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A R G EN T I N E HI G H- G OAL S EASON EN G EL & VO EL K ER S ' O PEN DE F RAN CE 2 0 2 1 M ET GALA DO M A I N E DE C HA N T I LLY SAIS ON D' ÉT É
THE
FASHION ISSUE
IMAN
KILLER COLLABORATIONS 90s INSPIRATION PLUNGING NECKLINES BOLD COLLECTIONS
REFUGEE SUPERMODEL ADVOCATE
SCIENCE ASKS, WOULD YOU ERASE BAD MEMORIES?
MUCH MORE THAN A WATCH
MB&F RE-IMAGINES
THE PERPETUAL CALENDAR
IDENTIFY CHARACTER STRENGTHS IN 20 MINUTES
HOLY HORSEPOWER!
2021 MONTEREY CAR SHOW
DON'T LET AUTUMN PLAY HAVOC ON YOUR BODY THE ROLE OF COMFORT FOOD IN YOUR SACRED PLACE
@ U S POLOASSN | # USPA LI FE
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Ambassador Claude-Alix Bertrand Publisher
Joshua Jakobitz Editor-in-Chief
William Smith
Aubrey Chandler
Copy Editor & Philanthropy Contributor
Contributing Photographer
Claire Barrett
Lifestyles Contributor
Eva Espresso
Wellness Columnist
Cezar Kusik
Trends Contributor
Raphael K. Dapaah
Wellness Contributor
Jyoti Paintel
Polo Lifestyles is a publication of HT Polo Publishing Co. 995 Detroit Avenue, Suite A Concord, CA 94518
Head of Photography
Contributing Photographer
Wine Contributor
Art Contributor
Spiritual Contributor
Stanley Pierre-Etienne Style Contributor
Anne-Isabelle Saint-Pierre Style Contributor
Brand Representatives Anne-Isabelle Saint-Pierre - Dubai Michael J. Snell - The Hamptons Stanley Pierre-Etienne Caribbean Jessica Foret Wax - Santa Fe K & Co. Media - Los Angeles Contributing Photographers Tosh Monday Agus Fonda
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Katerina Morgan
Contributing Photographer
Michael J. Snell Joey Velez
Brett Chody
Panthil Dwivedi
Content Copyright © Polo Lifestyles 2020 All Rights Reserved. For information or to advertise Contact editor@htpolo.com Read online at www.pololifestyles.com Cover Photo of Iman Shot by Paola Kudacki The photo on this page was shot at Milan Fashion Week by The Impression
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COWDRAY PARK POLO CLUB The Gold Cup British Ladies Open Championships GREENWICH POLO CLUB East Coast Open INANDA CLUB The Africa Polo Open WILL ROGERS PARK Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic DOMAINE DE CHANTILLY Coupe PGH Trophee de Bourbon Open de France THE POLO PARTY Scottsdale Bentley Polo Championships JACKSON HOLE POLO CLUB Back in the Saddle (Virtual) MYOPIA POLO CLUB Chairman's Cup ARGENTINE SEASON Tortugas Country Club Open Hurlingham Club Open Argentine Polo Open Championship Women Argentine Polo Open The Triple Crown of Polo AUSTRALIA Polo in the City World Series AUCKLAND POLO CLUB BMW "The Polo" Open
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SCOREBOARDS & COCKTAILS
OPEN DE FRANCE
EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS FROM DOMAINE DE CHANTILLY Page 42 POLO LIFESTYLES EDITORS & CONTRIBUTORS
Ambassador Claude-Alix Bertrand Publisher Polo Lifestyles @haiti_polo_captain
Josh Jakobitz
Editor-in-Chief Polo Lifestyles @joshuajakobitz
Panthil Dwivedi
Wellness Contributor PanthilWrites.com @panthildwivedi
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Claire Barrett
Head of Photography
Claire Barrett Photography
@clairebarrettphoto
Eva Espresso Photographer
Eva Espresso Photography
@eva.espresso
Raphael K. Dapaah Art Contributor Dapaah Gallery @dapaahgallery
Michael J. Snell
Lifestyles Contributor MJS Groupe @agnello_1
Jyoti Paintel
Spiritual Contributor Polo Lifestyles @jyotipaintel
Aubrey Chandler Photographer Polo Lifestyles @aubreychandler
Cezar Kusik
Wine Contributor Polo Lifestyles @cezartastesearth
Joey Velez
Brett Chody
Trends Contributor Polo Lifestyles @brettchody
William Smith
Wellness Columnist
Philanthropy Contributor
@velezmentalhealth
@willismith_2000
Velez Mental Performance May & Stanley Smith Charitable Trust
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Would you erase bad mem- Nothing short of paradise: ories if you could? page 71 luxury real estate, page 196
A killer collaboration: Fendi and Versace, page 98
Much more than a timepiece... MB&F, page 186
IMAN ABDULMAJID From refugee to supermodel to global ambassador for CARE, Iman's message is clear. Page 90
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ARGENTINE HIGH-GOAL SEASON
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HE 2021 FASHION ISSUE MARKS OUR FOURTH INSTALLMENT OF THE STYLE-CENTRIC FALL RECAP OF THE WORLD OF GLOBAL FASHION. IT IS CONSISTENTLY OUR BIGGEST BOOK OF THE YEAR, WITH 783 UNIQUELY PLACED IMAGES ON 222 PAGES. IN OTHER WORDS, IT’S A LOT OF PHOTO EDITING.
Photo editing is probably the most under-appreciated part of the publishing world. In my first job at a daily newspaper almost 20 years ago, the photo editor sat in a dark corner of the bullpen with his Bose earphones blocking out our background chatter and his notebook of shorthand annotations. It was our job to schedule with Jon anything that needed to be shot. Jon was a little short-tempered, but it wasn’t anything that a fresh cup of coffee delivered to his desk with a smile couldn’t fix. He worked long hours click, click, clicking the mouse to reset the white point, adjust levels and curves. Fast forward 20 years and, basically, I can edit photos on my iPhone – thank you technology. Technology continued to bring the world together during fashion weeks in New York, London and Milan. While most shows had limited attendance (and New York limited attendance to the fully vaccinated crowd), the majority of us watched fashion unfold on our phone and computers. And after several faltering seasons of disappointing visual effects, most fashion houses came prepared this time around. Among the many shows I followed, I specially tuned in via Instagram Live to watch Dua Lipa strut the Versace runway in New York, and only days later, watched the Versace x Fendi mash-up, Fendace, unfold in Milan. The collaboration literally stole fashion week in Milan. See our full coverage in the extended fashion and style section this month. The high-goal polo season in Argentina is off to a solid start, although crowd limitations remain in place. Perennial polo photographer Katerina Morgan is on the sidelines to bring the latest photographs and information from that spectacular polo season. The biggest tournaments are yet to come, and thanks to another technology, Global Polo TV, we will be able to stream them onto any device anywhere in the world. We have our virtual season passes ready to go – do you? Best, Josh Jakobitz josh@pololifestyles.com
Beyond first class is a class of one. INNOVATION EXISTS PURELY TO SERVE YOUR COMFORT, SAFETY AND CONVENIENCE VIA MULTIPLE SENSES. A VIRTUAL VOICE ASSISTANT LISTENS TO SERVE YOU. LIGHTING AND FRAGRANCE SUBTLY SOOTHE YOU.
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NOW WITH 0% FINANCING.
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agnello_1 Fourteen luxury cars totaling more than $24,000,000 in value on the rooftop #NYC
emmatateceramics New mom and sculptor Emma Tate's creations are just heavenly pieces of equestrian love
mjsgroupe
Quite a crew that assembled in Pebble Beach for Monterey Car Week @agnello_1 page 22
amanzoe When we think of rest and relaxation, this is exactly what comes to mind at any given moment
fendi What happens when the fashion houses of Fendi and Versace merge? #FENDACE
monaco.monte.carlo Beautiful boats, sparkling blue water and lunch on a chic deck overlooking it all, must be in Monte Carlo
art_full_services Love seeing Jose Ignacio Domecq's work used as a polo trophy in Sotogrande
gabunion Dress up, go out #dugo time for mom and dad to hit the town again because it's been a minute
hannahchody She called it "cowboy killer" but we call it cowgirl chic done right in Utah on a warm night
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Click and comment on our choices... Tag @pololifestyles. We will share noteworthy comments with you next month.
theebillyporter He steals the show. Every. Time. Billy Porter looking absolutely fabulous as always.
garydourdan That's a trifecta: Lenny Kravitz, Naomi Campbell and Gary Dourdan reunited since the pandemic started
oprah Twenty-five years ago, Oprah launched her book club... and it feels just like yesterday
donatella_versace In New York, Donatella walked the catwalk with Dua Lipa, her featured muse for SS22 Versace
harris_reed When you design a gown for Iman, you get to walk the Met Gala red carpet with her
oscardelarenta No one does a gown like Oscar de la Renta, whose collections are just dreamy
e_q_u_e_s_t_r_e Overlooking the polo fields at Cowdray Polo Club and keeping stormy weather at bay
lalique
We can never have too many Lalique vases and this one is just perfect to add to the collection
outmagazine The preview for "Spencer" dropped last month, featuring a Diana who asks, "Do you think they'll kill me?" page 23
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ARGEN TI N A' S HIGH -G OA L S EAS ON PHOTOS BY KAT E RIN A MORGAN
A
NEW TITLE FOR LA NATIVIDAD AND ANOTHER HISTORIC DAY FOR LOLO CASTAGNOLA, WHO RETURNED TO PLAY IN PALERMO AND WON THE TITLE WITH ONE OF HIS SONS, BARTO, HIS NEPHEW, POROTO CAMBIASO, AND THE SON OF A GREAT FRIEND, LUKIN page 26
MONTEVERDE. IT WAS AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY FOR HIM.
authority by 13-8 and won the first title of the 2021 High Goal Season.
