Ali MacGraw transcends borders and empowers women

All my life I’ve had respect for this fabulous down to earth and generous woman. So when I received  an invitation from Lars Bolander, Nadine Kalachnikoff and Todd Hase to meet her and learn about Ibu movement, I was thrilled!  After further research, I learned about her instrumental role in this fabulous organization and my admiration grew to a whole new level.  I look forward to meeting Ms. MacGraw next Thursday, adding fabulous unique and affordable pieces to my wardrobe and more importantly, I look forward to supporting such an important and often too forgotten cause: empowering women most in need.  All proceeds from sales will benefit Ibu Movement.

Ibu Movement

In the Malay language of Indonesia, Ibu means a woman of respect.  The Ibu movement celebrates the imagination and skill of women from around the world, while empowering them and putting money back in to their hands. As an Ambassador designer, Ali Macgraw collaborates with 71 artisan groups in 38 countries, bringing elegant, bold, and powerful handmade luxury for the rest of the world to enjoy.

“When a woman brings money into the household,” says MacGraw. “Suddenly she can’t be treated quite the same way as before.”

The Artisans

Artisans spanning the globe from Guatemala, to Nepal to create, spin, dye and weave their stories in cloth. They create more than beauty as they craft their own independence, educate their children, lead communities and change futures. Just one of these 71 groups crafts and designs in-house about 70% of Ibu’s products, offering unique items found nowhere else. The artisans buy the remaining 30% wholesale, and at a more than fair trade price. This dynamic creates livelihood, collegiality, and bonds of friendship between Ibu allies and artisans.

Ali MacGraw Ibu Movement Collection

Ali’s chic sense of style takes traditional craft from 23 countries around the world, including Ali’s native New Mexico, Uzbekistan, Brazil, to Pakistan to the South Sudan, to a whole other level. “My whole life I have been crazy about wearing and collecting textiles from the four corners of the earth.

In many cases, these things have been passed down for generations. Or at least, the craft has been taught by generations.

So these women live in a cultural continuum that the West doesn’t often see. Our society changes everything immediately, outsourcing things, making things quickly and cheaply. It’s so unappealing in comparison to something made by hand, something that joins you to a group of women from around the globe,” says MacGraw during an interview for interior monologue.

Nadine Kalachnikoff, Lars Bolander & Todd Hase will host Ali MacGraw and her collection at 5013 S. Dixie Highway, WPB Thursday March 29th, 10-5 PM.  Ali MacGraw will be speaking at 3pm (All proceeds from sales will go to Ibu movement). 

 

View video below to fully appreciate Ibu movement.  To view runway show of ali’s collection, fast forward half-way!

 

 

Charles Krypell Exhibition in Time for Valentine’s Day

The rumors are true.  Hamilton Jewelers is making it easier to stay romantic this February when they welcome world-renowned designer Charles Krypell to the Gardens Mall on Saturday, February 10th and Sunday, February 11th

A sculptor long before he became an internationally renowned jewelry designer, Charles Krypell has always loved working in Charles Krypell precious pastelsthree-dimensionality, particularly with stones. Discovering a love and talent for designing jewelry in 1976, today he constantly pushes the boundaries of design utilizing a sculptor’s eye, ample artistic talent and a keen insight into human nature to fashion one of the world’s premiere jewelry lines. Inspired by living life to the fullest, Charles’ collections exude a sensuous design, and a deep understanding of human romance and desire.

Local collectors will be pleased to visit with the popular Designer who will be highlighting his famous Precious Pastels Collection, featuring fancy-color diamonds and vibrant gemstones with diamonds, as well as a large assortment of high jewelry diamond pieces.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call 561.775.3600.

Hamilton is proud to offer many of the world’s premier designers, including time-honored brands as well as contemporary up-and-coming artisans. Shop the latest collections from a wide variety of international designers at Hamilton Jewelers on Worth Avenue or at The Gardens Mall.   Shop conveniently online at www.hamiltonjewelers.com

Katja Bentzen- A St. Barth’s Staple comes to Palm Beach

St. 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!  Though Irma has made a dent in our plans this year to visit St. Barth’s, the good news is Katja Bentzen is coming to South Florida end of January and staying with me for a couple of weeks!

Shades of Grey, White, Champagne and more

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.

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

Mother of Pearl Clover Collection

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.

