Paper City Article

Of Blahniks and Benevolence

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:07:42 GMT

Is there anything better than being chic and charitable? I think not.

Saks Fifth Ave. offers the perfect oppurtunity to do just that this month with its freshly minted in-store charity program. Through February 29 five percent of all registered purchases made with a Saks card go to the local charity of you chosing, which include: CancerForward: The Foundation for Cancer Survivors,%26nbsp;Hermann Park Conservancy,%26nbsp;Children%26rsquo;s Assessment Center,%26nbsp; The Leukemia %26amp; Lymphoma Society,%26nbsp; and%26nbsp; Texas Alzheimer%26rsquo;s Research %26amp; Care Consortium. This marks the first month of what will be a continued effort to give back to the communties in which Saks stores do business.%26nbsp;

As if we needed a reason to shop.

Tried %26 True %26 Made Anew

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:54:46 GMT

Our top knot-tying experts say it%26rsquo;s high time for a modern spin on those classic, never-out-of-style wedding traditions. Here, the best of the best in planning, catering, florals and more share their tips for freshening up the most conventional I-do details.

Todd Fiscus, Todd Events

Event design, planning and creative services

If you are for sure keeping your gown as a keepsake, embroider a ribbon and have it sewn in the hem of your dress in blue thread. Write a wish to you and your new husband %26mdash; it could be a sweet moment to remember.

When throwing the bouquet and garter, do the garter moment in private. You can then throw the bouquet as you get into your getaway car. It makes for a great picture %26mdash; and the crowd loves the moment.

Go for a %26ldquo;wow statement%26rdquo; by using flowers in fewer places. One of my favorite design elements is to create two amazing and huge Smart Car-sized florals on pedestals and then surround them with tables featuring candles and gardenia details. Photo by Stephen Karlisch.

%26nbsp;

Jaime Jones, Bella Flora of Dallas

Event planning and floral design

Replace traditional cake toppers with ones that showcase the couple%26rsquo;s personality.

For out-of-the-ordinary invites, have the calligraphy penned at a slant. Photo by Sara Donaldson.

Offer a traditional seated dinner for the first course, but buffets for the main course. We had salads pre-placed at the guest tables, then the buffets were opened for the entrees.

Go with a donation made to a charity of the couple%26rsquo;s choice in lieu of a favor. Photo by Sara Donaldson.

%26nbsp;

Carra Freeman, Lombardi Family Concepts Catering

Event planning and floral design

Injecting the bride and groom%26rsquo;s heritage into the menu is a great way to infuse classic traditions with modern ideas. Take two different cultures, mix them together and offer different stations, such as an Italian pasta bar with a Spanish paella station.

The art of traditional and old-fashioned cocktails with a twist is a huge trend right now. Taking something simple such as a champagne cocktail and adding Elderflower updates a traditional drink in a more modern %26mdash; and delicious %26mdash; way.

Instead of a traditional chocolate groom%26rsquo;s cake and white bride%26rsquo;s cake, offer different dessert options, such as a bar with different pies or mini-desserts like French macaroons and cake balls. Image: Swap the cake and go with these sweet treats from The Original Cake Ball Company. Photo by Alan Penn.

%26nbsp;

Katherine Mathes, Mathes and Co. Events and The M Collection

Event planning, custom invitation design and floral design

Incorporate several songs and dances into a first dance mash-up. It is something new and different and keeps guests wanting more.

In the wedding program, instead of printing the bride and groom%26rsquo;s new address, attach a removable calling card with their new information. The guest can take it and save it for their Rolodex.

Order mini tambourines and accent them with satin ribbons in the wedding colors, and attach a saying by the couple for the send-off.

Instead of printing a standard paper wedding program, one of our brides opted to purchase large antique doors, on which we installed mirrors. With a vinyl application, the program was applied to the mirror and displayed at the entrance of the ceremony for all guests to see.

%26nbsp;

Heather Wiese-Alexander, Bell%26rsquo;Invito Letterpress Studio

Custom letterpress, engraved and printed invitations

Etiquette states that the bride and groom have six months to write their thank-you notes, but nowadays making someone wait six months before they know you received your gift seems inconsiderate. Use lovely preprinted cards, known as gift confirmation notes, and drop them in the mail immediately when a gift arrives.

Rethink the program. Let%26rsquo;s be honest, everyone wants to know what was blue, and which sentimental things you carried down the aisle. What%26rsquo;s something personal you can share while we patiently wait in a pew for the party to follow?

Instead of a head table, set a honeymoon table for two next to the dance floor for the bride and groom. It saves space and resolves the %26ldquo;who gets to sit at the head table?%26rdquo; question. It%26rsquo;s intimate and gives the couple a moment to enjoy their reception, take in some needed food and sit across from each other.

The usually white-and-satin bridal guest book is evolving into a more handsome, less frilly, typically leather-bound book fashioned for the bride and groom%26rsquo;s permanent residence. Image: Leather-bound guest books available through Bell%26rsquo;Invito.

With This Ring and a Bell …

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:34:25 GMT

Just when we thought we could only be wowed by one Schlegel wedding, parents Myrna and Bob impressed again with the opulent elegance of second daughter Kari%26rsquo;s marriage to Troy Kloewer. The Schlegels called upon event designer Todd Fiscus of Todd Events and wedding coordinator Mary Wright Shah to bring to life an unforgettably beautiful day. We now pronounce the details.

%26ldquo;I have always loved Monique Lhuillier. I knew right away I wanted her to make my dress.%26nbsp; I had a very good idea of what I wanted, so my mom, sisters and I took a trip to Los Angeles to meet her and design the dress. Troy wore my dad%26rsquo;s cuff links and shirt studs %26mdash; they were his %26lsquo;something
borrowed.%26rsquo;%26rdquo;%26nbsp; %26mdash; Kari Schlegel Kloewer

%26ldquo;Kari%26rsquo;s nephew, JR, was one of the most darling parts of the ceremony. When that sweet boy walked in ringing that bell, and after the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Chorus had just blown your mind %26hellip; it was pure wedding magic! That small sound of a ringing bell to announce Kari was perfection.%26rdquo; %26mdash; Todd Fiscus%26nbsp;%26nbsp;%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, led by maestro Jaap van Zweden, made a sophisticated backdrop to the wedding party. The bridesmaids%26rsquo; dresses were designed by Michael Faircloth; the groomsmen%26rsquo;s tuxedos were from Culwell %26amp; Son.

Dozens of perfect Phalaenopsis orchid stems create Kari%26rsquo;s cascading bouquet.

Bronwen at Frosted Art created the almost eight-foot-tall bridal cake.

A demitasse of soup from Food Glorious Food as the amuse-bouche enticed everyone to be seated for a welcome from the father of the bride. The china and silverware
were sourced from Ducky Bob%26rsquo;s Cannonball Rentals.

Mere seconds after the ceremony at Highland Park United Methodist Church ended, a 40-by-12-foot gray carpet was moved into position, connecting the church to the reception.

The church runner was in greige velvet, and Tara Jones Calligraphy hand-painted the %26ldquo;S%26rdquo; bridal monogram at the entry and a %26ldquo;K%26rdquo; groom monogram at the top. %26ldquo;A bride on entry should never walk over her soon-to-be monogram, but can marry in front of it %26mdash; good luck and great taste,%26rdquo; Fiscus says.

The menu, produced by Rhonda Warren of Color Box Designs, reflects the shape of the mirror in the ceiling. The men received a beef main course, and the ladies, a sea bass, so two menus were printed %26mdash; a male and a female version.

Glorious Gowns

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:24:39 GMT

You%26rsquo;ve been presented the ring, and you%26rsquo;ve set a date. Now, time to find the dress of your dreams. Where to begin? Right here, with our top-notch list of bridal trunk shows.

%26nbsp;

The Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus Downtown

1618 Main St., 214.573.2663; neimanmarcus.com

February 3 %26ndash; 4: Kenneth Pool

February 10 %26ndash; 11: Vera Wang

February 17 %26ndash; 18: Christos

February 24 %26ndash; 25: Monique Lhuillier

March 2 %26ndash; 3: Lea-Ann Belter

March 9 %26ndash; 10: Liancarlo

March 16 %26ndash; 17: Romona Keveza

March 23 %26ndash; 24: Reem Acra

March 30 %26ndash; 31: Carolina Herrera

%26nbsp;

The Bridal Salon at StanleyKorshak

500 Crescent Court, 214.871.3611; stanleykorshak.com/bridal-salon/

February 4 %26ndash; 5: Liancarlo bridal and evening

February 10 %26ndash; 11: Legends by Romona Keveza

February 17 %26ndash; 18: Jenny Packham; Aruna Seth Shoes; PA by Aruna Seth

February 24 %26ndash; 25: Tulle; PA by designer Lia McNar

March 2 %26ndash; 3: Reem Acra

March 9 %26ndash; 10: Lovely Veils %26amp; Hair Accessories with Fiona Wysocki PA

April 21 %26ndash; 22: Rivini

May 4 %26ndash; 5: Badgley Mischka

May 18 %26ndash; 19: Jenny Packham

%26nbsp;

Carolina Herrera

31 Highland Park Village, 214.219.6060; carolinaherrera.com

May 3 %26ndash; 5:%26nbsp; Spring 2013

%26nbsp;

LuLu%26rsquo;s Bridal Boutique

2728 Routh St., 214.871.9610; stardustcelebrations.com

February 3 %26ndash; 5: Mon Cheri

February 10 %26ndash; 12: Casablanca Bridal

February 17 %26ndash; 19: Allure Bridal

%26nbsp;

Nordstrom at NorthPark Center

8687 N. Central Expressway, 214.231.3900; shop.nordstrom.com

February 10 %26ndash; 12: Aire

%26nbsp;

Oscar de la Renta

8687 N. Central Expressway, 214.346.0400; oscardelarenta.com

March 23 %26ndash; 24: Bridal

%26nbsp;

StarDust Celebrations

6464 West Plano Parkway, Plano, 972.781.1619; stardustcelebrations.com

February 3 %26ndash; 5: St. Pucchi

February 10 %26ndash; 12: Bliss by Monique Lhuillier

February 17 %26ndash; 19: Victoria Nicole

February 24 %26ndash; 26: James Clifford

March 2 %26ndash; 4: Jim Hjelm

March 9 %26ndash; 11: Watters; WToo

March 16 %26ndash; 18: Lazaro

March 23 %26ndash; 25: Matthew Christopher

March 23 %26ndash; 25: Paris veils and accessories

March 30 %26ndash; April 1: Eve of Milady

%26nbsp;

Terry Costa

12817 Preston Road, 972.385.6100; terrycosta.com

February 3 %26ndash; 5: Mori Lee

February 10 %26ndash; 12: Maggie Sottero; Sottero %26amp; Midgley

February 24 %26ndash; 26: Tony Bowls

Warren Barr%26oacute;n Bridal

53 Highland Park Village, 214.526.08400; warrenbarron.com

Through February 4: Mon Vieve veils

February 2 %26ndash; 4: Marchesa

March 8 %26ndash; 10: Elizabeth Fillmore

March 15 %26ndash; 25: Lela Rose

April 5 %26ndash; 7: Monique Lhuillier

May 10 %26ndash; 12: Vera Wang

May 15 %26ndash; 27: Mon Vieve veils

Image: Watters

Stephanie Styles

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:19:57 GMT

If you find yourself in need of expert advice concerning your look on a certain big day, hail the professional services of fashion stylist Stephanie Quadri. Yes, that Stephanie Quadri, the former D Magazine style director who made a living dressing gals for bridal editorials in the pages of D Weddings. %26ldquo;I realized,%26rdquo; Quadri says, %26ldquo;that real brides who read magazines would love to have access to the looks they saw, so who better to help than a stylist who put those looks together.%26rdquo; To address your wedding-day wardrobe aspirations, sit down with Ms. Quadri for a one-on-one, hour-long consultation, then, depending on your exact needs, she%26rsquo;ll go to work, securing advance samples and lookbooks. Don%26rsquo;t forget your bridal party or honeymoon %26mdash; Quadri is fully prepared to style your %26lsquo;maids or suggest breezy pieces perfect for that Grecian getaway. 214.564.2792; stephaniequadri.com.

%26nbsp;

Past Era Patterns

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:11:22 GMT

For his latest crystal creations, designer William Yeoward looked to screen sirens of the %26rsquo;20s and %26rsquo;30s for his inspirational muses. The American Bar glassware collection debuts this month, with patterns named after Hollywood starlets such as Corinne, Dakota, Greta, Lillian and Marlene. With an Art Deco feel to all five patterns, the price points reflect a bygone era as well: from $21 for a Corinne shot glass to $150 for a Lillian cocktail jug. At Madison, Neiman Marcus.

Image: Corinne shot glass by William Yeoward

Retail Rap

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:05:45 GMT

For pint-sized wardrobes with the ultimate pedigree, head to Layette, a freshly opened infant and children%26rsquo;s boutique in The Shops at Highland Park (the store scooped up part of the old Talbot%26rsquo;s turf). Dallas native Ailsa Hurley%26rsquo;s trove of covetable clothing and accessory brands include Petite Bateau, Mela Wilson, Busy Bees and Baby Bespoke, to name a few. Did we mention the store also offers on-site monogramming, hemming and button mending? Key in layettedallas.com %26hellip; As if Burberry wasn%26rsquo;t already divine enough, we fell lips over heels for its Burberry Beauty collection and its plans to secure a cosmetic counter at Nordstrom in NorthPark Center come early March. The contents of said counter? Shimmery shadows, slick glosses, creamy lipstick shades and more nestled in pretty gunmetal packaging etched with that famous plaid. Dial Nordstrom at 214.231.3900 %26hellip; Design firm Gary Riggs Interiors has moved its Allen showroom to 5217 Alpha Road, across from Galleria Dallas. The 45,000-square-foot retail store, dubbed Gary Riggs Home, is open to the trade and public with GRI%26rsquo;s Park Cities spot on Preston Road remaining open for business as usual. Visit garyriggsinteriors.com for all the deets %26hellip; Bloomingdale%26rsquo;s, The Outlet Store opens this spring at The Shops at Park Lane and will span 25,000 square feet of prime, ground-level space across from Nordstrom Rack and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th. Expect apparel and accessories, including women%26rsquo;s ready-to-wear, men%26rsquo;s, children%26rsquo;s, women%26rsquo;s shoes, jewelry and handbags %26hellip; Another outlet debut: Italian furniture label Cantoni has taken over the former Eurway store at 4720 Alpha Road to make room for its Cantoni Outlet, a 35,000-square-foot space next to its Dallas showroom. What%26rsquo;s more, Cantoni is expanding its current showroom to make way for a Natuzzi Gallery shop-in-shop concept. (You may remember the only two independently owned Natuzzi stores in America %26mdash; now shuttered %26mdash;%26nbsp;were located right here, in Plano and Dallas.) Showroom renovations are set to be completed by July 2012.

Image: What we want for spring: the fetching Golden Peach Lip Cover from Burberry Beauty.

The Bride’s Little Blue Book

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:05:26 GMT

BRIDAL SHOPS

Belle Mari%26eacute;e Bridal, 2509 River Oaks Blvd., 713.523.0068; bellemarieehouston.com
BHLDN, Highland Village, 4056 Westheimer Road, 713.599.1917; bhldn.com
Brickhouse Bridal, 200 Valleywood, The Woodlands, 281.681.3430; brickhousebridal.com
Casa de Novia Bridal Couture, 3331 D%26rsquo;Amico St., 713.523.9090; casadenoviabridal.com
Ivory Bridal Atelier, West Ave, 2800 Kirby Dr., 713.550.1622; ivorybridalhouston.com
Joan Pillow Bridal Salon, Highland Village, 4001 Westheimer, 713.622.1122; joanpillowbridal.com
Kate Spade, Galleria, 713.876.1918; katespade.com
Mia Bridal Couture, 1958 W. Gray St., 713.622.2022; miabridalcouture.com
Now and Forever Bridal Boutique, 3701 Kirby Dr., 713.218.0369; nowandforever bridalbtq.com
The Wedding Suite at Nordstrom, Galleria, 832.201.2700; nordstrom.com. By appointment.
Winnie Couture, 5152 Buffalo Speedway, 713.782.9316; winniecouture.com. By appointment.

CUSTOM BRIDAL, ATTENDANT CLOTHING, MADE-TO-MEASURE TUXEDOS %26amp; SHIRTS

Arend Couture, 713.523.0943
Atrium Ready to Wear, 3331 D%26rsquo;Amico St., 713.520.0206; atriumrtw.com
Beautiful U Bridal, 3637 W. Alabama., 713.963.8213. By appointment.
Bella Bridesmaid, 2611 Greenbriar Dr., 713.528.2778; bellabridesmaid.com
Billy Reid, Galleria, 713.552.0333; billyreid.com. Custom tuxedos and suits by appointment.
David Peck Collection, 512.415.3666
Elizabeth Anthony/Esther Wolf, 1180-08 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.622.1331; estherwolf.com
Established Custom Clothing, 832.287.1207; establishedcustomclothing.com
Festari for Men, 1800 Post Oak Blvd., 713.626.1234; festariformen.com
Hamilton Custom Shirtmakers, 5700 Richmond Ave., 713.264. 8800;
hamiltonshirts.com.
Jenny Kim Bridal Couture, 2524 Amherst St., 713.528.0500; jkbridal.com
Linda Cunningham, 3310 Edloe St., 713.621.3232; lindacunningham.com
Nick Lopez Tailoring, 2680 Sage Road, 713.621.5411; nicklopeztailoring.com.
Q Custom Clothier, West Ave, 2800 Kirby Dr., 713.523.8333; qcustomclothier.com
Wayne Jones Custom Suit and Shirt Makers, 713.622.2452.
Winnie Couture, 5152 Buffalo Speedway, 713.782.9316; winniecouture.com. By appointment.

TUXEDOS

A. Taghi Fine Apparel, 5116 Westheimer, 713.963.0884; ataghi.com
Ermenegildo Zegna, Galleria, 832.308.3494; zegna.com
Festari for Men, 1800 Post Oak Blvd., 713.626.1234; festariformen.com
Giorgio Armani, Galleria, 713.961.2659; giorgioarmani.com. Custom tuxedos available.
Gucci, Galleria, 713.961.0778; gucci.com
Harolds in the Heights, 350 W. 19th St., 713.864.2647; haroldsintheheights.com
Louis Vuitton, Galleria, 713.960.0707; louisvuitton.com
M. Penner, 1180-06 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.527.8200; mpenner.com
Neiman Marcus, Galleria, 713.621.7100; neimanmarcus.com
Norton Ditto, 2425 W. Alabama St., 713.688.9800; nortonditto.com
Ralph Lauren, Galleria, 713.850.9330; ralphlauren.com. Tuxedos to order.
Saks Fifth Avenue, Galleria, 713.627.0500; saksfifthavenue.com
Versace, Galleria, 713.623.8220; versace.com
Yves Saint Laurent, Galleria, 713.840.7006; ysl.com

RINGS

Katy Briscoe, Inc., 1455 W. Loop South; 713.662.9886; katybriscoe.com. By appointment.
Bailey, Banks %26amp; Biddle, 700 Town %26amp; Country Blvd., 713.647.8045; baileybanksand biddle.com
Bulgari, Galleria, 713.622.7574; bulgari.com
Cartier, Galleria, 713.871.0177; cartier.com
Chard%26eacute;, 5600 Kirby Dr., 713.668. 6350; chardejewelers.com
David Yurman, Galleria, 713.622.5799; davidyurman.com
De Beers, Galleria, 713.960.9030; debeers.com
Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch, 3747 Westheimer, 713.627.7787; deutschdeutschjewelers.com
DeVille Fine Jewelry, 5700 Woodway, 281.501.3810; devillefinejewelry.com
Donoho%26rsquo;s Jewellers, 9590 Six Pines Dr., The Woodlands, 281.367.9050; donohos.com
Gems by Chao, Galleria, 713.626.0431; gemsbychao.com
I W Marks, 3841 Bellaire Blvd., 713.668.5000; iwmarks.com
Judith Ann Jewels, 4721 Westheimer, 713.871.1074; judithannjewels.com
Lewis Jewelers, 16972 Highway 3, Webster; 281.332.8433; mylewisjewelers.com
Nazar%26rsquo;s Fine Jewelry, 5887 Westheimer, 713.952.5444; nazarsfinejewelry.com
Neiman Marcus, Galleria, 713.621.7100; neimanmarcus.com
Paul Carter Jewels, 1141-02 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.627.7495; CityCentre, 12848 Queensbury, 713.465.5353; paulcarter
jewels.com
Reiner%26rsquo;s Fine Jewelry, 2210 Westheimer, 713.520.1212; reinersjewelry.com
Saks Fifth Avenue, Galleria, 713.627.0500; saksfifthavenue.com
Tiffany %26amp; Co., Galleria, 713.626.0220; tiffany.com
Zadok Jewelers, 1749 Post Oak Blvd., 713.960.8950; zadokjewelers.com

ESTATE JEWELRY

A.A. Benjamin Ltd., 1775 St. James Place, 713.965.0555; aabenjaminjewelry.com
Past Era Antique Jewelry, 3433 W. Alabama, 713.621.3433; pastera.com
Queen of Heirs Jewelry, 4901 Locust St., Bellaire, 713.666.6683; queenofheirs.com
Tenenbaum %26amp; Co., 1801 Post Oak Blvd., 713.629.7444; tenenbaumandco.com
Wayne Smith Jewelry, 1121-11 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.524.0100; smithandcompanyjewels.com
Valobra Jewelry %26amp; Antiques, 4078 Westheimer, 713.961.4500; valobra.net

CAKES

Acadian Bakers, 604 W. Alabama St.., 713.520.1484; acadianbakers.com
Bavarian Cakery, 8815 Solon Road, 281.469.3116; bavariancakery.com
Cakes by Gina, 14165 Bissonnet St., 281.495.9400; cakesbygina houston.com
Crave Cupcakes, 1151-06 Uptown Park Blvd. and 5600 Kirby Dr., 713.622.7283; cravecupcakes.com
Dacapo%26rsquo;s Pastry Cafe, 1141 E. 11th St., 713.869.9141; dacapospastrycafe.com
Dessert Gallery Bakery %26amp; Cafe, 3600 Kirby Dr., 713.522.9999; 1616 Post Oak Blvd., 713.622.0007; dessertgallery.com
Michael%26rsquo;s Cookie Jar, 5330 Weslayan St., 713.771.8603; michaelscookiejar.com
More Than Cakes, 1100 W. Dallas St., 713.652.5135; morethancakes.com
Ooh La La The Dessert Boutique, 700 W. Sam Houston Parkway N., 713.465.6338; oohlalasweets.com
Petite Sweets, 2700 W. Alabama, 713.520.7007; petitesweetshouston.com
Sprinkles Cupcakes, 4014 Westheimer, 713.871.9929; sprinkles.com
Susie%26rsquo;s Cakes, 12280 Westheimer, 281.493.3222; susiescakes.com
Three Brothers Bakery, 4036 S. Braeswood Blvd., 713.666.2253; 3brothersbakery.com
Who Made the Cake!, 1811 S. Shepherd Dr., 713.528.4719; whomadethecake.com
World Cakes %26amp; Catering, 1073-B Silber Road, 713.780.4351; worldcatering houston.com

CATERERS

A Fare Extraordinaire, 2035 Marshall St., 713.527.8288; afehouston.com
Abuso Catering, 6729 Stella Link Road, 713.660.6617; abusocatering.com
Acute Catering %26amp; Events, 6729 Stella Link Road, 713.528.1133; acutecatering.com
Armandos Taco Truck, 2630 Westheimer, 713.520.1738; armandosrestaurant.com
Catering by Culinaire, 3900 Milam St., 713.524.2337; cateringbyculinaire.com
City Kitchen, 8101 Airport Blvd., 713.847.8004; citykitchencatering.com
Crew Staffing, 4617 Montrose, 713.526.2739; crewstaffing.com
Jackson and Company, 707 Hawthorne St., 713.523.5780; jacksonand company.com
La Villette Catering %26amp; Special Events, 1716 Bissonnet St., 713.521.7550; lavillettecatering.com
M%26eacute;lange Catering %26amp; Special Events, 6803 Wynnwood Lane, 713.869.0066; melangeevents.com
Rosemary%26rsquo;s Catering, 9401 Knight Road, 713.796.2680; rosemaryscatering.com
The Stone Kitchen Catering %26amp; Special Events, 2112 Waugh Dr., 713.521.3500; stonekitchencatering.com
Tony%26rsquo;s Catering, 3755 Richmond Ave., 713.622.6778; tonyshouston.com

COMPLETE EVENT PRODUCTION

Bergner %26amp; Johnson Design, 519 Pecore St., 713.662.3769; bergnerandjohnson.com
Darryl %26amp; Co., 483 W. 38th St., 713.863.0400; darrylco.com
Design %26amp; Inspiration, 713.880.3613; designand inspiration.net.
DGLS Events ... at Your Service, 5001 Woodway, 713.851.5577; dglsevents.com
Elias Events, 6214 Beverly Hill, 713.334.1800; eliasevents.com
The Events Company, Richard Flowers, 1237 N. Post Oak Road, 713.426.5800; theeventsco.com
Events in Bloom, 633A West 19th St., 713.880.1475; eventsin bloom.com
Oulala! What an Event, 713.855.8755; oulalaevents.com
Michael Cord%26uacute;a Events, 2411 Fountainview, 713.961.0911; cordua.com
A Style Collective, astylecollective.com
Swift + Company, 2137 W. Alabama St., 713.526.7600; swiftevents.com

FLORAL DESIGNERS

Aubrey Sellers Flowers and Gifts, 1545 Peden St., 713.880.1919; classicromance.com
The Byrd Collective, Ashley Bailey, 512.981.8526; thebyrdcollective.com
Breen%26rsquo;s Florist, 1050 N. Post Oak Road, 713.668.2376; breens florist.com
Bergner %26amp; Johnson, 519 Pecore St., 713.662.3769, bergnerand johnson.com
Central Market, 3815 Westheimer, 713.386.1700; centralmarket.com
David Brown, 1180-10 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.664.0466; davidbrownflowers.com
The Empty Vase of Houston, 2511 River Oaks Blvd., 713.529. 9969; emptyvasehouston.com
Events in Bloom, 638A West 20th St., 713.880.1475; eventsin bloom.com
In Bloom, Inc., 814 Fairview St., 713.523.3553; inbloominc.com
Johnathan Andrew Sage, 3900 Polk St., 713.227.7300; jasinctx.com
Lexis Florist, 6102 Skyline Dr., 713.774.8080; lexisflorist.com
Plants %26rsquo;n Petals, 3810 Westheimer, 713.840.9191; plantsnpetals.net
Stems Custom Floral, 4711 Gibson St., 713.574.1250; stemscustomfloral.com

INVITATIONS

Ann Werme Stationers, 2400 Augusta Dr., 713.339.4511; annwermestationers.com
Avalon Stationery and Gifts, 2604 Westheimer, 713.528.0052
Bering%26rsquo;s, 6102 Westheimer, 713.785.6400; 3900 Bissonnet St., 713.665.0500; berings.com
Cartier, Galleria, 713.871.0177; cartier.com
Embossed Graphics of Texas, 6435 Gulfton Dr., 713.777.1336
%26nbsp;Events, River Oaks Shopping Center, 1966 W. Gray St., 713.520.5700; eventsgifts.com
Houston Invitation Service, 2503 River Oaks Blvd., 713.522.2757; invitationservice.com
%26nbsp;Invitation Solutions, 713.864.5573; invitationsolutions.com
Jawda and Jawda, 6111 Kirby Dr., 713.419.8018; jawdaandjawda.com
Jenny Wakefield, 713.529.6161.
Katie %26amp; Company, 4500 Washington Ave., 713.802.1345; katie-co.com
PH Design Shop, 2414 Rice Blvd., 713.522.8861; phdesignshop.com
The Pretty Penny, 14534 Memorial Dr., 281.493.2430; theprettypenny.com
Simple Difference, Daniela Weil, 713.278.1994; simple difference.com. By appointment.
Tanglewood Gifts and Stationery, 5750 Woodway Dr., 713.266.1006; tanglewoodgifts.com

DETAILS: CALLIGRAPHY, ETC.

Anne Cheney, 713.782.3708; 123acheney@comcast.net. Calligraphy.
Avalon Gifts and Stationery, 2604 Westheimer, 713.528.0052. RSVP services.
Bright Star Productions, 2420 Center St., 713.529.2757; brightstarproductions.com. Custom lighting and sound.
Calligraphy and Engraving by Mark, 281.840.7939; calligraphybymark@yahoo.com
Calligraphy by Patricia, 3701 West Alabama St., 713.621.9595; patleith@sbcglobal.net
Karla Hamilton, 713.868.5087; karlahamilton@me.com. Calli-graphy.
Houston Invitation Service, 2503 River Oaks Blvd., 713.522.2757; invitationservice.com
PenDance Calligraphy %26amp; Engraving, Maureen Vickery, 281.558.7856; pendance.us
Tanglewood Gifts and Stationery, 5750 Woodway Dr., 713.266.1006; tanglewoodgifts.com

MUSIC BOOKERS

Allen Hill Entertainment, 713.426.2741; allenhill entertainment.com
Avalon Music, 713.529.2672; theavalonmusic.com
Gulf Coast Entertainment, 2017 W. Gray St., 713.523.7004; gulfcoastentertainment.com
Marshall Maxwell Entertainment Agency, 713.522.3514; marshallmaxwell.com
Simply Entertainment, 713.807.0202; simplyentertainment.biz

RECEPTION LOCATIONS

Alden Houston, 1117 Prairie St., Catherine Bradley at 832.200.8807; aldenhotels.com
Bell Tower on 34th, 901 W. 34th St., 713.868.2355; thebelltoweron34th.com
Briscoe Manor, 5801 FM 723, Richmond, 281.238.4700; briscoemanor.com
Courtyard on St. James Place, 1885 St. James Place, 713.621.0555; courtyardonstjames.com
Four Seasons Hotel Houston, 1300 Lamar St., Elisa Sosa at 713.652.6263; fourseasons.com/houston
Hilton Americas%26ndash;Houston, 1600 Lamar St., Ingrid Menendez at 713.739.8000; hilton.com
Hilton Houston Post Oak, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., Virginia Schlitt at 713.968.1325; hilton.com
Hotel Derek, 2525 W. Loop South, Shona Mitchell at 713.297.4301; hotelderek.com
Hotel Galvez %26amp; Spa, 2024 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, Angie at 409.765.7721; wyndham.com
Hotel Granduca, 1080 Uptown Park Blvd., Laura Buehler at 713.418.1036; granducahouston.com
Hotel Icon, 220 Main St., Mary Taube or Michael McVey at 832.667.4464; hotelicon.com
Hotel ZaZa Houston, 5701 Main St., Lisa Hudson at 713.526.1991; hotelzazahouston.com
The Houstonian Hotel, Club %26amp; Spa, 111 N. Post Oak Lane, Jim Gray or Evangelia McCarthy at 713.680.2626; houstonian.com
InterContinental Houston, 2222 W. Loop South, Chantal Lavin at 713.850.2800; ichouston.com
The Lancaster, 701 Texas Ave., Kathy Sanchez at 713.228.9500; thelancaster.com
The Magnolia Hotel, 1100 Texas Ave., Natalie Monk at 713.221.0011 (ex. 72664); magnoliahotelhouston.com
Omni Houston Hotel, 4 Riverway, Silvia San Martin at 713.871.8181; omnihotels.com
St. Regis Hotel, Houston, 1919 Briar Oaks Lane, Matthew Vesley at 713.840.7600; stregis.com/houston
Hotel Sorella, CityCentre, 800 W. Sam Houston Parkway North, Nancy Alonzo at 713.973.1600; hotelsorella-citycentre.com
The Westin Galleria, 5060 W. Alabama St., Adam Rineer at 713.960.8100; westin.com/galleria
The Westin Oaks, 5011 Westheimer, Adam Rineer at 713.960.8100; westin.com/oaks

Or, try these sites:

The Capital at St. Germain, 705 B Main St., 713.492.2454; thecapitalhouston.com
The Corinthian, 202 Fannin St., Boyd Bryan at 713.222.2002; thecornithianhouston.com
The Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Lofts, 909 Texas Ave., Jamie Purpera at 713.227.7423; sambucacatering.com
Cullen%26rsquo;s Upscale American Grill, 11500 Space Center Blvd., Elizabeth Harris at 281.991.2037; cullenshouston.com
DiverseWorks, 1117 E. Freeway, Jon Read at 713.223.8346; diverseworks.org
Fifty-Two Twenty-Six, 5226 Elm St., Bellaire, 713.529.4900; 5226elm.com
The Gardens of Bammel Lane, 2807 Bammel Lane, Alison at 713.418.7243 bammel.com
Gremillion %26amp; Co. Fine Art Gallery, 2501 Sunset Blvd., Brian Freeze at 713.522.2701; gremillion.com
The Grove, 1611 Lamar St., Tatiana Escobar at 713.337.7321; thegrovehouston.com
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby St., Denise Wright at 713.315.2512; thehobbycenter.org
The Hofheinz House, 3900 Milam, Tracy Bowers, 713.524.2337; cateringbyculinaire.com/hofheinzhouse.html
Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Dr., Leslie Goode or Nancy Lauletta-Bowen at 713.639.4749; hmns.org
Julia Ideson Library, 500 McKinney Ave., Julie Williams, 713.660.0772; preservationpartners@ideson.org
The Junior League of Houston, 1811 Briar Oaks Lane, Donna Marcum at 713.622.4191, ext. 1; juniorleaguehouston.org
La Colombe d%26rsquo;Or, 3410 Montrose Blvd., Ed Bodee at 713.469.4750; lacolombedor.com
Las Velas, 5714 Fairdale Lane, 713.977.5773
Lillie %26amp; Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 1001 Bissonnet St., 713.639.7300; mfah.org
McClain Gallery, 2242 Richmond Ave., Sharon Lott, 713.520.9988; mcclaingallery.com
Poissant Gallery, 5102 Center St., Meg Poissant, 713.880.5553; poissantgallery.com
River Oaks Garden Club, 2503 Westheimer, Anne Burroughs at 713.523.2483; riveroaksgardenclub.org

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alexander%26rsquo;s Fine Portrait Design, 312 Birdsall St., Linda Rogers, 713.682.6000; alexandersportraits.com
Alvin Gee Photography, 911 Town %26amp; Country Blvd., 713.647.0911; alvingee.com
Barron %26amp; Barron, 713 Second St., League City, 409.939.1498; barronandbarron.com
Bates Photographic Studio, 713.449.6491; dbphotographics.com
Brooke Schwab Photography, 1113 Vine St., 713.560.8266; brookeschwabphotography.com
Chris Bailey Photography, 713.518.1452; cbailey photography.com
Chris Wineinger Photography, 832.372.3456; chriswphoto.com
D. Jones Photography, 2005 Mason St., 713.521.1550; djonesphoto.com
Evin Thayer Studios, 405 Avondale St., 713.524.0199; evinthayer.com
Gittings, 1121-10 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.965.9301; gittings.com. Portraits only.
Goodlight Photography, 713.818.7829; goodlight photography.com
Home Video Productions by Gary Bolton, Missouri City, 281.437.4088; homevideo productions.com
Jenny Antill Photography, 832.877.4476; jennyantill.com
John Lewis Weddings, 281.384.8633; johnlewisweddings.net
John Ly Photography, 4808 Bellaire Blvd., 281.701.7939; johnlyphotography.com
Karen Sachar Photography, 2110 South Blvd., 713.523.1150; ksachar.com
Ladyflash, Ashley Chiles, 512.585.3939; ladyflash.com. Video.
Legacy Multimedia, 281.381.9550; legacymultimedia.com
Michael Carr Photography, 5701 Woodway, 713.461.2862; michaelcarrphotography.com
Michael Martinez Photography, 713.355.5345; martinezphoto.com. By appointment.
Nhan Nguyen Photography, 1710 Waugh Dr., 713.523.3887; nhanphotography.com
Phyllis Hand Photography, 713.861.9327; phyllishand.com
PWL Studio by Fulton Davenport, 805 Welch St., 713.521.7022; pwlstudio.com
Simon Roderick Gentry Photography, 832.661.7363; simongentry.com
Steve Lee Weddings, 1330 Yale St., 832.380.4004; steveleeweddings.com
Steve Schmid Photography, 3939 Essex Lane, 713.960.9839; steveschmidphotography.com
Terry Blackburn Photography, 1260 Blalock Road, 713.464.0094; blackburnstudios.com

WEDDING COORDINATORS

Bobbi Asarch, 713.728.3336; bobbiasarch.com
Belle of the Ball, 4010 Blue Bonnet Blvd., 713.528.9966; belleevents.com
Design Wedding Consultants, 4545 Bissonnet, 713.661.3374, desi-gn.com
Elias Events, 6214 Beverly Hill #24, 713.334.1800; eliasevents.com
For Your Memories, 1901 Post Oak Blvd., 713.532.8100; foryourmemories.com
Keely Thorne Events, 2449 South Blvd., 713.807.8188; keelythorne.com
Mary Beth Events, 713.542.0080; marybethevents.com
Rita Holland, 713.965.0936; r.holland@sbcglobal.net
Schwartz %26amp; Woodward, 713.780.1282; schwartzwoodward.com
Two Be Wed, 2611 Greenbriar, 713.572.3030; twobewed.net
Ann Whittington, 713.461.8424; annevents.com

%26nbsp;

Images:

Lazaro at Ivory Bridal Atelier, Joan Pillow Bridal Salon

Oscar de la Renta at Casa de Novia Bridal Couture

Carolina Herrera at Joan Pillow Bridal Salon

Elizabeth Fillmore at Belle Mari%26eacute;e Bridal, Casa de Novia Bridal Couture

J.Crew

Vera Wang at Casa de Novia Bridal Couture, Joan Pillow Bridal Salon

Ralph Lauren

Ermenegildo Zegna

Bell Tower on 34th. Photo by RSVP Studio.

