GENLUX WINTER 2014/2015

M AGA Z I N E

GENLUX FASHION+PHILANTHROPY

DITA VON TEESE THE FASHION GLAMBASSADOR ON THE POLITICS OF LINGERIE PHILANTHRO-FILE: WHY WE LOVE IRENA MEDAVOY

357 NORT H ROD EO D RIV E

BEV ERLY CENT ER

WESTFIEL D TO PAN GA

SO U TH C O AST P L AZA

SH O P FERRAGAM O .C O M

V82A GENLUX R T A N sSUMMER . c o m

/ 2014

V

VARTAN F I N E

J E W E L R Y

Timeless luxury is elevated by brilliant diamonds.

These elaborately adorned timepieces combine the magnificent craft of stone setting and the art of watchmaking, as beauty and precision harmonize.

CHRONOLUNAR

6 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

CHRONOLUNAR

CHRONOJEWEL

CHRONOJEWEL

PRECISION INSTRUMENTS FOR TIMEKEEPING

s

CHRONOJEWEL | CONTEMPORARY 47MM

Polished stainless steel case, exhibition back with sapphire glass.

Automatic chronograph with hours, minutes and central seconds.

Double-row 5ct diamond bezel.

www.ernstbenz.com

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 7

s ur r e s ta u r a n t

su r LOUNGE

606 n ort h ro b e rt s o n, w EHO , 9 0 0 6 9 surre staurantand bar.co m surlo unge .co m 310- 289- 2824

ON THE COVER: Dita Von Teese in Valentino coat, Valentino, Beverly Hills, 310-247-0103 Vanessa Leu earrings, $6120, vanessaleu.com Dita Von Teese gloves, and Dita Von Teese “Glorified Girl” lingerie, bloomingdales.com

34 40

MAGAZINE

56

GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

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HEY, SOUL SISTER Exclusive interview with the soulful singer, Sy Smith FASHION IS SPORT We look at the trend toward sneakers and sports-style DELANO STYLE We head to Delano Las Vegas to capture a touch of leather LIKE CLOCKWORK A Clockwork Orange inspires our graphic photographic story CATCH THE WIND Our windswept story takes place at chilly Lake Sabrina LA DOLCE DITA Dita Von Teese, the burlesque queen, on the politics of lingerie IRENA MEDAVOY The fun-loving philanthropist has it all—and more.

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www.carmensteffens.com

Exclusive Handcrafted Women’s Shoes, Handbags and Accessories Hollywood & Highland Center (323) 466-2459 / Glendale Galleria (818) 500-2817 Buenos Aires Cannes Las Vegas Madrid Rio de Janeiro São Paulo 300 Stores - 18 Countries

MAGAZINE

GENLUXSHOP 80

79

Amanda Eliasch: Life in London and Los Angeles Laura Dunn: Can’t live without...

Jetsetter: Elizabeth Chambers Shop for a Cause: Great items that give back Closet Desires: Fashion’s best Yin-Yang, and Boot-ilicious Getaways: Big Sur’s Ventana Inn, New York’s The Towers Interior Motives: Sherryl White’s cool, loungy finds Out-of-Towner: Fashion designer Philipp Plein

Beauty Picks: Cecilia’s faves

81 82 83 92

Fashion Profile: Designer Shahla Dorriz

Beauty News: Dr. Aronowitz’s stunning new serum Shape Shifter: Diego Calvo gets us back in shape

Designer Profile: Boot designer Caroline Salvia High-Tech Gadgets: Fun and functional new toys Tequila Wars: Jeff Lipsman picks the winning Tequila

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More...

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Samia’s Picks: Check out her winter favorites

Beauty.

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Editor’s Note: A message from Samia Arslane

EveryIssue.

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MAGAZINE

GENLUX Publisher / Editorial Director: Cecilia Moreno Editor in Chief: Samia Arslane Creative Director / Photo Editor: Stephen Kamifuji Fashion Editor: Amanda Eliasch Fashion Director: Laura Dunn Style and Fashion Director: Chriselle Lim Beauty Editor: Beau Dunn Food+Wine Editor: Jeff Lipsman Home Design Editor: Sherryl White Philanthropy Editor: Catherine Williams National Advertising Director: Alan Thavisouk VP of Advertising: Rhonda Zakhor Copy Editor: Larry Lederman Financial Director: Marc Meshekow Director Human Resources: Yolanda Garcia Assistant to Editor in Chief: Elodie Daspergruber Contributing Editors: Christine Chiu, Stephen Christopher, Courtney Fortune, Dr. Ezra Kest, Tracy O’Connor, Anna Shay, Cheryl Woodcock Contributing Photographers: Rob LaTour, Tracey Morris, Geoffrey Ragatz Public Relations: Mannfolk Public Relations

Winter Issue ©2014 by Genlux Magazine™, LLC., All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission from Genlux Magazine.

To advertise: Contact Cecilia@genlux.com or call 310-275-5700

Preen dress, Alice+Olivia skirt, Vivienne Westwood heart suspenders, Charles Albert gold earrings, charlesalbert.com

14 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

MAGAZINE

GENLUX 2015. Time for reflection.

A while ago I came across a quote by Tom Ford that resonated with me. He said, “Choose your team carefully. So much of your success is due to the people who you surround yourself with. Your friends, your family, and the people you work with—they all play an important role in inspiring you and supporting you and giving you stability.

These are the people in your life who will be honest with you.”

I already knew this, but I had forgotten to apply it to my life. So merci beaucoup, Monsieur Ford, I am starting 2015 with a new mindset, also reflecting on the past and setting higher goals for the future.

Actually, 2015 is a very important year for us. In the spring, we’ll be celebrating our tenth anniversary. I can’t believe it’s been a decade already! It’s amazing how time flies when you enjoy what you do. Over the years we’ve been fortunate to work with incredible talent from Jessica Alba to Academy Award–winner Helen Mirren, Grammy-winning recording artist Mary J Blige, Olivia Wilde, Mila Kunis, Lydia Hearst, Dita Von Teese (our cover girl this month for the third time)…and the list goes on. Exceptional photographers, stylists, hair stylists, makeup artists…thank you all!

In this issue, our fine editors bring you the latest trends in fashion, beauty, accessories, and even technology. For our cover shoot, photographer

16 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

Tracy Morris was able to once again capture the essence of the magnetic brunette Dita Von Teese— so mysterious and playful at the same time. She embodies “La Dolce Dita.” (p56) Apart from the gorgeous and fashion-forward editorial shoots, we bring you fun stories on our GenluxShop side. See the gadgets list our staff put together, and tell us your thoughts. (p83) My fave is the drone, which is a pretty cool gadget to have around, especially if you’re dying to spy on your neighbors. If you own a laptop (who doesn’t?) but could never find the perfect bag for it, pay a visit to page 85 and see if you like our selection of laptop bags. On my editor’s picks, I’m featuring a few items in my best-loved color, lavender/lilac, which is also my new obsession (I have one every issue), and my favorite stone, amethyst. (p20) In a couple of months, Fashion Week will be starting again. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and on our Facebook page to see which shows I’ll be attending in Paris and Milan. Ciao, amore!

Lastly, be on the lookout for our upcoming spring issue with lots of fun stories, fitness profiles, spa escapes, SS15 fashion trends, and much more.

Bisous, mes chéris!

© 2 0 1 5 A PAT R I A R C H C o R P o R AT I o n ™ C o m PA n y

PAT R I A R C H . s H o e s

GENLUX GADABOUTS: THE CHILD NEUROLOGY FOUNDATION INAUGURAL LOS ANGELES GALA AND FUNDRAISER HONORING JOHN AND LAURIAN SCOTT PHOTOS BY GETTY IMAGES

Amy Brin Miller, Stacia Grace, Dr. Shafali Spurling Jeste Lee Ballew, Lindsay Ballew, John Scott, Laurian Scott, Dabney Day, Aslan Williams

Parent advocate honorees John and Laurian Scott accepted the ‘Hero of Promise Award’ established in their name at A Heroes Dinner at the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.

Judy Chang, Samia Arslane

Loni Carlston, Steve Carlston

The event, hosted by the Child Neurology Foundation (CNF), recognized the couple for their extraordinary contribution to child neurology in trailblazing the path of discovery to a rare gene for neuromuscular genetic killer Brown-Vialetto Van-Laere, a disease that took the lives of their two young children, Thisbe and Noah.

Proceeds will support CNF’s mission to ensure optimal care for all children living with a neurological disease.

Guests Don and Linda Bailey from A Little Help Foundation pledged a grant to CNF for 100K per year for the next five years in support of the foundation’s ongoing work. More

than 200 guests enjoyed cocktails, a four-course dinner, and an exceptional performance by guitar virtuoso Billy McLaughlin.

Friend of the Scott family, actress Wendie Malick from hit series “Hot in Cleveland,” made use of her fine wit and excellent comedic timing as emcee of the evening’s festivities.

A Heroes Dinner was generously supported by Eisai, Inc, The Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation, Division of Pediatric Neurology at Mattel Children’s Hospital and the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals: Autoimmune and Rare Diseases Business, and Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

Wendie Malick

Drew Kenney, Amy Long Demi Moore

Dr. William Trescher, Dr. Phyllis Sher, Dr. Kenneth Swaiman, Linda Bailey, Don Bailey, Dr. Shafali Spurling Jeste, Dr. Don Shields

18 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

GENLUX GADABOUTS: THE BLUE RIBBON / ELIE SAAB FASHION SHOW PHOTOS BY DONATO SARDELLA/GETTY IMAGES

Ghada Irani, Elie Saab, Claudine Saab

Elie Saa

b 2015

Carla Sands,

Elie Saab

Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills was the setting for a luncheon and Elie Saab fashion show co-hosted by The Blue Ribbon of the Los Angeles Music Center. The event marked the first visit by Saab to Los Angeles and featured his 2015 ready-to-wear collection. Saab was joined by his wife, Claudine and son, Elie Saab, Jr. The 250 guests, many wearing Elie Saab designs, were welcomed

by Blue Ribbon President Carla

Spring

RTW Co ll

ection

Sands along with Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills General Manager Ariela Shani, both sporting elegant pieces from the designer’s collection. Jim Gold, President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Neiman Marcus, had jetted in from Dallas for the occasion and was joined by Richard Samuelson, Senior VP and Director of Stores, West Coast for Neiman Marcus and Elie Saab VP Mauro Grimaldi.

Elie Saab, Samia Arslane

e Chiu

Judy Chang, Christin

Jim Gold, Carla Sands, Elie Saab, Ariela Shani

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 19

EDITOR’S PICKS

Enjoy my picks and let me know what you think! –Samia Arslane samia@genlux.com / Intagram: @samazia / Twitter: @SamiaArslane

Elisabeth Weinstock boxing gloves in sueded Italian water snake, $1450, Elisabeth Weinstock, LA, 310-275-2300

Dolce & Gabbana The One Collector’s Edition, $113, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211

Chopard Imperiale 18K white gold ring featuring 1.74 carats of amethysts and 0.35 carats of diamonds, $9040, us.chopard.com.

