Diamond Cellar

FA L L / H O L I D AY S 2 0 1 3 A C C E N T/ T H E M A G A Z I N E O F L I F E ’ S C E L E B R AT I O N S

TIME TO SHINE!

FASHIONS TO

FALL FOR

SOMETHING SPARKLY: GIFTS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

PLUS SPECIAL

BRIDAL SECTION

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WELCOME! Welcome to our latest issue of Accent magazine. I hope it gives you an excuse to pause for a moment during this busy pre-holiday season to discover the latest in jewelry, watch and bridal fashions. In addition to some fantastic designer profiles, this issue features a special Bridal Section that includes some wonderful photos provided by our customers.

And once again we’ve put together a Fall Fashion Section with clothes from Rowe Boutique right here in Columbus.

Plus you’ll find stories on travel, food and the arts. We’d love to hear from you with suggestions for future articles. And we wish you a happy, healthy fall and holiday season. It will be here before we know it!

SAVE THE DATE!

DESIGNERS’ GALA

DECEMBER 5-7

SPECIAL

FALL FASHION PAGE 35

BRIDAL SECTION

PAGE 45

DIAMOND CELLAR

EVENTS

PAGE 6

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CONTENTS FALL/HOLIDAYS 2013

6280 SAWMILL ROAD JUST SOUTH OF 161 AT THE CORNER OF MARTIN ROAD 614-336-4545 EASTON TOWN CENTER NEXT TO SMITH & WOLLENSKY

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614-923-6633 800-222-6642 DIAMONDCELLAR.COM

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P U B L I S H E D B Y T H E B J I FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER STU NIFOUSSI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN CREATIVE DIRECTOR HANS GSCHLIESSER MANAGING EDITOR JILLIAN LAROCHELLE PROJECT MANAGER LISA MONTEMORRA DESIGNERS CYNTHIA LUCERO

FEATURES 1 Welcome Letter

JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI

35 Fall Fashion

4 Easton Remodel

58 The Arts: Ballets Russes

6 Events

60 Food: Gulf Gourmet

10 Caring for the Community

62 Travel: Take a Drink-cation

12 Collections: Willow by David Yurman

66 Perfect Gems

PEG EADIE PRESIDENT AND CEO BRITTON JONES CHAIRMAN AND COO MAC BRIGHTON

70 Wine: Opus One Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary

14 Red Carpet: Dreamy in Black & White 16 Profile: Stephen Webster

PRODUCTION MANAGER

depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2013.

Accent® is published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550,

18 Community: CCAD

BRIDAL SECTION

20 Trend Report: Confident Chic

46 The Advice

212-686-4412 • Fax: 212-686-6821; All Rights Reserved. The

22 New Jewelry Collections

48 The Dress

publishers accept no responsibilities for advertisers’ claims,

26 Technology: CounterSketch Studio

51 The Diamonds 52 Diamond Cellar Weddings

Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175; Advertising Office: 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018,

unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. Volume 11, Issue 2. Accent® is a trade-

28 Watches: Icons in Time

54 The Ring

mark of Business Journals, Inc. registered in the U.S. Patent and

32 Books: The Art of Fashion

56 The Memories

Trademark office. Printed In The U.S.A.

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oyster perpe tual date just l ady 31

rolex

oyster perpetual and datejust are trademarks.

EASTON REMODEL

The Diamond Cellar at Easton Town Center was the subject of a recent whole-store remodel completed in early spring. In addition to new lighting, a variety of floor treatments were used to help define areas such as fashion and bridal.

The new design utilizes some interesting wall coverings as well, like wood flooring, silk and stone.

All the effort was rewarded when the store was named one of the coolest stores in America by Instore magazine for 2013. Instore, a jewelry industry magazine, especially liked the use of silver-toned frames in the bridal area, and the multitoned gear graphic and framed prints in the watch area.

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This is the box

THAT, FOR OVER SIXTY-FIVE YEARS,

HAS REPRESENTED THE FINEST JEWELRY AND TIMEPIECES IN THE WORLD AND THE VERY BEST VALUES AVAILABLE.

AND FOR GENERATION AFTER

GENERATION OF CUSTOMERS, IT’S STILL THE ONE

6280 Sawmill Road, Dublin

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they look for.

3960 New Bond Street, Easton Town Center

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www.diamondcellar.com

DIAMOND CELLAR EVENTS

This Page: Our 2013 Watch Event was the place to be for fans of fine timepieces, racing and all things mechanical thanks to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Columbus Cars and Coffee, who brought dozens of exotic autos to our Friday night kick-off. Opposite Top: For the third year, Diamond Cellar sponsored a VIP area for the Capital City Half Marathon, along with TAG Heuer.

Opposite Bottom: Diamond Cellar was a proud sponsor of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and the Mid-Ohio School for the 2013 season, including the title sponsorship for the Diamond Cellar Classic Grand-Am weekend.

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Pois Moi Collection

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CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

JUMPING FOR

HEALTHY FAMILIES

Each fall equestrians, pop bands and families converge in New Albany for one of the most unique fundraising events in the region, The New Albany Classic Invitational Grand Prix & Family Day presented by JPMorgan Chase & Co.

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he Classic was conceived by Abigail Wexner in 1998 and combines a world-class show jumping competition with a family festival and concert to support community-wide family violence initiatives led by The Center for Family Safety and Healing.

Through the support of corporations, foundations and individuals, The Classic has become an enormously successful fundraiser and an important vehicle to raise awareness and encourage action. The Diamond Cellar has been a valuable partner in this endeavor for several years, enabling The Classic to raise nearly $20 million and draw 200,000 people to the event to date.

The Classic, which is hosted at the Wexner home in New Albany, includes a variety of lively activities such as the Tween Brands Concert at The Classic presented by Justice & Brothers, and an international show jumping grand prix

featuring U.S. Olympians and international riders. Sports experiences, hands-on crafts, carnival rides, strolling entertainment, petting zoos and a food truck food court keep kids and adults alike entertained throughout the day-long event.

“The wholesome family activities, national entertainment and topnotch show jumping competition at The Classic keep families coming back year after year,” says Abigail Wexner, founder and host of the event. “We are enormously grateful to partners like The Diamond Cellar for their active participation in making the day so very special for our guests and riders from around the world.”

For more information about The Center for Family Safety and Healing, visit familysafetyandhealing.org. For more information about The New Albany Classic Invitational Grand Prix & Family Day, visit thenewalbanyclassic.com.

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COLLECTIONS

ORGANIC HARMONY

David Yurman’s new Willow collection is all about energy, enchantment and enduring magic.

“Like everything in nature, it’s perfectly asymmetric.”

—David Yurman

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t David Yurman’s country home is a pond, a peaceful place where willows arch over the water.

An early evening walk to this spot inspired Willow, a new jewelry collection he created with his wife, Sybil. The graceful designs interpret David Yurman’s iconic cable motif in a feminine way, and effortlessly layer with his existing collections.

Like fronds dancing on a light breeze, there is a kinetic energy in Willow. Each strand of cable is carefully placed to create a natural effect, with pavé diamonds shimmering like evening light on velvety, soft buds. “There’s a bit of

organic harmony,” says Yurman. “Like everything in nature, it’s perfectly asymmetric.”

Willow also takes a cue from the classics. As with all David Yurman collections, ancient art and symbolism shape each design. In mythology, the willow is the tree of enchantment.

Now, in precious metal and sparkling diamonds, you can also be captivated by the Willow collection’s enduring magic.

The range of styles includes bracelets, rings, necklaces and earrings in sterling silver and 18 karat gold with pavé diamonds.

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DIAMOND STUD EARRINGS FROM THE DIAMOND CELLAR.

Brilliant from any distance.

QUALITY FOR QUALITY, THE

BEST PRICE ANYWHERE. GUARANTEED.

Red Carpet

DAVE M. BENETT/GETTY IMAGES

BRAD PITT at the London premiere of World War Z

PIAGET

BRIT MARLING at the New York premiere of The East

DREAMY IN BLACK &WHITE Bling shines bright against fashion’s timeless palette.

STUART C. WILSON/GETTY IMAGES FOR PARAMOUNT PICTURES

JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

CHARRIOL

ZOE SALDANA at the London premiere of Star Trek: Into Darkness

AMBER VALLETTA at an EIF Women’s Cancer Research Fund event

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PIAGET

NORMAN SILVERMAN/KATERINA MAXINE

LUCIAN CAPELLARO/GETTY IMAGES FOR PARAMOUNT PICTURES

MIREILLE ENOS at the London premiere of World War Z

PATRICIA CLARKSON at the New York Premiere of The East

JAEGER-LECOULTRE

JANELLE MONAE at the BET Awards

CLIVE OWEN at the 66th Annual Cannes Film Festival

CARRIE PRESTON at the True Blood Season 6 premiere 15

JAEGER-LECOULTRE

STATE ROOM

LIZA MINELLI at Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center

PROFILE

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n addition to designing new pieces for his fearlessly creative fine jewelry collections, Stephen Webster has been busy rubbing elbows with British nobility and inspiring future generations of creative talent. We checked in with him to find out more about what he’s been up to over the past year.

INSPIRED DESIGNS For his current collections of covetable jewelry, Webster took a cue from the brand’s archives, spanning the last 37 years.