Jenny Antill Photography

Tiffany %26amp; Co.

DeVille Fine Jewelry

%26nbsp;

Cartier

Past Era Antique Jewelry

Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch

Zadok Jewelers

Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels

I W Marks

David Yurman

Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

Lewis Jewelers

Chris Bailey Photography

Crave Cupcakes

Michael%26rsquo;s Cookie Jar

Arend Couture

Tried %26 True %26 Made Anew

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:31:31 GMT

Richard Flowers, The Event Company

Complete event production

Recently at an outdoor affair, we used the family’s heirloom formal china and stemware atop organic burlap linens, with 18-inch napkins replicating
great-grandmother’s linen handkerchief with a beautiful embroidered edge.

Black-and-white classic glamour from the ’30s has made a comeback, with a splash of just one color added as an accent. Our choice: yellow or coral.

Coming: a return to intimate afternoon weddings.

The coupe champagne glass instead of the flute — it’s just asking to be held. Image: Juliska.

Shorter formal receptions, followed by a great after-party, allow the bride to change her clothes.

A small destination wedding, followed at a later date by a larger reception in town.

And coming: a return to afternoon weddings with smaller guest lists.

Keely Thorne, Keely Thorne Events%26nbsp;

Wedding coordination

While departing from the reception in a white 1960s Rolls Royce is classic, many couples have been driven away in cars — vintage or otherwise — owned by relatives for a personal touch. Image: Chris Bailey.

Couples are switching up the three-course seated dinner, still offering a place setting for everyone but providing a station with myriad options for the entree. Other alternatives include French-style service, which allows waiters to present platters for guests to serve themselves, as well as family-style dining.

The going-away dress has made a comeback. Many brides are opting for multiple wardrobe changes. Some have donned up to three dresses: the church gown, an
11 o’clock dress and an exit dress.%26nbsp;

Heirloom veils from the bride’s family are something borrowed, while shoes with a touch of blue follow tradition — the entire shoe, just the sole or a portion that’s bejeweled with blue crystals. “Something new” often includes a traditional sparkler — perhaps a new bracelet, necklace or earrings.

Darryl Murchison, Darryl %26amp; Co.

Complete event production

Family recipes are a big hit. Whether it’s grandmother’s favorite cookie or a heritage soup recipe, brides are asking caterers to make dishes from their family’s past to serve at the reception or give away as favors.

More brides are reinventing their mother’s wedding dress, incorporating a bit of lace or panels from her gown to fashion a new one.

Some couples have incorporated special plates, cups or milk-glass vases from their parents or grandparents into the table settings or centerpieces.

When it came to tossing the bouquet, one bride wished to include several of her single girlfriends, so we tied the bouquet in a loose knot. She untied it shortly before she threw the bouquet. As it soared through the air, it separated and 13 single stem flowers were unfurled allowing them all to “catch the bouquet.”

One bride’s father had given her mother a single rose once a week for 20 years. At the reception, the groom asked that we provide a single long-stemmed rose to carry on the tradition.

Mary Beth Burrow, Mary Beth Events

Wedding coordination

Replace the traditional hand-addressed inner envelope with a new element that serves the same purpose but adds a modern, decorative look, such as the paper belly band — a strip of decorative or colored paper that wraps the invitation. Highlight the colors in your invitation suite or add text for a custom, personalized belly band. Image: Cameron Clark.

Instead of a traditional guest book, capture guests’ sentiments in the pages of a cookbook (perfect for the culinary couple), signed maps, wishing trees or an atlas. Image: Cameron Clark.

Rethink your getaway vehicle. For the island bride, pedal away on a beach cruiser or hop in a golf cart. For the city bride, rent a vintage car. For the rustic bride, hire a horse and carriage to ride off with your beloved.

At a recent wedding, I took the skirt from the mother of the bride’s vintage wedding gown and used it to drape the sign-in table. Mixing the look of vintage lace with clean, modern decor —think sleek glass cylinders and tall candles — gives a new look to a passed-down heirloom. One bride wanted to use her parents’ crystal wedding flutes at her reception but was looking for a way to make them her own. I suggested she have their custom monogram etched into each glass to add a personal touch.

Chris Promecene and Amanda Hayes-Valentine, PH Design Shop

Custom invitations and stationery

At-home cards announce the bride and groom’s new address and the date it becomes effective. (Today it does double duty, clarifying whether the bride will take the groom’s last name, hyphenate or keep her own, too.)%26nbsp; Often couples are choosing to send an at-home card later as a post-wedding announcement.

As a twist on classic, gilded invitations with a golden edge, couples are opting to edge-stain their thick cardstock with a color they adore. Coordinate it with an envelope liner for heightened drama and pop. Image: Kennon Evett.

Couples who wish to adhere to the old tradition of tissue overlays on their invitations (once used to prevent smudging) can update things by using a colored tissue in lieu of classic white. Also consider a vellum overlay with a printed pattern or motif pulled from the invitation’s design.

A process known as duplexing allows two pieces of card stock to be bonded to each other. Back your invitations with a colored or patterned card stock to add texture and weight.

Use your save-the-date announcement (usually sent six months prior) to set the tone and inform guests of planned festivities and accommodation options. Choose a unique format like a folded or rolled poster, an accordion- or tri-folded mailer. Modern save-the-dates are more casual, with a focus on the celebration.

David Brown, David Brown Flowers

Floral design

Endearing the in-laws: On the wedding day, the groom should send the mother of the bride an arrangement with a lovely handwritten note.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

Giant bouquets — as in, dragging the floor — are making a reappearance. The look isn’t for everyone, but bouquets used to be much bigger than they have been the past decade. Image: Donna Newman.

We’re seeing the comeback of blooming plants massed into lush garden settings in lieu of cut floral arrangements in the church.

Given Houston’s strict ordinances regarding the use of candles, there are amazing new LED and battery-operated candles that can be used to amazing effect … The first generation was pretty cheesy, but the technology has gotten so much better.

Elizabeth Swift Copeland, Swift + Company%26nbsp;

Event catering

We’re bringing back linen napkins and cloths. Real, Irish hemstitched linens. We invested in several sizes and more than 13 colors, in fact. It’s a luxury that makes a beautiful
difference. Image: Jesus Reyes / 713 Photography

Many venues don’t allow traditional rice throwing, so rose petals are always pretty — especially when offered in handmade doily cones. Or take the tradition and
add some drama: We did a wedding reception at a lake house, and the bride and groom left amid fireworks and music in a speedboat.

Grooms are choosing their own dessert stations in lieu of the traditional Southern groom’s cake. One of the best was for a groom whose family they often enjoyed pie for dessert. We served his favorite types at the same time the cake was served. We’ve been asked to do the same with warm cobblers and ice cream. Image: Adam Nyholt.

Jackson Hicks, Jackson and Company%26nbsp;

Event catering

Employing old-fashioned cakes from other countries around the world: perhaps a croquembouche, a pyramid of tiny cream puffs in the French tradition, or British wedding fruitcakes.

We’re seeing a return to the intimacy of home weddings and receptions.

Couples incorporating personal pieces from their past, such as gathering antique lace tablecloths from both sides of their families to use as overlays on the guest seating tables, while another bride used her grandmother’s collection of cut-glass vases for the centerpiece arrangements.

Modernizing the Southern tradition of a groom’s cake by serving one of his favorite foods, such as a French-toast station instead of a cake.

The Big White Dress

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:01:53 GMT

It%26rsquo;s the costliest dress many women will ever invest in. Joan Pillow, owner of the bridal salon in Highland Village that bears her name, takes the task of shopping for wedding gowns very, very seriously. A regular front-row guest at the most notable bridal runway shows each season, she says we%26rsquo;ll be seeing more floaty, romantic, light dresses with inventive layers of tulle this year. Vera Wang brought a whimsical look to the Fall 2012 runway, marching models in black and blush dresses (which will turn up in stores translated to ivory tonalities) with fabrics ingeniously utilized. For example, Wang layers Chantilly lace with sheer layers of tulle %26mdash; far from the puffy ballerina skirts we%26rsquo;d seen in decades past. Always a trendsetter, Wang has brought back the plunging halter-neck cut with another tulle-layered gown. Monique Lhuillier recognizes that while sometimes a strapless dress is preferred, it%26rsquo;s not always the most suitable cut for a bride or her religious circumstances. For Fall 2012, Lhuillier uses a stretch tulle around the shoulders to essentially cover a strapless dress. In another instance, she creates a shrug with three-quarter sleeves, also in tulle but studded with scattered beading, to wear as a cardigan or bodice cover with myriad dress styles. Lhuillier, among others, is also using loads and loads of lace in the most modern of ways. Designer Jenny Lee, a Joan Pillow exclusive in Houston, has gone back through her archives to refabricate her most-sought-after silhouettes from past seasons, with lower prices, for Fall 2012. Finally, Charles Bunstine, the former president of Barneys New York who%26rsquo;s head designer for Anna Maier~Ulla-Maija, is all about using lace in the most ethereal of ways. See it all on the racks of Joan Pillow Bridal Salon, Highland Village.

Images:

Joan Pillow. Photo by Jenny Antill.

Monique Lhuillier

Vera Wang

Going to the Chapel

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:57:55 GMT

One can rent Rolls-Royces, diamonds and even gowns for that picture-perfect day. Now chapels and sanctuaries have joined those leasable ranks via the Web site rentmychurch.com. The Dallas-based site boasts a savvy, mightily detailed search engine for brides and grooms seeking the holiest of ceremony and reception venues. There are even checkboxes for those with discerning requirements. Alcohol allowed? Check. Outside minister permitted? Check. Outdoor space and catering on hand? Check and check. As for the Rolodex of churches listed for hire, they range from as far away as Anchorage, Alaska, to as close as our own Lovers Lane. All that%26rsquo;s left to say is %26lsquo;I do.%26rsquo; rentmychurch.com.

To Have and to Hold … For Four Days or Eight

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:55:46 GMT

Ladies, it%26rsquo;s time to face the cold, hard truth: No matter how much money you spend on a bridesmaid dress, you will never wear it again. Short of buying yet another dress destined to gather dust, what are you to do? Rent it. Yes, renttherunway.com, the brainchild of two Harvard MBAs (women, naturally), is essentially the Netflix of dress renting. The site allows you to choose an outfit for any occasion from more than 150 top international designers. We think the concept lends itself best to bridesmaid dresses. For example, you can rent a Roksanda Ilincic silk column gown (retail: $2,300) for just $300 for four days. Or perhaps the bride would like to see you in a little Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti cocktail dress (retail $895), renting for $125. Confused about sizing? Never fear, two sizes will be sent, just in case you guessed wrong. The renttherunway.com buyers purchase a wealth of inventory, so even if you have a party of 10, you%26rsquo;ll likely find all the dresses you need for the weekend you desire. Then when the proverbial clock strikes midnight, pack it back into the prepaid envelope and deposit it in any post-office mailbox. Dress rentals from $40, accessory rentals from $10, at renttherunway.com.

Image: Moschino Cheap %26amp; Chic

Bridal Trunk Shows

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:52:59 GMT

Belle Mari%26eacute;e Bridal

2509 River Oaks Blvd., 713.523.0068; bellemarieehouston.com

February 24 %26ndash; 25: Badgley Mischka

March 9 %26ndash; 10: Jorge Manuel

March 30 %26ndash; 31: Modern Trousseau

April 27 %26ndash; 28: Ines Di Santo

July 6 %26ndash; 7: Modern Trousseau

July 14 %26ndash; 15: Sara Gabriel veils and accessories

%26nbsp;

Brickhouse Bridal

200 Valleywood, The Woodlands, 281.681.3430; brickhousebridal.com

February 10 %26ndash; 11: Pronovias Feature Weekend

February 24 %26ndash; 25: Watters %26amp; WTOO bridal and attendant

March 2 %26ndash; 3: Simone Carvalli Spring 2012

March 9 %26ndash; 10: Maggie Sottero Feature Weekend

March 16 %26ndash; 17: Justin Alexander

April 13 %26ndash; 14: Enzoani

April 26 %26ndash; 28: Saison Blanche Couture

May 18 %26ndash; 19: Blue by Enzoani

June 8 %26ndash; 9: Jim Hjelm Spring 2012

June 22 %26ndash; 23: Watters

Casa de Novia Bridal Couture

3331 D%26rsquo;Amico St., 713.523.9090; casadenoviabridal.com

February 2 %26ndash; 4: Best of Vera Wang

February 24 %26ndash; 25: Lanvin

March 1 %26ndash; 3: Elizabeth Fillmore

March 22 %26ndash; 24: Monique Lhuillier Spring 2012

May 10 %26ndash; 12: Vera Wang Spring 2013, straight from the runway

%26nbsp;

Ivory Bridal Atelier

West Ave Shopping Center, 2800 Kirby Dr., 713.550.1622; ivorybridalhouston.com

February 2 %26ndash; 4: Rivini Spring 2012

February 16 %26ndash; 18: Reem Acra Spring 2012

March 16 %26ndash; 17: Anne Barge Spring 2012

March 30 %26ndash; 31: Badgley Mischka Spring 2012

%26nbsp;

Joan Pillow Bridal Salon

Highland Village, 4001 Westheimer, 713.622.1122; joanpillowbridal.com

February 2 %26ndash; 4: Romona Keveza Fall 2012

February 16 %26ndash; 18: Anna Maier ~ Ulla-Maija Fall 2012

March 8 %26ndash; 10: Romona Keveza Legends Fall 2012

March 15 %26ndash; 17: Carolina Herrera Fall 2012

May 31 %26ndash; June 2: Monique Lhuillier Spring 2013

%26nbsp;

Mia Bridal Couture

1958 W. Gray St., 713.622.2022; miabridalcouture.com

February 10 %26ndash; 11: Watters

February 17 %26ndash; 18: Rivini

March 9 %26ndash; 10: Judd Waddell with PA by Judd Waddell

April 8: One Day Only Sample Sale

April 27 %26ndash; 28: Amsale %26ldquo;Straight from the Runway%26rdquo;

May 18 %26ndash; 19: Kenneth Pool

June 29 %26ndash; 30: Rivini

July 20 %26ndash; 21: Christos

Now and Forever BridalBoutique

3701 Kirby Dr., 713.218.0369; nowandforeverbridalbtq.com

February 17 %26ndash; 18: Blush by JLM

February 24 %26ndash; 25: N%26amp;F Collection

March 2 %26ndash; 3: Hayley Paige

March 23 %26ndash; 24: Best of Tara Keely by Lazaro

April 27 %26ndash; 28: Best of Jane Wang

May 25 %26ndash; 26: Hayley Paige

The Wedding Suite at Nordstrom

Galleria, 832.201.2700; nordstrom.com

February 17 %26ndash; 19, 11 am %26ndash; 4 pm: Rosa Clara and Aire

Priceless Advice

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:51:48 GMT

Sometimes you have no idea what you don%26rsquo;t know till you sit down with a pro. That%26rsquo;s how I felt after chatting with wedding planner Ann Whittington, who has been helping brides plan everything from the engagement party to the post-nuptial brunch for more than 13 years. Whittington accompanies brides to every vendor appointment. (Her flat fees range from $4,000 to $18,000.) Since I%26rsquo;m assuming the role of bride myself this spring, she shared this priceless advice:

Budget: Have one from the start. You can use up to 40 vendors for an event, and you%26rsquo;ll need to go over every line item to determine what takes precedence financially.

Photographers: Shockingly, there are photographers who won%26rsquo;t take a meeting to go over a shot list with the bride and groom to figure out who are the important players the week before the curtain drops. That%26rsquo;s bad form. Whittington believes it%26rsquo;s crucial that the photographer talk through the details face to face, so they snap the pictures you envision, know who%26rsquo;s who on the guest list and, most importantly, can shoot the event quickly instead of so slowly that they only get stiff, posed shots with frozen smiles.

The Dry Run: %26ldquo;I always suggest that at least six weeks prior, the bride does a complete run-through, from hair and makeup to dress, veil and shoes to shoot a bridal portrait,%26rdquo; says Whittington. %26ldquo;I can%26rsquo;t tell you how many times a bride will realize she hates her hair, her makeup is too dramatic, her shoes hurt or the photographer isn%26rsquo;t right.%26rdquo;

Shoes: The happiest brides elect to wear heels that don%26rsquo;t tower, especially considering they%26rsquo;ll be on their feet for 8 to 10 hours. (Most veer to Jimmy Choo.) Forgo flats that will change your gait.

Transportation: If a good portion of your guests are winging in from out of town, consider hiring a bus or trolley to take them from one central location to the church then reception and, if necessary, back to their hotel at the end of the event.

Image: Photo by Michael Carr Photography

Timeless Style

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:50:49 GMT

Love is in the air at Cartier. The first new engagement-ring design in five years, the Cartier D%26rsquo;Amour collection continues the French house%26rsquo;s tradition of working with platinum (after all, Cartier was the first jeweler to master the metal). The solitaire is set in a micro-pav%26eacute; setting that%26rsquo;s both modern and sleek %26mdash; and intended to awe from every angle. Pair it with a pav%26eacute; band; options vary from platinum to every hue of gold. Engagement rings from $3,550; full-diamond-pav%26eacute; bands from $3,250, at the Cartier boutique.

Image: Cartier D'Amour sparkler

Room to Grow

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:49:52 GMT

Robin Lindberg, owner of the jewel-box boutique Queen of Heirs, has recently expanded her Bellaire shop. Known for her gorgeous, well-priced estate pieces, Lindberg and company now have twice the space to dazzle brides and prospective grooms with engagement rings and bridal jewelry alike. They even serve coffee and stock drinks and wine for customers trying on rings and perusing catalogs for his band style. 4901 Locust St., Bellaire, 713.666.6683; queenofheirs.com.

Put it in Writing

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:48:48 GMT

A lot of us at PaperCity have commissioned the talented Pat Leith, a former president of the Houston Calligraphy Guild, to pretty up all sorts of paper pieces, from baby announcements to wedding suites, scrapbooks and more. Although her specialty is a style called copperplate, she can scale it back to a simple block or bring out all the flourishes to create something quite formal and dazzling. Every piece is carefully done with an oblique dip pen and inks blended to match your paper suite, old-school style, although some enlist her to create a master copy of their invite that%26rsquo;s later engraved and printed on stiff, luxurious cardstock. Oh, the options%26hellip; Calligraphy by Patricia, 713.621.9595; calligraphyandcards.com.

Image: Photo by Jenny Antill

The Prop Shop

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:47:44 GMT

Chums Kirbi Knop and Tina Sanford had an inspired idea. Obsessive amassers of fabulous flea-market finds, they pooled their resources and collections to create a novel prop shop for those desiring to add a little splash to any event. Their collaboration, A Style Collective, is a one-stop Houston shop aimed at anyone planning a party, as well as editors, photographers and do-it-yourselfers. You can rent all kinds of unique items for your big day, or even hire the duo to style it for you. Check out their blog for ideas about
how to use their props at your next soirée. Information astylecollective.com.

Pumped-Up Baroque

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:46:11 GMT

Models Alex Long and Kaylin Rogers for Kim Dawson Agency; Lexi Russell for Wallflower Management. Makeup Leslie Belcher for the Campbell Agency. Hair Mateo Sifuentes for Kim Dawson Agency. Photo assistant Austin Lockheed. Fashion assistants Emerald Stocker and Erin Oppenheim.

Fashion Flashback. From left: Thakoon tiger-lily silk twill peplum top $860, and paisley full shorts $1,275, both at Atrium, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom. Thakoon booties at thakoon.com. Senti bangle $195, at Neiman Marcus. Center: Dolce %26amp; Gabbana silk sequin and lace dress, price upon request, to order at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Dolce %26amp; Gabbana velvet pumps $575, at dolceandgabbana.com.Jose %26amp; Maria Barrera earrings $240, at Neiman Marcus. Simon Sebbag gold bangles $249 each, at Ann%26rsquo;s Fine Gifts, Nordstrom. Right: Thakoon Indian cotton shirt $860, and zigzag Lurex chiffon mini skirt $1,190, both at Atrium, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom. Viktor %26amp; Rolf heels a shopbop.com.

Curly Cues. Marni Swiggles sleeveless top $732, and Squiggles skirt $906, both at Saks Fifth Avenue. Isharya earrings $249, at net-a-porter.com

Bondage Babes.%26nbsp; Versace mint-colored, studded dress $6,295, at the Versace boutique, Tootsies. Oscar de la Renta crystal drop earrings $295, and bracelet $385, both at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Right: Herv%26eacute; L%26eacute;ger by Max Azria dress $2,600, at the BCBG Max Azria boutique, Elizabeth Anthony/Esther Wolf, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Roberto Cavalli serpent necklace $1,235. Dian Malouf ring $740, at Chard%26eacute;, J. Silver, Linda Cunningham.

Keep It Short. Prada cotton-and-satin bodysuit with superpos%26eacute; embroidery and bag, prices upon request, at the Prada boutique, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Versace Seahorse wedges $1,395, at the Versace boutique.

Prints, Please. Emilio Pucci printed long scarf dress $6,995, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tootsies. Emilio Pucci sandals $1,275, at emiliopucci.com. Devi Kroell wooden clutch $2,700, at Katia Boutique. Ricardo Martin pearl and gold floral earrings $17,500.

Knockout Knickers. Roberto Cavalli jacket $1,965, bandeau top $1,325, and trousers $2,255, all at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tootsies. Lulu Frost bracelet, at Joseph.

Bold and Blue. Viktor %26amp; Rolf dress, at Forty Five Ten, Dallas. Oscar de la Renta cuff bracelet $535, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Jose %26amp; Maria Barrera earrings, at Neiman Marcus.

Brocade Parade. Left: L%26rsquo;Wren Scott silk chiffon dress with embroidery $5,990, and Lady Fan shoes $990, both by special order through Barneys New York. Center: Gucci strapless sequin-and-embroidery dress $8,900, at the Gucci boutique, Saks Fifth Avenue. Gucci platform pumps, at the Gucci boutique, Neiman Marcus. Right: Christopher Kane brocade Sara dress $2,785, at net-a-porter.com. Oscar de la Renta earrings $290, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Roberto Cavalli sandals with serpent detail $1,340.

Strong Stripes. Carolina Herrera stripe-print chiffon gown with matching leather wrap belt, price upon request, at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue. Devi Kroell wooden clutch with mirror python and coral clasp $2,300, at Katia Boutique. Oscar de la Renta crystal drop earrings $295, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Isharya ring $185, at net-a-porter.com.

The Little Bird

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:30:19 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Keele Loyd.

Feathering this Nest: If you%26rsquo;re an Aspen habitu%26eacute;, you%26rsquo;ll recognize the name of this luxury consignment shop on Post Oak Boulevard near the Galleria. Owner Keele Loyd%26rsquo;s 3,200-square-foot space is designed in a vintage motif, with retro bookshelves to display product and mod chairs in the sitting area. Prepare to preen with covetable, collectible fashions and accessories by such high-end designers as Chanel, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior and more. We hear a fabulous navy-blue Herm%26egrave;s Birkin was recently in the window. Who told us? Oh, just a little bird. 1735 Post Oak Blvd., 832.767.4483; thelittlebirdinc.com.

Image: The Little Bird

Un Deux Trois

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:25:46 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owners Colin and Bev Shorkend; manager Kim Hernandez.

Stocked Goods: With the opening of Un Deux Trois, stylish young tweens have a new one-stop hot spot for on-trend shoes, dresses, jackets, suiting and accessories. The 3,000-square-foot space is the second Texas location for this California-based boutique, which draws in the hip offspring of famous names such as Johnny Depp, Heidi Klum and Reese Witherspoon to its four Los Angeles%26ndash;area locations. The store isn%26rsquo;t all about Hollywood, though. Owners Colin and Bev Shorkend tapped local designer Lisa Pope-Westerman of the firm Gensler to design their West Ave space. %26ldquo;As a Mom of pre-teen girls and a designer, I felt like a perfect fit to design this shop. We are Un Deux Trois%26rsquo; target demographic,%26rdquo; Pope-Westerman says. %26ldquo;We used matte white for the casual area, glossy white for the separates and glossy black for the formal wear, all with splashes of the brand%26rsquo;s signature pink.%26rdquo; In addition to Un Deux Trois%26rsquo; private-label clothing, the mix includes well-edited selections of Betsey Johnson, BCBG and Sue Wong, plus shoes by Steve Madden, Nina and Stuart Weitzman, as well as a vast array of accessories. 2600 Kirby Dr. in West Ave., 942.9949; udtfashion.com.

Image: Un Deux Trois. Photo by Patrick Bertolino.

The It-Factor

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:09:52 GMT

Anyone who knows what it feels like to keep a spare LBD and a pair of Louboutins at the office or how dizzying it is to jet from a high-powered meeting to a black-tie gala — all in a day’s work — must make room in her handbag for this beauty find. The It Kit by vbeauté is an egg-shaped, gunmetal-gray clutch that brings to mind a mini version of the famous pod that incubated a certain megastar at the 2011 Grammys. But instead of opening the sleek container to find a pint-sized Gaga, The It Kit hatches five vbeauté products, from the foamy Evidence Eraser cleanser to the Undercover Agent anti-wrinkle serum — all in regal, plum-colored tubes and travel-friendly sizes. Vbeauté’s founder, New York–based Julie Macklowe, found inspiration for the line in her own jet-setting lifestyle: managing multi-million-dollar hedge funds, being a mother and sitting on committees for the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Fashion Week at Lincoln Center. So, when she set out to produce her first line of beauty products, she sought only the best visage-care recipes. The result? The It Kit, plus a whole range of luxurious elixirs, including an exfoliant, eye and face crèmes and a skin-brightening agent all made from a botanical stem-cell base from the Alpine Rose plant found in Switzerland. They’re just the things to bring with you on your own winter jet jaunt, whether you’re taking the G650 to Aspen or the Alps. Meet Ms. Macklowe at Tootsies Friday, February 3, 4 to 7 pm. The It Kit $165, at Tootsies.

Image: Gunmetal glam: The It Kit by vbeauté
.

Retail Rap

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:24:32 GMT

Bevello, a women%26rsquo;s contemporary fashion boutique from North Carolina, opens its first Texas boutique at River Oaks Shopping Center this spring %26hellip; J.Crew is opening a second Houston location, this one at CityCentre, at Beltway 8 and I-10. The preppy 5,127-square-foot boutique debuts in April between LMD Boutique and Amegy Bank, across from CityCentre plaza %26hellip; French Cuff Boutique, on Bellaire Boulevard next to Whole Foods Market, has opened a second location at 6401 Woodway %26hellip; The Pretty Kitty, which specializes in Brazilian waxing, opens on Rice Boulevard in Rice Village in March %26hellip; On May 6, Target launches an entirely new collaboration concept called The Shops at Target. This time, it%26rsquo;s not about teaming up with a particular fashion designer or fashion brand, but instead with shop owners of specialty stores. San Francisco%26rsquo;s The Candy Store, Miami%26rsquo;s hip fashion shop The Webster, luxury beauty boutique The Cos Bar, Boston-based Polka Dog Bakery and Privet House, a home-goods, antiques and curiosities shop located in Connecticut, have all been chosen as the first shops to curate their own collection of goods for the class-to-mass retailer. The five collections total 400 exclusive products, with prices that range from $1 to $160 %26hellip; At West Ave, premier gentleman%26rsquo;s boutique Q Custom Clothier has added custom shoes to its repertoire of just-made-for-you items: Q is now the exclusive provider of the Scarpe di Bianco custom shoe program in Houston. This handmade Italian shoemaker produces footwear for the likes of Lanvin and Tom Ford. Stop in to choose from the array of leathers and styles to make your own perfect pair %26hellip; To kick off the 2012 Heart Card, the discount shopping card benefitting American Heart Association, a fashion show (the third annual) featuring the best of River Oaks Shopping Center boutiques takes place Wednesday, February 29, at River Oaks Theatre. To purchase a Heart Card for $40 and receive discounts up to 30 percent at participating retailers from May 1 through 11, visit ahaguildhouston.org %26hellip; John Evatz, the former Cartier Houston director who left us three years ago to (most recently) help relaunch David Webb in New York, is now back in the Houston jewelry whirl, heading up fine jewelry and watches at Saks Fifth Avenue %26hellip; Fashion boutique Atrium now stocks Narciso Rodriquez. Owner Luvi Wheelock also let us know that her Vera Wang shop-in-shop carrying bridal and ready-to-wear opens in May %26hellip; Matt Camron has created a new collection of luxury rugs called the Over-Dyed Collection, featuring antique reproduction patterned rugs vibrantly drenched in shades of purple, green and hot pink.

