V Wine Room opens in West Hollywood

Grape Expectations TODAY'S RUNDOWN FEBRUARY 22, 2013 Napa, Sonoma, Santa Barbara: we’d like them even better if we didn’t have to get on the freeway.    Cue the corkscrew because now we don’t. Tucked on a quiet street above a very not-so-quiet one (in the center of Boystown Santa Monica Blvd.) comes V Wine Room, bearing full-bodied news for oenephiles. In a room once reserved for bibliophiles (it used to be a library), original hardwood floors remain, bookshelves are being rebuilt, and a Dewey Decimal system is being constructed – although this time, it will be used to organize wines. Low lighting and a romantic olive tree make V a snazzy place to pop in before a meal, or anytime really (they open at 10a every day).  Try the $15 flight of five to start. You’ll quaff varietals that you’ll never see at Trader Joe’s or BevMo— all California boutique selections and some of them with runs of just 50 bottles. From there, purchase by the glass or bottle, or just grab a to-go bottle for your dinner party. Or if you really fell in love, take a whole case back to HQ. V Wine Room 903 Westbourne Dr. (at Santa Monica Blvd.), West Hollywood (310) 749-1703 vwesthollywood.com

Cartier Releases Rotonde de Cartier: Panther With Granulation for Pre SIHH Preview

Cartier is gearing up for the SIHH 2013 and has released previews of two exciting new watches prior to the main event which will be launched on January21, 2013. The watches will be unveiled officially at SIHH 2013. The first watch that was released for a pre-SIHH 2013 preview is the Rotonde de Cartier: Panther with Granulation. It is a fabulous watch which forms part of the Cartier d’Art line that boasts of several other watches that showcase different artistic crafts mostly displayed as part of the dial decoration. This Rotonde de Cartier watch has a dial which is decorated with a panther which has been crafted using very small gold granules.

The Cartier Watch has Revived the Millennia Old Craft

Seeing the finished product it is difficult to imagine how painstaking the whole process of creating the image of a panther on the dial is. The incredible result has been achieved through an ancient and immensely time consuming craft. But the final result of a sparkling and shimmering reproduction of a panther in 22 carat gold has been worth it. The prime examples of similar craftsmanship are the Etruscan granulation applied objects dating back to the first century. The Cartier watch has brought back the millennia old craft back to life and made it one of the most exclusive and desirable watches.

Only Twenty Pieces of the Limited Edition Watch Will be Made

Cartier has reinterpreted the ancient craft in its own unique way and made it modern and contemporary. The tiny 22 carat gold granules are applied individually by hand. It is a precise craft as you apply one granule at a time to build the final picture. The tiny granules are cut from a gold thread and then heated and applied. It was finally fused to the base of the watch. The final picture has achieved a sparkle that changes when seen from different angles. The case has been crafted out of 18 carat yellow gold and has been embellished with 306 brilliant cut diamonds totaling 3.63 carats. The case back is sapphire crystal. The limited edition creation will have a run of only twenty pieces.
Via: forums.watchuseek

Cartier Brings Out a Limited Edition Series of Its Famous Crash Model for SIHH 2013

The Luxury Hub
Cartier has turned on all engines for the upcoming SIHH 2012 and has announced a limited edition series of the luxury brands famous Crash model, in addition to several new creations. I am sure most of you will find the dial quite odd-looking at first sight. It seems as if the metal has molten and become disfigured due to excess heat. But you will be able to appreciate the aesthetic value of this watch once you know the story behind. Infact it will also clear the mystery behind the name of this series.
In the 60s, a Vice-president of Cartier had a terrible car accident, which resulted in a fire, melting his watch on his wrist. The watch he was wearing that time was an oval Cartier Bagnoire Alongee, which due to the high temperature took the form of Dali’s melting watches or ”the camembert of time”. Jean-Jacques Cartier, who was the head of Cartier London that time found the limp dial shape to be unique and inspiring, and thus emerged this historical Cartier design. This series was first launched way back in 1967 and was re-issued as a limited edition of 300 watches in 1991. For the SIHH 1993, Cartier came up with platinum version of the design, and then moved on to creating diamond dress versions for ladies.

Ever since it was first released in the late 60s, the Crash series has gone on to become a favourite for collectors, with its value rising meteorically.  For SIHH 2013, we can see four new avatars of the Crash edition, designed for ladies. The bracelets for this collection have diamond encrusted in white or pink gold, making it look like delicate dew drops. Each watch is individually numbered and will be available only at select Cartier stores. These timepieces have a manually wound movement and come in two versions: the simpler version adorned with 150 diamonds of approximately 2.15 carats, while the all-diamond version adorned with 471 diamonds of approximately 4.27 carats.
Via: Luxois
Cartier Brings Out a Limited Edition Series of Its Famous Crash Model for SIHH 2013

Mischa Barton Presents the Most Expensive iPhone Case by Uunique

The Luxury Hub
Any new product launched by Apple triggers hyper activity in the industry making cases. iPhone 5 being the most recent product launch many new case designs are still hitting the market and there is a new one that claims to be the most expensive iPhone 5 case ever. Uunique, a UK brand has launched its London Lotus iPhone case with a party at Kensington Rood Gardens. Actress Mischa Barton played the hostess and unveiled the most expensive case. Ms Barton has an ongoing collaboration with the company and has designed a whole new collection of cases for them. The occasion saw the unveiling of the collection by Mischa Barton which includes very many less expensive designs.

