Monday, June 29, 2009

DL Debut











Eyes To Kill

I recently had the pleasure of lunching with one of my all time favorite beauty artiste and bon vivant’s, Tim Quinn, Celebrity Face Designer for Giorgio Armani Beauty. Tim, a dear friend for years, resides in Boca, that’s when he’s not jet-setting the world for award season gigs, personal appearances and coveted promotional spots. So whenever we have the opportune moment we always try to catch up, Palm Beach style of course! During our latest lunch date, I received the preview of Armani’s latest eye offerings, Eyes to Kill, a new volumizing lash extension mascara and striking eye shadow collection. Inspired by the likes of 007’s glamorous and seductive ways, Eyes to Kill delivers a modern take on a sexy eye (the heavy weighted mascara tube alone could be used as a secret weapon). What I love most is the product’s flexibility of a soft look for day to a wow-factor look for night. And as if this product preview isn’t fabulous enough, here are Tim’s beauty insider tips on how to create the ultimate Eyes to Kill look. – KL

Tips by Tim Quinn
• Pull the outer corner of the eye gently to stretch the lash line.
• Apply the brush vertically to the lash line and zig-zag the brush along the lashes for instant volume and liner effect.
• Use the brush in normal horizontal applications to lengthen, extend and perfectly separate the lashes.
Seductive color effects
• Gun metal grey (n° 3) is a softer alternative to black, and is perfect for that sultry "morning after" look – for added dimension, brush black mascara across the lower lash tips.
• Just tipping the lashes with the red iron (n° 4) shade, brightens and widens the eye, making blue eyes more blue and green eyes, greener.
• Copper Brown (n° 2) is a perfect choice for blondes or for daytime wear. For lighter skin tones with lighter eyes, use brown then tip with black, especially on the outside corners, to add depth.

To see a full video demonstration on how to achieve the ultimate eyes to kill, visit www.giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com

Dress your eyes with the collection’s mascara, available in four seductive colors, which offers a multi-tonal wardrobe of colors for lashes ranging from rich, warm-tones to cold, metallic-inspired shades: black steel, copper brown, gun metal grey and red iron. Available in June.

Four complimentary eye shadow palettes come in daring shades to fully arm the eye. The palettes range from deep harmonies to soft highly concentrated colors. Available in August.

The full collection can be found online at www.giorgioarmanibeauty.com and at department stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys.

Friday, June 26, 2009

The Deux Luxe Debut

This evening in Palm Beach there is only one place to be seen... The Deux Luxe debut. Please join us this eve at 251 Palm Beach, as we raise a glass and celebrate all things deux luxe chic.

The Deux Luxe
Friday, June 26 | 9PM to 11PM
251 PALM BEACH | 251 Sunrise Avenue, Palm Beach 561.818.2944
Fabulous cocktails designed by Katherine Lande & Brandie Herbst
Hors d’oeuvres by Da Francesco Organic Italiano
Trés chic beats by DJ Adam Lipson
RSVP REQUIRED | PLEASE CALL 561.366.1226
Casual Chic Attire | Valet Parking

Stay tuned next week for fabulous post party coverage... and this eve, don't forget to wear your Friday's finest!

Tressed To Impress!

What glitters isn't always gold... it's Gilded! Especially now that my once dubbed "Blondification Master" - George Ryan, is now the Master Haircolorist and Design Director at Gilded Salon and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens. With twenty years of experience between New York and Florida, Ryan's clientele have been reaping the creative strokes of hair color genius and remaining loyal to wherever this antsy artist hangs his hair dye. George Ryan, loaded with ambition, an impeccable eye for color, and a generous heart made of what else... gold, shares some experience, insight and a glimpse into his earthy persona. -B.H.

DL:
What sets you apart from other colorists?
GR: I use my ability and knowledge of working with different skin tones, eye colors, & personalities. With this combination I make it possible for my clients to attain their desired youthful appearance.I'm also a member of the International Hair Color Exchange, which continues to give me a complete understanding on the science of hair.

DL: What stylists/colorists do you admire, if any?
GR: I admire all colorists who are willing to share their own knowledge of tried and true techniques and any new quality discoveries.

