Five Luxurious Handbags That Every Collection Needs

While some people have closets filled wall to wall with designer handbags, most of us don’t, and it’s important to sift through all the handbag options to find just the right ones for your collection. When it comes to investing in a designer bag, there are a few things to look for. First, always think of how you’ll be carrying the bag and make sure you are picking a design that works for your lifestyle. Second, quality over quantity is very important, and you are better off saving to get a timeless classic that you can carry for years to come over jumping on the bandwagon of a seasonal trend. Lastly, remember that accessories are wonderful because they help change your outfit and tell your personal style story, so be true to yourself and let your accessories accentuate your shine!

It’s important to know your personal style while building your handbag wardrobe. After spending years in the
luxury accessory business, I’ve narrowed down five types of bags that are important for everyone’s collection.

1. Start with the perfect collection cornerstone: an everyday classic bag that combines elegance and timelessness. If you are on the go and have tons to juggle, make sure the bag has ample interior space along with an optional shoulder strap. Stick with a classic color like black, navy or other neutrals; the one you choose will depend on your typical wardrobe.

2. Add a compact day bag that transitions to night for maximum use. Make sure this bag is both chic and easy to wear.

3. It’s important to own a beautiful evening clutch because a structured box clutch automatically adds style and class to any outfit. You will want to pick a piece that can seamlessly go from black tie to a night on the town with your friends.

4. While focusing on classics is important, it’s just as important to show your personal style when it comes to your handbag choices. Opt for a bright clutch, wallet or pouch to really add pizzazz and a funky touch to your look.

5. An on-trend statement tote will finish off your handbag essentials by providing something fun and usable for a variety of situations. Pick a color that stands out but still flows with your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to pick a bold color, they’re much more versatile than you think when mixed with your regular wardrobe.

The Bottega Veneta Knot Clutch will turn heads while carrying your most important evening essentials.

The Chanel Boy Bag is a great option; the design is young and the brand offers a variety of sizes, colors and leathers.

Available in an array of colors and tonal studs, the Valentino Rockstud collection is sure to add flare to an every day outfit.

The ultimate timeless bag, the Hermes Birkin, is a highly recognizable symbol of iconic luxury.

For a statement tote, pick a bright and beautiful color like this cobalt blue Celine Luggage Tote. The bag will grab attention while providing ample usability as well.

Legendary Designer Mark ZuniNo Talks Fashion

Those who grew up with California native Mark Zunino would probably never have imagined seeing him where he is today. But a chance opportunity to work with legendary and Emmy Award-winning designer Nolan Miller helped to start Mark’s amazing career. Under Nolan, Mark worked with the defining women of glamour in Hollywood – Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, and Barbara Streisand, just to name a few. These experiences, his exposure to European fabric makers, and the couture business all tremendously influenced his focus on old Hollywood glamour. When launching his own line in 1998, Mark incorporated a modern interpretation to his label, which has been worn by top celebrities, including Angelina Jolie and Heather Locklear. His success has led to new fashion lines including Mark of Style with QVC and Mark Zunino for Kleinfeld Bridal. But despite his busy schedule, Beverly Hills Lifestyle was able to catch up with Mark at Sofitel Los Angeles for an exclusive photo shoot featuring his gowns modeled by the top divas of television: Joan Collins, Donna Mills and Nadia Bjorlin.

How did you get started?
I was originally studying architecture at Pepperdine and dabbling in graphic illustration. One of the required courses I took was fashion illustration, and the Professor happened to also be a costume designer. Something my father used to always say is that you can’t wait around for the phone to ring. Well, one day the phone did ring and it was my professor asking if I would be interested in applying to be the assistant fashion designer for Nolan Miller and Aaron Spelling for Spelling’s TV series Dynasty. I wanted to meet both of them, and long story short I got the job. The reason Nolan hired me was because he felt I had the talent and potential, and because I was a clean slate with no knowledge of fashion design. I could absorb a lot from Nolan and could learn from the ground up. When I told my family, my dad said, “You won’t throw away the education we just paid for you. I want to fly to LA and see what’s up.” The day he came we were working with Anne Margaret and Sophia Lauren. After that, my father said I could work there as long as I like.

