LUSH SUMMER ISSUE 2014

SUMMER 2014

TRAVEL:

QUEBEC CITY THROUGH THE LENS OF THE SONY A7

TIMEPIECES THE TOP 6 ANNUAL CALENDAR WATCHES! AUTOS: THE JAGUAR XK CONVERTIBLE WHAT TO WEAR: SUMMER FASHION TRENDS

+ HOME:

A SIT-DOWN WITH LEGENDARY INTERIOR DESIGNER NICKY HASLAM

131 Bloor Street West, Toronto (416) 413-4929 - Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Toronto (416) 787-7474 456 Howe Street, Vancouver (604) 683-6878

www.cartier.com

Haute Joaillerie collection

Š2012 Cartier

EVERYTHING ABOUT THE LEXUS ES SUGGESTS INCONSPICUOUS CONSUMPTION. YES, EVEN THE MILEAGE.

lexus.ca/es

LEX-ES023-M-23-Lush.indd 1

The clean lines, the finely tuned accents and most notably the fuel consumption on the Lexus ES Hybrid are the very definition of restraint. Yet open the door and you get another picture: an incomparably spacious and sumptuous interior, 10-way adjustable ventilated leather seats, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel. In fact, you’ll be amazed – even baffled by how a hybrid can offer such a comfortable and indulgent ride while delivering better fuel economy than most subcompact cars. For details, visit lexus.ca/es or go to a Lexus Dealership to see the car in all its ever-so-discreet glory.

AMAZING IN MOTION

LEXUS ES LEXUS ES HYBRID

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www.chanel.ca ©CHANEL, Inc. CHANEL ®

B® CHANEL S. de R.L.

The Chanel MoMenT

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www.chanel.ca ©CHANEL, Inc. CHANEL ®

B® CHANEL S. de R.L.

© 2014 TUMI, INC.

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CONTENTS SUMMER 2014 www.lushmag.com

76 COVER IMAGE: ON HIM: LINEN JACKET, ARMANI COLLEZIONI, SILK SCARF, GIVENCHY, SUNGLASSES, PRADA, ALL AT HOLT RENFREW, WATCH, ZENITH, “PILOT MONTRE D’AERONEF TYPE 20 GMT”, AVAILABLE AT BANDIERA JEWELLERS (PRICE: $8,100).

ON HER: 2-PIECE BATHING SUIT, VICTORIA’S SECRET, “TIRISI” RING, “DOMINO” BRACELET (DESIGNED BY ROBERTO DEMEGLIO), BOTH AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT KNAR JEWELLERY. TEAM CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHER: YURI DOJC STYLE: SERGE KERBEL FOR PLUTINO GROUP HAIR/MAKE-UP: JUKKA SUUTARI FOR DIOR COSMETICS/KEVIN MURPHY HAIR/PLUTINO GROUP FEMALE MODEL: MIRIAM MATTOVA MALE MODEL: KIROH FOR ELMER OLSEN MODEL MANAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: EUN RHIM

12 PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Tee to green in the heart of Muskoka at Clublink’s Rocky Crest Golf Club

14 EVENTS: Launch of the Porsche Macan,

coverage of the Couture Las Vegas luxury timepiece and jewelry event, and “Fight Night” at the Cambridge Club

17 SUMMER DRINKS:

A refresher on vodka drinks for those steamy days

18 INTERIOR DESIGN:

Interviews with the legendary Nicky Haslam and Amazing Spaces’ host George Clarke

22 LUXURY WATCH REPORT:

Annual calendar watches; the best in diving timepieces, and a profile of the Linde Werdelin Oktopus Moonlite

28 LUXURIOUS SOLE:

The evolution of the sneaker as a key fashion cog

30 THE “VIEUX” WORLD ORDER: Quebec City, and the lush region that surrounds it

40 CITY GUIDE:

Where to go while visiting Quebec City

42 MASTER OF FINE ARTS:

Las Vegas’ burgeoning art scene

44 TOP 10 LUXURY AIRPORTS 46 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK: Adventure hotels

47 THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME: Luxury hotels on the Canadian front

48 LIGHTNESS OF BEING:

Embrace the summer heat with this season’s hottest accessories

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52 SUIT-ABLE SWIMWEAR:

LUSH LUXURY MAGAZINE

Fashionable choices for him and her

PUBLISHER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark Keast (mkeast@lushmag.com)

54 I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW:

The right pair of sunglasses do much more than just block out the sun’s harmful rays

ART DIRECTION Jan Haringa (jan@lushmag.com)

A fashion shoot featuring Toronto power couple Lori and Gordon Cheung

DIRECTOR, CONTENT AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS Graham Farkas (graham@lushmag.com)

STYLE CONSULTANT Marlon Durrant (info@marlondurrant.com)

56 WHAT’S HOT in summer fashion trends 60 BRIGHT SIDE UP:

FASHION DIRECTOR Serge Kerbel (serge@lushmag.com)

66 PETER FEENEY on the one shoe every

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sibley MacLaren

man should own

67 EASY BREEZE: What’s new in summer

DIGITAL EDITOR Susan Duffy

fragrances

COPY EDITOR Dominik Sklarzyk

68 SUN WARRIOR:

Summer grooming tips

INTERNS Olive Li, Karina Park, Sandy Law, Stephania Stefanakou, Jillian Kraus

Re-vamp your beauty routine this summer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marlon Durrant, Peter Patrick, Yuki Barton, Serge Kerbel, Danielle Thomson, Jack Granatstein, Graham Farkas, Mark Keast, Shaun Curran, Sarah Rose Eaman, Ryan Carafa, Sandy Law, Olive Li, Peter Feeney, Stephania Stefanakou, Anthony Harrison, Karina Park, David Neiman, Dion Walcott, Stephen Clark, Manori Ravindran, Jamie MacLennan, Danielle Thomson, John Blair

70 SUN KISSED:

72 LUXURY AUTO REPORT:

Exotic cars; road trip in the new Audi A7 TDI Technik; a look at the Jaguar XK Convertible and the BMW i3 electric car

78 ARTS AND CULTURE CALENDAR 80 THE HOUSE OF BESPOKE

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Yuri Dojc, Sandro Art + Photography, Erin Riley, iStock

FASHION

LUSH LUXURY MAGAZINE 176 John St., Unit 405, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1X5 Telephone: 647-348-8700 www.lushmag.com CJ Graphics Inc. is the official printer of Lush Luxury For information on advertising or a ratecard, for print or online, email us at info@lushmag.com For editorial enquiries, email us at info@lushmag.com

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Lush Luxury is inserted in the National Post newspaper across Canada, and is available on newsstands in Canada and the United States.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lush Luxury Magazine is prohibited. All letters are the property of Lush Luxury Magazine. All materials are copyright Lush Luxury Magazine 2014. Canada Post customer account number is 7270780, and the publications mail number is 41589543.

BETWEEN A ROCK ANDA HARD PLACE

CLUBLINK’S ROCKY CREST GOLF CLUB RANKS AS ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MUSKOA GOLF TRAIL JUST NORTH OF TORONTO.

BY MARK KEAST

T

hree billion years, give or take a few millennia.

That’s the age of the rock face that my Titleist Pro V1 bounces off of, after a tee shot, ricocheting into a canopy of hemlock, pine and birch that frame all 18 golf holes.

The Canadian Shield is the main chunk of the earth’s crust underlying North America. There’s your geology lesson for the day. When you get about 30 minutes north of Barrie, in Ontario’s Muskoka Cottage country (two hours north of Toronto), on your way to ClubLink’s Rocky Crest Golf Club, open rock faces more and more dominate any car conversation.

Instead of ignoring it, though, golf course architect Tom McBroom embraced it when he designed Rocky Crest, and that’s what in large part makes the 6,943-yard track at the north end of Lake Joseph such a piece of art. Course and surroundings mesh in harmony.

A deer grazes just off the path on No. 1 as we zip by in our cart, oblivious to anything. For urban types, this isn’t the perceived norm when interacting with nature. I mean, the thing just stared at us as we drove past it.

Luxury golf is the sum of these small details, on top of a pure golf experience. And Rocky Crest scores on so many fronts. As ClubLink’s Muskoka regional director of operations Greg MacMillan tells us, the course has something for the 20-handicapper and for the scratch player.

“The 20-handicapper gets a course that is right in front of him or her,” he says. “Most greens are accessible without requiring high carrying

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shots and the surroundings are not too penal for missed greens.” As Greg says, higher handicappers most likely won’t post a “career best score” but the golf course yields enough to be fair.

For the scratch golfer, the test is to put the ball in the right position to attack pins on those firm and fast greens. “When the better player is able to see their target they are more comfortable,” he says. “The option for shot-making, from using the air to playing on the ground is right there for the better player.”

We have a variety of skill level in the group I am playing in. The opening tee shot off the rock face tells you what category I fall under, at least on this day. No matter. Score doesn’t factor into the luxe golf experience, and that is what ClubLink is really selling here.

Of particular note is the clubhouse, situated right at the end of the 18th green, a wooden lodge-like structure that invites you in as you walk up that last fairway.

Greg says the most significant recent project has been the restoration of the bunkers. The club’s operators have been tackling two to three holes per year for the past few years, and are three years from completion. New edges, re-shaping, re-doing the drainage, then adding new sand is par for the course. “It makes the golf course that much better and certainly more aesthetically pleasing with the beautiful white sand,” he says.

Looking around, it is tough to imagine such a unique blend of golf and nature being more X aesthetically pleasing. ●

TOP GEAR PFAFF PORSCHE

CELEBRATED THE LAUNCH OF PORSCHE MACAN WITH AN EXCLUSIVE EVENT AT TORONTO’S MAGNA GOLF CLUB IN MAY. THE EVENT SHOWCASED THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE PORSCHE LINE-UP AND GUESTS GOT TO EXPERIENCE THE VEHICLE FIRST-HAND. P H O T O S B Y TA N I A D I V I T O

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JANELLE MONÁE

LUX HUB THE WYNN RESORT

HOSTED THIS YEAR’S COUTURE LAS VEGAS, AN EXCLUSIVE AND INTIMATE DESTINATION FOR THE LUXURY JEWELRY AND TIMEPIECE MARKET. LUSH LUXURY WAS THERE. PHOTOS BY SANDRO ART + PHOTOGRAPHY

COUTURE DESIGN AWARDS

COUTURE SHOW DIRECTOR GANNON BROUSSEAU WITH AUDREY SAVANSKY OF AS29 AND JOELLE SVRANSKY OF JOELLE JEWELLERY

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FIGHT NIGHT

THE CAMBRIDGE CLUB, IN DOWNTOWN TORONTO, HOSTED “CAMBRIDGE FIGHT NIGHT” IN MAY, WITH MC SPIDER JONES, AND FEATURING CANADIAN BOXING GREAT GEORGE CHUVALO. THE CLUB WAS PACKED WITH MEMBERS AND GUESTS, AND WAS HIGHLIGHTED BY A MAIN EVENT AND CO-MAIN EVENT BOUTS.

LUSH LUXURY PUBLISHER MARK KEAST WITH GEORGE CHUVALO

PHOTOS BY JULIA PIEDIMONTE

MC SPIDER JONES

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VODKA:

LIBA TION FOR SUMMER FUN A REFRESHER IF EVER THERE WAS ONE. DRINK RECIPES FOR THOSE STEAMY DAYS. B Y D AV I D N E I M A N

T

he term “libation” is often mischaracterized as simply an “alcoholic beverage” of some sort. In actual fact the term is more closely associated with the pouring of a liquid offering as a religious ritual. With that in mind, and with summer at hand, vodka is the clear choice for offerings of thanks to the warm days (and nights!) that the summer sun affords us. Here are a few sumptuous concoctions to enjoy those lush summer days of X entertaining and relaxing. ●

MAPLE GLAZE

THE NORTHERN PEACH

INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 1.5 OZ. LUKSUSOWA VODKA • 1 TSP. MAPLE SYRUP (GRADE A) • ORANGE ZEST

DIRECTIONS: Pour all ingredients into a stirring glass and stir with cubed ice until cold and balanced. Strain into a pre-chilled cocktail glass and finish it off with a zest of orange.

HEAD MOJO INGREDIENTS:

• • • • •

1 ½ OZ. CRYSTAL HEAD VODKA 2 OZ. SODA 2 FRESH MINT SPRIGS LIME WHEELS 2 TBSP. COARSE SUGAR (TO TASTE)

• • • •

1 ½ OZ. CRYSTAL HEAD VODKA 2 ½ OZ. NATURAL PEACH JUICE ¼ OZ. BASIL SIMPLE SYRUP FRESH BASIL LEAVES

DIRECTIONS: Pour all ingredients into a martini shaker filled with ice. Shake well then strain into a martini glass.

GARNISH: Garnish with a fresh basil leaf. Slap leaf between hands first to release oil.

BASIL SIMPLE SYRUP: Add equal parts sugar and water in a pot, along with 4-5 basil leaves. Bring to a boil ensuring not to scorch the sides. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Store and cool mixture before using. Will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

DIRECTIONS: Rub rim of glass with lime and dip into coarse sugar. Muddle mint sprigs, lime wheels and coarse sugar in bottom of glass. Then add ice and Crystal Head. Stir well then top with soda.

BBQ CAESAR

GARNISH: Sprig of fresh mint and lime wheels.

