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LETTER FROM the EDITOR
INSPIRING THOUGHTS Inspiration may be a universal concept, but its source is very personal. In every issue, we strive to present inspiring stories about the people we meet, places we visit and things we discover. This time around, we asked an array of intriguing subjects “What inspires you?” Here, some of their responses.
“An insatiable drive to create things and be understood by others.”
—Joe Manganiello, actor
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR , TRAVEL & BEAUTY EDITOR---------- BETH WEITZMAN CREATIVE DIRECTOR------------------------JOHN RUSSO EXECUTIVE EDITOR---------------BONNIE DAVIDSON SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR ----------MARIE LOOK PHILANTHROPY DIRECTORS--------- IRENA MEDAVOY
“To me, sacrifice is what makes us human. I think it’s the rent we pay on this planet to exist, to be able to help other people if we can.”
—Usher, musician and actor
-------------------------- ERICA WERTHEIM ZOHAR
ART DEPARTMENT PRODUCTION DIRECTOR----------------JUSTIN MILLER ART DIRECTOR-------------------
“I’m a gypsy chef. For me it’s about travel, inspiration from that travel and applying that to my restaurants, concepts and ideas. I would think that all the restaurants I have created, aside from my very first one, have been born out of travel and my love of travel, and going out to experience new cultures, trying new spices and new types of cuisine.” —David Myers, restaurateur and chef “I’m always inspired by our clients. They bring such a range of backgrounds and cultural identities. Their passion and patience help us to draw inspiration from art, nature and other designers. Early inspiration came from architects like Richard Neutra, Frank Israel and Frank Gehry. I believe that Richard Meier is one of the most significant spatial designers out there. Modern architects such as Steven Holl and Norman Foster also inspire me....” —Paul McClean, architect
“Life, pain, love, poetry, joy, books, music, podcasts, poems, movies, therapy, nature…Honestly, anything could be a spark of inspiration for me.”
—Rachel Patton, musician
RYAN CARANDANG
RETOUCHING-------------------------------- JASON BUSH PRODUCTION ARTISTS----------------------
RENE LOPEZ ------------------------------- JOANN ORZECHOWSKI
PARTNERSHIPS & MARKETING ADVERTISING --------------------CHARLENE LASKIN ------------------------------- & FREDERIC FOURNEL PUBLIC RELATIONS -------------BMP BEVERLY HILLS SOCIAL MEDIA
-------------------- JEFFERSON ASTLE
ONLINE DEPARTMENT WEB DIRECTOR--------------------RYAN CARANDANG WEB PRODUCTION---------------------------ADVANTAGE VIDEO CONTENT-------------------------------TAS LIMUR
CONTACT
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2018©GIO JOURNAL, INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL CONTENT IS THE PROPERTY OF GIO JOURNAL, INC AND/ OR THE RESPECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHERS, WRITERS, ARTISTS, ADVERTISING AGENCIES AND ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK LAWS.
PHOTO BY { JOHN RUSSO
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CONTENTS
136
LOOKINGgood
20 ............................... FASHION FOR HIM: SUMMER STYLE 22 .......WHAT TO WEAR, WHERE: SOUTHWESTERN FRANCE 24 ........................................................... EQUESTRIAN EVENTS 26 ......................... FASHION FOR HER: BAHAMAS BOUND 34 ............................. ACCESSORIES: SHADES OF THE PAST 36 ...............................................MOVEMENT IN MENSWEAR 40 .....................................................WATCHES: BEYOND FACE 46 ........................................................ MUZAK TO YOUR EARS 47 ......................FRAGRANCES FOR HER: POETIC SCENTS 48 ..................................................... BEAUTY: SHEER BEAUTY 50 .............................................................................AU NATUREL 52 ......................................................... SUMMER MUST HAVES 60 .................................................DESIGN: VIOLET DELIGHTS 62 ................................................................... THE LIGHT STUFF 66 ..................................................................... LAVENDER LOVE 72 ........................................................................WELL FORMED
76 ................ THOUGHT LEADER: NICOLAS BERGGRUEN 80 ................................ ACTS OF COURAGE: WILSON CRUZ 84 ...........................LEADING THE WAY: CARRIE MURRAY 90 .................. WATERING THE PLANET: SETH MAXWELL
TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENTS
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98 ....................................... TRAVEL: NO BOUNDARY BATHS 102 ........................................................................ ALOHA-A-A-A! 110 ................................................................ LONDON CALLING 120 ....................................................... HARBOURSIDE HAVEN 136..............................LAND OF THE LONG WHITE CLOUD 144 ............ CARMEL CANDYLAND: BERNARDUS LODGE 148 ...................................................... A NEW SHADE OF CHIC 156........................................ COUNTRY CASTLE: BLANTYRE 158....................................................... SPIRITS: AGAVE & SOUL 168 ................................................... CULTURE: GLOBAL ARTS 186.....................................RESTAURANTS: BAZAAR MEATS 188............................................................................. BOOTH ONE 190.......................................................................................BRESCA 192............................................................TOKYO RECORD BAR 198........................................................................... SPICE OF LIFE 208.............................RIDES: 2018 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM 216...............................REAL ESTATE: DON’T FENCE HIM IN 224..................................................... MODERN MASTERMIND 234...................................................................HOME IN HAWAII
PHOTOS OF USHER AND RACHEL PLATTEN BY { JOHN RUSSO
DOINGgood
FEATURES
246............................................................USHER’S WAY: USHER 254 ..................................MIGHTY JOE: JOE MANGANIELLO 264 ................................ NEXT WAVE: MADELAINE PETSCH ................AND OTHER STARS OF TOMORROW TODAY 288 ............................MODERN WOMAN: ELISA SEDNAOUI 296 ...................................................THE SOCIAL NETWORTH
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320................................................... THE LIFE IN YOUR YEARS 326 ........................................ PERFECT (HEALTHY) PAIRING 330 .............................................................POWDER OF POWER
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336 ........................................................ INDIE GIRL: ALY RYAN 338 .......................... THE GOOD FIGHT: RACHEL PLATTEN 349 .......................................................... PARTING THOUGHTS
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UNCONSTRUCTED SPECTATOR SPORTCOAT ($298 ) AND SURPLUS SHORTS ($158 ) IN NAVY GLEN PLAID, AQUA AND NAVY STRIPE TEE ($68), ALL AT TODDSNYDER.COM
SUMMER STYLE How to beat the heat and stay fashion-forward until fall. BY { ERIC RUTHERFORD
As the weather warms up, the layers come off. Gone are the turtleneck, tailored coat and herringbone scarf, lest you’ll be a sweaty mess at the pool or outdoor cocktail party. From June through August, you may be tempted to rely on a crisp, white polo and trusty ol’ khakis. There’s nothing stylishly wrong with these traditional menswear standbys, but why not step outside your comfort closet and play with fabrics, colors, patterns, prints and tones? With so many incredible options out there, every man can remain cool, calm and impeccably dressed until the arrival of autumn’s chill.
COTTON V-NECK PULLOVER, $148; PALM LINEN-BLEND SHORT, $98, TORTOISE-ACETATE ATHENS SUNGLASSES, $239, REID SILVERTONE HYBRID SMARTWATCH, $325, WHITE GROMMETED BELT, $68 AND WESLEY SLIDE, $188.00, ALL AT MICHAEL KORS
Guys who bridge the seasons with flair, like Ryan Reynolds, Donald Glover and Idris Elba, always keep it stylish, whether pairing a tropical print short-sleeve shirt with a wider cut pant or a deep red, double-breasted suit with an unbuttoned orange silk shirt or tee. Think a vibrant pink sweater or canary yellow button-down is too flashy for you? Try subduing it under a dark linen jacket or cotton bomber. Or play with tone-on-tone dressing. A light cream knit polo with a pair of caramel pants or multiple shades of head-to-toe navy packs a punch of subtle elegance.
LEATHER FLIGHT JACKET, $1,298, HEMP LINEN/COTTON T-SHIRT, $128, CARGO PANT, $128, TORTOISEACETATE ATHENS SUNGLASSES, $239, LEATHER BELT, $78, BILLY BACKPACK, $698, AND WESLEY SLIDE, $188, ALL AT MICHAEL KORS
Pay attention to your shoes, too. A ratty pair of sneakers or scuffed-up boots can ruin any first impression. Debate continues to rage over socks verses no socks, but know that you can’t lose by wearing a fantastic pair of light brown suede loafers. You can pair them with everything from shorts to pants, dark to light, from day to night. Or jump in with both feet by slipping into an emerald green, faux snakeskin loafer. The dad sneaker isn’t your jam? Try some of the old-school reissues, which many brands are doing these days. Meanwhile, invest in a dark pair of sandals or fresh new flip-flops, but do take care of your feet. The biggest turn-off is overgrown toenails; if they look like claws, they should be cut. It’s that simple. As you shop for your warm-weather wardrobe, keep in mind that no matter the season, it’s always about fit. Everything should fit and drape well on your body, because there’s nothing worse than drooping under the heat as all the cool kids breeze by.
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CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP { CHALK STRIPE LIGHTWEIGHT DÉLAVÉ LINEN DECONSTRUCTED ONEAND-A-HALF-BREASTED BLAZER WITH PATCH POCKETS AND SILVER METAL BUTTONS, $3,045, SLIP-ON SNEAKERS IN SUEDE CALFSKIN AND CANVAS, IN BEIGE AND NAVY, $795 EACH, COTTON GARZA CABLE KNIT SWEATER WITH TENNIS STRIPES AND SHORT SLEEVES, $745, ALL AT BRUNELLO CUCINELLI; NAVY BOMBER, $2,699, AT LOUIS VUITTON
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WHAT TO WEAR, WHERE VOYAGE ROUTIER: Southwest France
Beachwear for days on the sand that melt into rosé-filled evenings, portable accessories and luxe SPF products should all make the packing list for a scenic, multi-day journey through France’s Nouvelle-Aquitaine. When starting on the coastline, fill your market tote with exquisite road snacks from the pristine Les Halles in Biarritz before making your way up to Hossegor. Paddle out on a custom board if the surf’s good, then sleep like a bébé in your chic Lake Loft suite. Next, head north to Bordeaux’s wine country and stop at the charming village of Saint-Emilion. Or if you prefer spirits, venture farther to Cognac to taste the prestigious LOUIS XIII at The Grollet Estate.
BY { CALEE BREAN KILLION
Nadége in Matte Black + Light Grey Mirror Silver, $460, by Alain Mikli x Alexandre Vauthier at barneys.com
Lana One Piece Waterfall, $218, at mikoh.com
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Hunter Crochet Top ($121) and Murray Crochet bottom ($121), both in Barefoot at acaciaswimwear.com
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5’10 Sandia Fish Custom Made to Order, price upon request, at Almond Surfboards
Smolder Beach Towel, $98, at Jonathan Adler
Blue And Green Mikonos Tote by NANNACAY, $245, at roztayger.com
Radiance Face Mist, $45, at evelom.com
Zodiac Ascending Necklace Large, $75, by CAM Jewelry, shopvandevort.com
Daily Protection SPF 50+ $90, at evelom.com
Argentina Dress by MIKOH, $138, MIKOH.com
Army Short in Splash by AMO, $218 at shopbop.com
750ml Decanter by LOUIS XIII Cognac, $3,500, at reservebar.com
Spencer in Terracotta, $79, by Lack of Color at shopvandevort.com
Olive Dress, $565, at wheremountainsmeet.com
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Sympatico Large Expandable Spinner in Fire, $649, at briggs-riley.com Soft Matte Lipstick in Leo, $25, by LAWLESS at sephora.com
Marina Espadrille Mule in Natural, $365, at Jenni Kayne
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WHAT TO WEAR, WHERE SHOW PONY: Exquisite Equestrian
Two of the West Coast’s longest-running equestrian centers have been hosting Hollywood’s elite for decades, so gather your chicest hats and luckiest charms and prepare to strut your stuff like a show pony. Kick off Del Mar’s 79th summer season (July 18-Sept. 3) at the seaside track on Opening Day, when you’ll rub elbows with celebrities and fashionable locals. If the American Riviera beckons, check into the centuryold hillside resort Belmond El Encanto, get groomed at the spa and enjoy a Sunday at Santa Barbara Polo & Raquet Club. Packing essentials: breezy sundresses, versatile accessories and stylish picnic gear.
Diorskin Nude Air Tan #002 in Amber by Dior, $55, at neimanmarcus.com
BY { CALEE BREAN KILLION Off White Calla Clutch, $220, by Nannacay at roztayger.com
Rattan Picnic Carafe, $45, Rattan Picnic Highball, $20, Rattan Picnic Tumbler, $16, all at Jenni Kayne
Shoulder Strap Column Dress, $758, by Hensely at Moda Operandi Hudson Dress, $570, at ciennenewyork.com
Cabana Blanket, $80, at Amuse Society
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Nadége in Light Gold + Green, $460, by Alain Mikli x Alexandre Vauthier at barneys.com
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Cantaloupe Soft Sideways Tote, $594, by Ampersand As Apostrophe at roztayger.com
Palma Sandals in white, $294, by Maryam Nassir Zadeh at roztayger.com
Rose Water Refreshing & Setting Mist, $45, at aerin.com Teak Deck Chair in natural, $395, at Jenni Kayne Galop d’Hermes Perfume refillable spray 50 ml, $210, by Hérmes at neimanmarcus.com
Soleil Ultra Shine Lip In Bare, $54, at Tom Ford
14K Yellow Infinite Tusk Earrings, $370, by Gabriela Artigas at roztayger.com
Hensely Long Knot Dress, $1,495, at maison-de-mode.com
Palms Hat, $225, at Jenni Kayne
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Black two-piece bikini at leeandlani.com
BAHAMAS B O U N D Casual chic styles make for fun in the sun at newly opened
- SLS Baha Mar Photography by { John Russo Styling by { Justin Lynn Makeup by { Eye Candy Makeup Hair by { Lucy Lu Beauty
Models { Kaci Tansey and Teddy Tassy for Next Models Miami Photographed on location at SLS Baha Mar, Nassau, Bahamas
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Floral print dress by Philip Lim at Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills and saksfifthavenue.com
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Gold circular earrings and gold plated ring with crystal at luvaj.com
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Pinstriped off-the-shoulder romper by Zimmerman at Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills and saksfifthavenue.com Signature necklace at luvaj.com
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White wrap dress used as a cover-up by Article at The Library on Larchmont and libraryla.com
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White opened leg pant by Article at The Library on Larchmont and libraryla.com
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White cutout bikini at leeandlani.com Silver spiked earrings and silver ring at luvaj.com
SHADES OF
THE PAST With Kate Moss as the face of their new retro shades, designer Alexandre Vauthier and eyewear brand Alain Mikli bring ’80s cool to summer. BY { AJA MANGUM To some, the ’80s represent a time of beauty and fashion faux pas, but for designer Alexandre Vauthier and eyewear brand Alain Mikli, the bold looks of that glam-rock decade are a source of inspiration. Since Mikli’s inception in 1978, the brand has collaborated with creative influencers—think Issey Miyake, Elton John, Grace Jones and Kanye West—who share an off-the-beaten-path artistic vision. So it made sense to partner with Vauthier, today’s retro-glam prince, to create an eyewear collection worthy of a Madonna video. Four signature styles—Edwidge, Edwidge jeweled, Roselyne and Nadége—were not only inspired by the work of fashion photographers Helmut Newton and Guy Bourdin, but also give a nod to modern Parisian women and the ’80s party scene. Rounding out the collection is the Mert & Marcus campaign starring Kate Moss (shown on left), who dazzles in sharp tailoring and the bygone era’s signature power shoulders. Fierce, futuristic and feminine, it’s a line for tastemakers, not followers. $460-$590, at Alain Mikli boutiques and Barneys New York
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movement MENSWEAR in
CHRISTOPHE COPIN, COS HEAD OF MENSWEAR
H Accessible fashion leaps onto the Pitti Uomo stage, and COS is having a profound effect. BY { ERIC RUTHERFORD
NAVY SUIT JACKET { $275 WHITE SHIRT WITH CONTRASTING STITCH DETAIL {
istory was made in June when London-based brand COS, the premium label within the H&M family, unveiled Soma, its latest capsule collection of menswear essentials, at the 94th edition of Pitto Uomo. Not only was it the first time a fashion brand with an “accessible price point” had ever participated in the biannual menswear trade show in Florence, but it also marked the debut collection of Christophe Copin, COS’ newly appointed head of menswear, a veteran of luxury labels Maison Margiela and Hermès. Making the occasion even more of a game-changer, COS commissioned world-renowned British choreographer Wayne McGregor to create Soma, an original dance piece capturing the essence of the capsule collection. Performed by Company Wayne McGregor, the presentation streamed live on the COS website; the collection will be available to buy online, beginning Sept. 6. Here, Copin shares details of the collaboration, his first collection and the future of menswear.
$115
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What was the reason for jumping into the fashion fray of Pitti this year? Since joining the COS design team, I have been working closely with Creative Director Karin Gustafsson on the seasonal menswear collections, and we both felt it was the right time to create a moment for our menswear offering. For COS, Pitti Uomo celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and forward-thinking menswear. Why did you decide to collaborate with choreographer Wayne McGregor? The movement of clothes through dance has long been an area of interest and inspiration to the design team [and we] have previously worked with performing arts school Codarts Rotterdam to present the AW16 collection in a short film for COS magazine. But Soma marks the first time we collaborated with a choreographer. Showing the collection in movement expresses the collection’s inspiration and the f luidity of fabrics and functionality of the designs. With regards to Wayne McGregor, when I met with Karin to discuss [my new] role at COS, I had to leave promptly to return to Paris in order to go to Opera du Paris to watch Tree of Codes by Wayne McGregor. Then, when I later joined COS and the idea to create Soma and show at Pitti was conceived, it seemed a natural and fitting choice to approach Wayne. Fortunately, he accepted. Wayne has an incredible body of work and is at the forefront of his field. We are honored to work with him and his company. Which key elements of the Soma collection were you hoping would be expressed in Soma, the dance piece? The hidden beauty of men’s everyday movements that we don’t necessarily pay attention to—the roll of a sleeve, the raising of a collar, the belting of a jacket. The garments use fabrics and stitches as a medium to express the repetition and memory of everyday movement and the beauty in understated simplicity. This was the starting point for our collaboration with Wayne. However, as with all our projects with creatives, whether they be a designer, architect, artist
or choreographer, we always give them an open brief, because we are interested and excited by how they will interpret the COS aesthetic through their work. The collection was designed to allow for movement and be functional for the wearer, and Wayne put the collection into movement by focusing on the routine subtle gestures associated with menswear. Each dancer inhabited the COS collection infused by their own individual physical signatures. We hope the audience enjoyed the performance and came away with a new understanding of COS garments—their attention to detail, functionality, high quality design and considered choice of materials. I also hope that they saw yet again how committed we are as a brand to supporting the arts, whether through large-scale installations with Phillip K Smith III and Studio Swine at Salone del Mobile in Milan or Design Miami; creating window displays showcasing the work of emerging British Designer Sophie Smallhorn; or working with Wayne McGregor for this unveiling of Soma at Pitti Uomo. Pitti Uomo is known for its parade of peacocks who f launt vibrant colors, glorious patterns and dandy-like accessories. How do you think the chic minimalism of COS fits into this man’s wardrobe? The COS aesthetic is modern, timeless and often understated, but many of our pieces are also very striking. We focus a lot on cut and silhouette, as well as creating an elevated and often unusual color palette in our collections. COS offers wardrobe staples and classics, such as the white shirt, nav y shirt and crew-neck T-shirt, but we also have pieces that are more daring, such as sheer knits, over-sized shirting and pastel wide-leg pants in our SS18 menswear collection. Similarly, the Soma collection has a simple color palette of nav y, white and grey, but many of the pieces have been realized in exaggerated silhouettes, such as a knee-length white shirt. One thing we admire is how different people interpret COS, with different men gravitating towards different pieces in our collections and wearing them in different ways. This individuality is something that is embraced by both COS and Pitti Uomo.
NAVY T-SHIRT { $35
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WHITE TROUSERS { $99
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GREY HIGHNECK SWEATER { $125
GREY CASHMERE SWEATER { $190
Do you hope your COS designs will help evolve a man’s daily style? Work ing at COS is exciting, because we strive to create qua lit y pieces which have longevit y and accessibilit y. W hat is rewarding for me is to see our designs being chosen by men and made part of their essentia l wardrobe, worn by a my riad of men in a my riad of ways, in their ever yday lives. COS is experiencing incredible growth and brand awareness around the world. Why do you think the customer has responded so well? COS is unique in that it truly offers a quality product with great design, materials and finishes at an accessible price point. Some of the techniques that we use, or details we include in our garments, would normally be associated with a bespoke tailor. And our pieces are designed and made to last beyond the season. I am proud to work for a brand that values longevity in its products. What impact has social media had on designers, creativity and style? Social media has democratized the fashion industry in that everybody can now have access to events and other aspects of the industry that were previously not available to them. If social media allows more people to be a part of an event like the Soma performance at Pitti Uomo, then I think that is a great thing. We were excited to livestream the show on our website [cosstores.com] so that all of our customers around the world could watch, as well as the guests present at the venue. As a designer, social media can be an interesting way to discover new things. At COS, we draw our inspirations from the worlds of art and design, and we have discovered new artists and designers via social media that have gone on to inf luence our seasonal collections, so it can be a really positive thing. How do you think menswear has evolved over the last few years? We’re seeing menswear becoming more daring as traditional lines are becoming blurred, for example, between menswear and womenswear,
and formal and sportswear. However, menswear will always have its unique areas, such as tailoring, even if the design process may be inf luenced by other areas. What three COS items should every man have in his wardrobe this season? COS is such a season-less brand, as we really design our pieces to have longevity. So I would recommend these three pieces for this season and beyond: A white shirt. [It is] so versatile and such a wardrobe staple. Each season, we reissue our evergreen styles and introduce new iterations of the white shirt with updated design details. For SS18 we have a ¾ sleeve granddad style that I like, and you will also see some new versions in the Soma collection. A polo shirt. Our silk-cotton blend polo shirts have become an iconic COS piece, because the fabrication is so soft, and the style can be worn casually or paired with a suit as a stylish alternative. Each season we create new colorways, and I particularly like the mint green version for SS18. A bomber jacket. At COS, we offer a range of bomber jackets each season, but they are always realized in refined fabrics and still with a slightly tailored silhouette. They are remarkably versatile and can often be worn in place of a suit jacket, as well as in a casual setting. How would you describe your style? My personal style is built around specific essentials like jeans and merino crew neck jumpers in a color palette of different nav y blues and black.
NAVY GOWN COAT { $350 WHITE TROUSERS { $99
CHOREOGRAPHER WAYNE MCGREGOR
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BEYOND
FACE BY { BETH WEITZMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY { STEPHEN LEWIS
T
he hour, minute and second hands may keep track of the passage of time, but a wristwatch wearer’s personal history is far more telling. Telling time is just the beginning of the story for the 75 one-of-a-kind timepieces presented in A Man and His Watch, a new book by photographer, travel writer, blogger, men’s style editor at Condé Nast Traveler and avid watch collector Matt Hranek. Dedicated to the author’s late, watch-loving father, the beautifully photographed volume depicts coveted time pieces, from the unique and expensive to the ordinary, and tells the stories of the men who proudly donned them. From one corner of the globe to the other, Hranek shares his experiences inside hard-to-access Cartier, TAG Heuer, Rolex and Omega archives, while celebs wax rhapsodic about their beloved devices: Sylvester Stallone on his gold Tiffany & Co. Rolex Submariner; Eric Ripert on his Vacheron Constantin Historiques; and Nate Berkus on his Patek Philippe Nautilus. Here, we find out what makes Hranek tick.
Beyond telling time, what does a man’s timepiece signify to you?
How did you choose the men you featured in the book?
Inspiring men with inspiring watches and stories. The story often drove the interest more that the actual watch.
Which was the hardest/most challenging story to get?
Everyone was so open and generous, it’s more like the ones that got away. Like the Martin Luther King Timex … I wish they gave me permission, but in the end they said no. That hurt.
Elvis Presley’s Corum Buckingham Reference 5971
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ALL PHOTOS BY STEPHEN LEWIS, REPRINTED FROM A MAN AND HIS WATCH BY MATT HRANEK (ARTISAN BOOKS), COPYRIGHT © 2017
Watches tell the world a little bit about who you are or how you present yourself. They also can connect you to people that have meant the most in your life. I just love the stories and connections behind the watches men wear. They are often much richer than the actual value of the watch.
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There are a lot of dad relationship stories, for sure!
What was the most memorable inscription you found on the back of a watch?
I still get chills when I read “Drive slowly, Joanne” on the Newman Rolex Daytona.
When and why did you start collecting watches, and what was your first?
Well, there is a Sears Winnie the Pooh watch of mine in the book, given to me when I was about 5 by my grandmother. I guess it started then ... and then it really dialed in when my father’s watch, a Rolex Datejust, became mine. He loved them and I thought he was the coolest thing alive, so I naturally gravitate to them. He loved well-crafted things and watches were one of them.
Dmitri Dimitrov’s Timex Indiglo
What watch are you coveting? Rolex 5508
In today’s digitally driven world, are traditional watches still relevant?
I hate charging things, so there will always be a place in my world for these mechanical objects. Also all this digital tech has a very short shelf life.
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Tell us about your blog, The William Brown Project.
It is named after my farm in Upstate New York. It is a place where a lot of the lifestyle experiences that are the essence of the project started. It also became this more anonymous place, where I could hide out from my other professional life.
Do you think print magazines are dead?
Print or, let’s say, the right print publications will always be sexy and desirable. It is an industry that needs to be nimble and work closely and seamlessly with the digital and social platforms. I don’t want it to go away. It shouldn’t and it can’t. It just needs to be a less disposable thing with valuable content. Don’t recycle them. Keep them.
What’s next for you?
Another book, more story telling, Instagrams, maybe my own magazine. I’m not letting print die. 42
Mario Andretti’s Fischer Ancre 15 Rubis
ALL PHOTOS BY STEPHEN LEWIS, REPRINTED FROM A MAN AND HIS WATCH BY MATT HRANEK (ARTISAN BOOKS), COPYRIGHT © 2017
Do any common threads run through the stories of men and their watches?
Hranek’s Favorites Trip:
The next one
Hotel:
In L.A., Sunset Tower Hotel; Paris, Four Seasons Hotel George V; Milan, Carlton Baglioni; Tuscany, Il Pellicano; London, Beaumont Hotel
Restaurant:
Any old school steak house with dry-aged beef and cold gin martinis
Passions:
Cheap beer, Champagne, vintage European sports cars, negronis, bespoke suits
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Nas’ Patek Philippe Nautilus Reference 5812R
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ALL PHOTOS BY STEPHEN LEWIS, REPRINTED FROM A MAN AND HIS WATCH BY MATT HRANEK (ARTISAN BOOKS), COPYRIGHT © 2017
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Paul Newman’s Model 6263 Big Red Rolex Daytona
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Sylvester Stallone’s Tiffany & Co. Gold Rolex Submariner Reference 1680/8
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MUZAK EARS
TO YOUR
Menswear designer Virgil Abloh collabs with Byredo founder Ben Gotham to create a line of music-inspired, fashion-forward scents and bags.
BY { AJA MANGUM
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In March, luxe streetwear honcho Virgil Abloh of Off-White was named menswear designer at Parisian powerhouse Louis Vuitton, and even before his inaugural collection debuted at Paris Men’s Fashion Week in June, Abloh’s collaboration with longtime pal and Byredo founder Ben Gorham had already hit counters. Elevator Music—the capsule collection of hair mist ($75), perfume ($275) and hand cream ($45), denim ($629-$714), T-shirts ($306-$340) and bags ($990-$1,600)—may share a name with the hypnotic soundtrack that plays through department stores and malls, but unlike those slow, quiet covers of familiar songs, these goods are far from boring. The fragrance is a soft blend of midnight violet, bamboo, musk and ambrette. The canvas-and-calfskin handbags in a neutral color palette rest unobtrusively in the background—much like elevator music. However, Off-White x Byredo is cool enough to stop on all floors. Available at barneys.com
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Fragrance fashioned after Japanese poetry, Floraïku—a hybrid of flower and haiku—is the latest sensory masterpiece from Memo Paris founders and husband-and-wife team John and Clara Molloy. The Molloys’ love of Japanese culture and traditions inspired 11 scents divided into three ceremonies—Secret Teas and Spices, Enigmatic Flowers and Forbidden Incense—each with a distinctive visual and olfactory identity. From the crisp, citrus oils of First Dream of the Year to the sexy blend of gaiac, patchouli and vetiver oils of My Love Has the Colour of The Night, every scent is a fragrant translation of a haiku written by Clara Molloy and inscribed on the back of each bottle, while artist Victoire Cathalan provided a magical visual interpretation using watercolors and Indian ink. Shadowing, the final chapter of the series, consists of two scents—Sleeping on the Roof and Between Two Trees—and are meant to be applied on the skin right next to one of the other scents to make it lighter or deeper, depending on your mood. $350, Saks Fifth Avenue New York and saks.com
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In a fragrant and lyrical celebration of Japanese culture and traditions, Memo Paris founders and husband-and-wife team John and Clara Molloy present their latest launch.
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Poetic Scents
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SHEER
beauty BY { BETH
WEITZMAN
PORTRAIT BY { PACO
NAVARRO
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upermodel turned entrepreneur, London-based Celia Forner Venturi answers the call for head to toe, even skin tone with ALLEVEN London. She even has Beyonce sporting the highperformance body concealer.
A global supermodel in the ’80s, Venturi knows a thing or two about beauty. In 1987, she was awarded Ford’s Supermodel of the World title, and she has worked with notable fashion houses, such as Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Jean Paul Gaultier, Comme des Garçons and Versace, as well as beauty brands L’Oreal and Guerlain. Venturi has lived in Barcelona, Tokyo, Paris, Rome and New York City, and now calls London home. After a successful career in modeling, she turned her talents to art collecting, studying art
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ALLEVEN’s Colour Shield is free of all parabens, sulfates and phthalates, and is made for all skin types including sensitive and dehydrated. ALLEVEN comes in three shades: Ivory, Sand and Amber. Additional shades and other concealing wonder products are in the works. $48-$80. Available at skinstore.com, Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa, Josh Wood Salon London and ALLEVEN.com
Colour Shield is the first of its kind, using ultra-fine pigments and advanced technology to increase the skin’s natural luminosity. It adapts to natural skin tones on contact, and blurs imperfections instantly. Through a proprietary blend of marine minerals and natural botanicals, Colour Shield also protects the skin from sun damage and aging, while perfecting the skin’s appearance with natural, pictureperfect coverage. Its spray application is fool-proof, leaving the skin with a matte, velvet-like finish that isn’t sticky, has no residue, doesn’t transfer, is waterproof and rub-resistant. Venturi really thought this one through! “I created Colour Shield first because I needed it, my friends needed it, my daughter needed it, and I really believe most women will love it!” says Celia. “It’s that feeling of confidence that comes from knowing that your legs look amazing on the beach, your back f lawless in an evening gown or your chest absent of any unwanted spots for a business meeting. It’s an invisible layer of luxury that allows you to show your skin and your natural glow all year long.”
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Venturi merged her cultural success in the world of beauty, fashion and art, to become the founder and CEO of ALLEVEN London. Through her experiences, she saw a void in the market for a year-round, skin-perfecting luxurious body concealer. She decided to do something about it, and turned to top international scientists to create the perfect formula. Almost a decade later, she now debuts Colour Shield, a fine mist, continuous “airbrushing spray,” which hides skin imperfections while hydrating and protecting the skin from the sun and environmental elements with SPF 20, anytime of the year.
It’s no surprise that celebrity makeup artists have already caught on. For Beyonce’s 2018 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival performance, longtime makeup artist Sir John sprayed ALLEVEN to even out her skin tone from head to toe. “My new favorite product is ALLEVEN London Colour Shield,” says Sir John. “It is a super lightweight aerosol airbrush body concealer. It literally looks like your skin is HD, airbrushed without it being too obvious. I sprayed shade Amber all over [Beyonce’s body] 30 minutes before she got dressed [for Coachella], with a focus on legs and cleavage. I also gave her face a light spray, as it really evens out the complexion and makes her makeup stay in place. It’s so lightweight it doesn’t even look like makeup. The other great thing about this product is it’s waterproof and it doesn’t transfer. So she doesn’t sweat it off and when she’s changing her clothes so many times [during performances] it doesn’t come off in between.”
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history at Christie’s Education in London, History of Jewelry at Sotheby’s and Film Studies at the London Film Academy.
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While the name ALLEVEN seems obvious, considering the purpose of the product, it was coined by happenstance. “My daughter’s name is Allegra,” says Venturi. “In Spain, we keep our last name. So my [maiden] name is Celia Forner, but my husband’s name is Francesco Venturi. So my daughter is called Allegra Venturi. So her Instagram was Alleven, A-L-L-E-V-E-N, standing for Alle Venturi. I had this moment of clarity where I saw it and said, ‘This is it.’ I was looking for a name, and it was right there in front of me. It was ALLEVEN. And just like that, she changed her Instagram and the body concealer was officially named.”
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Au Naturel
ROMAIN GAILLARD, CEO OF THE DETOX MARKET, SHARES HIS MUST-HAVES FOR SUMMER A pioneer in L.A.’s green beauty movement, The Detox Market was conceived as a place for the community to gather (both online and at its original brick-and-mortar location) to learn about natural, non-chemical makeup and skincare soloutions, and as a marketplace for a curated selection of otherwise hardto-find brands. What started as the personal pursuit of Valérie Grandury, a health and wellness coach and breast cancer survivor, and her good friend-turned-business partner Romain Gaillard, kick-started a beauty revolution. Now the CEO of The Detox Market, Gaillard was raised in Paris by parents who lived the green movement in San Francisco in the late ’70s. In 2008, while working in tech, he took a leap of faith and switched careers, entering the green beauty space as Grandury’s partner in the launch of skincare brand Odacité. In a move that was uprecedented at the time, the organic skincare line was prepared fresh, ensuring efficacy without preservatives; it now ships to more than 22 countries worldwide. In an effort to share their knowledge and spread the natutal beauty gospel, in 2010, Grandury and Gaillard opened The Detox Market in Venice as a collaborative, short-term pop-up shop. After the positive response and several more successful pop-ups, in 2011 the doors opened on the West Hollywood flagship location; since that time, two retail locations in Los Angeles and three more in Toronto have opened, as well as a booming e-commerce site and a partnership with Café Gratitude. Gaillard continues the duo’s mission: a commitment to consumer education and making exceptional quality, non-toxic beauty and wellness products available. Here, he shares some recommendations for summer must-haves, all available at The Detox Market stores and website. thedetoxmarket.com BY { BETH WEITZMAN
Leahlani Mermaid Mask. “This mask is a dose of superfood for your skin. Hawaiian raw honey softens the skin and chlorella detoxifies.” $38
Nazan Schnapp Lightweight Treatment Nourishing & Hydrating Shimmering Body & Hair Oil. “The beautiful scent of jasmine is a vacation in a bottle. Evening primrose and jojoba oils make the body glisten without the grease.” $84
Romain’s Top Picks for Summer … Babo Botanicals- Sheer Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30 Spray. “This is an easy to use, lightweight, chemicalfree sunscreen. Perfect for the whole family!” $22
Odacité Black Mint Cleanser. “The oil glands can go into overdrive in the hot summer months. Fresh mint helps cool the skin while rhassoul clay helps pull out impurities that can get trapped and clog the pores.” $39
Clove + Hallow Lip Glaze in Mai-Tai . “Clove + Hallow’s glosses are a collection of fun colors and smooth textures. Mai-Tai is a universally flattering pop of color for the summer months.” $15
Vapour AER Next Level Deodorant in Ginger Grapefruit. “The perfect fresh scent and dry delivery application leaves you feeling and smelling clean.” $24
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Rahua Hydration Shampoo + Conditioner. “Rahua’s newest shampoo ($34) and conditioner ($36) pamper hair after getting in and out of sun, salt and swim.”
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Captain Blankenship Sea Salt Hair Spray. “Captain Blankenship’s gentle solution for creating beachy waves and texture is a quick way to bring the sea to shore.” $14
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SUMMER’S Breeze Essentials for the season drift onto the scene.
