devarana Oct-Dec 2013
devarana
Oct-Dec 2013
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chairman’s note
usit International draws upon 60 years experience in the hotel and hospitality field. The group’s origin dates back to 1948 when Honorary Chairperson, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, opened her first hotel, the ‘Princess’ on Bangkok’s New Road. This successful venture represented a major breakthrough for Thailand’s hospitality industry creating and evolving what is today the nation’s leading hotel company. Dusit International has a unique portfolio of deluxe hotels. Dusit International comprises five hotel brands: Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts, Dusit’s second generation dusitD2 hotels & resorts, Dusit Princess Hotel & Resorts, Dusit Devarana Hotels & Resorts, and Dusit Residence Serviced Apartments. Dusit aims to provide the traveller with a unique experience and deliver quality that always excels. It is this total focus on serving the needs, and anticipating the desires of our customers, which has set Dusit International apart from the more uniform chain operations. With a team of dedicated professional and experienced managers, Dusit International has built upon a heritage of Thai traditions to create a personal experience that is unique to Dusit; in short, an experience that enlivens the individual spirit no matter what their journey.
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contents 08
au courant
The latest around the world
Published by: MaXposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd. Publisher & COO: Vikas Johari CEO & Managing Director: Prakash Johari CFO: Kuldip Singh Executive Editor: Saurabh Tankha Rights: Dusit Devarana magazine is printed and published by Vikas Johari on behalf of MaXposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd. (MMGIPL) for Dusit Devarana and published at MMGIPL, Unit No. F2B, Second Floor, MIRA Corporate Suites, Plot No. 1&2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi - 110 065, India.
22 10 covet
26
a la mode
The pocket watch has found its place in the contemporary times and how.
couture corner
Couturiers around the world seek India for inspiration
Must-have products for the season
All rights reserved. All writings, artwork and/or photography contained herein maynot be used or reproduced without the written permission of MMGIPL and Dusit Devarana. No responsibility can be taken for the loss of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. The views and opinions expressed or implied in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of MMGIPL or Dusit Devarana. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from. MMGIPL does not assume any liability for services or products advertised herein. Dusit Devarana magazine is distributed to the Dusit Devarana customers and appears quarterly.
Contacts: Head Office: Unit No. F2B, Second Floor, MIRA Corporate Suites, Plot No. 1&2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi - 110 065 Tel: +91.11.43011111, Fax: +91.11.43011199
covet
au courant
haute cuisine
couture corner
escape
mean machines
covet
a la mode
haute cuisine
Ahmedabad | Office No. 4, Meagabyte Business Centre, Top Floor, Navrang Building, Opp Parth Complex, Swastik Cross Road, C.G. Road, Navranpura, Ahmedabad - 380009 Tel: +91.79.40193627 Indore | 7/1, 409, Fouth Floor, Ratan Mani Complex, Opposite Inter Star Showroom, New Palasia Indore - 452001 Tel: +91.731.4248881 East | Kolkata | DPS Corporate Club, First Floor, 9A Sebak Baidya Street, Kolkata - 700029 Tel: +91.33.40680111 Raipur | Magnetto Offizo, Office No.546, Fifth Floor, Magnetto The Mall, G.E. Road, Labhandi, Raipur Tel: +91.771.4264571
20 well-being
12 escape
Dusit Thani Maldives named hotel of the year
escape
West | Mumbai | Time Square Building, Third Floor, Western Express Highway, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 069 Tel: +91.22.61991111, Fax: +91.22.61991115
The Devarana Spa will transcend you to a whole new world
16
haute cuisine
Bite-size food makes its mainstream foray
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South | Bengaluru | 1010 A Wing, Tenth Floor, Mittal Towers, M.G. Road, Bengaluru - 560 001 Tel: +91.80.40921037-38 Fax: +91.80.41510657
mean machines
We pay homage to BMW Hommage 328
34 directory
Our international hotel directory
Hyderabad | 1-11-222/2 Ground Floor, Street No.4, Gurumurthy lane, Begumpet, Hyderabad - 500 016 Tel: +91.40.40021545 Chennai | FL 9, Alsa Mall, First Floor, 149 Montieth Road, Egmore, Chennai - 600 008 Tel: +91.44.42015685, Fax: +91.44.42015684
www.maxposure.in
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au courant
d e s i g n
Hot on the scent
a
perf umier
Gérald Ghislain was looking for a way to combine his two passions – travelling and scents – which is what prompted him to create his “The Scent of Departure” series: 20 perfumes for 20 cities from New York to Budapest. The idea is that the aromas capture the atmosphere of each city and help combat homesickness, too. The scent of tiare blossom and coconut transports you to Bali, whereas bergamot and amber whisk you off to Abu Dhabi.
