ICONIC LIFE Orange County Spring 2023

Live Beautifully

WHAT’S INNOVATION IN THE KITCHEN?

It’s power, performance, and control as you cook. It’s enduring reliability and timeless looks that last. It’s forward-thinking vision for sustainable designs that fit changing needs and lifestyles. It’s Fisher & Paykel, and a host of premium brands taking the next step in kitchen innovation, and you’ll find them all at any of our Southern California showrooms.

Acclaimed for its exquisite design and advanced technology, the Monogram Professional Range is redefining luxury appliances one detail at a time.

Discover Monogram at your local

“The architecture is pure art without being showy or ostentatious. While it would be a gorgeous home in any other location, it feels like a house that was perfectly designed to frame and elevate the view of Camelback and all of the stunning desert features outside. You really feel the awe of nature in every part of the house.”

-Homeowner describing their Kendle Design Collaborative home

EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE IN

COMFORT AND DESIGN

Our luxurious furniture, home furnishings, and original works of art are handcrafted in America using the finest materials and methods of craftsmanship. Let us enrich your lifestyle by creating timeless custom furnishings of the highest quality for your home.

BUFFALOCOLLECTION.COM

A STATE OF MIND. A STATE OF MIND. A WAY OF LIFE. A WAY OF LIFE.

DELIGHTING THE SENSES.

The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase: A truly spacious luxury SUV

Prepare for the quintessential luxury SUV experience, combining the legroom of a limousine with the elevated ride height of an SUV. The New Bentayga EWB offers the perfect balance of unparalleled comfort and effortless performance.

Experience this new level of luxury for yourself. Order yours now at Bentley Newport Beach.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Renee Dee, PHOTOGRAPHER: Mark Sacro, HAIR & MAKEUP: Diana Aiello, MODEL: Makenzie from FORD Robert Black Agency, WARDROBE: Vintage Valentino blouse via Vintage by Misty, Brunello Cucinelli chambray linen wide-leg pants, Saks Fifth Avenue. LOCATION: Private residence designed by Drewett Works

Elevated Culinary Experiences

Life is short. Eat well. Privately.

Cheferbly brings a new level of fine dining experience to our food enthusiasts with a booking platform that brings private chefs to your home.

Many of our chefs have worked in some of the most recognized Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, and now they can cook in your home. Easily find and reserve your favorite private chef for your upcoming celebrations or simply because you want to create a memorable experience with your friends and family in your own home. BOOK NOW

Renee M. Dee Publisher @reneeldee @youriconiclife

TRUE LUXURY?

Awalk on the beach at any time of the day with gentle winds, crashing waves and crisp air—that is a luxury to me.

Luxury is defined as “a condition of abundance or great ease and comfort; a sumptuous environment,” according to Merriam Webster. “Luxury is something that adds to pleasure provided by expensive and beautiful things,” says the Cambridge Dictionary.

To me, the greatest luxury is to Live Beautifully, and while it is sometimes expensive to do so, Living Beautifully in itself does not have to always be expensive. It can be setting a gorgeous table, arranging flowers, plating take-out on exquisite dishes and taking the time to arrange the finer details into something eye-pleasing and beautiful. It feeds your soul when you are surrounded by beauty.

Luxury can be time, the opportunity to savor a moment or simply be present to see the beauty around you. Luxury is freedom to make choices and luxury is connectedness—to be with the ones that make us happy and to share time together.

Ultimately, the concept of luxury is becoming less about things we want to own and more about who we want to be and what we want to experience.

And that’s what ICONIC LIFE is all about; it’s based on my love and passion for design, food, travel and fashion, and sharing my personal point of view on luxury living, while promoting the people and brands that do luxury at its best, providing experiences and opportunities to define who we are.

As we enter our second year in Orange County, and my third time living here, it’s been a privilege to experience all this amazing community has to offer. To be immersed in all the beauty of Orange County, to meet new friends and to celebrate design at its finest, that is luxury to me.

As you enjoy the luxuries of your life, I hope you find inspiration here in our pages of ICONIC LIFE

On March 19, we celebrate five years publishing ICONIC LIFE. Thank you to all of you for your support in our first year in Orange County, and for making ICONIC LIFE a part of your plans this year.

With Gratitude,

Renee M. Dee Publisher

VOLUME 01.23

RENEE M. DEE | Publisher

CARLYE KLICK | Marketing Director

KAITLYN BEICKEL | Editorial and Communications Manager

MEG PERICH | Client Relations Director AZ

DOROTHY COSTELLO | Business Development Director OC

KATIE POE | Social Media and Marketing Coordinator

ERIN SUWWAN | Publication Designer

MARK SACRO | Fashion Photographer

KYLE FINLEY | Lighting Design

JACKIE ROSE | Stylist

PAUL MOORE | Features Photographer

KARYN MIL LET | Photographer

CONTRIBUTORS

Sabrina Azadi, Bailey Badillo, Kerrie Lee Brown, Brionna Farney, Elyse Glickman, Shoshana Leon, Laura Madden, Sam Micatrotto, Fran Miller, Dena Roché, David Rubin, Nora Burba Trulsson and Tom Zenner

Advertising and Editorial Queries, contact us at concierge@iconiclife.com 8145 E. Evans Road, Suite 7 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480.330.3737

Subscribe NOW: ICONICLIFE.COM Follow us @iconiclifemag

By ICONIC LIFE

Kristen Vegan Leather Water Bottle Crossbody Bag, $68 via Nordstrom.

Aqua Bottle With Shoulder Strap, $880 via Dior.

SUSTAINABLE SIPS

Green is the new black this season (and every season) as the world becomes more and more aware of our environmental impact. It seems that everywhere you go, people are joining the conversation about sustainability and conscious luxury.

Sky Stainless Steel Water Bottle, $69 via Nordstrom.

Fitness Glass Water Bottle, $98 via Neiman Marcus.

GEORG JENSEN

GEM-WATER BY VITAJUWEL

DIOR

MALI + LILI

COLLINA STRADA

Crystal Embellished Insulated Water Bottle, $100 via Nordstrom.

The people of Turkey need our help.

Your generosity will help provide shelter, food and medical supplies to those in need.

ahbap is a local Turkish charity dedicated to assisting those in need. Donate now at ahbap.org.

This charity is trusted by

RADIANTRUGS

By Bailey

Courtesy of Erik Lindstrom

ICONIC bespoke, luxurious rugs from Erik Lindstrom are a work of art—and ethically woven.

Badillo

Erik Lindstrom believes that every successful room design should begin with an eye-catching rug—allowing everything else to organically grow from it. Offering a “curated selection of contemporary, transitional and textural patterns, which evoke both subtle and statement personalities to complement any interior,” Lindstrom’s custom area rugs disrupt trends while utilizing designs primarily from the natural world, inspired from flora, fauna, landscape and more.

“Creating a design or texture that stands apart from the rest is always the ultimate goal, but it requires an open mind and a trained eye on our surroundings,” Lindstrom says. “The natural world of flora and fauna is always inspiring to me and is often showcased in our collections. With a background in interior architecture, I also try to always design through this lens, creating interest in each part of the rug so as to give our clients a blank canvas from which to place furniture, lighting and more.”

While products from Erik Lindstrom’s online shop are completely customizable to just about any pattern, shape, color or size, there is also a large assortment of ready-to-order area rugs, which, by the way, are manufactured from the finest natural materials—Tibetan and New Zealand wool, Chinese fine (mulberry) silk and plant fibers like bamboo silk, hemp, cactus, nettle and linen. These artisan rugs are also responsibly woven and socially conscious.

“We are a proud partner of Goodweave International, who is the non-profit arm of the rug industry and ensures that no children have a hand in the rugs we make,” Lindstrom says. “A small portion of each rug purchased through us goes back to Goodweave, providing educational programs for children removed from enslaved factories around the globe, particularly in east Asia.”

“It’s part of our moral compass that is a feelgood moment for both our company and clients alike.”

MUST HAVES

By Carlye Klick

VIVA MAGENTA!

Pantone has announced “Viva Magenta” as the Color of the Year for 2023, and we are cheering.

Nothing embodies a vibrant joie de vivre quite like “Viva

WEST ELM

Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses, $170 via West Elm at South Coast Plaza

Quilted Puffy Large Natalia Bag $4,990 via Tom Ford.

BAYCO

Platinum Burma Ruby Band Ring, $31,000 via Neiman Marcus.

OSCAR DE LA RENTA Cabochon Crystal Dome Clip-On Earrings, $795 via Nordstrom.

Lucky 15 Reversible Belt, $770 via Hermès.

GG

GUCCI

Flowerbomb

L’IDÉE

Amour Sleeveless Pleated Minidress, $325 via Saks at South Coast Plaza.

VIKTOR & ROLF

Ruby Orchid Eau de Parfum, $168 via Sephora at South Coast Plaza.

STUART WEITZMAN

Hollywood Shine Platform Sandal, $695 via Stuart Weitzman.

VISTA ALEGRE

Unica Crystal Vase, $1,045 via Williams Sonoma.

Marmont Matelassé small shoulder bag, $1,650 via Gucci.

WHAT’S HAUTE

By ICONIC LIFE

BRAVO AMAR SANTANA!

The hit show Top Chef returns for its 20th season with an all-star lineup of international Top Chef winners and finalists, including South Coast Plaza celeb chef Amar Santana. The show, debuting March 9, 2023, will bring together standout chefs from all over the world, representing the international spin offs of “Top Chef” including Canada, Mexico, France, Thailand and more. Altogether, the 16 chefs from around the world are competing in London, with a grand finale in Paris. Amar Santana, from Spanish restaurant Vaca, located across from the luxury shopping center, is representing the U.S., California and South Coast Plaza. Amar got his Orange County start at South Coast Plaza’s Charlie Palmer, opened the critically acclaimed Broadway in Laguna Beach, and can often be seen cooking and holding court at South Coast Plaza’s Vaca in Costa Mesa.

A FLORAL VOYAGE

This spring, from April 19-23, South Coast Plaza is again the exclusive West Coast venue of Fleurs de Villes, a stunning, bespoke floral event featuring fresh floral mannequins and installations that will take visitors on a journey of discovery to ICONIC global destinations. For Fleurs de Villes 2023, the theme is VOYAGE, which promises to be a feast of cultural storytelling, connecting the world through flowers.

Don’t miss a beat or a brand! Get the latest scoop from the world’s favorite luxe shopping destination, South Coast Plaza.