BY BETH WEITZMAN Sun of a Beach Ombre Spray brightens existing highlights or virgin hair naturally with activated lemon-infused coconut water and pineapple juice. $24, at ouai.com and cosbar.com Perfect for on-the-go touch ups, the versatile Shade and Illuminate Glow Stick has rose gold highlighter on one side and a sassy shade of coral blush on the other to brighten the face and body. $55, at tomford.com
Humidity-induced frizz be gone with Dream Coat, an innovative waterproofing serum with new heat-activated polymer technology designed specifically for color-treated hair. It doesn’t weigh down hair and lasts through multiple shampoos. $28, at colorwowhair.com/us
Add a touch of Italy and the alluring aromas of Chinotto and Mandarin to your day with Blu Mediterraneo Chinotto di Liguria EDT by Acqua di Parma. 2.5 oz. for $107, at bloomingdales.com
A makeup bag must, Skin Caviar Essencein-Foundation, La Prairie’s first cushion foundation, provides natural-looking coverage with the hydrating benefits of caviar water. Beautifully packed in this travelfriendly patented, state-of-the-art compact. Available in eight shades, all with SPF 25. $195, at laprairie.com
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Part of Givenchy’s African Light Les Saisons Collection, inspired by the many facets of South Africa’s natural beauty, the Bouncy Highlighter in #1 African Light Gold is a summer must. With an airy consistency that comes courtesy of a high water content, the innovative formula swipes luxuriously onto the face. Adding to its allure are the antioxidant and hydration benefits of coconut water and macadamia nut oil. $41, at sephora.com
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Waterfall Moisture + Shine Lotion smells as good as it works. Light enough for fine hair and also great for medium or extra-long hair, it adds moisture without the weight. Also great to tame fly-aways and moisturize ends. $29, at randco.com
In-house Dior perfumer François Demachy wows again with his new eau de parfum interpretation of the 2015 original SAUVAGE fragrance for him with a revised mix of notes, including star anise, vanilla and nutmeg, in addition to original notes of bergamot, Sichuan pepper and ambrosian. 3.4 oz. for $115, at Dior.com and Sephora.com
Beautify from within with Zen Chi. Steep these antioxidant-rich, wild-harvested black goji berries and watch the micronutrients unfold as purple streaks in your glass. Drink straight or mix into yogurt or a smoothie. Once ingested, they aid in collagen production for more youthful, glowing skin. $25, at drinkzenchi.com
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Those with fine and medium hair types will love the body-building boost of Body Shake by Joico. The lightweight, soft-to-the-touch volumizing buildable spray isn’t stiff or sticky. Bonus: It’s also a humidity repellant. $20, at ulta.com
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Use alone, under your favorite lip stick or as a shiny coat, available in four shades, the Water Lip Stain by Clarins allows you to choose your color intensity with the number of coats applied. $28, at clarinsusa.com/en/
Created for those with an active lifestyle, Anthelios 60 Activewear offers maximum moisture absorption along with UVA/UVB protection. For face and body, the oil free formula is dry to the touch and boasts antioxidant benefits. $30, at laroche-posay.us
Warmer temps bring on the need for extra hydration throughout the day. Brimming with minerals, Thermal Spring Water sprays on a refreshing boost of moisture and shields the skin against environmental damage. $18, at laroche-posay.us
From the hair gurus at ORIBE comes weightless hold and texture with new Flash Form Finishing Spray Wax for long and short hair. $42, at oribe.com
Build your color from natural blush to sun-kissed bronze with the limited-edition, gradient shade highlighting powder, Healthy Glow Luminous Multi-Colour Powder. Available in light, medium and dark shades, pearlescent and mineral pigments add soft illumination to the skin while kalanchoe extract adds protection. $58, at chanel.com
Protect your face from UVA/UVB rays and environmental stressors with Squalane + Mineral SPF 45 from Biossance—maker of sustainable beauty products formulated without synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates and mineral oil. Key ingredient squalane, derived from 100-percent plant-based, renewable sugarcane, provides weightless hydration. 1.6 oz. for $39, at sephora.com
Offering serious hydration a.m. and p.m. via its exclusive Hydralogic Complex, Hydra Summum by Guinot helps to fight the effects of aging by diminishing wrinkles and dull skin, leaving a brighter and more youthful complexion. $95, at Guinot spas nationwide, guinotusa.com
Plump your lips, smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while enhancing definition with vegan Genius Liquid Collagen Lip by Algenist. $35, at sephora.com
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Lock in moisture while restoring softness and elasticity with REN Clean Skincare Atlantic Kelp & Microalgae Anti-Fatigue Toning Body Oil. $50, at renskincare. com/usa
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Say sexy this summer and make a memorable impression with Killian’s two limited-edition summer fragrances inspired by the sun, sin and style of Miami. The first, Love the Way You Feel, is a reformulation of the iconic Monoï Oil in a new floral, exotic and seductive beachy blend. The second, Love the Way You Taste, is reminiscent of a mojito cocktail—so refreshing it leaves you wanting more at your very first spritz. 50ml for $250 each, at bykilian.com
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Kick back, relax and hydrate your skin in a bathtub infused with Deep Marine Sea Kelp Mineral Soak by Dr Teal’s. Take a deep breath and enjoy the light fragrance of lemongrass and orange essential oils while muscle aches and soreness are eased. $6, at ulta.com
Celebrate the summer with rich shades of ocean blue for your lids with the Summer 2018 Limited Edition 5 Couleurs Cool Wave in #367 Cool Down, $64, at Dior.com
Boost your lashes with Lash Food’s ultra-rich volumizing mascara with patented trifecta Phyto-Medic complex. It works with ingredients such as rice bran to expand lashes, and extended release technology that repairs, strengthens and protects lashes even after mascara has been removed. $20, at lashfood.com
After cleansing, splash on Fresh’s Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence for an extra layer of pollution protection, plus enhanced luminosity and hydration. $68, at fresh.com
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Available in 17 shades (shown in Sapphire), Stila’s SmudgeStick Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner adds bold color to your look, and stays put. Thanks to an array of moisturizing ingredients, it can be used as a classic liner or smudged as a shadow. $22, at stilacosmetics.com
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Nothing says summer like citrus, and Infusion Mandarine Eau de Parfum, the newest of eight scents in the exclusive Les Infusions de Prada Collection, says it best. Expertly crafted and blended using inventive extraction methods, the energizing fragrance has opening notes of bitter orange and mandarin leaf, a heart of absolute orange blossom and neroli essence, and is rounded out by warm balsam-like opoponax. Made for summer, but perfectly wonderful all year long. By Prada, 3.4 oz. for $160, at saksfifthavenue.com
1 Million Lucky by Paco Rabanne. The name says it all—a fragrance rich with possibilities and fun. Notes of grapefruit and green plum enliven the senses while hazelnut and cedarwood add intrigue and patchouli rounds it out with a hint of seduction. 3.4 oz. for $88, at sephora.com
Give your complexion a lift with BioLumin-C Serum, the latest from the trusted skincare experts at Dermalogica. The potent Vitamin C serum boasts Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, which brightens and firms while helping to diminish lines and wrinkles. $87, at dermalogica.com
Enhance your cleansing routine with QYK 3-in-1 sonic beauty brush to more deeply cleanse, massage and apply your skincare products. Available in six colors for $199, at qyksonic.com
A sunblock for your mane, Rinzu Protect Spray uses zinc, galanga root extract and white tea extract to spare hair from UVA/UVB damage, and chamomile and sunflower extract to nourish. $28, at 7haircare.com
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With a scent as seductive as its flacon, Luna Rossa Black EPD encapsulates urban adventure with notes of patchouli at the top, ambergris at the heart and coumarin at the base. By Prada, 3.4 oz. for $96, at macys.com
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Add a splash of the Italian coast with Acqua di Parma’s new Blu Mediterraneo Spray Body Lotion ($50), Hand Cream ($28) and Lip Balm ($20). Available in an array of scents, at neimanmarcus.com
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Just like its flacon, Invictus Aqua by Paco Rabanne commands attention. The fresh aquatic scent seduces with notes of ambery woods, wet violet leaf and grapefruit granite. 3.4 oz. for $88, at sephora.com
Add a soft shimmer, dewy glow and dimension sans glitter with Christie Brinkley Natural Glow Stick Highlighter. $22, at HSN.com
Wash your face with Micellar Cleansing Water and boost it throughout the day with OSA Water Mist, new from Icelandic brand BioEffect. Their key ingredient is Icelandic water, geologically filtered through layers of inert volcanic lava, making it one of the purest H2Os on the planet. Along with the brand’s Volcanic Exfoliator, the cleanser boasts a low concentration of hard minerals like calcium and magnesium, and contains four hydrating agents for an extra moisturizing effect. Unique to the Water Mist is orthosilicic acid, a bioavailable silica purified from geothermal sources, which strengthens the skin´s elasticity and retains water, leaving softer, firmer and more mattified skin. $120 for both, at bioeffect.com
This stylish and sleek multi-use White Phox highlighting pencil is one in the Strange Flowers Collection by London-based fashion designer Erdem in collaboration with NARS. $29, at narscosmetics.com
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Detangle and protect your hair from heat styling while adding shine with the leave-in conditioning K-PAK Color Therapy Luster Lock Spray by Joico. $21, at ulta.com
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New to the states from Tokyo comes the Nature Lab Smooth Collection with shampoo ($14), conditioner ($14), hair oil ($16) and blow out lotion ($12). Made without parabens, sulfates and phthalates, the collection is infused with yuzu ceramide and exotic oils, and helps to reduce frizz and smooth the hair. At naturelab.com
New York - 942 Madison Avenue 212-421-3030
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The Beverly Wilshire - 9500 Wilshire Boulevard 310-858-8006
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@davidwebbjewels
VIOLET Delights Ultra violet (the color, not the electromagnetic radiation) is having its moment in the sun. Sophisticated and commanding, yet sultry and seductive, this complex hue is boldly making its presence known in the worlds of fashion, beauty and design. Brands are proving its versatility, with delicate and daring variations on the shade. BY { MARIE LOOK Shadow Extreme in deep purple, $36, by Tom Ford, tomford. com Lippy Liquid Lipstick ($18) and Plush Rush Lip Gloss ($20) in ultra violet, by Butter London, butterlondon.com Crystal-embellished cat-eye silver-tone sunglasses, $620, by Miu Miu, net-a-porter.com
Glazen Lustrous Liner in ultra violet, $19, by Butter London, butterlondon.com
Cattleya Flower Body Mist, $65 for 3.4 oz., by Jo Malone London, jomalone.com, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom
Elena Demi Bra in Pewter ($74) and Elena Thong in Pewter ($30) at Journelle, Journelle.com
Limited-edition Mirage Noir Lipstick in Beach Nut, $18.50, by MAC, maccosmetics.com, Macy’s, Ulta
Dali-esque wool multicolor abstract rug, 6’7” x 10’3”, $6,200, by Doris Leslie Blau, dorisleslieblau.com
Reine floor lamp, $2,300 for the small lamp, $2,585 for the large lamp, by Roche Bobois, rochebobois.com
Pintucked silk crepe de chine shirt, $1,200, by Gucci, net-a-porter. com
Medium Neo Geo obelisk, 5” x 5” x 13.5”, $298, by Jonathan Adler, jonathanadler.com
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Chess End Table designed by Marcel Wanders, price upon request, by Roche Bobois, rochebobois.com
Rexford chair, price upon request, by Erinn V., available in custom size and finish, erinnv.com
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STUFF
BY { BONNIE DAVIDSON
A love of architecture and the environment sparked two Yale buddies to create Stickbulb, a New York City-based maker of minimalist, modular, energy-efficient LED fixtures that are handcrafted out of reclaimed and sustainably sourced wood—and are a real turn-on in the world of modern lighting design. Gio ISSUE No. 2 LOOKING GOOD
Clockwise, from left: Named after the main branch of a tree, Bough— a new collection of versatile LED pendants introduced in May 2018 —features a Y-shaped friction-fit connector that allows for the configuration of new shapes without the need for tools, which can be suspended from the ceiling singly or in clusters; Available as a double Bough, the design can be optimized for rectangular dining and conference tables; Stickbulb cofounders Russell Greenberg and Christopher Beardsley bask in the glow of taking home “Best in Show” honors at the 2017 NYCxDesign fair for Ambassador, their 16-foot wide, 8- foot tall installation constructed out of 146 richly textured redwood beams salvaged from a demolished water tower in Lower Manhattan, carbon dated to be three centuries old.
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From left: Pictured in heart pine with polished brass, pendants in the Diamond Collection are available in three size configurations, from 2 to 4 feet in overall length, while suspension stems can be trimmed onsite; Resembling a percussive instrument, 3-Ring Chime consists of three blackened steel hardware rings (3 to 4 feet in diameter) holding more than 100 Stickbulbs made from maple, custom Coney Island Boardwalk ipe wood and southern yellow pine.
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From small desk lamps to soaring, roomilluminating installations, Stickbulb’s ingenious modular designs are the bright ideas of co-founders Russell Greenberg and Christopher Beardsley, former Yale School of Architecture classmates on a mission: “to build with light.” Founded in 2012 by design studio RUX, the brand’s eco-first creations are constructed out of salvaged materials, including 300-yearold redwood from decommissioned NYC rooftop water towers (originally sourced from West Coast forests) and heart pine from Chicago’s Pullman Couch Factory, which caught fire in 2013. Their ingenuity has led to a hefty product catalog; multiple awards at NYCxDESIGN fairs; collaborations with brands like Google, Facebook and Whole Foods; and private commissions for hotels, offices, restaurants and residences across the globe.
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LAVENDER Love Contrast this ethereal, feel-good shade with darker hues to bring striking appeal to any room. BY { ERINN V.
An interesting color palette is the result of layering lights and darks, creating contrast. When using soft tones, such as lavender, I like to punctuate the space with black. In this bedroom, we brought in a sense of masculinity with dark wood paneling that hides the closet and TV, along with dark chairs and nightstands. To brighten up the space, I chose a light rug. The headboard fabric was really the beginning of the palette. It had a great waxed texture, which made the soft tone more interesting and modern. Instead of using cold silver tones with the cool lavender, I like warmer metal tones. I brought in warm brass and bronze elements in the lamps, chair legs and mirror. Even touches in the accessories help to tie the look together.
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The light wood bench breaks up the dark wood theme, giving the space variety and extra impact. Using only dark wood would have made the space appear dull. The custom nightstands are from my collection. They have a slight zen feel to them with the feet and styling, which I carried over into the bedding choices. Layering bedding from various collections is my favorite. Never buy a whole set! The black accents tie the whole room together and complete the look.
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TAKE AWAY: If you have dark floors, go with a lighter carpet for contrast. If you have dark walls, go with lighter drapery. Mixing metal tones always creates a more interesting look, so don’t worry if they are not all exactly the same. Contrast is key! Design by Erinn V. Design Group Wooly Bella Chairs by Videre Licet at Twentieth, Los Angeles; Vintage Mirror; Vase at Table Art, Los Angeles
Photo by Christoper Patey
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“Accessories really make the room. Bringing in tones that work together is the key to a very polished look.�
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Custom headboard, bench, Meyer Table and bespoke furnishings made in California by ERINN V., prices available upon request; Vintage lamps, at Dragonette, Los Angeles
Design by Erinn V. Design Group Photo by Christoper Patey
GET THE LOOK...
“I love the contrast of the antique brass and black metal on this mirror.” Danois Mirror by Downtown, foiled brass frame with black finish, handmade in Los Angeles, 27.5” wide, 26.5” tall, 5” deep, $5,600, at downtown20.net
“Tall black and white vases are my go to for any room.” Anna Sykora “Sgraffitto” Vases, made in Germany, 24” tall, $1,550, at Table Art, Los Angeles
“Add a versatile rug design to complete the look; I like this subtle stripe, achieved through using a mixture of neutral-toned yarns.” Gio
Aarambha, 100 percent hand knotted fine bamboo silk, $89 sq. ft., at The Rug Company
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Meyer Table by ERINN V. Handmade in Los Angeles, made to order and fully customizable, shown in Moss Oak, 40” wide, 22” deep, 28.25” tall, price upon request, at erinnv.com
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“Furniture that fits the room is the ultimate luxury.”
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“This clean fixture will update any room.”
Massimo Chandelier, by Downtown. Large Single Drum Chandelier, grey steel and brass details, black rubber cord, frosted glass, handmade in Los Angeles, 25” diameter, 4” body, 48” height $4,300, at downtown20.net
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“I love light colored bedding in a layer of neutral colors and textures. Buy an oversized bed cover to drape to the floor for a chic European look.”
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Wooly Bella Chairs by Videre Licet at Twentieth, Los Angeles
“This tiger’s eye box is a real gem! Store bedside essentials in style.”
Tiger’s Eye Box; Black onyx interior, 1.5” tall, 7” wide, 4.5” deep, circa 1970 $1250, at Dragonette, Los Angeles
“Black silk bedding is a great layering element.”
Charmeuse Channel Quilt Coverlet, 1” channel quilted, 100% silk, 112” x 98,” $1, 375, at Between The Sheets, Los Angeles
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WELL FORMED Potter Patrick Hall strikes a balance between reflective artist and creative collaborator at his Clay Studio in Santa Barbara BY { MARIE LOOK PHOTOGRAPHY BY { JOHN RUSSO
If ever there was a stereotypical introverted artist for whom collaboration and entrepreneurialism are alien concepts, Patrick Hall, a gifted ceramicist and self-described people person, certainly is not that guy. Hall and his wife, Diane, a writer, live and work in the Santa Barbara area, where he co-founded Clay Studio in 2012. In addition to his own private workspace, the studio has room enough to host group classes, individual instruction and even open studio hours. For Hall, establishing the space was the perfect way to harmonize his business intellect and desire to collaborate with his sometimes solitary exploration into his craft. “You get really immersed in your own work,” Hall says of his time in the studio. “You’re concentrating and you’re creating this thing, and then you come out of your cave and you get to work with other people and help them develop their ideas. We—both parties, the teacher and the students—learn an awful lot from each other.” Hall explains he’s always possessed these two contrasting sides to his personality. Prior to co-founding Clay Studio in the last decade and reprioritizing his art, he built and ran a successful architectural design and contracting business. But pottery was, and always has been, his first love.
“I think I was probably about 9 or 10 years old,” he says. “I remember seeing a film with a potter at work on a wheel and I thought it was magic. I just thought it was beautiful. I remember thinking, ‘I want to try that someday.’” Hall seized his chance to learn the fundamentals when he worked as a production potter from ages 14 to 19. He continued his studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he earned master’s degrees in fine art and art history. Now, he passionately pursues his craft full time, creating utilitarian pieces, such as tumblers, as well as more pensive objets d’art. “I like to work in theories of things,” he says of his current aesthetic mood, adding that he almost always works in series, experimenting with clays sourced near and far, as well as wood, specifically oak, on his wall pieces, and black bamboo and leather straps on his covered vessels. A particular specialty of Hall’s are cracked surface techniques (and the requisite patience they require). On flat pieces he achieves this by applying a slurry of colored clay and carefully controlling the drying time; on vessels, he gradually expands the form from the inside until a contrasting clay on the outer surface cracks. At a minimum, a piece takes about four months to complete, although more time is common and Hall typically works on several concurrently.
DARK STONEWARE WITH PORCELAIN SLIP, STRETCHED AND CRACKED, 17-IN. HIGH, 2016 “It’s really fascinating,” Hall says of working with his chosen medium. “It’s very calming. It’s a lot like doing yoga or meditating. There’s something about the material that lends itself to you becoming immersed in your process and kind of self-reflective. It’s a very centering process and it makes you feel connected to a lot of things.” As captivating as clay is to Hall, is there a particular work that stands out in his mind? Yes, but not for the reason one might expect. “I have something I made as an undergraduate in college. I’m still interested in the concepts but the light bulb hasn’t gone off in my head about how to resolve it yet aesthetically. That happens,” he explains. We know some things are worth the wait. And judging by the uniqueness of Hall’s other works, this one will be too. Utilitarian pieces like tumblers start at $35; larger sculptural $3,500 to $5,000; vessels $800 to $2,400. claystudioart.com, 805.886.6765
WHITE AND TERRA-COTTA STONEWARE COVERED JAR WITH PORCELAIN SLIP, LAVA GLAZE, BLACK BAMBOO HANDLE WITH LEATHER STRAPS, 16-IN. HIGH, 2017
WHITE AND TERRA-COTTA STONEWARE COVERED JAR WITH PORCELAIN SLIP, DAPPLED GLAZE, BLACK BAMBOO HANDLE WITH LEATHER STRAPS, 18-IN. HIGH, 2017
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THOUGHT LEADER By investing in the world of ideas, Nicolas Berggruen wants to reform governance, politics and philosophy around the globe. In the process, he hopes to improve humanity. BY { KATE
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JACOBSON EDITING BY { BONNIE DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY { JOHN RUSSO
illionaire financier, philanthropist and resident of West Hollywood’s Sierra Towers, Nicolas Berggruen has always been passionate about politics, philosophy and big ideas. Following his privileged childhood in Paris (he is the son of a wealthy German art collector and an actress), he studied finance and international business in New York, invested in real estate and hedge funds, saw his net worth sky rocket, and dedicated himself to making the world a better place for us all. To that end, in 2010 Berggruen founded the Berggruen Institute, an independent, non-partisan think tank that addresses “fundamental political and cultural questions and ideas at a time of great change for humanity,” he explains. Comprised of the Berggruen Governance Center and the Berggruen Philosophy and Culture Center, the institute’s mission is to shape political, economic and social institutions by bringing together world leaders in order to address the most important topics of our time, ranging from climate change and social conflicts to rapidly advancing technology. “The questions of human transformation in the age of artificial intelligence and gene editing, geopolitics in the era of non-cooperation, and the need to rethink democracies and capitalism are the kinds of questions that the Berggruen Institute tries to address,” he continues. Berggruen and his team believe in rewarding groundbreaking research and sponsoring scholars in their endeavors. In 2016, the institute established the Berggruen Prize—an award of $1 million presented to an individual whose work is profoundly relevant to the betterment of humanity. Additionally, the institute purchased 447 secluded acres in the Santa Monica Mountains to be the site of a scholarly retreat designed by Pritzker Prize-winning Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. It will be a peaceful place where elite thinkers from around the globe will converge to reflect, share work, brainstorm and develop ideas of great consequence. “Some of the ideas and reform work which we have been able to enable are obviously very rewarding, as is the chance to work with exceptional minds,” says Berggruen. “From the beginning, we have made sure that our work was not just Western-centric, and we also engage and learn from other cultures, especially Asian. As a result, our two key centers are at opposite poles, culturally and politically—Los Angeles and Beijing.” Ultimately, Berggruen hopes to build a world that is more cooperative and enlightened. Change, alas, does not happen overnight. “In our case, the work is not about single breakthroughs, but evolving thinking and ideas, which takes time,” he notes. “But it makes the journey valuable and memorable.” G
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W ILSON CRUZ
ACTS BY MARIE LOOK
OF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN RUSSO
Star Trek: Discovery ’s Wilson Cruz balances acting with activism and commits to one epic love story in the cosmos.
COURAGE A
ctor and LGBTQ activist Wilson Cruz is ready to take off once more. On Star Trek ’s USS Discovery, that is. The
cast members of Star Trek: Discovery, Cruz included,
are currently in Toronto filming the highly anticipated second season, slated for a 2019 release.
But long before the 44-year-old’s turn as Dr. Hugh Culber on
Star Trek: Discovery for CBS All Access, Cruz’s career took off in 1994, when he starred in My So-Called Life alongside Claire Danes and Jared Leto. And he’s been flying high ever since, with memorable roles on TV shows like Party of Five, Noah’s Arc , Red
Band Society and Netflix’s controversial 13 Reasons Why, which recently saw the release of its second season.
In film, Cruz’s most recent appearance was last year as
Mateo in the pensive After Louie, starring Alan Cumming. The film reflects on what it means to be a gay man in the modern era. “I think the great thing about After Louie is it tackles a conversation that I have been having within my own life with friends about this disconnect that we thought we were sensing from a younger generation about HIV/AIDS, and how devastating it was for two generations of gay men,” Cruz says of his experience working on the film.
Cruz, who is of Puerto Rican descent and came out to
his parents in his late teens, has been a strong voice in the LGBTQ community throughout his career, welcoming roles that empowered both his acting and his activism. His character on
My So-Called Life, Rickie Vasquez, represented what it was like to be a gay 15-year-old in the ’90s. Since then, he’s also held positions at GLAAD, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network.
“I think it was always a part of who I am,” Cruz says of his
activism. “I’ve tried to balance my life … with my work as an artist and my work as an activist, because I feel like we are living in be a part of the change … But I do think My So-Called Life put necessarily just have to work at GLAAD in order to make an impression, make a difference. That the roles I chose and the work that I chose to do when I got the opportunity was also just
Cruz says he’s also asked to sound off a lot about bullying,
particularly with it being a central theme in the teen drama 13
Reasons Why, in which he plays attorney Dennis Vasquez. “I get kids who reach out to me online all the time about how they’re
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harassed at school and bullied,” says the actor, who admits he was bullied in junior high and high school. Still, he’s not always sure what advice to give others.
“I really struggle with this question,” he admits.
“Because we tell young people to go to an adult … and what does that do, necessarily? It stops it momentarily, but does it stop everything that leads up to that bullying? What I say to my niece and my nephew is, that they aren’t defined by what people say and think about them. And what’s most important in our lives is how we define ourselves. And if we define ourselves honestly and we create ourselves in the way that feels good and honest to us, it should be of no consequence what anyone thinks about us. That’s a difficult thing for a child to understand, but I think that reminding them of that and guiding them toward building their own self-esteem … then we build young people who can withstand the ignorance of bullies.”
While Netflix viewers await details on a third season
of 13 Reasons , Cruz fans can turn their attention toward the stars. Cruz’s Star Trek character, Hugh Culber, is a landmark for the franchise, with Culber and science officer Paul Stamets, played by Anthony Rapp, as the first openly gay couple in a Star Trek series. However, Culber’s unexpected death in the second half of the first season had viewers venting to Cruz on Twitter about what they felt was yet another death of a gay minority character in a global franchise. Even the actor says he was stunned when he received the news about Culber’s upcoming demise (a phone call he had to take on his very first day on set at 13 Reasons). But not long after that, Cruz learned his character would be making a season two return, a detail
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was confirmed.
While Cruz can’t reveal much at the moment about
his character’s comeback, he affirms that he, CBS and showrunners Gretchen Berg and Aaron Harberts remain very committed to the character. “I know it sounds crazy, but [Culber’s] death is really just the beginning of this love story,” Cruz asserts. “It had to happen in order for us to go on the journey we’re about to go on. And I’m excited about what [Gretchen and Aaron] described to me as this journey.” We can’t wait to come along for the ride.
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C A R R I E M U R R AY
LEADING THE WAY Passionate about female empowerment, Carrie Murray is building a better world for entrepreneurial women. BY { BETH
WEITZMAN
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With her background as a social worker who advocated for victims of domestic violence, an educator who championed girls and children with special needs, and the sole proprietor of a start-up business, Carrie Murray was well aware of the need for female empowerment. In 2015, she invited six women business owners to network over dinner. What began as a casual meeting of peers has rapidly grown into BRA – Business Relationship Alliance (bra-network.com), an ever-expanding community of strong, supportive women entrepreneurs dedicated to empowering, collaborating, mentoring and helping each other succeed. Next on Murray’s agenda is developing BRA’s online membership programs and coaching women who are preparing to launch their own businesses. An active philanthropist, she donates to organizations that, among other things, help women achieve financial independence. Here, we sit for a tête-à-tête...
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KATHY SCHUH
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KATHY SCHUH
What drives you to help women reach their full potential?
school creating a science club called YES (Young
towards working with people who need help.
in science and math.
I have always had a strong internal pull
My degree is in social work and I worked in the San Francisco’s District Attorney’s Domestic Violence office for two years before pivoting into public school education in Los Angeles. It was working in charter schools that I saw what an impact I had when I applied two very simple things that all of us crave—collaboration and acceptance—to the classroom. I used them as two of the very core values of being a part of
Einsteins in Science), that was geared towards getting elementary school-aged girls interested
After 14 years in the Los Angeles school system, why did you open a private school for twice-exceptional children? I knew there was a better way to reach this unique population of students, and their parents were desperate for help. They had applied to private schools whose tuition was close to $40,000 a year. A group of parents
The BRA Network.
approached me and begged me to open a
While working in education, did you teach girls to feel empowered?
visited progressive schools in both New
school for their kids. I had researched and
I taught mostly math and
science courses and wanted to [teach] girls that they, too, could be good at something like math and science and they didn’t need to dumb down their intelligence to get attention. I spent my time during lunch and after
York and San Francisco … As a public-school administrator, I wanted more funding to go towards the kids that were outliers. I felt that the gifted population and the special education population were being underserved. Then there were a handful, a more condensed group of kids, who fit into both columns—highly intelligent but also with special needs. There was no teacher handbook on how to meet the needs of these kids. They were considered “troublemakers” or “disruptive to the class” or “irresponsible and unmotivated.” These kids are sinking, getting frustrated and, even worse, becoming complacent as they advance through the system, losing their love of learning. Then I lost
my love when I lost the battle on advising our board to spend the money on programming for this unique population. At that point, I decided it was time to create a school designed for twice-exceptional children. The following year, Prestique Academy opened its doors.
Did you always have an entrepreneurial spirit?
It was developed from my experience teaching at a charter school whose entrepreneurship. to create and operate their
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business. I had come up with all kinds of business ideas before I opened Prestique, but it wasn’t until I founded BRA that I truly found my jam—developing and advancing female entrepreneurs to greatness, creating a platform to advance the future generation of female entrepreneurs.
What lessons did you learn from this business venture?
First, just because you’re good at something, doesn’t mean you have to love doing it. I loved teaching, I loved being with the kids, but running and operating a school was a different skill set, one I was not in love with. Running the school meant that I was the CEO, CFO, janitor, student counselor, teacher leader, parent support system and more. I forgot how much I loved one-on-one attention and being able to truly effect change on the street level. It was in the end not for me. Second, don’t partner with someone who has the same strengths as you do. My partner was great, we got along, we supported each other’s ideas, we collaborated very well together. But I needed a partner who had a different perspective, who looked at things through a different lens, who challenged me. I learned it’s not great for your business when you have a partner who agrees with everything.
How did BRA – Business Relationship Alliance come about? At the time I began operating my school, I was craving connection and collaboration from other people who were going through the same thing, but couldn’t find any type of business network that wasn’t all stuffy and “Well, here’s my card” kind of crap. At the same time, I found that I was having more and more conversations with women who were entrepreneurs, that kept leading me to say, “You need to meet my friend Jen,” or “I’m going to email Liz and introduce you.” These were women who were either friends, parents of my students or friends of friends. We were all saying we needed a community, so I decided to hold a dinner party and invited them all over to meet each other. Immediately, they started connecting, hiring each other and kept asking me when I was having another dinner party. So, what started as a group of six ladies at dinner on a Tuesday night has turned into a networking community of over 100 women in a year! And growing every day.
brand this. I knew the brand should convey something that was unique to women. What’s the purpose of a bra anyway? To support and lift! I’m doing away with the idea they are, you haven’t found the right fit for you or your business yet. Every woman, no matter your cup size, has at some point in her life had an experience with a bra. Doesn’t matter if you hate them, wear them or go
introducing me to...” or “Thank you for believing in me.”
Can you share any success stories?
First, Kathy Schuh. She started as a mom with a camera and grew into a portrait photographer with her own studio and clients like Disney and the L.A. Chamber of Commerce. She has applied what she has learned at BRA workshops to her business and has seen growth. She is actively involved in BRA events and recruiting new members. Second, Lori Medlin was a stay-at-home mom and commercial actress. After dabbling in multilevel marketing, she found a gap that needed to be filled among the businesses in her area. She attended numerous BRA networking events, worked with me as a coach and attended five BRA workshops. It has been six months since she first joined BRA and her frozen yogurt shop, Peachwave Yogurt, opens this summer.
What is the criteria for joining?
You must be a person who has developed her own product or service, either on your own or with a partner, or you are a business owner. This includes realtors and franchise business owners.
What’s been your biggest challenge?
Finding balance. I am still a full-time mom (sort of … my kids certainly think so), so it’s finding the right amount of time to focus on my growth as a company and meeting members’ expectations that keeps me up at night as much as whether or not I did the laundry.
What are your professional and personal philanthropic efforts?
BRA has been holding clothing drives for the last three years for Dress for Success, and our members who are ready to hire their first employees look to Dress for Success and their alumni as candidates. Shane’s Inspiration, which is a nonprofit organization that builds playgrounds that are accessible to all children, has an annual gala that [my husband and I] attend. We Spark is a nonprofit organization that provides support centers for families who have lost loved ones to cancer. They have an annual poker tournament, hosted by Jason Alexander, that I play in. In the fall, I will be working with The Kind Campaign, which provides curriculum to host a girl-on-girl anti-bullying summit. Girls are empowered to stop the bully cycle by becoming advocates for each other.
What is your personal mantra?
Don’t sweat the small stuff, and everything is small stuff. Also, six words from Michelle Obama: “Focus on what you can control.”
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that bras are designed to confine and bind, because if
I receive that email or note that says, “Thank you for
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After the third or so dinner party, I thought I need to
By far the most rewarding part of this business is when
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Why call it BRA?
What is the most fulfilling aspect of BRA – Business Relationship Alliance?
commando, we all can relate.
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WATERING THE PLANET Quenching his desire to make safe, clean H2O available to everyone in the world, Seth Maxwell pours his heart into the Thirst Project. BY { KATE
JACOBSON DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY { JOHN RUSSO
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Ten years ago, as a 19-year-old college student in Los Angeles, Seth Maxwell felt a surge of emotion and found his mission in life—to solve the global water crisis. A photojournalist friend who’d just returned from the third world showed him images of people she’d encountered on her travels who were forced to drink from swamps, mud puddles and dirty streams, and were dying without access to safe, clean water for drinking and proper hygiene. “I couldn’t believe how massive in scale this issue was,” recalls the Indianapolis, Indiana native. “At that time, it affected 1.1 billion people, and it was amazingly solvable!” So Maxwell started a club on campus to raise awareness about the water crisis. Soon, friends at other schools helped spread his message; through speaking engagements and events, they raised more than $12,000. Thus was born the Thirst Project (thirstproject.org), a nonprofit youth-activism organization devoted to bringing safe, clean water to rural areas and isolated villages in developing parts of the world. “We travel across the country, speaking in assemblies at high schools and colleges to educate students about the global water crisis and challenge them to take action,” explains Maxwell. “In one school year alone, the tour will speak to over 400 campuses and more than 100,000 students. Those students, in turn, do dances, videogame tournaments and walks, all to raise awareness and funds to build water projects around the world. The fact that we’ve been able to raise over $9 million, 100 percent of which has gone to give over 330,000 people in 13 countries safe, clean water for the rest of their lives, is just amazing,” he marvels. “The impact of water is so significant,” he continues. “When you bring safe water to a community, it doesn’t just mean that kids aren’t thirsty anymore. It means that kids who used to have to walk three and a half miles each day to collect dirty water from contaminated sources shared with animals don’t have to do that anymore. They can take that time and go to school and get education. It means that women can take that time and get jobs and contribute financially to their households.” By 2022, Maxwell hopes to provide clean water to all 1.4 million people living in Swaziland, a nation he says has the highest density HIV/AIDS population of any country in the world. In areas with contaminated water, people living with compromised immune systems because of the disease—even those with access to medical treatment—have a higher mortality rate. “The diseases in the water people drink will often kill them faster than their AIDS will.” In the meantime, he and his team continue to inform and empower young people to take action. Personally, Maxwell finds the work extremely rewarding. “I cannot tell you the number of times I’ve been in a village in South or Central America, or Africa, or Southeast Asia and seen a water project pump safe, clean water for the first time,” he says. “To see the look on the kids’ faces or to have conversations with mothers who are overjoyed to know that their children will never have to suffer from basic, preventable waterborne diseases, is life-changing ... Without being hyperbolic, it is not lost on me that if we do our job well, the result is that people get to live.”
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NO BOUNDARY To while away an hour (or an evening) luxuriating in a tub placed beyond the confines of a bathroom’s walls is to experience a new level of freedom. Here, five fabulous hotels where the soaking is sublime.
