Filed under: What's Haute? | Tags: Asia, Bally, China, Chinese, Dragon, Gifts, luxury, New Year, Piaget, Rolls-Royce, Versace, Vertu
From Beijing to Bangkok and Seoul to Singapore, people are celebrating and welcoming the Year of the Dragon that begins today. In Chinese culture the Dragon symbolises power, strength and good luck, so no wonder multiple luxury brands reacted in a predictable manner and incorporated the dragon in the limited edition goods, that no doubt will sell like hot cakes to Chinese nouveau riche. Here’s a glimpse of what’s currently available for the Asian market.
A jewellery store Chow Tai Fook in Hong Kong currently displays a 24K gold dragon. It’s a nine-tael statue, so if you do the math it adds up to the price tag being somewhere around €15,800.
It may be proudly Swiss, but Bally is not about to let its European heritage stop it from marking the Chinese New Year. The fashion house will celebrate the Year of the Dragon with the launch of two capsule collections. Men have the Dragon line while women should look to the Phoenix Collection. The range’s unusual names were inspired by the Chinese proverb which states: “When the dragon soars and the phoenix dances, there is peace and tranquility for all.”
For the Prestige collection limited to 88 pieces each item, S.T.Dupont partnered with Philippe Tournaire, who hand sculpted a gold plated Dragon on a Néo-Classique President fountain pen, made in black Chinese lacquer. The iconic Line 2 lighter, matching the solid bronze ashtray, is also decorated with the emblematic creature.
Versace‘s Dragon year gambit is a specially designed jewel handbag, which comes with a gold handle and traditional golden dragon drawings on a black body. The bag is limited to 210 pieces and sold exclusively in Asia. The bag is priced at HK$31,800 (€3,148), while an even more exclusive red python skin version will set you back HK$45,000.
Vertu has launched three new luxury phones: in stainless steel with emeralds, yellow gold with diamonds or ruby with black stainless steel. This limited edition series will feature a four-claw Chinese dragon adorned on the battery cover, which is a 20-stage process and takes 1,5 days to complete. More than four highly-skilled craftsmen are needed to craft the dragon on a single phone, taking a minimum of eight hours for engraving.
Swiss luxury watchmaker Piaget launched 24 Dragon watch models in Beijing at the end of 2011 with prices ranging from HK$193,000 (€19,114) to HK$16 million (€1,5million). Pictured above is Piaget Exceptional Piece. To have this diamond dragon crawling around your wrist will cost you €1.32 million.
After announcing best ever sales in its 107 years of history, Rolls-Royce has probably beaten another record after the company has announced that the Phantom Year of the Dragon has been completely sold out in China in just two months.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom year of the Dragon’s painting has been inspired by the Forbidden City and it comes with gold inserts, plush leather and hand-crafted details, which are very expensive.
The design of Palmer Johnson’s luxury yacht ‘Dragon’ by Nuvolari-Lenard is visually spectacular for the outside…
The interior design of this flamboyant superyacht is a work of modern fine art. The red, white and black theme in rectangular patterns — in the salon, the dinning room and the bedrooms – is an artistic tribute to this 21st century red dragon on the sea.
Filed under: Accessories, Fashion, Haute Art | Tags: Boucheron, Cartier, Chopard, diamonds, Hublot, luxury, Richard Mille, Swiss movement, Timepieces, Ulysse Nardin, Van Cleef & Aprels, Watch
A multitude of talented artisans turn to nature for inspiration and the modern Haute Horlogerie is no different. Last year we have seen an animal-inspired trend to grow, amplify and mature into something absolutely incredible. Below is a selection of latest luxury timepieces created by the top Swiss watchmakers.
Boucheron Crazy Jungle Hathi
In true Boucheron style , the latest watches reveal the depth and expertise of the company’s craftsmanship. The beautifully enamelled faces of these watches show ancient designs brought brilliantly up to date, alongside exotic depictions of animals such as elephants, crocodiles and flamingos. The colours and beauty of these designs make them highly sought after by watch collectors today, so prepare to be inspired.
Piaget Limelight Garden Party
Birds gently resting on delicate branches form the picturesque dial of Piaget‘s Limelight Garden Party watch. The beautiful diamond-set dial in a white-gold case, also set with brilliant-cut diamonds, and a diamond-set buckle make this the perfect choice for women. The birds themselves turn on the branches with every movement of the wearer’s wrist.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grand Tourbillon
In this gem-set version, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grand Tourbillon Enamel depicts cranes perching delicately on the engraved silver dial, crafted using a translucen guilloche enameling technique. Like a trompe l’oeil painting, it highlights every detail of the motif with infinite precision.