On Friday, Sept. 24, the third and last day of the 53rd edition of the traditional San Jorge Military Equestrian Club Open for the Duke of Edinburgh Cup was played on Court 2 in Palermo.
After a first chukker in which Malay Joevy Beh’s team began more strongly, La Natividad turned the score around from the second set and managed to take a wide advantage of seven goals in the fifth chukker, thanks to a great game from “Barto” Castagnola, with eight goals in the day and finally top scorer of
The undefeated La Natividad defeated La Dolfina Doctor 2U with great
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ARGENTINE HIGH-GOAL SEASON the tournament with 13. The tournament was also very important for Malaysians James and Joevy Beh, father and son, who played two very good games and were close to Barto in the scorers’ table: Joevy, second with 11; and James, third with 10. At the awards ceremony and following the words of the president of the AAP, Delfín Uranga, James Beh received a plaque of gratitude for his contribution to polo, while among the horses, Dolfina Melina , played by Lolo Castagnola, was awarded by the Argentine Polo Association as the best in the final; while the AACCP banner for being the Best Polo Argentino Registered Player Product went to Chalo La Niña Loli, played by Barto Castagnola.
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OPEN D E F R A N C E PR E SE NT E D BY EN G EL & VO EL K ERS
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OPE N D E F R A N CE
P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y D O M A I N E D E C H A N T I L LY
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OP EN DE F R A N C E
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2 02 1 ME T
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GALA
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2021 MET GA L A
TH E RE D -CARP E T EXTR AVAGA N Z A R ETU R N S
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This page: Rihanna; opposite page, top: Matteo Berrettini and Ajla Tomljanovic; bottom: Maluma
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HE MET GALA IS TYPICALLY HELD ON THE FIRST MONDAY IN MAY, BUT THIS YEAR, THE EVENT WAS POSTPONED DUE TO COVID-19 AND FELL RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF FASHION MONTH—MEANING THE STAKES FOR STELLAR STYLE ON THE RED CARPET WERE ESPECIALLY HIGH. ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, FASHION’S BIGGEST NIGHT WAS HELD AT ITS USUAL LOCATION: THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART IN NEW YORK CITY. The gala was in celebration of the Costume Institute’s newest exhibition, “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” which opened to the public in the Anna Wintour Costume Center a few days later on September 18. On the red carpet, the celebrity guests embodied the theme of American style, from flashy, star-spangled ensembles, to more discreet nods to Americana PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY THE MET GALA
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motifs. The Met Gala’s red carpet has a history of creating memorable outfits—remember Rihanna’s high-fashion Margiela pope look from 2018?—and this year was no different. As for who was on the guest list last night? Cochairs this year included Billie Eilish, Timothée Chalamet, Naomi Osaka, and Amanda Gorman, but there were plenty of other Hollywood A-listers walking the famous Met steps. See stunning Met gala red carpet looks from Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Simone Biles and more of your favorites, exclusively in Polo Lifestyles.
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This page, top: U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez; bottom left: Ciara; bottom right: Dan Levy Opposite page, top: Shawn Mendes and Camilla Cabello; bottom left to right: Aldis Hodge, Anna Wintour and Lewis Hamilton
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SENTEBALE POLO CUP
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY THE MET GALA
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This page: Quannah Chasinghorse gets ready for her first Met Gala Opposite page, top: Simone Biles; bottom left to right: Donatella Versace, Kendall Jenner, Sharon Stone and Gigi Hadid
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This page: Lupita Nyong’o; opposite page: A$AP Rocky and Rihanna
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This page, top: Billie Eilish; bottom: Frank Ocean Opposite page, top: Lil Nas X in Versace; bottom left to right: Serena Williams and Channing Tatum with Zoe Kravitz
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This page: Iman; Opposite page, top: Jennifer Hudson; bottom left to right: Amandla Stenberg and Venus Williams
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This page, top: J. Lo and Kendall Jenner; bottom: Adrien Brody and Georgina Chapman Opposite page, top: Naomi Osaka in Louis Vuitton; bottom: Kim Kardashian in Balenciaga
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WOULD YOU
ERASE
BAD MEMORIES?
S CIENCE IS ON THE VERGE O F A MA JOR BREAKTHROU G H
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T
HE FIRST TIME THAT I SAT IN A THERAPIST'S OFFICE, ACROSS A WELL-APPOINTED ROOM FROM HIS KIND, BESPECKLED EYES HALF-HIDDEN BEHIND A NOTEPAD, I WAS IN FULLON TEARS IN LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES. IT WAS OUR INITIAL MEETING AND HE WAS GOING THROUGH THE STANDARD HAVE-YOU-EVER INTAKE FORM. WHEN HE ARRIVED AT, HAVE YOU EVER BEEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED?, THE TEARS WELLED IN MY EYES AND HE HAD HIS ANSWER BEFORE I MANAGED A WEAK, YES. We spent that summer working through a lot of trauma, the above included. Therapy sessions brought out repressed memories as his questions explored the vast database of my mind. At different
points, I began to doubt the authenticity of my formerly repressed memories - what if I was unconsciously exaggerating? He assured me that repression was a common coping mechanism for dealing with childhood and adolescent trauma. It felt good to let it all out session after session, but at some point I wondered, Now how do I pack this all away and move on? Move on, I did. Physically and geographically, when the summer ended, my responsibilities took me back to the Caribbean. This summer preceded the invention of either Zoom or FaceTime, so our relationship simply ended with a handshake and sincere thank-you. Over the years, the memories and trauma have faded, but triggers, benign and unassuming, exist and test my resilience and intentions. What if I could simply erase the parts of my memory that have caused this trauma to follow me into adulthood? Wouldn't that be nice? Or would it? Certainly there would be pitfalls to such manipulation of the mind.
Some scientists think that selective memory erasure technology might not be far away, and while it’s being explored Dr. Philipp Kellmeyer, a neurologist and head of the Neuroethics & A.I. Ethics Lab at the University of Freiburg, has several concerns. High among them is identity. “Targeted elimination or inception of memories for purposes other than medical treatment obviously entails huge ethical problems,” Kellmeyer said. “(Including) the possibility for interfering with a person’s identity... or instrumentalizing individuals by using false memory inception to influence their behavior.” While many of these painful memories do fade with time, particularly painful ones can leave a lasting mark in the form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and make seemingly innocuous aspects of daily life difficult to manage. While it seems far future, the technology may be nearer than we think. page 71
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Computational neuroscientists are in the proof-of-concept stages of a new kind of PTSD treatment called decoded neurofeedback (DecNef) that collects and parses brain signals using machine learning to modify painful memories — all without the subject evening knowing it. It could be the road to healing for countless PTSD sufferers — at least, if the technology is in the right hands. While our brains may feel like a static lump of matter reclining in our skulls, they’re actually an incredibly active power-center of the body shooting off electric signals for every movement we make or stimulus we encounter. Aurelio Cortese, a computational neuroscientist and principal investigator of the ATR Computational Neuroscience Labs, said that it’s these signals that scientists are taking advantage. “In [DecNef,] we use neuro-imaging data,” said Cortese. “A big magnet scans our brain, and measures changes in the levels of oxygen in the cerebral blood. This data is then processed in real-time page 72
through a local computer, that selects the data from the relevant brain area.”
It aims to give participants control over some specific brain processes.
In addition to his contributions to a number of DecNef studies, he worked on a recent dataset review published this year in the journal Scientific Data.
Essentially, fMRI data collected during exposure to a painful stimulus (which in some studies is a mild electric shock but in others a fear-stimulus like an assailant’s image) is parsed by a machine-learning algorithm to separate the specific pattern from the noise.
This big magnet is part of an fMRI machine, a large tunnel-like machine similar to a CAT scan machine you might see at a hospital. Collecting fMRI data is nothing unusual, but what’s different about DecNef, Cortese says, is the use of machine learning to extract and re-target specific patterns of neural activity. “Machine learning is used to learn the neural representation of the target mental representation in the first place,” says Cortese. “This machine learning decoder is then used in the neurofeedback procedure, to detect the activation patterns and compute the likelihood that it corresponds to a target pattern.” DecNef participants receive a small reward every time a target activation pattern in their brain is detected.
