The Deux Luxe: May 2009

Friday, May 29, 2009

3 things deux luxe chic - that I’m loving this week

This week’s list of 3 things… is all about le crème de la crème of cyber chic. Here are 3 websites that certainly have my bookmark. -KL

doitinparis.com
The ultimate website for any Francophile or lover of all things perfectly Parisian. Do It in Paris has it all – ‘Love it” looks highlighting fashion and accessories styled at its French finest, “Address of the week” featuring the in-the-know hotspots for any arrondissement, “Where to go, what to buy” structured in a morning to evening itinerary, and their very own little Parisian black book “Address Book”, chalk full all places one must go, see and do in Paris.

www.doitinparis.com

closetcouture.com
This website is a must for any fashionista that loves being a stylista. Closet Couture is the modern paperdoll place to be – structured in a format where one can create personal looks for any occasion, and build the ultimate wardrobe - stored in a closet of couture, of course! Fashionista’s can also swap style ideas from other stylista’s, and get couture advice from featured top industry stylists. Be sure to add a piece of House of Lavande (This stylista’s local PB fav) to all your fabulously self-styled looks.

www.closetcouture.com

hedislimane.com/diary
Loved him at Dior Homme and love him now. Slimane’s latest and greatest inspiration is behind the lense, traveling to the recent Coachella festival to capture intimate portraits, one-of-a-kind stills and of-the-moment shots - displaying them in an online photo diary. A true visionary.

www.hedislimane.com/diary

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Brunch is Served!

If Grand Marnier-Domaine Chandon Mimosas and Chesapeake Bay Bloody Marys (Old Bay seasoned rim, shrimp/celery/olives = meal in a glass!) don't wet your whistle...I don't know what does! The latest outpost for a good ol' brunch on Saturdays and Sundays is local favorite, City Cellar Wine Bar & Grille. They have incorporated a delectable brunch menu into their repertoire consisting of Eggs Benedict with black forest ham and organic breakfast potatoes, regular omelettes with pancetta, asparagus, various cheeses to select from among other ingredients to make it your own, and the true show stopper/diet destroyer/holy grail of all french toast...

...the Caramelized Banana and Creme Brulee French Toast! This brunch bounty marries sophisticated sweetness of warm maple walnut syrup with textural perfection as each bite unfolds. Never is there a more beautiful harmony between tasting creme brulee soaked, sugar dusted toast sandwiching fresh, soft bananas in every forkful. I abandoned the expertly scrambled eggs (though a good source of protein), the bacon was equally neglected (though it had that ideal crisp that bacon lovers esteem), and the beautifully diced fruit didn't stand a chance (who wants natural sugar after this?). This dish may give new meaning to the saying "working (out) for the weekend" as it becomes your new guilty pleasure!-B.H.

Brunch served Saturday and Sunday, 11:30a - 2:30p

City Cellar Wine Bar & Grille

700 S. Rosemary Ave

Ste 218

West Palm Beach, FL 33401

561.366.0071

Lunch 11:30a - 2:30p

Dinner Sun.-Wed. 5:00p-10:30p, Thurs. - Sat. 5:00p-11:00p

http://www.bigtimerestaurants.com/

Playing Hostess With Heart

Peony arrangement tips at http://www.marthastewart.com/

Entertaining is one of the activities I put a lot of thought and heart into. I treasure those whom I invite to stay and I want each and every detail to express, "Welcome to my home, I'm glad to have you!" I think whatever elements you chose to create a gracious environment for your guests, I believe they ought to be personal, well thought out, and not in the least bit expensive. Here are a few of my suggestions to creating an inviting experience for houseguests...

Cire Trudon Candle, Barney's New York, http://www.barneys.com/

I love to have gorgeously fragranced, high quality candles burning throughout the house, especially in the guest room upon arrival. Nothing says welcome than the amber glow from a lit candle and the fresh garden scent of the Trianon candle by Cire Trudon.

