Meet the man behind
LOEWE
Women Joining Forces A new way of philantropy
Cozy Up... To Fall’s Latest Knits
October 14, 2011 | Page A
The double headed Chimera
Elizabeth Taylor Collection Remade in the David Webb factory from the original archives of the Elizabeth Taylor David Webb Collection.
18K hammered yellow gold, diamond and cabochon rubies bracelet with 110 diamonds at 5.14 cts set in platinum and 22 bezel set cabochon rubies at 18.16 cts.
18K hammered yellow gold, diamond and cabochon sapphire bracelet with 110 diamonds at 5.76 cts set in platinum and 22 bezel set cabochon sapphires at 17.33 cts.
D A V I D
18K hammered yellow gold, diamond and cabochon emerald bracelet with 110 diamonds at 5.52 cts set in platinum and 22 bezel set cabochon emeralds at 19.64 cts.
W E B B
Precious Jewels Since 1948 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 • 310.858.8006 BEVERLY HILLS
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PROFILE TS: I did a little research on your career before our meeting. For such a young guy you’ve certainly had a stellar career. Calvin Klein, Bottega Veneta, Luella Bartley, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and all of that was prior to becoming the Design Director at Mulberry, winning a British Fashion Award, and then moving to Loewe in 2008 as their Design Director. SV: It’s true, I moved around a lot when I was starting out. Actually, I studied fashion when I attended University because I originally wanted to be a fashion designer. When I worked at Louis Vuitton, I started designing handbags and never looked back. I love what I do at Loewe. Most of my team is young. Although the company is 165 years old, and places a lot of value in its traditional styles and quality craftsmanship, it’s also very supportive of new ideas. Loewe is really like a big family. I work with people who have been with the company for 50 years. I’m still in awe with our craftsmen. It takes 26 hours to hand-craft just one bag! That’s love and that’s the attention to detail that puts Loewe on par with the Hermes Kelly bag. TS: What are the hallmarks of Loewe style? SV: The leather is the most important element. It’s quite unusual for a company with so much history to have remained so singularly focused on one area. Another important hallmark is the provenance of the brand; Spain. Although, we have a lot in common with our European cousins, Spain is different - different references and cultural events. All that contributes extensively to the uniqueness of the brand. It’s the only brand of its luxury level in Spain. TS: Speaking of luxury, tell me about your iconic Amazona bag. SV: There’s really a great story behind the creation of the handbag. It was initially designed in the ‘70s when modern women were breaking the social, cultural, and political barriers. The world was seeing the rise of female empowerment. The name Amazona signifies female strength. It’s bold, yet classically designed and it’s still represents a symbol of women’s freedom and power.
STUART VEVERS - The Man Behind The Luxurious Handbags Of LOEWE Findustry ashion Night Out attracted a galaxy of shining stars from the fashion to our Beverly Hills week-long celebrations. One of the youngest, brightest stars in the competitive world of luxury handbags is Stuart Vevers, who was on hand at Neiman Marcus to showcase his latest Loewe fall collection. Loewe; the 165 year-old Spanish design house, is renowned for its luxurious leather goods, which are loyally coveted by royalty and celebrities alike. Tawny Sanders, our Fashion Director had the opportunity to sit down and chat over lunch with Stuart, during his recent visit.
TS: We haven’t seen Loewe in Beverly Hills. What’s in the future? SV: Loewe is now part of LVMH and because of their strong support, we’re able to reach out to a broader market. Right now, the store producing our highest revenue world-wide is a small boutique in China. We’re looking to expand in Asia and right here on your West coast. We’re currently in Bergdorf Goodman in New York and we’re here at Neiman Marcus, testing the waters you might say. TS: So if our readers want to purchase one of your bags? SV: Go to Neiman Marcus. If it’s not on the floor they’ve got my number and I’m happy to ship it. October 14, 2011 | Page C
COLD PLAY Cozy up to fall with knits and fur-trimmed accessories
Fashion Director:
Tawny Sanders Photos by:
Tracey Morris traceymorris.com
On the cover: Grey knit sweater, Johan Ku, www.JohanKu.com; Dark grey wool leggings, Johan Ku, www.JohanKu.com; Black snake skin boots, Guiseppe Zanotti, Guiseppe Zanotti, Beverly Hills
BEVERLY HILLS
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Stylist: Kelvin Seah at Aim Artist Stylist Assistant: Josh Beasley Models: Dorith and Asia of HMM Models Make up: Alexis Ellen for MAC Cosmetics using Sundari Skincare
Hair Stylist: Stacey Hummell of Next Agency Hair and Make-Up assistant: Olivia Posenaer Manicurist: Melissa Bozant of Next Agency Camera/Lighting Assistant: Douglas Markland and Spencer Amon Digital Tech: Robert Morris