Inside the Head of Radha Arora

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:06:13 GMT

One of the world%26rsquo;s top purveyors of resorts and hotels has a brand-new man %26mdash; and he%26rsquo;s got credentials in spades. Meet Radha Arora, a 30-year force in the luxury-lodging biz and the new president of Rosewood Hotels %26amp; Resorts, based here in Dallas. He%26rsquo;s detail-obsessed (no rumpled drapes or specks of dust allowed); he%26rsquo;s dapper (he%26rsquo;s mad for Domenico Vacca and Ralph Lauren Black Label); and he%26rsquo;s droll (his sense of humor peppers every conversation). We sat down with the cool commander-in-chief to learn more %26mdash; a lot more. What did we uncover? Let%26rsquo;s just say you may want to work %26ldquo;Chardonnay Hour%26rdquo; into your routine immediately.

Welcome to Dallas! What have been the two biggest adjustments since moving here from Beverly Hills, where you were the regional VP and GM of the Beverly Wilshire? Dallas is a warmer and friendlier city, and the traffic is much better here.

Defining moments in your career?%26nbsp; The first is when I was appointed the youngest general manager in the history of the Ritz London. The second is, undoubtedly, being named president of Rosewood Hotels %26amp; Resorts.

How did you earn your first dollar? Pumping gas at a service station outside of London on the weekends %26mdash; somewhat fitting since I%26rsquo;m now living in the heart of oil-and-gas country.

Give us your take on luxury hospitality. What does it mean to you? Luxury is very personal, and I have exceedingly high expectations of service, setting and experience.
I recently read an unattributed quote that I wholly agree with: %26ldquo;The bitterness of poor quality lasts long after the sweet taste of a low price has passed.%26rdquo;

What are you most looking forward to as president? Rosewood Hotels %26amp; Resorts is a remarkable brand and yet, in some ways, a sleeping giant.
I look forward to awakening the giant and expanding Rosewood%26rsquo;s presence around the globe.

Let%26rsquo;s talk style: How would you describe yours? My father was in the diplomatic service, and growing up I was privileged to spend time among diplomats and government leaders, where I would observe their presence: the way they dressed, the way they stood and the way they would interact. I noticed everything. Those experiences shaped
my own style %26mdash; which I%26rsquo;d simply call %26ldquo;European.%26rdquo;

Who%26rsquo;s a well-known man whose style you admire? Ryan Seacrest. It%26rsquo;s not just about how he wears his clothes %26mdash; he is stylish in every way. He%26rsquo;s articulate, artful and a bundle of energy

You%26rsquo;re quite the modern-day dandy. Which labels hang in your closet %26mdash; and why? Domenico Vacca [the Italian designer, with shops in New York, California and Florida]: He is a hidden gem, and his clothes personify European elegance and chic. I love Alexander McQueen%26rsquo;s winter wear and Tom Ford%26rsquo;s very classic yet modern designs. For traveling and casual wear, I%26rsquo;m usually in Ralph Lauren Black Label.

What%26rsquo;s a fashion mistake that you now regret %26mdash; and hope that any photos were destroyed? An Ed Hardy T-shirt.%26nbsp;

Now that you%26rsquo;ve had a few months to get your bearings, where in Dallas would we catch you dining %26mdash; and what do you order? Besides the Mansion, where I%26rsquo;ve had many wonderful meals since I%26rsquo;ve been here, I adore Nonna. The tortelloni of roasted porchetta with dried orange zest and fennel pollen is my current favorite. It%26rsquo;s sublime. I also really like Nosh and I get my sushi fix regularly at Nobu. I%26rsquo;m still living in the hotel, so I%26rsquo;m eating out a lot.

Three things you can%26rsquo;t live without:
1. My Chardonnay Hour, during which I drink a glass of my favorite chardonnay and enjoy my Chardonnay Hour playlist on my iPad (whenever I find time).
2. Watching the movie Love Actually several times during the holiday season. I know it%26rsquo;s quirky, but I love that movie.
3. My Tom Ford eyeglasses.

What would be the title of your autobiography? Am I The Only One??? I see rumpled drapes or dust on furniture or hear music that is unbefitting of its environment and I always think, %26lsquo;Am I the only one who sees this?%26rsquo; It might be the perfectionist in me.

What%26rsquo;s the best invitation you%26rsquo;ve ever received? An invitation to one of Clive Davis%26rsquo; pre-Grammy parties. I was star-struck.%26nbsp;

You have 24 hours in your favorite city. What city is it %26mdash; and what three things would you do there? I%26rsquo;d go to Paris and sip champagne at L%26rsquo;Avenue, sip champagne at the Hotel George V and sip champagne at the Plaza Ath%26eacute;n%26eacute;e.

Other than Rosewood Hotels %26mdash; of course %26mdash; what are your three favorite hotels, and why? The Hotel George V in Paris, because it%26rsquo;s quintessential Paris without the Parisian attitude and is run by a dear friend of mine; Claridge%26rsquo;s London because it is an iconic, glamorous London hotel; and the Park Hyatt Shanghai because it is visually stunning and was designed by my friend Tony Chi.

Who%26rsquo;s your favorite architect? Richard Meier.

For you, what%26rsquo;s a perfect day off? I work out, have coffee with my wife, watch English Premier Soccer, rest, enjoy Chardonnay Hour and have dinner with my wife and sons.

What%26rsquo;s the best advice you%26rsquo;ve ever received? Steve Jobs gave it to each of us: %26ldquo;You can%26rsquo;t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.%26rdquo;%26nbsp;

And the worst? %26ldquo;You%26rsquo;d be great in the medical profession.%26rdquo;

%26nbsp;

Images:

Radha Arora. Photography George Fiala.

The Ritz London

The Rosewood Crescent Hotel

Alexander McQueen Fall 2011

Ryan Seacrest, man of style

Arora%26rsquo;s stylish Tom Ford specs

Arora%26rsquo;s can%26rsquo;t-live-without ritual: Chardonnay plus playlist equals Chardonnay Hour

The Richard Meier%26ndash;designed Rachofsky House. Photo by Michael Bodycomb.

Retail Rap

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:47:31 GMT

Well, hello, 2012. We couldn%26rsquo;t be more thrilled at what%26rsquo;s to come, especially this little tidbit of New Year scoop: Italian label Marni has signed on to partner with H%26amp;M on a men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s spring collection that is due in stores and online in early March. Until then, we%26rsquo;ve got secret details on a few Marni + H%26amp;M goodies that should definitely make your shopping list: for her, full-pleated skirts, dresses, cropped trousers and jacquard knits in bold colors and prints; for him, we%26rsquo;re betting that the shirts featuring hints of prints %26mdash; as linings or contrast elements %26mdash; will disappear in minutes. Hurry, March! In the meantime, shop H%26amp;M now at its NorthPark Center store or click to hm.com %26hellip; Emilio Pucci has popped up again, this time within Nordstrom at NorthPark Center. (Its first pop-up appeared in Highland Park Village last year; at press time, it%26rsquo;s still going strong.) The new temporary space, located on Nordstrom%26rsquo;s second floor, features the newest bright and boisterous ready-to-wear and accessories from Pucci creative director Peter Dundas. We%26rsquo;re told this Pucci pop-up will be open until March, although an insider has informed us that date will %26ldquo;very likely be extended.%26rdquo; Ring 214.231.3900 and beg %26rsquo;em
to stay %26hellip; Fancy a brand-new bag? Barneys New York now carries men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s leather goods from Smythson of Bond Street, the British purveyor of stationery and luxe leather accessories. The musts, in the NorthPark store and at barneys.com: handbags, briefcases, wallets, planners, even iPhone cozies. Cheerio goes very chic %26hellip; All it takes is a giant pink foam whale delivered to our offices, and we%26rsquo;re intrigued: Vineyard Vines, the utterly preppy clothing for madras-loving men, women and kids, has opened its first Texas stand-alone store in The Shops at Willow Bend. (Yes, most of it sporting VV%26rsquo;s jovial pink whale mascot.) Go for polo shirts aplenty, velvety cashmere sweaters and some of the cheekiest printed-silk men%26rsquo;s neckties we%26rsquo;ve seen %26mdash; just try to decide between the debonair martinis-and-cigars, or the vintage palms-and-parrots. Vineyard Vines is the WASP-y work of brothers Shep and Ian Murray, who founded the New England company in 1998. It%26rsquo;s so much closer to home now: VV%26rsquo;s shop-within-shop at St. Bernard Sports in Inwood Village rages on; ring the new standalone store at 469.366.0118, or tap vineyardvines.com. Here%26rsquo;s to a New Year full of pink-and-green pleasures.

Image: Consuelo Castiglioni, founder and creative director of Marni, prepping one of her line%26rsquo;s quintessential looks. Photo by Magnus Magnusson.

Striking Gold — NorthPark Gold

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:42:10 GMT

It%26rsquo;s the hot ticket to get your hands on this New Year: Starting the first of this month, St. John%26rsquo;s Episcopal School will sell tickets to its inaugural raffle. For $100 per ticket, or six for $500, you%26rsquo;ll be in the running for one of three grand %26mdash; and we%26rsquo;d say rather gilded %26mdash; prizes. To wit, $10,000 worth of NorthPark Gold for the top prize; $1,000 for the second; and $500 for the third. Just what can you buy with your share of these shiny doubloons? Virtually anything you wish at NorthPark%26rsquo;s more than 200 stores and restaurants. The drawing will take place during St. John%26rsquo;s annual fund-raising auction on Friday, March 2, at Union Station (you needn%26rsquo;t be present to win). Proceeds from the event and raffle will benefit student scholarships, classroom technology, teacher endowments and continuing education. Visit sjauction.org/raffle to get your tickets %26mdash; but snap to it: Only 1,000 will be sold.

Image: Jackpot: The three winners of the St. John%26rsquo;s Episcopal School raffle will line their pockets with NorthPark Gold.

Berry Good

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:40:49 GMT

For polished and pristine skin, we%26rsquo;ve found just the thing. Slick on the Triple Berry Smoothing Peel from Dallas-based skincare expert to the socials (and stars) Ren%26eacute;e Rouleau. The fruity-smelling, preserves-like potion is chock-full of antioxidant-rich berries and five skin-smoothing AHA and BHA acids that are designed to help improve your skin%26rsquo;s texture and tone down the look of large pores. The peel is professional-strength %26mdash; it%26rsquo;s like a real Rouleau facial, but in a jar. We think it%26rsquo;s ultimate cure-all for the complexion-obsessed. $85, at the Ren%26eacute;e Rouleau skin spa; reneerouleau.com.

The It-Factor

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:39:38 GMT

Anyone who knows what it feels like to keep a spare LBD and a spare pair of Louboutins at the office or how dizzying it is to jet from a high-powered meeting to a black-tie gala %26mdash; all in a day%26rsquo;s work %26mdash; must make room in her handbag for this beauty find. The It Kit by vbeaut%26eacute; is an egg-shaped, gunmetal-gray clutch that brings to mind a mini version of the famous pod that incubated a certain megastar at the 2011 Grammys. But instead of opening to reveal a pint-sized Gaga, this sleek container hatches five vbeaut%26eacute; products, from the foamy Evidence Eraser cleanser to the Undercover Agent anti-wrinkle serum %26mdash; all in regal, plum-colored tubes and travel-friendly sizes. We first came across vbeaut%26eacute; when its founder, New York%26ndash;based Julie Macklowe, dropped into town to debut her collection at Forty Five Ten last month. An It-girl herself, Macklowe found inspiration in her own jet-setting lifestyle: managing multi-million-dollar hedge funds, being a mother and sitting on committees for the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Fashion Week at Lincoln Center. So, when she set out to produce her first line of beauty products, she sought only the best visage-care recipes. The result? The It Kit, and a whole range of luxurious elixirs, including an exfoliant, eye and face cr%26egrave;mes and a skin-brightening agent, all made from a botanical stem-cell base from the Alpine Rose plant found in Switzerland. They%26rsquo;re just the things to bring with you on your own winter jet jaunt, whether you%26rsquo;re taking the G650 to Aspen or the Alps. The It Kit by vbeaut%26eacute; $165, at Forty Five Ten.

Image: The It Kit by vbeaut%26eacute;

Retail Rap

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:59:15 GMT

At West Ave, the former River Oaks Shopping Center fashion boutique 310 Rosemont opens up shop under a new name, Sam and Lilli, early this year %26hellip; Joan Pillow Bridal Salon hosts two big Fall 2012 trunk shows this month: Monique Lhuillier, January 5 %26ndash; 7, and Vera Wang, January 12 %26ndash; 14 %26hellip; Project Runway has a new spinoff that brings back all your favorite contestants for another shot at fashion superstardom. Project Runway All-Stars premieres January 5 for a 12-week run on the Lifetime channel. Sponsor Neiman Marcus provides all the accessories for the reality runway %26hellip; Elizabeth Anthony/Esther Wolf hosts Venezuelan designer Gionni Straccia January 13 and 14. His custom couture evening gowns have been worn by Miss Universe, Miss Teen USA and Miss Texas Teen %26hellip; A collaboration between Christian Dior and contemporary artist Anselm Reyle made a stellar debut last month at Art Basel in Miami. The radical collection of camouflage-print Lady Dior bags, shoes, jewelry, eyeshadows and solid-color nail polishes to complement the camo make their debut this month exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue and dior.com. Book a rad mani at Saks Fifth Avenue Dior Nail Bar January 5 through 7 to have your nails polished in limited-edition artistic shades as Pink Graffiti, Ultra Violet, Electric Blue, Untitled Black and Metallic Silver. Appointments 713.627.0500, ext. 5700.

Miu Miu

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:24:21 GMT

Keys to the door: Manager Crystal Yang.
Stocked goods: Fun, flirty and gilded in gold, the first Miu Miu boutique in Texas has opened at the Galleria. Miu Miu, the tad-younger collection designed by Prada%26rsquo;s Miuccia Prada, is housed in a dynamite 3,000-square-foot space designed by Roberto Baciocchi. It%26rsquo;s modern style with a twist: Think clean-lined counters, shelves and tables to display the candy-colored bags, shoes and accessories, emboldened by baroque gold-leaf paneling in the windows, mirrored furniture and damask wallpaper. Peruse the whimsical and diamante-encrusted accessories in the front two rooms, as well as the limited-edition python-print handbags (hurry %26mdash;%26nbsp;there are only five) sold exclusively in the Houston boutique. In the final room, you%26rsquo;ll find the Resort and Spring 2012 collections. We can%26rsquo;t wait to shop the lighting-bolt, gingham and jewel-tone party dresses Miuccia Prada premiered for the early spring season. If that much color is too sweet for your tastes, look for the more demure patchwork-print and ladylike lace looks for spring. Galleria 1, between MaxMara and Hugo Boss, 713.623.7850; miumiu.com.

Right Off the Runway

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:19:54 GMT

This is a party town where you can find yourself at a soir%26eacute;e nearly every night of the week. For women, of course, there%26rsquo;s always that pesky wardrobe conundrum: What shall I wear? Faced with closet fatigue, many are logging onto renttherunway.com to change up their options. Need a head-to-toe new look for a grand gala or engagement party? Select a frock from more than 150 current designer looks (rentals $40 to $400, depending on the garment%26rsquo;s retail price). Or maybe you want to revamp what you own with fabulous (new and vintage) Chanel accessories (starting at $100), a Kara Ross clutch ($55) or a Gerard Yosca cuff ($35), or something bold from Kenneth Jay Lane, Erickson Beamon, Tom Binns or House of Harlow 1960. Simply login and peruse the current-collection designs of stellar designers such as Herv%26eacute; L%26eacute;ger (one of the most requested designers), Narciso Rodriguez, Thakoon, Nina Ricci, Alberta Ferretti, Peter Som, Vera Wang, Moschino, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, Rachel Roy, Missoni and Halston Heritage. With 25,000 dresses and 4,000 accessories in stock, there%26rsquo;s no need to worry that someone has snagged your size. And speaking of size: Whenever you rent a dress you%26rsquo;re actually sent two sizes, up or down %26mdash; your choice. You can rent the clothing, handbags and jewels for four or eight days. When your party is a %26ldquo;f%26ecirc;te%26rdquo; accompli, simply drop the dress and/or accessories in the prepaid envelope and deposit it in any USPS mailbox. They%26rsquo;ll be cleaned and pressed back at the New Jersey warehouse. Information renttherunway.com.

Image: Photo by Ashley Savage, abs@renttherunway.com

Prada

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 11:33:47 GMT

Stocked goods: The first Prada boutique in Texas has opened at the Galleria. The 5,000-square-foot space, designed by Roberto Baciocchi, is dedicated to men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s collections of ready-to-wear, bags, accessories and shoes. The sophisticated older sister of Miu Miu, Prada still carries quite a bit of wit and whimsy in its collections, as seen in both the resort and spring lines now available in-store. Inspired by the %26lsquo;50s, resort features Elvis%26ndash;style jackets and June Carter%26ndash;inspired shirts, windowpane and polka-dot print dresses and a resurrection of Miuccia Prada%26rsquo;s iconic lip print, circa 2004. The trend continues into spring with %26rsquo;50s pinup-girl swimsuits, schoolgirl pleated skirts and crochet coats, plus flame and American-hot-rod prints on leather, coats, dresses, skirts and shirts. Men will find mid-century-style shirting, suits, scarves and candy-colored saddle-style golf shoes to match their pretty pinups. Meanwhile, the women%26rsquo;s handbags collection for spring focuses on braided madras totes. Keychains in letter-jacket letters are a fun find as well. Galleria I, next door to MaxMara; prada.com.

Image: Prada

Jewels of Wonder, Jewels of Night

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:21:27 GMT

Who better to inspire gift giving than three iconic kings from the Orient? We reimagined the Wise Men%26rsquo;s trek across the sands with frankincense, myrrh and gold %26mdash; lots of gold. Here%26rsquo;s our take: gilded pieces that glitter like the Northern Star, with Old World and Persian influences, plus a touch of crosses and crowns.

By The Light of the Moon. Early Victorian crescent-moon pin with Persian turquoise and pearls $985, at Queen of Heirs, Bellaire.

Say a Prayer. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels Estate Maltese cross clip on chain in gold with onyx, diamonds and one emerald, price upon request, at Neiman Marcus.

Star Bright. Buccellati one-of-a-kind wide cuff bracelet, price upon request, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch.

Arabian Jewels. Kara Ross Arabian Nights large titanium cuff with sapphire and diamonds, made to order, through Kara Ross,212.223.7272.

White Knight. Konstantino oval faceted mother-of-pearl ring in gold and sterling silver $530, at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

Vintage Revival. Etruscan Revival hinged bypass bracelet, circa 1870, $3,950, at Past Era Fine Antique Jewelry.%26nbsp;

Regal Ring. Charriol Celtique ring $1,495, at I W Marks, Zadok Jewelers.

Tiny Vessel. Gold, turquoise and lapis perfume-bottle necklace $3,200, at Louis Tenenbaum.

Bold Bauble. Stephen Dweck quartz and bronze ring $1,820, at I.W. Marks.

A Cross to Bear. Bakelite and tourmaline cuff $6,650, at DeVille Fine Jewelry.

Mosaic Masterpieces. Lockets, prices upon request, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Major Coin. Monete necklace $13,500, at the Bulgari boutique.

Star of Wonder. Nini Collection Stars and Moon diamond and gold cuff $31,500, to order through Nini, 866.513.6464.

Like a Virgin. Sevan Madonna necklace $34,550, to order at Judith Ann Jewels.

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Coco Bijou. Chanel metal filigree necklace $5,250, at the Chanel boutique.

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Slippery Serpent. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels 1946 Estate necklace in gold with diamonds, detachable clip and snake chain, price upon request at Neiman Marcus.

Royal Beauty Bright. David Yurman rubellite Tapestry ring, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Magenta Magi. One of a pair of ruby and emerald bead bracelets, circa 1950s, price upon request, at Wayne Smith Jewels.

New Religion. Konstantino gold and sterling silver pendant with carved onyx, inscribed %26ldquo;Father, Son and Holy Spirit%26rdquo; in Greek $2,135, at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

A Cross to Wear. Katy Briscoe Open Light cross pendant $17,000, and Taterpillar necklace $38,000, both at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Stars of Night. Paloma%26rsquo;s Venezia Stella ring $9,500, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Can%26rsquo;t Wait to be King. Faberg%26eacute;-style gold, ruby and diamond enameled crown cuff links $3,450, at Louis Tenenbaum.

Octane Refuels its Fashion Tank

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:21:05 GMT

Think of Knox Street shopping, and we bet you summon a laundry list of household wares: a Jonathan Adler table, a gorgeous vase, a cheese grater, even an iMac. Here, furniture and home goods still rule the roost, save for fashion Valhalla Forty Five Ten. But, in between your trips to crates and barrels, barns, galleries and nests, consider popping into Original Octane for a little apparel therapy. The contemporary men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s boutique from Ort Varona %26mdash; the man behind former stores Octane, Premium 93 and LFT %26mdash; is part deux to Varona%26rsquo;s first venture, the beloved Octane, once in West Village. The new store is in an 1,800-square-foot, stand-alone space along Knox Street that Quatrine Custom Furniture once called home. %26ldquo;This is what Octane was always supposed to be,%26rdquo; Varona says, %26ldquo;a great neighborhood store with well-edited product.%26rdquo; What%26rsquo;s on Original Octane%26rsquo;s racks? For women, patterned, blousy tops; bright dresses; and slouchy, cowl-necked sweaters. (There are sunglasses and jewelry, too %26mdash; we had our eye on an oversized black-and-gold cocktail ring.) For men, it%26rsquo;s cashmere jackets, colorful scarves and checked button-down shirts. And don%26rsquo;t miss the denim: You%26rsquo;ll find it in droves here, from lines Prps, Current Elliott, RVTS and colored skinnies from Neuw Denim. As an extra perk, Varona has secured an actual from-the-factory-floor sewing machine, for in-store hemming %26mdash; gratis %26mdash;%26nbsp;on any pair of denim purchased. But, true to its Knox Street address, there are oddball finds for the home here, which certainly shake up the avenue%26rsquo;s usually polished offerings: vintage chandeliers, mounted rams%26rsquo; skulls, a marching-band bass drum, even a meat cleaver, solidly slammed into a block of wood. There
goes the neighborhood %26mdash; and how. 3120 Knox Street; originaloctane.com.

Image: Original Octane. Photo by George Fiala.

Surf's Up

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:30:45 GMT

Sea the Light. Jonathan Adler Seahorse lamp $295, at Nest.

Electric Ears. Tom Binns Fauve Electro hand-painted Swarovski crystal drop earrings $275, at V.O.D.

Glow Stick. Christopher Kane to order at Barneys New York.

Piece of Cake. Sprinkles Surfer cupcake $3.50, to order at Sprinkles.

Nice Trunks. Vilebrequin Salade de Fruits matching father and son swimsuits, $230 for dad, $120 to $140 for son, at Neiman Marcus.

Scuba Doo. Jimmy Choo Dun scuba bootie $795, at the Jimmy Choo boutique.

You Toucan. Lulu Frost one-of-a-kind 100-Year necklace $1,925, at Lane Knight, Fort Worth; lulufrost.com.

The Plunge. Zimmerman Hawaiian plunge-front halter-neck swimsuit $255, at net-a-porter.com.

Surf Board Slick. Est%26eacute;e Lauder Teal Topaz nail polish $19, at Dillard%26rsquo;s, Macy%26rsquo;s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue.

A Walk on the Beach. Versace at the Versace boutique.

Faux Fuchsia. Roberto Cavalli at the Roberto Cavalli boutique.

Book It. Surfing Photographs From the Eighties, taken by Jeff Divine, $40, at Barneys New York.

Hi Hibiscus. Marc by Marc Jacobs at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Go Green. Giambattista Valli at Carla Martinengo, Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak.

Aloha Coco. Tweed and lacquered fabric camellia brooch $1,525, at the Chanel boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Get Wet. Tory Burch Wildflower swimsuit $225, at the Tory Burch boutique.

Dress with a View. Suno at V.O.D

Beach Bouffant. Charlotte Ronson A Perfect Mess Beach Hair $20, at Sephora.

Rasta Cuff. Nini Collection sapphire ivory bangle $90,900, at 866.513.6464.

Sea Worthy. Genevieve Jones Seahorse bangle $238, at V.O.D.

Paradise Found. Stella McCartney at the Stella McCartney boutique.

Walk in the Flowers. Nicholas Kirkwood shoe, at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Bright Bag. Marc by Marc Jacobs bag, at Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Oops!

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:45:47 GMT

So enamored were we of our model man %26mdash; make that animal-man %26mdash; in our October fashion feature that we flubbed his last name. He is Brandon Adams with the Kim Dawson Agency, and he did a dandy job as our foppish man-beast. Clearly, once we saw him in all those velvet jackets and pajamas, we couldn%26rsquo;t breathe %26mdash; much less type.

Image: Brandon Adams. Photo by Maxine Helfman.

Tiffany %26 Co. Arm Candy

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:37:39 GMT

Tiffany %26amp; Co. has opened a Tiffany Leather Collection boutique stocked with the legendary American jeweler%26rsquo;s handbag and accessories designed by Richard Lambertson and John Truex. The design duo culled through the Tiffany archives and found ample inspiration to create satchels, reversible totes, hobos, shoulder and top-handle bags, clutch purses, briefcases, wallets and card cases in a variety of leathers including glazed crocodile, ring lizard, snakeskin and natural-grain calf, with many dyed in rich onyx, burgundy, pesto and espresso %26mdash;%26nbsp;even a Tiffany Blue. As to be expected, the designers included jewelry-inspired clasps and handles on many of the bags, including the new Vivian clutch with a bead closure and the Morgan clutch with a tiger%26rsquo;s-eye closure. Meet the design duo in-store Wednesday, November 16, 3 to 5 pm, and have them dash off a siggy on your satchel. $50 to $17,500, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.; tiffany.com.

Images:

Tiffany %26amp; Co. handbags by Richard Lambertson and John Truex.

Richard Lambertson and John Truex. Photo by Bryan Derballa.

He Had Us at Tom

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:32:55 GMT

When the news filtered out in the trade and on blogs a year ago that Tom Ford was launching his first cosmetics collection, I immediately stopped buying lipsticks, mascara and foundation. Why bother? What could ever be as genius as what Tom would devise? And he does not disappoint. Launching this month exclusively at Neiman Marcus Galleria is a complete color wardrobe and range of skin treatments %26mdash; %26ldquo;powerful tools of transformation,%26rdquo; says The Man. And how. Opulent Eye Color Quads in shimmery, matte, satin and sparkle; Noir Absolute in a black gel formula that sweeps over the entire lid for smolder; Eye Defining Pencil for an intensely dramatic kohl effect; Brow Sculptor with a calligraphy tip; Extreme Mascara with darkest carbon and lash-filling powders; 18 Tom-designed lip colors, Lip Lacquer with precious pulverized pearls and Nail Lacquer, as well as Flawless Complexion products and the Radiant Skin Collection. Can you stand it! Tom Ford Beauty, available November 1 exclusively at Neiman Marcus Galleria.

Beauty Beat

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:38:46 GMT

%26bull; Before it Begins: Start with a trip to Saks Fifth Avenue%26rsquo;s private, celebrity-grade Fifth Avenue Club inside its Galleria Dallas store. Ask for longtime personal shopper Tim Kelly to pinpoint the perfect party frock %26mdash; then, slip into the club%26rsquo;s new super-spacious spa room for a gratis, one-hour facial with products from Swiss cellular-based skincare line Cellcosmet. Leave completely refreshed (gown in tow) via the secluded elevator just outside the club: It whisks you right to valet. FYI, the lights are a bit bright in the spa room, so bring your darkest paparazzi shades. Dial 972.716.5311 to schedule your appointment.

%26bull; The Night Of: %26ldquo;A party is the perfect occasion,%26rdquo; says Rochelle Rae, %26ldquo;to try a new color that might be a bit too daring for every day.%26rdquo; Rae, the Austin-based makeup artist and founder of Rae Cosmetics, is talking eyeshadows. What does she recommend? A metallic shadow in purple, green or blue with a minimal face and lip. We%26rsquo;ve discovered that the frosty blue-and-white shadows in Rae%26rsquo;s Icicle Eyes trio do the trick. Get yours at raecosmetics.com.

%26bull; Post-Party Treat: Finish your holiday whirl with a float %26mdash; and we%26rsquo;re not talking the root-beer kind. Adrift Float Spa on Preston Road offers private (or in pairs) hour-long floating sessions in high-density salt water that has been warmed to a delightful 93.5 degrees. While you%26rsquo;re buoyant, Dead Sea-style, ask for the optional underwater color therapy lights and the zen-ifying music. For all the deets, ring 214.363.5628 or key in adriftfloatspa.com.

Gilt-y Pleasures, Brooke’s Way

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:23:09 GMT

Our own PaperCity editor at large Brooke Hortenstine has been touted as many things: first lady of Dallas society, a charitable volunteer, an in-the-know editor. This month, Hortenstine adds Gilt City Insider to her tally of talents as she curates her first-ever flash sale on giltcity.com/dallas. The weeklong series of steals is quintessentially Brooke %26mdash; a roundup of favorites from her well-edited life. First, there%26rsquo;s a launch party Tuesday, December 6, at Alberto Lombardi%26rsquo;s La Fiorentina, toasting the swarm of packages that go live the next day. Among the offerings? A four-course dinner at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek set for Sunday, January 15, wherein Hortenstine and Mansion chef Bruno Davaillon will join to develop the menu. There will be blowouts from Jean-Philippe Salon; letter-pressed goodies from MissingQ Press; and tickets to a trunk-show f%26ecirc;te at V.O.D. with jewelry designer Pamela Love. Next up, on Monday, December 12, a second wave of must-haves begins at giltcity.com/dallas with everything from discounts at Drip Coffee, cool classes for tots at Kidville and a shopping credit at William-Christopher Design, owned by Hortenstine%26rsquo;s go-to decorators Ty Burks and Christopher Ridolfi. As for something for the social swells, our Brooke has wrangled exclusive passes to the Dallas Film Society%26rsquo;s Dallas International Film
Festival this April. Cue the popcorn.

Image: PaperCity editor at large and Gilt City Insider Brooke Hortenstine. Photo by Tim Boole.

A Rose is a Rose (Especially in HP Village)

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 01:46:43 GMT

How%26rsquo;s this for a fashion-forward homecoming. When we received word that Dallas-bred, New York%26ndash;based fashion designer Lela Rose was coming to town to open her first namesake boutique, we found it only fitting that she chose one of the highest-profile addresses in all the land, Highland Park Village. It was an excited e-mail from Dallas decorator Ashley Tripplehorn Hunt of Tripplehorn Hoak Interiors that first alerted us to the shop%26rsquo;s soft opening, at the tail end of November. (Hunt and design partner Dee Dee Hoak were tapped to design the store%26rsquo;s interior.) Just as our December issue was going to press, we got a first peek at the charming digs, wedged seamlessly between Billy Reid and Molto Formaggio. As Hoak and Hunt will tell you, the store is like Rose herself: %26ldquo;Sophisticated but approachable,%26rdquo; they say. %26ldquo;Always fun, never stuffy.%26rdquo; The 600-square-foot shop is an elegant melting pot of colors, textures and whimsy, with unexpected faux-wood linoleum flooring, works by local artists and a bold, Italian brass Sputnik chandelier from John Gregory. Of course, the fun and luxurious environs are intended to complement Rose%26rsquo;s fanciful collections of women%26rsquo;s ready-to-wear, inspired by everything from The Neon Museum in Las Vegas to the oeuvre of artist Gerhard Richter to the style of Katharine Hepburn. It%26rsquo;s all here: cocktail dresses, jackets, knits, pants, jewelry and accessories. There%26rsquo;s even a dose of Dallas hospitality %26mdash; iced tea and Rose%26rsquo;s homemade biscotti are generously served to shoppers. Certainly, %26ldquo;home sweet home%26rdquo; has never been this well-dressed. 69 Highland Park Village, 214.599.6283; lelarose.com.

Images:

High-style homegirl: designer Lela Rose.

Lela Rose Spring 2012

Diamond Doctor

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:31:58 GMT

Keys to the Door: President David Blank.
Doctor%26rsquo;s Orders: Despite its clinical-sounding name, there is some serious glimmer and gleam happening here. Should you be looking for a tiptop gem to slip under someone%26rsquo;s Norway spruce this year, get thee to the Diamond Doctor, in its new 7,000-square-foot digs at The Plaza at Preston Center. The diamond wholesaler and custom jeweler has relocated from its former space near the Galleria Dallas, where it opened in 2001. And with plenty of good reasons: The Doctor%26rsquo;s new Preston Road showroom swells with two levels, nine consultation rooms, loose-diamond displays, dazzle-inducing (yet energy-saving) LED lighting, a jewelry manufacturing studio and a glass-enclosed workshop, where you can hand over your existing precious stones and watch as repairs and design work are completed. Will you go Deco? Will you go modernist? Maybe a little Rococo? Whichever way, this doctor can cure any diamond fever. 8127 Preston Road, 972.342.6663; diamonddoctor.com.

Image: A Diamond Doctor creation: 11.53-carat fancy yellow diamond ring with 1.38 karats of round diamonds in 18K yellow and white gold.

Kendra Scott

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:08:31 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Kendra Scott, manager Courtney Kemp, assistant manager Leslie Fearka.

