Jaguar’s All New F-Type SVR

The new Jaguar F-Type SVR has been unleashed, with the speed and agility like that of a real jaguar, it was appropriately dubbed the most cat-like convertible and coupe in the F-Type series.  The vehicle harbors an incredibly powerful 575 hp, 5-liter V-8 engine (including 516.ft lbs of torque) and is chained with a twin vortex supercharger, which greatly diminishes engine drag.  Paired with a custom-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission, the voracious V-8 engine grants the F-Type the ability to go from zero to sixty in 3.5 seconds following up to 200 mph, (195 for the roadster).

This new Jaguar’s swiftness and control functions are the result of the marque’s Intelligent Drive-line Dynamics and Electronics Active Differential systems that maintains the suspension’s responses.  You have the possibility to enhance the flexibility of the SVR, to be further intensified by the optional Carbon Ceramic Matrix Braking system, which allows for a much stronger and sharper deceleration componentry than ever before.

As for the all-wheel-drive sportster: it features a lightweight aluminum body and your pick of three roof types; carbon fiber, panoramic glass, or aluminium.  The cars weight was also cast off with an Inconel and titanium exhaust system, plus 20-inch forged alloy wheels that comes to 30 pounds more lightweight than any other in the model line.  In addition to all the other previously stated features, the sportster promotes a newly upgraded airflow detailing that consists of intakes in the retracting door handles, front bumper, a front splitter, and a rear valance.  The carbon fiber rear spoiler rises automatically as soon as you reach a speed of 71 mph and also neutralizes lift all the way up to 264 pounds.

Luxurious features in the extremely customizable interior include beautifully quilted performance seats, cutting edge electrically assisted steering, extensive connectivity, and several accessible trim packages.  The 1st series production Jaguar to originate from the marque’s Special Vehicle Operation division as well as to carry SVR badging.  The starting price for the F-Type SVR begins at $125,950 for the coupe or $128,800 for the convertible.

For more information visit:  JaguarUSA.com

Meet Sophie & Charlotte Bickley

Meet the Bickley’s, Sophie (left) & Charlotte (right); Two inseparable Fashion Blogger Sisters who have made the world of fashion as amazing as can be, with their incredible blog, Yin2MyYang.  As some of the hottest fashion bloggers today they put style and charm into your casual everyday wardrobe.  Besides who doesn’t love a cool and glamours everyday look that makes your day even just a little bit more fun.  Sophie & Charlotte do just this, they put a little bit of fun in your day to day life ensuring that your living your life to the fullest.  This awesome fashion blogging duo were kind enough to take some time out of their busy schedule to tell us a little bit more about their super cool blog, their unique fashion philosophy, and some insight on their extraordinary style tips & simply stunning outfit ideas.

What inspired you to start your blog?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “We have always both been very interested in fashion and have had our own unique personal styles that have come very easy to us. It has never been hard for either of us to put together a stylish outfit. We have been surrounded by fashion our entire lives with a father who works in the depths of the fashion industry so that made us even more interested in the world of fashion.

Our friends, family, and even people we didn’t know have constantly complimented us on our style our entire lives so we FINALLY one day decided that we wanted to share our take on fashion and our personal styles with the world, not through the eyes of just one of us, but through the eyes of both of us, since we both have such different physical looks, tastes, and style preferences.

We noticed that there wasn’t a huge niche for sister bloggers (especially different looking and dressing sister bloggers) in the blogging sphere and that was another thing that pushed us to start the blog. So far it’s been really fun… nothing better than being able to call your sister your co-worker too”

“P.S. Our blog was 3 years in the making before we actually decided to launch it! Lots and lots of thought went behind it, but we had the idea to do it for years.”

What sets both of your style’s apart from other personal style bloggers?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “One of the reasons we initially started our blog in the first place is because we felt that we BOTH had something different to offer from other personal style bloggers that were out there. Our styles themselves are quite different, which is part of the premise behind our blog, but we also each have individual style’s that set us apart from other personal style bloggers.

In addition, as sister bloggers, we are immediately set apart from other personal style bloggers because we get to show not only one, but two, personal style preferences through our blog and Instagram to our viewers, allowing for a wider audience of viewership and a bigger fan base – as one person might relate more to Sophie’s look and another person might find Charlotte’s to be more appealing.”