Meghna Jewels Bora Bora 18K gold earrings with sterling silver, 4.39 carats of white diamonds; 20.57 carats of amethyst, black rhodium plated, $6380, meghnajewels.com

NARS Hardwired eyeshadow, $25, NARS, West Hollywood, 310-623-1730, narscosmetics.com

Essie Play Date, $8.50, essie.com

Uni K Wax high-precision tweezers, $11, UniKWax.com Elie Saab Haute Couture FW15, eliesaab.com

20 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

Tod’s D-Cube shopping bag in lavender, $1925, Tod’s, Beverly Hills, 310-285-0591, tods.com

top of the top.

The Rodeo Penthouse. The only venue of its kind on Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills’ most glamorous destination.

A Member of L.E. Hotels

The Rodeo Penthouse at the Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel features exclusive 360º views of Beverly Hills for your wedding, corporate meeting and social celebrations with space for up to 200 guests.

LUXERODEO.COM

310 27321 030 0 WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX

HEY, SOUL SISTER

Meet jazz- and soul-style songstress Sy Smith. The talented singer first wowed us when she performed at our Chris Botti concert on Rodeo Drive. Every year, Sy and her generous friends donate an animal or two to Heifer International

Photography by Tracey Morris / OliveHead.com Stylist: Holly Copeland / TheRexAgency.com Makeup: Jen Fiamengo / CelestineAgency.com Hair: Miho Suzuki / Wilhelmina Artists using Bumble and bumble Digital Tech: Robert Morris Lighting Assistant: Darren Stone Location: The Lodge Beverly Hills / LodgeBeverlyHills.com Art Direction: Stephen Kamifuji

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Maria Lucia Hohan gown, marialuciahohan.com, M.C.L. by Matthew Campbell Laurenza pavé square ring and black pavé earrings, mcldesign.net

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Ritual black satin gown, makelifearitual.com 24 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

HEY, SOUL SISTER The vivacious Sy Smith answers our Genlux Two-Word Questionnaire.

Your passion?

Performing! I’ve always been a performer. Even when I was little, I would tell stories, jokes, play piano. Singing came much later, actually.

tions that go with experiencing an HBCU [historically Black college & university], it was the best decision I had ever made. And finishing with a degree—magna cum laude, I might add! That was the icing on a very delicious cake.

Your heroes?

My mother and father. My mother has never let any adversity slow her down. Even confined to a wheelchair, she leads her community in preservation of local history, educating young folk, and bringing people of all backgrounds together! I love that woman. My father has always taught me the importance of excellence and to always strive to be at the top of my game. He also taught me how to laugh at life. Sometimes that lesson proves to be the most important.

Favorite quote?

There’s an African proverb I love: “If you can walk, you can dance. If you can talk, you can sing.” There’s something very liberating about dancing like no one is looking, and singing like you’re in the shower!

Favorite getaway?

Um...anywhere in Italy! Seriously. I love Italy and all things Italian. The Tuscany region and the island of Capri are my favorites so far. I shot a video there called The Art of You, and you can see the absolute joy as I’m twirling in the streets!

Your loves?

My husband and best friend, Shawn Carter Peterson. And our puppy, Djinji. I can’t explain how much love this giant furball has brought to our lives! How does that happen? All I know is, if you wanna be my friend, you gotta be down with my doggy! Ha ha…

DNA change?

Ah, man. I’m hypercritical…of myself, of everything around me. It’s a terrible characteristic.

Favorite song?

Ooh, this is a tough one. I think “I Can’t Help It” by Michael Jackson on his Off the Wall album.

This song is such a perfect example of how it feels to be so vulnerably in love, and MJ’s delivery is nothing short of perfect. Whenever I listen to it, I’m brought to tears because I know that feeling so well. And I revel in it.

Next life?

I’d like to come back as a gazelle…experiencing the rush of running full-speed through some picturesque savannah with the sun beaming and the wind blowing! I know that at some point I might be taken down by a cheetah or something, but that’s just the cycle of life, right?

Favorite charity?

I truly admire the work of Heifer International.

They provide farm animals to families to help give them a leg up in sustaining their livelihoods and growing small businesses. Every year, my closest friends pull together to donate an animal or two to a family in need. Their website is heifer.org.

Favorite ice cream?

Coffee. And coffee.

Musical memory?

You’re reading?

I’m re-reading Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God. Hurston’s writing is so powerful…so tactile and visual.

Happiest moment?

Graduating from Howard University in Washington, DC. Oh, man, it was a bittersweet joy… because once you leave college, you’re in the real world—for real! With all the culture and tradi-

Going to see a musical called Your Arms Too Short to Box With God at the Warner Theatre in Washington, DC. My mom and I had front-row seats. Patti LaBelle was in the leading role, and at the end of the show, in true Patti form, she jumped off the stage and came up to me and sang! She got me out of my seat and just slayed me something fierce! I was about seven years old. I said to myself that night, “I wanna do that when I grow up!” Hopefully, I’m coming pretty close.

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 25

Sachin+Babi top, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211 American Apparel wristbands, americanapparel.net

26 82 GENLUX GENLUX WINTER SUMMER2014/15 / 2014

FASHION iS A SPORT Ready for fashion battle?

Put on your sweatbands and slip into your sneakers.

It’s game time!

Photographer: Tracey Morris / OliveHead.com Stylist: Holly Copeland / Rex Agency Model: Kristin Hoppe / Ford Models Makeup: Anna Branson / Rex Agency Hair: Robert Steinken for Rene Furterer / Cloutier Remix Digital Tech: Robert Morris Photo Assistant: Darren Stone Art Direction: Stephen Kamifuji

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX8327 SUMMER / 2014 GENLUX

Preen dress, Alice+Olivia skirt, Marc by Marc Jacobs sneakers, Vivienne Westwood heart suspenders, Charles Albert gold earrings, CHANEL tights, American Apparel two-tone socks

84 GENLUX WINTER 28 SUMMER2014/15 / 2014

Thomas Wylde zippered jacket, Endless Rose sequin top, Vivienne Westwood heart skirt, Melody Ehsani Eye in Eye earrings

WINTER SUMMER 2014/15 / 2014GENLUX GENLUX 29 85

Marc by Marc Jacobs dress, Missoni jacket, Sunday Somewhere circle sunglasses

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Valentino dress, Vivienne Westwood scarf and belt, Marc by Marc Jacobs shoe, Hue tights, Melody Ehsani acrylic earrings

WINTER SUMMER2014/15 / 2014 GENLUX 87 31

Stella McCartney mini dress, Alice + Olivia turtleneck, Vivienne Westwood zippered jacket, Hue tights, American Apparel wristband, Melody Ehsani for Reebok Classic shoe

88 GENLUX WINTER 32 SUMMER2014/15 / 2014

CHANEL sweater, CHANEL skirt, CHANEL cuff, CHANEL tights, CHANEL shoe,

American Apparel wristband

Givenchy blouse and skirt, Barbara Bui jacket (around waist), MCL by Matthew Campbell Laurenza cuff, Hue tights, CHANEL sneakers

HOLIDAY SUMMER2014/15 / 2014 GENLUX 33 89

Location: Delano Las Vegas gallery.

Alexander McQueen dress, $3245; leggings, $685, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211 Jimmy Choo leather boot, $1395, Jimmy Choo, Beverly Hills, 310-860-9045 Gaspar Gloves, gaspargloves.com

34 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

DELANO STYLE

We head over to the stunning new DELANO Las Vegas—the perfect backdrop for the season’s modern, chic and sleek fashion.

Photographer: Tracey Morris / OliveHead.com Stylist: Holly Copeland / Rex Agency Model: Daria Pershina / LA Models Makeup: Anna Branson / Rex Agency Hair: Robert Steinken using Bumble and bumble / CloutierRemix Agency Digital Tech: Robert Morris Photo Assistant: Isaiah Howard Art Direction: Stephen Kamifuji Location: Delano Las Vegas / DelanoLasVegas.com

HOLIDAY 2014/15 GENLUX 35

Location: Delano Las Vegas.

Salvatore Ferragamo dress, $2670; handbag, $2050; boot, $2250, Salvatore Ferragamo boutiques, 866-337-7242

36 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Dolce & Gabbana cardigan, $1495; top, $1125; skirt, $1775, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly HIlls, 310-275-4211 Jimmy Choo leather boot, $1995, Jimmy Choo, Rodeo Drive, 310-860-9045 Thomas Wylde clutch, $1500, thomaswylde.com

HOLIDAY 2014/15 GENLUX 37

38 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Location: Boulders at Delano Las Vegas entrance.

Gucci top, $3500; pant, $4900; boot, $995; hobo bag, $2990, Gucci, Rodeo Drive, 310-278-3451 Gaspar Gloves, gaspargloves.com

HOLIDAY 2014/15 GENLUX 39

Escada Sport Lesani jacket, $1450, Escada, Beverly Hills, 310-271-0034

40 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Location: Boulders at Delano Las Vegas entrance.

Valentino drape dress, $8690, Valentino, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310-247-0103

HOLIDAY WINTER 2014/15 2014/15 GENLUX 41 39

Location: Entrance to Delano Las Vegas.

Oscar de la Renta blouse, $2990; skirt, $1690; bootie, $1295, Oscar de la Renta, Melrose Place, 323-653-0200

42 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Location: Bathhouse Spa at Delano Las Vegas.

Marc Jacobs tunic, $3200; pant, $2600; shoe, $945, Marc Jacobs, Melrose, LA 323-653-5100 Thomas Wylde handbag, $2000, thomaswylde.com

HOLIDAY 2014/15 GENLUX 43

Location: Gallery at Delano Las Vegas.

CHANEL jacket, $9700; pant, $3800; CHANEL lambskin gloves, $1700; CHANEL metal and plexiglas bracelets, $1400 each, CHANEL, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310-278-5055 Gucci boot, $995, Gucci, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310-278-3451

44 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Stella McCartney dress, $1125; shoe, $1040, Stella McCartney, LA, 310-273-7051

HOLIDAY 2014/15 GENLUX 45

Stella McCartney coat, $4330; sweater, $870; pant, $770, Stella McCartney, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211 CHANEL sneakers, $1690, CHANEL, Rodeo Drive, 310-278-5500

Photographer: Tracey Morris / OliveHead.com Stylist: Holly Copeland / Rex Agency Model: Daria Pershina / LA Models Makeup: Anna Branson / Rex Agency Hair: Robert Steinken using Oribe Hair Care / Cloutier Remix Digital Tech: Robert Morris Photo Assistant: Isaiah Howard Art Direction: Stephen Kamifuji Location: Delano Las Vegas / DelanoLasVegas.com

46 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Inspired by the style of Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange, Genlux checks into DELANO Las Vegas for a modern photographic take on the 70s film classic

LIKE CLOCKWORK

HOLIDAY 2014/15 GENLUX 47

Escada blazer, $1925; pant, $1125, Escada, Beverly Hills, 310-271-0034 Jimmy Choo Gala shoe, $595, Jimmy Choo boutiques, jimmychoo.com

48 GENLUX HOLIDAY 2014/15

Paper London top, $555, pant, $520, paperlondon.com Jimmy Choo Gala shoe, $595, jimmychoo.com.