Let%26rsquo;s Hear it for the Girls: Consider bauble shopping at Kendra Scott a chance to expand your clique of gal pals. First, we insist you meet Danielle, a now-famous, elongated-oval earring in 20 possible gemstones that has made its way into British Vogue and Us Weekly. Then there%26rsquo;s Ashton, a statement-making chandelier earring that we love in turquoise; she goes splendidly with Grayce, a collar necklace in a mix of peach, yellow and smoky quartz, and Celeste, a mod, feather-etched metal cuff. %26ldquo;I name all of my pieces after girls I know,%26rdquo; the Austin-based Scott tells us, between latte sips and chitchat about her new West Village digs. The bright boutique is Scott%26rsquo;s third, after storefronts in Beverly Hills and Austin. Like Scott%26rsquo;s kaleidoscopic gems, the store is colorful and feminine, with polished furnishings, elegant chandeliers and, outside, loopy, golden fretwork that makes abstract lotus flowers all over the fa%26ccedil;ade. Back inside, should you prefer to create your own fanciful friends, head for the color bar, where you can design your own jewelry by selecting the style, metal and stone. With a color spectrum of gems ranging from green onyx to pink jade to orange coral, you may just go home with a dozen or so new besties. 3699 McKinney Ave., Suite C305, in West Village, 214.528.4800; kendrascott.com.

Image: The Grayce necklace in mixed metal $275, at the Kendra Scott boutique

Hello, Prada. Hello, Miu Miu.

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 01:41:47 GMT

Italian fashion house Prada and her equally chic little sister label Miu Miu will open mid-month in Galleria I. For Prada, architect Roberto Baciocchi has designed a 5,000-square-foot space next door to MaxMara to display the brand%26rsquo;s collections of ready-to-wear, bags, accessories and footwear for both men and women. Miu Miu will occupy a 3,000-square-foot space between MaxMara and Hugo Boss; expect ready-to-wear, bags, shoes and accessories for women. Miuccia Prada, who designs both collections, is renowned for her intelligent, directional designs that set trends and seem to always have a sense of humor. We can%26rsquo;t wait to see fashionable Houstonians cruising from party to party this spring in Prada%26rsquo;s zippy car-print dresses paired with high-heeled sandals sporting colorful tail fins. Looking for something more reserved? Miu Miu%26rsquo;s spring collection of traditional feminine frills, fichu collars and stoles tied with velvet ribbons are as sweet as can be. Watch the January issue of PaperCity for updates.

Images:

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Prada

Miu Miu

A Cult Favorite

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 01:22:38 GMT

What’s enriched with 11 aromatic essential oils, gives your skin that dewy luminous glow and has the fashion set buying it in droves? None other than the beauty cult favorite Rodin Olio Lusso, created by fashion stylist Linda Rodin. This winter, let your parched pores drink in just a few drops, and you’ll be an oil-moisturizing convert, too. $140 a bottle, at Kuhl-Linscomb.

L.K. Bennett

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:20:32 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Dian Johns.
Stocked Goods: Does the name L.K. Bennett ring a bell? Well, if you%26rsquo;re a royal watcher focused on what Britain%26rsquo;s new Duchess of Cambridge is wearing, you know that H.R.H. is quite fond of L.K. Bennett%26rsquo;s collection, as Catherine apparently frequents this upper High Street boutique for smart pumps, wedges, pink bowed sandals and affordably priced frocks. (Even the royals watch their euros.) Entrenched in the UK, the burgeoning brand is branching out in the U.S., with its fourth boutique opening in the Galleria this month, joining 130 stores throughout Great Britain %26mdash; a number L.K. Bennett%26rsquo;s operators want to match on our shores one day. Parisian-born creative director Annick Gorman, who put in her hours at C%26eacute;line, Cacharel and Galeries Lafayette, has fashion fans on both shores talking about her veddy British sensibility. Set in soft powder-pink, mirrored and %26lsquo;50s Swedish%26nbsp; surrounds, the Houston outpost stocks the complete collection of ready-to-wear and accessories. The Galleria, Level 2, 713.961.9218; lkbennett.com.

Image: L.K. Bennett.

Eau d'Homme

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:50:35 GMT

Napoleon, Oscar Wilde, King Edward VII, Ian Fleming and John F. Kennedy dabbled in these intoxicating and aristocratic scents %26hellip;

Acqua di Parma: Intensely Italian

Created in 1916 in the Italian city of Parma and first sold in the salons of fine Italian tailors, Acqua di Parma cultivated a following among the sophisticated set, who fell in love with the refreshing Sicilian citrus, bergamot, Bulgarian rose, lavender and prized woods. Over time the cologne%26rsquo;s following has become equal parts male and female. Signatures unchanged since Acqua di Parma%26rsquo;s creation are its distinctive yellow packaging %26mdash; a nod to the famous tint enveloping Parma%26rsquo;s most remarkable buildings %26mdash; and Art Deco%26ndash;influenced bottle, topped with a Bakelite cap. From $83, at Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak.

Geo. F. Trumper%26rsquo;s Extract of West Indian Limes: An Exceptional English Gentleman

Extract of West Indian Limes was conceived in 1875 in the vaults beneath George F. Trumper%26rsquo;s barbershop at 9 Curzon Street in London%26rsquo;s Mayfair district, which is also home to sacred suiting site Savile Row. The balm, based on the West Indian lime (or key lime), hearkens back to the dominions of the British Empire at the dawn of the 20th century. Often used as an aftershave, it has long scented the towels heated by barbers in the shop upstairs for a clientele that over the years has included Oscar Wilde, Ian Fleming and King Edward VII. The paradoxical packaging dates to World War I, when the original green paper was appropriated for the war efforts and the only remaining option was its current rose-tinted label. Thus the pink label was assumed and, in deference to the past, has remained unchanged to this day. From $60, at Dougherty%26rsquo;s Pharmacy.

Royall%26rsquo;s Bay Rhum: Captain of the High Seas

Royal Bermuda got its start with famed Bermudian yachtsman Anthony Gaade, who felt the world should be exposed to the myriad heady odors that naturally occur within the 300-island archipelago known as Bermuda. Royall Bay Rhum is the third fragrance the brand Introduced to the American public through Brooks Brothers in the 1960s. This unique scent is constructed around Myrcia acris (a relative to the plants that bear allspice, eucalyptus and clove), bay leaf and cooling methanol crystals. As is typical of fragrances created at that time, Bay Rhum is an all-purpose lotion to be used not only as an aftershave and cologne, but also to scent a gentleman%26rsquo;s bath. From $39.50, at Brooks Brothers,
brooksbrothers.com.

Guerlain%26rsquo;s Trio of Scents: Formidably French

The fabled French fragrance house Guerlain has single-handedly devised some of the most noted fragrances the world has ever known. Founded by Pierre-Fran%26ccedil;ois Pascal Guerlain in 1828, the brand originally took up residence on the rue du Rivoli where the H%26ocirc;tel Meurice is located today. Thanks to its immediate success, Guerlain soon moved the shop to the fashionable rue de la Paix, a couple of storefronts down from caf%26eacute;-society nexus Maxim%26rsquo;s. Although famously known for female fragrances such as Jicky, L%26rsquo;Heure Blue and Shalimar, Guerlain%26rsquo;s men%26rsquo;s fragrances are just as noteworthy. The year 1904 marked the firm%26rsquo;s initial foray into men%26rsquo;s scents when Jacques Guerlain, grandson to the founder, developed Mouchoir de Monsieur, themed after the seductive scented handkerchiefs that men of the day would employ to woo the objects of their desire. A half-decade later in 1959, Jean Paul Guerlain %26mdash; the great-grandson to the company%26rsquo;s founder %26mdash; created what is still regarded as the oeuvre of all vetiver-based colognes, aptly named Vetiver. Jean Paul went on to create the first Oriental men%26rsquo;s scent ever conceived, Habit Rouge %26mdash; a distinguished and rousing masterpiece that combines a head of citrus with a heart of spice and patchouli and a base of amber, leather and vanilla %26mdash; the latter, previously unheard of in men%26rsquo;s colognes. From $88, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Sisley%26rsquo;s Eau du Campagne: A Weekend in the Country%26nbsp;

To those familiar with phytocosmetology leader Sisley, it should be no surprise that their entr%26eacute;e into the personal-fragrance realm was the botanical Eau de Campagne for men. Making its debut in 1976, the same year Sisley was founded, this eau de toilette finds its roots quite literally at the country estate of Sisley%26rsquo;s founder, Hubert d%26rsquo;Orano. This naturalist sought to compose a scent as eternally refreshing as nature%26rsquo;s trappings. The bright, invigorating fragrance has a heart of tomato leaves and green florals, preceded by bergamot, citrus, basil and bitter galbanum resin, followed by a rich combination of moss, vetiver, patchouli and musk. From $97, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Caswell-Massey: A Founding Father of Fragrance

As the oldest producer of personal fragrance in the United States, Caswell-Massey is the last word in American fragrance. The venerable apothecary, founded in 1752 by Dr. William Hunter of Newport, Rhode Island, was initially a dispensary for medical supplies. Soon it began attracting a well-heeled clientele that desired European grooming accoutrements %26mdash; among them, perfumes. His original 20 fragrances weren%26rsquo;t named; they were numbered. Created in 1789, Number Six was an arrangement of 27 ingredients such as orange blossom, rosemary and bergamot, which earned a long line of notable devotees including George Washington and John Adams. In 1840, the brand created Jockey Club, which John F. Kennedy would adopt in the next century as his scent. Other clients have included Cole Porter, who favored Tricorn; Dwight Eisenhower, a devotee of the almond cold cream soap that the label continues to mill today; and Abraham Lincoln, who incorporated Caswell-Massey%26rsquo;s purest soap, Castile (made of olive oil and shea butter) into his bathing routine. Other devotees: Humphrey Bogart, George Gershwin and Edgar Allen Poe. From $36, at Stanley Korshak.

Creed: Unapologetically Aristocratic

Founded in London in 1760 by James Henry Creed, this brand initially specialized in leather goods that earned a discriminating following %26mdash; much like the fragrances Creed would become known for. It was England%26rsquo;s George III who would permanently change the company%26rsquo;s line of business in 1781, when he commissioned an exact replica of the aroma of his bespoke gloves for his personal grooming needs. What resulted was the firm%26rsquo;s first cologne, Royal English Leather, an intoxicating mixture of mandarin, bergamot, ambergris, leather and sandalwood. In 1854, the company relocated to Paris to better serve client Empress Eugenie and her husband Napoleon III; other clients of the day included Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz-Joseph, for whom Santal Imperial was made, as well as Czar Nicolas II of Russia. The 20th century saw the creation of some of Creed%26rsquo;s most noted men%26rsquo;s scents, including 1985%26rsquo;s Green Irish Tweed (an innovative integration of French verbena, Florentine iris, violet leaves, Mysorean sandalwood and ambergris created by sixth-generation perfumer Erwin Creed for Cary Grant. Green Irish Tweed from $140, at Neiman Marcus.

Santa Maria Novella: A Rather Distinguished Habit

Santa Maria Novella%26rsquo;s pharmacy dates to AD 1221, when Dominican friars began to incorporate the herbs grown in their gardens into medications, balms and pomades used in the monks%26rsquo; infirmary. So esteemed were these creations that when Catherine de Medici wed Henry II of France in 1533, it was Santa Maria Novella she tapped to create the fragrance she wore down the aisle. By the dawn of the next century, the reputation of these medicinal goods was so revered that Santa Maria Novella decided to open to the public. In 1612, under the appointment of Father Angiolo Marchissi, it did so %26mdash; upon which the Grand Duke of Tuscany bestowed the title of His Royal Highness%26rsquo; Foundry, marking its second royal warrant to date. The Acqua di Colonia that the mark produces today alludes to the very first eau de cologne ever created, by Giovanni Paolo Feminis %26mdash; a medley of citrus and bergamot, white flowers and spices. Today, the original pharmacy location on Via della Scala is a museum and shop for the brand, and even the original gardens remain much the same as when the Franciscans first happened upon them. From $110, at Lafco in Highland Park Village.

Urban Retreat

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:08:11 GMT

Keys to the Door: President Saira Ali and COO Mike Butte; manager Joan Turley.
Say Spa: It%26rsquo;s hard to believe it%26rsquo;s been 21 years since Francie Willis opened the doors at Urban Retreat, a luxury salon and day spa just outside River Oaks. Even after two decades, the salon has remained a Mecca for rest and relaxation, but the actual salon space just couldn%26rsquo;t keep up. New owners Saira Ali and Mike Butte decided it was time to build, and last month Urban Retreat opened its new doors just around the corner, in River Oaks Shopping Center. The nest of a salon is perched four floors up, with unobstructed views of downtown Houston. The 8,000-square-foot space is pure beauty, with soft white marble floors, gray walls with complementary granite and crystal chandeliers. Following the hallway path, you%26rsquo;ll pass the treatment rooms, a curtained makeup station manned by Edward Sanchez, a mani/pedi room and the hair salon. Further around back, you can relax in the waiting area or outside on the veranda. A new spa-treatment menu debuts this month; the biggest change is that all the massages will now be remedy driven, rather than generic, such as the soothing muscle massage, with special products that target muscle fatigue, and the tranquility massage for those in need of deep body rest. Two new manicure and pedicure services, the 70-minute Hand Heaven and the 80-minute Pedi Paradise, debut this month as well. There are six estheticians on staff to perform all the facial and laser services, led by staff physician Vernon F. Williams, who administers Botox. Spending the afternoon at the salon? Plan for lunch, with a special menu crafted by Americas chef David Cord%26uacute;a. River Oaks Shopping Center, 2034-A W. Gray, 713.523.2300; urbanretreat.com.

Image: Urban Retreat team. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Kiehl's and Koons

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:38:56 GMT

Isn%26rsquo;t it marvelous when something basic and wonderful gets a bit of a zip. Kiehl%26rsquo;s Cr%26egrave;me de Corps (which we can%26rsquo;t live without) puts on its holiday best with a perfectly adorable Jeff Koons iconic Balloon Flower Sculpture bottle top from Koons%26rsquo; Celebration series. Proceeds from each sale go to the Koons Family Institute on International Law and Policy, an initiative of the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children. Limited-edition Jeff Koons Bottle Art $50, at Kiehl%26rsquo;s Since 1851.

Retail Rap

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:42:18 GMT

We don%26rsquo;t need any magical list to tell us how naughty we%26rsquo;ve been this year %26mdash; it%26rsquo;s just our nature. But rather than counting lumps of coal, we%26rsquo;re going shopping. And you are, too. Shoe swell Yosi Samra, the name behind those fold-up, fit-in-your-handbag flats, has teamed with high-fashion haunt Intermix to launch two exclusive styles of metallic leather ballet flats %26mdash; one in sparkly silver and the other in glimmering gold. Snag yours for $125 at the Intermix boutique in NorthPark Center or at intermixonline.com %26hellip; Two more bits of NorthPark news: We have it on good authority that Omega, the Swiss watch manufacturer, will open its first Texas boutique there in the fall of 2013. Additionally, this month, NorthPark adds Helen Ficalora%26rsquo;s flower-centric rings and earrings to its permanent roster. (The former pop-up was a hit!) More at helenficalora.com %26hellip; Quatrine Custom Furniture in Knox-Henderson has pulled a bit of a switcheroo, relocating to a temporary space at 4539 Travis Street, in the former Knox Street Flowers building. Our source informs us that the slipcovered-furniture outpost will be there until next spring, when it moves into bigger digs in an yet-to-be-named locale %26hellip; In record time, Quatrine%26rsquo;s former spot at 3120 Knox Street was snatched up by funky men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s clothing shop Original Octane, indeed involving Ort Varona as creative partner, he of the shuttered LFT, Premium 93 and Octane. Among its offerings? Everything from blouses by Equipment to tops and dresses by Amanda Uprichard to denim by Prps. What%26rsquo;s more, Original Octane also carries chic curios and sculptural bits for the home %26mdash; think mounted buffalo skulls, driftwood pieces, even furniture. Start hunting and gathering at 3120 Knox Street %26hellip; Now that temps are somewhat dipping below 60, you%26rsquo;ll have an excuse to indulge in a fetching fur. Enter Iteratti, a California-based repurposer of vintage furs. The pieces %26mdash; wraps, jackets, coats %26mdash; are made from found furs, each cut and crafted into a new garment. The one-of-a-kind warmers are then lined in a can%26rsquo;t-miss chartreuse silk and serial-numbered; prices range from $850 to $5,000. Find yours at Prashe at 163 Oak Lawn Avenue in the Design District, and at iteratti.com. Baby won%26rsquo;t be cold outside anymore.

Image: A sparkler of slipper: Yosi Samra%26rsquo;s embellished metallic leather ballet flats at Intermix. Photo courtesy of Intermix.

Retail Rap

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:40:57 GMT

Luvi Wheelock, stylish owner of luxe fashion boutique Atrium and bridal salon Casa de Novia, has scored a mighty coup: She%26rsquo;s secured Houston%26rsquo;s only Vera Wang shop-in-shop, to feature both the bridal and ready-to-wear collections. The new space is set to open in January %26hellip; We have a blockbuster PA at Tootsies this month. If you%26rsquo;re an American Express Platinum card holder, for $75 you can meet Italian fashion designer Alberta Ferretti and catch a runway show of her Spring/Summer 2012 collection on December 7 from 6 to 8 pm at Tootsies, along with InStyle magazine%26rsquo;s fashion director, Hal Rubenstein; for more information, call 713.629.9990 %26hellip; Sloan/Hall, emporium for all things hyper-stylish, has acquired the space next door toits store on Westheimer and Kirby (the former Riaro Salon) and will house there a tightly edited collection of dresses. At press time, Marcus Sloan and Shannon Hall have signed on Prova from NYC, Tsumori Chisato from Tokyo and Peter Pilloto from London. Opening is scheduled for mid-January, if not sooner %26hellip; Jewelry designer Rina Limor makes a personal appearance at Zadok Jewelers Wednesday, December 14 %26hellip; Luxury rug designer Matt Cameron hosts a Pop-Up Holiday Bazaar showcasing local designers and celebrating the opening of his new showroom Thursday, December 1, from 4 to 7 pm. Stop by to sip wine and shop fashion and home goods from such Houston-based designers as Kathy Bracewell of Agate Ranch + Marfa and Carla Christoph of Kaftans at the Kasbah %26hellip; River Oaks Shopping Center boutique Enticingly Chic now carries designs by Whit, aka Whitney Pozgay and Kate Spade%26rsquo;s niece and former designer for Steven Alan. So, expect great things%26hellip; Speaking of River Oaks Shopping Center, there are a few new tenants: Natural Pawz, a holistic dog store, is open next to Sunglass Hut; fashion boutique Hemline has opened next to la Madeleine; and Jos. A. Banks has expanded into the adjacent space %26hellip; Pet photographer Kim Hartz has teamed with Neiman Marcus public relations guru Alyssa Kilpatrick for a line of custom pet-silhouette necklaces and cuff links. Hartz will snap your pet, and Kilpatrick will design a laser cut of your furry friend in gold or silver. (Pricing and info, Kim Hartz at 713.521.7272; studio@kimhartz.com) %26hellip; Support the Buffalo Bayou Partnership this holiday season by purchasing a BBF silk tie, created in collaboration with Vineyard Vines as a gift for dad ($65 each, at buffalobayou.org) %26hellip; While she was in town for a PA at Neiman Marcus, fashion designer Tory Burch visited Tina Davis and Denise Hazan%26rsquo;s designer vintage boutique Cheeky Vintage and purchased mod dresses, pant suits, shoes, bags and jewelry %26hellip; The new E! series Scouted chronicles how an everyday girl can get discovered and skyrocket to stardom. Houston%26rsquo;s fabulous model scout Page Parkes is featured on the show, which premiered last month. You can thank Parkes for discovering sexy heartthrob Channing Tatum and cutie Alexis Bledel %26hellip; Jewelry designer Pamela Froman makes a personal appearance at Cotton Club December 15 through 17 %26hellip; Jeweler Marnie Rocks hosts a pop-up shop at West Ave in suite 116, along with Elizabeth Vallone and her tasty cheesecakes; Carrie Vallone, who will sell her molasses candies, custom stationery and paper goods; and Andria Frankfort from Lucy and Michael, with her stock of pop-up tents, aprons and other fun finds for the kids %26hellip; The Find is back! Shop for unique fashion and accessories by local designers at this special market on Saturday December 3, 9 am to 6 pm, at Hughes Hangar (2811 Washington Avenue). Tickets are $5 to shop The Find%26rsquo;s curated goods from such designers at DePetra, David Peck, Vintage Contessa and Herff Christiansen %26hellip; Linda Cunningham boutique hosts Lisa Keeper Neuhaus for a personal appearance and trunk show of her fine jewelry, December 8 and 9 %26hellip; Meet two of your favorite jewelry designers at Tootsies this month: Angelique Knafo (we love her stellar stingray cuffs), December 8 and 9, then Claudia Labao, December 15 and 16 %26hellip; Looking for a good-hearted way to spread your holiday spirit? Send a card to a child with terminal cancer with Clayton%26rsquo;s Cards. Donate $25 to The Clayton Dabney Foundation for Kids with Cancer in honor of a loved one, and a card specially designed by PH Design Shop will be sent to a child undergoing treatment at M.D. Anderson (Information claytondabney.org; bmccgee@claytondabney.org) ... Looking to take the kiddos to meet Santa Claus? Santa makes an appearance at CityCenter on December 12 in the Plaza%26hellip;%26nbsp; Grab a leash and get a shot of your pet with Santa at the Galleria on December 4 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Santa will be headquartered in Galleria II, Level 1, in front of Ann Taylor.

Retail Rap

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:39:25 GMT

Tiffany %26amp; Co. has signed on as the fine jeweler for Baz Luhrmann%26rsquo;s remake of The Great Gatsby, based on F. Scott Fitzgerald%26rsquo;s 1925 literary classic. The iconic American jeweler maintains archives of Art Deco%26ndash;era designs that will relate perfectly to the storyline. The question is: Will they create a Jazz Era%26ndash;worthy special collection for the rest of us? We%26rsquo;ll have to wait and see %26hellip; Cameron Silver (owner of Decades, the leading vintage clothing boutique in Los Angeles) has teamed up with jewelry brand Miriam Haskell for a collection of jewels called Miriam Haskell for Decades. The %26uuml;ber-stylish Silver makes a personal appearance at Tootsies November 15 and 16 to showcase the new collection, plus his vintage designer dresses and gowns. Also making a personal appearance at Tootsies this month is hometown accessories designer Elaine Turner on November 8 and 9 %26hellip; Neiman Marcus news: Tory Burch makes a personal appearance at the retailer on November 3. Stop by Contemporary Sportswear on Level Three to meet her. Then on November 4, Neiman%26rsquo;s hosts Project Runway%26rsquo;s most successful winner, Christian Siriano, who will showcase his collection and greet fans in the Couture Salon on Level Two. On November 18, David Yurman swings by Designer Jewelry on Level One to show his latest ware. And on November 19, jewelry designer Miriam Salat shows off her own baubles at Neiman%26rsquo;s %26hellip; Saks Fifth Avenue updates: Jewelry designer Katy Briscoe makes a personal appearance at a trunk show November 9 and 10 %26hellip; Accessories boutique Joseph in Highland Village hosts its annual Girls%26rsquo; Night Out shopping event benefitting March of Dimes on November 10, starting at 6 pm %26hellip; CityCentre celebrations: J.Crew has signed on to open a 5,127-square-foot shop at CityCentre in 2012. Brookstone has opened a holiday pop-up shop at the complex next door to Cyclone Anaya%26rsquo;s. It%26rsquo;s open now through December 31 ... Sloan/Hall now carries Prova, a colorful print-happy clothing collection with gorgeous bead detailing %26hellip; Jewelry designer Rina Limor makes a personal appearance at her trunk show at Zadok Jewelers on December 14 %26hellip; At West Ave, Q Custom Clothiers continues to expand its offerings. Q now carries Gimo%26rsquo;s lightweight Italian leather jackets and leather goods by Moore %26amp; Giles, a company founded in Lynchburg, VA, in 1933 %26hellip; Walgreens has chosen Houston as one of six pilot cities to try out its new beauty concept, Look Boutique. Unlike a typical drugstore, the Look Boutique sections provide testers, lighting, mirrors, displays, samples and guidance from specially trained beauty advisors. The mix of products includes prestige skincare, color cosmetics, haircare and manicure/pedicure lines such as La Roche-Posay, Vichy Laboratories, Liearc, Phyto haircare, Rilastil, Ramy and Essie. Try out the concept at the Walgreens at Westheimer and Sage Road.

Gifted and Talented

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:30:06 GMT

Rob Brinkley,%26nbsp; Editor

For you and 23 very lucky friends (or fewer, thirstier ones), Mo%26euml;t %26amp; Chandon%26rsquo;s Gold Imperial Jeraboam in 14K gold leaf, complete with indelible marker for scribbling memories of the night %26mdash; and saucy thoughts? %26mdash; onto it. The three-liter, burnished beauty pours 24 perfect glasses. $995, at select retailers; moet.com.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

My kind of game-playing: a sumptuous backgammon set made in England, of hand-bound leather for the case, inlaid wood for the playing field and sleek nickel playing pieces trimmed in exotic veneers. Let%26rsquo;s roll. $4,995, at Barneys New York.

The freshest sushi in town: designer Yumiko Yamada%26rsquo;s four-inch-tall porcelain teacup, displaying a whirl of neta %26mdash; ingredient toppings %26mdash; for sushi in a most whimsical way. $5 each, at The Lotus Shop at the Crow Collection of Asian Art.

Put %26ldquo;Ultimate%26rdquo; in any name, and I want it. Behold the wildly posh Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition, fitted with reclining rear seats, an aluminum laptop table between them, a drinks chiller, Apple iPads on the backs of the front seats, even a teak floor in the cargo hold. Land Rover is sending less than 50 to the U.S. %26mdash; one of them had better be under my tree. $170,000, through Land Rover, landrover.com.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

Happy place, happy place. A pair of highly collapsible Swedish headphones for all your i-devices %26mdash; phone, pad and pod %26mdash; by Urbanears. These are so sleek, any modern-day Mies van der Rohe will love them for his Mozart, his Maroon 5, his Metallica %26hellip; $60, at Nordstrom, nordstrom.com.

Is someone squinting to see the time on his smartphone? Problem obliterated %26mdash; in a most lofty and dapper way. Tsovet%26rsquo;s thoroughly modern riff on old-school airplane instruments, in matte stainless steel and black Italian rubber. $550, at Pockets Menswear.

For the architecture-obsessed, a calendar folio of Dallas and Fort Worth icons, as seen by photographer Laura Wilson, commissioned by the Dallas Architecture Forum. The 11-by-14-inch photographs are printed on archival paper as individual images, so in 12 short months, you%26rsquo;ll have a portrait gallery of sorts on your walls: Pei, Piano, Koolhaas, Mayne, et al. $44, at dallasarchitectureforum.org and Nest.

Roaringly chic, for his office or his den. (Just watch it with the tiger jokes.) A hand-numbered Bengal tiger by Daum, French crystal house since 1878 and counting. $2,660, at Champagne%26rsquo;s Luxe.

It will remind them of your explosive %26mdash; but highly illuminating %26mdash; personality. The White Flax chandelier, a breathtaking burst of 350 handmade porcelain-ceramic leaves, from New Zealand artisan Jeremy Cole. Price upon request, through Scott + Cooner.

To drizzle, to dash, to delve into: For your choosiest gourmand, get to 5627 West Lovers Lane for bottled extra-virgin olive oils in flavors that will please that discerning palate %26mdash; think black truffle, white truffle, wild mushroom, even Italian balsamic vinegars. From about $15, at Lovers Lane Oil Company.

For roadside picnics of rarefied leanings, two stainless-steel flasks in a fitted leather case, by Ettinger of London, a family concern founded in 1934, where each craftsperson is trained for a minimum of five years. (Why rush things?) Oh, how grand they%26rsquo;ll be in your beloved%26rsquo;s glove compartment. Approximately $600 the set, at ettinger.co.uk.

%26nbsp;

Christina Geyer, Assistant Editor

Here%26rsquo;s hoping the weather gets frightful so you and your darling can snuggle by the fire. Warm up with Peacock Alley%26rsquo;s woodsy, faux-fur throw and pillow. $585 and $300 respectively, at Peacock Alley.

For the would-be expatriate seeking a taste of San Miguel de Allende, a limited-edition sipping tequila by Casa Dragones, based in said Mexican city. The bottle %26mdash; a stunning hand-engraved crystal collectible %26mdash; is as well-designed as the delicious elixir that fills it. Casa Dragones, at liquor stores.

The Jean Paul Gaultier addict will love unwrapping shady spectacles from the designer%26rsquo;s first-ever eyewear collection. These avant-garde paparazzi-blockers are a collab between Gaultier and eyewear artisan Alain Mikli. From $285, exclusively at L%26rsquo;Optique of Dallas.

For someone on your list who looks smashing with their top down. BMW 650i xDrive convertible, stuffed with a 400-horsepower engine, a Bang %26amp; Olufsen surround sound system and rich nappa leather upholstery. From $90,500, at BMW; bmwusa.com.

The best gifts, indeed, often come in the smallest packages.I count this grand stocking stuffer of the Cathy Waterman variety %26mdash; an antique-coral bead bracelet with dragonfly clasp %26mdash; in that category. $28,800, at Ylang 23.

A Chinese garden stool from Wisteria in an electroplated metallic finish makes the perfect golden companion to all that silver tinsel. $129, at Wisteria.

Gift your hopeless romantic a perfect pas de deux as danced by American Ballet Theater during the company%26rsquo;s second-ever Dallas performance at the Winspear Opera House, presented by TITAS, January 20 to 21, 2012. Tickets 214.880.0202; titas.org. Image: American Ballet Theater dancers Stella Abrera and Gennadi Saveliev in Seven Sonatas. Photo by Gene Shiavone.

For the discerning nez, a modernist diffuser from master French perfumer Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Malle: the Fleur M%26eacute;canique, a candy-apple-red, chargeable, 11-centimeter cube that disperses Malle%26rsquo;s floral fragrances silently. $300, at Forty Five Ten.%26nbsp;

While I slip into an eggnog-induced slumber, these peeping rings from Bottega Veneta will keep an eye out for Saint Nick. From $260, at the Bottega Veneta boutique.

Because her vault needs these: a pair of Margot McKinney rose-cut diamond and turquoise stunners to duly impress the glamazon who has it all. (McKinney can tell you all about them herself: She%26rsquo;ll be in-store at Neiman Marcus Downtown, December 10 through 13.) $99,500, exclusively at Neiman Marcus Downtown.

%26nbsp;

Lauren Mang, Assistant Editor

For the mini bookworm: Anne of Green Gables, The Secret Garden and other Penguin classics, bound in colorful, stand-out-on-the-shelves canvas. $17 to $20, at Anthropologie; anthropologie.com.

It%26rsquo;s just the thing for canoodling or long conversations %26mdash; or both. Curl up in the Albert sofa, all sumptuous velvet and bronze handles. Price upon request,
at M%26iacute;nolochi/Promemoria.

Sedans? So last season. Give the two-door Cadillac CTS, loaded with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine and, for the Premium model, a luxe new Touring Package with 19-inch polished-aluminum wheels, microfiber suede seat inserts, even gorgeous alloy pedals. Big red bow not included. From $38,700, at Cadillac, cadillac.com. Image: Photo courtesy of GM Company

It%26rsquo;s the sweetest gift for your gourmand: Original Whipped Honey, locally harvested by husband-wife bee lovers and wranglers Susan and Brian Pollard of the Texas Honeybee Guild. $16, at Bolsa.

A stocking stuffer for your favorite beauty: Butter London%26rsquo;s nontoxic nail paints, this one in a delightfully festive, f%26ecirc;te-ready hunter green. $14, at The Spa at Equinox;
butterlondon.com.

For chilly winter eves %26mdash; the few we get around these parts %26mdash;%26nbsp;a chic, fitted cotton jacket by Ivan Grundahl. I think of it as a Victorian vixen gone modern. Price upon request, at Cicada Collection.%26nbsp;

To be the recipient of this stainless-steel and 18K-gold David Yurman beauty? How lucky. I%26rsquo;m mad for its mother-of-pearl dial and its bezel full of glinting white diamonds. $7,200, at the David Yurman boutique NorthPark Center and Saks Fifth Avenue.%26nbsp;

It%26rsquo;s the one statement bauble I have to have (other than my engagement ring, of course). The Mischa ring is dendrite agate set in 14K and 18K blackened gold with diamonds. $3,250, at Jerry Szor Contemporary Jewelry.

Leave the pruning to the gardeners. I%26rsquo;m smitten with these real boxwood topiaries in tapered pots %26mdash; beautifully preserved forevermore. As pictured: $35, $35, $60 and $110, at Into the Garden. Image: Photo by Justin Clemons.

%26nbsp;

Holly Moore, Editor in Chief

Tiffany %26amp; Co. opera-length gloves in nappa leather have such throwback elegance. $295, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

I%26rsquo;m mad with jealousy for Christian Louboutin men%26rsquo;s Mikaraji patent calf slippers with grosgrain and jeweled tassels. $2,095, at the Christian Louboutin boutique, christianlouboutin.com.

Here%26rsquo;s a bit of %26rsquo;70s glamour: Alexandra von Furstenberg%26rsquo;s chunky acrylic charm bowls in neon-orange, black and golden-yellow. $358, at Dahlgren Duck, Madison.

In a new collaboration, these stunning Fortunytumblers by L%26rsquo;Objet Pour Fortuny are made of earthenware and detailed with 24K gold. $175 for set of four, at Neiman Marcus NorthPark.

Nothing is better than the scent of old leather books (except perhaps for the scent of old money). Assouline library votive candle set $95, at Forty Five Ten.