The newest pieces in the Fly by Night collection are inspired by nocturnal winged creatures found within deep, dark forests; motifs include nightingales, thorns and moth’s wings, emphasized by an elaborate use of blackened gold.

The timeless, elegant Deco Haze collection has also been updated this year. “The Art Deco period is easy to revisit as a jeweler due to the simplicity and cleanness of the design,” Webster explains. Crystal Haze is a technique he developed over 20 years ago that involves setting a faceted quartz crystal over a layer of natural precious stone, resulting in a holographic-like ‘haze’ of color. “The hexagonal silhouette which runs throughout Deco Haze focuses on the Crystal Haze stone, which is really what this collection is all about,” says the designer.

ON THE PATH TO KNIGHTHOOD Throughout his career, Webster’s accolades have included a three-time win of the British Luxury Jeweller of the Year award, an honorary degree from The Kent Institute of Art and Design, and the esteemed designation as a Liveryman of the City of London.

But on February 21st, in a ceremony officiated by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace, Webster received his highest honor yet: he was inducted as a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

“Receiving an MBE was a great honor for me, my family and all the people who work at Stephen Webster. We are all very proud to have been recognized by the Queen and U.K. government for services to training and skills in the jewelry industry,” Webster says. “I wasn’t nervous at all; the whole experience of having my wife and two daughters in the palace was just exciting.”

While an MBE does not automatically designate knighthood — or the title ‘Sir’ — Webster is eligible to advance in rank and hopes to one day receive that distinction.

THE FUTURE

SIR STEPHEN

GIVING BACK Stephen Webster has long been an advocate of ethically and socially mined materials. He is an ambassador for Fairtrade and Fairmined Gold, and works closely with Forevermark diamonds. He also travels to mines in Tanzania and Peru to establish ties with the mining communities there and trace the origins of his materials.

In his newest role as curator of the British Fashion Council’s Rock Vault, Webster lends his enthusiasm, guidance and support to Britain’s up-and-coming jewelry design talent. “When I started designing there were a few people (David Yurman, Theo Fennell and Alex Sepkus were very generous with their encouragement) who might have given me a little advice, but on the whole there wasn’t too much help on offer.”

The goal is to foster budding businesses and promote new British fine jewelry brands internationally through fashion weeks, exhibitions and showcases. “I have always enjoyed seeing people become successful in an industry that at times can be challenging,” says Webster.

Acclaimed jewelry designer Stephen Webster has been a very busy Brit.

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COMMUNITY

PARTNERS IN EMPOWERMENT

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t was a collaboration that was meant to be: For three years the Diamond Cellar has teamed up with CCAD to empower the students in their Advanced Jewelry - Small Metals class to create unique ring designs. The winning designer receives $1,000 toward the production of their design, and a place at the Diamond Cellar’s Designers’ Gala alongside some of the jewelry industry’s most famous designers.

This year’s winner, Amanda Huddilston, was both excited and surprised to learn that her design would become a reality. “I couldn't help but just feel scared, nervous and happy at the same time. It was almost like a dream: a really good dream!” she says. Amanda has been interested in metal work and jewelry since attending high school in her hometown of Cincinnati. “I've set my sights on being a bench jeweler and perhaps even a designer,” she says.

“But I know I have so much to learn and having this opportunity with the Diamond Cellar has really opened my eyes to the jewelry industry.” Amanda plans to produce her ring with a matte material base and diamond accents. “The shape of the ring reminds me a lot of an egg.

I find inspiration and drive from quirky and creative jewelry,” she explains.

This year’s student designs were judged by a small group of wellknown jewelry designers including Charles Krypell and Michael Bondanza, along with designer goldsmiths from the Diamond Cellar and Diamond Cellar CEO Andy Johnson. “I’m continually impressed with the creativity and imagination that come through in the students’ designs,” says Johnson. “We are excited about our partnership with CCAD and about the many possibilities for collaboration in the future.”

In addition to sponsoring the student design contest and the CCAD fashion show, the Diamond Cellar has helped bring famous jewelry

“I’m continually impressed with

the creativity and imagination in the students’ designs” Andy Johnson

Diamond Cellar CEO

Winning ring design by Amanda Huddilston

designers to CCAD, including David Yurman, Stephen Webster and Ippolita. “We are fortunate to have relationships with some of the best jewelry designers in the world, and to be able to bring them to Columbus, and to CCAD, is quite rare,” says Johnson. “For the students, it’s a real thrill to meet a working artist, to hear about their inspiration and learn about their path to success.”

Diamond Cellar customers will have the opportunity to meet Amanda Huddilston and see her finished ring at our 2013 Designers’ Gala, December 5th through 7th. We can’t wait to see the finished piece!

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Three Exceptional Jewelers and a Collection of the World’s Best Brands, All Under One Umbrella.

The Woodlands, Texas www.donohos.com

Columbus, Ohio www.diamondcellar.com

Tulsa, Oklahoma www.brucegweber.com DIAMOND CELLAR HOLDINGS is a family of three of the finest jewelers in the United States.

Each store has its own unique heritage, but together they represent almost 150 years of history in the jewelry business. We’ve built our reputation on excellent service, fine craftsmanship and unwavering integrity. That’s why the world’s top jewelry and watch brands trust us. And so can you.

A. Jaffe Aaron Basha Adolpho Courrier Alex Woo Baume & Mercier Bell & Ross Breitling Carla Amorim Cartier Charles Krypell Christian Bauer Christine Cooper Hill Christopher Designs Corum

Collegiate Jewels David Yurman Denise Roberge Di Modolo Elizabeth Locke Forevermark Goldman Diana Girard Perregaux Graf von Faber-Castell Gregg Ruth Harry Kotlar Hermes Ippolita Ivanka Trump

Jaeger-LeCoultre Jay Strongwater JB Star John Hardy Kwiat Lagos Marco Bicego Memoire Michael Beaudry Michael Bondanza Michele Mikimoto Patek Philippe Penny Preville

Precision Set Raymond Weil Robert Procop Roberto Coin Roberto Coin Cento Rolex Scott Kay Sterling & Bridal Stephen Webster Soho SUWA Swiss Army TAG Heuer TW Steel William Henry Studio

TREND REPORT

CONFIDENT

CHIC

Daring designs make this a season to celebrate!

LORRAINE DEPASQUE

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n jewelry and fashion, the attitude this season is all about self-assured style. As the year has unfolded, designers of both have been showing us collections that focus on strong silhouettes, sculptural shapes and bold color. “In fashion, we’re seeing a new, highly polished adult elegance — finally!” says David Wolfe, creative director of international fabric, color and style forecasting agency The Doneger Group in New York City.

“Pantsuits are practical and polished, dresses have simple and sophisticated lines, and accessories have strong shapes with refined detailing,” he explains. And the jewelry? “It’s classy, not flashy!”

This fresh, confident chic style frequently channels the Fabulous Forties: lots of cinched waists, full circular skirts, and good-taste glamour like you see on film stars in all those postwar era films, where

everyone was dressed to the nines.

For us this season, that 1940s spirit lives side-by-side with style evoked by the two decades that preceded it, too. Says Cindy Edelstein, president of the Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, marketing and trends specialist in contemporary fine designer luxury brands, “Often it takes more than one cultural wave to create a major trend tsunami, and this year we had the Downton Abbey craze crash into The Great Gatsby. The romanticism of flappers and moonshine speakeasies inspired many goldsmiths to create geometric-shaped jewels that borrowed from the silhouettes and symmetry of Art Deco.”

Given the new Forties flair that’s recently entered the scene, there are many jewelry collections being done in bold yellow or rose gold.

Cocktail rings are one

From top: Ivanka Trump pink opal and diamond pendant in 18K gold from the Toulouse collection, inspired by Art Deco, Ivanka Trump aquamarine and 18K white gold layering necklace from the Patras collection, Stephen Webster Fly by Night collection stacking rings with black and white diamonds

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Clockwise from top left: Roberto Coin bangles and rings in high-polished 18K rose gold from the Pois Moi collection, Charles Krypell sterling silver lariat necklace with black sapphires, Charles Krypell sterling silver and black sapphire bracelet with toggle clasp, Ivanka Trump bold gold ring in 18K yellow gold from the Metropolis collection, Roberto Coin rings in 18K rose gold from the Black Jade collection, featuring green chalcedony and black jade, Stephen Webster hexagonal silhouette earrings of green agate and the designer’s signature faceted quartz crystal, from the 1920s-inspired Deco Haze collection

key to Forties fab; as you may recall, the mammoth rings came into fashion in the Thirties but grew in popularity in the 1940s and 1950s.

Some of the best new cocktail rings — also known as ‘dinner rings’ back then — are rose gold. “It’s great to see rose gold back in the spotlight again,” says Edelstein. “Gold in general is coming on strong, warming up the big ‘white out’ that we saw in metals for the past few years.”

incidentally, comes in a spectrum of shades — black, pink, pale green — and that’s part of the excitement of new contemporary opal designs.

October girls may claim opal as their birthstone, but it’s a gem so mesmerizing that every woman should have something special in opal.

Fashionable Shades In the coming months, as you add to your colored gemstone jewelry wardrobe, consider blue, pink, green and black. Some of the best blues in the new collections are aquamarine, lapis, tanzanite, blue sapphire and blue topaz. There’s a great deal more lapis and tanzanite fashion jewelry this year than last, so definitely ask us to show you some new pieces in these stunning gems.

