Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist. http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.luxist.com/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com prods@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Producers) support@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Web Support) en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. View our terms of service here: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Bentley Outfits "The World's Most Luxurious Charity Bus"]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=1ac21344eab61281aedbaed40e2ba6fe http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/bentley-outfits-the-worlds-most-luxurious-charity-bus/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/bentley-outfits-the-worlds-most-luxurious-charity-bus/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/bentley-outfits-the-worlds-most-luxurious-charity-bus/#comments

What do you do when you work at a factory that's been shutdown due to a weak economy? Well, you can sit around and mope. Or you can volunteer your time and skills. Following their earlier art project to benefit cancer research, 59 craftsmen from the Bentley factory in Crewe have opted once again for the latter, and this is the result.

Named Luke, this retired London Routemaster double-decker bus was acquired by St Luke's hospice in Winsford, England, earlier this year. The idea was to transform it into a rolling vehicle for community service and public awareness. The Bentley workers put in some 2000 man-hours of their own free time to bring it to fruition, and the results look very impressive indeed. But don't take our word for it: see for yourself in the image gallery below.

Gallery: Luke the London Routemaster outfitted by Bentley

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Bentley Outfits "The World's Most Luxurious Charity Bus" originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bentley bentley charity BentleyCharity bus charity charity bentley CharityBentley double-decker hospice london london bus london routemaster LondonBus LondonRoutemaster luke routemaster st lukes st lukes hospice StLukes StLukesHospice Noah Joseph Thu, 26 Nov 2009 22:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Billionaire Poker Player Battles For Trump Casinos]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=734245bef80df3c4ec0e29676c6b988e http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/billionaire-poker-player-battles-for-trump-casinos/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/billionaire-poker-player-battles-for-trump-casinos/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/billionaire-poker-player-battles-for-trump-casinos/#comments Donald Trump's Atlantic City casinos might not belong to Trump anymore if billionaire banker and high-stakes poker player Andy Beal has anything to say about it. Beal and Trump were once partners doing battle against another group of bondholders to take control of the three bankrupt Trump Entertainment Resorts Inc. casinos. But now Beal has split from Trump and his Beal Bank has offered to convert its $486 million mortgage on the casinos into majority owner equity. The offer drew criticism from attorneys representing Trump Entertainment bondholders, who have offered to buy the casinos for $225 million. Previously Trump and Beal Bank had offered $114 million in cash for the company but last week Trump withdrew from that deal and instead agreed to back the bondholders in return for an ownership stake in the casinos.

Beal might love the art of the deal even more than Trump. After all, this is a man who won more money in a single day than any other poker player: $11.7 million at the Las Vegas Bellagio casino in 2004. Because of Beal's mortgage on the Trump casinos his bank is first in line among bankruptcy creditors.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Judith H. Wizmur has given both sides until December 3 to try to negotiate a deal. Wizmur has scheduled hearings to start in January to pick the company's new buyer.

Billionaire Poker Player Battles For Trump Casinos originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> andy beal AndyBeal atlantic city AtlanticCity casinos donald trump DonaldTrump trump atlantic city TrumpAtlanticCity Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Unconventional Auction Favors Artists Only]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=29bce8bc63a6697de5fb54918d50367e http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/unconventional-auction-favors-artists-only/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/unconventional-auction-favors-artists-only/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/unconventional-auction-favors-artists-only/#comments I'm still not sold that the art market is recovering (it could be, but it's too soon to tell). But, if it is, the upside is going to the galleries and collectors -- the artists aren't getting squat. November was generally kind to Christie's, Sotheby's and Phillips de Pury, leading to hundreds of millions of dollars in art sales. So, to get their own piece of the art market pie that may or not be forming, artists are starting to go directly to the buyers.

Artist Ryan McGinness hosted a sale of pieces by several artists, with the person who did the work taking home all the spoils. The presale estimate of $47,000 to $57,000 made sense, as the final tally came to $51,300, pretty much in the middle. McGinness himself was present at the event ... via a video connection from Amsterdam.