What is your process in creating your designs?
It can start in several different ways, such as from a silhouette or from a fabric. Sometimes it may be inspired by a vacation or an environment I am in. From there, it is non-stop sketching, and once I start on a concept I am passionate about, I give it to my pattern maker and together we start tweaking it. The creative process never stops. Eventually we fit it on a model, but it is still a continuously evolving process, all the way to the last stitch. We do not stop until we decide it is the perfect garment.

Your designs are described as a modern reinterpretation of old Hollywood glamour. What is it that attracts you to this style?
I love glamour. Glamour is glamour. There is a certain formula that makes every woman feel sexy and the best they have ever felt. When I started, I worked with people like Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Lauren and absorbed their styles. I have carried this style when working with celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Halle Berry, and when creating wedding gowns. There is an inner confidence that emits from a person when dressed glamorously, you can see it in the way she moves and walks. She becomes alive and that is what fashion is all about.

What was the most valuable lesson you gained when working with Nolan Miller that you use in your designs today?
Starting from the inside out, like the foundation of a house. You can enhance the shape of a woman’s body and hide any flaws, making her feel better about herself.

What inspired you to create a bridal collection and what has it been like compared to couture?
I see dressing a bride to walk down the aisle to be the same as dressing a celebrity to walk down the red carpet; it is that moment where all eyes are on her. She wants to look her best and I want her to feel her best.

What can we expect to see next from you?
A lot. There are additional fashion projects that I am working on and a few movies that I have been asked to work in. Everything is changing right now and and it never stops being exciting.

Photography: JSquared Photography
Fashion Stylist: Rene´ Horsch
Hair&Makeup: Uzmee Krakovszki
Hairstylist: Travisean Haynes: Aim Artists
Art Director: Michael Piombo
Location: Sofitel Los Angeles www.SofitelLosAngeles.com

Dame Joan Collins waits on Sofitel’s dramatic mezzanine before descending down to dinner at Esterel restaurant. Wearing a MARK ZUNINO black Italian matt jersey side draped cocktail dress with teal crystals $4,200, black lamb skin bolero jacket with teal silk satin lining $3,600, kid skin opera gloves $1,200, stiletto pumps by Jimmy Choo. Bracelet by Peter Marco 71.90 carats diamond Princess cut in 18K white gold $345,000. Earrings by Nolan Miller.

Ms. Mills, on Sofitel Los Angeles’ dramatic spiral staircase, invites guests to join her upstairs in her Penthouse Suite. She is wearing a MARK ZUNINO black lambskin portrait collared jacket $4,100, jet sequined chiffon side draped cocktail skirt with English cut jet beaded tassel $3,400, jet beaded French Chantilly lace brassiere $1,200. Cross pendant 8.02 ct princess cut 2.23 ct round center diamond $35,460, necklace & bracelet by Peter Marco prices upon request. Cocktail ring Nolan Miller.

Nadia Bjorlin holding court in Sofitel Los Angeles’ lobby, Nadia is wearing a MARK ZUNINO nude shaded silk ribbon embroidered net gown with hand beaded accents and multi layered silk organza flounce $28,000.00. Black diamond dropped earrings from 14 Karats Beverly Hills. Smokey quartz cocktail ring by MARK ZUNINO

Dress: Georges Hobeika
Ring: Swarovski

Bustier: What Katie Did
Skirt and Belt: Claes Iversen
Necklace and Bracelet: Glynneth B.

