For its "Masters" Collection, Louis Vuitton has collaborated with artist extraordinaire Jeff Koons to produce handbags and wallets featuring the works of the world's most revered master artists, including those by Leonardo Da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Titian, Peter Paul Rubens, and Jean-Honoré Fragonard! This collection aims to personalize high art, removing the perceived "distance" between master artist's works and the veiwers of that art. Jeff Koons explains that the pieces in this collection "... [T]ouch on the metaphysical: the right here right now and its connection to the past and the future. They’re about shine, the basics of philosophy, passion, what it means to be a human, what it means to be an animal, the idea of transcendence.”
The bags and wallets were created by "painting" the famous works of art onto the classic LV canvas. The infamous LV monogram is superimposed onto the bag in SHINY gold or silver pieces, along with the name of the Master Artist prominently displayed across the front of the bag. Of course, the bag is "signed" by Mr. Koons, making it a true Jeff Koon piece. To complete the bags, they are trimmed in leather in fun pop colors. The interior design of the bags features a biographical description of the cooresponding Master Artist, a description of Jeff Koons, and an explanation of the work of art depicted on the bag. There are 51 pieces in total including bags, wallets, keychains, and scarves.
This line has been creating a firestorm on social media and blogs. There are many detractors calling this line tacky and ugly. Well, after seeing these bags in person, nothing could be further from the truth! These bags are absolutely gorgeous and made with the utmost attention to detail. These bags are all Made in France, an important attribute for LV collectors! The chosen color palettes of complimentary leather and accompanying gold or silver hardware are sublime.
My sister and I checked out the collection at the Newport Beach Louis Vuitton store inside Neiman Marcus. The SA Allison was very helpful. Enjoy these great pictures from our trip!
Spring is almost here. The fresh blossoms of the D.C cherry trees are blooming, birds are chirping, the grass is green, and a new bag is on your mind. My spring bag pick is the Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 in Damier Azur!
I love my Mon Monogram Speedy, but have been desiring something in the Damier Azur for Spring and Summer. I went to the San Diego Louis Vuitton and checked out the options in that canvas. The Neverfull was really nice, but I felt that the Speedy looks more professional and cute for an office setting. Plus for a bag I will only wear for a few months, I didn't want to spend too much. The Speedy is a classic for a reason: it's perfect!
Terry Anderson, renowned attorney and leader of the Southern California Rose of Tralee and Big Irish Fair, has sadly passed away at 73 years old. He will be forever missed. For over 50 years, he dedicated himself in service to the Irish American Community of Southern California. As the Southern California Rose of Tralee 2010, Terry and I worked together throughout the years. He was a great friend and mentor to me and my sister. Please visit his memorial page:
Gather your favorite patriotic-appropriate accessories this holiday! We selected some of our best. My beloved Judith Leiber American Flag minaudier is the crowning jewel of the collection. Check out great Star Spangled Banner looks from Brighton Accessories and Judith Ripka. For a true American touch, we love the Nantucket classic of the Lightship Basket. Round out your look with American designers King Baby Studio and Heidi Daus. For a scent dedicated to brotherly love, equality, and charity, choose Liberty Island from Bond NYC. Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Jewelry!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
My sister and I recently visited the beautiful Wynn Hotel in fabulous Las Vegas (http://wynnlasvegas.com/). Although we have been there many times, this stay was particularly important. On June 3rd, Italian designers Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo Scognamiglio celebrated the 15th Anniversary of their jewelry house, Faraone Mennella (http://faraonemennella.com/).
The Guys. Roberto e Amedeo.
To commemorate this tremendous achievement, the gracious ladies Elaine Wynn and Pamela Fiori of Town & Country Magazine hosted a glamorous party in the Wynn Villas. As happens, the The Couture Show jewelry event took place that weekend and featured Faraone Mennella along with many of the most respected houses including Faberge, Bvlgari, and Sevan Biacaci, to name a few! (http://www.thecoutureshow.com/) This was definitely the weekend to be in Las Vegas. Anybody who is anybody in the jewelry business was there, from designers, to bloggers, to customers. Invited by Amedeo and Roberto, we surely could not miss.
Sizzling under the Las Vegas sun, we arrived at the Wynn Tower Suites. It was only 112 degrees outside...no big deal. Finally reaching sanctuary after the long drive, we entered into the gorgeous mosaic tile atrium. Ah the Wynn. There is no better place. The check-in desk even provided lovely moistened lemon-scented towels and ice water to cool tired travelers. This is how lady lawyers like to be treated. Our Tower Suite had stunning views of the Wynn Golf Course and famous pools. Not only that, we had two full sized bathrooms! It was perfect! An amazing experience.
Tower Suite guests are welcomed in to a private atrium entrance. A true oasis.