DL: What are your "must have" hair products for women?
GR: I have developed and use an in-house only, custom blended, Gilded Protein Moisture Treatment Pack. It has been widely received as a positive nutrient support system that enables hair to maintain strength, luster, and a youthful glow. Additionally, I use Kerastase. It's a treatment driven line, with an available selection for all hair types.

DL: What trends in color or technique do you predict for fall?
GR: Because of global awareness, fashions have moved us in a new direction. I believe that nature and the environment have become a real, and compelling resource for what I predict will be a leading fall trend. Because of this there will be deeper, more bold, & warmer tones. Among them cinnamon, ginger, natural gold, and wheat tones.

DL: What are your hair pet peeves?
GR: OMG! People that think their hair has to be washed everyday! A little known fact is that tap water is treated with chlorinated bleach, which dries and damages hair and strips it of it's color. It turns blondes- brassy, brunettes- red, reds- brown, and also interferes with gray coverage. COLORED HAIR NEEDS TO BE TREATED WITH CARE!

DL: If you weren't spinning straw into spun gold, or "blonding" women, what would you be doing?
GR: Early morning laps in the ocean, practicing yoga, and just spending time with my dogs at home in my garden.

Gilded Salon & Spa
5540 PGA Blvd
PGA Commons West Complex
Palm Beach Gardens, FL
561.630.5656

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Deux Luxe Sips to Wet Your Lips!

Our blog launch party has gotten us into a frenzy! We have really been enjoying the last few months of sharing our skills, passions, ideas, tips, trends, tales and tell-alls! Our soiree is going to be a real success thanks to you! All this commotion and excitement has made us forever grateful, yet thirsty!!! To celebrate our launch on Friday, June 26th, we have come up with "deux" signature cocktails that will keep your whistle wet and hopefully wanting more! Cheers!


"I don't think I've ever drunk champagne before breakfast before. With breakfast on several occasions, but never before, before.” - Paul Varjak to Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
We could all use a little dose of Golightly in our lives every now and then, and who doesn’t love a glass (or two) of bubbly bright and early… every now and then? Paying tribute to one of the chicest characters ever created, here is my modern (and past 7pm) take on a champagne cocktail. Hope to see you all on Friday as we toast with a celebratory glass (or two). – Katherine

Lemon “Deux” Drop
2 parts SVEDKA Clementine vodka
2 parts champagne
Splash of fresh lemon juice
Served in a chilled flute with sugar rim, garnish with a lemon slice

If the economy has kept you panning for gold, think no more and indulge in one of my luxe libations that'll make you feel like you're one in a million! - Brandie

"Luxe" Golden Swede Martini
1- 1/2 oz SVEDKA Vodka
3/4 oz dry vermouth
Shake vodka and vermouth with ice in shaker, strain into martini glass.
Garnish with olives or lemon peel and top with a sprinkle of edible gold flakes!


WHO:
The Deux Luxe
WHAT:
Launch Party
WHERE:
251 Palm Beach, 251 Sunrise Ave., Palm Beach, FL 561.659.7840
(WEAR: Your Friday finest....your picture will be taken, darlings and gents!)

WHEN:
Friday, June 26, 2009 - 9pm - 11pm
WHY:
To celebrate and toast two fabulously chic local ladies that give you thrice weekly all the deux luxe news that's fit to print! What's a deux luxe lass without a few surprise tricks up her sleeve? Can't give it all away!!!
RSVP
to: SAPR, 561. 366.1226 or amen@shaminabaspr.com

Monday, June 22, 2009

Classy and Fabulous


This month’s fashion editorial "Retro Resort" featured in the July/August issue of Palm Beach Illustrated, is a rich throwback to old Hollywood glamour. Classic silhouettes, simple yet dramatic, styled with high impact statement accessories, sets the tone for any starlet wanting to make a scene. The main focus for this story is to showcase that classic pieces will forever be in style, whether it be a chic maillot, gingham print dress or black blazer. To keep this quintessential look up-to-date, focus on fresh fabrics and current cuts, and accessorize with the seasons must-have add-ons. Right now for me it’s all about the statement shoe, platform metallic and suede wedges, PVC and feather heels, this seasons cutting edge cage heel, mixed with bold jewelry in the form of necklaces and piles of bracelets. Stylist tip: Don’t be afraid to mix up your jewelry classics with your latest finds, for this shoot I mixed traditional David Yurman braided cuffs with current Chanel denim chain bracelets. For time-honored prints like gingham, embrace a modern shape. One of my favorites of the season is a one-shoulder b&w gingham dress by Michael Kors. Pair up with a chunky platform to keep it fresh and current. As Coco would say… “A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.”