Participants are then tasked in separate sessions to self-modulate their own neural activity through trial and error to match their brain activity to a series of targets in real-time for a small cash reward. While participants think they’re simply playing a game, what they’re really doing is matching their real-time neural activity to the neural activity snapshot from the painful stimuli. While research studies in the past decade have found this approach can noticeably reduce the fear associated with these memories (even in patients with PTSD), they’re not yet entirely sure why. But the prevailing theories are that DecNef works similarly to either expo-
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WOULD YOU
ERASE
BAD MEMORIES?
sure-based therapy (the gold standard of PTSD treatment which works by lessening fear over time through exposure) or by counter-conditioning (which replaces the fear of a stimulus with a more positive reaction, like anticipating a reward.) Cortese notes though that this doesn’t necessarily mean the memory itself will be deleted — a la Eternal Sunshine — but will rather be rendered painless. “One of the main goals is to reduce the impact of traumatic memories, or of phobic items,” says Cortese. “By repeatedly pairing the neural occurrence of the memory or the object with a small reward, the brain can unlearn the fear.” Cortese says that there are a number of ways this memory modulation technique could be useful, including even helping train attention, increase memory function or reduce physical pain. But right now, the research is focused in on treatment-resistant forms of PTSD. Right now, exposure-based therapy for PTSD — in which patients are exposed
virtually or in real life to a fear-causing stimulus — is the primary treatment for this disorder, but it can be a grueling process to undergo and isn’t necessarily effective in all patients. Using DecNef instead could potentially open a door to modifying these memories without needing to re-expose the patients to the source of their trauma. Proof-of-concept trials today for DecNef typically collect the neural response to a stimulus in the lab but research has also shown that it may be possible to use a surrogate set of neural signals to do this instead, meaning patients could one day skip the re-exposure altogether. “This is already quite an achievement since it means we could build the machine learning decoders without having to present the traumatic image to that person,” says Cortese. Memories are an essential part of the human story and something that we feel a large amount of ownership over. For this reason, Cortese says that one of DecNef ’s best traits (unconsciously modifying bad memories) is simultane-
ously a potential ethical issue as well. “Because [DecNef] can be used to partly change mental representations without the person being entirely aware of it, it should be used only in very specific settings, with proper oversight from ethic boards,” says Cortese. Kellmeyer also says that this technology raises ethical concerns over both data and “mental privacy” as well. Unlike having your credit card number stolen, having your memory data stolen could have much larger implications. Ultimately, Cortese hopes that these ethical concerns can be effectively addressed so that this technique can make a powerful impact on those plagued by dark memories from their past. “The hope is that it will one day be possible within few sessions paired with medical/psychological counseling to remove a traumatic memory, or to reduce depression symptoms, or improve other psychiatric mental states,” said Cortese. Reporting by Josh Jakobitz and Sarah Wells for Polo Lifestyles page 73
HIGH SOCIETY
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FIN D I N G T H E U LTIMATE AU TOMOBI LE AT M ON TER EY CA R WEEK
MICHAEL J. SNELL Lifestyles Contributor @agnello_1
E
VERY YEAR, THOUSANDS OF AUTO ENTHUSIASTS PACK THEIR BAGS AND FILL THEIR TANKS AS THEY RACE TOWARD THE CENTRAL CALIFORNIAN COAST FOR THE PRESTIGIOUS MONTEREY CAR WEEK. Playing host to the world’s most beautiful and expensive collectible cars for a week of lavish parties, blue-chip auctions, elite rallies and exclusive
high-roller meetings, the scenes (and exhaust sounds) from downtown Carmel and Pebble Beach are anything but normal.
House in Malibu to a beautifully catered lunch at Vincent Vineyards in Santa Ynez for the midpoint and ending the 306-mile coastal journey in Monterey.
With counts reaching 20,000-plus each year, 2021 was expected to be no different. There had not been an event of this size due to the previous year’s cancellation, leaving enthusiasts desperately wanting more. Nevertheless, the 2021 car week culminated following painstaking preparations to reveal one of the largest gatherings noted to date.
As the name denotes, Car Week manufacturers and independent dealers pack the scheduled full of independently held vehicle reveals, drive and concept previews, events and vintage commemorations that aim to serve as the platform for both press, as well as client test drives and sales conversion opportunities.
If you are lucky to score an invite this week, you are in for a real treat. We were lucky enough to be included with team from O’Gara Coach in Beverly Hills, joining them on their Malibu to Monterey Rally. Consisting of 30-plus clients driving personally owned super cars from the starting point at SoHo
As this now marks my 12th Car Week attendance, one thing is certain – you learn a thing or two. Coming from an internal automotive marketing background, I’ve had the pleasure of both directing and planning the experience for luxury clientele and enjoying it as a spectator, while silently taking construc-
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY ROLEX
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M O NT E REY CAR W EEK
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tive notes. This year was truly exciting as it was a combination that brought experience full circle. The two main events of the week kicked off with The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. At Quail Lodge & Golf Club, a Peninsula Hotel, automotive industry leaders, motorsports legends, celebrities page 80
and a wide variety of automotive enthusiasts assembled on the scenic fairways for the show’s unprecedented awards ceremony. This year’s event was headlined by three featured classes. The first, “50th Anniversary of the Alfa Romeo Montreal,” paid tribute to one of the most unique sports coupés of the 1970s. The second featured class, “Automotive
Couture, French Cars Featuring the 50th Anniversary of the Citroën SM,” celebrated a historic milestone with several examples of the SM and other stylish French vehicles such as a 1965 Matra Bonnet Djet VS. Additionally, “Cars of Curiosity” showcased unique vehicles including a 1957 Fiat 600 / Eden Roc and a 1978 Lamborghini Urraco P2000.
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Lamborghini, Hennessey, Acura, Bugatti and Bentley Motors each held press conferences to unveil new models and make significant announcements. Some highlights included the U.S. premiere of the Lotus Emira, a new mid-engine premium sports car; the first public displays of the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid, GT Speed and special Mulliner introductions including the coach-built Bacalar, and the long awaited reveal of the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4.
A 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster was awarded the Rolex Circle of Champions “Best of Show” out of more than 200 entrants. The vehicle, owned by K. Heinz Keller from California, was selected for its design, engineering, sophistication and presentation. Keller acquired the car in 1986 from a private owner in Colorado, and
the vehicle underwent an eight-year, ground-up restoration. In addition to the awards, the event played host to several vehicle debuts and premieres from revered manufacturers and sponsors. Rimac Automobili, Lotus Cars, Pagani Automobili, Automobili Pininfarina, Gateway Bronco, PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY ROLEX
“The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, is truly one of the world’s most prestigious motoring events,” said Kai Lermen, General Manager of Quail Lodge & Golf Club. “Our 18th annual celebration delivered the allure, excitement and passion The Quail has become known for. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and automotive icons, the beautiful atmosphere of Quail Lodge & Golf Club, and, most of all, the enthusiasm of the automotive community, this event has continued to grow and evolve year after year. We are looking forward to everything 2022 has to bring!” page 81
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MO NT E R E Y CA R W EEK
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P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y TO S H M O N DAY
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Each evening, manufacturers carefully handed out invitations to owners, influencers and the very elite for a celebration of their brand and the latest bespoke models they have to present for this model year. Gaining access to one of these soirees is the tough part, but once you make it inside the House of Bentley or Casa Ferrari, or have the privilege of attending the most-talked-about party at the Rimac House – you will always come back to car week with a need to attend each one!
Beach with anticipation for the sold-out Concours d’Elegance. This being the second of the two largest events for the week, with over 230 classic and luxury cars stretched across Pebble Beach Golf Links’ 17th and 18th fairways. Widebrimmed hats and carefully tailored suits could be seen across the landscape, and if you were lucky enough, you may just have caught a glimpse to see which celebrity was under that mysterious hat as they paused to admire automobiles far too rare to pass by.
As blue skies peeked out from behind clouds on the warm Sunday morning, spectators flooded through Pebble
This year the 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Autobahn Kurier was named ‘Best In Show.’ It belongs to The
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Keller Collection at The Pyramids in Petaluma, Calif. This win is the ninth for Mercedes-Benz, tying the marque with Bugatti for the most ‘Best of Shows’ at Pebble Beach. “This Best of Show winner embodies so many sensational features—styling, speed, and performance. Unveiled at the Berlin Auto Show and built to rule the new German Autobahn in 1938, this rare automobile is truly an example of beautiful German design,” said Concours Chairman Sandra Button. “It’s my triple crown,” said Arturo Keller. “This is the only remaining car of its kind, and I am the second owner
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from new. It’s a very special car, and we are very happy.” The car was last restored in 2006, and has continued to be shown, rallied and toured since then. The Kellers also went home with the ‘Elegance in Motion’ Trophy.
LWB California Spider Competizione, which brought in $10,840,000; a 1929 Bugatti Type 35B Grand Prix, which sold for $5,615,000, and a 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Series I Cabriolet, which achieved $4,405,000.
