Highlights of the Week
News & Events
News & Events articles from The Luxury Channel Magazine.
Highlights From Henley Festival 2018 By The Luxury Channel
A real highlight of the British Summer Season, Henley Festival kicked off on Wednesday 11th July. The festival screening of the World Cup Semi-Final match between England and Sweden was watched by hundreds of black-tie festival goers sipping champagne. Rita Ora even delayed her opening headline set by an hour to ensure festival goers could enjoy the football. Ora then proceeded to wow the crowed with renditions of her pop hits including For You and Girls, as fireworks exploded overhead (this year, the famous Henley fireworks were put on by Titanium, the firework company behind the 2012 Olympics).
On the …
Royal Ascot In Numbers By The Luxury Channel
The countdown to Royal Ascot – one of the most iconic summer events of the British sporting and social calendar – has begun. On Tuesday 19th June, Ascot Racecourse will open its gates for five days of world-class racing, pageantry, high fashion and fine dining. The Racecourse was established at the behest of Queen Anne in 1711. The centrepiece of Ascot’s racing calendar, Royal Ascot is first thought to have taken place at Ascot in 1768 and is now arguably the world’s most famous race meeting. It has been attended by British Monarchs ever since its inception and at …
Henley Festival 2018 – What To Look Forward To By The Luxury Channel
Now in its 36th year, Henley Festival – the UK’s most glamorous boutique festival – is returning to its spectacular setting on the riverbank in Henley-on-Thames from 11th – 15th July 2018.
As the UK’s only black tie boutique festival, Henley Festival is glamour personified, offering Michelin-starred food, award-winning comedians, Turner Prize nominated artists and the biggest names in popular, world, jazz and classical music. Many festival-goers arrive by boat, and the green lawns of the Festival are transformed into a Great Gatsby vision, as black tie clad revellers spill across the festival site, champagne in hand, while fireworks …
Positive Luxury – Positive Week By The Luxury Channel
Positive Week is a celebration of a mission created by Positive Luxury to inspire people to buy better, and to influence brands to do better. Now into its fifth year, Positive Week runs from 2nd to 8th October, and each day of the week will focus on a particular pillar of positive business – environmental, social, governance, philanthropy and innovation – to highlight how brands to trust are committed to doing good across these key areas.
Positive Week is supported by ambassadors Gillian Anderson and Storm Keating. “I proudly and wholeheartedly support Positive Luxury, as they are making …
The Gold Standard – Goldie At Henley By Fiona Sanderson
Goldie was the headlining Saturday night act on the famous Floating Stage at Henley Festival this year, where he performed an orchestral version of his seminal 1995 album Timeless with The Heritage Orchestra. The classical reworking of one of the most influential albums of the last 20 years was performed against Henley’s stunning riverbank setting.
Goldie is known as the father of UK Drum & Bass and for revolutionising the genre into the mainstream. The multi-MOBO award-winning pioneer is one of only a handful of artists to have co-written a song with the late David Bowie, and he was …
British Polo Day Celebrates Its 60th Event By The Luxury Channel
On Saturday 24th June, British Polo Day Great Britain celebrated its 60th event, in Helnley-on-Thames. Having held 59 invitation-only events in 16 countries since 2009, the annual series of events always returns to home turf for the English Summer before completing the year in the Far East with events in China, the Indonesian island of Nihiwatu, and India.
The success of British Polo Day has been largely down to word-of-mouth endorsement from many guests and supporters, including key figures in government, the aristocracy, the military, fashion, art and popular culture. In addition, British Polo Day has hosted members …
Henley Festival – Music, Comedy And Creativity By The Luxury Channel
Henley Festival, the UK’s most glamorous boutique festival and winner of Headline Performance of The Year at the 2016 Festival Awards, is returning to its spectacular setting on the riverbank in Henley-on-Thames from 5th – 9th July 2017.
The Floating Stage
Grammy-award-winning singer-songwriter Jess Glynne will open the 2017 Festival, performing her string of number one hits including Hold My Hand and Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself on the iconic Floating Stage on Wednesday 5th July. The second evening of the Festival sees The Pet Shop Boys, the most successful duo in UK music history with three Brit …
Prestigious Medals Announced At The RHS Chelsea Flower Show By The Luxury Channel
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) awarded 73 Gold Medals at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. A total of 117 medals were awarded to the gardens and floral exhibitors in the Great Pavilion, which also included 30 Silver-Gilt Medals, 13 Silver Medals and one Bronze Medal.
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show’s sponsors, The M&G Garden, was awarded their 6th Gold Medal and scooped Best Show Garden. Showcasing ecological sustainability based on the unique environment of Malta, the garden designed by James Basson also received the coveted Best Construction Award, making it the second year running for contractors Crocus.
James Basson, …
Kick Off The Summer Season In Style At Polo In The Park By The Luxury Channel
Kick-off the London summer social season in style at Chestertons Polo In The Park! Combining world-class sport, a host of London’s most exciting restaurants and Europe’s longest outdoor bar, Polo In The Park is the perfect setting for polo fans and social enthusiasts alike to celebrate the summer season in style. This year’s layout of bars, shopping and delicious food will ensure a day of non-stop action both on and off the field.
Played under simplified rules that create a faster and more spectator-friendly game, the event is the ideal introduction to polo for those new to the sport. …
London Craft Week By The Luxury Channel
Running until 7th May 2017, the third edition of London Craft Week took up residence in the capital. This annual event showcased the very best international and British creativity and craftsmanship through a “beyond luxury” journey-of-discovery. The curated programme brought together over 230 events from all corners of the globe fusing food, fashion, design, art, culture and luxury. From The Shard to The House of Lords, hidden studios to Mayfair stores and bustling workshops to Michelin starred restaurants, London Craft Week spread across the capital’s iconic buildings, influential institutions and off-the-beaten track side streets, many of which are not …
The Year of The Rooster – China Luxury Market Outlook By The Luxury Conversation
There was a good deal of debate in 2016 about the slow-down of the Chinese economy and tough times for luxury brands. After years of strong growth, we are now talking about China’s “new normal” – i.e. a more moderate rate of growth and sales. But it’s not all doom and gloom. In fact, UBS Global Research predicts a recovery of Chinese luxury consumption in 2017 and 4% growth. So just what are the biggest opportunities for 2017 in China? The Luxury Conversation put that question to a panel of experts….
Zan Wu, Founder of ZANADU
ZANADU is China’s No.1 …
Prince William Honours Africa’s Heroes At The Tusk Awards By The Luxury Channel
At a ceremony attended by many of Tusk Trust’s high profile supporters – including Ronnie Wood, Deborah Meaden, Katherine Jenkins and Bear Grylls – the great and the good came together for an awards ceremony headed by HRH The Duke of Cambridge and the charity’s CEO Charlie Mayhew.
The Duke honoured the extraordinary lives of five men and women dedicated to the survival of Africa’s endangered wildlife at the fourth annual Tusk Awards with Sir David Attenborough, announcing the winners of three of the conservation world’s most prestigious accolades. With the addition of a surprise award, the Prince turned the …
Champions Tennis Marks 20th Anniversary At The Royal Albert Hall By The Luxury Channel
Former British Number 1 Greg Rusedski, former Doubles Grand Slam Champion Xavier Malisse, and former World No.4 Guy Forget will be competing at this year’s Champions Tennis at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The tournament, which takes place between 30th November and 4th December 2016, celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year. The players join former World No.1 and seven-time Grand Slam champion John McEnroe, former World No.1 and two-time US Open champion Pat Rafter, former British No.1 Tim Henman, former World No.1 and Roland Garros Champion Juan Carlos Ferrero, as well as popular crowd-pleaser and “court jester” Mansour Bahrami.
The Spanish Riding School’s 450th Anniversary World Tour By The Luxury Channel
The Spanish Riding School of Vienna, the world’s oldest and most prestigious equestrian academy, performed at London’s Wembley Arena as part of their 450th Anniversary World Tour, with their famous Lipizzaner horses adorned with specially designed crimson and gold-edged saddle blankets embellished with 3,000 shining Swarovski crystals each.
The world-famous performances by the Lipizzans – the Ballet of the White Stallions – are the result of years of training for both rider and horse. Lipizzan horses are lively and intelligent, and as Europe’s oldest horse breed, their physique and grace are ideally suited to the High School of Classical …
Innovation And New Trends In The Luxury World By Christiane Muller
In September, Glion Institute of Higher Education hosted an inaugural Innovate Luxury Conference in Switzerland, and The Luxury Channel’s Christiane Muller was delighted to hear first-hand from top level speakers such as Christian Blanckaert (Former Directeur Général of Hermès International), Ronald Homsy (Co-Founder and CEO of Utopian Hotel Collection) and Bernadette Koltai (VP of Luxury Hotels Group), about the latest innovations in the hospitality and luxury sectors.
The keyword of the conference was undoubtedly innovation. There was a clear message that despite digitalisation trends, consumers still appreciate a human element within the shopping process. At the highest levels of luxury, …
The Luxury Channel Meets Jean-Eric Vergne By Natalie Sauer
Jean-Eric Vergne, the former Formula One driver now turned darling of the Formula E Virgin DS team and Mumm Champagne’s Formula E Ambassador, talks to the Luxury Channel about the future of battery powered cars, and what he misses most about Formula One….
Hope you’ve recovered from your crash earlier? [Our interview takes place a couple of hours after Jean-Eric Vergne crashed during qualifying]
I did, but the car has yet to do so!
Is Formula One a sport in decline by comparison to Formula E?
Looking at the profits of Formula One, I think it’d be a bit …
The Champagne Lifestyle of Formula E By Natalie Sauer
I went to a motor race on Saturday 2nd July, and it may not be the one you’re thinking of. The weather was impeccable, with the sky a perky blue and the pits occasionally glistening from a passing summer shower. There were all of the usual models, including car aficionado Jodie Kidd, and if one drew closely to the tracks, one could, surely enough, get high on the smell of burnt tyres and hot brakes like any self-respecting Formula One fan.
The circuit, however, is curiously silent. Conspicuously absent, too, is the scent of fuel. I am not …
Henley Festival – Fun, Food And Fizz By The Luxury Channel
The all-star line-up for this year’s Henley Festival has been announced! As one of the most decorated and recognisable names in British music, Sir Elton John and his band will open the Festival on Wednesday 6th July to a sold-out audience whilst one of Britain’s greatest-ever entertainers, Dame Shirley Bassey, will be teaming up with Brit-Award winning vocal group Blake on Saturday 9th. Multi award-winning singer Elvis Costello & The Imposters will keep the party going on Thursday night when they take to the famous Floating Stage, and Friday night will see the Festival return to its classical roots with …
The Seoul And Vogue of Sustainability By K magazine
The star session at the recent Condé Nast International Luxury Conference held in Seoul, South Korea, was “Ripples of Responsibility.” It addressed the impact of wasteful sourcing and processes in the fashion industry and emphasised the need to “institute sustainability,” as K magazine reports….
Under the shadow of the South Korean capital’s geographical landmark, Mount Namsan, the Condé Nast International Future Luxury conference at the Samsung-run Shilla Hotel was in full swing. Between sessions, delegates from around the world networked at a Swarovski multi-media exhibition, in front of a giant stand displaying the organiser’s gamut of up-to-the-minute magazines (Vogue, …
Discover The Nice Carnival 2016! By Bruce International Properties
Even in February, the South of France enjoys the Mediterranean sunshine, a fact capitalised upon by the Nice Carnival. If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off to the South of France, make a point of stopping by the Nice Carnival. Taking place from 13th to 28th February 2016, the Nice Carnival has been the primary winter event of the French Riviera since its humble origins around 800 years ago, believed to be in 1294. Every day and night, the streets are overrun with harmonious music and colourful parades, making for a truly magical atmosphere.