D I S T A N C E 157 kilometres (97 miles) D U R A T I O N two hours LONGEST BR IDGE Seven Mile Bridge (11 km)
from Key Largo to Key West i f yo u f a n c y
the experience of driving on a road bordered by two different oceans, you should try US Highway 1 from Key Largo, south of Miami, to Key West. On your left is the Atlantic, and from the passenger window you can see the Gulf of Mexico. The highway crosses the Florida Keys, a chain of more than 200 islands linked by 42 bridges. The best time for the drive is the morning or evening – in the afternoon the school bus drops off kids on the islands, and there’s no overtaking.
t h e s c e n t o f d e pa r t u r e . c o m
i n n o v a t i o n
fla - keys . com
Get the doodle bug
p o p— c u l t u r e
the 3Doodler
i n
a u d i 0 . . .
Wirless comfort the A E2w
is Bose’s first Bluetooth wireless headphone. By using TriPort technology and proprietary active equalisation, it creates deep lows and more lifelike sound when listening to music or watching video. The wireless signal works up to 30 feet from the device and the rechargeable battery provides seven hours of listening. It is available for `19,013. bosei n di a . com
th e 3 doodler . com
Shiva trilogy conclusion PHOTOS DAIMLER AG (3) ILLUSTR ATION LYNDON HAYES/DUTCHUNCLE
n o w
is a pen that frees you from the surface of the paper and enables you to continue sketching in any direction you want — a sort of hand-operated 3-D printer. Instead of ink, it uses plastic. This is first heated and then, with the help of an integrated fan, rapidly cools and hardens. You can use it to make three-dimensional sketches, or to c reate jewellery and accessories by hand. The clever little hand-printer from Wobble Works is expected to be available by autumn.
the oath of the v a y u p u t r a s is the last book of Shiva Trilogy and already a popular culture hit and a toast of the cocktail circuits. In the book, Neelkanth comes face to face with his nemesis and finds out who the mastermind is out to destroy him and his legacy. This book answers Shiva’s questions about his fate, the choices he made previously and karma. The Oath of the Vayuputras also explains Shiva’s friend Brahaspati’s disappearance and reappearance. The warrior prince finds out the real intentions of people he is close to. The movie rights of the trilogy have already been procured by Karan Johar.
Loop the loop t h e M e l k we g b r i d g e
in the Dutch town of Purmerend describes a double loop across the Noordhollands Kanaal: pedestrians cross the high arch, and cyclists use the 100-metre (330-ft) track below, which has just the right degree of gradient. The bridge resembles a work of art, with the high arch merging with its reflection to form a circle. n exta rch itects . com
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a jolt of
vermilion
tangerine
Tempting
We present to you the hottest colours for fall
Patent leather clutch bag with chain, Tod’s Signature; Python handbag orange and black, Giorgio Armani; Paint pumps with plateau, Luciano Padovan; Python print leather bag, Guess Handbags; Leather messenger bag with closure-logo,Salvatore Ferragamo
Leather bag origami effect, Blumarine; Ankle boots, Geox Respira; Suede ankle boots with elastic, Fratelli Rossetti; High heel and ankle strap for the model in python with tassels, Gucci, Quilted leather bag with chain, Chanel
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y u u l x r THE ULTIMATE
Dusit Thani Maldives added another feather in its hat recently as it was named Asia Pacific Hotel of the Year
d
usit Thani Maldives blends
flavours. Dine at the Sea Grill restaurant for
graceful Thai hospitality with
local seafood and the highest quality steaks in
the unparalleled luxury setting
an exquisite beachside setting. Retreat from
of destination Maldives. Encircled by white
the midday heat to enjoy poolside snacks at
sandy beaches, a rich house reef and turquoise
Sand Bar. The Sala Bar is perfect for watching
lagoon, our resort on Mudhdhoo Island is just
the sunset or star gazing.