Here are a few of my favorite pieces that are showcased within the story. -KL

Black & white one-shoulder gingham dress - Michael Kors
www.michaelkors.com

Cordelia necklace, sterling silver and diamonds - David Yurman
www.davidyurman.com

PVC 90mm open toe pump with feather detail - Chanel
www.chanel.com

Cage heel - Yves Saint Laurent
www.ysl.com

To see the rest of the high glamour summer has to offer, pick up the latest issue of Palm Beach Illustrated. www.palmbeachillustrated.com

Friday, June 19, 2009

Blanc/Noir/Grey, Never a Dull Day

Interlaced circles on black tulle; transparent fabric, by Elitis
Jeffrey Michaels Showroom
DCOTA
1855 Griffin Rd Suite A168
Dania Beach, FL 33004
There is no doubt that fashion and interiors feed off of each other. They require consumers that have a vision of what's new, next and now or a desire to acquire that vision, whether it's a statement you make on your body, or a message you send in your built environment. The two disciplines talk to each other and get inspired, I'm sure of it! When you're amongst your peers, don't you take a cue and do a copy? Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so they say. Who starts what? Fashion or design? Do they happen simultaneously? Do they occur out of happenstance? My passion for black and white interior finishes parallels but yet was inspired by Katherine's post that black and white can do no wrong...and in an interior, I can certainly agree!Thankfully, interior design doesn't change as rapidly as the lightening speed of fashion. One minute you're in...the next minute you're out. These black and white wallcoverings and fabrics are timeless and forever a classic regardless of whatever trend is just around the corner! -B.H.

Fabricut; Damask, Harbor Island - Zebra 3384305

Indoor/Outdoor Residential Fabric

Jeffrey Michaels Showroom
DCOTA
1855 Griffin Rd A168
Dania Beach, FL 33004

Designer's Guild; Tullgarn Noir
Amalienborg Fabrics - F1423/01
http://www.designersguild.com/

Ammon Hickson Showroom
DCOTA
1855 Griffin Rd Suite B364
Dania Beach, FL 33004

Roquelaire Graphite - Florimund Wallpaper, P487/10
Designer's Guild
http://www.designersguild.com/
see above for showroom address

Almavira Noir- Arabella Wallcoverings P497/01
Designer's Guild
http://www.designersguild.com/

Wharton Black and White - Whitewall Wallpaper P506/06
Designer's Guild
http://www.designersguild.com/

I Crumble For You

If I could live off one fruit for life, it would be the blueberry. I can devour a pint of blueberries in one sitting, whether it's mixed in my Fage yogurt, blended in a smoothie, or sprinkled on top of my oatmeal. Aside from the blueberry being considered a superfood due to its antioxidant properties, I genuinely love the flavor, texture and color of this superior berry.

Every year for Thanksgiving, I incorporate blueberry pie into my repertoire but for summer, I love to bake cobblers and crumbles. A recent dinner party allowed me to show off my baking skills and prepare a delicious and incredibly simple blueberry - blackberry crumble which I served with Haagen Daaz vanilla ice cream. Delight your dinner guests or indulge yourself one evening with this humble, yet beautiful marriage of blueberries, blackberries, crumbly topping and heavenly sweetness! -B.H.

Blueberry-Blackberry Crumble

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup packed brown sugar (I used dark)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold sweet cream butter, in small pieces
3 pints blueberries
3 pints blackberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. To make the topping, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add the butter and work in with your fingertips until you have a crumbly mixture.

In another bowl, toss the blueberries and blackberries with the granulated sugar. Pile the sugared fruit into a large gratin dish or two pie plates. Mound the topping over the fruit.

Bake for an hour, or until the topping is nicely browned. Cool for 15 minutes before serving, or serve at room temperature.

*Recipe (p.115) from A PLATTER OF FIGS AND OTHER RECIPES by David Tanis

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Big Poppa

Happy Father's Day to all you Notorious DADs, Father Figures, Baby Daddys, Papas, Pappys, Pops and Paw Paws!

