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A C C E N T/ T H E M A G A Z I N E O F L I F E â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S C E L E B R AT I O N S

Roaring Twenties Redux

Holiday Gift Picks PLUS: Special Bridal Section

COLOR! FALL FOR

FA L L / H O L I D AY S 2 0 1 2

WELCOME

Dear Friends, I know autumn and the holidays are a very busy time for all of us. But they’re also a time to reconnect with the people we care about. Whether it’s at a family gathering or a holiday party, take the time to catch up with those you love. After all, time is the most valuable gift we have to give. If you are planning to attend a holiday party or two, be sure to check out this issue’s Food & Wine article. We’ve gathered the top 10 hostess gifts this season. There are five under $100 and five under $25, so there’s something fun and unique for every budget. Our team has once again assembled a fantastic fashion section with some great looks for men and women. We’ve tried to give you some suggestions for jewelry pairings, including some alternate looks. And we’re featuring lots of fun new items we found at the major jewelry shows in Basel, Switzerland, Las Vegas and New York this year. If you or someone you know is getting married or celebrating a big anniversary soon, be sure to check out the special Bridal Section in this issue. There is a lot of beautiful jewelry, plus suggestions on other things to make your big day even more special. On a local note, we’re featuring the Insperity Championship presented by UnitedHealthcare. Also, check out the article on our very own Krysti Miles. All this and more is waiting for you in the following pages. We really hope you enjoy this issue of Accent as much as we enjoyed putting it together. We always love to hear your feedback, so contact us through our website or find us on Facebook. Have a wonderful holiday season. I hope to see you soon.

Richard van der Dys, Store Director

Contents fall/holidays 2012

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 C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R HANS GSCHLIESSER MANAGING EDITOR JILLIAN LAROCHELLE PROJECT MANAGER LISA MONTEMORRA DESIGNERS CYNTHIA LUCERO JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI PRODUCTION MANAGER PEG EADIE

FEATURES

BRIDAL SECTION

Welcome Letter

Our People: Krysti Miles

46 The Rings: New and Non-Traditional

Events

Accent Advisor

12 Timepieces: David Yurman 14 Designer Profile: Aaron Basha

53 The Details: Something Even Newer 54 The Stories: Wedding Day Magic

16 Trends: Roaring Twenties Redux

BRITTON JONES CHAIRMAN AND COO MAC BRIGHTON

Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2012. Accent® is published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550, Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175; Advertising Office: 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018, 212-

20 Speed: The Thrill of Victory

23 Fashion: Strike a Chord 56 The Woodlands Food & Wine

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IMAGES COURTESY JEAN PAUL GAULTIER AND LAGOS

10 Caring for the Community

51 The Invitations: Set the Tone

PRESIDENT AND CEO

OUR PEOPLE

Krysti Miles SALES ASSOCIATE FOR DONOHO’S JEWELLERS

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received or the best lesson you've ever learned? When I was a little girl my grandpa used to tell me I could be anything I wanted to be. I really believed him and I still do. Who has been the biggest influence in your life and how did they influence you? God has definitely been the biggest influence in my life. There was a time in my life that I made all of my own decisions and lived life the way I wanted to. When I turned everything over to God and started living life the way He wanted me to, life truly started for me. Every day He influences my life. What do your friends depend on you for, mostly, and why? I believe my friends depend on me to make them laugh. Everyone needs a good laugh once in a while and I seem to be able to assist in that! What do you do to wind down? What is that? I have twin boys—I don't wind down! Okay, I guess I do wind down after they go to bed. I like to relax on the couch and read a great book. What is your favorite book of all time and why? Besides the Bible, my favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I love the compassion and belief that the children and Atticus have in Tom Robinson. They continue to have faith in him even when no one else does. Ever since I was a little girl, I have been the kind of person to fight for those who either can't or won't fight for themselves. What makes you smile? My husband and my three beautiful boys make me smile. I am smiling while writing this answer! Describe your perfect day. The perfect day would include waking up as the sun was rising to have my morning coffee, followed by the most ridiculous breakfast anyone can imagine. I would then go shopping for some new clothes and take a break to have lunch at my favorite Mexican restaurant. I would need a nap by then, so I would go home to take a two hour nap and wake up in time to watch Dr. Oz. I would finish off the day with dinner at my favorite steakhouse and go home to curl up on the couch with my husband and watch a scary movie.

Where are you from originally? I guess you could say I am originally from The Woodlands. I moved here with my dad when I was four and went to school in The Woodlands until the seventh grade. We moved to Montgomery to live on the lake and I graduated from Montgomery High School.

Name your top three favorite movies of all time. My favorite three movies of all time are The Not ebook, The Green Mile and Love, Act ually.

What's your favorite part of your job and why? My wonderful clients, of course! I absolutely love being a part of important life landmarks and celebrations.

What kind of food do you crave most often? Mexican! I love cheese enchiladas, tortilla soup and chips and salsa. Don't forget the guacamole!

What job would you do if you could do anything at all? This may sound silly, but I was in theatre and dance as a child and while in school. I always dreamed of having a career in acting. I love performing and often find myself wondering: “What if I had pursued that dream?”

You've planned the perfect vacation. Where are you going and what will you do? My perfect vacation is at an all-inclusive resort in St. Lucia. This resort has activities just for children, so parents can have some have time of their own. There are several restaurants to choose from and I can eat at any of them, as many times as I want, at no extra charge. I would relax outside by the water (under the shade, of course) to read and maybe even have food delivered to me on the beach! 

What do you admire in other people and why? I typically admire the things in people that make them different from everyone else. Some people call them annoyances. I see them as attributes. Who wants to be like everyone else?

DONOHO’S JEWELLERS EVENTS

Clockwise from top left: Donoho’s staff with Patrick Cawthorne of Breitling at the 2012 Insperity Draw Party; Richard van der Dys with Brad Faxon, 2011 Insperity winner, and Philippe Bonay, President of Breitling USA at the Draw Party; Richard at the Insperity tournament; Mary Jo O’Neal, Development Director of Interfaith of The Woodlands, with local Daisy Scouts at Donohos; The Donoho’s Jewellers Bridal Event; Courtney West with her sisters and their mom at the Holiday Show; Gail and Vince Cuellar with Courtney West supporting the Montgomery County Heart Ball; Cochairs of the God’s Heart, Our Hands Gala at the 11th Annual Auction and Gala benefitting St. Anthony of Padua catholic school

ACCENT(ADVISOR) OVER THE YEARS, MY HUSBAND HAS GIVEN ME MANY SMALL AND DELICATE PENDANTS THAT I SOMETIMES WEAR TO MAKE HIM HAPPY, BUT DON’T REALLY LOVE. ANY IDEAS? How about buying a beautiful gold link chain and creating a charm bracelet or necklace? Or combining a few of the smaller pendants into a more significant piece? Bring them into the store and we’ll be happy to work with you on designing something truly special that you’ll wear with pride and that you BOTH will love.

Yes! The intrinsic value of precious metal is always a good investment, particularly in a precarious economy. In fact, a gold ring purchased 25 years ago is worth at least 10 times as much today. Gold is indestructible: it does not corrode or tarnish; all the gold that has ever been mined still exists. In addition, jewelry designers today are creating more spectacular works in gold than ever before. Next time you visit us, we’ll show you some truly irresistible investments—both financial and emotional!

I OFTEN HEAR TALK ABOUT “LAYERING” JEWELRY. BUT ISN’T ONE GREAT PIECE MORE IMPACTFUL THAN MANY LESSER PIECES? Depending on the outfit, one great piece is often the most dramatic way to wear jewelry, but mixing pieces (layering) is another good option, an expressive way to create looks that are more personal and uniquely you. And these days, there are few rules. Yellow, white and rose gold can be combined in a single piece or worn at the same time in separate pieces. Modern and Deco-inspired styles can work hand in hand; colored gemstones can be mixed and matched according to your tastes, your personality, your mood of the moment. (Contrast colors are very “in” this season.) Spend some time experimenting with creative combinations and see what moves you. Often, an old piece worn differently can become a new favorite!