INGREDIENTS:

• • • •

2-3 OZ. LUKSUSOWA VODKA 5 TSP. FRESH LEMON JUICE 2 TSP. BBQ SAUCE 4 DASHES OF WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE • 2 PINCHES OF SALT • 2 PINCHES OF PEPPER • TOMATO JUICE

DIRECTIONS: Rim a glass with lemon and dip into seasoning. Pour all ingredients into a mixing container.

Using a second container, pour the mix back and forth (3-4 times) between the two.

Pour into a glass with 2-3 ice cubes and serve.

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DECADENCE AND HOME DECOR

NICKY HASLAM IS THE LEGENDARY INTERIOR DESIGNER THAT HAS RUBBED SHOULDERS WITH THE RICH AND BEAUTIFUL FOR 50 YEARS AND WHO NOW, EVEN AT THE AGE OF 74, REFUSES TO SLOW DOWN HIS SOCIALITE WAYS.

BY SHAUN CURRAN

W

hen Nicky Haslam says that the favourite era of his incredibly suave and glamorous life was the time he spent in 1960s New York, when his startling career was in its relative infancy, then one can only assume that must have been a hell of a time.

Invited at the behest of David Bailey, photographer extraordinaire, in 1961, Haslam began a love affair with this side of the Atlantic that endures to this day. “I was only meant to be there for a few weeks,” he says of the experience, “and I ended up staying there for 11 years”.

The latter part of that time was spent in Los Angeles, but those initial years, where Haslam was dwelling in Manhattan and hanging out with the veritable “who’s who” of 60s cool, were the self-confessed “best days of his life”.

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“It really was the best time. New York in the 60s was the most amazing place. I initially went to Vogue, but after I left Vogue I had just as much fun. I became art director on Show magazine, which was kind of a prelude to Vanity Fair, and I was the youngest art director in America. I was employing amazing people like Diane Arbus and Richard Avedon, which was incredible, really.

“I used to hang out with Andy Warhol, I knew him before he was famous. I was the one that introduced him to smart society. I used to have Mick Jagger stay with me whenever he was in town. That was the advantage of being the only English boy in town. It was a wonderful time to be English, everyone wanted a piece of you.”

His career path ever since has been one glamorous event after the next, encompassing

everything from breeding show horses to, as of this year, musicianship, with his new album Midnight Matinée, an oddly eclectic collection of old standards made with his old friend, producer David Ogilvy.

But Haslam is best known as the creative auteur and driving force behind London institution NH Designs. On the interior design side, he is currently “slaving away on a wonderful house and a wonderful restaurant in New Orleans, a big project in New York, a house in the South of France just outside St. Tropez, plus some wonderful penthouses in Park Lane, with 360 views of London. We’re busy!”

With all of his experience at the high end of design, how has the attitudes of his clientele changed over the years?

“People leapt far quicker before,” he says, “but now there is so much consultation... ‘is this essential, is this not essential?’ There is a more measured approach, but looking at some of the opulence still being dreamt up, I don’t know how much has really changed. This sounds bad but people within that strata don’t change their food or their clothes; and they don’t change that desire to remodel the house. It’s unfair but that’s how it exists.

“They probably economise on something else like not going on holidays so much or buying a new car. People want to have surroundings they feel comfortable in, whoever they are. It’s the essence of life, wanting your home to feel the best it can feel.”

For all of his flamboyance and expensive taste, his advice on home design is simple - do whatever pleases you, and do it for the right reasons.

“Keep changing and keep updating, but be true to yourself. For goodness sake, don’t splash colour around or re-wallpaper because everyone else is doing it – do it because you want to do it.

And be inspired by things in your locale X reflection is important.” ●

SEEING THE POTENTIAL

LIVING IN A CONFINED SPACE? GOT A ROOM IN YOUR HOUSE THAT YOU’RE NOT SURE WHAT TO DO WITH? OR JUST LOOKING TO MAXIMIZE THE SPACIOUS POTENTIAL OF YOUR HOME? THEN ARCHITECT-TURNEDTV HOST GEORGE CLARKE IS THE MAN YOU NEED.

BY SHAUN CURRAN

T

hirty-nine-year-old George Clarke is at the forefront of what he calls “modern living innovation”: essentially making the best use of all your available living space.

He might count celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and pop music guru Simon Fuller as customers, but Clarke, who was born in a working class town in the north-east of England, remains stubbornly grounded and refuses to differentiate between clients.

“Clients are clients,” he smiles. “Whether we’re rich or poor, photographed or not, the most important thing will always be that we love our homes - that’s when we know we’ve succeeded.”

He concentrates his creative efforts on doing the best work for whoever commissions him, and believes that renovation is in his blood.

“I’ve always had a passion to recreate and renovate. I’m not one of these presenters who’s been thrown into a show and told to look interested: I genuinely care about this stuff! Taking derelict things and turning them into something... since I first stepped onto a building site at the age of 16, that’s been all I’ve wanted to do.”

His line of work is “all about being creative and efficient with any space. That said, there is an interesting contrast in the way people regard

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their surroundings. Those who have space tend to view their houses in very traditional ways, mainly because of what they are told on TV – so you must use these colours, or match this fabric with that piece of furniture. But if it is a smaller space, something personal, the rules go out the window. We are adventurous and creative when it comes to maximising those spaces, and convention is put to one side.”

One of Clarke’s most successful programs, Amazing Spaces, saw him travel the world seeking out the more bizarre and esoteric living habitats. Which was the most amazing of these incredible homes?

“I stayed in the Mirrored Tree House in Sweden – simply a room up a tree that reflects its surroundings, and that was pretty amazing. It is a great example of a contemporary open structure working beautifully with Mother Nature.

It was tiny, but it was magical.”

Clarke is in the enviable position of having witnessed some of the world’s most bizarre houses first hand; some of which defy even our wildest imaginations.

“There was a farm in Idaho that had a 30-foot tall beagle-shaped B&B. The owners were chainsaw artists and decided to do something

different with their farm. They called the wooden canine house ‘Sweet Willy’, and within his head there is a loft room that sleeps four. The bathroom is a fire hydrant!”

Clarke laughs as he says that he doesn’t envisage a mad rush for the wider Canadian public to deck out our houses just like Sweet Willy’s wooden wonderland, but he does predict that certain interior trends will emerge over the coming years, as people search to get value for money with whatever home space they have at their disposal.

“I believe that increased multi-functionality is really going to come to the fore over the course of the next couple of decades. We are going to start rethinking about how space is used and configured,” he says. “The multi-generation home is something for the future. With kids living at home for longer and grandparents remaining part of the extended family, getting everyone under one roof is an exciting way for families to be closer together.

“People will be thinking more long-term too.

Being constantly on the move is a waste of money - if you can stay where you are and expand or adapt what you have, it’s a much X more stable way of living.” ●

ANNUAL TOP CALENDARS

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F. P. JOURNE – THE OCTA CALENDRIER

LUSH LUXURY

B Y R Y A N C A R A FA

PATEK PHILIPPE – 5205G-001

WHY: Francois-Paul Journe is the modern day genius who has created our favourite annual calendar. The Octa Calendrier is a work of art. This watch has an automatic movement with a power reserve of more than five days, which can be admired through the sapphire crystal caseback. The movement is made of 18-karat rose gold and, like all of F.P. Journe’s in-house creations, it is extremely precise. The case comes in two sizes – 38mm and 40mm. If we had to choose one annual calendar, then this would be it. Version shown is rose gold, 40mm PRICE: $63,500

WHY: When it comes to fine watch-making, Patek Philippe will always be top of the class. With high marks in innovation, craftsmanship, and pedigree, there really is nothing more to say. This annual calendar has a 40mm case diameter with moon phases and a 24-hour dial. The layout on the face is very well balanced. The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the in-house automatic movement and 21-karat gold rotor.

PRICE: $55,000

PARMIGIANI FLEURIERTONDA QUATOR

MIH

WHY: The well-balanced and beautifully laid out dial makes the full calendar display very legible. The in-house automatic movement is immaculately decorated and visible through the anti-reflective sapphire caseback, especially the rose gold rotor. The moon phase indicator simultaneously shows both the north and south hemisphere. It can hold its own with any annual calendar with its Hermes black alligator leather strap. Wears comfortably at 40mm.

Version shown is white gold.

PRICE: $39,050

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APART FROM THE TIME, ANNUAL CALENDAR WATCHES INDICATE THE DATE, MONTH AND DAY OF THE WEEK, AND CAN MECHANICALLY RECOGNIZE WHICH MONTHS HAVE 30 AND 31 DAYS. MANUAL CORRECTION IS REQUIRED ONLY FOR THE FIRST OF MARCH.

SUMMER 2014

WHY: The mission of the Musée International d‘Horlogerie (MIH) is to convey to a broader public the importance of horology, and of mechanical watchmaking in particular. This annual calendar has accomplished that mission. Its clean and ingenious design is easy to read and has a 42mm titanium case. Many that own this unique piece say it is the only watch they will ever wear.

The watch can be ordered directly from www.embaccy.ch.

They ship worldwide.

PRICE: $6,650 (approximate, depending on currency rate)

A. LANGE & SÖHNE - SAXONIA ANNUAL CALENDAR

WHY: Since it was introduced in 2010, the Saxonia Annual Calendar is a favourite among watch enthusiasts, with a case size of 38.5mm.

Innovations like the patented “zero reset” hand setting mechanism makes synchronizing the watch to the precise time easier. Powered by an immaculate in-house automatic movement with 46-hour power reserve. Version shown is in platinum.

PRICE: $62,100

ZENITH – CAPTAIN WINSOR

WHY: Without a doubt this is one of the bestvalued annual calendar watches on the market.

The Captain Winsor Annual Calendar combines the legendary El Primero chronograph with an easy-to- read annual calendar. Its legendary in-house movement sits in a 42mm case and will look stunning on your wrist. Version shown is in stainless steel.

PRICE: $10,700

YURI DOJC FINE ART EDITIONS

VISIT BY APPO INTM ENT O NLY STO P@YU RID OJC.COM

SOMETIMES IT’S WORTH TRAVELING FARTHER DISTANCES TO SOURCE OUT THE TRULY UNIQUE DIVING EXPERIENCE. B Y M A N O R I R AV I N D R A N PHOTO COURTESY LORD HOWE ISLAND TOURISM ASSOCIATION

LORD HOWE ISLAND, AUSTRALIA

TAKE THE

Just a two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane, this volcanic vestige between Australia and New Zealand is home to the world’s southern-most reef and features a unique marine ecosystem of 90 coral and 500 fish species. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site – just one of four island groups on this list – divers can navigate their way through trenches, caves and volcanic drop-offs in some of the clearest waters on Earth.

Though there are 60 official dive sites around the island, advanced divers won’t want to miss exploring the waters around the world’s largest monolithic sea rock, Balls Pyramid, which rises 551 metres out of the ocean and is home to rare sea species like Spanish dancers and ballina angelfish.

After getting your feet – and the rest of you – wet, head to the Capella Lodge, a luxurious getaway perched above the island’s secret beach at Lover’s Bay, at the foot of the twin peaks of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird. Here, you can enjoy mountain and lagoon views, dine on Pacific-themed menus chock-full of Yamba prawns and Nambucca oysters, and hang loose at the spa (where “Gower’s Foot Therapy” is made for tired diver’s legs) before taking the plunge again at an off-the-beach dive.

IPLUNGE S

ometimes, it’s better down where it’s wetter: take it from scuba divers – and Disney crabs – everywhere. Ever since recreational diving started gaining traction in the 1960s and ’70s, a world of wonder underwater suddenly became accessible to more people who could now explore it safely through modern technologies.

Nowadays, with the proper certification – easily achieved after a knowledge exam and skill-testing dives – just about anyone can don a scuba suit and discover the water’s vast offerings. And while good, local diving locations aren’t difficult to find, sometimes it’s worth going the distance for a unique adventure.

Here are three international spots where you can flaunt those hard-earned diving skills, take in phenomenal natural landscapes and enjoy world-class pampering in between.

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PHOTO COURTESY LORD HOWE ISLAND TOURISM ASSOCIATION

SOUTHEAST SULAWESI, INDONESIA

Nestled on the Sulawesi Island in northeast Indonesia, the Wakatobi Dive Resort – located about 1,000 kilometres east of Bali – has become one of the country’s most recognized dive sites thanks to more than 25 coral reefs and 900 marine species. Since the surrounding seas were granted national marine park status in 1996, Wakatobi has become a veritable Mecca for divers, who are drawn to the remoteness of the destination and its eco-friendly diving.

Locally constructed boats will take you to more than 40 dive sites – all under a 20-minute ride away from the resort. Capable divers are able to log countless hours on a vast array of dives, including shore diving on the house reef, taxi boat diving along its outer reaches and night diving, all while taking in a wide assortment of reef, coral and fish species. And if you’re new to the sport, sign up for a “personal dive genie” who will evaluate your skill level and accompany you on dives, helping with everything from spotting sea creatures to taking great underwater photos.

The resort also offers quaint, individual bungalows with big windows facing the sea and private porch areas – exactly the surroundings you’ll crave after long dives around the island – and if you’ve left any gear behind, a well-stocked dive shop supplies all the necessities.

SOUTH SINAI, EGYPT The riches of Egypt’s Red Sea are just as impressive as the country’s ancient history and ruins. Excellent visibility and welcoming temperatures between 21 and 30 degrees Celsius, in addition to a stunning array of species – from angelfish to whale sharks – make this one of the world’s leading dive destinations.

Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh allows easy access to 76 recognized dive sites that are all within a day’s boat ride from the port.

While the area between Tiran Island and the Sinai Coast boasts drift and mooring dives,

TOP THREE DIVING WATCHES

the Ras Mohammed National Park down south hosts a number of famous dive sites, such as the Shark and Yolanda reefs, the SS Dunraven shipwreck and Ras Ghozlani. For a unique experience, try night diving, where even without lights, swimmers can see down to a depth of 10 metres under a full moon.

Top off your stay at the hillside Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh, where a top-notch Dive Centre will help outfit everyone from the casual snorkeler to an advanced scuba diver. If you’re sick of the ocean, take a dip in one of the hotel’s four different pools, treat yourself to a private spa suite or schedule a camel ride for the little X ones. ●

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL SEA-DWELLER 4000 (LEFT) A must have when going deep! The stainless steel super alloy 40mm case is waterproofed to a depth of 1,200 meters/4,000 feet. If you are ever that deep you'll appreciate its helium escape valve. Featuring the new Cerachrom bezel insert in ceramic, long-lasting Chromalight luminescence, paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, Oysterlock safety clasp and Rolex Glidelock bracelet extension system. All this and it looks great with just about any outfit. PRICE: $11,200 BLANCPAIN FIFTY FATHOMS BATHYSCAPHE FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH (MIDDLE) Master the sea with the beautiful 43mm brushed black ceramic case, the latest addition to the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms collection. The watch is powered by a new 13-lignes Manufacture Blancpain automatic movement with an 18 karat gold rotor which can be admired through the sapphire case back. The water resistant chronograph pushers are capable of underwater usage of up to 300 meters/ 1,000 feet, along with the flyback feature. Stealth and stylish! PRICE: $21,900 OMEGA SEAMASTER PLOPROF 1200M (RIGHT) Bold and recognizable from a distance, the stainless steel case measures 55x48mm.

The Ploprof 1200m makes a statement in the water and on land. Powered by the self-winding Omega Co-Axial Calibres 8500, which makes it possible to adjust the hour hand separately to accommodate different time zones. Equipped with an automatic helium escape valve and a bezel-release security pusher with an orange anodised aluminium ring easily located at the two o'clock position. Confidently venture deep! PRICE: $9,650

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THE OKTOPUS MOONLITE SPEAKS TO THE COOL AND CONFIDENT PERSONALITY OF THE LINDE WERDELIN BRAND.

FULL MOON

B Y P E T E R PAT R I C K

O

ne of the highlights at Basel World 2014 was the release of the Oktopus Moonlite by the relatively new brand Linde Werdelin.

Founders Morten Linde and Jorn Werdelin have earned recognition in an extremely competitive industry. Their new timepiece is not only stunning to behold but also challenges the criterion of a diving watch.

Linde Werdelin stands out in a very cluttered market by staying true to their principle of making highly crafted functional and modern sports watches that accommodate attachable digital instruments for diving and skiing. The philosophy for the company according to Morten is “analogue is the best way to tell time; digital is how you assimilate technical details”.

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The Oktopus Moonlite shares the same five-part case construction and design as other versions in the Oktopus collection, giving it a very masculine look and strong wrist presence.

The dimensions are 44mm across, and 46mm lug-to-lug, with a 15mm case height. It also inherited the signature engraving of the octopus illustration on the caseback. Such detailing speaks to the personality of the brand; cool, confident and bold. This design is not for everybody – it will appeal to the secure individual with an avant-garde spirit.

New is the inner and outer case material, made of colourless ALW, a metal alloy developed for the aerospace industry and is exclusive to Linde Werdelin. The satin, polished and microbille finishing of the ALW case is visually enchanting, responding to light in a way that gives it an interestingly subtle hue. However, the material is not a cosmetic choice, ALW is twice as hard as steel and weights 50% less than titanium, making it the lightest Linde Werdelin watch to date.

The screw-in titanium crown with the engraved octopus emblem is sufficiently protected by the crown guard.

The five-layer skeletonized dial gives the face

of the Moonlite lots of depth. The longer you look at it, the more charming it gets. The circular satin finish to the réhaut and top layer subtlety contrasts the circular Côte de Genève on the lower dial.

Consistent with the modern and industrial composition are the robust Titanium colour hands with satin finish and Luminova. The hour index, logo and large 3, 9, 12 numerals are in white luminent.

But the most impressive feature seen on the dial is the design of the in-house developed and produced moon complication, one of our favourites in the entire watch industry. The circular perlage surface on the moon disc – luminent photorealistic moons with blue full moon indicator and red numerals – is extraordinary.

All this can be viewed through the sapphire crystal, which is antireflective on the inside.

Not visible is the 23 jewel, automatic movement with in-house-made complication, powering the watch.

The bezel on the Linde Werdelin Moonlite is made of the same high tech colourless ALW as the case, with circular satin, polish and microbille finishing. The bezel is locked in with eight exposed circular satin finish titanium screws, highlighted with white tension discs.

The Oktopus Moonlite embodies a harmonious marriage of style and substance.

Not your traditional diving watch, there is an

absence of a rotating bezel. Remember, when diving, assimilating technical details is best done digitally. The solution is the Reef, an easily attachable diving instrument designed and developed in-house to provide the most sophisticated tool to scuba divers, and negates the need for a rotating bezel. It tracks critical information while diving with the use of intelligent software. The watch is water resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet), so venture deep.

The Oktopus Moonlite comes with a comfortable bespoke high end white rubber strap and is interchangeable within Linde Werdelin’s proprietary strap system. Like everything else with the Linde Werdelin brand, the choice of straps are ultra cool and high quality.

You will see very few people with Linde Werdelin watches on their wrist, as they come in very limited supply. The Oktopus Moonlite is limited to 59 individually numbered pieces worldwide. This brand will only appeal to trailblazing trendsetters, looking for an unconventional modern timepiece to reflect their personality. The Linde Werdelin Oktopus Moonlite gets high praise for its innovation and craftsmanship in the case construction and design, the magnificent moonphase complication and for continuing to push the limits of the sports watch. Priced at $21,600, ($2,100 for the Reef), the timepiece can be purchased in X Canada at L’Oro Jewellery in Toronto. ●

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THE LUXURIOUS SOLE

THE SNEAKER HAS EVOLVED FROM AN ITEM OF FUNCTION TO A KEY FASHION COG IN CONTEMPORARY URBAN CULTURE. B Y D I O N WA L C O T T

W

hen the last issue of Lush Luxury came out, the cover story on “The Fine Art of Bespoke Shoemaking” sparked a debate about whether or not sneakers could be included in a conversation about luxury.

When I was first asked for my point of view, I felt blessed that my hours of hard work have been recognized by my respected peers, who in turn, have asked for my humble opinion. And secondly, I felt nostalgic that sneakers, which started off primitively as rubber, could be included in a discussion about extravagant living.

So, can sneakers truly be a part of a luxury conversation?

Sneakers have always been a part of my life.

I wore them as a child growing up playing sports.

I use them as a fashion detail to uniquely interrupt the environment I enter. Now, they are the creative force behind my contemporary urban culture consulting work with brands, institutions and organizations.

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My most recent sneaker-related project, the Out of the Box: Rise of the Sneaker Culture exhibit, featured at the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto, travelled through time to display just how far sneakers have come. The exhibit not only showcased the evolution of sneakers, it also made history as the first-ever sneaker exhibit of its kind in North America.

Looking back, there is a distinct time in history when sneakers shift from being an item of function to becoming much more – part of a global sub-culture all of its own.

Brand icon, Michael Jordan, was instrumental in turning sneakers into a global phenomenon.

He helped solidify a new platform of using celebrity status to influence popular culture and lifestyle. In a short period of time, the bond between the consumer and the Jordan brand quickly strengthened with every model of sneaker released.

Loyal followers waited in anticipation of how new models would look, creating tremendous buzz in the sneaker market. With this, Jordan not only influenced the consumer, but the footwear industry as a whole.

Luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Prada, who were previously considered unconventional in this area of footwear, started tapping into this lifestyle trend. This allowed for luxury brands to access a new market, while still holding onto their prestige, reinforcing the relationship between sneakers and luxury.

While everyone has his or her own taste and standard of style, I can only speak about what is luxurious to me. My journey with sneakers has changed through every stage of my life. While I appreciate, respect and wear many brands in the sneaker world, three specific brands stand out as most influential to my personal style – Jordan Brand, Creative Recreation and New Balance all uniquely emit lavishness for different reasons.

Jordan Brand was the first to take my love of sneakers to the next level. Their innovation in design and strategic marketing captured my attention as a young man. For a sneaker that was primarily used for trainers on the court during my basketball playing days, they quickly moved to become a part of my lifestyle street fashion. Coming from humble beginnings, buying a pair of Jordans was considered an

indulgence, which inspired me to explore other avenues of luxury.

Creative Recreation, an independent brand influential in my life, quickly became leaders in lifestyle fashion by providing a sleek fusion of the sneaker with the traditional dress shoe. This hybrid creation helped to fill a style void while I began my professional career, allowing me to insert my personal footwear style into the business world. As an alternative to the dress shoe, Creative Recreation can be inserted into the equation with high-end designer suits to polish off any outfit, while still maintaining the foundation of a sneaker.

Presently, New Balance is high on my list of favourite brands. Highly impressed with their advancement over the years, they have maintained their dedication and commitment to comfort, while offering modern style options.

With the definition of luxury being “a state of

great comfort”, New Balance must be included in this conversation as they are definitely a treat for the feet.

I look forward to continuing this conversation through upcoming projects that I will be curating.

Who knows what will influence my personal style next, both in footwear and fashion, but one thing is for certain – there is no doubt that sneakers can be included in a conversation X about luxury. ●

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THE“VIEUX”WORLD ORDER 30

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CENTRAL STANDARD’S TIME – CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC

PHOTOS BY YURI DOJC

CAMERAS: SONY A7 AND A6000

PAPAL AURA 31

MOON OVER DE CHAMPLAIN L’OBSERVATOIRE DE LA CAPITALE

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QUEBEC CITY, AND THE LUSH REGION AROUND IT, ENCAPSULATES MANY THINGS TO MANY PEOPLE. FOR LUSH LUXURY PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER YURI DOJC, IT WAS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO WANDER THE STREETS OF CANADA’S 2ND OLDEST CITY (1608). DECLARED A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE, AND HOME TO AT LEAST 11 ARCHITECTURAL STYLES. COUNTLESS TREASURES ARE AROUND EVERY CORNER, PRESENTING A RESPLENDENT MIX OF THE “VIEUX” (OLD) AND “NOUVEAU” (NEW). LUXURY ABOUNDS IN ITS SELECTION OF FINE HOTELS, LOCAL CUISINE, AND MORE SIMPLY IN ITS VISUAL BEAUTY AND CHARMING RESIDENTS.

SOUS-CHEF LAFLÈCHE’S FINAL TOUCH – PAIN BENI

NIGHT TERRASSE – LE BISTRO PLUS

KEVIN’S TABLESIDE FLAMBÉ – LE CONTINENTAL

SPECIAL THANKS TO QUÉBEC CITY TOURISM (WWW.QUEBECREGION.COM, WWW.SOEUROPESOCLOSE.COM) AND GROUPE CHAMPLAIN (WWW.HOTELSDUVIEUXQUEBEC.COM).

TRANSPORTATION TO QUÉBEC PROVIDED BY VIA RAIL CANADA’S NEW BUSINESS CLASS (WWW.VIARAIL.CA)

SMART PLATE WITH APPS – LE CONTINENTAL 33

PONT DE L’ÎLE – ÎLE D’ORLÉANS

PORTE SAINT-LOUIS

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FLEURDELISÉ – NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

SU PR M IM N EGR 2 2001 4 14

ÉGLISE SAINT-PIERRE – ÎLE D’ORLÉANS

BEST FRIEND’S STROLL

VIGNOBLE STE-PÉTRONILLE – ÎLE D’ORLÉANS

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SÉMINAIRE DE QUÉBEC

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RACING SHADOWS – BASSE-VILLE

RIOPELLE! - MUSÉE NATIONAL DES BEAUX-ARTS DU QUÉBEC

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SIGHTSEE

TECHNICAL NOTES BY OUR PHOTOGRAPHER ON HOW HE USED THE FULL-FRAME, PALM-SIZED SONY A7 AND SONY A6000 CAMERAS TO CAPTURE THE IMAGES FROM HIS JOURNEY THROUGH QUEBEC CITY.

“This was taken with the A7. I was going for a shot of the building in the background, but then I saw the kids coming along. The advantage there was the retractable screen on the camera. I could put the camera on the ground, up just a few inches, so I could look down and wait for the exact moment.

As a photographer, you are always looking for “real” moments like this. There is no posturing. These are the precious moments you are always looking for.”

“This was captured on the A6000, with a 65-110 Sony zoom lens, because I standing quite far away from the flags.

I love this shot because it speaks to the unity of two cultures, two languages.

One of the advantages of the A6000 when you travel is that it’s a very light camera. You learn to really appreciate that. Another feature I like is that both cameras use the same battery, so you only need one charger when traveling.”

This was taken on the A6000. I was about 25 metres away from the couple, and I anticipated they were going to hug. Experience tells you this, and allows you to anticipate things, and wait. This was nighttime, and one of good things about both cameras is the size of the chip, so you can shoot at a high ASA. With some cameras, this shot would come out too grainy. The chips are too small, the algorithms are not there (for digital image processing).