Sophie:  “I think that one thing that is different about my style than other personal style bloggers is that I am not always so overly concerned with posting the MOST current trends or the most “on trend” styles. For me, it is more about dressing in a way that I feel, whether the trend is “old” or “new”, looks stylish and makes me feel stylish and comfortable. Even if I am not wearing the most popular new trend, I always end up feeling stylish and think that people appreciate seeing versatility in trends and NOT always seeing repetitive blog posts that are only featuring the hottest “on trend” looks. That’s not to say that I don’t love to wear the current/ hot/ on trend looks, I 100% do, I just don’t mind mixing it up sometimes and even combining new trends with old ones. For this reason, I have a bunch of items in my closet that I have been wearing for years and still find beneficial to my style decisions today. I don’t think this is something that I share with most other personal style bloggers.”

Charlotte:  “My style has always been very girly so one thing that sets me apart from other personal style bloggers (including my sister) is that I always feel the need to add some sort of girly-ish twist to my look in order to stay true to my personality and personal style preferences. In addition, I also love to chase the next best thing/ or the hottest new trend and once I do, I try to get my hands on it as soon as possible so that I can be sure to reveal my passion to our readings for being informed of the latest trends….through my urgency to own them and my interest in them. I think that a lot of other personal style bloggers probably do this, as in they love to chase the newest trends as soon as possible, but that I take it to the next level…”

Who are some of your favorite clothing designers?

Sophie & Charlotte:
1. “Stuart Vevers (Coach)
2.  Karl Lagerfeld (Chanel/Karl Lagerfeld/Fendi)
3.  Anthony Vaccarello (YSL)
4.  Jeremy Scott (Moschino, It’s Jeremy Scott)
5.  Olivier Rousteing (Balmain)
6.  Alessandro Michele (Gucci)
7.  Alexander McQueen”

Ultimate holiday destination? 

Sophie & Charlotte:  “Cabo San Lucas, Mexico”

What are some of your favorite outfits that you’ve posted so far?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “We will explain our favorite outfits that we’ve posted so far via the names of the posts:”

– “Days in Denim” June 5, 2016
OUTFITS: all denim outfits, jumpsuit//Sophie, romper// Charlotte

– “Meet #Rexy : The #COACHXHIGHLINE Summer Party” June 29, 2016
OUTFITS: combination of Coach dinosaur (aka Rexy) leather bomber jackets mixed with other brands- i.e. Stella McCartney denim overalls// Sophie, and high strappy Schutz gladiator heels//Charlotte

– “Showin’ Some Shoulder” July 28, 2016
OUTFITS: different takes on the very in trend “off the shoulder” look, that is one of the top trends of Summer 2016

Talk me through a day in life of Charlotte & Sophie Bickley.

Sophie & Charlotte:  “Our day starts with a Starbucks run for some very much needed ventil iced latees to start the day. Then, depending on what day it is, we can be doing a variety of different things. Here are some examples: we can be out and about  NYC at various meetings/lunches with people in the industry or brand representatives to discuss possible collaborations or to network; we can be shooting on location with our photographer(s); we can be working on a post or researching more about the blogging industry and how to make our blog better at the Soho House (aka our office); and finally, we can be attending brand or blogging/networking events in the morning/afternoon/evening. Our days to not always consist of the same routine, but rather a mixed routine including all of the activities we mentioned above.

The life of a blogger is not an easy one and when you treat your blog like it’s your baby (which we do), it is a 24/7 job! There are lots of phone calls, meetings, and back and forth emails that go into running the business behind a blog so some of our days can also look very similar  to your “typical 9-5 job”, sitting behind a computer, answering emails, taking phone calls, and scheduling meetings.

Long story short, our days consist of doing whatever it takes to better our brand/blog, Yin 2My Yang, in any which way that we can… and also to learn something new about the blogging/fashion industry or meet someone new to network with every single day. It’s honestly tons of fun but very hard work at the same time!”

What are your greatest passions?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “This may sound cheesy but our greatest passions in life could be categorized as the “three Fs”- FASHION, FAMILY, and FRIENDS. These three things are a priority for both of us and always will remain our top passions in life. Also…we have a passion to ALWAYS be nice to whoever you meet because you never know what they’ve been through in life or where your paths may cross again!! Wise words to remember.”