Photography courtesy of South Coast Plaza

SHOE IN

South Coast Plaza’s luxury offerings are focused on footwear at 30 new and redesigned boutiques. Christian Louboutin recently reopened its stunning new store on the Penthouse level, and the new Louis Vuitton Men’s boutique offers hard-to-find exclusives from the brand. Don’t miss the reimagined Steve Madden store, where the lounge-like atmosphere puts us in the mood to party. For sneakerheads, JD Sports is your hookup, offering exclusives and collaborations from Nike, Adidas and more, while HOKA will outfit you with colorful and trendsetting running shoes—whether you’re training for a marathon or just like the look. And there’s an impressive fashionable shoe selection at new boutiques Dior Women, Louis Vuitton Men’s, Anine Bing, Missoni and Alexander Wang.

A TASTE OF CHOCOLATE

South Coast Plaza is a sponsor of Like Water for Chocolate, a new ballet by American Ballet Theatre that will have its North American premiere at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, March 29-April 2, 2023. The full-length ballet, created by the brilliant choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, brings the famous novel by Laura Esquivel to life. The new ballet reunites the award-winning team of Wheeldon (fresh from his Tony Award victory for MJ: The Musical) with composer Joby Talbot, and Tony-winning costume designer Bob Crowley. With the superstar dancers of ABT translating the richly layered story, audiences will be the first in the country to experience this magical Mexican love story.

ART IS Home is Where The

The secret to Laguna Beach-based Whitney’s success is a combination of his self-awareness and instincts when choosing his subjects and finding his audiences.

By Elyse Glickman

Photography courtesy of Marc Whitney

I’m not sure there’s any other place I could get away with what I’m doing,” Marc Whitney, a Laguna Beach-based artist, says. He refined his craft at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Frudakis Academy of Fine Arts and the University of the Arts during the 1980s, but ultimately returned to Southern California—where he was born— to open his own gallery.

The rustic coastal setting near the Pacific Ocean provides the ideal backdrop for his nature scenes and gentle indoor set pieces. With the help of his wife, Jackie, it is also a place where everybody from serious art collectors to more casual fans will feel confident when selecting a painting or discussing a commission.

“As I’ve gotten older, I actually like to see and understand where the art will be placed in the home,” he continues. “I’ll tell them what I think about the best spot to hang it and what elements in the room will make it look its best.”

As Whitney sees it, art transcends being a way to make a living or a form of social expression—it’s all about relationships. He came from a family of artisans and musicians, noting his uncle was a sculptor.

“I started painting and drawing spontaneously at the age of four, and I knew I was

sort of an artist at that point,” he says. “My mom was really enthusiastic about what I was doing, and she enrolled me in the Laguna Beach School of Art and Design. There were many students, and it operated at the time as an adult education art school. It also gave the local Laguna professional artists an opportunity to make some side money teaching and it was a good experience because there were still a lot of good artists teaching there, and there still is now.”

“However, when I was in my early teens, I would always be told to not be an artist as one would not make any money, which was true. I was a pretty smart kid, so I went to college and then I had a lot of jobs like bartending, working in hotels and a tire yard for a while. I realized early on that I wasn’t going to succeed in the corporate structure or even just in a simple job.”

Although he admired noted watercolor artists like John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer and Charles Demuth in the

beginning, he gravitated towards artists working with oil-based paint as he went through art school and found that the medium suited his style.

“I made some beautiful watercolors, but I was sort of swimming upstream,” he says. “When I created oil paintings, I was inspired by the French school paintings of the 19th century, the generation just before the Impressionists, which included Camille Corot and Gustave Courbet as well as older masters like Rubens and El Greco.”

The work Whitney puts out today spins together his personal tastes and life experiences. Delicate shades and sensibilities get extra definition through bolder textures achieved with oil paints. And beyond paintbrushes and other tools, his intuition and abilities to connect with nature and viewers who appreciate it help him both establish and transcend his place in American art— adding a touch of richness to the California art scene in the process.

No-Compromise CANNED WINES

By Fran Miller

Irecently took a line-up of canned wines, rather than a bottle, to a friend’s home as a hostess gift. The immediate reaction was skepticism. Canned wine? Are you kidding? But after popping open each and taste-testing, my recipient joined in my enthusiasm. Canned wine is the real deal. Sure, there may or may not be an ageability-indicating vintage denoted on the label, but it’s really no secret that canned wines are meant to be relished in the here and now.

Canned wines are convenient and easy to enjoy during activities at the beach, at picnics, or really any outdoor activity where glass is ill-advised. And lucky for wine lovers, high quality means no compromise. Here are some of our current favorites:

High quality means no compromise with these five tasty canned wines that are fun, convenient and easy to bring along to your activities on the beach, to a picnic or a tailgate party.

WEST + WILDER

The West + Wilder style can be summed up in one word: beautiful—both the taste and the matte can design, the illustrations of which depict the native plants from the West Coast states where the brand’s grapes are sourced. The wines are bright, crisp, clean and refreshing, delivering deliciousness straight out of the can.

A collaboration with C. Mondavi & Family, West + Wilder was founded in 2018 by friends Matt Allan and Kenny Rochford with a commitment to sustainability. The duo is dedicated to giving back via a partnership with 1% For The Planet, supporting the preservation of wild spaces that inspire the wines. The aluminum canned wines (red, white, rosé, sparkling rosé and sparkling white) are convenient for all the activities where glass is not—poolside, beach, golf course, spa, concerts and more.

PAPER PLANES FLIGHT SCHOOL ROSÉ OF PINOT NOIR

This lightly sparkling Rosé of Pinot Noir from Paper Planes Wine Company is made with the same attention to detail that proprietors Laura and Kyle Gabriel pay to their bottled wines—a Rosé of Pinot Noir, Hidden Track Grenache and Hidden Track Pinot Noir. The husband and wife team start by sourcing Sonoma Coast vineyard fruit that provides a great balance of texture, crisp acidity and mouthwatering freshness.

The grapes are lightly pressed and fermented in neutral oak barrels before the addition of

a light spritz that makes it extra refreshing. Sneak this one into the movie theater—it pairs perfectly with popcorn.

BROC CELLARS LOVE RED, LOVE WHITE, LOVE ROSÉ, LOVE SPARKLING

Berkeley is the last place you’d expect to find a winery, but Broc Cellars has made the city its home for nearly ten years. Known for his creativity and restraint in making approachable wines in a natural way, proprietor and winemaker Chris Brockway is known for single varietal offerings, but his Love Series blends are a great introduction to his streamlined style.

Love Red is a chuggable blend of heritage, dry-farmed, organic California grapes—a mix of carignan, valdiguie and syrah. The unfiltered and unfined Love White, an organic blend of marsanne, grenache blanc, roussanne and picpoul, looks like spun honey and tastes like liquid sunshine. Love Rosé is a rich, watermelon-flavored wine made mostly from valdiguié with a touch of zinfandel and trousseau. And the new Love Sparkling is a blend of chenin blanc and muscat that tastes of lemon, lime, pineapple and green apple.

AVALINE

Beloved for its delicious flavor and a clean profile, Avaline canned wines now come in perfectly proportioned cans. This brand created by global icon and wellness author Cameron Diaz and her good friend Katherine Power features vegan-friendly wines made with organic grapes. Each offers

a lower ABV and is free of unwanted extras like sugars, colors, and concentrates.

Avaline White is a dry Spanish wine offering a crisp flavor with a fresh finish. Fruit-forward and French, Avaline Rosé offers a light and fresh mouthfeel with flavors of zesty melon to bring the wine’s light pink hues to life. Ideal for any time, this one is perfect for spending an afternoon in the sun with your best friend.

UNE FEMME WINES PIQUETTE PINOT & PIQUETTE CHARDONNAY

It’s a woman’s world at Une Femme Wines, where sister-brother proprietors Jen and Zach Pelka work with female winemakers, investors, distributors, designers and wine retailers in making, promoting, and selling their canned Piquette Pinot and the Piquette Chardonnay. (Piquette is an age-old style invented as a way to utilize skins and stems for a second pressing—true upcycling.) Every can sold contributes to charities that positively impact the lives of women.

The stainless-steel-aged, naturally farmed, Mendocino County Three Streams

Vineyard Chardonnay Piquette is bright and zippy, and best served chilled or over ice. The Pinot Noir Piquette is a blend of organic, biodynamically-farmed pinot noir and pinot meunier from the sun-drenched Van der Kamp Vineyard atop Sonoma Mountain and is perfect for weekend picnics, beachside brunches and happy hour hangs. The Pelkas recommend this one with avocado-topped burgers, corn on the cob, and pesto pasta salads.

Joyful JEWELRY

Love comes first. A little blue box from Tiffany is a close second.

By Dena Roché

For 186 years, jewelry from Tiffany & Co. has said ‘love’—and this year, the ICONIC brand has curated a collection of baubles and bling that will remind your special someone of your love, all year long.

TIFFANY & CO. SCHLUMBERGER SIXTEEN STONE RING

French designer Jean Schlumberger helped create some of Tiffany’s most iconic designs of the 20th century including the Sixteen Stone Ring. The intricate ring alternates diamonds on a platinum band resulting in a wearable sculpture. $10,900

Photography courtesy of Tiffany & Co.

TIFFANY LOCK BANGLE

Inspired by inclusivity, the Tiffany Lock Bangle is designed to be worn by both women and men (hint, hint ladies). The 18K Rose Gold bracelet with hand-set diamond accents is the newest addition to the collection. The bangle’s unique clasp is based on the closure of a traditional padlock. $10,000

ELSA PERETTI DIAMONDS BY THE YARD

Designer Elsa Peretti revolutionized how women wear diamonds when Tiffany’s debuted her Diamonds by the Yard collection in 1974. The simple, elegant design took diamonds from special occasions to everyday accessories. The latest addition to the collection is the Sprinkle Necklace in Platinum. Featuring a fine chain set with round brilliant diamonds intended to look like drops of light, it can be worn solo or with other pendants in the collection.

$38,500

TIFFANY TRUE ENGAGEMENT RING

If you’re planning on going down on one knee, guarantee a “yes!” with the most ICONIC engagement ring in the world. The clean design lets the round brilliant diamond steal the show.

PALOMA PICASSO OLIVE LEAF CUFF

Since 1979, fashion designer Paloma Picasso, the daughter of Pablo Picasso, has partnered with Tiffany’s to fuse fashion and art into statement pieces. The 18K gold Olive Leaf Cuff is a bold bracelet perfect for the woman with a classic style. Inspired by olive branches, the cuff symbolizes peace and abundance. $17,500

TIFFANY VICTORIA EARRINGS

These platinum earrings feature unique cuts of marquise diamonds designed to highlight the fire and radiance that is the hallmark of a Tiffany diamond. The diamond’s shape lets each stone play off each other’s shine to create a sparkling ear bauble. With different sizes, the Victoria earrings fit many budgets. From $8,300

LET THEM EAT CAKE

Part French, part Japanese, Lady M

Cakes are 100 percent decadent.