“This was taken on the A7, in rainy conditions. The camera held up very well in those conditions; water didn’t leak in, which is ideal for travel. The compositions here really caught my eye. A photographer looks at both composition and the anticipation of something happening. This was a calm situation, and the calm of the vineyard, against the diagonal fence, creating a certain unit. This is the same way a designer works – the contrast of different shapes and angles, and how well it all relates, in one collective.”

“I used the A6000 with the wide-angle lens for this. This is work by the artist Jean-Paul Riopelle, whose work I greatly admire. It’s a special moment, seeing an original piece of art like this right in front of you. When it comes to photographing the work of an artist, the key is presenting the art as one element in the overall environment. It is almost like in a church, with a focus on the altar. But your eye goes to other elements in the church as well.”

“Sony is one of the only camera makers that really cares about the lightness of the equipment, and this is very important when traveling. I had both cameras at the ready for this shot. Cycling is very popular in Quebec, tied to the mass tradition of the sport in France. This was a race that was happening in the town.

Quebec City is very hilly. I was walking to the upper town from the lower town, a very nice walk, and we were on this high hill, looking down. Speed was the priority, so I set a high speed – 1/1000 second. But I had the ASA on automatic, there was too much going on to adjust it manually. Every situation for a photographer requires different judgments like this.”

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CITYGUIDE

WHAT’S TRENDING IN SOME OF THE WORLD CAPITALS OF COOL. IN THIS ISSUE WE WALK THE COBBLESTONE STREETS OF 406-YEAR-OLD QUEBEC CITY. B Y G R A HA M FARK AS

AUBERGE PLACE D’ARMES PAIN BENI

M0851

There are many things that might distract a visitor to Vieux-Québec: the World Heritage Site worthy ramparts, fortifications, and laissez-faire attitude of the residents. In terms of finding mementos of a special trip, a visitor might be distracted by the number of typical items that would fall into the category of “business as usual”: t-shirts, coffee mugs, etc. For the savvy visitor, the area of Basse-Ville (lower town) offers a respite from the typical fare, and is a bastion of local artisans who set themselves apart from the usual.

Of these, M0851 stands out with its selection of hand-crafted, leather-based fashions and accessories. Meticulously designed and fashioned in M0851’s Montréal workshops, the women’s and men’s lines will prove stylishly enduring mementos of both Québec and a time past when craftsmanship and elegance was the mainstay, instead of the exception. www.m0851.com Address: 66 boul Champlain, Vieux-Québec, 418-614-0851

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A place where “vieux-world” charm intersects with new world luxury and elegance, Auberge Place d’Armes is set on a centuries-old footprint cast in the foundation of its historical legacy. With origins beginning in 1640 as a pair of ancestral homes, its rooms and suites are sumptuously appointed with artisanal furnishings, and rich finishes. Now meticulously renovated, many rooms feature original exposed stone walls, crystal chandeliers and opening windows with post-card views. Since 1640, Auberge Place d’Armes foundations have stood at the epicenter of life in Vieux-Québec and were once owned by the founders of a small fur-trading house by the name of “Holt Renfrew”. Nestled in the heart of Vieux-Québec, mere steps from its namesake Place d’Armes, Dufferin Terrasse, and Basse-Ville, walking out the front door immerses you in living history: The National Historic site “des forts et châteaux Saint-Louis”, Artist’s Alley, open-air cafes, and all the New France you can handle. www.aubergeplacedarmes.com Address: 24 Rue Sainte-Anne, Vieux-Québec, 866-333-9485

In short, ville de Québec’s restaurants are notoriously good, blessed with an abundance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared only as locals know how. Oenophiles rejoice with fine selections of privately sourced French wines.

Amidst this, set in the small luxury inn Auberge Place D’Armes, is a romantic gastronomic jewel.

Embracing the coziness of a centuries-old building, with a view of historic Place D’Armes, Pain Beni is an elegant redoubt focused on culinary creativity. The dining room – exposed stone and brick walls, large windows, everything on a grand historical scale yet still cozy and warm – and menu both showcase Chef Simon CôtéTremblay’s team who offer courses highlighting local ingredients in a way that honours the terroir, and those that produce it. For those seeking an al fresco dining experience, Pain Beni’s terrasse harkens to the intimacy of a Parisien sidewalk bistro, nestled next to the vibrant heart of historic Vieux-Québec and is not to be missed. www.painbeni.com Address: 24 Rue Sainte-Anne, Vieux-Québec, 418-694-9485

MUSÉE NATIONAL DES BEAUX-ARTS DU QUÉBEC

SAINT-LOUIS FORTS AND CHÂTEAUX

“Out of sight. Out of mind.” That is a euphemism to describe the forgettable. But when describing the hidden jewel that is the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux, you will say, “Out of Sight!” First built in 1620 by Champlain as a wooden fort on the cliffs of Cap Diamant, improvements followed until 1635 when governor Montmagny built the first stone Château on the site of Champlain’s original “corps de logis”. Many structural and ownership changes followed until the 4th and final Château was destroyed by fire in 1836.

Abandoned by the British, buried with debris, and covered by successive terraces, the site was recognized as being of national historic significance in 2001. After extensive archaeological excavations, the park opened to the public in 2008 with Québec’s 400th anniversary.

It has been sealed in an archaeological crypt under Dufferin Terrace since 2011, providing climate controlled access for curious visitors. www.pc.gc.ca Address: 2, rue D’Auteuil, Vieux-Québec, 1-888-773-8888

ÎLE D’ORLÉANS

Original French settlers on Île d'Orléans in 1661 wouldn’t have imagined their home as a National Historic Site, but in 1990 the entire island was recognized as such for its historical significance.

Only 15 minutes from Vieux-Québec, the island’s fertile soil was as popular with early New France colonists as it is with today’s local chefs. Rich farmlands, laid out in traditional long narrow strip plots, extend back from the water, while the settlements are linked by the chemin Royal road that encircles the island.

Visitors can assuage modern problems as they cross Pont de l'Île bridge and embrace the pastoral lifestyle of Île d'Orléans. Enjoy fresh strawberries in season, local wines from abundant vineyards like Ste-Pétronille, a stay in an auberge, or just the connection with history and the land that permeates the island. http://tourisme.iledorleans.com/en 866-941-9411

National Art Museums are typically grand affairs celebrating the vibrancy and character that art brings to a nation. The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec is home to more than 37,000 pieces, dating from the 17th century, making it a living memory of Québec art and artists. The Musée’s collections feature works by world renowned artists like Morrice, Lyman, Pellan, Borduas, and Walker. Permanent galleries for abstractionist Jean-Paul Riopelle, including a separate gallery for his monumental work “Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg”, and modernist Alfred Pellan impress. Current exhibitions include the amazing “Morrice and Lyman in the company of Matisse” (until Sept. 7, 2014), which examines the seminal dialogue which took place between the founding painters of modern Canadian art, James Wilson Morrice (1865-1924) and John Lyman (1886-1967), with Henri Matisse (1869-1954). www.mnbaq.org/en Address: National Battlefield Park, Québec City, 866.220.2150

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WHERE TO STAY THE PALAZZO

MASTER OF

Taking luxury to new limits, The Palazzo features more than 3,000 expansive suites, more than 60 luxury boutiques, world-class dining from a collection of awardwinning chefs, such as Carnevino

by Mario Batali, CUT by Wolfgang Puck and Table 10 by Emeril Lagasse.

FINE ARTS

LAS VEGAS IS FAST BECOMING MORE KNOWN FOR ITS VIBRANT ART SCENE. LUSH LUXURY WAS GIVEN AN EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF SOME OF THE MUST-HAVES AND MUST-STOPS, FOR TOURISTS LOOKING TO GET MORE OUT OF THEIR VEGAS VISIT.

BY JAMIE MACLENNAN

WHAT TO SEE

THE CROMWELL

The Cromwell features 188 rooms and suites, and recently underwent a $185 million renovation. The hotel features a 40,000 square foot casino, a restaurant by Giada De Laurentiis and beach and nightlife venues by Victor Drai. The Cromwell blends vintage with modern, with black Parisian-style awnings and gold fixtures adorning the windows.

BELLAGIO GALLERY OF FINE ART

Located at the heart of the elegant Bellagio Resort & Casino, Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is one of Las Vegas’ premier exhibition spaces – where great art goes on vacation. Since opening in 1998, the gallery has presented exhibitions of artworks and objects drawn from internationally acclaimed museums and private collections, including “Warhol Out West,” “Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form,” “Classic Contemporary: Lichtenstein, Warhol and Friends,” “American Modernism,” “The Impressionist Landscape: From Corot to Van Gogh,” “Fabergé: Treasures from the Kremlin” and “Picasso Ceramics.”

WHERE TO DINE

LA CAVE WINE AND FOOD HIDEAWAY

La Cave Wine and Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas is where visitors come for a menu of contemporary American cuisine. We especially liked the setting – perfect for an intimate dinner for two, or a celebration at one of La Cave’s oversized tables. It’s a great place to escape the action of the Strip.

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POLAROID FOTOBAR

Founded in 2012, Polaroid Fotobar is the first of its kind, a fun and experiential retail destination that is changing the paradigm of how people “liberate” their photos and turn them into innovative and memorable products. Each location offers the ability to instantly print your pictures – wherever they may reside – utilizing the exclusive PolaroidClassic Border Logo picture format in five different sizes. Customers can turn their favourite photos into an extensive selection of custom and unique photo products from a variety of materials including canvas, stone, metal, bamboo and more.

KNUTTEL GALLERY

HIGH ROLLER

Located at the Venetian-Palazzo Resort, the gallery is dedicated exclusively to the work of internationally renowned artist Graham Knuttel – offering up a higher rung of sophistication and global recognition to the city’s growing art scene.

The High Roller observation wheel is the focal point of The LINQ, an open-air retail, dining and entertainment district in Vegas. The High Roller tops out at 550 feet, making it the largest observation wheel in the world – the wheel structure has 7.2 million pounds of steel and 112 cables.

SMITH CENTER

LE RÊVE – THE DREAM

French for “The Dream”, Le Rêve combines water, fire, swimming, acrobatics and spectacular effects.

Located at Wynn Theater, no seat is further than 42 feet from the stage.

Opened in 2012, the $470 million Smith Center for the Performing Arts, including a 2,050-seat concert hall, represents a significant shift for Las Vegas, away from being a city known just for hotels, casinos, slot machines and showgirls. The Smith Center represents a celebration of artistic excellence, education and culture from around the world.

THE MODERN CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM

A new institution dedicated to visual arts and design, and planned for two acres in the expanding downtown Las Vegas Arts District. The progressive museum will showcase art, technology and design, in addition to providing essential training and tools for artists and designers. The Modern will house 35,000 square feet and three floors of museum galleries, a bistro and event areas – all meant to inspire and educate through creativity, art and design. A campaign is underway to raise $29 million for the project.

Go to www.themodernlv.org to contribute.

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TOP

IO LUXURY

AIRPORTS

HOW DO YOU DEFINE LUXURY WHEN IT COMES TO AIRPORTS? CHECK-IN EFFICIENCIES SO YOU GET TO YOUR PLANE SEAT AS SEAMLESSLY AS POSSIBLE. A QUIET, LUXURY LOUNGE AND A GOOD CUP OF COFFEE BEFORE THE SUN COMES UP. A FIRST-IN-CLASS RESTAURANT TO KILL TIME DURING STOPOVERS. TRAVELING IS TOUGH ENOUGH. COME FLY AWAY. B Y S A N D Y L AW

KANSAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – OSAKA, JAPAN A former residence to a Swedish prince, the 400-year-old Château Eza overlooks the French Riviera, with brilliant vistas over the Côte d’Azur, from your own private balcony. The 12 rooms and suites cling to the side of the ancient rock walls of Èze, a thousand-year-old medieval village above the Mediterranean Sea. Each room and suite in the hotel is uniquely designed in the tradition of the ancient castle.

AL MAKTOUM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (DUBAI)

Phase 1 is now fully operational.

Phase 2 of the airport, which includes construction of an additional two automated and one non-automated cargo terminals, is currently under way. Eventually travelers will access an “aerotropolis”, a master-planned self-sustained economic zone support a multitude of activities – logistics, aviation, commercial, exhibition, humanitarian, residential and leisure-related activities.

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LONDON HEATHROW AIRPORT Hong Kong International airport, which sits on an artificial island (Chek Lap Kok), is a favourite among business travellers, costing $20 billion to build. The airport is listed as one of the top five airports for best shopping, dining, leisure, amenities and cleanliness. Passengers can also play at SkyCity Nine Eagles Golf, adjacent to Terminal 2.

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One of the most expensive airports ever built, at $10.5 billion, and one of the busiest and most advanced. London Heathrow Airport is widely known for its lavish lounges. Heathrow is also a great destination for shoppers, housing A-List brands like Gucci, Dior, Prada, Mulberry, and Harrods.

BEIJING CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The $8 billion Beijing Capital International Airport is now the busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic. The state-of-the-art Terminal 3, which was built for the 2008 Olympics (designed by Foster & Partners), is the world’s largest, at 3.7 million square feet, and has 70 restaurants and baggage area that can take more than 19,000 pieces per hour.

After having gone through a $383 million dollar renovation in 2012, San Francisco International Airport stands as an all-luxury destination for shoppers, foodies and art enthusiasts – home to art galleries with more than 60 works commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission.