Gooding & Company, which is the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, realized more than $107 million in sales at its annual Pebble Beach Auctions during the concours weekend. Notable auctions included: the world record-breaking sale of a 1995 McLaren F1, which sold for $20,465,000; a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT
It was also great for us to learn that The Pebble Beach Concours raised more than $1.75 million for charity this year, bringing the event’s total charitable donations to over $32 million to date. Through the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, the primary charitable partner of the Concours, these funds will benefit more than 95 local charities,
impacting the lives of more than 10,000 children annually in Monterey County. But one thing is always a constant, do not be surprised when the person sitting next to you on a shuttle bus ends up owning all of Houston for example (“Hi Tilman, great to see you this year!”). You never know who you may see, as the truth is – cars bring people together and deep down everybody has an appreciation with an innate fascination for the sensory overload they bring us – not just how fast they go! MICHAEL J. SNELL LIFESTYLES CONTRIBUTOR POLO LIFESTYLES 2021
M O NT EREY CAR W EEK PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY ROLEX
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MONTEREY CAR WEEK
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IMAN: FACE OF A REFUGEE
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IMAN ABDULMAJID BOWIE S
A REF UG EE AT 1 6 , S H E C O N Q U E RE D T H E RU N WAY. NOW S H E'S TAC K LIN G T H E CRISIS O F O U R T IME .
HE’S A SUPERMODEL, A BEAUTY INDUSTRY ENTREPRENEUR AND PIONEER, A FASHION DESIGNER, ACTIVIST, MOTHER, AND WIFE AND PARTNER TO A ROCK STAR. BUT THE FASHION INDUSTRY ICON KNOWN SIMPLY AS IMAN WANTS TO REMIND US THAT SHE IS ALSO A REFUGEE – AS WELL AS AN ADVOCATE.
Given the current state of worldwide refugee issues that plague beleaguered countries and dominate the news cycles, she has no shortage of work cut out for her. She’s called for dignity for all asylum seekers on the Texas-Mexico border and understanding from the general public for their plight. Officially, Iman serves as the first-ever Global Advocate for leading global humanitarian organization, CARE. The nonprofit organization works around the world to fight poverty and achieve social justice by empowering women
and girls, and created the new role specifically for the multi-hyphenate model. “Iman has spent her life using her considerable talent as a model and entrepreneur to advocate on behalf of vulnerable people,” said CARE President & CEO Michelle Nunn in a statement. “Similarly, throughout its 75-year history, CARE has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the world’s poorest. Together we can multiply our impact as [we]tackle global issues in our next 75 years. We are deeply honored to have Iman’s support, trust, and voice as she
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joins our team in an official capacity.” Iman concurred, “I believe steadfastly in the dignity of all people and know without a doubt that women are the key to ensuring a world in which everyone can live a life free from poverty, violence, discrimination and human rights violations,” said Iman. “The world’s oldest and most persistent human challenges will require 21st-century solutions. CARE, which has been at the forefront of the fight to end poverty since World War II, is spearheading the innovation that will deliver bold and sustainable change. I’m excited to embark on this journey together, betting on women and girls to catalyze positive forward movement for everyone both globally and locally.” Iman made it clear exactly how personal this mission is to her, explaining why her work with CARE will be a full-circle moment that began when she herself became a refugee during a period of political unrest in 1970s Somalia. “I knew about CARE, of course. And I knew they were very good at handling something I’ve experienced firsthand,
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because I am a refugee. I am the face of a refugee,” said Iman. “I became a refugee in 1972, when there was a coup in Somalia. My father, an ambassador, was in danger, so we decided to leave the country—to leave just with the clothes on our back.” The family ended up in Kenya. “So here I was, on my own, never worked in my life outside of my family home,” she said. “And then I met the angels that are NGOs...They’re the ones who are really are on the ground helping refugees navigate through their new countries. They asked me what I could do, and I spoke three languages, so they found me a job as a translator. They put me through Nairobi University, they helped me find me a place to live. She is now keenly aware of the fates that could’ve befallen her had she not had the support and protection of an organization like CARE. “I was barely 16. So I’m very aware [of] what happens to girls and women when they’re that vulnerable. The most important thing about young girls becoming refugees is that people take advantage of them, whether through sexual
harassment or rape,” she said, telling the magazine that her aim is to create “a global humanity.” “These aren’t nameless, faceless people, and they aren’t from far away. They’re everywhere; it happens to every country. All that’s unique is that there are more people fleeing nowadays,” Iman continued. “I want people to understand that most refugees want to go back home. They don’t want to stay in foreign countries where they’re not wanted, where they’ve left their families. Nobody wants that, but they have no choice—there are circumstances that made them flee. I really want to put a face to it.” “Needless to say, America is made of immigrants and refugees—people who [have] hopes and dreams, who have talents and important contributions to make to their country, including their host country,” she said. “I mean, look at me: America adopted me. I’m an American citizen. I have my own company. Everything I have now, I only have because I was shown dignity... refugees—they need to be seen. They need to be dignified and be seen as human beings.”
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FENDACE THE KILLER COMBO FENDI X VERSACE
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FENDACE
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ONATELLA VERSACE, KIM JONES, AND SILVIA VENTURINI FENDI SWITCHED PLACES FOR AN EPIC FASHION EVENT THAT WAS SOMETHING FAR FRESHER THAN THE INDUSTRY’S COLLABORATIONS OF YORE.
Fendace, a 50-look collection composed of Jones’s and Venturini Fendi’s riff on Versace and Versace’s take on Fendi was conceived as a “celebration of Italian fashion and a to-hell-with-it disruption of the established order of things.” This merging of competitors, particularly two iconic houses not under the same ownership, just “isn’t done” in fashion— until now. Fendi, Versace, and Jones are friends and colleagues, and after a tough year, they crossed party lines to have a little fun. The creative directors invited one another into their family archives for inspiration and designed their take on the other’s DNA, honoring the work of Gianni Versace and Karl Lagerfeld in turn. Versace for Fendi melded the Fendi double-F monogram with its own Grecian key motif, while Fendi for Versace used the brand’s signature safety pins and sexiness with more of a punk rock edge.
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FENDACE
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GLORIOUS RETURN
FASHION'S
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E D I T E D BY J O S H JA KO B I T Z / P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y T H E I M P R E S S I O N
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#10 CAROLINA HERRERA SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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O
NE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED SEASONS IN RECENT MEMORY, SPRING 2022, REVIVED LIVE FASHION SHOWS WITH A CELEBRATION OF MOVEMENT AND PHYSICAL PRESENCE – ASPECTS OF FASHION THAT JUST CAN’T BE FELT THROUGH A PHOTOGRAPH OR LIVE FEED ON A PHONE SCREEN. THE RETURN TO THE RUNWAY SAW SOME NEW YORK MAINSTAYS DIG DEEP, BUT BRANDS THAT EXPERIENCED EXCITING GROWTH THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC MADE THE MOST OF THE SPOTLIGHT.
Rodarte offered a sublime celebration of sophisticated sensuality. Typically more restrained, Proenza Schouler took risks with color and pattern. Michael Kors embraced spring-ready and romantic simplicity. Tory Burch took home the top spot with her personal vision of functional femininity.
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JASON WU COLLECTION SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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Finding perfection in imperfection is not how anyone would’ve described Jason Wu’s vibe in the Before Times, but a pandemic changes things. “COVID makes you work differently,” he said at his show today. “It felt like we were back in start up mode again, getting our hands dirty.” That idea has become something of a refrain this week; if there’s a fashion upside to the last 18 months, it’s that they’ve reconnected some designers with process: with the act of making clothes, not the pursuit, say, of Instagram likes.
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#8 KHAITE SPRING/SUMMER 2022
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Creating a “definitive New York wardrobe” worthy of the world that is slowly re-emerging is what Catherine Holstein set out to do for Spring/Summer 2022, and she succeeded. Set in a dimly lit urban jungle constructed in an underground concrete room laden with vines and branches that seemed to have pushed through the pavement (show produced by Keith Baptista’s Prodject), the latest Khaite collection felt appropriately post-apocalyptic. page 111
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#7 TOM FORD SPRING 2022 READY TO WEAR
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#6 PROENZA SCHOULER SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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When the vaccines made traveling further than the office possible earlier this year, Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough headed straight for Kauai, a favorite destination that they call their “sanctuary.” The island vibe rubbed off on their new collection, which mixed scuba and surfing motifs, a color palette plucked from nature, and a few handmade leis from Maui with their more urban fare.
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#5 RODARTE SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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Over the past 18 months, Kate and Laura Mulleavy have made a promise to meet their woman where she is. When she was at home, they gave her house dresses and silken pajamas, and when she was slowly returning to going out, they sent out floral leggings and sequined mini suits. Their spring 2022 collection was a proper declaration of re-emergence, of spiritual glitz, and of reconnecting to nature. page 117
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#4 GABRIELA HEARST SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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In the crowd at Gabriela Hearst’s show today were Naiomi Glasses and TahNibaa Naataanii. Members of the Navajo Nation, they collaborated with Hearst on the woven swatches that were inset into the bodice of a sleeveless dress and the shoulders of a trench. Glasses organized the arrangement (she’s a graduate of the Creative Futures Collective, which is dedicated to empowering creatives from disenfranchised communities), and Naataanii, who is a sheepherder and a weaver, did the hand work, with the help of her mother and daughter. page 119
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#3 THOM BROWNE SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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Thom Browne is the master of the grand gesture. At his spring 2022 presentation, the audience could be carried off in awe in so many directions: Pegasuses rode penny-farthings, a couple of bachelors haunted a raw wood house, models turned from shrubs into statues—and that’s just what happened on the runway. In the front row was just about every relevant artist, author, and athlete, from LilHuddy to Russell Westbrook to Jeremy O. Harris to Dan Levy to the star of Browne’s fall 2021 collection, Lindsey Vonn. Everyone was in TB, everyone looked smart, elated, and happy to take in a show. page 121
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#2 MICHAEL KORS SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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Love and romance were the dreamy threads that bound together Michael Kors’ Spring/Summer 2022 collection, presented in Central Park in a show that emphasized the forced intimacy of the pandemic and the optimism of love in New York City. Kendall Jenner opened Friday’s show in a timeless sleek black pencil skirt with a thin leather belt fastened around the waist and a simple bra. Other looks included an oversized pink fuzzy sweater with a wide turtle neck, a modernized circle skirt, a monochromatic checkered blazer and mini skirt, with each piece embodying romantic silhouettes and fabrics in a sophisticated and charming way.
