m wearing all black.’ But everyone looks fabulous in a sketch, which is just fun.”

It’s fun on the other side of the sketch, too, and Brickel Edelson fields so many questions about how to illustrate that she decided to write a book. The recently released Sketch and Go: 5Minute Fashion Illustration offers 500 templates and techniques for aspiring artists.

What might her readers and illustrators-in-training be sketching throughout the rest of 2017? Brickel expects to see two hot but opposing looks on the runway: details like embellishments and lace appliques, as well as sleek, strong, utilitarian shapes. —BY JULIANNE PEPITONE

Reaching high-style heights has never been easier.

Attainable

CHIC 30

men’s style

Sartorial

LUXURY T

here are very few American clothing companies with the heritage and reputation of Hickey Freeman. Founded in Rochester, New York in 1899 and still made in Rochester today, this luxury brand (that has dressed nearly every US president) stays true to time-honored tailoring techniques and the world’s finest fabrics while evolving to modern design.

For the past few years, Arnold Silverstone has been Hickey Freeman’s creative director, changing its image from conservative to cool. A third-generation clothing designer, Silverstone’s passion for tailored clothing is immediately apparent as we discuss suit trends for the current spring season. “The fastest-growing segment of the clothing business is made-to-measure,” he explains.

“For not much more money, a guy can customize the fit, fabrics and details (buttons, linings, stitching) to create his own signature look. It’s like buying a car: you can buy right off the lot or you can order your own options. Made-to-measure has grown to about a third of our business and is available in most upscale menswear stores.”

For guys who just want to walk out with a beautiful new suit this season, what should they buy?

“The must-have color for spring ’17 is a brighter, softer blue. Most guys already own navy or gray. This new shade is fresh, contemporary and flattering. (Other good choices are silver or platinum.) As for styling, the runways are full of double-breasted jackets for fashion-forward types, but a slim-fit two-button model is most popular. Go for a slightly shorter jacket and shorter pant (the hem should brush the top of the shoe for fashion guys; traditionalists can opt for a slight break). As for pleats versus no pleats, the rules are reversing: flat-fronts are now considered classic but advanced customers are opting for pleats.”

Silverstone emphasizes the importance of fit. “The suit has gradually gotten slimmer in recent years, with higher armholes, a shorter coat, a lower-rise pant with less drape through the thigh and knee. But ironically, due to our unique construction (extra room under armholes, using the best canvases and chest pieces) and performance fabrics, even slim suits are more comfortable than ever. The biggest mistake guys make is assuming that they’re too heavy, or too old, for slim-fit clothing. Our Hickey Freeman suits trace the body but move with you. Try one and be transformed.” —BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

HICKEY FREEMAN combines

artisanal craftsmanship, American production and modern styling for the perfect suit.

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timepieces

SPEEDMASTER

CHRONOMETER CHRONOGRAPH

MOONPHASE

T

he first thing that strikes you about this extraordinary new timepiece is the representation of the moon.

It has never looked more realistic. The high resolution image, in sharply contrasting black and white, is as detailed as a NASA photograph; so detailed in fact, that a closer look reveals an astronaut's footprint.

The Speedmaster is no stranger to the lunar surface, given that it was the first watch worn on the moon.

And as a Master Chronometer, this watch celebrates another pioneering moment: Omega's exacting new standard of testing, set in late 2015 by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS).

True to its name, the timepiece displays the phases of the moon. Contrary to popular belief, a lunar month is not 30 days, but slightly more than 29.5 days. A difficult time span to manage for a standard gear train, but Omega's Moonphase is up to the task. Its highly accurate mechanism only needs adjusting after 10 years, and all it takes is a few turns of the crown.

And it's not just the moon's wobbles that are kept in check. The watch is also balanced visually, with twin two-handed subdials that create a beautifully symmetrical look.

The Speedmaster Moonphase has many other striking features, including a stunning sun-brushed blue dial, ceramic bezel and stainless steel case. Liquidmetal® has been used on the tachymeter scale—another Speedmaster first—and a closer look reveals rhodiumplated circles on the subdials.