DO I NEED TO BUY MY WATCH FROM AN AUTHORIZED DEALER? Absolutely yes! Unfortunately, today there are plenty of decent-seeming knockoffs available on the internet and even in stores. Unless your dealer is authorized, you can never be sure what you’re buying, so when the time comes for repairs or your watch requires a replacement part, you could be out of luck. Why jeopardize your investment in such an important item, which is often not just a timepiece, but a treasured heirloom?

ERICA MOLINARI

IS THIS A GOOD TIME TO INVEST IN GOLD?

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY The Greats of Golf

Tom Lehman

The Insperity Championship presented by UnitedHealthcare

Russ Cochran with tournament volunteers

or the past nine years, the Insperity Championship presented by and clinic alongside Hall of Fame golfers. Many of these young people are UnitedHealthcare has been part of the Houston sports schedule and being introduced to legendary professionals for the first time. in turn has become a vital part of The Woodlands community. Several years ago, when the economy suffered a downturn, the tournaFor one week each year, Hall of Fame golfers compete and entertain ment reached out to Insperity, along with other local corporate partners, and under the pine trees at The Woodlands Country Club Tournament Course. decided to provide free access to fans. Thanks to Insperity, The Woodlands And while the champions include names like Larry Development Company, Woodforest National Bank and Nelson, Mark McNulty, Jay Haas, Bernhard Langer, John Hewlett Packard, this policy is still in effect today and proCook, Fred Couples, Brad Faxon and Fred Funk, there vides everyone in the area the opportunity to attend and see is much more going on here than trophy presentations. some of the best players in the world compete. Nearly 1,000 people within The Woodlands and This past spring, organizers gave area sports fans, along Houston-area community volunteer their time to help with a national and international television audience, an manage and run the event. They spend many early and incredible treat. Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Lee late hours at the golf course donating their time so that Trevino and other legends participated in a Greats of Golf the tournament can use net proceeds to assist local competition, created by the tournament. On Saturday, thoucharity organizations. Volunteers perform all sorts of sands of fans packed the golf course and were able to witness tasks such as scoring, ecology, supply distribution and Palmer, Player and Nicklaus win the 18-hole scramble event marshaling, to name a few. with an exciting birdie on the final hole. Through the years, the tournament has been able The thousands of people who have attended the to assist organizations such as Golfers Against Cancer, Insperity Championship presented by UnitedHealthcare the Southern Texas PGA Junior program, the Shriners through the years have certainly been treated to a great and Interfaith of The Woodlands, among others. Each competition as well as entertainment. The age 50 and older 2012 Winner Fred Funk year, the event also dedicates one day to hold a “Pink professionals of the Champions Tour are dedicated to being Out” to show support for breast cancer and is a partner of the Houston the most approachable and fan friendly of all major league sports. affiliate of Susan B. Komen for the Cure Foundation. The tournament is also focused on having a positive effect on the commuDuring the early portion of tournament week, a large number of nity, and for nine years and counting has become a great neighbor for us all.  Houston-area youth are at the golf course participating in the Junior Pro-Am

GIRARD-PERREGAUX 1966 Annual Calendar and Equation of Time Pink gold case, sapphire case back, Girard-Perregaux automatic mechanical movement. Annual calendar, equation of time, date, small second.

www.girard-perregaux.com

TIMEPIECES

When and why did David Yurman enter the timepiece business? We entered the business in 1994 with the introduction of the Cable collection, a bracelet that ticks. In 2000 we launched the Thoroughbred collection, our first traditional watches, addressing what we saw as a void in the market. No one was doing iconic timepieces rooted in the tradition of fine Swiss watchmaking, but with an American design sensibility. Is that what makes Yurman watches so special? Yes. David Yurman is America’s only fine timepiece designer and to us, that in itself is special. The Yurman brand has always been inspired by American art and design and our timepiece collections adhere to this aesthetic. Each watch is treated like a piece of art, reflecting David Yurman’s casual sense of luxury and high standards of precision. At the heart of our timepieces is our commitment to quality, design and innovation. From the Classic Ancestrale to the Revolution collection, each watch combines the precision of Swiss movements and manufacturing with sophisticated American design. Tell us about your passion for classic cars and motorsports, and the launch of Shelby Revolution? Cars have always been a passion of mine. I enjoy the mechanical nature of cars. They’re a lot like timepieces in that way—thousands of machined parts coming together to create one cohesive mechanical movement. The Shelby Revolution watch collection came about because Shelby is an iconic American brand and I wanted to celebrate their achievements and the mark they’ve left on American design.

EVAN YURMAN ON WATCHES, CARS AND PERSONAL FAVORITES. BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

AMERICAN DESIGN

What are your best-selling watch styles at the moment? The new Revolution collection has had an incredible response, both the automatic and the chronograph. We offer it in a number of variations, including a beautiful rose gold case. The Shelby, which is a limited edition within the Revolution collection, is extremely popular and is mostly reserved on pre-order. What’s your personal favorite watch these days and why? Recently, I’ve been wearing a steel chronograph Revolution with a bracelet. It has a beautiful, clean aesthetic and I like the heft and feel of it. Plus it’s a sport watch, so I also appreciate its ruggedness.

“I enjoy the mechanical nature of cars. They’re a lot like timepieces: thousands of machined parts coming together to create one cohesive mechanical movement.” –Evan Yurman, Director of Design, Men’s and Timepieces, David Yurman

EVAN AND DAVID YURMAN

And your personal favorite car? There are so many beautiful cars out there that it’s difficult to pick one, but my favorite genre is certainly American muscle. There’s an elegant simplicity to American muscle cars, both vintage and modern, that I find appealing. It’s that simple design that makes it so easy for owners to customize and improve them, and essentially express their own personalities.

Behold,

OUR FIVE-TABLE DIAMOND EARRINGS.

Brilliant from five tables away.

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DESIGNER PROFILE

THE PRINCE OF CHARMS

ith his distinguished good looks and old-world charm, it’s little wonder that Aaron Basha has established himself as a major player in the world of fine jewelry. Under his impassioned leadership, the Aaron Basha collection has flourished, appealing to people across the globe. His charm, wit, charisma, sophistication, personal style and vision have helped propel the brand from New York to Europe to Dubai and beyond. Basha is most famous for his signature collection baby shoe charms, worn by celebrities, in-the-know mothers and adoring grandmothers the world over. Since 1990, he has designed these fine jewelry charms, charm bracelets and charm necklaces in addition to his trendsetting collection of evil eyes— the ancient talisman of good luck—as well as an exquisite collection of unforgettable, one-of-a-kind couture pieces. The Aaron Basha collections are diverse, but each piece is infused with wit and whimsy and is designed to celebrate life, love and good fortune. Basha prides himself on seeking out the joy in life. Whether in the everyday or in life’s most celebrated moments, his personal style reflects his outlook. He believes in fanciful, whimsical, mystical elegance. “To me, the point of dressing with style is about effortless pleasure and pure delight. From our signature baby shoe charms to our evil eye collection to our array of shirt studs and cuff links, we make dressing well an act of expressing whimsy and enjoyment. We are in the business of elegance, but we are also in the business of fun.

“What is life, without marking life’s milestones?” he asks. “Moments of celebration come and go, but the charms worn by our customers serve as daily remembrances of life’s most precious moments. Our charms create a visual biography signifying the touchstones along life’s path. They are woven into the fabric of life, given by mothers and fathers to daughters, husbands to wives, and children to their parents. Children grow up knowing which charm is ‘theirs’ and thus form a lifelong bond with our brand. The charms become loving representations that are cherished and handed down from generation to generation.” Born in 1930 to parents both in the jewelry business, Basha had an appreciation for fine metals and precious gems in his blood. Trained and certified as a master diamond cutter by age 16, it was evident that he had inherited the family gift. This gift, along with his passion for travel, adventure and seeking new experiences across the globe, would shape his future. In the 1970s, Basha opened his first boutique in Canada, and in the ’80s, he opened another in London’s tony Mayfair district. But wherever he roamed, one thing remained constant: his love of family and his appreciation of life’s most precious moments. To celebrate the birth of his first grandchild, Basha crafted a stunning baby shoe of gold and diamonds for his wife to wear as a charm. And so the iconic Aaron Basha baby shoe charm was born. “I am most happy,” Basha reveals, “when I can help people find the perfect piece to express what is in their hearts.”