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MICHAEL KORS SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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#1 TORY BURCH SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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I want to come back to the New York shows but to really do in our own ways,” Tory Burch said inside her new flagship store on Mercer Street after her Spring 2022 collection show outside. Burch mentioned the legacy of the American designer Claire McCardell’s invention of sportswear, the highly focused collection of joyful lean shape dresses mixing different fabrics and design elements. For that daily easiness in clothes that address how many young women live today and not how high fashion they want them to live.
Shown on a much smaller scale than in previous pre-pandemic seasons, this collection complements the entirety of the brand’s creative and business plans. It is a way forward to a new era at the brand in the cusp of embarking on a growth path post-pandemic with a firm foothold both in brick and mortar retail to the quintessential e-commerce. Burch’s approach to her fashion remains apolitical despite all the well-earth-shaking rebellion in society, especially high-
lighted in unprecedented ways during this ongoing pandemic. This new approach to providing a personal touch isn’t a new approach except that now it is a broad concept permeating the entire company’s ethos. It’s a fashion approach viewed from Burch’s lens rather than one taking on the day’s intricate social-political divides. Sometimes, fashion provides other comforts and reassurances than attachments to social and political activism.
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TORY BURCH SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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CHRISTIAN SIRIANO SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
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Christian Siriano showed his spring collection at Gotham Hall, the former Greenwich Savings Bank. Built during the Jazz Age, the super-size (at the time) building boasts an interior that borrows from the Old World, much as American fashion leaned on Paris then. On the floor there are mosaics; high up on the wall are carved sober statements such as, “Waste neither time nor money but use both to your own good and your neighbor’s good.” The sentiment seemed strangely at odds with the lavishness of the interiors—and with Siriano’s OTT creations. page 135
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CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
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MILAN DOLCE & GABBANA SPRING 2022 Dolce and Gabbana’s Fall 2021 men and women collections epitomized their backward-forward momentum – finding that perfect pit setting in the new world while preserving the house-recognized fashion styles. Dressed now for a different flashlight and modes of seeing fashion, amidst the sparkling bulbs and walls of young commentators on monitors watching the proceedings, the Dolce and Gabbana perfectly tailored patchwork wool suit endured, as did the black corset dresses of the early 1990s, embellished for the Spring 2022 season. Despite all the pivots to the now, far above the black velvet-covered social distanced seating of the audience below, the line up of large screens monitors showed a continuous loop of ‘Fatto a Mano’. The short video narrated the stages of cutting black laces into specific patterns and the assembling of the pieces into a black lace corset dress. Another montage demonstrated the process of hand-made leather high heels or the cutting of leather for a mauve double handle bag.
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VERSACE SPRING 2022
MILAN
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VERSACE SPRING 2022
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VERSACE SPRING 2022
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ROBERTO CAVALLI SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
I
N THE 70S, THE MOST SENSUAL STARS OF THE DAY, INCLUDING BRIGITTE BARDOT AND SOPHIA LOREN, TO MENTION BUT A FEW, WORE ROBERTO CAVALLI’S CLOTHES.
Last season, Puglisi hit all the right notes tapping Daniela Santiago, the HBO Max show Veneno star, as one of his models – strike one. Strike two, Puglisi is on-trend. Those body-conscious, second-skin designs resonate everywhere as we emerge from wearing comfortable clothing.
His approach to design was as untamed as the extravagant rendition of animal prints he used, and women found them irresistible. The collections were conspicuous then and now, and just as show-stopping in the hands of Puglisi – Puglisi gets to the heart of Cavalli DNA.
So now, strike three. S/S 22, Puglisi has undoubtedly hit his natural stride, taking it all one step further and showing as little of a garment as daringly possible with cuts that laid bare plenty of skin.
There’s a feminine strength, albeit an imitable grandeur, in Puglisi’s sexy designs that showcase and enhance a woman’s natural curves. Some may view the Cavalli look as somewhat eccentric and to that point, even going as far as calling it brazen, but there is a woman who revels in these sizzling looks, and this one is no shrinking violet. page 152
The opening number – out came the briefest of sequined dresses with the seasons cut-outs maxed to the extreme and a length that almost bordered on being dangerous. The double split dress made famous through the seasons now comes reinterpreted with a contrasting print diagonally placed to the high thigh and teasingly caught to reveal long, long legs. Animal prints came in various versions
prowling over blazers or micro-mini skirts sparkling in silver and black. The tiger face appeared most prominent on a dramatic full skirt or a tank top with luminous green eyes peering over the top of a very tightly cinched waist, while a floral animal print mix felt a little inappropriate to the rest of the collection. Still, at least it offered a little light relief from a jungle full of animals. And you know, there is a version of an animal print for anyone, including men. But for all of this sea of print, Puglisi dared to offer color, here in a vivid yellow jersey dress that was cleverly draped, plunging the focus down from the shoulder to the waist to reveal a seductive thigh. Elsewhere, Puglisi used metal hardware to barely hold the material together in a long black figure-hugging dress. But that didn’t matter; this is about as sexy as it gets. I, too, can hear the hearts quickening at the J.Lo camp.
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ROBERTO CAVALLI SPRING 2022
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FENDI
MILAN
SPRING 2022 READY-TO-WEAR
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In his first live fashion show for Fendi at the Milan office base, Kim Jones, the artistic director for womenswear at Fendi, showed a Spring 2022 collection with
the idea of recasting the different notions of femininity at Fendi over the years with clothes meant for a real celebration. “Our women have let loose
a bit, and she’s going out, dressing up. We’ve all been locked away for so long that I think that’s what we all need right now,” Jones said. page 159
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MILAN
PRADA SPRING 2022
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MAX MARA
F
womenswear artistic director: Kim Jones
RANÇOISE SAGAN, THE FRENCH NOVELIST, WROTE HER INSTANT BEST-SELLER PUBLISHED IN 1954 WHEN SHE WAS JUST EIGHTEEN YEARS OLD. BONJOUR TRISTESSE, THE TITLE OF THE BOOK, CAME FROM THE OPENING LINE OF A POEM BY PAUL ÉLUARD À PEINE DÉFIGURÉ – ‘ADIEU TRISTESSES/BONJOUR TRISTESSE. THE PLOT TELLS THE STORY OF A YOUNG WOMAN, CÉCILE, WHO SPENT HER SUMMER IN THE RIVIERA AT HER PLAYBOY FATHER’S HOUSE, LIVING A LIFE OF page 166
PRIVILEGES IN A NARRATIVE OF CHILDHOOD MANIPULATIONS, TRICKERIES, DECEPTIONS, AND FASHIONS. A few years later, in 1958, the movie director Otto Preminger turned the novel into a film using the latest technology – Technicolor CinemaScope – starring David Niven, Deborah Kerr, and Jean Seberg. The film got a lukewarm reception despite great acting from Niven and Seberg, who played the principal role of Cécile. In late September 2021, Ian Griffiths, the creative director of Max Mara, is turning both the novel and the film into an imaginative scheme that inspired the Spring 2022 collection. Shown in
the principal modern building of the Università Bocconi, students lined up in front of the mirror glass floor-length windows to peek at the show below. Sagan’s novel and Preminger’s film provided the mood background: “romance, intrigue, moral conundrum, elegant ennui, smart villa, secluded beaches, fast cars, chic restaurants, fast boats, and casinos” – all the stuff compounding an existential intrigue per the brand as the models took their turn and the students watched from above. Françoise Quoirez, the imaginative new heroin replacing the original Cécile, is this young seventeenth-year-old woman, existing somewhere, with a closet full of cropped mesh leathers, micro-skirts, strapless short pencil dresses, black
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strappy dress, a variation of single breast knee-length coats in leather or camel wool, feather skirts, and of course the bra in different colors worn in place of a blouse or t-shirt, the essential wardrobe elements for Spring 2022. Then there is that obligatory spring merch – the bra top. Now in black wool, charcoal tweed, black leather, grey denim, ivory linen, orange leather, the bra is the new blouse/t-shirt worn under coats, pantsuits, coat skirt suits, or even just by itself with all the selections of micro skirts, cigarette pants, or denim shorts. The ultimate of the high/low mix is the black denim inscribed with the Max Mara logo designed by MM Paris on a black fitted denim jacket paired with a long black skirt embroidered in all shiny black feathers. But, pervasive throughout the show, there is a cohesive feel that this is the Max Mara brand, not the same and not entirely a new revolution. The various
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low-key coats are signatures by Max Mara and the big loose shirt-jacket in ecru and gray. As a brand that catered directly to the multiple ranges of women of the decades, Max Mara is careful not to alienate one customer in favor of another. Amidst the bare the skin clothes is a black wool tunic and matching skirt and a simple lean coat. Sure fashion designers are never immune to social upheavals, and the impacts of the pandemic year have been nothing short of far-reaching. In America, at least, we learned in the past year about essential services, essential workers – those who have to keep toiling away to run the subway, the supermarkets, and the hospital wards. In contrast, many others fled to second homes to enjoy the comfort of, say, a Netflix series in cashmere sweats and the likes.