The traditional auction model trends to benefit collectors rather than artists, as it creates a secondary market for artwork. It's really no different from the stock market. An IPO, if successful, will be the starting point, with the price going up later, to the advantage of all subsequent owners.


Continue reading Unconventional Auction Favors Artists Only

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Unconventional Auction Favors Artists Only originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art art auction art auctions art dealer art market ArtAuction ArtAuctions ArtDealer artist Artists ArtMarket artwork auction auction-house AuctionHouse auctions christies damien hirst DamienHirst manhattan new york new york new york NewYork NewYorkNewYork phillips de pury PhillipsDePury sothebys Tom Johansmeyer Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Vermont Bed and Breakfast Offers Free Getaways For The Uninsured]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=be7224eacf6975daadbd11993b9020a5 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/vermont-bed-and-breakfast-offers-free-getaways-for-the-uninsured/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/vermont-bed-and-breakfast-offers-free-getaways-for-the-uninsured/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/vermont-bed-and-breakfast-offers-free-getaways-for-the-uninsured/#comments
We've seen an inn in Vermont offer getaways for the unemployed. Now a different inn is offering a free getaway for the uninsured. Tim and Amy Brady, the owners of Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast in Brattleboro, Vermont know firsthand the challenges of being without health insurance. In 2007, when they left their corporate jobs to start the bed and breakfast they struggled to find a healthcare coverage option that would be affordable and not exclude existing conditions. Now they hope to provide a healthy getaway to those who may be facing the same struggle with their own health care coverage by giving away one healthy getaway each month, complete with an apple a day , to an uninsured couple in need of some stress relief. Each month until a National Health Care Reform Bill is passed Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast will award one deserving couple with a two-night stay that includes a healthy breakfast. Visit the Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast website for more details.

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Vermont Bed and Breakfast Offers Free Getaways For The Uninsured originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bed and breakfast BedAndBreakfast forty putney road FortyPutneyRoad getaway uninsured vermont Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Scottish Brewery Creates World's Strongest Beer]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=ef56e08900ef3faedb3ad10b7ea38fce http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/scottish-brewery-creates-worlds-strongest-beer/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/scottish-brewery-creates-worlds-strongest-beer/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/scottish-brewery-creates-worlds-strongest-beer/#comments The name, Tactical Nuclear Penguin, might be a bit silly, but this is a beer to take seriously. BrewDog, a Scottish brewery says the Penguin is the world's strongest beer and has a 32 percent alcohol content. Like other strong beers such as some of the Sam Adams offerings, this is a beer to be enjoyed in small servings. It is a double cask matured uber-imperial stout. A limited supply of Tactical Nuclear Penguin sells for £30 a bottle or £250 per bottle which includes a share in BrewDog PLC (value £230).

[via BBC News]

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Scottish Brewery Creates World's Strongest Beer originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> beer brewdog tactical nuclear penguin TacticalNuclearPenguin worlds strongest beer WorldsStrongestBeer Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Carlos Falchi Glazed Python Dr. Bag, Handbag of the Day]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=8b1756dcfd9f2f0ac74214d493ddcb6c http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/carlos-falchi-glazed-python-dr-bag-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/carlos-falchi-glazed-python-dr-bag-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/carlos-falchi-glazed-python-dr-bag-handbag-of-the-day/#comments The Carlos Falchi Glazed Python Dr. Bag is by equal parts fabulous and dazzling.

It's like he took a basic black python bag and BeDazzled it. Like ... really, really well. We can't say this looks like a doctor-style bag to us, but we do love the shape. The gathers at the sides make it feminine enough to stand up to the great big appliquéd BeJewels.

Is it just us, or do the multiple shapes and the spacing remind you of Louis Vuitton? We're certainly not accusing Mr. Falchi of being unoriginal, but if LV did this with their signature shapes, the result would be outrageously awesome.

