POLO LIFESTYLES Haiti VOLUME II / ISSUE X / OCTOBER 2018
"IN-WINE" WINE IS FASHIONABLE, TOO TECH-ORATE YOUR HOME WITH SMART DEVICES RALPH LAUREN CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF AMERICAN FASHION (DON'T) TRUST THAT PROTEIN LABEL? READ THIS NOW CONFIDENCE IN ANY SITUATION THE EMMYS IN PHOTOS $22.95 USD
POLOLIFESTYLES.COM
THE
FASHION ISSUE
INSIDE THE TREND-SETTING SHOWS
VOLUME II / ISSUE X / OCTOBER 2018
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POLO LIFESTYLES Haiti M O D E R N LU X U R Y M AG A Z I N E S
L’ÉQUIPE:
Claude-Alix Bertrand Publisher
Brand Representatives Anne-Isabelle Saint-Pierre - Milan
Josh Jakobitz
Anton Rodionov - Paris
Editor-in-Chief
Mark Wine
Fitness Columnist
Joey Velez
Wellness Columnist
Kemissa Racine
Fashion & Style Contributor
Hans Ebenman
Travel Contributor
Cezar Kusik
Wine Contributor
Jyoti Paintel
Spiritual Guidance Contributor
Raphael Dapaah Art Contributor
anton@antonrodionov.com
Rudy Volel - New York volel.me@gmail.com
Contributing Photographers Karen Dymersky Sasha Arutyunova Chelsea Mazur Shannon Jayne Photo Polo Lifestyles is a publication of HT Polo Publishing Co. 995 Detroit Avenue, Suite A Concord, CA 94518 Copyright © Polo Lifestyles 2018 All Rights Reserved. For information or to advertise Contact editor@pololifestyles.com Read online at www.pololifestyles.com
Stanley Pierre-Etienne Fashion Contributor
On the cover: Fashion designer Simon Porte Jacquemus leads a horse down the catwalk during his show.
Tara Cummins
Photo by: Francois Guillot/AFP
Fashion Contributor
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a.isabellesaintpierre@gmail.com
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ARE YOU GOING?
NYC Polo Club Northeastern Circuit Masters Cup 4-8 Goals Houston Polo Club Keleen & Carlton Beal Cup 12-16 Goals Delegate's Cup 4-8 Goals New Bridge Polo Club - Aiken, S.C. National Copper Cup 12 Goals Bronze Trophy 12 Goals Commonwealth Polo Club - Paris, KY National Arena Chairman's Cup 9-12 Goals Honolulu Polo Club Hawaiian Islands Circuit Congressional Cup 0-4 Goals General S. Brown 4-6 Goals Inanda Club, Sandton South Africa Nedbank International Polo Grand Champions Polo Club North American Cup 16-20 Goals National Twenty Goal 20 Goals Argentina Hurlingham Club 1240 Campeonato Abierto Copas Presidente y de Honor 15-20 Goals Copas Javier Novillo Astrada y Juan Sauro 7-10 Goals Copas Primavera 0-6 Goals XIII Torneo Municipalidad de Pilar 24 Goals La Liga Argentina II 0-4 Goals Imphal Polo Club 12th International Polo World Cup
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CONTENTS The Best Dressed List from the Emmys page 38
Silver Air Pacific Coast Open page 18
POLO LIFESTYLES EDITORS & CONTRIBUTORS
Ambassador Claude-Alix Bertrand
Publisher Polo Lifestyles @haiti_polo_captain
Cezar Kusik
Wine Contributor Twenty Five Lusk @cezarkusik
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Josh Jakobitz
Editor-in-Chief Polo Lifestyles @joshuajakobitz
Tara Cummins
Fashion Contributor Teryn Grey @teryngrey
Kemissa Racine
Mark Wine
Jyoti Paintel
Fashion & Style Contributor RACINE + KARALA @kemissa
Fitness Columnist Functional Muscle Fitness @functionalmuscle
Spiritual Contributor Polo Lifestyles
Joey Velez
Anne-Isabelle Saint-Pierre
Raphael Dapaah
Mental Wellness Columnist Velez Mental Performance @velezmentalhealth
Brand Representative Polo Lifestyles-Milan @isasaintpierre
Art Contributor Dapaah Group @dg_luxe
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Ralph Lauren's 50 Years page 60
Jovana Louis Benoit page 88
Techorate Your Home page 84
Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss page 80
THE FASHION ISSUE
New York and London Fashion Weeks for FW 2018 and SS 2019 page 50 page 9
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
I spend a lot of time browsing the magazine section of grocers and book stores. It’s part of the industry to know what and whom the major powerhouse publishers are putting on the covers. And last month, I noticed, but I didn’t appreciate the trend until one of our contributors pitched his month’s story idea: September’s fashion magazines featured many, many more ethnic – let’s be specific here: black – faces than ever in modern publishing. My intuition said, in three staccato words: This. Is. Important. Intrigued, I charged Stanley with doing to the research, which I recommend that you read in his month’s feature “Black Cover Girl Faces Shake Up September.” This being our Fashion Issue, October is our month to celebrate the trends that will take us into 2019. From New York to London to Milan to Paris, the powerhouses, as well as the break-out designers, have been put to the test. Kerby Jean-Raymond, creative director of Pyer Moss (left), has been lauded for his collections many times over. This year, his show makes our Top Five “Others” List. Ralph Lauren, an American design icon, celebrated 50 years of fashion in true form. With a guest list of stars and VIPs to make us swoon, he reminds us of what a statesman looks like, how one acts, and with whom one interacts. Fashion these days isn’t limited to the runways. Street style has become the subject of every major fashion blogger, columnist and editor. To that extent, we combed the streets of London for street-style inspiration to round out our coverage. With Milan Fashion Week still in high gear and Paris Fashion Week yet to come, we will be branching out to social media to cover these shows and collections over the next two weeks. When I tasked wine contributor Cezar to pair a wine article with our fashion issue, he took me literally and within a week, I was a fast-study on fashionable wine, or has he’s described it, “in-wine.” These wines are trendy, rare, unique, biodynamic, natural and viti-cultural. Having read his story, I feel much more confident in my ability to express the finer characteristics of a Valdiguié, a Mencia, or a Tannat. Of course, I wasn’t about to pass up an opportunity to try them, so we headed to High Treason in San Francisco, which serves several of them . While it’s always hip to be in-the-know and I felt super-trendy sipping “in-wine”, Cezar put it so aptly, “What remains is a person’s integrity of taste and loyalty to what gives us pleasure that enriches our lives.” Home fashion makes a splash this month in our technology section with 11 must-have smart items for tech-orating. From a Wifi-enabled oven you can control from your phone to the most beautiful device charger we’ve ever seen, these items are the perfect “treat yourself” or a lovely gift for someone special. Headed strongly into our second year of publishing, you might notice some new names in our staff listing. We are so pleased to be adding global representation in major cities. Now, from wherever you’re reading this, there is a Polo Lifestyles contributor or representative even closer than you think. Best, Josh Jakobitz josh@pololifestyles.com
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Reposted FOR THE RECORD Curated Instagram posts from last month
usopen @sernawilliams comforts @naomiosakatennis at the trophy presentation of the Women's Single #usopen
naomi Still arguably the most famous onename model in the world, Naomi Campbell, for @vogueparis
africapoloopen South African team defeated Nigeria in the first Africa Polo Open, Africa's Grandest Polo Tournament page 14
arethafranklinforever The world lost a legend in Aretha Franklin whose hits inspired generations of fans
cityofmonterey Pebble Beach was the scene of the month's hottest car show, giving us the cars to talk about all year
robbreport The world's largest car concours showcased @alfaromeo @ferrari @ maserati and more
darrencriss Winner of an Emmy for @americancrimestoryfx #versace @versace
upperalliance The Alliance of the Exceptional members only #golf #yacht #equestrian #polo together
telegraph The body of the late Senator John McCain lies in state in the rotunda of the nation's capitol
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Click and comment on our choices... tag @pololifestyles. We will share noteworthy comments with you next month.