There are also science and history exhibitions, an aquarium, and aviation history museum. Shoppers enjoy shops featuring brands like Gucci, Burberry and Swarovski.

SEOUL’S INCHEON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

One of the busiest airports in the world, Incheon has been given its share of awards for excellence – for seven years in a row (20052012), it was rated the best airport worldwide by Airports Council International. Amenities include a golf course, spa, private sleeping rooms, ice skating rink, a casino and indoor gardens. And here are a few kickers – Incheon is one of the fastest airports in the world for customs processing, it claims it has only a .0001% baggage mishandling rate, and its duty-free shopping mall is rated best in the world by Business Traveler.

SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT

A major aviation hub in Southeast Asia, the Singapore Changi Airport was voted the World’s Best Airport at the World Airport Awards in 2013, the fourth time Changi received the prize. Airport customers around the world are the voters, so you know the award means something.

Leisure activities are a big part of that. For entertainment, the airport offers sightseeing tours, a rooftop swimming pool, a movie theatre, and a 5-story vertical garden called The Green Wall.

ZURICH AIRPORT

The Zurich Airport is the largest airport in Switzerland, connected by an underground train called Skymetro. Of particular note is the Panorama Lounge, located at the top of the airport, with stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The lounge, not tied to any specific airline, is consistently ranked among the top in Europe.

MUNICH AIRPORT

The business class lounge has its own beer garden so passengers can enjoy sample beer right from the barrel of Munich’s Franziskaner brewery, paired perfectly with a soft, salty pretzel. The airport, voted fourth best airport in Europe

by Skytrax, features an Airport Center between two terminals.

There’s an 18-hole mini golf course in the airport’s visitor’s park if you get the urge.

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OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

LOOKING FOR MORE ADVENTURE IN YOUR TRAVELS? MORE AND MORE LUXURY HOTELS ARE OPENING IN REMOTE LOCATIONS AROUND THE WORLD, CATERING AUSTRALIA SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE, TO PEOPLE KANGAROO ISLAND Located atop a secluded cliff on a rugged stretch along South Australia’s IN SEARCH OF coast, with pristine views of the Southern Ocean and Kangaroo Island SOMETHING A wilderness. “Rugged isolation” is what comes to mind as you wind your LITTLE MORE OUT way into the site, and the off-the-beaten-track experience is what makes it OF THE ORDINARY. special – a “zoo without fences” as it has been described, for wildlife lovers.

B Y S A N D Y L AW

WEBSITE: WWW.SOUTHERNOCEANLODGE.COM.AU; PER PERSON PER NIGHT RATE THIS TIME OF YEAR: $1,150-$1,950 FOR A TWIN SHARE ROOM

CANADA SONORA RESORT, RICHMOND, B.C.

Fish salmon-filled waters at the mouth of Bute Inlet, take an eco tour by boat, experience close-up views of grizzly bears and orcas, explore remote glaciers by helicopter – all are within your grasp at Sonora Resort, one of Canada’s best eco adventure luxury travel destinations. Guests reach the resort by boat or air, unique for its seclusion, luxury accommodations and gourmet cuisine. Spectacular ocean views.

WWW.SONORARESORT.COM; ROOM RATES PER NIGHT THIS TIME OF YEAR: $900-$1,230

USA AMANGIRI, CANYON COUNTRY, UTAH

Thirty-four suites made of materials, textures and natural hues meant to blend with the jaw-dropping landscape, earth-coloured rock formations that surround you, Amangiri is part of Aman Resorts, isolated on 600 acres of remote Southern Utah wilderness, bordering on Arizona. You arrive via a winding road that descends into the valley and leads to the central Pavilion. There’s a 25,000 square foot spa, a dining area that overlooks the swimming pool, set within a sunken courtyard framed by the Pavilion and rock escarpment.

WEBSITE: WWW.AMANRESORTS.COM; ROOM RATES PER NIGHT THIS TIME OF YEAR: $1,500-$4,100

SOUTH AFRICA

PHINDA MOUNTAIN LODGE, KWAZULU NATAL

An exceptional game-viewing resort for the adventuresome at-heart, with spacious private suites poised on the crest of a mountain. There are twenty-five private suites in total, set in the beautiful mountains of the Phinda Resource Reserve, each opening onto a panoramic view. There’s a private outdoor shower and plunge pool for each suite so you can savour the outdoors. Specific features include day and night game drives, walking safaris, river cruises, night turtle drives, photographic safaris, and the like.

WWW.ANDBEYOND.COM/PHINDA-MOUNTAIN-LODGE; ROOM RATES PER PERSON, PER NIGHT THIS TIME OF YEAR: $525-$575

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

QASR AL SARAB DESORT RESORT,

Located in the Liwa Desert – one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world – Qasr Al Sarab Resort features rooms, villas and suites all with the utmost in luxury finishes and touches, all with desert views. Unparalleled luxury and comfort amid mystic desert charm.

WWW.QASRALSARAB.ANANTARA.COM; ROOM RATES PER ROOM, PER NIGHT THIS TIME OF YEAR: $200-$2700

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

HOME WHEN IT COMES TO LUXURY HOTELS, THE DIFFERENCE MAKERS ARE OFTEN FOUND IN THE DETAILS. HERE ARE THREE CANADIAN OFFERINGS THAT MAKE THE GRADE. B Y M A R K K E A S T A N D G R A H A M FA R K A S

OPUS HOTEL

The only boutique hotel in Vancouver to hold the coveted Forbes Four-Star rating, and named “Top 5 Trendiest Hotels in the World” by TripAdvisor, OPUS is more than somewhere to stay, it’s somewhere to be. With striking design and personality plus, this 96 room hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of vibrant Yaletown, across the street from the Canada Line station, and steps to the seawall.

Beautifully appointed rooms designed by Robert Bailey feature lush colour palettes and local artwork. OPUS offers award-winning Northern Italian cuisine from Chef Lucais Syme at La Pentola della Quercia, where guests are encouraged to dine “alla famiglia” on fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and the finest imported Italian cheese.

322 DAVIE ST., VANCOUVER, 604-642-6787, info@opushotel.com

WINDSOR ARMS

Tucked away from the bustle of Toronto’s tony Yorkville neighbourhood is the intimate Windsor Arms Hotel, a blend of historic nostalgia and new-millennium luxury. The original building dates from 1927 when the neo-Gothic style of architecture was considered a marvel in Toronto.

The original proprietor, pulp and paper magnet cum hotelier William Arthur Price, had an idea – create a hotel that blended in with the nearby University of Toronto’s signature Victorian buildings. In 1995 the now derelict building was rescued by developer George Friedmann who envisioned a resurrection of the property lead by architect Sol Wassermuhl to ensure the integrity of the building’s original characteristics while upgrading the property to five-star luxury. The results were magnificent: mahogany furnishings based on 1920s French styles, intimate suites replete with fireplaces, and timeless limestone in the bathrooms. Today the Windsor Arms features 28 intimate luxury suites, conference rooms for business and celebrations, and a full spa sanctuary and pool.

18 ST. THOMAS ST., TORONTO, 416-971-9666, reserve@windsorarmshotel.com

HOTEL LE GERMAIN MONTREAL

A chic and intimate boutique hotel, intended for both business and leisure clients alike. The hotel used to be an office building, undergoing an astonishing transformation. When entering the hotel, your eyes are immediately drawn to the luxurious furnishings, bouquets of fresh flowers, a warm fireplace (even more inviting during those freezing Montreal winters), and intimate lounge area. Cozy comfort is the name of the game when you check into your room – luxurious furnishings, inspired by loft-style architecture, filled with natural light and views of Montreal. In the Laurie Raphaël Restaurant, guests experience the rich flavours of local Quebec cuisine.

2050 RUE MANSFIELD, MONTREAL, 514-849-2050, reservations@germainmontreal.com

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PRADA TRAVEL LEATHER WALLET prada.com $580

GIVENCHY MIRRORED-LEATHER SANDALS IN ROSE GOLD net-a-porter.com $750

MARA HOFFMAN CUTOUT PRINTED SWIMSUIT net-a-porter.com $245

LIGHTNESS OF BEING EMBRACE SUMMER’S HEAT WITH THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST ACCESSORIES IN SHADES OF IVORY AND ROSE GOLD.

HERMÈS STRAW SUN HAT hermes.com $710

B Y SE RG E K E RB EL

GUCCI 18K GOLDEN AND ENAMEL RING gucci.com $995

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TIFFANY & CO. “ATLAS” 18K ROSE GOLD BANGLE WITH DIAMONDS tiffany.ca $11,400

TOM FORD “DARIA” SUNGLASSES tomford.com $450

DOLCE & GABBANA FLORAL BROCADE SKIRT net-a-porter.com $1,345

CARTIER “JEANNE TOUSSAINT” LIMITED EDITION TOTE BAG cartier.com $15,600

CHANEL TWEED, SUEDE AND RUBBER SNEAKERS chanel.com $2,065

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HAVANA NIGHTS THIS SUMMER’S MEN’S MUST-HAVE ACCESSORIES ARE INSPIRED BY THE SHADES OF GOLDEN RUM AND FINE CIGARS.

BY SE RG E K E RBE L

MOMBACHO “CLASICO”.

SET OF THREE NICARAGUAN CIGARS mombachocigars.com $84.50 MONTEGRAPPA “EXTRA 1930” CELLULOID AND STERLING SILVER FOUNTAIN PEN WITH 18K GOLD NIB montegrappa.com $2,065

CARTIER “GORDONS’ DÉCOR” LIGHTER WITH YELLOW GOLDEN FINISH cartier.us $1,000

GUCCI DIAMANTE LEATHER CARRY-ON DUFFLE BAG gucci.com $2,100

TOM FORD “CRAWFORD” SUEDE DRIVING SHOES WITH LEATHER TIE DETAIL tomford.com $790

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ETON POLKA DOT SILK POCKET SQUARE harryrosen.com $55

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA BRAIDED DOUBLE-WRAP LEATHER BRACELET zegna.com $255

ETRO PAISLEY PRINT SWIMMING TRUNKS harryrosen.com $280

CUTLER AND GROSS “0734 DT” ITALIAN ACETATE SUNGLASSES cutlerandgross.com $500

PORSCHE DESIGN “FRENCH CLASSIC MAINE” LEATHER BELT WITH METAL BUCKLE pdbloorstreet.com $290

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SUIT-ABLE SWIMWEAR TAKE THE PLUNGE WITH THESE FASHIONABLE CHOICES FOR HER AND HIM. B Y OL IV E L I

KAFTAN

BY LOTTY B

A kaftan can be a thing of real beauty.

This offering by Lotty B is a hand-printed short kaftan with a “ray” design, in grey. $395

CALABRIA MINT BY MELISSA ODABASH

Detailed-stitched over the shoulder, one-piece swimsuit featuring flattering centre ruching down the torso. $295

ANTIGUA UNDERWIRE BUSTIER TOP AND ST. LUCIA BIKINI BOTTOM

BY MILLY CABANA

The underwire bustier top features a sophisticated silhouette for sunbathing, with vibrant blue and white Italian delft print.

TOP, $115, BOTTOM, $95

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PYTHON BY VITAMIN A

The EcoLux 400T Sophia Bustier features adjustable back closure and straps, to create a custom fit.

The Ava Corset Hipster bottoms feature a sexy corset lacing – an intriguing detail.

TOP, $107, BOTTOM, $99

BORIA ONE-PIECE BY TORY BURCH

Detailed with three graphic, abstract floral prints in a classic palette of ivory and navy. The streamlined silhouette includes a patterned panel beneath the bustline for extra support.

Made with the highest quality of fabrics and SPF 50 sun protection. $230

CALDER SWIM TRUNKS

BY ONIA

Onia multi-colour Liberty Art floral-print nylon Calder swim trunks, with quarter top pockets, stud-snap flap pocket and locker loop at the back. $210

KITON CLASSIC

Red and white classic swimming shorts from Kiton featuring drawstring fastening, two inset pockets to the sides, rear flap pockets, and small floral print. $410

PAISLEY SWIM TRUNKS

BY ETRO

Etro’s signature paisleys are splashed across these trunks in shades of deep blue. A fun look for the summer holiday season. $270

SHRIMP PRINT SWIM TRUNKS BY VILEBREQUIN With the fun print, these are a must for your next beach vacation. Vilebrequin is dedicated to creating the most imaginative, original holiday wear for men. $245

ANGELENO SWIM TRUNKS BY PARKE AND RONEN

The Angeleno trunks have a sophisticated retro feel in a square cut with a two-inch inseam, and front pockets, fly front closure with a logo snap button, and full mesh lining. $125

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women

TOM FORD

Shiny dark brown acetate frame with rose gold metal insert at temples, gradient brown lenses, and signature “T” at the temples. $420

CHANEL

Oversized square acetate sunglasses with metal temples in ruthenium, gold or silver and “CC” signature on inside enamel. $1,700

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Oscar de la Renta collaborated with Linda Farrow for this summer/spring 2014 selection. Black oval sunglasses featuring semi-precious stone detail on temple and titanium finishing. $1,160

MIU MIU

“Noir” brown/black polygonal frame with topaz yellow crystals, antique gold temples and lettering logo engraved on metal. $535

ICANSEE CLEARLY NOW DITA

Rounded cat eye sunglasses featuring a black, 18K gold acetate frame. $475

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A GREAT PAIR OF SUNGLASSES IS VITAL WHEN IT COMES TO BLOCKING OUT THE SUN’S HARMFUL RAYS. THEY ARE ALSO A CHIC FASHION ACCESSORY FOR THE TRENDSETTER. HERE’S OUR TOP 5 MEN’S AND WOMEN’S CHOICES B Y S TEP H AN IA STE FA N A K OU

men

DOLCE & GABBANA

Aviator-style sunglasses from the Dolce & Gabbana collection. $985

PORSCHE DESIGN

Porsche Design’s “exclusive glasses” of 1978, an original reproduction with high-tech materials.