In pink, some of the hottest looks come in tone-on-tone, rose gold jewelry set with one or more of these pink-hued gems: pink opal, pink sapphire, rose quartz, pink tourmaline, or pink-hued mandarin garnet.

With Emerald being the 2013 Pantone Color of the Year, finding something with emeralds that’s exactly to your taste is easy this year.

But because of Pantone’s brilliant choice, luxury brands have some other great greens in their new collections too, especially opal, green chalcedony, chrysoberyl and green agate. Vivid green gems were popular during the Art Deco period, so again, with jewelry designers beautifully obsessed with the retro aesthetic, you’ll find some dazzling greens in new jewelry that echoes that glamorous era in particular.

Finally, rounding out our fab four of important gem colors this season... black is back. Of course, as David Wolfe says, “Black never, ever really goes away.” Not in clothes, and certainly not in jewelry. What tends to trend, however, are the different varieties of black stones; this year, be sure to look at new noir statements in black jade, black sapphire, black diamond and black onyx.

Stacking for Style Dramatic ring looks can also be created through the art of stacking. For holiday 2013, being in vogue — for daywear and evening — often means stacking on rings and bangles and layering in pendants with necklaces. “With all the clean lines and pure shapes in fashion — sans the details of seasons past — fall/winter readyto-wear and couture is perfect for layering on jewelry,” says Wolfe.

Especially with gifting season coming up, jewelry that stacks and layers should definitely be a part of your wish list. No woman can ever have too many bands, bracelets, necklaces or pendants! “While stacking has been popular for awhile,” says Edelstein, “a new added trend this year is putting on multiples of tiny bands, ultra-thin bangles, and wispy chains for a more delicate, yet still very interesting, layered look.”

Many of the newest uber-long chains have stations of gem slices that impart pops of color. Because light passes through the twodimensional sliced gems, much like when sunlight shines through a stained glass window, the jewels always have a liveliness to them.

On-trend Gems

Without a doubt, both emeralds and opals continue to shine as some of the most ‘in’ gems this season. Both stones began propelling back into fashion popularity in early 2012, but now you’ll see many innovative looks with these special gems. Opal, not

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NEW COLLECTIONS TUDOR

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or years, watch fans in Europe and Asia have had access to timepieces by Tudor while, in the United States, we’ve been waiting patiently for their return to our shores. We’re proud to announce the wait is over. In August, the Diamond Cellar became one of only 100 stores in the country—and the only store in Ohio— chosen to relaunch this iconic brand in the US. Tudor was originally conceived by Rolex as a value-priced alternative, and it remains that way today. Prices range from about $2,000 to $5,000. See them at our Sawmill Road store.

POIS MOI BY ROBERTO COIN

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fter the huge success of his Appassionata collection, Roberto Coin was looking for something with an innovative design that was able to become an evergreen for its style, just as Appassionata did. The new Pois Moi collection has an ultra-modern design with a touch of vintage taste and is able to fit any woman perfectly. Its pattern comes from mixing different texture ideas, from the world of golf, from the recent shiny return of gold and from the ‘pois trend’ in the most famous fashion shows. These moods had never been introduced in the world of jewelry before. Furthermore the soft square shape finds its inspiration in the Italian vintage trend called ‘television shape,’ recalling the old monitors of the 1950s.

FABER-CASTELL

D

id you know that the Diamond Cellar now carries fine writing instruments from Faber-Castell? Yes, the same company that invented the No. 2 pencil! Faber-Castell was founded in 1761 and is world renowned for its high-quality fine writing instruments and accessories in the Graf von Faber-Castell product line. Graf von FaberCastell is an exclusive luxury brand of writing instruments and desk accessories that combine form with function, using elegant and sometimes rare materials that epitomize the beauty of writing. Fine writing instruments from Faber-Castell start at $75.

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A little color can make a big splash

The colored stone jewelry collection, exclusively at the Diamond Cellar.

ALEX WOO

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lex Woo delicately balances the trendy ‘must-have’ and the classic into sleek and stylish designs that evoke the bold strength of today’s woman, while keeping intact her natural femininity. As a direct result of always challenging herself to find unique and intriguing ways to accessorize, Alex Woo has attracted an established client list of fashion editors, stylists, trendsetters and celebrities. Each piece is handcrafted and often signed by the designer, ensuring that the quality is unsurpassed.

MICHAEL KORS

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ew to our collection of timepieces at the Sawmill Road store are watch models from designer Michael Kors. Since launching his namesake brand 30 years ago, Michael Kors has offered distinctive designs, materials and craftsmanship with a jet-set aesthetic that combines stylish elegance and a sporty attitude. The Michael Kors collection of watches starts at around $160.

SCOTT KAY FASHION

T

he best way to describe Scott Kay is through the words of the designer himself. “My work represents a strong reflection to how someone wishes to express themselves. This expression is different to everyone… day or night, spiritual, strong or harmonious.

It is my desire to create opportunities for those that wear my designs to feel special, sexy or adventurous through a manner of their own expression.”

BELL & ROSS

E

ach Bell & Ross watch is an exceptional piece built around a highly complex and precise mechanism, which day after day takes part in the conquest of the sky, land and sea. Designed for professionals who demand optimal reliability, Bell & Ross watches meet four fundamental principles: readability, performance, precision and water-resistance.

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grande Colore

Nobody does big color like the Diamond Cellar

6280 Sawmill Road, Dublin

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3960 New Bond Street, Easton Town Center

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www.diamondcellar.com

TECHNOLOGY

FROM DREAM TO REALITY Our new CounterSketch Studio program makes custom design fun and simple.

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f your dream is to reset your engagement diamond into a modern setting that better represents your style, or you have some special gemstones you’ve been hoping to use in a new piece of jewelry, you’re going to love CounterSketch Studio, the latest addition to the Diamond Cellar’s custom design toolbox.

CounterSketch Studio is a fully 3-dimensional Computer Aided Design (CAD) software package with photrealistic rendering and realtime price estimate capabilities. Starting with a virtual inventory within the software, you can choose a basic design, then quickly and easily alter the flow, line and detail of the design for true customization. Using your gemstones, we can tailor a setting to precisely match their dimensions. And you see the results instantly!

The virtual inventory of CounterSketch Studio reflects the most popular and current styling. More than 2,000 ring styles are available, and the inventory also includes pendants and men’s rings. The virtual inventory is continually updated and new styles are added frequently.

The process is simple. You’ll sit down with a Diamond Cellar sales associate to review your needs and choose a starting design. From there, the design can be altered to precisely fit your gemstones. Details such as finish, side stones and metal color are quickly and easily changed. All the while you’ll see a 3D, realistic rendering of your piece.

The software outputs a CAD file of your design, which is sent directly to the caster. The piece is then finished, gemstones are set, and your

new jewelry gets a final polish. The whole process can be completed in as little as two weeks, depending on the complexity of the design.

Matching wedding bands are available for many of the bridal rings found in CounterSketch Studio. When the engagement ring is customized, the matching band automatically adjusts to the changes. We can add bead-set or channel-set gemstones and even add milgrain to the band with a single mouse click.

CounterSketch Studio represents the latest in custom jewelry design, and we know our customers are going to love it as much as we do!

This progression of design renderings shows just a few of the many possibilities for customization. Starting with a piece from the virtual inventory, CounterSketch can change elements of the design such as metal or gemstone color, and metal finish.

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WATCHES

ICONS IN TIME ROBERTA NAAS

THE DAYTONA Rolex has been an auto racing sponsor since it first became involved with the Daytona International Speedway races in 1959. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until several years later, around 1963, that the brand unveiled its now much-coveted Daytona watch, a favorite of the legendary Paul Newman. Over the past 50 years, the much-clamored-for Rolex Daytona has naturally evolved, as has Rolexâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s involvement with auto sports. The brand continues to sponsor the Rolex 24 at Daytona endurance race, as well as other events. It also continues to unveil auto-inspired Daytona pieces, like this Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona in 18K Everrose gold, with a fixed engraved black ceramic bezel and gold Oysterlock clasp.

THE CALATRAVA Just over 80 years old, the Patek Philippe Calatrava has remained committed to its original design philosophy for eight decades. First unveiled to the world in 1932, the sleek round watch with its elegant case and immediately identifiable hobnail pattern was, at the time, an avant-garde design. Created in the pursuit of perfection, the Calatrava fast became an iconic timepiece, embodying everything a pure dress watch should be. The Calatrava collection predominantly consists of simple three-hand and time/date pieces.

This newest Calatrava Ref. 5227G in 18K white gold houses a mechanical self-winding movement and offers a sweep seconds hand and date aperture. Classically elegant, with an invisible hinge dust cover, it is nonetheless water resistant to 30 meters.

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ONE OF A KIND, ONE PIECE AT A TIME, EACH BY HAND

THE CARRERA This year marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary TAG Heuer Carrera. The first was introduced in 1963, and it has since been worn by legendary drivers and celebrities. Jack Heuer, who conceived of the watch, was inspired by the Carrera de Pan American races. “That was the most dangerous race. Drivers would travel at speeds of about 160 miles per hour over rough terrain. In five years, 35 people were killed; they had to stop the races,” explains Heuer. “But that was the first I had heard the name Carrera — I knew I had to use it for a watch. It was sexy. It meant something.