What summer trends do you love and which do you hate?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “Ultimate Loves: Off the Shoulder, Choker Necklaces , Platform Wedge Sandals/Espadrilles, Denim Everything, Sporting Logos/Athleisure

We’ve been trying to come up with an answer for a trend this summer that we hate and after researching all of the Summer 2016 trends several times, we honestly can’t come up with any trend we hate, especially because hate is such a strong word!

We definitely like certain summer trends more than others, but we can’t say we hate any! Sorry to disappoint!”

What has been your greatest challenge since starting your blog?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “The greatest challenge for us since starting our blog has been learning about all of the behind the scenes work that goes into creating a successful and profitable blog. The good news is that day by day, we are slowly learning more and more which is very exciting and reassuring for us- it helps us keep going even when challenges arise.

In addition, in a world where our lives are so busy, one of our other challenges in starting the blog has been making sure to keep our content/posts relevant and consistent so that we do not disappoint our readers or any of the brands that we are working with.”

What is something most people do not know about either of you?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “Our dad is Bermudian! He was born and raised on the island of Bermuda, right off the coast of the Carolinas. He moved to the United States for college but is not an American citizen. If you’ve never been to Bermuda, you should go, it’s awesome and such a short flight from the East Coast!”

Sophie:  “I was born in Munich, Germany!…which means I have three separate citizenships- German, British (Bermuda is a British colony), and American!”

Charlotte:  “In addition to the blog, I’m going to be working as a buyer at Bergdorf Goodman starting in this Fall and could not be more excited for the experience!!”

Where to next?

Sophie & Charlotte:  “Next for us…overall: expanding our blog, continuing to raise awareness and follow up on any press opportunities to really get our names out there to as many people (not only in the fashion industry) as possible.  We would also both love to be personal stylists one day.

In the long term, we would love to do what Chiara Ferragni aka The Blonde Salad (our favorite fashion blogger ever) has done with her blog. We would love to eventually be able to travel and blog from all over the world and would LOVE to start a sister fashion line of our very own one day. That would be an ultimate goal for us and we hope that one day it will be a reality!”

Where can we follow you?

“You can follow us on our website www.yin2myyang.com for in depth posts and outfit ideas or on our Instagram which is @yin_2my_yang, which we post on daily.”

This Must Visit Tropical Getaway Is The New Bali

Malaysia’s tropical archipelago of Langkawi is the new place to be, as it’s been called “Bali without the crowds”.  What makes this tropical archipelago such a rage is their new resort, the St. Regis Langkawi, which opened its doors in April on the chain’s namesake main island.  The tropical 89-room resort incorporates St. Regis styled finesse with classy Moorish design, as it is set upon a pure white cove encircled by low-hoisted cliffs, creating the perfect paradisaical beach getaway where mashrabiya screens and Swarovski chandeliers complete the resort.  This St. Regis, has four over-water villas that showcase swimming pools and an unburdened view of nature, such as the Andaman Sea and rain forest.  To make your stay all the more enjoyable, St. Regis’s professional butlers will be at the ready to set you up with anything from a beautiful sunset cruise on the resort’s private yacht to a rempah wangi bath of lemongrass, pandan leaves, and ginger in the Iridium Spa.

For more information visit:  St.RegisLangkawi.com

Dolce & Gabbana: Where Appliances Meet Art

The world famous fashion house Dolce & Gabbana and internationally renowned home appliance manufacturer Smeg, combine both of their talents and skills to turn the archetype single-door refrigerator into a work of master Italian craftsmanship and artistry.  Each unique design in the new limited edition Frigorifero d’Arte collection, by the two Italian brands went through hours and hours of painting at the hands of expert Sicilian artists in the style form of Carretti Siciliani, or Sicilian carts.

Long ago, illustrations of a two wheeled horse or donkey drawn cart, recounts the stories of epic poems through masterfully detailed paintings, and Frigorifero d’Arte adds these extraordinary paintings into it’s very own collection.  Honoring these grand depictions of the fabled cart, and that of Sicilian marionette theater, the refrigerators (Smeg’s FAB28 model) features one of a kind pictographs like medieval knights in the midst of battle.  There is also cultural touchstones in the series, which includes the Trinacria emblem and the Amalfi Coast’s abundant lemons, that are limited to only 100 models (note: prices on request, D&G&Smeg).  Dolce & Gabbana and Smeg together, designed a worth whiled creation that is disputably the most stylish kitchen appliance ever created.