Available in four lens sizes. $500

TOM FORD

Vintage acetate aviator sunglasses with shiny metal insert along front top edge and signature “T” logo detail. $475

THOM BROWNE

Classic, round sunglasses featuring a matte black frame and thin black iron temples. $850

BEVEL

Classic men’s sunglasses – the “Dan Tanna” in a blue/khaki matte colour. $363

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WHAT TO WEAR BRIGHT COLOURS AND SUMMER GLAM FOR SPORTSWEAR IS A FASHION TREND FOR WOMEN THIS SUMMER, WHILE SOFT GREYS AND BLANK WHITES ARE A STORYLINE FOR MEN.

BY YUKI BARTON

SHEER

One of the most important fabric trends we saw emerge on the runways were sheer, weightless overlays.

Since this trend will be daunting for some, a great alternative to achieve this look is to incorporate it into sheer panels or hems. The look works best on streamlined, sport-inspired silhouettes on white, and we especially love tunic dresses, skirts, and easy trousers layered over shorts.

EMBROIDERY

This trend first emerged on the runways for Fall 2013 in the form of dark, delicate dresses and tops, but has since been brightened for this summer season. We’re seeing a surge of popularity with its many colourful variations, and it is replacing other conventional prints and patterns. Our favourite way to wear it is on feminine summer tops and on stark, white dresses accented with vibrant colours.

Luxurious, romantic look for the office or a party. Half sleeves and high necklines on structured shapes also help keep the feminine textures look crisp and modern for a lush look.

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CROPPED PANTS

We all know skinny trousers are here to stay and it’s always going to be one of our favourite basics, but a new must-try trend is the wide-legged cropped pant. We love how the width is exaggerated, giving you an elegant look ready for everyday wear.

Our runway favourite was this cropped palazzo style at Proenza Schouler with its monotone shades and elongating lines, complemented with minimalist sandals.

GLAM SPORTSWEAR

Although it’s no news that sportswear is a continuing trend this season, we love the glam update it’s been given this summer. Commercial brights are taking over, of which we particularly like a vivid cobalt blue, and they look great on streamlined dresses and outerwear. DKNY’s dress encompasses the best of both with its sporty cut, jagged hemline, and graphic black accentuating the waist.

FRINGE

Fringe has gone high fashion this season. From long black and white layers at Missoni, to navy and black leather fringes at Altuzarra, we love the newfound sophistication we’re seeing. If cascading fringe all over isn’t for you, look out for chic trims on the hemlines of skirts and dresses, done best here by Derek Lam. Fringe is a fun addition to any outfit.

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BUTTONLESS TAILORING

Several designers played with the concept of buttonless/ concealed fastening on outerwear this season, and we love this minimalist look.

The simplicity of this coat gives single and double-breasted silhouettes an extra lean, modern feel. The tan colour and white cuff contrast on this Ermenegildo Zegna coat looks ultra clean and crisp, our definite favourite version of this chic trend.

DASH OF FLORAL

Menswear continues to rediscover its feminine side this summer, with a variety of flora illustrated on everything from basic T’s to formal separates. We’re seeing many diverse variations, from tropical motifs to more detailed pastel blooms and stylized florals. Our favourite way to wear this trend comes from Gucci; the floral shirts underneath their suit jackets offer a subtle and playful glimpse of pattern and colour.

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PALE HUES

Blank whites and soft greys are a key colour story for this summer. Cool pebble tones look especially good on casual or sportswear inspired silhouettes. Cropped white pants, casual jackets, lightweight tailoring, and textured light knits act as a blank canvas, and are the key items to look out for. For a fully monochrome look, pair the outfit with grey footwear and a neutral accessory.

LEATHER ACCENTS

We found leather to be an ongoing trend for menswear, a perfect addition to a wardrobe for those cooler summer evenings. Textures have been updated with smooth, coated finishes and modern bonded seams and some metallic finishes. We love this all-black look from Hermès, a subtle yet cool way to incorporate some leather. Paired with simple black sandals and a comfortable top, this is the easiest way to look great while staying comfortable.

EASY SHORTS

Shorts this season have been updated with a new longer length. This low rise short fits comfortably on a fixed waist and is cut widely down to the knee. Go for soft-washed drills, twills and silky handles for maximum comfort. We love this white version by Salvatore Ferragamo, but other key colours include sandy neutrals and various shades of blue and grey.

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COTTON TOP, VINCE CRYSTAL NECKLACE, STEPHAN CARAS JEANS, PORSCHE DESIGN FABRIC SHOES, MANOLO BLAHNIK AT HOLT RENFREW WATCH, PASHA DE CARTIER DIAMOND RINGS (THROUGHOUT THE SHOOT), LORI’S OWN

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BRIGHT SIDE

Lori and Gordon Cheung are the quintessential Toronto-area power couple. She’s a well-travelled interior designer and former international model. He’s an interventional neuroradiologist and currently the clinical director of MRI and CT at Life Labs. They have nurtured multiple private medical technology companies, including ones geared towards developing minimally invasive surgical procedures, and others that produce software that provides real time visibility for prevention of medical errors, or improve hospital efficiencies to reduce healthcare costs. They are involved in numerous charities, including Oolagen, which is dedicated to improving the resources for mentally ill youth, as well as the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards, celebrating fledgling Canadian designers. In the free time they have, they take in and care for foster dogs, some mistreated and abused by their previous owners, rehabilitating and retraining them. Lush Luxury photographed them at their Etobicoke home.

UP

PHOTOGRAPHY BY YURI DOJC Style: Serge Kerbel Interview: Sarah Rose Eaman 61

“

ON INTERIOR DESIGN:

As a former international fashion model, I’ve developed a keen eye for colour, fabric pairings and beautiful things. I love contemporary, but also classic design.

I love mixing old with new to create a unique style. Gordon was my inspiration for our home’s design…. He brings love, harmony and tranquility.

LORI:

”

“

ON LUXURY:

Luxury is the time we spend together, enjoying our home with friends, family, and our foster animals. Luxury is the ability to invest and help develop companies that will make an impact, improve healthcare, and, ultimately, save lives.

LORI:

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”

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT PHOTO: GORDON: COTTON SHIRT, RALPH LAUREN AT HARRY ROSEN; JEANS, ARMANI COLLEZIONI AT HARRY ROSEN; LEATHER BELT, BRUNELLO CUCINELLI AT VIA CAVOUR; ROSE GOLD WATCH, ROLEX LORI: SILK TANK TOP, CHARLIE JADE AT THE BAY; SKINNY JEANS, PORSCHE DESIGN; CRYSTAL RING (RIGHT HAND), SWAROVSKI OPPOSITE PAGE, RIGHT PHOTO: LORI: CHIFFON TOP, DEX; JEANS, PORSCHE DESIGN; METALLIC LEATHER SHOES, GUCCI; STERLING SILVER BANGLE, SILVER MESH NECKLACE, ALL AT KNAR JEWELLERY GORDON: COTTON SHIRT, RALPH LAUREN AT HARRY ROSEN; JEANS, BOSS; LEATHER BELT, BRUNELLO CUCINELLI AT VIA CAVOUR; LEATHER TASSEL LOAFERS, GUCCI; ROSE GOLD WATCH, ROLEX ABOVE: LACE TOP, BCBG MAX AZRIA PEARL NECKLACES, MIKIMOTO AT KNAR JEWELLERY

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“

ON THEIR CAREER:

We’re currently working with Epic Capital for their Epic Canadian Healthcare Fund. It is a long-term fund focused on unique private Canadian healthcare companies generally unavailable to the investing public and select public companies. We look for companies with scalable, non-replicable products and services protected with IP. Over the past several years, Lori has become more involved in the process of reviewing companies in the early stage Since I’m out several nights a week for such meetings…

GORDON:

“ “ “

”

…I decided to get involved to spend more time and support him.

LORI:

”

Where other women might get frustrated with a husband working long hours, Lori is supportive and encouraging.

GORDON:

” ”

…I see Gordon has such passion…

I want to help him in any way I can.

LORI:

TOP PHOTO: CHIFFON TOP, HOLT RENFREW PRIVATE BRAND; CRYSTAL NECKLACE, STEPHAN CARAS; BATHING SUIT, CHARLIE JADE; CRYSTAL RING, SWAROVSKI BOTTOM PHOTO: COTTON SHIRT, MARIA SANTANGELO AT VIA CAVOUR; CASHMERE VEST, BRUNELLO CUCINELLI AT VIA CAVOUR JEANS, BELSTAFF AT HARRY ROSEN; LEATHER TASSEL LOAFERS, GUCCI; ROSE GOLD WATCH, ROLEX OPPOSITE PAGE PHOTO: FASHION: GORDON’S OWN 64

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“

ON TAKING IN FOSTER DOGS:

LORI: We have fostered over 40 animals, mostly dogs.

Because we have expertise in dog training, we get many of the shelter dogs with behavioural issues so that we can retrain them. We like to take the “underdog”; the blind dogs, the deaf dogs, the aggressive dog or the active dog. With positive reinforcement, we are able to rehabilitate these dogs because they are able to live in the moment, unlike humans. They teach a lesson of moving forward that we can all learn from.

”

”

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TRULY TIMELESS THERE IS NOTHING IN THE WORLD QUITE LIKE THE BLACK WHOLECUT OXFORD SHOE.

BY PETER FEENEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY YURI DOJC

S

tanding out and standing the test of time both come down to one thing for me: simplicity.

As da Vinci said, “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” And in the world of footwear, no shoe is more simple, or sophisticated, than the black wholecut Oxford.

To me, it’s the perfect shoe. The refined lines of a wholecut ensure that these shoes never look out of place; they’re as dapper on the dance floor as they are solid on the sidewalk. For any man smart enough to own a pair, they can transform and transport him. They’re truly timeless.

Isn’t that what good style is all about? I’m talking about that special something that’s as fresh today as it was when your dad was a young guy making his way in the world. Something that might still be cool when time comes for your son to introduce you to the one he’s going to marry.

I’m talking about Bill Evans, Staatliches Bauhaus and Steve McQueen; a Frank Lloyd Wright, a Braun turntable, my iPhone 5S. Clean, impeccable, polished. When something’s perfect, there’s not much else you can add.

That’s how I feel about wholecuts. Whether I’m making them or wearing them, they symbolize footwear perfection. They are formed from one piece of flawless leather, one pattern. From there, I stitch a tongue into the shoe, add a piece of lining, and that’s basically it. I then add the only seam to be found on a wholecut. I hide mine in the inside of the heel line. I like to make it as unseen as possible. Other shoemakers tend to place their solitary seam up the back of the heel.

As a shoemaker, the wholecut is a fantastic challenge. The shape of this shoe is so important and mounting the leather atop the last requires patience and persistence. Haste makes waste and when you’re working with only one piece of leather any mistake is unthinkable.

Making such a simple shoe stand out comes down to the finishing. That’s where the true beauty of the design becomes apparent. The shaping of the outsoles can add such great characteristics and polishing accentuates those classic lines that much more. There are no brogueing designs to get in the way, no toe caps or wing tips to overcomplicate the appearance. It’s just leather and polishing to shine through.

There is, however, always room for a little embellishment. On a Peter Feeney wholecut, I add French binding to the collar. It’s like a type

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of piping, creating a nice rounded edge around the top of the shoe, a subtle touch on a classic.

When you’re surrounded by shoes like I am (a workspace cluttered with designs, deadlines, inspirations, drawings ...) you sometimes need

to take a deep breath and clear your head. I like to find that moment of clarity.

It’s nice to simplify things every once in a X while. And then get back to work. ● www.peterfeeney.ca

easybreezy

THIS SUMMER LUSH LUXURY ’S NOSE-IN-CHIEF SERGE KERBEL IS DIVING DEEP INTO THE AROMATIC WORLD OF MEN’S AND WOMEN’S FRAGRANCES.

FOR HER

FOR HIM

SIGNORINA ELEGANZA

BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

TERRE D’HERMÈS EAU TRÈS FRAÎCHE

BY HERMÈS

This latest perfume celebrates chic women with the elegant and all Italian style by Salvatore Ferragamo. This ultra-feminine and sophisticated scent brings forth a modern floral bouquet of graceful jasmine, pear, pink pepper, patchouli and sweet, but delicate creamy pannacotta. A perfect fragrance to wear for your Roman holidays, if you ask me. $140 for 100 ml. at Holt Renfrew.

Woody and aromatic, Terre d'Hermès Eau Très Fraîche is a new light and bright interpretation of the company’s very successful Terre d'Hermès. Top notes are bitter orange, citruses and water notes; middle note is geranium beautifully balanced with woody base notes of cedarwood and patchouli.

My verdict: a well-balanced fresh fragrance for summer months with great longevity. $124 for 125 ml.