NOLET’S GIN

AARON BASHA HAS MARRIED HIS PASSION FOR THE ART OF WHIMSY WITH HIS LOVE OF FAMILY, RESULTING IN A COLLECTION THAT CELEBRATES LIFE.

TRENDS

Nicole Kidman wears Deco-inspired earrings

ROARING TWENTIES REDUX THIS YEAR’S FUN-TO-WEAR FASHION MOVEMENT.

rom fashion to jewelry, Art Deco is currently the leading style inspiration. “And come this spring and summer, it will get stronger, then even bigger by fall/winter 2013,” says Ellen Sideri, CEO of ESP Trendlab in New York City, which tracks fashion trends and cultural patterns. Interestingly, the real excitement isn’t about original vintage jewelry and fashion, but rather contemporary styles inspired by that roarin’ era of the 1920s and ’30s. It’s more “Deco redefined.” Each in its own signature style, luxury brands are creating modern collections based on design elements that defined the Deco movement: streamlined shapes, a strong color palette, graphic patterns, geometric stone cuts, linear symmetry, elongated silhouettes and ancient Egyptian and Aztec forms.

designer after another using the 1920s (and the 1910s) as their muse.” For his fall/winter haute couture collection, Jean Paul Gaultier has embraced the period in a big way, with highly graphic gold metal cage designs pieced into dresses and jackets, as well as softer glam flapper looks. And Alexander McQueen’s 2013 resort collection spectacularly marries Art Deco with inspirations from the linear work of the legendary Gustav Klimt. Amanda Gizzi, director of communications for the Jewelry Information Center in New York, explains: “As our country has been coming out of difficult economic times, more and more customers are asking for jewelry that isn’t cookie-cutter. And these modern pieces, which are influenced by Deco but a bit edgier, are perfectly suited to what they want.”

FILM AND FASHION INFLUENCES

THE “NEW DECO” LOOK

Before we tell you what you should look for and how to wear it, let’s explore the big question of why Deco, why now? What brought on jewelry’s obsession with the brilliance of the Jazz Age? In spring 2013, The Great Gatsby remake hits theatres and, with A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio starring as Jay Gatsby, Art Deco designs will be very much in the spotlight. Added to that, in both ready-to-wear and couture for 2012/2013, Art Deco references ruled the runways. Sideri notes, “We’re seeing lots of beads, feathers, and embroidery—but elegant and luxurious—with one

To do New Deco, there are a few jewelry items you want on your wish list: TASSEL EARRINGS AND PENDANTS Swinging tassel earrings and

Above from left: Stephen Webster Cascade tassel earrings with blue sapphires and white diamonds in 18K white gold from the Forget Me Knot collection; Stephen Webster Forget Me Knot Cascade pendant in 18K white gold; Ivanka Trump black onyx pendant from the Gilded Cage collection in 18K gold

IMAGE.NET BY GETTY

BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE

pendants were the perfect complements to high-hemline dresses, and today you’ll find lots of colorful versions in whatever gemstone you like. ROPES OF PEARLS If you already have a strand of opera-length pearls, think Clara Bow or Daisy Buchanan and drape them on! Then be sure to get another long rope of pearls to layer in; finish the look by knotting that second strand. The knotted pearl necklace is back! DANGLY COLORED-GEM DROPS “Deco earrings are always very desirable at auction,” says Ann Lange, senior vice president and director of jewelry for the prestigious auction house Doyle New York. “The linear hanging kind, because they’re simple yet they have strong design.”

especially emerald cuts. “In our Important Estate Jewelry auctions, the top three diamond cuts in original Art Deco are emerald, Asscher and cushion,” says Lange. “Emerald cuts are forever classics, and I’m seeing a lot of interest in contemporary jewelry with cushion cuts.” Step-cut shapes like trapezoids and half-moons are often seen as side stones in Deco designs, so this year and going forward, you’ll see them in the New Deco collections, too. Actress Sofia Vergara’s engagement ring, for example, features a cushion-cut center stone with a trapezoid diamond on either side. COLORS Deco jewelry tends to rely on bold gemstone colors, in contrast to the austerity of the Edwardian period that From Jean Paul preceded the Roaring ’20s. The most Gaultier’s Paris notable shades are black, green, red Haute Couture and blue, plus white, which, if done in collection fall/winter 2012 enamel, for example, can impart a distinctive boldness. Black: Onyx was perhaps the most widely used black gemstone during the 1920s and ’30s, so some New Deco pieces incorporate it, too. But they more often feature black diamonds, black sapphires and black opals. Green: “Carved jade was [used] in a lot of vintage Deco,” notes Lange, so modern jewelry artisans are favoring this green variety as well. But emeralds and agates are two other green favorites. This year, in fact, emeralds are so hot in fashion that it may even be difficult for May-born women (whose birthstone is emerald) to get their hands on it! Red: Rubies, ruby-red enamels and deep red corals top the list of must-have New Deco reds, but especially ruby, as Lange notes, “because there were a lot of Burma rubies in original Art Deco jewelry.” Gizzi adds, “Since this movement started to grow, I’ve seen a lot more dark-red corals in jewelry—something I hadn’t seen in a long time.” Blue: Look for primary-color blue gems, like lapis-lazuli and sapphire, but also cobalt blue alternative materials like enamel, resin and ceramic. A wealth of lapis jewelry was found in King Tut’s tomb, a key reason the blue gem became an important influence on jewelry of the period. White: Rock crystal, white pearls and white diamonds top New Deco’s white stone list. “Certainly, rock crystal was used a lot in Art Deco—it was very prized then and it is now, too,” says Lange. “There were also lots of natural pearls back then.” Consider, too, some of the New Deco pieces that mix black Tahitian pearls with white metal, as the black-and-white color scheme was a key color combination then and now.

DIAMOND CASCADE EARRINGS In the ’20s and ’30s, women often donned earrings made of cascading diamonds to add femininity to their newly invogue short bobbed haircuts. Back then, diamond chandeliers (as they’re now known) replaced ear clips, hair combs and hat pins.

BIG GEOMETRIC RINGS Rings were large and rectangular, and women often wore several on one hand. For evening, oversized emeralds and rubies played a strong role, in white or yellow metal. Contemporary Deco jewelry gives you lots of price options, with many brands even making Deco-style uber-rings with sterling silver and natural gemstones.

BANGLES AND BRACELETS When women started wearing sleeveless styles, bracelets became an important accessory. Bangles were clustered on their wrists or higher on the upper arms. As for flexible gemstone bracelets, Lange says, “Deco diamond bracelets are also very desirable at our auctions; the workmanship was exceptional.” DECO-THEME PIECES If you’re someone who likes to wear symbolic jewelry, there’s a lot of New Deco pieces inspired by the iconography of the ’20s and ’30s, skyscrapers like the Eiffel Tower and the Chrysler Building á la the era’s unique architectural movement. Or choose something unique with carvings or silhouettes of pyramids, obelisks, palm fronds and lotus flowers—motifs that often appeared in period pieces, influenced by the 1922 discovery of King Tut’s tomb.