For more information visit: dolcegabbana.com & smeg.com

Bang & Olufsen Introduces The Evolutionary BeoSound 1 & 2

As time goes by the world around us begins to change.  We adapt, we evolve, we thrive and technology is no different.  The world of technology continues to advance and as such the Danish electronic manufacturer, Bang & Olufsen continues to inspire this new age.  As this new era begins, a new rich sound experience begins with it, seamlessly blending into the environment that is our lifestyle.  Bang & Olufsen has created, tailored, and engineered two speakers, BeoSound 1 and his bigger brother BeoSound 2, which offer you an easy wireless solution to the limitations that are stationary speakers.

With the option to be experienced individually or joined together to adapt to the living space of anyone’s home.  The BeoSound 1 & 2 Provide users with an all-in-one sound system that will definitely bring some heart & sound into your leisurely lifestyle.  Shaped in a glistening aluminium body, the BeoSound speakers appearance may be mistaken as a piece of furniture.  Both sound systems will make the sound of music flow through your home and move with you so the fun will never end.

The BeoSound 1 combines essence and style in the best of ways.  The start up is easy, simply design your perfect set-up, connect your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-fi, and then let the party begin.  The device is portable, wireless, and constructed in a light weight aluminum, making it easy to move and arrange as much as you like until you find that ideal spot.  Prices for the BeoSound 1 start at $1,495

The BeoSound 2 has Acoustic Lens technology (just like the BeoSound 1) which introduces a full 360 degree sound experience that is sure to impress.  It’s extra power amplifier brings you a lot more intensity to boost your listening enjoyment.  You also have the option to connect it wirelessly with BeoSound 1 or simply enjoy it’s lone performance without his little brother’s help.  The BeoSound 2 is expected to arrive at stores in early November.  Prices for the BeoSound 2 start at $1,895.

For more information visit:  BeoSound1 & BeoSound2

Meet Vinette Schulze

Meet South African Model & YouTuber Vinette Schulze, we spoke exclusively with Vinette about all things YouTube & Modeling. 

What are you currently inspired by?
“Life. Simple as that. There is so much to see and experience. I look forward to what the future has in store.”

Tell us about your career as a model. How did you get started?
“I got scouted at a modeling competition and signed to an agency when I was 13. Everything kind of happened from there. It hasn’t been as easy or glamorous as it seems from the outside. It’s a tough world that forces you to grow up quite fast and to be independent from a young age.”

What do you think is the best part about being a model in the industry today?
“For me, the best part is being able to travel and see the world, learning about different cultures, and meeting amazing people.”

What is your favorite thing to do when not working?
“In my spare time I like being creative. I enjoy writing, playing guitar or doing art. Filming and editing videos for my YouTube Channel also keeps me busy.”

Take us through a typical day in the life of Vinette Schulze.
“When I’m traveling, every day is unique. I love exploring a new city and finding it’s local gems. When I’m home in South Africa, I like to start my day with a run, do some editing and spend time with friends.”

What do you enjoy most about vlogging?
“My passion lies in editing. I love telling a story and being able to share my experiences in a way that allows me to express my creativity.”

What are three things most people don’t know about you?
“I feel very compassionate about animal liberation and environmental issues. I enjoy reading about matters that make you question what you’ve been told. I want to change the world (very ambitious, I know, haha).”

Being a frequent traveler, what have been your favorite destinations?
“Every country is special in it’s own right, so it’s very hard for me to narrow it down to just one favorite. Mexico City has a special place in my heart though.”

Which three words would your friends use to describe you?
“Positive, determined, and curious.”

What are your favorite clothing brands?
“I am not very big on brands and names, but I like brand/ products who are eco friendly and cruelty free.”

Where can we follow you?
“You can find me on Instagram, my handle is @vinetteschulze and my YouTube channel is called South African Nomad.”

Cartier’s Famed NYC Mansion Is Born A New

Cartier has finally reopened their Robert W. Gibson designed Neo-Renaissance mansion, which dates all the way back to 1904.  After a two and a half year renovation the mansion has been born a new.  The extremely talented French-born architect Thierry Despont, who had designed Bill and Melinda Gates home as well as revitalizing the Statue of Liberty, was put in charge of refurbishing the grand mansion back to it’s illustrious long-forgotten form.

The five story, 44,000 square foot mansion (originally 20,000 square feet and spanned across only two stories) has a warm and intimate feel that you’re aware of the second you enter the Fifth Avenue or the 52nd Street entrance.  Another interesting addition to the mansion is a new lacquered panel portraying three gold leaf panthers sipping from a river, which attracts guests into the luxurious foyer.