Gaspar gloves, gaspargloves.com

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 49

Valentino shirt, $1390; skirt, $8690, Valentino, Rodeo Drive, 310-247-0103 Vivienne Westwood Man braces, $220, Vivienne Westwood, LA, 323-951-0021 Jimmy Choo Hutch boot, $1150, Jimmy Choo, Rodeo Drive, 310-860-9045 jimmychoo.com

50 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

Valentino shirt, $1390; Valentino skirt, $8690, Valentino, Rodeo Drive, 310-247-0103 Vivienne Westwood Man braces, $220, Vivienne Westwood, LA, 323-951-0021

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 51

Cristiano Burani blouse, $598, CristianoBurani.it CHANEL skirt, $3100, select CHANEL boutiques, 800-550-0005 Baccarat crystal ring, $695, us.baccarat.com Jimmy Choo Hutch boot, $1150, Jimmy Choo, Rodeo Drive, 310-860-9045

52 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 53

Givenchy jumpsuit, $3390, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211 Gucci boot, $995, Gucci, Rodeo Drive, 310-278-3451 Gaspar gloves, gaspargloves.com Pluma necklace, $172, forzieri.com MCL by Matthew Campbell Laurenza ring, $780, mcldesign.net

1658

54 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

Vivienne Westwood Red Label longsleeve shirt, $675, Jimmy Choo Hutch boot, $1150, Jimmy Choo, Rodeo Drive, 310-860-9045 jimmychoo.com

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 55

Band of Outsiders jacket, $1100, nordstrom.com Herve Leger sweater, $990, herveleger.com Karen Millen skirt, $225, Bloomingdale’s, Beverly Center, 310360-2700 Spanx tights, $28, spanx.com Aska shoe, $300, askacollection.com

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CATCH THE WIND Photographer Geoff Ragatz and stylist Bruno Lima take us to California’s chilly Lake Sabrina for a peek into the season’s varied textures

Photography: Geoff Ragatz / RagatzPhoto.com Stylist: Bruno Lima / Exclusive Artists Hair/Makeup: Blondie / Exclusive Artists using NARS Model: Olivia Karina / PhotogenicsMedia.com Digital Retouch: Andi Kuonath /redfishblack.com Special thanks to Parcher’s Resort, Bishop, California Art Direction: Stephen Kamifuji

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Tom Ford sliced patent-leather long-sleeve top, $5860; Tom Ford sliced patent-leather skirt, $3400, tomford.com Giuseppe Zanotti shoe, $1117, giuseppezanottidesign.com Kelly Wearstler necklace, kellywearstler.com

WINTER SUMMER2014/15 / 2014 GENLUX 59 85

Maje jacket, $565, Bloomingdale’s, Beverly Center, 310-360-4888 BCBG top, $120, bcbg.com Zimmerman skirt, $695, zimmermannwear.com Wolford tights, $55, wolfordshop.com L.A.M.B. shoe, shoplamb.com Swarovski earrings, $150, swarovski.com

86 GENLUX WINTER 60 SUMMER2014/15 / 2014

Maje jacket, $565, Bloomingdale’s, Beverly Center, 310-360-4888 BCBG top, $120, bcbg.com Zimmerman skirt, $695, zimmermannwear.com Wolford tights, $55, wolfordshop.com L.A.M.B. shoe, shoplamb.com Swarovski earrings, $150, swarovski.com

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 61

Dita Von Teese, the undisputed queen of neo-burlesque, is as renowned for having her clothes off as on. In 2013, Vanity Fair named her on their international best-dressed list, and last year, Jean Paul Gaultier flew her to Paris to walk in his fashion show for the third time. Our STEPHEN CHRISTOPHER caught up with Dita to find out about her life-long obsession with, and controversy that surrounds her lingerie.

LA DOLCE DITA Photographer: Tracey Morris / OliveHead.com Stylist: Angel Terrazas / Wilhelmina Artists Makeup: Camille Clark / AimArtist.com Hair: John Blaine / CrosbyCarterMgmt.com Digital Tech: Robert Morris Stylist’s Assistant: Melissa Imperial Photo Assistant: Isaiah Howard Location: Special thanks to George Judah at Sculpture Design Imports 416 South Robertson Blvd, LA, 310-858-8266, sculpturedesign.com

82 GENLUX WINTER 62 SUMMER2014/15 / 2014

Dita with “Angel of Annunciation” sculpture carved in Italy from Carrara white marble, $29,000, Sculpture Design Imports, sculpturedesign.com Cristiano Burani cape, cristianoburani.it Dita Von Teese “Maestra” lingerie, Nordstrom, Journelle, Bloomingdale’s, Bare Necessities, Farmer’s, Myer, Figleaves, Susa, ASOS, Glamuse Vanessa Leu ring, vanessaleu.com

WINTER SUMMER2014/15 / 2014 GENLUX 63 83

Valentino red patentleather jacket, Valentino, Beverly Hills, 310-247-0103 Vanessa Leu earrings, $6120, vanessaleu.com Dita Von Teese “Glorified Girl” lingerie, Nordstrom, Journelle, Bloomingdale’s, Bare Necessities, Farmer’s, Myer, Figleaves, Susa, ASOS, Glamuse Dita Von Teese gloves, DitaVonTeeseGloves.com; Just One Eye, LA, teese.us/justoneeye

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LA DOLCE DITA “I’m a girl’s girl,” burlesque-queen-turned-lingerie-designer Dita Von Teese tells me over a grilled salmon (no skin, please) lunch at the Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive. “I’m the girl you could leave your husband or boyfriend alone with, and if he hit on me, it wouldn’t take me longer than five minutes to say, ‘hey, your boyfriend just put some moves on me.’”

More proof that Dita’s a girl’s girl is the audience for her burlesque shows—almost all female. Her latest, “Strip, Strip, Hooray!” is an amalgam of neo-burlesque performers of different ages and shapes. “Women find it inspiring, because it’s a beauty and sensuality that’s attainable and created. It’s not about what you’re born with, it’s about what you make. Take the Victoria’s Secret supermodels—now that’s a kind of sensuality that you have to be born with. Those girls are like racehorses. We’re not all racehorses—some of us can be show ponies—and we can be great if we want to be.”

Today, Dita’s wearing an Elie Saab dress that she says fits her code: below the knee, figure-flattering, curvy, simple, not too retro. As always, her makeup is flawless. She uses M·A·C, and why not, as an ex-Viva Glam ad campaign model, she holds a pretty cool perk—the “Z-Card,” a carte-blanche card that lets her have whatever she wants from any M·A·C counter.

A tad into her 40s, the self-actualized Michigan-born beauty still stuns when performing her now-famous giant martini glass act, and, with clothes on, she’s noted as one of the most fashionable women in the world. In 2013, she made the prestigious Vanity Fair International Best-Dressed list. Last year, she walked in, and closed out, the Jean Paul Gaultier haute couture fashion show (her third time).

Recently, Destination Maternity invited Dita to design a collection of black-lace bras for new mothers. Some critics… well, one in particular, stuck her neck out by saying the collection was not what young mothers desired—that the last thing a new mother wanted was attention to her engorged and overly sensitive breasts. The Von Teese cavalry rose en masse, posting responses that basically told the writer how wrong she was and where she could go.

“It’s divided,” Dita explains. “Some people only see lingerie as for sex, but more and more women are embracing their sensuality, reading erotica, and going to burlesque shows. Black lace looks good on anybody. It’s elegant and erotic at the same time.”

Long before Victoria’s Secret’s sexy lingerie ‘fashion’ shows were televised extravaganzas, Dita Von Teese was a young girl secretly obsessed with lingerie. At 6, she’d steal away with her mother’s, just to touch it. Her first job was working at a lingerie boutique in Orange County. As her obsession grew, controversy soon followed. “When I was 15, I remember so well, when I used to hand-wash my nice lingerie and hang them in my bathroom, my father would be super-offended. Now that I’m old enough to process it, my father probably associated lingerie with sex and seduction.

And that’s what he was projecting onto me.”

Dita takes out her iPhone and shows me what photo gets the most ‘likes’ on Instagram. Surprisingly, it’s not a shot from one of her famous burlesque shows, or one of her in sexy black lace—it’s a rather sedate photo of her, covered from head to toe, in front of a log cabin at Christmas.

“There’s not a lot of pictures of me, because I don’t often do selfies. I hate to even say the word.” Now that she’s officially disconnected her Facebook account, claiming too much unnecessary drama, she’s focused on Twitter (1.7 million followers) and a new app called WhoSay that feeds all her social media channels.

Just this morning, she attended financial meetings with attorneys and accountants. “Super boring,” she says, groaning, “I’m getting my situation in order—trying to be more present and knowledgeable in my endeavors. I get very Joan Crawford. I get dressed up and made up for them, and I go into the meeting wanting to understand everything. There’s less chance of being screwed over when you’re present. It’s easy in this business to get taken advantage of.

Since I don’t have a husband or dad to watch out for me, I have to look out for myself.”

With that, Dita confidently takes out her compact and refreshes her lip gloss, as she’s about to leave, and sums up the welcome timing of her new lingerie and glove collection: “I can’t be bathing in a giant martini glass forever…can I? It all has to evolve, as it’s meant to.”

“My first crush was Paul and the Beatles. I freaken’ just loved Paul McCartney. In my home-ec class I made a Paul McCartney doll with

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Dita in the “Gazebo Pompadour” tan marble, $26,000, carved in Italy, Sculpture Design Imports, sculpturedesign.com Cristiano Burani jacket, cristianoburani.it Dita Von Teese “Black Dahlia” lingerie, Nordstrom, Journelle, Bloomingdale’s, Bare Necessities, Myer, Figleaves, ASOS, Glamuse Dita Von Teese for Secrets in Lace hosiery, stockings.dita.net Sonia Rykiel coat, Dita’s own

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“Take The VicToria’s secreT supermodels— now that’s a kind of sensualiTy ThaT you haVe To be born wiTh. Those girls are like racehorses. we’re noT all racehorses— some of us can be show ponies.”

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 67

EVENTS

GENLUXSHOP EDI

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R’S

PIC

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INVITING ALL GENLUXERS! LOUIS VUITTON “SERIES 2 – PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE” EXHIBITION

Naturally, Los Angeles would be chosen as the first destination for the unconventional exhibition, Louis Vuitton Series 2 – Past, Present and Future.

The Series 2 exhibit is a modern and unexpected interpretation of a fashion show that contextualizes the Spring Summer 2015 Women’s RTW collection, conceived by

68 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

Women’s Artistic Director Nicolas Ghesquière. The exhibit allows visitors to explore the creative process behind the collection through a series of distinctive rooms that thematically share his influences and inspirations as well as the excitement of the fashion show experience.