How chic are these: Herm%26egrave;s jumping boots in techno canvas and calfskin in hot pink/white, Day-Glo orange/white or purple/white. $2,250, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Love Alexis Bittar%26rsquo;s Miss Havisham Collection, especially the crystal-encrusted cuff with labradorite stones. $425, at Ylang 23.

Bold or not at all. I love this encrusted buckle cuff by Angelique de Paris, with moss-colored stones lined in leather. $1,155, at Tootsies. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

For rowdier parties, break out the Baccarat for Williams-Sonoma. I especially love the Perfection plain square decanter ($495) and the Vega whiskey decanter ($425). Exclusively at Williams-Sonoma; williams-sonoma.com.

Surprise your favorite decorator with signed design books by Bunny Williams, Scrapbook for Living ($60); Kathryn Ireland, Summers in France ($35) and Classic Country ($40); Celerie Kemble, Black and White ($50); Hutton Wilkinson, More is More: Tony Duquette ($80); Suzanne Kasler, Inspired Interiors ($50); Jan Showers, Glamorous Rooms ($50); and David Kleinberg, Traditional Now ($60). Order through curatebooks@papercitymag.com. Image: Photo by Jenny Antill

Fornasetti%26rsquo;s Theme %26amp; Variations plates are hauntingly beautiful. $185 each, at Barneys New York.

Such deep-seated glamour: Lydia Courteille African elephant ear and mask cuff in 18K blackened gold with 653 diamonds, ebony and rare petrified coral. $45,430,
at Grange Hall.

Do you not love this Fiat 500 by Gucci? Yes, this is a real car %26hellip; with the signature Gucci web stripe along the bodyside of the Fiat 500 and across the power-retractable cloth top of the 500 Cabrio. And both have GG hubcaps; leather seats with Guccissima print on the back; iconic Gucci web stripes on the seats, floor mats and seat belts; and GG on the chrome shift knob. Can you stand it! Fiat 500, from $23,500; 500 Cabrio, from $27,500, available December 2011/January 2012 at Q Fiat in Irving; information and pre-orders fiatusa.com/gucci.

%26nbsp;

Laurann Claridge, Features Editor

Big, bigger, biggest. Make an extravagant impression with Diptyque oversized jar candles. $275, at Forty Five Ten. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

Don%26rsquo;t forget to pick out something special for your four-legged friend, like this adjustable rope dog leash. $64, at foundmyanimal.com.

I%26rsquo;m all about pearls and pav%26eacute; %26hellip; DeVille%26rsquo;s 18K white-gold and diamond (love) knot ring is a stunner. $4,570, at devillefinejewelry.com.

I adore giving a Juliska vide pouche. My new favorite pattern includes a chic gift box. $42, at Neiman Marcus.

I%26rsquo;m mad about this carryall by Boulevard. $158, to order at iloveblvd.com.

The classic pea coat, only in gray by Thom Browne for Black Fleece. $1,250, at Brooks Brothers.

Inspire them to cook like superstar chef Ferran Adri%26agrave; of el Bulli with The Family Meal: Home Cooking with Ferran Adri%26agrave; (Phaidon Press, $29.95). At local booksellers; amazon.com.

Give an armful of crossed brass bangles by designer Olga Prieto. $26 each, at olgaprieto.com.

No other little lacy thing is more chic worn inside or out. VPL cami top $225, and shorts $85, both at Barneys New York.

%26nbsp;

Kate Allen Stukenberg, Fashion Editor

Try just a touch of fur for fun. Elie Tahari Kelly scarf $698, at the Elie Tahari boutique.

Another gilt-y pleasure for my jewelry box is this Oscar de la Renta Folkloric necklace. $575, at the Oscar de la Renta boutique, Neiman Marcus.

I desire local designer David Peck%26rsquo;s simple silk blouses, in colors that change from season to season. Celia blouse $145, at Tootsies.

Look luxe in luscious Herm%26egrave;s lacquer bangles. $225 to $245, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Louis Vuitton has launched a seven-piece collection dubbed Louis Vuitton Icons: leather leggings, a trench, jumpsuit, jeans, bomber jacket, cardigan and, my personal favorite, The Perfect Parka. $2,150, at the Louis Vuitton boutique.

%26nbsp;

The Roberto Cavalli boutique is loaded with fabulous costume jewels. I must have these green fishbone crystal earrings. $1,215, at the Roberto Cavalli boutique.

Get graphic with Ivanka Trump%26rsquo;s octagonal-link band with diamonds. $1,990, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch.

Melanie Fascitelli, founder of Closette, has designed closets for well-dressed ladies Tory Burch, Lauren Santo Domingo and Beyonce. Now she%26rsquo;s debuted a chic storage and organization collection dubbed Closette-Too at Neiman Marcus. I can%26rsquo;t wait to get my hands on her colorful signature hangers with brass accents and sweater folding boards. For now, I%26rsquo;m hoping the Closette-Too Deluxe VIP Launch Kit ($470) will be under my tree this season. At Neiman Marcus.

%26nbsp;

Catherine D. Anspon, Visual Arts Editor

This velvet, patent-leather and satin cincher by the masterful Monsieur Gaultier, made in France, is exclusively available at the Dallas Museum of Art during the run of the blockbuster %26ldquo;The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk%26rdquo; (through February 12). $1,495, at the Dallas Museum of Art. Image: Jean Paul Gaultier Tartan Corset

Collect the history of art in alluring globes, which capture the modern and contemporary scenes%26rsquo; greatest movements, fauvism through video. They%26rsquo;re memorialized in limited-edition collectibles from provocative collaborators Ligorano/Reese. $400 each, $7,200 set of 20; at Artware Editions; artwareeditions.com.

David A. Leffel%26lsquo;s evocation of light upon closely observed objects reminds me of American 19th-century greats William Merritt Chase and Martin Johnson Heade. $24,000, at New Gallery; newgallerydallas.com. Image: David A. Leffel%26rsquo;s Roman Glass with Oranges, Garlic and Grapes, 2008

Move over, Murakami; get lost, Godzilla. There%26rsquo;s a new nemesis in town. Dallas artist Billy Zinser%26rsquo;s endearing desk-sized Macrodons beg for their own cartoon network. $40, at the Nasher Sculpture Center. Image: Billy Zinser%26rsquo;s Macrodon

For the stylishly casual on your list, the newest entree from Claridge + King: a cashmere sweater with leather-trimmed bell sleeves. When it%26rsquo;s time to order another, I only have to check in with my colleague, PaperCity features editor Laurann Claridge: she co-founded the line with her sister. $230, at Indulge, Kuhl-Linscomb; claridgeandking.com. Image: Claridge + King sweater; photo by Kennon Evett.

Dallas-based Pamela Nelson%26rsquo;s canvases connect to the craft kingdom as well as the tradition of typography and hand-lettered vernacular placards. $4,500, at Craighead Green Gallery. Image: Pamela Nelson%26rsquo;s Self Without End, 2011.

Keith Carter%26rsquo;s recently re-released From Uncertain to Blue documents previously unsung little Texas towns (UT Press, $55). The stop of Oatmeal is depicted here in one of Carter%26rsquo;s most beloved images. Limited-edition 15-by-15-inch print $2,000, at Photographs Do Not Bend. Image: Keith Carter%26rsquo;s Oatmeal, Texas, 1986

The 2011 Huntington Art Prize winner Leigh Anne Lester went home with the $50,000 award. Her whispery graphite studies of nature drawn on Mylar, are nuanced, quiet and profound. $6,000, at Kirk Hopper Fine Art. Image: Leigh Anne Lester%26rsquo;s Echidiananemdryonocethusonepterreusis Berlsylvpulsfilian-
diestratilxeriisla-Mas, 2009; photo courtesy the artist and Kirk Hopper Fine Art.

%26nbsp;

Brooke Hortenstine, Editor at Large

Finally, a photo album worthy of placement on Mies%26rsquo; Barcelona coffee table: the Velvet Rapture album, in four colors and encased in clear acrylic. $285 to $295, at Nest.

No time to season in Gstaad? Then invite the scent of the Alps to your city manse with a Feu de Bois Ski House candle set from the LAFCO house and home candle collection. $85 set of three, at lafcony.com.

Elevate holiday envelopes with a custom-calligraphy return-address stamp, in four hand-lettered options. Choose from the smart color palette of a black, brown or navy archival inkpad. $65, at paperpastries.com.

%26nbsp;

Wrap up deliciously bright vessels %26mdash; in spirited shades of aqua, lemon, blueberry, lime and mandarin %26mdash; for extra-special hosts and hostesses. $125 each, at Stanley Korshak.

Get wrapped up in the holiday spirit with Toledano%26rsquo;s Bondage crystal clutch. $1,675, at Gregory%26rsquo;s, gregorysshoes.com.

%26nbsp;

Diane Dorrans Saeks, Contributing Interior Design Editor

Stylish new Taffin candle trio, by jeweler James de Givenchy. My favorite fragrance: Bois de Lilas. $65 each, at Barneys New York, barneys.com.

Glitter me with jeweled evening clutches and the most glamorous rings by Bulgari. From $5,500, at the Bulgari boutique; bulgari.com.

This brilliant Christian Dior book was created by photographer Patrick Demarchelier (Rizzoli, $125). Iconic gowns from Dior haute couture collections from 1950s to today %26hellip; delicious. At local booksellers; %26nbsp;amazon.com.

L%26rsquo;Objet Bambou collection: a divine stainless-steel bowl with 24K-gold-plated bamboo handle %26mdash; chic and classic. $250, at l-objet.com.

Mish Ratu ring with brown tourmaline cabochon and champagne and cognac diamonds. $27,500, at mishnewyork.com.

New Bellocq tea canisters. I adore Majorelle Mint, Noble Savage and Bellocq Breakfast. From $22, at bellocq.com.

Bravo, Gucci, for bringing back %26rsquo;60s elegance, including the Jackie bag in red leather. $1,890, at the Gucci boutique; gucci.com.

Take me to the utterly romantic Le Royal Monceau Hotel in Paris, with its brilliant design by Philippe Starck. I especially love La Librarie des Arts with its collection of 700 books and collectibles dedicated to contemporary art, design and architecture, and an art curator who%26rsquo;ll get you into all top galleries and exhibits, and help with art purchases. Bliss. raffles.com.

%26nbsp;

Greg Fourticq, Contributing Style Editor

No one loves tequila like a Texan. Gran Patron Burdeos is the best of the best. Real men drink it neat. $649, at liquor stores.

Now that I%26rsquo;ve had to turn in my running shoes, my new way to enjoy the outdoors is on my new bicycle, a 2011 Salsa Cycles Spearfish 29er. Great for the trails along Buffalo Bayou and quite a good workout! $2,649, to order at Oak Cliff Bicycle Company.

Michael Tracy jewelry is beautifully crafted and completely unique. Tracy%26rsquo;s use of stones is like no one else%26rsquo;s. These are truly heirloom pieces: pair of butterfly brooches in black diamonds, white Golconda diamonds and 18K yellow gold with a black rhodium polish. Price upon request, through Maya at 214.926.6292.

It%26rsquo;s imperative that every so often we go on a journey to a place that%26rsquo;s completely foreign to us (no shopping, fine dining) and truly experience and explore it. Each Smithsonian Journeys trip is led by an expert who has spent years studying the region. I%26rsquo;m obsessed with the idea of their Amazon River Cruise (February 10 through 19, 17 through 26, 2012). From $4,195, through 877.338.8687; smithsonianjourneys.com.

French company Cire Trudon, established in 1643, produces the purest and most refined scented candles on the market. The Nazareth candle has hints of clove, cinnamon and orange %26mdash; the ideal hostess gift. A portion of sales go to Terre d%26rsquo;Abeilles, a foundation dedicated to the protection of bees and other pollinating species, which are critical to the growth of so many of the natural elements used in Cire Trudon fragrances. $85, at Barneys New York, Grange Hall.

Bals: Legendary Costume Balls of the Twentieth Century is a beautifully crafted book from Assouline with amazing photography. Quite a social case study. $175, at Nest and local booksellers; amazon.com.

James Drake drawings %26mdash; each one a study for his most recent work, %26ldquo;Red Mirror Project.%26rdquo; Sold in limited quantities, each is an intricate study showing Drake%26rsquo;s talent in a very different light. Perfect gift for an established collector and priced as an affordable gift for someone looking to start a collection. $4,500 each (unframed), at Moody Gallery, 713.526.9911; moodygallery.com. Image: James Drake%26rsquo;s Red Drawing #29, 2011; photo courtesy of the artist and Moody Gallery.

%26nbsp;

Ceron, Contributing Style Editor

Finally, Herm%26egrave;s makes this classic cuff in a size large enough to fit man hands. Herm%26egrave;s Collier de Chien cuff in leather and silver hardware $1,050, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Here%26rsquo;s a bit of man glam: Kimberly McDonald Black Diamond Slice cuff links. $16,800, at Forty Five Ten.

One%26rsquo;s iPad needs equal-opportunity glam. Herm%26egrave;s Etui iPad station in calfskin $1,400, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Who doesn%26rsquo;t want a simple Herm%26egrave;s Birkin bag %26hellip; it%26rsquo;s life itself! Herm%26egrave;s HAC 50 Bag in chocolate calfskin $11,800, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

For running around Venice. Christian Louboutin men%26rsquo;s Loubi brogue with embroidery. $2,295, at the Christian Louboutin boutique, christianlouboutin.com.

Tom all the time. Tom Ford cashmere overcoat with mink collar, price on request; Wetherby double-pleat wool mohair Prince of Wales trousers $990; and crocodile Foster loafers. All at Neiman Marcus.

I so love an oversized evening tie in rich, rich velvet. This one is by Hadleigh%26rsquo;s Bespoke. $175, at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s.

Everything deserves to be covered in crocodile. Alex Knight iPhone 4 cover in orange alligator $350, at alexandraknightonline.com.

I%26rsquo;m mad for Alex Prager photographs, especially Eve, 2008. So Tippi! 36 x 72, price upon request, at M+B Gallery, 310.550.0050; mbart.com. Image: Photo %26copy; Alex Prager 2008, Courtesy of the artist and M+B Gallery.

I debuted these made-to-order encrusted jeans at TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art, and they were a sensation. Embellished jeans by Castillo laden with crystals, metals and skulls. From $3,000, by special order through stylist Vanessa Castillo, vanessacastillo@gmail.com.

This tux is like going to a party with Tom! Tom Ford Wetherby cocktail coat in liquid velvet $3,590, Wetherby evening trousers $1,200, voile evening shirt $510, and satin bow tie $235. All at Neiman Marcus.

%26nbsp;

Jenny Antill, Photo Editor

Tee as collectible: Stella Rose minimalist, vegan-approved shirts designed by PaperCity%26rsquo;s own Celeste Tammariello. From $28, at stellarosestudio.com. Image: Photo by Jenny Antill.

It%26rsquo;s Deco-rama with this black onyx and diamond fan bracelet in platinum. $165,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Image: Photo by Carlton Davis.

I%26rsquo;m loving the low-tech. Say cheese for this ultra-wide-angle 35mm camera, which produces saturated colors and evokes a hip vintage vibe. La Sardina camera and flash $109, at shop.lomography.com.

%26nbsp;

%26nbsp;

Gifted and Talented

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 02:44:00 GMT

Laurann Claridge, Features Editor

Big, bigger, biggest. Make an extravagant impression with Diptyque oversized jar candles. $275, at Longoria Collection. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

Don%26rsquo;t forget to pick out something special for your four-legged friend, like this adjustable rope dog leash. $64, at PH Design Shop.

I%26rsquo;m all about pearls and pav%26eacute; %26hellip; DeVille%26rsquo;s 18K white-gold and diamond (love) knot ring is a stunner. $4,570, at DeVille Fine Jewelry.

I adore giving a Juliska vide pouche. My new favorite pattern includes a chic gift box. $42, at Indulge.

The classic pea coat, only in gray by Thom Browne for Black Fleece. $1,250, at Brooks Brothers.

I%26rsquo;m mad about this carryall by Boulevard. $158, to order at A Bient%26ocirc;t.

Inspire them to cook like superstar chef Ferran Adri%26agrave; of el Bulli with The Family Meal: Home Cooking with Ferran Adri%26agrave; (Phaidon Press, $29.95). At local booksellers; amazon.com.

No other little lacy thing is more chic worn inside or out. VPL cami top $225, and shorts $85, both at La Mode Lingerie.

Houston photographer David Bates has captured myriad colorful birds, from woodpeckers to hummingbirds, in his hauntingly glorious %26ldquo;Feathery Fates%26rdquo; still lifes. From $595, at batesphotostudio.com. Image: Photo by David Bates.

Give an armful of crossed brass bangles by designer Olga Prieto. $26 each, at Gift %26ndash; Curated Shopping by Peel (West Ave).

Not born with a silver spoon in your mouth? Let your progeny dine from a silver ladle made in London, circa 1766. $300, at David Lackey Antiques at Antiques of River Oaks.

Break open the bottles with this cool brass bottle opener. $68, at PH Design Shop.

Dazzling on a bar cart or in your bath, this Georgian decanter dates to the late 18th century. $495, at Town %26amp; Country Antiques and Accessories at Antiques of River Oaks.

I%26rsquo;m loving Luisa Cerano%26rsquo;s elegant take on the cardy. $595, at Linda Cunningham.

%26nbsp;

Kate Allen Stukenberg, Fashion Editor

Cake Balls from new bake shop Petite Sweets are even sweeter in special holiday flavors: gingerbread, pumpkin, chocolate peppermint and eggnog. Perfect for stockings or holiday party hostess gifts. $2.25 each, at Petite Sweets.

I desire local designer David Peck%26rsquo;s simple silk blouses, in colors that change from season to season. Celia blouse $145, at Tootsies.

Prada is known for its witty goods %26mdash; these gators certainly made me smile. Resin earrings $230, at the Prada boutique opening this month at the Galleria.

This beaded ikat clutch is just small enough for a stocking surprise. $144, at Haut Chocolate. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

Another gilt-y pleasure for my jewelry box is this Oscar de la Renta Folkloric necklace. $575, at Atrium.

Lenny e Cia stocks Rare Eyewear, a unique sunglasses distributor focusing on stylish, never-worn vintage shades by such sought-after designers as Christian Lacroix and Guy Bourdin. Even the packaging is original, so you%26rsquo;ll know they%26rsquo;re the real deal. Prices vary, at Lenny e Cia.

It%26rsquo;s always fun perusing the cases at Past Era for unique vintage jewelry finds. On my last visit, I fell in love with this Louis-Philippe I onyx and rose-cut diamond cameo brooch, circa 1840. $6,950, at Past Era Fine Antique Jewelry.

Try just a touch of fur for fun. Elie Tahari Kelly scarf $698, to order at Elizabeth Anthony/Esther Wolf.

Get graphic with Ivanka Trump%26rsquo;s octagonal-link band with diamonds. $1,990, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch.

These mini Miu Miu bags are max on style. Pick one up at the new Miu Miu boutique at the Galleria, opening this month. Ostrich Mini bag $1,850, at the Miu Miu boutique.

Look luxe in luscious Herm%26egrave;s lacquer bangles. $225 to $245, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

%26nbsp;

Holly Moore, Editor in Chief

Tiffany %26amp; Co. opera-length gloves in nappa leather have such throwback elegance. $295, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

I%26rsquo;m mad with jealousy for Christian Louboutin men%26rsquo;s Mikaraji patent calf slippers with grosgrain and jeweled tassels. $2,095, at christianlouboutin.com.

Your baby wants a palace, but it%26rsquo;s not in the cards. Instead, opt for a more practical stacking porcelain palace that doubles as soup bowls or salad plates. $168 to $500, at Sloan/Hall.

In a new collaboration, these stunning Fortunytumblers by L%26rsquo;Objet Pour Fortuny are made of earthenware and detailed with 24K gold. $175 for set of four, at Neiman Marcus.

How chic are these: Herm%26egrave;s jumping boots in techno canvas and calfskin in hot pink/white, Day-Glo orange/white or purple/white. $2,250, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Nothing is better than the scent of old leather books (except perhaps for the scent of old money). Assouline library votive candle set $95, at assouline.com.

The Burlesque No Evil Monkey candelabra from Italy is slightly decadent and a whole lot chic. Black resin, 24 inches tall. $350, at Gift %26ndash; Curated Shopping by Peel, Peel Gallery%26rsquo;s pop-up store for the holidays in West Ave, 713.520.8122; info@peelgallery.org.

Surprise your favorite decorator with signed design books by Bunny Williams, Scrapbook for Living ($60); Kathryn Ireland, Summers in France ($35) and Classic Country ($40); Celerie Kemble, Black and White ($50); Hutton Wilkinson, More is More: Tony Duquette ($80); Suzanne Kasler, Inspired Interiors ($50); Jan Showers, Glamorous Rooms ($50); and David Kleinberg, Traditional Now ($60). At Curate: PaperCity Pop-Up Bookshop in Uptown Park. Info: curatebooks@papercitymag.com. Image: Photo by Jenny Antill

Fornasetti%26rsquo;s Theme %26amp; Variations plates are hauntingly beautiful. $185 each, at barneys.com.

Bold or not at all. I love this encrusted buckle cuff by Angelique de Paris, with moss-colored stones lined in leather. $1,155, at Tootsies. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

Do you not love this Fiat 500 by Gucci? Yes, this is a real car %26hellip; with the signature Gucci web stripe along the bodyside of the Fiat 500 and across the power-retractable cloth top of the 500 Cabrio. And both have GG hubcaps; leather seats with Guccissima print on the back; iconic Gucci web stripes on the seats, floor mats and seat belts; and GG on the chrome shift knob. Can you stand it! Fiat 500, from $23,500; 500 Cabrio, from $27,500, available December 2011/January 2012 at Sterling McCall Fiat; information and pre-orders fiatusa.com/gucci.

%26nbsp;

Catherine D. Anspon, Visual Arts Editor

This little Louis Vuitton with touches of pink gator suggests the headdress of an Indian princess. I%26rsquo;m equally enthralled by this demure envelope bag fashioned from Camel Cigarette wrappers. Louis Vuitton $2,020, cigarette-wrapper clutch $275, both at The Vintage Contessa; thevintagecontessa.com. Images: Louis Vuitton limited-edition Velours and Alligator Irvine bag, 2004 - 2005 collection; Camel Cigarette-wrapper clutch, circa 1950s.

Help the homeless quench their thirst while empowering them to live a new life. Read how via the truly inspiring mission of Houston-headquartered I Am Waters Foundation in the volume Dream. $100 donation, at iamwaters.com.

For a high-impact gift, give an entrance-making Russian pouf fashioned from fox fur. $1,800, at Sakowitz Furs.

This exquisite iridescent glass vase could have been unearthed from Tut%26rsquo;s tomb. Its simplicity and power transcend the centuries %26mdash; but its origins lie in the Deco period and the famed German Myra glass works. $1,650, at L.R. Antiques. Image: Myra iridescent glass vase.

When top patron Lester Marks of the assiduous eye became an artist, those in the know held their breaths. Now fellow collectors are scrambling to gobble up his limited-edition photographs, which marry saturated clouds of color with a wink and a nod to the everyday. From $600, at New Gallery/Thom Andriola and, coming 2012, PaperCity Acquire. Image: Lester Marks%26rsquo; Untitled from the %26ldquo;Personages Series,%26rdquo; 2011.

We%26rsquo;re scooping up bottles and jars crafted by Houston%26rsquo;s own Bill Davenport and JoAnn Park, respectively, whom PaperCity has tapped for a new series available exclusively at Curate. $75 each, at Curate: PaperCity Pop-Up Bookshop, Uptown Park. Image: Bill Davenport and JoAnn Park%26rsquo;s collectibles.

Nothing%26rsquo;s droller than this collaboration between Houston artistic duo Elaine Bradford and Seth Mittag. Bradford whipped up the knitting that covers Mittag%26rsquo;s deer. Watch out for the one with a naughty message in its antlers. $300 each, set of three $900, at Art Palace. Photo: Elaine Bradford and Seth Mittag%26rsquo;s Untitled (****ing Deer), 2011.

I%26rsquo;m wild for the sinuous curves of Art Nouveau, exemplified by this turn-of-the-century, silver-and-silver-gilt American gem from Heritage Auctions, featured in the December 7 sale. Starting bid $200; ha.com. Image: Unger Brothers%26rsquo; silver-and-silver-gilt match safe, circa 1900.

Houston sculptor Jonathan Clark usually works on a gargantuan scale, but now he hones his craft down to desk-size with artful bundled pencils. $75 to $175 each, set of all three sizes $300, at Peel Gallery and Curate: PaperCity Pop-Up Bookshop, Uptown Park. Image: Jonathan Clark%26rsquo;s pencil sculptures.

This wildly inventive video vignette, an editioned work by Swiss video artist Katja Loher, pairs Busby Berkeley style choreography with 21st-century cinematic sampling.%26nbsp; $15,500, at Anya Tish Gallery. Image: Katja Loher%26rsquo;s Supper for Two, 2011.

Heights neighbor and dear friend Susan Plum is an artist of global vision. Her latest, a series of Buddhas nesting in flame-worked glass compartments, also add elements of nature %26mdash; including cast pomegranates and tropical blooms. From $1,200, at PG Contemporary. Photo: Susan Plums%26rsquo; Red Buddhas, 2011.

Snap up Houston provocateur Thedra Cullar-Ledford%26rsquo;s debut volume, the strange and surreal Fifty Dolls, which comes with its own original drawing. $250, at Curate: PaperCity Pop-Up Bookshop, Uptown Park.

%26nbsp;

Rob Brinkley, Dallas Editor

%26nbsp;

Brooke Hortenstine, Editor at Large

The ultimate Sloe Gin Fizz and trippy illustrations by artist Chris Gall? Make mine a double. The PDT Cocktail Book: The Complete Bartender%26rsquo;s Guide from the Celebrated Speakeasy by Jim Meehan includes than 300 cocktail recipes from New York bar PDT, all garnished with Gall%26rsquo;s lush, otherworldly scenes %26mdash; faintly %26rsquo;50s, certainly fabulous (Sterling Epicure, $24.95). At local booksellers.

Get wrapped up in the holiday spirit with Toledano%26rsquo;s Bondage crystal clutch. $1,675, at Gregory%26rsquo;s, gregorysshoes.com.

%26nbsp;

Love Geoffrey Parker%26rsquo;s watersnake Rubik%26rsquo;s cube. $150, at barneys.com.

%26nbsp;

Jenny Antill, Photo Editor

Tee as collectible: Stella Rose minimalist, vegan-approved shirts designed by PaperCity%26rsquo;s own Celeste Tammariello. From $28, at stellarosestudio.com. Image: Photo by Jenny Antill.

It%26rsquo;s Deco-rama with this black onyx and diamond fan bracelet in platinum. $165,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Image: Photo by Carlton Davis.

I love this original Repetto cherry red ballet flat. $265. at BHLDN.

Slouching is okay with Marie Turnor%26rsquo;s Picnic clutch. $170, at Gift %26ndash; Curated Shopping by Peel, Peel Gallery%26rsquo;s pop-up store for the holidays in West Ave, 713.520.8122; info@peelgallery.org.

Curated collecting opportunities this spring are all about photography. The Russians are coming to FotoFest and also on the block at the FotoFest Biennial International Fine Print Auction on Tuesday, March 20, 2012. Meanwhile, the Houston Center for Photography unfurls its Print Auction on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 %26mdash; get your preview tickets online. Information fotofest.org, hcponline.org. Images: FotoFest Auction Lot, Gregori Maiofis%26rsquo; Politics Makes Strange Bedfellows, 2006; Houston Center for Photography Lot, Lou Vest%26rsquo;s Big Wake, Little Wake, 2011.

%26nbsp;

Seth Vaughan, Editorial Assistant

What better antidote to post-gift-opening malaise than a wildly competitive backgammon game? T. Anthony leather tournament backgammon set $1,200, at tanthony.com.

Rubber driving shoes that can be worn in the rain and cleaned with soap and water. M: Zero II $145, at Lenny e Cia.

The documentary Bill Cunningham New York is required watching for anyone interested in fashion reportage. $29.99, at Barnes %26amp; Noble, amazon.com.

This handsome replica by French sculptor Alfred Barye Fils, estimated at $1,000 to $1,500, will delight anyone who appreciates the thrill of the steeplechase. Your only hurdle: It hits the block December 11. Morton Kuehnert Auctioneers, mortonkuehnert.com.

Spoil a loved one (or yourself) rotten with the epitome of luxury stuffed into a stocking: cashmere socks. Six pairs $98, at Neiman Marcus.

Any man will get a kick out of ties by Boast, the favored brand of %26rsquo;70s tennis and golf mavericks. These are emblazoned not with a marijuana leaf, but with a Japanese maple. $120, at boastusa.com.

No gentleman%26rsquo;s wardrobe is complete without dignified bedroom slippers. And nothing says %26ldquo;dignified%26rdquo; quite like Bottega Veneta. From $470 for the Espresso suede slippers to $1,180 for the Dakar Caiman slippers, at the Bottega Veneta boutique.

Shave like a president with Caswell-Massey%26rsquo;s all-natural 1752 shaving staples in Almond, the scent preferred by Dwight D. Eisenhower. From $9 for a single bar to $18 for exfoliating face wash, at caswellmassey.com. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

Jot down your New Year%26rsquo;s resolutions with a Pilot Varsity fountain pen. With one of these biros, returning to work after the holidays will be just a little easier. $27 for pack of seven, at Avalon Stationery %26amp; Gifts. Image: Photo by Kennon Evett.

%26nbsp;

Diane Dorrans Saeks, Contributing Interior Design Editor

Stylish new Taffin candle trio, by jeweler James de Givenchy. My favorite fragrance: Bois de Lilas. $65 each, at barneys.com.

Glitter me with jeweled evening clutches and the most glamorous rings by Bulgari. From $5,500, at the Bulgari boutique; bulgari.com.

Mish Ratu ring with brown tourmaline cabochon and champagne and cognac diamonds. $27,500, at mishnewyork.com.

Bravo, Gucci, for bringing back %26rsquo;60s elegance, including the Jackie bag in red leather. $1,890, at the Gucci boutique; gucci.com.

New Bellocq tea canisters. I adore Majorelle Mint, Noble Savage and Bellocq Breakfast. From $22, at Restoration Hardware; bellocq.com.

%26nbsp;

Greg Fourticq, Contributing Style Editor

No one loves tequila like a Texan. Gran Patron Burdeos is the best of the best. Real men drink it neat. $649, at Richard%26rsquo;s Liquors and Fine Wines.

Bals: Legendary Costume Balls of the Twentieth Century is a beautifully crafted book from Assouline with amazing photography. Quite a social case study. $175, at Curate: PaperCity Pop Up Bookshop and other booksellers.

What to give someone who already has everything: Consider funding a book for the collection of the Hirsch Library at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, which is utilized by generations of art scholars. Each book receives a personalized bookplate, letter to the donor and honoree, and a credit line in the online catalog. Match the book to the honoree%26rsquo;s interests. Contact library director Jon Evans at 713.639.7393; jevans@mfah.org.

%26nbsp;

Ceron, Contributing Style Editor

Here%26rsquo;s a bit of man glam: Kimberly McDonald Black Diamond Slice cuff links. $16,800, at fortyfiveten.com.

One%26rsquo;s iPad needs equal-opportunity glam. Herm%26egrave;s Etui iPad station in calfskin $1,400, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

For running around Venice. Christian Louboutin men%26rsquo;s Loubi brogue with embroidery. $2,295, at christianlouboutin.com.

Who doesn%26rsquo;t want a simple Herm%26egrave;s Birkin bag %26hellip; it%26rsquo;s life itself! Herm%26egrave;s HAC 50 Bag in chocolate calfskin $11,800, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Tom all the time. Tom Ford cashmere overcoat with mink collar, price on request; Wetherby double-pleat wool mohair Prince of Wales trousers $990; and crocodile Foster loafers. All at Neiman Marcus.

I so love an oversized evening tie in rich, rich velvet. This one is by Hadleigh%26rsquo;s Bespoke. $175, at hadleighsbespoke.com.

Everything deserves to be covered in crocodile. Alex Knight iPhone 4 cover in orange alligator $350, at alexandraknightonline.com.

Dapper is as dapper does. Tom Ford%26rsquo;s country jacket in sharkskin double-check with suede elbow patches $3,248; Wetherby double pleat trousers $990; silk jacquard bow tie $235; and black crocodile Edward brogue cap-toe lace-up shoes, price upon request. All at Neiman Marcus.

%26nbsp;

Mad Moms

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:52:16 GMT

Models Emily Campbell and Heather Hausman, both for Kim Dawson Agency. Hair Al Tidwell and makeup Ashley Robinson, both for Kim Dawson Agency. Props and set Marisa Dukowitz. Photo assistant Kathy Miller. Special effects Josh Martin. Fashion assistant Carson Eisenhart.

No matter how you slice it. Left: Jason Wu silk faille sculpted dress $3,195, at Stanley Korshak, Neiman Marcus. Fragments bib necklace $370, at Neiman Marcus. Right: Jason Wu Silk Faille Falling Leaf lace sculpted dress $4,995, at Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak. Tiffany %26amp; Co. glazed crocodile Maddie lunchbox $8,500, at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Rollins Hortenstine as the birthday boy.

%26ldquo;Sparkle, Neely, Sparkle!%26rdquo; Alberta Ferretti printed wool dress $1,695 at Forty Five Ten. Nina Ricci multi-strap, open-toe calfskin pumps $790. Elsa Peretti cabochon ring $2,145, and Sevillana cuff $1,850, both at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Infant Pruitt Bania Menter in a vintage pram.