After getting the suite organized, we sought out to explore all that the Wynn/Encore had to offer. Since we are not big on gambling, that pretty much meant shopping. The Wynn is a shopper's dream hotel. Chanel, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, McQueen, Dior....need I say more? We had great experiences at Chanel, Hermes and Louis Vuitton. The sales associates at all locations were completely friendly and helpful. I especially want to compliment Christian at Hermes. You are a treasure!
My sister ended up with a new Louis Vuitton Totally in Damier Ebene MM. She had her heart set on a LV anyway, so it TOTALLY made sense to make the splurge....Vegas Baby! Thank you to the LV WYNN boutique for your excellent service and guidance!
Perfect bag for carrying office essentials!
After shopping, we eventually had to get something to eat. I stopped into The Cave, a chic little wine bar and bistro at the Wynn. There were several vendors from the Couture show getting a late night snack and it was so interesting to chat with them about their jewels while I waited at the bar. I was happy to see a gluten-free menu and enjoyed some delicious Kobe sliders and creamy beet salad to take back to the room. Very impressed by that restaurant!
The Faraone Mennella party started at 10 pm. On our way to Villa 312, we were fortunate to share the elevator with HSN CEO Mindy Grossman. Long-time admirers of HSN and Ms. Grossman, this was very serendipitous. Mindy broke the ice by complimenting my Amedeo NYC cameo earrings, which were purchased on her shopping network! Of course she recognized them. The captivating CEO was decked in couture Faraone Mennella Sleeping Beauty turquoise and diamond necklace and earrings. The perfect pick for the Carpi in Vegas theme!
Sarah, Rachel, Amedeo, and Mindy
Lavishly decorated with Faraone Mennella's most stunning jewelry creations, the Villa sparkled like the stars under the Capri sky. Everywhere you looked, beautiful gold and gemstone masterpieces adorned the stylish scene. Best of all, we were warmly greeted by Amedeo and Roberto. It was so exciting to see them! And yes my HSN ladies, these guys are just as adorable in person as they are on TV. Amedeo even had a fun life-sized selfie machine for the party! If you follow his Instagram, you know how much he likes selfies :) Roberto and Amedeo insisted we try it out. So there we were, champagne in hand, taking selfies with the guys. It was a great touch to the evening and definitely entertaining.
Professor Monkeydeo Pendant in Silver, Rodium, and Gemstones.
Wearing Herve Leger in Pink with RFM by Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo NYC.
Sarah, Mindy, Amedeo, and Rachel
Amongst the attendants was the iconic Iris Apfel. The lovely fashion maven arrived looking marvelous as always in her fringed leather jacket, signature glasses, and bright accessories. My sister Rachel happened to be wearing a Rara Avis bag designed by Iris for HSN. When Iris saw it she enthusiastically claimed, "That's my bag, that's my bag!" It was too cute. She really loved seeing her designs worn out and about. She is such an incredible lady and one of Faraone Mennella's greatest fans.
Mindy Grossman, Irish Apfel, Chic Lady, and Ms. Elaine Wynn
The fabulous evening concluded by viewing a mesmerizing video collage of Faraone Mennella's first 15 years.
The next day we returned to the Villa to chat with the guys and to check out even more of their glorious jewelry. During our conversations, I loved how Roberto and Amedeo loyally defended Luciano Pavarotti as the world's greatest tenor. From nice Italian boys, I would expect nothing less.
For your listening pleasure: Volare
Rachel and Amedeo engaged in serious lawyerly discussions talk while I went window shopping and played Barbie with Roberto. Their elegant sales assistant Leandro guided me in my pursuit of purchasing a take home souvenir. Baubles, Bangles, and Beads, Oh My! Everything from Faraone Mennella is so stylish, so sexy, and so cool. I wish I could buy it all! I was lucky enough to try on several pieces from the couture collection, including an incredibly gorgeous strand of Natural Tahitian Multi-Colored Pearls which featured an enormous Green Beryl at the closure. With amazing luster and hues that could never be replicated, this is a true one of a kind strand. The matching earrings were also quite stunning! The jewelry really did take my breath away.
Pictured wearing the Tahitian Pearls with designer Roberto Faraone Mennella
Green Beryl Earrings to match your eyes!
Roberto making sure that everything is just right.
Stunning Jewelry!
Not satisfied with that, Roberto had me try on another tremendous piece, a 87.78 ct. Australian Black Opal, 17ct. green diamond, and 16ct. white diamond necklace. Well, this was definitely the Cinderella moment of my trip. It is the most beautiful necklace I have ever seen and the most memorable piece from the entire Couture Show. How much? Price upon request.
Nel Blu Dipinto di Blu!