I also like to have a baked good made prior to my guests' arrival so they have a little something sweet at their fingertips. If time is of the essence, a great standby is Tate's Chocolate Chip Cookies which taste just like homemade. The packaging is neat and convenient and depending on your baking skills, your guests just may be happier that you bought instead of baked!

http://www.tatesbakeshop.com/ and also sold at:

Carmine's Gourmet Marketplace

2401 PGA Blvd. Ste 172

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410

561.775.0105

Bedside, I think it is important to provide a basic amenity such as water. I like to provide a decanter w/tumbler and a chilled bottle of Fiji water. Guests shouldn't be stumbling into the kitchen and fumbling with the ice machine and tap water prior to bedtime.

Bedside Glass Carafe w/Tumbler, Williams-Sonoma

http://www.williamssonoma.com/

internet only item, can be monogrammed

Finally, what better way to grant your guests sweet dreams than by providing soft, elegant bedding. Who doesn't love to slip into a luxurious bed and dream about how wonderful their stay has been and how they've been so marvelously entertained!

Sferra Classico 100% Linen

http://www.sferralinens.com/

Pioneer Linens

210-212 Clematis St.

West Palm Beach, FL 32963

Kassatly's

250 Worth Ave

Palm Beach, FL 33480

I'm always thinking of new ways to make houseguests feel special...Whether you chose some of the above suggestions or make it more personal, your guests will definitely appreciate your unique touch, no matter how great or small. Happy entertaining! -B.H.

Monday, May 25, 2009

A DL Summer

Happy Memorial Day, deux luxe dames, darlings, dapper gents and daring divas! We are now encroaching upon the steamy, sweltering, sunny and stormy days of summer! While several have already fled north for the season or to other coastal regions, the DL crew have planted their apple bottoms in Palm Beach, eager to deliver the chicest, exciting happenings that a Florida summer has to offer. The Hamptons has taken many casualties...and so has Europe, among other countries (Japan, here!)...but that doesn't mean time stops, people turn slovenly, and the nightlife breeds nothing more than the sound of crickets! Aaahhh, summers in Palm Beach mean no traffic, no wait at the Palm Beach Grille, shorter lines at Publix, hurricane preparedness kits (huh?), and spending quality time with dear friends planning, yet, another year ahead!

The Deux Luxe has created a list of "Summer Deux's" to ensure you survive the days ahead and that you don't have a less than perfect summer!

1. Do explore a new restaurant or shop and tell someone about it!

2. Do hone your cooking skills and prepare a challenging, fresh, new meal once a week. Try a recipe from The Sweet Life in Paris: Delicious Adventures in the World's Most Glorious-and Perplexing-City, by David Lebovitz. http://www.amazon.com/

3. Do shop your home for an inexpensive interiors makeover by rearranging accessories, artwork, mirrors or furniture to gain a fresh perspective. Use the rule of 3, and group accessories in odd numbers for visual interest and diversity.

4. Do listen to new Dave Matthews Band, Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King that drops June 2nd!

5. Do drink a light, white wine while savoring the splendors of a picnic! Some to try are 2008 Kung Fu Girl Riesling ($12), or 2008 Long Boat Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc ($20).

6. Do go nude – wear the latest “it” color that is. Right now I’m loving the simplicity of a tank dress, perfect for any summer soirée, day or night. For day - try belting the waist and pairing the look with gladiators. For night - rock out with sky-high stilettos and bold gold jewelry.

T by Alexander Wang (one of my current fav designers!) – Classic tank dress with mini pocket
$90 http://www.alexanderwang.com/ or http://www.satineboutique.com/

7. Do brighten up your new nude look with a hot pink lip. Pick a pink shade that’s perfect for you from Shu Uemura’s new pink collection, with 9 new shades of lip rouge and 5 new shades of gloss to choose from.

8. Do protect yourself – stock up on summer’s sun essential must-haves, a good self-tanner and sunscreen from Estée Lauder’s new Bronze Goddess collection.

9. Do stay hydrated… poolside of course. Jazz up your H20 offerings with fresh cucumber or ginger cubes. Thinly slice 1 lemon and half a cucumber, add to an ice, cold pitcher of water. To kick-it-up a notch, fill ice trays with water and add a slice of fresh ginger to each cube. Chill until ready to serve.