Eddie Murphy will become a father for the 10th tenth time #daddydaycare
millionaire.surroundings reuters The brand-new Mercedes EQ Silver Arrow @mercedesbenz with Chief Design Officer @gorden.wagener
Everyone's favorite moment from the Emmys -- when Glenn Weiss proposed while accepting his award
lelejenee Regina King was speechless after winning for "7 Seconds" at the Emmy Awards
thenorweiganpoloclub Nothing beats that feeling than when all your hard work pays off #polo #poloplayers @veuveclicquot
harry_meghan_daily Promoting "Together: Our Community Cookbook" for which she penned the forward #duchessofsussex
enews
ivar_mountbatten Lord @ivar_mountbatten, great-great grandson of Queen Victoria, makes history with a royal gay wedding
robbreport The #EA700 a twin-engine, six-seat jet from #oneaviation is still under development #prototype #privatejets
chituauzoh
enews Word on the (Sesame) street is that Bert and Ernie were actually a gay couple inspired by a real-life couple page 15
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Scoreboards & Cocktails TOURNAMENTS & ACTION
SILVER AIR PACIFIC COAST OPEN Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club Klentner Ranch 8 / 6 Lucchese
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Scoreboards & Cocktails TOURNAMENTS & ACTION
Tournoi d'Automne Polo de Paris
La Conception 4 / 3 Sainte Mesme
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Scoreboards & Cocktails TOURNAMENTS & ACTION
54o Abierto de Polo del Jockey Club Argentina
Final: Pilara Etiqueta Negra vs La Dolfina Brava I (rain delay)
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BUGATTI DIVO CREATED TO EXCITE. BUILT FOR CORNERS!
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The 9th Haviland Hollow Charity Cup New York Polo Club
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RALPH L
LAUREN
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Scoreboards & Cocktails Monte Carlo Cup Warsaw Polo Club
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L I T WA K J OYA S
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US OPEN TENNIS FINALS
17. SERENA WILLIAMS V 20. NAOMI OSAKA
The 2018 women's final of the U.S. Open proved that women are held to a different standard than men. It ended in tears for the young champion, Naomi Osaka, and in anger for Serena Williams' fans around the world, whose champion lost a Grand Slam on a technicality. As Williams comforted Osaka on the podium at Arthur Ashe Stadium during a prolonged period of booing, she whispered to Osaka, "They're not booing you." Both women deferred answering the commentator's questions and Osaka finally, if not begrudgingly, lifted her trophy into the air to the cheering of the stadium, whom Williams had just warned: "No more booing, ok?"
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6. N. DJOKOVIC V 3. J. DEL POTRO
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Scoreboards & Cocktails US OPEN
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THE EMMYS FASHION THE BEST DRESSES ON THE RED CARPET
Claire Foy took home an Emmy for "The Crown." On the left, mounted in couture riding gear for a shoot with Vogue earlier this year; for the awards show, she wore white strapless Calvin Klein. Penélope Cruz fluttered in feathered Chanel Haute Couture, Tracee Ellis Ross went big, very big, in Valentino’s raspberry couture confection (next page). Poppy Delevingne dazzled in a fresh shade of mint in Giambattista Valli Haute Couture. Also opting for pastels were Vanessa Kirby and Alexis Bledel. Mandy Moore and Zazie Beetz were embellished and gorgeous. And then there were the ladies in darkly romantic black: chic, pretty, and a touch fearless all... Just like good TV these days.
Penélope Cruz in Chanel Haute Couture and Atelier Swarovski jewelry
Thandie Newton in Brandon Maxwell and Harry Winston jewelry
Jessica Biel in Ralph & Russo with Harry Winston jewelry page 39
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Vanessa Kirby in Tom Ford and Chopard jewelry
Emilia Clarke in Dior Haute Couture and Fernando Jorge jewelry page 40
Tracee Ellis Ross in Valentino Haute Couture and Repossi jewelry
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Dakota Fanning in Dior Haute Couture
Alexis Bledel in Delpozo, Alexandre Birman shoes and Harry Winston jewelry
Madeline Brewer in Brock Collection and Bulgari
Zazie Beetz in Ralph Lauren page 41
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Angela Sarafyan in Christian Siriano and Harry Kotlar jewelry
Nina Kiri in Markarian and L'Dezen jewelry page 44
Poppy Delevingne in Giambattista Valli Haute Couture and Amwaj jewelry
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Tiffany Haddish in Atelier Prabal Gurung
Mandy Moore in Rodarte and Harry Winston jewelry
Rachel Brosnahan in Oscar de la Renta and Tiffany & Co. jewelry
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NEW YORK page 50
FA
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K · LONDON · PARIS · MILAN
ASHION WEEK page 51
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NYFW TOP 10 DESIGNERS
The Big Apple plays home to the largest collection of runway shows of any fashion week globally. With multiple shows overlapping each other, New York can be a hectic as Grand Central during rush hour. However, after all is said and done, everyone makes their train; albeit headed in different directions. Some toward avant-garde streetwear, other toward uptown looks, many to moderate mass. This season Raf Simons, for Calvin Klein 205W39NYC, continued his fascination with American Gothic diving into the waters of the 1975 standout film Jaws, which played upon the fears of man being prey in a world we don’t control, unable to see what lies beneath. It is of note that the designer who touches upon the American page 52
conscious the most is himself European, one thankfully who understands both construction and culture. Ralph Lauren is as American as apple pie and celebrated his Golden 50th Anniversary. Mr. Lauren, as he welldeserves to be called, is the first of his kind, an original who understands how to capture and romanticize the American Dream. His greatest hits of a collection was a reminder of the promise that American designers can live up to. Tom Ford realized that promise abroad, but of late, found himself wandering a different path. This season, he found his footing reminding us that Built Ford Tough applies to his strong hand at tailoring, design, and evaluated point of view in his best collection of the last five years.
Newcomers to our New York Top 10 list include Sies Marjan, designed by Sander
Lak, and R13, lead by designer Chris Leba. Both deservedly fought their way into our Top 10 by chipping away in previous seasons and tipping the scale to transition from new to established. Leba took influence from the most American of bands, The Grateful Dead, and deconstructed American denim to stitch together a refined and edgy collection. Las at Sies Marjan has a knack for color and subtle sophistication that reminds us of an American daydream. While his show was in July, it by no means was forgotten, Alexander Wang is continuing to forge his own path and out of fashion week, does not mean out of mind. Together this group helps to bind the chaotic nature of the week, keeps it elevated, and reminds us that American fashion continues to have meaning and show promise.
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1 - CALVIN KLEIN 205W39NYC BY RAF SIMONS
2 - RALPH LAUREN
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3 - TOM FORD
4 - R13
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5 - SIES MARJAN
6 - TORY BURCH
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7 - ALEXANDER WANG
8 - OSCAR DE LA RENTA
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9 - ZIMMERMAN
10 - MICHAEL KORS
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Badgley Mischka Spring 2019 Runway
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Congratulations RALPH LAUREN 50 YEARS OF
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1968-2018
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Ralph Lauren's 50th Anniversary Party collides with NYFW for a star-studded blowout
NEW YORK (AP) — A 19thcentury fountain in Manhattan’s Central Park provided a majestic backdrop for Ralph Lauren’s star-studded 50th anniversary blowout on Friday, a festive celebration of his past and present that included a runway show and a black-tie dinner. Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway, Blake Lively and Jessica Chastain were just a few of the dozens of celebrities gathered to fete Lauren, 78, and his decades atop the fashion world. Not to mention Hillary Clinton, who wore Lauren’s designs at numerous key moments of her page 62
presidential campaign — including the white “suffragette” pantsuit she wore to accept the Democratic nomination in Philadelphia. “I love his clothes,” Clinton said. “You know he really was so generous and kind to help with all of my clothes during the campaign.” It was Winfrey who had the job of toasting Lauren at dinner. “The real reason we are here is not the show,” she said. “It’s you. You Ralph Lauren, and 50 years of your designing our dreams.” Winfrey told Lauren that he represented what was great in America. “Your story exalts our collective story,” she said. “Your designs define integrity.”