By Sabrina Azadi

Photography courtesy of Lady M

Marie-Antoinette may have said “Let them eat cake,” but if Lady M cakes were around, the last queen of France, known for her extravagance, might have instead said, “Let them eat Lady M cakes.”

Sleek, creamy and unforgettable, there’s nothing like a Lady M cake. And whether you’re celebrating a birthday, special occasion or you fancy a slice of cake just because, a Lady M cake makes the occasion just a touch more glam and sweeter, but not too much sweeter.

We recently had the chance to ask Ken Romaniszyn, CEO of Lady M some questions.

ICONIC LIFE: How would you describe Lady M cakes to someone who has never tasted one?

Ken Romaniszyn: Lady M is a bakery that specializes in creating confections that are elegant and decadent but not too sweet. It marries French pastry techniques with Japanese sensibilities to create ICONIC desserts that are a touch sweet and memorable.

I often joke that your first bite of a Mille Crêpes cake is like your first kiss – you’ll never forget it.

What is the main concept behind it?

At Lady M, we focus on producing the highest quality cakes by sourcing the best ingredients from all over the world and serving them with Omotenashi, which means “Enlightened Hospitality”.

Why have they become so intriguing?

I believe the Mille Crêpes is intriguing because it’s recognizable but unique at the same time. Everyone knows what a crêpe is, but they’ve never heard of a crêpe cake.

Once they take their first bite of Mille Crêpes cakes they are surprised because the cake is light, elegant, airy and luxurious. How many layers does each cake have?

Each Mille Crêpes cake has roughly 20 layers of crêpes with pastry crème between each layer.

Simply, tell us what is unique about the way they are made?

Our Mille Crêpes cakes are an elaborate labor of love—each painstakingly built from scratch. They are built over a two-day period. The base consists of 20 paper-thin crêpes layered with a combination of pastry crème and whipped crème.

Although it sounds simple, the pastry chefs at Lady M have perfected their craft – the crepes can’t be too thick or thin nor can the pastry crème be too heavy.

Your company rarely advertises Lady M cakes, is that on purpose?

We’ve been fortunate that Lady M fans have helped spread the word from the Upper East Side all the way to the far corners of the globe. Once people learn about Lady M, we are fortunate to be able to stay connected with them via various social media platforms. Social media has given us a two-way platform to not only reach our customers but to learn from them as well.

How many cakes are sold in a day? Worldwide?

Of course, it varies by the day and the season, but on average we will produce 3,000 to 4,000 cakes globally.

What is your favorite flavor and why?

Matcha. Matcha by itself can be earthy and bitter but the Matcha we import from Japan is perfectly balanced to create a dessert that is rich in flavor with a hint of sweetness. In Japan, we call that umami, which means the “essence of deliciousness that deepens flavor.”

Why is cake important in so many cultures?

In almost every culture around the world, people celebrate their birthdays with a cake. Some of the earliest memories that people will have are their birthdays when all their loved ones are singing happy birthday to them with candles on a cake.

From an early age, people have an emotional attachment to cakes because it reminds them of all their past special occasions. At Lady M, we want to ensure that all special occasions are just a little extra special.

Tell us about your background.

I grew up in the family restaurant business. My mother owns Japanese restaurants so during the school months I would work in and around the kitchen since I was in grade school. I would spend my summers in Tokyo with my grandmother. It’s my grandmother who taught me to appreciate the delicate and precise art of desserts in Japan.

I attended the French Culinary Institute (now ICC) in New York City to learn about the art of pastries.

What is your first cake memory?

My first cake memory would be eating strawberry shortcake with my grandmother in Japan. I can remember being amazed that something can taste so light and delicate but not too sweet.

Strawberry shortcake was the first thing I would ask to eat when I landed in Japan.

Did you ever think you would do this?

Honestly, after working in the family restaurant business for so long, I wanted nothing to do with the food business. I worked in many other industries; however, life has a way of bringing you back to your roots.

I have the hospitality DNA running through

my body and I couldn’t think of doing anything else now. I’m so grateful that the Lady M team and I get to make thousands of people happy on a daily basis.

Where does the name Lady M come

from?

We are named Lady M because the letter M carries a lot of positive synergy for the company. Our goal was and always will be a cake boutique worthy of lining the streets of Madison Avenue with other luxurious boutiques.

The original boutique is on Madison Avenue and 78th Street. One of the original owner’s names is Emi which has the M sound.

Your stores have a very simple clean aesthetic, why is that?

The cakes are the star of Lady M. Every element that you see in a Lady M Cake

Boutique is designed to bring your attention to the cakes. We want to draw people in with our aesthetics and have them feel the Lady M experience through our cakes.

Do you deliver?

Yes, we deliver throughout the continental U.S. through our own website: ladym.com In addition, we deliver locally through our partnerships with Caviar and Chowbus from boutiques in New York, California, Boston, Chicago and Washington DC. Chowbus also delivers from our Seattle location.

Tell us something that most people don’t know about you?

My wife, Sumera Romaniszyn, and I love to travel the world to experience new local dishes. When we discover something new we like, we always ask ourselves if we can make this into a cake somehow.

What’sthePASS WORD?

While starting a new project in Long Beach, the last thing Interior Designer Mindy Laven expected to find was a speakeasy hidden behind a pivoting wall.

By Kaitlyn Bieckel

Photography by Christopher Lee Foto

“The speakeasy dates back to prohibition times and even retains the original liquor labels from the 1930s on the walls along with handwritten notes scribed on the walls from past guests,” Laven says. “Where it was located was slated to be the new kitchen, so we revised the floorplan to save the prohibition room by opening it up from the side and making it into a speakeasy.”

“Antique mirrored tiles were used on the ceiling of this room to create drama and a nod back to the original house,” she adds.

The project, called The Cedar House, was a collaboration between Laven and Alison White Homes, with Watson Bros as the builder and Architect Steven Sennikoff.

“Jenni Kayne was kind enough to bring in some of the furnishings for us,” Laven notes.

A prohibition-era speakeasy was found inside this charismatic home built in the 1930s.

The beautiful 4000-square-feet period home, built in the 1930s, features a Georgian architectural style with five bedrooms and four bathrooms. At the start of the project, the home was completely original except for one bathroom.

“It was almost as if it was frozen in time. The project was quite extensive,” Laven says. “Most areas were completely gutted. We retained as much of the original character of the home as possible. Stair railings, wall moldings and a hidden speakeasy were all kept and renovated.”

Laven’s goal was to update the floor plan and design in a way that reflected and honored the original home but in a livable, functional and contemporary way.

“There were many, many custom details that we found necessary to add to live up to the provenance of the house,” Laven says. “Where we could, we left the original vent covers, which were quite lovely.”

“For the wallpaper in the speakeasy, we used a pattern that depicted monkeys smoking cigars and drinking cocktails and it seemed like the perfect tongue-in-cheek nod to the purpose of the room,” she remarks.

Keeping with the prohibition-time theming, the speakeasy's secret door is accessed through a bookcase.

For the rest of the home, Laven drew inspiration from the checkerboard style flooring at the entry.

“The black-and-white checkerboard floor at the entry feels so signature to the house. The perfect jumping-off point for the rest of the design,” she says. “Beautiful white oak wood flooring throughout, traditional Clarence House wallpaper in the entry, marble counters in the kitchen and custom-built cabinetry were big-budget items.”

The exterior of this home also received its fair share of the budget with new landscaping, a sparkling pool, a new garage and a custom portico at the front door.

“The majority of the budget went to updating systems—the not so fun stuff—and new doors and windows,” Laven says. “This house needed everything from new plumbing, electrical, sewer, air conditioning, heating, to a new roof! We spent over $150,000 on the stuff you can’t see before we could even got to the fun stuff. The doors and windows were another $100,000+, but we wanted to do them correctly to maintain the integrity of the house.”

While honoring the history behind the home, it’s been transformed into a modern, drink aficionado’s paradise. No password required.

By Kaitlyn Beickel

Photos courtesy of Christina Gandolfo, CGandolfo Pictures, Inc.

Inspired and delish… the talk of the town this month.

JOEY Newport Beach recently made its debut in the heart of Orange County at Fashion Island, the fourth California location for the brand, boasting a modern look and coastal influences.

“Last year we announced JOEY would be coming to Newport Beach, and today we are delighted to let the community know that we will be officially opening our doors,” Layne Krienke, president of JOEY Restaurant Group, says.

“The residents of California have embraced us so warmly, and to be able to expand further—and join the discerning Newport Beach community—is a very exciting opportunity,” she adds.

The casual-but-refined restaurant was designed with light brick, warm wood, stone and leather to create a natural and warm atmosphere. The full interior dining room and lounge open to the patio, which features retractable sections of roof, providing the option for coverage or to open fully to the sky.

A large fire pit creates an inviting lounge area while waiting for a table, or guests have the option to stay and enjoy drinks fireside on a custom concrete and teak circular bench.

The restaurant interior flaunts a Bocci light installation spanning over the dining area, with a showcase kitchen that sits adjacent to a stunning stone bar, complete with retractable TVs and a custom bronze ceiling fixture above the bar.

Beyond the modern design, JOEY Newport Beach exhibits a gallery wall that highlights several hand-picked local artists, showcasing a true taste of Orange County.

Tony Diaz, head chef at JOEY Newport Beach, prepares a diverse menu featuring tantalizing dishes like ravioli bianco and hand-made hummus. Home to an excellent sushi program, including exquisite flame-seared salmon sushi, guests visiting JOEY Newport Beach will have no shortage of globally-inspired dishes.

“As a chef I’ve always been inspired by the high-quality fresh produce available at your fingertips in the great state of California” Matthew Stowe, Executive Director of Culinary for the JOEY Restaurant Group, says. “The JOEY menu has immensely evolved since we first came to California to open JOEY Woodland Hills in 2015, and it has been an exciting challenge to enhance and develop new dishes that continue to celebrate our globally-inspired cuisine, while staying true to the restaurant’s roots.”

In addition to its globally-inspired cuisine, JOEY Newport Beach offers a diverse selection of cocktails, including JOEY Supers, a twist on the classic highball with signature lemon and lime slush.