10. Do stay cultured – for a different type of night out try the Norton Museum’s new event Art After Dark. Meet your friends at the Norton Museum the second Thursday of every month for activities, art, live music, films and refreshments. http://www.norton.org/

11. Do save up extra pennies and shop for a good cause. My charitable pick is the very cool all natural and organic tee (comes with its very own canvas bag) created by Gucci on behalf of HOME, the unique cinematic environmental film directed by Yann Artus-Bertrand and produced by Luc Besson.

Gucci Creative Director, Frida Giannini wearing the HOME project tee
Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, with all profits donated to goodplanet.org, a non-profit association created by Artus-Bertrand in 2005.
$195 http://www.gucci.com/ and www.goodplanet.org

12. Do say merci in style - handwrite thank you notes to all of the hosts and hostesses who graciously entertain you throughout the summer season. Our faves are by Carrot & Stick Press http://www.carrotandstickpress.com/, Dauphine Press, http://www.dauphinepress.com/ and for some really bespoke stationery...go to Bernard Maisner, http://www.bernardmaisner.com/. Pure pulp heaven!

13. Do document all your travels with the hip new Polaroid PoGo – Just 3 simple steps: Shoot, Preview, Print.

14. Do learn to play backgammon, the board game of kings – great for shady afternoons spent on the veranda at The Breakers, early nights at McCarty’s or weekend brunches at Pistache.

15. And finally... DO read The Deux Luxe for our fashionable finds, summer sips, culinary delights and anything else we deem DL noteworthy this summer.

Happy Summer! - xo BH & KL

Friday, May 22, 2009

Bright Lights

Bold color, graphic prints – amp’d up with lots of energy, bounded by bright lights, sets the tone for the fashion editorial “Blown Away” featured in the June issue of Palm Beach Illustrated magazine. New York photographer Bell Soto captures coveted summer looks, styled with the notion of making an impact for a night out on the town. Revamped new club on the scene, 251 Palm Beach, was decided upon being the perfect location for this story the minute I saw the multi-colored bright lights and disco ball illuminate the dancing and vip sipping guests on its grand opening night. For additional high impact, Bell used color lighting gels, and had the model moving and dancing to the beats that played throughout the day of the shoot. Pick up a June issue of Palm Beach Illustrated to see the complete story. – KL

Opening spread of the story - Palm Beach Illustrated June 2009
www.palmbeachillustrated.com

Photographer Bell Soto reviews hair & makeup before a cover option is shot. Model wearing a chic Chanel suit, which I love!

The perfect shades for all those bright lights

"It" statement heels by Louis Vuitton - My kind of dancing shoe

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

In a Barbie World

Jonathan Adler's Malibu Barbie, available September 2009

Barbara Millicent Roberts a.k.a. Barbie, just turned the big 5-0 this past March and she still doesn't look a day past perfect! Talk about a woman who has undergone much scrutiny for having unrealistic physical proportions (gotta love being plastic! Wink wink!) to her tumultuous split with rumored "swinger" Ken in 2004 (though they did supposedly reconcile in '06)...this bombshell has really seen and done it all over the course of her Mattel lifetime. Barbie's illustrious career past includes being a doctor, an astronaut, a NASCAR driver and has achieved accomplishments such as having a pilot's license, being a hair salon owner/stylist, and a news anchor!

Barbie prides herself on being a role model and providing inspiration that women can be successful, beautiful and have everything they want if they work hard! And in today's economy, no one's movin' on up like the Jeffersons faster than Mrs. Roberts! This year she celebrated her milestone birthday soiree, flawlessly coordinated by event planner extraordinaire, Colin Cowie, inside her Jonathan Adler designed Malibu manse! Mr. Adler said, "...she was a dream client" when speaking on how Barbie exists as a fantasy, and loved creating the interiors of a lifesize 3,500 square foot dream house of her life re-imagined.

Barbie revolves around Jonathan's world here in his custom designed sunburst mirror!

Nostalgic!

Now!

Exterior of Malibu Dream House

However, Barbie's sweet dreams of possibly selling her home one day may become a nightmare in reality! Critics have stated that her ultra-contemporary cliffside home would be a hard sell and it's very specific in decor. Adler's inspiration for the color palette of the mansion were influenced by boho-chic Talitha Getty (oranges, pinks, greens) and the late Tony Duquette, the king of over-the-top opulence. The living room boasts an Andy Warhol portrait of Barbie that she could auction if times get tough, along with chandeliers made of Barbie wig hair, designed by "Project Runway" contestant, Chris March.