35 minutes by seaplane from the capital Malé
Elevated in a grove of coconut palm trees,
and 10 minutes by speedboat from the new
Dusit’s signature Devarana Spa is one of a kind
domestic airport in Baa Atoll.
in the Maldives. Devarana Spa features six tree-
The 100 villas and residences each offer a haven of modern sophistication with luxurious amenities and technology. Our selection
top treatment pods nestled in to enhance the spa journey. Located near Hanifaru Huraa, a UNESCO
features Beach Villas, Beach Villas with Pool,
World Biosphere Reserve renowned as a
Lagoon Villas with Pool, Ocean Villas with Pool,
feeding ground for manta rays and whale
and the exclusive Ocean Pavilions and Beach
sharks, Dusit Thani Maldives offers guests
Residences. All villas are finished with modern
diving; snorkelling; a 750 square metre
amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi,
swimming pool – the largest in the Maldives;
Internet Protocol TV with 46” plasma screen and
fully-equipped fitness studio with personal
Bose surround system, plus in-villa wine coolers.
trainer and yoga instructor; resident marine
Dusit Thani Maldives fuses a fine selection
biologist; children’s play area and club facility;
of restaurants with uncompromising service
library with internet stations; and island
and spectacular views. Market is the all-
boutiques.
day dining restaurant. Enjoy our signature
Celebrating the leadership efforts and
restaurant Benjarong for cuisine with Thai
accomplishments, Budgie$ & Travel Awards
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recently named Dusit Thani Maldives the Asia Pacific Hotel of the Year. Dusit International has more than 60 years’ experience in the hotel and hospitality field. Founded in 1949 by Honorary Chairperson Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, whose first hotel was the Princess on Bangkok’s New Road, Dusit International has since acquired a unique portfolio of distinctive hotels, building upon Thai culture and tradition to create a personalised welcome for all guests made distinctive under the Dusit International brand promise; the delivery of an ‘experience that enlivens the individual spirit, no matter the journey’. Dusit International comprises four hotel brands: Dusit Thani, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, and Dusit Devarana. It also operates Dusit Residences and its own signature Devarana Spa.. D
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y s It bitsy,
teenie weenie You don’t give up all the good things in life to look good. We have developed a penchant for tiny treats as it takes giant size bites of miniature desserts. words purva grover
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W
hen waist-sizes expand, what does
We’re living in the world of size-zero, power yoga
one do? Go cheenikum. No, instead
and organic food, where a giant bite of a tiramisu cake
one hops on to the mini dessert
is evil, sinful and unhealthy; hence the small dessert
trail. Yes, what’s big in desserts now, is small. Your
trend. “Everyone is becoming more health conscious,
two-tier cake has downsized to a frost rich cupcake,
yet they don’t completely want to give up all the good
the big doughnut delight has trimmed into a teeny
things in life. The bite-sized desserts helps satiate your
glazed treat and the triple sundae to a gooey shot
desires without piling up the calories,” says Mini Yadav,
glass. Believe it or not, the small dessert revolution
director of bakery chains Le Marche and Sugar & Spice.
has overpowered your taste buds and how. It satiates
“Watching the weighing scale is necessary. The small
your baby sweet tooth and tempts you to try out the
size dessert savours the palate and not the belly,” says
new with least effects on the weighing scale. Food
Akassh Kalra, owner, Sequel by United, New Delhi. “It is
experts and researchers call this trend ‘the attack of
relatively new in India, but overseas, especially the US
the miniatures’, as for us we are smiling teeth to teeth.