Now, as the pandemic offers some ways out, sort of, there may have been already
too much talk about the kind of clothes people would want to wear at this very moment. Solely reflecting on this crisis should not be a primary impetus for fashion designers. It is good that designers know their fashions do not live in a vacuum, but they should not be the primary driver as fashion moves forward. Post-pandemic fashion is the new fashion crisis, at least in the small fashion circle, as people ponder how far to carry out any excesses. But despite the desire to portray the collection as some rebellious act, albeit even in an intellectual manifestation, it doesn’t so much match the reality of these Max Mara clothes, which are finely made garments and at times playful combinations offering young women plenty of options for city and country life. This Spring 2022 collection may be a sexier Max Mara collection with an intellectual base of teen angst.
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BRAN DON M AX W E L L
FASHI ON WE EK TREN D IN G TO P IC
PLUNGING NECKLINES
F R OM TH E RUNWAY TO THE S TREET page 170
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ALTA Z U RRA
B RA N DO N MA XWE L L
MISC HKA B A DG LEY
Pondering if the plunging neckline would actually be worn off the runway? We ponder no more. As seen at award shows and galas on celebrities, this trend is taking on a new meaning as it hits the runway and the street during New York Fashion Week. Deep plunging necklines are not only trending in evening gowns, as done by Carolina Herrera, Jason Wu and Rodarte, but also in casual dresses, as done by Altuzarra and Michael Kors. Tops by Tory Burch and Tom Ford also take the plunge.
C H R I S TI A N C OWA N
DUN DAS X RE VO LV E
DE ITY page 171
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S TR EETW E A R AT FASH IO N W E E KS
PRO ENZA SC HOULER
MO HA PAT RA page 172
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NYFW
ARMANI SPRING 2022
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MILAN
GIORGIO ARMANI SPRING 2022 page 180
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{PRIVATE VIEWING}
MAX BÜSSER & FRIENDS
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A S E R I E S B Y R A P H A E L K . D A PA A H I N T R O D U C I N G T H E - N E X T- B I G A R T I S T S T O T H E W O R L D O F A R T C O L L E C T O R S A N D C U R AT O R S
VERNISSAGE
THE PERPETUAL CALENDAR
RE-IMAGINED BY MAX BÜSSER & FRIENDS
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EARLY TWO YEARS AGO NOW, AS MAX BÜSSER READ INCREASINGLY GRIM REPORTS FROM ITALY AND CHINA, HE SURMISED THAT MB&F, HIS NAMESAKE AND SIGNATURE TIMEPIECE BRAND, WOULD GO BANKRUPT BEFORE THE PANDEMIC WAS DONE
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RAVAGING HIS MAIN GLOBAL MARKETS IN EUROPE, ASIA AND THE USA. These days, he’s happy to have been wrong, but acknowledges that the outcome could have been vastly different. The key to his pandemic survival? Key, loyal customers placing cash orders for timepieces that his workshops are still cranking out.
An MB&F timepiece waiting period is up to three years. MB&F breaks down their creations into four categories: Horological Machines, Legacy Machines, the very limited Performance Art, and Co-Creations. Horological Machines are inspired by childhood memories and dreams. The pieces are both futuristic and appealingly unusual in design, especially for collectors. Legacy Machines are pieces
BY J O S H JA KO B I T Z / P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F M B & F
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that could have been created 100 years ago: round-face timepieces with an anything-but-traditional design under a domed treasure box of angled and projecting tourbillons and vertically stacked movement structures. Büsser’s everyday choice for his personal timepiece comes from this collection: he wears the MB&F LM Perpetual EVO. Performance Art pieces feature artisans, from accomplished watchmakers to young, budding artists, who put their personal spins on unique and limited pieces. In contrast, you won’t wear MB&F’s co-creations line on your wrist, but each of the complex and futuristic, stand-alone time-telling machines are an ultimate must-have for collectors and enthusiasts. MB&F produces 250 custom timepieces per annum these days, including the new LM Perpetual in Palladium. Upon the Palladium’s completion, the team of six watchmakers and six engineers page 188
begged Büsser not to work with palladium again: it was just too difficult of a material. For Büsser, that’s what made it so special. Büsser brought his creative experiences from Jaeger LeCoultre and Harry Winston to MB&F (Max Büsser and Friends) in 2005. “I’ve always been a creator. I became a marketeer – and I hated it. I found myself designing pieces that would sell, when what I wanted to do – what I needed to do – was just design for myself,” he said. Büsser spoke to Polo Lifestyles from his home in Dubai, where he relocated his family over concerns that he was prioritizing the MB&F workshops over his homelife, he worked remotely before, well, we all started doing that. “I was working remotely back when people said, ‘Oh that will never work,’” he laughed. He chose Dubai because of its relatively bearable time zone difference with Switzerland, and he – and his fam-
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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MB&F
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ily – have never regretted it. “Dubai offers a quality of life you really don’t find everywhere. Working remotely is no longer considered the exception, but almost the rule, so it’s really a perfect situation for me and my family.” MB&F timepieces are available at select, fine retailers and jewelers in Europe, Asia and the United States, as well as at MB&F’s dedicated M.A.D. Gallery locations in Geneva, Taipei, Dubai and Hong Kong.
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MANSION OF THE MONTH HIDDEN HILLS CALIFORNIA
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MANSION OF THE MONTH
A 'ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME' PROPERTY IN HIDDEN HILLS 24733 LONG VALLEY ROAD HIDDEN HILLS, CALIFORNIA, 91302
PRICE: $24,950,000 | BEDROOMS: 7 | BATHROOMS: 13 FULL / 4 PARTIAL INTERIOR: 12,751 SQ FT. ON 2.59 ACRE(S)
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NCE IN A LIFETIME THE MOST UNIMAGINABLE HOUSE COMES ON THE MARKET ..AND THIS IS THE ONE. HIDDEN HILLS MOST ICONIC PROPERTY! THIS SHOWPIECE HOME HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A MODERN-TRANSITIONAL FEEL WHERE IMPRESSIVE DESIGNER TOUCHES HAVE BEEN CAPTURED IN EVERY ROOM OF THE HOUSE!
The Main House has ‘Rooms for All Reasons’: there are five bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, an enormous kitchen with commercial-grade range, convection ovens, pastry station, huge ‘walkthrough’ pantry and coffee station. There are also two offices, a game room, mud room, gift wrap room, library/study and playroom. The entertainment/media area has a 13-seat theater, billiards room,
350-bottle refrigerated wine room and candy counter. Upstairs, the primary bedroom is complete with a recessed sitting area, tranquil patio overlooking the beautiful grounds, two walk-in closets, an
exquisite bathroom with dual vanity areas, jetted tub and an oversized steam shower. The secondary bedrooms are spacious, have walk-in closets, en-suite baths and study alcoves. The spectacular grounds page 199
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MANSION OF THE MONTH
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of this approximately three-acre estate are not to be believed as the meandering pathways take you by the two-bedroom, two-bath guesthouse, beach entry pool and spa, lounge areas, putting green, pool house, pizza oven, outdoor kitchen and barbecue, cabana dining with heating and TV, koi pond and fire pit. There is a regulation size tennis court, huge barn and seven-stall horse stables with turnouts. What sets this home
apart from any other is that under the tennis court there is the most unbelievable sports facility with dual spas, juice bar, full gym, racquetball court, batting cage, facial/massage room, tanning room, yoga/Pilates area ...and an approximately 150 person party/meeting room with a Full Bar and Coat Check Room! Also, there is a huge circular driveway and two other property accesses to
the garages that can accommodate up to approximately 20 more cars on the property. There are not enough words to describe this incredible home and its magnificent grounds. You must see it, to believe it! This property is ABOVE & BEYOND anything EVER on the market! Listed by Patte Gilbert
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ZORRO RANCH STANLEY, NEW MEXICO 87056 USA
PRICE $27,500,000 BEDROOMS 6 / BATHROOMS 7 FULL / 2 PARTIAL INTERIOR 33,339 SQ FT. / EXTERIOR 7.59 ACRES ZORRO RANCH The Zorro Ranch includes the grand three story, four-bedroom main house, nearby caretaker’s residence and multiple other residences throughout the property, including one separately and privately page 204
located residence and the four residences at Ranch Central, located near the ranch entry area, the Lodge and Log Cabin, both located in their own private area. The ranch includes a grass air strip and hanger. Other amenities include the
stables, fire house and yurt. Approximately 35 minutes from Santa Fe, providing inspiring views in all directions. Listed by Neil Lyon and Matt Desmond
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93 EATON SQUARE BELGRAVIA LONDON, U.K.