This perfect-for-the-holidays glazed python bag is a sensible 7"H x 13"W x 4"D; large enough for your stethoscope and your makeup.

The Carlos Falchi Glazed Python Dr. Bag is available from Bergdorf Goodman for $1,695.00.

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Carlos Falchi Glazed Python Dr. Bag, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> carlos falchi handbag of the day HandbagOfTheDay python Annie Scott Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Hirst Gets Last Laugh]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=1ef5f92fac0ac8a629cd97d1c43857db http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/hirst-gets-last-laugh/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/hirst-gets-last-laugh/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/hirst-gets-last-laugh/#comments The critics weren't kind to Damien Hirst's latest collection, which was exhibited at the Wallace Collection. It doesn't seem to have mattered. All news is good news in Hirst-land, as evidenced by the sales of his most recent effort. Hirst opened a new show yesterday at White Cube. Even if the media isn't crazy about his, the artist's collectors haven't ended the love affair. Five of the seven largest pieces in his new "Nothing Matters" collection sold before the show opened, with the highest-priced piece hitting $15.7 million, despite an initial point of only 235,000 pounds.

The show runs at White Cube through January 20, 2010, but you'll have to accept that you'll be checking out what is now other people's property. Hirst collectors are nothing if not loyal.

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Hirst Gets Last Laugh originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art art galleries Art Gallery ArtGalleries ArtGallery artist artwork damien hirst DamienHirst england galleries gallery london united kingdom UnitedKingdom wallace collection WallaceCollection Tom Johansmeyer Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:03:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Acme Studio Compact Mirrors]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=fb4176b7358bbf360c0e49bc9b493891 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/acme-studio-compact-mirrors/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/acme-studio-compact-mirrors/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/acme-studio-compact-mirrors/#comments
Need a stocking stuffer for a design lover in your life? Check out the new compact mirrors from Acme studios, the same folks that make pens and business card cases using designs from Karim Rashid, Frank Lloyd Wright and more. There are six designs each are made of chrome-plated stainless steel with a lacquered inlay cover. Inside there is a circular detail mirror as well as a square one. Each one sells for $39.

Acme Studio Compact Mirrors originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> acme studios AcmeStudios compact mirrors CompactMirrors frank lloyd wright FrankLloydWright karim rashid KarimRashid Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Giacometti on the Block: Family Collection to Move at Christie's in Paris]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=d252f20092c96094f783660ba4ec7f13 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/giacometti-on-the-block-family-collection-to-move-at-christies/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/giacometti-on-the-block-family-collection-to-move-at-christies/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/giacometti-on-the-block-family-collection-to-move-at-christies/#comments Surrealist, modern and postwar pieces will go under the gavel next week at the Christie's Impressioniste et Moderne auction in Paris. More than 140 lots will be offered on December 1, 2009, with presale estimates ranging from $6 million to $9 million. Among the artists represented in the auction, which consists of the Lefebvre-Foinet collection, are Alberto Giacometti, Max Ernst, Henri Matisse and Zao Wou-Ki. The collection was amassed over five generations, with the latest in the family making the decision to sell.

A portrait of Maurice Lefebvre by Giacometti could fetch between $1 million and $1.5 million, but other lots are more attainable. "Lyrical Explosion C," by Alberto Magnelli, is expected to sell for $210,000 to $270,000, and Sonia Delaunay's "Colored Rhythms No. 615" could go for up to $160,000. Playing on the success of the market for Chinese art, Zao Wou-Ki's "5.11.64" could move for as much as $600,000.

Paris has done pretty well through the art market slump, especially when the auctions deviate at least somewhat from the norm. Though there aren't any guarantees, let's keep an eye on this one. It could be the touch of fresh air we need.