where people eat big meals and bigger desserts,” says
We love these guilt-free teenie weenie treats. Take
Sonia Sareen, co-owner, Well, there couldn’t be a better
small-size bites with us as we explore the giant world
time to gorge on. Don’t get stuck with one large slice of
of small nothings.
cake, try out these mini treats. D
The SMALL
SIZE DESSERT
savours the palate and not the belly
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/ well-being
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ne of the most luxurious spas in the world, the Devarana Spa was created to offer guests outstanding spa services at selected five-star hotels.
Meaning ‘garden in heaven’ in Thai-Sanskrit, the spa was especially designed from the concept of the garden situated at heaven’s gate as described in ancient Thai literature. With an emphasis on pampering and wellness, ‘East meets West ‘ Thai health and beauty practices have been sourced from age-old
Spa-tastic
therapies and updated with modern knowledge to pamper and revitalise guests. Inspired by the concept of the garden in heaven, Devarana Spa, conceptual Design by one of Thailand renowned writers, Ploy Chariyaves, excites the senses and makes guests feel truly special. Luxurious pampering and healing treatments are offered in a soothing, stress-relieving environment.
Devarana Spa will excite the senses and make spa lovers feel truly special... as if you are in heaven
The contemporary Thai design and decor invites guests to transcend the everyday world and provides a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere in which to enjoy premium spa treatments with traditional Thai service and hospitality. The soothing notes of Thai classical music signal your entry into a wondrous environment where luxury and elegance blend with the Thai heritage of natural healing. It is a heaven for spa lovers devoted to premium spa treatments focused in pampering and wellness. You are quietly conveyed to one of Devarana Spa’s restful suites. Each is a spacious sanctuary gently soothed by shaded natural light and warm colours, each has en-suite facilities for added ease and privacy. The heavenly scents of the purest essential oils mingle with the gentle sound of flowing water evoking a truly calm and serene feel. You surrender to a treatment from the Spa menu that ranges from a traditional Thai massage to a half day package and your mind, body and spirit is totally enveloped by gentle care. When you awaken you are refreshed and energised physically and emotionally. And though you may leave the Devarana Spa, the wondrous experience of our healing garden in heaven never leaves you. D
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glorious old times,
future
Exceptional craftsmanship, understated elegance & past treasure – the pocket watch has found its place in the contemporary times and how. words meghna sharma
n
ot very long ago, carrying a pocket watch would have made you look like a time traveller from a different century, or
worse, someone caught in a Hollywood character of the era gone by. Talk today, and you’d notice that the pocket watch has achieved the status of a beautiful and iconic object in its own right. But how did this astoundingly modern twist occur? “Refurbishing the best from each era and consistently capturing the latest trends is one of our biggest responsibilities,” express the master watchmakers of the world. So, whether the loved treasure is nestling in your pocket or hanging around the neck, it is now a symbol of your ideology of looking at time differently rather than simply wearing it on the wrist. In 2001, nearly 100 years after it was created, one of the rarest and most significant timepieces - Grand Complication No. 42500 - that had left
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/ a la mode unchanged through 250 years of history. A more modern interpretation
With the advent of vintage fashion into our lives, the revival of pocket watches was imminent. But, with the world’s most trusted watchmakers having taken upon themselves to present the classical style of contemporary elegance, the watch devotees couldn’t have been happier.
Even LUC Louis-Ulysse of the Swiss jewellery house Chopard transforms from a pocket watch into
of the pocket watch is Hublot’s
a (rather large) wristwatch simply by
Masterpiece MP-03 Liberty, which
clipping it on to a wrist strap. It has
is in the form of a gun cartridge.
a pocket watch movement designed
“More watchmaking, mastery and
in collaboration with the Geneva
innovation,” this is how Jean-Claude
Watchmaking School and is based
Biver, CEO, Hublot, defines the
on a Chopard patent from 1912 for a
future of the brand. He adds, “The
“convertible” model.
