“Diamonds of the Gods” Set To Be Auctioned By Sotheby’s in Geneva

Considered the highest quality set of earrings to ever enter the auction block, the Apollo & Artemis diamonds are undeniably brilliant.  With an auction date set for the 16th of May during the Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels & Noble Jewels event at the Mandarin Oriental in Geneva, we have no doubt that these earrings will set a new high in the uber luxury marketplace.

Touted as the most valuable earrings ever to be openly listed for sale, the pair were appropriately named after the twin children born of Greek Gods, Zeus & Leto.  The Apollo diamond which is estimated to sell for as high as 50M USD; is a brilliant internally flawless Type 11B blue diamond, boasting a marvelous weight of 14.54 carats.  Apollo is one of very few blue diamonds to ever receive the “Fancy Blue Diamond Grading.”

On the other hand, Artemis is a pear cut 16 carat pink diamond that is listed as a Type IIA.  The exceptional colour and intense rare pink hues of Artemis, make its sale a truly once in a life time opportunity to purchase one of the purest pink diamonds in the world.  Artemis is estimated to sell for between $12.5M USD to $18M USD.

“’The Apollo and Artemis Diamonds’ will be the stars of our May sale in Geneva – by far the most important pair of earrings ever offered at auction. These exquisite coloured diamonds are enormously rare and each is a wonderful stone in its own right. Together, as a pair of earrings, they are breathtaking. We have named them after Apollo and Artemis, a twin brother and sister of great power and beauty who were among the most widely venerated of the Ancient Greek deities. These are diamonds of great distinction, with extraordinary presence, and we are honoured that Sotheby’s has been chosen to bring them to auction in May.” said David Bennett, Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby’s International Jewellery Division.

Currently the duo of Apollo & Artemis are on a world tour to hopefully entise possible future owners ahead of the Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels & Noble Jewels auction on the 16th of May.  Having already visited the North America, Europe, and the Middle East; Apollo & Artemis are in the final leg of their journey currently traveling through Asia.

For more information on the “Magnificent Jewels & Noble Jewels” auction, please visit: Sothebys.com

Meet Egith van Dinther

Meet Egith van Dinther; best known by her nickname “Iggy”, the Los Angeles based Dutch model & actress is one of the most talented fresh faces on the Modeling, Acting, and Hosting scene.  Iggy was born in Uden a small town in the south of Holland.  Beginning her career as an Equestrian and soon becoming a proffesional show jumper for 8 years. Iggy transitioned into her modeling career at just sixteen and is currently signed with Wilhelmina Models, where she has worked with some of the most prestigious international brands such as Ralph Lauren & Brietling.  Most recently Ms. van Dinther has dove deeper into acting, and also has just finished her degree at Conde Nast College of Fashion and Design in London.  We spoke exclusively with Egith van Dinther on all things lifestyle & fashion.

What are you currently inspired by?

“So many things! Life is full of beautiful adventures. At this moment, I’m working on a documentary about ‘Comfort Women’.  Comfort women were women forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese Army during World War 2.  Because many Dutch Women were captured during this time; it is a subject that’s close to my heart.  These women really inspire me because of their strength and courage.”

Tell us about your career as a model. How did you get started?

“My career starts in a little town called Uden. This is the place where I grew up in the south of Holland. Modeling wasn’t really a profession back then, and I was to focused on my horses to be bothered by photoshoots. But a Local Horse Farm that I was working for needed new pictures for their brochure. The photographer that made those pictures saw something in me and directed me to the right agency. Before I knew it I was flying out to Paris, Milan and London.”

For the last few years you have been a Host for Breitling at Basel World.  What do you enjoy most about the event?  Do you have any favorite timepieces from Basel World 2017?

“Breitling has been a client for more then 4 years now. It’s amazing to work for a high-end brand like this. The organization is on the highest level I know. This year they really stepped out with their uniforms. Every morning we wake up at 5am to do hair & Make-up and our look changes every day. Followed up by a different outfit. Just the amount of effort Breitling puts into their hosts & entertainment program is incredible. My suits are all tailor made just for my size. Which brands do that nowadays?!

Of course I am a fan of Breitling watches, but my eye always goes out to Chopard or Harry Winston. They are the kings of diamonds.  I love the classic looks with beautiful pink leather wristbands. It’s just an art of watchmaking”

What’s one of the most interesting shoots that you’ve done?

“My favorite shoots are the ones that I do for Ralph Lauren. They always pick the best locations and work with the most professional teams. Everything is just right and connects; the make-up, the photographer, the stylist. They are all number one and that result you see back in the pictures. For my last shoot for Ralph Lauren we traveled to Dubai. This place has the most luxurious hotels and best Polo fields in the world. It was the perfect scene for their latest Cruise collection.”