NEW DECO CUTS & COLORS

CUTS With the exception of tiny beads used for tassels, reminiscent of renowned Deco jewelers like Jean Fouquet, the geometric bent of Art Deco jewelry design is typically achieved by incorporating angular stones,

Above: Gurhan Lotus collection necklace; Lagos ring

Christopher Designs

PHOTOGRAPHY: BARTOSZ POTOCKI

Crisscut

Generic Round 58 Facet

Crisscut 速 Round 121 Facet

Generic Emerald 46 Facet

Crisscut 速 Emerald 77 Facet

Generic Cushion 58 Facet

Crisscut 速 Cushion 77 Facet

SPEED

THE THRILL OF VICTORY O

ver the decades, numerous Hollywood film stars have been bitten by the racing bug. There may be some profound reasons for this, or it may simply be that famous actors are accustomed to glamour and attention. When filming is over, the thirst for the excitement, danger and competition kicks in. (Or as Paul Newman once put it, “There’s no acting needed when driving; it’s just you and the machine.”) The connection between film stars and motor racing dates back to the turn of the 20th century, when Barney Oldfield became the first man to travel at one mile per minute. His fame as a racecar driver led to film stardom in the first half of that century. A significant number of racing films were made during that time, but the greatest of all was John Frankenheimer’s 1966 film Grand Prix starring James Garner. Garner went on to form a successful racing organization called American International Racers (AIR); when filming was completed, his cars raced with considerable success at Le Mans, Daytona, Sebring and other famous race circuits around the world. Steve McQueen’s film Le Mans may not have been a critic’s choice for best drama, but the racing action was brilliant, and his reputation as an accomplished racecar driver and motorcycle racer subsequently grew. Paul Newman filmed Winning around the same time; while it also lacked dramatic quality, the racing scenes

filmed at the Indianapolis 500 brought viewers to the edge of their seats. Newman’s racing was legendary, and at the age of 80 he was even part of a winning team at the Rolex 24 at Daytona. James Dean, James Coburn and Tom Cruise also enjoyed motor racing, earning respect in the amateur ranks of the sport. But today it’s Patrick Dempsey who charms race fans on and off the track. His dedication to the sport is unparalleled as a driver, team owner and ambassador for motor racing. Actors may not appreciate equal billing on film credits, but at a race circuit, they overwhelmingly acknowledge the team effort, giving much credit to their crews, their sponsors and their cars. Famous names like Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin, Lotus, Corvette, BMW and others have loyal fans of their own. In certain cases, the driver and the car are even upstaged by the race circuit. Just hearing names like Daytona, Sebring, Le Mans, Monaco, Spa-Francorchamps and Monza brings intense emotion to motor racing enthusiasts. And just as actors aspire to win an Academy Award, racecar drivers dream of winning a series championship. In 2012, endurance road racing in America celebrated two remarkable anniversaries: The Rolex 24 at Daytona marked its 50th and Sebring its 60th. Both venues have earned a unique place in the history of international motorsports—stars in their own right.

Above: Patrick Dempsey enjoys a day at the races.

NOLET’S GIN

CARS, STARS AND HISTORIC RACE CIRCUITS. BY DAVID A. ROSE

Celebrate. The three-stone anniversary ring from Donoho’s Jewellers.

9590 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380

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281.367.9050

FASHION

StrikeaChord

Fashion that moves your soul and sings your style.

On Her: Sweater - One Teaspoon Pants - Bishop Shoes - Shutz from Repertoire On Him: See Inside

FASHION

Little Red Corvette Nothing says show me the dance floor quite like the LRD (little red dress). An unexpected element would be a powerful necklace in an equally strong color, such as this Stephen Webster pendant in sugalite. This look doesn't need much more to scream "I wanna dance with somebody!" Dress - Dolce Vita

Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold and Sapphire Siviglia Earrings $1,580

Roberto Coin Fantasia Cocktail Ring with Rutilated Onyx Doublet and Diamonds $6,000; Roberto Coin Fantasia Cocktail Ring with Rutilated Smoky Quartz Doublet and Diamonds $6,000

Charles Krypell Medallion Pendant $5,840; Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold Sapphire Necklace $4,820; David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Oval Link Chain Necklace $5,600; David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Lantana Necklace $7,300; David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Infinity Station Necklace $4,200; David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Quatrefoil Station Necklace $4,950

18K Yellow Gold 3-Row Multi-Color Tourmaline Bracelet $26,140

Alternate Pairings Warm up this look with gold and earth tones paired with color. The neckline on this dress is perfect for stacked necklaces that create texture and shimmer.

David Yurman Ladies 18K Rose Gold Classic Watch $35,000 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Hoop Earrings $8,580

FASHION

Crimson & Clover

If you are in the mood to feel cozy while still looking fashionable, look no further than this incredibly stylish sweater jacket from Iro. By pairing it with a simple tonal top and muted crimson denim, it allows you to create a little more noise with the jewelry.

Gentlemen, if you want to make a fashion statement this season, invest in a pair of crimson pants. Balance the look with a dark navy jacket and try adding a tonal plaid bow tie. Don't forget an important statement piece like a bold watch or bracelet to polish off this look.

18K Yellow Gold Rhodonite Ring with Rutile Quartz Overlay and Diamonds $5,280; Sterling Silver with Black Rhodium Finish Rhodonite Necklace with Rutile Quartz Overlay and Diamonds $2,057

David Yurman Sterling Silver Cable Coil Necklace with Diamonds $3,400

Alternate Pairings For Her: We love the texture of this Yurman necklace, which complements the texture of the sweater jacket. The Rhodonite pieces pick up the color of the muted crimson pants. For Him: Gold is back! The warmth of rose gold pairs perfectly with the crimson pant and navy jacket.

Penny Preville 18K Yellow Gold Turquoise and Diamond Earrings $3,620

David Yurman Sterling Silver Dog Tag Necklace $460; Stephen Webster Sterling Silver and Black Onyx Bracelet $1,295 Rolex Gents 18K Rose Gold Cosmograph Daytona Watch $28,800

On Him: Shirt - D/D from Milkbar Pants - Penguin from Milk Bar Jacket - G-Star Raw from Brigade Bow Tie - ALP from Rowe Pocket Square - The Hillside from Brigade Shoes - H by Hudson from Repertoire

On Her: Jacket - Iro Shirt - Rory Beca Pants - Mother Shoes - Shutz from Repertoire

FASHION

Where's The Party? Shimmy in style this season in an unexpected mix of black, cobalt and ivory. The strength of this color combination speaks volumes about your confident style. Allow the shiny top to stand alone by forgoing a necklace, stacking lots of bracelets and adding a bold colorful ring. Jacket - Greylin Top - Dolce Vita Pants - Mother

Di Modolo Sterling Silver Triadra Drop Earrings $275 14K White Gold Black Diamond Necklace $2,125; Sterling Silver Black Diamond Necklace, $2,749; 18K White Gold Black Diamond Necklace $2,345; Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Diamond and Geode Pendant $2,118

18K White Gold Diamond Pavé Mesh Bracelet $52,000

Black Ceramic Wide Domino Bracelet with 18K Rose Gold Diamond Pavé $4,178; White Ceramic Domino Ring with 18K Rose Gold Diamond Pavé $2,858; Black Ceramic Domino Ring with 18K Rose Gold Diamond Pavé $2,858 18K White Gold, White Agate and Black and White Diamond Earrings $2,985

Alternate Pairings Ceramics offer a sleek tailored look to any outfit. Try pairing with diamonds or leather cords for a great contrast. Girard-Perregaux Ladies Stainless Steel WW.TC 24-Hour Shopping Watch $26,100

FASHION

Smooth Criminal Strut your dangerous side in style this season by mixing leather, cashmere, feathers, silk and denim. Don't fear the desire to mix and match unexpected elements while topping it all off with minimal statement jewelry. Jacket - Rails Sweater - Jamison Top - For Love & Lemons Denim - NSF Hat - Lovely Bird

Ramblin' Man A comfortable look of a T-shirt, jeans and a flannel can be effortlessly pulled together just by adding a tailored cardigan and stylish jewelry. Cardigan - Reigning Champ from Brigade Shirt - G-Star Raw from Brigade Tee - Topman from Milk Bar Denim - Civilianaire from Milk Bar

FASHION

Sterling Silver and 14K Yellow Gold Sapphire and Diamond Earrings $3,248

18K Yellow Gold and Green Amethyst Earrings $2,800

John Hardy Small Dragon Ring with Ruby, Cognac Quartz and Diamond PavĂŠ in Sterling Silver and 18K Gold $1,895

David Yurman Ladies Stainless Steel and Black Ceramic Classic Watch $5,600

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All In Fun There has never been a better time to have fun with your jewelry wardrobe by mixing in alternate materials and styles. From macrame to jade to shell, designers are utilizing varied materials to create jewelry in wide variety of price points.