The exhibition runs from February 6 to 22 at 1135 North Highland Avenue, LA, and is open to the public daily. #LVSeries2

M AGA Z I N E

GENLUX Peter Pilotto dress, peterpilotto.com Shoes and jewelry, Irena’s own

FASHION+PHILANTHROPY

As far as we can tell, tall, bright-eyed blonde Irena Medavoy has it all.

Stunning good looks, a loving super-producer hubby, a beautiful home, jetset lifestyle and the heart to support her favorite charities.

But as our

STEPHEN CHRISTOPHER

discovers, her best virtue might be what her friends love most about her—that prodigiously zany sense of humor.

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IRENA MEDAVOY Socialites generally aren’t the sorts to bust an interpretive dance move for our camera. So at our photoshoot when philanthropist Irena Medavoy starts gyrating with arms darting dramatically upward—spinning on her heels and making hysterical Zoolander-like expressions—we relish her crazy antics, and can’t help but fall in love.

Even off-camera, Irena’s not-afraid-to-be-silly realness pulverizes any pretentiousness as she shouts self-deprecating lines that have us all rolling. “Shall we lose the Spanx? Yes! Yes! Let’s lose the Spanx!”

Her friends, like Dr. Cheryl Saban, agree: “Irena is one of the funniest, most spontaneous people I know. Hands down, she is a fiercely loyal friend—a devoted and adoring mother and wife, and honestly, an angel in our midst. I adore her!”

Irena’s an equally funny story-teller like this one about her first crush. “I freaken’ just loved Paul McCartney and the Beatles. In my home-ec class I made a Paul McCartney doll with his face from Teen Beat magazine plastered on it. I slept with this doll until my mom finally got rid of it, because she thought it was so pathetic. Fast-forward to one night my husband Mike and I are at Mr. Chow’s having dinner after a Paul McCartney concert and guess who walks in the door! Paul…McCartney! Now you have to understand, ever yone comes to our house, and I never care. I admire them, but I’m not swooning. So here’s Paul and he walks right up to our table and my husband introduces me to him as his wife, and I shout, ‘Paul, you’re the first man I ever slept with!’ And everybody at the table is shocked and goes ‘What? What?’ Mike says, ‘What?’ Paul must have thought I was a groupie from his past. So I try to explain to him, ‘No, no! There was this doll!’ He looks confused and embarrassed and I’m embarrassed. ‘No! No! There was a doll.’ The next time I ran into Paul, he laughed and joked, ‘Oh, yeah, you’re the only one I didn’t sleep with.’”

Of her early dating life, Irena laughs, “Oh, no, are you kidding me? I never dated—I married everybody. I’ve been married four times. I’m the Elizabeth Taylor of this generation. In my 20s I married just because I thought that’s what you did. I thought if he asked, you said yes.

But in my 30s, 40s, and 50s, I’ve been married to Mike.”

Hubby is movie producer Mike Medavoy, who, with over 318 titles under his belt, has touched most of the best American films of the past 40 years. Gems like One Fle w Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Rock y, Annie Hall, Apocalypse Now, Raging Bull, Network, Amadeus, Dances with Wolves, Silence of the Lambs, Black Swan—you get the picture.

The couple have one son together, Nick, 17, who stands 6-foot-8. Irena recalls the day he was born like it was yesterday, “Mike cut the cord, and with baby Nick in his arms, danced and sang “Singin’ in the Rain.” It was a poignant moment because my mother was dying in our house just as my son was born—a juxtaposition of the frailty of life and birth. It was the most amazing moment. My son is just…I have no words. The only thing I ever wanted in life was to be a mom. I only wanted to be a mom.”

The Los Angeles–born beauty twirls on the heels of her Stuart Weitzman 50/50 high boots, “I love these boots—they’re like sexy Uggs!” she exclaims, “I wear them with everything.” By everything, she means ever ything. Her closet is a showcase of Dolce & Gabanna, YSL, Ralph Lauren, Chanel, and, of course, Louis Vuitton. “I love LV— always have, always will. I just got two of the light roll-on bags for Christmas.”

The luggage came just in time. She’s on her way to Paris for the Chanel and Dior Fall/15 couture shows with fashionable friend Florence Azria. While there, they’ll be hitting the exclusive party of a other BFF, Tania Fares.

Born Irena Gerasimenko, she grew up in Hollywood, attended Hollywood High, and her first gig was, naturally, at the Hollywood Reporter. Irena was inspired by her mentor, publisher Tichi Wilkerson Miles (who later wed Arthur Kassel). A ful ride scholarship took her to USC, but after

“My first crush was Paul and the Beatles. I freaken’ just loved Paul McCartney. In my home-ec class I made a Paul McCartney doll with his face from Teen Beat magazine plastered on it.

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MaxMara cream jumpsuit, MaxMara, Beverly Hills, 310-385-9343; maxmara.com

Photographer: Tracey Morris / OliveHead.com Stylist: Mimi Le / missmimile.com Makeup: Ashley Bourdon / ArtMix Hair: Ashley Lynn Hall / One Management using Drybar and T3 Micro Digital Tech: Robert Morris Art Direction: Stephen Kamifuji

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IRENA MEDAVOY

Irena in the kitchen of her Beverly Hills home wearing Stella McCartney blue blazer and white blouse, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211 stellamccartney.com Stuart Weitzan boot, Stuart Weitzman, Beverly Hills, 310-860-9600

Some of Irena’s Favorite Things: Restaurant: Craig’s Getaway: The Brando, Tahiti, the most romantic place in the world Dream: Of Paris Quote: “Never, never, never give up.”

– Winston Churchill Interior Designer: Michael Smith Color: Blue Ice cream: Chocolate Chip Face Cream: La Mer Perfume: Carolina Herrera Books: ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ ‘War and Peace’ Artist: Ed Ruscha Movie: The original Pride and Prejudice Actor: Leo DiCaprio Musician: Paul McCartney TV Show: Modern Family Fashion Designer: Tom Ford Animal: My German Shepherd, Jackson Flower: Pink Peony Tree: Huge, big, bold, old olive tree Wine: Petrus Person: Mike

two years, she left for Sunn Classic Pictures’ PR department.

After that, a successful modeling career, some acting roles and then work on QVC. It’s been ten years since Irena was at the center of the Beverly Hills Botox case that started with “the most regrettable decision of my life: to allow Botox to be injected in the back of my neck, spine, and all over my head to cure my migraine headaches.” It led to her trial against Allergan, where she alleged that she’d been seriously and life-alteringly harmed by the spread of the formula throughout her body. While she didn’t succeed at trial, the FDA has since “approved the following revisions to the prescribing information of Botox Cosmetic: A Boxed Warning highlighting the possibility of experiencing potentially life-threatening distant spread of toxin effect from the injection site after local injection.”

Irena’s passion lies with her charity efforts—especially those involving children. She was the founder of Team Safe-T and a charity executive and fundraiser for the Industry Task Force. She was the co-chair of Coach for Kids at CedarsSinai, and she works with Georgie Smith on a charity that provides a home for foster kids who age-out at 18, A Sense of Home (asenseofhome.org).

It’s only natural that the blonde beauty, who appears twenty-years younger, would get into the skincare game.

Along with pals Mareva Georges, Nicole Avant, Laura Dern and Sybil Robson Orr, she’s launching a special Tahitianformula product. “Going back into business is exciting— especially with these wonderful partners.” If the secret coconut oil concoction has anything to do with Irena’s youthful appearance, she’s on the right track. G

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AMANDA eliAsch Vita Fede Renata 24K goldplated brass necklace, $225, vitafede.com

Fashion Editor

Charlotte Olympia Minerva’s Web bootie, $1295, Charlotte Olympia, Beverly Hills, charlotteolympia.com

Cornelia Guest for Project Gravitas Lyle moto jacket, $375, ProjectGravitas.com I love London and Los Angeles. I am fortunate to live in both.

London is my home where I can be a dame instead of just another broad. Los Angeles is my home for renewal—a place where I never get bored. Where on every street corner there is a tarot card reader or a yoga center. Where it’s easier to find a doctor for any ailment than to find milk. Los Angeles may only be interested in celebrating youth and beauty and is therefore doomed, but it’s also the reverse—a velvet coffin—a pleasant place to live out your final days, and why not? It is sunny almost every day here.

LA is where I work my pelvic floor at the Kundalini Center, clean my teeth at Dr. Fusier ’s, and have my hair colored with Angela Kalinowski . It’s where I have my thicker-the-better eyebrows perfected by Tonya Crooks, and where one can discover Dr. Rassman, the best hair replacement therapist for my, ahem, bald-headed friends (alas, women go bald too). It’s where I visit Dr. Alfred Cohen, brilliant for his facial work, and Dr. Perlman, who gave me a waist (if only

Fausto Puglisi printed silk blouse, $841, silk Cady skirt, $1915; embellished leather jacket, Intermix Robertson, LA, 310-860-0113

I’d known it was so simple and effective I’d have gone long ago).

‘Whatever it takes’ is my view.

Believe it or not, LA is a place where playwright Noël Coward is very popular, where two of his plays are on at the moment: Blithe Spirit, with Angela Lansbury, and one that I produced, T he Vortex, starring Craig Bobby Young.

Los Angeles has brought me so much, including five awards for my film, T he Gun, the Cake and the Butterfly, and the fun and interesting job as fashion editor of Genlux—definitely a magazine to watch and read. Stephen Kamifuji is an incredible creative director with huge imagination.

Los Angeles is a sprawling but inviting city that has so much to offer—just prod it and see. Stroll ‘round in your Saint Laurent heels or new Chanel sneakers and see what the new year brings you. I know that all of this sunshine and vitamin D is making me feel healthier than ever.

David

Louis Vuitton FW14/15

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Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane FW14

Fendi Resort 2015

Koma

MarniFW14/15 Evening Collection 2015 Céline

SS14

THE MOST EXQUISITE HAND-CARVED MARBLE AND LIMESTONE ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS SCULPTURE DESIGN IMPORTS WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 75

416 South Robertson Boulvevard, Los Angeles, California 90048, 310-858-8266, sculpturedesign.com

SERIOUSLY, I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT...

BY LAURA DUNN (THE FABULOUS365.COM BLOGGER)

POOLSIDE PERFECT

I have found the perfect bikini! Marysia has updated the classic bikini, and made it into an upscale work of art. With perfect silhouettes and premium fabrics, this line has captured my heart—and body. My first time seeing one of Marysia’s designs was on my daughter Beau, and I literally begged her to take it off beachside at a resort in Australia...so that I could try it on! The sexy, feminine minimalist design epitomizes poolside style. The perfect choice for our warm holiday adventures!

From $130, marysiaswim.com

BE SCENTSITIVE

After the holidays, what’s the quickest and easiest way to cleanse your home of all of the Christmas scents? Just put an amazing candle in every room, like the Nest Pink Pomelo Grapefruit…with watery green nuances blended with lily of the valley and coriander blossom. This could be just about the cleanest and prettiest scent ever!