Old-fashioned trolley cars met guests on Fifth Avenue and shuttled them into the park, where the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain had been transformed into a party space. Guests sipped cocktails and watched, on towering vertical screens, highlights of Lauren shows over the years. Then, everyone descended a granite staircase to the runway show, where velvet banquettes awaited and oriental carpets lined the floor. The show, which fittingly began to the strains of Paul Simon’s “New York is My Home,” combined elements from various Lauren collections over the years, and included some older models who had been in early campaigns. And, in a second half celebrating the family, it
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included many smiling children, some small enough to be carried by the adults on the runway — and one baby fast asleep. Lauren himself appeared on the staircase at the end, to thunderous cheers. He took a slow victory lap across the room while admirers applauded, hugged him if they were close by, or snapped photos furiously. At dinner, which took place around the famous fountain, Lauren told the crowd that, contrary to the evening’s glamour, he wasn’t very glamorous at home. “I walk around in a ripped robe, and no towels,” he said. He was referring to Winfrey’s anecdote, offered in her toast, about how, working in Chicago early in her career, she saw owning Ralph Lauren towels as a symbol of success. page 63
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“I vowed, if I ever got me some money I would get me some Ralph Lauren towels,” she said — specifically “bath sheets.” And she did. Clinton, who sat next to Lauren, told the Associated Press their friendship dated back to the ’90s, when Clinton was working on a project to save American treasures, and Lauren helped save the star-spangled banner that flew over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. “Ralph came forward and funded the conservation and restoration of the star-spangled banner,” she said, “and he and I were able to be there years later to once again put it on display and have it properly taken care of. His help made that happen. And we just became friends.”
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Congratulations RALPH LAUREN 50 YEARS OF
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1968-2018
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NYFW TOP 5 "OTHERS" Fashion weeks are dominated by the large lions. But what of the breakout performers? These unsung heroes typically rely on friends and families to help pull together their collection in hopes of breaking through to take their next steps to fashion stardom and meaningful businesses. Each season we comb the back alleys, climb the stair flights, and weather the weather to see each and every collection shown during fashion week. Along the way, we catch some breakouts that we wish to showcase. Designer Sam Linder of Linder has been chipping away at fashion week for several seasons now. But his most recent collection embraced a newfound sophistication with colorful and clean leathers married with madras, all with page 70
just the right touch of a designers hand. Jonathan Cohen is no newbie, having been in business for seven years to suddenly find himself an overnight success presenting his first official New York Fashion Week show. His timing was right, delivering a colorful and mature collection including various takes on florals and great hand knits.
duo, Kristopher and Laura Brock, showcased their Brock Collection at French eatery, Le Coucou. The collection was full of refined BelleÉpoque looks with puffed sleeves, corset dresses, and ornate fabrics. Despite the ode to history, the collection was modern and feminine in a way that many New York designers rarely consider.
Pyer Moss’s Kerby Jean-Raymond is a designer with a larger agenda than simply making clothes. He continues to make Top 5 Other lists season-afterseason because he elegantly addresses social injustices in a contemplative and well-conceived way. This season was no different as Moss showed his Spring 2019 collection at a historic site – where one of America’s first free black communities was established in 1838: Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn.
Los Angeles-based designer John Elliott has made a name for himself in menswear and until his move to Paris, he was one of the highlights of New York Men’s Fashion Week. Fortunately, the designer returned stateside and layered in women’s to bring his casual street influence back to New York. Showing at a skateboard park, the collection blended surf, skate, California sunshine, and youth couture to represent one of this week’s best breakout shows.
Husband and wife designing
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1 - JOHN ELLIOT
2 - BROCK COLLECTION
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3 - PYER MOSS BY KERBY JEAN-RAYMOND
4 - JONATHAN COHEN
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5 - LINDER
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Black Cover Girl Faces Shaking Up September Fashion Issues On September Covers Lupita N'yongo looks pretty in pink in the cover of Porter. A pregnant Slick Woods, is proudly showing her baby bump for Elle British while Issa Rae wears black couture on the cover of EBONY. Funny lady Tiffany Haddish is all rainbow-ish colorful in the cover of Glamour US. Tracee Ellis Ross, Blackish's leading lady, is glowingly smiling on the cover of Elle Canada and Aja Naomi King is covering one eye in a black and white cover for SHAPE. Gracing the cover of a fashion magazine is a big deal – and a big risk. A big risk for the editor who picks the cover, never knowing whose face will attract and sell record copies of magazines as the world of mainstream publishing continues to be impacted by the digital age.
The September Issue is the most important of any major fashion magazine worldwide. Putting a model on its cover can launch a career in the industry. It is the best introduction a model, it-girl or a uprising celebrity can ask for.
As the fashion industry itself is based on numbers and profits, choosing the right cover girls and cover boys is crucial. Historically, the fashion industry’s known predilection puts mostly Caucasian faces and bodies on the front row, often neglecting other racial ethnicities. It is welldocumented that black faces are seen fewer times on those covers; until recently, anyway.
Let us speak plainly: There have been many black faces gracing the covers of major September issue in the past, but what occurred this year on these covers was truly and surprisingly unprecedented. More black faces than ever were on the covers of our fashion Bibles, from Beyoncé for Vogue U.S. to Rihanna on the cover of the British version of the same magazine franchise to Zendaya
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graciously setting the tone for fall sitting pretty in animal print coat. Not only were the number of black faces doubled on magazine covers this year, but it was even more striking to find them on the most important issue of the year. Whether it’s a renouveau in fashion or simply time for black faces to get the recognition they deserve in the industry will be left to history to decide. Hopefully this growth goes beyond one season and much further than just on the covers. Stanley Pierre-Etienne follows the world of fashion from his bases in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
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FASHION PROFILE Kerby Jean-Raymond Founder & Creative Director of Pyer Moss
Editor’s Note: We first profiled Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss in April when Mystique Boivert covered the fashion show of Haitian and Haitian-American designers hosted by the Ambassador of Haiti in the United States in page 80
Washington, D.C. Back then, his collaboration with Reebok was the talk of the town. Emerging from NYFW as one of the top designers and collections, JeanRaymond is the talk of a whole lot more these days. - JJ.
Jean-Raymond gave the following interview with the New York Times at the beginning of August. His Favorite Room: Between designing for Pyer Moss (which earned him a Council of Fashion Designers of America nomination) and collaborating with Reebok on a sneaker line, Mr. Jean-
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Raymond hardly spends a day at home, which for now is a rental in a cluster of high-rises on the Brooklyn waterfront. “What keeps me grounded while I’m here is cooking,” he said, showing off his favorite room – a gleaming kitchen with built-in fridge. “But I haven’t gotten attached to it.” So you’re eating on the road these days? Too much. I’m trying to get a balance, man. Because I have been home this month (August) maybe six days. I spend most of my time at La Guardia Airport. It’s awful. My hope about moving someplace else or buying something is that I can start a project. Like build out a kitchen. With your career on an upswing, do you feel you have to go for it right now?
What’s your secret ingredient?
I do. For a while I gave up the concept of home. I gave up the concept of having things. That’s why you look around here, I don’t really have furniture. Besides those stools you’re sitting on, I literally have four pieces of furniture.
Turmeric. I put turmeric in everything, especially breakfast. And pink salt. It’s a lot better for you than typical white salt.
Where did you grow up?