Masterpiece houses a Tourbillon. It
Ulysse Nardin’s Locle & Geneve
symbolises power and luxury, and
Chronometre is another fine pocket
the promise of escaping conventional
watch. A dazzling piece in 18K
interpretation. The MP-03 is a
pink gold and silver, it was specially
contemporary interpretation of the
designed for the Chicago exhibition
traditional pocket watches.”
in 1893 and is admired for its beauty even a century later. Truly phenomenal as much for its mechanism and for its looks, is Breguet’s Classique 1907. Assuming the highest title among Grandes Complications, it is accompanied by one of Breguet’s greatest inventions: the Tourbillon. This timepiece, which houses an entirely new manually wound movement produced at the Breguet Manufacture, is presented in a
the A. Lange & Söhne manufactory
build these exceptional timepieces.
Constant Girard, which was awarded
sumptuous display case. Without any
was brought back in a pitiful state. Jan
Alone in his workshop, a glass-walled
a gold medal at the Paris Universal
doubt, it is meant for collectors looking
Sliva, in-house head, Lange pocket
room on the top floor of the Museum,
Exhibition in 1889.” The result of
for exclusive timepieces. Jaquet Droz’
watches and the man who restored the
Bratschi creates pocket watches
more than a year’s work by a talented
(JD) Numerus Clausus edition also has
precious junk, says, “We looked at it
in their entirety using traditional
watchmaker, this creation is a window
one-of-a-kind creations and is limited
as a chance to preserve the ingenuity
craftsmanship.
onto the past, revealing exceptional
to just 8, 28 or 88 pieces. The pocket
craftsmanship. Vacheron Constantin
watch from the same collection N°
of our fathers and forefathers for the
More than ten years after the
coming generations. It took us nine
production of Girard-Perregaux’s
(VC) too revisited the golden age of
8/88 masters the art of exclusivity and
years to restore it.”
Tourbillons, the brand has now
pocket watches to present a model
spells elegance with its slender shape
unveiled a new expression of this
featuring a classic design. The
and technical perfection.
unique savoir-faire. Stefano Macaluso,
Patrimony Contemporaine pocket
Believe it or not but the horologists across the world have dedicated
Well, with the advent of vintage
themselves to the work of saving and
president, Girard-Perregaux, says,
watch created by VC – issued in
fashion into our lives, the revival
reviving the best for the posterity. In a
“I’m extremely proud of our three gold
a limited edition of 50 individually
of pocket watches was imminent.
small workshop nestled under the roof
Bridges Tourbillon pocket watch. It’s
numbered watches – is a sensual
But, with the world’s most trusted
of the Audemars Piguet Museum, in
one of the highest achievement in
timepiece with gentle curves and is
watchmakers having taken upon
Le Brassus, Switzerland, Jean-Charles
GP’s art of watchmaking. It’s not only
equipped with the new mechanical
themselves to present the classical style
Bratschi makes old-fashioned pocket
a collector’s piece but a tribute to the
proprietary Calibre 4400. It embodies
of contemporary elegance, the watch
watches. It takes him almost a year to
first three gold Bridges Tourbillon of
a philosophy that has remained
devotees couldn’t have been happier. D
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flavo r GLOBAL FASHION’S
u
Indian
With fashion stalwarts turning to India for inspiration, it isn’t so hard to tell which way is the fashion wind is blowing words meghna sharma
T
he world of fashion is definitely having an India moment right now. Haute couture inspired from the ‘land of exotica’ is being seen nearly on every runway and grand red carpet events. From Jean Paul Gaultier to Etro to Marchesa and more, luxury fashion houses are turning to India to seek inspiration. But how has India suddenly become mainstream fashion fodder for the industry stalwarts? The fashion fraternity believes that since India is one country where every state has a different flavour and a unique culture, it has compelled the fashion world to sit up and take notice. International fashion houses are always on the lookout for a new muse and India never fails to inspire something unique and impactful. The vibrant flavour and strong interplay of techniques has attracted some of the most precious jewels in the fashion world to its fold. Ace designer Jean Paul Gaultier’s love for India reflects in his womenswear collections from time to time. The renowned designer’s use of sari gowns, traditional Indian colours and fabrics and stylised lambskin Jodhpurs
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Chanel
Marchesa
Jean Paul Gaultier
Louis Vuitton
Judith Leiber
Marchesa
Etro