It was a perfect name.” The first Carrera was an incredibly legible chronograph, and while the line has evolved, it has remained true to that creed of legibility. This 50th Anniversary Jack Heuer Carrera, in stores this October, features the house-made 1887 caliber and is stopwatch inspired, with crown at 12:00. It also offers pulsometer and tachymeter scale.

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freelancer collection

BOOKS

THE ART OF

FASHION

Coffee table ‘candy’ as tasty to look at as it is to read. JEFFREY FELNER

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t a time when it seems our entire world has been digitized, many of us still find it a great comfort to indulge in the luxury of a ‘real’ book. The subjects of these five unique titles range from legendary style icons to some of the greatest designers of the 20th century. For the fashionably curious friends in your life, give the holiday gift that will last a lifetime: the gift of great style. treasure trove of shoe design, reminding us that in the 1950s, among Bally, Delman, Beth Levine, David Evins and the Julianellis, Vivier was the master of them all. His forward-looking designs were the precursors to modern footwear, works of wearable art that graced the shelves of fine shoe salons the world over. He was the innovator, the inventor, the prodigy who inspired an industry.

Audrey in Rome by Luca Dotti is a love letter from an adoring son to his wonderful mother. The book remembers Hepburn in the most endearing, iconic and, at times, melancholy way, though it never descends to the maudlin or schmaltzy.

We are treated to candid photographs that celebrate a woman with unrivaled star power and charisma.

Roger Vivier by Virginie Mouzat and Colombe Pringle is a

C. Z. Guest: American Style Icon by Susanna Salk reminds us it’s not about what you wear, but how you wear it. Style, while it can be refined and cultivated over time, must come from an innate inner quality that cannot be bought or passed down genetically. Guest has been compared to a real live Tracy Lord — the part played by

Grace Kelly in High Society — but with more humor, less entitlement, less gravitas and much more pizzazz.

Empress of Fashion: A Life of Diana Vreeland by Amanda Mackenzie Stuart takes the reader on a journey from Vreeland’s childhood through to her death, sharing information that was never before assembled within one volume. This is a full photographic rendition of Vreeland’s life that includes her parents, sister, adoring husband, children and grandchildren. It is a rare and welcome view of her private life, which is so often overlooked in favor of the glossy (and more obvious) aspects of her life as a public figure.

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The Master of Us All: Balenciaga, His Workrooms, His World by Mary Blume is as much a series of short stories as it is a biography of this rarely written-about designer.

Blume compiles years of interviews with the few intimates who survive one of the greatest international fashion designers that ever lived. Chiefly, she spoke to colleagues Hubert de Givenchy, mentored by Balenciaga and also a friend for many years, and Florette, a vendeuse at Balenciaga’s salon for many decades and the primary source of most of the neverbefore-heard stories.

Jeffrey Felner is a fashion writer and critic. Find more of his book reviews at nyjournalofbooks.com.

Celebrate.

The three-stone anniversary ring from the Diamond Cellar.

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FALL FASHION Fallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorites for 2013 range from futuristic prints to an unexpected mix of textures and luxurious fabrics.Whether you are dressing up for a night out or dressing down for a day of play, we have you covered with four of our favorite trends.

Clothing by Rowe Boutique

This page: Denise RobergĂŠ Leather and 22K Yellow Gold Coin Bracelet $6,220, Charles Krypell Sterling Silver and Black and White Sapphire Saddle Ring $2,596, Cord Bracelet with Black Onyx Beads $710, Cord Bracelet with Sterling Silver and Diamond Beads $1,545, Rolex Stainless Steel and 18K Yellow Gold Datejust with Diamond Bezel $16,150, Elizabeth Locke 19K Yellow Gold Dragon Pendant $3,800, David Yurman Potpourri Bead Necklace $3,300 Opposite page: Ippolita Pyrite Gelato Necklace $9,500, Patek Philippe 18K Rose Gold Calatrava with Diamond Bezel $30,800, Scott Kay Olive Sapphire Ring $1,095, Stephen Webster Envy Eye Pendant $695, 18K Yellow Gold Stardust Bangle $12,000, Yellow Gold Remount Ring Prices Vary, Ippolita Pyrite Lollipop Ring with Diamonds $2,395

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THE GILDED AGE Gold has always added a certain alluring element to any garment. The opulent shine of the hue creates a look of luxury that is ubiquitous this season.

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DON’T SWEAT IT

Sweatshirts are no longer just for casual wear.

Fashion ‘It Girls’ are wearing theirs in less sporty ways. Try pairing your sweatshirt with leather trousers, fitted blazers and jewels this season for a chic yet oh-so-comfortable look.

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This page: Stephen Webster African ButterďŹ&#x201A;y Earrings $14,500, Stephen Webster African ButterďŹ&#x201A;y Ring $11,500, Rolex Datejust with Diamond Bezel $19,500, Scott Kay Sterling Silver Heart Pendant $425, David Yurman Cable Coil Necklace $1,750 Opposite page: Scott Kay Black Spinel and Tsavorite Garnet Alligator Ring $595, David Yurman Classic Watch $2,900, Scott Kay Bangles starting at $115, Stephen Webster Silver Superstud Necklace $695, Stephen Webster RhodiumPlated Silver Superstud Necklace $795, Scott Kay Sterling Silver and Black Spinel Drop Earrings $395

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This page: Rolex Stainless Steel and 18K White Gold Daisy Datejust $10,700, David Yurman Sterling Silver Midnight Melange Bracelet with Diamonds $2,700, David Yurman Sterling Silver Midnight Melange Bracelet with Diamonds $2,400, Rhodium-Plated 14K White Gold and Diamonds Ring $990, Ippolita 18K Yellow Gold Stardust Dome Ring $9,500, Sterling Silver and 14K Yellow Gold Teardrop Pendant with Diamonds $11,748 Opposite page: Penny Preville Sapphire and Diamond Ring $2,995, 18K White Gold Agate, Sapphire, and Diamond Earrings $2,385, Roberto Coin Sterling Silver Stingray Necklace $836, Baume & Mercier Stainless Steel Linea $3,950, Ippolita Hematite Stella Ring with Diamonds $1,995

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OUT OF THIS WORLD

In a galaxy far far away, there lived a fashion trend that has just landed on this planet. Galactic prints, glittering fabrics and moon-like jewels are creating a fashion universe that is totally out of this world.

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This page: John Hardy Hematite Naga Batu Square Ring $895, Rolex 18K White Gold Daytona with Diamond Bezel $53,400, Black Mother-of-Pearl and Rhodium Flower Ring with Diamonds $1,320, Stephen Webster Sterling Silver Superstud Earrings with Black Diamonds $1,195, Stephen Webster Sterling Silver Cats Eye Crystal Haze Necklace $1,295, Stephen Webster Sterling Silver Stud and Diamond Chain $850, John Hardy Batu Bedeg Tassel $1,495, Stephen Webster Sterling Silver and Rhodium-Plated Forget-Me-Knot Bangles $795 Opposite page: Tahitian Pearl and Diamond Necklaces, Price Upon Request, Ippolita Mother-of-Pearl Lollipop Ring $3,295, 18K White Gold Diamond Halo Ring $29,925, Rolex Stainless Steel and 18K Rose Gold Datejust with Diamond Accented Bezel $14,250

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LUXE LEATHER

Leather is the chameleon of the season, taking on many shapes and forms from rocker chic to feminine flair. No matter what your style, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no going wrong when adding a touch of leather to your wardrobe.

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M etropolis collec tion 18 K B r u s h e d Ye ll o w G o l d 路 D iamo n ds

i va nk a trump

THE ADVICE

Rethink your setting, refresh your ring! metals. Add diamond eternity bands (prong set or channel set), or try more colorful gemstones for a change. Mix modern with vintage.

Whatever combination you choose, creating an outline on either side of your original rings will often enhance their importance.

Re-setting your diamond will give your rings a brand new look while holding on to the sentiment of your original commitment. One caveat: If it’s an old family heirloom, we will need to have our jewelers carefully inspect your gemstone to be sure there are no imperfections or flaws that could affect remounting. Assuming it’s fine, you have several options: adding baguette side stones, creating a halo of smaller diamonds around the center stone (a popular option these days), or working with our experts to custom design a unique and original setting.

If you don’t want to re-set your stone, a current trend is to stack on additional bands for a layered effect. Add as many as you like: the only limitation is the length of your finger! Mix

Platinum is known for being the strongest metal; is that my best choice for bridal jewelry?

Platinum is definitely a great choice because of its strength; white gold has also been popular for the past few decades. But yellow gold is making a big fashion comeback and there’s no reason it can’t also be used for bridal jewelry.

In fact, stylish celebrities from Jennifer Aniston to Miley Cyrus have recently chosen yellow gold for their rocks! The perception that yellow gold is soft is true only in its purest form: 24 karat. The most popular form is 14 karat, a blend of pure gold with an alloy

B R I D A L

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S E C T I O N

that actually makes it extremely durable and a great choice for bridal jewelry.

Nothing gets my diamond rings clean like a visit to the store for a professional polish. But how can I get the same sparkle between cleanings?