On this page: Cream quilted wool cropped coat, Rodarte, Neiman Marcus; Burgundy stripped pants, Rodarte, Neiman Marcus; Fur cuff, Somper Furs, www.SomperFurs.com; Tan suede wedges, Koolaburra, www.koolaburra.com Opposite Page: Printed silk chiffon, Lanvin, Neiman Marcus; Tweed coat with fur trim, Christian Cota, www.christiancota.com; Tan suede wedges, Koolagurra, www.koolagurra.com
October 14, 2011 | Page E
On this page: Camel sweater, Chloe, Neiman Marcus; Tan leather belt with gold buckle, Will Leather Goods, www.WillLeatherGoods.com; Teardrop necklace, Baccarat, www.baccarat.com; Sunglasses, Jimmy Choo, Jimmy Choo Beverly Hills Opposite Page: Tan chiffon halter dress, BCBG Max Azria, www.BCBG.com, Tan suede coat with fur collar, Emu, www.emuaustraila.com; Wine colored fur shawl, Somper Furs, www.SomperFurs.com
BEVERLY HILLS
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October 14, 2011 | Page G
On this page: Woven sweater with fur trim, Dark grey felt shorts, Grey cashmere gloves, Brown leather boots with fur trim, Brown leather belt, Brunello Cucinelli, www.BrunelloCucinelli.com; Grey wool sweater with knit buckled collar, Brown leather shorts, Brunello Cucinelli, www.BrunelloCucinelli.com, Tan suede boots with cream fur, Tod's, Tod's Beverly Hills; Blanket, Brunello Cucinelli, www.BrunelloCucinelli.com; White mink tote, Tod's, Tod's Beverly Hills; Chocolate brown leather clutch, Homanz, www.PrettyBagsHomanz.com. Opposite Page: Chocolate brown wool jacket, Tan chiffon dress, Brown leather boots with fur trim, Brunello Cucinelli, www.BrunelloCucinelli.com BEVERLY HILLS
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October 14, 2011 | Page I
Liz’s Legacy By Joanne Galey
Iionn aandtownglamour, that’s very foundation was built out of a celebration of film, fash- She befriended and collaborated with world renowned designers to create some would say that it takes quite a big name to grab our stunning looks that were immortalized by the paparazzi, from the ethereal attention. The Queen of Hollywood legend, Elizabeth Taylor not only called Los Angeles her home for most of her professional life, but surely commanded our attention as the most celebrated and adored leading lady.
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hristie’s Los Angeles will showcase a much-anticipated 4-day public exhibition that includes highlights of Ms. Taylor’s vast and personal collection of jewelry, fashion and film memorabilia. Los Angeles will be the first U.S. stop on a global tour, appearing at MOCA Pacific Design Center October 13-16.
Ethelizabeth Taylor lived her life as one glorious love affair (or several) with world. Everything she did was glamorous and legendary, from the films she starred in, the men she loved, to her tireless devotion of caring and giving. The collection is truly a dazzling legacy to a lifetime of glamour and iconic moments. A treasure trove that reflects her fearless sense of style and brimming over with historic storied gifts.
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silver Chanel ball gown and cape she wore to the Royal Film performance of The Taming of the Shrew in London in 1967, to the stunning ivory silk Valentino Couture gown she donned for the 64th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood. Highlights include a Tiziani black velvet Scorpio evening cape that was commissioned for the occasion of Princess Grace of Monaco’s 40th Birthday “Scorpio Ball”. Though born a Pisces, Ms. Taylor was permitted to attend, as her date was then husband Richard Burton who shared the same zodiac sign as the Princess. An intricate rhinestone beaded evening jacket, known as “The Face”, was designed by close friend Gianni Versace and depicts portraits of Elizabeth in her most famous roles. She wore it to the “Glitter and Giving” Gala to benefit the American Foundation for AIDS. On the occasion of her first marriage to Richard Burton, she turned to Academy Award-winning costume designer, Irene Sharaff to create a sunflower yellow silk chiffon wedding dress. Elizabeth affixed a dazzling BVLGARI emerald and diamond brooch, given to her by Burton as an engagement present and provides the perfect bridge in this story that leads from fashion to her magnificent collection of jewels.
La Pérégrina Early 16th century pearl, ruby and diamond necklace, by Cartier Designed by Elizabeth Taylor, with Al Durante of Cartier Gift from Richard Burton Purchased from Parke-Bernet Galleries, New York January 23, 1969
F“it’sromTuesday, her jaw-dropping diamonds, and one of a kind historic jewels to cherished and I love you” gifts, Elizabeth’s passion for jewelry promises to captivate the auction world. “Her depth of knowledge about fine jewelry truly impresses,” notes Francois Curiel, International Jewelry Director and President for Christies’ Asia. “From the first time I met her in 1998, it was clear that she possessed an expert’s eye for craftsmanship, rarity, quality and history. She collected the best pieces from the best periods, and as a result her personal collection boasts exquisite examples from the most celebrated jewelry designers, including Boucheron, Cartier, Tiffany, Van Cleef & Arpels amongst others. As she said herself”, adds Curiel, “give them to a really good home”.