Barton Designed Something Functional and Fashionable

The London Lotus iPhone case is emblazoned with 18 carat rose gold, pink and white diamonds and carries a price tag of a whopping $302,985. The launch party for the expensive case was suitably grand and Mischa Barton, the star of ‘The OC’ was at hand to present the blingy accessory. Uunique had approached the actor for a collaboration and she had agreed immediately as she found it interesting to design something that is both functional and fashionable. Ms Barton was dressed for the occasion and came in a long maxi dress with sparkling gems studded on it for design and a brilliant headband that enhanced her overall look.

Uunique by Mischa Cases Start at $40

Barton has taken a fashionable approach to designing cases for the iPad and iPhone. She has used different kinds of fake metals and Perspex, fake wood, cork and plastics to come up with interesting designs. She has even used different fabrics and incorporated different types of embroidery and embossing on them. Barton was very excited about the creative experience. She admitted at the launch party that she is quite a science geek and loved new innovations. She said that she wouldn’t call herself a tech nut but liked gadgets and whenever she came across a new gadget she enjoyed playing with them. The collection designed by her is rather inexpensive as the ‘Uunique by Mischa’ cases start at $40. The most expensive piece in the collection is a Swarovski crystal encrusted model which is priced at $960.
Via: nydailynews
Mischa Barton Presents the Most Expensive iPhone Case by Uunique

The Gibbs Quadski Capable of Same Level of Performance on Water as on Land

The vehicle seems to have been designed with the suave British secret agent James Bond in mind. The Quadski designed and produced by GIBBS offers the best in High Speed Amphibian (HSA) Technology. You can very well imagine James Bond playing in the water with the Bond beauties and going after the bad guys at 45 mph at the switch of a button. A somewhat large ski with two hidden wheels has been designed to reach the top speed of 45 mph both on land and water. The transition process has been simplified and can be activated at the switch of a button. The transition period is also very short at only four seconds.

It is Powered by a BMW Motorrad K1300 Engine

The Gibbs Quadski has been designed primarily for fun but the technology involved is pretty serious which makes it capable of performance which is unmatched by any other vehicle. The Quadski is powered by a BMW Motorrad K1300 engine that ensures the same level of performance in the water or on land. As you get into the water the wheels of the Quadski can be retracted at the push of a button and you can continue enjoying the same level of performance in water as you did outside. And it is not a mere concept anymore but a vehicle that is ready to go on sale very soon.

Gibbs Has Patented the High Speed Amphibian (HSA) Technology

Similarly when you want to get out of the water and as you approach land the wheels can be deployed again with the flick of a button and you can continue riding the vehicle on the ground at the same speed. GIBBS has patented the High Speed Amphibian (HSA) Technology that makes the Quadski capable of unique performance on water. Normally all the sports amphibian vehicles that have become commercially available have a top speed of 10 mph or less on water. The GIBBS Quadski has raised the bar dramatically and set new standards in flexibility, freedom and fun. And since it is the best in its category it is the priciest as well. The commercial sale of the vehicle is scheduled to start in November with a price tag of $40,000.
Via: ohgizmo

Clothing that is a Teese, Von Teese

Von Teese wearing her VIP Trench Coat

Burlesque performer Dita Von Teese has made a career out of undressing in a seductive, Bettie Page pinup fashion. Now the international fashion sensation--she’s been profiled in Vogue--is launching a capsule collection at Los Angeles’s Decades boutique. The clothes are surprisingly mature and sophisticated for a novice designer, not to mention nightclub performer. The Second Look dress ($595) is a long-sleeved, high-necked sheath made of a viscose blend that’s lined with powermesh, the spandex used in high-end shapewear. The one-shoulder Follow Me dress ($895) in silk chiffon is sexy yet demure. And the VIP Trench Coat ($895) is structured with shoulder pads and a tulle-enhanced flare that looks like an Anita Ekberg outfit from La Dolce Vita. Four of the five pieces in the collection are sold in basic black, while one garment--the red-carpet-ready Bon Bon Maxi dress ($995)--comes in a fetching dusty-blue-and-red print (which is based on Von Teese’s signature half-moon manicure).  We’re intrigued by this new second act for Von Teese, who also has a fragrance and lingerie and cosmetics lines overseas.  And in case you were wondering, she’s yet to give up her night job--she’s scheduled for three nights of burlesque this month in New York. Decades, 8214 1/2 Melrose Ave.; 323-655-1960 or decadesinc.com