Vermeil Collection

 

Katja Bentzen at Milou Pop Up at International Polo Club and Palm Beach

She’s already been snapped up by Lourdes de Guardiola who will be showcasing select pieces at Milou’s pop up at International Polo Club from January 15-January 28 and February 5- 18th.  Lourdes’s curated collection will include pieces from both Katja’s clover and vermeil lines.

Pearl aficionados will also have the opportunity to meet Katja, select their favorite pearls and request a customized design tailored specifically for them.

Other trunk shows in Wellington and Worth Avenue are still in the planning.  For more information on trunk shows or for private appointments, join Milou’s mailing list or email me.

 

 

 

Repossi:  Direct from Place Vendôme to Worth Avenue

Long coveted and collected by international clientele and European royals including designation as the Official Purveyor of H.R.H the Prince Rainier III of Monaco, the House of Repossi is coming to Palm Beach for the first time with a destination on Worth Avenue.  Hamilton Jewelers has announced an exclusive relationship with Repossi.  The 97-year-old jewelry house has developed a reputation for daring designs and a quasi-architectural approach to fine jewelry.  The exquisite pieces are coming to Palm Beach direct from Place Vendôme in Paris.

“Repossi selected Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue due to the destination’s reputation for attracting a discriminating clientele who select items with a nod to enduring quality,” says Mathieu Cheyrouze, International Director of Repossi.  “Repossi began as a family enterprise so the importance of partnership with another family business led the brand to form a relationship with Hamilton Jewelers.”

The House of Repossi was founded in 1920 in Turin, Italy and continues the creative family legacy of talented artists and designers extended from father to son, and later from father to daughter.  Gaia Repossi chose an artistic path first, far from the conventional jewelry tradition. At 21, she was appointed Creative Director of the brand, creating a radical new direction in the collections and challenging the historical ateliers with groundbreaking new designs.

Quasi-Architectural: Cutting Edge Design with a Feminine Touch

Blending and pushing the boundaries between architecture and traditional high jewelry techniques, Gaia’s designs are characterized by modern, minimalist motifs and the use of complex patterns.  In 2010, she launched the Berbère Collection that would become a groundbreaking hit for the House of Repossi, establishing it as an influential presence within the fashion industry and the high jewelry world. Gaia continues to evolve and set trends with each collection, giving impulse to a new generation in search of change and tradition at the same time.

Repossi offers bestselling jewelry pieces from collections such as Berbère, Serti Sur Vide, and Antifer. Specialties include engagement and wedding rings, as well as rare one-of-a-kind diamond solitaires. Repossi CEO, Benjamin Comar, and International Director, Mathieu Cheyrouze, will be making personal visits to Hamilton Jewelers to establish the brand’s introduction to Palm Beach.

Hamilton is a 3rd generation firm with locations in Palm Beach and Princeton, NJ.  For more information, visit www.hamiltonjewelers.com.

VIA ENCANTADA–Where Elegance and Trendy meet on Worth Avenue

Via Encantada, or ‘The Enchanted Way’ lies nestled in the heart of what is arguably one of the nation’s most exclusive shopping destinations– Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue.  Property owner, art collector, and Warhol muse, Jane Holzer, makes sure this Via has a whole different vibe; from understated elegance to trendy and hip.

Elegantly framed by stylishly understated Italian fashion houses, Brioni, Loro Piana, and fashion-forward  French sister boutiques Sandro and Maje, Jane Holzer has personally curated a delightful shopping experience where old world charm meets contemporary and pop.

Italian Perfection

Everyone knows BRIONI is synonymous with BESPOKE and BEST-DRESSED.  Professional athletes, celebrities, and industry leaders alike know the brand set meticulous standards for its craft, and turn to the Master Tailors of Brioni for a polished Bespoke look.  They know that the Brioni Tailors’ artistry is imbued in all the unseen details that distinguish Brioni garments.  Brioni’s meticulous standards are matched by their unrivaled personalized service, making every visit a memorable experience.

It’s hard to beat ‘the look, the craftsmanship and the feel’ of anything Loro Piana.  One of the world’s leading manufacturers of fine fabrics, renowned for taking wool and cashmere to an exceptional level of fineness and quality, Loro Piana is also a favorite of the well-heeled man.  The quietly elegant man demanding quality and comfort will choose timeless Loro Piana walk loafers as the finishing touch to his travel wardrobe.

French Flair

French fashion-forward women’s boutiques, Sandro and Maje are the brainchild of two creative sisters, Evelyn and Judith.  Sandro features a more classical, timeless line 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.  (BIG SALE going on right now!)