MANDARINO DI AMALFI

BY TOM FORD

DÉCLARATION L’EAU

BY CARTIER

Here is another fragrance inspired by bella Italia. Mandarino di Amalfi captures the calm idyll of the whitewashed villas dotting the cliff sides of Amalfi coast. The aroma of grapefruit and mandarin waft with a tonic-like effect, and evening comes on with a warm breeze of night-blooming flowers; the air is scented with spearmint, thyme and wildflowers. $215 for 50 ml.

This fragrance offers an aromatic, spicy and vibrant take on the Déclaration fragrance, energizing its bold spicy and woody sillage with a citrusy freshness. A dash of euphoria for an Eau that sparkles with fresh masculine energy, its heart enlivened by the sharp and invigorating character of juicy pink grapefruit. A burst of vitality, shaken up with creamy notes of cedarwood. New Cartier ring for your wife is optional. $95 for 100 ml. at Holt Renfrew.

DAISY DREAM

BY MARC JACOBS

EAU D’ARÔMES

BY GIORGIO ARMANI

Inspired by the boundless spirit of blue sky and sun, Daisy Dream is youthful, spirited and romantic. This airy, floral and fruity fragrance captivates with delectable top notes of blackberry, fresh grapefruit and succulent pear.

The heart imparts feminine jasmine, notes of lychee and blue wisteria.

A dreamy drydown of white woods, musks and coconut water. $105 for 100 ml.

LUSH LUXURY

SPRING 2014

This new effortless and richly textured spicy-woody fragrance will go so well with your Armani linen blazer. Fresh, citrus top notes of bergamot and mandarin orange are brightened with ginger. At its heart, cardamom, sage and hot chili pepper collide with the dry crispness of vetiver, over a sensual patchouli and rare ambergris accord.

Oh Giorgio, you know us so well. $105 for 100 ml.

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ARM YOURSELF AGAINST THE HEAT AND HARMFUL RAYS WITH GROOMING PRODUCTS THAT WILL ALSO KEEP YOU FRESH AND INVIGORATED.

BY SERGE KERBEL

SUN WARRIOR EAU DE BOUCHE BY MARVIS

Iconic Italian brand Marvis proves itself once again to be a leader in the luxury oral care market with its new “Strong Mint” mouthwash.

Although extremely effective and refreshing it contains no alcohol, which means no bitter, astringent taste. Packaged in a classy looking bottle, inspired by fine perfumes, you won’t want to hide this in your medicine cabinet. $22.50 for 120 ml.

OIL CONTROL LOTION

BY DERMALOGICA

Try this oil-free, feather-light “Oil Control” lotion to help hydrate your face while reducing shine. Non-greasy formula, formulated without artificial fragrances, soothes irritated skin and helps eliminate congestion while preventing breakouts. Microspheres help absorb oil on the skin's surface, leaving skin with an all-day matte finish. $22

FUSION PROGLIDE RAZOR WITH FLEXBALL TECHNOLOGY BY GILLETTE

Gillette’s new 4-way flex technology with thinner and finer blades responds to contours for maximum contact on the curves and gets virtually every hair. The result is a completely upgraded shaving experience that is gentler to the face. Has to be the fastest shave I’ve ever had. $13.99 – $19.99

SUNSCREEN CARE MILK-LOTION SPRAY

BY CLARINS

Planning to spend countless hours on your boat this weekend? This SPF 50+ lotion spray by Clarins is a combination of ultraviolet filters and extracts of senna, pea, plane tree, olive tree and baobab, protecting epidermal cells from sun stress (read premature ageing). $35

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RESURFACING NIGHT CREAM BY FILORGA

Got a morning presentation but those sleepless summer nights are leaving a mark on your mug? Try “Sleep and Peel” resurfacing night cream just introduced in Canada by French brand Filorga. This indulgent night cream is enriched with a complex containing six hydroxy acids to renew skin cells and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and imperfections. You’re welcome. $95 for 50 ml.

VITAMIN B5 BODY LOTION

BY MALIN + GOETZ

If all those water activities leaving your skin dry try this quickly absorbing oil-free body and hand lotion. It synthesizes uplifting bergamot extract with absorbent botanical fatty acids for a long-lasting moisturizing effect. Fresh and clean smelling, it is a hydrating and nourishing anti-oxidant treatment for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin. $34 for 250 ml.

T-PUR BLUE CHARCOAL FACE SOAP

BY BIOTHERM

This anti-imperfection treating facial soap is infused with an oil-free moisturizing agent and contains sebum-absorbing charcoal and antibacterial properties, delivering greater efficacy against shine and imperfections, acting on particularly greasy and acne-prone skins to unclog pores, clear pimples and blackheads. Skin is left clean, clear and matte. $29

COOL CTRL DEODORANT

BY JACK BLACK

This all-natural aluminum-free deodorant contains clinically tested time-released odor blockers that control sweat for 24 hours. This unique technology combined with natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal ingredients, like zinc salt and grapefruit extract, stops even the strongest odor, leaving you cool – just the way you like it. $20

DAILY MOISTURE DEFENCE LOTION

BY LAB SERIES

Enjoying those patio lunches? I hear you! Just make sure that your skin will do the same. This lightweight moisturizing SPF 15 lotion infused with antioxidants continuously hydrates and helps protect the skin from UVA/UVB rays, smoke and pollution. Minimizes signs of aging, smoothes fine lines and improves overall skin texture. Cheers! $42

DEEP CLEANSING EXFOLIATING FACE WASH BY KIEHL’S

This soap-free and sulfate-free cleanser is designed for daily use to wash away dirt and excess oil without stripping skin. Formulated with crushed apricot seeds, it sloughs off dead skin cells, removing debris to reduce the appearance of pores.

It rinses clean to leave skin texture feeling smooth and virtually shine-free. $24 for 200 ml.

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sun kissed

GUERLAIN TERRACOTTA SUN CELEBRATION - THE STAR SUN POWDER

FROM POPS OF COLOUR TO WARM AND RADIANT, REVAMP YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE WITH THESE NEW PRODUCTS FOR SUMMER.

This limited edition Terracotta powder is designed to give an effortless glow.

The combination of a universal bronzing shade, two blushes and Guerlain’s signature golden Terracotta Sun come together for a look that is warm and radiant. $84.

BY DANIELLE THOMSON DANIELLE THOMSON IS THE BEAUTY EDITOR AT LINER AND GLITTER AND GLOSS, OH MY/WWW.LINERGLITTERGLOSS.COM.

MARC JACOBS KISS POP COLOUR STICK

These oversized lip colour pencils make a great, playful addition to any summer look.

This long-lasting colour’s smooth formula is packed with moisturizing ingredients so lips are kept hydrated while looking great. $35.

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BOBBI BROWN SURF EYE PALETTE

DIOR ADDICT IT-LASH MASCARA

Add a subtle pop of colour to your summer look with one of these vibrantly coloured mascaras. Shades of purple, blue and pink help to give lashes length while adding a hint of mystery. $32.

A perfectly curated selection of neutral tones, this eight-shade palette is the easiest way to warm up your look for a summer day.

This collection of matte and shimmery shadows ranges from soft tans to sparkling golds which make it easy to achieve a neutral look or one with a little more drama. $75.

MICHAEL KORS NAIL POLISH

Bring a touch of glamour to your nails with this 18-shade nail collection. Based around Kors’ 3 moods – sporty, sexy and glam – each shade is highly pigmented and dries to a high shine finish. $20.

CHANEL LÈVRES SCINTILLANTES GLOSS

Five tropical inspired shades make up this summer addition to Chanel’s line. These limited edition glosses have a soft, shimmery finish that adds a flirty tint to the lips. $31.

MAC BLOODY BRILLIANT QUAD

This statement-making quad, designed with Kelly Osbourne, houses four complementary shades which create an attention grabbing look when worn together. $52.50.

BENEFIT THEY’RE REAL! PUSH-UP LINER

Summer beauty is all about makeup that lasts. Get a line that can survive a day at the beach with this waterproof gel liner pen. Precise application is made easier than ever with a specially designed AccuFlex tip. $29.

ELIZABETH ARDEN FLAWLESS MOISTURE CREAM BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN SPF 30

Protect your face from the sun’s damaging rays with this lightweight, daily moisturiser. With continued use, this lotion helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkle and discolouration for a more even and luminous skin tone. $60.

KIEHL’S ACTIVATED SUN PROTECTOR FOR BODY

Long days spent poolside leave your skin open to damage from the sun’s rays.

This sunscreen spray, with SPF 50, has a lightweight formula that never feels greasy while offering high UVA/UVB protection. $32.

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LAFERRARI

NEED A JOLT? AS NEW, INNOVATIVE MAKES AND MODELS OF EXOTIC AUTOMOBILES APPEAR, ONE THING IS FOR SURE – THESE CARS NEVER GET BORING.

PRICE: $1.3M The LaFerrari is the most extreme performance ever achieved by a Ferrari production car, according to reports, featuring the most advanced and innovative technical solutions you’ll find out there. The car is Ferrari’s first ever production car to be equipped with the HY-KERS system, an F1-derived hybrid solution – combining an electric motor producing over 150 CV with the most powerful incarnation yet of Ferrari’s classic V12. The driving position draws heavily on F1.

PORSCHE 918 SPYDER

PRICE: $845K The challenge for the engineers: create a “super” sports car with a powerful hybrid drive. Highlights: unique all-wheel drive concept with a combination of combustion engine and electric motor on the rear axle and a second electric motor on the front axle; the prototype was quicker in testing than the Porsche Carrera GT; the main source of propulsion is the 4.6-liter, eight cylinder engine that produces 608 hp of power.

AUDI R8 V10 SPYDER

PRICE: $175K A V10 engine combined with a lightweight aluminum frame, updated with a sportier look, especially a restyled front end. With 525 hp and 390lb-ft of torque, the 5.2 V10 is a menacing engine. When teamed up with the R8’s new 7-speed S tronic transmission, the V10 engine can launch you from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 314 km/h.

BY JOHN BLAIR

MASERATI ALFIERI

PRICE: $128K The concept car that was the talk of this year’s Geneva Auto Show – the Alfieri is here to take a run at the Porsche 911 and Jaguar F-type.

Named after Alfieri Maserati, one of the five Maserati brothers, and marks the 100-year anniversary of the Maserati carmaker (established in Bologna in 1914). The Alfieri uses design elements of the classic 1954 Maserati A6 GCS/54.

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LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP 700-4 ROADSTER

PRICE: $441K Zero to 100 km/h in three seconds flat? Really? With a maximum speed of 350 km/h (217 mph), no one is going to be passing you on the Trans Canada Highway. Sportiness and sleek lines balance out elegance and performance – that’s what comes to mind when you take one out for a spin.

THETHIRD STEP

OUR RECOMMENDATION FOR SUMMER TRAFFIC STRESS: A COLLINGWOOD DAY SPA EXPERIENCE AND A LUXURY CAR TO GET YOU THERE.

BY MARK KEAST

H

ere is the doctor’s recommendation for the average Canadian looking for a respite from the snaky summer downtown traffic that snarls our major cities – a five-star spa, well outside the city, and a high performance automobile to get you there in style.

This time out, the car was the 2014 Audi A7 TDI Technik (price as tested: $98,500), in glacier white, and the destination was the Scandinave Spa at the base of Blue Mountain in Collingwood (www.scandinaveblue.com).

First, the car. The features on an automobile at this level are pretty standard compared to other cars in this class (the BMW 640i Gran Coupe, or the Porsche Panamera 4, or the Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 4Matic, and other sleek, sexy four-door sedans) – an all-new German-engineered 3.0litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine, generating 240 horsepower (8 speed Tiptronic), more than adequate for instantaneous passing through tight highway traffic. Other features for highway driving are adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and Audi Active Lane Assist (warning you if you

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leave your lane unintentionally).

“Sounds like you need to get rid of a few toxins,” Scandinave Spa’s Mylisa Henderson tells us, as soon as we arrive. Many of their guests do the same as us – day trips just to get outside the city, all to relax and revitalize. We drive up on a summer day, on a Saturday specifically. They’ll book over 400 people through the spa on this day. Not that you’d notice the crowd. Everyone lounges in an open, rustic, outdoor setting – Muskoka chairs next to thermal and Nordic waterfalls, or next to open fire pits. Others swing in hammocks tied to birch, maple and pine trees.

All are in various stages of total relaxation. And the operative word here is “silence”. The most you hear are whispers. Lord help you if your mobile phone goes off.

Scandinave Spa, situated on 25 acres of forested land, opened in 2006, and is open every day except for Christmas Day. The bath experience involves sitting in a sauna (180 degrees F) for 10-15 minutes, then a quick jump into a 66-degree pool (I call this the “third step”, because the third

step into that pool is where we separate the men from the boys), then back out right away so your heart doesn’t beat through your chest. In the winter time the crazies roll around in a snow bank. Part of the fun was figuring out the swear words people mouthed in silence as they hit the cold plunge.

Then it’s back in your Muskoka chair. Repeat three or four times (only try the Norwegian steam bath next time, or climb into one of the three hot baths). All those nasty toxins you just sweated out get washed away with the cold plunge. The first time, sitting down, thoughts of work prance in your head. By the third time you are nodding off. And that’s the objective. If you are in the mood, get a massage, or head over to the bistro for a bite. It’s especially fun here in the winter, we are told by staff, when guests sit out on a crisp cold evening, in the hot bath, wearing their bathing suits and toques, and staring at the blue lights of the ski mountain.

