GENLUX Summer 2023 Issue featuring Lola Astanova

J12

IT′S ALL ABOUT SECONDS

Publisher / Editorial Director: Cecilia Moreno

Editor in Chief: Samia Arslane

Founder/Creative Director: Stephen Kamifuji

Executive Fashion Editor: Mindy Saad

Fashion Editor: Amanda Eliasch

Luxury Fashion Editor: Laura Dunn

Beauty Editor: Beau Dunn

Philanthropy Editor: Catherine Williams

Garden Editor: Kelly Emberg

Color Director: Karoline Huber

VP of Advertising: Rhonda Zakhor

Financial Director: Marc Meshekow

Director Human Resources: Yolanda Garcia

Contributing Editors: Ninka B, Marc Baptiste, Dr. Ezra Kest, Gina Mari, Cheryl Woodcock, Jessie Ajluni

©2023 by GENLUX Magazine,™ LLC., All rights reserved.

No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission from GENLUX Magazine.

To advertise: contact Cecilia Moreno: Cecilia@genlux.com

FASHION+PHILANTHROPY

Photo: Sofi Girich by Geoff Ragatz

SUMMER 2023

62

86

52

28 36 44 52 62 72 84

SUNNY STYLE UP!

28

..

We traipse through the soft sand beaches of Westhampton, NY

HEROINE CHIC

A day in the life of an undercover quick-change superhero.

SEASIDE STORY

Stunning Ukrainian model Sofi Girich heads to Laguna Beach.

ALLIE’S FABULOUS AI LIFE

Photog Erik Almas merges AI with real life. Or vice versa.

IT’S SUN O’CLOCK

It’s time for pool parties and lounging by the cool waters.

SUMMER IN THE CITY

We take singer Bec Lauder to the Four Seasons New York Downtown

ON OUR COVER!

Classic piano rockstar Lola Astanova in our exclusive photoshoot & interview!

Cover photograph by Andrew Matusik

44

STEPHEN KAMIFUJI CREATIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE

If you’re fortunate enough to be rifling through this print issue of GENLUX while at our issue release party on June 22, 2023, you’ll soon discover how extraordinary our cover model, Lola Astanova, is in the world of classical music. She’ll be shredding the keys of the Yamaha C7 grand piano at 8:30, so you’re in for a special evening. This Emmyaward-winning piano virtuosa has over 1.1 million Instagram followers and 1.1 billion (yes, with “B” as in “badass”) shared YouTube views. That’s no easy feat for a classical performer, but she’s far from your garden variety pianist.

Andrew Matusik photographed Lola in the Presidential Suite of the Peninsula Beverly Hills , where, it was just our luck that it has a baby grand piano (p84) . The shoot was styled by the always-enthusiastic and on-point Coco DiGiaimo.

Our newest advertiser, Jedora.com, the online jewelry website, sent their creative director, David Miller, to guard and style Jedora’s precious collection of fine jewelry on Lola.

Also in this issue are photos by top New York fashion shooters Marc Baptiste and Jamie Pavon. Marc shot swimwear on the beach in Bridgehampton (p28), as Jamie took talented musician Bec Lauder to the Four Seasons New York Downtown for the shoot styled by Jessie Ajluni’s brilliant eye (p72)

In LA, stories by star shooters Nathalie Gordon (p36) , Tracey Morris (p62) , and Geoff Ragatz (p44), captured summer fashion and swimwear.

the team by stepping into those freezing Laguna Beach waters.

Friend or Faux?

While we prefer to shoot different models for each story, Tracey and Geoff photographed the same stunning Ukrainian stunner Sofia Girich. She’s a special talent with great energy and took one for G

True to Earth’s AI zeitgeist, our photo story by photographer Erik Almås is the beautiful merging of artificial intelligence with real life (p52) . Model Allie Leggett flew up to Erik’s Sonoma-based studio to be photographed against a clean backdrop. He then photoshopped her into his AI backgrounds, and it’s hard to detect what’s physically real and what’s AI—which should give us all pause. As these innocent still images give way to potentially harmful AI-generated videos that serve up misinformation comes our need for hypervigilance when discerning “real” news and threats from faux ones.

UBER PIANIST LOLA ASTANOVA EXITING HER VEHICLE AT THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL PHOTO: ANDREW MATUSIK

StyleSunnyUp!

WE TRAIPSE THROUGH THE SOFT SANDS OF WESTHAMPTON BEACH FOR OUR SWIMSUIT SHOOT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER MARC BAPTISTE

Photography: MARC BAPTISTE @marcbaptistephoto

M odel : CRYSTAL VAN COMMENÉE @ crystalvanco / ELITE @ elitenyc

Hair and Makeup: TENZIN KYIZOM @kenzin_artistry using NARS and ARMANI BEAUTY

Art Direction: STEPHEN KAMIFUJI @genlux

Location: Westhampton, special thanks to Georgia Malone and John Mangiardi

ZAFUL TWOPIECE HIGH-CUT BOTTOM WITH BANDEAU TOP, PUR, ZAFUL.COM

Heroine Chic

OUR GENLUX SUPERHERO GOES UNDERCOVER IN OUR COLORFUL PURSUIT OF THE BAD GUYS

Photography: NATHALIE GORDON @photonathalie / nathaliegordon.com

Stylist: JESSICA ARMSTRONG @jessicaarmstron_style / jessica-armstrong.com

M odel: RACHEL MARTIN @rachelallisonn_ / Storm Models, LA

Hair: GIOVANNI GIULIANO @giovanni.hairsession / giovannigiuliano.com

Makeup: JEANNIE GIANNONE / @jeanniegiannone / jeanniegiannone.com

Creartive Direction: STEPHEN KAMIFUJI @genlux

LITA COUTURE DRESS, PUR LITACOUTURE.COM

HONEY BIRDETTE GLOVES, [HONEYBIRDETTE.COM]

NECKLACES & EARRINGS, [MAHRUKHAKULY-JEWELRY. MYSHOPIFY.COM]

GLADYS TAMEZ ‘BOW’CAP, $315, GLADYSTAMEZ.COM

SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 39

STELLO COUTURE DRESS, PUR, STELLOOFFICIAL.COM

CARAT 23 ‘ROCK’ BAG, PUR, CARAT23.COM

MAHRUKH AKULY

EARRINGS, PUR, [MAHRUKHAKULY-JEWELRY. MYSHOPIFY.COM]

BRACELETS, STYLIST’S OWN

40 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

ATELIER NDIGO TOP, ATELIER-NDIGO.COM PRITCH LONDON PANT, [PRITCH LONDON.COM] NECKLACES & EARRINGS, [MAHRUKHAKULY-JEWELRY. MYSHOPIFY.COM]

SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 41

GUCCI DRESS, GLOVES, PUR, GUCCI.COM

ADIBA NECKLACE, ADIBADESIGNS.COM STUDIOCULT EARRINGS, STUDIOCULT.CO GLADYS TAMEZ HAT, PUR, GLADYSTAMEZ.COM SENSI STUDIO BAG, PUR, SENSISTUDIO.COM

42 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

Seaside Story

WE TAKE STUNNING UKRAINIAN MODEL SOFI GIRICH FOR A DAY TRIP TO LAGUNA BEACH FOR SOME SUN, SAND, SURF, AND SWIMWEAR.