Los Angeles Weekend Guide

Via Daily Candy

Children of the revolution. SHOP We’re Revolting Pop-Up What: Su Wu brings her art and culture blog (I’m Revolting) to life at Creatures of Comfort with one-of-a-kind objets d’art, limited-edition wares, and eccentric decor. Why: Pom-pom wall hangings by Mimi Jung, kaleidoscope glasses by Brent Pearson, resin geodes by Elyse Graham, and ceramic bangles crafted in L.A. by Jujumade. When: Thru Nov. 10. Opening party, Sat., 5-8 p.m. Where: 7971 Melrose Ave., b/t N. Hayworth & N. Edinburgh Aves., West Hollywood (323-655-7855). In My Air Debuts at Weekend Lovers What: Be the first to slip on luxe staples and modern necessities from the emerging label’s fall collection, then start planning for spring during a sneak preview of what’s to come. Why: Free customized In My Air tees and cocktails from the mix masters at The Spare Room. When: Tonight, 7-10 p.m. Where: 351 S. La Brea Ave., b/t W. Third & W. Fourth Sts., Mid-City West (323-933-9032).   SHOP Shoe Therapy Happy Hour What: The grand opening of the newest Off Broadway Shoe Warehouse, with DJ, champagne, and more than 30,000 pairs of shoes. Why: So many ways to save — spin the shoe wheel to find your discount, claim a gift with purchase, and receive an exclusive offer when you R.S.V.P. When: Nov. 15. Thurs., 6-8 p.m. Where: Westfield West Covina, 112 Plaza Dr., upper lvl., next to Macy’s. R.S.V.P. at offbroadwayshoes.com/WestCovinaParty.   PEEP Camera Night at the Ivar What: A view of Hollywood’s most notorious rock-turned-strip club through the lens of notable L.A. photographers in the ’70s and ’80s. Why: Hear legendary tales from the photographers and a former employee (who wrote an off-Broadway play about Ivar) at the opening reception. When: Thru Nov. 25. Reception, Sat., 7-10 p.m. Where: Drkrm, 727 S. Spring St., b/t W. Seventh & W. Eighth Sts., Downtown (213-612-0276). Admission is free. INDULGE The Food Event What: The Los Angeles magazine foodie fest returns with unlimited tastes from more than 40 lauded restaurants, celebrity chef demos, and a fully stocked bar with wine, beer, and cocktails. Why: Sample bites from Cooks County, Blue Cow Kitchen, Sotto, Mo-Chica, Short Cake, and many more. When: Sun., 2-5 p.m. Where: 31727 Mulholland Hwy., at Kanan Dume Rd., Malibu. Tickets ($115-$130) at eventbrite.com. EAT Brunch at Stella Rossa Pizza Bar What: The neighborhood joint wakes up early on weekends to top its pies with prosciutto and farm eggs. Save room for savory tartines, fried eggs with tomato jam, and bread pudding. Why: The Cabin Fever cocktail has maple syrup, so it’s a breakfast drink, right? When: Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: 2000 Main St., b/t Bicknell Ave. & Bay St., Santa Monica (310-396-9250). Photos: Courtesy of David Neale; Courtesy of Morie Nishimura; Courtesy of Ilana Kohn; Courtesy of Haruhi Okubo

Celebrity Real Estate: Hilary Swank, Diddy are selling

By Staff, Zillow

This week in celebrity real estate circles, we're checking out homes that have recently hit the market, including Hilary Swank's home in Pacific Palisades, and New York apartments that belong to P. Diddy and Tatum O'Neal.
Hilary Swank lists Pacific Palisades home

Zillow

Hilary Swank's home is a Spanish-Mediterranean-style estate.

Hilary Swank's home is more than a million dollar baby. The Pacific Palisades home is listed for $9.495 million.
The Academy Award-winning actress bought the property at 439 Paseo Miramar, Pacific Palisades, California 90272 in 2007 for $5.8 million, according to property records. She then reworked and restored the 1928 Mediterranean-style home with Marc Appleton & Associates and designer Mark Zeff.
Measuring 6,722 square feet on a about a third-of-an-acre, Swank's home is, in a word, swank. Dark beamed ceilings, hardwood floors and wrought-iron details fill the 6-bed, 7-bath home. The master suit features a walk-in closet, enormous bathroom and attached terrace. Additional home amenities include the necessary home theater, gym, guest room and pool.
The listing is held by real estate agent Myra Nourmand of Nourmand & Associates Realtors.

Zillow

Swank's home features lots of outdoor living spaces.

Zillow

Wrought-iron and tile details fill the home.

See more photos of Swank's home on Zillow.
P-Diddy lists New York apartment for $8.5 million

Zillow

The listing for P-Diddy's apartment only shows the building's exterior.

P-Diddy's apartment just hit the New York City real estate market for $8.5 million. Although originally a 3-bedroom apartment, Diddy has customized the place to be an entertainer's dream with just one bedroom and huge media and piano room.
The man born as Sean Combs has gone by a variety of monikers, including Puff Daddy, but each name change did nothing to alter his success. The 42-year-old music producer, rapper and businessman is one of the richest faces in hip-hop, earning $45 million a year, according to Forbes.
According to public property records, Diddy bought the Midtown condo located at 230 W 56th St #66-A, New York, New York 10019 in 2005 for $3.82 million.
Listed by Prudential Douglas Elliman real estate agent Rick Kelly, Diddy's modern apartment has some other celebrity neighbors, including spiritual guru Deepak Chopra. It was the former home of James Bond actor Daniel Craig. Only one photo was made available for the listing.
Tatum O'Neal re-lists NYC condo

Zillow

Tatum O'Neal's living space is dominated by an enormous ceiling medallion.