As Mylisa says, North Americans are just beginning to open their eyes to the therapeutic

benefits of using baths and spas for wellness, something people living in the Scandinavian countries embrace.

What really augmented this day of relaxation was the drive in the Audi, especially the sumptuously luxurious interior cabin. Close the door, press the automatic start button, and up pops the entertainment console. Then pump the four-zone AC, and choose a Sirius radio station (or AM/FM, CD, MP3) and listen through the Bang & Olufsen sound system. The car also has features like Vision Package (head up display and night vision) and the S-Line Sport Package (20 inch spoke alloy wheels with performance tires and sport suspension) that made the highway driving experience even more seamless.

“No stress allowed,” Mylisa says. Message X received. ●

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FLASHANDDASH

THE JAGUAR XK CONVERTIBLE OFFERS THE SUMMER DRIVER THE BEST OF ALL WORLDS. B Y JA C K G R A N AT S T E I N

H

ands up – who out there is a fan of Jaguar’s style? The XK Convertible gives you flash, but there’s no fluff here – lots of horsepower, zero to 60 mph (100 km/h) in as little as 4.2 seconds, for that extra dash during those longish highway drives to the cottage, and a four-seater for those family days.

All the 2014 XK models fully back up the Jaguar tradition of offering high end performance, agility and value in the premium luxury category.

We mentioned agility and performance on the highway. One thing we liked about the Jag – the XK, both the convertible and coupe versions, are large cars, despite the sleek design. Both cars come in at over 4,000 pounds in some forms.

The driver will really notice the advantages of that extra bulk when braking or in cornering. As we also said, the convertible and coupe versions have plenty of pop – the XK Convertible ($105,625) comes with 5-litre V8, 385 hp, the XKR Convertible ($116,125) comes with 5-litre SC V8, 510 hp, and the XKR-S Convertible ($146,000), comes with a 5-litre SC V8 550 hp.

All Jaguar XK and XKR models employ an electronically controlled, fully adaptive six-speed automatic transmission.

The Portfolio Pack, offered as a limited edition model for 2013, is back as an option for XK and XKR models, giving the car that extra dash of opulence – including a choice of exclusive interior colour themes, Navy and Truffle (each featuring contrast stitching and hand-crafted soft-grain leather for the 16-way power-adjustable, heated and cooled front seats and heated steering

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wheel). With either theme, the driver can choose between hand-polished shadow walnut or dark figured aluminum interior trim. Plus there’s Poltrona Frau leather headliner, 20-inch “Orona” wheels, chrome mirror caps and chrome mesh grilles. A choice of seven colours for the XK Convertible’s soft-top allows for further customization.

When talking luxury, on top of the personalization options, the XK models use the standard keyless entry and keyless start system, and when the driver hits the pulsing start button, the cast alloy JaguarDrive Selector rises from the console.

The 7-inch console is touch screen and the driver or front seat passenger can access

functions for the climate control navigation system, Bluetooth mobile connectivity and for Jaguar’s Portable Audio Interface.

We particularly liked the sound system – Bowers & Wilkins featuring 525W maximum output, Dolby surround sound, and Kevlar midrange speakers. Plenty of pop there as well.

Stepping out from behind the wheel, the design of the car harkens back to Jaguar’s heritage.

The current-generation XK was the first Jaguar designed under Jaguar Design Chief Ian Callum.

The long-hood, short-deck theme echoes classic Jaguar sports cars while providing a luxurious 2+2 cockpit and usable luggage space. Despite the modernity in its appearance, the car looks aggressive.

It sounds aggressive, as well – a deep and powerful exhaust. The XKR-S is additionally equipped with a Performance Active Exhaust system in which the valves open at higher speeds to provide an even more powerful note.

So XK Convertible (and the coupe model) offers luxury that’s a little more refined, shall we say – a head-turner that will get you to where you need to go quickly and nimbly, but X with some real panache. ●

JUMPSTART

A NEW ERA DAWNS WITH THE ROLL OUT OF THE BMW I3 ELECTRIC CAR.

BY STEPHEN CLARK

A

re electric motors a novelty, or are they fast becoming commonplace? BMW is forging straight ahead with the 2014 i3, and if the ride is any indication, many of us soon will look at the electric drive as something you don’t question.

It’s a new era for the company – a drive system aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions in urban areas. This is the first time that carbon fibre-reinforced plastic has been used in automotive volume production. The body structure of the i3 consists entirely of the lightweight material, allowing the extra weight of the batteries for the electric drive system to be cancelled out.

Series production on the new car got started last Fall in Germany, with millions invested by the company in new structures and machinery for the production of BMW i models, an historic moment in the company’s commitment to sustainable automobiles.

An obvious, ongoing issue with these cars is the range the battery will take you. The lightness and reduced resistance to air that characterizes this car helps address that challenge. The battery pack, mounted on the floor ahead of the motor, weighs 450 pounds and holds 22 kWh of power, good for 80 to 100 miles of range, the company

says (plus there’s a range extender option).

You’ll need about three hours to juice up the battery again to full charge.

The car has pop – top speed is 150 km/h (93 mph), and it hits 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.2 seconds. Other features: spacious interior, recycled materials and renewable raw materials, start/stop button and bespoke gear selector lever on the steering column, control display in freestanding monitor form. The cabin features streamlined dash and seating – very sleek and modern-looking.

Driving in the city, which the RWD car was built for, requires dexterity. Lightness and aerodynamics help out with that. The i3 has great traction, so it handles those tight turns, and you can zip in and out of downtown traffic, a bonus during those daily treks to work. The driver also sits in a higher position, for good visibility. The car comfortably sits four people.

Stunningly simple to operate (the gearlever switches the motor to run forwards or backwards), smooth, and silent (no buzzing noises or whines), the car is refined – for an electric vehicle. BMW markets the i3 as a “premium” offering in this market sector, and it’s tough to argue with that. MSRP in Canada starts X at $44,950. ●

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ON THE CALENDAR FROM AUTO RACING TO FASHION FESTIVALS TO FILM FESTIVALS – THERE’S NO REASON TO STAY BOLTED TO THE COUCH THIS SUMMER.

BY YUKI BARTON

TORONTO

VANCOUVER

HONDA INDY TORONTO

BARD ON THE BEACH SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

JULY 18 – 20 Honda Indy Toronto is among the most respected motorsports events in North America and features a week-long, festival-like atmosphere that includes the fastest racing series on the planet, celebrity athletes, live entertainment and interactive activities.

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (TIFF)

SEPTEMBER 4 – 14 The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is the world’s largest public film festival, screening more than 300 films from around the world in venues across the city. Visit the TIFF Bell Lightbox to get into the Festival spirit year-round.

JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER Bard on the Beach professional Shakespeare Festival brings to life the magic of Shakespeare’s great plays. The Festival site is located on the waterfront in Vancouver’s Vanier Park, adjacent to the downtown core. Staged in two open-ended performance tents, the productions are set against a spectacular natural backdrop of mountains, sea and city skyline.

VANCOUVER “FOLK” MUSIC FESTIVAL

JULY 18 - 20 A major event on the world folk and roots music circuit, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival challenges audiences to expand their understanding and appreciation of what 'folk' can mean in a global context. Bringing attention to exciting young artists who are pushing the boundaries and honouring the elders of the tradition, the Festival is an acknowledged leader in creating new ways of working with artists in developing forums and vehicles for experimentation, improvisation and education. The Festival features more than 70 hours of music on eight outdoor stages.

MONTREAL MONTREAL FASHION AND DESIGN FESTIVAL

AUGUST 20 – 23 The Fashion & Design Festival is an annual celebration of creativity held in downtown Montréal. This unique event offers a varied program featuring fashion shows, multidisciplinary shows, live art installations, musical performances and real-time design. Over four days and four nights, close to 50 shows will be presented, featuring renowned Canadian designers and leading names in international fashion. Makeup artists, hairdressers, stylists, models and musicians will all contribute to the ambience. An authentic platform of fashion, design, music and shopping trends, this event, created and produced by Groupe Sensation Mode, is the biggest of its kind in North America.

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NEW YORK

TOKYO

NEW YORK SHOE EXPO 2014

BALTHUS: THE LAST STUDIES

AUGUST 5 – 7 Held at the Hilton New York Hotel, the New York Shoe Expo brings independent owners, boutique buyers, department store merchants and industry press to the fashion capital in search of the next big trends.

LONDON THE KING GEORGE VI AND QUEEN ELIZABETH STAKES AT ASCOT

JULY 25 – 27 Held at Ascot Racecourse, this is Britain’s most prestigious open-age flat race. Its roll of honour features some of the most highly acclaimed horses of the sport’s recent history.

The 1975 running, which involved a hard-fought battle to the finish between Grundy and Bustino, is frequently described as the “race of the century”. Many of its winners subsequently compete in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and a number go on to have a successful career at stud.

EQUESTRIAN: LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR

AUGUST 14 – 16 Showcasing the highest calibre of equestrian show jumping, the Longines Global Champions Tour Series 2014 London leg is at Horse Guards Parade in the heart of London. Set to be a thrilling competition, the event will feature the top 30 riders in the world.

Olympic medalists from the London 2012 Games will compete in the British capital once again, building on the legacy of London 2012's success.

JUNE 7 – SEPTEMBER 7 Balthus or Balthasar Klossowski de Rola is well known as one of the most controversial artists of the 20th century, but few people are aware of the fact that he actually substituted a camera for his paintbrush later in life.

Following the Balthus retrospective at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum held this spring, this exhibition, held at Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum, is an interesting chance to see a series of colour photographs and polaroids by the artist, many of which are shown publicly in Japan for the very first time.

WORLD PRESS PHOTO 2014

JUNE 7 – AUGUST 3 A panel of judges sifted through submissions from 5,754 photojournalists in 132 different countries to select the winners of this year's World Press Photo Contest, and the best shots are now going on display at the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography over the summer.

National Geographic photographer John Stanmeyer takes first prize with a mysterious photo of African migrants with glowing mobile phone screens at night on the shore of Djibouti City. The competition also showcases images from the fields of sport, nature, arts, entertainment and daily life, including categories in both staged and observed portraits.

PARIS DRIES VAN NOTEN: INSPIRATIONS

UNTIL AUGUST 31 For his exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Belgian fashion designer Dries Van Noten has drawn on the museum's collection to surround his clothes with artworks that inspire him – the geometric abstractions of Victor Vasarely, the expressionism of Kees van Dongen and bourgeois portraits of Jacques-Emile Blanche. From collection to collection and from season to season, painting, sculpture and photography show their influence on Van Noten's work, echoed in forms and colours.

MADRID POP ART MYTHS

JUNE 10 – SEPTEMBER 14 The prestigious Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum presents, for the first time in Spain, an exhibition with approximately 70 works revising the myths of pop art.

Names such as Rauschenberg, Wesselmann, Lichtenstein and Hockney along with British, American and European artists, will be on display with the aim of identifying the shared sources of this international artistic trend. The pop art myths exhibition evaluates the 20th century phenomenon of pop art from a 21st century perspective, and how this art form continues to be influential amongst artists today. (Image – Mario Schifano, Coca Cola, 1972.)

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HOUSE OF BESPOKE

THE PLACE YOU GO FOR A PRIVATE LIFESYLE EXPERIENCE NEEDS TO REFLECT THE LIFESTYLE YOU LEAD.

BY MARLON DURRANT

R

ight in the heart of Toronto’s Yorkville district, above Coco Lezzone Italian restaurant, is where men of style gather for a more personalized style experience. Md Bespoke has upped its profile, with the intention of expanding upon the Private Lifestyle Experience.

It’s about a more intimate approach to a client’s clothing investment. Md’s clientele (CEOs, presidents, VPs, other upper management types and professionals) have no time for shopping because their time is better spent keeping the wheels of industry on a forward track. That’s their focus.

The new home of Md (construction is almost complete) will reflect those priorities, providing by appointment consultations focused on the client’s needs, right down to the industry they represent (for example, a banking executive needs direction quickly and efficiently regarding their wardrobe for business first, black tie second, and casual third).

When it comes to style, an astute executive knows that his personal brand represents his organization and himself. The client’s personality sets the direction for his personal style. His height, weight and body proportions equal proper fit.

When it comes to bespoke fashion, Md clients understand investment more than buying. They are confident and successful. Md helps elevate

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that confidence by creating a custom garment that ups their style game.

Trust is based on relationships built over years.

Md communicates with the client’s assistant for special events that require the clients to dress well, such as business meetings, black tie charity, events of a cottage soiree.

Bespoke garments are built around the lifestyle you lead. Where you get styled and tailored needs to reflect that lifestyle. Md’s Atelier is a retreat for men who aren’t looking for the standard retail experience.

It’s nice to have a central place to come on occasion with colleagues. Start with a single malt scotch in the bar area at Coco Lezzone. Then make your way up to Md. Sit in a fine leather chair, smoke a fine cigar, and enjoy great conversation.

Get tailored in privacy with no stress.

X What if lifestyle and experience came first? ● www.marlondurrant.com

A LIFE WELL PLAYED. Golf, like life, rewards consistency.

No matter the course, and no matter the deal, successful people achieve their goals – consistently.

With success comes the power of choice and the ability to play the game your way. The golf course, life, and everything in between.

No one knows choice like ClubLink, with our 55+ great courses, exquisite

Visit clublink.ca

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Calgary (403) 232-6240

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