Though the hands are classic Speedmaster, the internal workings are a giant leap forward. The revolutionary new 9904 movement is made up of 368 components and marks the start of a whole new era in watchmaking.

Of course, no Omega timepiece is complete without the ultimate finishing touch. For a watch with such a stunning blue dial, it has to be a blue leather strap, clasped with a foldover buckle.

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NEW

& NOTEWORTHY

CARTIER

BREITLING

From such classic watch styles as the Tank and the

A specialist in technical watches since 1884, Breitling has played a crucial role in the development of the wrist chronograph and remains a leader in

Santos to more modern designs like the Drive de

this complication. The company is also renowned for its strong following

Cartier and Cle de Cartier, France’s premier jewelry

among aviators and those who adore aviation; these enthusiasts will be

maison has long been a leader in crafting elegant and

excited by the new Breitling Avenger Hurricane. This special timepiece,

innovative timepieces. And no exception to that rule is

which flaunts a standout 50mm diameter, revolutionizes 21st-century

the breathtakingly beautiful Hypnose. Black and white

watchmaking with its ultra-sturdy and ultra-light case made of a futuristic,

contrasting tones almost literally make the head spin

high-tech material called Breitlight. The watch’s sturdy construction

and exert a hypnotic fascination on the wearer. Its

features lateral protective reinforcements, while its all-black façade is

aesthetic appeal lies in the form and power of illusion

enhanced by yellow accents and aviation-inspired numerals. Typical of

inspired by its lines. Indeed, in one stylish yet

Breitling’s world-class timepieces, the Avenger Hurricane is also extremely

disciplined stroke, Cartier has created a major new

reliable thanks to the new Manufacture Breitling Caliber B12.

classic watch.

JOHN HARDY

Launched just last year, John Hardy’s Modern Chain Collection has been embraced by both women and men. This spring sees the introduction of many new styles and the use of rose gold. Inspired by a men’s bracelet from the 1990s, the Modern Chain Collection is a contemporary evolution of the brand’s woven chain bracelets. Handmade in Bali and inspired by Balinese chain-weaving, the minimalist collection creates a new pattern designed with comfort in mind. A modern take on a classic icon, the styles in the collection are smoothed and flattened, creating a new pattern with a fresh, minimal aesthetic. Designed with the wearer’s comfort in mind, the bracelets and necklaces feature flat and slim modular chains. The redesigned chain honors its treasured technique and unique symbolism. Each and every piece is created by five or more artisans and takes upwards of 15 hours to come to life.

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wheels

SPEED

THE NEED FOR

W

e live in extraordinary times, when the unimaginable has become almost commonplace. Man has always been fascinated with speed, and just a century ago the goal was to achieve one mile per minute in an automobile. Once that was achieved, the goal became 100 MPH. The desire to exceed record speeds continues to inspire to this day.

Rolex has been associated with speed trials for over 90 years. When British race car driver Sir Malcolm Campbell broke the land speed record nine times between 1924 and 1936 in his famous “Bluebird” cars, he was always wearing his Rolex. The same was true of Chuck Yeager, who wore his Rolex Oyster as he broke the sound barrier in the experimental Bell-X on October 14, 1947. When William Knight flew the hypersonic X-15 at Mach 6.7 in 1967, he too was wearing a Rolex.

Rolex will once again sponsor a British record-breaking project in the form of the Bloodhound SSC. This ultra-aerodynamic vehicle is powered by jet, rocket and internal combustion engines that produce more than 135,000 horsepower. Their goal is to achieve an inconceivable 1,000 MPH. Flight Commander Andy Green of the RAF will pilot this remarkable machine, which looks more like a fighter jet than a car.

He’s no newcomer to setting records. In 1997 he drove the Thrust SSC to set the current land speed record while also breaking the sound barrier at 763 MPH—the first and only supersonic speed ever set on land. After several delays, the Bloodhound SSC land speed record attempt is currently scheduled for October 2017. It will take place at Hakskeen Pan in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

Richard Noble, Bloodhound project director and a former land speed record holder (who achieved 633 MPH in 1983 piloting Thrust 2), says, “The project is achieving its primary goal even without the car running yet: we’re turning kids on to science.” The Bloodhound is an educational tool designed to inspire future generations to take up careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. More than 100,000 children took part in Bloodhound-related lessons or events in the UK last year, and universities involved with the project have reported significant increases in the number of students applying to study engineering. —BY DAVID A. ROSE

ROLEX and the

Bloodhound SSC.