Le Carnival Parade
During the …
One Last Look At The Venice Carnival By The World Weekly
A woman wearing a traditional carnival costume poses in front of the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. The famous bridge takes its name from a legend which tells of how prisoners on their way to their cells would be able to take one last look at beautiful Venice and sigh. The annual Venice Carnival is known around the world for its spectacular costumes and parties. The festival’s history reportedly reaches back to the 12th century, when the Republic of Venice defeated the Patriarch of Aquileia in 1162. While having a centuries-long history, the carnival (famed for its elaborate masks) has …
Walpole Brands Of Tomorrow: The Tastemakers Of The Future Paving The Way In Luxury By The Luxury Channel
Walpole has revealed the 2016 selections for its esteemed Brands of Tomorrow programme. The line-up comprises trailblazing innovators who have caught the attention of the world of luxury. Via carefully tailored learning, including one-to-one tutelage from industry leaders and a year-long workshop schedule, the winning brands will also be given access to Walpole’s established membership, which includes Britain’s most prestigious brands and cultural institutions.
Founded in 2007, Walpole’s Brands of Tomorrow initiative has to date helped develop and nurture over 75 emerging British luxury brands, and proudly seen them become leaders in their respective fields. It counts luxury British brands …
The Battle For The Final Frontier By The Luxury Channel
For the very few of our planet’s billionaires who can afford to tackle space travel, their journeys are not always that easy. We see who is battling it out for their place in the galaxy and how successful they have been….
Jeff Bezos
Perhaps the most successful of the “space billionaires” so far, the Amazon founder’s company Blue Origin has managed to successfully launch and land a reusable rocket. The company’s New Shepard model (named after the first American in space, Alan Shepard), reached a height of 62 miles, before successfully landing back on Earth. Bezos is now allegedly planning …
Stars Rise To The Occasion At The Moët British Independent Film Awards By Jayjay Epega
BIFA (the British Independent Film Awards) has long been an industry insider. Now sponsored by Moët Chandon champagne, it is known as the platform for rising British and Irish film talent, from auteurs like Andrea Arnold to globally recognised actors like Michael Fassbender. The BIFAs are comparable to such globally-known ceremonies like the Cesars in France or the Goyas in Spain.
This year’s awards ceremony, which The Luxury Channel was delighted to attend, was held at the Old Billingsgate building and was hosted by Richard Ayoade. Major winners on the night included Kate Winslet, who received the Variety Award, which …
The Tusk Conservation Awards 2015 By The Luxury Channel
The Luxury Channel, as a guest of Land Rover, joined Tusk and its Royal Patron HRH The Duke of Cambridge to recognise excellence in conservation in Africa. Dr. Emmanuel de Merode was presented the 2015 Tusk Conservation Award at the awards ceremony held at Claridge’s in London. The award, sponsored by Land Rover, celebrates emerging leaders in conservation in Africa whose work has made a significant impact. The Duke of Cambridge revealed he was “honoured to support the Tusk Conservation Awards once again,” adding: “There is so much great work being undertaken by some truly inspirational people who never seek …
The BMW Art Car By Camilla Hellman
The driving rain did not cool the mood and anticipation at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, when BMW announced that the BMW Art Car artists will be John Baldessari and Cao Fei for Racing Cars #18 and #19 in the series.
In 1975, French race car driver and auctioneer Hervé Poulain invited an artist to create a canvas on an automobile, commissioning American artist Alexander Calder to paint the first BMW Art Car. The car was raced in 1975 by Poulain at Le Mans.
Amongst the 17 artists who have to date used the BMW …
World Boutique Hotel Awards By The Luxury Channel
The winners and runners-up of the World Boutique Hotel Awards 2015 were announced at a glittering awards ceremony held at the Montcalm Hotel in London. The ceremony brought together an array of boutique hotel owners, travel press and travel industry influencers from all four corners of the world, who came together to share in their passion for creating unique travel experiences.
This year’s keynote speech was delivered by Robin Sheppard, chairman of Bespoke Hotels, and other esteemed guest presenters and speakers at the event included Paolo Macchiaroli, founder of My Private Villas, Hilary Lancaster from Fusion Interiors Group and Boutique …
The Business of Luxury By Tim Jackson
This year’s FT Business of Luxury Summit shed new light on the Chinese market and the digital directions influencing the industry…
ECONOMIC DISRUPTION
A key theme emerging across the conference was disruption, which has occurred in luxury markets in part due to a weak euro and its associated impact on global pricing and demand.
Global Outlook
Martin Wolf, associate editor and chief economics commentator of The Financial Times, offered insights into the global macro-economic outlook, based on the latest forecasts from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): “Yet again, the US is very disappointing, with [forecast] growth of only 2% this year, which is well below what people had been expecting. The Eurozone is in recovery at 1.4%, Japan at 0.7% and global growth at 2.1%. It’s a very weak year.” Wolf noted that inflation remains extraordinarily low, with no economy expected to hit its inflation target. However, the Eurozone is enjoying a year of growth. “If everything goes well, according to my calculations, Eurozone GDP next year should be more or less where it was before the crisis began, so it’s almost a lost decade, but nonetheless there is growth,” Wolf said.
BRIC Futures
Commenting on the state of the BRIC economies (Brazil, Russia, India and China), Wolf predicted that China would be the largest global economy in the long term, but added that India was set to be very significant, too: “We have underplayed India. It’s quite difficult to imagine a world in which India isn’t the fastest growing major economy …
Fabergé: A Life of Its Own By The Luxury Channel
Not sure what to watch next at the cinema? We recommend Fabergé: A Life of Its Own, which charts the rich history behind the iconic luxury brand Fabergé, from the monumental rise of “artist jeweller” Peter Carl Fabergé in the 19th Century, to the enduring legacy of Fabergé today. The film’s director, Patrick Mark, reveals that the film is “an incredibly rich and complex story, full of emotion, mystery and wonderful characters.”
The film offers unprecedented access to renowned private collections, living descendants of the Fabergé family and international Fabergé experts, as well as a few other gems – for …
300 Years of The House of Martell By Harriet O'Grady
Martell Cognac, steeped in history and glamour, is the reason why we gathered in the most beautiful surroundings, at the Palace of Versailles. Pernod Ricard, the owners of Martell and justifiably proud of this jewel in their crown, decided to pull out all the stops to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of the House of Martell and indeed, what an evening it turned out to be.
Our host Philippe Guettat, Chairman and CEO of Martell Mumm Perrier-Jouet, warmly welcomed us, explaining that the celebrations were taking place at Versailles because it is the embodiment of French art …
The Winds of Change – Henley Festival’s CEO Is A Breath of Fresh Air By Fiona Sanderson
Every year, the Henley Festival of Music and the Arts is held on the banks of the River Thames. It is held on the same spot as the Henley Royal Regatta, which takes place the week before. The Henley Festival has established itself as a unique experience, bringing together world-class musicians, performers and artists over five days, in one of England’s most magical settings. An event of both style and substance, the Festival’s showcase spans classical, rock, pop, jazz, opera and folk music, with headline acts gracing Henley’s famous floating stage. There are a host of visual arts and dance, …
Ornellaia – From Albertinelli To Armleder By Linda Johnson-Bell
Tuscany’s Ornellaia makes a Splash at Swiss benefit auction….
Well into his 70s, Marchese Ferninando Frescobaldi is still an attractive man. So much so, that his second wife jealously hovers about as he skilfully plies his well-honed charm before his adoring congregation of fans. We are in Basel, at the Fondation Beyeler in the grounds of the Villa Berower, for the unveiling of the iconic Tuscan wine, Ornellaia’s 7th annual Vendemmia d’Artista. This year, the Swiss artist, John Armleder, was commissioned to interpret the Ornellaia 2012 vintage by creating a piece of artwork to adorn a limited number of special-edition …
Racing With Maserati In Monaco By Fiona Sanderson
With boys’ toys very much at the epicentre of Monaco with luxury boats and all that goes with it, I was only too eager to say yes to a 24 hour getaway to celebrate the launch of the Maserati 2015 sailing season and to meet some of the crew – Captain Giovanni Soldini, Fiat boss John Elkan, and Prince Pierre Casiraghi the younger son of Caroline, Princess of Monaco. Quite a crew!
Whilst best known for its prowess on the track, the Italian automotive giant hasn’t restricted its love of racing to the road, as the brand is also …
Goran Ivanisevic Gives The Summer Tennis Season A Kick-Start By The Luxury Channel
Former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic has confirmed he will play at the BNP Paribas Tennis Classic at The Hurlingham Club in London this June – the perfect appetiser to Wimbledon. Best known for being the first wildcard entry to win Wimbledon, Ivanisevic revealed the Tennis Classic is “always such a great way to kick-start the summer tennis season. It’s not only a great warm-up for the ATP players, it’s also a fantastic event for us Legends to play against our old rivals again.”
Alongside legends of the game will be many top ATP stars playing their final …
Kevin Spacey Steals The Show At The Oliviers By Jayjay Epega
It was a dazzling night for The Luxury Channel, when we made our way to the stunning surroundings of London’s Royal Opera House, where Kevin Spacey stole our hearts and the show at the Oliviers (known as the theatre Oscars). He surprised all the audience present by launching into an unannounced performance of Bridge Over Troubled Water, performing a duet with singer Beverly Knight, backed by a full orchestra. Spacey, who last won the best actor Olivier in 1999, picked up a very special award for his outstanding contribution to the Old Vic theatre, where he has been artistic director …
A Picture Says A Thousand Words By The Luxury Channel
Whether you take photographs for commercial reasons or just as a hobby to savour a moment in time or place, photographs are an important – and in many cases, precious – means of communication. We bring you our round-up of the photography exhibitions to point your camera at….
Salt & Silver – Early Photography (25th Feb – 7th June)
This is the first exhibition in Britain devoted to salted paper prints, one of the earliest forms of photography. A uniquely British invention, unveiled by William Henry Fox Talbot in 1839, salt prints spread across the globe, creating a new visual …
The Geneva Motor Show 2015 By Rob Scorah
The Geneva Salon has always been the show of the art house exotic, the technologically sensual. Yet it is usually able to offer a real-world manifestation of those qualities. Jaguar’s E-type was unveiled there in 1961 and Lamborghini’s Miura in ’66. This year’s show certainly has its share of ultra, ultra hi-tech speed, power and luxury, all of course deftly balanced or – more pointedly – offset by low carbon footprint technology. All to keep a rapaciously consumerist and self-centred industry at least looking environmentally-friendly.
It’s hard to know where to start first with all the power and …
Why Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend By The Luxury Channel
We all know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend – but it seems they are also an investor’s best friend too. With the 87th Academy Awards around the corner, all eyes will not only be on the hopeful winners but also on the fashion and jewellery worn on the red carpet. We look at the latest trends in the global diamond market to discover why these precious jewels are such hot property….
Diamonds – The Facts
An estimated US $13 billion worth of rough diamonds are produced per year, of which approximately US $8.5 billion come from Africa. Global …
Chinese New Year – A Global Affair For Luxury By K magazine
One of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, Chinese New Year has established itself as more than just a day – it’s become a booming season. As Chinese customers have become crucial to global luxury consumption, what will the Year of the Goat mean to them and to local and international brands? K magazine explores….
Characterised by wild imagination and forward momentum, the Year of the Horse is skidding to a halt. It’s that time of year again – magnificent fireworks, thrilling dragon dances, and Chinese dumplings, or jiaozi, steaming up for another New Year. Luxury brands are …
From Damien Hirst To Roberto Cavalli – Trend Report From Maison&Objet By Camilla Hellman
Think Paris, think design, think innovation….Maison&Objet Spring Fair remains one of the most influential and important markets for stores and designers worldwide to attend. The fair celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and The Luxury Channel was there to report on what we think is new, inspiring and trending. In the lead up to this year’s fair, Oki Sato of Nendo was named Maison&Objet’s Designer of the Year. Oki has worked with so many leading brands – from Baccarat to Tods to Toshiba, so we were looking forward to visiting his “Chocolate Texture Lounge.” We weren’t disappointed, either!
Chinese Whispers By Nicholas Gormanston
Chinese Whispers, the new exhibition at the Fine Art Society Gallery in Bond Street by artists Rob and Nick Carter, is a series of playful takes on a number of familiar works by Andy Warhol. At the show’s opening night, Nick Carter told me they had selected the Warhol images and then sent them off to a number of different factories in China, where normally the lines of artists are involved in mass-producing perfect copies of world-famous paintings. They were given instructions for each to make a facsimile ink drawing of a Warhol, and then pass it on to …
Fortnum & Mason At Somerset House By Caroline Phillips
If ‘Skate at Somerset House’ doesn’t get you in the mood for Christmas, then nothing will. For over a decade now, the 900-metre-square outdoor rink, set in the grand 18th century neoclassical courtyard, has provided London’s most picturesque setting for ice-skating (“London’s favourite ice-rink,” according to one paper. And “the coolest rink of all,” in the words of another). In what has become an annual tradition for me, I went down to Somerset House this week, once more to brave the ice – not to mention the countless couples in their first throes of love!