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has already evoked rave reviews in the fashion world. And with his spring/summer 2013 menswear collection Gaultier of Hermès proved that his love for India is no fleeting romance. By dressing up his models in Sikh-styled turbans, teamed with various ensembles such as shorts, blazers, tuxedos, T-shirts and overcoats, Gaultier paid a rich tribute to India. The collection was inspired by the travel theme, presenting a globetrotting fashionable man who understands the very essence of travelling that cultivates a bigger understanding and respect for various cultures. The French designer also matched the ambience to the theme, with rows of seating christened after Indian dishes — tandoori, tikka masala, naan, dal and vindaloo! Replete with models flaunting bindis, dupattas over their heads and little girls with maang tikaas, this was the fifth India-inspired show in a year. Talking about his India connect Gaultier remarked: “In every collection I have done, there is always an Indian inspiration.” The designer is known to visit the country quite often and owns a vast library of intensely coloured textile swatches here, since his first visit to Kolkata and Puri in the 1970s.
continent for Marchesa. They showcased a distinctly India-inspired spring/summer 2013 collection for their New York Fashion Week show. The collection was inspired by 1960s India and one can see influences in the silhouettes – notice the ghaghralike skirts, choli-inspired tops and the kurta paired with pants. Marchesa made extensive use of brocades, embroidery and cutwork; outfits were paired with Louboutins and jewellery from Jaipur’s Gem Palace.
Like Gaultier, India has been an inspiration to many international design houses and with time, the country has also carved out a significant spot for itself on the global fashion map. The past year has seen an increasing number of international designers making India their muse. Jewellery designer Jade Jagger, rocker Mick Jagger’s daughter had recently remarked: “Western designers have always been inspired by India. But it’s nice that they are acknowledging it openly now.” British design duo Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig also took a trip to the sub-
Fashion designer Namrata Joshipura, who often shows in New York and Paris, says, “People are talking about India a lot in mainstream media and focusing on what’s happening culturally over here. India is showcased not just in couture but also for ready-to-wear lines.” It seems that the West cannot get enough of India. Etro, while taking inspiration from the Mahabharata for their latest menswear collection, were also true to the Italian cuts and silhouettes they are famous for. Vera Wang said of her collection, ‘Out of India’,
The West just can’t seem to get enough of INDIA WHEN IT COMES TO ALL THINGS FASHION
“India is just the starting point. There is no belly dancing, no sarongs, no saris.” The cuts, like the Nehru jacket one, are straight, smart and “have discipline”. Popular clothing label Kenzo, founded by Japanese fashion designer Kenzo Takada, also introduced its India-inspired collection at the Paris Fashion Week recently. Paying homage to Asian temples, the brand’s fashion designers Humberto Leon from Peru and South Korea’s Carol Lim featured far Eastern silhouettes in their fall/winter 2013-2014 collection. Enriched with motifs of Hindu temple bricks and serpents, the line included boxy jackets and flat tulip skirts in shades of gold, rich red, cobalt blue and black. Other designers who’ve taken inspiration from India in the past are Christian Louboutin, who designed India-inspired stilettos, naming them Bollywoody and Devidas. Louis Vuitton too came out with a bag collection inspired by India and window dressed their stores with the artwork of goddess Lakshmi during Diwali in all of their 454 stores throughout the world. LV also asked Marc Jacobs to design a limited edition sari collection using materials from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai. Hermès launched its limited edition saris, an “extension of the famous Hermès scarf”. The sari silhouette, which dates back more than 1,000 years, has now been accepted as a ‘must-have’ drape in the fashion world. Indian designer Suneet Varma has been asked to design a limited edition collection of Judith Leiber clutch and recently Gucci introduced Indiaexclusive evening bags. Looks like wherever you go, everyone will be carrying a bit of India with them. D
Christian Louboutin
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u f ture Piston power
BMW DEFINES THE
The state-of-the-art concept cars by BMW arouse desire. We pay homage to the BMW 328 Hommage Text & picture courtesy Internet
T
he BMW 328 is considered the most successful and best-looking sports car of the 1930s. The BMW 328’s success was the result of its design parameters – through the use of systematic lightweight construction, aerodynamic lines, optimum engine types and outstanding suspension technology, it laid the foundation stone for a new vehicle concept, by which performance only leads to success if combined with perfect harmonisation of all parameters and maximum efficiency. With these characteristics, the BMW 328 was even then the embodiment of what the BMW brand still stands for today – dynamics, aesthetics and a high level of innovation.