Being that you are starting to branch out into acting, what would be your ideal role?

“I am now working on a documentary, something that is actually closer to my heart.  I like to express myself the way I am. With hosting I can just be myself. I love to interview people and express my emotions into my work. By just being myself I hope to inspire people and give them hope and joy. I want to connect with people and hear their stories. So for the future I would love to have more opportunities in this direction.”

Take us through a typical day in the life of Egith van Dinther.

“Oelala… be prepared because it is a lot! To start off I wake up very early. I love to get my workout done before the hectic day starts. You will find me in Equinox almost every day! Its my second home. After I have my workout done, I  get a smoothie ‘to go’ and run into my castings and meetings. Because LA is so big, I mostly spend a lot of time in the car. Thank God I love driving because my castings go from Downtown LA to all the way back in Malibu. When we are shooting on location, my call time normally is 9:00am. For TV shows it’s normally earlier. I recently did the KTLA morning show and they always want the models ready at 5:00am sharp.

To get an impression of how beautiful LA is, you should really follow me on instagram. Here you will see villa’s in the hills, Palmtrees in Malibu and Celebrities on the red carpet. Around lunch time I always try to find some time for a quick stop at Whole Foods or EreWhon. My favorite spots in LA. They have everything from vegan salads to tonics and bulletproof coffees.

Meetings normally finish around 6:00pm. By this time my boyfriend and I love to take a Hot Yoga class together. There is a really good one in Santa Monica called HOT 8 YOGA. After we sweat all the dirt from that day off, we are so hungry that we normally end up at Cafe Gratitude. This vegan place is just one of my favorites.

Another great spot where you can find us; is the Soho House in Malibu or the one in West Hollywood. This is a place where you can relax, paddle board or work on your laptop all day. The perfect hangout place. This is just a typical week day for us. Normally we have a lot of events going on; last months we had the Golden Globes, the Oscars and Premiers all over town.”

What is your favorite healthy snack?

“Because my boyfriend and I are on a cleanse right now; my favorite snack is a home made Green Smoothie. I put all the right supplements, amazing grass, lean protein, acai, spinach, kale etc in their to make it extra jammie.. You can me wake up for this one!!”

How would you describe your personal style

“My style is classic but sexy. I always felt that my European style stood out here in Los Angeles. Most of the girls wear a lot of black at castings. I like to wear colors!?  That’s my way to stand out, fashion is a way to express yourself without speaking. My styling of accessories and make up is minimalist. I love the clean look. Less is More.”

If you could only wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?

“I love Stella McCartney, not only because of her designs, but mostly because her company is all about being sustainable. I think nowadays its very important to look at the world we are living in. Fashion is one of the largest industries that pollutes the world. We can make a change and that starts with making the right choices.

Stella’s designs are girly and feminine at the same time. She is using beautiful materials and soft color palettes that are all vegan. Not only her ready to wear collection is fabulous, BUT also her Sports collection for Adidas is Grande. These outfits put you right on track again.”

What are some places you’re dying to travel to?

“Japan is high on my list. I heard so many good stories about Tokyo; how clean it is, how far they are technology wise, how polite the people are, how great the food is, how safe it is, how cute and beautiful the landscaping is… Just to many things to mention. I HAVE TO GO :D”

You were previously a professional show jumper, what initially attracted you to the sport?

“I grew up on a farm, so having animals around me was normal. Just the connection you can have with a horse is incredible. Showjumping is a high level sport. I always liked to have competition in my life. Racing together with your Horse is just the best feeling in the world. Besides the horse world is an amazing environment to grow up in. It is a luxury lifestyle that never gets boring.”

Having just recently finished your degree at Condé Nast College of Fashion and design in London; do you have any aspirations to enter the world of fashion design one day?

“I already started my own athletic wear company called; IggyvanD. It was part of a school project. But as I told you before, I’m a firm believer of the sustainability side of Fashion. So if I continue with my brand I want it to be 100% Holistic.

A big eye opener was watching the documentary ‘the True Cost’  this made me realize how fast fashion is ruining our world. I admit, I used to buy from H&M and Forever21. But after seeing what these companies do; I never want to buy from them again. So many people are suffering in Bangladesh, just for us.. Its not necessary. We don’t need to buy clothes every week. Rather, buy one beautiful designer piece and treasure it for a life time.”

What are some of your favorite things to do in LA?