Photography: GEOFF RAGATZ / ragatzphoto.com

Stylist: COCO DIGIAIMO @cocodigiaimostylist

M odel: SOFI GIRICH @sofigirich / The Industry Model Management, LA

Hair and Makeup: ASHLEY HUMPHREYS / CelestineAgency.com

Photo Assistant: TY MADRIGAL @tmvdr

Art Direction: STEPHEN KAMIFUJI @genlux

SKYLER SWIMWEAR BIKINI V TOP TINTO, $85; BIKINI VII BOTTOM TINTO, $85, [BEVERLYHILLS BIKINISHOP.COM] CHLOÉ CROCHETED BLACK DRESS, CHLOE.COM

48 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

ZIMMERMANN RAIE WATERFALL FLORAL ONE-PIECE SWIMSUIT, $430, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

PATBO ‘JASMIN’ LACE-UP ONE-PIECE SWIMSUIT, $350, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

TERESSA FOGLIA HAND-DYED PINK BUCKET HAT, $275, TERESSAFOGLIA.COM

SKYLER SWIMWEAR BIKINI VI BOTTOM CACAO, $85, [BEVERLYHILLS BIKINISHOP.COM]

CHLOÉ STRIPED CROPPED SWEATER, $1595, CHLOE.COM

SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 51

PHOTOGRAPHER ERIK ALMAS

DROPS MODEL ALLIE LEGGETT INTO A WORLD OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE WHERE NOTHING IS REAL... OR IS IT?

Photographer: ERIK ALMAS / erikalmas.com

Wardrobe Stylist CHRISTINE FEATHERSTONE @featherstonestyle /

featherstonestyle@gmail.com

Hair & Makeup: SHERRIE LONG @ sherrielong

Model: ALLIE LEGGETT @ alliemaebb / The Industry Los Angeles

Digital Tech: ANDREW FORNASIER @ af_digital_capture

Photo Assistant: ANDREW HERROLD

Photo Assistant: GEAN YIP @geanyip

Art Direction : STEPHEN KAMIFUJI @ genlux

KARLA COLLETTO ‘MORGAN’ IN TUMERIC, $306, HIGH-WAISTED

FOLD OVER PANT IN TUMERIC, $161, KARLACOLLETTO.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

PINK SPIKE STUDS

CAT-EYE MASK, $580, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

BUCCELLATI ‘MARCI’

CLASSICA 18K PINK AND WHITE GOLD

DIAMONDS EARRINGS, $15,000, BUCCELLATI, TWO RODEO, 310-276-7022

SWIM WRAP, $156, ANTHROPOLGY.COM

CLEO HEALED SANDAL, PUR, NORDSTROM.COM

54 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

ETRO ONE-PIECE SWIM WITH BERRY PRINT, $590, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

BUCCELLATI MARCI

CLASSICA 18K WHITE AND YELLOW GOLD

DIAMOND BRACELET, $34,5000;

BUCCALLATI MARCI

CLASSICA 18K PINK AND WHITE GOLD WITH DIAMONDS

EARRINGS, $11,000, BUCCELLATI BEVERLY HILLS, TWO RODEO, 310-276-7022

HAIR BOW, STYLIST‘S OWN

ETRO PAISLEY WAVES SWIMSUIT, $355, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

HEAD SCARF, STYLIST’S OWN VINTAGE GUCCI BUCCELLATI OPERA TULLE BRACELET, $9700, BUCCELLATI, TWO RODEO, 310-276-7022

LOVESTORIES PEBBLES PINK SWIMSUIT, $86, LOVESTORIES BOW BANDAU TOP, $93, ANTHROPOLOGY.COM ALEXANDER MCQUEEN MOLTEN EARRINGS, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM] SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 57

CULT GAIA

SOSHA TOP, $685, NORDSTROM.COM

LOVESTORY PEBBLES

HIGH-WAISTED PINK

SWIMWEAR, PUR ANTHROPOLOGY.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

OVERSIZED MOLTEN

EARRINGS IN ANTIQUE

GOLD CUFF, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN ‘BROKEN’

BRACELET IN ANTIQUE

GOLD AND SILVER, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

58 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

ZIMMERMANN RUCHED HALTER ONE-PIECE SWIMSUIT, $295, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SHARD SANDAL, $1490; ALEXANDER MCQUEEN BROKEN RING IN ANTIQUE SILVER, $490, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM

BUCCELLATI BLOSSOM STERLING SILVER RED JASPER EARRINGS, $4000, BUCCELLATI, BEVERLY HILLS, TWO RODEO, 310-276-7022

HAT, STYLIST’S OWN

CINQ À SEPT BLAZER, $595, AND CORINNA

LACE SHORT, $345, CINQASEPT.NYC FENDIGRAPHY

EYE WEAR, $530, NORDSTROM.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

‘BROKEN RING’ IN ANTIQUE SILVER, $490; MCQUEEN THE JEWELED HOBO MINI BAG, $2590, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

LEMLEM YANI

BANDEAU TOP, $135, HIGH-WAISTED BOTTOM, $135, ANTHROPOLOGY.COM

PARIS NOLA LUCITE SANDAL, $50, NORDSTROM.COM EVERYTHING BUT WATER EARRINGS, [EVERYTHINGBUT WATER.COM]

60 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

ETRO PAISLEY ONE-PIECE WITH PEGASO, $590; ETRO CASHMERE SCARF WITH COLOR BLOCK WAVES, $1790, ETRO.COM MCM BAG, PUR, MCM.COM

62 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

It’s Sun O’Clock

IT’S TIME FOR POOL PARTIES AND LOUNGING BY THE COOL WATERS. SLIP INTO SOME OF THESE SWEET LOOKS!