38

A DIAMOND AS RARE AS YOU

travel

S I M P LY

CUBA

ue to decades of economic embargo and tense political relations, it’s natural for Americans to feel daunted by the thought of traveling to Cuba.

That’s why so many opt for the ease of guided tours, in which one price (typically $3,000 and up) covers most everything. Those options range from being herded around in massive blue, red and white coaches—which are ubiquitous at every tourist stop—to traveling with more intimate groups in minivans led by knowledgeable guides.

But you needn’t go that route if you prefer to arrange your own itinerary. The reality is that the paperwork required for entry is minimal, the Cuban people are extremely welcoming of all tourists, and, with proper planning, it’s quite easy Clockwise from top left: Hotel Inglaterra and the Gran Teatro on Havana's Paseo de Martí; a mojito at La Terraza in Cojimar; street scene outside of Casayami in Havana Centro; an old American convertible on the streets of Cojimar.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT KETTMANN

Getting there just got a whole lot easier.

WHERE TO EAT

to enjoy Havana and beyond with the same sort of make-your-ownschedule freedom you enjoy elsewhere. Here’s how.

For decades, most of the restaurants in Havana were government-owned, and many remain that way. But changes in the law a few years ago allowed private citizens to start serving food in their homes, and there’s been a culinary revolution exploding ever since. The leader of the pack is La Guarida (laguarida.com), whose rooftop bars and historic dining rooms were made famous in the film Strawberry and Chocolate. There’s also creative farm-to-table cuisine at Ivan Chef Justo (no website, but his Al Carbon is around the corner if you can’t get a reservation); the Swedishmeets-Latin American style of Casa Miglis (casamiglis.com), which has a sweet bar; and 304 O’Reilly (whose name is also its address in the heart of old town). Make reservations before you leave for Cuba: they’re required at most spots, and since a working internet or phone connection is hard to come by for tourists, you’ll need to get your dining ducks in a row before landing in Havana.

HOW TO GET THERE Many US airlines fly straight to Cuba now, and the ticket price usually includes the additional medical insurance required by the communist country (though no one ever asks about such insurance once there). For instance, the hour-long American Airlines flight from Miami to Havana is just $120, and AA also flies straight from Los Angeles for about $500. There are also plenty of flights into other Cuban cities as well.

Most people are concerned about the visa process, but it’s ridiculously easy. Just buy one for $85 from Cuba Visa Services (cubavisaservices.com).

Make sure to fill it out carefully, otherwise you may have to buy a new one at the airport, usually for about double the price.

Also, make sure to get it stamped before hopping on your flight to Cuba; the airlines will usually remind you.

Much ado is made about the official reasons that Americans are allowed to visit Cuba, which range from religious and family reasons to business research and “support of the Cuban people,” also known as the people-to-people visa. The only time anyone asks about your reasons for travel is in the American airport as you check in for your flight. No one seems to care which one you pick, though people-to-people is the most broad and therefore popular category.

EASY ESCAPES Once you’ve seen a show at the Cabaret Tropicana, sipped on daiquiris with Ernest Hemingway’s statue at El Floridita, and ridden around town in a convertible 1950s Chevy, escape Havana to explore the countryside. An easy half-day is to Cojimar, the fishing village east of Havana where Hemingway used to dock his boat, Pilar.

There’s a quaint fort there, numerous shops with cheaper prices than Havana, and the famous author’s favorite table at La Terraza, where a trio will sing your favorite songs as you sip on mojitos and eat escabeche. If you’re hungry, try Café Ajiaco (ajiacocafe.com), one of the country’s best restaurants, home to an amazing taro soup.