%26ldquo;I%26rsquo;m merely traveling incognito.%26rdquo; Christopher Kane crochet leather T-shirt $1,920, and miniskirt $1,730, to order at Barneys New York. Elsa Peretti Sevillana earrings $550, and lacquer bangle $425, both at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

%26ldquo;It comes from the bottom of my damaged, damaged heart.%26rdquo; Rodarte double-collared cotton lace dress $6,900, to order at Barneys New York.

%26ldquo;The sanitarium was very expensive.%26rdquo; Maison Rabih Kayrouz knit dress $3,195, at Neiman Marcus. Ippolita ring $1,995, at Forty Five Ten, Neiman Marcus,
Saks Fifth Avenue. Kara by Kara Ross bracelet $315, at Neiman Marcus, Tootsies.

%26ldquo;No crying in the break room.%26rdquo; Valentino Meadow Flowers gown with button front $7,900, at the Valentino boutique, Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak. Tiffany
%26amp; Co. satin Bracelet bag $795, and Elsa Peretti cabochon ring $2,145, both at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

%26ldquo;One day you%26rsquo;re there. And then all of a sudden there%26rsquo;s less of you.%26rdquo; Moschino jacket, at Forty Five Ten. The Row cashmere Romby dress $3,390, at Forty Five Ten. Jimmy Choo Cosmic pumps $695, at the Jimmy Choo boutique, Neiman Marcus.

%26ldquo;I%26rsquo;m not a solution to your problems. I%26rsquo;m another problem.%26rdquo; Gucci matte creponne pois satin dress $2,650, at the Gucci boutique, Neiman Marcus. Christian Louboutin%26nbsp; Cle clutch $1,495, at Stanley Korshak. Barrera necklace $665, at Neiman Marcus, Tootsies.

%26ldquo;If you don%26rsquo;t like what%26rsquo;s being said, change the conversation.%26rdquo; Cacharel dress $695, at Forty Five Ten. Fendi Chameleon shoes $950, at Stanley Korshak, Saks Fifth Avenue. Wendy Yue ring $29,350, at Stanley Korshak. Elsa Peretti lacquer bangle $475, at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Rollins Hortenstine as the young cowboy.

%26ldquo;Am I to entertain your ballad of dissatisfaction, or has something actually happened?%26rdquo; Miu Miu crepe coat $2,750, Mink fur $8,215, and glitter-and-suite open-toe booties $890, all at the Miu Miu boutique, Houston (opening next month). Lanvin cuff bracelet, at Neiman Marcus.

%26ldquo;You%26rsquo;ve got to climb Mount Everest to reach the Valley of the Dolls.%26rdquo; Carolina Herrera Jasper flannel caplet jacket with velvet belt $3,290, and flannel pencil skirt $1,390, both at the Carolina Herrera boutique, Stanley Korshak. Kara by Kara Ross bracelet $315, at Neiman Marcus, Tootsies. Stephanie Anne earrings $195, and ring $2,350, both at the Stephanie Anne boutique, Neiman Marcus.

%26nbsp;

Mad Moms

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:40:54 GMT

No matter how you slice it. Left: Jason Wu silk faille sculpted dress $3,195, at Atrium. Fragments bib necklace $370, at Neiman Marcus. Right: Jason Wu Silk Faille Falling Leaf lace sculpted dress $4,995, at Atrium. Tiffany %26amp; Co. glazed-crocodile Maddie lunchbox $8,500, at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Rollins Hortenstine as the birthday boy.

%26ldquo;Sparkle, Neely, Sparkle!%26rdquo; Alberta Ferretti printed wool dress $1,695 at Tootsies. Nina Ricci multi-strap, open-toe calfskin pumps $790. Elsa Peretti cabochon ring $2,145, and Sevillana cuff $1,850, both at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Infant Pruitt Bania Menter in a vintage pram.

%26ldquo;I%26rsquo;m merely traveling incognito.%26rdquo; Christopher Kane crochet leather T-shirt $1,920, and miniskirt $1,730, both at net-a-porter.com. Elsa Peretti Sevillana earrings $550, and lacquer bangle $425, both at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

%26ldquo;It comes from the bottom of my damaged, damaged heart.%26rdquo; Rodarte double-collared cotton lace dress $6,900, at net-a-porter.com.

%26ldquo;The sanitarium was very expensive.%26rdquo; Maison Rabih Kayrouz knit dress $3,195, at Neiman Marcus. Ippolita ring $1,995, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Zadok Jewelers. Kara by Kara Ross bracelet $315, at Neiman Marcus, Tootsies.

%26ldquo;No crying in the break room.%26rdquo; Valentino Meadow Flowers gown with button front $7,900, at the Valentino boutique, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom. Tiffany %26amp; Co. satin Bracelet bag $795, and Elsa Peretti cabochon ring $2,145, both at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

%26ldquo;One day you%26rsquo;re there. And then all of a sudden there%26rsquo;s less of you.%26rdquo; Moschino jacket, at Tootsies. The Row cashmere Romby dress $3,390, at Tootsies. Jimmy Choo Cosmic pumps $695, at the Jimmy Choo boutique, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tootsies.

%26ldquo;I%26rsquo;m not a solution to your problems. I%26rsquo;m another problem.%26rdquo; Gucci matte creponne pois satin dress $2,650, at the Gucci boutique. Christian Louboutin
Cle clutch $1,495, at Joseph, Neiman Marcus. Barrera necklace $665, at Tootsies

%26ldquo;If you don%26rsquo;t like what%26rsquo;s being said, change the conversation.%26rdquo; Cacharel dress $695, at Tootsies. Fendi Chameleon shoes $950, at the Fendi boutique, Neiman Marcus. Elsa Peretti lacquer bangle $475, at Tiffany %26amp; Co. Rollins Hortenstine as the young cowboy.

%26ldquo;Am I to entertain your ballad of dissatisfaction, or has something actually happened?%26rdquo; Miu Miu crepe coat $2,750, mink fur $8,215, and glitter-and-suede open-toe booties $890, all at the Miu Miu boutique (opening in the Galleria next month). Lanvin cuff bracelet, at Neiman Marcus.

Stoned

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:24:20 GMT

Dripping in Diamonds. Bulgari gold necklace with sapphires, turquoise and diamonds, from the High Jewelry Collection, price upon request, at the Bulgari boutique.

Kaleidoscopic. Irene Neuwirth Boulder opal ring $10,450, at Barneys New York,Ylang 23.

Red Eye. Roberto Coin Art Nouveau ring in gold with tourmalines, sapphires and diamonds, $3,500 at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s, Neiman Marcus.

Magic Mushroom. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels Femme au Lotus decor clip from the Bals de L%26eacute;gend high jewelry collection, to order, at Neiman Marcus.

Over the Rainbow. Andrea Fohrman rainbow pendant $5,000, at Ylang 23.

Groovy. Vintage gold brooch, circa 1970s, with jade, sapphire and diamonds $2,450, at Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

Edgy. Diane von Furstenberg by H. Stern ring with gemstones $10,300, at Neiman Marcus.

Like a Rock. Kara Ross raw African dioptase with gold and diamonds $15,000, by private appointment at 212.223.7272.

Blue Magic. Tiffany %26amp; Co. Montana sapphire and diamond bracelet $140,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Flower Child. Harry Winston Incredible Star ruby ring, price upon request, at the Harry Winston boutique.%26nbsp;

Disco Glam. David Yurman Starburst pendant, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.%26nbsp;

Twisted. Wendy Yue gold chrysocolla drop with sapphires and garnets $10,725, at Stanley Korshak.

Star Bright. Chanel Bulles de Ciel ring, price upon request, at the Chanel boutique.

Hypnotic. Hypnose de Cartier ring $42,300, at the Cartier boutique.

Stoned

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:18:28 GMT

Dripping in Diamonds. Bulgari gold necklace with sapphires, turquoise and diamonds, from the High Jewelry Collection, price upon request, at the Bulgari boutique.

Kaleidoscopic. Irene Neuwirth Boulder opal ring $10,450, at Judith Ann Jewels.

Red Eye. Topaz with diamonds and tsavorites set in gold, $5,790, at I.W. Marks.

Magic Mushroom. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels Femme au Lotus decor clip from the Bals de L%26eacute;gend high jewelry collection, price upon request, at Neiman Marcus.%26nbsp;

Flower Power. Roberto Coin Art Nouveau ring in gold with tourmalines, sapphires and diamonds, $3,500 at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

%26nbsp;

Groovy. Vintage gold brooch, circa 1970s, with jade, sapphire and diamonds $2,450, at Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

Edgy. Diane von Furstenberg by H. Stern ring with gemstones $10,300, at Zadok Jewelers.

Like a Rock. Kara Ross raw African dioptase with gold and diamonds $15,000, by private appointment at 212.223.7272.

Blue Magic. Tiffany %26amp; Co. Montana sapphire and diamond bracelet $140,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Diamond Head. Snake earrings $8,970, at DeVille Fine Jewelry.

Disco Glam. David Yurman Starburst pendant, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.%26nbsp;

Acid Green. Peridot and diamond ring set in platinum, $36,000, at Wayne Smith Jewels.

Star Bright. Chanel Bulles de Ciel ring, price upon request, at the Chanel boutique.

Hypnotic. Hypnose de Cartier ring $42,300, at the Cartier boutique.

December 2011 Trunk Shows %26 PAs

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 03:31:07 GMT

Forty Five Ten
4510 McKinney Ave., 214.559.4510; fortyfiveten.com
December 2-3: The Woods Trunk Show %26amp; PA
December 9-10: Yigal Azrou%26euml;l Trunk Show %26amp; PA
December 9-10:Jeanine Payer Trunk Show %26amp; PA
December 16-17: Kimberly McDonald Trunk Show %26amp; PA

Neiman Marcus Downtown
1618 Main St., 214.741.6911; neimanmarcus.com
December 6-7: Linda Bergman PA
December 7: Brunello Cucinelli Spring Trunk Show
December 8-9: Jerry Sorbara PA
December 8: Jude Frances Trunk Show
December 8-9: Oscar de la Renta Spring Trunk Show
December 9-10: Kenneth Pool Bridal Trunk Show
December 10-13: Margot McKinney PA
December 14-15: Stephanie Annie PA

Neiman Marcus NorthPark
400 NorthPark Center, 214.363.831; neimanmarcus.com
December 1: Eliot Raffit PA
December 1: Donna Karan Trunk Show
December 1: Jude Frances PA
December 2: Emily Armenta Trunk Show %26amp; PA
December 3: Sydney Evans Trunk Show
December 3-4: Diamonds in the Rough Trunk Show
December 5-6: Alex Soldier Trunk Show
December 6-7: Guerlain Fragrance Trunk Show
December 8: Ashley Pittman Trunk Show
December 8: Brunello Cucinelli Spring Trunk Show
December 8: Ippolita Trunk Show
December 8-9: Oscar Heyman Trunk Show
December 9: John Hardy Trunk Show
December 10: John Huras PA
December 12-13: Dena Kemp PA
December 14: Marina B Trunk Show
December 14-15: Fantasia by Deserio Trunk Show
December 15-16: Staurino Fratelli Trunk Show
December 17-18: Cynthia Bach PA

Neiman Marcus at The Shops at Willow Bend
2201 Dallas Pkwy., 972.629.1200; neimanmarcus.com
December 1: Anjanette Cusura PA
December 1: Elizabeth Showers PA
December 2: Michele Watch Trunk Show
December 3: John Hardy Trunk Show
December 7-8: Coomi Bhasin PA
December 8: Suzanne Wilson Trunk Show
December 9: Ashley Pittman Trunk Show
December 10: Jan Barboglio PA
December 17: Ippolita Trunk Show

NorthPark Center
8687 North Central Expwy., 214.361.6345; northparkcenter.com
December 5-6: Oscar de la Renta Trunk Show

Stanley Korshak
500 Crescent Court, 214.871.3600; stanleykorshak.com
December 1-3: Monique Pean Trunk Show
December 2-3: Bosca Trunk Show
December 2-3: Tulliani Trunk Show
December 2-3: Cufflinks Inc. Trunk Show
December 2-3: Majestic International Trunk Show
December 8-10 Sylva %26amp; Cie Trunk Show
December 9-10: RVR Neckwear Trunk Show %26amp; PA
December 14-17: Yossi Harri Trunk Show
December 16-17: Amsale Bridesmaid Dress Trunk Show
December 16-17: Antique Jewel Box Trunk Show
December 21-23: Sally Sohn Trunk Show

Terry Costa
12817 Preston Road, 972.385.6100; terrycosta.com
December 1: Bridal Seminar and Spring Collection Trunk Show

Tootsies
8300 Preston Road, 214.696.9993; tootsies.com
December 2-3: LMS Gems Jewelry Trunk Show
December 8: Roc Candy Jewelry Trunk Show
December 15-16: Belargo Jewelry Trunk Show

Warren Barr%26oacute;n Bridal
53 Highland Park Village, 214.526.8400; warrenbarron.com
December 8: Marchesa Trunk Show

William Noble
100 Highland Park Village #370, 214.526.3890; williamnoble.com
December 8-9: Katy Briscoe Jewelry Trunk Show

Hot Lots

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 06:16:46 GMT

Some swells collect vintage Rolls-Royces. Others covet Picassos and Koonses. But it%26rsquo;s those who stalk hard-to-find Birkins, Louis Vuitton steamers and fine gems that intrigue us most. If you consider yourself part of the latter, take note: Dallas-based Heritage Auctions is holding its annual Holiday Luxury Auction of jewelry, timepieces, handbags and accessories at its Slocum Street Annex December 5 and 6. (Online bidding begins November 1, and you can see it all in person at a PaperCity-sponsored preview party December 1.) Bidding paddles up! This is one time when a less-is-more philosophy need not apply. Heritage Auctions, 1518 Slocum St., 214.528.3500; ha.com.

Images:

1970s four-piece alligator trunk set by Mark Cross. Estimate: $8,000 to $10,000

Classic, H-Hour diamond-face watch with ostrich strap by Herm%26egrave;s. Estimate: $2,000 to $3,000

Exceptional collection, shiny-rouge H Porosus crocodile 30cm Herm%26egrave;s Birkin bag, with diamond-and-white-gold hardware. Estimate: $80,000 to $90,000%26nbsp;

J12 pink sapphire watch with crocodile strap by Chanel. Estimate: $3,000 to $4,000

Tohu Bohu enamel bracelet and Signature red-enamel bracelet by Herm%26egrave;s. Estimate: $400 to $600

Orange H Clemence leather-trim bag with palladium hardware by Herm%26egrave;s. Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500

Shiny-black crocodile classic clutch by Chanel. Estimate: $5,000 to $6,000%26nbsp;

Deep-purple mink evening bag with mink tail and removable crystal strap from Gucci by Tom Ford. Estimate: $1,000 to $1,500

Full-bead Diet Coke minaudi%26egrave;re by Kathrine Baumann. Estimate: $2,000 to $3,000

Roberto Felisati

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:07:35 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Roberto Felisati.
That%26rsquo;s Amore: Cavalli. Ferragamo. Versace. Armani. Our list of Italians We Love just got longer, now that hairstylist Roberto Felisati has swooped into town to open his second eponymous salon %26mdash; his first inside the U.S.; his other is in Monterrey, Mexico %26mdash; on Oak Lawn Avenue next to fitness temple Equinox. Why you should go: the Milan native%26rsquo;s proprietary hair-cutting techniques (with intriguing names such as Torchon, Masai and Crochet), all designed to allow more movement and volume and to make it a cinch for you to style on your own; the no-foil, freehand Shatush coloring method; an all-natural henna treatment; and Felisati%26rsquo;s own line of hair-care products. What we loved: A few mists of the Keratin Repair Reconstructor on our dry, too-many-blowouts-for-fabulous-parties locks and we noticed the shine was back and the straw-like feeling arrivederci. Ciao bella, indeed. 4023 Oak Lawn Ave., 214.521.4422; robertofelisati.com.

Image: The Roberto Felisati salon in Monterrey, Mexico. Photo by Samuel Catherine.

Frédéric Fekkai

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 04:57:01 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Jamie Moreland.
Fekkai%26rsquo;s New %26rsquo;Do: Talk about a megawatt makeover: Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai at Highland Park Village has relocated within the Village from its original second-floor salon to a glamorous first-floor storefront just between Diane von Furstenberg and Carolina Herrera %26mdash; a most convenient address for popping in after your next ball-gown fitting. The new Fekkai is smaller and more intimate than before (it brings to mind Fekkai%26rsquo;s quaint-but-chic NYC salons) but has maintained its signature look with ebony floors and a cozy reception area furnished with dark leather seating, freshly cut flowers and an impressive collection of coffee-table tomes. The new digs also boast a bit of new seating: swoon-worthy massage chairs at the shampoo bar. But what%26rsquo;s the real reason we%26rsquo;ll be regulars here? Beauty multitasking. On a recent visit, nail technician Joe %26ldquo;Joey%26rdquo; Flores gave us a manicure with one of the myriad Chanel colors he keeps on hand, while we simultaneously received a cut, color and blowout. And should you be there during your lunch break, a Fekkai stylist will have your favorite Mi Cocina bites delivered. Talk about A-list treatment for you and your tresses. 30-B Highland Park Village, 214.219.3600; fekkai.com.

Image: For well-coiffed gift giving: Fekkai%26rsquo;s Chez Moi gift set $50, at the Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai salon.

More H%26M Buzz: Versace!

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 04:51:53 GMT

Medusa is at it again. This time, Versace%26rsquo;s stylish serpent queen has cast her spell on H%26amp;M for a sure-to-be-otherworldly collections for women, men and the home, launching at 300 H%26amp;M stores Saturday, November 19, including our own H%26amp;M in NorthPark Center.%26nbsp; (Put that date in the iCal, now.) While H%26amp;M has been tight-lipped about the blockbuster collaboration, we are told it will mix iconic Versace looks from Gianni%26rsquo;s 1980s heyday with a nod to the Italian fashion house%26rsquo;s sexy, modern aesthetic. We foresee a return to opulent patterns, rich colors and, of course, that memorable Greek-key symbol %26mdash; and we can only imagine the vamp-fest that will occur once it%26rsquo;s all unleashed. Versace for H%26amp;M, November 19, at H%26amp;M, NorthPark Center.

Retail Rap

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 04:38:52 GMT

We%26rsquo;re predicting your sweet, sweet November will be laden with dressing rooms, diamonds, desert boots with humanitarian appeal and hops to one hot bar of the olfactory kind. First, a multi-carat salute to Stanley Korshak, which recently became the exclusive Dallas carrier of London-based Graff Diamonds. Should you fancy a gem of utmost pedigree, dial Korshak%26rsquo;s jewelry department at 214.871.3625 to schedule a showing %26hellip;. Start November shopping off with a trip to 3005-A Commerce Street in Deep Ellum, where new vintage shop Factory Girl is quickly earning a spot on our can%26rsquo;t-miss list for designer finds. Owners Scogin Mayo and Heather Hayler have stocked their store with classic labels from Lanvin, Halston, Oscar de la Renta, Missoni, Bill Blass and Pierre Cardin, among others %26mdash; all circa 20 years and older. We%26rsquo;ve also pored over the vintage jewelry, handbags, sunglasses and one-of-a-kind home decor items. Click to imfactorygirl.blogspot.com for more info %26hellip; Count us in on any trip involving a bar %26mdash; especially one that%26rsquo;s been signed, sealed and delivered by none other than Niven Morgan. Belly up to the Bath Salts Bar inside Morgan%26rsquo;s new boutique at Stanley Korshak, where you%26rsquo;ll select your fave bath-salt scent and the crystal canister in which to store it. Of course, expect his signature candles and body and home scents, plus an only-at-Korshak tote bag that can be monogrammed to your liking %26hellip; The next time you%26rsquo;re browsing through Assouline tomes and Adler tables at decor haven Nest, you must see The Paper Store, owner Heather Wiese-Alexander%26rsquo;s in-store shop for her luxe letterpress stationery brand Bell%26rsquo;Invito. The shop features Bell%26rsquo;Invito%26rsquo;s five collections %26mdash; Couture, Signature, Studio, Professional Correspondence, plus Wiese-Alexander%26rsquo;s newest creation i-pezzi (Italian for %26ldquo;the pieces%26rdquo;), a DIY line with all the invitation-design trimmings and trappings (liners, envelopes and notecards) ready for purchase and self-assembling. Trot to 4524 McKinney Avenue or visit bellinvito.com %26hellip; This month, Uwezo, an African brand founded by the nonprofit Empower African Children, launches its made-in-Africa men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s desert boots, slip-ons and oxfords %26mdash; all crafted from hair-on-hide leather %26mdash; in the U.S. Sales from the charitable kicks will benefit education for Ugandan youth and start at $140. Purchase yours at uwezobrands.com. We%26rsquo;re thrilled over V.O.D. Boutique%26rsquo;s exclusive inventory addition: loungewear collection Piamita, which will be on hand this month, starting with the Resort 2012 collection. What pieces should you nab? Think drape-y blouses, silky tanks, wide-legged palazzo-esque pants and sleek dresses in charmeuse and crepe de chine. Drift off to 2418 Victory Park Lane or key in vodboutique.com for all the comfy couture %26hellip; A bit of diamond news: the gem dandies at Diamond Doctor have trucked their precious cargo from the jeweler%26rsquo;s former showroom near Galleria Dallas to a sparkling new location at The Plaza at Preston Center. Drop in at DD at 8127 Preston Road or ring 972.342.6663. Shopping in full force, just as we predicted. Your AmEx has been warned.

Hermès Whips Up Something Haute

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 04:33:36 GMT

Pierre Hardy, the talented Frenchman who helms both the men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s shoe collections at Herm%26egrave;s, has crafted a 14-piece jewelry line called Haute Bijouterie, the first high jewelry collection for the luxury label. Haute Bijouterie consists of three mini collections: the Centaure and the Fouet, which are both inspired by the brand%26rsquo;s equestrian roots, and the Exceptional Pieces, which are classic Herm%26egrave;s designs. Hoof-shaped rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces %26mdash; many crafted of black jade and orange aventurine stones surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds %26mdash; make up Centaure, while the Fouet line mimics the lines of a whip and is pierced with an array of dazzling diamonds. Customize the pieces as you wish, and they will be delivered approximately seven months later, in custom-made black-alligator boxes. The collection, on a world tour, makes a stop at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique in Highland Park Village Wednesday through Sunday, November 16 through 20. To order at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Images:

Fouet earrings

Centaure ring

Louboutin + Lesage

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 01:43:37 GMT

Why should only women wear the fancy shoes? Parisian shoe designer Christian Louboutin has collaborated with Jean Francois Lesage, renowned for his exquisite hand beading and embroidery, on a special six-piece men’s collection. Each shoe design is unique, from the maharaja-inspired Mikaraja black patent loafer with beaded pearl tassels to the Loubi, a Brit-style brogue with trompe l’oeil embroidery. We can’t wait to see someone shake his tassels in the Tasselisismo loafer, which (you guessed it) includes an oversized embellishment of hand-embroidered tassels meant to mimic a Chinese lantern. Exclusively at the Christian Louboutin boutique.

Eau de Diane

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 01:40:38 GMT

For decades, women of effortless style have dressed themselves in Diane von Furstenberg %26mdash; from the tips of their DvF wood wedges to the collars of their slinky wrap dresses. But clothing, handbags, shoes, accessories, even home decor proved not enough for Von Furstenberg and the fashion mogul%26rsquo;s ever-growing world of flirty, feminine wares. So began her foray into fragrance, with the recent launch of her eponymous scent, Diane. You must pick a prime place on your vanity for the glimmering gold bottle: One spritz, and you%26rsquo;ll pick up on tropical notes of the Frangipani flower %26mdash; a rose-pink plumeria known for its soft aroma %26mdash; paired with sweet violet, musk and minty patchouli. Leave it to DvF to fashion the chicest accessory for your most transporting sense. From $65, at the Diane von Furstenberg boutique, Sephora.

Scenes from a Wedding

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:03:06 GMT

Scenes from five extraordinary weddings, to be exact, that captured our imagination with spontaneous energy, romantic detail and joyful exuberance.

%26nbsp;

The Couple: Tricia Solberg and Lee Zieben

Wedding Date: April 4, 2009
Venue: The Arrabelle at Vail Square
Flowers: Petals of Provence, Vail
Music: Reception: Soul X, Denver
Divine Details:
%26nbsp;%26bull; Married at the Vail Chapel with an alphorn playing traditionalAustrian wedding music as guests arrived.
%26bull; The wedding-day lunch was ski-in, ski-out.
%26bull; Before exchanging their vows, the couple passed their rings in a pouch around the small chapel for all to bless.
%26bull; In lieu of a guest book, Lee and Tricia asked guests to sign a coffee-table book: Vail: Triumph of a Dream.
%26bull; The next day, the bride put her dress back on and shushed down the slopes with the groom in his wedding tuxedo, while a new friend took a few fantastic impromptu pics.
%26bull; The groom%26rsquo;s Oreo ice cream cake (his favorite) was topped with a Lego house (his favorite childhood toy) built by the bride%26rsquo;s nephew.
%26bull; The bride%26rsquo;s mother glued a wedding veil to Tricia%26rsquo;s ski helmet to wear during their wedding week.
Notes from a wedding: When the reception was over, the couple left through a tunnel of sparklers and boarded a snowcat, which the hotel had stocked with slices of wedding cake and champagne. The driver took them to the top of the gondola where Lee had proposed to Tricia. A cold but romantic jaunt.

%26nbsp;

The Couple: Amy Spalding and Robert Urquhart
Wedding Date: June 20, 2009
Venue: Ceremony: St. Luke%26rsquo;s United Methodist Church. Reception: Houston Country Club
Event Production: Kristin McShane, Keely Thorne Events
Flowers: Events in Bloom
Music: Blind Date, Austin
Divine Details:%26nbsp;
%26bull; Lavish candy bar of apothecary jars chock-full of Hot Tamales, M%26amp;Ms, Twizzlers.
%26bull; Tissue balls fashioned into blooming flowers of sunny citrus hues dangling above the porte coch%26egrave;re at the reception entrance.
%26bull;%26nbsp; Late-night mini burgers passed on silver trays.
%26bull; The couple%26rsquo;s initials spelled out in tight masses of flowers.
%26bull; Bubbly goodbyes.
Notes from a wedding: Amy and Robert Urquhart tied the knot in the same Houston church where Amy%26rsquo;s parents had strolled down the aisle 29 years earlier.

%26nbsp;

The Couple: Bevin Bering and Dan Dubrowski
Wedding Date: October 17, 2009
Venue: Ceremony: The Chapel of St. Basil at The University of St. Thomas. Reception at a museum, dinner at a gallery.
Wedding Coordinator: Alia Rdissi, Belle of the Ball
Flowers: Bergner %26amp; JohnsonCatering: A Fare Extraordinaire
Cake: Susie%26rsquo;s Cakes
Music: Ceremony: Alejandro Manega from Houston Grand Opera. Procession: Los Mariachis Juventil. Reception: 27-piece Richard Brown Orchestra
Divine Details:%26nbsp;
%26bull; Wedding cake was designed to look like a Dan Flavin installation from the Monument series.
%26bull; Orchids on long stems in clear cylindrical vases filled with tinted water to mirror the colors of Flavin%26rsquo;s light pieces that surrounded the tables, with glass rocks between the vases %26mdash; a nod to artist Robert Smithson%26rsquo;s work.
%26bull;%26nbsp; Round tin canisters with crosses filled with five Jordan almonds %26mdash; a traditional gift at Italian, Greek and Middle Eastern weddings.
%26bull; Shots of iced cappuccinos after 10 pm and tequila after 10:30 pm. %26ldquo;Coffee + tequila = lots of dancing.%26rdquo; %26mdash; Bevin Bering Dubrowski
Notes from a wedding: You could say it was art that brought Bevin Bering and Dan Dubrowski together. At the time, Bering was the director of Bering %26amp; James gallery; Dubrowski was an art patron in the market for new work when he walked into Bering %26amp; James. The pair bonded over contemporary collections and artful inspiration. Naturally, their wedding reflected their shared passion.

%26nbsp;

The Couple: Nicole Spevak and Evan Katz
Wedding Date: November 14, 2009
Venue: The Corinthian
Event Production: Todd Events, Dallas
Catering: Jackson and Company
Music: Reception: Earth, Wind %26amp; Fire; Dallas-based Frank Sinatra%26ndash;like crooner Goga; international Persian Elvis, Andy; 27-piece Richard Brown Orchestra
Divine Details:%26nbsp;
%26nbsp;%26bull; The soaring space transformed from cream and candlelight to rich jewel-toned colors outside the columns.
%26bull; Replicated an enchanted fairy-tale forest between the soaring columns of The Corinthian
%26bull; More flowers than you can imagine, starting with a chuppah topped with thousands upon thousands of white phaleonopsis and dendrobium orchid blossoms.
%26bull; Handmade chandeliers dripping with lemon-leaf garlands and rose pav%26eacute; orbs, illuminated with pillar candles and fairy lights.
%26bull; Custom-embroidered dinner napkins.
%26bull; A cocktail-hour feast of caviar and seafood, artisan cheeses and lamb station with Persian jewel rice (studded with dried barberries and saffron).
%26bull; An elegant dinner surrounded by the lush trappings of an enchanted forest, with a trio of stunning desserts (candied pear with gold gilt leaf, spiced maple leaf cookies sandwiched with pumpkin mousse and a chocolate truffle).
%26bull; The wedding cake by Benny Daniels was cut under the chuppah as tea and miniature desserts were served in a Persian tea lounge.
%26bull; Would it surprise you to know the party went on till 4 am?%26nbsp;

For more amazing photos of wedding details, click 'launch slideshow' above.

My Afternoon with Thakoon

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 05:17:03 GMT

Quick! For the love of flowery print dresses and breezy tunics, get thee to Forty Five Ten. The darling fashion designer Thakoon Panichgul is posting up at FFT this afternoon (he%26rsquo;ll be there till 6 pm; the collection will be in store through Saturday) for a trunk show of his Spring/Summer 2012 collection %26mdash; a romantic, wearable fusion combining notions of the American west with Indian-inspired fabrics, colorful paisley prints and sparkly embellishments. I%26rsquo;m just back from seeing it all in person and chatting briefly with Thakoon over coffee on the T Room%26rsquo;s shady patio. We gabbed about everything from his latest inspirations to last night%26rsquo;s TWO x TWO First Look party to his particular obsession with acquiring drawings.

CG: As a first-time TWO x TWO attendee, what was your first impression of First Look?

TP: %26ldquo;I didn%26rsquo;t know what to expect. I had been to the [Rachofsky] house before and seen the permanent collection. But last night was truly amazing. It was exciting to see women wearing my clothes in that context. Some people put two and two together %26mdash; some people didn%26rsquo;t. It was very exciting.%26rdquo;

CG: And what will you wear to the TWO x TWO Gala tomorrow?

TP: %26ldquo;Oh just a simple, Jil Sander suit. I always just do simple.%26rdquo;

CG: What brought you to town the weekend of TWO x TWO, anyway?

TP: %26ldquo;When I was in town for Forty Five Ten%26rsquo;s 10-Year Anniversary party I took an art tour of Dallas. Cindy [Rachofsky] said, %26lsquo;you have to come to TWO x TWO.%26rsquo;%26rdquo;

CG: What kind of art do you collect?

TP: %26ldquo;I tend to collect illustrations and drawings from Europe %26mdash;%26nbsp;with drawings, you really get to see the artist%26rsquo;s hand. I just purchased a drawing by Pietro Ruffo, an Italian artist.%26rdquo;

CG: Aside from artful acquisitions, what%26rsquo;s on the horizon for you?

TP: %26ldquo;I%26rsquo;m going to continue to focus on the collection and the brand. It%26rsquo;s like raising a child. Now, it%26rsquo;s kind of in the kindergarten stage %26mdash; it%26rsquo;s not quite a baby anymore but you just have to keep nurturing it.%26rdquo;

CG: How about the short-term horizon? Where are you headed after Dallas?

TP: %26ldquo;I leave here on Sunday. Then I go to Tokyo, where I%26rsquo;m the creative director for a fine-jewelry line there called Tasaki. Then I%26rsquo;ll go to Shanghai.%26rdquo;

CG: Do you notice a change in how women wear your clothes in different parts of the world?

TP: %26ldquo;No, not really. People know style so much more now, globally. It%26rsquo;s all merging together in an exciting way.%26rdquo;

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Tricks of the Trade

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 05:19:49 GMT

We can never resist a trip to Neiman Marcus Downtown, especially when NM%26rsquo;s legendary vice president and fashion director Ken Downing is involved. Downing, you should know, was the man of the hour at a private couture runway show, where he offered up a perfect mix of fall fashion styling tips amid models swanning down a deep-purple walk. Herewith, our account of Mr. Downing%26rsquo;s never-fail advice: %26nbsp;

%26bull; "Pumps never go out of style," Downing says, pointing to a model wearing merlot-colored %26lsquo;60s-style heels.

%26bull; His much-adored color combo? Hot pink and cranberry. %26ldquo;It%26rsquo;s one of my favorite mixtures whether in clothes, accessories or even precious stones.%26rdquo;

%26bull; %26ldquo;Dressing up is important,%26rdquo; he says. %26ldquo;Even when you%26rsquo;re holding a daytime handbag, carry it by its top just like you do a clutch to add a feminine and sophisticated feel."