Elizabeth Locke 19K Yellow Gold Venetian Glass Intaglio Bracelet $10,450

18K Yellow Gold Citrine, Black Jade and Diamond Fashion Ring $990 Assorted Macrame Bracelets Starting at $500

Sterling Silver with Rhodium Finish Labradorite and Diamond Earrings $2,420

Assorted Macrame Bracelets Starting at $500 David Yurman Sterling Silver Bijoux Necklace $1,200; David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Station Necklace $3,900; David Yurman Blackened Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Bead Station Necklace $650; David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Box Chain Necklace $4,450; Michael Bondanza 18K Yellow Gold Amber Station Necklace $3,450

18K Rose Gold White Shell and Brown Diamond Earrings $835 18K Rose Gold Brown Diamond PavĂŠ Stud Earrings $1,205

Cartier Tank Anglaise Mid-sized in Pink Gold and Steel $10,836

FASHION

BĂŠsame Mucho Fashion is a delicate dance of superb clothing mixed with impeccable jewels. The lace detail of this basic black ensemble creates the perfect backdrop to showcase a glamorous emerald color story and stunning stones. Black Lace Romper - Dolce Vita

Alternate Pairings Yellow gold is back in a big way, and with a pop of color from turquoise, these pieces are perfect with this black romper look.

Sterling Silver and 14K Yellow Gold Sapphire and Diamond Earrings $5,008 Rolex Ladies 18K Yellow Gold Pearlmaster Watch $30,150

Elizabeth Locke 19K Yellow Gold Turquoise Earrings $4,550

Elizabeth Locke 19K Yellow Gold Volterra Link Necklace $16,100 Elizabeth Locke 19K Yellow Gold Turquoise Pendant $3,175

Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold Positano Link Bracelet $9,910

Ippolita 18K Yellow Gold Hematite Doublet and Diamond Lollipop Ring $3,295

FASHION

Welcome to the Jungle Follow the peplum trend into the jungle this season with a leopard printed sweater in a neutral hue. Layer elegant strands of pearls mixed with diamonds to soften this dynamic look. Sweater - Dolce Vita Pants - James

Jumpin' Jack Flash The man about town is ready to go anywhere just by adding a bow tie in a quirky print to a casual jacket for an unexpected, stylish ensemble.

Shirt - Shipley & Halmos from Brigade Vest - Rag & Bone from Brigade Jacket - BLK DNM NYC from Brigade Pants - Topman from Milk Bar Bow tie - Rings & Algebra from Brigade

FASHION Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold and Sapphire Siviglia Earrings $3,310 18K Yellow Gold Green Amazonite Doublet and Diamond Fashion Ring $5,280

Let’s Get Serious When it’s time to find that special high-fashion piece for your next occasion, you can trust Donoho’s Jewellers to have just what you need. From the traditional to the exotic, we have it all.

18K Rose Gold Turquoise, Amethyst and Diamond Ring $4,060; 18K Rose Gold Semi-Precious and Diamond Bracelet $4,060; 18K Yellow Gold Turquoise, White Agate and Diamond Ring $1,669

Jaeger-LeCoultre Ladies Stainless Steel Rendez-vous Watch $13,000

18K White and Yellow Gold Emerald and Diamond Ring $77,190;18K White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Ring $29,644; 18K White Gold Tanzanite and Diamond Ring $15,600

18K Rose Gold Pearl and Diamond Earrings $7,540

Roberto Coin 18K Rose Gold Moresque Diamond Ring $11,480 18K Rose Gold Amethyst and Diamond Fashion Ring $5,445 Charles Krypell 18K White Gold Diamond, Sapphire, and Aquamarine Circle Pendant $13,790; Charles Krypell 18K White Gold Diamond, Pink Sapphire and Rubelite Pendant $9,990

Penny Preville 18K Yellow Gold Moonstone and Diamond Ring $3,113 Penny Preville 18K Yellow Gold Labradorite and Diamond Necklace $2,783

Rolex Ladies Stainless Steel and 18K Rose Gold Datejust Watch $14,800

FASHION

Johnny B. Good

Jacket - G-Star Raw from Brigade Shirt - Topman from Milk Bar Vest - Topman from Milk Bar Pants - Topman from Milk Bar Shoes - H by Hudson from Repertoire

A relaxed jacket paired with a plaid shirt and jeans looks put together while still being comfortable. Try adding a skinny tie to give you the option of accessorizing a little more with a chic tie bar.

David Yurman Sterling Silver Classic Cable Money Clip $395; David Yurman Sterling Silver Waves Money Clip $595

John Hardy Sterling Silver and Stainless Steel Bedeg Necklace $375; David Yurman Sterling Silver Black Diamond Star Dog Tag Necklace $1,050; David Yurman Sterling Silver Onyx Chevron Dog Tag Necklace $550

Tag Heuer Gents Stainless Steel Carrera Watch $4,600

Alternate Pairings Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jewelry is extremely versatile, and the neutral color palette of the gray blazer and blue jeans leaves your options wide open. Lose the tie, open the collar and you can add some necklaces for even more options.

David Yurman Sterling Silver Royal Cord Onyx Cufflinks $850 David Yurman Sterling Silver Onyx Inlay Tie Bar $325; David Yurman Sterling Silver Pietersite Inlay Tie Bar $375

David Yurman Sterling Silver Maritime Link Bracelet $795; John Hardy Sterling Silver and Stainless Steel Lapis Bead Bracelet $695 Rolex Gents Stainless Steel Explorer Watch $6,550

FASHION

Special thanks to: Clothing and accessories stylist Maren Roth of Rowe Boutique; photographer Kyle Widder; makeup and hair stylist Mikah Brown; models Shelby and Nicholas from Wings Model Management; our buying and marketing teams: Andy Johnson, Sara Kravetsky, Kimberly Lambert, Jackie Brooks, Nick Licata, Jen Walker, David Pollner, Laura Schmidbauer, Jesse Johnson and Alex Johnson. Clothing, shoes and accessories by Rowe Boutique, The Milk Bar, Brigade and Repertoire.

T H E O R I G I N ATO R O F C U LT U R E D P E A R L S . S I N C E 1 8 9 3 .

Explore, discover, shop, learn. 24 hours a day. Browse and shop products by: Roberto Coin Kwiat Mikimoto John Hardy Jaeger-LeCoultre ...and many more

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WEDDINGS

STORY PHOTOGRAPHERS

A SPECIAL BRIDAL SECTION FROM ACCENT MAGAZINE

THE RINGS

BY LAURIE SCHECHTER

NEW AND NON-TRADITIONAL UNIQUE OPTIONS ABOUND TO SUIT EVERY COUPLE’S TASTE.

ince engagement and wedding rings are choices you live with forever, it’s no wonder that current bridal ring trends reflect the individual style and personality of their wearers more than a strict tradition or a certain set of rules. In fact, non-traditional is the new trend! One has only to look to recent famous weddings and engagements for proof: think Angelina Jolie’s custom-designed engagement ring of graduated tablet-shaped diamonds, or the new Mrs. Mark Zuckerberg and Jessica Simpson, both showing off ruby engagement rings. Many of today’s rings are rooted in history. The giving of rings along with taking vows of marriage dates back to ancient times. The wedding band, fashioned into a circle, symbolizes never-ending immortal love, and

the finger it is worn on was thought to have a special vein connected directly to the heart. Both customs are said to have originated in Ancient Egypt. The forerunner to the modern-day engagement ring was the ancient Greeks’ betrothal rings. Early betrothal rings from the Middle Ages, called ‘‘posy’’ rings, were inscribed with poems and love notes. Engagement rings with diamonds were first given by royalty and nobles beginning in the 15th century, mixed with rubies in the 17th and 18th centuries, and had messages spelled out in colored stones in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today’s betrothed have all this history to mine, with the benefit of modernity found in unusual designs and wide range of metals, stones and shapes available.

In actuality, the halo has never really gone away, but it has been trending more strongly for the past few years, which aligns with the reigning popularity of round diamond cuts. The difference now is the variety of designs available, and the cuts and arrangement of the stones. Double halos with two rows of surrounding stones, three-stone rings (a descendent of the early 20th-century princess ring) incorporating halo diamonds, and the stilltrending-strong eternity wedding bands with halo diamonds are all turns on the halo’s road to success. A. Jaffe reports, ‘‘Styles with cushion shaped halos surrounding the center diamond, as well as a cushion cut diamond standing alone in the center setting, are very popular engagement rings. Matching halo earrings and pendants for the bride have also become increasingly popular.’’