For a full-day experience, hire a car and guide from taxivinalescuba.com and head west to the UNESCO-protected tobaccogrowing region of Vinales, a quaint town of pastel-colored stucco where amazing limestone mogotes rise steeply from the dark red soil. Explore caves, dine on farmfresh food at Ecologica, get a cigar rolled for you, and grab a Cristal Cerveza while taking in the view from Hotel Los Jazmines. Feel free to doze off on the three-hour ride back to the constant hum of Havana.

WHERE TO STAY

There are a number of luxury hotels in Havana with most of the accoutrements — and $500 price tags—you expect at similar properties around the world. Located along the Prado that separates the old town (Habana Vieja) from downtown (Centro), and quite near many of the city’s cultural attractions, are the Hotel Plaza Havana (hotelplazacuba.com) the Hotel Inglaterra (hotelinglaterra-cuba.com), and the Hotel Saratoga, which was rebuilt in 2005 with a rooftop pool overlooking the Capitol Building.

Located a bit further away but closer to the waves-splattered Malecón are the famous Hotel Nacional (hotelnacionaldecuba.com)—worth a visit for drinks and music whether you stay From top: Farm-to-table fare at Ecologica in Vinales; there or not—and the Melia Cohiba AND IF YOU DO A Rainier hand-rolls a cigar at his tobacco estate in Vinales. (melia.com), a full resort experience.

GUIDED TOUR….

For travelers who are more adventurous, or frugal, or simply want a Don’t hop on one of those huge coaches. Instead, opt for a smaller, more more up-close taste of what Havana has to offer, search out casa focused tour, like the ones offered by Access Trips (accesstrips.com). Its particulares, which are rooms or entire homes that owners are allowed to seven-day experience encompasses the culinary scene of Havana and rent out to guests. The easiest way to book one is through Havana’s massive beyond. And among the cocktail lessons and sustainable farm tours, Airbnb community. A recent four-night stay at the two-bedroom Casayami, you’ll learn all you need to know about Cuba’s economy, how the African for instance, was just $83 a night, and came with homemade breakfast each religion of Santeria is intertwined with Catholicism, and why most Cubans morning (though it didn’t come with tons of privacy). have much hope for a more prosperous future. —BY MATT KETTMANN

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WHAT’S OLD IS NEW…

Again. Not all of today’s passions reside on your smartphone.

W

e live in an era of incredible technological advancements, with smartphones and smart houses, self-driving cars and an increasingly automated workforce. But sometimes “old ways is good ways” (to quote Stanley Kubrick), and not every innovation means tossing out the old tech for the new. Some of the classics are enjoying renewed interest among fans of quality and style.

VINYL:

With the popularity of the artisanal craft food and steampunk movements over the past decade, there’s been a resurgence in all things old-timey and handcrafted among young hipsters, from fancy facial hair to pre-Prohibition cocktails and 19th-century bicycles. But vinyl has transcended niche collecting in a big way.

Despite record stores closing left and right, vinyl sales (for both new and classic musicians) are up significantly, with LPs and 45s outselling digital and streaming music in the UK in December, according to Digital Music News. Unlikely retailers including Urban Outfitters and Barnes & Noble have jumped on the pressed album train. It’s not just audiophiles embracing the trend: At the exclusive Distillery—a new gin-themed hotel in London—three bespoke guest rooms feature minibars stocked with Portobello Road gin crafted downstairs and a vinyl playlist curated by Rough Trade Records. Chao Chao, a cool new Vietnamese restaurant in Manhattan, hosts “Vinyl Tuesdays” when you can bring your own records in for diners to enjoy. And the Goodland in Santa Barbara offers a Record Concierge to help you curate a playlist from its library to play on your inroom Crosley. Meanwhile, last summer, electronic music DJs Richard Vission and Bad Boy Bill hosted a multi-city “Back to Vinyl” tour, where they “pressed pause on all sync buttons and instead played all their music on vinyl,” both new and old. Radical!

Instagram is also getting into it in a big, big way. Sonja is a young Finnish collector who goes by the handle VinylWife and boasts over 32,000 followers for her daily pics: playful, sometimes sensual poses of her with examples from her extensive collection. “I think the appeal for vinyl represents people’s longing for something real and concrete in this digital world,” she explains. Sonja launched her channel after seeing other Instagram pages dedicated to passions as obscure as wax. “I’ve always been a very visual person and I enjoy photography.”