Here's my last minute Father's Day Gift Guide for those dads that have enough shirts and ties to sink a ship and haven't given you a clue as to what they long for. Note: NO cuff-links featured here! -B.H.

Tool Timin' Dad
Leather Tool Bag by Klein Tools ~ great for any Dad that needs a sturdy bag for power or garden tools! This stylish tool bag is made of tanned leather with reinforced ends, double ply base and stitched handles.
$200
New Dad On The Block


Copper Piggy Bank - measures 5.25" x 10" x 18", holds enough money ending in at least four 0's! To all you new fathers...start saving for college education, Sweet-16 BMW's, LV bags, push-presents for child #2 and #3...!
$250.00
The O.G. (Original Golfer)


Pitgreen Premium Platinum Golf Set - This micro-mini golf game comes complete with figure, green, clubs and balls! Perfect for Dads who like to kill time at the office and brush up on their "short game."
$129.00
Natural Born Griller



O-Grill 3000 - Portable grill that weighs 24lbs. and has 225 square inches of grilling space! It runs on propane cylinders for up to four hours. This compact, ergonomic grill comes in several chic colors such as orange (shown), green, blue, black, red, and silver.
$190.00
"007" Dad
Inside-Out Martini Glass - Your "Shaken, Not Stirred" - up Pops will love this glass for it's sleek independence (no stem to balance on!), extra cold temperature control due to no direct hand contact w/beverage, and it's elegant shape is revealed once the goods are poured and the olives are dunked! Talkin' dirty never sounded so good!
$55.00 for set of two
(Note: Ladies - they also have an inside out champagne glass that's antithetical to all champagne glassware but still lovable and practical!)

Spa for Dads


Wooden Sanctuary - This wooden cable organizing box gives Dads all their multi-purpose electronics a "charge" at the same time. Dad will say "Ahhhh" as his cell, ipone, MP3 Player and bluetooth are all getting juiced up in one setting!
$150.00
Prima-Daddy


Shaving Set - by Dovo Solingen, Germany is a luxe shaving set designed for any man that is as discerning about his utensils as he is about his products! This set includes shaving brush and razor with gorgeous wood handles and three shaving soaps.
$350.00
The Jet-Set Sir


Centenary Trolley Suitcase - Orange with brown straps, by Globe-Trotter, UK. Handmade, leather trim and straps, and silk lined interior...this suitcase will complete the look of a Dapper Dad as he (and his juicy orange luggage) glides through Heathrow Airport!
$1580.00
21.5 x 15.25 x 6.75, 9.25lbs
(utility case, top = optional)
Nostalgic & Esoteric Dad

Leica M3 Gold Digital Camera by Minox. Your artsy pappy will love the classic look and state-of-the-art technology of this palm-size tiny camera. Sharp color rendition, video recording capabilities and 32MB memory among other features make it hands down, the sleekest and chicest choice for all your Father's Day cool pics!
$349.00
Wine Enthusiast

Cluster Woven Two-Bottle Wine Carrier - Complete with leather straps and handles, corkscrew and insulated insert with suede lining...Wine never traveled so well!
Black or Espresso
16"h x 10" x 5"D
$100.00
http://www.vinaferro.com/

Monday, June 15, 2009

A La Underpinnings

Being a stylist, I get asked quite often about the secret ways of building the ultimate wardrobe, or outfit for that matter. There are many things to consider when doing so, and many tricks that I will indulge on throughout The Deux Luxe. But in order to have the trés chic prêt-a-porter collection that we all dream of, we must start at the beginning, the foundation. Lingerie is the number one most over-looked component to one’s wardrobe… the neglected little piece of any perfect ensemble. Here are a few of my top luxe lingerie selections that make up my trousseau of undergarments for any occasion that might arise. (And DL Gents, even though its not Valentines Day, pay close attention, women do love a guy who appreciates the finer things in a well thought-out look) – KL

A Little Mystery Goes A Long Way
My favorite ultra-luxe lingerie line, hands down, has to be Agent Provocateur. Yes, it can be a bit on the racy side (the founder none-the-less is British courtier maven, Vivienne Westwood’s son), but hey, who doesn’t love that every now and then. But seriously, glamour all the way and they have the best fit ever! And what girl doesn’t love feeling sexy? The collections are packed full of the best underpinnings for any cocktail attire one will ever need, even in the most socially conscious towns. And what happens after, well… that’s the pleasure of best-kept secrets. Ooh la la!