Tatum O'Neal, who entered rehab again in August after a drug arrest in June, has once again listed her New York City condominium for sale.
The 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment at 175 E. Broadway, New York, New York, 10002 has been on and off the market since 2008 and was re-listed for $1.645 million. Situated in the Lower East Side real estate market, the 1,435-square-foot unit is part of the prewar loft conversion building called The Forward Building.
Along with access to lower Manhattan, the apartment features an original ornate plaster ceiling, extra storage in the building's basement, an elevator with direct access to the street, and a 24-hour doorman.
According to the New York Post, O'Neal has rented the apartment out in recent years after she relocated to Los Angeles. She bought the unit in 2006 for $1.425 million and first listed it in June 2008 for $1.675 million.

Zillow

The kitchen is a study in white minimalism.

Zillow

A stained glass window accents one of the bedrooms.

See more photos of O'Neal's condo on Zillow.

Pacific Palisades Joins L.A.'s 'Million-Dollar Listing' Club

In September, no single property in the tony enclave -- home to J.J. Abrams, Bradley Cooper and Chuck Lorre -- was put on the market for under seven figures.

This story first appeared in the Oct. 5 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.

Just as the summer was winding down, the Pacific Palisades real estate market plateaued in a way that area observers say they've never seen. For a stretch of September, every single-family residence for sale in the seaside community, home to the likes of Bradley Cooper, Kate Hudson, Hilary Swank and Billy Crystal, was listed at more than $1 million -- a feat rarely achieved in Los Angeles.
PHOTOS: Homes of the Pacific Palisades
By Sept. 21, two properties were priced at less than $1 million, though the remaining 116 houses for sale were above that benchmark price. According to Realtor. com, only one Santa Monica and two Beverly Hills ZIP codes are currently members of L.A.'s million-dollar-listing club. That the Palisades -- a once-sleepy hamlet founded in the 1920s as a Methodist Episcopal enclave -- was part of this group says a lot about how things have changed for the area now favored by Hollywood. Indeed, everyone from showrunners (Chuck Lorre) to agents (Jeff Berg) to managers (Matt Lichtenberg, Larry Rudolph) to directors (J.J. Abrams, Ed Zwick, Nancy Meyers -- whose daughter Annie was recently wed in the property's garden) reside there.

Local Realtor says she isn't surprised that the area reached this seven-figure floor. "Inventory is low and there are a lot of buyers out there, and people are pulling the trigger," she says. Brokers note the community of about 23,000 -- whose prestige streets just northwest of Riviera Country Club bear La Dolce Vita names like Napoli, Spoleto, Amalfi and Capri -- has become increasingly popular because of its proximity to the Pacific and its secluded, small-town feel, complete with a long-running July 4th parade.

"The key thing is that it's charming," says 2012 THR Power Lawyer Michael Gendler, a resident who points to the hilly neighborhood's historic network of stairs as Exhibit A. "Some are well-known, with people running up and down them for exercise. But most aren't. They take you all over: down to the beach, into town. It's this wrinkle in time."


Adam Sandler lives across the street from Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. Steven Spielberg has a 3-acre-plus compound previously home to both David O. Selznick and Cary Grant. A few blocks away, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson bought their $26 million, 14,500-square-foot contemporary residence in 2010 from producer Frank Marshall and Lucasfilm co-chair Kathleen Kennedy.
The quaint retail zone known as The Village is the sort of place where you'll see Julia Louis-Dreyfus with her guard down, grabbing a casual bite or running an errand like any other middle-aged neighborhood mom. "From a shopping perspective, we rarely have paparazzi -- unlike on Robertson," says Elyse Walker, proprietor of an eponymous boutique in The Village. "It's very much under the radar."

The community -- a frequent setting for Palisadian Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm -- was where silent-film director Thomas Ince set up his Western backlot "Inceville" in 1911. Two decades later, it became known as something of a pastoral Weimar on the Pacific, home to expatriate German intellectuals like Thomas Mann, though Santa Monica resident Bertolt Brecht complained that it was too "far away from civilization." Even now, it's a grievance that some in the business -- who can face two-hour-long rush-hour commutes to Hollywood premieres -- certainly appreciate, especially when it comes to a gastrosphere best known for the divorced dads-with-kids scene at Steve & Lenny's Sports Bar on Wednesday nights. At least, that is, until noted chef Alain Giraud, previously of the acclaimed Bastide, opened his Maison Giraud in 2011, followed by the already-jammed Chez Mimi, which opened in mid-September. "We were the desert of deprivation when it came to quality eats," says TV producer Tamara Rawitt. "I mean, how much Gelson's take-out can you survive on?"
STORY: New York's Hamptons Real Estate Smackdown: Southhampton vs. East Hampton
While prices have been going up in the Palisades, so have sales. According to Trulia, 101 properties sold in August, up 10 percent from a year earlier. In the past six months, Diane Keaton bought a 7,800-square-foot Cape Cod built in 2009 for $5.6 million, and Matt Damon picked up an 8,890-square-foot modern manse for $15 million. Nearby are his friends Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, who purchased a Cliff May-designed, 8,800-square-foot ranch house from Brian Grazer for $17.5 million in 2009. Affleck recently said he and Damon live closer in the Palisades than they did in Cambridge, Mass.: "We've got the kids back and forth in the yards."

Of course, the boldface crowd comes and goes. Judd Apatow headed inland to Brentwood once he sold a traditional-style house for $2.6 million in 2010, and Dennis Quaid unloaded a $9.5 million equestrian estate in January. Chinatown screenwriter Robert Towne has put his English manor-style house on the market for $13 million. And top entertainment attorney Gary Stiffelman is selling a Case Study House built in 1950 by Charles Eames and Eero Saarinen. The property, which now also includes a three-story contemporary residence, is listed at $15 million.