Photography: TRACEY MORRIS @traceymorrisphoto

Stylist: COCO DIGIAIMO @cocodigiaimostylist

M odel: SOFI GIRICH @sofigirich / The Industry Model Management, LA

Makeup: LUIS CASCO @luiscascomakeup / CloutierRemix.com

Hair: CARLOS ORTIZ @carlitos_hair / CloutierRemix.com

DigiTech and Lighting Director: ROBERT MORRIS @romocam 007

Nail Tech: AMBER STUDER @polishedbyamber

Art Direction: STEPHEN KAMIFUJI @genlux

VANESSA MOONEY ‘THE PENELOPE HEART’ NECKLACE, $184, [VANESSA MOONEY.COM]

ETRO FLORAL

JACQUARD KIMONO JACKET, $2390, ZIMMERMANN ‘RAE’ RING BIKINI, $250, ZIMMERMANN.COM

SCHUTZ ‘DALLE’ CUTOUT NAPPA LEATHER SANDAL, $138, SCHUTZ-SHOES.COM

64 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

ZIMMERMANN ‘DEVI’ PLUNGE V WIRE BRA, $180, ‘DEVI’ LINK HIGH-WAIST PANT, $170, [ZIMMERMANN.COM] FORTE_FORTE WHITE MACRAME FRINGE DRESS, PUR, FORTE-FORTE.COM ANTHROPOLOGIE LARGE RIM HAT, PUR, [ANTHROPOLOGIE.COM]

ETRO PAISLEY CAPE, $1850, ETRO PRINTED TWO-PIECE BIKINI, PUR, ETRO.COM

JACQUES MARIE

MAGE ‘MARBOT’ SUNGLASSES, $895, DAN DEUTCH EYEWEAR, DANDEUTCHOO.COM

SCHUTZ ‘DETHALIA’ SANDAL, $118, SCHUTZ-SHOES.COM

THEMOIRÈ BAG, PUR, THE-MOIRE.COM

ETRO BOHO BUTTERFLY KNIT DRESS, $3350, ETRO.COM

SCHUTZ ‘DALLE’

CUTOUT NAPPA

LEATHER SANDAL, $138, SCHUTZSHOES.COM

THEMOIRÈ BIOS

VEGAN FABRIC BAG, PUR, THE-MOIRE.COM

FORTE_FORTE PATTERNED

COVER UP, PUR, FORTE-FORTE.COM

GUESS PURPLE LACE

SUNDRESS, PUR, GUESS.COM

SCHUTZ ‘VICTORIA’ SANDAL, $158, SCHUTZ-SHOES.COM

THEMOIRÈ KNITTED

CLUTCH BAG, PUR, THE-MOIRE.COM

GUCCI ROUND

GLASSES, PUR, DAN DEUTSCH EYEWEAR, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-246-9468

ETRO STRIPED PAISLEY CAFTAN, $1550, ETRO.COM SCHUTZ ‘DALLE’ CUTOUT NAPPA LEATHER SANDAL, $138, [SCHUTZSHOES.COM]

GUESS LACE

TWO-PIECE SET, PUR, GUESS.COM

CAROLINA HERRERA

NECK SCARF, PUR, [CAROLINA HERRERA.COM]

SCHUTZ ‘DALLE’ CUTOUT NAPPA LEATHER

SANDAL, $138, SCHUTZ-SHOES.COM

THEMOIRÈ ‘ARIA’ SHINY CANARY BAG, THE-MOIRE.COM

DIOR SIGNATURE S40 SUNGLASSES, $660, DAN DEUTSCH, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-246-9468

ETRO SEMI-SHEER FLORAL CAFTAN, $1790; ETRO COLORBLOCKED WAVES ONE-PIECE SWIMSUIT, $590; ETRO CALF LEATHER CROSSBODY BAG, $2000, ETRO.COM SCHUTZ ‘DALLE’ CUTOUT NAPPA LEATHER SANDAL, $138, SCHUTZSHOES.COM

PHOTOGRAPHER

Photographer: JAIME PAVON @pavonphoto / jaimepavon.com

Stylist: JESSIE AJLUNI @jessieajlunistyling / jessieajluni.com

Model: BEC LAUDER @beclauder_ / Wilhelmina

Hair: LOUIS ANGELO for KERASTASE @louisangelo / judycasey.com

Makeup: BRIAN DUPREY @brianduprey / judycasey.com

Retoucher: KARLA CEVALLOS @lolaretouch / lolaretouch.com

Photo Assistant: L UIS URRUTIA

Location:

GIORGIO ARMANI BLUE JERSEY DUSTER WITH PLEATED INLAYS AND DRAWSTRING AT WAIST, $4995; AND BLUE JERSEY PANT WITH PLEATED INLAYS, $1595, SELECT GIORGIO ARMANI BOUTIQUES NATIONWIDE OR ARMANI.COM ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, RING, $420, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN RODEO, 323-782-4983; [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

ALEXANDRE BIRMAN, AYSHA 85 MOUSSE HEEL, $685, [ALEXANDREBIRMAN.COM]

74 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

GUCCI GG CANVAS COAT, $6700; GG CANVAS BERMUDA SHORT, $1650, SELECT GUCCI STORES NATIONWIDE OR GUCCI.COM

ALICE PIERRE MINI GROOVY HOOP EARRINGS, $1540, ALICEPIERRE.COM

PRASI WAVE WHITE GOLD, YELLOW GOLD AND PINK GOLD RING, $4350, PRASIOFFICIAL.COM

CHANEL MÉTIERS D’ART 2023 JACKET, PUR, AND PANT, $9050, SELECT CHANEL BOUTIQUES

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI

‘GZ AIDA’ BLACK SATIN PLATFORM MULE WITH CRYSTALS, $1295, GIUSEPPEZANOTTI.COM

NICKHO REY SLIM TIRE HOOP, $290, NICKHOREY.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN EARRINGS, $590; RING, $420; JACKET, $2900; SHIRT $790; TROUSERS, $1090, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SOHO, 332-214-7080, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN RODEO, 323-782-4983

SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 79

STELLA MCCARTNEY, PYTHON PRINT

TRENCH COAT, $2800, STELLA MCCARTNEY

ICONIC PYTHON PRINT

HEELED OVER-THEKNEE BOOT, $1125, STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

EARRINGS, $590, [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

ALEXANDER

MCQUEEN RODEO, 323-782-4983

DOLCE&GABBANA, SATIN PANTIES, $215, SELECT DOLCE & GABBANA BOUTIQUES

80 GENLUX SUMMER 2023

NICKHO REY SLIM TIRE HOOP, $290, NICKHOREY.COM

CHLOÉ DESERTIC BROWN CREWNECK

FITTED TRUMPET SLEEVE SWEATER $1750; AND CHLOÉ

DESERTIC BROWN MIDI FLARED SKIRT IN ‘RENAISSANCE’

WOOL SILK INTARSIA, $1690, CHLOÉ BOUTIQUES

SOHO, MADISON, BAL HARBOUR, MELROSE, WYNN AND CHLOE.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

BOOT, $1150, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SOHO, 332-214-7080 [ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

82 SUMMER 2023

FERRAGAMO COLOR BLOCK TWEED JACKET, $2800; COLOR BLOCK TWEED SKIRT, $860, FERRAGAMO BOUTIQUES NATIONWIDE OR FERRAGAMO.COM

ALICE PIERRE RIPPLE RING, $980, ALICEPIERRE.COM

CALZEDONIA DOUBLE DIAMOND MOTIF FISHNET TIGHTS, $15, CALZEDONIA.COM

SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 83

ELIE SAAB PRINTED PAILLETTES LONG DRESS, $3810, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

MADE FOR US BRACELET, PUR, JEDORA.COM JEDORA.COM

Bach Star!