Via Encantada Revealed

The charming corridor with its whimsical chandeliers leads visitors to the newly opened Contessa Gallery where a display of eclectic art immediately catches your eye.  The wide open doors to the sun-filled airy space and owner Steve Hartman’s friendly warm smile, make it a ‘must stop in and look‘ kind of place.

A pink-painted staircase and large-scale Will Ryman rose sculpture marks the entrance to Sarah Gavlak’s recently expanded art gallery and beckons art lovers to further explore.  Gavlak Gallery, one of the most respected galleries in Palm Beach, has been Via Encantada’s destination for art lovers and collectors since it moved from West Palm Beach in 2008.

Fabrikant and Miller- Hidden Jewel

Discreetly nestled between the galleries at the foot of the whimsical staircase is Fabrikant and Miller.  Co-owner Craig Miller has deservedly earned iconic status on Worth Avenue.  Miller’s début at Cartier in 1993 resulted in being ‘poached’ by Van Cleef & Arpels, and subsequently by the houses of Bulgari and Graff.  Craig specializes in buying and selling estate jewelry, watches and diamonds.   After 24 years it’s about more than his expertise; it’s  about the personal relationships, the trust Craig’s earned and his discretion that sets this private salon apart.

 

 

Laura Munder exclusively at Hamilton Jewelers

Yes, that is Laura Munder who you’ve seen again on the Avenue.  While her well-known eponymous boutique on Worth Avenue closed several years ago, fine jewelry designer Laura Munder has returned to Palm Beach through a new exclusive relationship with Hamilton Jewelers.   Known for her color-rich branded pieces, many one-of-a-kind, she closed her retail store in 2010 to focus more on the creative process.  Since that time, Laura has been working on launching a new line of fashion-oriented pieces.  She has also  produced a new collection of “past hits,” remaking some of her most successful designs in new materials and stones. “I have been committed to working in the studio rather than in the store,” she said.

Laura Munder, artistic and fashion-driven

Since 1997, Laura’s appeal has always been fueled by an artistic and fashion-driven approach to designing. Being a long-time jewelry collector and jewelry lover herself, Laura’s design philosophy fuels her production of fresh, stylish pieces that she would want to have and wear. Stones are found all around the world. Her collection includes many one-of-a-kind pieces made with mandarin garnet, a rare stone available in extremely limited quantities.  A striking addition to the collection is the use of blackened gold in combination with diamonds, mandarin garnet, sapphires and tourmaline. “The blackening of gold represents the sense of old-world style, while the introduction of the colored gemstones produces a fresh and modern look,” says Laura.

Laura has spent a lifetime in the jewelry business. As the daughter of a renowned diamond expert, Laura quickly learned the skill of distinguishing remarkable stones and the talent required to delicately mold them into works of art. Her jewelry’s extravagant use of colorful gemstones, unusual cuts and unique settings have garnered loyalty from serious collectors.

Laura Munder, nationally recognized

The style of the Laura Munder Fine Jewelry Collection has also been recognized by national media. Women’s Wear Daily has identified Laura as one of the industry’s newest designers to contribute to the rise of branded jewelry. Pieces from Laura’s collection regularly appear in national fashion publications such as Vogue, Town and Country, Harper’s Bazaar, W, Women’s Wear Daily, InStyle, Glamour, as well as The New York Times.

Hollywood has been very interested in Laura Munder, with many celebrities spotted around town in her designs, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Jada Pinkett Smith, Anne Hathaway, and Molly Simms.

To experience the Laura Munder precious jewelry collection in person, visit Hamilton Jewelers, 215 Worth Avenue.  Laura’s exquisite pieces will also soon be available online shortly at www.hamiltonjewelers.com.

 

 

Sandro’s new HIGHLIGHT Capsule collection Brings life to Paris by Night

Picture Paris at Dusk.  As the moon rises, Sandros new Highlight capsule collection, presents an evening wardrobe with all the lighting effects you’ll need. The Highlight collection plays on the dreams and desires of a starry night where chic femininity shines.

Tis the season!  The Holidays often turn to thoughts of luxury, and Sandro’s Highlight collection doesn’t disappoint with 15 silhouettes to slip into Sandro Highlight eveningas evening falls.