Hints for collectors new to the game (or those of us revisiting it after many decades)? “Every record has a story,” says Sonja. “Remember to handle them with love, and the stories will live forever.” We wish that was true of our latest failed iTunes update.

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Above: Hotels like the Goodland in California and the Roxy in NYC (pictured) now offer in-room turntables and curated playlists by the likes of DJ/Instagram star Alix Brown.

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE ROXY NEW YORK CITY

culture

IMAGES FROM TOP: BEN FERRARI FOR KOBRICK COFFEE CO.; COURTESY OF PIPER-HEIDSIECK CHAMPAGNE; SAMWHITEOUT.COM; AGATHE POUPENEY FOR OPÉRA NATIONAL DE PARIS

OLD-FASHIONED COFFEE:

It’s easy enough to use a Nespresso or Keurig machine for your morning Joe, or drive through Starbucks and order a double-whatever-accino. But a new generation of coffee aficionados has discovered there’s a wide range of hidden flavors, aromas and experiences that you simply can’t get from a pod. While some methods approach mad scientist levels—like the painstakingly slow Japanese drip—others are surprisingly old school. Two of the latest crazes for coffee connoisseurs are “cold press” or “cold brew” and “pourover.” OXO, Yama and other stylish brands make special cold brew containers, or you can simply let 3/4 cup of coarse-ground coffee steep in 4 cups of cold water in your French Press for 12 hours. Press or strain the coffee, et voila! Pourover coffee is equally simple: Stick a coffee filter over a cup, fill it with grounds and very slowly pour hot water over it. Chemex is king here, and pourover drinkers are almost religious about their cone-and-decanter equipment. Naturally there are special filters and grinders when you start getting really serious. Pros say there are myriad advantages (especially with cold brew coffee), including lower acidity and a richer, more caffeinated cup.

“Sometimes greatness is found in the simplest methods, and with the art of brewing coffee, this is the case,” says Niki Kobrick of New York’s Kobrick Coffee Co. “Sometimes when we adjust for speed and convenience, it adds detrimental layers to the process, like coffee oil residues, water temperature issues or hot plates that burn the brew.

The advancements that have been made to the simplest methods—like Japanese cones that come with the perfect filter to match—offer brewers the attention to detail that creates a holistic, pure experience like no other.” Are percolators and cowboy coffee next to show up at the trendy shops?

CHAMPAGNE:

Sure, fat cats and moguls have never abandoned sparkling wine or fish eggs. But these days, the audience for both is much larger. In addition to French Champagne, prosecco from Italy and Spanish cava have witnessed spikes in popularity. This time around, it’s not simply reserved for wedding receptions and deal closures. Younger drinkers (especially) are finding any time is Champagne Time. “A couple of years ago, traditional brands started to cater to cutting-edge, modern audiences,” says Blaine Ashley, who hosts the annual New York Champagne Week. (She was honored last fall by Wine Enthusiast in its 40 Under 40 cover article.) In lieu of stuffy pairing dinners, NYCW hosts events bearing quirky names like “Let’s Get Fizzacle” and “Back That Glass Up” at trendy bars and wine shops around the city. There’s also an annual cocktail contest where some of the city’s best bartenders compete for cash and prizes with original mixed drinks featuring bubbly.

“The contest takes Champagne even further into everyday consumption, demonstrating its approachability and diversity,” says Ashley.

Want further proof Champagne isn’t just for special events? Try pairing it with Indian food or Mexican fish tacos. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