MEET PIANO VIRTUOSA LOLA ASTANOVA. HER CLASSICAL PIANO VIDEOS INCLUDING RACHMANINOFF’S THIRD, BACH, AND GERSHWIN’S RHAPSODY IN BLUE HAVE OVER 1.1 BILLION COMBINED SHARED VIEWS ON YOUTUBE!

Photographer: ANDREW MATUSIK @andrewmatusik

Stylist: COCO DIGIAIMO / cocodigiaimostylist

Hair: ROBERT STEINKEN @robertsteinkenhair / CelestineAgency.com

Makeup: UZO @u.z.o.

Nail Tech: AMBER STUDER @polishedbyamber

Makeup Assistant: LINDSAY RICHARDSON / lindsayrmua@gmail.com

Jewelry Stylist: DAVID MILLER for JEDORA

Video DP: FRANKLIN WHITLATCH

Photo Assistants: BRYANT WALTON, ISAIAH HERNANDEZ, AHNYA NAIMA

Social Media: YULISA GUNTHER

Art Director: STEPHEN KAMIFUJI @genlux

Location: THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS - PRESIDENTIAL SUITE / peninsula.com

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK!

GUESS ‘MAYA’ JUMPSUIT, $280; GUESS ‘DESIDERIA’ OMBRÉ CROC

SHOULDER BAG, $108, GUESS ‘BOLTEN’ STRAPPY HEEL, PUR, GUESS.COM

GUMUCHIAN 18K GOLD AND DIAMOND SECRET GARDEN EARRING, $10,000; GUMUCHIAN 18K GOLD AND DIAMOND SECRET

GARDEN PENDANT, $3000; GUMUCHIAN 18K GOLD AND DIAMOND SINGLE COIL NUTMEG RING, $2800, JEDORA.COM 86 GENLUX

Wearing five-inch Louboutins and barely-there dresses that reveal her alluring figure, Lola Astanova shreds through technically demanding concertos including Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3, or Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue—for which she won an Emmy. In the documentary short, The Journey to the Theatre of Silence, musician and record producer David Foster lauds Lola, saying, “Her skills are insane. Her performances are always exciting. She’s an extraordinarily gifted piano player.” We caught up with the Tashkent-born beauty for our GENLUX Two-Word Interview. —Stephen Kamifuji

Your traits? I’m a perfectionist, loyal, responsible, creative, have good intuition, and stubborn.

Your sign? Cancer

Career origins? I started with my piano teacher at 6. I enjoyed it because it came naturally. I didn’t have a normal childhood, but looking back, I’m grateful piano allowed me to travel the world. When I was 9, I came to New York City with a group to tour play in the United States. I fell in love with Times Square the first time I saw it. I thought to myself, “I gotta live here!”

Childhood bullying? I got traumatized! I was teased for being too skinny, for being a nerd in school with my sheet music, for playing piano, and for not having a boyfriend. Mom, what can I eat to put on weight? Partially, I now have this glamorous persona that stems from my childhood because I wanted to be this sexy girl with tight dresses and high heels because I wasn’t that.

Self-advice? I would tell my younger self, or to kids who are bullied, to always remember it’s a small fraction of your life. It will be over fast, so don’t let it knock you down! It’s what’s going to happen later that’s really important.

Biggest misconception? I’m not high-maintenance. My Instagram is my sexier side, but I’m actually laid back and casual.

Negative comments? Most Instagram comments are positive, but some will say, “You show too much” or “Does it have to be so sexy?” I answer by saying this is just what I want to do, and I don’t feel it’s something to be ashamed of. The female body is one of the most beauti-

ful creations—and arguably the most powerful instrument in the world. So it definitely makes me feel more empowered. Maybe historically, pianists don’t look like I do, but that’s okay. When I’m older, I’ll cover up. Maybe.

Favorite concert? Performing with Andrea Bocelli. He’s just a wonderful, kind, and giving person. The first concert we did was in Miami, and then he invited me to play in Tuscany at the Theater of Silence.

Performance woes? I don’t do well in a cold room.

Favorite composer? Chopin. I always come back to Chopin. He’s synonymous with the piano and the piano repertoire. He developed the romantic, emotional compositions that define a pianist. If a pianist cannot play Chopin, I’m skeptical.

Good memorization? If it’s virtuoso and layers and textures, you don’t have time to look at sheet music, so memorization is the way. Like Rachmaninoff 3rd, the mothership of all piano concertos is about 45 minutes. There’s a method to it.

Wrong notes? It happens to everyone; we’re not machines. The goal is to make it look undetectable. It happened to Rubenstein and Horowitz. They composed their way out of it so it doesn’t look like an obvious mistake. They take a detour and get back on track. The nerds who follow along with sheet music are the only ones to detect it.

Musical taste? I listen to old masters and symphonic and opera. My friend worked at the MET, so I caught every production for two or three years. I love the energy and freedom of dance

music. I also love pop from the 90s and was a big Spice Girls fan. I love Queen and ABBA. I love melody-driven songs.

Favorite hobby? To compose. I would love to write music for a motion picture while keeping my classical background.

Guilty pleasure? I have a pretty bad sweet tooth for all kinds of chocolate and cake. Pavlova. Merengue with whipped cream. Binge watching? Sex and the City. Yes, still. It never gets old.

Your heroes? My grandmother was my hero. She was strong and devoted and didn’t have an easy life. She lost her parents at 14, so was alone. I look back at that and find it amazing that a person could have that strength. She never had indulgences. She never went to the spa or had a CHANEL purse. I admire women who always do the right thing, women like my piano teacher, Tamara Popovich, who was determined, hardworking, responsible, and made of steel, and my Mom, who lived unselfishly for her family.

Character goal? To be selfless. I try. I’m not there yet, but I try. I hope to get there one day. I don’t take the showbiz side very seriously.

Embarrassing moment? I was playing at Carnegie Hall for an American Cancer Society charity, and my sharp Louboutin heel poked right through the dress and got tangled up. The audience laughed.

Charity performances? I’ve played for charities like The Cleveland Clinic, one of the best heart surgery hospitals.

Love life? I have funny theories about love. Unless you’re married

with his last name, you’re single. I need to have the freedom to do my thing. I like a partnership where nobody controls or tells each other what to do. You have to find your person. Most people settle and go through the motions. How many people do you know that really, really want to be with each other? I don’t know a lot. I look at it like romance has to bring excitement and joy. Goosebumps and butterflies! There are plenty of routine things you must do in life, so love life has to be a plus— a bonus. Otherwise, no thanks!

Where’s Mr. Right? I have to find someone who wants to find me— specifically. And they want to come home to me because that’s where they’re the happiest. I will be the last person to commit to someone, but once I do, I won’t do it halfway—it’s got to be extraordinary. A guy in showbiz? No, definitely not. And not a musician. I want a regular guy. Surprisingly, I’m leaning toward something more old-fashioned. Trust issues? You have to take men for what they are and not for what you wish them to be. I’m a very loyal person, so I need to find a man who wants to mirror that. Men like variety. They probably wish to be with multiple people. It’s not even about that as long as it’s fair and equal.