%26bull; The old adage "never match your shoes with your handbag" is in Downing%26rsquo;s opinion, simply old. %26ldquo;I%26rsquo;m very loyal to classic, ladylike fashion.%26rdquo;%26nbsp;

%26bull; Try wearing furs, coats and outerwear over the shoulder rather than through the arms, as many of the couture models demonstrated.

%26bull; Other emerging trends Downing loves? Leather, color-blocking, and yellow.

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Fashion Houston: What A Week It's been!

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 07:09:22 GMT

Bravo! After a week%26rsquo;s worth of shows and parties capped off Thursday evening with an ode to Bayou City style icon Becca Cason Thrash we%26rsquo;re left wanting more, more, more! Highlights from the week included seeing Cesar Galindo deliver not one, but two shows; Norman Ambrose%26rsquo;s incredible ensembles featuring detailing of the highest quality; and Fabiola Arias%26rsquo; fascinating fascinators. Stay tuned for complete coverage in our December issue. And most importantly %26mdash;%26nbsp;see you next year!

TO SEE PICTURES CLICK 'LAUNCH SLIDESHOW'

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Yacht Club

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:00:59 GMT

I. Herm%26egrave;s Clipper $6,825, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

II. Calibre de Cartier $7,700, at the Cartier boutique, Eiseman Jewels.

III. Harry Winston Project Z6%26nbsp; $46,100, at the Harry Winston boutique.

IV. Girard-Perregaux Sea Hawk Pro 1000M%26nbsp; $9,350, at deBoulle.

V. Tiffany %26amp; Co Atlas chronograph $7,900, at the Tiffany %26amp; Co. boutique.

VI. David Yurman Belmont 41mm chronograph $4,250, at the David Yurman boutique.

VII. Chanel J12 Chromatic $16,500, at the Chanel boutique.

VIII. Rolex Yacht-Master II watch, price upon request, at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s, deBoulle, Eiseman Jewels.

IX. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver $18,900, at Markham Fine Jewelry, Frisco.

X. Bulgari Diagono X-Pro $16,250, at the Bulgari boutique.

XI. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M chronograph $8,000, at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s.

Q Clothiers %26 Rye 51

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:41:16 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Raja Ratan.
Custom Suits You Well: Rows of sleek suits, shirts and slacks greet customers as they enter Q Custom Clothiers, the men%26rsquo;s-clothing shop that recently debuted in West Ave. This is the fourth Q Custom Clothiers for owner Raja Ratan %26mdash; the first two locations are in Dallas, with a third in Tulsa %26mdash; so he has the custom tailoring concept down well. Choose from hundreds of fine Italian fabrics by Zegna, Dormeuil, Loro Piana and Scabal for your custom-made suit. While you%26rsquo;re being fitted, have a dress shirt (Thomas Mason would be nice) tailored to your liking. And choose a set of cuff links to go with it %26mdash; through a unique partnership with cufflinks.com, Q Custom Clothiers offers the world%26rsquo;s largest selection and can have your order to you in one day. The shop also carries dress shoes by Santoni and Di Bianco, plus ties by Robert Talbot, Dolce Punta and Valentino. Can%26rsquo;t break away from the office? In-office appointments are available.%26nbsp;
Whiskey Business: Ratan goes beyond the boardroom with a new retail concept: Rye 51, located next door and connected to Q Custom Clothiers. Rye 51 not only stocks a carefully edited selection of denim and sportswear by John Varvatos, Diesel, 7 for All Mankind, Wings %26amp; Horn and Levi%26rsquo;s Made %26amp; Crafted, but also taps into Q%26rsquo;s custom mentality with house-label casual dress shirts that can be customized in the buyer%26rsquo;s fabric of choice. The decor complements the concept with polished-concrete floors; exposed brick from the streets of Chicago; recycled whiskey barrels from Kentucky that serve as fixtures; industrial finishes and reclaimed-20th-century wood that Houston interior design store Ch%26acirc;teau Domingue procured from France. Oh, and as the name suggests, Rye 51 stocks a vast selection of whiskeys, so stop by when you have time for a pour. 2800 Kirby in West Ave, 713.523.8222; qcustomclothier.com; rye51.com.

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Raja Ratan at Q Clothiers. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Image: Rye 51. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Original Penguin

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:34:53 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Patrick Canales.
On the Racks: A supremely soft pima cotton golf shirt, originally released in 1955 and aptly called %26ldquo;The %26rsquo;55,%26rdquo; put this iconic brand on the map, with celebs Arnold Palmer, Dean Martin and President Nixon sporting the stylish weekend-wear. The Penguin %26ldquo;%26rsquo;55%26rdquo; golf shirts are just as iconic today. In fact, they feel a bit Mad Men-ish %26mdash; and they pair well with the brand%26rsquo;s trousers, suits, sweaters, shorts, watches, bags, belts, hats and shoes. Shop it all at Galleria 1 in the Original Penguin boutique, a 2,300-square-foot shop in the former Metropark space, next door to Billy Reid. In addition to the men%26rsquo;s offerings, the store stocks looks for little Penguin boys, infant to seven years. Penguin femmes can also shop the racks; the offerings are primarily polos and denim at the moment, but a capsule collection for women arrives later this fall. Galleria 1, 713.888.0722.

Willow

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:32:39 GMT

Keys to the Door: Owner Jill Faucetta.
Stocked Goods: This summer, the PaperCity girls were positively giddy when we heard that style maven Jill Faucetta was reopening her accessories boutique Willow. We%26rsquo;ve felt bereft of bold, statement-worthy jewels, belts, bags and even home accessories since Faucetta took a two-year hiatus from retail; now we know where to go again for pieces with punch priced $50 to $700. We adore Willow%26rsquo;s new black-and-white jewel-box incarnation inside the Brownstone Gallery (you can enter through that space or around the corner on Virginia Street). With editorial-like vision, Faucetta curates a collection of indie designers ranging from Deepa Gurnani (burnished-brass and silver cuffs and bejeweled appliqu%26eacute;s intertwined to create bib-like necklaces) to Clara Kassarina (Moroccan-inspired jewels and door-knocker-size rings). Faucetta brings a rock edge to her collection, too, with Milliana%26rsquo;s python cuffs and skin-and-faceted-stone bracelets with magnetic closures; Viktoria Hayman%26rsquo;s ebony-wood necklaces; and Ellen Arthur%26rsquo;s braided-leather-rope pieces with oxidized chains. And it looks like her sense of style runs in the family: Gray, her pretty 10-year-old daughter, has a hand in buying jewels for the tween set while mom creates caftans for all her little friends. 2803 Westheimer Road (inside Brownstone Gallery), 713.870.0270; shopwillow.com.

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Image: Jill Faucetta. Photo by Jack Thompson.

Calypso St. Barth

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:30:16 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Jenn Self.
Stocked Goods: For nearly 20 years, Calypso St. Barth has embodied the beachy, laid-back resort vibe of the islands and embedded itself in the chicest locales the world over. The brand opens its latest shop (the 34th, to be exact) this month in Highland Village Shopping Center, in a portion of the former Tootsies location. Calypso%26rsquo;s simple, timeless pieces %26mdash; which have made loyalists of celebs Jennifer Aniston and Kate Beckinsale %26mdash; are all here: easy-to-wear clothing from Calypso%26rsquo;s own label, shoes and accessories for the boho-chic woman, as well as a well-edited selection of furnishings and home decor that channel the timeless Calypso St. Barth vibe. And we can%26rsquo;t help but name-drop a few of the design houses involved: Chan Luu, AG, Ambre Babzoe, Juliette Jake and Heidi Merrick, while Houston-born and -bred designer Lauren Bush debuts her first home collection: Lauren Pierce for Calypso. See it here set amidst a backdrop of light white floors, glimmering capiz-shell surfaces and a glass-mosaic-tiled wall with the Calypso logo woven subtly through the design. Highland Village Shopping Center, 4035 Westheimer Road, 713.963.9996; calypsostbarth.com.

Hugo Boss

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:27:18 GMT

Keys to the Door: Store Manager Geraldo Villarreal.
On the Racks: Gentlemen, say auf wiedersehen to your style woes, as the Metzingen-based behemoth Hugo Boss arrives at the Galleria this month. It%26rsquo;s the German design haus%26rsquo; third stand-alone boutique in Texas, after Dallas and San Antonio. Situated between MaxMara and Miu Miu in Galleria 1, the 3,000-square-foot space caters exclusively to men, stocking all the Boss lines plus shoes, accessories and fragrance. Offerings include top-of-the-line off-the-rack suiting from Boss Selection (with in-house tailoring); the classic, contemporary silhouettes of Boss Black; the younger and edgier denim of Boss Orange; and the masculine sportswear of Boss Green. Galleria 1, 713.850.1053; hugoboss.com.

Retail Rap

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:11:00 GMT

Jewelry designer Ippolita makes a personal appearance at Zadok Jewelers for a trunk showing of her spectacular baubles Saturday, October 15, 11 am to 5 pm. Ring 713.960.8950 for more info %26hellip; In more jewelry news, designer Jill Reno will make a personal appearance at Tootsies on October 20 %26hellip; Luxury consignment shop
The Little Bird has opened at 1735 Post Oak Boulevard, near the Galleria. The 3,200-square-foot boutique stocks such sought-after gently worn labels such as Chanel, Herm%26egrave;s, Louis Vuitton and Valentino. It%26rsquo;s the second location for owner Keele Loyd; she opened her first The Little Bird in Aspen in 2007. Stop by for the grand-opening celebration Thursday, October 20, 5 to 8 pm %26mdash; a portion of the night%26rsquo;s sales benefits MD Anderson Cancer Center. (Owner Keele is a cancer survivor due in part to the help of MD Anderson.) ... Lululemon, maker of oh-so-stylish fitness apparel, opens this fall at CityCentre on Town %26amp; Country Boulevard %26hellip; Local jewelry designer Maria Duncan Earthman has opened Pomp %26amp; Circumstance, a 500-square-foot boutique at 2608 Persa Street in Studio 4. Her inventory includes jewelry, a few clothing and handbag lines, and candles. Information and appointments, pompandcircumstance.com %26hellip; Saks Fifth Avenue hosts its annual Key to the Cure Kickoff event Wednesday, October 19, benefitting CancerForward: The Foundation for Cancer Survivors. Join event chairs Joella and Steve Mach, along with honorary chairs Kelli and Eddy Scurlock Blanton Sr. and CancerForward founder Beth Sanders Moore as they toast the honorees: S. Ward %26ldquo;Tripp%26rdquo; Casscells III, The Honorable Ellen Cohen, Joann and Bill Crassas, Rose Cullen, Michael Dale, Arvia Few, Wendy Hines, Jackie Martin, Mary Ann McKeithan, Rosie Meyers, Barbara Padilla, Jane Parker, The Honorable Jack Morris Rains, Candice Schiller and Dan Woltermann %26hellip; Neiman Marcus news: On October 6, meet designer Elizabeth Showers at a trunk show of her jewelry on Level 1, then swing by handbags to meet Santiago Gonzalez, the son of exotic-skins handbag designer Nancy Gonzalez (he%26rsquo;ll showcase not only his mother%26rsquo;s luxe line, but his own collection for men) %26hellip; Fashion Houston brings a bevy of fashion designers to town this month for not-to-miss runway shows, and many have trunk shows at Neiman Marcus, including: October 11, Douglas Hannant and Barbara Tfank in Couture on Level II; October 12, Carmen Marc Valvo and Fabiola Arias. Also in town this month, jewelry designer Elizabeth Locke has a showing at Neiman%26rsquo;s October 12 and 13 %26hellip; Fabulous gown designer Carmen Marc Valvo will make a personal appearance at Elizabeth Anthony/Esther Wolf on October 13 %26hellip; Think pink: David Yurman has released a limited-edition Spiritual Bead bracelet in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Fund. The $375 wrist wrapper is fashioned from pink chalcedony stones, a pearl and a sterling-silver box chain. Buy yours at the David Yurman boutique in the Galleria or davidyurman.com %26hellip; Lots of news from one of our fave bauble businesses: Lewis Jewelers, home to the tip-top timepiece collections of Audemars Piguet, A. Lange %26amp; Sohne and Breitling, turns 30 happy years and is celebrating with a party Thursday, November 3, 6 to 10 pm, with a silent auction benefitting Texas Children%26rsquo;s Hospital. This family-owned emporium has been in the same location in Webster for three decades (16972 Highway 3 in Webster), but come 2012, they%26rsquo;re moving to Bay Area Boulevard in the Baybrook Passage Shopping Center off I-45 %26mdash; no official address yet. For more information about the celebration, phone 281.332.8433.

Image: The limited-edition Spiritual Bead bracelet $375, with a portion of proceeds benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Fund, at David Yurman in the Galleria or davidyurman.com

Gucci's Artisan Corner

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:08:39 GMT

Witness the art of fine leather craftsmanship %26mdash; and a recently remodeled boutique%26mdash; at Gucci%26rsquo;s Artisan Corner Event Friday and Saturday, October 21 and 22. Artisans flown in from Florence will hand-assemble some of the brand%26rsquo;s most iconic bags, including the New Bamboo, New Jackie and Stirrup, on a setup of custom work tables and sewing machines framed by mood boards and sketches showing the evolution of the Gucci brand, founded 90 years ago this year. Shop bags fashioned from exotic skins and exclusive colors, and personalize your purchase on-site with a hand-embossed monogram. Each bag has a plaque inside embossed with %26ldquo;Houston%26rdquo; and the date. Gucci, Galleria, 713.961.0778.

Tory Comes to Town

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:59:50 GMT

Come Thursday, November 3, put on those infamous flats and make tracks to Neiman Marcus to see the women behind it all. Tory Burch is in town for a personal appearance, from 2 to 3 pm in the Tory shop on the third floor. The op to soak in the style advice of this fashion mastermind is enough for us to say%26hellip;. see you there! Information 713.621.7100.

Yacht Club

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:53:34 GMT

I. Herm%26egrave;s Clipper $6,825, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

II. Calibre de Cartier $7,700, at the Cartier boutique, Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch.

III. JeanRichard diverscope $9,010, at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

IV. Girard-Perregaux Sea Hawk Pro 1000M%26nbsp; $9,350, at Donoho%26rsquo;s Jewellers.

V. Tiffany %26amp; Co Atlas chronograph $7,900, at the Tiffany %26amp; Co. boutique.

VI. David Yurman Belmont 41mm chronograph $4,250, at the David Yurman boutique.

VII. Chanel J12 Chromatic $16,500, at the Chanel boutique.

VIII. Rolex Yacht-Master II watch, price upon request, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch, I W Marks.

IX. Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea, price upon request, at Zadok Jewelers.%26nbsp;

X. Bulgari Diagono X-Pro $16,250, at the Bulgari boutique, Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch, Zadok Jewelers.

XI. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M chronograph $8,000, at the Omega boutique, I W Marks.

Runway Reality

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:41:37 GMT

Last fall, Fashion Houston was the fashion f%26ecirc;te of the season %26mdash; a four-day fashion extravaganza that had the style set chattering for weeks. Fashion Houston Presented by Audi rolls out the red carpet at the Wortham Theater Center Grand Foyer for year two. Expect local and national talent to send their best down the catwalk Monday through Thursday, October 10 through 13, with back-to-back shows every night. Boldfaced names unveiling their latest collections at the Audi Houston%26ndash;sponsored event include Houston talents Jerri Moore, Cesar Galindo and Chloe Dao; national designers Douglas Hannant, Carmen Marc Valvo, Robert Rodriguez, Norman Ambrose, Fabiola Arias, Barbara Tfank, Camilla Franks, Bibhu Mohapatra, Project360 and Kate Kills Pretty by Aries Milan; as well as the Best of Fall/Winter Men%26rsquo;s Collections from Saks Fifth Avenue. This year%26rsquo;s Fashion Icon? Miz Becca Cason Thrash. See all the details in the Fashion Houston special section in this issue of PaperCity. See you on the front row! Tickets 713.222.5400. Information fashionhouston.net.

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Clockwise:

Carmen Marc Valvo, Robert Rodriguez and Douglas Hannant

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Weaving a Webb

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:35:16 GMT

David Webb had us at the first jawbreaker cabochon. You%26rsquo;ll remember the David Webb store cut quite a social swath in Houston in the %26lsquo;70s, until it closed in 2001. Well, it%26rsquo;s back, exclusively in Houston at the Neiman Marcus fine jewelry salon, just as Webb makes a revival and is hot, hot, hot with young socials such as Aerin Lauder and Tory Burch. When David Webb began his business in the %26lsquo;40s (he died young of cancer in 1975), women with impeccable taste and style flocked: Jackie Kennedy, Gloria Vanderbilt, the Duchess of Windsor and, most famously, editrix Diana Vreeland, who sported Webb%26rsquo;s black-and-white enamel zebra bracelets and saucer-sized bejeweled necklaces. David Webb, in the fine jewelry salon at Neiman Marcus.

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Image: David Webb turquoise platinum diamond ring $16,900; hammered nail ring, both at Neiman Marcus.

Positively Pretty

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:19:56 GMT

%26bull; The Facial to Go For: There are few things in this world we love more than a good facial. So when we heard of a new all-natural, facial at The Spa at Equinox using potions from skin expert Tata Harper, we gave it a whirl. Harper%26rsquo;s 60-minute signature facial uses the incredible-smelling products from her line (also for sale at the spa) and includes an exfoliating cleanser, handmade steam sachets filled with herbs, a clay mask and more. Tata Harper Signature Facial, $175 at The Spa at Equinox, 214.443.9009; equinox.com.

%26bull; The Lithe Life: The newest resident of 3303 Lee Parkway %26mdash;%26nbsp;our very own office building %26mdash; is Classic Pilates, a boutique studio offering private Pilates sessions, group mat classes and, for your inner ballerina, group barre classes. Why we%26rsquo;re frequent customers? Experienced instruction from co-owners Rachael Lieck Bryce and Joann Cuccurullo; top-notch equipment; airy, floor-to-ceiling windows; and chilled lavender-scented towels for post-workout bliss. Click to classicpilatesstudio.com.

%26bull; Change of a Tress: Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai, the go-to beauty spot for Highland Park royalty (slip in the morning before a ball, and you%26rsquo;ll see the crowd that resides in those Beverly Drive manses), has relocated to 30-B Highland Park Village between Diane von Furstenberg and Village Theatre. Dial 214.219.3600 to schedule your appointment.

%26bull; Seven Days of Spa: If you missed out on the all the discounted beauty action this past July with Texas Spa and Salon Month, you have another chance: Spa Week. Starting Monday, October 10, and running through Sunday, October 16, an array of spas and fitness centers will offer exclusive treatments for $50. On the list: Aqua Medical Spa, Hiatus Spa + Retreat, Stoneleigh Hotel %26amp; Spa and the ZaSpa at Hotel ZaZa, to name just a few. Get thee to spaweek.com starting Monday, September 12, to view the complete list of spas and services and to pre-book your appointments.

Kelly Wearstler Shows Her Colors

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:16:45 GMT

Rock-star designer Kelly Wearstler, who%26rsquo;s known for her bold interiors and luxury textiles, rugs and objets d%26rsquo;art, launches her much-anticipated collection of ready-to-wear and accessories this month. Taking inspiration from the over-the-top design aesthetic she%26rsquo;s crafted over the years, as well as her own personal style (she%26rsquo;s been on Vogue%26rsquo;s Best Dressed List), Wearstler%26rsquo;s RTW line includes brushstroke-type prints worthy of her wallpaper line, rendered here on dresses, skirts, tops, pants, blazers, some uniquely tailored jackets and fun fur coats %26mdash; in lots of black and white, as well as bright colors such as hot pink, orange and blue. Chunky, predominantly brass necklaces, cuffs, rings and leather-clad clutch purses showcase semiprecious lapis and quartz and the metallic mineral pyrite, calling to mind the furniture and sculpture she has designed for years. Maybe we can%26rsquo;t all have Wearstler design our living rooms, but now she can update all our wardrobes. At Neiman Marcus, net-a-porter.com.

Retail Rap

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:13:48 GMT

With our on-the-town schedules in full swing, we occasionally need to swap out our stilettos and loafers for more comfortable chaussures. Our pair of choice? Cozy shoes from the new Toms + The Row collection, an exclusive collab between do-gooder footwear and apparel company Toms and The Row, the ready-to-wear and accessories brand by celeb sisters Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen. The collection features myriad styles for women crafted in Italian-sourced wool and cashmere blends, all priced between $98 and $150. And in the Toms tradition, a pair of canvas slip-ons goes to one needy child for every pair of Toms sold. Click to toms.com, therow.com or neimanmarcus.com to purchase yours %26hellip; Think pink: David Yurman has released a limited-edition Spiritual Bead bracelet in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Fund. The $375 wrist wrapper is fashioned from pink chalcedony stones and a pearl, with a sterling-silver box chain and is available at the David Yurman boutique in NorthPark Center and at davidyurman.com %26hellip; Orange is one hot color this month (and we%26rsquo;re not just talking about pumpkins), particularly at the Plaza at Preston Center where it%26rsquo;s construction galore %26mdash; a barricade is up and ground has been broken for the new, five-story office and retail building that will house the University Park Library, plus a multi-level, underground parking garage that will afford you, dear reader, 450 more options to park the Prius. We%26rsquo;re told shopping schedules will be undisturbed during it all and every store and restaurant will remain open. Bonus: Several locations throughout the center are offering free valet. This is the sort of construction we can get used to.

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Image: The limited-edition Spiritual Bead bracelet $375, with a portion of proceeds benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Fund, at David Yurman in NorthPark Center or davidyurman.com

Knox’s First Hurrah

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:12:30 GMT

Call it a coming-out party of sorts. Clear your Saturday, October 22, from 4 to 8 pm: You%26rsquo;ll be strolling at Art of Knox, the first of an annual, gratis street festival celebrating the official introduction of the urbane shopping and supping area as a branded district %26mdash; forevermore to be known as just %26ldquo;Knox.%26rdquo; We like to think of it as the Golden Rectangle: The district starts at the buzzy intersection of Knox Street and McKinney Avenue, follows Knox west to Travis Street, traces down Travis to Armstrong Avenue and back up. Just what%26rsquo;s happening at the fest? Entertainment in spades: fashion shows, tents along Travis Street featuring everything from shopping to bites to adult beverages, even live music. Just a few of the sidewalks we%26rsquo;ll be stomping: fashion mecca Forty Five Ten; top restaurants Villa-O, Abacus and all of Alberto Lombardi%26rsquo;s Knox spots; for our abodes, Sur La Table, Nest, Patina and Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. Don%26rsquo;t call us on Sunday: We%26rsquo;ll be in recovery all day. Up-to-the-minute information knoxdallas.com.

The Curious Case of Fall Fashion

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 08:35:27 GMT

Fall%26rsquo;s dapper touches put us in mind of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, with a hint of Nanny McPhee and a slice of Willy Wonka. Or perhaps it%26rsquo;s really the specter of Brad Pitt, Tilda Swinton, Emma Thompson and Johnny Depp that illustrates this strange mixture of curious menswear and eccentric assemblages, all in the guise of a loopy PaperCity drawing-room comedy.

Photography Maxine Helfman. Styling Kate Allen Stukenberg. Models Cali Stewart and Brandon Davidson for Kim Dawson Agency. Hair and makeup Al Tidwell for Kim Dawson Agency. Animal masks made by hand by Marisa Dukowitz. Animal accessories by Neely Coker. Fashion assistant Carson Eisenhart, Krystal Schlegel, Georgia Raines, Chandler Richards, Grace Roberts, Rebecca Marin.

You Animal. Stella McCartney stretch jumpsuit $2,395, at the Stella McCartney boutique, Neiman Marcus. Ranjana Khan earrings $225, at Neiman Marcus.

Drumroll, Please. Marchesa embroidered organza flare long-sleeve top with python pants, prices upon request, at Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak.
Todd Reed earrings $4,290 at Ylang 23.

Musical Bears. Paul Smith London velvet jacket $1,015, at Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, mrporter.com. Giorgio Armani velvet slippers, at the Giorgio Armani boutique.

Step Right In. Hadleigh%26rsquo;s velvet jacket $2,850, slacks $650, velvet slippers $395, and scarf $695, all at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s. David Yurman Signet ring, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Foxy Lady. Louis Vuitton Tec blouse $1,300, cashmere briefs, price upon request, and Vuitton Fetish strap pumps $1,045, all at the Louis Vuitton boutique. Angelique de Paris Maxi Pav%26eacute; shagreen stingray cuff with brilliant pav%26eacute; stones $1,050, at Tootsies. David Yurman Cable Ball rings with black diamonds in black rhodium, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus. Assorted macaroons $15 per dozen, at Tart Bakery.

Buttoned Up. Celine jacket $2,800, and trousers $1,000, both at Barneys New York, Forty Five Ten. Billy Reid one-pocket shirt $175, at the Billy Reid boutique. Christian Louboutin Rollerbille slippers $1,495, at the Christian Louboutin boutique, Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Stanley Korshak. On lap, Fendi stingray chameleon clutch $4,260, at Neiman Marcus.

%26nbsp;

Made for TV. Louis Vuitton wool Amish jacket $3,885, and trousers $925, both at the Louis Vuitton boutique. Billy Reid Olden boots $425, at the Billy Reid boutique.

%26nbsp;

Stare Bear. Paul Smith London velvet jacket $1,015, at Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, mrporter.com. Giorgio Armani velvet slippers, at the Giorgio Armani boutique. She wears Allesandra Rich taffeta-and-lace gown $4,165, at netaporter.com. DSquared corset with bustle $855, at Forty Five Ten. Ring at Neiman Marcus.

Counting Sheep. Derek Rose Pyjama set $255, at Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak, mrporter.com. Hadleigh%26rsquo;s velvet slippers $395, at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s.

Birds of a Feather. Gucci silk chiffon gown $8,500, at the Gucci boutique, Neiman Marcus. Angelique de Paris Maxi Pav%26eacute; shagreen stingray cuff with pav%26eacute; stones $1,050, at Tootsies. Custom painting, used as backdrop, by Dallas fine artist Judy Buckner.

Portrait of a Lady. Ralph Lauren embroidered Fontaine wrap coat $18,000, Derek jacket $2,298, Yvette pants $1,298, and velvet heels $695, all at the Ralph Lauren boutique. David Yurman Starburst diamond ring, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Wolf in Chic Clothing. Balmain pea coat $3,455, and Givenchy button-down shirt $250, both at Forty Five Ten. Edward Armah bow tie $95, at Stanley Korshak. Dolce %26amp; Gabbana trousers $470, at Barneys New York. Billy Reid Olden boots $425, at the Billy Reid boutique.

The Who. Herm%26egrave;s double-breasted jacket $4,450, lambskin skirt with knife pleat $4,075, and lambskin leggings $4,975, all at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique. Louis Vuitton Fetish strap python pumps $1,430, at the Louis Vuitton boutique. Valentino feather-print pony-skin handbag $2,575, at the Valentino boutique, Neiman Marcus, Stanley Korshak.

Animal Magnetism. Emilio Pucci lace dress $3,890, at Neiman Marcus. Miriam Haskell for Marchesa two-finger floral ring with European filigrees and Swarovski crystals $520, at Stanley Korshak, Swag, Tootsies.

A Horse, of Course. Hadleigh%26rsquo;s sports coat $2,495, plaid trousers $850, and velvet slippers $395, all at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s. Ralph Lauren dress shirt $550, and tie $185, both at the Ralph Lauren boutique, Stanley Korshak.

The End. He wears a Ralph Lauren suit $5,000, and tie $185, both at the Ralph Lauren boutique, Stanley Korshak. Paul Smith London floral sport shirt $285, at Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus. Salvatore Ferragamo lace-up shoes $470, at the Salvatore Ferragamo boutique. She wears The Row Chantilly lace gown $3,625, at Barneys New York, Forty Five Ten, net-a-porter.com. Badgley Mischka Red Flower teardrop earrings $175, at Neiman Marcus. Ralph Lauren velvet heels $695, at the Ralph Lauren boutique.

The Curious Case of Fall Fashion

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 07:49:12 GMT

%26nbsp;

Fall%26rsquo;s dapper touches put us in mind of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, with a hint of Nanny McPhee and a slice of Willy Wonka. Or perhaps it%26rsquo;s really the specter of Brad Pitt, Tilda Swinton, Emma Thompson and Johnny Depp that illustrates this strange mixture of curious menswear and eccentric assemblages, all in the guise of a loopy PaperCity drawing-room comedy.

You%26rsquo;re An Animal. Stella McCartney cotton stretch polka-dot mesh jumpsuit $2,395, and Ranjana Khan drop earrings $225, both at Neiman Marcus.

Drumroll, Please. Marchesa embroidered organza flare long-sleeve top with python pants, prices upon request, at Elizabeth Anthony/Esther Wolf, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Todd Reed earrings $4,290, at ylang23.com.

Musical Bears. Paul Smith London velvet jacket $1,015, at Neiman Marcus. Giorgio Armani velvet slippers, at the Giorgio Armani boutique.

Step Right In. Hadleigh%26rsquo;s velvet jacket $2,850, slacks $650, velvet slippers $395, and scarf $695, all at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s, Dallas. David Yurman Signet ring, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Buttoned Up. Celine jacket $2,800, and trousers $1,000, both at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue. Billy Reid one-pocket shirt $175, at the Billy Reid boutique. Christian Louboutin Rollerbille slippers $1,495, at Joseph, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue. On lap, Fendi stingray chameleon clutch $4,260, at the Fendi boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Made for TV. Louis Vuitton wool Amish jacket $3,885, and trousers $925, both at the Louis Vuitton boutique. Billy Reid Olden boots $425, at the Billy Reid boutique.

Stare Bear. Paul Smith London velvet jacket $1,015, at Neiman Marcus. Giorgio Armani velvet slippers, at the Giorgio Armani boutique. She wears Allesandra Rich taffeta-and-lace gown $4,165, at net-a-porter.com. DSquared corset with bustle $855, at Forty Five Ten, Dallas.

Counting Sheep. Derek Rose Pyjama set $255, at mrporter.com, Norton Ditto, Saks Fith Avenue. Hadleigh%26rsquo;s velvet slippers $395, at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s, Dallas.

Birds of a Feather. Gucci silk-chiffon gown $8,500, at the Gucci boutique, Saks Fifth Avenue. Angelique de Paris Maxi Pav%26eacute; shagreen stingray cuff with pav%26eacute; stones $1,050, at Tootsies. Custom painting, used as backdrop, by Dallas fine artist Judy Buckner.

Wolf in Chic Clothing. Balmain pea coat $3,455, and Givenchy button-down shirt $250, both at Forty Five Ten, Dallas. Edward Armah bow tie $95, at edwardarmah.com. Dolce %26amp; Gabbana trousers $470, at Neiman Marcus. Billy Reid Olden boots $425, at the Billy Reid boutique.

Animal Magnetism. Emilio Pucci lace dress $3,890, to order at Neiman Marcus. Miriam Haskell for Marchesa two-finger floral ring with brass-plated European filigrees and Swarovski crystals $520, at Tootsies.

A Horse, of Course. Hadleigh%26rsquo;s sports coat $2,495, plaid trousers $850, and velvet slippers $395, all at Hadleigh%26rsquo;s, Dallas. Ralph Lauren dress shirt $550, and tie $185, both at the Ralph Lauren boutique.

The End. He wears a Ralph Lauren suit $5,000, and tie $185, both at the Ralph Lauren boutique, Saks Fifth Avenue. Paul Smith London floral sport shirt $285, at Neiman Marcus. Salvatore Ferragamo lace-up shoes $470, at the Salvatore Ferragamo boutique. She wears The Row Chantilly lace gown $3,625, at net-a-porter.com. Badgley Mischka Red Flower teardrop earrings $175, at Neiman Marcus. Ralph Lauren velvet heels $695, at the Ralph Lauren boutique. Custom painting, used as backdrop, by Dallas fine artist Judy Buckner.

The Crystal Charity Ball Presents The Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 07:47:22 GMT

Photography: Maxine Helfman. Styling Assistant: Jane Sublett for Kim Dawson Agency. Makeup and Hair: Jeanna Doyle for The Campbell Agency. and Mateo Sifuentes for the Kim Dawson Agency. All fashion, shoes and hosiery from Neiman Marcus.