“LA gives so many options. Because of the great weather me and my boyfriend love to workout outside, and use nature as our gym.  Running by the beach, hikes in Malibu, Paddleboarding, bicycle rides. All activities I love to do. Big plus point; you get a beautiful tan at the same time :D”

Where can we follow you?

“Follow me everywhere. I love to share my happy moments & fashion choices with my followers. I’m a big fan of Instagram stories. But I still use snapchat as well. Their filters are just the BOM.”

INSTA: @EGITH

SNAPCHAT:  Egith

FACEBOOK: @IggyvanD

TWITTER: @IggyvanD

Where to next?

“My horizon is endless. My options are too many. I feel this is just my time to shine and LA is helping me everyday to come a step closer to my goals. Making meaningful documentaries and helping the world become a better place. These are the values that I admire the most. I want to achieve big things that mean something. Inspire other people and be a role model.”

Mr Porter’s Latest Collection on California Style

Producing the cool and collected sense of the California coast, online menswear destination Mr Porter developed their new Made in California capsule collection that imparts keen insight of life on the coast through the style of suave attire.  The British award-winning global retailer collaborated with 12 brands including long standing front-runners John Elliott & Elder Statesman, and auspicious designers like Amiri to construct over 140 unique pieces galvanized by the California coast lifestyle.  The California capsule collection does not only mark the largest collection of casual and beach-ready wear ever created by Mr Porter, but it also is a first to be inspired by just one explicit location.

Robert Talbott’s Newport Beach Boutique

Robert Talbott, the Monterey based quintessential California clothier has just announced the opening of their sixth boutique located at Fashion Island in glitzy Newport Beach.  On April 11th, the nearly 1,200 square foot location opened its doors to purvey a brilliant selection of high-end luxury clothing for the sartorially savvy man.

“The arrival of the Robert Talbott store at Fashion Island presents the realization of our goal to provide the full range of our men’s clothing collection to Newport Beach and the surrounding areas,” said Bob Corliss, Robert Talbott CEO. “Robert Talbott has long been recognized for our fine materials and impeccable craftsmanship, and the opening of this new location provides an opportunity to share our brand with Fashion Island customers.”

Currently exhibiting half a dozen shops around the United States, Robert Talbott has doubled their presence within the last 12 months.  The Newport Beach boutique will be showcasing the nearly 70 year old company’s famed neckwear (some of the best in the world), suits, sport jackets, shirts, casual clothing, accessories, and shoes (a recent addition to the brand).

For more information please visit:  RobertTalbott.com

De Bethune’s Bold Meteorite-Dial Timepieces

Luxury timepieces with extraordinary meteorite dials have developed into and escalated throughout the horologe industry.  With this ever-increasing advancement in meteorite dialed timepieces, De Bethune took the initiative to further evolve its appearance for their latest unveiling, however this is not a first for them in working with materials such as the meteorite dial.  A little over a year ago, the brand revealed a revised, exclusive version of the Dream Watch 5 (priced at $446,000), which its case was solely made from a vivid-vilolet meteorite.  But for their latest variant of the meteorite dial, they chose to take a bold step with the use of their adamant meteorite (procured from a space rock initially discovered in Santiago del Estero, Argentina) in a somewhat atypical manner to augment the new DB28 Kind of Blue Tourbillon Meteorite.

The DB28 model has been through an extensive amount of variations and in an assortment of options to chose from over the recent years, and this new ultimate Kind of Blue Tourbillon Meteorite stands above the rest as a true masterpiece of its line.  The timepiece utilizes De Bethune’s mechanized DB2019v3 30-second tourbillon caliber as it’s main power source, and once the piece is fully wound it has a power reserve of five days (120 hours).  This out-of-the-world kind of watch is available with a retail price of $278,000.

For more information visit:  DeBethune.com

Hermès Brings Free Spirited Style To Downtown L.A.

Famed Parisian fashion house Hermès throws a bash focused primarily on the aesthetic young generation by coastal California at Dwntwn Men Runway Show a few nights back with new, vibrant  designs and styles from their 2017 Spring & Summer collections.  This large-scale outdoors event took place at a full city block in downtown Los Angeles, the party also featured vivid art installations, Airstream food trucks, interdependent fabric displays, graphic art work by artist Anthony Burrill, a vinyl record library, and live music played throughout the block. Hermès’s decision in holding the event in Los Angeles was for its city’s increasingly expanding growth in pertinence and shopping influence within the fashion market.  The pieces chosen by Hermès Men’s Artistic Director, Veronique Nichanian, gave a laid-back yet vivacious emotion and style to the event, such as hip tie-dyed button-ups and turquoise colored polo shirts followed by shorts and straped waterfront-ready sandals for easy flexibility to any casual outing.  Paired alongside these free spirited style clothing were contemporary argyle-inspired sweaters; lightweight overcoats; and swarthy leather jackets.  This event was directed towards the aspiring youths of today, with an easygoing hipster vibe that is sure to bring forth an exceptional take on fashion to downtown Los Angeles.