JOEY is also debuting its Reserve wine list, an exclusive menu curated by group Sommelier Jason Yamasaki, featuring an elevated selection of bottles. As well as great cocktails and wine, JOEY offers exceptional spirits, including the unique and limited-edition JOEY Reserve Peach Brûlée, a bourbon whisky created by the JOEY bar team in collaboration with Maker’s Mark Distillery.

Every and Kitchenthe

Check out these unique, award-winning custom kitchen and bath designs.

thing Sink

The SoCal chapter of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recently celebrated the pinnacle of design in the kitchen and bath industry. The winners, announced at “A Moment in Time” gala in December 2022, include top industry professionals who are hitting the mark with outstanding residential interior designs.

Read on to see the most ICONIC kitchen and bath designs from the 2022 SoCal NKBA Award winners:

FIRST PLACE KITCHEN

Cali Coastal Homestead by Megan Siason

SECOND PLACE KITCHEN Beautifully Bronzed by Laurie Haefele

THIRD PLACE KITCHEN

Red Arrow by Donna Johnson

STUDENT DESIGN

FIRST PLACE BAR

Party in the Front; Business in the Back by Anne Michaelsen

FIRST PLACE OUTDOOR KITCHEN

Malibu Outdoor Kitchen Paradise by Laurie Haefele

Coastal Modern Retreat Kitchen

Remodel by Isabele Dargel

FIRST PLACE PRIMARY BATH Parisian Dream Primary Bathroom by Huma Sulaiman

SECOND PLACE PRIMARY BATH Primary Bathroom by Melina Antido

SECOND PLACE SECONDARY BATH Family Spa by Marbé Briceno

FIRST PLACE SPECIALTY SPACE

FIRST PLACE

SECONDARY BATH

THIRD PLACE PRIMARY BATH

Mud Room by Melina Antido

Cali Coastal Homestead by Megan Siason

Cali Coastal Primary Bath by Megan Siason

ICONIC CITY GUIDE DANA

By Kaitlyn Beickel

Named after Richard Henry Dana Jr., a Harvard-trained lawyer, seaman and author of the sea journal, “Two Years Before the Mast,” Dana Point is a quintessential coastal California city. From the prominent coastal bluffs to the Dana Point Harbor that’s home to more than 2,500 boats and 50 shops and restaurants, it’s not hard to find a reason to love the southern Orange County city.

Like most visitors to the area, as soon as I arrived in Dana Point for the first time, I was struck by the laid-back vibes and stunning ocean views, finding beauty all around me. From the lush greenery to the adorable squirrels running up every tree, to the gracious welcome from the locals, I felt right at home in Dana Point.

With so many great options for accommodations, dining and fun things to do, you may require more than just one visit to Dana Point to get the most out of the ICONIC city.

WHERE TO STAY

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

Perched atop the ICONIC Dana Point cliffs is Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, providing unparalleled views of the harbor below and an enticing central location within the city. Adorned with sophisticated-yet-beachy decor, my room at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott was spacious and inviting and complete with all of the amenities I could imagine. I enjoyed my morning coffee from the balcony of my comfortable guest room, watching the calming ocean that is reflected in the decor throughout the resort, and in the fine food at Outer Reef.

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort

Inspired by both the sand and the sea, sitting atop a 150-foot seaside bluff, the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort offers 175 acres of luxury seaside living. The AAA FiveDiamond resort is complete with ocean views and ocean-inspired decor, with plush bedding and spacious rooms that help you get the most out of your stay in the coastal town.

Photography courtesy of Visit Dana Point

ICONIC:

Blue Lantern Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

Overlooking Dana Point Harbor is the ICONIC Blue Lantern Inn, a small, 29-room luxury hotel with thoughtfully designed guest rooms and amenities. Each afternoon, the Inn provides a wine and cheese hour that you can enjoy while taking in the stunning ocean views, plus a chef-prepared breakfast for two each morning. The Inn also offers bikes to borrow, so you can leisurely explore all that Dana Point has to offer.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

You’ll find Dana Point’s Ritz-Carlton atop of a coastal bluff overlooking the ocean at Laguna Beach. Adorned with local artwork and an artistic surfboard display, The RitzCarlton embraces the culture of Dana Point, sharing the history and natural beauty of the area through expert-led eco-adventures, like whale watching and e-bike tours.

Photography courtesy of Visit Dana Point

WHERE TO DINE

Outer Reef

Chef John Tesar is behind the excellent cuisine at Outer Reef, the coastal seafood restaurant at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, and he has impressive accolades to back up his culinary expertise. Tesar was awarded with a Michelin Star for his outstanding work at Knife & Spoon at The Ritz Carlton Grand Lakes in Orlando, and he is a five-time James Beard Award nominee for “Best Southwest Chef.” Featuring Chef Tesar’s interpretation of coastal seafood, guests of Outer Reef enjoy inventive dishes like Pounded Dry-Aged Tuna, Black Cod Milanese and Kimchi Glazed Pacific Halibut, plus a generous (and delicious) breakfast buffet in the mornings.

Glasspar

While you’re in Dana Point, you can’t miss trying the best of the best when it comes to seafood. Glasspar is a refined seafood hall with a creative menu and preparation by Chef Rob Willson, putting his extensive experience—13 years working with the Ritz Carlton and serving as the Executive Chef of The Montage since 2010—to good use. Wednesdays through Sundays, Glasspar offers the opportunity to bring fresh fish home with you through their first-rate fish market.

Photography courtesy of Visit Dana Point, Glasspar

Coastal Kitchen

If you are a history-buff (or just like really good seafood), I recommend you take time to enjoy a meal at the Coastal Kitchen, which is located in the first commercial building in Dana Point, dating back to the 1920s. The comfortable and friendly restaurant offers beautiful views of the harbor and choice dining for lunch, dinner and drinks.

Giana Bakery & Provisions

Whether you prefer sweet or savory, Giana Bakery & Provisions has something for every taste. The bakery has wafting smells of freshly-baked bread, made using only responsibly-sourced and organic ingredients. Giana also offers sandwiches, salads and sides, traditional Italian meats and cheeses, as well as imported wines, and a full-service dining room with tasty pizzettas and decadent pastas.

Craft House

You’ll find Craft House right off of the Pacific Coast Highway, offering gourmet dishes and drinks under the direction of Chef Blake Mellgren, who was born and raised in southern Orange County. Chef Mellgren opened Craft House in March 2016 with a focus on sourcing local and sustainable seafood, and a commitment to excellent dining.

WHAT TO DO

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

What better way to spend an afternoon than by boarding a boat, exploring the ocean and looking for whales and dolphins? I encourage you to do just that with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, located in Dana Point’s harbor. I joined the 51-year-old whale watching company for a tour during my stay in Dana Point, and while we didn’t see any large whales, I was not disappointed by the numerous dolphins and the incredible facts I learned from the on-board naturalist. Dolphins are in the area year-round, and do not migrate, so you’re likely to spot at least a few of them during your tour.

Captain Dave’s Private Charters

If you want to watch whales in style, Captain Dave’s offers private charters (including a private yacht that seats six) for up to 24 guests at a time. By exploring with a private charter, you have control over the speed of the boat, so you can stop and focus on dolphins or whales for as long as you’d like to. Plus, the only other guests on the boat are ones that you have personally invited.

Captain Dave’s also has boats with underwater glass-viewing pods, so you can watch the sea creatures from all of the angles.

iHeartYoga

You may have done yoga before, but have you ever done yoga on a paddleboard?

iHeartYoga offers just that, with its unique 90-minute paddle and yoga workshop. With the water moving underneath you while you pose, you’ll engage muscles that you don’t normally. If paddleboarding isn’t your thing, iHeartYoga also offers classes on yachts and in its studio.

Westwind Sailing

Set sail for adventure with Westwind Sailing, which opened in 1987 with a focus on safety and fun. Sign up for a private lesson to learn how to sail safely or get a refresher course if you have sailed before. This isn’t just for adults—kids can enroll in classes with Westwind Sailing, too, so bring the whole family!

Photography courtesy of Visit Dana Point

NIGHT LIFE

StillWater Spirits & Sounds

End an eventful day at Dana Point Harbor with great drinks and food at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. Chef Javier Romero prepares locally-sourced produce, meat and fish with his tantalizing coastal-inspired menu. With a wide selection of beers on tap, wines and spirits, there’s sure to be libations that suit your tastes.

Laguna Cliffs Local Music

The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is not just a great choice of accommodations for your stay but also a source for entertainment, with live local music In the OverVue Lounge & Deck, which has excellent ocean views. You’ll find a live local band playing every Wednesday through Sunday night during the Sunset & Libations Happy Hour.

Photography courtesy of Visit Dana Point, StillWater Spirits & Sounds

Zen SENSE

Martha and Kozo Shimano’s modern estate blends Japanese aesthetics with an organic appeal.

By Nora Burba Trulsson

As Martha and Kozo Shimano inched toward semi-retirement and became empty nesters, they began thinking about building a home that would reflect their personalities and this new phase in their lives, as well as embody their aesthetic preferences.

“We wanted to be closer to the ocean,” Martha recalls, “and we wanted something that reflected Kozo’s Japanese heritage. My favorite architect is Frank Lloyd Wright, so I wanted a nod to him, too. Above all, we wanted an earthy, functional house that emphasized indoor-outdoor living.”

The resulting 8,400-square-foot home in Dana Point has views of the Pacific and exudes an organic, yet modern sensibility that lives easy for the couple and flows well for family gatherings and entertaining. To achieve this vision, the Shimanos put together a design team that included interior designer Anita Dawson, landscape designer Kohei Owatari and builder Andrew Patterson.

Photography by Manolo Langis

With architecture handled by Costa Mesa’s Brandon Architects, builder Patterson crafted the two-level home on the sloping site in a newly developed custom home community. The main level includes the great room, kitchen, dining area and master suite, while the lower level has a TV lounge, bar, wine cellar and gym that access an open-air courtyard. Glass and metal give the home its modern edge, while rammed earth walls and rubble stone accents add an organic touch.

“The rammed earth walls run along almost every exterior wall of the house,” Patterson says. “The walls are made up of a mixture of sand, gravel, clay and a stabilizer that is compressed into layers. We contrasted the rammed earth walls with brass windows and doors that are designed to patina and weather over time.”

San Diego-based interior designer Dawson was challenged to reflect the couple’s personalities and to marry it to the architecture.

“The house has many massive organic forms and shapes,” Dawson says, “and there are a lot of non-90-degree angles. I wanted to give a nod to Kozo’s heritage without being heavy-handed and to incorporate Martha’s love of color and playful personality.”

Against a backdrop that includes wood floors and Venetian plaster walls, Dawson took her palette from the rammed earth walls.