Happy New Year…and happy scents to you! nest.com

I JOINED A CULT! The ladies who created ‘Hard Candy’ nail polish, Dineh Mohajer and Jeanne Chavez, are back...and boy, are they bringing their ‘A’ game! Smith & Cult is a brand-new nail lacquer line that glides on like silk, and the saturated, vibrant colors translate right onto the nails.

There’s a gold glitter polish called ‘Shattered Souls’ which, when applied, looks like I spent hours at the salon getting a gel manicure. 30 beautiful colors. smithandcult.com

LET’S CRUISE

Gucci’s Cruise/Resort 2015 collection is so preppy (in such a chic way!), so glamorous (yet so subtle), so elegant (yet so casually chic), and so out of character for Gucci, that it makes me long to be on a yacht in the Mediterranean...with nothing but this collection! I’m swooning for the sequin, striped, cashmere crew neck and the blue crystal ‘Starburst’ sweaters—two sweaters that you can wear so many ways to create so many different looks. Now you may be asking, why is she excited about this nautically preppy collection?

It’s because Gucci took the Gucci glam and married it with preppy chic and had a little cruise collection, baby! Gucci sequin stripe sweater, $1500, gucci.com

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Lupita Nyong’o wearing a Marysia bikini.

Founder of the wildly popular Bird Bakery in San Antonio, Texas, Elizabeth Chambers is an accomplished young lady. The fashionable former model is currently the chief correspondent for the Human Rights Foundation and an ambassador for Aspinal of London.

In 2010, the Texan beauty married actor Armie Hammer. In early December the handsome couple welcomed beautiful baby girl, Harper.

What are you working on?

Photo by: Lilianna Story

I’m currently working on the Free North Korea Initiative for the Human Rights Foundation, 100 Making a Difference, which is a coffee-table book about one hundred of the most philanthropic individuals. I’m also working on expanding Bird Bakery and opening a second location.

My tan Gucci Suede Cage sandals—I’ve worn them to death and love them so much.

Céline black leather tote bag, $2900, Céline, Bergdorf Goodman, NY, 800-558-1855

Where’s your favorite place to escape to? We love Bora Bora

because it’s an easy flight from LA and a complete getaway. For something closer to home, Palm Springs and Santa Barbara.

Name three items you couldn’t leave behind. My phone,

sunglasses, beauty products, and hat. That’s four.

How do you go from day to night without taking your entire closet with you?

What shoes do you bring?

ETSETTER

GENLUXSHOPJ Chambers-Made

GUILTY PLEASURES?

Aspinal of London Marylebone oversized day clutch, $1275, aspinaloflondon.com

I eat pie for breakfast and read books in the bathtub.

Jewelry and shoes. I always have If you could take only one person on at least one pair of earrings and/ vacation with you, who would it be? or a collar necklace in my My husband, Armie. There’s no one bag. I love these Monique else with whom I’d rather be.

Péan earrings for evening, and I live in my black Last album you Gianvito Gianvito Rossi Kate downloaded? I Rossi ankle lace-up bootie, last downloaded booties. $940, bergdorfHaim’s album. goodman.com Monique Péan fossilized The entire album woolly mammoth earrings is pure gold. in 18K recycled rose gold, $4860, Barneys New York, First concert? My first concert Beverly Hills, 310-276-4400 was put on by Kool105, the oldies radio station in Denver. I was in 5th grade, and I’m fairly certain the Beach Boys were present.

What handbags? I’m currently rotating between a black Céline luggage tote and black Givenchy Pandora box crossbody. I also love my Aspinal Marlybone oversized day clutch in grey Nubuck Croc—it’s perfect for a day-to-night transition. I’m an ambassador for Aspinal of London, and am so looking forward to the opening of the first US location in New York this spring.

Favorite items for winter?

Haim, Days Are Gone, $9.99, available on iTunes; haimtheband.com

I love all things cozy and cashmere. Blanket scarves from Acne Studios and Club Monaco…and my favorite coat right now is a wool trench from & Other Stories. We don’t have much use for winter items in LA, but when we travel to be with my family for Christmas each year, I love Burberry’s blanket ponchos—they’re heaven and perfect for Colorado. & Other Stories coat, $275; pants, $100; blouse, $100; bag, $120, & Other Stories, NY, stories.com Burberry Prorsum house check wool cashmere blanket poncho, $1395, burberry.com

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PHILANTHROPY

gENLUXsHOP Shop for a Cause Genlux applauds the designers + brands who donate a portion of their proceeds to charity. Here, our Cat Williams shares a few of them.

Yakira Rona + ASPCA

I love Yakira Rona’s dainty gems, and apparently so does Taylor Swift, who’s been spotted wearing several pieces during her current press tour. Yakira uses her fine jewelry designs as an outlet to support animal rights charities and foster programs. Each sale of the adorable Meow necklace benefits the ASPCA. #TheCaturdayInitiative, Meow necklace, $2250, yakirarona.com

Dina Mackney + Starlight Children’s Foundation

Dina Mackney certainly has my attention with her boldly dramatic jewels! Her show-stopping collection is saturated with color and tempered by the clean, modern lines of her signature bezel settings.

Sales of Dina Mackney products proudly support the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Dina Mackney ring, $598, Neiman Marcus, Beverly Hills, 310-550-5900

Etnia Barcelona + Wild Love in Africa

Fabulously cool glasses designer Etnia Barcelona is collaborating with the NGO Africa Rising Foundation and donating 2% of global sales of their Wild Love in Africa sunglasses to the organization. Wild Love in Africa sunglasses, $212, etniabarcelona.com

David Yurman + Free the Children

Noodle & Boo Gives Back 100%

Noodle & Boo created the Circle of Love campaign to raise awareness and funding for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS in Africa. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the Believe Honey Bar will be donated to Circle of Love. Believe Honey Bar, $10, noodleandboo.com

Jewelry designer David Yurman recently launched the elegantly sleek Forged Carbon Collection for men. Yurman, along with Ryan Kelly of the Los Angeles Lakers, hosted a very special instore shopping event in Topanga celebrating this new collection, with a portion of the evening’s proceeds donated to Free the Children. David Yurman Forged Carbon signet ring, $650; Forged Carbon band ring with sterling silver, $575; Forged Carbon band ring with black diamonds, $2150. David Yurman, 371 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 310-888-8618

Fi n d e v e n m o re ‘ S ho p fo r a C ause’ item s on m y blog , T heRetiredDebutante.c om

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Zaafar + The Women of Pakistan Pakistani designer Saadia Zaafar has created a stunning collection of meticulously handcrafted wearable art. Zaafar trains Pakistani women as artisans and employs their skills in an effort to break the cycle of poverty. She is committed to helping the women of Pakistan achieve much-needed independence and creating a better environment through the use of recyclable materials. Zaafar metal lace cape, $2400; gold ring bracelet, $420, zaafar.com

Designer Shahla Dorriz was only in her teens when she ventured to Lausanne, Switzerland to study fashion and presented her designs at her first fashion show in Paris. Since then, she has designed costumes for ‘Entertainment Tonight’ and ‘All My Children,’ and has designed Rumi Poetry costumes for Les Ballets Persans’ Seven Beauties and Devine Banquets. Countless celebs like Natalie Cole have worn her designs. Here, she answers our two-word questionnaire.

Shahla Dorriz ad campaign photo

Natalie Cole wearing Shahla Dorriz

DESIGNER PROFILE

JETSETTERS

GENLUXSHOP Creative Spirit

Shahla’s parents. The framed tapestry needlepoint embroidery in the background was done

by Shahla’s mother (circa 1910s) and used to create a gown in the 90s

My mother and grandmother both worked as textile and costume designers in Iran. They were my beacon of creative spirit and light and still shimmer today, after they’ve passed, as my constant inspirations. As a young girl I began dressing my dolls, which my mother assisted in by sourcing fabrics. The creative spirit very much runs through the bloodstream, as it has carried on now to my son. TIPPING POINT? After my first fashion show in Paris, being alone and too young in the industry, I decided to move to California to join my family. It was in San Francisco where I began a steady career in modeling. It was not until I began showing my first Rumi Collection in New York on Lauren Ezersky’s “Behind the Velvet Ropes” on E! Channel that I actually felt I had a unique voice and story to share as a fashion designer. There I was, sitting with the likes of designers Vera Wang, Nicole Miller, and Heatherette.

CREATIVE PROCESS? I still use textiles from my mother’s and grandmother’s collections, and I still organize a substantial library of these vintage textiles dating back a century or two. There’s a spirit and quality to these textiles that is beyond compare in contemporary fabrics.

YOUR CUSTOMERS? The woman who breathes and speaks of elegance and sophistication. I have designed for soap operas, directors, screenwriters, playwrights, actresses and singers. We cater to many different types of women, particularly with the launch of the Shahla Dorriz Bridal label, which has drawn young, artistic, inquisitive, and even rebellious and bohemian women.

DREAM MUSE? I’d love to dress Sophia Loren. Also, I am so enchanted by Beyoncé—she is so high-class in contemporary ways, and exudes such potent elegance. PIVOTAL MOMENTS? In the past, dressing Hillary Clinton was a pivotal moment in my career. Dressing such an inspiring historical figure still feels in many ways like a dream. Also, Alexandre, our creative director, and I have had such an adventure dressing Natalie Cole for her performances. FAVORITE DESIGNERS? I have loved the works of Jean-Paul Gaultier, who has always brought much clout and armour to the feminine form, Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad, in a different light, speak to the innocence and fragility of the female form. Among the three designers there is some balance, I feel. NEXT STEPS? Alexandre and I have experimented in the past with multimedia performance, dance, and projections in our runway shows. Within his own label, Alexandre enjoys experimentation across many media. In the past I’ve done costume designing for theatre. Designing for the stage is a strong collaboration in itself—understanding performers’ personalities and catering to them. At the moment, I’ve enjoyed my collaboration with my son. I enjoy watching the youthful spirit and visions of new artists like him—very rebellious, and yet purposeful.

FAVORITE CHARITY: The City of Hope. I did several dozen runway productions for the organization. I lost my mother to cancer, so research-based institutions have always kept a special place in my heart.

YOUR BACKGROUND?

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BEAUTY CECILIA’S PICKS

GENLUXSHOP BEST OF BEAUTY Pro-level beauty products you’re going to love! —Cecilia Moreno

EDITOR’S FAVORITE Literally translated to “inner strength,” Shiseido’s Ibuki corrects imperfections, strengthens skin’s resilience, and helps fortify on the cellular level to achieve smooth, trouble-free skin.

After four weeks of using this dynamic duo, 96% of women surveyed felt that their skin was in its best condition ever! Gentle Cleanser, $30; Refining Moisturizer, $45, shiseido.com

JUST WOW! Yes, this eye serum reduces crow’s feet! This intensive serum is SUPERCHARGED with a combination of the newest peptide ingredients to jump-start the repair process and fight those wrinkles.

Revelation is a powerhouse product guaranteed to help show youthful results. Sircuit Revelation Intensive Anti-Wrinkle Serum, $90, sircuitskin.com

MICRO DERM TO GO

Don’t have time for the spa? Commit to your glowing skin with a new simple routine that only takes five minutes per week. PMD, the easy-to-use at-home microdermabrasion system. This effective device makes spa-quality exfoliation simple and convenient.