Please note the frothy tulle and ribbon corset-backed chairs in Living Room! (Adler's Drysdale Chair)

Splashes of hot pink, custom printed screens, and sunburst mirror define "party time" in the sitting room.

Barbie's master bedroom - monogrammed bedding by Restoration Hardware.

Barbie's shoe closet, complete with 50 identical pairs of pink peep toe pumps by Christian Louboutin

Barbie does live an envious life. Plastic and perfect without scar tissue or signs of reconstruction, she's managed to perserve her youth and lifestyle! Her cars were flashy and pink...she had horses and several dogs and cats...AND all of her homes were dubbed "dream houses!" Considering where's she's lived, it's no wonder she was motivated to "move up" in the world. Here's a retrospective of Barbie's past abodes...

1962 - Barbie Cardboard Dream House

Pros: Cardboard = sustainable and eco-friendly (so progressive, Babs!), trompe l'oeil bookcases, mod furnishings with silhouettes that can be found at Room & Board.

Cons: Cardboard framework isn't very durable; no roof, small space plan, no bathroom and very little closet space!

1979 - Barbie A-Frame Dream House

Pros: Windows, front door, a roof line, house that can be subdivided for flexibility, balcony, planter boxes in front, a closet!

Cons: Awful proportions, low ceilings, no privacy, bedroom furniture projects through roof, balcony railing height is too low = easy fall

1982 Barbie Dream Cottage

Pros: Open space plan = flexibility with modular furniture and entertaining configurations, french doors, outdoor sconces, mailbox, rooftop terrace for more entertaining, relaxing or meditating, location=The Hamptons!

Cons: No walls, no kitchen, no bathroom, no delineation of spaces except ground level and rooftop; it was a share in the Hamptons!

1990?- Barbie Victorian Dream House

Pros: Charming, architecturally accurate (almost), nice neighborhood in San Francisco

Cons: Exterior paint colors, columns in front, chopped off turret, stained glass window upstairs, small rooms

Barbie's Birthday Party Pics from Paris!

Chic in Chanel!

We look forward to another fabulous fifty years of Barbie and living vicariously through her fantasy dream world! - BH

Monday, May 18, 2009

Necklaces Revived

One of the easiest ways to update any wardrobe is with a fantastic piece of jewelry, or two or three. This season, and next… statement pieces are the way to go. At the moment I’m very much adoring JCrew’s bauble offerings, which have in-turn inspired me to create a few of my own. I’ve taken has-been pieces, grouped a few together or added a dash of ribbon, and after about $4 and 20 minutes of handiwork, now acquire must-have jewels that will make any outfit look ultramodern. – KL

Anyone can do this, it’s super easy, super affordable and endlessly innovative.

My inspiration - JCrew's bauble offerings
www.jcrew.com

My has-beens that were in definite need of re-invention

Masterpiece #1
This necklace is actually for my sister. Her style is very classic so I selected the medium size gold link chain and wove in 1/4 inch ivory satin ribbon. For extra enhancement I added a small bow off to one side. Black satin ribbon would also work great for this particular look.

Masterpiece #2
For this creation, I took the remaining 3 necklaces and laid them out to create the effect of one chunky necklace. I attached the 2 smaller necklaces to the larger chain necklace with very thin wire. I tied 2 pieces of medium width ribbon to the ends of the larger chain necklace to use as a tie. You definitely want to make sure that you leave the ribbon ties long enough so you have options on how low or high you would like the necklace to hang.

Masterpiece #2 making a statement in our Deux Luxe profile pics
Photo by: Kirsten Smith

Mushroom Madness

I have just been completely inspired by Gourmet magazine’s May issue – The World on a Plate. Delicious bites and glorious menus highlighted from cover to cover, this one in particular, from the Cucina Paradiso feature has struck my fancy. A definite must try for my next gathering.
- KL
For more fabulous epicurean ideas and recipes - www.gourmet.com

Photo by: Roland Bello

Mushroom Carpaccio with Pecorino Toscano
Recipe by Kay Chun

Serves 8
Start to Finish: 15 min

The salads of shaved raw porcini mushrooms that are served throughout Italy are the inspiration here. A big squeeze of lemon and a scattering of herbaceous celery leaves contribute brightness. Speedy yet luxurious, it just may become your new party dish.