Check out Hermes.com for more information

Saks Fifth Avenue’s Latest New York Showroom

A new Saks Fifth Avenue store has once again situated itself in Manhattan, which arises as the third Saks Fifth Avenue menswear showroom to set up shop throughout New York.  With its opening, the outfitting of the elegant gentleman is only going to grow and enhance the number of stylish & well dressed men throughout Manhattan.  The 16,000 square foot Saks Downtown Men’s made it’s debut on February 23rd in Brookfield Place, as it supports the shopping center coupled with the retailer’s most recent women’s store that opened last fall.

This new menswear outpost signifies the beginning of a developmental shopping ambiance, as it combines a conventional and modernized approach alongside zealous fields for their bespoke services and cutting-edge advances in the latest styles.  The renovated Fifth Avenue Club, located to the store’s northern side entrance, was designed to prevail as a place in which a true gentleman would decide what to wear.  The Club also features fittings for made-to-measure apparel and personal style sessions.  In addition, its dressing rooms showcase correlative mirrors that bring together a peerless focus upon innovation and tradition to integrate in perfect unison.  These mirrors give customers full view of what they are wearing, from the fabric, lining, and buttons used on the made-to-measure suits and shirts to greater specifications such as labels bearing the customers name along with the Saks Fifth Avenue logo.

Besides having over one-hundred perennial brands that include top of the line choices from ISAIA to Kiton, the store also has a committed pop-up area for the latest designer collaborations, projects, and exclusive collections that will be presented on monthly, rotating intervals.  In celebration of the store’s launch, the “World of Sneakers” pop-up will be showcased all through March and have on display more than two-hundred styles from brands such as Alexander McQueen and Maison Margiela.

The store offers, in addition to accessories and ready-to-wear departments, an apothecary for nurturing products & fragrances, and will also open a Sharps Barber with FIKA Coffee Bar later this year.

For more information visit:  SaksFifthAvenue.com

Leading Tag Heuer Watches For 2017

Tag Heuer is a world leader in sports and luxury watches, whether on a race track or a golf course, you will notice this brand’s considerable following. This is because the company continues to add revolutionary features to its watch making process, giving the users the maximum in luxury and high performance. For Tag Heuer, it isn’t just about the appearance, but a little bit of substance. This is why you will always see the brand with great functionality and features. Let’s take a look at some of the leading Tag Heuer watches this 2017.

Tag Heuer Men’s CV2A10: This model is one of the most famous in terms of luxury sports. It comes with a sleek look that would suit the classic man. It is made with a combination of a black dial and rubber strap that exudes a bold presence. This watch is for the lion-hearted man, but still offers a lot in terms of style. The hands of this watch are finished with fine silver, and the Arabic numerals are contrasting to the black dial. It comes in a stainless steel case, and has an aluminium coloured bezel. This watch has three different chronograph sub dials, giving you maximum performance.

Tag Heuer Men’s Aquaracer: If you are looking for a water resistant watch that is stylish and durable, then look no further. The Aquaracer is one watch from Tag Heuer that has superior construction and a design that suits all purposes. This watch is the prime of luxury, but is also good for everyday usage. The dial is sea blue, and it has a number of silver toned features. It comes in a stainless steel case, with the bezel moving in just one direction. This watch uses the highly accurate Swiss Automatic movement system, ensuring the time is always correct.

Tag Heuer Men’s Formula 1 Chronograph: if you are a man that likes fast paced things and high end devices, this is the best for you. Offering the best of speed and performance, the formula one watch was made for racers. It has a crystal clear display that allows you to look at the time in a blur. It has a black dial with a scratch resistant bezel that is made from titanium carbide.

Tag Heuer Men’s Carrera Automatic Stainless Steel: This watch comes with a very sleek presence for the ultimate professionals. This is the perfect blend between business and pleasure, and you can be sure of its exquisite design. It complements whatever ensemble that you are wearing, and it also harbors silver dial features.

Tag Heuer Men’s Link Chronograph: if you are a man of luxury, this watch would definitely not disappoint you. Made from the finest stainless steel, it is scratch resistant and has sapphire crystal features. In addition, It possesses a black dial with luminous time hands.

The Art of Shoemaking: Interview with George Glasgow Jr. of George Cleverley

(George Glasgow Sr. & George Glasgow Jr.)