What’s the significance of this Basquiat poster?
I grew up in East Flatbush. I’m from Brooklyn. (My dad’s from Haiti.) I drop by my dad’s house all the time. That’s where I feel home. I got my keys. I just walk in wherever.
That’s the original poster from the movie. It was one of the first things I bought on eBay. I cherish it. That’s the thing that’s been with me since my college dorm, my father’s house, it’s been everywhere. I just got to reframe it. It still has the same original frame from when I was 16 years old and poor.
What got you into cooking? Believe it or not for how skinny I am, but I used to be a bodybuilder. That’s when I started cooking because I had to make my meals. But recently, I cut down on eating meat. I watched that stupid movie on Netflix that ruined everyone.
This interview originally appeared in the New York Times.
It changed my cooking habits because I was so used to cooking Haitian dishes like tassot de boeuf, jerk chicken and oxtail. page 81
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GLOBAL WIFI + POWER COUPON CODE: HTPOLO
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TEN SMART HOME ITEMS TO TECHORATE WITH Plus 1 extra that's just for fun
Opposite page: Skyroam SOLIS provides unlimited global WiFi at your fingertips in over 100 countries
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Ten Smart Home Items
to make your life a little extra (+1 that's just fun) It wasn’t so long ago that the idea of a smart home seemed only within reach for the Silicon Valley titans of the world. Service robots and remote-controlled ovens sounded like things belonging to Tony Stark or the Jetsons—or things that could go, terribly, terribly wrong.
But nowadays, thanks to the rise of smart speakers like Alexa, HomePod, and Google Home, Americans everywhere are techorating. After all, it can make home safety better, cooking quicker, and life a little easier—Alexa, is it going to rain today? The following are 11 home tech gizmos and gadgets that will modernize any abode, from a nightstand with a Hi-Fi audio system and motion activated light, to a wine monitor that alerts you when a bottle has reached its optimal temperature. And we really weren’t joking before—there are service robots and remote controlled ovens too.
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Keecker Multimedia Robot $1,790 to $1,990, keecker.com
Marie Wolt Wireless Charger $458, mariewolt.com
Smart Garden 9 $199.95, clickandgrow.com
A few of its many capabilities include projecting movies in any room, playing music, controlling temperature, noise, and humidity, as well as 360 degree video chats.
Fast. Seamless. Beautiful. Designed in Stockholm (of course) it will change the way you charge.
A «set-it-and-forget-it» garden system that grows herbs. flowers, and greens indoors—all you need to do is fill the water tank and plug it in.
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Also available in black.
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4.
5.
6.
Nest x Yale Lock $279, nest.com
Nest Learning Thermostat $249, nest.com
Hestan Cue System and Pan $499.95, hestancue.com
Allows you to lock, unlock, and check the status of your door from an app.
This smart thermostat allows you to set temperatures per room, turns itself down when you are away, and can be controlled remotely through an app.
A cooking system that automatically adjusts time and temperature according to the recipe you are following.
7.
8.
9.
GE Café Double Oven $3499, ge.com
Lovebox Messenger, $99 store.moma.org
Kelvin Smart Wine Monitor $49.95, crateandbarrel.com
This smart oven can be controlled— and preheated—from your smart phone.
It wirelessly sends love notes to friends and family.
Will alert your phone when the bottle has reached its optimal temperature.
10.
11. Smart Nightstand $450, westelm.com
Apple HomePod $349, apple.com
Has a Hi-Fi audio system (where you can make a playlist your morning alarm), a motion activated floor light, and a corresponding mobile app.
Apple’s voice assistant just announced a major set of upgrades, including the ability to make phone calls, set multiple timers, and add Find my iPhone. page 85
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FASHION PROFILE Jovana Louis
Written by Josh Jakobitz
HANOI & HAITI
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I first heard of Jovana Louis Benoit when interviewing celebrity Chef Cynthia Verna. Having spent eight years of my adult life in Haiti, I was surprised I hadn't run into her. "She lives in Vietnam," Verna explained. "Part of the diplomatic mission from Haiti to Vietnam." That explained it: Vietnam has been and continues to be an important investor in technology and communications in Haiti. When I represented the Center for the Facilitation of Investments, part of the Ministry of Trade and Commerce in Haiti, we hosted many Vietnamese investors associated with NATCOM, one of the island's larger telecommunications network. Finally, I met Jovana via WhatsApp messenger, where she flooded my app with photos of her creations: drapy, silk gowns with oversized prints and mottos. I noticed two things: she had an eye and she was definitely designing for the Vietnamese culture, but there were hints that paid homage to her island nation home. She's dressed an impressive number of celebrities and Miss Universe contestants, and in September, she launched her first flagship boutique in Hanoi (pictured on the left). Now with a line of bags and jackets to complement the gowns, I wanted to know more about what makes Jovana Louis Benoit tick. In a series of email questions and answers, she filled me in, never holding back, reminding me of the flood of images she once sent me via WhatsApp. Ladies and gentlemen, Jovana Louis Benoit. JJ: Describe the cultural mélange of Haiti and Vietnam… JLB: Besides being geographically so far, Haiti and Vietnam have so much in common in terms of culture and fashion, I find it so beautiful to mix and match colors as both countries always
use such a variety in the clothing and styles. You have the tropical flavor of Haiti available right here also in Vietnam. JJ: What was your first major accomplishment as a designer?
JLB: I just recently launched my brand and opened my first boutique in Hanoi. This has been a major accomplishment that I had been waiting for and am so proud of it. JJ: Your style of mixing Caribbean and page 89
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Asian influence is distinct, but how do you keep it fresh? JLB: I actually have to also add the French influence in there. When you take these three different styles you tend to come up with lots and lots of ideas. I have a long way to go before I can run out of fresh new ideas with so many things – such as the art and music from these three parts of the world – to inspire from. JJ: Where did you refine your craft? JLB: I have been in fashion from a young age – I learned working with my aunt back in Haiti. I actually moved to Paris to pursue fashion, but when the opportunity came to move to Vietnam, I followed through and this is where I was able to refine my craft. JJ: Who, as a designer, inspires you?
JLB: While I want to be original, I have so much respect for the great Coco Chanel, and more recently Karl Lagerfeld. JJ: What’s the story behind your boutiques, where are they and how many are you planning? JLB: I just opened my first boutique in Hanoi on September 10 of this year. It is a place where women can come in and not just buy an outfit, but get style advice. We can make “sur mesure” (made to measure) if need be. I am planning to follow with stores in U.S., Europe, the Middle East and other countries in Asia in the near future. JJ: What’s your number 1 priority in life? JLB: I wake up every day and aim to be a better person. I want to play a positive role and bring happiness to everyone
I interact with. I feel that the world just needs to get along and stop the negativity and bickering. Let’s just focus on the good things. JJ: How do you unwind after the end of a long fashion season? JLB: I’m a very simple person to please – all I need is good music to dance and I feel great! I spend some time doing yoga and I enjoy teaching my daughter to design. When I’m done, I dress up elegantly to feel good and dance the night away. JJ: Describe the sites, places, flavors and sounds of Hanoi that most inspire you… JLB: The Hanoi old quarter is a wonderful place for me to just walk all day and night! The Temple of Literature is also a good place to sit, read a book and contemplate. The Vietnamese
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old ladies selling things on the street and smiling at you is also such an inspiration and great feeling. I can never get enough of it. The flavors of Hanoi that I enjoy are the Pho (noodle soup) and Bun Cha. JJ: Describe Haiti in five words… JLB: Haiti is mysterious, resilient, cultural, unique and most of all it’s home!
JJ: Share with us about your family and diplomatic station… I’ve been married now nine years to a wonderful man, Lesley Benoit, who is the Ambassador of Haiti to Vietnam and we have a 5-year-old little princess who happens to love fashion just like her mom. We have been in Vietnam for five years and have made it our second home. My husband is also very much into the arts and culture. He is one of my sources of inspiration.