Jaquet Droz Petite Heure Minute Bird
During the Enlightenment, the realism of the singing birds invented by Jaquet Droz amazed the royal courts of Europe. Today, the watchmaker had drawn on its heritage to release three limited edition models that are masterpieces of stunning decorative art. In the latest interpretation, the singing birds are shown to their best advantage on an ivory Grand Feu enamelled disc, which the artist uses as a canvas to reveal his talent for this ancient art.
Mira Fée Céleste
Mira‘s Fée Céleste is an interpretation of feminine watchmaking with three models in diamond-set steel or pink gold. Inspired by an article on swans read by one of the Mira designers. The article spoke of the romance of the swans or ‘love birds’ as they are sometimes called, for once the swans have become a couple they will never leave each other. The result is a stunning watch depicting the gorgeous curved and bejewelled image of a bird floating gracefully on the dark lake of the dial waiting for her partner to arrive.
Hublot Big Bang Leopard
Hublot‘s Big Bang Leopard makes a much-acclaimed return and fits seamlessly into the genre-mixing trend, which is seeing a merging of daytime and evening dress codes. This model is set to take centre stage and win over the ultra-fashionable – it’s out with the femme fatale leopard-print look and in with this new take , which is wild yet refined.
Zannetti Regent Dragon
Designed to satisfy the discerning connoisseur, especially those in the Oriental markets, Zennetti‘s Regent Dragon stands out for its remarkable features. It displays superb finishing details on the dial, case, back case and clasp, and the sinuous gold bas-relief dragon is applied on the dial as well as being engraved on the back case. Available in both gentlemen’s and ladies’ versions.
Chopard L.U.C. XP Urushi
East meets West in these exquisite LUC XP Urushi timepieces crafted by Chopard using Urushi, the ancestral Japanese are of lacquering. Supervised by Kiichiro Masumura and designed, painted and adorned with gold dust by the Yamada Heiando Company, an official supplier to the Emperor of Japan, these works represent the five basic elements of the universe according to the ancient philosophy of Chinese natural science.
Cartier Tortue XL
In 2011 Cartier presented six new animal creations – a magical menagerie that showcases the unusual union of artisanal skills and watchmaking expertise. Artistic crafts that enrich an compliment each other provide new realms of creativity. In these watches, Cartier proves that true craftsmanship is a beautiful sight. Shown above is the stunning Tortue XL yellow gold jaguar motif, with its hypnotic eyes.
Richard Mille RM 026 Tourbillon
The design and inspiration for this Richard Mille creation are fully grounded in the eternal themes of nature, Gaia, the Earth Mother, and the passage of time. The coupled serpents are ruby, emerald and diamond encrusted, but there are several other versions available, encrusted in precious, semi-precious or engraved stones.
Van Cleef & Arpels Poetic Complications
Skies of turquoise enamel, waves and clouds in mother-of-pearl, animals with coats of diamonds, flowers of rubies, leaves of emeralds – the most precious materials ennoble high-precision movements, giving time a poetic dimensions that is unique to Van Cleef & Aprels. These exceptional watches from the Poetic Complications Collection truly tell us their stories in an extraordinary way.
Ulysse Nardin Caprice Panda
The Ulysse Nardin Ladies Caprice Panda in 18ct white gold takes its inspiration from the bear beloved for its distinctive beauty and serene magnetism. A symbol of strength and resilience, the gentle giant is known as a creature of mystery and mystique. Depicted in plethora of black and white diamonds on a brilliant white background, a mother panda and her cub feast on a bamboo – can it get any cuter?
Filed under: Fashion | Tags: ankles, Mathias Bergh, Mirte Maas, Neva Lynne Jaffe, S/S 2012, skirt lengths, tom ford, Ziegfeld coin test
Tom Ford did a Karl Lagerfeld and shoot own Spring/Summer 2012 campaign, which turned out to be infectiously happy. It showcases rich jewel tone suits, shirts and skirts that are perfect for between seasons, but the overall attitude screams of spring.
As for the models, Tom Ford chose Mirte Mass, a 20-year old Dutch beauty, who had a monumental season for a newcomer walking 36 shows for big names like Chanel, Prada, Chloé, Versace and Louis Vuitton to name a few.
..and a male import from Sweden Mathias Bergh, who landed four campaigns in his debut season.
You may notice that the ankles are a focal point of the collection, it comes at no surprise that Ford saw this through into the campaign with Mathias Bergh nibbling away at Mirte Mass’ ankle.
But what’s the fascination with female ankles you ask? Well, ever since we raised our skirt lengths above the ankles, men have been intrigued… Think of it as an appetizer to where they lead.
Did you know Zeigfield wouldn’t allow girls in his Follies whose ankles and knees didn’t touch. It was a sign of perfectly proportional gams.