This year’s …
Tennis Tweed At Andy Murray’s Hotel By The Luxury Channel
Tennis coach and Strictly Come Dancing star Judy Murray has worked with Harris Tweed Hebrides to produce a bespoke Harris Tweed for her son Andy’s Perthshire hotel, Cromlix. The new Harris Tweed (inspired by the famous Wimbledon colours purple and green) has been used by three renowned Scottish-based designers – Catherine Aitken, Gráinne Broderick and Katherine Emtage – to craft a contemporary accessory gift range which will be available to purchase at the hotel. Called the Cromlix Collection, the range includes a clutch bag and a handbag as well as an iPad cover and Harris Tweed cufflinks set in …
Maddalena Ischiale – How Angelina Jolie Found Her Mama By Hannah Norman
A dreary London evening is surely a world away from sunshine of the Hollywood hills, but if the light is going to shine anywhere, then along the red carpet is usually a pretty safe bet. In London, the carpet was awash with stars for the premiere of Angelina Jolie’s latest role as director of the movie Unbroken. It was her second directorial role following 2011’s In The Land of Blood And Honey.
Whilst the charismatic actress/director invariably attracts attention wherever she goes, it was in fact her film’s Italian leading lady who was also turning heads. Largely unknown (until …
Benedict Cumberbatch Honoured At The British Independent Film Awards By Jayjay Epega
The Luxury Channel had access all areas to the 2014 British Independent Film Awards, sponsored by Moët & Chandon, which took place at London’s Old Billingsgate. Benedict Cumberbatch was honoured with the Variety Award, which was given for his great part in helping to “focus the international spotlight on the UK.”
Accepting the Award, Cumberbatch said, “Thank you so much; it’s a very strange experience to be in your own audience. It’s a ridiculous honour to be here, not least because of the output and the standard of previous recipients. I feel this is a very premature way to acknowledge …
HRH The Duke of Cambridge At The Tusk Conservation Awards By The Luxury Channel
HRH The Duke of Cambridge attended the 2014 Tusk Conservation Awards at Claridges in London, even lending his name to one of the awards presented that evening. As Royal Patron of Tusk, Prince William presented awards to two leading conservationists for their outstanding work in Africa, and announced his plan to introduce a new award for Rangers. The awards ceremony was hosted by broadcaster Kate Silverton, who is herself a Patron of the charity.
The prestigious Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa, sponsored by Investec Asset Management, was given to Richard Bonham in recognition of his lifetime contribution …
Photography Through The Ages By The Luxury Channel
Osborne Samuel has announced a collaborative exhibition with Beetles+Huxley to present the variety and influence of photography through the ages. Running until 23rd December, this major photography exhibition crosses both of these leading London galleries to showcase over 150 important photographs from the 19th century to the present day.
The exhibition displays a range of arresting and iconic imagery from all periods of this ground-breaking medium, including works by legendary photographers Henri Cartier-Bresson, Horst P Horst, Cecil Beaton, Robert Mapplethorpe, Lord Snowdon, Bill Brandt, Man Ray and Irving Penn, amongst others.
Previously unseen self-portraits by American street photographer Vivian …
Here Today By The Luxury Channel
A unique and important art exhibition has opened at The Old Sorting Office in the heart of London to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The IUCN Red List of Threatened and Endangered Species, entitled “Here Today….”
Curated by international curatorial collective Artwise, the exhibition includes specially commissioned interactive installations and artist’s rooms, and features the works of world famous artists from a variety of international backgrounds and range of media. The Old Sorting Office has been transformed to take visitors on a journey of artworks on endangered species and environmental concern from artists including Tracey Emin, Andy Warhol, Gavin Turk, …
Luxury Wins Out – Why Luxury Goods Are Bucking Global Trends By Dr. Rebecca Harding
Why are luxury goods bucking current global trends? Dr. Rebecca Harding, CEO of Delta Economics, explains….
Economic news does not make happy reading at the moment. China is slowing down, the Eurozone, as always, is teetering on the brink of a new crisis, and geopolitical risks (such as the crisis in Ukraine and in Iraq) are making investors uncertain. Add to this the spectre of a humanitarian and economic crisis in Africa as a result of the Ebola virus and falling global oil prices, and it seems as though there is a perfect storm brewing. Markets took a plunge in …
Champagne Jacquart’s 50th Anniversary By Hannah Norman
How do you celebrate a 50th Anniversary in style? For Champagne Jacquart, the Heron Tower’s 39th floor (otherwise known as Sushi Samba), was the perfect location for showcasing the brand’s new Mosaïc collection, as well as the limited edition Champagne Jacquart Rosé Magnum.
The stunning panama of London at night, looking so small from our vantage point so high up in the sky, provided the perfect backdrop to the evening, all set off by DJ duo Le Bon Tong (AKA Amber Le Bon and Becky Tong). The guest list was an eclectic mix of musicians, models and fashion designers, …
Here Comes The Bridal Room! By The Luxury Channel
London’s leading wedding and party planner, the internationally acclaimed Bruce Russell, has launched an innovative new concept, called The Bridal Room. The first British luxury bridal destination online, The Bridal Room is set to transform the wedding market, marrying discerning grooms and style-savvy brides to uniquely sourced products, destinations and experiences.
Designed to simplify the wedding planning process, The Bridal Room offers a carefully curated marketplace of the ultimate luxury services and suppliers, meticulously sourced from the “best of the best,” from both Great Britain and around the world. Those in pursuit of perfection can find everything they could …
Chantilly Arts And Elegance By Rob Scorah
With the classic and prestige car gathering at the Chantilly Arts And Elegance concours d’elegance, France reclaimed a cultural institution it evolved almost single-handedly over the first half of the 20th Century. The chateau hosted almost 10,000 spectators at this first edition of the event, with the visitors strolling amongst some 100 hand-picked cars displayed in the Le Nôtre gardens. Many of the cars were prototypes or special-order one-offs from motoring’s greatest names past and present; Delahaye, Bugatti, Bentley, Jaguar, Ferrari and Maserati.
Although over recent years the concours d’elegance has largely become a classic car event, …
The Very Finest At The World Equestrian Games By Leonora Smee
Celebrated every four years and alternating with the Olympic Games, the World Equestrian Games, sponsored by Land Rover, is undoubtedly one of the biggest equestrian events in the world. Over a thousand horses and the finest athletes from 76 nations compete against each other in the eight official Fédération Equestre Internationale disciplines, including Jumping, Dressage, Vaulting and Endurance, in front of more than half a million spectators. I was invited by Land Rover to witness some of this fine equine prowess.
Our first day took in the Endurance Race, which was a huge eye-opener! Perseverance and strength allowed these miraculous …
Salute To Style By The Luxury Channel
As the first Salute To Style hosted by The Hurlingham Club has drawn to a close, visitors, exhibitors, artists and classic car collectors alike have hailed the event as a successful and elegant nod to summer in London: even the sun was a permanent feature throughout the celebrations! As Michael Scott revealed, (who organised Salute To Style in partnership with The Hurlingham Club), the aim was “to create a sophisticated yet discreet salute to style – and we even arranged the weather to go with it!”
Over the course of the event’s three days, an estimated 2,800 guests visited Salute …
Taking Hollywood – Seductive, Dangerous And Utterly Compelling By Jayjay Epega
The Luxury Channel was delighted to accept an invitation to London’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Knightsbridge to meet Mr. L.A. himself, Ross King, best known as the top showbiz correspondent on Good Morning Britain, a man we are accustomed to seeing grilling A-list celebrities on the red carpet, from the Academy Awards to The Grammys to the Golden Globes. He was joined by writer and childhood friend Shari Low, who over the last decade has written numerous novels which have been published in the UK and internationally.
They told us exclusively about their new collaboration, Taking Hollywood – …
The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show – Sunshine, Show Gardens And Seven Deadly Sins By The Luxury Channel
Across the four days of The RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year, Sodexo Prestige catered for over 160,000 people, and just over a month later, Sodexo staff were once again preparing floral-inspired catering for the largest flower show in the world, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. Prestige’s events and operations manager, Julie Bromage, revealed that “Britain has such an impressive horticultural tradition; it’s what makes both Chelsea and Hampton unique in the world and such exciting events to work at.”
The RHS Hampton Court Flower Show commenced this year with a spectacular preview evening, featuring a fireworks display …
Celebrity Line-Up Announced For Glorious Goodwood By The Luxury Channel
For the fourth consecutive year, Glorious Goodwood’s exciting celebrity charity race, the Magnolia Cup, will welcome a star-studded line-up of ladies, including top fashion model and Ladies Day Ambassador Edie Campbell, and renowned fashion designers Sarah Burton and Vivienne Westwood. The ladies will take on the roles of jockeys, silk designers and team supporters in aid of two charities, The Reading Agency and Best Beginnings, on Ladies Day. Ladies Day provides the perfect opportunity for fashion lovers to showcase their summer style as a sea of floral dresses and wedged heels make their way through the gates.
Previous …
Henley Royal Regatta By Fiona Sanderson
Celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, Henley Royal Regatta is undoubtedly the best known regatta in the world and is both one of the highlights of the summer sporting calendar and the social season. Attracting thousands of visitors over a five day period, spectators watch over two hundred races of an international standard, including Olympians and crews new to the event.
The Luxury Channel was invited by Sodexo Prestige to experience both the Regatta and the finest gourmet first-hand, at Fawley Meadows. Welcomed to a Champagne & Pimms reception, we took our places to watch the races. According …
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Hybris Artistica At Masterpiece London By The Luxury Channel
Jaeger-LeCoultre has chosen Masterpiece London as the venue for the international exhibition and premiere of its Hybris Artistica collection, which comprises twelve fascinating timepieces that represent a combination of watchmaking art and exquisite craftsmanship. The twelve pieces also underline the fine arts of enamelling, gem-setting, and engraving.
Jaeger-LeCoultre was also announced as the official partner of the Masterpiece Patrons Programme – including some of the most influential art dealers and clients from around the world – offering connoisseurs and collectors specially conceived master-classes led by its talented artists and watchmakers through Masterpiece London, with exclusive presentations of the Hybris …
British Polo Day – Championing Luxury And Breaking Records By The Luxury Channel
The British Polo Day Charity Cup, presented by Land Rover, saw over 800 VIP guests and picnickers descend on the prestigious Black Bears private estate and polo ground in Henley-on-Thames. Marking the beginning of the English summer, the second British Polo Day Charity Cup was the home leg of its Global Series, and this year’s event was the return fixture for British Polo Day Singapore and the Atlantic Polo Team’s celebratory match, following their grueling Atlantic race.
One of the summer season’s most hotly-anticipated social and sporting events, British Polo Day guests and VIPs travelled with Abercrombie & Kent …
Cartier Queen’s Cup Final By The Luxury Channel
The biggest names in polo were in action on the Queen’s Ground at Guards Polo Club, Windsor Great Park in a bid to win the Cartier Queen’s Cup 2014….
One of the most prestigious events of the British sporting calendar, the final was watched by Her Majesty The Queen, Arnaud M. Bamberger (Executive Chairman of Cartier Ltd), and Laurent Feniou (Managing Director of Cartier Ltd), alongside a strong crowd of polo aficionados. Before the match started, the Band of the Grenadier Guards paraded on the field into the shape of the figure 30 to celebrate Cartier’s three decades of sponsorship …
Royal Ascot – The Highlight of The Flat Racing Calendar By Hannah Norman
Upon this striking Heath a joyful throng shall once again with eagerness descend….