“I went for sludgy tones,” she explains, “colors that are reminiscent of water, moss and stones, with black accents. We wanted the interior to have a wabi-sabi aesthetic, where nothing is exactly perfect and permanent.”

In the living room, which opens up onto a view-grabbing patio, Dawson floated two rust-hued Roche Bobois leather sofas on a watery-hued custom area rug, while the adjacent dining area features a large-scale walnut slab table set on a steel base. The kitchen, which Martha calls the heart of the home, includes natural walnut cabinets contrasted with hand-troweled concrete surfaces.

The master suite, however, takes much of its inspiration from Japan. “Martha and Kozo were inspired by a trip to Kyoto,” explains Dawson. “They loved the look of the Four Seasons Hotel where they stayed.” The designer incorporated panels of a hand-painted, cherry tree-patterned wall covering, contrasted with a leather headboard, behind the bed. In the master bath, a deep Japanese soaking tub, reached by a teak step, has views of the ocean.

Dawson also incorporated playful touches, including a Dedon swing on the master suite patio and cat-shaped bean bag chairs in the lounge, as an homage to the couple’s pets.

Outdoors, Owatari played up the home’s earthy materials and Japanese influences through hardscape and plantings. The landscape designer, whose firm, Modern Zen Garden, is based in San Diego County, used random-cut floating granite pavers set contrasted by black beach pebbles to lead visitors from the street to the front door, where a hand-chiseled stone wall and a 400year-old millstone add a sense of gravitas to the setting.

For the pool patio, with its impressive ocean vistas, Owatari created two fire pits, one carved into a natural boulder and the other made of black quartz. A large stone Japanese lantern and a water basin fountain add to the landscape’s serene appeal. Plant materials were chosen to withstand Southern California’s salt air, dry climate and alkaline soil, and include ginkgos, acacias and Japanese cherry blossom trees, as well as gardenias, star jasmine, azaleas, Indian hawthorn and lantana to add fragrance and color.

Now complete, Martha and Koto have a house that reflects their tastes and lifestyle.

“It’s a very relaxing place,” Martha says, “and there’s always a wonderful sense of surprise when you walk through the house.”

Surprisingly Sustainable STAYS

Explore the earth while you save the earth—add these sustainable resorts to your bucket list.

By Sam Micatrotto

While traveling as a concept is increasingly held to a higher standard for ecofriendly activity, many hotels are now adopting more sustainable habits to give back to Mother Earth. And, according to Booking.com’s “2021 Sustainable Travel Report,” 72 percent of travelers think travel companies should offer more sustainable choices.

So if you’re one of those jetsetters looking to add some sustainability to your next vacation, add these energy-efficient or ecofriendly hotels to your list:

SAVE THE REEF

Aqua-Aston Hospitality, an operating business of Marriott Vacations Worldwide, has established itself as a leader in conscious travel. In an effort to keep not only its guests but also the ocean safe, Aqua-Aston partnered with Little Hands Hawaii—a Hawaii based, family-run small business—to provide all hotel guests at its 20 plus locations with reef-friendly sunscreen. More than 6,000 tons of sunscreen enters the ocean in Hawaii each year, and as a result reef bleaching can occur, causing coral to ultimately die.

Another Hawaiian hotel that is dedicated to reef safety is The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Honolulu. Before heading out to the pool or one of Hawaii’s beautiful beaches, hotel guests are encouraged to lather up with Raw Elements sunscreen, a reef-safe alternative to SPF, courtesy of complimentary dispensers on the property.

SUSTAINABLE STRUCTURES

Cool down after a day in the sun during your next trip to Turks and Caicos at the luxurious Rock House resort. This resort combines sustainability and architectural design in the form of greywater harvesting, natural ventilation to cool down the resort and a beautiful landscape that consists only of local species of plants. And, a view almost as stunning as the crystal blue waters, the resort itself is a sight to see. Located at the base of a limestone cliff, the Rock House offers a stylish beach club and jetty, which extends 100 feet over the water, allowing guests to sail the waters on yachts and excursion boats to really make the most of their getaway.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT POOLS

Any time you check in for a stay at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa, you’re bound to feel connected to the planet. The property is surrounded by beautiful desert scenery with a breathtaking view of the McDowell Mountains—perfect for anyone looking to get away and reconnect with nature.

There’s no doubt you’ll want to spend some time at the resort’s 2.5-acre water playground, an oasis made up of 10 swimming pools, poolside cabanas, a Grotto bar and a three-story high-speed water slide that the hotel recently enhanced to become more energy efficient and mindful of water usage. The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale was also rated #5 Best Value of 26 Green Hotels in Scottsdale on Tripadvisor.

If your travels take you to the Dominican Republic, consider Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, the only operating resort in Michès. This all-inclusive luxury resort thought of it all when it came to sustainable efforts. Their adults-only Zen pool, tucked away in the Emerald Jungle, is naturally-filtered by plants—as the water passes through the plants’ roots and soil, the elements work their magic to clean the pool water, no harsh chemicals required!

An eco-friendly hotel pool isn’t the only thing that makes Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda a sustainable stay. Their employees’ uniforms are made from recycled plastic (using approximately 40 percent less energy consumption than polyester production), they source coffee, cacao and produce from local farms, have an on-site “community” garden to educate guests on planting, recycling and composting and they banned single-use plastics.

PLANT-FRIENDLY

It’s not uncommon to see hotels that allow pets, and many even make the stay just as special for them as their human companions. But, what about people who want to travel with their plants? The world’s first plant-friendly hotel, Elwood Hotel & Suites, located in Lexington, Ky., has those folks covered. Guests who book the plant-friendly package will stay in a Gardener Premier room, decorated with live plants from a local nursery partner, and equipped with three windows to let in natural light. They’ll also receive a complimentary potted succulent from a local greenhouse and locally-made botanical toiletries.

SUSTAINABLE EATING

Located in Hotel Clio in Denver, Colo., Chef Richard Sandoval’s Pan-Latin restaurant Toro promotes sustainability that you can taste. To celebrate Earth Day, Toro recently launched a plant-based campaign to create some buzz about the importance of bees. If you love some fresh, local honey, you’re in luck! On the rooftop of Hotel Clio there’s a beehive where the hotel makes its own local honey to share with its guests and the community. Currently, there are two beehives that each house about 40,000 Carniolan bees, which produced approximately 45 gallons of honey this summer.

POSITIVE ENERGY

Ironically, an old Sinclair Oil building in Fort Worth, Texas, has more recently been repurposed as The Sinclair, the first energy efficient hotel in the world to power itself through ethernet cables. By doing so, the building’s energy consumption is reduced by more than 30 percent. Another first—the hotel’s backup power runs on the world’s first UL 924 lithium iron battery. In the event of a power outage, this battery can power the building for up to three hours—and takes up less space than a typical diesel generator.

And if guests want to help contribute to The Sinclar’s sustainable mission, all they have to do is workout in the on-site fitness center. The gym’s bikes and weight machines all help power the hotel through its aforementioned ethernet-based system.

NOTREReimag

DAME ining

The world watched despairingly when the medieval cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris caught fire in 2019. It was inconceivable that this beloved French icon, completed in 1345, might so easily be destroyed. But like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, Notre-Dame’s restoration steadily progresses with a hope that portions can reopen in 2024, just in time for the Olympic games.

Taking the lead on Notre-Dame’s exterior refurbishment is Belgian landscape architect Bas Smets who is working collaboratively with architectural and urban planner GRAU and heritage expert Neufville-Gayet Architectes. Smets, who received his master’s degree in Architecture and Civil Engineering from the University of Leuven and his master’s in Landscape from the University of Geneva, won the extremely competitive appointment to redevelop Notre-Dame’s and Île de la Cité’s public spaces.

By Fran Miller

Smet’s plan reimagines the historic cathedral’s relationship to its surroundings and includes extending and unifying the exterior with sustainable, climate-resisting plantings, creation of a promenade and park along the Seine that affords views of the Parisian skyline, shaded seating areas and a central fountain feature that will occasionally trickle across the forecourt’s hot pavement in warmer weather, mimicking a light summer rain and providing semi-natural coolant.

ICONIC LIFE was fortunate to chat with the extremely busy Smets to learn more about his process.

With an eye towards sustainability, Brusselsbased landscape designer Bas Smets intends to create a better NotreDame experience for both tourists and Parisians.

Photography courtesy of Studio Alma for BBS

IL: When and how did you become interested in landscape design?

I have always been interested in how we live on this planet and how we share this space with other living organisms. Life on the planet is a question of space. During my studies I came to understand that it is landscape architects who shape the environments we live in. Being formed as an engineer as well as a landscape architect has allowed me to imagine new types of landscapes that help integrate nature into our man-made environments that are our cities.

IL: The competition for this appointment must have been fierce. Do you know with how many you were competing?

A large number of both French and international offices had replied to the candidacy organized by the city of Paris. Out of these candidates four teams were selected to participate in the competition that took 10 months.

IL: How did it feel to be selected?

It was great to be selected among the most renowned French landscape offices to compete for this public commission. Winning it was simply amazing. It is such a great challenge and opportunity to add a layer to the rich history of this place. It felt as if our years-long research into climatic public space had been rewarded.

IL: Why do you think you won this assignment? What was it about your entry that ‘struck’ the selection committee?

I had assembled an interdisciplinary team together with the French architects GRAU and NGA. We proposed to rethink the emblematic public spaces around the Notre-Dame as a sequence of climatic atmospheres. Victor Hugo called the Île de la Cité the “cradle of Paris.” For 800 years Notre-Dame has been a privileged witness to a city in constant transformation. Rethinking the public space around the Notre-Dame was, for us, the opportunity to imagine the type of public spaces a city needs in the 21st century . Our climatic approach responded to the ambition of the city of Paris to become more resilient to the effects of the climate crisis.

IL: What were the existing (pre-fire) Notre Dame exteriors and gardens like, and how do you intend to change them?

The surroundings had been refurbished in the seventies, when an underground car park was built in front of the Cathedral. The plans for a renewal of the public space had been in the making and were accelerated after the fire. We propose to rethink the five major urban figures that were present around the Notre-Dame: Parvis, Placette, Promenade, Berges and Square. Each figure is recomposed with a double intent—making them climate resilient and allowing more uses by both visitors and inhabitants.

Photography courtesy of Studio Alma for BBS

Photography courtesy of Studio Alma for BBS

IL: What is the most markedly different aspect of your design, and what are your general objectives?

