Gifting Karma or Wishing on a Star

By Maribel Alvarez

Karma has been a big word in my vocabulary and a constant in my mind since my recent trip to Laos and Bhutan. So I can’t tell you how thrilled I was to find the perfect gifts for the dozen girlfriends in my life when I popped in to my favorite one-stop-Christmas-Shop destination. Inspired by the authentic Buddhist prayer beads, Sequin’s Color Karma Collection features semi-precious colored stones that represent qualities and moods we all experience or strive for, such as warding off bad vibes and keeping up the positive energy.

Whereas I would normally spend hours choosing which friend would prefer a classic Chanel-like necklace versus a Grecian style earring, this time all that was required was choosing the right color! Over a dozen to choose from!  Bracelets start at $48 for a group of four and necklaces at $98.

For those who have faith in their lucky stars, check out the Star Maps Collection endorsed by Susan Miller of Astrology Zone.  Another beautiful holiday gift with a personal touch and special meaning, the ‘The Star Maps Collection illustrates the twelve astrological signs with beautifully detailed interpretations of constellations and zodiac symbols. Each is 22k antique gold or silver-dipped and cast from an original Sequin illustration.  Each sign offers a beautifully diversified selection of necklaces, bracelets and charms starting as low as $38 and up to $98.

 

Star maps

 

SEQUIN is the one shop I always pop in to when on the Avenue, but if you prefer to shop online, check out their terrific online store

219 Worth Ave, Palm Beach, FL 33480

561.238.8405

Cynthia Rowley, My Preferred Last Minute Go To For One-Stop Shopping

By Brandy Guthrie

No matter how prepared I think I may be when it comes to my holiday shopping, there’s always that one gift or two that I somehow missed or forgot. I know I can count on Cynthia Rowley at The Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach to find the perfect gifts immediately and more importantly, quickly. Let’s face it, time is of the essence, especially at this time of the year!

Take a look at my top 3 favorite CR last minute gifts here:

For the Hostess with the Mostest:

Everyone loves receiving candles, and they can be gifted any time of year. I like to stock-up during the Holiday’s and this year, a new scent caught my attention at Cynthia Rowley. This candle was created in collaboration with Brooklyn-based Apotheke and it smells just as lovely as it looks with its amber rising fragrance. What’s even better is you don’t have to know your recipient’s astrological sign because it represents every symbol of the Zodiac.

  ZODIAC CANDLE $48.00

For the Beach Lover Who Loves to Match Her Little One:

I am always a complete sucker for gifting a matching pair of mother and daughter outfits because you aren’t just giving a delightful keepsake present, you’re giving an heirloom gift that’s set to conjure plenty of warm holiday mother, daughter memories. They can pair this with some espadrille neoprene water shoes and to the beach they will splish and splash, all with style!

PEACH COMBO COLORBLOCK WETSUIT $265.00

For The Chic Booze Connoisseur:

Necessity is the mother of invention…

This year, my perfect go-to party accessory to give and to wear myself isn’t a sparkly clutch or a pair of satin high heels, it’s this baby. Why not buy a mini-bottle of your friend’s favorite nip of choice to accompany it, wrap them both up, and instantly banish the boringness from the gajillion Christmas fiestas on their dance card in December?

GOLD FLASK BANGLE $365.00

And that’s a wrap on this year’s gift guide! (You didn’t expect me to not make that pun, did you?) Happy Holidays!

Call Dawn at (561) 517-0576 for personal assistance

or visit https://cynthiarowley.com

 

A globally-sourced collection curated by Lourdes de Guardiola

Lourdes de Guardiola’s gypsy roots resulting from her equestrian jetset lifestyle have found a home this season at the Esplanade. Located on the second floor above Gucci, Lourdes has transformed a blank canvas, creating a haven for linen from Bali, Swimwear from Brazil, jewelry from Argentina, perfect beach hats from Ecuador and handmade leather bags made in America. “While traveling the world as a professional show jumper, I have been able to cultivate relationships with global designers.  I’ve found inspiration within their cultures and have been able to create this space based upon these experiences” says Lourdes de Guardiola.

A private trunk show for Alvin Valley, took place before Milou’s official opening.  In spite of it being under the radar, the success led to a permanent representation for the King of Pants at Milou.  Lourdes will be hosting more events throughout the season.  She has her pulse on the new upcoming designers from South America  looking to make their mark in the Palm Beach market.