Google “how to clean a diamond” and you’ll read about home steam cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, toothpaste, baking soda solutions, denture-cleaning tablets, ammonia and warm soapy water. Bottom line: it’s always best to visit us for a complimentary inspection and cleaning whenever you think it’s needed. We also carry some excellent cleansers and ultrasonics that can be safely used at home between professional cleanings if you so desire. Your diamond is precious: why mess around with home remedies?

IMAGE COURTESY PRECISION SET

I love my wedding and engagement rings, but I’m ready for a change. Any suggestions for an easy update?

I S

M Y

E V E RY T H I N G

THE CENTER OF MY UNIVERSE™ FROM FOREVERMARK

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Less than one percent of the world ’s diamonds c an c arr y the Forevermark inscription — a promise that each is beautif ul, rare and responsibly sourced .

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S H E

Forevermark is part of the De Beers group of companies.

THE DRESS

FALL 2013 STYLES Clockwise: Papillon, Madeline and Creme Brulee designed by Monique Lhuillier

SPRING 2014 STYLES Clockwise: Paris, Intrigue and Jolie designed by Monique Lhuillier

GownEnvy

DROP-DEAD-GORGEOUS DRESSES FOR THE DISCERNING BRIDE. Disappointed by the lack of options during her own search for a wedding gown, Monique Lhuillier decided to take matters into her own hands. Driven by a lifelong love of fashion and a natural inclination towards bridal and evening dresses, she set out to present a collection of modern and fashion-forward wedding gowns. Lhuillier and husband Tom Bugbee established the brand in 1996, and she showed her first collection that same year to acclaim from buyers, press and consumers.Today, Monique Lhuillier is recognized as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foremost bridal and evening gown designers.

Based on the success of her couture gowns, Lhuillier has expanded her offerings to a complete readyto-wear collection, bridesmaids dresses and gowns for special events. A red carpet favorite, stars from Jessica Chastain to BeyoncĂŠ regularly show off Monique Lhuillier designs at awards shows and events.

Reese Witherspoon, Carrie Underwood and Vanessa Lachey all recently wed in gowns by the designer.

Despite the limiting parameters of wedding gown design (of which color is the most obvious), Lhuillier manages to present fresh and inspired designs season after season. This year, look for lots of tulle and texture, overlays and lace. Necklines are tasteful, and sleeves are surprisingly sheer and sexy. Threedimensional embellishments, including delicate butterflies and flowers, add just the right finishing touch.

Monique Lhuillier has become synonymous with refined design, meticulous construction and unparalleled glamour. What more could you ask for in your once-in-a-lifetime dress?

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S E C T I O N

PEACE OF MIND STARTS WITH PROOF OF QUALITY. Weight Carat 1.53

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THE DIAMONDS

AJourney Gems Your search for the perfect diamond engagement ring can be overwhelming enough without having to worry that the stones you choose were mined safely and ethically. Luckily, as part of the De Beers group of companies, the world’s foremost diamond experts for over 120 years, Forevermark can guarantee the conflict-free origins and unsurpassed quality of each of its stones.

Forevermark diamonds only come from sources that are committed to the highest business, social and environmental standards. Not only are they conflict-free, but they actively benefit the people, communities and countries from which they originate. Each and every partner must meet the Forevermark Integrity Requirements, a groundbreaking set of rigorous standards for the diamond industry. The world’s leading independent auditor, Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS), continually inspects and monitors every Forevermark partner to ensure compliance with these standards. This ongoing process ensures that the supply chain is deemed responsible at every stage.

Once the responsibly mined stones arrive at The Forevermark Diamond Institute in Antwerp, Belgium, expert gemologists assess each one according to the most rigorous criteria in the industry. The diamonds are then beautifully cut and crafted, using skill and artistry passed down through generations by a select group of master craftsmen called Forevermark Diamantaires. After a polished stone is deemed worthy of B R I D A L

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the designation, the Forevermark icon and a unique identification number are inscribed on its table facet. Ultimately, less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are eligible to bear this inscription.

Invisible to the naked eye, the actual size of the Forevermark inscription is only 1/20th of a micron deep and can only be seen using a special viewer available at authorized jewelers. It is confirmed by leading gemological institutes that the Forevermark inscription does not affect the internal quality of a diamond in any way. The Forevermark icon inscribed on each diamond is simply a promise that the diamond has been carefully selected to meet Forevermark’s standards of beauty, rarity and responsibility.

The expert gemologists then personally approve each exclusive Forevermark Diamond Grading Report — about the shape and size of a passport — with meticulous attention to detail. The cut, color, clarity and caratage of each diamond are clearly identified, along with the unique identification number inscribed on the diamond and a specifically designed security hologram, providing reassurance that the Forevermark Diamond Grading Report is valid and genuine.

As you select your perfect Forevermark diamond, your authorized jeweler will present you with this Forevermark Diamond Grading Report, an accurate blueprint of the one diamond you’ll want to spend the rest of your life with.

S E C T I O N

ENGAGEMENTS

& WEDDINGS

To have and to hold...

Jenny Haas Photography

Jim Sanders Photography

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Liz Greene, I Love You So Photography

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&

JACOB BAHAREH RITTER

Jake and Bahareh attended the same high school and college, but their paths never crossed! Twelve days after they (finally) met, they went on their first date. Jake proposed to Bahareh last summer with a beautiful Forevermark engagement ring.

The cool thing: he set up a hidden camera and caught the entire proposal on video!

&

KEN SABRINA SURI-GILBERT

Ken and Sabrina dated for seven years before their three-day marriage celebration! The festivities included a Sangeet party, a ladies luncheon with Henna artists, three dress-changes, a Catholic ceremony, a Hindu ceremony, and a 350-guest fusion reception. Sabrina says it was “the most magical weekend of our lives,” and continues to celebrate with her custom-made engagement ring and wedding band.

Jillian Mitchell Photography

&

DANNY JESSICA IRWIN

Due to busy schedules, Jessica and Danny decided to celebrate Valentine’s Day one day early on February 13, 2010. While walking though Sensenbrenner Park, the spot of their first date, Danny surprised Jessica by popping the question with a romantic proposal and a stunning halo engagement ring.

&

DAVID STEPHANIE HART

David proposed to Stephanie with a Claddagh ring while vacationing in Ireland — how fitting! When they returned to the States, Stephanie and David visted our Easton location, where they set her greatgrandmother’s diamond in a gorgeous, vintage-style mounting.

&

ANDREW MORGAN GRANT

Daniel Gormal Photography

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Andrew and Morgan vacationed at Disney World over the summer, where Morgan was reunited with her second-favorite man (Mickey Mouse!). To her surprise, Mickey handed her a ring as Andrew got on one knee. She and her Prince Charming are engaged to be married in August 2014!

THE RING

BY LORRAINE D E PASQUE

SomethingBold SomethingYou! TODAY’S BRIDAL JEWELRY OFFERS DAZZLING DETAILS TO EMPHASIZE PERSONAL TASTE.

“Don’t settle for a relationship that won’t let you be yourself” is one of Oprah Winfrey’s most famous and repeated quotes about the bond between two people in love. In the same way, no bride-to-be should settle for wedding rings that won’t let her be herself. How fortunate then that there are so many choices today.

White,Yellow, Rose... or Maybe Two-toned?

Be open to the possibilities, because the new rule is that there are no rules! White gold or platinum, yellow gold or rose gold — it’s up to you. In an Accent exclusive interview with Colin Cowie, renowned wedding and event planner/design consultant/television personality/author of 11 books and a spokesman for Platinum Guild International, Cowie reminds brides that “just like looking at pictures of your wedding day hairstyle, you never want to look at your wedding rings in 20 years and ask, ‘What was I thinking?’” So whatever your personal style, be sure to choose something that you love now and can see yourself loving for years to come.

Diamond Cuts with Cachet The important thing to remember about diamond cuts is the better the cut, the more brilliant the stone.

A strong trend has been rings that evoke past eras, so by extension, the diamonds used in those rings — especially cushion cuts, rose cuts and emerald cuts — are vintage in feel. Cushions, particularly, have had incredible renewed popularity. Another beautiful choice is a ring designed with a halo of small stones around the cushion-cut center stone, giving the center diamond an even bigger look.

Whatever setting and stone you decide on, remember that white diamonds aren’t the only option. You may want to look at blue sapphire (thanks to Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, more brides than ever are selecting this option as a center stone). Even more popular are natural color diamonds: yellow, pink, blue, green... the full spectrum.

And did you know that natural color diamonds are actually rarer than white diamonds? So while a diamond engagement ring is, obviously, special unto itself, choosing fancy color diamonds can actually make your ring even more unique.

While there are certainly many choices today, if you think a custom design might be more what you’re looking for, discuss the options with your jeweler. Bring in a magazine, tear sheets of ads you’ve seen — the more examples you can show, the better.

As Colin Cowie says, “These are your bridal rings, so buy whatever you want. The important thing is this: There’s no such thing as a wedding without a ring!”