One of the highlights of the British Summer Social Season is undoubtedly Royal Ascot, arguably the most prestigious meeting of the flat racing calendar. Ensconced within this iconic building, recently refurbished (and used as a substitute for Shanghai Airport in Skyfall), our box in the Grandstand Enclosure afforded us fabulous views not just across the race course, but also out across the rolling Berkshire countryside. Her Majesty The Queen even proclaimed that “Royal Ascot is one of Britain’s finest sporting events and it always gives me and …
The British Establishment of Men’s Shirts Is Set To Be Rocked By Princess Diana’s Dress Designer By Hannah Norman
Elizabeth Emanuel, co-designer of one of the most iconic dresses in the world – Princess Diana’s wedding dress – is set to rock the British establishment of men’s shirts with a new and contemporary range of women’s business shirts designed exclusively for the Queen’s shirtmakers, Thresher & Glenny.
The official launch and unveiling of the collection by The House of Britannia was held last week in the auspicious surroundings of London’s Pasley-Tyler club, the classic English style providing the perfect backdrop for the assorted invited guests. Eminent figures from the acting world, such as Edward Fox and Rula Lenska, rubbed …
The Millbrook Summer Diary By Camilla Hellman
The Millbrook Summer Season is under way with the Mashomack International Polo Challenge and upcoming Fitch’s Corner Horse Trials….
The 17th Annual Mashomack International Polo Challenge took place on Saturday 21st June, presented by Nespresso. Located just 90 minutes from New York City, The Mashomack Polo Club is located on a 1,900 acre private reserve in Pine Plains, New York.
Mashomack sits in the heart of the Millbrook Hunt Country, a international enclave for those preferring their Hunter boots, Barbours and country ways. It is in particular a favorite enclave of the British and Italians in New …
The Summer Social Season’s Big Hitters At Hurlingham By Hannah Norman
With Wimbledon just around the corner, the greats of the tennis world descend on the Hurlingham Club for a few days of frenzy, frivolity and just a hint of the serious competitiveness that will ensure victory in SW19.
Luckily for us, The Luxury Channel has a chance to mingle with the ‘‘great and the good’’ from the celebrity world from time to time and on this occasion, we found ourselves seated alongside interior designer and TV personality Kelly Hoppen, and dancer Brendan Cole.
The tennis began with an exciting match between Kyle Edmund and Marin Cilic, the latter having …
Turning Up The Glamour – One For The Boys By Jayjay Epega
The Luxury Channel attended one of the most glamorous events to hit the London Men’s Collections calendar this season. Samuel L. Jackson, Colin Firth, Simon Pegg, David Walliams, Jeremy Piven, Jesse Metcalfe, Pixie Lott, Amanda Holden, Margot Robbie, Luke Evans, David Gandy, Lewis Hamilton and British GQ editor Dylan Jones were among the guests at the inaugural One For The Boys Fashion Ball, which took place at the Natural History Museum in London, as part of the London Men’s fashion week.
One For The Boys is a charity founded by Sofia Davis and chaired by Samuel L. Jackson. Uniting …
Chestertons Polo In The Park By The Luxury Channel
Chestertons Polo In The Park, one of the most hotly-anticipated fixtures on London’s sporting and social calendar, blends ferociously competitive on-field action, a variety of off-field entertainment and world-class, pitch-side hospitality. Now in its eighth consecutive year, Chestertons Polo will return to the beautiful surroundings of historic Hurlingham Park, from 3rd – 5th June.
Chestertons Polo In The Park continues the legacy of bringing the exhilarating world of polo to London, and has become one of the capital’s greatest summer social outdoor events. International polo players from countries such as Argentina, Australia and South Africa, riding some of the …
Swarovski Presents Fredrikson Stallard’s Prologue By The Luxury Channel
Swarovski will be presenting Prologue, a new large-scale installation created by Fredrikson Stallard, at Design Miami/Basel, the global design forum. Prologue is a powerful representation of new beginnings and an abstract symbol of life and rebirth. The monumental circular sculpture, holding over 8,000 golden Swarovski crystal droplets within a patinated steel frame, will be suspended from a beam with luminous rings that mimic the iconography of the sun as it constantly reflects and refracts light.
Patrik Fredrikson and Ian Stallard formed their design partnership in 1995 and have become internationally recognized as leading exponents of British avant-garde design. They …
Mad Men’s Jon Hamm Is A Benz Man By Jayjay Epega
Jon Hamm unveils the beautiful new Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe that made its debut at the New York International Auto Show….
Actor Jon Hamm has begun providing voice-overs for German car maker Mercedes, lending his sonorous, all-comforting, all-promising pitchman’s authority to its TV spots. He told us, “It’s funny, right? Kind of this weird synergy,” alluding to the fact that the role he’s most identified with – that of dapper Don Draper, the powerful yet powerfully conflicted master of advertising on AMC’s Mad Men (shown on Sky Atlantic in the UK) – has now led to an actual …
David Gandy – Jennifer Lopez’s New Love Interest By The Luxury Channel
British supermodel David Gandy will star alongside Jennifer Lopez in the video for her new single First Love, the second release from her new album A.K.A. The video features Gandy getting up close and personal with Lopez, playing the part of her love interest.
Gandy is the only person to feature in the video alongside the star and, whilst he is no stranger to appearing on film, this marks his first appearance in a music video. He revealed that he “got the call and thought it would be great fun and an experience which is a little bit …
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2014 – Robots, Rabbits And A Splash of Red Wine By Hannah Norman
Last year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show centenary saw creative colours, mythical creatures, gnomes and fabulous planting. A difficult act to follow!
This year, however, certainly didn’t disappoint. Imagination and flair were everywhere. The trend this year included tiered gardens and the Best Fresh Garden winner, the RNIB’s Mind’s Eye Garden, and also Bord Na Mona UK’s Vital Earth The Night Sky Garden, both employed tiers in order to give another dimension to their gardens. The central focus of The Mind’s Eye was a clever infinity box, strategically positioned within the confines of a water wall. Apparently only a few …
Julian Fellowes At Lady Foley’s Grand Tour Launch By The Luxury Channel
Julian Fellowes was the special guest of the Hon. Alexandra Foley, founder of Lady Foley Grand Tour™, at the Lady Foley Grand Tour™ launch party at the Sloane Club. Guests included Foley’s friends who have inherited Britain’s historic houses, such as the Duke of Rutland (Belvoir Castle), Lady Ashcombe (Sudeley Castle), Viscountess Stormont (Scone Palace), Francis Fulford (Great Fulford) and Sir Benjamin Slade Bt. (Maunsel House); influential ‘‘gatekeepers’’ of ultra high net worth individuals who have moved to the UK or are visiting; property finders, wealth managers, art world luminaries, leaders in luxury services and a rich assortment of London …
The House of Britannia – Investing In The Success of British Luxury Brands By The Luxury Channel
The House of Britannia, the new British luxury goods investment and management company, has announced that it is agreeing to acquire a majority stake in Cornelia James Limited, Royal Warrant holders to Her Majesty the Queen for Gloves.
Managing Director Simon Petherick said that he has “been an admirer of Cornelia James for many years. Their combination of elegance, glamour and romance has enormous potential to develop as a lifestyle brand in key global luxury markets such as China, South East Asia and the Middle East. I and my team are looking forward very much to working with the …
Fortnum & Mason Celebrates Its Jewellery Room’s First Birthday By The Luxury Channel
To celebrate their first birthday, Fortnum & Mason have a number of special events and promotions planned, running from Monday 12th to Sunday 18th May, and drawing in some of the Jewellery Room’s most famed craftsmen. Situated on the second floor at Fortnum & Mason, the Jewellery Room offers a beautifully curated range of classic and contemporary pieces at varying price points. The line up includes: Jewellery Room First Birthday Party Wednesday 14th May, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Some of the world’s most talented jewellery designers will be making personal appearances at the event, including Melanie Georgacopolous, Alex Monroe …
The Latest From Land Rover By Hannah Norman
When it comes to driving forward new ideas, Land Rover has always been at the forefront of innovation, and the last few months have clearly been busier than ever for the brand, with several big announcements which are keeping them firmly in the automotive headlines.
Firstly, the launch of Land Rover’s invisible bonnet. Not literally, of course, but virtually. The technology gives full visibility of what is underneath and in front of the car, providing total clarity when it comes to negotiating difficult or uneven terrain. Nervy urban drivers, or those who frequently find themselves having to …
Andy Murray Returns To Hurlingham By Hannah Norman
What does it take to make a champion? Practice, practice, and er, a luxurious few days spent on the grass courts of the Hurlingham Club, apparently.
Current Wimbledon Men’s Champion Andy Murray will be back in SW6 for the annual BNP Paribas Tennis Classic, regarded by those in the know as the warm-up to Wimbledon. This intimate venue is the perfect setting for a summer’s day watching world-class tennis close-up, without any of the hassle, bother or crowds that come with venturing down the road to the grand dame of British tennis, otherwise known as Wimbledon. The phrase …
Afternoon Tea With A Master Chocolatier By Fiona Sanderson
With Easter just around the corner, chocoholics and those with a particularly sweet tooth look forward to their chocolate eggs! Now they can have real reason to rejoice, as master chocolatier Paul A. Young has created an exclusive chocolate-inspired afternoon tea at one of London’s top hotels, the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane. Young’s passion for his craft and cutting-edge creativity has deservedly led him to be ranked amongst the world’s best chocolate artisans and as such, he is a founding member of The Guild of Fine Chocolate.
Launching on Monday 14th April (just in time for Easter) …
Yacht Much By The Luxury Channel
With the weather warming up in the Mediterranean and preparations for the spring and summer events well underway, we take a look at the latest yachting news briefs….
Loro Piana
The Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous, a truly spectacular event epitomising “the Loro Piana lifestyle,” is a unique sailing competition that saw a total of 23 yachts battle it out in the waters off Virgin Gorda, part of the British Virgin Islands archipelago. After three days of picture-perfect sailing, Nilaya (Class A), Freya (Class B) and Moonbird (Class C) were crowned winners in their respective divisions.
International Day At The Asia Cup Polo By The Luxury Channel
The Asia Cup Polo International Day, launched in London in 2007, is a high profile luxury lifestyle event attended by royalty, high net worth individuals and senior corporates. Maharaj Narendra Singh of Jaipur plays in the international matches giving Royal Patronage, and the event has subsequently become a key date in the summer social calendar. This year, International Day will be held on Saturday 21st June at Royal Berkshire Polo Club.
Programme For The Day
4.00 Cocktail & Canapé Reception 4.30 Ajit Singh Medtia Trophy Match 5.30 Asia Cup Polo International Match 7.00 Dinner 8.30 Fashion Show 9.00 …
The Nth Degree’s Annual VIP Weekend At Monaco Grand Prix By The Luxury Channel
Experience all the racing glamour and of the Monaco Grand Prix on board the Nth Degree’s luxury yacht, moored on the marina just metres away from the F1 action, and enjoy the best fine dining experiences that Monaco has to offer.
With outstanding hospitality in an unrivalled trackside position, the VIP package at the Monaco Grand Prix is an annual highlight of the Nth Degree Club’s events calendar.
Your Nth Degree VIP Package will include:
– Prime spectator position on board a 40m+ luxury super yacht – Speedboat transfers from Fontvielle Harbour – Pre-race Q&A with a F1 celebrity …
Playground of The Stars Welcomes Hollywood Music Nights By Jayjay Epega
The fabled Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel will be the epicentre of the Music Industry this spring, when it plays host as the central location for one of the world’s most prestigious global entertainment events.
It is truly a beautiful venue with a veritable storied past, having been the location of the very first Academy Awards which took place in its Blossom Ballroom. Attracting Hollywood’s stars since it opened in 1927, the hotel offers a prime location along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, across from Grauman’s Chinese Theater and the Hollywood & Highland Center. It also features an elegant restaurant and bar …
Snow, Sweat And Tears – The Battle of The Great Explorers By The Luxury Channel
Land Rover Discovery celebrated 25 years with a first-of-its-kind adventure challenge on Sunday 2nd March. Four of the world’s greatest explorers were brought together for an epic mountain adventure, competing against each other as they took part in the search for Land Rover’s Next Generation Explorer in the Discovery Adventure Challenge, mentoring four promising, young adventurers in a grueling six-part challenge.
Against a backdrop of snow and mountains in Megève, France, The Discovery Adventure Challenge pushed competitors to the limit over 24 hours of tense, testing tasks. Ben Saunders (above right), who, with partner Tarka L’Herpiniere, recently became …
Q By Aston Martin – For Your Eyes Only By The Luxury Channel
Aston Martin arrives at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show with its most compelling bespoke sports car creations to date, courtesy of its increasingly popular tailor-made personalisation service: Q by Aston Martin.