BATHS By Angela Fairhurst
THE CAPE
A THOMPSON HOTEL
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
A striking wood and glass building designed by architect Javier Sanchez, The Cape, a Thompson Hotel stands out among the typical Mediterranean-style architecture and designed resorts that dominate Cabo San Lucas. This beachfront resort with contemporary interior design by Marisabel Gómez Vázquez has a retro, mid-century modern feel
with vintage surf photography, dark wood paneling and contemporary furnishings. The resort also incorporates traditional Mexican design elements, such as colorful hand-painted tiles by Mexican ceramist José Noé Suro that are featured throughout the property. Nearly every guestroom has a copper-leafed freestanding bathtub perfectly positioned
for an unobstructed view of the famous landmark El Arco and the Sea of Cortez while still maintaining the bather’s privacy. The signature two-story Penthouse suite, Surfer Villa, takes it one step further by adding a private sauna in-suite and a private plunge pool on the expansive patio. thompsonhotels. com/hotels/cabo-san-lucas/the-cape-los-cabos
MANDARIN ORIENTAL Las Vegas, Nevada
Known worldwide for its stunning suites, Mandarin Oriental’s Vegas property has three presidential suites including the enormous Mandarin Suite, a 3,100-squarefoot accommodation with a sprawling view of the Strip. Designed by Adam D. Tihany, the suite includes two bedrooms, a living room with a cocktail bar, chic dining area for eight, study, kitchen and a full workout area that includes a Kinesis wall. The marble paneled bathroom is equally extravagant, with a see-through glass panel between the large sunken bathtub and bedroom. The bath amenities by Atelier Cologne are offered in a jewelry box alongside fresh flowers and Frette towels in this sleek architectural design. mandarinoriental.com/las-vegas/ the-strip/luxury-hotel
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Porto, Portugal
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The historic city of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to dozens of ancient lodges—cellars in which Portugal’s revered port wine has been aged for more than three centuries. On seven hilltop acres overlooking Porto, in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, sits The Yeatman Hotel, named for a family who entered the port trade in 1838. The property in the heart of the Vila Nova de Gaia ranks as the area’s leading luxury hotel, with Portuguese wines stored in its award-winning cellar, a two Michelin-starred restaurant and Vinotherapie spa treatments inspired by the nectar of the vine. All rooms and suites have private terraces with panoramic views. The most romantic accommodation is the Bacchus Suite, where the expansive open floor plan features a round copper Jacuzzi, freestanding gas fireplace, rotating king-size bed and furnished conservatory with log fireplace and terrace with views of Porto and the River Douro. the-yeatman-hotel.com
THE SETAI Miami Beach, Florida
On Collins Avenue in the heart of South Beach, on the site of the famed, former Dempsey-Vanderbilt Hotel, The Setai Miami Beach is a 1930s Art Deco building with 80 studios and 1-bedroom suites. Intimate and serene, the oceanfront resort’s design is part Art Deco, part retro Miami charm, and part Asian-inspired simplicity. The touch of legendary hotelier Adrian Zecha shows up in light, natural materials and open space. In the cleverly laid-out Art Deco Suites, the backside of the entry wall serves as a head-board for a luxurious Swedish Duxiana king-size bed. Facing the bed, under louvered windows looking out to the sea, sits a sumptuous absoluteblack granite tub adorned with Chinese antique jade figures, with a flat-screen television mounted above for soaking while watching Netflix. Sweetly scented bath products are exclusively formulated for The Setai by Roja Dove Parfum of London. thesetaihotel.com
PAWS UP Missoula, Montana
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In the middle of unspoiled wilderness outside Missoula, Montana sits Paws Up, a 37,000-acre working cattle ranch and luxury glampground. Here you can tire out on horseback, find your zen with the meditative repetition of casting a fly rod, or hike in the mountains, then head back to your luxurious tent. Paws Up has five camps with six tents each, which feature ensuite bathrooms with heated granite-tiled floors and showers, thick bath towels and robes, and a selection of lotions, toiletries and bath salts. The transparent ceiling allows in natural light, the toilet is separated by walls for privacy and scalloped glass sinks sit atop tree trunk pedestals. The honeymoon tent suites at Pinnacle Camp and Cliffside Camp feature copper bathtubs at the foot of the bed. Who knew roughing it could be this pampering! pawsup.com
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Celebrate the history and culture of Hawaii, and the stunning beauty of the Kapalua Coast, at one of Maui’s most luxurious
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destinations, The Ritz-Carlton,
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Kapalua, as the resort unveils a stunning renovation during its silver jubilee. BY
{ BETH WEITZMAN
Situated on the exclusive 22,000-acre Kapalua shoreline, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua offers oceanfront luxury with a bevy of activities that guests can enjoy, including two championship golf courses, the award-winning Kapalua Golf Academy, one of Hawaii’s largest nature preserves with two marine sanctuaries, Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassador of the Environment Program and the Kapalua Tennis Garden. Even more, guests will find miles of hiking trails, surfing, boogie boarding, sailing, kayaking, outrigger canoeing, stand-up paddling, snorkeling and whale watching in season.
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he Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua has held a special place in my heart since I first experienced its Aloha spirit during a visit to the property in 2000. Its respect and recognition for Hawaiian culture and history is seen and felt throughout the resort with a keen sense of place, educational elements and cultural activities. Combined with the amazing team at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, this stunning 54-acre resort offers special beauty and exceptional luxury.
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The resort is also home to the Honokahua Preservation Site, a recognized wahi pana (sacred site) that lies between the ocean and the resort. To view the sacred grounds, guests can walk to a special monument that sits front and center, and peer past dense shrubbery, but they can go no further. Beyond this point, the site is off limits to all but Native Hawaiians, who gather there to conduct ceremonial rituals and honor their ancestors.
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Showing its deep commitment to the Hawaiian culture, the brand brought on its first Cultural Advisor, Clifford Nae’ole, prior to opening the property in 1992. Nae’ole brought with him a deep passion and commitment to Hawaiian culture, and he remains there today, celebrating cultural awareness and Hawaiian heritage. In his first year, Nae’ole co-created the Celebration of the Arts Festival to enrich and educate guests and locals on native Hawaiian culture, the resort’s deep Hawaiian cultural roots, and its historical surroundings—all as part of a celebratory weekend. I was thrilled to return to this unforgettable resort for its 26th annual Celebration of the Arts Festival, which takes place every spring. The festival was timed to coincide with the resort’s 25th anniversary and the unveiling of its multimillion-dollar renovation. Refreshed guest rooms reflect Maui’s natural beauty and Hawaiian heritage, there’s an enhanced lobby, new pool experiences, a grab-and-go casual Café Kai and other new culinary offerings.
Spend the day in true VIP style by booking one of
fruit plate with banana bread. Lounge under
the luxurious, newly imagined poolside cabanas
cover or in the sun, the cabana offers the best
overlooking the sublime 10,000-square-foot
of both worlds. Order from the new poolside
tri-level pool with surrounding 20,000-square-
restaurant, ‘Ai ‘Ono’ (meaning “eat well” in
foot sun deck. Each cabana has a dedicated
Hawaiian), which serves up hand-crafted tequila
attendant, available to cater to your every
cocktails, an array of tasty tacos, Buddha bowls
whim. Inside the cabana is a refrigerator filled
with fresh ahi, and pupus made with fresh, local
with waters and soft drinks, an Evian spritzer,
ingredients. Whether in a cabana, in the pool or
fresh robes, a flat-screen TV and Bluetooth
perched on a chaise lounge, guests can place
speakers. Included with a day package are
their orders via The Ritz-Carlton mobile app,
sparkling wine, tasty appetizers and a tropical
and have it delivered straight to their location.
Among the six dining experiences offered
5-spiced duck buns, Kona kampachi crudo, ahi
on the property is The Banyan Tree, an AAA
tuna poke, crispy Haiku avocado katzu style,
Four Diamond restaurant helmed by 2018
ulu breadfruit Gruyere fondue, upcountry BBQ
Maui Chef of the Year, head chef Alvin Savella
mahi, steamed Hawaiian snapper and grass-
(a.k.a. @thekitchenassassin). With its farm-to-
fed filet mignon and seared foie fras). Seasonal
table menu, open-air seating and gorgeous
ingredients are sourced from local farms, as
ocean vistas, The Banyan Tree serves up a
well as the resort’s own two-acre sustainable
most memorable culinary journey (favorites
organic garden, while fish and meat hail from
include the signature Hawaiian sweet bread
within Hawaii. Completing the meal is a well
with Kula strawberry foie gras jam and Surfing
curated wine list and garden-to-glass cocktails
Goat chèvre whipped Vermont butter, crispy
made with fresh fruits and garden herbs.
A must-dine lunch spot is the beachfront Burger Shack. Creative burgers, decadent chicken and pork sandwiches, outrageously delicious shakes and a full selection of cocktails, craft and local beers are served at this alfresco spot. Its beachside location under a natural canopy of more than 40 full-grown coconut palms is ideal. A walk-up window serves those who want to grab and go. And if you like hot sauce, you will love the shack’s homemade recipe!
Indulge in a breakfast spread like no other at the Terrace restaurant. Gorgeous views overlook the gardens, pool and ocean to set the perfect stage for an extensive buffet. Delicious homebaked pastries, an omelet station, cheese and meat selection, veggies galore, a Bloody Mary bar and many other decadent delights bring the perfect start to any day. Wellness warriors, there are plenty of healthy options to keep your diet on track. When quick bites are in order, the new lobby level Kai Cafe serves breakfast (think acai bowls, organic smoothies, pastries) and lunch (salads, sandwiches, wraps) made with local, organic and seasonal ingredients. Perfectly brewed fresh local coffee is always available, along with other snacks. When evening rolls in, The Alaloa Lounge is a great spot to imbibe on specialty cocktails (think signature Mai Tai, Painkiller or, my favorite, coconut fever with Tito’s Vodka, coconut, lime, lemongrass syrup and Tiki bitters) or a selection of beers, while noshing on signature appetizers and desserts. Open from 3 p.m.-10 p.m.; stop by at sunset to enjoy a special celebration ceremony and stay for nightly live entertainment. Nearby The RitzCarlton, Kapalua, culinary destinations Merriman’s Kapalua, Cane and Canoe, Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar, Taverna Urban Drinks + Italian Eats and The Plantation House are also worth a visit. Also not far are the towns of Lahaina and Ka’anapali, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping.
Embrace the ability to unwind and destress at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua where body treatments, massages and facials are inspired by ancient Hawaiian traditions and healing methods. Many spa services incorporate local plants, flowers and fruits along with herbs grown in the resort’s own organic garden. The fitness center brims with cardio and weight-lifting equipment. Opt for daily fitness classes to keep your workout interesting, and a walk along the ocean’s edge on the 2-mile Coastal Trail that runs through Kapalua Resort is an absolute must. The trail runs north from Kapalua Bay Beach near Merriman’s Kapalua, along the sand dunes at Oneloa bay, through The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, to popular D.T. Fleming Beach Park.
It’s hard not to feel right at home in the beautifully
renovated
guest
rooms,
suites and residences imagined by noted Philpotts
&
Associates
Interior
Design.
Inviting decor reflects Hawaiian heritage, and
nature’s
floor-to-ceiling
beauty
abounds
windows.
through
Sophisticated,
contemporary furnishings, hardwood floors and a colorscape featuring light sand tones complemented by azure ocean blue and deep green accents provide a sense of serenity the moment you walk in. Once you
the most luxurious linens, you will surely have
sweet
dreams.
Well-appointed
bathrooms include a stand-up shower and large bathtub.
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relax into The Ritz-Carlton bed dressed in
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lay your head on the plush down pillow, and
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Upon entering the hotel’s newly remodeled lobby and throughout the common areas of the resort, you’ll feel the Mana (the power of the elemental forces in nature embodied in an object or person) via intimate lighting, elements of fire, organic lines and textures in this indoor-outdoor space.
R I T Z- C A R LT O N K A PA L UA For more information or reservations at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, visit: ritzcarlton.com/kapalua Or call: 800.262.8440 808.669.6200 In addition to Celebration of the Arts, the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, Wellness Week, XTERRA World Championship and PGA-TOUR Tournament of Champions are Signature Maui events that take place at the resort.
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LONDON calling For a royal good time, check out the hotels, restaurants, bars and shops fit for members of the British monarchy.
BY { NADINE JOLIE COURTNEY
With American actress Meghan Markle’s triumphant ascent into the British royal family—as well as the birth of new royal baby HRH Prince Louis, plus a fall wedding for Princess Eugenie—the world is watching merry olde England this year. Perhaps there’s no better way to experience the capital city than by following the royals’ footsteps to many of the posh places they like to sleep, shop, eat and drink.
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where they
STAY
COWORTH PARK
W
hen Meghan Markle was first spotted in public with Prince Harry—cheering him on from the polo sidelines a few days after Pippa Middleton’s wedding—it was at Coworth Park in Ascot, a countryside retreat and polo enclave only 10 minutes from Windsor Castle. Set on 240 acres, the five-star property allows guests to live like royalty, including an 18th-century country lodge Mansion House, 28 renovated stables serving as private cottages and a charming three-bedroom home dating from 1776 called Dower House, set on a private lake. Across the street from Windsor Great Park, the resort also offers polo lessons, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a destination spa, access to the private Wentworth Golf Club four minutes away, and easy access to Windsor Castle, Guards Polo Club, Royal Ascot and England’s best restaurant, three-Michelin-starred The Fat Duck. The annual charity Audi Polo Challenge is held at Coworth each year and is near and dear to Prince Harry’s heart, raising money for his favorite charities including Sentebale, while more than 600 polo matches are held here every year. dorchestercollection.com/en/ascot/coworth-park
dorchestercollection.com/en/ascot/coworth-park
THE DORCHESTER Nestled on the edge of Hyde Park, The Dorchester has been a royal favorite since its opening in 1931. Over the years, HRHs like Princess Margaret, Princess Diana and Prince Charles have made multiple visits to the storied property, and in 1947, then-Princess Elizabeth attended a glittering party at the hotel the night before her engagement to Prince Philip was announced. (Philip later held his bachelor party here.) Nowadays, it’s home to the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Alain Ducasse, celeb haunt China Tang (Kate Hudson and Princess Beatrice love it), Art Deco-glam Dorchester Spa and artwork done by none other than Prince Charles—his watercolor paintings and drawings hang on the walls of the sumptuous suites (there are 65, plus three on the roof). With no two rooms alike, whether opting for a suite or one of the 182 individually designed guest bedrooms, a stay here is pure delight. dorchestercollection.com/en/london/the-dorchester
MANDARIN ORIENTAL HYDE PARK - LONDON -
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While the hotel recently experienced a fire, they plan to re-open as soon as possible. The unfortunate incident took place on the heels of the completion of its multimillion-pound renovation. As one of London’s most celebrated five-star hotels, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, overlooks Hyde Park in exclusive Knightsbridge and is set in a beautiful Edwardian-style building. The elegant hotel has a lengthy history of royal patronage; it’s where Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret first learned to dance as young girls, and was the setting for an embarrassment of European royalty for a dinner celebrating the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton. The hotel also boasts one of England’s best restaurants, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, plus the newly renovated The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, with award-winning interior designer Joyce Wang overseeing the glamorous redesign of rooms, suites and public areas. mandarinoriental.com/london/hyde-park
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SOHO FARMHOUSE Ninety minutes outside London, idyllic rural hideaway Soho Farmhouse is another firm favorite of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex; Meghan chose the members club and hotel for her low-key bachelorette party. (That’s a “hen-do” in Brit-speak.) Located on 100 rolling acres in the Cotswolds countryside, the property boasts 40 private cabins, a three-bedroom cottage and a seven-bedroom farmhouse, as well as an outpost of its epic Cowshed Spa, Hair by Josh Wood salon and Japanese restaurant Pen Yen. The amenities are worthy of a bucket list: British comfort food eatery, country pub, private cinema, seasonal produce garden, stables, lake, tennis, indoor/outdoor barn pool, Teeny Barn kids club, cooking school and mini golf. In addition to Meghan and Harry, Princess Eugenie, Cressida Bonas, Liv Tyler and Mark Ronson are regulars. Stay here and you’ll be in excellent company, indeed. sohofarmhouse.com
KENSINGTON PALACE Historically known as the Aunt Heap for its collection of meddling second-rate royals, there’s suddenly no hotter address in London than Kensington Palace. Home to Harry and Meghan, William and Kate, and Princess Eugenie and her fiancé Jack Brooksbank, Queen Victoria’s childhood residence is the new center of power in royal London. For those not regal enough to land an apartment on the KP grounds, there are regular exhibitions to fit your fancy, such as Diana, Her Fashion Story—showcasing some of the most iconic outfits worn by the Princess of Wales—and a peek at the personal residence, artifacts and history of Queen Victoria in the Victoria Revealed exhibit. Make sure to walk around the ornamental gardens, and keep your eyes peeled for the royal nanny escorting George, Charlotte and Louis, or for Meghan Markle out for a jog around the park. hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace
T
DEAN STREET TOWNHOUSE
he site of Harry and Meghan’s first date, Dean Street Townhouse is the first non-members-only offering from the Soho House group. With interiors designed in collaboration with Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the 39-bedroom hotel, restaurant and bar are housed in two Georgian-style townhouses in the heart of Soho. Art takes center stage, with a stellar collection of contemporary British art including pieces by Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, Paul Noble and Jonathan Yeo, who also co-curated the collection alongside Francesca Gavin. Take a seat in the main dining room, with its cozy, eclectic feel, and order from the extensive menu heavy on British comfort classics, such as mince and potatoes, Herdwick rack of lamb, and fish and chips, or go for afternoon tea or Sunday roast. (Naturally, there’s also gluten-free and vegetarian options, plus a cold-pressed juice menu.) deanstreettownhouse.com
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London’s storied members-only club Annabel’s has just reopened after a major (and majorly gorgeous) move down the block on Berkeley Square. Beloved by celebrities and aristocrats—everybody from Princess Diana to Prince Harry to Duchess Kate has passed through its doors—it remains the only nightclub the Queen has ever visited. (She had a gin martini with lemon.) The membership review team is headed by Ali Spencer-Churchill, grandson of the Duke of Marlborough and exboyfriend of Pippa Middleton, and Astrid Harbord, Prince Harry’s exgirlfriend and close friend. Now owned by Richard Caring, who bought the club (and four others) for £100 million from founder Mark Birley in 2007, membership is by invitation only. Following the revamp, even existing members must be re-vetted, although there are still 69 original lifers who were lucky enough to receive yearly admission for £5. (The deal of a lifetime.) Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the new space in a Georgian townhouse boasts an opulent, dizzyingly eye-catching look, and features a long garden with a retractable roof, high ceilings, and multiple private dining rooms, as well as a basement nightclub dotted with brass-and-glass palm trees and covered in jungle-themed de Gournay wallpaper. Swanky. annabels.co.uk
SKETCH There’s a reason Sketch is known as the most Instagram-friendly restaurant in London: the pretty-in-pink space, designed in a converted 18th-century building on Conduit Street by India Mahdavi, feels like a girlish fantasy come to life. With more than 200 David Shrigley sketches—hence the name—each of the rooms has a different, eye-poppingly colorful theme: woodland-inspired The Glade and cocktail bar-slash-tearoom The Parlour, are particularly lovely, while Lecture Room & Library boasts two Michelin stars, cuisine by Pierre Gagnaire and an epic wine list. However, it’s the blush pink main dining area The Gallery, with plush banquettes, zigzag tile f loor, rose-gold plated bar and an architectural ceiling, that really visually wows. Don’t forget to snap a photo in, of all places, the loo, where gigantic futuristic phone booth-sized white pods double as lavatory and art installations. Princess Beatrice is a fan. sketch.london
DAPHNE’S Beloved by Princess Diana, this gorgeous South Kensington Italian restaurant has something for everybody: a buzzing bar for those who want to be seen, cozy nooks for those who want to hide away, seasonal food, and an extensive wine list including female producers from around the globe. A home away from home for chic style icons like Lauren Santo-Domingo and Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit since 1954, the restaurant was redesigned by Martin Brudnizki Studio in 2014, with visual standouts including a pink marble-topped bar and vintage 1950s Murano glass chandeliers. As befitting the eccentricity of the doggy-mad British aristocracy, pooches are allowed in the conservatory during weekday lunches, and legendary designer Lulu Guinness commissioned a special dog bowl just for the restaurant. daphnes-restaurant.co.uk
where they
SHOP ROYAL WARRANTS
Granted to retailers who are officially recognized by the crown, those lucky enough to have a royal warrant have enjoyed five continuous years of royal favor—although in many cases, the royal patronage goes back decades or even centuries. Here are a few of the top London shops to visit for royal flavor:
Floris
The oldest English perfumery still in existence, it has served royal clientele like Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II since 1730 and remains family-run. florislondon.com
Gieves & Hawkes
Savile Row tailor making bespoke suits and outfits for royals (Elizabeth, Philip, Charles, William and Harry are all clients) since their warrant was granted in 1809. gievesandhawkes.com
Fortnum and Mason
Founded in 1707, Fortnum and Mason has served teas, jams and ready-to-eat luxury foods to royals such as Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, Duchess Kate and the Duchess of Cornwall. Stop by for London’s best afternoon tea. fortnumandmason.com
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Queen Elizabeth’s personal milliner, Rachel Trevor-Morgan has made Her Majesty’s famously colorful hats for years and was granted a royal warrant in 2014. Other clients include the Duchess of Cambridge and Zara Phillips. racheltrevormorgan.com
SARAH CHAPMAN A celebrity facialist with a boutique in Chelsea and a reputation for being able to transform skin, Sarah Chapman is who Meghan Markle turns to for her golden glow. It’s not just Meghan who relies on Chapman’s magic hands—which are rumored to be insured for £1 million—or her cult beauty products, including Sarah Chapman London Skinesis Overnight Facial. Other celebrity clients spotted at the boutique include Victoria Beckham (who reportedly introduced Markle to Chapman), Naomi Watts and Uma Thurman. sarahchapman.net
CATHERINE WALKER One of Duchess Catherine’s favorite designers, British couture house Catherine Walker was also famously beloved by Princess Diana, who wore more than 1,000 bespoke outfits from the fashion brand and was buried in a dress designed by Walker. Known for hand-sewn craftsmanship and classic tailoring, the brand employs more than 30 Savile Row-trained tailors, embroiderers and fitters in its Chelsea atelier to meticulously craft designs for special events and weddings. Following the death of Catherine Walker in 2010, husband and co-founder Said Cyrus continued the line, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2017. catherinewalker.com
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HARBOURSIDE
HAVEN We head Down Under to stay at a sublime new hotel and experience the scenic, waterfront city of Sydney. BY { BETH
WEITZMAN
Stay at
SOFITEL SYDNEY DA R L I N G H A R B OU R
T
he newest hotel to be built in Sydney, The Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is an architecturally stunning, $500 million flagship AccorHotels property. Recently opened,
it is centrally located, adjacent to the International Convention Centre and overlooking Cockle Bay in the city’s central business district. Rising 35 stories high, the five-star hotel is now the tallest building in the Harbour, boasting 590 rooms, including 35 grand suites. Most notably, The Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is not only the first internationally branded luxury hotel to open in the city since the 2000 Summer Olympics, but it’s also the first of 40 new hotel developments scheduled to open here over the next five years. In other words, it’s a pivotal property in the red-hot revitalization of the flourishing waterside area. The architecture inspires awe. Conceived by renowned, multiaward-winning Sydney architect Richard Francis-Jones of Francis-
accents and an exterior color palette of red ochre and blue in tribute to the indigenous clans of the Eora nation, who long ago lived and worked around the harbor they called Tumbalong (meaning “place where seafood is found”). Nearby, Tumbalong for local events. Inside the hotel, contemporary décor is complemented by French accents in a subtle nod to the Parisian Sofitel brand, while the
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Park celebrates the area’s heritage and remains a popular spot
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and the A+ Design Group, the glass tower features sail-shaped
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Jones Morehen Thorp, along with Dreamtime Australia Design
presence of timber, rope and sandstone motifs in the carpets
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celebrate the property’s maritime locale and the industries that formerly occupied the address. Every international Sofitel property is culturally linked to a city or region in France that shares similar attributes in terms of culture, landscape and design. Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour draws inspiration from Marseille, France, with its vibrant energy, industrial ports and waterside sophistication. The hotel also features 6,000 external LED lights, enhancing Darling Harbour at night and providing Sydney with a spectacular display. This is all part of a commitment to meet sustainability targets, along with a collaborated effort to transform the entire tourism precinct toward a 6-star green rating. Next stop, the Club Millesime Lounge. We ride the elevator to the top floor, taking in magnificent views over Darling Harbour and the city. The club is the perfect gathering spot from early morning until evening hours, and is open exclusively to guests staying in the Club Sofitel rooms and suites (floors 28–34). Benefits of the chic louge include a dedicated guest-service manager, butler service, daily Continental breakfast, beverages and culinary presentations. Afternoon tea, happy hour beverages and canapés throughout the day make the Club Millesime Lounge a very nice place to perch. We relax for a moment to enjoy a few sips of Champagne, then it is time to head to our guest room: a luxury 380-square-foot corner location. We enter our room, awestruck again, with epic views of the harbor and city, including landmarks like the Sydney Opera House. Floor-to-ceiling glass wraps around from bedroom to bath, offering breathtaking views across the stunning landscape. A double shower and luxurious soaking tub overlooking the city add to its allure. After testing out the Sofitel MyBed, it’s difficult to keep moving, but this plush bedding will have to wait. A digital thermostat, LED smart TV and in-bathroom television are part of the state-of-the-art perks. For extra indulgence, the ultraluxe Bellerive suite features all of these luxuries, plus a separate living room, dining room and butler’s pantry. Next, we head to the third floor for pre-dinner Champagne and caviar tasting at the Sofitel’s Champagne Bar, the largest Champagne bar in Sydney. Boutique finds from small houses, such as Canard-Duchene and Pol Roger, as well as the grand houses of Louis Roederer and Pommery, and more than 20 special 2009 vintage Louis Roederer Champagne, a unique where innovation blends with French heritage. The bubbly pairs perfectly with the caviar presentation and makes for a wonderful start to the evening. For those looking to indulge, the
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selection crafted in collaboration with artist Philippe Starck—
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different Champagne varieties, are on offer. We select a
Champagne Bar offers an exclusive, special edition, 3L Jeroboam handcrafted by two master goldsmiths over four days.
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of Cristal Brut, encased in 24 karat-gold-dipped latticework,
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Also on the third floor, the Atelier by Sofitel restaurant is a French-inspired rotisserie and grill. The backdrop of Darling Harbour sets the stage for the creative culinary journey and exceptional service. Designed in earth tones with rich hardwood floors and similarly colored stone walls, the Atelier kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef Matt Coates, who combines classical techniques with a modern culinary philosophy, and relies on local seasonal produce. Super-fresh seafood selections, such as shucked oysters, ocean trout crudo, deconstructed bouillabaisse and prawns à la Provençale are on the menu, in addition to meat specialties, such as kangaroo carpaccio, pork belly confit, herbes de Provence chicken spatchcock and chargrilled black Angus tomahawk. A bevy of delicious sides include truffle potato mash, Brussels sprouts with speck butter and pomme frites with rosemary salt. Dessert is its own celebration, with a signature cheese
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trolley featuring French and Australian cheeses served by the
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restaurant’s maître fromager; and luscious sweet selections— Le Caramel Valrhona dulcey parfait with fleur de sel, espresso sponge and Frangelico cream; raspberry tart with Chandon ice cream; Le Chocolat single origin 64 percent chocolate mousse; crème brûlée; and a variety of petit fours. After a great night’s sleep, we’re up early to work off the calories from the evening’s indulgences in the well-appointed SoFit gym on the fourth floor, overlooking the city, followed by some chill time at the adjacent Le Rivage Pool, one of the city’s highly sought-after outdoor spaces. A few laps in the 65-foot infinity pool followed by lounge time is in order. Specialty cocktails, premium Champagnes and wines, as well as tempting gourmet bites are also on offer. Afterwards, a quick stop at the elegant Esprit Noir lobby bar for a cocktail, and we are off to explore a few more highlights of Sydney’s attractions, local restaurants and watering holes.
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SYDNEY
SEE/DO/EAT BY { BETH
WEITZMAN & VESNA PERRY
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A trip to Sydney is not complete without experiencing the Bridge Climb Sydney—more than 3 million local and international visitors have traversed the city landmark. The exhilaration you feel as you navigate over this worldrenowned bridge, originally constructed in 1932, is unsurpassed. Jaw-dropping views further pump up the adrenaline rush you get as you make the climb, safely harnessed in apparatus similar to the type you’d don if you were zip-lining. The brainchild of businessman Paul Cave, the company began leading climbs in 1989 and believes in giving back to the community. To date, it has given more than $4.5 million worth of climbs to charities, schools and other organizations.
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN Enjoy a breathtaking view on a morning walk to The Royal Botanic Garden, an iconic Sydney destination and Australia’s oldest scientific institution, just a few minutes away by foot from the CBD. The Garden was the site of the first encounters between early European settlers and the original indigenous inhabitants. It boasts views of the Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Enjoy a glass of wine, coffee or lunch at The Calyx, within the Garden, or nearby Botanical Restaurant.
THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE Gio ISSUE No. 2 LIVING GOOD
Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon (who, in 1957, won an international competition to design a national opera house for Sydney’s Bennelong Point), the iconic Sydney Opera House is the city’s most recognizable landmark. The youngest cultural site to be included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, it is the place to go for a wide array of entertainment in six performance spaces, and indoor yoga sessions in the Concert Hall Northern Foyer (Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, July 4-Aug. 31).
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CIRCULAR QUAY AND TARONGA ZOO
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At the main ferry terminal and transportation hub in Sydney, hop aboard one of the iconic vessels and enjoy views of the sparkling harbor, the city’s pride and joy, as you head for Australia’s most picturesque zoo, Taronga Zoo, home of many kangaroos and crocodiles, a 15-minute ferry ride away. Have your photo taken with a koala, like Oprah did during her visit to this animal kingdom.
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THE GROUNDS OF ALEXANDRIA Plan to spend at least a couple of hours at this healthyfood-centric oasis. With four restaurants, street-vendor market stalls, bakery and patisserie, and famous Coffee Roastery, this place is a foodie’s dream. Also here are a super-cool flower and garden shop, petting zoo, unique boutiques, workshop offerings, ongoing events (wine nights, salsa nights) and so much more. Did we mention it’s also an event venue—an unbelievable setting for weddings and special occasions.
OBAR
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Breathtaking views abound at this 47-floor revolving restaurant and culinary wonderland. Imbibe inventive cocktails featuring market-fresh ingredients while gazing out the floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll notice that every 90 minutes, icons drift back into sight, from the Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge to the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo waterfront playground. In addition to the revolving spectacle, the culinary experience here is also extraordinary. Prepared by Chef Michael Moore, along with Head Chef Darren Templeman, dishes are as healthy as they are artfully plated and delicious. As a diabetic, Moore knows firsthand how important what you eat is to your overall well-being. Several years ago, while dining out with his family, he suffered a major stroke. Understandably, that was a life-changing event. Ever since, he eats and cooks food that keeps blood sugar balanced and under control, without sacrificing flavor. Plus, his creative cooking techniques bring out the best of his fresh, sustainable, seasonal ingredients. Favorite dishes include addicting crisp ancient grain flatbreads served with whipped ricotta and seaweed salt, wild fresh oysters, Borrowdale Farm pork cheeks, roasted black marron, Taranaki wild-caught John Dory, glazed king salmon, and dry-aged grass-fed cuts of beef from Cape Grim, Tasmania. Veggie sides (wok-tossed beans and broccolini with chili and crushed ginger) and desserts (a plate composed of peanut curd, black sesame sponge, banana miso and scorched meringue) are also the stuff of lifetime memories. In addition, a plant-based vegan menu is also available, featuring locally sourced ingredients from Western Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the surrounding highlands.
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BONDI BEACH AND ICEBERGS The most famous and celebrated of Australian beaches, Bondi Beach is a hub of activity all year round, as locals mingle with Instagram fashionistas and tourists alike on the sweeping white-sand crescent. The Icebergs restaurant offers a fine dining option, while a casual, outdoor terrace serves cocktails and delicious snacks. Both overlook the famous Icebergs swimming pools, which are open all year. Energetic adventurers can take in some dramatic scenery on the cliff-top Bondi-toCoogee coastal walk.
PALMER & CO. A perfect spot to mingle with locals. If you don’t know about this place, you certainly wouldn’t just stumble upon it down an alley and through its nondescript door. The 1930s-style speakeasy serves up plenty of fun with live music, dancing aplenty and free-flowing cocktails. Enough said.
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A charming precinct on the banks of Sydney Harbour, the historic laneways of The Rocks are where you can lose yourself as you find local handicrafts at the street markets and shops. A plethora of things to see and do includes a visit to the MCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Billich Gallery (renowned artist Charles Billich). Take a break from shopping and sightseeing to enjoy a beer at one of the many historic pubs, our favorite is The Glenmore rooftop bar with its breathtaking views of the Harbour. Or for a more sophisticated environment and cocktailing, head to the Blu Bar in the Shangri-La. The Rocks is also home to dining venues of all kinds; a favorite is the Pony Lounge and Dining, with inviting indoor/outdoor spaces. Known for wood-fired grilled meats, like the delish Wagyu burger, the restaurant also offers an array of seafood and pasta dishes.
Q DINING AT THE PULLMAN QUAY GRAND SYDNEY HARBOUR With its close proximity to The Sydney Opera House, this is the perfect spot to dine before a performance (Mon.Sat., casual pre-theater dining begins at 5:30 p.m.). The breakfast, lunch and dinner spot offers stunning views and indoor and outdoor seating, from which you can watch boats entering and leaving the Harbour. A well-curated wine list features a variety of Australian varietals—from small winemakers, producers and growers to those known globally—which can be paired with selections from the charcuterie and main dining menus.
SPICE ALLEY Love Asian street food? Head to Spice Alley, which is located on Central Park’s Kensington Street and features six Asian concepts, including Japanese, Vietnamese, Singaporean, Thai, Malaysian and Cantonese. Enjoy the snacks in a casual, evocative setting among locals, along with BYO wine (no corkage fee).
HARRY’S CAFE DE WHEELS, WOOLLOOMOOLOO In 1938, Sydneysider Harry Edwards opened a caravan café (food truck) near the front gates of Woolloomooloo Naval Dockyard serving meat pies, the signature being Harry’s Tiger (pastry filled with minced beef and gravy, topped with mashed potato and mashed peas). Open 24 hours a day, this is a must-stop for locals and international visitors. Fans of these savory Aussie staples include the late Anthony Bourdain, Chris Hemsworth, Brooke Shields, Sir Elton John, chef Curtis Stone and Russell Crowe, to name a few.
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This iconic Italian restaurant is located in the eclectic Potts Point, just a stone’s throw from Sydney’s famous Coca-Cola sign and infamous red light district of Kings Cross. Caffe Roma is arguably the best Italian in Sydney, with more than 30 years serving homemade cuisine to in-the-know locals and international visitors, and a clientele that boasts a who’s who, as evidenced by the photographs of international celebrities and global political leaders lining the walls.
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One of the world’s most beautiful countries—from lush, sub-tropical vegetation to icy, mountain glaciers—New Zealand is blessed with a bounty of natural riches luring an increasing stream of visitors to Middle Earth. The Land of the Long White Cloud is also home to a handful of outstanding luxury lodges: elegant five-star properties set among thousands of acres, with old-school white-gloved service.