Blouse: Claes Iversen
Jacket: Deborah Drucker
Shorts: Vivienne Westwood Red Label
Shoes: OBI Cymatica

Jacket: AMEN Couture
Hat: Adolfo Sanchez

Dress: Georges Hobeika
Gloves: Gaspar Gloves

Dress: Jean Fares Couture
Ring: ROCO

Art Director Jamie Breuer
Stylist: Rafael Linares
Hair by Sienree Du with Celestine using Oribe
Make up by Jennifer Cunningham using Make Up For Ever
Model Olya, LA Models
Nails Barbara Warner with Celestine using Azature
Photo Assistant Adam Bartlett

First Cabin at Balboa Bay Club

The Balboa Bay Club sits right on top of swanky Newport Harbor. Large picture windows frame views of gorgeous coastline, while an outdoor terrance puts you side-by-side sailboats and sultry seaside sunsets. Live piano music plays softly in the background, creating a mellow atmosphere for a prestigious crowd. Patrons enjoy good, rich food amongst good, rich company. This is an old-school institution, the choice hang-out of such departed luminaries as John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. It’s a venue for big parties, or a charming dinner for two; a timeless classic that is luxurious, yet simple and serene.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, guests enjoy innovate and seasonal California Cuisine featuring fresh Pacific seafood, top-end prime beef and local ingredients. True to its name, The First Cabin Restaurant is reminiscent of an elegant dining room on a cruise liner. Subtle nautical details give way to a clean, light, airy feel. A private dining room seats up to 14 guests, and the adjacent First Cabin Wine Bar is the perfect place for intimate parties or wine tastings, from stellar local vintages to the finest French champagne. An impressive selection of more than 600 wines has helped the venue earn critical acclaim and prestigious awards, including: the Four Diamond Award, Wine Spectator “Best Of” Award of Excellence, and Award of Excellence by Distinguished Restaurants of North America (DiRoNA).

Led by Austrian-born Chef Josef Lageder, the restaurant features the season’s freshest ingredients. Chef Lageder approaches our table with a big smile. His crisp Viennese accent is friendly and accommodating, yet hints at an underlying perfectionism. Chef provides an overview of his cooking style: “We keep the classics but give them a twist. We don’t use too many ingredients. If you have a great fish, keep it clean. Don’t use too many herbs. Let the flavor speak for itself. Keep it very simple. Buy fresh food and keep it simple.”

Before we begin our culinary journey, we partake in a sampling of cocktails including: their signature drink the B.B.C. Mai Tai (as refreshing as a tropical breeze), the Conquistador Sour (a sweet and tart delight that plays off the flavors of rum and sherry) and the Snowy Manhattan (a forgotten classic combining the spirits of bourbon and cointreau with hints of bitter orange and coconut essence).

Now properly primed, appetizers are delivered fast and furious: Spicy pan seared prawns (in a delectable sauce made of garlic herb butter, crimini mushrooms, chardonnay and lemon), Chilled Pacific Northwest oysters (drizzled with a dazzling Thai-inspired cilantro lime mignonette), Yellow fin tuna tartar (presented Mediterranean style with capers, chives and crispy crostini) and a martini of jumbo crab meat “Louis” (topped with avocados, lemongrass, pickled ginger and won ton crisp).

Next, seafood masterpieces are delivered. The macadamia encrusted Mahi Mahi with jasmine rice, papaya relish and lemongrass beurre blanc is transcendent. Sautéed spice rubbed Atlantic Salmon accompanied by wasabi whipped potatoes, mangoes and crispy prosciutto manifests every taste sensation perfectly from spicy to savory. Seared Chilean Sea Bass with shiitake mushroom quinoa and sun-dried tomato tapenade pleases my palate and seduces my soul.

Only the most prime meats are served. Our feast continues with a 12 oz. all natural Black Angus New York grilled steak, juicy and tender and succulent. The herb crusted Colorado rack of lamb posses a mild and delicate taste, served the traditional way with Mousseline potatoes and minted merlot sauce. The Chateaubriand for Two is carved table-side and paired with a symphony of vegetables. The house-made Béarnaise is so singular in its old-world perfection that it sends the dish into the gastromic stratosphere.