Chic Lawyers. Rachel's ensemble is LOGO by Lori Goldstein
I was really drawn to Amedeo's cameo jewelry as well on that sunny Las Vegas moring. A wide array of fantastical creatures were on display. The whimsical Monkeydeo, Serpents, Elafanti and more. As difficult as it was to make a selection from all the tempting pieces, I chose an 'A' for Amedeo initial cameo ring in sterling silver and grey diamonds and an edgy dragon pendant. They just looked great in the mirror and I am such a fan of Amedeo that I am willing to wear his initial all over town. :)
Thanks Amedeo and Roberto for such a great invitation and congratulations on 15 years of hard earned success! Also, a special thanks to Gabriella Migliore and Titina Serpico, RFMAS most beautiful assistants! xo Ladies! Ciao!
Enter into Wonderland with this whimsical collection presented by HSN. For the opening of "Though the Looking Glass", the top designers at the network created an enchanting array of fashions for you and for the home. Get ready to paint the roses red! All items available on HSN.com See Collections
Recreate the look of Wonderland in your home and add elements of MAD style to your wardrobe!
Start with a new tea set or decorated tea pot cookie jars from David's Cookies!
There comes a time in every woman's life where she needs to graduate to a serious handbag.
All of a sudden, it came upon me. The bag bug. I don't think I have ever really had it before.
But this past December, I wanted a Louis Vuitton or Chanel handbag. Walking around town, shopping and dining, I saw gorgeous LV bags and knew I needed one too. To my eye, the LV bag polishes your look and finishes any outfit. Now I had to decide if I was willing to take the plunge price-wise. Until this point, I had never even considered spending more than around $350 on a bag (either retail or on-sale). I am rough on bags, and have always been more of a clothes-girl. However, after buying so many nice bags, I had to admit that I was not in love with any of them. Neither visually, for their function, or any sentimental reason. So I thought, what bag would finally make me happy? LV or Chanel. My mother carried LV when I was young. She had a Speedy 25 and the Noe. The monogram of the LV bag had always fascinated me. Remembering back in time, she was always getting compliments and questions about her bag. My mom had bought her first LV at I. Magnin back in 1990. Then, my father bought her all the accessories....the wallet, cosmetic cases, checkbook holder, and keychain pouch. Now that I am older, I appreciate how much that all cost! Eventually, my mom gave up on her Louis...she just was like, "it's just Louis Vuitton"...and gave them all away!!
So I adopted the same attitude for years...but times have changed.
I told my mom I wanted a "status" bag and she helped me look for one. We initially thought about getting a "previously loved" Louis. I looked at so many bags, and found that the prices for pre-owned LV were pretty high. Also, I couldn't find one that was in good enough condition. The ones that were in nice condition where priced almost the same as retail! I thought that was ridiculous so I started looking at the LV website. I really couldn't decide which bag to get, but knew I needed a zipper bag. My mother suggested that I just get the classic Speedy. In search of a Speedy, I stumbled upon a high-end resale shop in my town. The lovely shopkeeper had a LV Delightful PM for $900 and a Jumbo Chanel Classic Flap bag in Black leather for a whopping $3800!! The retail on the Chanel is now $6000 Chanel Large Flap Bag. I was floored by the price of the Chanel. Although it is a beautiful and classic bag, I was surprised at how little you can actually fit in that bag. I carry a lot of stuff, and there is no way I could carry that bag on any regular basis. It was in great condition, but I don't make enough money to justify that kind of purchase for something I would barely use. So, Chanel was out, LV was in.
On the LV website, louisvuitton.com I found the Speedy! Although I liked it, I wasn't completely in love until I saw the Mon Monogram Personalization option!! Also, I decided I definitely needed the Bandouliere option!! I need a shoulder strap of some kind because my bag gets heavy. There. I was set on the SpeedyB Mon Monogram. On the site, you can play with personalization options, choosing colors, stripes, and initials. I chose the side stripes in the colors Noir and Bordeaux with a Bordeaux interior. For my initials, I chose Bordeaux with Noir shadowing and "With Dots". Here is what my future bag will look like:
I think the Bordeaux and Noir option looks extremely chic and versatile. I chose to have some black because I am always wearing black as an attorney. My thought was keep it subtle but interesting enough to stand out from other Speedys. Although I could have ordered this online http://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/women/personalization, I chose to got to the LV store in Fashion Valley, San Diego. After all, this was a big purchase. The saleswoman Laura helped me pick the right size Speedy. When I walked in the store I told her I wanted the SpeedyB 40. She told me that she thought it was too big for me as an everyday bag and more akin to a travel duffel. I tried on the 40 anyway. It looked ok, but not as "cute" as I would have liked. She personally had the Speedy 30. I tried the Speedy 30 and it was nice, but a little small for me. Especially, I thought the opening was too small. I ended up ordering the SpeedyB 35!! I ordered it two weeks ago. It is reportedly going to take about 8 weeks...which seems like forever. It is custom made just for you in Paris, France! It is good to know that I will have the coveted "Made in France" bag. I am excited and can't wait to get it!! Will post pics and review the bag when it arrives. The price for the SpeedyB 35 is around $1400. With personalization "Mon Monogram" it is up to around $1800 + tax! So around $1900 total.