BY { NADINE
JOLIE COURTNEY
There’s a reason that billionaires from around the globe are making New Zealand their home away from home: the scenery is matched by the hospitality, and both are unparalleled. Here, the top luxury resorts and homesteads to enjoy the majesty that is New Zealand.
north island
THE LANDING Featuring four privately owned residences on 1,000 historic acres, The Landing promises sublime luxury on the very spot where Maori natives and European settlers first met. Designed by architects Nat and Pip Cheshire, The Landing is beloved by celebrities—Mick Jagger and Bryce Dallas Howard have stayed, and President Obama made the stunning retreat home during his tour of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s no wonder discerning guests love the property. It offers full-time staff, private chefs, six private beaches, a vineyard, a boathouse, tennis courts, and an extensive Maori art collection, all in one of the most serene settings imaginable. thelandingnz.com
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KAURI CLIFFS It’s no wonder people like Justin Timberlake and Bill Gates—not to mention President Obama—have succumbed to The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs’ many charms. The colonial-style Relais & Chateaux lodge is a veritable Kiwi paradise. Located on 6,000 acres in sub-tropical Northland, the resort boasts one of the world’s premier golf courses—a par-72 championship course designed by David Harman with ocean views from 15 different holes—and offers guests 22 luxe cottage suites (all with views of the Cavalli Islands), as well as an over-the-top two-bedroom owner’s cottage. There are also two private beaches, including the aptly named Pink Beach made of tiny shells, where guests can enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to the main lodge for mixing and mingling at nightly cocktail hour and candlelit dining. robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/kauri-cliffs
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THE FARM AT CAPE
KIDNAPPERS
Offering breathtaking views of the Pacific from its perch overlooking the North Island’s Hawke’s Bay region, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is set on 6,000 acres. Although it’s a working farm—with assorted sheep and cattle—it’s a blissfully luxurious retreat, offering one of New Zealand’s best golf courses designed by Tom Doak, a destination spa, delicious farm-to-table cuisine, a bird sanctuary, and activities ranging from hot air ballooning to jet-boating to 4x4 drives. And, of course, no visit is complete without an excursion to the nearby Hawke’s Bay wine region—New Zealand’s oldest, and a leading producer of full-bodied reds and rich Chardonnays. For those who want something even more sublime than the 22 Linda Bedell-designed suites, the pièce de résistance is the four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage, featuring private Jacuzzi, stone fireplace, entertaining kitchen and utter privacy. Meanwhile, timeless Art Deco city Napier is an hour away and well worth the trip—if you can tear yourself away from the property itself.
robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/cape-kidnappers
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EDENHOUSE
If Edenhouse feels like home, that’s exactly the point. The South Island property—in the sunny Orinoco Valley—is a New Zealand version of a British country manor, with two bedrooms in the main house and a private two-bedroom cottage solely for guests set among the 48 acres of manicured gardens and rolling hills. Owners Peter and Bobbie Martin provide guests with a hands-on experience, with no request too big or small, and staff that manages to be equal parts unobtrusive and accommodating. Evenings feature cocktail hour and farm-to-table private dining, and activities like wine tasting, fly fishing, helicopter excursions (there’s a landing area on property, naturally) and ziplining can be arranged. Guests can also play a round of golf at Monterey House Country Club—a membership is included for the duration of stay.
edenhouse.co.nz
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WHAREKAUHAU When William and Kate embarked on their Kiwi tour, Wharekauhau was one of the select few hotels on the royal itinerary. Spread out over 5,500 acres close to Wellington, the Edwardian-style lodge provides every upscale comfort—heated marble floors, fireplaces, elegant dining areas, pastimes such as croquet and petanque—nestled among a rustic, rugged property ripe for exploration. Featuring 13 Cottage Suites dotted among the grounds with views of Palliser Bay, William and Kate opted for the threeand-a-half-bedroom Owner’s Cottage. Tucked away for supreme privacy, the 4,500-square-foot, two-level cottage includes an outdoor shower, full kitchen equipped for private chef, heated infinity pool and private helicopter-landing space (naturally). wharekauhau.co.nz
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MAHU WHENUA Owned by record producer Mutt Lange, Mahu Whenua is an exclusiveuse homestead on a staggering 135,00 acres of New Zealand’s South Island. Although the property straddles a large chunk of the land between Queenstown and Wanaka, it only accommodates 12 guests, making for an exclusive and private stay. The four suites offer Instagram-ready perks like a copper tub, glass-walled showers, game room, floor-to-ceiling picture windows and private terraces with breathtaking views of Wanaka’s high country sheep stations—where Lange has devoted himself to conservation, with the retreat’s very name meaning “Healing the Land.” Activities on offer include wine tasting, 4x4 drives, heli-skiing and paddle boarding, and skiers’-paradise Queenstown is only a one-hour drive (or mere minutes by helicopter) away. mahuwhenua.co.nz
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MATAKAURI LODGE In adventure paradise Queenstown, there’s no better place to stay than Matakauri Lodge. On the banks of Lake Wakatipu, the Relais & Chateaux lodge is the perfect jumping off point for Queenstown thrill seekers— everything from skiing to bungee jumping to white water rafting is just around the corner, as well as leisurely cruises around the lake to enjoy the memorable views including the craggy peaks of The Remarkables mountain range. Matakauri Lodge’s orientation facing the Southern Alps provides unsurpassed points of observation, and the same can be said of the hospitality and cuisine, which is absolutely top-notch. More intimate than many of New Zealand’s other luxury lodges, the Alpine-style retreat has only 12 suites peppered along the water, each designed by Virginia Fisher. The four-bedroom, four-bathroom Owner’s Cottage, meanwhile, is so lovely—including an outdoor barbecue courtyard and a spacious balcony with infinity hot tub—that Prince William and Duchess Kate chose to stay here during their royal tour. Located inside the main lodge, a popular gathering place for guests, are a bar, living and library area for a relaxing pre- and post-meal; indoor, outdoor and private dining options, all with fantastic outlooks. Just off this main lodge is a gorgeous infinity pool area and full-service luxury spa. robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/
matakauri
BERNARDUS
LODGE BY { BONNIE
DAVIDSON
CARMEL CANDYLAND
The sweet life is savored at this awardwinning wine country retreat on California’s Monterey Peninsula.
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Set on 28 lush acres of olive orchards, vineyards, gardens and fragrant fields of lavender in Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa has long been a luxurious private sanctuary in wine country. The experience comes complete with butler services, complimentary Mercedes-Benz convertibles, tranquility at the 5,200-square-foot Spa at Bernardus, farm-to-table fare from Chef Cal Stamenov at Lucia Restaurant & Bar, and a threeto-one staff-to-guest ratio. Seventy-three luxurious accommodations include 14 spacious villas and suites that were crafted from the ground up in 2016. With a sophisticated, ranch-chic design by San Francisco Bay Area-based AXIS Architecture and Arcsine, Inc., these private retreats reflect an indoor-outdoor sensibility, with a color palette of soft sand and celadon, warm mixed metals and pops of plum and terra-cotta. Rustic European oak floors, bronze chandeliers and softhoned, double-sided limestone fireplaces lend them a sense of coziness and seclusion, despite the sizeable proportions (1,050 to 2,100 square feet). In addition, each villa features a master bath with hammered copper free-standing soaking tub; alfresco rain shower; and private bath patios and terraces with fire pits and vineyard or Santa Lucia Mountain views, as well as quick access to an adults-only infinity Jacuzzi. For family vacations or executive retreats, two-bedroom Villa Carmelo and Villa Sol feature walnut dining tables for 12, huge patios with gas fire pits and, upon request, a 36-inch professional Wolf Gas Grill.
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Making the most of the Carmel Valley’s unique microclimate, which delivers optimum conditions for growing grapes, lavender, fruit and bountiful herbs and vegetables, Chef Stamenov and his culinary team source seasonal ingredients from Bernardus Lodge’s on-property organic gardens, as well as from local foragers, farmers and fishermen. In addition to the many nearby winery tours and tastings, guests are invited to partake in a full menu of culinary events at the Lodge this summer and fall: Chef Cal’s Summer Garden Tour Chef Cal and garden guru Mark Marino lead an informative walk through the Lodge’s three-acre organic vegetable garden, with a stop at the hive of Italian honeybees. (every Saturday, through Aug. 18) Lavender Harvest Celebration Glass of rosé in hand, stroll among more than 1,000 fragrant lavender plants flourishing amid olive trees, rosemary and rose gardens. Then treat your tastebuds to a lavenderscented buffet lunch. (July 14) Heirloom Tomato Lunch Expect freeflowing Bloody Marys, ratatouille, gazpacho and heirloom tomatoes in every imaginable incarnation. (Sept. 2) 3rd Annual Barbeque & Grape Stomp Celebrate the 2018 vintage with a traditional grape stomping and Bernardus Winery barrel tasting with winemaker Dean DeKorth and vineyard manager Matt Shea. (Oct. 6)
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Warm hospitality, pampering service and vineyard views are, of course, on tap year round. Shall we drink to that? bernarduslodge.com
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4rd Annual Craftsman Exchange Seaweed farmers, craft cheese mongers, heirloom fruit growers, local beer artisans, beekeepers, fungi foragers and wine producers converge for a convivial showcase of flavor and style. (Oct. 27)
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*GUEST ROOM PHOTOS ON PAGE 153 COURTESY OF THE SLS BAHA MAR
BY { BETH
WEITZMAN RUSSO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY { JOHN
Leading lifestyle hospitality company sbe brings a new level of style, luxury and service to the Bahamas with the opening of its first international SLS brand hotel, SLS Baha Mar.
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T
he newly opened SLS Baha Mar is the ultimate luxury destination—a celebration of style and sophistication for those at the top of their game. Located on Nassau’s famous 3,000-foot-stretch known as Cable Beach, the resort features endless white sand and crystal-clear turquoise blue waters, alluring design, an award-winning collection of culinary adventures and exciting nightlife venues. It caters to adults, but families are welcome, too.
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Right off the lobby and adjacent to Monkey Bar is Cleo restaurant, which may sound familiar from its line of awardwinning locations around L.A., New York, Miami and Las Vegas. Open for breakfast and dinner, its bright white atmosphere is enhanced by oversized lighting and artwork. In this dramatic modern setting, Moroccan, Mediterranean and Asian flavors merge into one delicious culinary style under the watch of Executive Chef Danny Elmaleh, whose Japanese-Israeli background is reflected in a menu of shareable plates and mezzes. Indulge in a handcrafted cocktail (my personal fave: the Mediterranean Margarita, made with Avion, house-made fig almond syrup and fresh lime) and assorted dips (crispy artichoke hummus and lebneh with feta) that pair perfectly with irresistible naan. Sharing family style is best here. The Spicy Cigars with brik pastry and spiced beef, and grilled octopus are to die for. Tandoori chicken kabobs and meatball shakshouka with soft egg, tomato, squash and piquillo peppers are also musthaves. While meat options abound, vegetarians will also find plenty of choice delicacies, including vegetable tagine, Brussels sprouts, several salads and more.
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With 299 rooms and suites, the SLS resort tower is one of three luxury hotels within the $4.2 billion Baha Mar masterplanned oceanfront resort development, which also includes the Grand Hyatt (1,800 rooms) and the Rosewood Baha Mar (238 rooms). While each hotel has its own pools, restaurants and lounges, certain amenities are shared, including a host of water activities (stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, clear bottom kayaks, Hobie Cat sailboats and snorkel equipment), as well as The Sanctuary, an aquatic preserve that is home to stingrays, starfish, nurse sharks and other indigenous creatures of the deep. You’ll also find the largest casino in the Caribbean, with more than 100,000 square feet of gaming space, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Golf Course and Golf Club, the Caribbean’s first ESPA flagship spa and a state-of-theart fitness center that rivals the likes of Equinox (sans group fitness rooms). Plus, there are more than 30 luxury retail outlets, 40 restaurants and lounges, an 82,000-square-foot convention center, and the Explorer’s Club at Baha Mar for children between 3 and 12 years old.
Designed by international Avenue Interior Design, the SLS Baha Mar lobby welcomes guests with high ceilings, warm natural light, plenty of luxurious seating and, in true SLS style, a large centerpiece bar. Situated under a cluster of circular pendant lighting, Monkey Bar serves up handcrafted creative cocktails and offers a hand-selected wine list and craft brews, as well as bites and light fare.
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Continue down the walkway and you’ll find the exclusive Privilege Pool, an adults-only pool with oversized cabanas and food and beverage service, which makes for a perfect all-day perch. DJs spin every Thursday to Sunday, and it’s not uncommon to find world-class DJs spinning at VIP, invitation-only events here. Soon to open is Skybar, a 20th-floor open-air rooftop lounge with incredible views. This no doubt will be the place to be in Baha Mar. Late-night Vegas-style partying takes place at Bond, a plush, 10,000-square-foot venue with a state-of-the-art sound system, DJ booth and LED lighting, that stays open until the early morning hours. Bottle and VIP service, and private booths are, of course, all part of the scene. Adjacent to the SLS tower, right off the Baha Mar Casino floor, are two SBE-managed restaurants, both featuring indoor/outdoor spaces: Fi’lia by Michael Schwartz, an Italian offering from the James Beard Award-winning chef; and Katsuya by Starck, where modern Japanese cuisine is on offer. The Italian meal at Fi’lia begins with a perfectly crusty bread loaf served with olive oil and
oregano freshly snipped at the table. Handmade pasta, a tableside preparation of Caesar salad and authentic rustic pizza hot from the wood-burning oven are superb. Katsuya’s chic modern design and jaw-dropping artwork set the stage for its super fresh sushi and Japanese dishes, such as the not-to-miss Conch-Oyaki (local conch, prepared in traditional Japanese style), A5 Wagyu fried rice, miso-marinated black cod, and for dessert, banana sticky rice (bananas Foster with jackfruit, sesame seed brittle and coconut ice cream). All 18 room categories boast sleek design, a balcony, signature bedding, Bahamian-designed furniture, wall-mounted HD TVs and a single-serve coffee maker. Also included, full inroom technology connectivity with USB ports and tablets from which room service and other services can be ordered, mini bar curated with SLS signature items, walk-in rainfall shower, plush SLS signature robes and slippers and custom Ciel Reserve bath amenities. Predominately white decor is complemented by splashes of turquoise, and whimsical wallpaper adds a touch of personality. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors bring the beauty of the outdoors in and lead to the balconies perfect for sunset viewing. The entry-level room is a 358-square-foot standard king room with step-out balcony, while upscale rooms are twobedroom, 1,790-square-foot residences which sleep up to six guests and feature breathtaking panoramic ocean views, full balconies, two living room areas, 55-inch HD TVs and designer kitchenettes with high-end appliances, including washer and dryer. One of the newest—and poshest—additions to the Bahamas, the SLS Baha Mar is the place to be. slsbahamar.com
*GUEST ROOM PHOTOS ON PAGE 153 COURTESY OF THE SLS BAHA MAR
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Beyond the lobby, Monkey Bar and Cleo are beautiful outdoor seating areas, adjacent to stairs that lead down to the pool and beach. The popular Bungalow Pool features chic black-and-white striped cabanas and candy-colored chaise lounges peppered underneath towering palm trees, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Ambient house music sets the tone with a relaxing, cool vibe. A dedicated pool concierge and valet is on hand to assist; and whether soaking up the rays or socializing in the lounge, poolgoers can sip and enjoy signature cocktails and light fare served by Bungalow Pool Bar & Grill.
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COUNTRY RESORT & ESTATE
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LENOX, MASSACHUSETTS BY { BONNIE DAVIDSON
COUNTRY CASTLE
Newly renovated, an iconic five-star getaway in the Berkshires retains its Gilded Age glory, supplies modern comforts and pops the cork on a Champagne Salon by Dom Pérignon.
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Legend has it that when Robert Warren Paterson, a wealthy Gilded Age art collector from New York City, wanted to build a country “cottage” in Lenox, Massachussetts, where he and his wife could entertain their wide circle of high society friends in elegant style, his architect quickly drew a rough sketch on the back of an envelope. The result—Blantyre, a sprawling, red-brick Tudor mansion and carriage house in the verdant Berkshire Mountains—was completed in 1904; it is one of only 12 area estates built at the turn of the 20th century still standing today. Over the years, the opulent castle, with turrets and towers and tiered gardens, had multiple owners (including D. W. Griffiths). In 1981, it opened as a luxury resort where guests could relive a bygone era. Now, after a multimillion-dollar 21st-century upgrade, Blantyre’s ninth owner, Linda Law, has just realized her vision for the Relais & Châteaux property. Gone are the heads of moose and elk once mounted in the public spaces, while Murano glass chandeliers and other period touches remain intact, as does the 10,000-bottle wine cellar. New to the manor are a handsome bistro, fine dining restaurant and North America’s only Dom Pérignon Champagne salon. Simply divine! blantyre.com
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The taste and story of Volcán De Mi Tierra—a modern, 100-percent agave tequila—are as intriguing as its hand-crafted production and passionate team. We head to tequila country for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at this special partnership between Möet Hennessy and Mexico’s Gallardo family. Al Centro! STORY BY { BETH
WEITZMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY { DYLAN + JENI
TRENT FRASER
SA N T I AG O CORTINA
F
irst stop, Mexico City. We check into our accommodations for the evening at the centrally located St. Regis Hotel. Our first taste of the Volcán De Mi Tierra brand awaits in our room, but it isn’t tequila (though there’s plenty of that to come). Instead, we find an obsidian lava rock, representing the sacred land in which Volcán’s tequila is made. This lava rock is the first sign that something very special is ahead. After settling in for a bit, we head out to meet Trent Fraser, the CEO and president of Volcán (and former vice president of Dom Pérignon), along with Santiago and Sandra Cortina. Santiago is the nephew of Don Juan Gallardo, a Mexican businessman with deep ties to the region. During a friendly conversation several years ago between the Gallardo family, former executives of LVMH Moët Hennessy and Fraser, the idea was sparked for a joint venture: together, Möet Hennessy and the Gallardo family would produce a special, super-premium handcrafted tequila.
The property was sitting vacant when the idea came to Santiago and Fraser over breakfast one day to restore the home, turning it into Casa Volcán, an exclusive property devoted to their new, very special tequila company. The new brand house would pay homage to its deep Mexican heritage, and be shared with friends and family of the brand.
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“We thought about an acquisition,” Fraser says. “We looked at every possible scenario, and then I went back to the board several years ago and said, ‘Guys, sorry, whether you like it or not, it will be a slower burn and build to do this right.’ I flew down [to Mexico] three and a half years ago to meet [the Gallardos] to see if it was the right fit; it’s what’s most important.” His tone sincere and passion obvious, as he continues. “[The Gallardos] are beautiful people with their
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At the entrance to Casa Volcán hangs a painting depicting the beautiful landscape of the Tequila Volcano in Jalisco, Mexico. Quite fitting, as Volcán De Mi Tierra translates as “the land of the volcano,” and pays homage to the unique terroir of Jalisco, Mexico. While the brand is now pieced together like a perfect puzzle, Fraser shares that it wasn’t the quickest path to getting there.
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Our meeting place is the Casa Volcán, a beautiful invitationonly property open only to close family and friends, and those devoted to the brand. We chat for a few moments, and raise our glasses. A toast to new friends and great partnerships! We sit back and enjoy the incredible setting, along with a refreshing Mexican cocktail called The Paloma —Volcán Blanco Tequila mixed with grapefruit soda on the rocks with fresh lime. Vibrant and personable, Santiago, who was named a Volcán board member, begins to tell us the story of Casa Volcán. It was built in 1939 by his grandfather, and it was “the seventh house that was built by Mexican
architect Enrique del Moral Domingueza, a very renowned artist that was best friends with Luis Ramiro Barragán Morfín and Mario Pani Darqui,” he says. “They were like the three biggest Mexican architects for the last century. My grandfather lived here with my grandmother [and their family], until he sold it to a lady. When she passed away 10 to 12 years ago, my mother decided to buy it back.”
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hearts in the right place. They’re doing this for the right reasons, and they’re not trying to make a quick buck.” The result is two cultures coming together in a very harmonious way. When one thinks of Möet Hennessy, corporate comes to mind. But Volcán is a brand that exemplifies personal passion and the importance of heritage. “We have this juxtaposition of corporate and entrepreneurship,” says Fraser. “The joint venture is meant to act and behave like in an entrepreneurial startup, and [Möet] is allowing us to do that even though there is a big corporation sort of backing it. But, we keep saying this is truly family. It’s truly hands-on. So we have these two amazing established mentors, a corporate brand and a local family rooted very deeply in Guadalajara and Jalisco, together in a start-up. So when I need counsel, advice or support, I have that. It could be about the branding, or the distribution, the right markets, the craftsmanship or the know-how.” Once the partnership was inked, the most important task was finding the right location and terroir for the distillery. After searching and searching, they stumbled by chance 162
upon a small distiller named Volcán De Mi Tierra, at the base of the volcano in Jalisco’s lowlands (an area known for its blue agave). After this, things moved along smoothly. “There was like 15 months of brand work on all these different brand ideas and iterations we pitched,” says Fraser. “As soon as we stumbled on Volcán De Mi Tierra, the land, the story, the scene, everything fell into place. Then when we got there, we were like, ‘Wow, now we need a striking bottle to resemble our DNA, our pulse, our heartbeat.’” Each bottle is completely handcrafted. The blue bottle is a vessel for the Blanco, and the copper, the Cristalino. A textured relief representing the volcano is sculpted in the base of each one. “The beauty of it is the reflection. Like when you see it in different light, particularly like the sun’s rays [shining] down on the volcano. It’s [a] part of our story that has deep connection and meaning to the land,” says Fraser. As he lovingly holds the bottle in his hand, his sense of pride is palpable. “You can very quickly feel for the spirit in which it was once a project for us three and a half years ago,” he says. “And now [it is] a brand.”
We leave the distillery with the distinct flavor of the spirit still wet on our lips, feeling energized by the passion of the Volcán brand, as the sun sets behind the serene backdrop of Jalisco. Salud!
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“We want to be the modern spirit of Mexico in a very genuine way,” Fraser says. “We celebrate tradition, but aren’t afraid to break the mold. With each bottle of Volcán we open, we choose to live here and now. We drink in the moment, to the moment.”
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Pushing boundaries a little bit further than past generations have, blending old with new in terms of production, stills, barrels, yeast and equipment, Fraser and his team are committed to both the history and the future of their brand. “We stand at the foot of the volcano, on terroir older than generations, and awaken it with new hands, unearthing spices our ancestors used,” Fraser says. “We fused together
a new blend of lowlands [El Valle] and highlands [Los Altos], and a new tequila [was] born.” The entire process of blending and embracing the characteristics of blue agave from the lowlands (earthy, mineral, vegetal and woody notes) and highlands (cherry, citrus, vanilla, chocolate and caramel notes), experimenting with yeast variations (including Champagne), and subjecting the liquids to multiple maturations, yielded more than 125 iterations before the two complex, elegant and balanced varietals of Blanco and Cristalino Volcán De Mi Tierra were finalized.
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Of particular concern to Fraser was being able to lean on Möet for access to their group of the best distillers in the world, especially during the experimentation phases while creating the two expressions—Blanco and Cristalino. “It was also one of the things that I had asked for when I took this job,” he says. “I said two things to the board. One, you need to be a working board, not just like this executive team that tells me what to do. The board has to be physically engaged, working to help me. The second thing is, I need mentors. We’ve got the best distillers in the world, and I need them to come down and help mentor my Mexican team taking the best of their distillation efforts while working with Mexican traditional methods.” And that’s exactly what they did, creating the two expressions in the process.
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traditional stove for 44 hours, then crushed on a stone wheel. Next,
the same as Blanco, but it uses a new technique to create a blend
it’s blended with 12-hour cooked, 25-percent highlands agave, which
of anejo (aged one year) and extra anejo (aged three years). The
adds its fruity flavor. The mixture is first distilled in a copper still,
color has been extracted through filtration; the resulting Cristalino
before it is distilled again in stainless steel and left to rest for 30
is a clear liquid. The taste delivers the incredible depth, richness and
days. From the lowlands agave comes an austere, herbaceous flavor
complexity of an aged tequila. Cristalino is best appreciated neat or
profile, with citrus and floral notes from the highlands agave. Blanco
over ice. $70, available at select restaurants and retailers, including
is ideal for cocktails and can also be served neat. $45, available at
wallywine.com
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THE MAKING OF VOLCÁN DE MI TIERRA CRISTALINO The process of making the premium tequila Cristalino begins much
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THE MAKING OF VOLCÁN DE MI TIERRA BLANCO Seventy-five percent slow-roasted lowland agave is heated in a
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Shake it Up!
Wow the one you’re with by shaking up this tasty number, courtesy of Blanco Colima, Mexico City, featuring the fabulous Volcán De Mi Tierra Tequila ... Cheers! INGREDIENTS Fresh red fruits (suggested: 2 blueberries, 2 blackberries, 2 raspberries and ½ strawberry) Fresh basil 1 oz. fresh lime juice
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1 oz. simple syrup
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1.5 oz. Volcán Cristalino ½ oz. Cinzano Rosso METHOD Gently muddle half the red fruit with fresh basil in a cocktail shaker until it forms a rough paste. Add the next four ingredients and shake. Pour into brandy glass over ice. Garnish with basil sprig, remaining fruit and voilà.
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BONNIE DAVIDSON WITH CONTRIBUTIONS BY { JENNIFER AGRESS AND ANGELA FAIRHURST BY {
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PHOTO BY: DUÅ AN VONDRA
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ISSUE No. 2
From faith-based fashion to Hawaiian flora, the African diaspora to the world of Warhol, some of the most fascinating exhibits and art events on the international museum scene this season are travel destinations in themselves.
Gio ISSUE No. 2 LIVING GOOD
The kinetic installation Wave Interference, by Canadian artist Robyn Moody, consisted of 88 neon lights and one organ, at the 2017 Signal Festival in Prague, Czech Republic.
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BRONX | NEW YORK
Waterfall, No. 1, ‘Īao Valley, Maui (1939), by Georgia O’Keeffe
Heliconia, Crab’s Claw Ginger (1939), by Georgia O’Keeffe
Hibiscus with Plumeria (1939), by Georgia O’Keeffe
Pineapple Bud (1939), by Georgia O’Keeffe
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Oil on canvas, 40 in. x 30 in. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Sam Rose and Julie Walters
Oil on canvas, 19 in. x 16 in. Private collection
ALL PHOTOS © 2018 GEORGIA O’KEEFFE MUSEUM / ARTISTS RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK
Oil on canvas, 19 in. x 16 in. Collection of Sharon Twigg-Smith
ISSUE No. 2
Oil on canvas, 19 1⁄8 in. x 16 in. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Gift of Art Today
Seventeen of the resulting paintings are
depictions of cow skulls and desert plants
now on exhibit, marking the first time
Kauai and the Big Island are thriving in the
of the American Southwest, O’Keeffe was
they’ve been shown together since 1940,
Bronx, N.Y., nurtured by horticulturists as
commission by the Hawaiian Pineapple
when they debuted at the New York
part of Georgia O’Keeffe: Visions of Hawai‘i
Company to produce two paintings of
gallery owned by O’Keeffe’s husband,
at New York Botanical Gardens. The
pineapples for advertising campaigns.
photographer Alfred Stieglitz.
raison d’être of the landmark exhibition,
During her nine-week Hawai’ian research
STAY NEARBY: Nature in all its glory
however, is a little-known, rarely seen
trip, she was awed by the waterfalls,
is also celebrated at 1 Hotel Central
collection of works by O’Keeffe that were
churning sea, mountains, black lava,
Park, the Upper West Side branch of the
inspired by the artist’s 1939 trip to the
lush greenery and blossoms—frangipani,
eco-minded hospitality brand that’s an
archipelago two decades before it became
bougainvillea, plumeria, heliconia, hibiscus,
easy Uber ride to the NYBG. 1hotels.com/
the 50th state. Through Oct. 28, nybg.org
bird-of-paradise—that she encountered.
central-park
LIVING GOOD
WOW FACTOR: Best known for her stark
flowers and plants that grow on Oahu, Maui,
ISSUE No. 2
More than 300 types of exotic tropical
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HAWAII ON THE HUDSON
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PRAGUE | CZECH REPUBLIC
The Church of St. Ludmila was the canvas on which digital artist Yann Nguema projected Caryatids, a videomapping artwork, in 2017.
An interactive, multimedia installation, Light Sowers, by Maotik, lit up the city park, Vojanovy Sady, in 2016.
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NIGHT LIGHTS
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Illuminating the astounding beauty of
historic city center—Downtown (Prague
STAY NEARBY: Set in three Old
Prague, the Signal Festival of Lights
1), Vinohrady and Karlín—become the
Town Prague buildings of baroque and
returns to the capital of the Czech Republic
showcase for dramatic, site-specific,
renaissance styles, Four Seasons Hotel
for the sixth consecutive year. Oct. 11-14,
highest-tech installations of light, sound
Prague offers refined accommodations
signalfestival.com
and video mapping. Spectacle viewers
with views of Europe’s Golden City, including
WOW FACTOR: Facades of famous
usually number well into the millions, and
the Charles Bridge, across the Vltava and
landmarks, as well as public spaces and
the chorus of “oohs” and “ahhs” begins each
all the way to the spires of Prague Castle.
streetscapes along three routes in the
evening at 7 pm.
fourseasons.com/prague
CARYTIDS AND LIGHT SOWERS PHOTOS BY DUŠAN VONDRA; MONOLITH PHOTO BY ALEXANDER DOBROVODSKY
ISSUE No. 2
The light installation Monolith Powered by Mercedes-Benz – Hyperbinary shined brightly at Parizska Street next to Old Times Square, in 2016.
PARIS | FRANCE
Modernismo M32, limited-edition photograph, by Giuliano Bekor
Balloon Dog Orange, cast porcelain sculpture, by Jeff Koons
Space Oddity, a painting in tribute to David Bowie, by Remy Bond
Einstein, stencil and mixed media on paper, by Mr. Brainwash
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Art Gallery to recently opened boutiques,
STAY ON-SITE: Ideally located in the 8th
including Bansky, Mr. Brainwash, Jeff
urban and pop art (stencils, calligraphy,
arrondissement, luxury hotel Le Royal
Koons and Bradley Theodore are part of
graffiti, drawings, sculptures, photography,
Monceau Raffles is not only a hub of
Art Attack, a colorful exhibition installed
paintings and collages) by world-renowned
creativity, it also holds the honor of being
throughout Le Royal Monceau Raffles in
French and international artists—some of
an official French ministerial “palace
Paris. Through Aug. 15, artphotoexpo.com
whose first canvases were the brick walls
distinction”—a notch above five-star status.
WOW FACTOR: From La Librairie des
of inner-city buildings—are on view and
The spa, My Blend by Clarins, makes
Arts to the elegant lobby, and from the
available for purchase.
relaxation an art form. raffles.com/paris
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Street and pop art by from iconic artists
ISSUE No. 2
ART DE VIVRE
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ISSUE No. 2
Ensemble by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana for Dolce & Gabbana, Autumn/ Winter 2013–2014, courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana
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Evening ensemble by John Galliano for House of Dior, Autumn/Winter 2000-2001 haute couture, courtesy of Dior Heriage Collection, Paris
Statuary Vestment for the Virgin of El Rocío by Yves Saint Laurent, ca. 1985, courtesy of Chapelle Notre-Dame de Compassion, Paris
Evening dress by Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino, Spring/Summer 2014 haute couture, courtesy of Valentino SpA
FAITHFUL TO FASHION Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic
Met Cloisters, this historic exhibit includes
fashion’s (sometimes) more daring, even
Imagination , the spring 2018 exhibition of
50 ecclesiastical masterworks from the
disgraceful, artistic interpretation.
The Costume Institute of New York City’s
Sistine Chapel sacristy, including 18th- to
STAY NEARBY: The Lowell, an uber-
Metropolitan Museum of Art, examines
21st-century papal robes, rings, tiaras and
stylish 74-room landmark hotel on
the longstanding relationship between
more—many of which have never before
Manhattan’s fashionable Upper East
fashion and religion—rather, Catholicism.
left the Vatican. Juxtaposed with these
Side, recently underwent a three-year
Through Oct. 8, metmuseum.org
liturgical vestments are more than 150
reimagining by architect Mark Pinney and
WOW FACTOR: Spread among Byzantine
ensembles from high-end fashion houses
designer Michael S. Smith, pairing classic
and western medieval art galleries and
like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace,
design with modern touches. Restaurateur
The Anna Wintour Costume Institute at
to name a few, which connect the dots
Charles Masson’s new eatery, Majorelle, is
the Met Fifth Avenue and uptown at The
between sacred Catholic symbols and
an instant classic. lowellhotel.com
ALL HEAVENLY BODIES PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
NEW YORK CITY | NEW YORK
Eva Mudocci (After Munch), by Andy Warhol
The Scream (After Munch), by Andy Warhol
“Self Portrait” and “Madonna”—in more
and superficial, the other unapologetically
printmaker and painter with a penchant for
cheery, vibrant hues. They’re now on view in
intense and impenetrable, have in
tortured, brooding subjects, was an unlikely
Andy Warhol – After Munch at the Munch
common—they were both prolific artists who
inspiration for Andy Warhol. In fact, in 1983,
Museum in Oslo, Norway. Through Aug. 26,
found fame through mass consumerism.
the pop artist famous for his repetitive
munchmuseet.no/en
STAY NEARBY: Thon Hotel Terminus
depictions of Campbell Soup cans and
WOW FACTOR: Like any Warhol collection,
is a four-star pop-art hotel (with five-star
Marilyn Monroe, created a series of 15 prints
this one holds deeper meaning than meets
service) that’s just a short walk from Munch
that replicated four of Munch’s extremely
the eye. It shows what two prominent
Museum. thonhotels.com/our-hotels/norway/
dark works—”The Scream,” “Eva Mudocci,”
artists, one unapologetically detached
oslo/thon-hotel-terminus
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Edvard Munch, a prolific Norwegian
ISSUE No. 2
ORIGINAL COPY
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EVA MUDOCCI © HAUGAR VESTFOLD KUNSTMUSEUM; THE SCREAM © THE ANDY WARHOL FOUNDATION
OSLO | NORWAY
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Jourdain double collar jacket, inner shirt, boned pants and signature hijab and Iman headscarf, by Haslinda Rahim for Blancheur (Malaysia), Spring/Summer 2017
Barjis Chohan (United Kingdom), Spring/Summer 2016
Cap, headscarf, top, jacket, skirt and pants in Thai silk by Dian Pelangi (Indonesia) for New York Fashion Week, 2017
Dress, belt and headscarf by Rebecca Kellett for Rebecca Kellett (United Kingdom), Autumn/Winter 2017, in digital printed satin, synthetic net, plastic sequins, PVC, plastic and acrylic yarn; neckpiece by Della Reed; sunglasses by Anna-Karin Karlsson; boots by Dr. Martens
MODESTLY CHIC Clothing designed to conceal, rather
WOW FACTOR: “There are those who
Dian Pelangi and other top Muslim designers
than reveal, the female form can be
believe that there is no fashion at all among
and produced for the modest fashion sector
stylish, contemporary, even alluring, as
Muslim women, but the opposite is true, with
in luxurious fabrics and bold colors, plus
demonstrated in Contemporary Muslim
modern, vibrant, and extraordinary fashion
sportswear items such as the Nike Pro Hijab
Fashions at San Francisco’s de Young
scenes, particularly in many Muslim-majority
and the burkini.
Museum. It’s the first major museum
countries,” says Max Hollein, director and
STAY NEARBY: Check into the ultra-hip,
exhibition to explore the complexities of
CEO of the Fine Arts Museums of San
Kelly Wearstler-designed Proper Hotel San
modest dressing and the fact that Islamic
Francisco. On view are outerwear and head
Francisco and you can pedal over to the de
women have become arbiters of style. Sept.
coverings—including the abaya, burka,
Young on a Shinola bicycle, complimentary
22-Jan. 6, 2019, deyoung.famsf.org
headwrap, hijab and turban—conceived by
use available for guests. properhotel.com
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FINE ARTS MUSEUMS OF SAN FRANCISCO
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ISSUE No. 2
SAN FRANCISCO | CALIFORNIA
DUNDEE | SCOTLAND
In a competition of 120 original design concepts submitted by architects around the world, Kuma’s was the winner.
A diamond and pearl tiara (Cartier, 1909), previously owned by Lady Marguerite Allan and saved from the Lusitania, is part of the inaugural exhibit Ocean Liners: Speed and Style.
Tokyo’s 2020 Olympic Stadium. His bold
Lady Marguerite Allan’s Cartier tiara that
Dundee, Scotland, named a UNESCO
concept—inspired by the dramatic cliffs
was salvaged from the Lusitania and the
City of Design in 2014 and a fitting site
of Scotland’s east coast—will showcase
Duke of Windsor’s Maison Goyard luggage.
for Scotland’s first museum of design.
300 years of innovation. Opening Sept. 15,
STAY NEARBY: A baronial mansion built in
The new V&A Dundee, a spectacular,
vandadundee.org
1863, Taypark House, its elegant botanical
angular concrete structure on the River
WOW FACTOR: Among more than 250
garden setting and well-stocked Gin Bar
Tay waterfront, is the vision of Japanese
objects on view in Ocean Liners: Speed and
are a picturesque one-mile stroll to the
architect Kengo Kuma, who is also designing
Style, the museum’s inaugural exhibit, is
waterfront. tayparkhouse.co.uk
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Creative energy is a natural resource in
ISSUE No. 2
SCOTLAND, BY DESIGN
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PHOTO OF CARTIER CROWN BY MARIAN GERARD, CARTIER COLLECTION © CARTIER
World-renowned architect Kengo Kuma reflects on his cutting-edge design for the new V&A Dundee.
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At Art Basel Miami 2017, Cherry and Martin presented various genres of work by six artists of different backgrounds and generations.
Even everyday items can be works of art, as evidenced by Galerie Frank Elbaz at the 2017 edition of Art Basel Miami.
Common first names make an artistic statement in Each and Every One of You (2004) by Allan McCollum, part of Galerie Thomas Schulte’s 2017 display.
Striking black-and-white images captured the imagination at the Howard Greenberg Gallery booth at last year’s art fair.