The great British sports car brand is showcasing the capabilities of its bespoke service in Switzerland, as more and more of its customers around the world are turning to the facility to make their Aston Martin a truly unique creation.
The concept of Q by Aston Martin is as simple as it is ambitious – customers engaging with the service are encouraged to challenge the team …
The Legacy of Oscar By Jayjay Epega
“I will use the hope of getting an Academy Award a) to honour the people who work so hard and also b) it’s the greatest Good Housekeeping seal in the world. It’s the greatest brand. It’s as good as Louis Vuitton and Dior in the world of movie-making. It’s the Super Bowl.” – Harvey Weinstein
Far from the eagerly anticipated and globally televised event it is today, the first Academy Awards ceremony – a simple black-tie dinner – was held at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on May 16th 1929. Fifteen statuettes were awarded for cinematic achievements. The first Best Actor …
Meetings In Marrakech: The Paintings of Hassan El Glaoui And Sir Winston Churchill By The Luxury Channel
The world famous La Mamounia Hotel in Marrakech will host a very special exhibition from 20th February – 3rd March 2014. The unique showcase features seventeen paintings by Hassan El Glaoui (most of which have never been seen in Morocco) and eight by Sir Winston Churchill. It will be the first time Churchill’s paintings have been publically exhibited alongside other artist’s works. The exhibition opens to the public on February 20th 2014 and will be an opportunity to expose the enthusiasm these two artists expressed towards Morocco, and to present their shared story.
It was only through Churchill’s …
A Chic Mix For The Womanity Foundation In Geneva By Rosalind Milani Gallieni
Geneva is where it’s at when it comes to The Womanity Foundation‘s seriously loyal supporters, friends and partners. For about an hour, a continuous influx of guests and sponsors heads to the Espace Hippomène, a cool, contemporary, industrial-style edifice built for cutting-edge exhibitions, congresses, and in this case, The Womanity Foundation’s bi-annual gala evening.
The front of house PR team, all multi-lingual, multi-tasking girls, seen earlier in the day running and planning the set up of this seamlessly Swiss mega-operation, whisper in my ear that they are expecting just over 1000 guests for this gala evening. Yann Borgstedt, the founder, …
Ben Saunders Completes Captain Scott’s Iconic Polar Journey By The Luxury Channel
On Friday 7th February at 01.15am British polar explorers Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere re-wrote history as they completed, for the first time ever, the ill-fated journey of Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s iconic Terra Nova expedition. Having trekked 1,795 miles across the inhospitable landscape of Antarctica on a journey to the South Pole and back, Ben and Tarka have achieved the world record for the longest polar journey on foot in history.
The journey, which has taken a total of 105 days (just over a quarter of a year!), has pushed the limits of physical and mental fortitude, and …
Ten Ways To Celebrate The Year Of The Horse In The Royal Borough By The Luxury Channel
The Queen’s lifelong passion for horses is shared by many members of the Royal family through racing, polo, three-day eventing and carriage driving. In 2014, The Royal Borough offers visitors ten memorable ways to celebrate the Year of the Horse, whether as spectators or participants….
Racing At Ascot
Synonymous with quality, style and excellence, Ascot welcomes over 500,000 race-goers a year, accounting for 10% of all UK racegoers. Five-day Royal Ascot is Britain’s most popular race meeting with over 285,000 visitors. It takes place during the third week in June and is steeped in tradition and pageantry. Ascot …
The American Express World Luxury Expo Returns To Riyadh By The Luxury Channel
The American Express World Luxury Expo returns to the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh from 28-30 January 2014, and invited guests can look forward to a wide variety of opulent hospitality on offer. The highly anticipated three day event is title sponsored by American Express and held in association with The Saudi Investment Bank. Selected luxury brands and services from a broad selection of luxury categories will be showcased to a highly discerning group of VIP guests. Whilst enjoying the event, invited guests can look forward to sampling the finest caviar, chocolates, canapés and other gourmet delights on display.
Nizar Abou Hassan, …
The Scott Expedition Receives Royal Honour By The Luxury Channel
Prince Harry – not long returned from an Antarctic expedition of his own – honours Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpinere as they step into the final stage of the Scott Expedition with a personal message….
As Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere step into the final stage of their 1800 mile journey on foot from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole and back, they are honoured to have received a personal message from Prince Harry. The message was received as the duo commemorated the anniversary of Captain Scott and his Polar Party reaching the South Pole just over …
Predicting Luxury Travel Trends For 2014 – A Survey By The American Affluence Research Center By Peter Bates
Once again, Strategic Vision has sponsored the American Affluence Research Center’s (AARC) Affluent Market Tracking Study, a survey of the wealthiest 10% of households determined by the Federal Reserve Board based on net worth. I continue to advocate the importance of this kind of research and data collection for industry leaders to gain insights and implement effective marketing strategy in the luxury travel arena.
The survey is based on a self-administered questionnaire mailed to a randomly selected national sample of 4,500 households expected to meet the minimum net worth requirement of $800,000. Following a weighting of respondents, the participants have …
‘Tis The Season of Winter Balls By Martina O'Boyle
With five Michelin-starred restaurants, VIP service at the Vienna airport and business-friendly luxury hotels such as the Palais Coburg, Hotel Sacher and the architectural marvel of the Levant Parliament, Vienna is a luxury destination for both the business and private traveler (see www.wien.info). The city was the host of the FT Business of Luxury Summit 2013, at which The Luxury Channel spoke to Massimo Ferragamo. There is a saying, however, about all work and no play, and it is the winter season when Vienna really kicks its heels up….
The year was 1969. Aurelia Huber remembers her dress was …
It’s A Wrap! By Hannah Norman
Feeling the cold? Well, think of the designers working in sub zero degrees, battling with tons of ice….all in the name of art.
Now in its 30th year, China hosts the Harbin International Ice & Snow Festival, which runs until February (or at least, until the spectacular display melts away). Ablaze with lights, the seemingly impossible displays this year feature impressive towering arches and, erm, plastic ducks, like you do!
On the other side of the world, The London Ice Sculpting Festival runs from 10th – 12th January, with three competitions organized for entrant teams from across the …
What Is True Luxury? By Hannah Norman
The Luxury Channel attends a talk by Shelley Von Strunckel….
It was very appropriate that we should be sitting in Amanda Wakeley’s Chelsea store – one of London’s top designers – to hear astrologer Shelley Von Strunkel’s predictions for the Future of Luxury.
“The word ‘luxury’ evokes the caress of cashmere, the pop of a champagne cork, the glitter of diamonds,” she said. But, despite that, “as we enter a new era, the meaning of luxury is evolving,” she explained. So whilst the good news is that the glamour and elegance to which we are all accustomed will continue …
Statoil Masters Tennis – Where Champions Become Legends By Hannah Norman
It’s not every day that you are lucky enough to see six of the greatest tennis stars battle it out for victory, particularly in one of London’s greatest venues – The Royal Albert Hall. As a guest of the organisers, The Luxury Channel was kindly invited to join them.
British sports stars from all competitions – Sir Steve Redgrave and Katherine Grainger among them – turned out in force for the Statoil Masters Tennis. Part of the ATP Champions Tour, the Masters Tennis sees a roster of former tennis stars compete against each other. The rules for entry are simple …
Making History In Antarctica By The Luxury Channel
More than 100 years after it was first attempted, two Britons will be honoring the legacy of iconic British explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott by setting out to complete his ill-fated Terra Nova expedition, described as one of the most challenging journeys in human history. It will be the first time in more than 100 years that Scott’s journey has been attempted, and is being undertaken under the patronage of his grandson, Falcon Scott. Poignantly, it was on the eve of Captain Scott’s birthday that polar explorers Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere announced their intention to depart for the …
London Fashion Week Begins! By Hannah Norman
According to Mayor of London Boris Johnson, the city “bestrides the world of fashion like a dapper titan and I’m proud to support London Fashion Week, which showcases the brightest and best designers working today. This week promises to be the most exciting yet, offering opportunities for even more people to feel a part of the fashion pack, with pop-up stores, live streaming and even a film festival. But it’s not just about how creative and stylish London is, it’s a big money-spinner, bringing in orders from around the globe and generating billions for our economy.”
London Fashion Week …
Why Invest In A Racehorse? By Héloise Agelou
Héloise Agelou is one of the youngest horse-racing experts in the world, and her first acquisition, at the tender age of 21, was a champion two year old, Milanais. Thereafter, she decided to create Agelou Horse Racing Ltd to help a new breed of horse owners enjoy ownership without ceremony, pompousness and hassle whilst retaining a trustworthy, fun and enjoyable environment. She tells The Luxury Channel about investing in these magnificent creatures….
I believe that racing and horses have the power to unite different types of people, without question – from kings to country farmers, barriers cease to …
The John Walker & Sons Voyager – An Epic Odyssey By The Luxury Channel
The stunning backdrop of Tower Bridge against a setting sun was the perfect spot for the John Walker & Sons Voyager, a glamorous 1920s-style sailing yacht and the perfect vessel for re-imagining the epic ocean voyages that took Johnnie Walker from the four corners of Scotland to the four corners of the world. The Luxury Channel was aboard the yacht to soak up the atmosphere, and to try one or two Johnnie Walker Blue Label-infused cocktails. Heaven!
Since setting off in September 2012, the luxury yacht has hosted a series of high-profile events across Asia (sailing the seas via …
Making Waves In Abu Dhabi – Pushing Sailors To Their Limits In The Volvo Ocean Race By Rob Scorah
With Cowes Week not long over, yachting fans will be considering what events offer the best mix of sailing and socialising in the latter part of the year. Opportunities for sunbathing on the foredeck might be limited in northern climes, but the tall black sails of one of the Volvo 70 racing yachts berthed off Gosport hinted at a racing destination which intends to make a big splash in about 16 months’ time during the 2014-15 Volvo Ocean Race – if you can bear to wait that long.
The yacht with the black sails was Azzam, sailing out of …
Winning The Westchester Cup At The Audi International Polo By Hannah Norman
It may have threatened to rain for much of the day, but this is polo country and nothing can truly dampen the spirits here. The Audi International Polo, held at Guards Polo Club in Windsor Great Park, saw the USA take on England for the prestigious Westchester Cup.
The closely fought battle had ended in an 11-11 draw by the end of the sixth chukka, meaning the winning team would be decided in a nail-biting seventh chukka. Both teams were hungry, but in the end, it was the English team, captained by Luke Tomlinson, who emerged victorious. Cue lots of …
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority And Yas Marina Circuit Announce ‘The Run To Yas’ Luxury Motorsport Odyssey By The Luxury Channel
Following in the tyre marks of its Monaco-based predecessor, the inaugural The Run To Yas – a five-day luxury road adventure culminating on the Yas Island entertainment destination – was announced in London.
The one-of-a-kind experience will see 30 international supercar owners and enthusiasts roll into Abu Dhabi ahead of November’s Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Taking inspiration from The Run To Monaco, The Run To Yas will start in Muscat, Oman, on October 29th and traverse some of the region’s best driving roads en route to the Yas Marina Circuit finish on November 2nd. …
Audi International Polo – The Highlight of The Polo Season By The Luxury Channel
England will take on the USA for the prestigious Westchester Cup , the highlight of the polo season, at Windsor Great Park, followed by an exclusive Boujis after-party – we bring you all the details below.
The Hurlingham Polo Association (polo’s official governing body) is delighted to confirm that a new International Pavilion, providing first class hospitality and an exclusive Boujis after-party, will be created for the very first time for this year’s Audi International (formerly the Cartier International) at Guards Polo Club, Windsor Great Park on Sunday 28 July 2013.