Five years? I want a big house out in nature. I love nature and animals. It may be somewhere other than the big city. When I plan or say it, it may not happen, so I like things to happen first and then talk about it. Life’s always unexpected and not what you think it will be.

Happiest moment? I hope it’s still ahead of me.

STELLA MCCARTNEY

CRYSTAL CAPE DRESS, $7900, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

JEDORA BRACELET

HAUS OF BRILLIANCE 14K WHITE GOLD 1-1/2CTW ROUND AND BAGUETTE

DIAMOND BYPASS COCKTAIL RING, $4810, [HAUSOF BRILLIANCE.COM]

LINDBERG SUNGLASSES, $650, DAN DEUTSCH, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-246-9468

JIMMY CHOO

‘SAEDA’ SANDAL 100, $1125, JIMMY CHOO BOUTIQUES, JIMMYCHOO.COM

ANDREOLI SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE, $250,000, JEDORA.COM NEW WORLD 14K GOLD DIAMOND TRENDY TENNIS BRACELET, $849; NEW WORLD DIAMOND RING, PUR, JEDORA.COM

DAVID GROSS PINK SAPPHIRE RING; DAVID GROSS OVAL YELLOW SAPPHIRE RING; DAVID GROSS DOUBLE RINGS, PRICES UPON REQUEST, JEDORA.COM

CAROLINA HERRERA ICON SLEEVELESS MINI DRESS, $1790, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, BEVERLY HILLS, 310-275-4211

SUMMER 2023 GENLUX 91

EDITOR’S PICKS

I have a new crush, the gorgeous CHANEL Eternal N°5 earrings. They can be worn with the long section attached behind the lobe or as simple ear studs in white gold with a thin layer of rhodium plating for color. Happy summer mes chéris!

CHOPARD DIAMOND RING, CHOPARD.COM

CHANEL ETERNAL N°5 TRANSFORMABLE EARRINGS IN 18K WHITE GOLD AND DIAMONDS, CHANEL.COM

FENTY BEAUTY KILLAWATT FREE STYLE HIGHLIGHTER IN LIGHTING DUST/ FIRE CRYSTAL, $40, FENTYSKIN.COM

CHANEL CRUISE COLLECTION CHANEL.COM

samia@genlux.com / Insta: @samiagenlux / Twitter: @SamiaArslane

GUCCI MICKEY MOUSE BAG, BEVERLY HILLS, 3102783451, GUCCI.COM

GUCCI LUGGAGE, BEVERLY HILLS, 3102783451, GUCCI.COM

CHANEL ETERNAL N°5 RING IN 18K WHITE GOLD AND DIAMONDS, CHANEL.COM

AMANDA ELIASCH

FASHION EDITOR

It has been three and a half weeks since I had a neck lift at the very glamorous offices of Dr. Benjamin Pulvermacker in Paris. I now have a neck that looks younger than my son’s (not that that was my goal). In three months, I should look back to normal. I took no pain relief, so right now, I feel tight and it itches madly, but aesthetically it has made an enormous difference. If you’re considering having a neck lift, I strongly suggest doing it.

I went deep into the country and perhaps down a deeper rabbit hole to meet and interview Alexander Waugh, the intellectual who claims William Shakespeare was the pseudonym of the poet and playwright Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford. Alexander showed me his alleged proof of codes and drawings. I then went to Westminster Abbey to follow through on his evidence. My journey took me to the library and the tomb of the last De Vere, Aubrey. The whole adventure feels like I’m in a Harry Potter movie

On the fashion scene, I am thrilled to say that the H&M x Thierry Mugler clothes turned up and look great. I had to buy them through eBay, which was more accessible, if not more expensive. Finally, I was honored to meet Alexander Newley who was exhibiting his latest work and signing his new book. His mother, incidentally, is Dame Joan Collins, who, at 90, looks beyond spectacular.

I look forward to updating you on my Edward de Vere findings and about my new neck, upon which I currently have no lines in sight. G

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN WANDER EYELET CHELSEA BOOT, $1390, ALEXANDERMCQUEEN.COM

DILARA FINDIKOGLU ‘ELIZABETH’ CORSETED SWIMSUIT, $552, SHOP.DILARAFINDIKOGLU.COM

ME, LADY COLIN CAMPBELL

MUGLER X H&M JACKET

ALEXANDRE VAUTHIER SS2023

ALEXANDER NEWLEY

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN THE BIKER MINI JEWELLED SATCHEL, $2390 ALEXANDERMCQUEEN.COM

AMANDA INTERVIEWING WRITER ALEXANDER WAUGH

The Ritz London

Photo credit: Iris Velghe / Illustration credit: Quentin Blake / Conception Luma

Illustrated by Quentin Blake

WHEN IN PARIS...

I just arrived home from a FABULOUS trip to "The City of Lights," yes, my beautiful people, I'm speaking of Paris, France. Art excursions are a must in Paris, and this trip did not let me down. I must say, the Louis Vui on Foundation Museum, was one of the highlights of my journey! The Basquiat x Warhol exhibit is the most comprehensive I have ever witnessed. The gorgeous Frank Gehry building is packed full of more Basquiat and Warhol pieces than ever seen in one location...ever. It's seriously so amazing that it's worth the trip to Paris. When summer ends, so shall this gargantuan event. Ends August 28th, 2023...please book your tickets now!! foundationlouisvui on.fr/en

LET’S SLAY ON VACAY!!!

SERIOUSLY, I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT...

BY LAURA DUNN LUXURY DIRECTOR

A TASTE OF HONEY!

I've become obsessed with honey and I now have five bee hives in my yard that should produce around 600 pounds of it over the next several months. I won't be refining it...but eating my

honey straight o the comb. In my quest to find out about all things honey, I stumbled across the most expensive in the world. Centauri Honey set the Guinness World Record at $10,800.00 per kilo. The brand uses an undisclosed formula (a secret kept from even close family and friends) to increase the quality of the honey. Only the best is harvested and samples are sent to the Turkish Scientific Council/Food Institute to authenticate the value. The honey's intense natural medicinal characteristics and unique taste makes this the most magical and healing honey in the world. centaurihoney.com P.S. The crystal and gold bo le makes this honey feel like a rare treasure!

TENNIS, ANYONE?

They've been creeping back slowly for the past couple of years...and FINALLY, they hit this summer season of 2023! What you ask?

The tennis bracelet and necklace! Simple... elegant, and what a lovely way to say...I am fabulous! I've recently dug out my vintage necklace and bracelets to sport them all summer!! Dress them up...or dress them down—they're back and here to stay!