George Cleverley is renowned as one of the worlds most revered shoemakers, founded by Mr. Cleverley in 1958.  The shoemaker quickly gained a reputation as the best, having since created shoes for everyone from David Beckham and the cast of Kingsman to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.  Today, the boutique shoemaker is headed by father and son team George Glasgow Sr. and George Glasgow Jr. who continue to elevate the renowned brand’s status in the market of today.  Recently, we were given the privilege of speaking with George Glasgow Jr. on all things shoe-making.

What is the inspiration for the George Cleverley RTW line?

“George Cleverley have been making and selling RTW shoes for over 30 years.  The inspiration of each style comes from our bespoke collection, where every shoe has a story and generally always comes from a previous bespoke order.  We also wanted to offer the market a shoe which we felt was the best value for money and RTW in the world.  A lot of time and effort goes into the making of our RTW collection and still we make everything in England with each detail carefully planned.  We also only use the finest materials available to ensure the shoes can be resoled and last for many years to come.”

What is the most difficult aspect of being a shoemaker in the market of today?

“Unlike most of our competitors, we have not taken any of our production overseas.  We make all of our shoes today in England.  We focus only on making the finest shoes in the world.  I think staying true and classic to your brand is always important.  We make new styles but it is always in line with the George Cleverley brand and design aspects.  Keeping your identity in a fast changing market is always the challenge.”

What shoe would you like to make in the future that you have not made yet?

“We have just finalized a few casual styles.  Something different and more for weekends & beachwear which we feel is going to be the best in the market.  It’s handmade in England with unique features and designs.  Its something I have been working on for a few years and delighted that we are going to launch this exclusive collection on MR. PORTER in May.”

Can you tell us more about your career, and the way you got into shoe-making?

“I grew up in the shoe-making business and have really been around shoes my whole life.  I went to the University of London and studied Economics, which lead me to work in investment banking for several years after college.  I then returned to my family business in 2007 and have been there ever since.  It’s my passion and something which I generally love doing everyday.”

Which other shoemakers do you like?

“I like shoemakers that have their own style, and do not just follow seasonal trends.”

Style advice from George Glasgow?

“Always invest in your shoes and your bed because if you’re not in one then you’re in the other.  I always advise in buying a good quality shoe, which is well made and classic.  It’s also important to know what style and cut suits you. This will make picking an outfit a lot easier and looking sharp at the right occasion.”

What do you believe sets George Cleverley apart from its competitors?

“We are the last family owned and operated bespoke shoemaker in England.  We offer fantastic customer service and strive to make the best possible shoes in the world by hand.  Our brand is run like a family and not a corporation which our clients can feel and appreciate.  Our clients become friends and part of our company and not just another number.  We also have the latest selection of exotic skins in the world, so we have an impressive selection of materials for our clients to design something unique to them.”

Where does George Cleverley obtain their leathers from?  Tell us more about some of the different bespoke leather options George Cleverley is famous for.

“We source all of our materials for shoes in England (soles, linings e.t.c.).  Our calf sometimes will vary depending on where the best calf is location at the time of buying.  In recent years it has been Germany.  Our exotic skins comes from either the USA or Singapore.  Our unique exotic business is one of the biggest in the world.  We source very unique hides & skins for our clients.”

Where do you see George Cleverley in 10 years?

“Hopefully in the same place as today.  We attract an amazing clientele from all over the world.  Some of the most unique individuals from all different backgrounds that love our product.  We have all ages and all nationalities which is a testament to the product.”

For more information on George Cleverley please visit:  www.GeorgeCleverley.com

Images courtesy of George Cleverley & Co. Ltd

Chanel Takes Center Stage At Paris Fashion Week

Chanel emerged as a shining beacon of Haute Couture at Paris Fashion Week, sparkling under the light of the runway; the famed French Design House created a hall of mirrors to showcase their latest collection.

With a one of a kind runway, which included white lilies a top mirrored pillars, this special display allowed the crowd to view both their own reflection, as well as Lagerfeld’s spectacular designs come to life from every possible angle.  The collection included suits in multiple shades of pastel – which supplied a unique twist and a tulip shaped silhouette and hats worn hanging off the back of the head.

Taking center stage was Chanel’s shinning star Lily-Rose Depp, the 17 year old daughter of American actor Johnny Depp and French actress Vanessa Paradis.  Miss Depp who closed the event showcasing a stunning dusky pink gown with flowing ruffles which graced the Runway floor as she walked alongside Chanel’s longtime Creative Director, Karl Lagerfeld; who for the first time in years declined to give any post show interviews with the press.