The International Pavilion will provide a sanctuary for guests …
Monte Carlo Societe Des Bains Mer Celebrates Its 150th Anniversary By The Luxury Channel
Long known as the playground for the rich and famous, Monaco continues to shine as the place to seen in Europe, though offers a lot more than just glitz and casinos. The second smallest country in the world, it is recognised for its amazing Palace, some of Europe’s finest hotels, legendary casinos, more Ferraris per capita than anywhere else and a raft of Michelin stars, as well as for the incredible Grand Prix race around its streets in May each year. Monaco is also home to the exceptional Oceanographic Museum with its famous Aquarium and Shark Lagoon, and an …
The Masterpieces of Masterpiece By Hannah Norman
It isn’t every day you go to an art fair, only to wander past exotic tanks of oysters, perhaps better suited to an aquarium. But then, Masterpiece London isn’t any old art fair. Ask style doyenne Sarah Jessica Parker, who joined the throngs of invited press and guests for the preview day. After all, if it’s good enough for Carrie Bradshaw….!
Now in it’s fourth year, Masterpiece London has firmly cemented its position on the summer art fair calendar and attracts exhibitors from all walks of the artistic spectrum, showcasing everything from paintings and sculptures to antique furniture and fine …
The BNP Paribas Tennis Classic – A Legendary Secret By Hannah Norman
With Wimbledon having started this week, the players on the current ATP tour were practicing hard, and where better to do that than at the BNP Paribas Tennis Classic, held in the lush grounds of The Hurlingham Club?
Now in its twentieth year, the best-kept secret in tennis is only just starting to gain awareness on the summer season social scene, although if the chatter from the people around me was anything to go by, there are a good number of regular attendees who don’t want anyone else finding out about it. It’s really not hard to see why. …
Every Dog Has Its Day By Hannah Norman
Here at The Luxury Channel, we’re rather fond of our four-legged friends, and couldn’t resist the opportunity to let you in on the latest canine-centred event. Chelsea Harbour’s Design Centre in London will be hosting a special dog show on July 3rd in aid of Battersea Dogs And Cats Home and Canine Partners, with an afternoon fete and an evening “dogtail” cocktail event. For the fashionistas among you, look out for London-based dress designer Lindka Cierach, who will be judging a class or two.
Billed as a fun family day out, the dog show also incorporates games for everyone …
The Business of Luxury – Power, Politics And Profits By Hannah Norman
The luxury industry means big business. Addressing the issues faced by luxury businesses has become ever-more important in a rapidly changing world, and the ninth annual Financial Times Business of Luxury Summit was held to help explore the ideas of power, politics and profits, with discussions by leading luxury luminaries. The Summit was attended by over 400 luxury industry executives at Palais Lichtenstein in Vienna, one of the homes owned by the princely family of Lichtenstein – a very fitting venue for discussions about high-end luxury to take place!
Spend on luxury products globally has increased significantly (according to …
Not On Our Watch By The Luxury Channel
Humanitarian charity Not On Our Watch is to host their first ever UK charity fundraiser on Saturday. The Not On Our Watch Charity Race Day is an event of both high prestige and humbling generosity, which aims to raise funds for an incredibly worthy cause.
Not On Our Watch was founded by Jerry Weintraub, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, David Pressman and George Clooney, and is committed to robust international advocacy and humanitarian assistance. The charity aims to put an end to mass atrocities and gross violations of international human rights in areas of the world which receive …
The BNP Paribas Tennis Classic: The Warm-Up To Wimbledon! By The Luxury Channel
The BNP Paribas Tennis Classic takes place at the height of the summer tennis season, and gives spectators the opportunity to watch unforgettable, world-class tennis. Set in the tranquil 42 acre grounds of one of the most renowned members’ clubs in the country – the Hurlingham Club – the event showcases some of the stars of the ATP and WTA Tour as they warm up for Wimbledon, as well as a number of tennis legends. Matches take place on Centre Court, which seats an intimate crowd of 600, tennis players mingle with guests off-court and there’s also the opportunity …
MINT Polo In The Park – The Start of The Summer! By The Luxury Channel
MINT Polo In The Park was launched in 2008 as an exciting and innovative new polo event that hit the streets of London with gusto and glamour. Year-on-year, it has stood as the leading outdoor polo and lifestyle event in central London.
The MINT Polo In The Park launch has now become a yearly tradition, where we see not only the start of the Polo season kick off, but also the official start of the summer social season. 2013 marks the fifth consecutive year of what is now one of the most hotly anticipated sporting events in London’s calendar, …
The Inaugural Opera Awards By Hannah Norman
For fans of one of the most expressive forms of music known to man, it would appear strange that there has never been an awards ceremony to celebrate all that is great and good about opera. Businessman Harry Hyman, a prolific opera fan who attends some 30 different operas a year, has thus taken matters into his own hands, to create what he hopes will become the Oscars of the opera world. Accordingly, The Luxury Channel was invited to the inaugural Opera Awards, held at London’s Hilton Park Lane Hotel.
Recognising the considerable achievements of opera stars across …
The Best of BaselWorld By Scott Manson
We came, we saw, we wore. The Tempus team recently descended on BaselWorld, the world’s biggest watch show, and found a feast of horological delights on offer. The show offered the perfect snapshot of what the watch world has in store over the next few months and, as always, threw up several surprises. Boundary-smashing technical innovation and ostentation ruled supreme, making this one of the most vibrant watch fairs to date.
Fashion
Burberry It was only right that Burberry would take the qualities that have made it such a success story – the emphasis on classic, stylish British craftsmanship …
The Colours of Spring At BaselWorld By Maria Doulton, Founder of The Jewellery Editor
Colourful watches from Dior, DeLaneau, de Grisogono, Omega and Chopard got Baselworld off to a bright start, as Maria Doulton from The Jewellery Editor reports.
Spring has arrived in Switzerland and at BaselWorld, the flags are flying in the sun and the flowers are in full bloom. There is plenty of colour inside the vast, newly revamped halls of the fair too, as bright and breezy tones are once again in favour.
Dior presents the La D Mini, with a neon patent leather strap for a bold colour fix, while Chopard’s new My Happy Sport Bespoke Passion lets you …
Zenith Impress At BaselWorld By Leo Parker
BaselWorld 2013 has, undoubtedly, been a resounding, unmitigated success with each of the world’s leading watch brands showcasing some truly astounding timepieces over the last few days. One brand in particular turned more heads than most at this year’s event, and that brand was Zenith – who had a rather impressive special guest in the form of Austrian daredevil, Felix Baumgartner – who joined the Swiss watchmakers on stage to help launch a new range of Zenith Pilot timepieces.
Felix Baumgartner, who became the fastest man on earth when he broke the speed of sound jumping from 39km …
BaselWorld 2013 – First Day Highlights By Leo Parker
For any luxury aficionado, there is one date in the calendar that typically stands out more than most and the event in question is that of BaselWorld. Starting today in Switzerland, the event serves as a platform for all the world’s leading watchmakers, such as Hublot, Montblanc, Rolex and Breitling, to showcase the timepieces that they’ve got in store over the next twelve months or so. Safe to say they seldom disappoint and, despite this year’s event only being a few hours old, this year doesn’t look like it will be any different, as there has already been some …
Les Bains – The Art of Re-Invention By Hannah Norman
Paris, known for such iconic buildings (the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, for instance) also prides itself on a number of other less well-known buildings, such as Les Bains.
Built in 1885, Les Bains was originally one of the most famous bath houses in Paris for almost a century, frequented by the likes of Marcel Proust – until its owners, the Guerbois family, shut up shop in 1978. Les Bains’ illustrious history was still in the process of being written, however. Following a Philippe Starck make-over, the venue became a night club cum concert hall, and the place to …
The Top Marques Monaco Supercar Show By Françoise Almasa Alunni
Françoise Almasa Alunni reports from Top Marques Monaco….
Looking for the 007 Skyfall top of the range helicopter or the latest crème de la crème automotive model? Then you should have been at the Top Marques Monaco Supercar Show. Despite the global recession, demand for the ‘Top Toys’ has never been stronger. Gold is definitely the note for this year, whether you have it in your car paint from Soleil Motors, on your bike from Lauge Jensen….or even your lingerie from Rococo Dessous!
Looking at acquiring a new property? See the Hamilton Grand St. Andrews project. To reach it, …
Scotland Takes New York As Tartan Week Arrives By Iona Crawford
“It’s been Tartan Fortnight in New York, from music to fashion, film, energy and business forums – but let’s not forget pipers, kilts and tartan!
Tartan Day Celebrations take place all over the States, and indeed the world, on April 6th. New York is an epicenter for Scotland Tartan Week celebrations and the corner stone is the annual New York Tartan Day Parade, where over 2000 pipers, societies, clans, and a large pack of Scotties and Westies take Sixth Avenue.
This year was the 15th Anniversary of the Parade, and The Luxury Channel invited the The American-Scottish Foundation, …
New Art Jewellery Exhibition In New York By Maria Doulton, Founder of The Jewellery Editor
While many pieces of jewellery are described as works of art because of the craftsmanship involved, some are literal works of art, like those on show at the Museum of Arts And Design in New York (MAD). Until 2 June, you can view a 130-strong collection of exceptional art jewellery, acquired by MAD over the past five years, as part of its new exhibition, Wear It Or Not. Add to this the vast archive of jewellery in MAD’s permanent collection and you have one very good reason to head to Manhattan.
As the title of the exhibition suggests, it is …
The Very First ‘VeryFirstTo’ Awards By Hannah Norman
Awards ceremonies, despite the celebration and recognition of the talents of the winners, are understandably geared towards the achievements of those who are already established. There are very few that focus solely on awarding the up-and-coming – but from whiskey to wine, handbags to hotels, if it’s new or undiscovered, (and in the luxury arena), VeryFirstTo will already have it on their radar.
The very first VeryFirstTo Awards on Wednesday 9th January were a very poignant way of both celebrating the latest innovations and inventions, and bringing them to the attention of an eager crowd who had been invited …
London Fashion Week – A Stylist’s Perspective By Tamara Cincik
Before London Fashion Week, there is a tipping point where anticipation meets anxiety: the fear that I will have no tickets to any of the shows, despite working hard all season on some killer shoots for some great magazines; and then the universal fashion editor’s fear that I have nothing to wear, despite having numerous wardrobes at home literally spilling open with clothes and shoes on a daily basis.
To off-set the first, the postman’s daily deliveries of a multitude of colourful envelopes displaced any nervousness I might have had; while two timely phone calls- one to the lovely …
Less Is More In Jewellery As The Price of Gold Soars By Simon Brooke
The weather might have been cold and grey, and the economic climate even more hostile and depressing, but the atmosphere at the recent VicenzaOro Jewellery Fair in northern Italy was warm and inviting. In fact, the event has been busier than ever in the last few years with a vast expansion in the purpose-built facility planned for this autumn. Jewellers and jewellery buyers were complaining about exhausting schedules, but they were buying and selling as if the recession simply didn’t exist.
The manic activity is all the more surprising given the rise in the price of gold in recent …
A Gourmet Experience At The American Express World Luxury Expo In Riyadh By The Luxury Channel
In association with The Saudi Investment Bank, Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, played host to the American Express World Luxury Expo. Guests were treated to the finest hospitality experience at the palatial Ritz-Carlton Hotel from the 10th – 12th February 2013.
Under the patronage of Her Highness Princess Nouf Bint Faisal Bin Turki Al Saud, Chairperson of Nayyara Exhibitions, the highly anticipated three day exhibition showcased many of the world’s leading luxury brands and services, from a broad selection of luxury categories, to a highly discerning and select group of VIP guests from across the Kingdom. Whilst enjoying …
London Collections: Menswear By Rosalind Milani Gallieni
Highlights Monday 7th January
London is indeed the home of menswear; think Savile Row and classic tailoring. GQ editor Dylan Jones explains: “(London)…invented youth culture, and it continues to produce the best young designers in the world. Why would a menswear designer choose to show anywhere else?”
On the first full day of shows for the second LC:M, the celebrations kicked off with a presentation by Belstaff. With the likes of David Gandy, Tommy Hilfiger and Jodie Kidd all checking out the jackets, it’s no surprise that the show was received with great praise. Chief creative officer Martin Cooper …
VistaJet Makes Aviation Sales History With Largest Single Transaction By Hannah Norman
Having placed a single order for 56 Bombardier jets, and options for a further 86, luxury aviation company VistaJet has made sales history, with a total order value of $7.8 billion. The Luxury Channel was in conversation with Steven Ridolfi, President of Bombardier Business Aircraft, at a special lunch held to mark this momentous order.