Neva Lynne Jaffe demonstrating the old Ziegfeld coin test (1948)
There you go ladies, this season according to Mr. Ford, ankles, affection, laughing and occasional nudity are in.
Filed under: Haute Hotels | Tags: Bedwins, Beresheet, Desert, Five Star, Georgie, Georgii, Haute Today, Hotel, Israel, Isrotel Exclusive Collection, Mitspe Ramon, Negev Desert, Ramon Crater, Review, Spa, Speakman
The five star Beresheet Hotel, Israel
On the cliff top of Israel’s largest crater (Ramon Crater) sits Israel’s most expensive hotel. Whilst I was woken by F16 and F18 jets instead of birds, it gave perspective into life in the middle east. The Beresheet offers yoga at sunrise, FWD and biking tours throughout the Ramon and star gazing tours at night.
Luxury villas on the Ramon Crater edge sit 800m above sea level
This is very much a stand alone destination. If you walk ten minutes away from the hotel, you encounter the enclaves of Bedwins – Israeli’s of the desert who do not believe in infrastructure or capitalism. You can hike through the surrounding desert and stumble across the odd flora or desert structure / statue.
The hotel pool and her extended breathtaking crater views
Boasting one of Israel’s largest buffets, you can indulge in various delights or treat yourself to the myriad of service offerings from the Beresheet day spa. A fascinating destination and only two hours from Tel Aviv or the Dead Sea… and not too far from the Gaza strip or Jordanian border either.
by Georgii Speakman
Filed under: What's Haute? | Tags: Angelina Jolie, awards, Celebrity, Charlize Theron, Elle Macpherson, fashion, Golden Globes, gowns, Heidi Klum, Jessica Biel, Julie Bowen, Katharine Mcphee, Nicole Kidman, red carpet, Reem Acra, Sarah Hyland
We could have predicted Charlize Theron to opt for something neutrally beige as she always does, but we could have never guessed there would be no less than two handfuls of Golden Globe divas wrapped in cream. Some say neutral colour looks divine on the red carpet while we tend to believe this to be a safe option… so if you have a Haute soiree to attend, why not go Nude?
Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace
Charlize Theron in Dior Couture
Kate Beckinsale in Roberto Cavalli
Nicole Kidman in Versace
Heidi Klum in Calvin Klein
Elle Macpherson in Zac Posen
Jessica Biel in Elie Saab
Julie Bowen in Reem Acra
Katharine Mcphee in Donna Karan
Sarah Hyland in Dolce & Gabbana
Filed under: Haute Vehicles | Tags: magnesium wheels, pagani zonda r, Pagani Zonda R Clubsport, Supercar
Pagani doesn’t intend the Zonda R Clubsport as a traditional, road-ready supercar. Instead, as with the Ferrari FXX, the R Clubsport is built exclusively for the track and is illegal for the road.
However, Pagani is more open than its fellow Italian rival and allows private ownership – if only for private track days as well special racing championships. The car was first introduced in 2007 and is expected to be in very limited production, even by Pagani standards, with a price tag equal to $1.2 million.
Understandably for a car restricted for normal roads, virtually all of the luxuries associated with normal Zondas are gone, replaced with competition-grade equipment. On the outside, the fuel filler cap and magnesium wheels are designed for quick replacement by a pit crew rather than looks.
Stepping inside, drivers are greeted with a roll cage and racing seats in place of the leather interior of the road car.
Want to see more? Click here for Pagani Zonda R Clubsport gallery on our Facebook page.
Filed under: Fashion, What's Haute? | Tags: digital, iPad, iPhone, Karl, Karl Lagerfeld, LeWeb, net-a-porter
Last week Paris hosted yet another major event – this time bringing together the most influential audience in the Internet ecosystem. There we saw top industry entrepreneurs, executives, investors, bloggers and what seemed an unlikely guest – Karl Lagerfeld.
Karl Lagerfeld at LeWeb'11
The fashion’s grandfather is known to give preference to old-school paper and fax machines, but during his LeWeb interview, he confessed his love for Apple’s gadgets (he owns 20+ iPads mainly used for sketching) and displayed his excessive assembly of iPhones – all customised with his own silhouette on the back.
Lagerfeld's four iPhones and three iPods neatly tucked in the leather case by Céline
We all know Karl likes to dip his gloved fingers in many pies and right now he is working on the most anticipated project for the general fashionista – a more affordable clothing brand (with a very original name) Karl.