Above: Harry Winston tennis bracelet, price upon request, harrywinston.com

I bought this amazing skincare product yesterday. I applied it immediately, and the results a er one use? Two compliments on my skin within an hour! Dr. Dennis Gross 3D Fill + Repair claims to be an alternative to fillers and injections. Of course, the minute I saw the claims, I had to buy it. THE CLAIMS: A high-speed active serum that restores skin's barrier and reclaims visible youthful volume. Innovative MicroCell delivery infuses skin with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ectoin, and a concentrated complex of 4 peptides. The micronized carrier molecules enhance absorption, visibly restoring the skin's barrier with the 3D filling of lines and wrinkles. With a start like this, I have great hope for this product! I will be using AM and PM until I circle back in the Fall Issue of GENLUX... and I promise to report back. I am praying the results are as amazing as last night's compliments!! Dr. Dennis Gross 3D Fill + Repair, $75, drdennisgross.com

MID90S: PRINCESS DIANA WEARING A CARTIER TENNIS BRACELET

GENLUX

Fringe Element

Elevated crystal, silk, and leather trimmings accent some of Pre-Falls most chic evening attire just in time for your summer soirées. —Jessie Ajluni

OSCAR DE LA RENTA DEGRADE LONG TASSEL EAR RINGS, $460, [OSCARDELA RENTA.COM]

PATBO ALLOVER FRINGE TOP WITH PEARL BEADED STRAPS, $575, PATBO.COM

LAPOINTE BLACK MESH DIAMOND FRINGE CROPPED TOP, $2150; AND SKIRT, $2150, SHOPLAPOINTE.COM

LOUIS VUITTON MONOGRAM WAVE SEQUIN PANEL TSHIRT DRESS, $4200, SELECT LOUIS VUITTON STORES, 866.VUITTON, LOUISVUITTON.COM

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS ‘LIANE’ 18K ROSE GOLD DIAMOND NECKLACE, $253,000, VAN CLEEF & ARPELS, [VANCLEEF ARPELS.COM]

MISSONI FRINGED CROCHET MAXI SKIRT, $3200, [NETA PORTER.COM]

MARCIANO BANDAGE DRESS, ALL OVER DRAPED FRINGE FABRICATION, HALTER NECKLINE, FITTED SILHOU ETTE, $280, MARCIANO.COM

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN DRESS, PUR, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SOHO, 3322147080, [ ALEXANDER MCQUEEN.COM]

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN ‘PALMA’ SANDAL, $1695, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN BOUTIQUES, CHRISTIANLOUBOUTIN.COM

VALENTINO SKIRT, $19,000, SIMILAR STYLES AVAILABLE, VALENTINO BOUTIQUES

PROENZA SCHOULER ECRU/WHITE GRAPHIC EMBROIDERED FRINGE TOP, $3490; FRINGE SKIRT, $4490, PROENZA SCHOULER, NYC, 2124207300, PROENZASCHOULER.COM

JIMMY CHOO ‘CALLIE’ SATIN BAG, $2995, JIMMYCHOO.COM

TOP �� BEST IN BEAUTY

Here are my beauty picks for Summer ‘23 –Cecilia

2.

GEE BEAUTY PRIME SKIN

“I love full-coverage makeup in the middle of a hot summer,” said no one—ever. Enter this cult favorite from Gee Beauty —it’s the ultimate multitasker. It evens out skin tone, hydrates, helps protect and smooth skin, and warms complexion with a subtle radiance. It’s a skin-enhancing, glow-boosting liquid tint designed to be worn in place of foundation. With nine tinted shades, you’ll to find one in your range.

1.

CHANEL

Use the CHANEL Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid in Sunkissed to give yourself that summer, subtle glow. I love it because it’s a twofer: For the face and body. And it’s stunning on the body—chest, shoulder, hands. It really does leave you with a radiant, illuminated, litfrom-within glow. Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid, $48, CHANEL, Beverly Hills, 310-278-5500

4.

LE MIEUX

and silky. Fenty Skin’s Cherry Dub Triple Action AHA Body Scrub, $36, sephora.com

We all love a good skincare gadget, and this celebrity favorite from Le Mieux does not disappoint. Ionized Oxygen Infuser leaves your skin with a “glass-like” radiance, increases moisture levels and plumps away fine lines and wrinkles. You’ll initially want to get the kit so you have everything you need. Use Ionized Oxygen Infuser with Oh My Glow Activator (brightens, strengthens, and energizes my skin) and Oh My Glow Serum (10 different forms of hyaluronic acid and peptides to volumize, brighten and add luminosity to the skin). You’ll love the feel of this cooling, de-stressing misting system. Go ahead and use it on the body too! Le Mieux OMG Let’s Glow Trio, $280, lemieuxskincare.com

5.

SKINCEUTICALS

No matter how many different Vitamin C serums I try (and there are some fabulous ones out there, this one still holds a premier spot on my beauty shelf. It brightens, softens wrinkles, and helps with those pesky dark spots. There’s a reason why I, and every beauty expert I know, keep coming back to this one over and over again. Skinceuticals Vitamin C E Ferulic, $169, skinceuticals.com

6.

LOUIS VUITTON

Inspired by the Pacific Coast and the health/wellness culture of LA, Pacific Chill is Louis Vuitton ’s newest fragrance and ideal summer scent. To quote artist Alex Israel who is responsible for the stunning Pacific Chill artwork, “The green and blue gradient is resourced directly from the landscape which I associate most intuitively with the scent: it’s the green of the hillsides and the blue of the sea and sky along the Southern California Coast, in the morning. It’s where I love to hike.” Pacific Chill, $300; Travel Case, $750, Louis Vuitton, Beverly Hills, 310-859-0457

7. 8.

ELEMIS

This is a must-summer skincare staple. Its gel-cream texture works wonderfully under makeup. It has clinically proven results to help with wrinkles and hydration. Add in that SPF, and you’re good to go!

Marine Cream SPF 30, $138 elemis.com

GENLUXBEAUTY

9.

HOURGLASS

I finally found the most superb lip color for summer! The flawless peachy beige will take you from the beach to the club (or wherever you need to go). Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm in Sense, $36, hourglasscosmetics.com

MAKEUP BY MARIO

This sheer, weightless blush gives you that effortless, natural look. It literally melts into the skin to give you that healthy, flushed look. Makeup by Mario Soft Plumping Blush Veil, $30, makeupbymario.com

Spa Cabana will be available to rent. Choose from four Dior signature treatments. Dior, Beverly Hills Hotel…enough said. Beverly Hills Hotel, 9641 Sunset Blvd, 310-276-2251

BEAUTYGENLUX

Slay those Rays

It’s time to take responsibility for protecting our skin from Summer’s prolonged exposure to sun rays. Help prevent premature aging and mitigate the risk of skin cancer with my five must-have sunscreens. — Ninka

B - GENLUX Beauty Advisor & Aesthetician @bebeautifulbyninkab

PROTECT THE LIPS

SAVE YOUR SKIN

I recommend Brush on Sunscreen from ColoreScience. Its application and reapplication are seamless, with a simple stroke of a brush throughout the day for continued protection. This chemical-free, all-mineral sunscreen feels hydrating and has added antioxidants to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. It’s hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and gentle for sensitive skin and won’t clog pores. Great all year!