OPERA: Attending the opera, symphony and theater were once a given for the aspiring coming-of-age crowd. Today, while Broadway thrives, other public performance spectacles have experienced something of a decline. The Metropolitan Opera, however, has hosted very successful movie theater and streaming performances over the past few years, a modern update to live radio broadcasts the Met has hosted since 1910, and it continues to innovate. This, along with special attention and benefits for younger members, is proving the Fat Lady hasn’t sung yet. Nadine Sierra, 28, is an opera singer (who’s had major roles at the Met and Milan’s La Scala, and is performing this year in Paris, New York and Venice), so she’s arguably biased. But the Fort Lauderdale native also has her finger on the pulse of young America. “I’m of the generation brought up into social media,” she says. “Communication has become so important, it’s almost an obsession. Peter Gelb [GM for the Met] got it right with the HD theater broadcasts.” Arguably social media is another stepping stone for the opera company that hosted Live at the Met on radio and PBS for decades, but Sierra points out that the interaction performers can now have thanks to Twitter, Instagram and Facebook takes things even further. “To get people interested in the artistry, they first have to become interested in the artists themselves. Lady Gaga and Adele do that: communicate very personally with their fans. I have people come and greet me that I’ve only met through social media. They want to know the person behind the art.” The tactic seems to be working: At the most recent season opening and the New Year’s Eve gala (sponsored by Louis Roederer Champagne), a healthy dose of stylish under-30s brought a 21st-century vibe to the dance floor.

ANALOG WATCHES: We don’t have to tell you that mechanical watches—with their crystals and complications and detailed workmanship— are cool. You’re reading this magazine. But with the rise of the smart watch over the past two years, it looked as if digital watches might be moving to the fore again.

However, demand has quickly leveled off as many people continue to relish the style and character of a classic timepiece, from fashion to luxury.

“Watches are inherently cool exactly because they’ve ‘lost’ some of their functionality, with everyone having a cell phone,” says fashion influencer and Instagram sensation Sam White (260,000 followers).

“It’s now a deliberate decision to wear a watch.” What’s more, as many hip-hop fans will attest, luxury watches can pair perfectly well with more casual garb. “I really like wearing a nicer watch with joggers and a hoodie, because the contrast can be unexpected, but not too flashy,” says White. “What’s also dope about watches is that there are a million-and-one different styles, bands, face sizes. With the smart watches and fitness bands, they all look very similar.” We’ll take standing out any day. —BY ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

43

food

1.

1. A well-balanced cheese board that offers hard and soft varieties.

2. New Orleans’ famed St. James Cheese Company.

3. Cheesemonger James Gentry, ACS CCP.

2.

C

The Big

Cheesy JAMES GENTRY provides a glimpse into the world of fine fromage.

44

heesemongers across the US are transforming the way we approach cheese. They not only stock, monitor, cut, wrap and sell it, these connoisseurs share the stories, history and science behind each artisan and farmhouse cheese in their cases. They know which are in season based on the grasses or hays the animals eat; they know the subtleties that distinguish the many cheeses in the blue family; they assist with pairings. With each sample they share, cheesemongers guide us to expand our knowledge and palates, giving us a glimpse into their passion.

One of the most passionate is James Gentry, an American Cheese Society Certified Cheese Professional (ACS CCP) who is head cheesemonger at New Orleans’ St. James Cheese Company, recognized as a Top Cheese Shop in America and a Top Ten Sandwich Shop by Travel + Leisure and Bon Appétit respectively. Gentry 3. took a circuitous road to becoming a cheesemonger, his journey representing many in the industry.

“I came from a working-class family. My only experience with cheese was that it either came from a can or from a deli,” he says with a smile.

Graduating with a degree in philosophy from UC San Diego, Gentry planned to attend either graduate or law school, but wanted to first take a few years off. After working in the food industry at several different restaurants, he secured a position in the Cheese, Beer and Wine division of Whole Foods in Seattle. He instantly became enthralled with cheese.

Gentry threw himself into his cheese studies. He read about it voraciously, tasted everything that came in, attended seminars and visited as many cheese shops as he could while taking notes in a journal.

He still remembers walking into his first cheese shop (where all the cheese looked the same to him) and feeling overwhelmed. It is a memory he holds on to when working with customers new to cheese.

“I want to welcome people to cheese without making any judgments.

I want you to buy something you will like so you’ll want to come back again.

It doesn’t matter what kind of cheese I like. I will ask a few questions to help you to figure out what you like, and then I’ll make suggestions based on your answers. Even [when I’m with] a customer with a very discerning palate and knowledge of cheese, I listen and make suggestions for them to try. It’s best to come in with an open mind and a willingness to try new things,” he emphasizes.