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IMAGES COURTESY CHRISTOPHER DESIGNS, PRECISION SET, CHRISTOPHER DESIGNS

Engaging Colors Beyond White Diamonds

THE MEMORIES

BY ELISE DIAMANTINI

Capturing theMoment A VINTAGE FEEL Super 8 Films creates vintage-looking videos using super 8 film and retro video cameras. “I like the look and feel of older formats,” explains owner Megan Hill. “The final aesthetic is similar to what people like about Instagram filters. You can choose the pretty, soft look, a retro look with color reversal, or traditional black and white.” The goal is not to create long, boring movies that show every detail of the day, but to capture the overall feeling and emotion. Hill tries to “catch the natural moments: nothing is posed, we don’t ask anyone to do anything over. And we’re not ‘wedding paparazzi.’ Our style is to use minimal equipment.” Super 8 is a silent format, so added music plays an important role. (As a former DJ, she has a large selection of options.) The final edit will range from eight to 20 minutes, and prices average around $5,000.

SAME-DAY EDITS Imagine your wedding dinner is just coming to a close. The lights go down, a screen goes up and your wedding video begins to play. Same-day edits are becoming increasingly popular, says B R I D A L

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Zugelter. “They’re even better when you surprise your guests. I’ve seen couples surprise their parents; once a bride even surprised the groom. He was speechless!” Couples are encouraged to be introduced, cut the cake and have their first dance before the last edit, in order to include it all in the final version. Zugelter and his team record sound, so vows and speeches can be included in the film if you wish. Studio Z’s same-day edits are about four to five minutes long; prices average around $5,500.

POPPING THE QUESTION Proposal films are another recent trend.

Justin says they’re lots of fun because they tend to be very creative. “They take a lot of planning and attention to detail, and it’s a collaborative effort between me and the person proposing. The videos are usually more public, but they can also be private and intimate. For example, Luck was a video I filmed about a guy who felt unlucky until he met his wife. The film opens with him talking about his unlucky life, and then cuts to when he met his now-wife. He had filmed a lot of the special moments throughout their relationship, so we use some of his footage and end with him proposing and her reaction; it’s very emotional.” Proposal films can range from two to 10 minutes depending on how elaborate the plan.

SAVE THE DATE Save the date videos are an innovative way to get the word out to your loved ones. Couples typically send a postcard or a magnet, but now they’re including a URL directing guests to a website to watch a short film. Justin remembers one couple planning to get married on October 19th: they filmed in NYC on 10th and 19th Streets; they took a cab ride and stopped the meter at $10.19. It’s a cute way to get guests excited, and it will be just as much fun to watch as it was to make.

S E C T I O N

IMAGE COURTESY STUDIO Z FILMS

Those tacky, lengthy wedding videos that you may (or may not) have watched before are long gone! Taking their place are artsy, beautifully edited short films that capture the essence of your wedding. “My goal is for people who may not know the bride and groom to walk away feeling like they do,” says Steve Zugelter of Studio Z Films. “When future generations of the family watch the film, they can see how she walked, how she smiled, who she was…”

To tell your unique story, “We discuss story points in a preliminary meeting,” explains Michael Justin of Michael Justin Films. “We want to know about the most meaningful people and moments so we’re sure to highlight them.” Here, we explore several of the new cinematic styles.

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THE ARTS

BALLETS RUSSES

A blending of creative talents that forever changed the face of art. DAVID HOWLETT

1.

3.

2.

1. Léon Bakst, Costume for a Beotian Shepherd from Narcissus, 1911, painted cotton. Victoria and Albert Museum, London 2. Jean Cocteau, Vaslav Nijinsky from The Spirit of the Rose, poster for the opening season of the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, Paris 1913, color lithograph. Victoria and Albert Museum, London 3. Henri Matisse, Costume for a Warrior from The Song of the Nightingale, 1920, felt, velvet, satin and silk with paint, gold tinsel, studs and braid, and brass decorations. Victoria and Albert Museum, London 4. Léon Bakst, Costume design for Vaslav Nijinsky as the Faun from The Afternoon of a Faun, 1912, graphite, tempera and gold paint on laid charcoal paper. Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, Hartford, Connecticut

A

few years ago, Lady Gaga made a music video in which she sang and danced wearing a hat designed by architect Frank Gehry. This collaboration, however remarkable, pales in comparison to the synergy achieved by the Ballets Russes (pronounced balay roos) in Paris 100 years ago.

Impresario Serge Diaghilev brought his dance troupe to Paris in 1909, when unrest in Russia had caused a withdrawal of royal patronage. For the next 20 years, he brought his performers together with the world’s greatest composers, artists and fashion designers in a display unlike any other.

Washington’s National Gallery of Art recently devoted two floors to Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes from 1909 to 1929. The show combined sketches for outfits, paintings and photographs of the dancers, set designs and miraculously preserved costumes, original programs and posters, punctuated with short projections of modern companies performing some of the Ballet Russes projects: The Rite of Spring, The Firebird, Daphnis and Chloé, and Petrushka.

All 40 of the costumes on display, although a century old, are still in remarkably good condition. Fashion and costume designers who worked for Diaghilev included Coco Chanel (1883-1971), Alexandre Benois (1870-1960) and Léon Bakst (1866-1924). Materials included wool, felt, velvet and printed cotton. The colors are still vibrant and the high quality of the needlework is still apparent.

In addition to professional clothing designers, Diaghilev turned to artists of the day for costume ideas. Contributors included Picasso, Matisse and Di Chirico. Artists also treated the Ballets Russes as a subject:

the works include a portrait of designer Léon Bakst by Modigliani, a sculpture by Rodin of mercurial dancer Vaslav Nijinsky, and two sensitive portraits of dancer Olga Khokhlova by Picasso. (The painter and the dancer married in 1918 and remained so until Khokhlova’s death in 1955, although Picasso’s other love interests were legendary.)

The composers whose music was utilized by the Ballets Russes included the greatest of the day: Stravinsky, Prokofiev, Debussy and Millaud, among others.

One true treasure that remains is the huge stage backdrop for the final act of Stravinsky’s The Firebird (1926), designed by Natalia Goncharova. The tapestry measures an amazing 51 by 33 feet, so the observer is dwarfed by this item and momentarily feels like a dancer on the stage.

The importance of the Ballets Russes in its time might be hard for us to understand, given the diminished role ballet has in the arts today. The premiere of The Rite of Spring in 1913 nearly caused a riot, since half the audience loved it and half were scandalized. Nijinsky was a fascinating character who specialized in androgynous roles, the best known of which was based on Claude Debussy’s Afternoon of a Faun. Nijinsky’s descent into mental illness coincided with the slow decline of the Ballets Russes itself. The golden age of the company ended in 1929 with the death of Diaghilev and the onset of the Great Depression.

Recently, the New York City Ballet has worked with designers Oscar de la Renta, Valentino, Joseph Altuzarra and Gilles Mendel, so perhaps there is a chance we are entering a new era of partnership among the arts. But for the apex of collaboration between fashion, music, dance, and visual art, history will always point to the Ballets Russes.

As the apex of

collaboration between fashion, music, dance and visual art,

history will always

point to the Ballets Russes.

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SEREIN DIAMOND MOON PHASE ON BLACK ALLIGATOR

FOOD

GULF GOURMET

The food’s haute in Low Country. SHIRA LEVINE

CHEF STEVE ZUCKER

Some of the best chefs start very young: you were 17.

Because I was extremely young and raw, I was able to fall in love with cooking and really go for it. But I had to learn the old-school way, first by watching and then working my way up. I did that before I went to culinary school and it has benefited me my whole career. I learned to have eyes in the back of my head and multitask.

You’ve cooked all around the world, yet you still live in a small beach town along the Gulf of Alabama.

I’ve traveled all over: South Korea, Taiwan, Italy, France. I’ve worked in Maui, Las Vegas. I went to Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island. But honestly, there is nowhere I’d rather be than here in Alabama, working with Big Bob on our good food and good hospitality. We’re running 12 different kitchens. We have some restaurants that were destroyed by hurricanes. But the reality is, everywhere I’ve lived there has been [the threat that] something devastating can happen. Down here we have tough people who love life. They appreciate every day.

Why is the South such a special place for food?

A gumbo can change from town to town. (Our gumbo made the Guinness Book of World Records!) Everyone has their own unique style; I love that and I love traveling through these states learning about the history of our food. We have the best blue crabs, better than the Chesapeake’s, and the most incredible oysters. Our red snapper, grouper, mahi and flounder are killer good. Then we have great dirt for vegetables and fruit, and plenty of game: deer, alligator, rabbit.

What has influenced you as a chef?

I’m influenced by Louisiana, where I’m from, but Lower Alabama is my home now. We have great people making great sauces using the greatest ingredients. Jean Louis Palladin and John Besh are chefs that have inspired me. Michel Richard changed my outlook on food. He put on a meal with texture as well as flavor, textures I’d never experienced before. I ate with him at Citrus in L.A. on my way to Taipei, and he used a lot of crazy savory stuff.

What are your favorite dishes?

I love something as simple as a Gulf oyster or a simply prepared fish.

And there is nothing better than a good gumbo.

What about non-southern food? Likes or dislikes?

I love me some kimchee. I’m not a huge fan of tripe.

S

outhern kitchens have long produced some of the best chefs (and most delicious dishes) in America. The post-colonial influences of Creole, African, Cajun, French and Native American cultures have infused powerful, exotic flavors into what can now be considered not just southern food, but southern cuisine. Cooking pros and restaurant reviewers with a focus on this epicurean niche know that all the good grub can no longer be lumped into the ‘greasy spoon and fried’ category. Rather, they recognize the Low Country for its unique ingredients and ability to infuse traditional classics with cutting-edge innovation.