Results: glowing, radiant, flawless skin! PMD Personal MicroDerm System, $199, personalmicroderm.com

SECRET SERUM

DIVINE FIVE

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This limited-edition Mia 3 device is covered in an adorable ‘Lips n’ Lash’ pattern, and comes equipped with Clarisonic’s softest precision brush heads to remove makeup and debris gently and efficiently. Mia 3 is clinically proven to cleanse skin six times better than hands alone. Clarisonic Mia 3 Makeup Removal Expert Kit, $199, Nordstrom and nordstrom.com

BOSS GLOSS

Using their revolutionary 3.R technology, this serum offers Armani’s most complete skin rejuvenation. Giorgio Armani Regenessence Youth Regenerator Serum, $150, Neiman Marcus, Beverly Hills, 310-550-5900

A limited-edition collection of five delicious fragrances to celebrate Great Britain. Jo Malone LimitedEdition Rock the Ages Fragrances, 30ml each, $65, Neiman Marcus, Beverly Hills, 310-550-5900

WHEEL CLEAN

EYE OPENER Here’s one for the girl who would love to have the lash curl, but has had it up to here with the crimping, pinching, and breaking caused by traditional hinged lash curlers. This sleek, safe and gentle heating wand delivers maximum curl where you want it without damaging your eyelashes.

Chella Heated Eyelash Curler, $22, chella.com

Would you like shiny, manageable hair all day long? Then try this patented formulation of argan and olive oils. It’ll protect your hair from the heat of styling tools and damaging effects of the sun.

100% of the proceeds will go to the F.A.C.E. Scholarship Fund to help send students to college. Dr. Mandel AntiAging Argan Gloss, $15, mandelbeautyproducts.com

SIXTYSECOND LASH No glue, no mess, no fuss and no irritation. Instant eyelash extensions in 60 seconds without any hassle.

For real. Cherry Blooms Fiber Eyelash Extension Mascara, $60, select Saks Fifth Avenue stores.

Dr. Joel Aronowitz, the world-renowned beauty expert and Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, just helped launch VOUCELLE, a breakthrough stem-cell activation serum with very promising results.

As our LARRY LEDERMAN shares, success couldn’t happen to a nicer fellow.

You may have caught an episode of “Botched,” that new reality TV show headed up by Dr. Paul Nassif. In it, he ‘fixes’ cosmetic procedures gone bad.

Unfortunately, I had a similar episode of my own.

Several years ago, I had some filler added to my cheeks. The procedure went well – and looked great – but a few months ago, I began to experience complications.

An infection caused one side of my face to blow up to the size of a potato. My physician took one very concerned look and immediately directed me to Dr. Joel Aronowitz. The doctor and his team first calmed my overwrought nerves with a caring and compassionate bedside

BEAUTY NEWS

JET JETSETTERS

GENLUXSHOP Beauty Breakthrough

manner, and then, with the right medications and treatments, restored me to my healthy, natural self. Whew.

Recently, after years of collaborative research between Dr. Aronowitz and the widely published and internationally acclaimed scientist Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya, these two leading experts in stem-cell research have developed Voucelle. Applied once each evening, Voucelle’s technology activates and quickens the body’s natural regenerative abilities to revive and increase cell turnover. The best news of all is that the skin is firmer, more youthful and resilient without the use of additives or surface-fillers. Thank you, doctors!

For more information on Voucelle, visit voucelle.com

VOUCELLE is a stem cell activation serum that restores skin’s natural-born ability to regenerate cells. $80, voucelle.com

Dr. Joel Aronowitz

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 81

Last month, superstar trumpeter Chris Botti urged us to check out his friend

Caroline Salvia’s boots. One peek at the model-turned-shoe-entrepreneur’s

Sloosh Italy collection and we could see she was making all the right steps.

Italian-born beauty Caroline Salvia shares that one of her bestknown modeling roles was being the ‘butt of Italy’—but in a good way. Back in 2007, an Italian lingerie company picked her assets from a field of thousands to grace their billboard campaign featuring only Caroline’s backside. “Listen, Italians love their women,” Caroline says smiling, “and so it became this huge thing. I was doing television appearances and radio shows, and even clubs would book me to do signings. It was crazy!”

Now she’s focusing her energy on her own fashion accessory company, Sloosh Italy boots—slip-on rain boots that are splish-splashing their way around the ‘cool’ girls circuit. They are sold on uber-popular websites. Here, Caroline answers our two-word questionnaire.

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons

My passion is my boot company. I’m also passionate about travel, the beach, and water in general. Ballet is my other passion. I’ve been doing it since I was four.

Favorite sports? I like playing beach volleyball, biking, hiking, rollerblading. I guess you could say I love to be outdoors.

Your dream? Ever since I was 12, growing up in Italy, my dream was to live here in LA. I finally came here to visit when I was 18. When I went back home I told my mom, ‘You’re right, Mom, it isn’t as great as I thought it would be...it’s even better!’ Now I’m here to stay.

Saddest moment? When I told my parents that I was going to move away to live in the United States. To know I was going so far, it was heartbreaking—especially for my mom, who had a very special connection with me. She was devastated. We’re very close now.

Happiest time? It’s funny, because I can remember when my brother was born when I was 8. I felt like he was mine. We are still very close.

Favorite job? I got a modeling job doing this ad campaign on a superexotic island off Australia called Dunk Island.

Emotional moment? Meeting my biological dad for the first time. I grew up knowing I had a dad who left my mom when she was pregnant. Anyway, he wasn’t sure he wanted to meet me, since to his new family I was a secret. He was never interested in me, but agreed to meet. I remember I got all dressed up and we ended up meeting at a five-star hotel in Milan.

We talked for a few hours, and it’s sad, but I’ve never seen or talked with him since. I have no anger.

Grateful for? Going to the most beautiful places in the world and getting paid for it.

Game changer? Meeting Chris Sloosh Italy Botti, who has introduced me to classic glossy so many wonderful people in the rain boot, $220, United States. It’s the whole reason shopbop.com I started my company. I would never have done it living in Milan.

Your passions?

Photos by Megan Baston @meganbatson.com; Makeup by Miho Suzuki; Hair by Kevin Hughes; Lighting by Ivan

DESIGNER PROFILE

GENLUXSHOP These Boots

The Desert Flower Foundation, founded by African supermodel Waris Dirie. After reading her book, “Desert Flower” a few years ago, I think I was traumatized and amazed at the same time about what this girl went through. desertflowerfoundation.org/en/ Favorite charity?

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These are a few of Caroline’s favorite things: Restaurant: Ago, LA Places: New York is just cool, and I love Sydney. Paris is where my heart melts.

Museum: the Louvre Designers: Valentino, and I love Chanel Color: Blue Ice cream: Coconut that my grandma makes Face cream: Shiseido Perfume: Chanel

Movie: The Devil’s Advocate Actor: Al Pacino Music: Strokes, Nine Inch Nails TV Show: ‘Breaking Bad’ Shoe designers: Sergio Rossi, and of course, Sloosh Animal: Horse Flower: White roses Tree: Olive trees—they are so amazing Wine: A good merlot from Valpolicella Person: My grandma, who passed away last year at 100

Mmmm...what’s the heavenly scent?

Diptyque Feu de Bois Photophore set with glass candleholder, $160, Diptyque, Beverly Hills, 310-385-5941

Agraria Bitter Orange woven crystal candle, $55, Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills, 310-275-4211; agrariahome com

MAKE SCENTS Agraria Bitter Orange PetiteEssence Diffuser, $45, agrariahome.com

BATH TIME Paddywax Mark Twain Library candle, $21, paddywax.com

SCENTS OF STYLE

GENLUXSHOP

Lady Primrose Royal Extract bath salts in crystal decanter, $150, ladyprimrose.com

Lady Primrose Royal Extract bath salts in tortoise canister, $88, ladyprimrose.com

Paddywax Pomegranate & Currant upcycled eco hand wash, $19, paddywax.com

FAB FIVE!

Diptyque 5 Candle Coffret, $75, Diptyque, Beverly Hills, 310-385-5941

JUST CHERRIED

Jo Malone Frosted Cherry & Clove deluxe candle, $195, Neiman Marcus, Beverly Hills, 310-550-5900

NIGHT LIGHTS

NEST Birchwood Pine Classic Collection Aroma of a majestic winter forest is created by blending white pine, fir balsam and birchwood over a rich musk and amber base. Nest candles, 2oz, $14; 8.1oz, $38; 21.2oz, $58, neimanmarcus.com

IT’S DE-LIGHTFUL

Quintessence-Paris Etana candle with the delicate scent of amber and fig, $58, quelobjet.com

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GIFT GUIDE

GENLUXSHOP GENLUX GADGETS Technology is moving at the speed of light, or at least at the speed of that drone that just buzzed by your front window. Here, Genlux brings you some of the coolest new gadgets destined to infiltrate your life.

POWER JACKET Tommy Hilfiger’s limited-edition wearable tech solar jacket has high-output solar cells capable of fully charging a standard mobile device up to four times. A special snap-flap closure provides easy access to the battery pack, and its double USB port allows the user to conveniently connect it with up to two mobile phones, tablets or

e-reader devices. The jacket’s internal battery pack can also be charged via a laptop or external power outlet, and when not in use, it stores energy for use at a later time. 50% of the proceeds from the sale of each jacket will be donated to the Fresh Air Fund. $599, Tommy Hilfiger, West Hollywood, 310-247-1475

SOUND SLEEP Perfect for improving sleep, blocking noise and managing tinnitus, this wireless bluetooth speaker doubles as a therapeutic sound and sleep therapy device. It has a 30-foot range to stream music from your mobile device or computer. A USB-rechargeable battery allows for 5-8 hours of cordless use on one charge. Super

Apple watch, available early 2015, apple.com

EYE FOR STYLE

Matrix has teamed up with Google Glass to create The Matrix Eye for Style using the Google Glass salon chair. Now each person’s style and finish are captured via Google Glass, and the video is subsequently sent to the client to serve as a personalized at-home tutorial.

Eye for Style appointment using the Google Glass, $100 plus any services. matrix.com

Matrix celebrity stylist George Papanikolas

Google Glass, $1550, google.com/ glass/start/how-to-get-one/

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portable at only 2.5 inches tall by 2.5 inches in diameter, but with big sound quality and powerful bass. 10 different sounds are built-in and more sleep/sound therapy tracks and sounds can be downloaded from the Sound Oasis Apps. The Sound Oasis Bluetooth Sleep Sound Therapy System, $59.99, SoundOasis.com

TAKE A DRONIE! Selfies are so 2014; now it’s all about the ‘Dronie.’ Just use the world’s first flying 4k camera to take photos or videos from high in the sky. The Inspire 1 integrates DJI’s patented wireless HD transmitter, lightbridge, and comes with a mobile app that runs across both iOS and Android devices. It broadcasts 1080p video at a distance of about one mile. The special 12mp, 4k camera has full HD video capabilities.