G • L • A • M • O • R ... OUS - www.agentprovocateur.com
Stylists side note: Not disclosing my personal picks on this one… like I said, a little mystery goes a long way.

Gilly Hicks - Undergarments Down Under
I discovered this new lingerie line from a good friend of mine and can’t wait to check it out. Gilly Hicks is the latest collection (and described as the “cheeky cousin”) from Abercrombie & Fitch – specializing in women's intimate apparel from casual to sexy and relaxed loungewear. The Australian theme of Gilly Hicks was originally inspired by the phrase "Down Under”, and in its saying, it’s the only brand from Ab & Fitch with a non-American image. For me its all about the casual chic styles from cotton to lace… not to mention the price point that can’t be beat.

Check out www.gillyhicks.com for a list of stores

The Polka
A major leg trend right off the most recent runways has me thinking all frocks come fall most be paired with sheer black hosiery. And Nicolas Ghesquiére’s collection for Balenciaga has me totally inspired… the French dot is back in full force for fall. I’m so loving this look and have already starting test driving it around town. Pair-up this chic hosiery style with any short dress… appropriate of French standards that is. For my birthday celebration a few weeks back I rocked this look out with an uber short, studded, cotton denim mini dress and sky-high multi-strapped heels.

Balenciaga Fall 2009
photo courtesy of style.com

Balenciaga Fall 2009
photo courtesy of style.com

Friday, June 12, 2009

KL's Luxe List - 2

The latest and greatest Deux Luxe worthy selections for the distinct and discerning – KL

Vera Wang headed to DWTS… as in Dancing With The Stars? Word is that this ultra luxe rtw & bridal designer has signed on to shimmy her way through the hit show’s next season. Wonder if designing her own bedazzled get-ups has been written into her contact? I’m just hoping she showcases some of the show-stopping gems from her fall jewelry collection… you can definitely count on seeing a piece or two adorned around my neck come fall, dancing may be included.

Vera Wang featured in Harper's Bazaar - www.harpersbazaar.com
photo credit: Peter Lindbergh

Necklace from Vera Wang Accessory Collection - Fall 2009

80s revival is back in full force and is even making its way well into fall (hello Marc Jacobs) Warning my friends… this trend can either be quite chic or turn quite tragic. Here are 2 au courant must-haves that will allow you to revisit the decade of big hair and big shoulders … without complete and utter embarrassment. (shout out to my sister, ultimate 80s queen! xx)

Balmain Lace Top
Madonna “Like a Virgin” reduxe á la 2009, the Parisian way- Love this, so amazingly en vogue with a fitted jean… Modern statement shoulder is where it’s at! Stylist Tip: if Balmain breaks the bank for you, there are several similar price-friendly styles readily available. Opt for a nude bra with ivory lace shades, black bra for all other dark hues.

Balmain lace top featured on netaporter.com

Rihanna rock'n the look

Toy Watches
I came across these awhile back but have lately discovered a personal affection for them. Perfect for summer in any locale, and they will definitely still be stylish months ahead. Right now rock one beach or poolside by day, gang up with chunky bangles by night. And talk about ultimate 80s, check out the new Jelly Collection - Switch it, Swap it, Mix it, Pop it, custom create your own look from 72 color combos from the Jelly Shop. Even the First Lady is in-the-know with these glamorously groovy timepieces.

My Toy Watch pick - Oversize Black & Gold ($225)

First Lady sporting the Neon Plasteramic in Ultra Violet ($195)

The New Jelly Collection - www.toywatchusa.com

Sense and Scentibilty- 3 leading fragrance brands taking on the world of short cinema.
I came across these short films when I was recently researching for a fall fragrance story as well as my upcoming Sept fashion editorial (stay tuned...) Chanel, Gucci and Dior have raised the bar for beauty campaigns by collaborating with 3 uber creative film directors, each masterminding their own little world of sensual delight - absolutely inspiring.

Chanel No 5 - Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet
www.chanelno5.com

Miss Dior Chérie - Directed by Sophia Coppola
(J'Adore Sophia & Miss Chérie, love this entire campaign)
www.missdiorcherie.com

Flora by Gucci - Directed by Chris Cunningham
www.gucci.com