After such a massive meal, we end on the lightest of notes with a berry sorbet to cleanse the palate. Chef Lageder concludes: “Years ago people didn’t travel. Now food is global. East meets West. Presently, I’m learning to create a Thai curry sauce based on coconut milk – techniques we didn’t learn in Europe. Every day you can improve, step by step. Never stop learning. Always look forward to new adventures.”

If the adventure you crave is exquisite waterfront dining surrounded by a prestigious crowd, The Balboa Bay Club & Resort offers the highest quality cuisine in a breathtaking setting. The embodiment of premier Pacific perfection.

A Culinary Review of Bouchon

Named after the traditional restaurants of Lyon, France, Bouchon in Beverly Hills certainly lives up to its name. While Bouchon has many quintessential characteristics of LA dining, with its tall ceilings, dramatic wood molding, and chic table settings, owner Thomas Keller manages to capture and share the peaceful essence of France without the imminent jet lag.

Beginning my culinary journey to France, I walk up the beautiful staircase to the second-floor dining room and meet my friend. Admittedly, I’m 15 minutes late, but she and the hostess don’t seem to mind, as they politely greet me and within seconds we’re seated at a quaint table for two. Sleek, white cloths drape over each table as they and the dark wooden chairs that surround them compete for attention from the ornate and colorful tile flooring. The aroma of fresh baked bread fills the air and for a moment I forget where I am as I casually dream of my last visit to Paris.

Freshly baked bread is only the beginning to the exceptional French fare we’re presented with. Chef David Hands has certainly outdone himself with his impressive menu of comforting, country cooking. Like a ballet, everything arrives at our table with perfect timing. First, the Petit Plateau, a delicious, fresh, small, but not too small sampling of Fruits De Mer – lobster, oysters, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Due to both of our hurried schedules, my guest and I skip the appetizing salads and instead order main courses and the Macaroni au Gratin to share.

My friend orders the grilled salmon, I order the filet mignon and naturally, we share. The filet mignon is incredibly tender, rare and juicy and the flavor is unreal. The grilled salmon with the quinoa, kale, and roasted sunchokes is light and fresh; I feel less guilty about not ordering a salad. The macaroni and cheese is heavenly; I feel guiltier about not ordering the salad.

With the sweet Crème Brûlée, our meal comes to an end. Satisfied with the exemplary service, beautiful presentation, bright atmosphere, and delightful flavors, we leave, certain to return.

]]> http://bhlmagazine.com/bonjour-from-los-angeles-3/feed/ 0 http://bhlmagazine.com/lydia-mclaughlin-heart-and-soul/ http://bhlmagazine.com/lydia-mclaughlin-heart-and-soul/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 21:18:29 +0000 keithl http://bhlmagazine.com/?p=3060 by Lauren Vikander

Love, family, fashion — these are important components to understanding Lydia McLaughlin. While her passion for life is evident to all who meet her, Lydia is a grounded individual who is family oriented and business minded. A warm-hearted individual, Lydia’s career is taking on new dimensions as she continues to inspire others through her emphasis on family values and charity.

As the granddaughter of the founder of NTV, the largest privately held multi-media company in Canada, Lydia was exposed to the exclusive world of media and business at a very young age. She was surrounded by authors, radio personalities, and news anchors who sparked her imagination and spurred her creativity which is evident today. Yet, growing up on the island of Newfoundland, Canada known for its rugged beauty and fishing communities, created balance and a distinct down-to-earth quality in her. Through this extraordinarily unconventional upbringing she learned creativity, a love for media and developed a desire for entrepreneurism; quality’s that have carried her through life.

Today you can catch a glimpse of Lydia’s busy life on the hit reality TV show, The Real Housewives of Orange County, on Bravo. As the fresh faced new cast member, Lydia has already made a reputation for herself and has an undeniable presence. Lydia currently resides in Monarch Beach, California where she and husband Doug manage four successful businesses, raise their young sons, and give back to the community while juggling a vibrant social life.