Lourdes also intends to utilize the newly revamped Esplanade at 150 Worth, hosting a runway fashion show later on in the season.  

Be sure to visit miloupalmbeach.com to sign up for newsletters, events, and promotions.  With Lourdes’ constant craving for change, there won’t be a party you should miss this season.

Milou will be celebrating it’s official Grand Opening with a cocktail celebration November 20th.  All are welcome from 5-9 on Tuesday to kick off the holiday weekend.

Brioni takes on the ultimate sartorial challenge- Michelangelo’s David

This season, the Brioni Master Tailors demonstrate the boundless possibilities of the Bespoke service by taking on the ultimate sartorial challenge – to perfectly craft a suit for an iconic silhouette with stately dimensions

Long recognized as the “menswear of choice” for the iconic and powerful

Brioni’s VIP Tailor is available to make a nip and tuck to your personal Brioni collection.

Professional athletes, celebrities, leaders, entrepreneurs chose the brand that sets meticulous standards for its craft. The height of men’s sartorial excellence, a Brioni Bespoke item is built on unparalleled craftsmanship and exclusive fabrics.

The BRIONI Method

Every suit is the result of the Brioni method. This process, unique to the company, requires 220 steps and more than 22 hours of effective workmanship, and all while under the supervision of tailoring experts. Each suit comes to life due to absolute precision, as well as upwards of 6000 handmade hidden stitches. Subsequently, the Brioni suit caresses the body lightly and molds the figure.

brioni

The Bespoke fabric selection offers over 800 variations of wool, light cashmere, silk, and a light Super 200s wool. In addition, their full-range variety also counts for lapel shape, buttons, lining, shirt collar, and cuff.

Any Brioni store accommodates your choice – be it of model or cut, fabric or fit. Furthermore, you can complete your look in the privacy and comfort of the VIP room to exemplify your sense of style.

Brioni Bespoke

“The World of Bespoke” Worth Avenue Salon, October 4th-6th

To Schedule an Appointment

Brioni’s Bespoke Events book early and orchestrate their appointments accordingly. As a result, each take approximately one hour to 90 minutes.

For information on the Palm Beach Bespoke Event, please contact Thomas Esparza at 561.650.0030.

Email Thomas to schedule an appointment to suit your calendar, as well as your style.

The brainchild of Lourdes de Guardiola, Milou’s curated collection is often described as chic, timeless, with an equestrian twist. Daughter of one of Wellington’s pioneer developers, horses became Lourdes’s life at the age of six, ultimately giving way to a successful 15 year career in the show jumping business.

“My husband Michael Morrissey and I have travelled the globe winning championships in the hunters, jumpers and equitation. Michael is a proven international show jumper, having represented team USA on multiple occasions overseas in Europe.  I turned to coaching some of the best junior riders at some of the most elite shows around the world.  A year ago I decided to venture into another passion of mine, fashion.  So I launched MilouPalmBeach.com,  an on-line clothing boutique,” says de Guardiola. The equestrian influence is apparent in the cool, effortless, hip but chic Milou collection.

Lourdes’s success and loyal following prompted her to launch a pop-up this past season at Palm Beach’s International Polo club. “I only see great things for this business, with local and international stores on the horizon.”

Private trunk shows continue during the summer with the next one scheduled during a special Happy Hour co-hosted by Ryan Beckett on June 27th at Meat Market Palm Beach!

Meat Market  will be offering complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Guests are encouraged to stay for dinner as 10% of proceeds will go towards Danny and Ron’s Rescue in Wellington.

 

 

The beginning of summer in Palm Beach means going back to the Avenue and checking if those fabulous pieces I’ve been eyeing during the season are still there… If they are, chances are they will be significantly marked down and shopping just turned out to be twice the fun!   That’s what happened to me when I ventured in to Brioni on Saturday.  I walked out with a gorgeous luxurious blazer I had been eyeing for a favorite son-in -aw.  When I touched it, I couldn’t resist….. And yes, I paid nearly half!

In addition to the luxurious jackets, other Brioni steals include an exquisite selection of suits, fabulous oh so soft shirts, timeless neckwear, stylish outerwear and classic shoes.

Brioni’s Seasonal Sale has begun at the Worth Avenue location

The Worth Avenue store, which is ranked one of the top locations in the United States, offers Brioni’s incredible fabrics (and of course their tailoring expertise) as well as a sophisticated level of personal service.  They will make and ship custom clothing to clients no matter their location.