Estimate: $2,000,000 – 3,000,000
Scaraturelywhopper the shining star of the show is “The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond”, the 33.19that was reportedly worn every day. “My ring gives me the strangest feeling for beauty. With its sparks of red and white, blue and purple, and really it sort of hums with its own beatific life”, Taylor said of her most celebrated and cherished white diamonds. Then there is the 16th Century pear shaped Pearl that was discovered in the Gulf of Panama in the 1500s, featured in the crown jewels of Spanish Kings and Queens and famously purchased by Burton at auction in 1969, after successfully outbidding a member of the Spanish Royal family. Collected over the course of repeat trips to the BVLGARI boutique in Rome, the Emerald and Diamond Suite of precious gems were cherished keepsakes from the filming of Cleopatra. Of their time together in Rome, Richard Burton quipped, “I introduced Liz to beer, and she introduced me to BVLGARI.” A personal favorite is her “Life in Jewels” charm bracelets. Collected by Taylor from her teenage years to adulthood, the collection form an autobiography of sorts including an engraved clapperboard commemorating the Taming of the Shrew and a gold sphere locket that opens to reveal four medallions, each engraved with the names and birthdates of her four children.
“T he stunning outfits and jewels she wore to galas, award ceremonies, benefits and even her own wedding are all here, lovingly maintained, and sure to inspire and delight all who come to see it” said Marc Porter, Chairman and President of Christie’s Americas.
Icauses, n keeping with Elizabeth Taylor’s life-long devotion to humanitarian a portion of the profits generated by the exhibition will be
The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, of 33.19 carats D color, VS1 clarity, potentially internally flawless Gift from Richard Burton Purchased from Parke-Bernet Galleries, New York May 16, 1968 Estimate: $2,500,000 – 3,500,000
donated to The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, founded in 1991 and providing funding to AIDS service organizations throughout the world.
V isit www.christies.com/elizabethtaylor for full details regarding the exhibition and sales. A Tiziani black belvet ‘Scorpio’ evening cape Labeled ‘Tiziani Roma’, 1968-9 Estimate: $2,000-3,000
A Suite of emerald and diamond jewelry By BVLGARI, 1958-1963 Gift from Richard Burton Necklace estimate: $1,000,000 – 1,500,000 Ring estimate: $600,000 -800,000 Pendant estimate: $500,000 – 700,000 Bracelet estimate: $300,000 – 500,000
A Valentino red velvet and satin ball gown with scarlet and beaded satin evening bag The dress labeled ‘Valentino Couture’ Estimate: $3,000-5,000
October 14, 2011 | Page K
STEPPING UP IN A DOWN ECONOMY The Everychild Foundation proves their model works! By Joanne Galey
Ieconomic t's no secret that charitable giving has been hit hard in these lean times. Many non-profit organizations have had to reinvent their strategies to stay afloat, while others have had to implement drastic cuts that have negatively impacted their programs. In spite of a gloomy forecast, it's heartening to see a local foundation weathering the storm, and how a dedicated group of generous, smart, like-minded women can come together and create a tour de force of philanthropic giving with a difference.
Egrantachtoyear, the Everychild Foundation awards a single $1 million a non-profit organization in Los Angeles County that profoundly helps children facing disease, abuse, neglect, poverty or disability. This year’s all important grant hearing meeting will be at the RAND Corporation in Santa Monica on October 18th. “Even in a struggling economy, where philanthropic giving is down by 40-60%, the Everychild Foundation has suffered less than a 5% dip and is still able to give away $1 million each year,” says group founder, Jacqueline Caster, who was inspired to start the nonprofit in 1999 out of her frustration with the ho-hum charity gala circuit.
W hat makes the Everychild Foundation successful is it’s extremely simplistic “low maintenance” approach. There are no fund raising events, no paid staff, no solicitation of friends, family or business associates and overhead is kept to a strict bare-bones budget. Instead, members pool their annual memberships dues and choose how much or how little involvement in the group they can afford. A philosophy that works well for busy L.A. women who are raising families and running businesses, but still want to be involved in their communities and make a difference to the lives of others. “With its democratic voting system, lack of hierarchy, and involvement flexibility, Everychild sets the new standard for a high level of donor engagement,” says Caster.
Left to right: Everychild member Hilary Nelson Jacobs, Founder/President Jacqueline Caster, and Everychild member Vicki Baker, present Jim Mangia of St. John's Well Child and Family Center with a check.
Iroles, ts members are empowered to take on leadership providing many well intentioned, well-educated and talented women a platform to get involved. The group’s tagline is “Women Reinventing Philanthropy” because it provides its members with the opportunity to give in a more stimulating, efficient and effective manner. No matter the level of volunteer involvement, the entire membership roster votes to award the $1 million grant to a different non-profit each year with an innovative, new dream project that can inspire replication – thus leveraging the dollars for maximum impact.
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his year’s worthy recipient will be announced the first week of November and will join the ranks of fellow organizations, who thanks to Everychild have been empowered to make a difference to children's lives throughout LA County.
Fwww.everychildfoundation.org or membership and project information visit Loyal supporter, Amber Valletta enjoys a fashion show hosted by Rodeo Drive's Christian Dior boutique. A generous percentage of sales went to boost the foundation's fund. BEVERLY HILLS
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