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BMW 328 HOMMAGE - lightweight
The
construction as a principle
One can notice the sleek interiors of the car that blend well in the modernist design
Last year, the dream sports car celebrated its 75th birthday. To this day, the award-winning vehicle BMW 328 Touring Coupé still holds the record for the highest average speed on the Mille Miglia circuit and, in 2010, was again able to win the historic revival of the race. A week later at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the two-seater’s functional aesthetics will be the focus of attention. In this area of conflict between tradition and modernity, the BMW Group paid a tribute to the BMW 328 on the occasion of its anniversary with a special model – the BMW 328 Hommage. “With the BMW 328 Hommage, we wish to pay homage to the passion and inventiveness of the fathers of the BMW 328,” explains Karl Bäumer, CEO of BMW Group Classic. “They created an icon, which is considered a milestone in the history of the automobile.” The BMW 328 Hommage translates the principles and the character of the vehicle of that time into present times and offers a possible interpretation of how the designers of that time, Fritz Fiedler and Rudolf Schleicher, might have built the BMW 328 in the present day using current technology. The BMW 328 was also a special BMW insofar as the lightweight construction principle was systematically implemented on a BMW automobile for the very first
time. Wherever possible, the lightest and at the same time most robust materials were used, thereby keeping the gross vehicle weight down to just 780 kilograms. In order to translate the idea of lightweight construction into this day and age, major parts of the exterior and interior of the BMW 328 Hommage are made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). Whilst in the old days they favoured the materials aluminium and magnesium, CFRP is now considered to offer the best ratio between weight and stability. The high-strength fibre fabric is lighter than aluminium, but also more stable. Wherever the material has been used on the BMW 328 Hommage, it is also visible. In this way, the BMW 328 Hommage not only reflects the lightweight construction principle functionally, but also visually. The BMW Group leads the way in the production and use of CFRP in automotive construction and already possesses many years of experience in the series production of CFRP roofs and structural components for the BMW M6 as well as CFRP roofs for the BMW M3. The expressive exterior design of the BMW 328 Hommage depicts the modern interpretation of a highly emotional and dynamic two-seater Roadster – just like the BMW 328 75 years ago. As a result, a subtle contrast between the tense surfaces and the sharp edges is created within the flat, dynamic silhouette. D
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hotels Thailand Bangkok Dusit Thani Bangkok Dusit Princess Srinakarin, Bangkok Royal Princess Larn Luang, Bangkok Pathumwan Princess, MBK Centre, Bangkok Chiang Mai dusitD2 chiang mai Royal Princess Chiang Mai Chiang Rai Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai Hua Hin Dusit Thani Hua Hin Korat Dusit Princess Korat Pattaya Dusit Thani Pattaya dusitD2 baraquda pattaya Phuket Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket
Philippines Manila Dusit Thani Manila, Philippines
United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Dubai Dusit Thani Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dusit Residence Dubai Marina Pearl Coast Premier Hotel Apartments Managed by Dusit International
Egypt Cairo Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo, Egypt
Maldives Baa Atoll Dusit Thani Maldives
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{35}
{36 / haute cuisine}