Inspire 1 with single remote controller, $2899; Inspire 1 with two remote controllers, $3399; Inspire 1 Remote Controller, $650, dji.com/product/inspire-1

ALL EARS

Urbanears x Marc By Marc Jacobs collection special edition, $60, Marc By Marc Jacobs, LA, 323-653-0100; urbanears.com

Can’t find the right bag for your Computer? find them either too big, too small, or too, well, ugly? just browse this seleCtion of ChiC new Computer bag solutions.

Aspinal of London small Mount Street Tech bag, $925, aspinaloflondon.com

Tumi Santa Monica Whitfield Helmet bag, $695, Tumi, Beverly Hills, 310-623-1186, tumi.com

Dee Ocleppo Roma bag with removable panels, $3750, DeeOcleppo.com Marni Biker bag in chocolate and coral, $1760, Marni, West Hollywood, 323-782-1101

Blumera Norina laptop bag in python (inspirational quote hangs on every bag), $1900, blumera.com

tech corner: LAPtoP BAGS

GenLUXShoP

Valextra soft academia briefcase in soft calfskin, $2990, Barneys New York, Beverly Hills, 310-276-4400; valextra.it

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CLOSET DESIRES: YIN-YANG

GENLUXSHOP BALANCE YOUR LIFE WITH SOME “NOIR ET BLANC.” ONE CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH THESE CLASSIC AND ELEGANT SHADES. LOVE THE RED TOUCH IN THE ALTUZARRA COAT.

Kelly Wearstler Kiss Pillow, $295, Kelly Wearstler, West Hollywood, 323-895-7880

Khirma Eliazov Corina tote in black leather with black crocodile and gunmetal hardware, $2295, Intermix, Beverly Hills, 310-623-1619, KhirmaEliazov.com

Adeam Iris black embossed crocodile bag, $1650, special order, Adeam International, NY, 212-664-7999, adeamonline.com

Mothersbaugh X Baum Akronite sunglasses, $325, ronrobinson.com

Altuzarra Resort 2015

Adeam double-face neoprene caped collar jacket, $1995, special order, Adeam International, NY, 212-664-7999, adeamonline.com

Laurence Dacade Merli nubuck calf boot, $1250, neimanmarcus.com

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Adeam double-face neoprene coat, $1995, special order, Adeam International, NY, 212-664-7999, adeamonline.com

Valextra soft calfskin Meneghina bag, $2880, Barneys New York, Beverly Hills, 310-276-4400

high or low, these boots are definitely made for walking. we love them all, but which is your favorite?

Hermès printed leather boot, $3400, Hermès, Beverly Hills, 310-278-6440, hermes.com

Carmen Steffens Elaine heel boot, $398, Carmen Steffens, Hollywood, 323-466-2459, carmensteffens.com

Christian Louboutin Foresta multicolored flat leather riding boot, $1595, christianlouboutin.com Charlotte Olympia Sarah boot, $1695, Charlotte Olympia, Beverly Hills, 310-276-1111, charlotteolympia.com

closet desires: boot-iful

geNluXshop

Laurence Dacade Merli boot, $1245, neimanmarcus.com

Carmen Steffens Carlota ankle boot, $348, Carmen Steffens, Hollywood, 323-466-2459, carmensteffens.com

Christian Louboutin Zig Et Clou back leather boot with chevron studs, $2995, christianlouboutin.com

Tod’s navy and black leather boot, $1545, Tod’s, Beverly Hills, 310-2850591, tods.com

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GETAWAY VENTANA INN, BIG SUR

GENLUXSHOP IT’S A SUR THING Big Sur’s calm yet invigorating energy is as undeniable as the area’s soaring redwoods. Our CECILIA MORENO visits the luxurious 243-acre Ventana Inn & Spa to tap into some of that zen power.

We venture on California’s Highway 1 to Big Sur. It’s a breathtaking five-hour journey north from LA that empties us in a beautiful cocktail of mountains, tall redwoods and the bright blue sea. Our landing destination is the area’s finest resort —Ventana Inn & Spa

MUST STAY:

Ventana Inn & Spa, Big Sur. Over the past ten years, our Big Sur resort of choice has been the divine Ventana Sunday Times Inn—especially their The writer finds a quiet luxurious Vista Hot Tub stone path on Ventana Suite. The very private Inn’s spacious grounds suite, with glorious archi- leading to a cradle for tecture, brilliant bathboth body and mind. room fixtures, nice Hail a Cab artwork, soaring ceilings Ventana Inn and heavenly bed, is very celebrates Genlux. Did I mention the each day with wood-burning fireplace and afternoon wine private deck with hot tub? and cheese There’s also complimentary yoga and Pilates classes, two pools (one clothingoptional) and two Japanese hot baths. ventanainn.com

MUST TRY:

Best Burger: The Hearst Ranch beef burger, $8, Sebastian’s Store, Hearst Ranch Winery, San Simeon

MUST HIKE: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Take a moderate two-mile hike into the middle of the majestic redwoods and by a rocky waterfall.

Spiritual Awakening Bring your tennies and an open heart— you’re in for a rejuvenating getaway

MUST TASTE:

With just a few gas stops in the area, the Shell station shares an adjacent parking lot with the best place for some morning pastries: Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant. Try their candied bacon bowtie pastry.

Don’t forget to buy some granola to take home for your morning yogurt.

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Knock on Wood The Ventana Inn’s gorgeous Vista suite has a wood-burning fireplace, and private deck with hot tub.

MUST VISIT:

On your way to or from Big Sur, schedule a stop at Niner Winery in Paso Robles. Located right off the Highway 46, you’ll love Heart Hill these lush vineyards and aweStop in for a wine tastsome stone tasting room. Right ing at Niner Winery Italy ninerwine.com in out PasoofRobles

Take a Hike Mapping out a hike on one of Big Sur’s trails

NEW YORK LEGEND, REBORN Ready to hit New York in spring, our lovely Genluxers?

Check out The Towers at the New York Palace—after all, where else should a queen consider retreating to? —Cecilia Royal Renovation The Towers at the New York Palace is ready for its closeup

Going Up? The Towers are situated on the top 14 floors of the New York Palace

MUST STAY:

Like a hotel within a hotel, The Towers’ 176 rooms and suites are situated on the top 14 floors of the 55-story New York Palace.

They recently kicked things up a notch with a $25 million revamp.

Genluxers will love the Crestron touch-screen tablets that control the room’s high-tech features and blackout privacy curtains. For VIPs, there’s the over-the-top 5,000-square-foot triplex Champagne Suite; The Jewel Suite by Martin Katz; and the 1200-square-foot Towers Corner Suites with fully stocked cocktail bars, kitchens, dining room setup for six, large outdoor terraces, and an optional connecting room with two

MUST TASTE:

MUST CHOW:

Eat and Run Try Pomme Palais for quick, yet delicious fare

Queen beds. Other amenities for guests of The Towers include house-car service in a dedicated Mercedes GL350 or Maybach, Maître d’Etage service, complimentary shoe shine, valet pressing and more. Guests also have privileged access to Rarities, an intimate 25-seat salon (accessible to the public by reservation only) that offers the opportunity to taste some of the world’s rarest wines and spirits. newyorkpalace.com/towers

Every second counts in NYC, and so goes the design of Pomme Palais—a new take on the classic New York City bakery. Stop in for macaroons, warm house-made croissants, éclairs, fruit tarts, or pain au chocolate. Grab an espresso in their French market café, or try lunch options like French onion soup, crab cake sandwiches, or their insanely good 72-hour braised short-rib sandwich.

MUST SPA:

Looking for a little stress relief? (Yes, those cab rides can be white-knucklers.) The Langham Hotel Spa quiets and soothes your aches and pains. Get there early to experience the Aqua Lounge’s tranquil Turkish bath, vitality pool, steam

Spa Day The Langham Hotel Spa is a relaxing getaway in the center of the city

room and sauna. And the Deep Tissue Massage will make a noodle out of you. langhamhospitalitygroup.com

GETAWAY THE TOWERS, NEW YORK

GENLUXSHOP

When in New York Try Del Frisco’s bone-in filet mignon. Pair it with one of the 2,000 wines

Led by veteran maître d’ Felix Albano and GM Scott Gould, Del Frisco’s is the place for a great cut of meat. Savor rare cuts like the bone-in filet mignon.

Four female sommeliers navigate the robust 2,000-bottle wine selection. Home to New York’s broadcast, business and sports elite. The floor-to-ceiling windows bring in a taste of midtown Manhattan for every diner. delfriscos.com/steakhouse/newyork

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 89

Photo: Li

sha Riab inina

A soccer career-ending injury caused Diego Calvo to alter his life’s goal that, fortunately for us, led to his study of the anatomy, and ultimately to his love of fitness. Now a top trainer in LA, he answers our Genlux two-word questionnaire.

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons

FITNESS PROFILE: DIEGO CALVO

GENLUXSHOP SHAPE SHIFTER

Life has its challenges, and Avila-born Diego Calvo knows that all too well. The affable Spaniard was headed for his goal of having a soccer career when a severe injury to his kneecap stole that dream. “Since that day, I’ve studied anatomy to better understand the human body and training methods to avoid injuries and to help my clients achieve their own personal goals,” he tell us. “I’ve worked as a personal trainer in Madrid, Barcelona, India, Paris, and now Los Angeles.” Here, the fitness expert answers our Genlux Two-Word Questionnaire.

Fitness regimen? Basically, a combination of a healthy diet along with training sessions to either lose weight, gain muscle, or stay in good shape.

Silver bullet? Be persistent. That is the best tool to achieve success. I’m all for excellence, so I strive to help my clients achieve their best.

Your clients? I’m currently training clients in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. These are people who want to look better by either losing weight

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or gaining muscle, and those for whom staying in shape is vital to their career, like models and actors.

Guilty pleasure? Gummies and pizza. I try to make pizza by myself with healthy ingredients, but there’s nothing to be done with gummies.

Future projects? I’m collaborating with a Dominican Republic radio channel about health (for Miami and all the Caribbean), and my own YouTube channel on fitness is in the works.

Favorite charity? The Rural Development Trust (Vicent Ferrer association), an organization that provides a better way of life to all the children in need in India.

Private sessions? Yes, I offer both private sessions and for small groups.

Your goal? I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say, ‘Because of you I didn’t give up.’

For more information on Diego, visit diegocalvo.net

Photos: Jeff Lipsman

Battle stations everyone! Our Genlux food and wine editor, Jeff Lipsman, invites some of the favorite ultra-premium tequilas to take their best shot. The results are in...

And the Winner is...

AsomBroso Tequila The Collaboration is exceedingly complex and otherworldly

GORGE

Straight Shooter Alacrán Tequila is smooth and approachable with a clean palate

T

FOOD+WINE

GENLUXSHOP TEQUILA WARS

Gold Standard Olmeca’s Altos Reposado has a refined, brandylike elegance

here’s a new tequila in town. Ultra-premium agaves are making the club circuit by the shot and by the bottle. G enlux corralled a panel of aficionados and dilettantes to sample some of the best, using Riedel’s beautiful Overture Tequila glasses. The surprising runaway winner comes in a distinctive, anatomically correct bottle.