Yet, Lydia turned down the opportunity to be on the Real Housewives of Orange County, originally. “I was, and continue to be extremely concerned about how my family and I will be represented.” said McLaughlin. Yet, she changed her mind because she wanted the chance to be a different voice on the show and a role model for people watching. “I don’t want to look back on my life and wonder,” says Lydia regarding her decision. “You never really regret risks you take.”

This ‘no regrets’ philosophy helped get she and husband Doug to where they are today. Together they’ve created an empire that started with the launch of SKYLAB Media Group, Inc. a luxury marketing agency. Subsequently, spinoff SKYLAB Modern Art, a sophisticated gallery featuring contemporary artists the couple discovered during their world travels, opened its doors in Laguna Beach, California.

Most recently, Lydia launched her own jewelry line
LYDIA M, known for its sexy, smart, and delicate handcrafted pieces. Inspired by her desire to create a collection that was comfortable and light, without sacrificing the bling, Lydia’s exclusive collection blends her love of gold, sparkle, and Orange County, where each piece is made locally. “I wanted to make pieces that I could wear to the beach and also out to dinner,” says Lydia. “Making jewelry that is unique and glamorous yet easy to wear is very important to me. I love making women feel beautiful.”

Despite all of her success, the one thing Lydia can’t stop talking about is her kids, whom she makes sure to put above all else. “My family is everything to me,” says Lydia. “I grew up with a strong close family and I want my kids to feel the same security I had.” Her two sons Stirling, 4, and Maverick, 2, as well as husband Doug, whom she met through her work in charity, are without question the center of her world.

Through all of the exposure on the Real Housewives of Orange County, Lydia’s goal was to be herself and show that she isn’t the stereotypical OC housewife. “My viewpoint comes from a different place and I wanted to bring some fun and a breath of fresh air to the show.” says Lydia.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
I love how you can express yourself through fashion. It is an industry full of creative people who are always changing and pushing the limits.

YOUR GO-TO SPRING LOOK?
Flirty bright dress with wedges.

WHAT IS YOUR FASHION MUST HAVE?
Christian Louboutins

GO TO ITEMS IN YOUR CLOSET?
The perfect pair of skinny jeans and heels

CELEBS WITH GREAT STYLE?
Gwen Stefani, Diane Kruger, and Kate Moss

LAST BOOK YOU READ AND LOVED?
Anything by Beth Moore

FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN OC FOR DATE-NITE?
Mastro’s Ocean Club

HOW DO YOU STAY FIT?
Bootcamp class every Monday. It kicks my butt everytime and sets the fitness tone for my week.

FAVORITE INTERNATIONAL CITIES?
Positano, Italy in the Summer
Paris in the Winter

WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST FROM CANADA?
The people…and the incredible fish!

DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL SUNDAY?
Waffles my husband makes. Church. Naps. Italian dinner at my Mom’s with the whole family.

YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE?
Titanic. Leo has a small piece of my heart.

YOUR GREATEST FEAR?
Heights

WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO VISIT THAT YOU’VE NEVER BEEN?
Peru

4 WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOUR LIFE?
Family
Faith
Fun
Full

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES IN REAL LIFE?
My parents

WHAT’S IT LIKE WORKING WITH YOUR HUSBAND?
Not for everyone, but we love it. We are very supportive of each other and we make a great team.

Photographed by Michael Stonis
Stylist: Toni Ferrara
Hair: Nikki Deroest
Makeup: Jason Sanchez using Milani Cosmetics
Photo Assist: Rod Foster & Isaiah McLean
Makeup Assist: Kelly Rodriguez

]]> http://bhlmagazine.com/lydia-mclaughlin-heart-and-soul/feed/ 0 http://bhlmagazine.com/dez-duron-from-the-voice/ http://bhlmagazine.com/dez-duron-from-the-voice/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:55:05 +0000 keithl http://bhlmagazine.com/?p=3053 by Ryan Kenney

For many years we have been fascinated with singing shows. We have explored the phenomenon and have come up with the one reason we keep coming back to these shows. The main reason we have found is to simply see who will be on. Well last season the allure hit an all time high when Dez Duron hit the stage on The Voice. He stunned audiences with his looks, stunned the judges with his talent and captivated the viewers with a perfect combination of the two. Dez as you will see throughout his interview is a man of faith, integrity, character and desires to see the world a better place every day. It amazes everyone who meets him that he is as humble as he is talented. Dez gives all the accolades to his faith and thanks God for his ability to do what he loves.