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"WIINTER"
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ART REPORT HARMONIA ROSALES THE ART OF
EMPOWERMENT
Raphael Dapaah | Art Contributor raphaeldapaah@hotmail.co.uk
“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable,” is a quote widely attributed to the elusive street artist and activist, Banksy. It speaks to the power of art’s ability to undermine the status quo, create new and alternative narratives, and challenge deep-rooted notions as well as perceived truths.
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Today, these words of wisdom are embraced by artists, collectors and enthusiasts alike. However, the concept of art being disruptive, provocative and a respite for the marginalized and downtrodden is an avant-garde one, which in the grand scheme of art history, is a recent phenomenon still in its infancy.
For centuries, art prevailed as a medium of expression that comforted the powerful and the privileged, while ostracizing the subjugated and voiceless masses. When one delves deeper into the trenches of the underclasses and
hierarchical structures of the marginalized, it is immediately apparent that the greatest burden was carried on the shoulders of women. Indeed, even when women have been the subject of commissioned paintings, or muses that inspired spectacular portraits, they have largely been passive and inanimate, a testament to the role reserved for them by a society that encouraged women to be seen, but not heard. The turn of the 20th century was marked by the uprising of women demanding equal rights and opportu-
HARMONIA ROSALES
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"ASSUMPTION OF A WOMAN"
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Opposite page: "Assumption of a Woman" This page: The artist, photographed by Chelsea Mazur
elite social status. “My re-imagined works intends to not only begin to clear that narrow perception by deconstructing the dominant social narrative through the same medium that helped create it… but empower and show the value in who I feel to be the least represented.”
nities, and redefining gender roles and societal expectations of them. Artists like Frida Kahlo blazed a trail for women in the arts to break free of the shackles of the male gaze, by being both the painter and subject of her work, and unapologetically embracing her heritage and identity with absolute grace and candor. In 2018, Harmonia Rosales, an Afro-Cuban American artist based in Chicago, follows the trail blazed by Kahlo before her, to depict the subject she knows best, and wants the world to know better: black women. Despite art being a subjective discipline, I would wager that you would be hardpressed to find a single soul who does not objectively view Harmonia’s work as nothing short of sensational. Inspired by her childhood fascination of renaissance art exhibited at prestigious
museums and galleries, Harmonia paints with the savoir-faire of Michelangelo; though conversely, she is on a mission to unravel the prevalent Euro-centric narrative that he helped to establish. Indeed, it was her interpretation of the high renaissance artist’s, “Creation of Adam” masterpiece that cast a shining light on her incredible talent and mission, when she depicted God and Adam as black women. Intrigued by Harmonia’s artistic raison d’être, I was keen to ask what her motivations and views were, to which she was extremely forthright and candid in her response: “Since global history was documented, paintings of a male-dominated, white heaven were presented. These same images not only influence our society today, but are deemed valuable and possessing… coming with
The profound power in the symbolism of Harmonia’s work is better understood and appreciated when one considers that within the canon of art history, not only have women as a group been largely relegated as passive subjects to be fawned over, but on a more granular level, black women especially have been rendered wholly nonexistent. In light of this, Harmonia’s depiction of black women as subjects to be revered, worshiped and celebrated, not only elevates their status as active and omnipresent subjects within art, but breaks a tradition dating back almost a millennium of the prevalent white, male gaze. Furthermore, it would be remiss not to mention that for all the artist’s intention of empowering the subject she knows best through her work, like many great artists before her time, her intimate subject matters and themes are essentially part of a wider struggle to right historical injustices and strive for a truly egalitarian society; in which black women are represented and celebrated.
In what can only be described as an act of artistic genius and self-confidence, what is most unique about Harmonia’s work, is her ability to reference a style of painting that stems from 14th century Italy to highlight contemporary issues of lack of representation that continue to plague the United States in the 21st century. It’s this perfect harmony of the old and the new in her work that lends such monumentality to her pieces, and leaves the viewer, men and women alike, in a state of deep contemplation and utter captivation. With her work now selling before the paint is even dry, it is hardly surprising that an eclectic list of new and established high-profile collectors are lining up to own one of her masterpieces. Despite the rapidly growing interest and sold-out exhibitions, Harmonia is still very much an emerging artist who is yet to reach the dizzying heights inevitable for someone of her caliber. I can’t help but think that while to date she has created irrefutably remarkable work, we still haven’t seen anything yet, and her best is definitely yet to come. What I do know for certain however, is that Harmonia, like Michelangelo, will stand the test of time, and play a role in shaping the canon of art history.
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WINE
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"IN-WINE" YES, WINE THE HOSTS WITH THE MOST KNOW THEIR WINES - AND YOU SHOULD, TOO
Cezar Kusik, wine contributor
Trendy clothes, this year’s hottest automobiles, the best travel destinations, edgy interior designs, food porn, and yes… “in wine” can originate through calculated design, promotion and advertising; or they can emerge organically and sometimes unpredictably. Remember when Merlot was reduced to an “uncool, unsophisticated wine” by a single line in the movie Sideways? Nearly overnight, Pinot Noir took its place and became an “in wine.”
“If anybody orders merlot, I’m leaving!” and Poof! There goes Merlot.
Trends can dominate and dictate our choices and shape our lifestyles often against our good judgment, personal taste and preference. As an old, but catchy Sprite commercial proclaimed, “Thirst is nothing, image is everything.” It seems that embracing what’s trendy stems from a strange psychological human dichotomy: on one side we are drawn by its allure of exclusivity, on the other, it promises us a sense of belonging. Go figure -- even I’m wearing skinny jeans. So what is in vogue in the wine-drinking culture these days? What do top wine bars and restaurants offer on their lists? What wines are coveted by som-
meliers-in-the-know? And finally, what vine growing and wine making methods are implemented by innovative wine makers to enhance our wine drinking experiences? A country in vogue: Portugal Historically known almost exclusively for its fortified wines, Port and Madeira, Portugal has, in the past few decades, exploded into the international wine scene with a wide range of quality wines of all three colors and various styles. With over 250 indigenous varieties, for many experts, Portugal is the last frontier of wine in Western Europe. Grapes often never heard of or nearly extinct now are gaining an international atten-
High Treason Wine Bar where wine and Rock and Roll blend well. page 104
E IS FASHIONABLE
tion and becoming a rage. Lisbon, with its charm and historic beauty, has become a hugely popular tourist destination and wine is one of its main draws. Go visit. It’s amazing! Portuguese wines’ quality to value is the biggest attribute. Consumers can purchase some unique, characterful, food-friendly wines for under $20 a bottle at retail stores. Obrigado Vinhos, whose wines are available many Bay Area wine shops and restaurants, is my favorite importer. My choices: Nortico Alvarinho, Nortico Rosé
from Minho region, Quinta de Saes Reserva made from Encruzado grape coming from Dão, Aplanta red blend from Alentejo, Xisto Ilimitado red blend from Douro, and one of my favorites: MJC Ramisco Tinto from Colares. Trendy grapes In this time and age of uniformity, uniqueness and originality become a valuable social commodity. The common and predictable will make you blend in, but won’t make you noticed. Drinking outside the box is… yes, fashionable! Step
The wines of Portugal where quality and value have become a great attribute.
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aside Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. Here comes Crjenak Kaštelanski from Croatia (look it up). Being familiar with “eccentric” styles of wine made from rare and - even better - difficult to pronounce grapes and, coming from “uncommon” wine regions can easily put one in the center of a social circle.
with intense and decadent floral flavors of violets, rose petal, jasmine and a touch of ginger-spiced honeysuckle.
Rare whites
Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza: Two sibling grapes from the Basque region of Spain that produce nervy, lip-smacking, jumpingly refreshing Txakolina wines. Put it on ice, take it to a grass-blanketed park or polo tailgate and obliviously hold your sweetheart’s hand sipping it.