In shades of black, silver and white, geometric shapes and volumes rub shoulder to shoulder with asymmetries. Pleats and frills bring twists and turns to a silhouette wrapped in feminine touches of light. The look is formal, but with an oh-so Parisian casual edge. The lustrous moiré of a draped bustier is fitted to a full-circle skirt in iridescent voile. Silvery sequins find the limelight on a shawl-collar smoking jacket, worn over a short skirt in draped lurex. A white top with gigot sleeves contrasts with the deep black of a skirt enhanced with an asymmetric frill. A dress with its collar and shoulders embellished with pearl beads reveals a mesh bib-front, with a generous box pleat at the back. Lace and brocade capture the final glow of Paris at dusk.

Accentuate your Holiday wardrobe

Stop in at Sandro to see how the right accessory can ‘effortlessly’ transform the simplest outfit-the French way.   Effortless Parisian charm – Très chic.

Available at Sandro 247 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach  Tel 561 650 0371

Rare and Elegant Watches Featured at Hamilton Jewelers at The Gardens Mall 

Every November, TIME stops for the watch enthusiasts and collectors of Palm Beach County. The highly anticipated Hamilton Jeweler’s Annual International Watch Fair is back again.

Eighteen years ago, Hamilton was the first jeweler to introduce the Watch Fair concept to the retail environment. The annual two-day Watch Fair will showcase thousands from their newest collections and limited editions. Designer watch brands will be available at Hamilton Jewelers (Gardens Mall location) on Friday, November 17th and Saturday November 18th.

Some brands to look forward to in men’s and ladies’ styles are BreitlingCartierHermes, Patek PhilippePanerai, Jaeger Le-CoultreIWC, and Chanel. In light of the two-day affair, Brand Ambassadors are flying in to attend the fair, and will address any questions. In addition, experts will provide immediate evaluation of your existing timepieces. Not only will Hamilton Jewelers be offering special financing terms, but they will also be providing special gifts with your purchase.

Hours of the Fair

Hours of the International Watch Fair are:

  • Friday, November 17th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 18th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Another event taking place on Saturday, November 18th, from 12 noon to 5 p.m, is a “Taste of Switzerland,” complete with craft beers, sparkling wine, cheeses and chocolates. For more information, call 561.775.3600.

BRIONI Bespoke — an exclusive service dedicated to creating your personalized wardrobe

Fall often brings a return to Classic Looks. Perhaps it’s time to look in your closet and review your wardrobe. Brioni invites you to discover the world of Brioni Bespoke, which offers exclusivity in a unique garment, entirely modeled and handcrafted in Italy to meet your exacting requirements.

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

Brioni’s Master Tailor is available to make a nip and tuck to your personal Brioni collection. One of their stylists will bring new energy to your collection, and with a personal consultation, as the boutique’s professional staff specializes in refreshing your accessories or providing a differential cut to your wardrobe.

Because of this, professional athletes, celebrities, and industry leaders alike know the brand that set 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 longstanding bond that links Brioni to the film industry and iconic Hollywood stars begins in the years of La Dolce Vita.

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.

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.

Master Tailor at Worth Avenue Salon, October 5-7th

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.

 

Hamilton Jewelers Worth Avenue and Palm Beach Gardens donate pink proceeds to Susan G. Komen

Hamilton Jewelers of Palm Beach and Princeton announced today that they will be the first jewelry major sponsor of the 8th annual Susan G. Komen’s Perfect Pink Party. which will be held January 20, 2018.

Hamilton has announced a “Perfect in Pink” Breast Cancer Month promotion.  During the month of October, Hamilton will donate 10% of sale proceeds to the Komen organization from all jewelry items sold containing a pink gemstone.   With an array of beautiful options — ranging from precious fancy pink diamonds to pink sapphires, spinel, and tourmaline — indeed there are many collections to choose from to support the program. 

Ambassador Nancy Brinker, Founder of Susan G Komen responds, “I am thrilled Hamilton Jewelers has partnered with Susan G. Komen’s Perfect Pink Party, as they too are an integral part of the Palm Beach Community.  The gala culminates several months of outreach for various community programs to fund breast cancer research and meet critical needs in the local community for those fighting breast cancer. “

Hamilton president Hank Siegel announces: “We are proud to support such a worthwhile organization.  My family has always been pleased to offer assistance to the important cause of breast cancer research and awareness, and this event is a wonderful opportunity to provide collaboration at an even more significant level.” 

 

About Susan G. Komen

Susan G. Komen is the world’s largest breast cancer organization, founded by Palm Beach resident, Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker. This national and international organization sets up the infrastructure in thousands of communities in America through their affiliate network and partners, with 1,900 national organizations delivering services, screening, education, financial aid and social support.  Susan G. Komen is also engaged in more than 60 countries.