2.RESPONSIBLY SOURCED

Choosing diamonds that are sourced in an ethical manner is increasingly important among socially conscious brides. Without question, all the stones we sell in our store are responsibly sourced. Forevermark is among those that guarantee diamonds are carefully selected to meet “high standards of business, social and environmental integrity" (less than 1% of the world's diamonds are eligible to become a Forevermark diamond). Along with this heightened consciousness is the popularity of “recycling” diamonds: wearing vintage or heritage rings, family heirlooms which can be adapted and updated for a fresh look.

3.COLOR MY WORLD

Color seems to be the biggest driver at retail today. It’s the big story for women’s and men’s fashion on the runways and in the stores. Today’s bride, to set herself apart, might even opt for color instead of traditional white for her wedding dress. And color is, of course, also a big trend in engagement rings. Beautiful colored diamonds and other colored gemstones are surging in popularity in no small part due to the Duchess of Cambridge’s (previously Princess Diana’s) gorgeous sapphire engagement ring.

A C C E N T

B R I D A L

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: FOREVERMARK, FOREVERMARK, SCOTT KAY, A. JAFFE, BEAUDRY

1.RETURN OF THE HALO

TRENDS FOR SAME-SEX COUPLES

4.I’LL TAKE MINE

According to recent stats, there are currently around 50,000 samesex marriages in the United States. This number will continue to grow, and many brands are tailoring their designs to appeal to the emerging market. Of course, since same-sex marriages are grounded in the same traditions as conventional marriages, many of these design trends cross over to the mainstream.

WITH A TWIST

You can’t get much more non-traditional and unique than a twisted band engagement ring. It’s an individual statement with a modern spin that can quickly update the classic solitaire or take pavé in a new direction. In streamlined metal or an all-diamond band, it’s an attention grabber either way.

5.WIDEN

YOUR HORIZONS

Wide diamond bands and channel rings—where the band can be any width with diamonds filling the “channel” in the center—are trending as wedding bands and, in some cases, can even serve as both the engagement and wedding ring. With the high-powered real estate it occupies on the finger, it’s a glamorous and practical all-in-one statement.

6. MIXING IT UP

Using alternative metals and mixing metals are trends, and the unique options available have increased at an exponential rate. In both engagement rings and women’s wedding bands, there’s been a strong introduction of rose gold on its own or mixed with white gold, platinum or yellow gold. In men’s wedding bands, in addition to the classic yellow gold, white gold and platinum, there are many examples of alternate metals and materials: everything from palladium, tungsten carbide and cobalt to ceramic, titanium and seranite, all with two-tone as a leading direction.

A C C E N T

WEDDING BANDS AND COMMITMENT RINGS Like the alternative lifestyle they represent, same-sex couples are choosing alternatives for their wedding bands. In traditional yellow or white gold, there might be some kind of unique treatment, like hammered details, on the band. But rings in less common metals are where personal statements can really stand out, especially for men. BioBlu27 Cobalt, the same material used in aerospace and medical applications, has a unique look and is available with diamonds or without. And with new ring styles come new traditions. Some women are foregoing engagement rings altogether, while men can opt for man-gagement rings: wedding bands worn on the right hand before the marriage, then transferred to the left during the wedding ceremony (a mini-trend in opposite sex relationships, as well). At the end of the day, says Dan Scott, CMO of Scott Kay, ‘‘Love is love. We need to remind ourselves that wedding bands are much more than jewelry; wedding bands embody precious, lifelong vows made between any two people in love." And no matter the sexual orientation, today’s couples are choosing rings that suit their personal style.

B R I D A L

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: MEMOIRE, SCOTT KAY, RITANI, ROBERTO COIN, SCOTT KAY, ROBERTO COIN CENTO, MEMOIRE, RITANI, MEMOIRE

VINTAGE AND VINTAGE-LOOK ENGAGEMENT RINGS Some women in same-sex marriages are opting for customary engagement and wedding rings, but with more of a personal statement. Perhaps because of the sentimental value that they hold, vintage and vintage-look rings bring to mind the sentiments behind a marriage itself. (Christine Quinn, New York City’s City Council Speaker, married using her fiancée’s mother’s engagement ring.) Vintageinspired is also becoming a coveted look in new rings. Pavé-set diamonds, intricate hand engraving, filigree work and halos are all details reflecting this movement.

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

Color Grade E

Clarity Grade VS1

Cut Grade

Excellent

Laser Inscription Registry Number GIA 16354621

Natural Diamond Not Synthetic

A GIA report is certainty from the source. As creator of the 4Cs and the International Diamond Grading System™, GIA sets the standards for diamond assessment, worldwide. Unbiased. Scientific. A report from GIA gives you a clear understanding of your diamond’s quality. Look for GIA Diamond Grading Reports and the jewelers who offer them. www.4cs.gia.edu

THE UNIVERSAL STANDARD BY WHICH GEMS ARE JUDGED.

PRICELESS INSIGHT RICHARD VANDERDYS knows jewelry from the inside, out.

hree things a jeweler can’t do without. A great team, excellent customer service, and the drive to become the best in your industry. How did you get into the business? I was fortunate enough to have a friend ask me if I’d like to get into the jewelry business. Twenty-two years later I have loved every minute of it. All-time favorite piece of jewelry? A beautiful diamond necklace I designed for a customer using three generations of her family’s diamonds. I know she will always cherish that piece and that it will be passed down to her daughter. Most valuable lesson learned at work? Listen to a person’s every need and treat everyone with an equal amount of respect. What should a customer always look for? A reputable jeweler that offers quality jewelry with impeccable service. A jeweler that gives back year after year to their community.

Why is a GIA report so important? GIA is the world’s most trusted laboratory and the school where gemologists go for the best education in the industry. Insider’s tip? We travel the world so that we can bring to our customers the latest fashion designs and the finest designer collections that they will cherish for years to come Best source for diamond know-how? 4cs.gia.edu. Not only to explain what to look for in a diamond, it’s information jewelers use themselves.

Set the Tone T H E I N V I TAT I O N S

QUIRKY WORDING

THE NEW NEONS

SECOND IMAGE FROM RIGHT COURTESY BELLA FIGURA; ALL OTHER IMAGES COURTESY BREA MCDONALD FOR GUS & RUBY LETTERPRESS

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION “We get a lot of clients asking to do something location-specific, like this custom design that features the Boston skyline,” says Samantha Finigan of Gus & Ruby Letterpress in Portsmouth, N.H. Whether your bash is in the city or country, it’s a great personalized touch. (Bonus points if the design is handillustrated.)

Neon colors are hot right now. They’re showing up everywhere from fashion to home décor, and of course, in wedding design. Neon on white looks fresh and is the prefect way to make a simple graphic statement. For the not-so-bold, Finigan assures us that “muted watercolor pastels are also a big color trend, especially in letterpress printing.”

BY JILLIAN L A ROCHELLE

HAVE FUN WITH FONTS With typefaces this interesting, who needs colors or imagery? We think they’re plenty pretty on their own. According to Finegan, “Justified [centered] type with variations in font has been a huge hit.”

Carolina and Logan replaced the usual “reception to follow” with this fun phrase promising “wild revelry” after the ceremony. RSVP cards are another great place to experiment with expressions. Instead of “will attend” and “will not attend,” try “wouldn’t miss it for the world” and “we’ll be there in spirit,” or the simple-but-cheeky “yay” and “nay.”