Visit BRIONI at 251 Worth Avenue

 

 

Eighty percent of Spring Collection up to 50% off at Sandro and Maje on Worth Avenue

Local fashionistas will be delighted to learn Worth Avenue’s Sandro and Maje announced they will continue to slash prices on their stylish Spring collections beginning June 13th.   Eighty percent of their inventory will be on sale.   From minimalist looks  to ruffles and lace, these two French fashion-forward sister boutiques offer a beautiful selection for both the edgy and the classic dresser.  The varied collection includes flirty summer Maxis, romantic evening dresses, trendy culottes and classic palazzos.

 DRESS EVENT Sip and Shop June 15th from 12-6 PM

On Friday, gather your friends and kick-off your weekend at Sandro and Maje.  Both stores will be offering champagne and sweets during a sip and shop from 12-6 pm

About Sandro and Maje

Sandro and Maje are the brainchild of two creative sisters, Evelyn and Judith.  Sandro features a more classical, timeless line Sandro of clothing and Maje features more flirty and edgy designs.  Both lines range from daywear to evening, crafted with an eye for detail and the finest fabrics such as silk and French lace. The two brands are well-known for silhouettes with a formal feminine but oh so Parisian casual edge!  Local loyals count on Marcella Teper and Demetrius Mickens to keep them up to speed on new arrivals and timely sales.

Framing the entrance to Worth Avenue’s charming Via Encantada, the two boutiques are located at 247 and 249 Worth Avenue respectively.  For more information, contact Marcella Teper or Demetrius Mickens at 561 650 0371

Memorial Weekend extraordinary savings on Sandro and Maje’s Spring Collections

Snowbirds take flight just in time to clear the way for Island fashionistas to flock to Worth Avenue and shop their favorite designers at a fraction of the cost.  A favorite among the best-dressed locals are French fashion-forward boutiques Sandro and Maje, both of which recently marked down 60% of their inventory by 20-30%, and have just announced an additional 20% beginning Wednesday, May 23rd through May 28th. 

Sandro and Maje are the brainchild of two creative sisters, Evelyn and Judith.  Sandro features a more classical, timeless line of Sandroclothing and Maje features more flirty and edgy designs.  Both lines range from daywear to evening, crafted with an eye for detail and the finest fabrics such as silk and French lace. The two brands are well-known for silhouettes with a formal feminine but oh so Parisian casual edge!  Local loyals count on Marcella Teper and Demetrius Mickens to keep them up to speed on new arrivals and timely sales.

Framing the entrance to Worth Avenue’s charming Via Encantada, the two boutiques are located at 247 and 249 Worth Avenue respectively.  For more information, contact Marcella Teper or Demetrius Mickens at 561 650 0371 

 

 

 

 

 

On April 24, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society hosted a gathering at the Contessa Gallery on 247 Worth Avenue. The occasion for the gathering, which brought awareness to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, was a celebration of the “mid-way” point of the 2018 Man & Woman of the Year award. The mid way point of the Man & Woman of the Year celebration followed a fashion-styling session for the campaign candidates. The candidates were treated to couture styling courtesy of Brioni and Emilio Pucci. With professional and tasteful styling by Brioni and Emilio Pucci, the candidates were ready for their spotlight in front of the camera. Final touches to hair and makeup were provided by the prestigious Woody Michleb Beauty Salon.  Finally, to add the finishing touch, Salon Owner, Amy Michleb, herself, added her special high fashion expertise to bring out the best of the candidates in front of the camera. The Salon recently participated in the styling of professional runway models for the new Dolce&Gabbana Design District boutique in Miami.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Brioni and Emilio Pucci styled candidates receiving makeup touchup by Woody Michleb Beauty Salon

2018 Man & Woman of the Year

The Mid-Way Celebration recognized the progress being made in this year’s Leukemia & Lymphoma Society ten-week campaign.  Twenty candidates were selected for their community service and dedication to finding a cure. The candidates who raise the most money will win the local title and go on to compete for national honors. Last year, the Man & Woman of the Year campaign raised almost $1.3 million for blood cancer research, patient services, education, and advocacy. This year’s fundraising includes a big push on Social Media by the individual candidates which is why the professionally styled photos are an important element.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Man of the Year candidates and Brioni Team

Click here to view after party at Contessa Gallery

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The 2018 Man & Woman of the Year Candidates include:

Eduardo Balbis, Jupiter – Accenture
Katie Bullard, West Palm Beach – Barry University
Eric Caserta, Palm Beach Gardens – Cheney Brothers, Inc.
Jason DelGrosso, Boynton Beach – Hilton Garden Inn/Kolter Hospitality
Marcio Dias, West Palm Beach – Sterling Real Estate Group
Will Fuchs, Boca Raton – XPE Sports
Carl Gentile, Jupiter – Gentile & Associates, EXP Realty
Stacy Holcroft, Jupiter – Publix
Chris Knapp, Palm Beach Gardens – Merrill Lynch
Yaruska Llontop, Lake Park – Kolter
Monique McCall, West Palm Beach – Monique McCall Productions, Inc.
Laura Neandross, Jupiter – Neandross Estate Homes
Jen Nolin, Palm Beach Shores
Erin Omiatek, Delray Beach – Sotheby’s International Realty
Grant Portier, West Palm Beach – Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Joseph Schulz, Jupiter – Law Offices of Berman & Berman
Eric Sprechman, West Palm Beach – Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.
Sahira Sued, Wellington – Sahira Jewelry Design
Christopher Tolbert, Boca Raton – Essex Mortgage
Honorary Candidate Team, Florida Cancer Specialists

Campaign co-chairmen are once again Derek Brock, Jessica Johnson and Troy Rice. For a full list of events and ways you can get support candidates in the MWOY campaign, follow LLS’ local Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/lls.area/.  Winners of the 2018 campaign will be announced at the Grand Finale held on May 19, 2018, at the Hilton, West Palm Beach.  To learn how you can get involved in future LLS events, or for information on the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, please visit https://www.lls.org/palm-beach-area.

Katja Bentzen returns to Palm Beach, this time on the Avenue!

During her first visit to Palm Beach in February, Katja Bentzen  spent most of her time in Wellington among the equestrian community.  Katja was immediately snapped up by Lourdes de Guardiola to participate at Milou’s pop up at International Polo Club.  Her success at IPC kept her occupied with private appointments among the horsey set.  She left too many of us on this side of the tracks wanting for more…

So, now that the St Barths Bucket Regatta is over, Katja answered my pleas to return and agreed with a 3 day trunk show at Eye of the Needle in Palm Beach. Pearl aficionados will also have the opportunity to meet Katja, select their favorite pearls and request a customized design tailored specifically for them.  Katja will be at Eye of the Needle, 313 Worth Avenue Thursday April 4- Saturday April 7th 

A St. Barth’s Staple

katja bentzenSt. Barth’s regulars who are ‘in the know’ have three things they absolutely must do during their visit to the fashionable destination:  Pick up food to go at Mayas for a picnic in Colombier or Saline; enjoy lunch and several bottles of rosé at La Plage and a visit to the Cheval Blanc Isle de France Hotel to purchase one of Katja’s latest creations.  Coming home from St. Barth’s without a new signature leather and pearl piece is absolutely out of the question for many of us!

Katja has been the exclusive supplier of exquisite pearl, mother of pearl and vermeil creations to the Cheval Blanc Isle de France (formerly Hotel Isle de France) for the last 15 years.  Katja uses only the best pearls from Tahiti and the South Seas with AAA lustre and shine, which she personally selects during her regular trips to the islands.  Katja imports the finest quality supple leather from Australia which she hand prepares for each piece she creates.

I thought I had died and gone to heaven when I visited Katja at her studio in St. Barth’s— a pearl lover’s paradise!  My boyfriend spent close to two hours selecting the perfect shades of grey resulting in my favorite piece ever: the perfect Tahitian pearl and leather necklace.

Mother of Pearl Clover Collection

About Katja Bentzen

Katja was born in Sweden and after moving to several countries with her family, she ended up in the Canary Islands, where her desire to go sailing and traveling was born. She was originally trained in London to restore antique kilims tapestry and it was here that her interest for jewelry and fashion blossomed. Katja spent her winters between the islands of St Barth’s and Antigua and summers in Newport RI, where she worked for the Restoration Society bringing rugs and tapestries back to life for the mansions on Ocean Drive. She used the knotting techniques for restoring these tapestries to create her pearl jewelry.Whilst sailing around the oceans Katja discovered the pearls from Tahiti and the South Seas and began using them to create the pearl jewelry that she is so renowned for today.  visit website