A Grade II-listed home in London’s Belgravia neighborhood that was once home to Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin as well as American businessman Henry Ford II, has come onto the market for £23 million (USD $31.45 million). The property consists of a main residence at 93 Eaton Square and an interconnecting two-bedroom mews house, according to the listing posted last week by Beauchamp Estates. The main residence was given an official Blue page 206
Plaque in 1969 for its historic significance as the former home of Baldwin (1867-1947).
post for two more stretches, from 192429 and 1935-37.
In total, the property includes 7,489 square feet of living space with three reception rooms, six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and two kitchens, the listing said.
In the grand main reception room and the adjoining dining room, Baldwin had entertained politicians such as Winston Churchill, Neville Chamberlain, and the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII, according to Beauchamp Estates.
Baldwin and his wife, Lucy, bought the house in 1908 before he became prime minister in 1923. He would hold the
Baldwin sold the house upon his retirement in 1937. In the early 1980s, Henry Ford II (1917-87), the eldest grandson
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of Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford and former CEO of the automaker, and his wife, model and photographer Kathleen DuRoss, purchased the house, the listing agents said. They commissioned architect Jeffrey Smith and design house Colefax & Fowler to refurbish and decorate the interiors of the house in English country style. When Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher left office in 1990, Mrs. Ford lent the house to Thatcher and her husband Denis until they purchased a
home of their own in 1991 in nearby Chester Square, according to the listing. Mrs. Ford died in 2020 at the age of 80. Important collections held in this residence, as well as her Palm Beach, Florida, home and her English country home, Turville Grange in Buckinghamshire, had been auctioned via Christie’s earlier this year. The property has a patio garden and a garage, and the mews house has potential for extension, according to
Beauchamp Estates. “This blue plaque residence at 93 Eaton Square has been the Belgravia home of two legendary prime ministers… and been the London home of one of America’s most celebrated dynasties,” Gary Hersham, founding director of Beauchamp Estates, said in a statement. “If extended and remodeled, a new super prime residence could be created that could significantly uplift the current value of the property.” page 207
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ALIGN WITH YO SPIRITUALITY · FAITH · QUESTIONS · GROWTH · FOCUS
THE ROLE OF COMFORT FOOD IN YOUR SANCTUARY A TWO-PART SERIES ON CREATING SPACE FOR YOUR SOUL “For my tribe, the people I found years ago, we’ve found sanctuary in the irreverent, in the off-center, in the quirky... And that’s how we stay entertained, and that’s how we stay engaged in what would otherwise seem to be a really cruel world. A really harsh world.” - RUPAUL CHARLES JYOTI PAINTEL Spiritual contributor @pololifestyles
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HIS QUOTE FROM RUPAUL ENCAPSULATES AN IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THE WORD SANCTUARY. Often, people think of a sanctuary as a quiet, safe place - a refuge - and in the most literal definition a sanctuary is a place, but in a spiritual sense, a sanctuary can be both visceral and physical. Like RuPaul, for many of us, a sanctuary can be the way we feel when we are with a favorite person or a community (our page 210
tribe) that welcomes and accepts us unconditionally, it can be music that lifts our soul, or the escape of a book to take our minds off and away to our inner sanctuary.
nuisance of still wearing masks everywhere we go. Our homes have become the de facto place for all things: work, school, dinners, movies, and of course socializing with our family and friends.
Since the pandemic began, we all have had to retreat to more private lives as most social events were canceled. As the world slowly begins to re-open, for many of us, it is still ingrained in our psyche since the early days of the pandemic that staying in our homes was the best way to prevent the spread of the virus. Of course, there are a myriad of reasons for that; but it is clear that the social fabric of our lives has been altered. One thing that I hear often is that life outside the house has become more stressful due to all the new rules and limitations. We spend more time waiting in lines and dealing with the
“Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends always belong, and laughter never ends.” We can reawaken this sense of spirit in our home by creating a sanctuary that can heal the body, calm the mind and soothe the soul. One of the best creative processes I have discovered is using our senses to guide us into a place of love, peace, familiarity, and belonging. HOME: CREATING A SENSORYFOCUSED ENVIRONMENT Humans have five basic senses: touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste, but there
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OUR PURPOSE IN SY N C W IT H YO UR V IB E
R E N E WA L · C O M M U N I T Y · S U P P O RT · E X P LO R AT I O N · E N E R G Y
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your black card; it can be a colorful bowl displaying your favorite fruits or a collection of leaves or shells. SMELLS: Our sense of smell is the most powerful sense we possess and can trigger a rush of memories and feelings. Buy incense, oils, candles, sage, or other things that evoke ‘home,’ in some cases it might be a specific scent that we were used to growing up. A good way to reawaken our memory is to remember the smells of our childhood - and most of these smell memories can be associated with taste, the smell of cookies baking, or our favorite food being prepared. Buy an essential oil diffuser and see if you can recreate the scents that bring you bliss. TASTE:
are deep associations that we have with each of these five senses that connect us to imagination, memory and intuition. Here is how you can create a sanctuary for you to retreat into alone, or to share with others. SIGHT: One of the best things we can do to create a place of harmony is to declutter our home, or if that seems too large a task, decluttering a room or outdoor space and converting it into what I like to call an empty canvas for our soul to create and thrive. On a physical level, clutter page 212
attracts dust that brings allergies, but on a psychological level, clutter can irritate us subconsciously because it reminds us of all the things we need to do, to fix, to finish, to start. There is no correct way to declutter, but if you need some advice try checking out feng-shui expert Marie Kondo’s Web site on how to remove things from your place or tidy them up in a way that makes sense. Next for your canvas- pick some colors, shapes, symbols, and other things that appeal to your specific aesthetics and evoke good happy memories and feelings. You don’t need to break the bank or whip out
Obviously, this will be different for everyone, but pay attention to the taste of your food and what you are eating. Change up your diet to see if your mood changes, too. Drinking fresh juice boosts vitality and it feels like a treat. I noticed that I often eat the same foods over and over out of habit, even though I’m not thrilled. I started to buy only food that I love to eat, having decided that this is no time to deprive myself. If the things you love are not that healthy (ice cream, cake, and cookies are my weaknesses), then only buy a small portion each week, but don’t deny yourself. Eat these treats in your sanctuary and take a lot of pleasure in them, eating slowly! Food is a huge part of a sanctuary - there is a reason why it’s called comfort food. Tea can be a sacred and peaceful ritual for your sanctuary time. If you can safely, try
to invite a neighbor or friend to share a meal or to tea with you at least once a week in your sanctuary. Breaking bread with one another is an integral part of humanity. TOUCH: Obviously, we want our sanctuary to be a place we can spend time comfortably. Remove your shoes and walk around your sanctuary barefoot. I relish sitting on the floor on a soft carpet with a lot of furry pillows and blankets around – something about it makes me feel comfortable and safe. Maybe there is a specific fabric you like to feel good in? Buy a special sanctuary robe or a very soft and comfortable outfit that is separate from your daily ordinary clothes so when you put it on you are preparing to step into your special place so that you can relax. SOUND: There are so many things that I listen to that remind me of sanctuary, and one of them is the sound of birds singing. Try to invite quiet and contemplative sounds instead of hectic and loud ones in this space. Even better, if it interests you, learn to play an instrument. You can make or buy a portable fountain if you enjoy the sound of water or listen to countless YouTube videos on sound healing. Creating a sanctuary is actually a spiritual process in getting to know what pleases you, calms you and brings you joy. Take time to discover what would make your sanctuary your favorite place of sojourn. JYOTI PAINTEL SPIRITUALITY CONTRIBUTOR POLO LIFESTYLES 2021
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MOLD YOUR MIND SHIFTING YOUR FOCUS FROM
WEAKNESSES TO
STRENGTHS JOEY VELEZ MA, MBA @velezmentalperformance Healthy Lifestyles Contributor
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F I ASKED YOU, “DO PEOPLE FOCUS MORE ON THEIR STRENGTHS OR THEIR WEAKNESSES?” WHAT WOULD YOUR ANSWER BE? IF I ASKED YOU WHICH ONE YOU TEND TO FOCUS ON, WHAT WOULD YOUR ANSWER BE? STUDIES DEMONSTRATE THAT MOST PEOPLE FOCUS ON THEIR WEAKNESSES FIRST, AND THERE ARE SEVERAL REASONS AS TO WHY THIS COULD BE. The first and foremost reason is the negativity bias, wherein negative events have a stronger impact on our psychological well-being. Secondly, there is a common misconception that there’s more bad in the world than good. This even shows up in the English language: there are 1.5 times more words with a page 214
negative connotation than a positive one. Finally, society lends itself for us to focus on the negative. For example, in research with parents checking their child’s report cards, 77 percent of parents focus on the Ds or Fs rather than the As or Bs. While there is value in identifying our weaknesses and what we need to improve, there is just as much value in identifying our strengths as well. But how to get there?What Are Character Strengths?
The research behind identifying our strengths comes from psychologist Martin Seligman and his colleagues. They knew individuals focused more on weaknesses, but they posited this was the result of strengths being more difficult to identify. Therefore, they set out to answer the question, “What is good character?” They did not know how they were going to answer this question, but they knew the importance of answering it all the same. They searched across continents, different cultures, looked at movie characters like Harry Potter, and even dove into the world of Pokémon to see what made certain cards “good cards”. They turned over every stone to find any insight as to what is meant by good character. Three years and 55 researchers later, they found an answer: character strengths.