Observers say that prices have been on the rise partly because the Palisades is a haven for tear-downs replaced by bigger, more expensive build-outs. The community has an abundance of post-World War II bungalows situated on lots in the 7,000-square-foot range -- making them ideal candidates for razing.

Residents are concerned with "getting the most out of their lot. It's a strong phenomenon," says homebuilder David Carlin of White Picket Fence Inc., who's erecting two spec houses on De Pauw Street. To wit, Carlin's traditional residences will both be about 5,775 square feet; one is in place of a 1,100-square-foot house.

The only looming danger is landslides. In 1996, two sunbathers on a neighborhood beach were covered in rocks and dirt -- but not seriously injured -- after a 20-foot-high cliff fell; in 1958, a landslide covered PCH with 30 feet of rubble and carried cars out to sea. Thus, the opening of the 46-acre Potrero Canyon Park, which broke ground in 2011, is expected to be a boon for the area when it is completed in roughly four years. The project, which could cost as much as $40 million, will stabilize properties impacted by a 2005 slide. It also will include trails leading to the ocean, giving some houses beach access.

To that end, the residences Carlin is building will include backyard steps that lead into the canyon. "You could go out your door, down your steps and walk to the ocean -- you can't do that anywhere else in the Palisades." While his two houses won't be completed for another year, "I've gotten a call from a guy who wants to get his name in early given the market conditions," says Carlin. "Any agent I talk to says, 'Tell me what you've got -- I've got tons of buyers.' "
♦♦♦♦♦

When the Palisades Was Reagan Country
Like the rest of the Westside, Pacific Palisades ranks as one of the most liberal bas- tions in the country, but back in 1980, it was “Reagan Country” — or at least that’s what the T-shirts and buttons sold at local stores proclaimed when former actor and Palisades resident Ronald Reagan was elected U.S. president. From 1957 until 1981, Reagan and wife Nancy (who were known for settling in Bel-Air after he left office) lived in a 5,000-square-foot, three-bedroom ranch house in the Riviera section with a view of Santa Monica Bay. When they had it built in 1956, the couple had been married for four years and Ronald, then a spokesman for G.E., took TV audiences on tours of the house as host of General Electric Theater. “I can’t tell you how many refrigerators, ovens and fancy lights G.E. gave us,” Nancy later said. “They even put in a garbage disposal, which was unique for the time.” According to the Palisadian-Post, the Reagans sold it for $1.9 million when they went to Washington — there are photos of a tearful Patti Davis and her parents saying goodbye to the place. The current owners didn’t answer the door when a THR reporter went by, but a sign on the gate had this to say: “Beware of Cat.” -- Degen Pener

Francisca Matteoli and Louis Vuitton Unveils Travel Book

Gaston-Louis has not only entered his grandfather’s trunk making business, he is also a committed traveler as well as a passionate collector of hotel labels. The travel book will be published in collaboration through Louis Vuitton and Editions Xavier Barral to expand the iconic representation of the luxury brand for travelers also. The grandson of Louis Vuitton has compiled the collection of thousand hotel labels with twenty one stopovers around the world for its readers to offer guidance. Travel writer, Francisca Matteoli was inspired by a collection of hotel labels, and retraces the travelers of early 20th century. One could enjoy discovery and exploration with trunks. The viewer will have an opportunity to see exotic labels of eastern and western countries including Paris to Tokyo.

Unconventional stories of clients, exotic locations and iconic hotels spice up the interestingly written book. The book instantaneously takes you to faraway locations to delight the guests. The refreshing book also features the Raffles Hotel Singapore. Francisca Mattéoli writes about legendary palaces and hotels in Paris. Popularly known and well established travel writers, intellectuals, artists and politicians of early twentieth century make worthy of visiting the place. There is an ideal blend of nostalgic tales of Vintage Hotel Labels and World Tour.

The World Tour Book is a boxed set with limited edition containing a notebook, a world map with eleven self-adhesive hotel labels. The world book is available in French, English and Japanese editions. They are priced at $100 and exclusively available in Louis Vuitton stores in September of this year.



Francisca Matteoli and Louis Vuitton Unveils Travel Book

Wine Brewed at Chateau Miraval to be Served at Brangelina Wedding

Last year it was the Royal Wedding of Prince William that had generated a lot of excitement and curiosity amongst the media and the people. This year the Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie has become the most anticipated wedding since they announced that they will finally tie the knot. No official date has been announced as yet but it is expected to take place in September. The main event promises to be an exciting climax as more and more information about the preparation makes way to the public domain. The $1 million engagement ring Brad Pitt gifted to Jolie had set the tone for the high profile wedding. The latest exciting news about the wedding of the year is that the couple will be hosting a lavish party at their South of France Chateau Miraval estate where they will serve their distinguished guests a selection of wine brewed on their own private vineyard in Côtes de Provence.