Mr. Ridolfi commented that, “By any standard, this is a historic order for Bombardier. It goes without saying that we are thrilled VistaJet has again chosen to grow their fleet with the industry-leading Bombardier Global family.”
Having recently taken delivery of its 50th aircraft, …
Diageo Reserve Announces World Class Bartender of The Year 2012 By The Luxury Channel
Following a week of mixology trends unveiled, red carpet events and a showcase of the industry’s brightest stars, Tim Philips from Hemmesphere cocktail bar in Australia was crowned Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year 2012 and hailed as the industry’s newest mixology talent, rising above 50 other finalists to win the most prestigious accolade of the industry.
Philips captivated judges with his winning signature serve, a twisted chic cocktail: Hot Toddy Australia, made with Johnnie Walker®Gold Label Reserve™ Blended Scotch Whisky, honey, cinnamon quill, ginger and innovative technique.
Following in the footsteps of mixology giants Manabu …
Brilliant – A Collection Curated By Carol Woolton By The Luxury Channel
Masterpiece London is the ultimate destination for the world’s most extraordinary items. “Brilliant” showcases the finest diamond jewellery considered to be innovative one-off pieces. It is structured into four artistic disciplines – art, architecture, fashion and sculpture.
The exhibition is geared toward selling, and private inquiries about the collection can be made via info@bochic.com in the US.
Bochic jewellery (known for its work with Karolina Kurkova, Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Rihanna, Scarlett Johannson, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Chastain and more) has been chosen as one of the 25 “best of the best” designers from around the world. In honour …
A Cocktail Tour of New York By Scott Manson
One of the best ways to quickly get a feel for a new city is by visiting one of its bars or pubs. War correspondents have a saying for this – it’s called covering the story from ‘mahogany ridge’ – and nowhere is that phrase more apt than the beautifully kept wooden bartops of some of New York’s best cocktail bars.
The spiritual home of the cocktail is currently enjoying a revival in drink mixology, thanks in no small part to the popularity of the TV series Mad Men, which sees Don Draper and the gang reach for the …
An Epicurean Feast with Quintessentially By The Luxury Channel
A two-day luxurious gastronomic event in London with Quintessentially.
20% off the ticket price for The Luxury Channel readers.
Quintessentially Epicure, a two-day luxurious gastronomic event sponsored by Coutts, will be taking place at one of London’s most exquisite venues, The Hurlingham Club on the 9th and 10th of September.
Luxury Channel readers are invited to come and meet the world’s most renowned chefs and international gourmet producers and taste the finest wines and spirits, at an event that promises to be two days of epicurean bliss.
There will be demonstrations, tastings, and an opportunity to learn about global …
The Winner of the Ultimate Honeymoon Competition 2011 By The Luxury Channel
Caroline Stubbs mimics Elizabeth Barrett Browning to win the honeymoon of a lifetime!
The Luxury Channel and Quintessentially Travel asked: Why should we send you on 2011′s Ultimate Honeymoon?
This was Caroline’s winning response, an adaptation of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…
How do I love thee honeymoon? Let me count the ways
How do I love thee honeymoon? Let me count the ways
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height My soul can reach, a honeymoon feels out of sight whilst the ends of recession we meet.I …
Flying Art By The Luxury Channel
What happens when street art meets a luxury airline?
The pairing of a L.A. based street artist and the world of corporate jets may not seem an obvious one, but it’s certainly colourful. Luxury aviation company Vista Jet, bored of the traditional and sometimes staid approach to air travel, is radically making over its fleet of Bombardier aircraft for 2011.
As revealed at EBACE 2011 in Geneva in May, not only have the cabin interiors enjoyed a makeover (now including Christofle silverware and china, luxurious cashmere soft furnishings, eye-masks and socks and on-board snacks provided by Harvey Nichols) but …
Fawlsey Hall By The Luxury Channel
A look at one of the most popular wedding venues in England – a luxurious architectural escape to enchant brides-to-be the world over.
When one aims to retreat from the harsh sprawling conurbation, a picture of idyllic England is what springs to mind. Historic, romantic and gloriously idyllic, Fawsley Hall has presence. Situated in the heart of rolling Northamptonshire countryside, the magic of Fawsley Hall is in its Tudor / Georgian / Victorian fused architecture – each wing constructed in a different age with their own subtle nuances and intricacies. The hotel is surrounded by 2,000 acres of rolling …
An-Tea Establishment By Lauren Steventon
Think Punk Rock playlists, inspired cocktails such as ‘God Save The Queen’ and a retro menu of Great British classics.
Ok, I’ll admit it. Come Friday I’ll be celebrating with the best of them. I love bunting. I love bank holidays. I love weddings. However I, and the Metropolitan Hotel apparently, know that some of you just aren’t feeling that love. So to prove that tea isn’t always prim and proper, I popped in to try their new limited edition An-Tea Establishment afternoon tea.
It’s a fun take on the Metropolitan’s usual, low-fat Afternoon De-light tea. Think: no bread …
The Ultimate Honeymoon Competition By The Luxury Channel
Tell us why we should send you and your love on 2011’s ultimate honeymoon…
Quintessentially Travel and The Luxury Channel launch 2011’s Ultimate Honeymoon Competition
Brides and grooms need not despair – the masters of travel couture are here to take care of you; Quintessentially Travel has teamed up with The Luxury Channel’s Wedding Diary to launch 2011’s Ultimate Honeymoon Competition offering one lucky couple the chance to win an unforgettable honeymoon to ‘The Island of the Gods’ – Bali.
www.ultimatehoneymooncompetition.com launches on the 4th April 2011 and will tie in with The Luxury Channel’s three-part Wedding Diary, which …
Daniel Sandler By The Luxury Channel
The Make-up artist to the stars creates three perfect bridal looks.
Over the years, Daniel has worked on both sides of the Atlantic and all over Europe on a number of shoots with high profile fashion photographers for top glossies and with designers backstage at a number of major fashion shows and a regular on national TV. Daniel continues to work with high profile celebs getting them ready for red carpet events as well as customers at his Urban Retreat Makeup Studio in the most famous department store in the world, Harrods, London.
Daniel spent over four years developing …
The Food of Love By The Luxury Channel
Valentine lovebirds in search of a gastronomic treat and burst of Scottish Highland air should look no further than Ackergill Tower this February.
Two Michelin star chef, Andrew Fairlie, and the Tower’s Head Chef, Kevin Dalgleish, have developed a fabulous foodie demonstration (made from the finest, locally sourced beef, lamb and fresh seafood) and selected an array of indulgent wines for guests at the Tower.
Think Drams and Sloe Gin in the Gun Hall and traditional Scottish Ceilidh and Pipers whilst enjoying Ackergill Tower at its most romantic and intimate. This is just one of the 15th century tower’s …
Toast To Champagne By Marinel Fitzsimons
A glass of champagne brings sparkle to any event, but what is it about these lovely bubbles that makes it such an emblem of festivities?
This question was addressed in depth at the first ever Champagne Assembly run by Pernod Ricard’s top champagne brands, Perrier Jouët and Mumm.
The head of marketing for Pernod Ricard, Jo Spencer, hoped that the gathering would help ‘‘demystify the brands, bringing together experts in the field of luxury.’’ So what is the current status of our favourite luxury tipple?
It would seem that the new luxury consumer is less ostentatious, favouring the …
Tales From the High Seas By The Luxury Channel
We take a look at the best of this year’s Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup.
From the 5th to 11th and then the 13th to 19th September 2010, the toast of the sailing world flocked to Porto Cervo, Sardinia for the annual Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup followed by the Rolex Swan Cup. Despite 30-knot mistral winds gusting in to upset racing on the final day of the Swan Cup, the two weeks saw some wonderfully competitive battles.
Powerful yachts cut through the Mediterranean waters with grace and agility, whilespectators looked on from one of the …
Cox, Cookies & Cake By The Luxury Channel
The Soho cupcake scene is given a designer twist.
Patrick Cox has a skill set to make any girl swoon… By that we mean shoes and cupcakes, of course! Not content with producing some of the sexiest footwear in fashion, the designer has recently teamed up with master baker Eric Lanlard to open sweet treat take-away Cox, Cookies & Cake on Soho’s Brewer Street.
This isn’t your usual sugary sweet, pink and pastel cupcake emporium a la Magnolia – this is Soho after all. Interiors are modern, dark and sexy, with a black and neon colour scheme complemented by …
Nutrition Tips for London Fashion Week By Vicki Edgson
Prepared by Vicki Edgson for The Luxury Channel.
Consider your handbag as your travelling kitchen – the perfect way to avoid high-salt or sugary foods whilst going from one show to the next is to select what you need for the whole day and bag them up in mini zip-lock bags to keep everything fresh.
Choose Bounce balls with seeds and spirulina for the perfect 2-bite high-protein, max-energy bar – chewy and delicious, these really pack a punch without causing any bloating! (available from Waitrose, Tesco and Wholefoods)
Pick up M & S mini-bags of unsalted, unroasted cashew nuts …
Animal Bravery By The Luxury Channel
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes.
PC Neil Sampson knows he is alive today thanks to Anya, his German Shepherd police dog. Despite that she is, as he describes her, “big, clumsy and like a bull in a china shop,” Anya saved Neil’s life when he was attacked by a man wielding a 6in knife. Anya fearlessly threw herself at the knifeman, placing herself in front of PC Samson, protecting him from the knife-blows raining down on them both.
Anya was stabbed through the chest – the knife narrowly missing her heart – but she did not give …
Fun At Goodwood By The Luxury Channel
The fabulous Goodwood Estate played host to the Vintage At Goodwood Festival over the weekend of 13th – 15th August this year….
Vintage At Goodwood, in partnership with watchmakers IWC Schaffhausen, celebrated five revolutionary decades of British design, music and culture.
A wide variety of events, shows and spectacles took place throughout the festival, with artists including Ronnie Wood, Mick Hucknall, The Feeling and Danny Rampling performing over the weekend.
Like Vintage At Goodwood, IWC Schaffhausen is celebrating milestones of design from the 1940s–1980s by reinterpreting their iconic models from this era to create the IWC Vintage Collection.
As …
Al-Fresco Opera By Reena Patel
An outdoor opera in the courtyard of 51 Buckingham Gate.
The Courtyard at 51 Buckingham Gate invited The Luxury Channel to an indulgent al-fresco dinner under the stars and spectacular opera performance.
Set in a Victorian courtyard at the prestigious Taj Suites and Residences (of which I am a huge fan of since my stay at the idyllic Taj Holiday Village Resort in Goa), this secluded spot made the perfect respite for an operatic night to remember. Featuring an ornate fountain in the centre, flowerbeds and a Shakespearean frieze on the facade of the buildings, this enchanting hacienda transported …
The Complete History of Food By The Luxury Channel
Corvoisier presents: The Complete History of Food with Bompas and Parr.
Imagine enjoying foods prepared by Michelin Star chefs served inside the stomach of an dinosaur or ricocheting off the walls of a bouncy castle room that resembles the inside of a human stomach. As bizarre as this all sounds, this is what Bompas and Parr have created as part of ‘The Complete History of Food’ across a 5-storey, Belgravia House.
Rarely do we spare a moment to contemplate the historical journey that has transported food from the medieval banquet table to the food on our plates today. As …
Give Landmines the Boot By The Luxury Channel
MAG (Mines Advisory Group) is arranging a high-profile celebrity choe auction on eBay between Thursday 22nd July and Sunday 12st August 2010.
The A-list stars taking part in “Give Landmines the Boot” includes the likes of Alan Shearer Roger Federer, Cherie Blair, Katy Perry, Nelly Furtado and Pink, as more than 60 pair of celebrity shoes are up for grabs.
MAG is an impartial humanitarian organisation that clears the remnants of conflict for the benefit of communities worldwide. Since it was founded in 1989, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning landmine charity has operated in over 35 countries, and is currently …
Royal Ascot 2010 By The Luxury Channel
Fashion and racing – far too good to be missed!
Attending a fashion show at Royal Ascot does little to ease the stress surrounding what dress to wear and the choice between a hat and a fascinator. However, fashion and the races is a potent mix – far too good to be missed.