Character strengths are the best parts of our personality, including but not limited to: curiosity, love of learning, critical thinking and open mindedness, creativity, perspective, bravery, diligence and perseverance, honesty and authenticity, zest and enthusiasm, capacity to love and be loved, kindness and generosity, social intelligence, citizenship and loyalty, fairness and justice, leadership, forgiveness and mercy, modesty and humility, caution and prudence, self-control and self-regulation, appreciation of beauty, gratitude, hope and optimism, humor and playfulness, and spirituality. Our character strengths influence how we think, feel, and behave on a daily basis; additionally, they are recognized by various cultures and are morally valued. Seligman’s study also acknowledged that individuals possess signature character strengths: your top character strengths are those you are most comfortable using; they are true to who you are, they provide energy rather than feelings of exhaustion, and come from within. LIVING BY YOUR CHARACTER STRENGTHS As I was getting acclimated into my new career and starting to teach a new generation of soldiers how to become more mentally tough, I found myself struggling. I soon realized that it was
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difficult not just because I was new to the environment, but I never felt I was my true self when I was teaching. Then came the day when I learned about character strengths. Through this instruction, I found out that my top signature character strengths were leadership, humor and playfulness, and honesty and authenticity. A colleague asked me, “How do these strengths show up in your instructing?” to which I had no answer, but I knew that this was the reason why I was struggling. I felt that these signature character strengths identified me to the fullest, but I was not showcasing them in my everyday life. From that point on, I started incorporating my signature character strengths into everything I did, including teaching, and everything changed. Not only did I become a more effective instructor, but I was also having a lot more fun, and I felt like I was more of my true self. DO YOUR HOMEWORK To make things easy, you can go online and take the VIA Survey of Character Strengths through the University of Pennsylvania. This survey provides
insight into the 24 character strengths and which ones are considered your signature character strengths, but will also provide you with a brief description of what each character strength means. However, you can also identify your signature character strengths by looking at the list mentioned earlier and using the following criteria: One believes that he/ she is being “true to him/herself ” when using the Character Strength, one feels energized rather than exhausted when using the character strength, and the motivation to use the Character Strength comes from within the person. Once you have identified your top three to seven signature character strengths, the next step is to incorporate them into your everyday life. One way is to find new ways to use your signature character strengths throughout your day. Whether it be at work or when hanging out with your friends, doing this can lead to long-term positive effects on overall happiness. Another way is through acknowledgment in your relationships with other people. Being able to recognize and appreciate your
significant other’s strengths have been connected to higher levels of commitments, satisfaction, investment and intimacy. You can take the same approach if you have children. Being able to identify and cultivate your adolescents’ strengths has been shown to enhance life satisfaction and their ability to cope with stress and adversity. Finally, incorporate your character strengths with your family. Being able to adopt an orientation to promote goodness has been associated with higher levels of physical health, mental wellness, and feelings of connectedness. FINAL THOUGHTS Your signature character strengths make you who you are. They can make life more enjoyable if you learn to live through your character strengths. While we may need to pull on other strengths to get us through different situations, do not try and be someone you are not. Be the best version of yourself, live through your signature character strengths, and help make the world – and your corner of it – a better place. page 215
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HEALTH IS WEALTH AUTUMN'S DUALITY IS
DOUBLE TROUBLE FOR OUR UNSUSPECTING BODIES PANTHIL DWIVEDI Wellness contributor @panthildwivedi
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UTUMN, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SEASON AND FOR MANY, IT IS A FAVORITE SEASON. THE ONSET OF FALL MAKES TREES WEAR ALL SHADES OF ORANGE, THE FRESH PUMPKIN INTO THE FOOD CHAIN MEANS PUMPKIN STEWS, DESSERTS AND COFFEES. THANKSGIVING, HALLOWEEN AND DIWALI (AND A HINT OF CHRISTMAS) ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER. Autumn is one of those double seasons when the hot arid summer weather is slowly leaving us, and the long cold page 218
dry winters are approaching. This amalgamation of arid, cold and dry makes autumn a peculiar season, and can completely throw our bodies off if we are not careful with our food and lifestyle habits. Because of this, we see a spike in all kinds of infections, coughs, colds and cases of flu starting in September. From a scientific perspective, this double season creates an environment of warm days and cold nights, forcing us to follow lifestyles suited for the summer through the day and winters through the night. This duality completely confuses our body and our molecular systems. How can we embrace the fall without burdening our bodies? The answer can be found in Ayurveda. As I discussed in my previous article, “Ayurvedic Tips to Handle Summer,” Ayurveda pays special attention to seasons and their impact on human health. Seasons are
given extreme importance in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of life and medicine. An ayurvedic practitioner would recommend changing one’s lifestyle, diet and medicine in accordance with the seasons. Ayurvedic doshas govern our bodies and in autumn, as the weather gets colder, arid and drier, the dosha that dominates our bodies is Vata, which is governed by the elements of air and sky. Air and sky tend toward being cold, dry, arid and gas-inducing in nature. To stay healthy, active and happy all through the autumn, let’s explore some quick Ayurvedic tips to keep in mind to make the most out of this season. 1. Focus on a warm, rich, and nourishing diet: Autumn is the season to start to eat warming, nourishing food. In the summer, we switched to a diet that was light and cold in nature including salads, raw fruits, yogurt and smoothies to keep our bodies hydrated and
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Panthil’s Easy Ashwagandha Tea with Ginger & Tumeric ¼ slice lemon in hot water ¼ Tbs Turmeric powder ¼ Tbs Ginger powder Ashwagandha tea packets to taste Honey to taste Traditional Indian Ashwagandha Tea Boil tea powder in milk and water add ginger, honey, cardamon, holy basil* and mint Add turmeric and ashwagandha powder one ¼ Tbs at a time as you serve cups as it can curdle and change the taste *Holy basil is medicinal and not used for cooking; every Hindu household has a holy basil plant. Regular consumption of its leaves can stave off illness and infections
KEYS TO ENJOY FALL WEATHER TO ITS FULLEST WITH AYURVEDA cool. If you keep following the same practice of cold raw food, it will create a Vata imbalance. Switch to more nourishing, wholesome food rich in healthy fats like soups, stews, eggs, lentils, pulses, healthy fats, nuts, ghe and sesame seeds. Minimize intake of gas-inducing foods like potatoes, fried food, beans and caffeine. Foods that are cold inducing like soda pops, smoothies, artificial juices and fruits should also be avoided to keep the body warm and nourished. 2. Natural herbs to help you stay nourished and healthy: There are ample herbs, infusions and teas that provide essential vitamins, minerals and active ingredients that boost immunity. Herbs like green tea, ginger, honey, holy basil, ginseng, triphala, amla, nutmeg and Shatavari can be used in the form of powders, mixed with desserts, teas or milk to provide natural immunity and health boosters the body requires. My favorite drink in autumn is ginger, turmeric, and ashwagandha tea with a bit of honey providing me necessary vitamins required to keep me active during autumn. 3. Reduce stress and sleep well: Our bodies are already dealing with acclimatizing to the weather – days shortening and becoming greyer and more
depressive (especially here in the Pacific Northwest where I am located). It is paramount to check in with ourselves and our mental states. Do not over-exhaust your body and keep your sleep cycle in check. Providing your body with enough sleep will help you function more healthily. Rest well, on time, do not stress your mind and body, meditate and try to stay calm. 4. Keep your body well-hydrated: Because the summer heat is fading away, during fall we generally forget to drink enough water. The season is already arid, but not hot, and although we do not feel thirsty, the body still requires water. In fact, not having enough water can have severe implications. Remember to hydrate, and if you’re not in the mood for water, drink plenty of herb-infused teas to supplement the body and skin with fluids to keep you hydrated. Do not indulge too much in sodas, artificial juices, and energy drinks, but supplement your body with water, teas, milk and smoothies. 5. Nourish your Skin and Hair: The cold weather also impacts our skin and hair. Usually, we start to notice how our skin and hair get dry, frizzy and chapped as fall intensifies its grip on us. Because of this, it’s important to provide
the necessary nourishment to the skin and hair both internally and externally. Internally, I suggest keeping the body well-nourished through diet, water and rest; and externally we can use Ayurveda to keep skin and hair nourished. Use an Ayurvedic herbal mild cleanser to clean the skin, a good moisturizer with skin-nourishing herbs (like neem, ashwagandha and turmeric, and oils like almond oil and coconut oil) to keep the skin moisturized. Lastly, massage your hair and scalp once or twice a week with herbal hair oil (coconut is my favorite) and cleanse with a good mild herbal shampoo to keep hair healthy and moisturized. As the fall approaches, it signifies change: the season is changing, the days are getting colder, nights are getting longer, the nature around us is changing. Animals are preparing for hibernation. Amidst all these changes, it is very important to maintain balance. Autumn is all about balance as we are dealing with its duality. Maintaining a balanced healthy lifestyle all through the fall will keep ailments, the flu and infections away and give you more time to enjoy festivities, pumpkin spice and hot chocolate with your friends and family. page 219