Pink Floyd had Recorded Part of The Wall at the Chateau

Brad Pitt is now a certified wine expert as he has formally gone through a wine steward’s course. He has selected seven different wines for the grand occasion. He has tried to bring in variety and range in his selection that includes classics and most expensive wines like Bordeaux, Champagne and German wines. However the most interesting in the lot will be the Provençal rosé Pink Floyd. The unusual name was given to the wine brewed at the celebrity couple’s Chateau Miraval vineyard because the English rock band Pink Floyd had recorded part of their iconic album The Wall at the Chateau Miraval. It is said that the members of the rock band known for its progressive and psychedelic music became fond of the pink drop during their stay at the chateau. Château Miraval is set among 400 hectares of land, 75 of which is planted with vines on a mixture of clay and chalk soil.

The 2011 Vintage is a Wonderfully Complex Rose

The 2011 vintage of the Provençal rosé has some distinct qualities. It has been described as a wonderfully complex rose with red berry, strawberry and red cherry fruit. In addition its minerality is crisp and the structure very tight. The cellar of the Chateau holds some very rare wines that would delight the best connoisseurs in Europe. It is sure to be a great party as Angelina has invited her ex-husband Johnny Lee Miller and Billy Bob Thornton to the wedding as she has maintained a cordial relation with them over the years.

Robert Procop Wedding Bands Worth $1.6 Million

This wedding was long awaited but the actor couple from Hollywood insisted that they will marry only the US government legalizes same-sex marriage across all states. They changed their mind finally under pressure from their six children. Brad Pitt wants to make sure that the wedding is spectacular and has been doing all the wedding planning. After the engagement ring he has recently presented a $400k Patek Philippe Minute Repeater watch to his fiancée. Robert Procop, the renowned jeweler who enjoys a good working relationship with Angelina Jolie is designing a pair of wedding bands worth a reported $1.6 million. They are matching rose gold bands with a tablet-cut diamond in them and their vows to each other engraved in them.
Via: thedrinkbusiness
Wine Brewed at Chateau Miraval to be Served at Brangelina Wedding

Vivid steel gardening support from Terra Trellis

Training flowering or fruit-bearing vines to grow vertically on trellises is a gardening tradition, from grape arbors in the Old Country to espaliered apples at Mount Vernon. Now local sculptors have revolutionized the practice with Terra Trellis, a line of mod artistic gardening structures. Terra Trellis products--which are designed by the team responsible for Terra Sculpture outdoor modern art--allow vines, climbers, perennials and edibles to grow up, around, inside and behind them, in a totally gorgeous fashion. We can imagine climbing white roses on the 5-foot-high tuteur in aubergine ($279) or heirloom tomatoes caged in a 58-inch bubble trellis in leaf ($349). Even commonplace bougainvillea would look distinctive wrapped around an 80-inch walk-through circle arbor ($840), the real showstopper of the collection. Each über-durable piece is made from hand-welded steel, powder-coated in one of seven colors including an oxidized natural hue. Made to order here in Los Angeles, they can be purchased on the company’s website; examples are on view at Potted, the trendy Atwater Village gardening shop.  Consider it a new way to successfully gild the lily. Available at Potted, 3158 Los Feliz Blvd.; 323-665-3801 or terratrellis.com

R.I.P. Brand Maybach 1909-.

Funny headline isn’t it. Oh, and you might even be wondering if we just forgot to put 2013 after the hyphen, given that the last Maybach will roll out of the Stuttgart factory in Germany. Hell no, the omission is intentional and you’ll find out just why as you read on.  Brand Maybach, first started in 1909, began making engines for aircraft before branching out to build high end luxury automobiles. The first ultra opulent Maybach luxury saloon began selling in 1921 from when it continued to sell until 1940.

2012 Maybach 57S Luxury Saloon

 

From 1940 to 1945, Maybach’s services were pressed into the war effort, when the company begin building battle tank engines.  Car production never really restarted until German auto giant Daimler bought the brand in 1960, and kept the Maybach moniker dormant until 1997, when the first concept Maybach was showed off at that year’s Tokyo Motor Show. After showcasing the concept at Tokyo, Daimler began producing a range of ultra luxury Maybach cars in varying wheelbases from 2002, to compete with the likes of BMW owned Rolls Royce and Volkswagen owned Bentley.

While Daimler targeted sales numbers of 2,000 units every year, the number never really materialized throughout Maybach’s decade long existence. Come 2013, the last of the Maybachs will roll out of Stuttgart, as Daimler’s commitment to service current orders, after which Daimler will discontinue the brand. From 2013, Mercedes Benz will replace the Maybach line with the 2012 S-Class’s Pullman limousine. So, the on and off, decade long existance of Maybach will finally come to an end come early 2013. Even so, we’re not too certain of Maybach finally resting in peace given its resurrection time and again as history has shown. Now you know the story behind the headline.

In India too, Maybach hasn’t really been able to penetrate the mindspace of the premium ultra luxury buyer, who while favoring Rolls Royce and Bentley, seems to have developed cold feet for Maybach. How else can you explain the Maybach story in India, which began with Gutka baron of the Manikchand fame, Rasiklal Dhariwal gifting his ostensibly thrilled 21 year old daughter Jahnavi, a Maybach limousine on her birthday. The car, which commanded INR 5 crores back then, was relaunched at a lower price in India, even as Mercedes Benz lost over 2 crores on each Maybach it sold. At the time this story is being published, Mercedes Benz has pulled the prices of the Maybach off its US price list for 2013 Mercedes Benz models, a market that incidentally was to deliver 50% of the targeted volume of 200 cars that Maybach intended to sell every year. That says it all, doesn’t it? R.I.P Maybach 1909-……..