Historically, agriculture has thrived down in the five Gulf States — Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida — due to rich, fertile soil and the Gulf of Mexico’s warm, seafood-filled waters. But despite the wealth of fresh ingredients, southern living hasn’t always been easy living.

The last seven years have pummeled the region with deadly hurricanes and record-breaking flooding of the Mississippi River system, not to mention one of the worst oil spills in recorded history. But business is back: docks have been rebuilt, boats restored and cleaned. Ecosystems and estuaries are returning to their former splendor.

We spoke with top chefs from Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi about their home-cooked chow and the love and passion they deliver onto our plates.

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Corporate chef for Aloha Hospitality based in Orange Beach, Alabama

CHEF ROB STINSON Owner of Salute Italian Seafood, Lookout Seafood & Steaks, and Back Bay Seafood Tell us about what inspired you to become a chef.

I’ve been in the restaurant business since I was 15 working as a busboy. I moved to New Orleans at a young age to start my culinary career with Cordon Bleu Chef Gerald Thabuis at Broussard’s Restaurant in the French Quarter. I furthered my education in Italy working with Master Italian Chef Ciro Cuomo, and eventually moved to Long Beach, Mississippi, where I opened my first self-owned restaurant, Long Beach Lookout.

Italy in general is my true inspiration for great food and wine. (I could retire there tomorrow and be content.) I really love Long Beach and Gulfport because it’s where restaurants have prospered. I’m proud to call those areas home now. I have opened 31 restaurants, six of my own; I love the thrill and excitement of opening restaurants.

What makes Mississippi so special for you?

We have the best seafood in the world. Back in the late-1800s, Biloxi was the seafood capital of the country and had already started shipping seafood all over the country by railroad. The flavors of the South are truly different than anywhere else: spicy, flavorful, with a unique blend of immigrant influences.

You’ve gone to great lengths to share how healthy your food can be. What’s the trick?

The trick is to package healthy in a way that makes customers feel as if they’re not sacrificing taste. Great spicy, sweet and sour flavors add contrast in the dishes; texture and color give the diner the experience of eating with their eyes and taste buds, to bring about satisfaction while still eating healthy.

Fresh local produce, seafood and proteins help. I find that crisp, colorful veggies as additions to our fresh-seared entrees make the diner feel he’s gotten his money’s worth. My new show, Fit to Eat, which airs on Mississippi Public Broadcasting, has allowed me to showcase some of my favorite local ingredients prepared in a healthy manner.

Where do you like to eat when you’re not busy cooking?

My favorite restaurant is Bayona in New Orleans. Chef and owner Susan Spicer is truly the ultimate creative talent. My favorite restaurant in Mississippi is Jordan River Steamer owned by Hank Plauche. Unfortunately, Isaac destroyed his great location, but he’s in the process of rebuilding.

What are your personal comfort foods?

Shrimp, chicken and veggies prepared Asian style.

CHEFS NEALY CRAWFORD AND KEITH FRENTZ Married chef duo and owners of Lola in Covington, Louisiana Do you like working together as a couple?

It’s great, there’s no question about it. We’re a package. Of course we have ups and downs depending on our moods, but we know what each other needs to get the job done. There isn’t a lot of talking in our kitchen. We can be at each other’s throats, but 99 percent of the time we’re good. We always end with a smile and a quiet ride home.

As young chefs starting to garner buzz, why did you opt to open a restaurant outside of the New Orleans-proper food scene?

We left the city because of Hurricane Katrina; we opened the January after it hit. Our restaurant is in Covington, where I’m from. The first year we opened we were voted Best Chefs of the North Shore of Louisiana. We got Chefs to Watch in Louisiana Cooking magazine; we were two of the five. This year we were named the King and Queen of Louisiana Seafood and we got second place in the Great American Seafood Cook-off. We do a lot of community work as well, so people have really gotten to know Lola and us.

How do you describe Louisiana food, and what makes it so special?

We are comfort food. We’re Sunday family dinner with a fancy twist. We take those old southern recipes and use newer ingredients. We’ll use different types of rice blends in our jambalaya to make a different flavor; we put mascarpone in our grits and collard greens.

We can walk to the corner fish market and buy fish and shrimp that, just hours before, were swimming in the salty water of the Mississippi Sound and the Gulf of Mexico. Simple food has developed over the years from farmers’ tables. It’s food that was always seasonally influenced and home grown.

What should people know about southern food that they might not already know?

You have to take your time to research a city and be food-aware of the area.

Southern food doesn’t have to be the tourist crap with cream sauce. At Lola, we grill, roast and braise to get away from that stigma of being fried, greasy and buttery. We let our fresh crab and shrimp speak for themselves.

What’s your favorite restaurant other than your own?

We like Patois in uptown New Orleans, and also Dominica. Those are our local favorites. With our second child on the way, we haven’t been traveling much! But there is this little yellow, open-air restaurant in Cozumel, Mexico that we love. It’s so authentic and cool, with fresh fish and killer salsa. We are Mexican food freaks.

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TRAVEL

TAKE A DRINK-CATION Wineries and distilleries offer up luxe accomodations. ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

W

ines, spirits, beers and even cocktails can evoke a specific sense of place: Tuscan Brunello, Scottish whisky and Mexican tequila all taste better at their places of origin, and when experienced later, can take you back to that remarkable journey in an instant. Whether you're traveling with the sole purpose of visiting a boozy hotspot (your favorite winery, perhaps, or a local whisky festival), planning a destination wedding, or you're in the area by happenstance, an increasing number of wineries, breweries and distilleries are providing posh accomodations that embed you in the action.

While many wineries around the world boast charming cottages or extra on-site rooms, a few locations take things up a notch (or three!) with elegant hotels, resorts and private bungalows. Castello Banfi, located in the Brunello region of Tuscany, is at the heart of Italy's Banfi wine estate. The family-owned winery began as the dream of Italian-American John Mariani, Sr. (inspired by his great-aunt Teodolinda Banfi, the head-of-household for Pope Pius XI). Helmed now by his daughter Cristina Mariani-May, the brand aims for a blend of classic and state-of-the-art techniques for modern, natural wines. A holistic approach to winemaking extends to the lodgings.

Known as Poggio alle Mura in the 13th century, the fully renovated castle sits atop a hill overlooking 7,100 acres of Banfi's vineyards and the surrounding fields and forests. Visit the castle to enjoy tours, top-tier restaurants, an

Above: The Castello Banfi castle and vineyards.

enoteca-style tasting room and the Museum of Glass and Wine, with exquisite examples of glassmaking dating from ancient Egypt, through Rome and Venice, to modern day. Il Borgo — a small stone hamlet alongside the castle — houses the handful of elegant rooms for a longer stay. Modern amenities (full WiFi, a new wine shop, interior design by Federico Forquet) and shaded, private entries blend perfectly with 18th-century architecture.

Stay in the royal Poginello suite and score a complimentary bottle of vintage Brunello (1978 at the moment). You can walk the grounds, take tours, even take in the Tuscan countryside from a balloon ride that launches right outside your room. (€1,560 to €3,000 per person for a three-night package, based on double occupancy. Includes a guided tour and wine pairing Tuscan dinner, children under 12 free. Visit castellobanfi.com. ) Also in Tuscany, L'Andana is everything a luxurious Tuscan villa should be. The Mediterranean-themed resort rests amid 1,200 acres of expansive vineland. The brainchild of Italy's Moretti family (Gruppo Terra Moretti), it’s now a joint effort with famed chef/restaurateur Alain Ducasse. In addition to Ducasse’s La Villa restaurant, the resort features a spa, a driving range and an interior ‘winter garden.’ A cyprus-lined lane leads to the impressive ‘summer home’ plastered in warm ochres and salmons with a grassy lawn and outdoor pool. Junior suites feature incredible views of the grounds,

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Below: Gordon Castle room and exterior.

rustic modern French/Italian-influenced design and free WiFi. The larger Superior and Prestige suites include fireplaces for plenty of late-night wine tasting, and a romantic terra cotta chapel is ideal for weddings. The Terra Moretti Group is behind a number of respected Italian wineries, including Bellavista, Petra and Tenuta La Badiola. Founded by Vittorio Moretti in 1967 and overseen by his three daughters, Terra Moretti has been actively expanding into partnerships with luxury hotels and yachts... because wine tastes great in those venues, of course! (€550 to €1,400. Visit andana.it.)

Perhaps wine isn't your thing. If it's a glass of single malt for which you yearn, and your favorite way to drink involves having a dram handed to you by your butler, then get thee to Gordon Castle in north-central Scotland.

Located near Gight, in the Speyside whisky making region (think The Macallan, Cragganmore, The Glenlivet), Gordon Castle has a long, intricate history with Scotch whisky. Built by George Gordon in the 1470s, it was once one of the largest country homes in Scotland. It was here that the 4th Duke of Gordon — who was ‘harboring’ tenant George Smith's illegal distillery — helped push to make Scotch malted whiskies legal, and on the Duke's land where Smith's The Glenlivet distillery first set up house in 1824.