Furmint (dry version): From the historic region of Tokaj in Hungary, in its dry version this grape makes some mysteriously minerally, white wines of sensually viscous texture and flavors of wet stone, salted pecans, and persimmon. Ribolla: Transplanted from Greece ages ago, this grape most comfortably acclimated itself in Friuli, Italy, and across the border in Slovenia where it’s known as Rebula. Traditionally, it is light and crisp with flavors of apple, citrus and fresh almonds. Moscofilero: Endemic to Greece, this wine is packed
Rkatsiteli: From the country of Georgia, this is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, wine-making grape. Coldweather resistant, it produces crisp green-apple flavored wines with hints of quince and white peach.
Unique Reds Croatina: From Northern regions of Italy, it’s deeply colored, mildly tannic with a distinct peppery bite and proudly boasts a savage personality. Sankt Laurant: Austrian, sporting juicy berry aromas with slight tartness and silky but firm tannins that prompage 105
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ise smooth longevity. Tannat: Originally from Madiran in Southwest France, it’s impenetrably dark and intensely flavored. Gently tarry and redolent of black fig and dark berry jam, with good Uruguayan versions are out there. Xinomavro: Greek, multi-faceted and yields dry reds, dynamic rosés, vibrant sparklers and unique sweet wines. Mencia: from Spain and Portugal, age-worthy with inviting aromas of flowers, red berries and licorice. Valdiguié: originating in Southwest France. This is Michael Ireland’s (from High Treason wine bar in San Francisco) pick. It is very versatile in its interpretations, according to Michael, “The wines can run the gamut from light, fruity, quaffable soft to inky, dusty, rich vin de garde.” There are some great California versions. Trendy viti-cultural and vinification processes While technology is dominating our day-to-day lives and electronic devices, literally and figuratively, showing us the
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way ahead, our natural environment is heavily compromised by human thoughtless interference fueled by greed. In this age of artificially produced, synthetic foods, many of us choose to look toward the natural lifestyles where, rather than abusing Mother Nature, we enrich it and promote its longevity. No chemicals or artificial additives, organic way of being has found its place in agriculture and subsequently in viti-culture. While organic wine-making has grown in popularity dramatically in recent decades, there are methods or philosophies, as some like to call them, which take sustainability to the next level. BIODYNAMIC: a viticulture created by an early 20th century philosopher/intellectual Rudolf Steiner can be described as a homeopathic approach to soil cultivation to restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony. Or as I playfully describe it: organic farming with a touch of friendly witchcraft. Wines made from grapes treated using this “magical” practice are believed to taste purer and… turn you into a better person (not necessarily!) NATURAL WINE MAKING: the vini-
fication stage of wine production where absolutely minimal or no “unnatural” intervention is applied – no chemicals, no enhancements, no infusions. Pure, unadulterated, fermented grape juice. It can be an acquired taste, but you’re drinking a… philosophy. ORANGE WINE: Made from white wine grapes with an extended skin contact resulting in amber/orange-colored wines with astringency/tannins resembling that of red wines. Not everybody’s cup of tea, but some swear by it, especially when paired with the right food. All said and done, remember that what is fashionable today will most likely soon fade away and descend into obscurity. What remains is a person’s integrity of taste and loyalty to what gives us pure, unadulterated pleasure that enriches our lives with moments of inspiration beyond outsiders’ acceptance. On the other hand, trends expose us to new ideas and test our sense of aesthetic sensitivity forcing us to sift through the enormity of human experience, which hopefully leads us toward the choices of substance.
Terroir wine bar in Soma SF is a hidden little gem where some of the best “naturally” made wines can be found.
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WANDERLUST
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WHERE ITALIANS ESCAPE (AND HIDE)
PANTELLERIA W W W. P O LO LI FESTYL ES .COM
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WANDERLUST
Where Italians Go to Play (and Hide) A favorite holiday destination of those in the know, craggy, windswept Pantelleria sits between Sicily and Tunisia. Known for its shoreline of jagged volcanic cliffs and sea-formed lava inlets, the Italian island of Pantelleria sits southwest of Sicily and just 50 miles east of Tunisia — on a clear day, it’s possible to see across the strait to Kelibia. First inhabited during the Bronze
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Age, Pantelleria’s 32 square miles were subsequently conquered by the Carthaginians, the Arabs, the Romans and Roger II, King of Sicily, with clusters of dammusi — whitewashed, domeroofed stone dwellings dating as far back as the 10th century — surviving it all. By the early 1800s, the island had been tamed anew by caper farmers and wine makers. The past decades have brought yet another set of arrivals; as other glamorous coastal spots (Portofino, Sorrento) were besieged by cruise ships, Pantelleria (population 7,500) emerged
as an understated holiday destination for in-the-know Italians — Giorgio Armani and the actress Isabella Ferrari both have houses here. Even now, its rugged beauty and rich history are the draws: After a day spent exploring hidden coves, including the sea sponge-encrusted grotto Sataria, whose turquoise waters are said to have been the love nest of Ulysses and Calypso, visitors gather at bars like Sesiventi, on the island’s western end, for aperitivi as the sun sets over Neolithic burial domes.
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STAY Sikelia
Last year, Giulia Pazienza Gelmetti, a former pro basketball player, opened the 20-room Sikelia, set in modern-day dammusi perched on a hill between the southwestern villages of Rekhale and Scauri. Inside, the hotel is sooth-
ing and cave-like, with concrete floors and golden light streaming in through the Moorish archways. Themà, the hotel’s restaurant, offers North Africaninflected dishes such as fish couscous with cinnamon and caper leaves. Tenuta Borgia A lush, 30-acre property near Rekhale with fruit-bearing trees — lemon,
peach, persimmon — Tenuta Borgia consists of seven ancient dammusi (ranging from one to four bedrooms apiece) refit with chestnut doors imported from Calabria and, in the main house, jellyfish-like Venetian glass light fixtures. Fans of Luca Guadagnino’s “A Bigger Splash” (2015), will instantly recognize its homey kitchen with checkerboard backsplash and majolica-tiled pool. Club Levante A family estate until 1996, Club Levante still feels more like a sophisticated friend’s home than a bed-and-breakfast. For one, it’s composed of six freestanding guest houses and a main house, which offer privacy and stunning views (this is the island’s only ocean-facing hotel). In addition to breakfast, the kitchen serves a daily lunch, plus dinner five times a week. But the biggest draw might be the location, between the island’s most distinctive landmarks — the Faraglione, a stack of oceanic rock popular with divers, and the Arco dell’Elefante, another rocky outcrop, which resembles an elephant plunging its trunk into the sea.
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EAT
La Nicchia
Donnafugata
At La Nicchia, which opened in an updated dammuso in 1987, diners can watch the chefs toss their pizza dough — don’t miss the wood-fired buffalo mozzarella, prawn and zucchini pie. But the most coveted spots are in the herb-filled garden out back, where lantern-topped tables are positioned around a centuries-old orange tree. Friends sit there late into the night, enjoying southern Italian staples like roasted rabbit with anchovies. The restaurant is not to be confused with the nearby farm of the same name, which sells jars of capers packed in sea salt.
Visitors to this sprawling 168-acre vineyard northeast of Mount Gibele, a grassy, now-dormant volcano at the island’s center, can walk along rows of tangled vines to see the ancient circular stone edifice that still collects rainwater to feed the underground cisterns. Nightly tasting sessions showcase Donnafugata’s best blends — including Ben Ryé, its award-winning passito, a sweet, after-dinner amber — which are paired with small plates, including bruschetta with ammogghio and mintand-cheese ravioli.
SEE
Benikulà Cave — an ancient dry sauna with plumes of hot vapors escaping from a cleft in the stone.