We placed climate resilience as our priority, while transforming the historical typologies that characterize such a quality to the public spaces of Paris. By making these spaces adapted to a changing climate, we guarantee their use all year round, taking into account rising temperatures foreseen in the coming years. At the same time, we kept the distinction between what is underground and what is above ground, which allows us to keep the public space free of any functional elements. The former parking garage will be transformed into a visitor center that opens towards the Seine and that is accessible via two generous staircases.

The project intends to create a better experience for both the tourists and the Parisians. Tourists will be invited to make a tour of the Cathedral, discovering the beautiful eastern facade and its connection with the Seine river. The Parisians will discover generous lawns to sit on in between the Seine and the southern facade of the Notre-Dame.

IL: What are particular aspects of your design that overtly address climate change?

For the Parvis, or main plaza in front of the Cathedral, we had to invent a way to create a microclimate during the hot summer days. We could not plant here because of the Roman archeology lying below. We propose to activate a thin layer of water that slowly runs down the plaza, immediately refreshing the air through evaporative cooling. We have calculated that this will lower perceived temperature by 5 degrees Celsius. This feature runs with rain water that is collected in the former parking garage that will be transformed by the architects GRAU and NGA into a visitor center.

As for the planting scheme, we have made a list of both native plants and plants historically used in Paris that are climate resilient. We are looking especially into drought resistance. We will be using many species to double the existing amount of trees on site.

IL: The estimated completion date for the entire NotreDame project (interior and exterior) is 2027. Will you be intricately involved until that time?

I will stay directly involved as the team leader until the completion of the project. It is rare to be able to work on such an important site, so I want to make sure everything will be executed the way we have designed it.

IL: Your home base is Brussels. Where do you stay while working in Paris?

I lived in Paris for six years before founding my office in Brussels in 2008. Since then I have kept a pied-à-terre. We are looking at opening a second office in Paris in the years to come to be able to closely follow the construction of the project

IL: Who is it that oversees your work? Have these ‘powers-that-be’ been easy to work with?

We work for the city of Paris, and they oversee our work in biweekly meetings. At the same time we are in constant dialogue with all the partners involved, for the diocese of Paris to the French State in charge of renovating the Cathedral. Since the fire has touched all of us profoundly, there is a feeling of common purpose that creates a very productive and constructive work atmosphere.

IL: What are some of your other international projects, and which did you find most enjoyable?

Last year we finished the project for Luma Parc des Ateliers in Arles, France. We transformed the semi-desert climate of a former industrial railway yard into a Mediterranean climate by accelerating what nature would have done over time. Planted with more than 80,000 trees, shrubs and plants, the park is made with the species of the three surrounding biotopes and connects all the buildings of the new arts center of the Luma Foundation. This project was very challenging from a technical point of view. We had to invent artificial aquifers underneath the mounds of earth to create a natural environment in which plants can thrive.

In London we designed the courtyard of the Mandrake Hotel, adding 500 climbers to create a waterfall of leaves and trees. We won the AHEAD awards for the best landscape worldwide in 2019 with this project. We hid the plant medium in the U-beams that support the walkways to the different rooms.

In the south of Albania we radically transformed the waterfront of the city of Himara. A former high sea wall was replaced with several sloped terraces restoring the visual and physical connection with the water. The pine trees provide shade and create a linear coastal pine forest in front of the buildings.

THE OF

By Renee Dee

What could make for a better “Live Beautifully” day than to tour an awe-inspiring, well-designed, architecturally interesting art museum with works by the most-known masters and dining to elevate the spirit. It’s an a-plus day for all your senses, and we recommend making sure you experience each of these fine culinary destinations as you travel to America’s most ICONIC cities to savor the best museum restaurants.

RAY’S & STARK BAR at LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART

Los Angeles

Designed by architect Renzo Piano, Ray’s & Stark Bar in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a contemporary work of art unto itself. Floor-to-ceiling windows make it look like a jewel box. Dancing tea cups designed from 1850 to 1950 float throughout the space. Outside, artist Chris Burden’s iconic “Urban Light” installation of 202 decommissioned Los Angeles-area streetlamps makes for a striking backdrop as seen on so many television shows and movies. Named in honor of film producer Ray Stark, guests can enjoy a Californiacentric wine list, the nation’s most extensive water menu, and an artisanal selection of beers and spirits, creating a dynamic ambiance for art-loving patrons to go along with wood-fired pizzas and small bites.

It’s an inspiration to all your senses to enjoy culinary excellence in the halls of the country’s most impressive art museums.

Photography Courtesy of Los Angeles County Museum of Art

THE MODERN at MOMA New York

I don’t make a trip to New York without making a reservation in advance for The Modern at the Museum of Modern Art, notably located across the street from one of my favorite hotels, the Baccarat Hotel, included in our Ultimate Travel Guide for 2019. The Modern features a sophisticated environment for Chef Abram’s refined, contemporary cooking in a beautiful setting overlooking the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden. There are options to order from a seasonal menu or to enjoy the tasting menu, which we highly recommend. Every dish is plated like artwork and totally Insta-worthy. Be sure to save room for artistically designed desserts made by Pastry Chef Jiho Kim. The restaurant is proud of its award-winning wine program, and every glass is perfectly served in a stunning stem. The Modern holds two Michelin stars, a Three Star review in the New York Times, four James Beard Awards, and the Grand Award from Wine Spectator. Always modern in its ways, The Modern does not accept tipping.

465 BAR AND RESTAURANT at MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Boston

The Museum of Fine Arts’ dining venue 465 Bar and Restaurant, features executive chef Brian Flagg’s seasonal menu emphasizing fresh local ingredients, with an environmentally friendly and innovative root-to-stalk approach. The restaurant offers a sophisticated space for dining with a view of world-class art with cocktails or mocktails, a multi-course meal or a quick bite and discussion before or after a film, lecture or program. Originally designed by I. M. Pei, the space has been renovated and redesigned by architectural design firm Bergmeyer, its modern venue showcasing six still-lifes from the museum’s collection.

PALETTE at PHOENIX ART MUSEUM

Phoenix

A visit to the Phoenix Art Museum never disappoints, especially when paired with a meal at Palette restaurant. With a focus on family-friendly and seasonal American food, the Palette menu showcases local farmers and producers, giving visitors a taste of Arizona through organic vegetables, handcrafted sauces and local meats. Offering local-to-Arizona boutique beers and wines, it’s also a great spot for a drink. Choose to dine in the casual dining room, or on the patio overlooking the beautiful Dorrance Sculpture Garden.

VERDANT at ORANGE COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART

Costa Mesa

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Thom Mayne of Morphosis, the new home for the Orange County Museum of Art is a work of art, and so is the on-site Verdant Cafe. Led by Chef duo Ross Pangilinan and Nick Weber, Verdant focuses on California-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, innovative and plant-forward dishes. The menu highlights the bounty of local, organic and seasonal produce in Southern California, with tantalizing dishes like Homemade Farmers Cheese, Seasonal Vegan Soup and Vegetable Tagine. In addition to really great food, Verdant also offers gourmet coffees and teas, including ceremonial-grade matcha, as well as a full bar with a curated wine list and excellent craft cocktails.

Journey to INDIA

Experience a world that glows in brilliant technicolor rich with beauty in this first of two stories on this special place.

By David Rubin

India is vast. She intrigues and inspires. India now has the fifth largest economy and is likely to have the third largest by 2030. It is time to discover and explore India!

In the insightful words of Keith Bellows, former editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler, “There are some parts of the world that, once visited, get into your heart and won’t go. For me, India is such a place. When I first visited, I was stunned by the richness of the land, by its lush beauty and exotic architecture, by its ability to overload the senses with the pure, concentrated intensity of its colors, smells, tastes, and sounds. It was as if all my life I had been seeing the world in black and white and, when brought face-to-face with India, experienced everything re-rendered in brilliant technicolor.”

Discovering India is a study of contrasts. As noted by the brilliant Cambridge University economist, Joan Robinson, “Whatever you can say about India, the opposite is also true.” Let us plan your first trip to India focusing on several of her best, ICONIC destinations and properties. Everywhere you go, you will see and experience India’s fascinating world of opposites.

1. MUMBAI

Mumbai, an international gateway, is a great place to begin. With India’s largest port, Mumbai is its commercial and industrial hub, as well as its fashion capital and the heart of Bollywood (India’s thriving and unique film industry). The city is endlessly fascinating and, initially, an intimidating hive of activity. A gentle start is to sail away from the city and visit Elephanta Caves located 6 miles away and accessible only by boat. Elephanta are a group of Buddhist and Hindu caves which date from around the seventh century. Famous for exquisite and vibrant sculptures, they also represent evolved Brahmanical rock-cut architecture. Traveling there by public ferry is a perfect start to enjoying magical interactions with friendly locals, including mothers handing you their babies so they may take a photo with you. Locals consider it an honor to welcome and be photographed with foreign visitors. In India, if you are blond, tall, and/ or very muscular, these requests to have you in photos may become a frequent occurrence and a bit overwhelming.

I love taking clients off the beaten track for a dawn visit to Sassoon Docks to see the fish, vegetable and flower markets, and then to visit a garden and watch people do Laughter Yoga. Also visit the opposite side of town for an insider’s tour of the Dharavi slum, featured in the movie Slumdog Millionaire.

2. GOA

To continue to ease you into India and provide R&R to recharge you after long flights, a visit to Goa and her beaches is recommended. I like staying in the southern part of Goa where there are a couple of favorite beachfront resorts on pristine beaches on the shores of the Arabian Sea. Clients thank me for this opportunity to regroup and refresh, if time permits. If you prefer something different from the beach, perhaps the place for you is a wellness/ayurvedic center, a palace stay, and/or a nature reserve visit.

Photo courtesy of Taj Mahal Palace

Photos courtesy of Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

3. UDAIPUR

Now you are rested and ready to dive in and visit one of my favorite and most gentle cities in India, Udaipur in Rajasthan. Udaipur is known by many names including City of Sunrise, Jewel of Mewar, and City of Lakes. It is one of India’s most romantic cities and a very popular destination for Indian weddings! It is nestled between the glassy waters of its famous lakes and the ancient Aravalli Hills. Although it is one of Rajasthan’s largest cities, Udaipur manages to retain a charming small town vibe.

On your afternoon arrival, take a private sunset boat cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the boat you will be able to view the city, its famous palaces and reflections on the lake.