Ninka B. recommends: ColoreScience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50, $69, colorescience.com

Skin tip: Sun-kissed skin without the sun. It’s the healthier solution for your summer tan. Try Sircuit Soleil+ firming mineral selftanner. This luxurious lotion leaves the skin with a beau-

tiful tone. Its science-forward ingredients promote skin firmness. You will feel radiant without harming your skin. Must-have!

Ninka B. recommends: SIRCUIT SOLEIL+ firming mineral selftanner, $48, sircuitskin.com

GLOW WITH THE FLOW

Heavy makeup is not needed during summertime—especially with this sunscreen. Let your skin shine through! ZO Skin Health Smart Tone SPF 50 for facial skin. A lightweight sunscreen with a self-adjusting tint that complements most skin tones and leaves the skin with the most healthy radiance. Provides broad spectrum UVA + UVB protection and protects against high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. Ninka B. recommends: ZO Skin Health Smart Tone Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $70, zoskinhealth.com

Summer makes our lips dry, chapped, and more prone to sunburn, so go with SPF when selecting lip products. The most luxurious is Clé De Peau Protective Lip Treatment. It’s a creamy, nourishing balm that primes and protects against broad-spectrum UV rays and environmental aggressors. It instantly envelops (treats) lips with dewy moisture and visibly improves dullness and dryness. Ninka B. recommends: Clé De Peau Protective Lip Treatment SPF 25, $65, cledepeaubeaute.com

BODY SUNSCREEN

Outdoor activities are part of a well-lived summer. Use sunscreen on your body and remember to reapply every two hours. The Chantecaille SeaScreen Mineral BroadSpectrum SPF 30 sunscreen mist has long been a favorite of mine. A luxurious sunscreen spray formulated with soothing botanical ingredients. Chantecaille proudly gives back to charities that protect wild species and nature. Ninka B. recommends: Chantecaille SeaScreen Mineral Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 $72, chantecaille.com

I wish my Genlux readers a beautiful summertime. May you enjoy every moment while protecting your skin. Best wishes, aesthetician advisor Ninka B @bebeautifulbyninkab

MODEL PHOTO: GEOFF RAGATZ; MODEL: SOFI GIRICH / INDUSTRY MODELS LA

COME AND DISCOVER OUR NEW CÔTÉ SUR BRUNCH

THE TEAM OF SUR RESTAURANT PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE FRENCH RIVIERA BY OFFERING A FRENCH INFLUENCED BRUNCH TO THE DELIGHT OF YOUR TASTE BUDS

THE TEAM OF SUR RESTAURANT PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE FRENCH RIVIERA BY OFFERING A FRENCH INFLUENCED BRUNCH TO THE DELIGHT OF YOUR TASTE BUDS

SATURDAY - SUNDAY 11AM I 3PM

Babor Power Serum Ampoule: Ceramide, 49.95, neimanmarcus.com

SUN SHIELD

CHANEL UV ESSENTIEL, $60, CHANEL.COM

AFTERNOON DELIGHT

DIOR, SOLAR THE AFTERSUN BALM, $52, DIOR.COM

Solar Eclipse

Protecting our skin from the sun is a decidedly vital upgrade when selecting the best sunscreens on the market.

A SUN SCREEN

A DAY

DR. BARBARA STRUM, SUN DROPS SPF 50, $150, DRSTURM.COM

BOUNTIFUL BOTANICALS

EVE LOM, DAILY PROTECTION

SPF 50, $95, EVELOM.COM

MINERAL MIRACLE

L’ORÉAL PARIS, BRIGHT REVEAL BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 + ANTIOXIDANTS

UVLOTION, $32.99, ULTA.COM

SURF’S UP

SHISEIDO, LIMITEDEDITION WORLD SURF LEAGUE CLEAR SUNSCREEN STICK SPF 50+, $30, SHISEIDO.COM

SHEER PERFECTION

SKINCEUTICALS, PHYSICAL FUSION UV DEFENSE SPF 50,

BLOCK STAR

CHARLOTTE TILBURY, INVISIBLE UV FLAWLESS PRIMER, $55, CHARLOTTETILBURY.COM

CORRECTOR PROTECTOR

DR.JART+, CICAPAIR TIGER GRASS CAMO DROPS SPF 35, $48, DRJART.COM

PHOTO: MARC BAPTISTE; MODEL: CRYSTAL VAN COMMEN

Urban Sanctuary

Last November, my mom and I attended the Children’s Tumor Foundation Gala in New York, where a record $2 million was raised. While there, we checked into the newly opened Aman New York. —Samia

While Aman properties are typically found in remote areas surrounded by nature, huge rocks, water, or forests, their latest crown jewel is nestled at the center of the concrete jungle and it’s buzzing 24/7. For Mom, it was her first stay in an Aman, and now, she doesn’t want to stay anywhere else. The fabulous experience was on another level. Aman New York is the second of the hotel group’s urban locations. The first one opened in Tokyo, with Bangkok, Miami, and Los Angeles are not far behind. [aman.com/hotels/ aman-new-york/ctf.org]

MUST STAY: AMAN GIVES BACK:

MUST DINE:

There are two main restaurants worth a visit. The Italian lunch tasting menu prepared by executive chef Dario Ossola at Arva, and an Omakase tasting experience by Chef Takuma Yonemaru at Nama, the Japanese restaurant celebrating the art of washoku dining. Some of our faves are the Aman New York Roll, toro, and the King Crab, sprinkled with Umeboshi, a salted Japanese plum. Delish!!!

We applaud the Aman New York for partnering with City Harvest to help underserved and struggling New Yorkers needing food security. Aman New York donates excess food and guests can also donate.

MUST CHILL:

The three-floor spa is the ultimate zen zone in the heart of the Aman New York. For private parties, there’s the Banya Spa House (above right), a wood-clad sauna modeled a er the Scandinavian culture, and the Hammam Spa House (above le ), a marble wall steam room inspired by Turkish and Middle Eastern heritage. Also available are the cryotherapy chamber, pool, various massages, guided mindfulness meditation sessions, and more.

MUST JAZZ:

Not to miss! At night, the energy of the big apple comes alive through worldclass music and entertainment performances. We were lucky enough to stop into the Jazz Club to hear creative director, Brian Newman, perform. Wow, what a voice! We felt transported to a DeNiro movie set, like Goodfellas. Please don’t leave without trying one of their delicious cra ed cocktails. thejazzclub.com

HOME+GARDENGENLUX

Tomato Tango

Tips to a successful tomato harvest. By

Kelly Emberg - The Model Gardener

Southern California gardeners are in luck! Now is the perfect time for planting tomatoes in our coastal areas, and if you’re a tomato lover like me, you can never get enough of learning about or eating them. They satisfy our stomachs and souls—especially when homegrown.