On his quest, Gentry traveled throughout the US and parts of Europe visiting cheese shops and farms, sampling cheeses and talking to other professionals. He realized that the cheesemonger’s role differs depending on where he or she lives.

“In France, because cheese is a way of life—really part of the fabric of customers’ lives—cheesemongers are more like caretakers of the cheese. In the US, it depends on what city you are in as to whether cheese is ingrained in the culture. In cases where it isn’t, cheesemongers are educators, sharing cheese knowledge from around the world,” he explains.

In 2012, Whole Foods sent Gentry to Colorado to take the inaugural cheese exam given by the American Cheese Society (ACS), which he passed with just over 100 other people from across the country. Each candidate must “demonstrate a mastery of cheese knowledge and best practices” by working 4,000 hours within six years in a cheese-related field and passing the certification exam. Only about 740 people in the US hold the title of ACS CCP. Gentry believes the certification is important to standardize basic knowledge and believes that, down the road, there will be multiple levels of ACS certification.

“It’s significant because [cheesemongers] are the last step before cheese goes to market. It’s my job to protect the integrity of that cheese as the cheesemaker or cheese ager intended it. If I don’t, it is a disservice to the effort, the passion of the person making the cheeses.”

Gentry later moved to New Orleans to work at St. James Cheese Company,

JAMES GENTRY’S PAIRINGS

ILLUSTRATION BY MUTE MOON

FOR LATE SPRING AND EARLY SUMMER

“Spring through early summer is goat milk season.

The cheeses I am usually most stoked on are the goat cheeses from the Loire Valley in France, one of the most historically important goat milk cheese producing regions in the world. I am rather fond of the cheeses from the region, specifically ash rind cheese such as Valancay, St. Maure and Selles sur Cher. All three of those cheeses, along with others from the region, pair exquisitely well with the famous wines of the same region: Sancerre, Vouvray, Chinon, Pouilly-Fume and rosé. But don’t ignore American goat cheeses like River’s Edge Chevre in Oregon, Goat Lady and Prodigal Farms in North Carolina, Vermont Butter and Cheese, and Capriole in Indiana, among many others making fabulous goat cheese on par with the French.”

Gentry took a circuitous road to becoming a cheesemonger, his journey representing many in the industry. opened by Danielle and Richard Sutton (who honed their knowledge of cheese by working at the 200-year-old cheese shop Paxton & Whitfield in England) a year after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. St. James makes its own charcuterie and celebrates about 400 unique artisan and farmhouse cheeses from around the US and the world.

“In places like the San Francisco Bay Area or New York City, there may be three or four cheese shops each with several locations. We are sort of an outpost here in New Orleans, the only cheese shop of significance from Austin to Atlanta. The owners took a risk and it has paid off.”

Like most other cheesemongers, Gentry believes there is always more to learn, so he pushes himself to expand his knowledge and experiences. Enter Adam Mosowich and Paul Kindstedt, two men revered by cheese enthusiasts because both have bolstered the industry in different ways. A scholar and University of Vermont professor, Kindstedt wrote the heralded book Cheese and Culture: A History of Cheese and its Place in Western Civilization.

Mosowich, president and owner of Larkin Cold Storage and Columbia Cheese, founded, organizes and hosts the Cheesemonger Invitational (CMI) and The Barnyard Collective. Both programs provide forums for cheese professionals to gather, discuss, collaborate, compete and learn about their craft.

Gentry regularly participates in the events. “The education and networking parts are arguably more important than the competition. It’s where friendships are made and contacts are created.

I have made life-long friends from participating in the CMI.” On competition day, challengers prove their prowess by taking on tasks such as completing a written test and doing a blind tasting of five cheeses. They must name the milk type, country of origin, what cheese it is most like, what cheese it is most unlike, and finally, identify the cheese. Mongers then typically face challenges such as cutting for exact weight and wrapping cheese while timed. Another task requires them to perfectly plate an assigned cheese, perfectly pair it with a beverage, and then create a perfect bite. Gentry has competed the last three years and placed in the top 10 each time.