Specchio di Venere
La Collina di Loredana
Legend has it that Venus stopped at this aquamarine-colored crater lake to take in her reflection. Mere mortals can do the same and bathe in its sulfurous, 110-degree waters, which are thought to soothe aching muscles. For another natural spa experience, head south to
Pantelleria may be far from Italy’s most famous museums, but thanks to Piedmont native Attilio Rappa, it isn’t wanting for great art. Thirty years after an idyllic honeymoon here, he and his art-loving wife, Loredana, bought some land in Cimillia, a hilly resi-
dential area on the island’s northwest coast. Before Loredena died in 2006, the family turned it into a public park filled with sculptures by the likes of Not Vital, Franz Ackermann, Katinka Bock, Paul Morrison and Susan Philipsz (a new piece is added annually). The park is unmarked, but Cimillia locals will be happy to point you in the right direction.
Osteria il Principe e il Pirata This family-owned restaurant in Punta Karace has a deck whose tables, set with mix-and-match glassware, overlook the sea. Sourcing local ingredients, chef-owner Franca Raffaele prepares perfectly executed classics — spaghetti bottarga, octopus stew, seared mackerel — while her husband and sons serve. Non-fish lovers should try the zesty pesto pantesco, made with almonds. For dessert there are Pantelleria kisses — light-as-air fritters stuffed with sweet ricotta and dusted with powdered sugar.
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YOUR GUIDE TO THE WORLD'S BEST
Rooftop Bars
Indulgence and Comfort in Milan Hans Ebenman | The Rooftop Guide CEO
Fashion Week descended upon Milan, but prior to that, The Rooftop Guide scouted out the best locations to see and be-seen. CERESIO 7 Ceresio 7 is a stunning rooftop bar in Milan, equipped with a gigantic swimming pool and comfortable lounge chairs and cabanas. Inside, there’s a fine dining restaurant. The roof terrace gives you a stunning 360-degree views of Milan's skyline and surroundings. On the rooftop, Ceresio 7 serves drinks of the highest class and very often organize parties on the terrace where trendy party-goers pilgrimage to live it up in Ceresio 7’s vibrant atmosphere.
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A combined restaurant and rooftop bar and pool are situated on the fourth floor just outside the most central parts of Milan. We visited in early in the afternoon, so we could have a bit of quiet time to take photos and enjoy the ambiance. Very shortly thereafter, it was popping. Considering Ceresio 7’s popularity, our early arrival proved to be a good idea. Seated comfortably in the shade (it was crazy hot in the sun), we ordered one Aperol Spritz each, one espresso and one cappuccino. Refreshing drinks to an equally awesome view! The atmosphere was very nice, complemented by lounge music in the background and views of Milan's skyline and the luxurious pool in the middle of the terrace. This is a rooftop bar we highly recommend if you like chilled atmosphere in a luxurious setting.
RADIO ROOFTOP Situated on the 5-star hotel Melia ME in the vicinity of Milan's train station, the entrance is on the side of the building with a private elevator directly up to the rooftop bar. Once up, we chose between various lounge furniture areas. Our selection ended up to be a table with comfortable chairs in the shade. Regarding beverages our choice fell on coffee and beer. The rooftop terrace was filled with people quite quickly and many tables were already reserved - even on a Monday. Quick service, luxurious decor and great views. Simply a very good rooftop bar in Milan. SKY TERRACE From this rooftop called Sky Terrace, you get a great view over Milan in all directions. Sky Terrace is centrally
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located in Milan, close to night clubs and entertainment in the center of the city. The roof terrace has lush furnishing and inviting sofas. The atmosphere here is cozy, so this is a great rooftop bar for a date. In the bar you can order excellent cocktails concoctions and bar snacks. THE TERRAZZA RAMAZZOTTI This rooftop bar is the summer open 10th floor terrace of the Ristorante Arya. Here you get the best views in Milan: a magical panoramic view as far as the eye can see. At the rooftop bar, the quality of the cocktails matches the equally excellent food. There are mostly dinner tables on this long, balcony-like terrace, but also a couple of lounge sofas. The Terrazza Ramazzotti and Arya are centrally located close to most attractions the city has to offer. It is the "house restaurant" for two hotels in the same building and same hotel chain (Dei Cavalieri and The Square). Regarding views, this is the best rooftop bar in Milan to visit. It’s very popular place in summer, so make reservation or come early to be guaranteed a seat. DUOMO 21 TERRACE Terrazza Duomo 21 is a new rooftop bar in Milan, ranked as one of the best after-work places in the city. From this Milan rooftop bar, the view from the rooftop terrace cannot be complained about either. Or how about a view of the beautiful and historical Duomo and to the square in front of it? The terrace can be rented for private events. If you like centrally located rooftop bars in Milan with a lovely view and good drinks, this is a superb place to come. TERRAZZA TRIENNALE Terrazza Triennale is a luxurious rooftop bar in Milan with a great restaurant serving Italian cuisine of the highest class. The bar is of the same high quality we’d expect, too. From the rooftop bar, you can order good wines, signature cocktails and beers. The atmosphere on the terrace is sophisticated and relaxed – perfect for a romantic dinner. As for the view, the terrace is surrounded by lush fields and Milan's skyline. If you like romance and good food, this is a good choice among rooftop bars in Milan. page 119
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HIGH TEA
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SPIRITUALITY DEFINING THE DIVINE
PRACTICING PATIENCE: ONE EASY PATH Jyoti Paintel Bowles Spiritual Guidance Contributor
It seems almost obvious given that I’m writing for a polo magazine that I would want the topic of this month’s column to be about how animals make us better people. Our relationships with animals can be a sacred experience and one of the simplest ways to cultivate patience, that most divine of gifts that we can give to ourselves, and then with confidence to others. When I think of the most challenging virtues there are, one that requires courage, dedication, and discipline, I think of patience. In the Dao de Jing, patience is one of the Three Great Treasures of Man, with simplicity and compassion being the other two. The Dao warns us that when we abandon any three of these, we stray away from the Dao, our path. Indeed, in the haste of momentary emotional or physical discomfort, patience can be lost with recklessness in words and action, sometimes never to be unsaid or undone. Something that was set in motion from failure of restraint has a momentum fueled with something destructive: revenge for an injured ego. In relationships, we need patience, because our partner won’t do or say the things we need. When someone disappoints us, we realize we cannot make anyone do anything
to our satisfaction, we cannot control the outcome. It is usually at this time – during disappointment – when our patience is tested. One easy way to learn patience is to turn it around and make it work for us first. More often than not, we are the person who most deserves our patience, but we don’t dip into that well for our own sake. I’ve noticed myself consoling others when they make mistakes, giving them hope and the possibility of other solutions. This appears to be in contrast to how I view my own mistakes at times: shameful and unacceptable. When we scold our psyches, much the way our parents might have done, we falsely believe this will serve as the motivation to get a better result. Instead, it’s compassionate words of support and encouragement that come from deep inside our hearts that urge us to pick ourselves up, re-group, and try again. As an added bonus, patience is pleasurable! In fact, when we start practicing patience for us and others, we can’t stop because it simply feels so damn good to let go of that awful discomfort of caring about something over which you have zero control. Another way to build patience is to have a relationship with an animal, which in itself provides endless opportunities for discovering your own self. I have always had a fascination for horses and know firsthand that interaction with them requires a tremendous amount of restraint and patience. I also wanted to understand what horses have taught humans about this important
spiritual quality. Historically, human relationships with the horse are unlike any other interaction in the animal species. The horse has enabled mankind to progress – they have enabled commerce in new territories and communication between civilizations more than any other animal – so our debt to them is quite profound. When native populations dominated the Americas, the communities enjoyed a truly mutually beneficial relationship with animals. They didn’t decimate populations in the name of progress, commerce, and profit; the indigenous lived in harmony with animals for hundreds of years. Most Americans grow up learning about time in our history on the prairie, when local animals roamed in abundance. The unofficial anthem of the Wild West, as well as one of the earliest songs in my memory, is “Home on the Range:” Oh, give me a home, where the bu-fa- lo roam, and the deer and the antelope play; where seldom is heard a discouraging word, and the skies are not cloudy all day.” In this classic America folksong depicting how our ancestors lived, a reference is made to the rarity of “a discouraging word,” implying that the presence of the animals kept pessimism away. The symbolism of “cloudy skies,” can clearly be connected with mental health and, namely, the animals’ capacity to keep depression at bay. The livelihood of the community was deeply connected to the freedom and happiness of the animals. page 123
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SPIRITUALITY DEFINING THE DIVINE
PRACTICING PATIENCE: ONE EASY PATH "Horses are not pets in the traditional sense – they don’t show affection or emotional attachment to us the way dogs and cats do. You really have to earn their trust; not many animals require that of us. What they offer is obedience and loyalty when they understand that you are good for them. Not unlike humans, they instinctively need and desire security." - Pablo Comesana, horse trainer A relationship that requires of us to commit to take care of something that is dependent on their survival tends to bring out the sweeter parts of a person’s character. What’s more interesting: animals we wouldn’t normally think capable of building bonds with humans are actually providing just that - therapeutic relief. In the UK, an organization targeting elder depression and loneliness, Henpower, introduced chickens to senior care homes. Since the introduction of this program, the seniors at the center feel they have come alive. They feel a real sense of real purpose in their lives and even have fond friendships with the hens. Many have family that don’t visit every often anymore so they say that the hens have given them a real reason to live again, and some even enter them in local country fairs.