The Face of 'Karl' – Anja Rubik
Natalie Massenet from net-a-porter came along to announce the launch of a new collection, which will be available online exclusively from January 25th 2012. ‘Fashion today comes from a lot of pieces, it’s not a complete look. New things spice up what you already have. The approach is more casual because things are less expensive,’ – says Lagerfeld. Here comes the teaser:
Since Karl’s new clothing line will be completely launched online bypassing the traditional invitation-only runway and media showing, you can be the first one to see it! Register for updates here.
by Olga Titarenko
Filed under: Haute Vehicles, What's Haute? | Tags: amazing island, Helipad, Holiday, Island, luxury, Yacht, yacht design
Yes you read it right, a whole amazing island built right on a beautiful yacht. Created by UK-based yacht design company Yacht Island Designs, bringing a whole island onto a yacht.
The design as you can see is inspired by tropical islands with huts, a pool and a whole volcano that is sure not to erupt. Since this is a yacht, it comes packed with special VIP rooms, arcades, gym, lounges, spas and obviously a helipad.
The volcano adds a lot of beauty to the whole look of the yacht, it also happens to have water flowing out of it onto the pool creating this amazing river complementing the whole tropical look.
The back of the yacht has a retractable beach deck where structures float on the sea making the sea accessible to swim in and of course grant access to various water activities like wake boarding and jet-skis.
The whole concept is pure genius and the result looks Haute!
Filed under: Events | Tags: Adler, Alexandra Spencer, Atlanta de Cadenet Taylor, Best Dressed, clevage, deb ball 2011, Flora Collins, Haute Couture, Hôtel de Crillon, Jean-Baptiste Solanet, jewellery, Le Bal de Crillon, Le Bal Des Débutantes, Ophélie Renouard, paris, Princess Charlotte, Rumer Willis, Shaiyra Devi
It is every girl’s dream to be a princess at least for a day. Once a year, this opportunity presents itself to the society’s bright young things in a invitation only ball, previously described by Forbes Magazine as ‘one of the top 10 social events in the world’. Le Bal Des Débutantes is held at The Hôtel de Crillon (one of the oldest luxury hotels in world) since 1991 and has always been dominated by the international aristocracy.
Hôtel de Crillon in Paris
Recently a few celebrity offsprings have been invited, perhaps, in attempt to bring the ball into the 21st century. This year the Willis clan – Rumer, Tallulah and Scout – the daughters of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore – stole the limelight of the event for multiple reasons including Rumer’s daring décolleté (classy!).
Scout, Tallulah and Rumer with father Bruce Willis
The event is sponsored by the ultra-chic Adler Jewellery, which holds a unique position in the world of fine jewellery. The name is synonymous not only with products of the highest quality but with a particular sense of creativity. The jewels are worn by modern women who are confident of their taste and who have a highly developed eye for beauty.
Adler necklace ‘Asymmetry in brown’ (worn by Flora Collins) in white gold 18kt set with 692 brown diamonds and 133 white diamonds. Pendant in 18kt white gold and 18kt pink gold set with one Fancy Light Brown pear-shaped diamond.
Debutantes are introduced, accompanied by their brothers, boyfriends, fathers and mothers before sitting down for a meal, then being swept off their feet on the dance floor. We have observed this year’s Haute Couture gowns and selected Top Five for your enjoyment. Voilà!
1. Gown by Maxime Simoens Haute Couture
Alexandra Spencer (UK) accompanied by Hamish Khayat
Alexandra’s father, Michael Spencer, runs ICAP – a money-broking firm and is the former treasurer for the Conservative Party. Her mother, Lorraine Spencer, is heavily involved in charitable projects.
2. Gown by Lecoanet Hemant Couture
Shaiyra Devi of Kapurthala (India) accompanied by Jean-Baptiste Solanet
Shaiyra is a Princess of Kapurthala and a niece to Shatrujit Singh, who pioneered the entry of Moet Hennessy and the LVMH fashion group into India.
3. Gown by Chanel Haute Couture
Atlanta de Cadenet Taylor (UK) accompanied by her father John Taylor
Atlanta’s father is a former member of Duran Duran and her mother is photographer Amanda de Cadenet.
4. Gown by Carolina Herrera Couture
Flora Collins (USA) with parents
Flora’s mother, Amy Fine Collins, edits Vanity Fair annual Best Dressed List. Flora herself is a talented writer and has been commissioned to write about Le Bal for the Teen Vogue.
5. Gown by Atelier Versace
Princess Charlotte de Bourbon Parme (France)
Our absolute favourite debutante this year is Princess Charlotte de Bourbon Parme (pictured with her father) in her amazing Atelier Versace gown.
by Olga Titarenko
Filed under: What's Haute? | Tags: breasts, Celebrity, Famous, Hugh Hefner, Lindsay Lohan, Munroe, naked, Nipple, nude, nudity, Playboy, topless
Lindsay Lohan stars as covergirl for Playboy Magazine