Udaipur sites to see include the City Palace, Crystal Gallery, Royal Vintage Car Museum of the Maharana of Udaipur, Jagdish Hindu Temple at prayer time, and to experience great shopping. In addition, there are wonderful sites to be enjoyed on day trips and

excursions from Udaipur. Approximately 2 miles away are the Ahar Cenotaphs, a monumental group of more than 250 huge marble cenotaphs built over 350 years commemorating the Kings of Mewar. Cenotaphs are tomb-like structures built in honor of kings, queens, and people of significant and crucial importance, and to mark the valor and bravery of the kings of Mewar. It is a hauntingly beautiful place, which often has few tourists.

Other favorite rich heritage sites nearby are the 1,000-plus-year-old Hindu temples, Nagda and Eklingji, which are about a 45 minute drive from Udaipur. Also, well worth the 1.5 hour day trip drive north of Udaipur is Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This vast seventh century Maurya dynasty fort covers an area of 700 acres and stands on a hill with seven gates. It has four palaces, 19 temples, 22 water bodies, four memorials, and two commemoration towers. Beauty, nature, history, heritage, grandeur and spirituality abound here!

Photos courtesy of Leela Palace, Taj Lake Palace, Oberoi Udaivilas

SAMPLE ITINERARY

A “Best of the Best of Northern India” recommended itinerary with luxury accommodations:

1. 3 nights in Mumbai at Taj Mahal Palace or Oberoi Mumbai

2. 3-5 nights in Goa at St Regis Goa Resort or Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

3. 2-4 nights in Udaipur at Oberoi Udaivilas, Taj Lake Palace or Leela Palace

4. 2-3 nights in Jawai Conservation Reserve at SUJAN JAWAI

5. 3 nights in Jodhpur at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace or RAAS Jodhpur

6. 1-2 nights in Jaipur at Taj Rambagh Palace, Oberoi Rajvilas or Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur

Look for locations 7-12 to be described in more detail in Part 2 of Journey to India in the next edition of ICONIC LIFE.

7. 2-4 nights at Six Senses Fort Barwara

8. 2-3 nights near Ranthambore National Park at SUJAN Sher Bagh or Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort

9. 2-3 nights in Agra at Oberoi Amarvilas

MALDIVES FOR R&R!

Our list of several recommended Maldives Resorts for total R&R (in alphabetical order). Non-stop flights are only 1-4 hours between several cities in India and Male, Maldives. Call on DavidTravel to find the best match for you.

• Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort

• Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

• Anantara Veli Maldives Resort

• Cheval Blanc Randheli

• COMO Cocoa Island

• COMO Maalifushi

• Conrad Maldives*

• Heritance Aarah*

• Hurawalhi Island Resort

• Kagi Maldives Spa Island

• Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

• Niyama Private Islands*

• Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa*

• Soneva Fushi

• Soneva Jani

• Velaa Private Island

* Very good value options!

10. 2-3 nights in Varanasi at Taj Nadesar Palace or Brij Rama Palace

11. 3-5 nights at Ananda in the Himalayas

12. 1-3 nights in Delhi at Oberoi New Delhi, The Imperial, The Lodhi, Leela Palace, Taj Mahal New Delhi, Oberoi Gurgaon (near DEL airport)

• NOTE: All hotels above are great for Weddings and Milestone Events!

• ALSO great for Weddings and Milestone Events: Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad, RAAS Devigarh in Rajasthan, and Mihir Garh in Rajasthan.

Illustration by Jaclyn Threadgill

4. JAWAI CONSERVATION RESERVE STOPPING EN ROUTE IN RANAKPUR

Rajasthan is worth exploring! Jawai, about a four hour drive from Udaipur, is a wonderful visit en route to Jodhpur with a stop in Ranakpur. The Ranakpur Jain Temples are among the finest examples of Jain art with exquisite carvings inside. These temples were created in the 15th century CE, during the reign of Rana Kumbha and are enclosed within a walled compound. The temple is an astounding creation with 29 halls and 1,444 pills carved distinctly. Rising in three stores, the central Caumukha Temple has four small shrines with 80 spires supported by 420 columns. If time and energy levels permit, do include hiking in and around the imposing Kumbhalgarh Fort, a Mewar fortress, which is also known as the Great Wall of India and is surrounded by the Aravali Mountain ranges.

Then, continue your drive to Jawai Conservation Reserve and check into the SUJAN Jawai Leopard Camp. Wilderness drives with expert rangers explore living in the wilderness, animal behavior, and game viewing with a focus on local fauna, including, of course, leopards. Here, you will also discover rural Rajasthan. There are plenty of activities options including a village walk, a trek with a shepherd to Mount Baliraja, or cycling around the area. I love combining cities and history with back-to-nature visits.

5. JODHPUR

Next, you will have about a 3.5-hour drive and arrive in Jodhpur, another not to be missed destination and a personal favorite where there is also great shopping for textiles, jewelry and antique treasures! A dazzling blaze of blue on the eastern edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is dominated by the imposing fortress that towers above the city on a sandstone ridge. It is awesome! Located strategically on the overland trade route, the city also houses the most recent and the largest residential palace in India, the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Only Buckingham Palace in England is larger. Set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens, it is part museum, part royal residence, and part stunning hotel called the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace. It is grand and ornate yet has playful and strong art deco design details and furnishings throughout.

Discover Jodhpur’s most commanding monument, the Mehrangarh Fort. It is one of the most majestic of Rajasthan’s forts and the best preserved fort in India. It was described by Rudyard Kipling as “the creation of angels, fairies and giants.” Its forbidding ramparts are in sharp contrast to the flamboyantly decorated palaces within. Founded in 1459, the sandstone fort was added to by later rulers between the 17th and 19th centuries. Explore the massive fort complex and the

exquisitely curated and maintained museum collection of treasures from the 17th to the 20th centuries, including coronation thrones, miniature paintings, textiles, arms, armor, furniture, cradles, jewelry, metal work, glass and woodwork. When leaving the fort, it is a delight to wander among the locals, and explore day to day life in the old city area.

Guests love visiting the nearby Bishnoi Village Safari, which is designed to showcase the vibrant Marwar rural lifestyle and environmental protections. Begin with a sanctuary visit to see local wildlife, including black bucks, peacocks, and demoiselle cranes. Next, watch centuries-old methods of hand block printing, pottery making, and dhurrie weaving. The Bishnoi movement started in the 1700s. It is one of the first environmentalist groups in the world. The Bishnoi movement is a staunch proponent of eco-conservation, wildlife protection, and green living. In the 1730s, when the Maharaja of Jodhpur was building his new palace, he ordered his soldiers to cut down the trees for wood in nearby villages. The Bishnoi was the first group that used the strategy of hugging and embracing trees to protect them; 363 Bishnois laid down their lives for the protection of Khejri trees.

Photos courtesy of Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, RAAS Jodhpur

THE GIFT OF GIVING

The American Indian Foundation (AIF) is committed to improving the lives of India’s underprivileged, with a special focus on women, children and youth. In a country where extreme contrasts of wealth and poverty coexist in everyday life, we hear hopeful stories of India’s rise and rapid growth. However, 800 million people – more than the entire population of Africa – live on less than two dollars per day in India. AIF has created countless opportunities for India’s poor to live successful, productive lives while creating impactful change at an unprecedented scale, changing the lives of more than 8.4 million of India’s less fortunate.

AIF is committed to catalyzing social and economic change in India and building a lasting bridge between the U.S. and India through high-impact interventions in education, livelihoods, public health and leadership development.

To get involved, find out more or donate, go to www.aif.org

Photos courtesy of SUJAN JAWAI, Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur, Leela Palace Jaipur, Taj Rambagh Palace

6. JAIPUR

Jaipur was founded in 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Here, modernity and tradition exist side by side, but the pressure of traffic and crowds can be overwhelming, so this is not my favorite spot. That said, Jaipur is a rich destination for shopping, great sites and fine hotels. Shoppers love the bustling Old Market bazaar where artisans fashion puppets, silver jewelry, lac bangles and other handicrafts in their workshops.

There are fascinating sites in and near Jaipur. A highlight is a visit to the Amber Fort in Amer, 7 miles from Jaipur. This was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amer before the capital was shifted to present day Jaipur. It is known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Mughal elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery.

In Jaipur, is the City Palace, which is a complex, wonderfully laid out with large courtyards, balconies, cupolas, arched entrances, and gardens. It is a prime example of Rajput architecture. Its museum displays the rich heritage of Jaipur in paintings, textiles, garments, books and manuscripts, carpets, palanquins, and weapons dating back to the 15th century. During a tour, our guests will have the opportunity of visiting the private chambers.

A Jaipur “must see” is the Jantar Mantar, a collection of 19 astronomical instruments completed in 1734. It features the world’s largest stone sundial and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The astrological observatory houses precise instruments for measuring “the harmony of heavens.” Each instrument serves a particular function and gives an accurate reading. Also, please plan to stop and see Jaipur’s most famous building with its pink sandstone facade. The Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of Breeze,” was built in 1799 as an extension to the Royal City Palace. At the time, the Purdah system was followed strictly whereby Rajput ladies were not to be seen by strangers, nor to appear in any public area. The construction of Hawa Mahal allowed the royal ladies to be able to watch royal processions and activities on the street without being seen by the public.

Our ‘Best of the Best’ journey to India will continue with locations 7 through 12 in our next issue!

READY TO GO

To book your business and leisure travels worldwide, call on David Rubin and his team at DavidTravel. In 1996, David moved from a successful law practice, followed a deep passion for travel, and launched his travel company. For more than a decade, David has been on both the Travel + Leisure Magazine “A-List” and the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine “Specialist List” of the best travel advisors in the world. DavidTravel delivers unparalleled style, attention to detail and insider access uniquely responding to each client’s goals, budget, interests and dreams. www.DavidTravel.com, Request@DavidTravel.com

fash

This season, soaring platform shoes of all styles take fashionistas to new heights.

By Carlye Klick

ion

As the saying goes, “the higher the heels, the closer to heaven.” This is the motto of many of the main fashion houses this season, as sky-high heels with prominent platforms began appearing—almost simultaneously—on runways across the globe. All throughout 2022, we saw celebrities, fashionistas, bloggers and style icons embracing the trend.

The look has been recently sported by Beyoncé, Selena Gomez, Anne Hathaway, Dua Lipa, Florence Pugh and new Hollywood IT girl, Wednesday’s Jenna Ortega. As one of the most searched for fashion terms online, platform heels are making their way into the streets and closets everywhere.

DOPAMINE DRESSING

The literal rise of platform shoes happens to coincide with another phenomenon in fashion, dopamine dressing. A trending term on social media channels, this concept simply means to dress in a way that makes you happy.