MAGIC CITY ARTS Every year during the first week of
top art galleries and museums and 4,000-
exhibitions, concerts and more. The Miami
December, celebrities, A-listers, art
plus artists put their best works on display,
Beach outpost of this annual Swiss art
connoisseurs, entertainers, and the
debuting everything from contemporary
extravaganza isn’t just an art enthusiast’s
world’s elite descend on the Magic City
paintings, films, videos and sculptures
dream. It’s a party.
for America’s most iconic art show, Art
to drawings, photography, digital art and
STAY NEARBY: A luxury Collins Avenue
Basel Miami Beach, at the Miami Beach
installations. Since its launch in 2002,
hotel mere steps from the Miami Beach
Convention Center. Dec. 6-9,
this art-focused weekend has blossomed
Convention Center, Loews Miami Beach
artbasel.com/miami-beach
into an entire week of art talks, late-
Hotel puts you in the heart of all the Art
WOW FACTOR: Nearly 300 of the world’s
night fetes, satellite art fairs, art events,
Basel fun. loewshotels.com/miami-beach
ALL PHOTOS © ART BASEL
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ISSUE No. 2
MIAMI BEACH | FLORIDA
ABU DHABI | UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Inspired by the special features of the Saadiyat site, architect Jean Nouvel’s design for the new Louvre Abu Dhabi looks especially dazzling against the sparkling city skyline at night.
In 2007, the Abu Dhabi government saw a need
the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a museum rooted in
the Virgin Mary and Jesus, and pass through
to make the United Arab Emirates known for
universal human values, opened in November
12th-century Islamic and Christian fountain
something other than oil, and it turned to The
2017. louvreabudhabi.ae
spouts, Picasso’s 1887 self-portrait and even Ai
Louvre in Paris for help. Sealing the deal with
WOW FACTOR: History meets art in 23 galleries
Wei Wei’s “Fountain of Light” sculpture.
a $525 million contract, Abu Dhabi earned the
organized chronologically, with similar works
STAY NEARBY: A luxury resort built in the
right to build its own Louvre Museum of art and
from different cultures placed near each other
ziggurat style, the St. Regis Saadiyat
culture on Saadiyat Island, identifiable by the
to show their commonalities and the humanity
Island Resort has seven restaurants
geometric lattices that cap its 7,500-ton dome.
they share. The exhibits begin with sacred Sutra
and a superb location on Saadiyat Beach.
Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel,
scrolls and statuettes of a nursing Egyptian god,
stregissaadiyatisland.com
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RICH ALLIANCE
ISSUE No. 2
ALL PHOTOS BY MOHAMED SOMJI © LOUVRE ABU DHABI
Water laps at the base of the ambitious repository of art, culture and artifacts tracing the history of humanity in the Emirati capital.
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Star-shaped perforations in the museum’s stainless steel dome filter the sun’s rays, creating a “rain of light.”
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VIENNA | AUSTRIA
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BODIES OF WORK Egon Schiele: The Jubilee Show was created
WOW FACTOR: Expect to see the themes
in honor of the centennial of the death of
and messages Schiele was best known
STAY NEARBY: A design-oriented, lilac-
Egon Schiele, a prominent Austrian painter
for: spirituality, metamorphosis, maternal
hued hotel in the cultural and artistic heart
known for his bold defiance of conventional
figures, awkward self-portraits designed to
of Vienna, Hotel Sans Souci Wien boasts
norms of beauty, at Vienna’s most visited
make viewers uncomfortable and paintings
Champagne cocktails in the new Laurent
cultural institution, the Leopold Museum.
of nude- and half-dressed men and women
Perrier Summer Lounge and a crystal
Through Nov. 4, leopoldmuseum.org
that challenge our perceptions of the
chandelier-lit pool. sanssouci-wien.com/en
human body, attractiveness and sexuality.
PHOTO Š LEOPOLD MUSEUM, VIENNA
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ISSUE No. 2
In his best-known self-portrait, Self-Portrait with Chinese Lantern Plant (1912), Egon Schiele depicts himself as both confident and fragile.
Designed by internationally acclaimed, London-based Heatherwick Studio, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa sits on the edge of an historic working harbor, with a backdrop of Table Mountain and sweeping views of the ocean. Tranforming a honeycomb of 116 concrete vertical tubes into a 9,500-square-meter (102,257-square-foot) museum yields architectural phenomena from every vantage point.
Stairs spiral and glass elevators ascend and descend, both providing visitors access to all nine levels of contemporary African art.
The striking central atrium, a curving kaleidoscope of daylight and shadow, serves as the museum’s central gathering hall.
Jochen Zeitz, the cluster of 42 industrial silos
Hotel occupies six floors above Zeitz MOCAA.
silos that were in operation from 1924 to 2001,
(which once comprised the tallest building in
Liz Biden, the owner of The Royal Portfolio
the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art
Sub-Saharan Africa) is now an architectural
collection, has meticulously designed and
Africa (MOCAA), opened in September 2017 in
marvel as captivating as the art inside. A center
decorated the interiors and each unique
Cape Town, South Africa, is a spectacular, nine-
atrium is carved from a single grain silo scaled
room with a mix of art and artifacts, crystal
floor repository of cutting-edge 21st-century
up six stories, creating a vaulted cathedral
chandeliers and contemporary furnishings.
works by artists from Africa and its diaspora—
structure, with a giant dragon sculpture
Pillowed glass windows inserted into the
the largest collection of its kind in the world.
suspended down the center. Dizzying spiral
existing geometry of the industrial structure
zeitzmocaa.museum
stairways wind their way up nine floors.
make the entire building look like a magical
WOW FACTOR: Developed by the Victoria &
STAY ON-SITE: Built in the elevator portion
glowing lantern against the night sky.
Alfred Waterfront and German businessman
of the grain silo, the stunning, 28-room Silo
theroyalportfolio.com/the-silo
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Housed in a complex of decommissioned grain
ISSUE No. 2
AGAINST THE GRAIN
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ZEITTZ MUSEUM EXTERIOR AND DETAIL PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEATHERWICKSTUDIO © IWAN BAAN; ATRIUM PHOTO BY WIANELLE BRIERS; SPIRAL STAIRCASE PHOTO BY ANGELA FAIRHURST
CAPE TOWN | SOUTH AFRICA
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BERLIN | GERMANY
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ISSUE No. 2
A portrait of Jack and Jackie welcomes visitors to Museum The Kennedys.
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ICH BIN EIN AMERIKANER On June 26, 1963, President John F. Kennedy
the third floor of a former Jewish Girls’ School
STAY NEARBY: The legendary five-
declared “Ich bin ein Berliner” against the
that closed on June 30, 1942; the majority
star Adlon Kempinski is centrally
backdrop of the Berlin Wall. This best-known
of pupils and teachers were deported to
located in Berlin’s Mitte district, next to
anti-communist speech of the Cold War
the death camps. The building was used
the Brandenburg Gate and within walking
gave rise to Germans’ fascination with the
as a military hospital until the end of World
distance of the Former Jewish Girls’ School.
Kennedys. Now, Berlin’s Museum The
War II, then as a series of schools until 1996.
Built in 1902, the 382-room grand hotel has
Kennedys, devoted to JFK’s public and
Officially returned to the Jewish community in
accommodated numerous dignitaries over
private life, is a comprehensive collection
2009, and re-opened in 2012, it now houses
the years, including the Queen of England.
of 300 photographs, rare videos, official
the Kennedy museum, art galleries and two
Perhaps its most famous moment came in
documents, personal belongings and family
eateries, and retains its original facade,
2002, when Michael Jackson dangled his
memorabilia. thekennedys.de/english
mosaic tiling, stairwells, elaborate beams and
infant son, Prince Michael, out of a suite
WOW FACTOR: The museum is located on
layout of hallways and classrooms.
window. kempinski.com/en/berlin/hotel-adlon
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This morning, from your Four Seasons Private Residence at Costa Palmas, you’ll overlook the yachts of the marina and village, see the vivid greens of the Robert Trent Jones II golf course, or gaze at two miles of beach and the calm, sparkling waters of the Sea of CortÊs. On a thousand acres of elemental luxury, the spirited adventure of life on a sea of dreams begins.
BAZAAR MEAT
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ISSUE No. 2
BY JOSE ANDRES
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SLS LAS VEGAS, LAS VEGAS,NEVADA CASEY O’BRIEN JILL PAIDER COGNAC CART PHOTO BY { CHRIS WESSLING BY {
PHOTOGRAPHY BY {
HOW BAZAAR
Acclaimed chef José Andrés adds a cognac bar-on-wheels to his meaty offerings.
Gio ISSUE No. 2 LIVING GOOD
Located inside the chic SLS Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Bazaar Meat by José Andrés offers diners a rich experience in a setting that’s downright sexy. Designed by Philippe Starck, it features tapestries depicting hunting scenes, faux taxidermy alligator heads, a carpet emblazoned with a giant butcher’s diagram of a steer, and beautiful cuts of meat on display for diners’ selection. The heart and soul of Bazaar Meat are its show-stopping, wood-and-charcoal-fired grills and ovens; their aromas waft from the open kitchen, greeting guests the moment they enter the restaurant. A carnivore’s dream, the menu offers protein-heavy tapas (try the foiffle, a waffle filled with foie gras espuma, honey and peanut butter), carpaccios , tartares, cured meats, plenty of offal, and a finely curated selection of top-quality aged meats, which diners are encouraged to share. Dramatic tableside presentations including the carving of a roasted suckling pig. A dessert cart carries an array of indulgent finales to the meal. And the new, custom-designed Cognac Cart transports the finest spirits, such as Richard, Louis XIII and Hennessy Paradis. After such an opulent feast, a snifter of exceptional brandy truly hits the spot. 2535 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 702.761.7610, slslasvegas.com/bazaarmeat
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ISSUE No. 2
BOOTH ONE
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GOLD COAST, CHICAGO
BY { BONNIE DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY { CHRISTINA SLATON
RESERVED FOR VIPS
Newly reimagined by Lettuce Entertain You, a legendary Windy City eatery now offers a modern experience with echoes of the past.
Gio ISSUE No. 2 LIVING GOOD
Back in its heyday, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Sammy Davis Jr., Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart and Lassie were among the celebrated habitués of The Pump Room, an elegant Chicago supper club where the swells of yesteryear liked to eat, drink and hang out when they were in town. In November 2017, only four months after the venerable 80-year-old establishment closed its doors, it was reborn as Booth One, named for the coveted corner banquette that was once the prime perch for Ol’ Blue Eyes and friends. Inside the Ambassador Chicago hotel, beneath orb light fixtures designed to resemble Champagne bubbles, beside walls covered with black-and-white photos of former A-list regulars, diners now order from Chef/Partner Doug Psaltis’ menu of Continental classics (beef Wellington, Dover sole) and modern American interpretations (seafood tower of king crab, caviar, prawns, sea urchin and oysters; Asian-inflected salmon tournedos with sesame seeds and Brussels sprouts leaves; and crispy duck with new potatoes, gribiche and frisée). Preor post-dinner cocktails and wine can be enjoyed in the newly renovated bar with a gold double-vaulted ceiling. Still glam after all these years. 1301 N. State Parkway, Chicago, IL, 312.649.0535, boothone.com
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BRESCA
14TH ST. CORRIDOR, WASHINGTON, D.C. BY { BONNIE DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY { REY LOPEZ
BUZZ OF THE BELTWAY.
A quirky, daring and delicious new menu is the talk of the town in the capital city.
Gio ISSUE No. 2 LIVING GOOD
A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Orlando, Florida, Chef Ryan Ratino sharpened his skills in some of the most cutting-edge kitchens in the country, including NYC’s molecular gastronomy mecca WD~50 and DC’s avant-garde cooking lab Minibar by Jose Andres, before alighting at Ripple, in the DC neighborhood of Cleveland Park. There, his brief but highly acclaimed stint ended when the restaurant closed in late 2017. Now, the Beltway is abuzz about Bresca (meaning “honeycomb” in Spanish), Ratino’s first solo flight, where the young and playful chef/ owner describes his distinctive cooking style as “bistronomy”—modern, informal, French inspired, seasonal and full of surprises. Reflecting his irreverent mindset, live moss covers one wall in the dining room, while golden fish heads poke out of another. Ginand-honey cocktails are served in bumblebeeshaped glasses. Fresh herbs plucked from the rooftop garden find their way into seasonal dishes, perhaps oysters topped with Earl Grey tea foam, resting on the tentacles of a gilt octopus; chestnut agnolotti with rabbit, sunchoke, pear and mustard seed; honey lacquered duck breast; and, for dessert, foie gras cake pops—bon bons of duck liver, gianduja and hazelnuts, served in a ceramic head. Sweet. 1906 14th St. NW, Washington, DC, 202.518.7926, brescadc.com com
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TOK YO
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RECORD BAR
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WEST VILLAGE, NEW YORK, NY BY { BILLY FRIERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY { NOAH FECKS
BEATS AND BITES
In an intimate, subterranean restaurant, sake is sipped and vinyl records are spun.
Gio ISSUE No. 2 LIVING GOOD
Restaurant soundtracks are sometimes uninspired (or, worse, mood killers), but at Tokyo Record Bar, the music is an interactive, collaborative adventure. You come to the 18-seat dining room not only to eat and drink, but also to play DJ. In playful homage to the Japanese tradition of vinyl record bars, this underground spot sates both taste-buds and eardrums. Entering through street-level Air’s Champagne Parlor, you’re welcomed with a shot of chilled sake. Soak in the quirky environs: plastic cherry blossoms cascade from a low ceiling, light wood accents and paper-shade walls evoke Old Japan, and a large mural depicts foxes in pink kimonos lounging in a mountainside dreamscape. The changing prix fixe menu is already curated for you, so the only selections you have to make are the songs. Tracks are organized by decade (’50s-’00s). You might find yourself sampling crispy fried oysters over Frankie Vallie & The Four Seasons’ “Beggin’” one moment, savoring caviar sushi backed by Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love” the next. In an open kitchen, a DJ ensures tunes are paced smoothly while two chefs delicately plate. Excitement peaks as guests’ chosen songs crackle over the speakers. The final course: a slice of pizza. You’ll surely leave TRB full— and dancing. 127 MacDougal St., New York, NY, 212.420.4777, tokyorecordbar.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DAVID MYERS
BY { BETH
WEITZMAN
Inspired by the diverse cuisines he discovered during his extensive travels, Michelin-starred global restaurateur David Myers (best known in L.A. for Sona, Comme Ça and Hinoki & the Bird) recently bowed three buzzing new restaurants on Dubai’s waterfront. With additional hot spots in Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong, he remains driven by
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an insatiable wanderlust, always on the lookout for
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the perfect location for his next venue. We recently chatted with the L.A.-based but perennially roaming Gypsy Chef to get a taste of his secret sauce for success.
DAV I D M Y E R S
ADRIFT Singapore
When did you first know you wanted to be a chef and a restaurateur?
Where was your most epic dining experience?
After a stint at a restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, I
The restaurant is absolutely stunning. It’s literally
was hooked. It was my calling and two years later, I
built into the hill and is set underneath the ground.
worked my way up to sous chef. I then decided that
There’s no mobile phone service, lit by candles,
I was going to go to Chicago and work in the best
you’re in your own little alcove and the entire menu
restaurant in the country at the time. It was called
is just beef. It’s all about the aging they do on the
Charlie Trotter’s. I remember knocking on the back
oxen, then they grill it over a wood fire. It’s truly
door, asking him to try out and then trying out for
one of the most magical places I’ve ever been and
over a week. A lot of people wanted to work there,
certainly epic. And the food is off the charts!
I would have to say El Capricho [in León, Spain].
and it was very difficult to get my foot in the door, but I wasn’t leaving without a job. It was the best decision I ever made. It was the only restaurant I wanted to work and it was the greatest experience of my life. As they say, the rest is history.
You’ve trained under some of the world’s most renowned chefs. What did you learn from, say, Daniel Boulud?
Daniel Boulud is a great guy. Fun. I worked for him for about a year and a half in New York City at his
You were born in Boston and grew up in Cincinnati. How did your upbringing influence your cooking style?
original Restaurant Daniel, and I learned how to be
I was fortunate enough to grow up growing our own
ready for service. He taught me how to interact with
vegetables, and understanding the importance
people, how to really cook, how important flavor
of the flavor of a perfectly ripe tomato in season.
and seasoning are, and how to deal with guests. He
I think that has helped me the most in my cooking
was a great mentor. I loved every second of working
and understanding the flavors of ingredients and
there.
a chef. It was intense and pumping. You’re prepping on small little corners or slithers of a chair to get
how they should and can be used.
When and what brought you to L.A.?
Charlie Trotter?
Charlie Trotter was my first big restaurant experience,
I came to L.A. for a job. I was offered an opportunity
the toughest of my life. They say boot camp lasts six
at Patina which, at the time, was one of the top
weeks; this lasted six months! It was really brutal! I
restaurants in Los Angeles. L.A. was always at the
learned about inspiration, spontaneity, how to make
top of my list for living, so I was thrilled that the
anything happen and that “no” cannot be in your
opportunity came through.
vocabulary. You just have to find a way to deliver the ultimate experience for guests.
How do you define your culinary philosophy?
It’s based on top-grade ingredients done as simply as possible, but I do like to utilize techniques from
Joachim Splichal?
Working with Joachim Splichal from Patina was a
other cultures in the world, specifically Japan.
great experience to understand business. He has
I’m constantly exploring. I really like to bring in
quite the empire and is a great businessman and
inspiration from my travels with use of spices and
chef.
ingredients to weave really unique flavor profiles into my dishes. Something that someone may never have [eaten before] but will create a great memory.
Anyone else?
Having gone to France and worked with Gerald Boyer at Les Crayeres in Champagne was the
From where or whom do you find your inspiration?
quintessential
I’m a gypsy chef. For me it’s about travel, inspiration
Being friends and getting to taste and explore and
from that travel and applying that to my restaurants,
see the cooking technique and live and believe
concepts and ideas. I would think that all the
French food was a dream. It’s something that I look
restaurants I have created, aside from my very first
back on very fondly.
young
cook
experience
abroad.
travel, and going out to experience new cultures,
Biggest career obstacle you’ve faced?
I’ve had many, and while at the time they seemed absolutely terrible and daunting, and I wasn’t sure how to navigate, I always found in the end it
Tokyo is always at the top of my list, just because
would’ve been the downturn in 2008. It was a tough
the food scene there is incredible. I also love to
time for all restaurants and we really had to figure
travel all throughout Asia, whether it’s Hong Kong,
out how to continue on with the business. We were
Singapore, Vietnam or even India. Actually, I love
given a new opportunity to move my first restaurant
everywhere. Anywhere that has great food and
Sona to a new location, but given the downturn,
some story behind it gets my attention.
that had to be put on hold. Ultimately, when it was
was a great lesson. I would say the toughest time
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Where are some of your most favorite places to visit?
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trying new spices and new types of cuisine.
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one, have been born out of travel and my love of
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time to pick up the deal again, times had changed
important to look at, to make sure we’re not going
so much that I decided not to do Sona. We opened
into something where there’s already a lot of similar
a new restaurant called Hinoki & the Bird, which was
style concepts.
the right decision. But only having had that time between closing my first restaurant to opening the new one would I have known that.
What are the signature elements of every Gypsy Chef restaurant?
We really focus on trading a certain energy at all of
Greatest lesson learned?
Everything ends at some point. Both good and bad.
our venues. Music plays a big part of it, as do our teams’ outfits and the energy that they bring, so hiring is critical. We look to hire people that are really
You are based in L.A. but have restaurants all over the world. Why the global expansion?
passionate about taking care of our guests, and are
I’ve always had a dream of opening businesses
plays a very big role, and we always had some little
internationally. The great thing about food is that
edge inspired by my travels. It could be some spices
it brings all people together. There’s always a
that I picked up from a recent trip to Mumbai or some
story and to be able to experience that in different
herbs that I came across in Vietnam… We like to do
countries through different cultures is a really eye-
inspiration trips to some amazing cities where our
opening experience. Asia for me is like a second
chefs can try some unique dishes. This keeps them
home. Singapore was the first stop and I loved it. It
inspired and constantly pushing the envelope for
was so different to anything back home in the U.S.
new ideas with our team.
naturally engaging and energetic. Obviously food
For whatever reason, I completely resonate with it. Whether it’s the food, the smells, the richness in the air, the cultures. Everything seemed to mesh and when the opportunity presented itself, Adrift [at the Marina Bay Sands] was born.
Tell us about the ingredients used at your restaurants.
We’re really focused on whatever the best is in season whether that be a certain fish coming out of Japan, citrus coming out of Vietnam or herbs
Are there challenges specific to opening a restaurant internationally?
coming out of Singapore. We are constantly looking
They are always challenges when you open up a
out the best farmers, the best markets, the best
restaurant. It’s a big production, there are a lot of
fishermen, and then we try to connect with them
moving parts. There is a lot of unknowns as you’re
and become good friends.
for whatever the best is as that moment. We seek
dealing with construction issues, you’re dealing with staffing issues, you’re dealing with getting the right product in. And you’re never quite aware how things may take a turn. Also, getting certain ingredients
What are some of your favorite menu items at your various venues?
Our burger at David Myers Cafe in Tokyo is a
in a timely manner from our seafood farmers, and
favorite. At Adrift in Singapore, our crab toast with
developing the right relationships on the ground.
housemade pickles is a must. And in Dubai at Bleu Blanc, it’s all about our chef table where we cook the
What drew you to Dubai and what is its culinary scene like?
entire tasting menu over the live embers. At Basta!
restaurants that we have there are located right
Aside from the food, what do you love about your restaurants?
it’s our pizza, for sure.
Dubai seems like a match made in heaven. The on the waterfront by the iconic Dubai Water
happen there. At Bleu Blanc it’s all about our live fire
continuing on, and there are so many perfectly
hearth. The warmth and action happening there is
realized venues here. I think the real challenge is,
a crowd pleaser. At Basta! it’s the action at our wood
you know, to be able to get in the mix and deliver
burning pizza oven. And at Poppy, it’s the feeling
a great experience and be able to get people here.
you get when you walk in and people are dancing
I think there is a lot of competition in restaurants
away with incredible cocktails.
really be at the top of your game.
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and the lights go down, the magic really starts to
competitive, it’s really at the top of its game and
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I love the energy at Adrift. When the music goes up
Dubai is incredibly dynamic. It’s bustling, it’s highly
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Canal, which is fantastic. The culinary scene in
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considering Dubai’s population, so you have got to
How involved are you in the menu planning?
I’m very involved in the menu planning. I work with the team consistently on that and whenever we do
When developing a new restaurant concept, what factors play a role?
a new shift, I do the final approval. I do let my team
Location plays a big part of it, because it helps
because nobody wants to just be told what to make.
determine what type of concept we want to create
They want to feel a part of it. And so I welcome my
and what type of experience we need to deliver
team’s ideas and challenge them to come up with
to our guests. Also, the competitive landscape is
new and innovative creations.
fully engage with my chefs and feel ownership on it,
BASTA! Dubai
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BLEU BLANC Dubai
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POPPY Dubai
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SALT WATER Tokyo
Which restaurateurs do you look up to?
I have respect for restaurateurs who have opened multiple restaurants, because it’s not easy. A few of my favorites are Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Wolfgang Puck, Nobu Matsuhisa, Jason Atherton and Akira Back. All chef-driven groups with multiple concepts around the globe.
If you could collaborate on a restaurant with anyone, dead or alive, who would that be?
I’d love to collaborate with the designer James Perse from Los Angeles. I love his designs and think he sums up California perfectly in his clothes. His design
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style in his boutiques is amazing and I can see it fitting in some of my favorite places in the world, like Tokyo, London, Hong Kong, etc.
Cooking oil:
What can we expect to see in the next decade of restaurant dining?
Olive oil
I think live fire cooking is going to play a big role. There is something so simple and pure about cooking over embers.
Aritsugu Japanese Knives
Spices:
We miss you. Anything on the horizon for L.A.?
Fresh sansho leaf from Kyoto, garam
Yes, stay tuned. I love L.A.
masala made in Mumbai, and zaatar from Jordan
Any other new cities being added to your roster?
Ho Chi Minh, Cape Town, London are all in my sights.
Go-to protein: Chicken breast
What is your ultimate goal?
My focus is on getting into 15 key cosmopolitan cities around the world. That will make me very happy.
Knife set:
G
L.A. restaurant: MTN and Felix
NYC restaurant: Estela
Culinary city: Tokyo
Up-and-coming culinary city: Ho Chi Minh
Splurge meal:
Single Thread, Healdsburg, Calif.
Men’s cologne:
diptyque vetiver
Watch:
Porsche 911 Turbo
Jeans: Sneakers:
Black Vans
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Car:
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Vintage Rolex Submariner
Athletic wear: Vuori
Workout:
Don Saladino
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crown JEWEL
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We spent the day luxuriating in the modernized 2018 ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM. First stop, The Peninsula Beverly Hills. BY {
BETH WEITZMAN
The Peninsula Hotels and Rolls-Royce brand have been linked in a tradition of providing excellence in motoring for almost five decades. The relationship began in 1970, when The Peninsula Hong Kong purchased a fleet of seven Silver Shadow Rolls-Royce cars (the largest single order to be received by the auto manufacturer) to create a truly luxurious, chauffeured experience for Peninsula guests. Keeping the tradition alive ever since, Rolls-Royces can be found at most of The Peninsula Hotels worldwide, including four meticulously restored 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantoms, with the largest collection—14 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase vehicles—taking residence at The Peninsula Hong Kong. The 2018 Phantom VIII, the eighthgeneration vehicle to carry the Rolls-Royce’s crown jewel nameplate, has been the motor car of choice for the world’s most powerful since the model’s debut in 1925. We spent the day luxuriating around Los Angeles, enjoying all the bells and whistles of this extraordinary vehicle, with a few VIP perks along the way.
It’s impossible not to be in awe of such beauty as it rolls up with its Spirit of Ecstasy mascot standing proud, and anticipation builds for the magic carpet ride that awaits.
The 2018 model boasts a fresh new take on Phantom’s design, while staying true to RollsRoyce’s DNA. The new model is also stiffer for improved handling, lighter, quieter and more advanced in every way as compared to its predecessor.
Rolls-Royce has always been synonymous with the highest levels of craftsmanship, refinement and quality. Among the many new wow factor elements found in the 2018 Phantom, “The Gallery” is a complete and palatial reinterpretation of the dashboard and instrument panel. In an industry first, the Phantom incorporates customers’ own favorite artwork into the instrument panel, displayed behind a high strength glass case, creating the ultimate rolling art gallery.
Inside the effortlessly closing, rearhinged, coach-style doors lies the
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area for passengers.
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spacious and tech-advanced seating
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Every comfort feature is perfectly placed for fingertip control— massaging, reclining and tilting seats; power footrests; motorized privacy curtains; theater rear-monitors; high-definition multimedia; RollsRoyce bespoke audio; and a fridge large enough to hold a bottle of Dom PÊrignon. The plush, deep-pile lambs wool carpeting is also pretty spectacular.
Up above, a starlight headliner sparkles, thanks to fiber-optic pin lights, giving passengers the sense of
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traveling beneath a canopy of stars.
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Engineered for the future, the Phantom is the quietest Rolls-Royce ever made. You barely feel bumps in the road or lean through the turns. The super powerful beauty, with its 6.75-liter, V12 twin turbo engine, accelerates to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and boasts an impressive top speed of 155.
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programs. Buyers can customize their Phantom’s
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Rolls-Royce offers one of the most extensive bespoke cosmetic details pretty much however they desire— any color exterior, expertly embroidered headrests, customized treadplates, even a personal, hand-painted monogram integrated into the coachline. You name it, and Rolls-Royce craftsmen will bring your wishes to life.
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Rolls-Royce has been seen in its fair share of movies including Dirt, produced by ESX Entertainment. One of the stops we made along our ride was Warner Brothers studios for a private tour, screening of Dirt and a meet-and-greet with actress, comedian and screenwriter Christina Moore, along with ESX Productions’ business partner Ali Afshar. Afshar, an actor and producer, is also the founder and president of the world record-holding auto racing team Easy Street Motorsports (ESX). Dirt , featuring a Rolls-Royce Wraith, is now streaming on Amazon Prime.
The New Rolls-Royce Phantom was recently honored with a FiveStar Car accolade at the Autocar Awards 2018, celebrating the best cars produced in the automotive industry over the past year. The New Phantom is one of only two cars to
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be awarded five stars in 2018.
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Conceptualized by Beverly Hills-based interior design firm Forchielli Glynn, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, an AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star-rated property, recently completed a redesign of its 195 guest rooms, including 38 suites and 17 private villas. The updated design reflects the hotel’s signature elegant style with three color palettes, which complement the hotel’s lush tropical garden setting. Luxurious contemporary furnishings along with splashes of color, from floral-patterned drapery to bright accent pillows, give each accommodation a welcome residential feel.
THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS complimentary house car drives guests within Beverly Hills and Century City in a choice of a classic Rolls-Royce or another luxury vehicle, while guests who book any of the hotel’s elegant suites can take advantage of the Suite Ride promotion and enjoy complimentary use of one of the hotel’s stylish BMW vehicles throughout their stay. A fleet of customized Mini Cooper S Clubmans is the most recent addition to the offerings.
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THE PENINSULA CHICAGO boasts a bespoke BMW house car, available on a first-come, first-served basis, to chauffeur guests within two miles of the hotel. Guests who book a suite are invited to explore the city with a three-hour, chauffeur-driven experience in a custom MINI Cooper S Clubman.
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THE PENINSULA BEIJING guests can ride in comfort with the newly renovated hotel’s luxurious limousine fleet, including two exquisite Rolls-Royce Phantoms, 10 customized BMW 7-Series and two Mercedes-Benz Vianos.
THE PENINSULA SHANGHAI offers four Extended Wheelbase Rolls-Royce Phantoms, six BMW 7 Series limousines, two MINI Cooper S Clubmans and an immaculately restored 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II. THE PENINSULA HONG KONG is famous for its record-breaking fleet of luxury vehicles, including an immaculately restored classic 1934 RollsRoyce Phantom II, a popular choice for weddings and special occasions. For day-today transport, the hotel offers 14 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase vehicles and two MINI Cooper S Clubmans, all of which have been painted the signature Peninsula Brewster Green and customized with refrigerators, iPod connections and more for guests’ comfort.
THE PENINSULA PARIS is home to one of the magnificently restored 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantoms, together with a Rolls-Royce EWB Phantom II, two MINI Cooper S Clubmans and 10 BMWs—all in the traditional Peninsula Green. THE PENINSULA TOKYO offers a stunning fleet of luxury vehicles, including two Rolls-Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantoms, one immaculately restored 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, two BMW 740Li and two MINI Cooper S Clubmans. All Peninsula vehicles have been customized and don the signature Peninsula Brewster Green. In 2014, The Peninsula Tokyo added a Tesla Model S to the hotel’s roster of vehicles.
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THE PENINSULA BANGKOK entices with its elegant customized fleet of Rolls-Royce Silver Spur, BMW 7 Series or a helicopter from the hotel’s private helipad. The hotel also offers a customized threewheel tuk-tuk and four beautifully restored rice barges that ferry across the river from the Peninsula Pier Lounge to the Skytrain Station.
THE PENINSULA MANILA features a fleet of beautifully customized luxury sedans. For more adventurous guests, its bespoke Jeepney, a Filipino cultural icon, is an exciting way to zip around town.
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To real estate developer Mike Meldman, leisure time is too precious to waste on anything other than living well and having fun.
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BY { BONNIE
DAVIDSON
PORTRAITS BY { JOHN
RUSSO
MIKE MELDMAN
M
ike Meldman takes having fun seriously. He pals around with celebrities (along with partners George Clooney and Rande Gerber, he launched ultra-premium tequila brand Casamigos in 2013). And he amassed a fortune by developing luxury residential communities designed for those who, like him, have the means—and the time—to savor the good life.
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As founder of Discovery Land Company, Meldman believes that buying a second (or third, or 30th) home at any of the 20-plus exclusive private club communities in his ever-growing portfolio is a “reward for a successful career and lifetime of hard work. It’s an investment in real estate. But most importantly, it’s a lifetime investment in family,” where intergenerational memories are made.
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Meldman’s latest project, Silo Ridge Field Club, is an 800-acre gated country retreat in the bucolic Hudson Valley of New York State. One of the largest and most ambitious projects in this rural area, it offers unrivaled privacy, pastoral views, world-class amenities, farm-totable cuisine and outdoor recreation, including golf on a Tom Fazio-designed course. Only an hour and a half from Midtown Manhattan, Discovery’s first private community in the Northeast features 245 residences, ranging from spacious condominiums and townhouses to 5,326-square-foot single-family homes. Recently, while surveying the renovations to his new office space on Canon Drive in Beverly Hills, Meldman paused to share his thoughts on work, leisure, happiness and what’s really important in life.
M I K E ’ S FAVO R I T E S
Room in the house: The media room
Comfy clothes:
Casamigos T-shirt, Tom Ford or Lucky Brand jeans, flip-flops
Sneakers:
Air Jordans
Dress-up clothes:
Tom Ford blazer, Bottega Veneta slip-ons
Watch:
Patek Philippe
Car:
Rolls-Royce Ghost
Workout:
Kettlebells and cardio in Lululemon gear
L.A. restaurant: Craig’s
NYC restaurant:
The Grill and Cipriani
Cocktail:
Casamigos Reposado on the rocks
Hotel:
The Beverly Hills Hotel
Luxury travel experience:
Private ski mountain at the Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana; gorilla trekking in Rwanda; Legendary Resorts in Tanzania for the migration; sleeping in Singita’s
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mobile tents in Botswana
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When did you first become interested in real estate development?
Our owners are at the very top of their professions, and they can
the NCAA Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. It turned out that the family
Discovery community is our exceptional, personable staff that curate
During my senior year at Stanford, I was invited by friends to go to of one of my friends had built the stadium and owned just about all of the real estate in Mobile. We had a great time, and I immediately recognized the synergy of the various businesses and thought, “This is great. I want to do this.” So instead of going to law school, I became a real estate broker in Northern California, launching my real estate career. I probably should admit that I bombed the LSAT, so not sure I would have gotten into law school, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
create great lifestyles for themselves. But the unique benefit of a life-affirming experiences for members and their families, so they don’t have to figure it out for themselves. These men and women love what they do, and it shows in how passionate they are. Surfing, scuba-diving, hiking, biking, golfing, skiing—we make it fun to learn and great to do together as a family. In Hawaii, we turn members into real “watermen/women” and in Montana, my kids learned to be “mountain men” with a real appreciation for everything the location has to offer. There’s
something
else
that
differentiates
Discovery.
In
our
How did you get the idea for Discovery Land Company?
communities, the kids want to hang with their parents. We give them
I wanted more control of my own destiny. I also quickly realized that
spaces that are warm and inviting, because it really matters. I know
I had a real passion for land ownership and entitlements for land, but it was easier to get approvals for less dense, more environmentally sensitive projects. Lower density by default means more exclusivity. Since I wasn’t a country club kid or a big golfer, I came up with the idea to develop experiential clubs that were less rigid and more fun—a place where I could have experiences and create memories with my kids that would last forever. I’ve been a shorts and T-shirt guy my whole life, and I wanted families and friends to have all the fun without all the rules in
space to be themselves, but we also build into our planning family this from my own life. As a young father with a busy work life raising two young boys, I found the curated experience model really worked for my kids and me, and I knew it would for others with busy, active careers.
What is your development philosophy?
First, create peerless private luxury that gives owners priceless time with family and friends. Second, provide unmatched experiences and
an elegant yet casual environment.
superior customer service for every member of the family. Discovery
What distinguishes a Discovery Land Company community from all others?
to a five-star resort/hotel year after year, and they may welcome you
Our mission is to help families reconnect. That’s why we build private,
world, simply because of their transient nature. So when an employee
is the next step in the evolution of resort living. After all, you can go
That’s easy. We celebrate families and friends in everything we do. exclusive Club communities—to give families the best possible experience when they spend precious time together. I realized long ago that for someone who can buy just about everything, nothing is more valuable than the time to make lifelong memories with friends and family. At Discovery, it’s not just about the physical structures. It’s about what happens in and around them. Anyone can buy a second home. Our communities offer a second chance. Parents reconnect with their children. Children reconnect with their parents.
Friends
celebrate those special moments together, year after year, even when they live thousands of miles away. These shared experiences create lifetime bonds that you just can’t get anywhere else. And now that our owners’ children are having children of their own, I’m humbled that we are welcoming a third generation of Discovery members to share these
back, but do they really know you? There is a true social fabric to our communities. It is difficult to create this at even the finest resorts in the says “Nice to see you,” it’s because they really have gotten to know you, year after year, and they watched your children grow up with you. When staff really knows you, the experience is much more intimate— and that is the pinnacle of a luxury.
Do you have a business mantra?