Alacrán Tequila

Alacrán, which means ‘scorpion,’ is produced in Jalisco, Mexico through a “selective column distillation process.” This allows their master tequila makers to choose only the finest distilled spirits for inclusion in the final blend. The crystalline white tequila, which is made from 100% blue agave, comes in a sexy matte black bottle. Our tasting panel found it smooth and approachable, with a clean palate, showing smoke and anise. One blithe panelist commented, “It tastes like tequila.”

Indeed it does. Recommended straight, on the rocks, or as a mixer.

And unlike mezcal, which includes a worm in each bottle, Alacrán is scorpion-free.

Olmeca Altos Plata and Reposado

Two UK-based mixologists, Henry Besant and Dre Masso, wanted a tequila suitable for premium cocktails, but without the ultra-premium price. They engaged master distiller Jesús Hernandez and came up with two tequilas: Olmeca Altos Plata, their silver offering, and Olmeca Altos Reposado, their gold tequila. Hernandez extracts the agave juice using the ancient tahona method, crushing the roasted succulent under a wheel of volcanic stone. Traditionalists believe the gentle tahona wheel releases the precious agave juice without releasing the bitter compounds associated with modern shredders and factory tequilas.

This classic white tequila has a pungent and complex aroma of herbs, asphalt, and white jasmine. These come through in the taste along with the heat of white pepper. The tequila is balanced but our tasting panel was split. Half thought the Plata was best utilized as a mixer, while the rest would enjoy it in a shot glass or on the rocks.

Olmeca’s gold tequila is aged six months in oak barrels. This imparts a smoother body and hints of vanilla. Our tasting panel found it more sophisticated than the Plata, with a perfumed nose and brandy-like elegance. Our blithe panelist declared it “refined.” This was the favorite of the traditional tequilas and unanimously recommend by the shot or straight up in a brandy snifter.

AsomBroso Tequila ‘The Collaboration’

‘The Collaboration’ is owner and master distiller Ricardo Gamarra’s latest tequila to redefine the term ultra-premium. It sells in select nightclubs for $250 a shot, or $1,800 by the bottle.

This isn’t the most exclusive tequila Gamarra offers. His Del Porto, aged in old port barrels, sells for $400 a shot. The Collaboration is aged in wine barrels from Silver Oak Cellars of Napa. The barrels impart a unique flavor to each of his tequilas as they age.

Gamarra provided our tasting panel with a tiny, unabashedly phallic 50ml bottle of The Collaboration. We started by passing the teeny hand-blown receptacle around to appreciate the aroma. Sweet with damask roses and dark spices, it is immediately transporting, exceedingly complex and otherworldly. There is leather, yeast, citrus, and Fiori di Sicilia, which smells and tastes like fresh baked Christmas panettone. The Collaboration is smooth, warm, and lingering. The alcohol is subdued. This is most decidedly not an ingredient for a mixer, nor a spirit to down by the shot. It is absolutely unique in the world of tequila and deserves to be savored by itself in a snifter.

All of Gamarra’s high-end tequilas are “double-barrel rested,” using an aging process similar to that of the finest whiskeys and bourbons. The result, at least for The Collaboration, is unparalleled. If the anatomically correct bottle won’t make you blush, the contents will transport you to reverie.

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 91

DEsIgN

gENLUXshop LOUNGE ACT

Inspired by the swank lounges where star-studded crowds gather to enjoy live music, Sherryl White uncovers beautiful objects and instruments that make a room sing

CHAIR WAY TO HEAVEN

ALL ABOUT THE VASE

Salon Lounge Chair by Lee Broom, $5760, Siglo Moderno, LA, 323653-3100, siglomoderno.com

One Vase Only

by Lee Broom, Siglo Moderno, LA, 323-653-3100, siglomoderno.com

CIRCLE OF LIGHT

Prometheus Light by Christopher Boots. Materials: Quartz Crystal, Copper, Zinc, Iron, and Carbon $3049, Siglo Moderno, LA, 323-6533100, siglomoderno.com

IF I COULD, I WOOD

Bright Woods Collection chair, table and coffee table designed by Giancarlo Zema, materialinnovativi.com

GRAND PIANO

Pleyel Piano by Peugeot Design Lab, peugeotdesignlab.com

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

The Monarch Speaker

by Oswalds Mill Audio.

Dimensions: H 71” W 51” (max width at wings), base footprint 38” x 22”, $78,000, Oswalds Mill.

917-743-3780, oswaldsmillaudio.com

92 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

WINTER 2014/15 GENLUX 93

Winner, Wine Spectator Magazine’s Award of Excellence!

In Pacific Palisades

In Beverly Hills

15306 Sunset Blvd, 90272 310-459-7685

9705 Little Santa Monica Blvd, 90210 310-777-0040

TIVOLI CAFÉ

IL FORNO CALDO

“We loved having Jalisco’s Tacos at our Genlux event on Rodeo Drive!

They were a big hit!”

Jalisco’s Mobile Taco Grill jaliscosmobiletacogrill.com 626-347-5923

THE LUXURY EVENT PLANNER

RED CARPET EVENT? WE HAVE THE BEST RENTAL PRICES ON: RED CARPET, ROPE AND STANCIONS, LIGHTING, STEP-AND-REPEAT WALLS

T-REx GRAPHICS

LA’s award-winning celebrity DJ to the stars

213-245-8949

oclaevents.com

Specializing in Fashion, Entertainment, Nightlife, Red Carpet & Black Tie events.

(323) 999-1331 www.ladjco.com Represented by Los Angeles Deejay Company

Genlux Out-of-Towner

It’s all neon and noir in the world of Philipp Plein. With a flair for dramatics, the designer’s head-turning creations deliver luxury with an edge and burst of pop that’s, let’s face it, just so LA. ¶ Born in Munich in 1978, Plein found a fascination for art, architecture and travel at an early age. He got his start working with leather and steel furnishings, which soon turned into experimentations with hard and soft leather garments and accessories. Abandoning his law studies for fashion, he launched his own label in 2004. Two major milestones followed with the opening of his first flagship store in Monte Carlo and first commercial showroom in Milan in 2008.

Philipp Plein, the man and the brand, soon commanded the scene with his innovative aesthetic, combining young rock ‘n’ roll style with lush luxury fabrics and quality craftsmanship. ¶ Plein, who makes his home in Lugano, Switzerland, stands out as a savvy and affluent designer with a finger on the pulse of what’s happening on trend, while pushing the limits. He’s curator of wild parties and supercharged store openings that combine his love of entertainment, fun and culture. It seems his message is being heard around the world loud and clear, and now Plein is bringing it to Beverly Hills with his latest store, which opened on Rodeo Drive in October. Now that he’s set up shop in Los Angeles, he likes to spend time in Bel-Air and hit the waves in Malibu. –Courtney Fortune Photo: Terry Richardson

Philipp Plein Formidable crocodile leather jacket, $48,800, Philipp Plein, Beverly Hills, 310-271-1136, philipp-plein.com

On and Off the Plane

Tom Ford Grey Vetiver Eau de Toilette, 50ml, $75, tomford.com

Where do you stay?

What’s in your carry-on?

I always stay at the Bel-Air Hotel. My fragrances—a delicate mix of Grey Vetiver from Have drinks?

Tom Ford and CHANEL Chateau Marmont Homme Sport, as well as How do you make your hotel my iPad, phone, passport room feel more like home? and wallet.

I don’t do anything in particular because my home looks like a hotel room.

How do you look refreshed after a long flight?

I don’t eat on the plane. Instead, I sleep for the entire flight.

Red-eye or morning flight?

Red-eye, so I can always arrive bright and early for a full day.

What are your packing essentials for LA? Baggy trousers and denim, my namesake printed t-shirts, and black basic t-shirts from Zara, fun sneakers and my croco leather jacket.

iPad Air 2, $499 and up, Apple Store at the Grove, LA, 323-617-9800

CHANEL Allure Homme Sport Eau de Toilette Spray, $120, chanel.com Philipp Plein Run Baby sneaker, $825, Philipp Plein, Beverly Hills, 310-271-1136, philipp-plein.com

Griffith Observatory, LA, griffithobs.org

What do you wish LA had more of that you have in Lugano? I don’t think Lugano has anything more than LA. What do you wish Lugano had that LA has? Vibe.

Shops: Philipp Plein Beverly Hills...my first namesake boutique on one of the most prestigious streets in the world!

Restaurants: Lunch at Il Fornaio or Nobu Malibu

96 GENLUX WINTER 2014/15

Nobu Malibu, 310-317-9140, noburestaurants.com

Photo: Henry Hargreaves

Philipp‛s LA Favorites Museums: Griffith Observatory, the Grammy Museum, LACMA and MOCA

Beach: Malibu for great surfing and a bit of quiet privacy.

Genlux Charity Spotlight Our ANNA SHAY brings light to George Lopez and The George Lopez Foundation’s Annual Celebrity Golf Classic Charity, and reminds you to “Save the Date.”

There is so much more to George Lopez. He is a comedian.

He is an actor. He’s a talk show host and a philanthropist. He’s a very compassionate and humble human being who selflessly gives of himself. George has a natural ability to make everyone laugh—all people—from every culture and diverse background. Sometimes irreverent, he tunes into the truth of what people feel on a deeper level. George Lopez the humanitarian, and founder of the George Lopez Foundation, is devoted and dedicated to his family, his friends and community. I feel honored to consider George my friend.

SAVE THE DATE! The Eighth Annual GEORGE LOPEZ CELEBRITY GOLF CLASSIC

May 4, 2015 Lakeside Golf Club, Toluca Lake, California Sponsorships available.

More info: GeorgeLopezFoundation.org

It’s tee time. That time of year when celebrities like Samuel L. Jackson, Don Cheadle, Andy Garcia, Joe Pesci, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tim Allen, Rob Riggle, Andy Buckley, Joe Mantegna, Tommy Chong, Jack Wagner make their rounds at Lakeside

Golf Club in Toluca Lake for The George Lopez Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic. Last year the charity raised $510,000 to benefit The George Lopez Foundation. This year, the event will be held on May 4, 2015 at Lakeside Golf Club, so save the date!

George Lopez Foundation Mission Statement The Lopez Foundation’s mission is to

George Lopez Foundation Board Members George E. Lopez, Co-Founder, Director Linda D. Small, Director/CFO/Secretary/Executive Director Dr. Lilly Barba, Director Michael G. Wilson, Director Christy Haubegger, Director Cynthia Stafford, Director Lawrence J. Kohl, Director Brooke Kaufman, Director Stacey Kohl, Director Sammi Benz, Director Laura LaRocca, Director

create positive, permanent change for underprivileged children, adults and

military

families

confronting

challenges in education and health, as well as increasing community awareness about kidney disease and organ donation.