When we dress for ourselves instead of others and wear things that truly bring us joy, we get caught up in a cycle of dopamine. We feel good about wearing our favorite clothing items or accessories and have a natural confidence because of it. Then, others take notice and perhaps we even get complimented on the items that we’re wearing. This further perpetuates the dopamine cycle, bringing more joy and happiness into the way we dress.

So, go ahead—wear that wild and crazy thing that you love! It’s all about seizing the moment to show off your style with what you’re wearing.

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Dolly Leather Red Sole Platform Pumps, $1,195 via Christian Louboutin.

SAINT LAURENT

Women’s Sexy Almond Toe Quilted Platform Sandals, $1,150 via Bloomingdales.

VERSACE

Women’s Medusa Aevitas Ankle Strap Platform Pumps, $1,475 via Bloomingdales.

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI

Women’s d’Orsay Embellished High Heel Platform Pumps, $1,550 via Bloomingdales.

VALENTINO

Women’s Block Heel Platform Pumps, $1,200 via Bloomingdales.

GUCCI

GG Embellished Platform High Heel Sandals, $1,495 via Gucci.

DOLCE & GABBANA

Keira Block Heel Platform Sandal, $995 via Nordstrom.

PRADA

Crystal Ankle-Strap Platform

Sandals, $2,150 via Prada.

Y2K

Within the last couple of years, there has been a huge revival of “Y2K” style—fashion trends from the early 2000s making a comeback. Although there are typically many more years before the initial rise of a trend and its return as a “vintage” look, the cyclical nature of fashion has brought back the colors, materials and silhouettes of many ICONIC 1990s styles, all in a “vintage but relevant” way.

Platform shoes are a large part of this trend, as the “Dotcom Bubble” of the late ‘90s predicated a rise in the popularity of clogs, chunky platform-soled stretchy sandals, clear glitter plastic platform shoes and more. The continuation of this early aughts trend indicates that the Y2K style is here to stay—at least for a little while longer.

HOW TO STYLE

The best way to present your mega shoes is by showing them off. Platform shoes underneath long gowns can lead to awkward heights for dress hemlines. Instead, today’s celebrities and stylists are pairing towering shoes with ultra-mini dresses and skirts, like the looks seen from Valentino and Versace.

The element of contrast from the shortened hemlines and chunky stacked platform draws extra attention to the shoes–as well as elongates the legs. Tights with platforms also seem to be a popular look. Bold, monochromatic color palettes are further highlighted—especially in the Pantone Color of the Year, magenta—with tights paired alongside an eye-catching pair of platform heels. No matter how you style these standout shoes, make sure to be ready for comments and compliments, as these are truly fashion’s hottest trend in footwear.

Great wines have the ability to transport—allow your palate to take flight with these international selections.

By Fran Miller

wines Wanderlust for I

f a trip beyond U.S. borders isn’t exactly part of your plan this year, consider the option of satisfying your wanderlust with wines of the world. Great wines have the ability to transport, and each is a reflection of the culture, traditions and history of their place of origin.

You can simulate a visit to France, Italy or South Africa with these selections. Choose one, or all, and let your imagination—and your palate—take flight.

A GREAT SPARKLING FROM THE DOLOMITES

Italy’s Endrizzi Trentodoc Piancastello

Zero comes from the Trentodoc region; the winery is well-known for its organic, low-residual sugar sparklings, and this is one of the Endrizzi winery’s flagship wines. It’s also a flagship of the entire Trentodoc appellation—a region pivotal in embracing sustainability.

Starting in the 1980s, the region was active in promoting widespread use of integrated pest management. Endrizzi has been run by the Endrici family since 1885, and was among the first producers to embrace organic farming in the region. Made from Chardonnay and Pinot and aged for 48 months on the lees, Endrizzi Trentodoc Piancastello Zero beautifully reflects the aromatic grape richness of the region.

SAMPLE THE SAVORINESS OF NEW ZEALAND

Villa Maria, the renowned Marlborough, New Zealand wine producer, shares the legacy of its elegant, approachable wines with the relaunch of its Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc, an expressive, fruit-forward wine that showcases the youthful, fresh and vibrant characteristics of Marlborough.

Cool-climate Awatere aromas jump out of the glass, such as lemongrass, jalapeño peppers and fresh herbs, while the warmer Wairau Valley influences with ripe citrus and tropical fruit flavors. A perfect aperitif wine, serve chilled on warm summer days. The fresh herbal flavors match well with most salads, whereas the ripe tropical flavors match well with many fish recipes.

A WONDERFUL SPARKLING FROM THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Established in 1685, Boschendal, located between Franschhoek and Stellenbosch in South Africa’s Western Cape, is one of the oldest wine estates in the region, and has specialized in the South African traditional method Cap Classique for more than 40 years. The Boschendal Brut is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, made in the same style of Champagne. Pale gold with delicate bubbles, the palate is layered with tart lemon creme and biscuit.

A JUICY RED FROM VALPOLICELLA

From the province of Verona, Italy, east of Lake Garda Massimago Valpolicella DOC Superiore Profasio is made from 65 percent Corvina, 20 percent Corvinone and 15 percent Rondinella which convey hints of cherries, red berries, violet and a tasty juicy palate. This wine goes well with barbecue, roasted chicken, the traditional Thanksgiving turkey, pasta or lasagna.

Massimago’s idea of Valpolicella Superiore is a wine very much similar to its big brother Amarone, but with a higher drinkability and fresher aromas. Valpolicella Superiore Profasio Vineyards are located in Mezzane di Sotto at about 300 m asl on limestone, clay and marly soil. The winery was established back in 1883 and is one of the oldest wineries in its appellation.

AN ORANGE WINE FOR THOSE WILLING TO EXPLORE

Recognized as the birthplace of wine, Georgia boasts a wide range of producers who have perfected the art of crafting unique, dry amber wines produced from native grape varieties that undergo traditional qvevri winemaking. One such winery is Vazisubani Estate, whose inception dates to the 19th century and traces from one of Georgia’s most storied and cherished family lines, Chavchavadze.

The Estate has been meticulously restored over the last decade, emerging as a premier wine-tourism destination built around the palace, gardens, winery, marani (wine cellar) and 35 hectares of estate vineyards. Vazisubani Estate Kakhuri Mtsvane 2020 is a dry amber wine produced from the indigenous Kakhuri Mtsvane grape. This qveri wine making technique results in a wine exhibiting tropical overtones coupled with dried fig notes. The wine is lean and long with a lingering finish that is complemented by a tannin-rich body. Kakhuri Mtsvane can be enjoyed alone or with a wide assortment of meats and cheeses.

ONE OF ITALY’S GREATEST WHITES

Poggio alle Gazze dell’Ornellaia 2020 is Ornellaia estate’s white second vin, produced for the first time in 1987. Made from Sauvignon, Viognier and Vermentino grown on chalky skeletal soils, the production is limited to only 35-40,000 bottles.

Olga Fusari, the winemaker, describes the 2020 as follows: “With its classic bright straw-yellow color, Poggio alle Gazze dell’Ornellaia 2020 expresses itself on the nose with a beautiful aromatic intensity: aromas of boxwood and white flowers, accompanied by notes of white peach, sage and aromatic herbs are all released once poured. The wine fills the palate with elegance and determination upon tasting, revealing the proper balance of acidic freshness and density. The finish is lively, persistent and with a nice tanginess.”

AN ICONIC NEW RED FROM APALTA VALLEY, CHILE

Lapostolle was founded in 1994 by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet upon their discovery of a unique Clos in the Apalta Valley sheltering 100-year-old pre-phylloxera vines. They realized the site’s potential for producing world-class wines, and from that day, the Chilean chapter of Lapostolle was born. 2015 Lapostolle La Parcelle 8, named for the first plot Alexandra and Cyril saw upon arriving in the Valley, is an iconic new expression from Apalta.

A 100-percent varietal, single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, La Parcelle is a reflection of the vineyard’s unique terroir resulting from the Tinguiririca River to its south and the Coastal Cordillera hills that surround it in a horseshoe shape. In the glass, it entices with a beautiful deep ruby red color and opens on the nose with intense fruit, herbs and spice notes. On the palate, the wine showcases a classic structure with elegant tannins, fruit and black spice flavors, and a long-lasting, velvety finish.

A DELICIOUS SOUTHERN RHONE DESSERT WINE

On the edge of the tiny French village of Beaumes de Venise, fifth-generation family-owned Domaine des Bernardins produces Domaine des Bernardins Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise. The 2021 features notes of butterscotch and glazed fruit; the palate is rich and maintains a surprising freshness. There is a note of quince paste on the finish, and also herbes de Provence.

Original owner Louis Castaud was concerned about the disappearance of the village’s traditional production methods, and after 10 years of hard work, he achieved appellation status for Muscat de Beaumes de Venise in 1945 (for the 1943 vintage). Today, the previously monk-owned estate is directed by Castaud’s granddaughter Elisabeth, husband Andrew, and their son Romain, yet Castaud’s wife Renée Castaud remains active in day-to-day operations.

ICONIC

By Sam Micatrotto

Serving

First known as an eternity bracelet or line bracelet, the small and dainty jewelry staple—now known as a tennis bracelet— has a big history. The ICONIC statement piece can be traced back to the Roaring Twenties, where it was often seen accessorizing the fanciest of dresses and sparkling in the light at extravagant parties before taking on a whole new identity in the late 1970s.

Tennis pro Chris Evert also seemed to think the all-diamond, bezelset bracelet was the perfect accessory for every situation, as she wore it out on the court for her match at the 1978 U.S. Open. Mid-match, the diamond bracelet snapped and flew off Evert’s arm and onto the court—an unexpected change from the optic yellow ball that typically makes its way back and forth on the court. The match paused, which is understandable when diamonds are at stake! Evert took a few moments to look for her bracelet and because of this courtside cuff, the bracelet took on a new moniker—tennis bracelet.

In the decades since the famous interruption, celebrities such as Serena Williams, Kate Moss, Princess Diana and Lenny Kravitz have been seen wearing the ICONIC tennis bracelet and it doesn’t seem to be going out of style any time soon. The simple elegance of the bracelet makes it an extremely versatile piece, allowing it to work with just about any outfit or occasion. Evert’s choice to wear the bracelet to her tennis match changed how the world viewed fine jewelry and women began wearing tennis bracelets with more casual outfits in addition to their more formal attire.

Traditionally, the tennis bracelet is a string of white diamonds set on a strand of white gold, but modern iterations include using warm gold metal tones and even different color gemstones to add a personal touch to your everyday style. The bracelets are also ideal for layering and make the perfect addition to virtually any jewelry stack.

The timeless, sparkling eternity band for the wrist is the itaccessory that never goes out of style.