A classic light oak grand staircase leads you upstairs with each room showcasing its own unique sense of style and ingenuity.  The climax of the second floor, or even possibly the whole mansion, is the Princess Grace of Monaco room: a fascinating and glamorous feminine spot housing Cartier’s finest engagement rings, faint yellow taffeta silk curtains, and beautiful paintings of the Princess Grace herself.  The second floor of the mansion also pays tribute to Gloria Swanson, Elizabeth Taylor, and Morton & Mae Plant.  When you get to the third floor you will be surrounded by one of a kind timepieces, which is just what the third floor’s all about.  The contemporary “Red Room” on the fourth floor is dedicated to accessories & perfume.  With the top floor featuring a terrace that gives you a birds eye view of Fifth Avenue and is also an ideal spot for entertaining.

Despont also revived many of the mansions original furnishings and tirelessly worked with craftsmen in France to construct bespoke pieces, which even include chandeliers that awaken Parisian styles from the 18th and 19th centuries. Despont said “The Cartier Mansion is an icon.  It’s a very modern store with state-of-the-art facilities, but it still has the feeling that the Mansion was always there and it’s magnificent.”

Hennessy’s Most Enthralling Bottle Of Cognac

Created in tribute to eight generations of Master Blenders, where the current Master Blender Yann Fillioux will turn over the mastery to his nephew Renaud Fillioux de Gironde.  This blend is a one time limited edition cognac “Hennessy 8” crafted by both masters, which symbolizes the transmission of a one of a kind cognac from one generation to the next.

The Hennessy eight is emblematic of multiple blends.  It is by far the prefection symbol generation of the eight exceptional eaux-de-vie in the assemblage.  Seven were hand selected by Yann Fillioux to narrate each generation of master blender, and the eighth was chosen by his nephew to create this unparalleled cognac.

This cognac is the epitome of simplicity and absolute perfection, that is the Fillioux Family dream.  The Hennessy 8 carafe and the chest that cradles it are equally exceptional, the work of artist Arik Levy.  The 250 carafes-each individually numbered and signed by the artists are crafted in hand blown baccarat crystal and sealed by hand.  Eight insert rings constitute an ode to the eight Master Blenders, and the 8 eaux-de-vie in the blend.

For more information visit:  www.lvmh.com

Sonos Sound System Harmonizes With Spotify

Now you don’t just control your playlist on Spotify, you dominate it.  Sonos Sound Systems will be harmonizing the app with Amazon’s voice controlled assistant “Echo” to favor a more exemplified sound system than ever before.  Set up to be released in Spotify’s October update, the super electrifying Sonos Sound System harmonization grants all beta program members the chance to fully experience their awesome new upgrade.  Their second integration that will utilize Amazon’s voice controlled assistant (Echo) into the brew is set for early 2017.

The collaborations are just a small insight to the brand’s growing news that will see it regulate intently with voice control as well as streaming tech.  Along with these up and coming plans closing to completion, which just may indicate Spotify is on the path to measure up to the other top streaming services.

For more information visit:  www.sonos.com

The King of Spain’s Maserati Sold At Auction

The original Maserati Quattroporte, which was announced in 1963 was the manufacturer’s first ever large sedan and one of their first versions powered by a V-8 engine.  Expertly designed and styled by Pietro Frua as well as based after a custom Maserati 5000 GT coupe that Frua designed for Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, Aga Khan IV.  Custom features from the 5000 GT includes a 45 rpm eight track record player constructed directly into the dashboard.

Before the first-generation Quattroporte model went out of production in 1969 Maserati created no more than 800 models.  The manufacturing process of the second-gen Quattroporte did not start until 1974, but in 1971 Frua created a one-off model on the frame of the Maserati Indy, (a four seat GT fastback).  The inside of the vehicle featured a lofty roof encircled by a large stretch of glass.  Later in 1974 a second version was built and sold to the Aga Khan.

The 1971 prototype was owned by King Juan Carlos of Spain at some point in time.  Until just recently, the car was included with the large collection of Maserati’s at the Riverside International Automotive Museum, in Riverside, California, that closed in June of this year.  In August the Quattroporte was on its way back to the block at the RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction with a presale estimate price of $175,000 to $200,000.