mountains of Brazil, Pablo shows riders how to have a deeper connection with horses by using non-verbal communication. During our interview, Pablo discussed how these strategies, based on patience, work beautifully if applied in our dealings with humans as well.
I had a chance to speak with Pablo Comesana, a trainer from Argentina, where horse culture is passed down through generations and is part of the national identity.
JP: What do they have to teach us?
At his ranch Calvagada Zen in High Paradise, a spiritual community in the
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JP: What makes the relationship between a man and a horse so special? PC: Horses are not pets in the traditional sense – they don’t show affection or emotional attachment to us the way dogs and cats do. You really have to earn their trust, and not many animals require that of us. What they can offer you is obedience and loyalty if you can make them understand that you are good for them. Not unlike humans, what they instinctively need and desire most from relationships is security.
PC: There is a divinity to horses because they have noble qualities: once you have their confidence, they can be your ultimate protectors, they have a strong sense of justice - they don’t attack unprovoked. They have patience, which
is their most noble quality. Patience is paramount in the relationship between man and horse – they rely on instinct, not intellect, so you cannot let on that you are rattled, or they will not see you as the leader. Since they are very reactive animals, you cannot lose your patience with them and show your frustration because they have a memory for negative experiences. Like humans, anything that provokes a strong negative reaction can be a huge setback in your relationship. Just like marriage, building real intimacy and trust with a horse is a life-long courtship, and like human relationships, sometimes it doesn’t go your way – and it doesn’t go your way for a long time it. Again, patience is your only key to surviving this time. The nonverbal communication becomes effortless and even though they are not overly affectionate, they will push up against you, turn their other ears up, and nibble on you. If you give them patience, they will give you all they have. Once a horse has totally relaxed around you and trusts and accepts you, it feels like magic.
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EXPERIENCE HAITI: Cote des Arcadins
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VOLUME II / ISSUE X / OCTOBER 2018
MOROCCAN REPLICA OF GRENADA'S ALHAMBRA
LA PALMERAIE - A LOVE STORY
Listing Price: Available Upon Request Who ignores the story of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the world? Similarly, the Mogol Shâh Jâhan built this fantastic marble palace for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. What could be more normal than finding some similar love-inspired story in one of the most fascinating cities of Morocco? This story is the one of a couple who enamored with Grenada’s Alhambra’s beauty. Bargain-hunting, they found the plans of the Andalusian architectural masterpiece in a secondhand page 130
bookshop in London. They did not need more, or not so much more, only 1,300 talented craftsmen working flat out for three full years - to create a faithful replica of the Alhambra Palace set in a 4.6 hectare plot in the heart of Marrakech’s palm grove - The Palmeraie. As the years passed by and the exceptional plants in the garden matured, the palace merged into the vegetation. They became so intricate that one might think the Palace has been there for centuries. It perpetuates the richness and treasures of Moroccan craftsmanship, featuring Fez Zelliges, finely chiseled cedar wood ceilings and all patiently
sculpted by hundreds of pairs of well skilled hands. The garden was been created with the same loving care. It features a marvelous rose garden as well as palm tree paths bordering ornamental lakes and numerous marble fountains. The inspiration of these Andalusian gardens may be found in the geometrical patterns ornamenting the paths, which separate the bamboo forest, the orange garden and the cactus garden. So many different atmospheres to relax and enjoy a true masterpiece in every sense. If you are looking for a luxury villa in Marrakech, this really is as good as it gets.
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Welcome Home
10250 W SUNSET, LOS ANGELES THE OPULENT ESTATE "MAISON DU SOLEIL" Listing Price: $88,000,000
Maison Du Soleil, one of the most magnificent LA estates, is elegantly situated on almost three picturesque acres in Holmby Hills - the crown jewel of LA’s “Platinum Triangle.” Designed in the 1930s by classic Californian architect Paul Williams, the iconic 60-room residence supremely merges classic architecture with contemporary design. The legendary 30,000-square-foot compound is comprised of 17 beds, 22 baths and amenities suited to the most discerning taste - from a luxurious and sophisticated bath house to a 6,000-square foot movie theatre. The open floor plan seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, with each room allowing guests to capture breathtaking views of the grounds, which feature five divine, enchanting gardens. With all of its scale and grandeur, the home remains warm, and inviting, makpage 132
ing it a unique retreat for intimate family life yet poised for large-scale
entertaining.
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VOLUME II / ISSUE X / OCTOBER 2018
Welcome Home
9709 ANGELWYLDE DR ANDY RODDICK & BROOKLYN DECKER LIST THEIR AUSTIN RESIDENCE Listing Price: $5,950,000 USD Welcome to the re-invented home of 9709 Angelwylde. Owner’s personal touches, expanded spaces and updated finishes make this a luxurious masterpiece nestled on an ultra private 15 acre property located in Austin, Texas. Enjoy the beautiful and rustic 1/3 mile road leading to this sprawling estate designed by Webber Hanzlic and built by Don Crowell in 2003. Upon entering through the double wood doors, prepare for an eye-popping experience. Take in the beautiful reclaimed pine floors, the wood beams from the Chicago Stock Exchange, and the glamorous white marble counter tops crawling up the kitchen walls. Everything about this beautiful home asks, “why not have it all and then some?” Who doesn’t want a temperature controlled wine room, six burner Wolf Range, and outdoor summer kitchen? Enjoy the custom finished-out guest quarters, which once served as the master bedroom including page 136
three closets, office with a wood burning fireplace, and full bathroom offering two watering closets, walk in shower, and soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, the family enjoys a recently added owner’s hideaway, three secondary bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a game/ family room, and office. Bonuses such as a copper soaking tub, double-head rain shower, coffee station, built-in entertainment center, and sitting area create a true retreat for the entire family to enjoy. Breathtaking private views from every angle of the backyard provide relaxation while soaking up the Austin Hill Country. During the warm summer, take a swim in the oversized pool, cook under the stars in the summer kitchen, and dine under the covered patio. During the cooler months, gather around the fire pit and fireplace or warm up in the spa to enjoy the Austin climate.
JONATHAN CREATH Global Real Estate Advisor +1 512.406.1086 jonathan.creath@sothebysrealty.com
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