Today the castle-turned-hunting lodge is a full-fledged, fully refurbished hospitality site with immaculate grounds, lush furniture, original paintings and yes, Findley the butler. Whether you arrange a wedding, come for the world-class salmon fishing on the grounds, or set up a tour of the brand new Glenlivet distillery and visitor center (perhaps during the biannual Speyside Whisky Festival), a week here will spoil you for anywhere else. If you ask extra nice, perhaps they can help track down a bottle of the new, mysterious Glenlivet Alpha, of which only 3,500 bottles were released.

(Exclusive booking, fully catered, £3,000 per night for up to 10 people, minimum three nights. A seven-day stay is £16,000 for up to 10 people.

Extra guests £100 per night. Visit gordoncastle.co.uk.) t's my baby, I designed it," says Adrian Bridge, CEO of The Fladgate Partnership of the new Yeatman Wine Hotel in Oporto, Portugal. "I thought, I only really get to do a hotel once in my life, so it ought to be the best one." Located in the heart of port wine production, the hotel overlooks red-roofed houses and the Duoro River, a river that defines much of the wine culture in Spain and Portugal.

The Relais & Chateaux hotel wows on entry with elaborate marble staircases, classic statuary and a perfectly poised outdoor pool (and sultry indoor version). Rooms feature innovative design including beds and hot tubs in some rooms crafted to look like wine barrels. "I thought it would be too much fun to put a bed in a wine barrel," says the charismatic young Bridge. "And every room has a view."

Following a treatment and Roman bath at the Vinotherapie Spa by Caudalie or a sommelier-guided tour of the wine cellar, head to dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant and sample wine director Beatriz Machado's 1,200-bottle list, including ports from The Fladgate Partnership (Taylor Fladgate and Fonseca). The vintage Fonseca 2008 made from old vine grapes is particularly warm and rich, yet understated. If you're going all out, the Bacchus Suite (named for the Roman god of wine and fun) features a freestanding fireplace, copper soaking tub and 1,600 square feet of open design, fine wood floors and a private terrace. A Bacchus Wedding Night package is also available. (€249 to €1,100 per night based on double occupancy. Visit the-yeatman-hotel.com/en.)

‘‘I

Left: The Bacchus Suite at the Yeatman Wine Hotel. Right: The library at L’Andana.

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HOLIDAY SPIRIT

For over 60 years the Italians have kept Franciacorta pretty much to themselves. This lively and sophisticated sparkling wine from the Lombardy region is not only considered the best in Italy, but many connoisseurs regard it as one of the finest sparkling wines in the world. The most prestigious Franciacorta is produced by award-winning oenologist Mattia Vezzola at Bellavista, a nearly 500-acre vineyard owned by the Moretti family. To help celebrate the season, Bellavista Franciacorta is now available at chic shops across America. (Impress your guests with the top marque, Vittorio Moretti Millesimato Extra Brut 2004.) If you want to experience Franciacorta at the source, visit L’Albereta, the Morettis’ beautiful Relais & Chateaux villa overlooking the vineyards and Lake Iseo, to taste the wines and wander the picturesque Lombardy countryside.

PRIVACY ON THE HIGH SEAS

With just one cabin, ideal for an amorous couple, the sleek, 100-foot Alexa is the ultimate in romance on the sea, cruising the Indian Ocean and catering to the tender twosome’s every whim. The quarters feature antique and contemporary art, silk rugs, a white ensuite bedroom surrounded by windows, and a balcony for private breakfasts or late-night stargazing. Seven crewmembers include the captain, the cruise directors (who are also dive masters), the chef (who prepares gourmet food paired with excellent wines), and because the Alexa is co-owned by Talika, the innovative French cosmetic brand, a resident skin therapist. The ardent duo decides the schedule, activities and itinerary: dive to untouched coral reefs, explore uninhabited islands, have a massage or a full program of personalized beauty treatments, swim naked with manta rays... or just make love all day.

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JOHN ALDERSON/CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

Northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa, in the heart of the 75,000-hectare Madikwe Game Reserve, the Molori Safari Lodge is a captivating combination of stylish interior design and fascinating wildlife. The five suites’ interiors are by Fendi, Kenneth Cobonpue and Philipp Plein. There are wooden decks, private infinity pools and fully retractable floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Molori’s cuisine is under the direction of gourmet chefs, who prepare meals from local ingredients and serve them alongside South African wines. Outside, there’s fishing in the Groot Marico River or golf at nearby courses. The view from the swimming pool includes a watering hole that attracts black and white rhino and zebras. And there are elephants, lions, buffalo, cheetahs, brown hyenas, hippopotami and more than 340 bird species, most of which can be seen during one of the customized game drives.

CELEBRATING STYLE

YOUR VERY OWN CHOCOLATE

The Chicago History Museum is currently presenting Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair. Beginning in 1958 and continuing for 50 years, the Ebony Fashion Fair traveling fashion show blossomed into an American institution that raised millions for charity. The Chicago History Museum presentation, one of the largest special exhibitions in the museum’s history, introduces visitors to Eunice Walker Johnson, who became Ebony Fashion Fair’s producer and director in 1963 and brought the pinnacle of European fashion to communities that were eager to see new images of black America. The 7,000-square-foot display, with over 60 magnificent garments from designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, Oscar de la Renta, Pierre Cardin, Emanuel Ungaro, Givenchy, Christian LaCroix and Patrick Kelly, will be running through the winter.

Tache Artisan Chocolate on New York City’s Lower East Side is the creation of Aditi Malhotra, a graduate of the Glion Institute in Switzerland and the French Culinary Institute. Her handcrafted confections, made from Peruvian, Venezuelan, Brazilian and Belgian chocolate (no artificial colorings, flavorings or additives) include gold dusted Champagne truffles, chocolates with imported orange and lemon peel, and the remarkable tequila bonbon, a dark chocolate shell filled with tequila ganache and topped off with fleur de sel and lime. Malhotra also makes and ships personalized chocolates, filled or mixed with just about anything: an abundance of fruit… nuts and spices… a favorite vintage wine or liqueur... maybe even blue cheese. The sky (or at least the Milky Way) is the limit.

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S T E R L I N G S I LV E R INTRODUCING OUR NEWEST IVY LOVE COLLECTION FEATURING BANGLE BRACELETS, BAND RINGS AND OUR THREE RING LOVE NECKLACE. EACH PIECE IS INSCRIBED WITH A DISCREET BUT POWERFUL MESSAGE ON THE INSIDE I LOVE YOU TODAY, I LOVE YOU TOMORROW, I LOVE YOU FOREVER

WINE

OPUS ONE

Chatting with the maker of one of the world's most iconic blends.

ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

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Opus One winemaker Michael Silacci

around. But as you taste the vintages, you find there's a consistency, a mouth feel and texture that helps define Opus One each year."

Silacci also isn't afraid to continue to explore the potential of the wine, whether through scientific means (he introduced nighttime harvesting to catch the grapes at their plumpest, and added parfumist/scientist Alexander Schmidt to the roster of people who analyze the blend each vintage), through management (vine workers are specifically trained and dedicated to harvesting grapes for Opus One, and everyone from harvesters to accountants have a hand in finalizing each vintage) or through sheer gut instinct, as in 2006 when "two beautiful lots of Petit Verdot" inspired him to risk co-fermenting the Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot.

"My gut feeling was that it would work."

Silacci is also adamant that, while Opus One is a top-tier wine, it displays an aura of welcomeness. The winery recently opened its doors to visitors (by appointment online, though you can often secure an appointment when you drop in), and though the wine is crafted to age well for 20 years or more, it's also plenty tasty upon bottling (unlike some of the stuffier Bordeaux).

"When you taste a newly released Opus One, it's not masked by oak, since we age in new French oak. That tells me that the wine has substance and the oak is just one component. It also tells me the wine is going to age."

IMAGES COURTESY OPUS ONE WINES

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mong serious wine fans and collectors, a handful of truly iconic wines stand out, revered for their longevity (like the Premier Cru houses in Bordeaux), their innovation (as when the Super Tuscans dared to introduce French grapes to Italian wine culture), or the sheer quality of their product. Like Latour, Ornellaia and Stag's Leap, Oakville-based Opus One wows connoissuers and collectors alike with its product. Unlike the other labels, however, Opus One is dedicated to producing only one expression each vintage: a Cabernet Sauvignon-driven blend with a Bordeaux influence and a decidedly Californian approach.

"Everything about Opus One, from the buildings to the vineyards to the principles of viticulutre, was made by consensus," says winemaker Michael Silacci. The winery was created in 1980 by two giants in the wine world: Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild. The idea was that a serious, Premier Cru Bordeaux-style wine could be created in California's Napa Valley, which was only just establishing its claim as a serious wine region. Silacci joined the group in 2001 as a DOVE (director of viticulture and oenology) before being appointed winemaker in 2004.

"The entire focus is on creating a single red wine," says Silacci. "To keep that sense of purpose, you need to have a very deep understanding about what you're doing." He also stresses that they're not making the same wine each year, but adjusting the blend (using Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec) as growing conditions require. "Malbec (introduced to the blend in 1994) adds spice and character; Petit Verdot (first introduced in 1997) adds structure. "It may seem, if you look at the varietal composition, that we're bouncing all

Pure Elegance The elegant writing implements in the “Intuition” series are manufactured from a single piece of precious resin. The interplay between the contrasting colors of the gleaming polished barrels and the deep black cap is beautifully accentuated by the platinum-plated metal parts.

Each 18k bicolor gold nib is carefully “run in” by hand

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