“It is important for us to all gather. We share our passion and commiserate. It’s good to know that our struggles are not unique, that we all go through trying times and amazing experiences.

“I love this industry,” he continues. “It’s a small industry, but it’s filled with passionate, funny, kind-hearted people who care about the environment, about food, about the way to live and posterity.

“Plus, they all give good hugs.” —BY LESLEY RUBENSTEIN

45

recipe

NAPA CABBAGE SLAW with Melon & Strawberries INGREDIENTS: 1 head Napa cabbage, shredded 1 honeydew melon, seeded and julienned 1 cantaloupe, seeded and julienned 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and diced 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro 3 tablespoons chives, cut into 1/4-inch strips 1 tablespoon poppy seeds 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar Toss together all ingredients except honey and vinegar.

Combine honey and vinegar in a separate bowl, then add to slaw, tossing well to coat. Refrigerate; serve slightly chilled. Makes 8 servings.

ABOUT CYNTHIA CATHCART

C

ynthia Cathcart is the owner of Dallas-based Cafe Danielle Catering and Events. With more than 20 years of hospitality experience, Cathcart brings a wealth of new ideas and delicious treats to various clients across DFW. From customized menus to event planning and unique floral arrangements, Cathcart is a top-rated contact for any occasion you’re celebrating. For more details, please visit cafedaniellecateringandevents.com. Or to contact Cynthia Cathcart directly, call 214-288-8088 or email cafedanielle@gmail.com.

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end page

JEWELRY S

ince the beginning of humankind, jewelry has been worn to convey social status, often communicating power, prominence, or authority. For example, Caroline Astor, a formidable New York City Gilded Age doyenne, wore abundant diamond jewels to declare her social influence. Credited with establishing society’s “in and out” list, Mrs. Astor needed these jewels to validate her arbitration. And then there’s my friend Lenore, who always wears her best jewelry when checking in for flights and hotels. Why? To improve the odds of an upgrade. (And she usually gets them: now that’s truly magical!)

Today, jewelry still symbolizes strength and status. Take, for example, congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, whose trademark pearls seem to reflect the classic style of Barbara Bush and Jackie Kennedy. But unlike her predecessors, Pelosi sports the real thing: South Sea pearls in a signature statement necklace. (I’m not sure it’s helped her politically, but she sure looks powerful…) In addition to strength, jewelry is very much about sentiment. Some stones and talismans are even perceived to have magical properties. During her campaign, Hillary Clinton wore various personal pieces notable for their meaning, not their monetary value: a charm bracelet with her granddaughter Charlotte’s baby picture, a 40th wedding anniversary necklace. She recounts numerous people giving her “all kinds of charms, mementos that are important to them and I do keep them with me...I get so much love and support from my constituency...I want to remember that always.”

Certain style icons are memorable for jewelry choices that proclaim their personalities. Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue and artistic director of Condé Nast, wears Georgian rivière necklaces, often in multiples. The significance? Rare air. Instead of the more common Georgian-style chatelaine, Wintour favors the exclusive, harder to find, authentic antiques. This year, as Chanel celebrates its famous founder Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, the company is commemorating her spirit as “rebel at heart” with a new Gabrielle watch and jewelry collection.

I have my own talismans. A pendant with a Kazuko rose quartz heart wrapped in gold wire, for example, was a gift from the designer after we’d only just met. Sadly, she passed away not long after, so this piece is forever special to me. My favorites, however, are two gold bracelets from my maternal and paternal grandmothers. I always wear them together, for special occasions and family gatherings. And when I want good luck for important client meetings or job interviews, I bring my grandmas with me. Like Hillary, I’m enriched and inspired by the love and support that these wise women continue to offer me through their jewelry. —BY LAURIE SCHECHTER

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FROM LEFT: SHUTTERSTOCK. LG ELECTRONICS; MRS. WILLIAM ASTOR OIL ON CANVAS BY CAROLUS-DURAN, PARIS, 1890, COURTESY THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART. GAGE SKIDMORE.

THE LANGUAGE OF

BACHENDORF’S ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

SPRING/S UMMER 2017