It’s not a mantra, it’s what we live every day: Sweat the small stuff. Every detail matters. Delivery must be flawless. This is true in the design, the construction, in the golf course and the clubhouse, in the amenities and the experiences. Anything we oversee, from the food in our restaurants to the sheets to the toilet paper, has to be perfect. If our members are spending their valuable time and money to create memories with their families, we need to take the time to deliver and
exceptional experiences.
exceed their expectations every time.
What is Discovery Land Company’s philosophy—your secret for success?
What attracted you to the Hudson Valley of New York, and specifically Dutchess County, to build Silo Ridge?
part of the larger Discovery family. And it really is a family. Many of our
landscape,
If you and your family join any of our communities, you are immediately employees have been here since the day their communities opened.
concierge by name. That’s why families buy in multiple communities—
countryside
and
peaceful
surrounding
a short distance and be in the beautiful “country” so ideal for families is incredible.
Can you describe the prototypical Silo Ridge home buyer?
You talk a lot about families. Why?
They have young families, a busy, active lifestyle, love golf and want
were designed to keep families together not just at mealtime, but
who will use Silo as their primary family home and commute to the city
The programming and amenities available to our exclusive clientele also playtime. Owners/members enjoy all the benefits of a Discovery private club—the casual elegance of the homes, five-star amenities and the pure beauty of the destinations. But the greatest gift is having the time and the desire to experience all of it with your family.
We have many members who look at Silo as an escape from the city. to have fun outside, not just at their desks. We also have a few owners for work. There is a train stop across the street from Silo that heads into Grand Central. Many buyers are also members at other Discovery properties who have visited the Hudson Valley for the first time, even
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they want the extraordinary Discovery experience wherever they live.
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regularly ask for their favorite server, Outdoor Pursuits counselor or
stunning
neighborhoods. It is also just 90 minutes from New York City. So to go
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They establish personal connections to our owners, and our owners
Two simple principles: land and location. At Silo, I love the natural
though they have traveled to New York for years to do business.
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Can you describe a day in the life of a Silo Ridge resident?
participation from some of the top golfers in the world, including Rickie
cooked by Jonathan Wright, regional VP of culinary operations, while
Tour Pros who played and helped raise awareness and support. We
Wake up and have a farm-to-table breakfast at the Ridge House, overlooking the Tom Fazio-designed golf course. Then, head outside for a round of golf with a breathtaking view of the Hudson Valley, interrupted several times by stops at a comfort station (the kids call them sugar shacks) for a break to refuel with Recover 180, candy, softserve ice cream or any of the available snack options. After golf, visit the garden to pick fresh vegetables to prepare for a late lunch. The afternoon is spent with the family, participating in some activities with the Outdoor Pursuits team—archery, equestrian, fly fishing, hiking, biking, skeet shooting, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, tennis, pickleball and more. Wind down the afternoon with a spa treatment, and then join friends at their home for Casamigos cocktails followed by a catered dinner.
Fowler, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Dustin Johnson and other PGA were honored to provide a significant contribution to the North East Community Center in Millerton, New York, as well as other local charities.
How much fun have you had partnering with George Clooney and Rande Gerber on Casamigos?
Partnering with George and Rande has been an incredible adventure. It’s always great to work with creative friends who are also such visionaries.
Since the whopping $700 million sale of Casamigos to Diageo last year (in a deal that values the company at up to $1 billion), what is your current and future involvement with the brand?
We are all still very involved and love it. When you develop a great
Of all the glorious places in the world to buy a second home, why would someone choose Silo Ridge?
tequila, you don’t give it up. It’s a lifelong passion for us and we will
environment is perfect for kids and families. The quiet country and
reportedly stand to earn up to $300 million more if sales targets are
Location.
Silo Ridge’s location is ideal. The laid-back, casual
the rich greenery are so beautiful, and the winter wonderland is stunning. There is so much to do, the community is family-focused, and everything is personally tailored to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. Silo is private and gated, which gives every member real peace of mind. It’s a great alternative to the Hamptons for those that
continue to grow the Casamigos brand into other spirits. As an example, we recently launched our Casamigos Mezcal. [The partners reached over the next decade.]
Any future Discovery Land Company projects in the planning stages?
We are actively looking for locations that are easily accessible but
like a more bucolic, slower pace.
offer the seclusion and relaxation our families deserve. We’ve recently
What are some of the standout amenities at Silo Ridge?
Barbuda, and are in planning stages for properties near Austin and
crafts center, lakeside pavilion for winter ice-skating and fireside
and Los Cabos (which was our second one in Mexico) are going strong.
There’s the Family Barn by Quarry Pond with a game room, arts and gatherings along with watersports. The Field House will be a stateof-the-art indoor sports and recreation facility for lacrosse, baseball, basketball, soccer, squash, tennis … with professional coaching and competition. An expansive equestrian center, on-property vineyard and vegetable garden with a greenhouse are other standouts.
started development on properties in the Dominican Republic and Nashville. The projects we started a few years ago in Las Vegas, Maui As long as families are our focus and quality our commitment, we have no limits. At the moment, we are continuing to expand the brand internationally and integrating the Discovery lifestyle into high-end boutique hotels and luxury apartments.
Do you have a home there?
Have your views on real estate development changed through the years?
of building a larger home. It is important to me that I have enough
new challenges. The team at Discovery is committed to continuous
I have a condo at Silo overlooking the golf course, but I am in the process space for my family and the ability to entertain friends comfortably. I spend as much time as I can there, especially in the summer and early fall when the changing colors of the foliage is beyond compare. I love
Years? My opinions change every month as we add new projects with improvement, and we live it every day. In the end, the reason I think I work so hard comes from my passion to build the perfect community for the most amazing families. I still don’t think I’ve gotten it quite right,
the area.
but we’re close.
What are your favorite parts of Silo Ridge?
Biggest obstacle you have faced in your career?
special place—peaceful, tranquil and beautiful, the perfect place to
learned early on how important it is to be environmentally friendly
I would say the golf, the food and overall environment. It’s a very
a challenging, natural landscape. After staying here a week, I am sure there will be people who decide to make it their primary home.
and protective. There are locations where it is important to develop lower density projects with sustainability and conservancy in mind. It matters to our owners, and it matters to us.
Greatest lesson learned?
There is nothing more important than family—my family and yours.
(DLCF), which contributes to organizations that assist local children
families. The best communities have the best families.
Silo gives back as part of the Discovery Land Company Foundation and families in need, like the local Boys & Girls Clubs. DLCF provides resources to diverse programs for children, including education, mentors, shelter, food, books, tutoring and medical needs. The Foundation held its annual Pro-Am Invitational at Silo last year with
Everything we do is done to revitalize, rejuvenate and reconnect
Of all the projects you have developed, which one makes you most proud?
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How does Silo Ridge give back to the community?
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table food and a really special golf course with unmatched views and
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be outdoors. There’s a multitude of Outdoor Pursuits, great terrain-to-
That’s easy. The local entitlement process. I’m lucky because I
My three sons—Hunter, Will and Max Meldman.
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MODERN MASTERMIND BY {
BETH WEITZMAN |
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ISSUE No. 2
AS SOCAL’S GO-TO MODERN
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ARCHITECT, PAUL MCCLEAN TURNS HIS CLIENTS’ WILDEST DREAMS INTO REALITY, EMBRACING WATER AND LIGHT IN HIS DESIGNS FOR JAW-DROPPINGLY GORGEOUS, ONE-OF-A-KIND HOMES.
PORTRAITS BY {
JOHN RUSSO
PAU L M c C L E A N
W
hile most young kids’ doodles are stick figures and scribbles, when he was a toddler, Paul McClean liked to draw houses. Growing up in Dublin, he was inspired by Georgian architecture and the realities of life in a tight urban environment, learning early that space equals luxury. Today, the humble founder of McClean Design takes luxury to new heights. He recently shared his philosophy, passion and purpose with us. When did you first become interested in architecture?
I was four years old when I discovered architecture. As a child, I would draw houses for fun. One day I asked my mum who does that for a living and she explained the concept of an architect. Ever since then, I have continued to draw homes, just with a little more detail nowadays.
How did growing up in Dublin influence your design style?
I was always aware of proportion based on the older building types that surrounded me. The proportions of Georgian Dublin are wonderful. Growing up in a tight urban environment helped me formulate a rigorous design approach making the most out of available space, [and] growing up in a cold damp environment led me to an obsession with how light interacts to materiality and space.
Why do you focus on modern design?
I feel that modern design has the ability to instantly create a sense of wellbeing and connection to the surrounding environment. To me, the expression of light is more prevalent in modern design and appropriate for the age we live in. By harnessing natural light, we create a sense of serenity to our projects, focusing the user on nature and vista and forgetting about style as such.
What are trademarks of a McClean-designed home? ISSUE No. 2
designs to instill a sense of calmness. We design our homes to completely
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core of a McClean house is that it is tailored to the owner’s ideas and designed
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Simplicity of plan and form, with a great sense of textured and layered light. The to enhance their well-being, while at the same time not dominating everyday life. A home should be a beautiful backdrop to life, help to facilitate living easily and, essentially, not get in the way. We also utilize water extensively in our connect with environmental surroundings. We use deep overhangs and projections to protect from harsh sunlight, while large openings provide an abundance of natural ventilation and light. We rely on passive ventilation and strive for cross ventilation over water, whenever possible, to provide natural cooling. Water and light, the essentials of life.
What is your process when designing a residence?
It’s based on site context and owner requirements. We start there. We focus on aspect, views, spatial configurations. And once we have that squared away, the design comes naturally … The home is, to me, the most important space an 226
architect can design. It is our nest and our escape, as well as where we spend the largest portion of our lives. While a residence is typically smaller in scale [than a commercial property], it can be incredibly complex programmatically. This provides a challenge to tailor the home to each individual client. Each home has a unique identity and story crafted for a specific owner that constantly engages me.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I’m always inspired by our clients. They bring such a range of backgrounds and cultural identities. Their passion and patience help us to draw inspiration from art, nature and other designers. Early inspiration came from architects like Richard Neutra, Frank Israel and Frank Gehry. I believe that Richard Meier is one of the most significant spatial designers out there. Modern architects such as Steven Holl and Norman Foster also inspire me. I carry a huge amount of respect for Foster; he too came from a similar modest background and has achieved a tremendous amount in his life. Then there are the other big names, like Renzo Piano and Tadao Ando, who continually push the envelope.
What’s the most complex request a homeowner has ever made?
A jellyfish room [with walls made of jellyfish tanks] would have to count as one of the more complicated elements, primarily due to the extreme technological challenge and habitual nature of the jellyfish.
Is there one project you’re especially proud of?
Incredibly difficult question, as it is akin to picking a favorite child. There are aspects from each project that I love for very different reasons. The very first project in Laguna Canyon was seminal to me in starting our firm and set McClean Design on its current path. More recently, we worked on a project based in San Francisco that was a 1903 townhome in poor neglect. After bringing it back to seismic conformance, we completely remodeled the interior while restoring the exterior façade. It felt good to provide it with a new lease on life that we hope will see it through another 100 years of enjoyment to its owner. Lastly, our current project, “The One,” has a huge level of complexity and provides us almost limitless opportunities to design.
Aside from being insanely talented, why do you think you’ve become the go-to modern architect in SoCal?
Very kind of you to say that and I doubt it is true, but
We are so fortunate in what we do and I always try not to forget where I come from and that the important things in life are family and friends, not houses.
thank you anyway. I think that listening to people and understanding what they really want to achieve is a key asset. We listen to our clients first and foremost and try and make it as painless and enjoyable a project as possible for them. An Irish accent does not hurt either. I am very proud of our staff. They do a terrific job.
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What was your first big break in the industry?
Designing the Canyon Acres house in 2000, which started our firm. The client came to us and had plans for a traditionally Mediterranean house that only partially satisfied their goals. After sitting down and listening to them discuss their dreams and goals, it was clear that their original design fell short. He was Danish and she was Californian and they wanted an industrial home that connected to nature on a daily basis. I explained that the plans they were going to build were not for them and on a New Years day they came to me and agreed to start over and we took it from there. That became our first project and I still have the concept sketches framed on the office wall.
Biggest obstacle you have faced in your career?
I would have to say the small town mentality of “last in closes the door.” These are individuals who believe that their property rights outweigh those around them and as soon as their homes are created they instantly try and reduce the opportunity and owner’s rights of their neighbors. Every lot and parcel
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should be afforded the same level of respect, regardless of who got to the neighborhood first. As our communities get more crowded, finding balance here can be difficult, but people need to be fair to one another.
Greatest lesson learned?
To try and not get ahead of oneself. We are so fortunate in what we do and I always try not to forget where I come from and that the important things in life are family and friends, not houses.
Was there ever a time you doubted McClean Design would succeed?
Absolutely. I’m an Irish pessimist at heart. It’s that very pessimism that helps drive me to push so hard. Architecture and construction is a cyclical business, so there are always momentary pauses. We’re fortunate that most of our clients are people of means and that provides a level of insulation during economic downturns. But we’re always aware that with just a bit of bad luck or bad timing, people quickly find themselves in a hole.
If you could collaborate on a home with anyone, dead or alive, who would that be?
From the architectural realm, Tadao Ando and Peter Zumthor, due to the spiritual nature of their work and how they manipulate light. On the imaginary client side, we really should do a Bond house, probably best to work for the villain. They always had the best pads and James is never home.
Tell us about the infamous 100,000-square-foot Bel-Air spec house.
What can we say? It is a bit large. It has been an incredibly rewarding challenge. Large amounts of staff need to be accommodated and it will be run similar to a small resort. We hope it will be finished at the end of the year. It has allowed us to explore new amenities, such as ball rooms, the aforementioned jellyfish room, expanding the nature of a home spa … [We have to] accommodate large groups and design a home in which staff can be discrete [and] the owner will not feel too overwhelmed. We always enjoy collaborating with Nile Niami. He is a true character.
What attracted you to Orange County, and why do you enjoy living there?
Southern California has become a crucible of residential and architectural design. That and the concept of an endless summer seemed immensely attractive. I am lucky enough to have designed my own home down here and enjoy it immensely. The best aspect of the O.C. is the more immediate connection to nature while still having extraordinary access to urban amenities. In less than an hour we can be in the heart of downtown L.A., the mountainside or at the beach.
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ISSUE No. 2
What’s next for modern design?
I hope to see better use of technology, streamlined tech that is more userfriendly. The biggest problem in utilizing technology is the scale of these homes, as it greatly increases the complexity. I hope to develop more interesting spatial relationships. Homes designed for multiple generations or that can accommodate changing family requirements are going to become
LIVING GOOD
more important. Better green technology in general and, for us, better glass
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that allows us to continue to connect to environment while providing better comfort. A window that becomes a TV would be nice.
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P A U L’ S F AV O R I T E S
Men’s cologne:
Calvin Klein Summer
Fashion designer: Calvin Klein
Scent for a home: Lavender
Guest bath hand soap: Moulton Brown
Watch:
Patek Philippe Skeleton
Car:
elegance. I am intrigued by the new BMW 8 Series Coupe,
Jeans:
Joe’s Jeans Brooks running shoes
Athletic wear: Lululemon
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Go-to sneakers:
ISSUE No. 2
if they want to send me one…”
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“Mercedes S560 coupe for freeway cruising and its
L.A. restaurants:
Ysabel and Gjelina
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IN
LUXURY LISTINGS FOR FINDING YOUR OWN
“PARADISE OF THE PACIFIC” CURATED BY { BETH
WEITZMAN WRITTEN BY { CASEY O’BRIEN
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Hokuala, Kauai
TIMBERS KAUAI
OCEAN CLUB & RESIDENCES
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ISSUE No. 2
ADVENTURES IN PARADISE Residency boasts access to 17 miles of trails along the bluffs. Being among the grandeur of the mountains and the ocean ensures a spectacular, dynamic view with each step.
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THE BUZZ: Along the Pacific Ocean with the
access, a gym with programming and adventure
Kauai’s Hualani’s Restaurant. Local farmers-in-
Hau’pu Mountains in clear sight, The Timbers
clubs, cliffside infinity pools, private lagoons
residence emphasize sustainability and offer
Kauai Residences have been designed by
and access to the 18-hole Ocean Course at
educational programming.
Poss Architects, Girvin Associates and Wilson
Hokuala, for example. Another unique privilege
Associates with both authentic Hawaiian culture
that comes with residency is a membership to
DETAILS: An array of ownership opportunities
and modernity in mind. Located on a 450-acre
the Timbers Reciprocity Program, which allows
are available, including two-, three-, and four-
resort community with easy shoreline access,
owners to trade time with Timbers Collection
bedroom residences for sale as whole ownership
Timbers offers a variety of luxury residences
properties around the world.
or as fractional ownership interests. Wholeownership opportunities are priced from
including two- and three-bedroom condos, three- and four-bedroom cliffside residences,
WOW FACTOR: In keeping with the goal of
approximately $2.59 million to $9.75 million for
and townhomes with expansive views of the
integrating Hawaiian culture into the landscape,
the oceanfront townhomes and condominium
Jack Nicklaus golf course, the mountains and
the property hosts The Farm at Hokuala, an
residences. Fractional ownership opportunities
the ocean. Amenities come easily with Timbers
organic farm where fruits, herbs and vegetables
start in the mid-$300,000s, with availability now.
residency: on-site farm-to-table restaurants, spa
grow, supplying fresh ingredients to Timbers
808.647.2811, timberskauai.com
Ka’anapali, Maui
LUANA
INSPIRED DESIGN Design options for each threebedroom villa include choices of vibrant pops of color to mimic the diverse color saturation of Maui or crisp, neutral colors to provide a tranquil getaway in the paradise that is Honua Kai Resort & Spa.
GARDEN VILLAS
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theme, while each of the three villa enclaves
pleasure of living on Maui, voted the best
have a unique garden, curated to showcase
as 2,000-square-foot, two-story, four-unit
island in the world for 20 years in a row by
the diversity of the Hawaiian landscape. The
buildings organized in enclaves around
readers of Condé Nast Traveler. Maui boasts
focal points range from white hibiscus to birds
luxuriant gardens, hot tubs and pools, and
rich local culture, festivals, the vast Haleakala
of paradise. From each of the two lanais in
fire pits to create a resort-within-a-resort
National Park, and 30 miles of beach. Luana
every residence, these gardens are visible,
environment. The interior of each residence
Garden Villas has programs in place to assist
providing a colorful frame for each enclave in
evokes tranquility with clean lines, an open-air
with renting residences as vacation homes
the neighborhood-esque Luana Garden Villas.
concept and modern furnishings. As the last
when owners are away, which allows residents
phase of the Honua Kai Resort & Spa’s building
to share their little p~ce of paradise with
DETAILS: Sales launched March 5, 2018, with
process, these villas will be welcomed with
others.
the first enclave slated to open summer of
Honua Kai’s restaurants, spa, pools, fitness
WOW FACTOR: Each villa residence can be
luanagardenvillas.com
center, aquatic playgrounds and more. Possibly
customized to fit either a “vibrant” or “serene”
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the biggest amenity of all is the absolute
residences, Luana Garden Villas is laid out
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THE BUZZ: In contrast to tower
2019. Pricing from $1.8 million. 808.662.2840,
many existing amenities, including access to
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Honolulu, Oahu
A’ALI’I TOWER
AT WARD VILLAGE
LIVING GOOD
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ISSUE No. 2
BEST OF BOTH Views from the Tower feature Hawaii’s capital in its modern splendor, as well as Oahu’s south shore in its timeless tranquility. A’ali’i positions itself in the gateways to both city life and Hawaii’s generous natural beauty.
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THE BUZZ: Designed by renowned architect
Rooftop fitness clubs and barbecue pavilions
the public is of such importance that many
Soloman Cordwell Buenz (SCB) and interior
are a few of the on-site perks, but perhaps the
amenities are offered to non-residents,
designer Lauren Rottet (Rottet Studio), Ward
biggest benefit to living at Ward Village is the
public art is proudly displayed and paths and
Village’s A’ali’i Tower is a space-conscious,
walkability to an array of shops, restaurants and
beachfront spaces have been built for public
environmentally conscious, community-focused
beach parks. A’ali’i creates simple, efficient living
use. A’ali’i’s focus on community makes for
residence. A’ali’i uses up-and-coming techniques
spaces in the heart of the Hawaiian experience
insurance that while these 751 living spaces
to optimize their studio, one-bedroom and
as a way for residents to remain culturally
remain modern and progressive, Hawaii’s beauty
two-bedroom ocean and mountain view living
immersed.
and authenticity will not be forgotten.
furniture and energy-efficient appliances. This
WOW FACTOR: All aspects of A’ali’i Tower
DETAILS: Studios from about $500,000; one-
emphasis on “smart living” gives each unit
were constructed with purpose, a central
bedroom units from $700,000; two-bedroom
a sense of deliberate, thoughtful design. A
example being a focus on sustainability, not just
units from about $1 million. 808.727.1275,
true turnkey property, A’ali’i focuses on ease
environmental, but in terms of the community
aaliiwardvillage.com
of residence which includes many amenities.
of Ward Village and beyond. Integration of
spaces, in some cases utilizing retractable
IN & OUT Each villa lanai allows residents to straddle the comfort of their modern homes and the wild beauty of the South Shore.
South Shore, Kauai
KAINANI NEIGHBORHOOD
VILLAS AND HOMESITES
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amenities that the resort offers, including
designed by Melzer, Deckert, & Ruder, are
the Clubhouse, Hi’ilani Spa & Fitness
Kauai offers diverse real estate, including
customizable, with eight different floor
Center, the agricultural farm, outdoor
homesites ready for building, custom
plans offering two to four bedrooms. These
activity programs, numerous restaurants
homes, spec homes and turnkey luxury
ocean-facing living spaces feature indoor/
and shops and more. The vast, spacious
villas. Kukui’ula’s sprawling 1,000 acres
outdoor lanai, infrastructural protection
resort community seamlessly integrates
displays incredible landscape diversity, with
from the tradewinds, spas and plunge
the tranquil, natural beauty of the island
available homesites up against the Pacific
pools. A step outside into the well-
with the convenience, modernity and luxury
and villas overlooking fairways of the Tom
manicured landscape on the Pacific, and a
of Kukui’ula.
Weiskopf golf course. Homesites range
short walk away, you’ll find the Clubhouse
from $895,000 to $1.15 million, providing
and other amenities of Kukui’ula.
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with these plots. The Kainani Villas,
within Kukui’ula on the south shore of
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THE BUZZ: The Kainani neighborhood
DETAILS: Homesites from $895,000, Villas from $2.4 million, Kainani Hales from $5.1
plenty of options for building a home in this paradise. Proximity to the Clubhouse, the
WOW FACTOR: Both the homesites
ocean and the golf course are all possible
and the Villas have full access to all the
million. 808.742.0234, kukuiula.com 239
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USHER’S
WAY
Stepping into 40, the mega-star busts out some wisdom about life, stardom and singing in the shower.
FEATURES
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ISSUE No. 2
Over the course of Usher’s lifetime, the singer/songwriter has been nominated for 417 awards and brought home 146, including eight Grammys and eight American Music Awards. The Dallas native has made other inroads as well: Chattanooga’s Usher Raymond Parkway was named after him, and he has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He acts, co-owns the Cleveland Cavaliers, and has an entrepreneurial drive that’s prompted him to launch a new fragrance and design a shoe line. What makes this music man’s heart beat faster? Read on.
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INTERVIEW BY { BEKAH WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY { JOHN RUSSO STYLING BY { GALI BARRA HAIR BY { CURTIS SMITH GROOMING BY { COLE PATTERSON
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AT
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“Strivers achieve what dreamers believe.”
What inspires you?
To me, sacrifice is what makes us human. I think it’s the rent we pay on this planet to exist, to be able to help other people if we can.
Growing up, what kind of future did you envision for yourself?
My goal was to have longevity and be versatile. If I could find a way to connect people through a musical experience, I would have succeeded. Stevie Wonder and his appeal to many generations is a perfect example of this. Not only was I interested in his music as a kid, so were my mom and grandmother. Having that kind of broad connection was my goal.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Strivers achieve what dreamers believe.
What advice would you give your younger self?
The journey is the destination. I think I’ve been able to live by that, but if I could tell myself at a younger age to be mindful of the decisions that you make, and maybe be a little bit more selfish. Take time for yourself. Take care of your body. There’s something brilliant and genuine in having time by yourself. I used to think being around people and having things made me happy. The ideas, opinions and influence of other people aren’t always good. It took growing older to realize time spent being quiet and alone allowed me to listen to my inner voice and to stay on the right path.
Most memorable trip?
The greatest journey has been the one inside—the trip into myself. Recognizing beauty in the now. Because of this, no matter where I am, I’m able to enjoy what’s around me.
Where do you feel most at home?
In the shower. There’s something about the water and heat that provide a
USHER’S FAVORITES
disconnection and allow me to just be in the moment.
Do you sing in the shower?
Sometimes. Acoustics are way better in there.
Destination:
The motherland, Africa
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I keep cookies and candy in my pocket. I’m addicted to sweets.
Sports teams:
What’s currently on your nightstand?
Photos of my niece and two sons, crystals, a Daniel Arsham art piece and a
the Golden State Warriors
stand for a wireless phone I can’t find anywhere in the house.
Car:
What terrifies you?
Maybach
Loss of control.
“My Way,” because it was the first time I took my career in my own hands and spoke through my own voice. “Burn,” because it represented the hardest
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Of all of your songs, which means the most to you and why?
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City Thunder, Houston Rockets and
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The Cleveland Cavaliers, Oklahoma
experience I’ve ever had to go through, something I was able to convey OLIVER STRIPPED BOMBER JACKET BY {
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through a song. “Climax,” because it was the first time—through collaboration with Diplo and Ariel Rechtshaid—I was able to bring all of the worlds I’d influenced together in one song through music and lyrics.
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ISSUE No. 2
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AMIRI
PORTS 1961
What keeps you grounded?
My children. They humble me.
What have they taught you?
Innocence is bliss. And that they’re always going to be better at video games than I am because they just have more time.
What have you learned from your mother?
Listen to your parents. They really do care about your longterm health and well-being. They know shit. Trust them.
Why is it important for you to serve as a mentor to up-and-coming artists?
I believe the lessons and opportunities I’ve been given should be shared. Hopefully, I’ll be able to save young artists some unnecessary steps and can help them be better prepared for success.
If you could change one thing about the current state of the world, what would it be? I wish there wasn’t as much greed. I wish we could laugh more, love more and be kinder to the planet.
What’s an accessory you feel naked without? I feel naked without clothes on… and I like it.
Do you have a go-to scent or fragrance for date nights? I’m lucky enough to have an advance bottle of my new fragrance, Usher Homme.
What inspired Usher Homme?
I wanted to create a fragrance that makes people feel confident, but also takes them out of their comfort zone. A scent that represents personality and aesthetic. Also, Usher Homme is a collective of aromas I’ve smelled during my travels.
Describe your scent in three words. Confident, bold, exquisite.
What current wardrobe item do you see becoming an all-time favorite?
A high-end shoe design I’m currently working on with Louis Leeman will become an all-time favorite.
What kind of legacy would you like to leave behind? That man operated from his heart. Totally. The way he
way he created…was from his heart. Every last bit of it.
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thought, the way he functioned, the way he performed, the
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Unusual, stylish, elevated, rare.
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How would you describe the line’s style?
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ATELIER MANAGEMENT
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Best known as the hunky werewolf among a pack of vampires on True Blood, Joe Manganiello has the superhuman ability to steal big and small screens—and our hearts.
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“Superhuman” and “super-sexy” are words often used to describe Joe Manganiello’s characters, like Flash Thompson in SpiderMan, werewolf Alcide on HBO’s True Blood, and sword-wielding assassin Deathstroke in DC’s Justice League, not to mention Big Dick Richie in Magic Mike. In real life, he’s passionate about his Pittsburgh roots (he won a 2017 Emmy award for narrating the documentary Pittsburgh is Home: The Story of the Penguins), the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons (he works as a consultant for D&D and is writing material for an adventure module scheduled for release in 2019), and wife Sofia Vergara. Up next, the film Stano (due out later this year) marks the first time he and Vergara have collaborated; they’re both in the cast and Manganiello is also a producer. What did Gio recently learn about this 6-foot-5-inch, larger-than-life hero? He’s all heart.
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What serves as your inspiration?
An insatiable drive to create things and be understood by others.
am in just about every way possible. And
Learn how to say “no.”
last name.
If you could travel back in time and give advice to your younger self, what would it be?
What terrifies you?
they have no idea how to pronounce my
Unqualified people in leadership positions.
What’s currently on your nightstand?
Acting, directing, writing, producing… You’ve done them all. What has been the most fulfilling?
A book about Hemingway in Cuba, a book
documentary, La Bare, because I had so
the rights to, a little notebook outlining a
Probably my book, Evolution, and
of his short stories, The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski, a bunch of notes on a comic book series I am working on getting
much control over the finished products.
D&D [Dungeons & Dragons] adventure I
Tell us about your most memorable trip.
porcelain coffee cup from New Orleans,
My wedding [to Sofia Vergara, November 22, 2015, at Palm Beach’s The Breakers Resort] and subsequent honeymoon [at COMO Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos]. Having all of my favorite people in one
place for a weekend was incredible. Then
am going to DM [Dungeon Master], a tiny and a little ceramic sea turtle.
What is your most treasured possession? My friendships.
around. It was the best week of my life.
What’s surprised you through your work with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC?
Last meal on earth would be?
how loving and devoted the parents are.
and one of their pizzas on the side.
How do you stay grounded?
Where do you feel most at home and why?
can and work as hard as I can.
successfully sneaking off of the grid for a week with my wife with no one else
Two Primanti Bros.’ steak and cheeses,
I used to say Pittsburgh, but now I say anywhere my wife and I are together.
What has been your most romantic gesture?
My proposal was pretty awesome, if I do ISSUE No. 2
Vergara six months after they met during
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say so myself. [Manganiello proposed to
todo,” you are my everything.]
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I think most people misunderstand who I
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t drink so much.
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What would people be surprised to learn about you?
a winter getaway at the St. Regis Resort in Princeville, Kauai. He asked for her hand in Spanish, including the phrase “ Eres mi
How strong and brave those kids are, and
I show up 15 minutes early, look the best I
What kind of legacy would you like to leave behind? Ask me again in 20 years...
If you could change one thing about the current state of the world, what would it be? Reading comments on the Internet leads
me to believe there are a lot of unfulfilled and angry people who may need some serious mental help. I pray they get the help they need.
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JOHN VARVATOS, JOHNVARVATOS.COM
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J O E ’ S
FAVO R I T E S
Quick workout:
The five-minute, every minute on the minute (EMOM): Seven clean and jerks—135 pounds, then max rep burpees for the rest of the minute. However long it takes you to do the seven clean and jerk “buy in,” you have the rest of the minute to get those burpees, which are how you score the workout. You only count the burpees.
Gym bag must-haves:
My travel workout bible full of a variety of workouts from the past eight to nine years, my Oly. (weightlifting) shoes and liquid chalk.
Wardrobe items:
that fits me like a glove, a pair of G-Star jeans and a T-shirt
My wedding ring
Bois d’Ascese
Sports teams:
Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, Pirates
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Date night scent:
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Accessory:
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A black leather Gucci biker jacket I found at an outlet mall
Car:
The biggest truck possible
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264 On Maddie Hasson: Black lace overlay dress by Aqua; On Lex Scott Davis: Mesh half-zip hoodie, one off velvet and mesh bodysuit by Michael Ngo, Leather biker shorts by IRO Paris; On Cameron Boyce: One-off biker jacket by Michael Ngo; On Madelaine Petsch: Sequin and lace bodysuit by Michael Ngo, Lace asymmetrical skirt by Diana Couture; On Jonathan Tucker: Grey wool blazer by The Extreme Collection USA; On Tyler Henry: Black
NEXT
wool blazer with leather detail by Alexander McQueen, Polka dot button-up shirt by The Kooples, Grey jeans by IRO Paris; On “KR”: Blazer hoodie by Bang Pineda; On Stephanie Corneliussen: Black sheer and gold applique dress by Marmar Halim; On Tasya Teles: Black mini dress with leather harness by Helmut Lang; On Justin Prentice: Brown leather jacket by PREACH, Black shirt and charcoal pants by Zara; On Debby Ryan: Double-breasted mini dress by Luciana Balderrama
WAVE Meet the hottest talents on the Hollywood horizon—a new generation of bright young stars who are enthusiastic, ambitious, social media savvy and destined for greatness.
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triple threat
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os Angeles native Cameron Boyce (@thecameronboyce) got his film break in 2008 at 9 years old, when horror flick Mirrors and thriller Eagle Eye where released within six weeks of each other. Next, he played Adam Sandler’s son in Grown Ups and its sequel. It wasn’t long before Disney came calling. Now 19, the actor, who is also a gifted singer and dancer, has a slew of Disney credits to his name including Jessie, and stars in the channel’s popular Descendants franchise (the third installment is due in 2019). Meanwhile, Boyce has been cast in the much-anticipated ABC comedy pilot Steps, starring Ginnifer Goodwin, about four adults raising three kids after two divorces.
What does it take to be successful in this industry while you’re still growing up? The thing that I’ve found is that I’ve never
sacrificed any of myself from the time I was 7 to today. I think that’s key. There are plenty of opportunities this town presents that don’t reflect the kind of person I am. At the end of the day I want to be remembered as who I really was, not what certain people thought would make me a big star. I think people respect that and understand that a person with clear vision is a person who’s driven to shake things up entirely.
In addition to acting, will you do more dancing in upcoming projects?
I’ve been really happy with the recent resurgence of dance being in the forefront of some of Hollywood’s biggest projects. Anything that combines the two is something that will perk my ears up, whether there’s a role for me or not. I’m hoping that a project rolls around that’s youthful and original and shakes the world up, like a West
With an unlimited travel budget, what luxury hotel would you most like to call home for a week? person who prefers to experience a place’s culture. I feel like staying at a luxury resort sometimes takes some of the authenticity away from a destination. I’d probably spend the money
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That’s tough because I’m usually the kind of
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the industry.
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Side Story. Something that changes the fabric of
on getting to a place that’s remote and hard to reach, rather than on the hotel.
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taking super-flight
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ultitalented Kaalan Walker (@whokr) is setting both the music and movie industries ablaze. The 23-year-old rapper, who is signed to Empire Records and releases music under the moniker “KR,” released his EP “The Intermission” last year and has performed and toured with the likes of G-Eazy, A$AP Ferg and Schoolboy Q. As a dramatic actor, Walker held his own opposite Halle Berry and Daniel Craig in Kings, which centers on a Los Angeles foster family in the days leading up to the Rodney King trial verdict. The L.A. native will soon be seen in SuperFly, a remake of the 1972 blaxploitation crime drama.
Which is more fulfilling, acting or making music? Acting and music fulfill me in the same way,
actually. It’s kind of interesting. My original love is music, because I’ve done it for so long, but as I got into acting, I slowly started to realize it’s the same expression. With music, I’m more focused on the mental and with acting, I’m more focused on emotions.
Kings was helmed by female director Deniz Gamze Ergüven, and both Kings and SuperFly feature diverse casts. What are your thoughts? I feel like it was meant to be this way the whole
time. Everybody’s different appearance-wise, but it shouldn’t really matter because we all think and feel the same things, just in different settings. I appreciate seeing people from different backgrounds support each other and hopefully we can influence others to do the same.
type of mind-reading machine. A lot of people have a hard time being true to themselves. It’s something I struggled with and still have a hard cool to see what people really feel and think for a change.
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time handling sometimes. So it would really be
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A tech toy I would really want to have is some
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If money were no object, what would be your next tech toy or speed machine purchase?
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omfortable in rough-andtumble roles, 36-yearold Jonathan Tucker (@ jonathanmtucker) recently played villainous Major Craddock in Season 2 of HBO’s Westworld. A Boston native, he brings a certain grittiness to characters, such as an Irish-American New Yorker who falls into organized crime in NBC’s The Black Donnellys; hired gun Boon in the final season of FX’s Justified; and troubled mixed martial artist Jay in the DirecTV drama Kingdom. Fans may be surprised to learn Tucker studied ballet for several years in his youth, which could explain his on-camera athleticism. His next feat of acting agility: an armored car robber in City on a Hill, a Showtime drama executive produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, scheduled for a 2019 premiere.
Is there anything from your ballet training that you bring to acting?
Be punctual. Be polite. Be professional. Practice, practice, practice. And plié.
What is your dream project/collaboration?
Whether it’s an immersive experience like Carne
y Arena [in English, Flesh and Sand, a 2017 American short virtual reality project written and directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu] or an exploration into the American frontier with The
Revenant , Iñárritu employs the three elements that St. Francis demands from an artist: hands, head and heart. That’s the sort of storyteller with whom I want to share a ride.