IMPACTFUL INVITATIONS WILL GET YOUR GUESTS EXCITED FOR THE BIG DAY. In addition to the trends we’ve highlighted here, Finigan recommends adding a foil stamp or a splash of unexpected color to freshen up a traditional invitation design. Envelope liners are a fun way to introduce a pattern that might otherwise overwhelm your invitation. And don’t forget about the front of the envelope: it’s the very first thing guests will see when they open the mailbox! Hand calligraphy is always the ultimate luxe touch, and some brides are choosing an assortment of vintage stamps to add a final pop of visual interest. A C C E N T

B R I D A L

T H E D E TA I L S

BY LISA MONTEMORRA MENGHI

Something Even Newer AS TIME MOVES FORWARD, SO DOES OUR DESIRE TO RE-INVENT OLD TRADITIONS.

It’s a ritual dating back to the Victorian era that’s meant to bring luck to newlyweds: on her wedding day, the bride carries or wears something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. Here, a few ideas for the modern bride who wants to honor this age-old custom with a fresh, updated twist.

Above: Sterling Silver Floral Stemmed Pair Candlesticks ca. 1943, USA

CANDLESTICKS: 1STDIBS.COM; CAKE: FANTASY FROSTINGS, SOUTH PASADENA, CA

SOMETHING OLD • Think out of the box. Your ‘somethings’ can be places or decorations instead of worn items. One example: hold your wedding at a historic site. • Display old photos of ancestors (extra points if taken on their wedding days) at your ceremony and/or reception. It’s heartfelt and gives your guests an insight into your family history. • Wear lace or a button from a family member’s wedding dress in your hair, or incorporate it into your bouquet. • Have your ring bearer carry the rings in a treasured heirloom instead of on the standard satin

pillow. A jewelry box from a beloved family member could also hold a flower girl’s petals. • Instead of wearing heirloom jewelry in its intended manner, pin or sew it onto your gown as a featured design element. • Find an alternative use for your mother’s or grandmother’s veil. Use it to wrap your bouquet or drape it over a photo display table.

book table. It will elicit good memories of shared family meals and togetherness. • Give your grandmother’s crystal candleholders or vase a vacation from the curio cabinet with a place of honor at your ceremony. • Borrow a pretty silver knife from a friend or family member and use it to cut the cake. • Set your sweetheart table with heirloom china and silver, to make your first meal as husband and wife even more special. • If your parents are sentimental, they probably still have their wedding cake topper. Get it out of that dusty box in the garage and give it another go.

SOMETHING BLUE our bouquet Embellish y a family dress. m o with lace fr

SOMETHING BORROWED • Borrow a family tablecloth to dress up the escort card or guest

A C C E N T

• Incorporate a beautiful blue stone or side stones into your wedding band. Sapphire, blue topaz, tanzanite and aquamarine are all excellent choices. • Why not wear a pair of strappy blue evening shoes? They’ll be a fun flash of color beneath your dress. • Getting rid of wedding cake guilt

B R I D A L

Something b and yummy lue... too! is easy: decorate it with delicious fresh blueberries and meet your daily fruit quota! • When you go for your wedding day pedicure, choose a pretty pale blue. Or how about a strip of blue to replace the white on a French manicure? • Use a small blue clutch for your lipstick, cell phone and other wedding day necessities. • Signature drinks are always fun. Why not use Blue Curaçao to concoct your custom cocktail? • Splurge on luxurious blue lingerie for your wedding night.

SOMETHING NEW

• A brand new piece of jewelry, of course! You’ll be investing in an heirloom that will have special meaning for the next generation of your family.

THE STORIES

BY MICHAL D I MICELI

Wedding Day Magic

PHOTO BY GREG WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

A GREAT-GRANDMOTHER VISITS A NEW BRIDE…

had always wanted a vintage wedding, and my dream came true on Saturday, June 9th, 2012 when I wed the man of my dreams in Madison, Connecticut. We worked hard to get all the details right, but I swear it was a few pieces of jewelry from my beloved late great-grandmother that made the day magical. My dress was a magnificent 1960s lace gown I discovered at my local consignment shop. It had puffy shoulders and a high collar, but I saw the potential and had it tailored into a sleeveless mermaid shape. The veil was the original, also from the ’60s, and the engagement and wedding rings were English platinum dating from the early 1900s. The ceremony and reception were held at the beautiful Madison Beach Club, which dates back to the 1920s. My family and I have spent many happy times there, so it was a delight to share it with 140 people I adore. We collected old mason jars to use as flower vases, and I decorated the reception with family wedding photos going back three generations. Everything was in place for my vintage theme, but the most important element was surely the influence of my great-grandmother, Mama Crowley. As a kid, I’d spend hours sitting with Mama. She was confined to her bed, but always looked elegant in her silk and lace robe, with her pink high-heel slippers waiting on the floor. I can’t remember now what we talked about, but I do remember loving to be in her presence and arranging all of her glass figurines and miniature Limoges shoes (a wonderful collection I now own). B R I D A L

Mama Crowley loved family, loved to travel and always looked stylish. She believed in living life fully and with passion...and that you might as well look beautiful while you’re doing it! I learned so much from her, and I know that she shaped the woman I am today. Although we lost her almost 30 years ago, I’ve felt her presence throughout my life, never more so than on my wedding day. My lovely grandmother Joan is convinced that her mother (Mama Crowley) sent me Joe. He is everything I could have asked for in a life partner, and exactly who my great-grandmother would have chosen for me. The weather on the morning of June 9th was a little iffy, so my hairstylist (of all people) suggested that I leave rosary beads facing outside to guarantee sunshine. It just so happens that I had packed Mama Crowley’s rosary beads at the last minute, so my mother dutifully hung them from the balcony of my hotel room. The weather continued to be touch-and-go for a while, but the minute I took my first step down the aisle, Mama cleared the skies and the weather stayed gorgeous for the remainder of the day. (I should mention that Mama was a novice nun before she married, so I’m sure she had some pull…) Not only did Mama’s rosary beads work their magic on my big day, but I also wore her gold and pearl drop earrings and her pearl and sapphire gold bracelet, connecting me physically, emotionally and spiritually to this amazing lady. I look forward to passing on the love, traditions and family heirlooms to my future family. S E C T I O N

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TRAVEL

IT’S ABOUT TIME

AT FLORENCE’S HOTEL L’OROLOGIO, THE MAGIC IS IN THE DETAILS. BY STU NIFOUSSI

o the casual tourist, the Hotel L’Orologio is a luxurious boutique inn overlooking Florence’s famed Piazza Santa Maria Novella, with a theme relating to clocks and watches. But to those who share owner Sandro Fratini’s passion for horology (the measurement of time), the hotel is a treasure trove of memorabilia and unique design, with discoveries around every corner. Fratini owns the small upscale hotel chain WTB (which stands for Why the Best?) with six hotels in Florence; he is also chairman of Super Rifle S.p.A, the parent company of Rifle jeans. A lifelong collector of vintage watches, he owns more than two thousand, mainly from his three favorite

For true watch aficionados, however, the real excitement is found on the ground floor, within rooms off the lobby. Claudio Delli, general manager of WTB Hotels, showed off the incredible details waiting to be discovered by those who choose to look more closely. Among them: the exclusive mirrors designed in the style of Rolex watch bands, and the sundial etched into the floor beside a reflecting pool that appears to be illuminated by stellini, tiny stars in the ceiling above. Then there are the door handles in the shape of Rolex watch hands (sometimes called Mercedes because they’re similar to the Mercedes logo), and the hand-painted reproductions of watch

brands: Rolex, Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe. At L’Orologio, Fratini has been able to combine his affinity for fine watches with his talent for consumer marketing, creating a singular and fascinating hotel experience. Each room at Hotel L’Orologio is identified in two ways: with a room number, as you might expect, and also with a name corresponding to a watch owned by Signore Fratini. Each floor is devoted to a particular brand: the first to Vacheron Constantin, the second to Rolex, and the top two floors to Patek Philippe. Within each room are photos or artwork related to its namesake watch.

faces that decorate the floor in the smoking lounge beside Il Bar de L’O. But the pieces de resistance were the elegant busts of Messieurs Patek and Philippe that grace the pedestals in the sitting area. One could spend hours cataloging the little touches that make this hotel unique in the world. WTB plans to roll out L’Orologio as their premier nameplate to other “artistic” cities in Italy, with new hotels planned for Venice and Rome. The company also markets L’Orologio products including scarves, alligator sneakers and other items, with an eye toward building L’Orologio into an internationally recognized brand.