The 2011 Crystal Charity Ball Fashion Show and Luncheon

Clear your calendar for Thursday, September 8, at 10:30 am %26hellip; The scene is set at Neiman Marcus Downtown %26hellip; Welcoming you will be fashion show chairman Aileen Pratt and ball chairman Connie O%26rsquo;Neill ... On the second floor, The Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas and the Hall of Fame Honoree will walk the catwalk ... Valentino designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli will then send their feminine Fall 2011 collection down the runway ... A seated luncheon on the fourth floor will follow %26hellip; Tickets from $500 %26hellip; For information, ring 214.526.5868 or log onto crystalcharityball.org.
%26nbsp;
%26nbsp;

The 2011 Crystal Charity Ball

Pencil in Saturday, December 3, at 7 pm %26hellip; The luxe locale is the Hilton Anatole Hotel %26hellip; Ball chairman Connie O%26rsquo;Neill will receive hundreds of well-heeled guests anxious to experience the %26ldquo;%26lsquo;Tis the Season%26rdquo; theme %26hellip; Tickets from $5,000 per couple %26hellip; For information, dial 214.526.5868 or log onto crystalcharityball.org.%26nbsp;

Honorary Chairman Annette Simmons

%26ldquo;This will be a very special year for everyone involved, especially with Annette serving as honorary chairman.%26rdquo; %26mdash; Shelle Sills, vice president and general manager
of Neiman Marcus Downtown

%26nbsp;

The Crystal Charity Ball Fashion Show and Luncheon Chairman%26nbsp;

Mrs. Jack (Aileen) Pratt

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino.
Beauty Favorites
Perfume: Carolina Herrera
Lipstick: Maybelline Sweet Blush Lip Polish
Mascara: L%26rsquo;Or%26eacute;al Voluminous
Eye cream: Natura Biss%26eacute; Eye Contour Cream
Moisturizer: Natura Biss%26eacute; Diamond Cream
Sunscreen: Neutrogena
Shampoo: KeraGreen
Nail polish: Essie Ballet Slippers
Fall Favorites
Fashion collaboration: Valentino for Gap
Shoe: Christian Louboutin
Handbag: Valentino
Travel destination: New York City

The Crystal Charity Ball Chairman%26nbsp;

Mrs. Chris (Connie) O%26rsquo;Neill

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Kimberly McDonald earrings. Vendorafa bracelets.
Beauty favorites
Perfume: Bulgari Rose Essentielle
Lipstick: Chanel Rouge Coco Shine
Mascara: Chanel Inimitable Mascara
Moisturizer: Clinique Dramatically
Different Moisturizin sg Lotion
Sunscreen: Clinique Sun Protection
Shampoo: Toni %26amp; Guy Dumb Blonde
Nail polish: OPI Dutch Tulips
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: I don%26rsquo;t have a favorite, but I think it is a wonderful opportunity for the legacy of such great designers to live on and inspire a broader base in fashion.
Shoe: A classic pump
Must-see exhibition: Any exhibition at the Smithsonian while I am in Washington, D.C. %26mdash; I can wander around parts of it for days
Travel destination: Austin and Washington, D.C., to visit two of my children

Shop Talk with Neiman Marcus VP and Fashion Director Ken Downing and Valentino Designers Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri

In September 2007, after Valentino Garavani%26rsquo;s decision to retire from the fashion world, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli were appointed creative directors of the Valentino accessory lines. The success of the Roman duo%26rsquo;s fresh and original style has consolidated through the years, thanks to the unanimous approval it has received from the leading figures of the fashion world. They were appointed creative directors for Valentino in 2008.

Ken Downing: Knowing you designed the shoes and the gorgeous handbags with Mr. Valentino and had the ability to work with him, what%26rsquo;s one of your favorite moments with Valentino?
Pier Paolo Piccioli: I really like all the personal moments we shared with him, because he is a legend. He is %26hellip;
Maria Grazia Chiuri: An iconic man!
PPP: When we fitted the show together, we always asked him about Studio 54, Bianca Jagger riding the white horse, the kind of things you just read in fashion books.
PPP: There were some rules that we break now. Everyone knows Mr. Valentino would never show an evening dress with leather shoes, because they were not satin shoes. We%26rsquo;ll show an evening dress with crocodile pumps. For Mr. Valentino, this was crazy.
%26nbsp;

KD: I actually love the balance of a man designing with a woman because I think that is what makes fashion so modern for our times, that tension between the masculine and the
feminine, colliding together in a perfect divine moment, which we see every season when we come to the runway collection.
MGC: The last couture collection was a special moment for us.
PPP: I%26rsquo;m never satisfied. Never. But couture was a moment when we were confident of what we were doing %26hellip; very romantic and in the spirit of Valentino, but also very modern. Couture is the most modern thing you can do in fashion today, so if you translate this culture of couture in pr%26ecirc;t-%26agrave;-porter, I think fashion could have a new great moment.
KD: But do you use haute couture as a laboratory for the ready-to-wear?
MGC: It%26rsquo;s a very good school in some ways, because you test something that you can use after in pr%26ecirc;t-%26agrave;-porter.
PPP: Couture is really magic. It%26rsquo;s the place where dreams come true.

Mrs. Allen (Lee Ann) White

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Margot McKinney earrings.%26nbsp;

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Herm%26egrave;s Eau Des Merveilles
Lipstick: Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupt%26eacute; #16
Mascara: Christian Dior DiorShow
Eye cream: Yves Saint Laurent Temps Majeur Yeaux
Moisturizer: Yves Saint Laurent Visible %26Eacute;nergie Complete Day Creme
Sunscreen: Clarins Sunscreen
Shampoo: K%26eacute;rastase Bain Miroir
Nail polish: Essie Fiji
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: The designers of Valentino
Shoe: Valentino and Christian Louboutin
Handbag: Louis Vuitton and Herm%26egrave;s Birkin
Travel destinations: Italy for our 10-year marriage anniversary

Mrs. Dwight (Claire) Emanuelson

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Nicholas Varney earrings. Alex Soldier bracelet.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Chanel No. 5
Lipstick:%26nbsp; Chanel Rose Baby, but they have discontinued it and I am down to my last two tubes ... eeks!
Mascara: Est%26eacute;e Lauder MagnaScopic
Eye cream: Amore Pacific and Natura Biss%26eacute;
Moisturizer: ReVive
Sunscreen: Kiehl%26rsquo;s
Shampoo: Kevin Murphy Angel Wash
Nail polish: Essie Ballet Slipper
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Zac Posen for Target
Shoe: Anything tall with a platform that I can walk in
Handbag: Valentino lynx-print
Must-see exhibition: Alexander McQueen at the Met %26shy;%26mdash; hope it%26rsquo;s still open
Travel destinations: Italy, Los Angeles, Nashville and Mexico

Mrs. Don (Ellen) Winspear

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Margot McKinney earrings and cuff.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Angel by Thierry Mugler
Lipstick: Chanel
Eye cream: Chanel Sublimage
Moisturizer: Ren%26eacute;e Rouleau
Sunscreen: Elta MD
Shampoo: Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai
Nail polish: OPI Mimosas for Mr. and Mrs.
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Versace for H%26amp;M
Shoe: Dries Van Noten pumps
Handbag: Chanel
Must-see exhibition: Jean Paul Gaultier at the DMA
Travel destination: British Columbia, Canada

Mrs. Gene (Nancy) Carter

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Vhernier earrings.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Escada Desire Me
Lipstick:%26nbsp; Lanc%26ocirc;me L%26rsquo;Absolu Rose Essencea
Mascara: Lanc%26ocirc;me
Eye cream: Lanc%26ocirc;me Absolue Replenishing Eye Cream Repair
Moisturizer: Kiehl%26rsquo;s Rosa Arctica Anti-Aging Cream
Sunscreen: Kiehl%26rsquo;s
Shampoo: K%26eacute;rastase
Nail polish: OPI
Fall favorites
Shoe: Valentino
Handbag: Jimmy Choo
Travel destinations: A trip to Oregon to see my brother and to New York for a football game

Mrs. Don (Robyn) Conlon

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Margot McKinney earrings.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Chanel No. 5
Lipstick: Chanel
Mascara: Chanel and Lanc%26ocirc;me
Eye cream: Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum
Moisturizer: Olay Regenerist Cream
Sunscreen: Elta MD
Shampoo: Pantene Pro-V
Nail polish: Anything that works for a French manicure
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel
Shoe: Valentino
Handbag: Valentino
Must-see exhibition: Alexander McQueen exhibit in New York
Travel destinations: San Antonio to see my son, Casey, who is in law school, and in the Park Cities to see my grandson Luke

Mrs. Charles (Pat) McEvoy

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Neiman Marcus earrings and bracelet.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Neroli Portofino by Tom Ford
Lipstick:%26nbsp; Tom Ford Vanilla Suede and Chanel Glossimer in Constellation
Mascara: Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill
Eye cream: Sisley Sisleya Lip Contour Cream
Moisturizer: Sisley Sisleya Global Anti-Age Cream
Sunscreen: Elta MD
Shampoo: Fr%26eacute;d%26eacute;ric Fekkai
Nail polish: Chanel Black Pearl
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Hussein Chalayan for J Brand and Stella McCartney for GapKids
Fall shoe: Valentino lace high-heel pump, Chanel charcoal ombre tall boot and Jimmy Choo red patent pumps
Fall Handbag: Nancy Gonzalez colorblock-stripe tote
Fall must-see: Jean Paul Gaultier at the Dallas Museum of Art
Fall travel: Boston, New York and Cabo

Mrs. Gil (Tricia) Besing

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Buccellati earrings and bracelet.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Chlo%26eacute;
Lipstick: Chantecaille Sweet Pea and Revlon #130 Gloss
Mascara: Maybelline Great Lash Big
Eye cream: 3Lab
Moisturizer: SkinMedica Ultra Sheer
Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios
Shampoo: Davines DeDe Delicate Ritual Shampoo
Nail polish: OPI Sweetheart
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Missoni for Target
Shoe: Valentino bow-back riding boot
Handbag: C%26eacute;line Luggage Tote
Must-see exhibition: %26ldquo;The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier%26rdquo; coming to Dallas Museum of Art in November
Travel destination: Amalfi Coast

Mrs. Greg (Kim) Miller

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Margot McKinney earrings. Buccellati bracelet.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Colette Musk Oil from Colette Paris or Opening Ceremony NYC
Lipstick:%26nbsp; Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Evasion and Chance
Mascara: Christian Dior DiorShow Black Out
Eye cream:%26nbsp; Neocutis Lumiere
Moisturizer: Tensage Advanced Cream
Sunscreen: Elta MD and Supergoop
Shampoo: Moroccan Oil and K%26eacute;rastase
Nail polish: Chanel Peridot Limited Edition
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Versace for H%26amp;M
Shoe: Charlotte Olympia leopard bootie and
Herve Leger buckle shaft platform boot
Handbag: Valentino Rockstud Leather Tote and
Nancy Gonzalez Croc Burgundy Hobo
Must-see exhibition:%26nbsp; %26ldquo;The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier%26rdquo; at the Dallas Museum of Art
Travel destinations: LegoLand in San Diego and Horseshoe Bay

Mrs. Richard (Nancy) Rogers

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Margot McKinney earrings.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Journey by Mary Kay, Un Jardin Sur le Nil by Herm%26egrave;s and Fendi%26rsquo;s newest scent, Fan di Fendi. Dior Addict, Bulgari Black and Jasmine Noir by Bulgari
Lipstick: Fancy Nancy Nourishine Lipgloss by Mary Kay
Mascara: Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara
Eye cream: Mary Kay Timewise Firming eye cream, and if I have a late night, MK Indulge soothing eye gel is a lifesaver in the morning.
Moisturizer: Mary Kay Intense Moisturizing Cream
Sunscreen: Mary Kay SPF 30 Sunscreen and the Mary Kay tinted Lip Balm Sunscreen in Natural or Blush
Shampoo: L%26rsquo;Or%26eacute;al Professional Intense Repair
Nail polish: Chanel
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Target and Missoni collaboration and Versace for H%26amp;M
Shoe: I have to choose only one? Impossible! Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Lanvin or Ala%26iuml;a, and Rick Owens has a hot fall boot that I%26rsquo;m looking forward to wearing.
Handbag: I love Valentino%26rsquo;s new fall handbag line
Must-see exhibition: Alexander McQueen at the Met in NYC
Travel destinations: NYC, San Diego, Santa Barbara and San Jose del Cabo

Mrs. Vin (Pam) Perella

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Roberto Coin earrings. Vendorafa bracelets.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Chanel No. 5
Lipstick: Laura Mercier
Mascara: Yves Saint Laurent
Eye cream: Guerlain
Moisturizer: Obaji and SkinCeuticals
Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay
Shampoo: K%26eacute;rastase
Nail polish: Essie Ballet Slippers
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Missoni for H%26amp;M
Shoe: Valentino booties
Handbag: Prada
Must-see exhibition: Van Cleef %26amp; Arpel exhibit at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in New York City
Travel destination: New York City

Hall of Fame Honoree:

Mrs. Neils (Elaine) Agather

What she%26rsquo;s wearing: Valentino. Nicholas Varney earrings. David Webb bracelet.

Beauty favorites
Perfume: Fracas
Lipstick: Tom Ford Pure Pink
Mascara: Chanel Inimitable
Eye cream: Chanel Sublimage
Moisturizer: Chanel Sublimage
Sunscreen: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 70
Shampoo: K%26eacute;rastase
Nail polish: Essie Ballet Slippers, but at Christmas, my favorite is Essie Lollipop.
Fall favorites
Fashion collaboration: Kermit Oliver, a postman from Waco, who designs the western scarves for Herm%26egrave;s
Shoe: Miu Miu with lots of glitter
Handbag: C%26eacute;line luggage tote
Must-see exhibition: The new Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas, opening on 11.11.11
Travel destination: Dallas!

%26nbsp;

%26ldquo;I believe that life is inspiration. Of course I love to travel, see art exhibitions, films, music.%26rdquo; %26mdash; Valentino co-designer
Maria Grazia Chiuri

%26ldquo;But inspiration can also come from your daily life.%26rdquo;%26mdash; Valentino co-designer Pier Paolo Piccioli

%26nbsp;

The Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas Hall of Fame Honorees

1989%26nbsp; Mrs. James B. Francis *
1990%26nbsp; Mrs. Kenneth Altshuler
1991%26nbsp; Mrs. William A. Custard
1992%26nbsp; Mrs. R. H. Pickens
1993%26nbsp; Mrs. Jeremy L. Halbreich
1994%26nbsp; Mrs. Richard C. Strauss
1995%26nbsp; Mrs. Albert G. Hill Sr. *
1996%26nbsp; Mrs. David R. Webb Jr.
1997%26nbsp;%26nbsp; Mrs. Harold C. Simmons
1998%26nbsp; Mrs. Vance C. Miller
1999%26nbsp; Mrs. Sam T. Hamra
2000%26nbsp; Mrs. David F. Martineau
2001%26nbsp; Mrs. Jerry Jones
2002%26nbsp; Mrs. Robert H. Dedman
2003%26nbsp; Mrs. William P.Clements Jr.
2004%26nbsp; Mrs. Guy U. Griffeth
2005%26nbsp; Mrs. P. Mike McCullough
2006%26nbsp; Mrs. Carl Sewell Jr.
2007%26nbsp; Mrs. Charles J. Wyly
2008%26nbsp; Mrs. Lamar Hunt
2009%26nbsp; Mrs. Harvey R. Mitchell
2010%26nbsp; Ms. Marilyn Augur
2011%26nbsp; Mrs. V. Neils Agather

The Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas Hall of Fame

Mrs. V. Neils Agather
Mrs. Frank M. Aldridge III *
Mrs. Kenneth Altshuler
Mrs. Shy Anderson
Mrs. Barry Andrews
Ms. Kimberly J. Askew
Ms. Marilyn Augur
Mrs. Fritz E. Barton Jr.
Mrs. Buford P. Berry
Mrs. Kenneth Bilby
Honorable Nancy G. Brinker
Mrs. Dan Busbee
Mrs. David Carruth
Mrs. A. Baron Cass III
Mrs. Robert T. Chapman
Mrs. Elloine Sinclair Clark
Mrs. William P. Clements Jr.
Ms. Jeanne Marie Clossey
Mrs. Larry W. Collins
Mrs. Hugh Corrigan IV
Mrs. William A. Custard
Mrs. Robert H. Dedman
Mrs. Robert H. Dedman Jr.
Mrs. David Donosky
Mrs. Lowell C. Duncan Jr.
Mrs. William C. Duvall
Mrs. Thomas L. England
Mrs. Henry Exall Jr.
Mrs. Robert E. Farrow
Mrs. Randall Fojtasek
Mrs. Robert S. Folsom
Mrs. Gerald Ford
Mrs. James B. Francis *
Mrs. Robert J. Frank
Mrs. Todd A. Furniss
Mrs. William E. Gibbons
Mrs. Don Godwin
Mrs. Oliver Gould
Mrs. Warren L. Gravely Jr.
Mrs. Norman Green
Mrs. Guy U. Griffeth
Mrs. T. W. Griffiths
Mrs. Dean P. Guerin
Mrs. Jack P. Gunter
Mrs. Jeremy L. Halbreich
Mrs. Sam T. Hamra
Mrs. Edward G. Harding
Mrs. Bob D. Harrison
Mrs. William M. Hayner
Mrs. Al G. Hill III
Mrs. Albert G. Hill Sr. *
Mrs. Yerger Hill *
Mrs. James Hoak
Mrs. William Hodges *
Mrs. J. L. Huffines
Mrs. Kenneth H. Hughes
Mrs. Clark K. Hunt
Mrs. David S. Hunt
Mrs. Lamar Hunt
Mrs. Laura Bayoud Hunt
Mrs. Leete Jackson III
Mrs. David Johnston
Mrs. Jerry Jones
Mrs. A. Joe Justice
Mrs. Charles A. Kehoe
Mrs. John J. Kendrick Jr.
Mrs. John P. Koons
Mrs. Nancy O. Lemmon
Mrs. Meryl Levy *
Mrs. P. Mike McCullough
Mrs. Jan McDonald
Mrs. Hayden McIlroy
Ms. Nancy Cain Marcus
Mrs. David F. Martineau
Mrs. Jerry M. Meyer
Mrs. Vance C. Miller
Mrs. Harvey R. Mitchell
Mrs. Maurice E. Moore Jr.
Mrs. W. Lee Moore III
Mrs. John D. Murchison *
Mrs. Fulton Murray Jr.
Mrs. Robert Neely
Mrs. Nickey L. Oates
Mrs. Buford Penland *
Mrs. Ross Perot Jr.
Mrs. R. H. Pickens
Mrs. George Poston
Mrs. John H. Rauscher Jr.
Mrs. G. Stuart Reeves
Mrs. Steven S. Schiff
Mrs. Carl Sewell Jr.
Mrs. David S. Shelmire
Mrs. Harold C. Simmons
Mrs. James E. Sowell
Mrs. Robert C. Stack
Mrs. Marc H. Stewart
Mrs. Pamela S. Stewart
Mrs. Robert H. Stewart III
Mrs. L. Henry Stollenwerck
Mrs. Richard C. Strauss
Mrs. Theodore Strauss *
Mrs. Lewis T. Sweet Jr.
Mrs. Deborah G. Thomas
Mrs. Kenny Troutt
Ms. Amy Turner
Mrs. James L. Turner
Mrs. Fletcher W. Ward
Mrs. David R. Webb Jr.
Mrs. Julian A. Wells
Mrs. James R. Wikert
Mrs. Max Williams
Mrs. Stephen H. Wisdom *
Mrs. William K. Woodruff
Mrs. Terry Worrell
Mrs. Charles J. Wyly
Mrs. Toddie Lee Wynne Jr.

The 2011 Crystal Charity Ball Active Members

Libby Allred
Cynthia Beaird
Kay Beecherl
Tricia Besing
Gina Betts
Cordelia Boone
Delilah Boyd
April Bright
Carole Lou Bruton
Pam Busbee
Nancy Carlson
Ann Carruth
Christie Carter
Nancy Carter
Rozalyn Colombo
Janie Condon
Robyn Conlon
Janie Cooke
Sally Cullum
Marie Dean
Rachael Dedman
Leslie Diers
Suzanne Droese
Ann Dyer
Knoxie Edmonson
Claire Emanuelson
Tucker Enthoven
Dianne Etheredge
Fredye Factor
Susan Farris
Mary Clare Finney
Patti Flowers
Ola Fojtasek
Tanya Foster
Kim Gatlin
Suzy Gekiere
Tricia George
Barbara Hancock
Margaret Hancock
Pat Harloe
Juli Harrison
Helen Holman
Kristi Hoyl
Sally Johnson
Di Johnston
Angie Kadesky
Caren Kline
Pam Krueger
Ruth Kupchynsky
Ann Lardner
Vicky Lattner
Beth Layton
Patty Leyendecker
Paige Locke
Lisa Longino
Sarah Losinger
Lynn McBee
Pam McCallum
Wendy McCaslin
Pat McEvoy
Melissa Macatee
Mary Meier
Leslie Melson
Peggy Meyer
Kim Miller
Bette Mullins
Daffan Nettle
Elsa Norwood
Connie O%26rsquo;Neill
Linda Paulk
Pam Perella
Jan Pickens
Maria Plankinton
Michal Powell
Aileen Pratt
Amy Prestidge
Linda Quisenberry
Brandy Ratchford
Anne Reeder
Vinnie Reuben
Susan Roberds
Pat Rosenthal
Gigi Salley
Jennifer Sampson
Nancy Saustad
Linda Secrest
Connie%26nbsp; Sigel
Shelle Sills
Paige Slates
Cameron Smith
Betsy Sowell
Carol Spies
Mersina Stubbs
Deborah Sutton
Ashley Tripplehorn
Amy Turner
Julie Turner
Kristina Whitcomb
Emilynn Wilson
Alicia Wood

* Deceased Former Hall of Fame Honoree

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The 2011 Crystal Charity Ball Beneficiaries

Communities in Schools Dallas Region, Inc.
A caring community of support for at-risk students.
A drop-out prevention program founded in 1985 to address the growing number of high school dropouts in Dallas and surrounding areas, CISDR helps students at-risk of failure stay in school, achieve academically and graduate in order to become productive and contributing members of the community.
The Project: Students Stay in School
The Commitment: $758,992
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used over two years to expand campus-based, integrated academic support services and a continuum of care to at-risk elementary, middle and high school students in order to promote student achievement and success. In addition to providing program materials and support, funds will be used to hire 14 additional professionals to provide individualized on-campus case management services. Through this coordinated, caring community of support approximately 2,200 additional children will be served over two years.

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CONTACT Crisis Line
Moving teens from breaking point to turning point.
In 1967 CONTACT Dallas became the first center in the United States and the model agency for a nationwide network of crisis intervention lines. CONTACT Crisis Line offers free, 24-hour telephone crisis prevention and intervention, information and referral, emergency aid and community education and outreach.
The Project: Teen Support Group for Depression and Mental Health
The Commitment: $205,146
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used over three years to begin Teen CONTACT support groups for teenagers ages 13-18 with depression. Established by CONTACT in 1986, Teen CONTACT currently offers two dedicated crisis lines and presentations in classrooms and youth centers across the metroplex. The addition of support groups in North and South Dallas locations will allow CONTACT to focus on teens recently released from mental health facilities as well as teens with ongoing crisis or depressive issues. Funds will be used to cover teen support group program costs. Approximately 400 children will be served annually; 1,200 over three years.

Dallas Mission for Life (Dallas LIFE)
Ministering to the needs of homeless children and their families.
The largest homeless shelter in North Texas, Dallas LIFE reaches out to homeless men, women and children with food, clothing, shelter, education and long-term rehabilitation programs founded on spiritual principals and teachings. Providing for the needs of Dallas%26rsquo; homeless for over 50 years, it is the only shelter that allows families to stay together.
The Project: Children%26rsquo;s Program
The Commitment: $389,573
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used to continue program services and improve facilities to care for an increasing number of homeless children. While at the shelter, children receive three balanced meals a day, clothing, medical and dental care, enrichment opportunities and spiritually enhancing services. They reside in individual family unit rooms with their parents. Funds will provide children%26rsquo;s programming, new playground equipment, fencing and security; bus shelters; and a new endowment to continue meeting the needs of homeless children. Approximately 375 children will be served annually.

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Los Barrios Unidos Community Clinic, Inc.
Meeting the health care needs of impoverished children.
Since 1972 Los Barrios has provided culturally competent primary health care and supportive assistance to the most at risk, uninsured and underinsured populations in Dallas. Located in West Dallas and Grand Prairie, Los Barrios Unidos works to improve health and quality of life by providing a medical home or individuals and families and by offering a wide range of comprehensive primary care services to all ages.
The Project: Full Service Saturday Pediatric Clinic
The Commitment: $483,150
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used to sponsor the first two years of staffing for a full service Saturday Pediatric Clinic serving low income children from birth to age eighteen at the Los Barrios West Dallas campus. Services will include well and sick child care, lab services, vision and hearing screening, immunizations and mental health care. Funds will provide salaries and benefits for clinic personnel. Approximately 1,200 children will be served annually.

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Methodist Health System Foundation
Reducing premature births to teen mothers through innovative group care.
One of North Texas%26rsquo; oldest nonprofit health systems, Methodist Health
System is committed to providing compassionate, quality, leading-edge
health care. In 2009 the System provided more than $90 million in
unreimbursed charity care.
The Project: Life Shines Bright Pregnancy Program
The Commitment: $766,825
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used over two years to help reduce premature births to teen Moms by expanding the Life Shines Bright Pregnancy Program at Methodist Dallas Golden Cross Academic Clinic. The only Centering Pregnancy%26reg; project in Dallas, Life Shines Bright is a clinically-based prenatal and post-delivery care program that integrates health assessment, education, and support into a unified program within a group setting. Focusing on high-risk pregnant teens in Dallas%26rsquo; southern sector, the program provides a full range of medical prenatal and follow-up care and addresses all health and social aspects to achieve healthy, full-term deliveries. Funds will support expanded program operations. Approximately 528 teenage mothers will be served annually; 1,056 over two years.
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Nexus Recovery Center, Inc.
A nurturing, supportive environment for teens with substance addiction.
For more than 37 years Nexus Recovery Center has provided recovery and sustained independence from alcohol and drug abuse for disadvantaged women through residential and outpatient treatment. Focusing solely on women and adolescent girls struggling with substance abuse and addiction, Nexus removes the common barriers female addicts often face when seeking treatment.
The Project: Adolescent Dormitory
The Commitment: $ 337,297
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used to help build a new 12,500-square-foot adolescent dormitory for teens ages 13 to 17 with substance addiction. To be located on the agency%26rsquo;s 12-acre campus, the new dorm will have 30-beds, two classrooms, a library, a computer lab, group and family therapy rooms and a workout room. Requested funds will provide the remaining balance needed to completely fund the construction of the dorm. Approximately 340 teens will be served annually.
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Trinity River Mission
Improving academics through Tutoring, Reading, and Mentoring.
Originally founded as an outreach ministry of Lovers Lane United Methodist Church in the early 1960s, Trinity River Mission is a community learning center serving the intergenerational education needs of children, youth, and families in West Dallas. Believing that education connects children to life%26rsquo;s possibilities, the agency promotes literacy, encourages academic success and develops effective life skills among disadvantaged youth in grades K-12.
The Project: Capital Improvements/Tutor Power Hour
The Commitment: $822,236
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used over three years to increase the agency%26rsquo;s ability to meet escalating student academic needs in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Texas. Funds will provide capital improvements including vans, signage and technology; as well as salary and other program expenses to support the expansion of Tutor Power Hour, an on-line math tutoring program. Approximately 550 children will be served annually.
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Vickery Meadow Learning Center
Preparing children for successful school entry.
Founded in 1997 by the members of Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, Vickery Meadow Learning Center is dedicated to improving English literacy levels among low income non-English speaking adults and children by providing programs in communication and life skills.
The Project: Early Childhood Education Program
The Commitment: $501,811
Crystal Charity Ball funds will be used over three years to expand the Early Childhood Education Program for children ages 4 months to 5 years from non-English speaking homes in two of Dallas%26rsquo; poorest neighborhoods. The Center was initially founded to address the critical need for adult English literacy classes. In response to the lack of quality early learning opportunities for clients%26rsquo; children, the Center later expanded its on-site child care program to include early childhood education classes. Children and parents attend daily classes, simultaneously. Funds will be used for staff salaries at the Vickery Meadow and West Dallas sites. Approximately 230 children will be served annually.

Billy Reid

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 06:52:18 GMT

Keys to the Door: Manager Dave Gates.
Alabama Jubilee: By now, you’ve got Billy Reid’s number: Easy, breezy southern dressing, be it deep-vee tops and belted jackets for her, or slim suits and houndstooth trousers for him — all of it imbued with an aw-shucks, casual luxe. What you may not know is that Billy’s got some brand-new digs, moving from NorthPark Center to a retail world away in Highland Park Village. The new shop is pure Reid: Vintage apothecary shelves and painted beadboard galore, surrounding beat-up furniture that could’ve been dragged right out of Grandmother’s big plantation house — and probably was. Even the walls by the fitting rooms have patina and pedigree: They are reclaimed planks in multiple finishes from multiple sources, shuffled like a deck of well-worn cards. (Whiskey poker, anyone?) But enough with the Tennessee Williams mood-setting: Reid is nothing if not modern. His collections are cut for contemporary Blanches and Stanleys, and his accessories are urban-cool, not country-corny. (His men’s roper boots are architectural enough for sauntering through MoMA, and his women’s platform espadrilles would do well at the society-packed Mi Cocina just down the sidewalk.) We aren’t the only ones who think Reid exemplifies down-south chic: The Florence, Alabama–based designer is a CFDA award winner, and just last year, GQ put him in its sartorial pantheon, anointing him the best new menswear designer in all the land. High praise, indeed, for an aw-shucks kind of guy. 70 Highland Park Village, 214.346.0010; billyreid.com.

Image: Photo by Stephen Dux.

October 2011 Bridal Trunk Shows

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:21:24 GMT

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October 2011 Bridal Trunk Shows

Brides-to-be won%26rsquo;t want to miss these shopping events

By Carson Eisenhart

Neiman Marcus Downtown

1618 Main St., 214.741.6911; neimanmarcus.com

October 6 %26ndash; 7: Amsale Bridal Trunk Show

Warren Barr%26oacute;n Bridal

53 Highland Park Village, 214.526.8400; warrenbarron.com

October 27 %26ndash; 29: Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show

Stanley Korshak

500 Crescent Court, 214.871.3600; stanleykorshak.com

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Ines di Santo Trunk Show

October 27 %26ndash; 29: Liancarlo Bridal and Evening Collection Trunk Show

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October 2011 Trunk Shows %26 PAs

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:44:33 GMT

Hadleigh%26rsquo;s

71 Highland Park Village, 214.770.4743; hadleighsbespoke.com

October 6: Silvano Lattanzi Footwear Trunk Show and PA

October 7 - 8: Cesare Attolini%26rsquo;s Massimiliano Attolini PA

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Chanel%26nbsp;

100 Highland Park Village #101, 214.520.1055; chanel.com

October 28: Cruise 2011/2012 Collection Trunk Show

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Escada

34 Highland Park Village, 214.521.2882; escada.com

October 17 %26ndash; 18: Spring/Summer 2012 Trunk Show

Factory Girl
3005A Commerce St.; imfactorygirl.blogspot.com
October 15: Charmaine Marshall Jewelry Trunk Show

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Tootsies

8300 Preston Rd., 214.696.9993; tootsies.com

October 18: Joan Hornig Trunk Show and PA

October 27: Shirin Askari Trunk Show and PA

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Vintage Martini

1106 W. Main St.,%26nbsp;Carrollton, 972.466.4400; vintagemartini.com

October 28: %26ldquo;North American Tour%26rdquo; Trunk Show

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Neiman Marcus Downtown

1618 Main St., 214.741.6911; neimanmarcus.com

October 6 %26ndash; 7: Stylist Marie Turner PA

October 6 %26ndash; 8: Manolo Blahnik Spring 2012 Trunk Show

October 11 %26ndash; 12: Stephanie Anne Trunk Show

October 12: Barbara Tfank Trunk Show

October 13 %26ndash; 14: Linda Bergman PA

October 13: J. Mendel Spring 2012 Trunk Show

October 13 %26ndash; 14: Christian Louboutin Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Brioni Made-to-Measure Trunk Show

October 18: Shamask PA

October 20 %26ndash; 22: Rene Caovilla Trunk Show

October 20 %26ndash; 22: Gown Show Caravan Trunk Show

October 27 %26ndash; 28: Peggy Jennings Trunk Show

October 27 %26ndash; 29: Yves St. Laurent Trunk Show

October 27 %26ndash; 29: Hickey Freeman Trunk Show

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deBoulle

6821 Preston Rd.,%26nbsp;214.522.2400; deboulle.com

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Buccellati Trunk Show

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SWAG

510 NorthPark Center, 214.691.0123; lovemyswag.com

October 14: Virgin Saints %26amp; Angels Trunk Show and designer PA

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BVLGARI

NorthPark Center, 214.414.9666; bulgari.com

October 16 %26ndash; 25: 2011 Watch Trunk Show

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Forty Five Ten

4510 McKinney Ave, 214.559.4510; fortyfiveten.com

October 20 %26ndash; 22: Thakoon Spring/Summer 2012 Trunk Show and PA

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Nordstrom Galleria Dallas

13350 Dallas Parkway, 972.702.0055; shop.nordstrom.com

October 17: JP Tilford Made-to-Measure Trunk Show

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Stanley Korshak

500 Crescent Court, 214.871.3600; stanleykorshak.com

October 13: Lynn Devon Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Oxxford Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Hamilton Shirts Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Cruciani Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Robert Comstock Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: RVR Neckwear Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Ralph Lauren Trunk Show

October 18: Monique Lhullier Trunk Show

October 19 %26ndash; 20: Ruffian Trunk Show

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Belvest Trunk Show

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Smathers %26amp; Branson Trunk Show

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Bontoni Trunk Show

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Cucinelli Trunk Show

October 25 %26ndash; 29: Dana Kellin Trunk Show and PA

October 25 %26ndash; 29: Yossi Harrari Trunk Show and PA

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The Shak at Stanley Korshak

500 Crescent Court, 214.871.3600; stanleykorshak.com

October 6 %26ndash; 8: Abi Ferrin Trunk Show

October 14 %26ndash; 15: Tibi Trunk Show

October 21 %26ndash; 22: Haute Hippie Trunk Show

October 27 %26ndash; 29: Rachel Zoe Trunk Show

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