French Normandy Home on fabled Little Bronson in Hancock Park. Open House Sunday July 29th, 2-5

Open This Sunday July 29^th, 2-5pm

 526 S Bronson Avenue Los Angeles CA 90020

This tastefully updated home exudes old world character, warmth, and grace.  The property offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, den, a newly renovated cooks kitchen, gleaming hardwood floors, leaded glass windows, high ceilings, and a romantic garden.

Little Bronson is a lovely one block long street lined with character filled Cotswold-style homes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property.

Price: $1,395,000.

 

Ice Cream for Adults.

Beat the heat with boozy treats

R-Rated Ice Cream

Remember spiking Grapermelon Slurpees with Mom’s Smirnoff and sneaking shots of Dad’s JD into Wendy’s Frosties? Innovative teenage selves, meet your sophisticated adult successors. Ginny Gelato at Enoteca Drago Celestino Drago’s classic Beverly Hills eatery debuts spiked gelato and sorbet, including orange caramel rye and Earl Grey fennel gin, with a licorice-like caffeine blast. Sweeten a first date deal by ordering her the cinnamon golden raisin reisling or blueberry basil vodka. 410 North Cañon Dr., Beverly Hills (310-786-8236) It’s Cool to Be Bitter at LA Creamery Creator of the fruity, peppery, and slightly bitter Chimay Beer ice cream, this kingdom of coldness also churns out Dom Perignon sorbet, scoops of moonshine and caramel corn, and a frosty dairy patty infused with Jack Daniel’s, enveloped by two chocolate chip cookies. Available at most Umami Burgers, Farmshop, 800 Degrees, The Oaks Gourmet (818-701-7090) Cold Shoulder at Coolhaus What would you do for a Klondike Bar? Not much, after you bite into the terrifying-sounding scorpion mezcal banana honey ‘wich from the original SoCal ice cream truck. Chocolate Cointreau or whiskey & Lucky Charms make boozy best bets, too. 8588 Washington Blvd., Culver City (310-424-5559) Silverlake Shivers at Pazzo Gelato It’s Christmas in July with the Mad Jack (vanilla infused with Jack Daniel's). Propose a toast with a martini scoop (infused with Grey Goose Vodka), believe in Santa Claus again thanks to buttermilk (available with ginger snaps topping or ginger Drambuie sauce), or -- if you've been good this year -- both. 3827 W. Sunset Blvd., Silver Lake (323-662-1410)

The 15 Richest Super Models on the Planet

Via CelebrityNetWorth.com

Random Celebrity ArticleBy Brian on February 24, 2012

 

Reading through this list of the 15 richest super models on the planet really makes you think life isn’t fair. As if these women weren’t lucky enough to be born so gorgeous that people literally pay them millions of dollars to stand and have their photo taken! But when you really dig into how these bombshells turned their God given talents into massive personal net worth and fortunes, you really need to tip your hat. You don’t typically think of super models as being very intelligent, but these women definitely break that stereotype. And you may be surprised to learn that the majority of their fortunes did not come from posing for pictures but instead came from entrepreneurial endeavors, real estate, acting, and much more! So click below to scroll through our gallery of The 15 Richest Super Models on the Planet. I bet you’ll be amazed at who is #1!

Start Gallery

The 15 Richest Super Models on the Planet

The 15 Richest Super Models on the Planet
#15 – Doutzen Kroes Net Worth: $9 million
#14 – Linda Evangelista Net Worth: $18 million
#13 – Christy Turlington Net Worth: $18 million
#12 – Adriana Lima Net Worth: $35 million
#11 – Milla Jovovich Net Worth: $36 million
#10 – Claudia Schiffer Net Worth $40 million
#9 – Elle Macpherson Net Worth: $45 million
#8 – Naomi Campbell Net Worth: $48 million
#7 – Kate Moss Net Worth: $50 million
#6 – Heidi Klum Net Worth: $70 million
#5 – Christie Brinkley Net Worth: $80 million
#4 – Tyra Banks Net Worth: $90 million
#3 – Cindy Crawford Net Worth: $100 million
#2 – Gisele Bundchen Net Worth: $250 million
#1 – Kathy Ireland Net Worth: $350 million

Chocolate Colored Gucci Checkers Set Debuts at $4350

The Italian luxury brand Gucci has crafted an awesome checkers set made from guccissima leather and has an outline of Gucci’s signature monogram. It is in dark brown with a guccissima leather trim. The checkerboard case is in dark brown and twelve light brown and twelve dark brown leather checkers which bear double interlocking G detail. are sold alongside. The dark brown Guccissima leather pouches hold the coveted checkers.

It is extremely important to choose the right and best chess board as most of the game players prefer contrasting checks that will be easier to see on the board. As it is a compact set it is easily portable and you can take it with you during travel. If you find it difficult, choose a perfect gift for your fabulous friend and buy him a Gucci’s luxury gift! It is available worldwide in all boutiques of Gucci for $4350.

Each component of Gucci leather checkers set has an ultra fashion appeal. Each and every piece is embossed with Gucci’s trade mark G’s including one case, storage pouches, game pieces, board. The refinement has been brought to the set with a gorgeous chocolate brown color. The fun oriented game offers enjoyment along with competitive spirit during your holidays.