What is your biggest inspiration in life?
I find my inspiration in people. I love hearing stories about people overcoming great obstacles and making a positive difference. I love meeting new people from different places who have lived lives totally different than mine. It keeps life fresh. I think that’s why I love Los Angeles so much.

Where do you spontaneously tend to sing the most? I sing everywhere on accident. I would say my room, the shower and my car. Especially my car, I always look up to see the people next to me at the light laughing at me going at it.

How do you mentally and physically prepare for a performance? I always just remind myself that this is what I love to do. I think a little nerves is a good thing because it brings the energy level up and shows you care but you gotta have fun. Physically, I warm up and run in place a lot. I used to do that before football games and it has just stuck with me.

What is the one article of clothing or piece of jewelry that matters the most to you when getting dressed? I don’t have a particular piece of clothing. I’m a pretty moody dresser. I wake up every so often with a particular look I want to try out. I usually start with the pants and shoes I want to wear and make the rest work with that.

Who is your favorite music artist? Why?
That question is almost impossible. Different artists are always inspiring me at different times. If I had to choose two they would be Paul McCartney and Frank Sinatra. Paul McCartney’s music has been playing in my house since I can remember, whether it be The Beatles or his stuff with Wings. His lyrics and melodies are just incredible. I’ve always heard Frank’s music but really fell in love when I was 18. He is one of the greatest communicators of all time. He makes me feel it down in my soul.

What is it that appeals to you about crooners? I’m attracted to music that makes me feel something, whether happy, sad, excited etc. Frank Sinatra moves me the same way that gospel music moves me. There’s just something about that music and someone who can do it the right way. That is the biggest influence I take from that style of music as I make my own.

Since being on The Voice, have you managed to make time for any of the other things you enjoy, like playing football? What are they?
I love throwing the football, going on hikes, or anything with friends. I’ve been toying with the idea of joining a flag football league. I never really took time for things outside of music when I first got out here but I feel like good relationships are important and worth taking the time to cultivate.

How did your family and friends react when you decided to leave Yale and the football program to pursue your singing career and audition for The Voice? I think if the decision was just on a whim they would have taken it a lot harder, but music is all I’ve ever talked about since I was 2. My going to Yale was something my family was very proud of, so they were sad to see me leave, but in the end supported me. I can still go back and finish my degree so I think that helped soften the blow.

What has been the biggest challenge in your life? I think the biggest challenge in my life has been learning to trust my own instinct. Growing up a coaches son, you learn the valuable lesson of being coach-able and listening to mentors. I’m great at that. Now that I’m starting my own career I’m learning the balance of listening to the advice of those around me and taking control of my own life. That’s been an interesting transition.

What has been the most exciting thing in your life? My whole life I’ve listened to people’s music and been inspired, cheered up, encouraged, challenged. It’s been exciting for me to have people say they listened to me sing and it made their day better or that my story inspired them to try again at their dream. For me to be able to do through music what music has always done for me has been an incredible and surreal experience. Now making my own music, those experiences inspire me so it just keeps going round and round.

What is next for you? I’ve been in the studio with different producers making great music. I love what we’re coming up with. I’ve really been enjoying the studio and creating. Looking forward to getting the music out there and performing it.

Photographer: Odessy Barbu
Stylist: Kendrick Osorio Wilhelmina & Ken Barboza
Stylist Assistant: Karen Knighton
Grooming Kerrie Urban Exclusive Artist

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