Jamie Davidson & Ilaria Urbinati’s Strong Suit Jason Jones [formerly of Parabellum] leather band.
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collaboration and a Cartier Santos with a custom
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A hypothetical: You’re dressing for your next premiere. What luxury designer duds or wristwear do you reach for?
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rare medium
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t just 22 years old, Tyler Henry (@tylerhenrymedium) displays poise, wisdom and clarity beyond his age. That’s because the clairvoyant medium has been communicating with the departed since he was only 10. Henry explains his gift, which he refers to as “knowingness,” in his best-selling memoir Between Two Worlds: Lessons from the Other Side. The California native shares his talent with celebrity guests like Jim Parsons, Chrissy Metz and Jewel on his E! reality show Hollywood Medium With Tyler Henry, which just wrapped its third season. When he’s not on camera, touring or working on his second book, Henry shares sweet snaps of himself with his mother, his boyfriend and his original abstract paintings on Instagram.
What’s been your most memorable celebrity reading on Hollywood Medium? One of my most memorable readings was with RuPaul. He was incredible. I was a huge fan of him before the reading, so getting to meet him was an honor. In the reading, his dad came through and took accountability for an addiction problem. It allowed RuPaul to find a sense of peace that he never received while his dad was alive. It was really transformative for the both of us.
You unfortunately have to deal with your share of critics and naysayers. Do you have any advice for fans who want to stand tall despite their own haters? I’d say there’s power in being yourself, and what others say about you is none of your business. There will always be people who don’t like what
With zero regard to budget, what would be the most indulgent, luxurious gift you could give yourself? most luxurious things money can’t buy.
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Probably a week’s supply of naps. Some of the
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erhaps this is Madelaine Petsch’s (@madelame) world and we’re all just living in it. The 23-year-old actress’ teen drama Riverdale was just renewed by The CW for a third season. Her Privé Revaux capsule collection of sunglasses dropped this spring and sold out immediately … twice. And she has
more than 7 million followers on Instagram who patiently await her every fashionable move. And Petsch does not disappoint. Her feed takes fans behind the scenes at photoshoots, awards ceremonies, dates with her boyfriend (recording artist Travis Mills) and even downtime with her Riverdale castmates. The wildly successful series, which boasts a dark, campy aesthetic and a soundtrack that mixes retro tracks with contemporary ones, is based on characters from Archie Comics, mainly Cheryl Blossom (Petsch), Archie Andrews (KJ Apa), Veronica Lodge (Camila Mendes), Betty Cooper (Lili Reinhart) and Jughead Jones (Cole Sprouse). Petsch spent her childhood traveling between South Africa, where her parents are from, and Washington state. Expressing an interest in performing at an early age, she took dance lessons and theater classes. Following graduation from the Tacoma School of the Arts, she promptly moved to Los Angeles to pursue her career. Now the actress lights up every one of her scenes by way of her naturally red hair, sharp ensembles—often a dramatic combo of red and black—and convincing portrayal of Cheryl as a rich mean girl (she took home “Choice Hissy Fit” at the Teen Choice Awards last year) who turns out to be far more complicated than viewers could have ever predicted.
Riverdale —and Petsch—are only getting better with time. Season 3 promises to bring more Cheryl Blossom, more cutting-edge fashion, more juicy storylines and, ideally, more behind-the-scenes posts for her Instagram followers. One thing’s for sure: If this is Madelaine’s world, we “like” it.
Despite having its roots in a comic dating back to the 1940s, Riverdale is hugely popular today. What makes the concept and characters translate so well for the current audience? I think the characters themselves are timeless. The personalities of each character—good and bad, flaws and strengths—and the issues each one has had to deal with are all universal and can
and unique things about other people
Honestly, I listen to everything. And my
helped me appreciate those things about
boyfriend is a musician so, typically, I lean
myself.
on him for music decisions around the house.
Riverdale films in and around Vancouver. Had you spent much time there prior to working on the show? Do you have any favorite neighborhoods or local haunts? familiar with the Pacific Northwest, but
Your character, Cheryl Blossom, has a distinctive sense of style. How do you view fashion, and where does your personal style intersect (if at all) with, or diverge from, Cheryl’s?
matter where I am in the world I’m a
Cheryl notes to it. I tend to use bold colors as an accent. Just as she goes with red, I like to use red, too, or my other favorite is yellow. I think, if anything, my style is more diverse than hers day to day. I find some days I’ll lean towards a beautiful sundress days I’ll put a full outfit together. Cheryl
I still am. My passion for the planet and health drive that decision.
I had only been to Vancouver once. No
What are some of your favorite vegan restaurants in L.A. and beyond?
I love Sage right now; Veggie Grill is always
homebody, so I don’t go out much while
a good go-to in LA. There’s a place called
filming. The nights that I look back on
Plumb in Seattle that I love. I also really
most fondly are the ones where we all get
enjoy cooking at home.
together and hang out at each other’s apartments.
How are you dealing with the show’s popularity? Have you had any memorable encounters with passionate fans?
What do you do to relax and unwind when you’re off duty?
I’m really big on self-care. My version of a relaxing day is going to the gym, making a nice meal for my boyfriend and, before falling asleep, watching Silicon Valley.
It actually hasn’t been too crazy. I’m lucky enough to have a really solid support system through family, friends and my
Do you enjoy traveling?
The more of the world you see, the better have the opportunity to see all walks of
express myself.
other. I would say every encounter is very
life. I feel very lucky to have grown up
memorable for me still, since I’ve only
traveling as much as I did and still do.
You’ve said you were bullied as a kid for your red hair, but now you embrace it and it’s your trademark. At what moment did you begin to confidently own it?
had fans for a year and every single one
I love traveling and I’m appreciative of
of them has been so passionate about
these experiences.
took time and leaving my small town. It
No discussion of Riverdale is complete without mentioning its incredible soundtrack. What genre or artists do you listen to at home?
There was no real a-ha moment. It
honestly was about me growing up and learning how to embrace the things that make me different. Finding the beautiful
the show and the work we do. Every day I feel so lucky to be on a show with such a strong and passionate fan base.
What’s your fantasy travel destination? There are a lot of places I would still love
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rounded human you become, since you
through this together, so we all help each
her façade. I use my style as a way to
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boyfriend, as well as a cast that is going
uses her wardrobe as a way to enhance
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or mom jeans and a black tee, but other
I’ve been plant-based my entire life, and
Well, I grew up in Washington, so I was
be identified within any time period.
My personal style definitely has some
Are you still a vegan?
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n Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why—the controversial teen mystery drama that grapples with topics such as depression, bullying, rape and teen suicide—Justin Prentice (@justin.prentice) plays Bryce Walker, a popular bad boy who was universally despised by fans of the show during Season 1. But the 24-year-old Nashville native’s social media persona couldn’t be more different than his TV character. Online, Prentice is fun and funny; he posts about good times with castmates plus his support for causes such as suicide prevention and female advancement in Africa. With memorable past appearances on AMC’s Preacher, MTV’s Awkward. and The CW’s iZombie, all of which boast dark elements, Prentice is so good at being bad. Still, fans of 13 Reasons Why are no doubt waiting for Bryce Walker to redeem himself as they binge Season 2 of the series, which dropped at the end of May.
The effects of bullying are a major thread in 13 Reasons Why and a few of your other projects. How do you avoid glorifying bullies and bullying itself? I think it’s important to never make bullying look
glamorous. One of the ways to do that is to either see the bully fall, or to have the bully’s world and ideologies change or crumble. In 13 Reasons Why, almost all of the characters have done something that is considered bullying. We see a lot of those characters dealing with the guilt of their past actions, and for those characters that may not feel guilty, their world around them is at least starting to unhinge.
You’ve been crushing roles as someone the audience loves to hate. Do you enjoy playing the resident baddie? Any chance we’ll see you play a good guy soon? Yes to both. I very much enjoy being the villain. Generally speaking, I’m not a horrible person in my day-to-day life, so it’s always fun to play one onscreen. However, I also enjoy being the good guy. Ideally, I’d like to find a nice balance of both and not get pigeonholed into any one thing. I want to play as many different types of people as
Unlimited? I’d maybe buy Mars. It seems like a decent investment at the moment. Lots of opportunity. We’re more realistically ... A house. L.A. is ridiculously expensive, and I’ve been paying rent here for over a decade, so a house would be nice. Also a dragon. I realize they don’t
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going to have to branch off from Earth eventually. But
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If funds were unlimited, what would be your next splurge-worthy luxury purchase?
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I can. That’s part of the joy of acting.
exist, but with unlimited funds, I’m sure science could drum something up.
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mouse house alum
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DEBBY RYAN
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inger and dancer Debby Ryan (@debbyryan), a former Disney darling, appeared in juggernauts Wizards of Waverly Place and Hannah Montana before landing lead roles in the familyfriendly channel’s The Suite Life on Deck and Jessie. Now in the grownup, post-Mickey phase of her career, the 25-year-old Alabama native appeared on the big screen opposite Melissa McCarthy in the comedy Life of the Party. And later this year, she returns to TV as a bullied teen/beauty pageant contestant in Insatiable, a dark comedy coming to Netflix.
What was it like to work on set with Melissa McCarthy in Life of the Party?
The atmosphere on set was thick with delight, discovery and sincerity. Melissa and Ben [actor/ filmmaker Ben Falcone, McCarthy’s husband] lead with kindness and excellence; they’re like treasure hunters for weirdos and they’re architects for creating the ultimate playground for us. They create the kind of environment that makes you want to be better, sharper, to listen harder and dig deeper. Melissa is such a skilled improviser and a person who loves people, so I think her brain is this infinite arsenal of things she’s noticed humor in. As a person, a leader, a public figure and an artist, Melissa’s given me cool perspective on what’s worth taking seriously, and what probably isn’t.
Do you enjoy dramatic roles as much as comedic ones?
I think the funniest people are the most earnest and sincere, and that people who are serious all the time are so funny. There’s comedy to be found in everything and if I think too hard about the absurd things, they become pretty upsetting. They go hand in hand for me, and the most fun is had when I’m skating with one foot on each
This requires so much imagination! Context is so
Valli, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs and Prada all day. A Balmain suit would be dreamy. Or Elie Saab, because the Academy Awards are the ultimate fairy tale.
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key. I always love Oscar looks by Giambattista
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A hypothetical: You’ve got to pick a dress for the next Academy Awards. Which designers do you ring up?
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texture.
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ex Scott Davis (@scottyeye), a 27-year-old actor/singer/ dancer, was plucked from nearobscurity to take on the high-profile role of Toni Braxton in Unbreak My Heart , Lifetime’s 2016 biopic. Shortly thereafter, she played a strong female lead in the CBS crime series Training Day. This summer, Davis will be seen in two back-to-back releases: action horror flick The First Purge (the fourth installment in the global franchise) and the ultraslick remake SuperFly (alongside fellow “Next Wave” star Kaalan “KR” Walker), directed by music industry legend Director X.
Did you and Director X bond over music on the set of SuperFly? X and I actually had the opportunity of working with each other on my first commercial in L.A. when I was still primarily a dancer. It happened to include a few scenes that involved acting, so it’s ironic that we crossed paths when he was focused on his commercial/music directing and I was having my first experiences as an actor. To then reconnect on what is both of our first studio film is pretty extraordinary and naturally created a bond between us. We definitely cheered each other on throughout the process!
SuperFly and The First Purge open barely a month apart. How does that feel?
I’m so overwhelmed in the greatest way possible! It’s crazy because I knew that it was happening when I was in production on each of them … But there is nothing like the feeling that came when I actually saw the trailers, posters and eventually the finished projects. It brings happy tears to my eyes every time I think about it. I’ve come so far in my journey as an actress and it shocks me to think, “Wow, the time is now.” I’m beyond grateful for these experiences because I’ve learned so much through both of them. I’m just ready for what’s next and hope that with each project beginning.
You may define a luxury accessory as something small, à la jewelry, but I consider cars to be an vintage muscle car! It would be really difficult for me to decide between a Cadillac, Dodge Charger or Mustang from the ’60s or ’70s. Since I was a
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accessory. So with that said I’d treat myself to a
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With zero regard for the price tag, what luxury accessory would you buy to treat yourself?
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I become wiser and stronger. This is only the
little girl, I always found them to be super cool. If I bought one, I’d fix it up: paint it, put in a new engine and install a sick sound system. A girl can dream.
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ailing from Copenhagen, Stephanie Corneliussen (@ stephaniecorneliussen) has made a name for herself playing smart, complicated women on TV. A former ballerina and model, the Danish actress is most frequently recognized for her work on Mr. Robot , in which she played the ambitious Joanna Wellick for three seasons. Although her character was killed off in the show’s third season, fans got to see Corneliussen return to TV this year in ABC’s Deception, a procedural drama centered on a celebrity illusionist who solves crimes. Appropriate for a show involving a magician, the 31-year-old’s character is introduced to viewers simply as the “Mystery Woman,” adding to the series’ atmosphere of intrigue.
You began your career as a model. Did that help you feel comfortable as an actress in front of the camera? I don’t believe so. Still and moving images are
very different. If anything, as a model you’re so aware of the camera and your angles, whereas on film you find yourself submerged in the scene and let the camera observe. If there is, in fact, an advantage, it’s not one I’ve used … yet.
You’re an animal lover. What cause or charity is most important to you? There are many. I have boundless respect
for people who choose to dedicate their lives to fight for animal rights. Mercy For Animals, Animal Equality, Last Chance for Animals are all organizations I’ve been involved with in one way or another. My ultimate dream is to open up a sanctuary myself.
She designs these very classical pieces with
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IO jewels by Danish designer Kristina Rosing.
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Let’s talk jewels. Which designer’s sparklers would you most like to wear to your next soiree to complete a fantasy ensemble? a modern twist. To me, they hold a timeless
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efore she was the bowand-arrow-wielding warrior Echo on The CW’s The 100, Tasya Teles (@tasyateles) thrilled fans on WB’s Supernatural, The CW’s iZombie and Fox’s Prison Break . To prepare to play Echo, her most popular role to date, the 33-year-old Canadian—she grew up in Vancouver, where The 100 films—had to master weapons training, fight choreography, horseback riding and even a fictional language. But all that hard work has paid off: Teles’ character carried a major plotline in Season 4 and the actress was promoted to a series regular for the show’s fifth season, currently airing.
Echo bows down to no one and is pretty much a badass. What is it like to play such a strong female in this entertainment zeitgeist? That’s a great question. I couldn’t be prouder to represent a strong, powerful character in this time. Meeting the fans and seeing how they react to Echo and find strength in her uncompromising nature is beyond rewarding. She stands unwaveringly in her beliefs, and I think that resonates loudly within myself and a lot of the viewers within today’s climate of female empowerment.
After shooting such intensely physical scenes, how do you decompress and restore after work? Honestly, I go home, make a hot water bottle
and lie on the floor with my feet perched up on something and just relish being still, grounded and letting my body sink into stillness.
What’s your most splurge-worthy fantasy purchase? fantasize about a little Los Angeles home, with kitchen, an outdoor dinner table and a tiny pool in the garden. I love being surrounded by the people I love and relaxing with food, candles, know of anything, holler!
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and simply enjoying each other’s company. If you
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a few bedrooms for my friends or family, a big
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Oh my gosh! With so much travel, all I do is
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MADDIE HASSON
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t 15 years old, Maddie Hasson (@maddiehassonofficial) made her TV debut as street-smart Willa Monday on Fox’s The Finder, and shortly after landed the leading female role on ABC’s teen mystery Twisted. Next came feature films—she played Billie Jean Jones in the Hank Williams biopic I Saw the Light; Sister Sissy in Novitiate, about a group of nuns in the 1960s; and a bullied teen in More Than Enough. Where to spot Hasson next? Streaming on YouTube Red later this year in Impulse, a drama in which the 23-year-old native of North Carolina portrays Henrietta (a.k.a. “Henry”) Cole, a young woman who discovers she has the ability to teleport.
How did you land the role in Impulse and what do you love most about your character? I auditioned for the part. They brought me back two more times, and each time I became more nervous and more attached to the project. I thought I screwed it up and didn’t get it. I cried very loudly when I found out that I did! I love playing Henry because she knows herself very well. I think that trait isn’t commonly portrayed in young female characters. I love that the writers of our show never once underestimate Henry because she’s a girl or because she’s young.
Describe a project you hope will be on your resume and someone you hope to work with within the next five years.
I want to shave my head on screen, which may be a little cliché now that it’s been done a few times,
What is your favorite luxury splurge? Penhaligon’s perfume!
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so excited to work with Tilda Swinton one day.
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but the heart wants what it wants. And I would be
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MODERN WOMAN
Best known as the exotic face of top fashion brands, Elisa Sednaoui Dellal is most passionate about her namesake foundation.
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“I have a wide sense of belonging,” says model, actress and social entrepreneur Elisa Sednaoui Dellal, referring to her Egyptian, French, Italian and Syrian roots. The multicultural beauty has graced magazine covers and ad campaigns for Chanel, Armani, Roberto Cavalli, Buccellati and Missoni; appeared in French and Italian films; and directed a documentary film, as well as a short video for Vogue Arabia’s online launch. Along the way, she married British entrepreneur Alexander Dellal and gave birth to two boys, Jack and Samuel.
ELISA’S FAVORITES
Treasured possession:
Jewelry from my husband
Wardrobe items:
Rodarte sweatpants, a Barrie cashmere sweater and The Elder Statesman cashmere socks
Designer:
Haider Ackermann
Must-have beauty items:
Sarah Chapman Skinesis Ultimate Cleanse, an eyelash curler by Shu Uemura and Bloom and Blossom Nip & Lip Soothing Balm
Kundalini yoga pose:
Halasana, because it stretches the entire body
The PuLi Hotel & Spa in Shanghai, The Beverly Hills Hotel, and GoldenEye Resort in Jamaica. I still want to visit Adrere Amellal in Siwa, Egypt.
We Are One by The Soil. That’s the way of life I aim for.
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Song:
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Hotel:
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Driven by a desire to lead a life of purpose, in 2013 Sednaoui launched the Elisa Sednaoui Foundation (elisasednaoui.org) and its first project, Funtasia, an innovative educational program designed to empower children through after-school classes and creative workshops that promote artistic expression, problemsolving and life skills. With a permanent home in Luxor, Egypt, Funtasia also conducts programs in Italy, and plans are in place to replicate its model across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and the rest of the world. Supporters and partners include Christian Louboutin, Diane von Furstenberg, Save the Children Italy and the Burberry Foundation.
Sports team:
Egypt at this coming FIFA World Cup
Car:
1961 Ferrari 250 GT California
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What motivated you to launch ESF?
Spring Place, a members-only collaborative workspace
led me to modeling and acting, but I always dreamed
design come together to work, host, relax and create.
From a young age, a need for economic independence of dedicating myself to something that combined the social and the cultural. Five years ago, while shooting a documentary in Egypt, I had an awakening. One August afternoon, with temperatures over 125 degrees Fahrenheit, we ended up in a school run by volunteers. Funtasia was born in my dreams that day. The journey to name and shape that dream led me to visit grassroots organizations in Egypt. I realized I’d have to create a new organization versus just working as an ambassador. We all know that access to quality education isn’t equally available. It’s still a rare occurrence to find education that not only teaches academic content and specific skills, but also supports young people in teaching them to find creative life solutions and to realize their full potential. I believe the world needs this type of work today more than ever before. ESF’s work on the ‘poverty of education’ began in the two countries where I’ve spent the most time, Egypt and Italy.
and social club where fashion, art, entertainment and Their New York base is just fantastic, so I’m looking forward to seeing the Los Angeles version blossom. The way they curate design is exceptional.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
Friends of my parents who were diplomats. I idolized their lives.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
[I wanted to find] a career that would give me purpose. When I re-read notes and interviews, though, I see a recurring thread—the dream of being in love and living in nature with a big family.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Let go of shyness and insecurity, and don’t let conceit anywhere close. Don’t be afraid to listen to yourself and express your needs.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Only commit to what’s in front of you, not the movie you’ve laid out in your mind.”
Two come to mind. When I was shooting [The Legend of Kaspar Hauser] with Vincent Gallo, he said, ‘The worst that can happen to a creative person is expectation.’ The second was from my friend Anthony. Nearly 10 years ago, and long before I met my husband Alexander, he said, ‘Never marry/commit to someone betting on what the person will become, or how you will fix that ‘thing’ about them with which you’re not so comfortable.’ Basically, only commit to what’s in front of you, not the movie you’ve laid out in your mind. Solid advice.
Where do you feel most at home?
I was brought up in different cultures—Italy, France and the Middle East. We’re nationalized Egyptians, but originally from Syria, and my father grew up in Lebanon. When I get off the plane in Egypt and smell the air, I
What’s next for your foundation?
immediately feel like I’m home. Cairo is where I lived the
Partnerships for Youth Empowerment Global Gathering
I get the same feeling of being “home” when I have a
Funtasia has an intense events season coming up. will see educators from around the world coming to our facilities in Luxor. We’re also organizing several fundraising events, from destination weekends in magical locations in Egypt to interesting panels, galas
first five years of my life, and my father still lives there. first meal upon arriving in Italy. And Los Angeles, where we’re spending time now, really feels like home. I like the life here.
Do you have any other philanthropic interests?
time when I was 12 is up there. The cultural shock
America’s (CFDA) Fashion Trust in Los Angeles with
was more evident at that time. Between the ancient
I’m co-chair of the Council of Fashion Designers of Tania Fares, which launches this fall. We’re working with the executive board on a calendar of events and bringing on new members and patrons. I’m also on and consultancy agency dedicated to tackling Arab identity. By uniting unabashed opinions from some of the region’s most influential voices, MILLE puts a much-needed spotlight on youth culture in the region. We’re working to produce some interesting content and events. I’m also on the membership committee for
was dramatic. The distance between East and West and contemporary traditional culture, the temples and technology, which at the time was much more advanced than in Europe where I lived, it felt like a daydream. It was also my first visit to a shiatsu massage parlor. The therapist literally walked on my back, whilst holding onto a pole from the ceiling. I kept giggling.”
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the board of MILLE, a first-of-its-kind digital platform
Choosing one is hard, but going to Japan for the first
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Your most memorable trip?
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and a more experiential youth-targeted event in Italy.
What would you like for your last meal on Earth? A feast of many dishes. Two Egyptian plates,
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molokheya and koshary; and a Lebanese fresh
discovered Ayurveda food and massages during
manakeesh with zaatar. Next would be my mother’s
my first pregnancy. I eat a varied diet, but try to
artichoke salad with Parmesan and lemon. I’d follow
remember to avoid combinations of certain foods
this with handmade fresh pasta from Piedmont in
together, which makes me feel healthier and lighter.
Italy, where I grew up. A delicious cheeseburger cooked medium rare with pickles. A pizza made
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by one of the best pizzaiolos in the world. Maybe
What personal achievement are you most proud of? I’m grateful for all the positives that come my
crispy fried chicken with fries. For dessert, Brazilian
way, and do my best to learn from mistakes and
brigadeiro. Plus, panna cotta crème caramel, the
complications. On the personal front, I’m proud of the
ice cream from my hometown in Italy. I’d end with a
family we’re building.
beautiful profiterole. Oh wait. Maybe the end would be hot water with fresh mint.
What would you like to be your legacy?
A life of love, one where I’ve taken care of my family
What terrifies you?
and those I care about, as well as contributing
Being paralyzed by fear.
positively to the lives of others.
What’s currently on your nightstand?
What would you like to change about the current state of the world?
Four books, a pineapple-shaped green night lamp, lavender essential oil and chargers.
I’d rework the structure of leadership to make it more horizontal, more inclusive and encompassing.
How do you stay grounded?
I exercise, hike and practice yoga. I haven’t learned to meditate yet, but I take time to be alone in silence. Nutritionally, I eat clean and use adaptogens. I 294
What has motherhood taught you?
To be more understanding and accepting of myself and others.
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To numerologists, the number “9” symbolizes a host of positive attributes, including wisdom, intuition, universal love and spiritual enlightenment, not to mention service to humanity, philanthropy, selflessness and generosity. Appropriately, Gio tracked down nine extraordinary social media influencers who belong on your radar. With massive popularity in cyberspace, these savvy millennials have parlayed their seven-figure followings into flourishing careers, cleverly working sponsored content into their daily Tweets, Instagram feeds, YouTube videos, Snapchats, Facebook and Pinterest posts. In addition to partnering with brands, however, they each have a more noble calling. They’re committed to using their powers of persuasion to encourage, inspire and spread positive vibes.
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R AC H E L L E V I N @rclbeauty101
As a self-styled beauty guru and YouTube superstar, Rachel Levin writes, edits, appears on camera, and produces her own DIY vlogs about makeup, fashion, food and lifestyle. She also uses social media to connect with members of her generation, creating videos about coming-of-age topics, like what really happens at proms, as well as tough issues, like low self-esteem, bullying and suicide. As a result, she inspires people to be themselves, laugh at themselves and make the most out of life, and her loyal fanbase of “Levinators” continues to grow exponentially. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 20.5 million AGE: 23 BIRTHPLACE: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PASSIONS: Film, photography, directing, YouTube, acting, animal rights LIFE GOALS: Film producer, actress, entrepreneur FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: “I’ve collaborated with Batiste Dry Shampoo and DiGiorno Pizza, as well as others. I would love to collaborate with Tarte Cosmetics, NARS, MAC Cosmetics, Urban Decay, BEATS by Dre and Apple.” SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Using others’ doubt as motivation to do more and be better.” DESIRED LEGACY: “Being kind to everyone. To be the one that inspired all of those people who thought they couldn’t do it … to take action.”
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KELLIE SWEET @kelliesweet
A daredevil at heart, Kellie Sweet has gotten tattoos and jumped out of an airplane in Insta videos on her YouTube channel, BeautyByKelliee. She also creates tutorials about hair extensions and wigs, demystifying and lifting taboos in the process. Kellie tells her fans that life is short, so make the most out of each moment. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 2.2 million AGE: 21 BIRTHPLACE: San Diego, California PASSION: Inspiring others LIFE GOALS: “I want to become the SHE-EO of my own personal brand, which will include entertainment, original products and modeling. Ideally, I’d like to be the face of my own fashion line, and give those modeling opportunities to other young women.” FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: Too Faced, PrettyLittleThing, Audible, PlayStation SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Be your most authentic self and don’t be afraid of looking stupid. There’s a freedom that comes with this sort of thinking and they call it confidence.” DESIRED LEGACY: “I want to be a positive influence on the audience I speak to. I hope I can use my platform to inspire happiness in others. And a lot of laughter, of course!”
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RYA N M C C A R TA N @mccarya
Best known to television fans as Diggie on Disney Channel’s Liv and Maddie, actor Ryan McCartan is also a singer/songwriter who “broke the Internet” when he live-streamed a song on Perez Hilton’s Instagram feed. On his own YouTube channel, he thrills music fans by using the platform to release singles and his recent debut EP. He believes we are all living in a time where we no longer have to wait for our turn. We simply take our turn. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 1.5 million AGE: 25 BIRTHPLACE: St. Louis Park, Minnesota PASSION: Turning ideas into works of art LIFE GOALS: EGOT winner (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony), run for political office, start an environmental protection fund, visit every continent on earth FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: G-Star RAW, Original Penguin, Puma, Nike SECRET TO SUCCESS: “There’s no secret to it. Work harder than the competition, reap the benefits of your labor!” DESIRED LEGACY: “I hope my legacy consists of helping redefine and reshape culture to be productive, inclusive and of a high moral rectitude.”
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ALEX LANGE @alexlange
A prolific YouTuber for more than five years, Alex Lange has been known to surprise fans by showing up unannounced at their birthdays, then posting the videos on social media. As an activist for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a pediatric cancer charity, he encourages kids with cancer to live in the moment. Ultimately, Alex’s goal is to inspire fans to be activists for important causes. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 3.5 million AGE: 17 BIRTHPLACE: Paris, France PASSION: “Giving back. I work closely with a childhood cancer foundation called Alex’s Lemonade [Stand Foundation], and nothing makes me happier than being part of that. Something bigger than myself.” LIFE GOALS: “Too many of them! But I will say, I’ve always wanted to go travel to every continent in the world. I grew up everywhere in Europe, so travelling has always been a big thing for me.” FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: “I’ve had an amazing time collaborating with many brands throughout my career, so that’s a tough question. If I had to choose, I think I would have to say Universal or AT&T. I ran an anti-bullying campaign with the latter that I really enjoyed.” SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Keep your real friends and family close.” DESIRED LEGACY: “I think that I’d like to be remembered as someone who used what they had to make the world a better place for others, whatever that might look like.”
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M A R I A L AU R A QU I N T E RO @marialauraqd
A rising star of Colombian television, Maria Laura Quintero makes viral videos in which she talks candidly about personal problems. In one of her most memorable, she reenacted a break up with her boyfriend. Maria got into the world of social media to make an impact on her followers, so they can achieve their dreams. She reminds followers to never quit; it’s never too late to effect change. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 1,000,000 AGE: 29 BIRTHPLACE: Valledupar, Colombia PASSION: Acting, humanitarian work LIFE GOALS: To be an Oscar winner, to inspire others through her art and non-profit arts schools for vulnerable and poor children all over the world. FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Dior, Gucci, Versace, Apple, Tesla SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Work constantly with love, power and selfdetermination.” DESIRED LEGACY: “In a hopeless world, we can still dream, empowering children and ourselves through arts.”
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AARON RHODES @rhodesaaron @TheRhodesBros
After their video Twins Come Out to Dad—in which Aaron and Austin Rhodes told their father they are gay—went viral in 2015, the fraternal twins shot to fame. Through vlogs, tutorials, brand collaborations and short films on their shared YouTube channel, they bring a powerful message of self acceptance and positivity to their followers. In a recent project for Head & Shoulders, they discussed stepping out as individuals, rather than being known only as “The Rhodes Brothers.” TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 2.8 million AGE: 22 BIRTHPLACE: Ashland, Ohio PASSION: Creating content that inspires people LIFE GOALS: “Live a life that when I die, people say ‘Damn, Aaron really lived.’ More personally, be able to give back to my family financially and make them comfortable. We didn’t have a lot growing up, but they gave their best and I’m forever grateful.” FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: Contiki and GUESS SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Don’t focus on other people’s success. Focus on what you do best, what makes you unique … and amazing things will happen.” DESIRED LEGACY: “I want people to look at the life I lived and feel empowered to go after whatever it is that makes them happy. No matter the risk, the fear or judgment from others, we only have one chance.”
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AUS T I N R H O DE S @rhodesaustin @TheRhodesBros
Younger than Aaron by seven minutes, Austin Rhodes wants his fans to understand that life is a process, and that all you have to do is show up and enjoy the ride. He just wants them to feel understood and inspired to be all they can be. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 1.2 million AGE: 22 BIRTHPLACE: Ashland, Ohio PASSION: “Being able to inspire other people through content/projects that reflect not only who I am as a person, but also who Aaron and I are as two brothers living and working together.”
LIFE GOALS: “To be able to maintain what Aaron and I have created already and eventually turn it into something bigger than either one of us could ever imagine, whatever that may look like.” FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: “MR PORTER, because they’re a brand I’ve always admired since I was very young. And Contiki, because it gave Aaron and I our first opportunity to travel abroad, which is something we’d always dreamed of doing but never thought we’d get to do, being from such a small town in Ohio.” SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Being able to work with my brother. I feel so lucky to be able to work so closely with someone who’s been there with me since day one.” DESIRED LEGACY: “That I always did what I needed to do to make myself happy, and that people are able to look at my life and hopefully be inspired to do the same with theirs.”
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A N D R E A E S PA DA @andreaespadatv
Comedian, actress and fitness model Andrea Espada is a vulnerable content creator who tackles deeply personal subjects in her YouTube videos—mostly confessionals about her insecurities, which create strong connections with her fans. She strives to empower her followers by showing them her authentic life while also making them laugh. Andrea is determined to make sure every viewer has a good time while learning and growing from her content.
TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 6.6 million AGE: 31 BIRTHPLACE: Cali, Colombia PASSION: “My son @kingferran and Johnny Depp” LIFE GOALS: “Keep inspiring others with my content and being able to change lives.” FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: L’Oréal, McDonald’s and FIFA SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Waking up and working hard every day, achieving goals one day at a time.” DESIRED LEGACY: “To be remembered as an inspiring influencer and good mom to my son Ferran.”
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NIKI DEMARTINO @niki
Beauty and fashion vlogger and singer Niki DeMartino, along with twin sister Gabi, has a successful line of beauty and hair extensions, but her main focus these days is her music. Plans are in the works to release a full EP and go on tour later this year. An activist for the LGBT community, Niki recently did a cover of “Strangers,” a song about a lesbian relationship, which garnered hundreds of thousands of views and created awareness of LGBT rights. TOTAL SOCIAL MEDIA REACH: 5.5 million AGE: 23 BIRTHPLACE: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania PASSION: “Creating, whether it be music with my sister or videos for my YouTube channel.” LIFE GOALS: “To cross over from digital media into the music industry.” FAVORITE BRAND COLLABS: Wet Seal, Bellami Hair, Tarte Cosmetics and Cheetah Mobile SECRET TO SUCCESS: “Be relentless, persistent and driven. Let failure ignite a light, not discourage. Always follow that inner spark.” DESIRED LEGACY: “My art and how it will impact people.”
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Gio ISSUE No. 2 DOING GOOD
After devoting decades to the science of aging, longevity guru Dr. Valter Longo explains what and how to eat—and why you should skip meals—in order to stay healthy and prolong your lifespan.
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ho doesn’t want to live a longer, healthier life? In his new book, The Longevity Diet: Discover the New Science Behind Stem Cell Activation and Regeneration to Slow Aging, Fight Disease, and Optimize Weight, Dr. Valter Longo—a cellular biologist, gerontologist and director of the Longevity Institute at University of Southern California—reveals his science-based strategy for a long life with a healthy mind and body: a low-protein, mainly plant-based diet, in combination with periodic fasting, designed to boost stem cells, promote regeneration of organs and prevent disease. Here, our oneon-one with the good doctor.
When did you first become interested in studying longevity?
Your book goes into great detail, but can you briefly summarize the five pillars of longevity for our readers?
from jazz performance to biochemistry for the purpose of
populations and are important, since they provide statistical
studying aging.
analysis related to the effect of nutrition on health. Second,
Since my second year in college in Texas, when I switched
First, epidemiological studies. These are studies of large
basic studies focused on health and longevity. These are
What has been your most surprising discovery?
studies of cells and mice, etc., focused on healthy lifespan.
That cycles of fasting and re-feeding can turn on genes
For example, what kind of diet makes mice live the longest
and functions normally only observed during embryonic
with low levels of cancer and other diseases. Third, as I’ve
development to regenerate cells and organs.
said, centenarian studies. Fourth, clinical studies. In this case we look for randomized clinical studies testing the
What roles do nutrition and genetics play when it comes to health and longevity?
effect of a particular ingredient on a disease or longevity.
Genetics determine whether an organism lives for three years
complex systems. Here I use the understanding of complex
(a mouse) or 80 years (humans), so genetics is in charge of
systems, such as cars and planes, to understand how we age.
what I call the “Longevity Program.” However, there is not
For example, we don’t want to park a car in the garage, but
much you can do about the genes you are born with, so
we also don’t want to drive it 30,000 miles per year. Similarly,
nutrition becomes the most important factor determining
the human body benefits from 150 to 300 minutes a week of
whether you will live to 100 or 50 and how healthy you will be
exercise and may be hurt by much less or much more.
For example, olive oil and cardiovascular disease. And fifth,
in that process.
How does the “fasting-mimicking” diet work to increase one’s longevity? reducing visceral fat but not lean body mass, and promoting multi-system regeneration and rejuvenation. The ProLon Fasting Mimicking Diet is a clinically tested diet plan lasting
in the book to determine whether a diet is good or bad for
five days, based on 25 years of research. I suggest going on
longevity. For example, the people that I followed in Molochio,
the ProLon diet only when needed: twice a year for a healthy
but also in Sardinia, Italy, had a low-protein, mostly vegan
person on an ideal diet to once a month for an obese person
diet with a little meat, occasionally. This was important in
with high cholesterol, blood pressure and fasting glucose.
identifying scientifically proven diets that also match our history, to make sure we don’t end up both helping and hurting people.
How much weight can someone expect to lose during the five-day program and will it stay off?
LIVING GOOD
Centenarians represent one of the five pillars that I describe
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By promoting many changes, including reducing inflammation,
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You spent time researching small towns around the world known for longevity and percentage of centenarians, such as your hometown of Molochio, Italy. Share with us some of your most important findings.