Located on the top floor of the triple-decker marquee, The Bessborough Restaurant provided panoramic views of the racecourse, a lively atmosphere and a much appreciated amuse-bouche of Bloody Mary with green tobacco and salted celery straws upon arrival. The restaurant hosted a plethora of Great British …
A Decade of Drawings By The Luxury Channel
For many art-lovers, the beginning of July is a date in the diary as the Master Drawings London, a series of exhibitions across the capital, gets up and running. It also represents an opportunity to nourish one’s collection as the exhibition is timed to coincide with the major auction houses opening their doors to begin their major drawings sales. The exhibition spans St. James’s, Mayfair and Bloomsbury and incorporates works from The Renaissance to the present day.
2010 marks the year that Masters Drawing London celebrates its tenth anniversary. Inspired by Crispian Riley-Smith, the event has flourished over the …
India Business Forum 2010 By The Luxury Channel
A conference is being held at Christies’ in St James’, London on the 22nd July 2010 highlighting the significant opportunities for both Indian and UK companies in the emerging sectors of sports, lifestyle and luxury in India.
India’s enormous economic strides have made global headlines and some of the new sectors that will continue this growth are sports, lifestyle and luxury.
IPL has made cricket into a billion-dollar sport and luxury brands such as Armani, Versace, Rolls-Royce and Cartier already well-established in India. However these are nascent markets with huge growth potential and many opportunities for both Indian and …
The Woman Behind Amber Lounge By The Luxury Channel
The Luxury Channel interviews Sonia Irvine; Formula One events mastermind and sister of ex-Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine….
We meet Sonia Irvine in London, just a week after she put on a spectacular three-day event over the Monaco Grand Prix race weekend. Her events company, Amber Lounge, provides a luxury nightlife experience for F1 stars, sponsors, and celebrities.
Congratulations on the Amber Lounge Monaco weekend!
Thank you! It was fantastic, such a great event. We had three fantastic nights.
Amber Lounge Fashion, your charity fashion show, was really successful. I hear Heikki Kovalainen donated a huge amount?
He did. For …
One to Watch By The Luxury Channel
To coincide with the FIFA Wordl Cup 2010, Corum Timepieces has announced the inception of a business partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association.
The eyes of the world this summer have been on South Africa as it plays host to the Fifa World Cup. To coincide with the occasion, Corum Timepieces has announced the inception of a business partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA). Corum is set to become the official, luxury watch supplier to the PFA and hopes the partnership will raise awareness of the brand throughout the UK.
Dubbed ‘one to watch’ in South Africa, PFA …
The Hottest Summer Events By Lauren Steventon
Hot-footing and jet-setting it from one social event to another this summer? Make sure you know the best address to lay your head and recuperate between engagements.
Cartier International Day
Guards Polo Club, Surrey, UK 25 July 2010
The polo event of the summer. Glamorous, beautiful and impeccably dressed – and that’s just the players. The see-and-be-seen event of the summer with hospitality from Cartier during the day and China White during the night. Excellent matches from talented teams – but that’s only half the fun. The great and good from the polo and celebrity worlds descend on Guards …
World Cup Fever By The Luxury Channel
The Luxury Channel interviews Chantelle Kidd from V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, about the impact of the World Cup on a host city….
As one of Cape Town’s best-known tourism jewels, and a neighbour to the Cape Town Stadium, the V&A Waterfront is a prime catchment area for locals and visitors in search of the football experience.
What did you think when you heard that South Africa was going to host the World Cup?
The importance of the World Cup for our nation is the legacy that the event will leave. The World Cup allows us to support the country …
De Grisogono’s Stars of Cannes By The Luxury Channel
This month the Luxury Channel takes an insider look at one of the Cannes Film Festivals most exclusive events.
Prestigious watch-making and jewellery brand De Grigosno held a private affair in collaboration with German luxury car manufacturer Maybach, to honour and showcase the true talent of Cannes at the Eden Roc Hotel on Cap d’Antibes, an exclusive location off the Côte d’Azur.
More than 400 guests were in attendance featuring some of the biggest names in the industry including Cheryl Cole, Meg Ryan, Ivana Trump, Harvey Weinstein, and Naomi Campbell (just to name a few).
With such …
Editor’s Letter – June 2010 By Fiona Sanderson
The Luxury Channel’s Entertainment Issue
June 2010
Welcome to The Luxury Channel’s Entertainment Issue
The Royal Wedding has given us a much-needed cause for celebration. The world smiled as the colourful guests arrived, gasped with awe at Catherine’s Alexander McQueen dress, and delighted in every detail of the wedding reception from the flowers to the food.
To help you plan an equally splendid wedding or party The Luxury Channel interviewed master-florist Rob Van Helden for his tips and tricks and met the super-planners behind Quintessentially Weddings. Both understand the power of showmanship and the importance of spoiling your guests (and …
More about The Luxury Channel By The Luxury Channel
The Luxury Channel is a new and exciting multimedia platform that provides compelling, high quality TV programming and videos, trendsetting online editorial, and an outstanding range of high-end retail products.
The Luxury Channel provides a full range of expertise and experiences for our television and web audience. The Luxury Channel launched its first series of documentaries in 2007 exclusively on CNBC – the leader in financial and business news television. In 2008, we continue our luxury lifestyle programmes airing as part of the “Luxury Life” series on CNBC. TheLuxuryChannel.com provides up-to-the-minute articles, news and trends on the most …
A Life of Style By The Luxury Channel
Grace Kelly, style icon, at the V&A.
Grace Kelly’s life was a fairytale of the truest sort: the Hollywood career, the royal husband – and then the tragic death. Like every fantasy, it was costumed with exceptional pieces from the eras highest fashion houses, complementing Kelly’s natural elegance and sense of chic. The V&A and Van Cleef & Arpels play tribute to one of the twentieth centuries most stylish ladies this month, with a new exhibition dedicated to her most fashionable moments.
The epitome of 1950s Hollywood elegance, Kelly was renowned for her beautiful clothes and accessories. The exhibition …
Luxury Brand Management in China By The Luxury Channel
Luxury in China – The Facts
In 2008, China had 415,000 High Net Worth Individuals with at least US$ 1million in financial assets, an increase of 20% over the previous year.
The Chinese spend three times longer shopping than those in the US or France.
China is the only market in the world where the market for ready-to-wear for men, exceeds that of woman’s wear.
75% of all watches purchased are gifts.
Dry red wine represents 68% of all wine sold in China.
On February 26th FDKG ran a half-day conference focused on “Luxury Brand Management in China”. Held …
Luxury Channel News, June 2010 By The Luxury Channel
Business as usual
British Airways has launched a new, exclusively business-class service from London City Airport to New York’s JFK. The twice-daily service will use Airbus A318 aircraft and is the first British Airways route to allow customers to send emails and texts and use the internet, via an inflight communications system. Willie Walsh, CEO, explained, “Our long tradition of delivering innovative service continues with the launch of this unique route. For the first time, the City has a tailor-made premium service to New York on its doorstep offering the most productive use of time for business people travelling between …
Fiona Sanderson wins Best Journalist By The Luxury Channel
The Luxury Channel’s Fiona Sanderson wins best journalist award at Luxuria 2009.
London (26 June 2009) – Fiona Sanderson, co-managing director of The Luxury Channel, won the Best Journalist award earlier this week at the first annual Luxuria awards. The awards were held by the Luxury Marketing Council Europe in association with The Wall Street Journal Europe at the Orangery Gallery in Holland Park.
The Luxuria Awards were created by the Luxury Marketing Council Europe to recognize excellence in luxury design, manufacture, retail and communications. The nominees in 15 categories were judged on their originality, relevance and craftsmanship. The judging …
Formula 1 Takes To The Runway By The Luxury Channel
The annual Amber Fashion Show in Monaco saw F1 drivers take to the catwalk to model for charity….
Formula One swapped the roar of the engines for the clinking of cocktail glasses in Monaco this week for the MARTINI® sponsored Amber Fashion Show at the luxurious Le Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel.
Stars from the world of sport, film and fashion joined Royalty at the annual Amber Fashion Show. Sir Richard Branson, Olympic track legend Michael Johnson, tennis ace Boris Becker and Little Britain comedy star David Walliams were among the glittering guest list who joined HSH Prince Albert. …
Luxury Goes Digital By Fiona Sanderson
Fiona Sanderson, joint MD of The Luxury Channel, discusses how the global luxury industry has not only embraced the Web but sees it as a major player in global brand extension.
Just two clicks into the Chanel web site and you’re aboard a luxurious night train departing Paris in the newest Chanel No. 5 movie starring Audrey Tautou and directed by Jean Pierre Jeunet. Four clicks into the Versace site and the 2009 Spring/Summer Collection launch begins streaming in near perfect clarity. After the slowest of starts, the global luxury industry has not only embraced the web, it is …
The Wallpaper* Design Awards 2010 By The Luxury Channel
The results from The Wallpaper* Design Awards, 2010.
The Ceremony
The Luxury Channel attended the Wallpaper Design Awards, 2010. Where a lively consortium of design savvy journalists and product designers came together in celebration of this years winners. Guests were greeted by an exquisite asymmetrical dress by Viktor & Rolf (the model glided around the room like an architectural ballerina) and dined on champagne and oysters.
Pedri Almodovor (Spanish film director), Kelly Wearstler (US interior designer), Steven Hall (architect), John Galliano, (Dior’s creative director), James Murdoch (CEO of News Corporation, Europe and Asia) and Carsten Holler (artist) formed …
News This Week, 14th June 2010 By The Luxury Channel
It’s time to put some colour and fun back in your wardrobe
Louis Vuitton has renewed their creative collaboration with Japanese Neo-Pop artist Takashi Murakami. Previously Murakami has re-invented the famous LV monogram in bright and bold colours, merging the Louis Vuitton heritage and quality with the contemporary art scene and bringing the designs firmly into the 21st century.
This season, he’s gone one step further. Iconic Louis Vuitton designs have been reinterpreted in summery, bright block colours, interspersed with Murakami’s trademark smiling faces. The prints feature on bags, accessories, beach-clothes and bikinis.
www.louisvuitton.com
Whiskey matures into a worthy …
Unusual Sports On Snow By The Luxury Channel
Cricket in the Alps? Golf in Greenland? Metres of snow can’t stop these sports fans!
There are enough winter sports out there to fill up anyone’s calendar, from skiing and snowboarding to ice-skating and the luge. But some people just have to go off piste when it comes to games. You may have thought you could only enjoy these sports under a summer sun, but they also flourish in the snow.
White Turf
On of the world’s most famous sports on snow, White Turf is an international horse-racing event held annually in St. Moritz since 1907. The three-day programme …
Flair’s Fleur By The Luxury Channel
Fleur Cowles artist, editor, author and co-founder of Flair magazine died this week at the age of 101.
Renowned for founding the avant-garde magazine Flair in 1949 Cowles pioneered new approaches to magazine design. With cut out front covers and on one occasion a scented issue, the magazine was a unique blend of art, literature, fashion, and design encapsulated in the innovative and expensively produced package.
Cowles was able to use her New York society connections to get the most interesting and diverse contributors including; Saul Steinberg, Salvador Dalí, W. H. Auden, Cocteau, Lucian Freud, Tennessee Williams, Angus …
A Good Time For A Good Cause By James Gurney
This year’s Only Watch charity auction is a must-see for watch lovers and collectors. James Gurney, the editor of QP Magazine, finds out why….
The London preview of the bi-annual Only Watch auction was held last week at Asprey, and showcased 34 truly unique watches from some of the world’s best makers, from Audemars Piguet to Zénith International. The preview was attended by Luc Pettavino, founder of the auction and managing director of the Monaco Yacht Show, and Osvaldo Patrizzi, CEO of Patrizzi & Co auctioneers and watch expert, as well as many collectors and buyers.
Only Watch has …
A Night in the Fast Lane By The Luxury Channel
Your ticket to the world’s most glittering events!
Parties at the exclusive Amber Lounge have gone down in history as being some of the most exciting and decadent of recent times. Stars of the stage and screen rub shoulders with racing drivers and models, while the world’s top musicians serenade you as the champagne flows.
Once again, the Amber Lounge will be the place to celebrate over the Monaco Grand Prix race weekend. Amber Lounge Fashion will kick off the weekend on Friday with a Martini-sponsored fashion show in which the world’s top racing drivers will strut down …