I personally love brown color. It reminds me of melted chocolate which evokes a pleasurable response. Chess and chocolate bars go perfectly well for an evening game. You could memorize that moment of joy with Gucci chocolate color chess set, spicing up your game with new skill, new trap and trick.

Facebook Comes to Aston Martin’s Rescue!

Social networking has been taken one step further by Aston Martin by building a special luxury car.  Aston Martin had reached a milestone of one million Facebook fans last November. The British based luxury automaker had announced that it would build a special edition car and it would allow designing the car to its Facebook fans. It also had asked its fans to pick a name for the car after a series of polls and the fans voted for the Aston Martin DB9 1M.

Automotive industry launched the luxury car DB9 1M at Gaydon Headquarters built for fans last week. The commemorative campaign for the car ended in the celebration of company’s one millionth Facebook fans that were given an opportunity to define dream Aston Martin. Fans decided car’s model, interior trim to the exterior ‘Aero’ wrap.

The bespoke Aston Martin’s DB9 1 M features blue lined paint work, black brake calipers, 20 inch Silver Diamond rims, cabin’s piano black trim, and leather upholstery of Obsidian Black / Spicy Red. The “new” supercar in “Aero” wrap is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine which produces 350 kW / 477 PS and 600 Nm torque. Before it reaches its top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) the unit is connected to a 6 speed automatic transmission that accelerates the model from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

If you haven’t read our previous article about Aston Martin superbikes with superior technology and stylish designs in the recent past, go through the article.

Stunning Modern with Views in The Hollywood Hills/Bird Streets

5 bedroom, 7 baths, 7007 sf interior, 13,357 sf lot
Price: $15,750,000.

Top 5 views in the city and One of the most anticipated properties in the Sunset Strip brings bold and provocative expression to the ultimate California living experience. Floor to ceiling Fleetwood windows showcase some of the most spectacular city to ocean views L.A. has to offer. Situated on one of the most illustrious streets in the famed “Bird Streets” this stunning Architectural is simply spectacular.
 

 
 
For more information about this home or to arrange a showing.

This Weekend's Local Estate Sales

via EstateSales.net

BALI & BAROQUE ON THE SAND IN MARINA DEL REY 
by Treasures Estate Sales, Inc. - Click for Pictures
The address for this sale is not shown because this is a "By Appointment Only" sale. Please click the link to view the details about this sale.
6/09/2012 12:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Sunday)
6/11/2012 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Monday)
6/12/2012 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Tuesday)

Estate Sale - Sherman Oaks 
by Ken & Lynn's Estate Sale Services - Click for Pictures
14144 Dickens Street
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
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6/09/2012 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Sunday)

SHERMAN OAKS / VALLEY VILLAGE ESTATE SALE 
by Estate Sales Los Angeles - Click for Pictures
5249 Babcock
Valley Village, CA 91607
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6/09/2012 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Sunday)

LA County Public Administrator Estate Auction 
by Cws Marketing - Click for Pictures
16610 Chestnut Street
City Industry, CA 91748
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6/09/2012 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday)

Interior Estate Sale 
Click for Pictures
1450 N. Spaulding Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Saturday)

Beverlywood Estate Sale June 9-10
by Paragon Estate Sales - Click for Pictures
9622 Lockford St
Los Angeles, CA 90035
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Sunday)

FEATURED SALE:
Estate Sale North Hollywood,antique/vintage 
by Crown City Estates - Click for Pictures
12550 ostego street
Valley Village, CA 91607
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Sunday)

BRISTOL SALE IN BRENTWOOD - 3 FAMILY 
Click for Pictures
130 N. Bristol Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90049
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Sunday)

THIS IS THE ONE!!! Entire Contents - Silver Lake/Echo Park Multi-level Home
by Aneye4treasures - Click for Pictures
3026 Effie Street
Los Angeles, CA 90026
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Sunday)

Puddingston Estates - Estate Sale 
by Zoe TeBeau Estate Sales and Appraisals - Click for Details
340 Rebecca Dr.
San Dimas, CA 91773
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday)

Added in the last 24 hours!

Mission Viejo Estate Sale, Tools, 2008 GMC Pickup, 2003 Yukon, SAT/SUN, 6/9-10 8am-3pm 
by Aloha Antiques & Estate Sales - Click for Pictures
23632 Via Fabricante
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
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6/09/2012 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Sunday)

Actress Estate Sale, old Burbank Ranch House 
by Sterling Estate Resolutions - Click for Pictures
1522 Valleyhart Drive
Burbank, CA 91506
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6/09/2012 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Sunday)

Marina Del Rey Estate Sale (< 10 miles)
by Fire Family Estate Sales - Click for Details
857 Burrell Street
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
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6/09/2012 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Sunday)

HANCOCK PARK
by All Manor of Things - Click for Pictures
416 S. ORANGE DR.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
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6/09/2012 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday)
6/10/2012 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Sunday)

FABULOUS ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES AUCTION  by Don Presley Auction - Click for Details
1319 W. Katella Avenue
Orange, CA 92867
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6/09/2012 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Saturday)

PUBLIC LIVE AUCTION OF ARTS, ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES AND MORE... by Balelo Auctions - Click for Details
4486 Runway St.
Simi Valley, CA 93063
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6/09/2012 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Saturday)

San Diego Upcoming Sales