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They can expect to lose approximately six pounds after completing three cycles of ProLon and after returning to their normal diet. They can lose more weight and maintain it if they also adopt the longevity diet, but the six pounds are lost and maintained in the absence of a change in the diet between cycles of ProLon.
Explain how the five pillars and ProLon Fasting Mimicking Diet work together.
They can have additive effect. For example, ProLon was shown to reduce cholesterol by about 20 mg/dL in people with high cholesterol. Together with the longevity everyday diet, the cholesterol could be reduced by an additional 20 mg/ dL, but this depends on many factors and on the adherence to the diet.
In your book, you say that, contrary to popular opinion, eating five to six small meals a day is not a healthy way to lose weight. Can you explain?
This is clearly a bad idea that has contributed to over 70 percent of the U.S. population being overweight and obese. It may or may not be effective if someone was in a hospital and was given the food, but it is clearly a disaster when it is applied to the general population
Similarly, you say that eating a high protein, low-carb diet is not a healthy way to lose weight. It clearly makes you lose weight, but most of the publications
indicate that it will make your life shorter and less healthy. All pillars support a low protein and high carbohydrate diet. This does not mean a high starch and high sugar diet, but a high legume and high vegetable diet with a little fruit—this is where the carbs should come from.
You also suggest that eating breakfast, then lunch or dinner (not both), plus two low-sugar 100-calorie snacks, is a good way to lose weight. Why is that better than eating five to six small meals a day? This is what I have been using for 20 years on myself and many people. It is also very common among the very longlived populations. The benefits are that your stomach and digestive system will send messages to your brain regarding its “full status”; it is a simple method to ensure compliance
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without the need for a dietitian following someone. If you only
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eat one major meal a day, it is difficult to eat much more than normal. As long as you then follow this simple rule and only eat twice plus a snack, in the great majority of cases you will lose weight.
Which types and how much protein do you recommend?
0.35 grams per pound of body weight per day, mostly from legumes, but also from fish and seafood.
Is it about calories in and calories out, or not that simple? Not that simple.
What is a healthy way to restrict calories while still getting proper nourishment?
In general, eat lots of legumes, vegetables and some fish, fruit and limited pasta, rice and bread. Usually it is best to eat proteins only once a day.
What type of pasta do you recommend and what is a reasonable portion? Low-gluten pasta is best. The portion of pasta or rice should
be about two ounces, but only once a day. The daily level of starches (pasta, bread, rice) should stay below three ounces.
How important is the timing of one’s meals? Always eat at the same times.
At this point, most people understand that sugar is not our friend and red meat is far from healthy. But why not organic, free range poultry?
Most people cannot get organic free range poultry and poultry, in general, has not been associated with longevity or protective effects. However, it is probably okay to include once in a while.
Olive oil is an important part of the Longevity Diet. What do you think about the use of coconut and algae oils (such as Thrive)?
We don’t know enough about those oils. Coconut oil contains high levels of saturated fats, so we don’t yet know whether it will contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Can you speak to the role that nutrition and fasting play in fighting disease?
The ideal nutrition can eliminate the great majority of diabetes, and the majority of cardiovascular diseases and probably cancer. I also recommend taking a multivitamin every three to four days.
How important is sleep in the live-healthy-longer equation? It is important to sleep at least seven hours per night.
In addition to following the diet proposed and fasting a few times a year, what other advice do you have for people who want to live longer, more healthily?
Exercise 150 minutes per week, with about 15 to 20 minutes in which the exercise is pushing the heart to its higher range.
And if they don’t want to give up animal proteins?
Eat within 12 hours; eat twice a day and a snack if you are overweight; eat a pescatarian diet.
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PERFECT (healthy) PAIRING
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Montage Hotels & Resorts and sought-after celeb nutritionist Kelly LeVeque team up to offer flavorful, clean eating options at the brand’s six (and growing) luxurious resorts. BY { BETH WEITZMAN
D
ay to day, week to week, you work hard to stay on track with your workouts and healthy diet. And although you may take a break while on vacay and indulge in some libations (margarita, anyone?), you strive to stick with your routine while traveling, so you can return home without additional pounds. That’s why many luxury hotels and resorts are getting with the program by offering state-of-the art fitness facilities. Fewer, however, are making a concerted effort to offer healthful, delicious culinary options, aside from simply adding quinoa and salads to their menus.
Driven by a lifelong passion for health, the science of nutrition and wellness, LeVeque worked in the medical field for Fortune 500 companies before transitioning into personalized medicine and, later, starting her consulting business, Be Well By Kelly. She takes an optimistic, educated, practical approach to helping people achieve their goals, develop sustainable habits and improve their overall health. Just ask clients including Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner, Sophia Bush, Molly Sims, Chelsea Handler, Emmy Rossum, Sanaa Lathan and many others.
Get ready for the answer to your clean-eating and wanderlust dreams—a partnership made in wellness heaven. Montage Hotels & Resorts and Los Angeles-based Kelly LeVeque, a leading holistic nutritionist, celebrity health coach, bestselling author and founder of Be Well By Kelly, have joined forces to provide guests at Montage properties with seasonal menu options to help balance blood sugar and provide the perfect mix of protein, fat, fiber and greens (which LeVeque calls “the fab four”), including her famous fab four smoothie.
#BodyLoveatMontage is LeVeque’s first hospitality collaboration, and one that speaks to Montage’s commitment to helping guests continue to lead healthy, fulfilling lives while away from home. So simple, yet oh-so genius! “We are delighted to launch this partnership with Kelly LeVeque,” said Alan J. Fuerstman, founder, chairman and CEO, Montage International. “Wellness is at the core of every Montage property, and our partnership with Kelly provides guests with extraordinary access to wellness resources.”
LeVeque promotes a healthy lifestyle based on science, and believes in “real food, real ingredients and creating tasty, clean, nutrient-dense recipes and dishes,” she says. “I’m really about nutritional density— what are the nutrients you are getting in that protein, fat or plant and what of it is bioavailable in your body? You should eat complete meals that elongate your blood sugar curve, avoid mindless snacking and ensure your body has the nutrients it needs to thrive,” says LeVeque. This is achieved through combining the fab four at each meal (or whenever possible). “I’m thrilled to start this venture with Montage Hotels & Resorts and create tailored experiences to educate locals and travelers, and help them enjoy a guilt-free vacation. It came down to Montage allowing me to dictate exactly what I wanted, like 100-percent wild Alaskan salmon, 100-percent pasture-raised chicken, use of high-heat avocado oil or coconut oil to cook with, so every single recipe would
What does the ideal meal look like? “When I look at a plate, more than half should be fiber and greens. Meaning, pick a non-starchy vegetable like a broccoli, cauliflower, radicchio, cabbage, something like that, then add in spinach, arugula, kale, some type of raw cold salad to it. And then, keep protein to what you need, not more—about four ounces of protein, depending on the type of animal—salmon or beef is going to be more grams per ounce, so you might be able to get away with like three, maybe four ounces of that versus four ounces of chicken, and then add one to two tablespoons of healthy fat,” she says.
LIVING GOOD
Guests who want to learn more and take LeVeque’s recipes home can find her book, Body Love: Live in Balance, Weigh What You Want, and Free Yourself from Food Drama Forever, available at all Montage retail stores and amazon.com. Her second book, Body Love Everyday, comes out in January. montagehotels.com, bewellbykelly.com
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When it comes to wine, I like this company called Dry Farm Wine, which is a club that sends pesticide-free, organic, no-sulfites added, traditionally made wines. And they don’t add fructose. A lot of wines on the market nowadays add sulfites for body and fructose for palatability and sweetness, but fructose is really hard on our body to metabolize. If you’re going to drink wine, a dark wine like a Syrah or a Cab, can have higher resveratrol, which is an antioxidant that’s known for anti-aging, making wine good for us. And if you’re sourcing from a clean company that’s not adding fillers, that really helps,” she says.
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A Be Well By Kelly menu is available now for breakfast, lunch and dinner in select Montage restaurants, in-room dining, Spa Montage and pool menus at all Montage Hotels & Resorts properties including Montage Laguna Beach, Montage Beverly Hills, Montage Deer Valley, Montage Kapalua Bay, Montage Palmetto Bluff and the justopened Montage Los Cabos. Highlights of the seasonal menu include peaches and greens smoothie, lemon-garlic roast chicken, buttery lime cod with slaw, wild French salmon salad and chicken kale “Cobb Snob” salad. And if you’re going to imbibe, LeVeque advises, “Pick an alcohol that’s clear, like vodka or a blanco tequila. You’re lowering the chances of something called the congener, which is a toxin that’s present in darker alcohol that causes a hangover; it’s harder on your liver to metabolize.” A clear, clean alcohol is “distilled a number of times and [if] it’s higher quality, you’re not only pulling congeners, but you’re also making sure that you’re pulling any cross contaminants out … Jalisco Tequila is my favorite; they’re a small batch company.
be exactly what I would make here in my kitchen. [For instance], all the ingredients for the smoothie made on the Montage property is the protein powder that I use at home: 100-percent grass-fed collagen protein from Primal Kitchen, sourced out of Malibu. I mean, they spared no expense and it really is like my kitchen on property, which is really cool,” says LeVeque.
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O
n a mission to provide universally affordable, super convenient, nutritionally complete food, entrepreneur Julian Hearn formulated Huel—the name is a portmanteau of Human and Fuel—to fill all your daily dietary requirements. It’s made from sustainable, ethically sourced ingredients (oats, pea, brown rice, flaxseed, sunflower, coconut, plus a bespoke vitamin and mineral blend), requires minimal packaging and has a shelf life of 12 months. Here, he gives us the skinny on his non-GMO, vegan, nutrient-dense magic powder.
BY { BETH WEITZMAN
Powder of really provide all the proteins, carbs, the bad stuff) you need in a day?
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fats, vitamins and minerals (and none of
ISSUE No. 2
Does a new powdered nutritional product
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POWER
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What inspired you to create Huel?
To get these in all the right ratios is very unlikely
was to create an evidence-based exercise and
powder.
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ISSUE No. 2
I started a company called Bodyhack. The idea
Huel provides the best of both worlds—high nutritional content and super convenient, and very low in sugar.
diet comparison site. We would put people through different exercise programs and meal plans and record which were most effective via photographs and measurement. I was the initial guinea pig; over three months I went from 21 percent body fat to 11 percent, the leanest I had ever been even though I was 40 years old. I was exercising my standard three hours a week, so it became crystal clear that nutrition was the key. My friends wanted the same results, but when I told them I was cooking my five to six meals a day from scratch and weighing out all my food, they said “I don’t have the time to do that.” So it made me think … I knew protein shakes were convenient but they only provided protein, so I asked myself, “Is there a way to provide all the nutrients the body needs in a format as convenient as a protein shake?” That was the
Can Huel replace regular meals or prepared foods?
Typically, most convenience foods are tasty but poor in terms of nutrition, low in vitamins and minerals, high in sugar, highly processed. A whole food meal is good in terms of nutrition, but not convenient to prep and cook. Huel provides the best of both worlds—high nutritional content and super convenient, and very low in sugar. Our customers typically use it for breakfast and/ or lunch during the week, then sit down to a traditional family meal in the evening.
Why was making Huel vegan and 100-percent plant-based important to you?
The environment is not in a great place. It is said we are in the sixth mass extinction. Livestock
genesis of Huel.
production is responsible for more greenhouse
What makes Huel better than simply adding veggies and fiber to a protein shake?
combined. I’m not a vegan myself, but I like to say
nutrients in exactly the right amounts, no
the planet. Huel gives you an easy way to cut
The simple answer is that you get all essential more guessing. Your body needs 27 essential
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by simply adding some veggies to a protein
vitamins, complete proteins with the right amino profile, fiber, phytonutrients, and essential fats.
gases than all the cars and planes in the world we are all part-time vegans and the less meat we consume, the better it is for the animals and your meat consumption while still getting great nutritional content which is high in bioavailable protein.
Why did you use rice and pea protein, rather than some other type?
(an
that we can use relatively smaller amounts to
contains sufficient amounts of both, as well as
Both ingredients are high protein, meaning achieve the desirable protein content. Combined, both proteins ensure a good range of all amino acids with sufficient amounts of the essential
omega-6
fatty
acid)
and
alpha-linolenic
Huel could play a strong role in this solution.
acid (an omega-3). Using our blend of flaxseed and sunflower oil powder, we’ve ensured Huel other omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, in an ideal ratio of around 1:1.
Will products like Huel play an even more important role in the future?
Definitely. The world population is 7 billion and will grow to 9.7 billion by 2050. We can’t carry on the way we are. If everyone ate a western diet,
Are the vitamins and minerals easily absorbed by the body? And are they naturally derived or synthetic?
we would be in big trouble. We throw away 30
Most of the vitamins and minerals in Huel are
unsustainable. So we need to use less meat and
cysteine and methionine but high in lysine.
naturally occurring from the main ingredients,
use foods which don’t perish as quickly.
Why are good fats, like the medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) from coconut oil in Huel, the new diet heroes?
a proprietary vitamin and mineral blend. All
amino acids. Rice protein is high in the sulphurcontaining amino acids cysteine and methionine, plus it contains good amounts of all the others, but is very low in lysine. Pea protein is low in
ensure an ideal fatty acid profile, including MCTs provide an energy-rich, sustained fuel and are perfect for those of us with busy lifestyles. MCTs also have another invaluable quality— they are not susceptible to rancidity, meaning that they do not contribute to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. In short, MCTs from coconut are a healthy and efficient source of energy. There are two completely essential fatty acids that humans require: linoleic acid
forms are selected [because] they are the most
How often do you drink Huel?
Typically, I use Huel for breakfast and lunch
bioavailable for maximum absorption, as well as
during the week. That is about 50 percent of my
the most stable over the shelf-life of Huel.
weekly meals.
Can Huel help counter the epidemics of obesity or diabetes?
We recently launched the world’s first nutritionally
Huel is a convenient way of getting optimum
complete granola breakfast cereal. Plus, at some
nutrition. It is satiating and reduces the need
point in 2018 we will be launching a ready-to-drink
for snacking. Many people consume food for
version of Huel.
What other products are on your horizon?
convenience and food choices are not suitable; they are high in calories, sugars, processed fats and salt, and low in fiber. Huel, as a convenient, affordable alternative, is a high fiber, low sugar
What advice do you have for someone getting into the start-up space?
LIVING GOOD
optimum amounts of the essential fatty acids.
and the remainder are added in the form of
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flaxseeds, sunflower oil and coconut MCTs to
source, which is inefficient, often inhumane and
Gio
The fats in Huel are provided mainly from
percent of all food. We use meat as a primary food
There is no magic bullet. It’s hard, super hard. You
and low salt choice that allows the consumer to
gotta grind it out, sprint all the time, but it’s also a
easily control their calorie intake. As obesity and
marathon. Plus, you gotta do 1,000 things better
type-2 diabetes are linked to poor diet choices,
than anyone else. Take pride in what you do.
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INDIE GIRL With her big voice, bouncy tunes and fun lyrics, 20-year-old rising pop star Aly Ryan (@alyryanmusic) is a Soundcloud sensation. With millions of downloads for her self-released songs and an ever-growing fan base to her credit, the young phenom plans to release even more sure-to-be-instant hits this summer.
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Gio
ISSUE No. 2
BY { HARVE ALAN
You were born in Germany and now live in L.A. Tell us about your journey.
How did you learn to speak English so well?
I grew up in a small town about 20 minutes from Frankfurt. I
were all singing English and I was lip syncing. Everyone said
kinda grew up on the countryside. I had horses and dogs, and
I should learn English. My dad, who is a musician, would sit
was always outdoors. It was before the time kids had phones
down with me and guide me through the words. That’s when
and all that stuff, we’d spend our time running through the fields
I learned to speak the words. The translation came in a little
and in nature. I think that’s part of the reason I like L.A. so much;
later when I was listening to the music I grew up on—like Bruce
it mixes the city and nature, with the mountains and hiking trails.
Springsteen, Abba and Beyoncé. I would look at the German-
I moved to L.A. in 2014 when I was 16. I always wanted to move
English translation and that’s how I taught myself.
to L.A. This is the place. I still feel that way all these years later. 336
When I was young, 7 or 8, I was in a children’s choir and they
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
from there. At one point it was getting 250,000 spins per day. All my
read to me, play tennis with me, and he shared his music with me.
Spotify and they added my song to New Music Friday and I also got
Being that my dad is a musician, that really helped me. He would It helped me with language and to write songs. And I play sports pretty well, too.
songs together now are still getting a lot of spins. I got to speak to featured on Billboard for new music. Everything has been organic.
Who are your favorite musical artists, past and present?
Tell me about your latest single, “Fans.” After only one month, it is on fire.
music (classic rock). He is a guitarist, and he would play those artists
is doing even better. I like to send my songs to my friends all over
The Springsteen-Pink Floyd-Dylan influence was really my dad’s for me. I really like that kinda folky sound. Later, I would find R&B like Toni Braxton and Boys2Men. I also love country music, older country as well as new country music. The stories are so beautiful. Artists like Tammy Wynette tell great stories. I really like Khaled. He’s doing great stuff. I’m a huge fan of Ed Sheeran, I really like him. Cardi B, The
It sure feels that way. “No Parachute” got a good reaction and “Fans” the world for their reaction and this song has been so positive and a great response.
Do you read music?
I do read music. When I started out in music as a kid I was into opera
Weeknd and, like, all kinds of music. I listen to whatever feels good.
and I learned to read music then. I also play guitar and piano.
You have a huge audience on Soundcloud. Your song “No Parachute” has over 11.5 million streams. How did this happen?
What drives you to succeed in the music industry?
a tip from someone in the industry who said it was a good place to go.
get that famous. Most people don’t make that much money. It’s a
Originally I wasn’t going to upload my music to Soundcloud, but I got So, I did. It’s where independent music can really take off. After a few months, I was getting messages from people who had playlists who wanted to include my music. I got a lot of reposts and it ballooned
You gotta know what you are doing music for. If you are doing it for just fame and money, that’s not going to work. Most people don’t love. Often people who are doing it for fame and money give up long before they actually make it because it’s too hard. If you love it, you can’t stop. As cliché as it sounds, it runs in your blood.
G
A LY ’ S FAV O R I T E S
Fun activities:
Movies, the beach, vintage stores
Actress:
Angelina Jolie
TV show: Friends
Movie:
The Notebook
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate
Mexican
Louis Vuitton
App:
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My Diary, Day One
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Fashion brand:
Gio
Type of food:
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the GOOD FIGHT BY JESSICA LUZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN RUSSO
Like her chart-topping megahit “Fight Song”—which was Hillary
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Clinton’s official anthem during the 2016 presidential campaign—
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singer-songwriter Rachel Platten (@rachelplatten) is inspiring, empowering and downright fierce. With dedication, determination and a genuine desire to be a role model for young women, this music maker is a force to be reckoned with, as she demonstrated when she recently spoke to us from her airplane seat.
R AC H E L PL AT T E N
Before it was released, did you have any idea how empowering “Fight Song” would become? Was it empowering to you, personally?
the highs and the lows that I was experiencing,
of me that did know, but my fear got in the way
newest ones.
The truth is, there was a small, courageous part a lot, so I’d dismiss that idea as crazy. When I re-read old journals from that time, I’m amazed by that girl (me) who was broke at 31 years old and just absolutely determined. She’d write, “I will make music that will spread love to millions of people.” Sounds crazy, right? But she was right! I did it! It was absolutely empowering to me personally. I finished it (the version you hear now) a year before it was on the radio and labels rejected it, so it was just mine. I’d listen to it on headphones during long walks when I was feeling the most hopeless and just get this complete surge of power and confidence from the song. I believed those words. They were my own personal affirmation.
without a filter. I think artists are always most in love with their newest creation, so maybe in that way, yes, I am more attached to these
Which singer-songwriters do you admire?
I listen to wildly different genres and change my mind all the time about who I currently love the most. Recently I’ve been on an all-women vibe, so artists like Carole King, Ibeyi, Sheryl Crow, Regina Spektor, Jewel and Julia Michaels are my current favorites. I fall for anyone telling big truths with brilliant melodies.
Who would be your dream collaborator? Chance The Rapper
If you could re-imagine, rearrange and record any song—and do it your way—which would it be?
Can you describe your songwriting process?
“One” by U2 is one of my favorite songs, but
that I catch a song. Sometimes, it’s a melody
it. If I were to be brave and try, I think I’d do it
It varies so much, but I do have a couple of ways that won’t leave me alone and sometimes it’s a phrase that I’ll hear or read in a book or pick up while I’m watching TV or having a conversation with a friend. I feel the most awkward when a song catches me during a conversation with a friend because I want to listen empathetically, but my artist brain is, like, “Take a break! Write down what she’s saying about losing hope! This is gold!” Melodies can be just as awkward if they come at the wrong time. Actually, just now on this flight one came to me, so I had to crouch down and whisper/sing it into my phone so I wouldn’t lose it...I’m sure it’s a real keeper. After those initial ideas are captured, then comes the discipline part, where I have to sit at the piano and slug it out, and solve the puzzle. That part can take minutes sometimes, or years. “Fight Song” took me two years! And the ones that I can’t solve on my own I bring to songwriting
I’ve always felt a little too intimidated to cover as stripped and honestly as possible. Maybe just a piano and four cellos (which is my favorite sound), and I’d try to let my voice carry so much of my love and allow my heart to deliver those almost holy lyrics. Oh, and I’d do it in Abbey Road. Then I’d drink some whiskey and just lie down in the middle and probably listen back over and over.
You won a Daytime Emmy for performing “Fight Song” on Good Morning America! What’s next, a Grammy? A Tony?
All of those would be lovely I’m sure, and I of course have sky-high ambitions. But lately I’m trying to let my little heart rest and understand that I already have done enough. Even if none of the success had happened, just being who I am in this world is enough. Just like every single one of you reading this is perfect and enough
sessions.
just as you are. It’s amazing and healthy to have
What inspires you and your music?
think we must achieve them or that we need
goals, but they become dangerous when we
podcasts, poems, movies, therapy, nature… anything
could
be
a
spark
of
inspiration for me.
be loved. I fell in that trap and I’m working on climbing my way out.
Any desire to pursue acting?
Yessss! I realize I am so that nerd in high school
absolutely love performing and connecting with
put that aside to focus solely on songwriting.
I feel like songwriting is my true calling. I an audience, but writing songs is how I process the world. It is how I have overcome the hardest moments of my life and captured the brightest
drama class with my enthusiasm here, but oh man, I forgot how much I loved acting. I grew up always doing musicals and plays, but then Recently I’ve been dipping my toe in the waters again, and it’s amazing to me how acting can feel just as soul filling as music.
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You co-wrote every song on your latest album, Waves, which is pretty impressive. Do you feel more attached, emotionally, to these songs?
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Honestly,
to always be perfect to feel like we deserve to
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Life, pain, love, poetry, joy, books, music,
ones. On this album, I tried to do just that—paint
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Recently you posted some gorgeous, makeup-free selfies on Instagram. What are your go-to skincare products?
Who is your own role model?
I have a secret weapon—my crazy-talented
balancing motherhood along with going after
facialist that I fly across the country to see me
her dream of becoming a yoga teacher in NYC.
regularly. I hope that doesn’t come across as
She is truly showing me how incredible women
obnoxious. She is literally that good. Her name
can be.
Recently, my younger sister Melanie had a baby girl. It was just four months ago and now she is
is Nina Patino and she’s been doing facials on me for the past 15 years and I swear by her. I also chug an insane amount of water on the regular and am religious about skincare. I take off my
How do you keep your Zen while juggling a music career, travel schedule and marriage?
Meditation, therapy, bad reality TV, yoga, dips
makeup as soon as a show is done. Also, I have,
in the ocean, long walks with my dog, alone
like, a billion serums and moisturizers I put on
time, playing music just for fun, good friends, my
every morning and night.
connection with source, and sleep when I can get it.
Your hair always looks perfect, too.
Wow, that is very nice, but you aren’t seeing me right now on this flight with my tangledheading-toward-dreadlock-land
hair!
I
also
Any plans for kids?
Yes, I hope so. No definite plans, but I’d love to be a mom someday.
recently put extensions in, which are honestly a pain in the butt, but great if you regularly have to fool nice magazine writers into thinking you have picture-perfect hair.
What words of advice do you have for aspiring singer-songwriters?
Write a thousand more songs, and then keep writing. Pour your most vulnerable truths that
How does it feel to be an #aerieREAL Role Model?
you’d never want anyone to know about into a
I’m so proud to be a part of the campaign [for
writing it. Over and over. And do not listen to
body-positive underwear]. I love being someone
anyone who tells you this career is impossible.
that younger girls can look up to. I hope that I
It’s never too late. You are always only one song
can continue to peel back the layers on what
away.
song, then find the universal truth in it and keep
the world regularly views a celebrity as being so that they understand how fake a lot of it is. There is so much retouching on images that we
What terrifies you?
Scary movies. I can’t even watch the commercials
all compare ourselves to. Also, when I’m on a
for them. I get so scared and I have to sing the
red carpet, I try to remind fans that I’ve spent
happiest song I can think of (very loudly) to
hours with professional people doing my hair,
drown out the scary music while they’re on.
nails and makeup. I love that aerie has helped me to embrace the imperfect, and I am going to continue to stay as real as I’m brave enough to be. The campaign also helped to shine a light on
What are you most grateful for?
DVR so that I can fast-forward through said scary movie commercials.
my own body image insecurities that I’ve gotten a chance to heal through loving my body just as it is.
What don’t people don’t know about you?
I am a very competitive athlete. What I mean
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ISSUE No. 2
is, truly, I compete. I want to win and I get very
342
How have you embraced your own imperfections?
wrapped up in any sport I play and usually end
I try to forgive myself for being human. I try to
don’t have the skills to support my vigor. But I
be kinder and gentler and to pay attention to
am a sick skier, so I will give myself some credit
my heart when it’s feeling anything but that
just because if my mom reads this, she will say,
expansive feeling that love brings. I have learned
“Oh, but Rachel, your father and I think you are
that it’s actually not me being bitchy or jealous
such a great athlete, honey!” (Do you see the
or angry, but just me being afraid. I believe that
problem?)
up injuring myself because I go so hard and just
fear is at the root of anything that isn’t love, so I embrace that scared little girl inside of me and give her some love and forgive her for taking over the wheel. Then I let the adult back into the driver seat.
What’s the last item you ordered on Amazon?
I can’t say it without embarrassing myself, so let’s just say mascara.
G
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ISSUE No. 2
R A C H E L’ S F A V O R I T E S
344
Karaoke song:
Summer vacation spot:
Richie
husband and I are obsessed with lake house life and aspire to have
Anything that makes the bar uncomfortable, like Tom Jones or Lionel
Any lake house, anywhere. Do you have one? Cool, I’d like to come. My one someday.
Reality TV show:
American Idol, because I was a mentor this season. Go watch it on YouTube! I had the immense honor of mentoring Mara. She is ridiculously talented and didn’t need much advice.
Clothing store:
This is a shameful area for me because even though now I could maybe afford nicer stores, I am obsessed with discounts and deals, so I go to all the fast fashion brands. Then I have to lie to my husband
Netf lix binge:
that it was more expensive, because he thinks I buy junk. Because
The Great British Bake Off. Don’t judge! Just go watch and dive into
I kind of do. But, when I am splurging I’ll do a really nice binge. I also
the peaceful world of amazingly kind, noncompetitive Brits baking
have a new sneaker obsession, so I do those online lotteries. I’m
delightful treats.
just not a great shopper, and I rely heavily on my very fashionable assistant and my amazing stylist.
Where the memories you make last infinitely longer.
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L AG U N A B E AC H
L O S C A B O S (Opening Early 2018)
John Russo
Gio Creative Director John Russo is one of the top celebrity photographers in the world. He’s spent more than two decades photographing the likes of Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio and Julianne Moore. His work has graced the covers of Vogue, Elle, Glamour, Esquire, and Harper’s Bazaar, and advertising campaigns for brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Hugo Boss and Gucci. One of his current projects, 100 Making a Difference, is a book chronicling 100 philanthropists and humanitarians—including Malala Yousafzai, Maria Shriver, Drew Brees, Sugar Ray Leonard and Cindy Crawford—and the charities and causes they support. Originally from Ventnor, New Jersey, John now lives in West Hollywood, where he can often be found on the courts, perfecting his tennis game. @johnrussophoto
Angela Fairhurst
Angela Fairhurst is a veteran television and event producer, content creator and travel journalist. Luxury hotel bathroom obsessed, she began writing a column for PeterGreenberg.com that launched in March 2013, bringing the bathroom to the forefront of travelers minds. Two years ago, she added another column, Luxe Lodgings, focusing on special features in upscale hotels. Both are found at LuxeLavs.com, along with @JauntTV and JauntTV.com for experiential travel images, articles and video vignettes.
Bonnie Davidson
Jason Bush
Jason Bush has been visually oriented since his childhood in Oklahoma, and he fell in love with photography while living in Chicago. He moved to Santa Barbara to study photography, and has lived and worked in Los Angeles for close to a decade.
Jessica Luza
ISSUE No. 1
An actress and writer from Atlanta, Jessica Luza followed her dreams to La La Land just two days after graduating from Georgia Tech and has spent the past decade enjoying Instagrammable sunsets and trying to avoid street-cleaning tickets. Her credits include House MD (“Yes, Hugh Laurie is really nice!”), The Game, Necessary Roughness, Satisfaction, Men At Work and Let’s Be Cops. She also appeared with People’s 2017 Sexiest Man Alive, Blake Shelton, in a commercial for Gildan underwear. Her articles have been featured in regional publications. @jessluza
Gio CONTRIBUTORS 346
Gio Executive Editor Bonnie Davidson is a longtime journalist specializing in food, fashion, travel, arts and entertainment, and luxury lifestyle. The former editor-in-chief of a group of high-end publications for visitors to New York City, she also edited the official program of the Tony Awards; worked on staff at Cosmopolitan and GQ; and has contributed articles to national magazines, newspapers and websites. She and her husband Michael relocated from Manhattan to New York’s glorious Hudson Valley, where her home office has a view of the Catskill Mountains.
Jennifer Agress
Miami-born writer and editor Jennifer Agress has a penchant for good food, a better martini and traveling every chance she gets. She is the editor of DiningOut Miami, and writes about luxury travel and dining for INDULGE Magazine, Haute Living, Time Out Miami, Orbitz and more. When she’s not trying a haute new restaurant or on a plane heading somewhere fabulous, she’s likely plotting her next adventure. @JenniferAgress
CONTRIBUTORS Billy Frierson A writer and editor on the New York City beat, Billy Frierson has covered the dining and nightlife scene on staff at Where and IN New York magazines and Thrillist. He takes his martinis extra-dry with a twist, is suspicious of people who don’t like mushrooms, and fantasizes about disco’s comeback.
Nadine Jolie Courtney
Nadine Jolie Courtney is an LA-based freelance writer covering luxury travel, royalty, and the lifestyles of the 1%. A former magazine editor, her freelance work has appeared in Town & Country, Robb Report and Angeleno, and she regularly creates digital content for Town & Country, Vogue and Architectural Digest. Author of the bestselling guide Beauty Confidential, her fourth book AllAmerican Muslim Girl will be published in 2019 by FSG Books for Young Readers. @nadinejoliecourtney (IG) or @nadinecourtney (twitter)
Marie Look
Los Angeles-based writer and editor Marie Look specializes in luxury, entertainment, technology and travel. She’s created lifestyle content for Modern Luxury magazines, Style Salute, Haute Living, DS News, University of California Los Angeles and others. She’s currently the editor of LA Beaches, a quarterly guide by Haute Finds Publishing, and was formerly editor-in-chief of Modern Luxury Scottsdale magazine. When she’s not writing, she’s training for her next half marathon or exploring a different neighborhood in and around L.A.
Erinn Valencich
Los Angeles-based designer Erinn Valencich has a keen understanding of the classic California lifestyle. The granddaughter of a fine cabinetmaker and daughter of an architect, her approach to design underscores the importance of craftsmanship and livability. Erinn’s custom 90-piece furniture line, ERINN V, is handcrafted in California and available at fine to-the-trade showrooms around the country. In addition, her signature collaborations with lifestyle brands includes Baldwin’s new Hollywood Hills by Erinn V hardware collection. She’s been featured in Elle Décor, Architectural Digest, Town & Country and House Beautiful. @erinnvstyle Gio ISSUE No. 1
Encountering the unexpected is de rigueur for this travel and entertainment writer. Her celebrity tête-à-têtes with everyone from Jane Goodall, Sir Richard Branson, Ludacris, Steve Carell and Celine Dion have appeared in TV Guide, Bon Appetit, Yahoo Travel and Westways. As the founder of Change Your Life Travels VR, Bekah brought viewers along for the ride in the much-lauded 360 film Experience the Majesty: Grand Canyon South Rim.@changeyourlifetravels
CONTRIBUTORS
Bekah Wright
347
Kate Jacobson
Tas Limur
A Los Angeles-based artist specializing in photography and video production, Tas Limur was born and raised in Bangladesh and he received his education in Manchester, U.K. before moving to the United States. When Tas is not behind a camera, he plays bass guitar in a progressive rock band called Kolm.
Los Angeles-based writer and editor Kate Jacobson currently works as a digital content producer and social media manager for Ranker, an entertainment startup that covers everything from true crime to makeup. Before moving to L.A., she worked as a journalist for several major news publications, including the Chicago Tribune and South Florida’s Sun Sentinel. In addition, she works as a voiceover actress and has been featured in several national commercials.
Rose Cefalu
With two decades of experience in publishing, working as a photography editor and editor in chief, Gio Bookings Editor, Rose Cefalu’s magazine credits include Emmy, Treats!, Flaunt, Detour, Motor Trend, Variety’s VLife and many more. She is founder of Racer Media Inc. and an adjunct faculty member at The Art Institute of California-Hollywood, where she teaches the business of photography and editorial photography. Rose makes an art out of multi-tasking.
Aja Mangum Eric Rutherford
A top model with IMG, Eric Rutherford is a magnificent multi-hyphenate—social media superstar, event producer for high-profile clients, fashion writer and stylish man about town in New York City and Los Angeles. @Mr.Rutherford
A freelance beauty and fashion editor, Aja Mangum’s work has appeared in Bloomberg Businessweek, Bloomberg Pursuits, Men’s Fitness, Refinery29, Brides and more. Prior to freelancing, she held various titles during her 10-year tenure at New York magazine, and her final role was beauty and market editor.
Justin Miller
CONTRIBUTORS
Gio
ISSUE No. 1
Gio Production Director Justin Miller found his love for art and all things creative early in life. With a background in graphic design, photography and social media, he works as a photo producer in Los Angeles. In his spare time, he can be found anywhere but the beach.
348
Calee Killion Harve Alan
Based in Los Angeles, Harve Alan is a freelance writer, music lover and successful media and broadcast professional. He is the president and founder of Harve Alan Media—an advisory and consulting firm specializing in talent coaching and representation, brand development, content creation and innovation, talent coaching, and digital and social media strategies.
A world traveler and wellness enthusiast based in Newport Beach, California, Calee Killion was born and raised in San Diego. She attributes her love of mountains and snowboarding to regular trips to Mammoth Mountain and Whistler (and an appreciation of aprés ski activities). A self-proclaimed Japanophile, she recently had a chance to float through Niseko’s famous champagne powder, and counts Tasmania, Rio, South Africa, Kerala and Biarritz as some of her other favorite (warm) international destinations. @caleebkill
VISUALLY EFFECTIVE While exploring Newtown, a cool suburb of Sydney, Australia, retired IT manager for Coca-Cola and current special-effects photography enthusiast Les Harvey spotted a young woman reading her tablet as she waited for a bus. “I often go to Newtown to capture amazing photographs of people and graffiti,” says the lensman who lives in nearby Baulkham Hills. “I just loved the beautiful flowing lines of her dress, her pose and the composition of the image.” So he quickly grabbed his Nikon D3 and began snapping. “She glanced up while my friend and I were shooting, and we showed her the images afterwards,” he continues. Later, the magic happened when he developed a technique for manipulating the
digital image using Adobe Camera Raw. First he increased the clarity and dehaze by 20 percent and increased the saturation by 70 percent in order to pump up all the colors. Then, he selected only the parts of the image he wanted to keep based on their color, until he had “enough of the subject and surrounding objects to make a decent image,” he explains. What was left was then “pasted onto a new layer, and a vibrantcolored gradient layer was placed underneath the pasted image, to give this unique effect.” The result, entitled “Bus Stop Girl,” is a technodreamlike original work of art, for which Harvey won an award of merit in a creative photography competition.
–Bonnie Davidson
Š2018 Ojai Valley Inn
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