1/2 pound large white mushrooms
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 pound Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano-Reggiano
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup celery leaves
Equipment: an adjustable-blade slicer
Accompaniment: sea salt such as Maldon

• Slice mushrooms lengthwise as thinly as possible with slicer.
• Spread mushrooms out on a large platter and drizzle with lemon juice. Using a vegetable peeler, shave some of Pecorino Toscano over top. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with celery leaves.
*Cooks’ Note: Mushrooms can be sliced 1 hour ahead and chilled, covered with damp paper towels.

What to drink:
Fontaleoni Vernaccia di San Gimignano '07, or of course... champagne

Friday, May 15, 2009

Smoky Summer

Gina (3rd from left) on location

One of the many ultimate perks of being a Fashion Director is having the opportunity to collaborate with very innovative and talented individuals. Constantly being cutting-edge creative in a collaborative environment is rewarding enough, however it’s always quite fabulous when I’m able to score insider tips from top professionals. And let’s be honest, it’s even more quite fabulous when it’s prior to exposure of the masses. Gina Simone, hair & makeup artist represented by Ford Artists Miami, happens to be one of these visionary artists I’m fortunate enough to work with on a regular basis. To help keep us looking sexy, fresh and fashion forward, here are Gina’s tips for this summer’s supreme smoky eye. - KL

Start with a cream eye shadow with a little shimmer
For a black smoky eye - opt for something gray or pewter
For a brown smoky eye - try taupe or bronze
Apply cream shadow to your lid, just above your brow bone, best to apply with your fingers
Then line your eye, top and bottom, with a great brown liner. To add more drama, use a black liner
HOT TIP: take a Q-tip and smudge, smudge, smudge the line all the way around (top and bottom)
Curl your lashes and add mascara

Smoke Softly

Photo Credit: Gabor Jurina

Backstage at Carolina Herrera S/S 09
Photo Credit: Greg Kessler

Intense Smoke

Blake Lively on the May cover of Allure Magazine, shot by Michael Thompson

The smoke look seen at Just Cavalli, S/S 09
Photo Credit: Sean Cunningham

Flick Picks

This weekend in PB it’s all about le crème de la crème of cinema - 2 unique film offerings that are sure to appease anyone with a cinematic affection. – KL

Valentino: The Last Emperor
An enchanting love story of couture, design, friendship, partnership, loyalty and Valentino’s endearing affection, skill and tribute to making women beautiful. This documentary will captivate and inspire anyone who has an appreciation for the true art form and craft of haute couture and its transformation from classic conception into the modern day. Both deux luxe ladies shed a tear during this one.

Showing at Muvico Parisian 20 - CityPlace
545 Hibiscus Street – 561-833-0400
5/15 & 5/16 – 2:35pm and 7:35pm
1h 36m

Rockwell - International premiere of short film
Rockwell is the first effort by the film’s co-producer and writer, Zachary Liporace, a West Palm Beach native, and co-producer Joshua Amir. Short on time but powerful in its messaging, this critically acclaimed and socially relevant film is sure to please. In brief the film chronicles the actions of a corrupt CEO of a pharmaceutical company who plans to release a potentially deadly drug unbeknownst to its founder.
For further information contact:
Dr. David Liporace - 561-818-3212 – email: DLLiporace@gmail.com
Neil London - 954-296-5204 - email: neil@snobmedia.com

Norton Museum of Art Theater
1451 S. Olive Avenue - 561-832-5196
5/16 - 7pm

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Working On My Fitness

We all know the benefits of exercise and a proper diet: Healthy heart, killer bod, increased confidence and physical endurance. However, motivation is key and it really transcends the depths of misery after perusing the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition! Fresh gear, new kicks, hot tunes and the ocean in our backyard can certainly put more pep in your step! Whether you burn calories by walking, running, dancing, yoga, biking, tennis, swimming or golfing, there is something for everyone to look super stylish while sweating! Keep your body looking delicious by getting physical in these fierce finds! -BH

Let's Kick It!