During my many years of gardening, I’ve learned many tips about growing tangy, delicious, mouth watering tomatoes. Here’s my collective knowledge so you can grow them too!

PLACE IN THE SUN

First of all, you need a sunny spot. Tomatoes like it hot and need at least six hours of full sun. Eight is even better! Avoid planting near trees with evasive roots, and plant away from large structures on the south side of the garden.

AMEND YOUR SOIL

It’s good to dig at least a three foot deep by two foot wide hole and amend the soil before planting your seedlings. Add a mixture of worm castings, chicken manure, and organic compost, combined with the original soil, to help your plant’s health.

BABY ASPIRIN

Yes, this helps boost the plant’s immune system, just like it does for us. A diluted solution of baby aspirin water for plants accelerates germination and adds resistance to disease and

AMENDMENTS

Soil amendments improve its physical condition. Organic matter added to your garden area increases bulk, nutritional value, and drainage. Mix compost, worm castings, and chicken manure with your soil. Amend your vegetable garden all year long!

GO DEEP

pests. Adding to your vegetable gardens helps increase plant size and yield.

SOFTEN THE SOIL

If you’re dealing with clay soil, gypsum is a must. Sprinkle it all over the base of the hole and mix it with other amendments, fertilizer, and soil. Gypsum will break down the clay making the soil more excepting of the deep roots that your mature tomato plant needs. Gypsum also helps with blossom end rot.

FERTILIZE

Fertilizers improve the supply of nutrients in the soil, directly affecting plant growth. Use a high-phosphorus, organic, slowrelease fertilizer that’s specially formulated for tomatoes – with

an NPK ratio like 3-4-6 or 4-7-10. Don’t over-fertilize. Too little is better than too much. Tomato plants require enough phosphorus supply to ensure a healthy fruit set. Try Dr. Earth’s or EB Stone’s Organic Tomato Fertilizer. Mix this dry fertilizer with soil at the base of the plant. The quantity will depend on the planting conditions.

EPSOM SALT

Add Epsom salt to the soil to aid germination, early root and cell development, photosynthesis, and plant growth and to prevent blossom-end rot. Late in the season, use an Epsom salt spray to increase tomato and pepper yield and keep plants green and bushy; early in the season.

It is better to plant transplants instead of sowing seeds because the germination process is lengthy. When planting your transplants, plant them deep. There are little fuzzy beginnings of roots at the base of your plant. Remove the bottom leaves and bury them below the fuzzy root area to give your plant a stronger immune system. Only put one transplant in each hole. Leave room for your tomato plant to thrive.

TEASE THE ROOTS

Remove the transplant from its pot and gently tease out the roots. You don’t want them to grow in a tight circle. Fanning out the roots will help develop a more robust root system, making for a healthier plant.

SUPPORT YOUR TOMATOES

You must anticipate your tomato plant’s growth early. Tomatoes grow fast, and it is best to be ready before it is too late. For each of my tomato plants, I use a tomato cage that you can buy

PHOTO OF KELLY BY JODY PINCHIN

at your local nursery; then, I take hog wire that I zip-tie together to make a 5’ high, 3’ to 4’ in diameter cylinder. Your plant will look a little lonely at first, but trust me, once that baby grows, it will take all that real estate and more!

LESS H2O

Tomato plants are hardy, but not if you over water. Water drives air out of the soil around the plant’s roots, and eventually, the roots drown and die. Once established, a deep soak a few times a week will suffice. Finger-test the soil to check if you need water. Water in the early morning. You want the ground to be crusty before the sun goes down to prevent disease and pests. Once tomato plants begin to fruit and ripen in mid to late summer, cut back on watering to help concentrate the flavors and reduce splitting and cracking.

LET ‘EM BREATHE

We have lovely warm days and cool nights in Southern California, which means your tomato plant can get chilly and damp at night. Tomatoes get diseases when continually wet, so let your tomato plant breathe! Help improve airflow and reduce the chance of disease by removing the leaves along the bottom 12 inches of the stems of indeterminate tomato plants.

PICO DE GALLO RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

5 large whole tomatoes diced

1/4 large yellow onion diced

1/4 cup Cilantro minced

1/2 large jalapeno pepper minced, seeded for milder taste

2 tablespoons freshsqueezed lime juice

2 cloves garlic minced or pressed Salt to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

Place all ingredients into a large bowl. Mix and season with salt to desired taste. Cover and place in fridge until ready to serve!

MULCH

Further insulate, protect, and aid in weed control by adding or laying mulch on top of the soil around your plants. Use hay, plastic sheeting, straw, shredded leaves, grass clippings, bark chips, and newspaper as mulch. Allow a 2” ring around each of your plants. Never put the mulch right up against the base of the plant; it will only cause disease.

There’s nothing like a homegrown tomato! If you were only going to grow one thing and you asked my advice (from one tomato lover to another), I would urge you to grow tomatoes. They truly do make life more flavorful!

Nature is amazing! Get out there! Embrace and enjoy!

For more gardening tips, follow me on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & Twitter. kellyemberg.com

KELLY EMBERG’S SUMMER TOMATO LOVERS MUST HAVES!

Kelly Emberg, the model gardener

EPIC TOMATOES: HOW TO SELECT AND GROW THE BEST VARIETIES OF ALL TIME. BY CRAIG LEHOULLIER, $16.69, AMAZON.COM

WESTON ROMA FOOD STRAINER AND SAUCE MAKER, WEBSTAURANTSTORE.COM

WILLIAMS SONOMA TOMATO TOOL SET, $75.95, WILLIAMS-SONOMA.COM

TITAN TALL TOMATO CAGES SET OF 3, $139.99, GARDENERS.COM

E.B. STONE TOMATO & VEGETABLE FOOD 4-5-3 (15 LB BAG), $27.99 (SALE PRICE), GROWORGANIC.COM

FOR THOSE WHO WANT IT ALL

A M ntain Escape and Lakeside Living can be Y rs!

Steve Valentine

DRE# 02158227

“Top 8% Sales San Bernardino Co.” – Agent Intel Plus

Lake Arrowhead Mountain Resort Communites Realtor

Tri-level, Modern Mountain Masterpiece with Lake rights has just undergone a custom renovation. Open concept main level with vaulted ceilings, stunning kitchen, dining room, living room with river rock fireplace and roomy en suite bedroom with full bathroom. Two family rooms: one on the main level, and another downstairs with spacious decks for lounging. Also downstairs is a second en suite and fireplace among four spacious bedroom/baths. On the bottom level: bunk room sleeps six with a large, full bath. This home is a perfect mountain retreat for families and groups to 14 people. Large decks run the length of the house on each level. Two car garage/level driveway.

Listing: Cecilia Ponce de Leon, CAPRE, DRE# 01296335

LAKE ARROWHEAD

28200 Highway 189, Suite G, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352

valentinegroupla.com

steve@valentinegroupla.com

Phone/Text: 310-489-0017