NOLET’S GIN

ONE COULD SPEND HOURS CATALOGING THE LITTLE TOUCHES THAT MAKE THIS HOTEL UNIQUE IN THE WORLD.

Elemento Limited Edition The Graf von Faber-Castell Collection is celebrating the 250th anniversary of Faber-Castell with a very special limited edition. Like a masterpiece of marquetry, the cross-grained olive wood is fitted into the barrel in six individual elements which are varnished and hand-polished several times. Only in this way does the wood reveal its flamboyant and interesting structure.

PerfectGems

EXPLORE THE LITTLE LUXURIES THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER.

CHRIS LEE

SLH

BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

UPSTAGED

Renée Fleming, the Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela, and the New York Pops are just a few of the artists performing at Carnegie Hall this season. You could buy tickets, but to really be involved in these remarkable occasions, join the Patrons. You’ll have access to rehearsals and meet-the-artist cocktail parties, a ticket concierge to arrange for special seating requests, and the very glamorous Opening Night Gala. In addition, Patrons are offered one of the most fascinating insider experiences in New York City: while telling stories and sharing his extraordinary knowledge, Carnegie Hall archivist Gino Francesconi escorts Patrons on a private tour up, down and all around, including visits to the Maestros’ Suite and other fascinating parts of the historic hall. Chances are this excursion will end on a high note.

TRUFFLE TIME!

Every autumn, New York’s famed SD26 offers white truffles gathered in the Piedmont region of Italy. To celebrate the arrival of these delicacies, the restaurant presents a special menu (through December). Marisa May, who owns and runs SD26 with her father, Tony May, has a favorite among the elaborate dishes: uovo in raviolo con burro tartufato. Created by Nino Bergese (personal chef to the last king of Italy) and now prepared by SD26 chef Matteo Bergamini, a single, large raviolo is stuffed with a barely cooked egg whose yolk spills forth into a sauce of brown butter, all under a mantle of white truffles. SD26’s wine director, Michael Doctor, pairs this treat with a Barolo, La Corda della Briccolina, Batasiolo 1995. Ms. May ha gusto bella.

LAGERFELD’S ODYSSEY

It’s hard to imagine Monte Carlo’s belle epoch Hotel Metropole being any more stylish. A gathering place for the social and chic since 1886, the Metropole has lavish guest rooms, a comfortable bar with outstanding wines, and a concierge who can arrange pretty much anything, from racecar driving to co-piloting a fighter jet. However, the Metropole is adding additional opulence. Designer Karl Lagerfeld has recently revamped the outdoor spaces— including the pool, terrace and gardens—and even added a new Joel Robuchon restaurant (this one has a Mediterranean-influenced menu). One of Lagerfeld’s most impressive innovations is a fresco-style installation of 15 imposing glass panels portraying Ulysses’ journey.

WEAVING PAST AND PRESENT

ACTIVE ISLAND

Vojtech Blau is the only business in the United States dedicated exclusively to tapestries. By appointment only, clients can discover some of the world’s most exquisite examples of woven art. Director Simona Blau, a brilliant historian and art collector, started with creations from the 16th through 18th centuries and has recently added works though the mid-20th century. Among the marvelous pieces displayed on the walls of her attractive showroom are Flemish and Bruges tapestries along with creations by Alexander Calder, whose interest in tapestry led him to partner directly with Aubusson weavers, and Sonia Delaunay, one of the greatest translators of a modernist consideration of color and form to the material and texture of tapestry. Brilliant combinations of ancient skill and contemporary art.

Ah, winter vacation. You might locate a secluded beach and stretch out in the sun. Or, you could sail over to the Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda, where there’s lots to do. Take to the water: Bitter End’s fleet has over 100 vessels, including sailboats, catamarans, kayaks, paddleboats and motorboats. Shape up: Fitness guru Andrea Metcalf offers one-onone training. Give a party: Bitter End will bring in a major musical act (The Beach Boys and Michael McDonald have been booked in the past). Indulge: Winston’s Bakery is known around the world for its breads, pastries and luscious desserts. And if you really just want to chill: Bitter End has three white sand beaches where you can simply sit.

AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT TWA200 Ø 45 MM $595.00

PERKS Radiolaria Grid by Nuala O’Donovan

PARISIAN PAMPERING

Arrive refreshed in an Open Skies BizBed.

Dream up any excuse you can— birthday, anniversary, graduation—to fly to Paris in style on Open Skies, an all business class airline. Choose from a selection of unbelievably comfortable BizBeds or ample BizSeats. The flight attendants are friendly and the fares are reasonable for the service offered (check the website for seasonal deals). Flights from New York (Newark) arrive at Orly Ouest, a much smaller airport that’s easier to navigate than Charles de Gaulle, with the same direct transport links into the center of Paris. Visit flyopenskies.com. —JC

THESE AMENITIES WILL LEAVE YOU FEELING LIGHTER THAN AIR… BY JACQUELIN CARNEGIE AND SHIRA LEVINE

FLY IN STYLE

Remember when the open skies were friendly and flying felt glamorous? Your vacation started at the airport, before security measures became a burden. Flight attendants were bright-eyed, gorgeous and envied for having the dream job. Inflight amenities were small treasures, and yes, bags flew free. We think it’s high time to bring the fun back to flying.

Finally, an edible in-flight meal.

NOLET’S GIN

FLYING CHEFS

Most airline food is just dreadful, but Turkish Airlines has remedied the problem with on-board chefs on all its long-haul, business class service. So whether you’re headed to Cape Town, Hong Kong or Istanbul, you can enjoy meals prepared by chefs with years of top restaurant and hotel experience. The menu includes traditional Turkish dishes as well as international favorites like Chilean Sea Bass. In addition to the food, the business class service is impeccable, with attentive flight attendants and plush sleep seats. With more than 200 international flight destinations, you can enjoy a decent meal and great service around (and above) the globe. Visit turkishairlines.com. —JC

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THE GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL

Embracing the idea that a luxe lifestyle shouldn’t stop when you’re suspended 34,000 feet above ground, Singapore Air has introduced the Airbus A380, a behemoth double-decker flying cruise ship. Enjoy one of the 60 leather lie-flat business class seats, the most spacious in the world at 34 inches wide, in the upper deck of the plane. When you’re not asleep beneath Givenchy bedding, the entertainment is addictive courtesy of SilverKris, an extensive multimedia library of current and classic movies and TV shows from around the world. A true mark of luxury is choice. That means making delightful decisions such as: Dom Perignon or Krug? Should I sample eight wine varietals or two Singapore Sling recipes? You’ll also relish the options on the seasonal menu, served on fine Givenchy china and linens. Think capsicum confit and kalamata olive potatowa. (Passengers can pre-reserve their entrées using the Book-The-Cook feature, exclusively at singaporeair.com.) And for $18,000 a seat, choose a Pullman train car-inspired single- or double-occupancy cabin suite—the ultimate in in-flight privacy. —SL

WE HAVE LIFT-OFF

Only a cheeky billionaire like Sir Richard Branson can get away with using the term “Upper Class” to distinguish top-deck seating aboard his Virgin Atlantic flights. Considered businessclass-affordable, yet not-quite-first class, the 33-seat cabin offers fabulous quirks that make that other class the forgotten one. The nightclub-esque walk-up bar decked out in 1,000 Swarovski crystals and manned by a generous bartender comes off as exclusive and hip without seeming pretentiously stuffy. (Booze and that thick velvety curtain help, too.) Mood lighting changes color throughout the flight, encouraging passengers to “relax, unwind, fall asleep and adjust time zones.” The loungelike seats flip forward into the longest flat beds in business class, complete with down duvets. The black cotton sleepwear is a charming and comfy offering not to be passed up before you disappear into the pod-like seats; they’re angled into a herringbone formation and enclosed with cubicle-like “suite” walls, so high that the person seated next to you has to peer over to communicate. The solution: Come mealtime, personal entertainment systems fold away so a couple can face one another to dine. Visit virginatlantic.com. —SL

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DONOHO’S ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

FALL/HOLIDAYS 2012