[Photo via Christie's]

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Giacometti on the Block: Family Collection to Move at Christie's in Paris originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art art auction art auctions art market ArtAuction ArtAuctions Artists ArtMarket artwork auction auction-house AuctionHouse auctions Christies contemporary art ContemporaryArt giacometti matisse max ernst MaxErnst modern art ModernArt paris paris france ParisFrance PostwarArt surreal surrealism surrealist Zao Tom Johansmeyer Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Glenbrook Nevada, Estate of the Day ]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=f3702f14a9bdab3b7cb7d1ac9133eb48 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/glenbrook-nevada-estate-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/glenbrook-nevada-estate-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/glenbrook-nevada-estate-of-the-day/#comments
Today's estate is situated on Lake Tahoe's east shore with views of Glenbrook Bay and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You can't have a home on Lake Tahoe without taking advantage of the view and this home does not disappoint with a great room that has walls of glass facing the lake. The home has an impressive gourmet kitchen with shining brass wine racks that belong in a bar.

A large rooftop deck includes a firepit and a hot tub with plenty of room. A full huge garage offers room for car collectors to protect their precious vehicles from snow. The current owner appears to be quite the film fan and has a collection of movie memorabilia and a cinema-worthy home theater. Other features include a wine room, office and four bedroom suites. This home is listed at $18.75 million.

Gallery: Glenbrook, Nevada

Continue reading Glenbrook Nevada, Estate of the Day

Glenbrook Nevada, Estate of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> estate of the day EstateOfTheDay glenbrook lake tahoe LakeTahoe neveada Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Casio G-Shock Mini Deco-G Watch Is Easy Holiday Splurge ]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=7c4cd43bc80baba61fadeb086e72b7f0 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/casio-g-shock-mini-deco-g-watch-is-easy-holiday-splurge/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/casio-g-shock-mini-deco-g-watch-is-easy-holiday-splurge/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/casio-g-shock-mini-deco-g-watch-is-easy-holiday-splurge/#comments
For any active minded woman who likes a little attention, it is hard to admit you don't like this watch. Yes, it is true that blingy Casio watches are a hot item of choice among Hip Hop elite, but there is a certain charm and allure to them that is hard to explain. I feel as though it is the gilding of an object that you would easily wear without the gilding.

Here is a relatively inexpensive way to get a nice looking wintry watch from Casio with a little "extra" on it. In addition to the famous Baby-G line of watches, there is also the G-Shock Mini collection of watches for women (don't ask me the differences between the two, cause I don't rightly know). This G-Shock Mini Deco-G Watch is covered in a mask of hand-selected Swarovski crystals, against a white case and strap, with a metallic pink dial. The case design is much more refined and chic than many of the visually more complex women's G-Shock watches out there, but it still retains all the functions you'd expect.

Displayed right on the dial is the time and date, as well is indicators for things like day light saving, alarm, and more. Other functions include a 48 city world timer, stopwatch, countdown timer, 5 daily alarms, and an awesome backlight. The watch is also 100 meters water resistant, and highly shock resistant. If you want one, each will only cost you $200, but they are only available at Bloomingdale's in Manhattan. For more information visit gshockmini.com.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

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Casio G-Shock Mini Deco-G Watch Is Easy Holiday Splurge originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bloomingdales casio deco-g g-shock GMN690-7B mini swarovski white Ariel Adams Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Westin At Home Adds A Blanket For The Road ]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=03221176a4e957a21a7d23b8b6008123 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/westin-at-home-adds-a-blanket-for-the-road/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/westin-at-home-adds-a-blanket-for-the-road/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/westin-at-home-adds-a-blanket-for-the-road/#comments Westin Hotels has a booming side business by selling items from their Heavenly line including the Heavenly bed. New for the holidays is the Heavenly Travel Blanket and Heavenly Bath product line. The Heavenly Travel blanket is a versatile item. It is a full size blanket that can also be tucked into hidden pocket so that it can serve as a travel pillow. It sells for $60.

The Westin Heavenly bath line includes calming blend of botanicals and natural ingredients. Products include a soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and body oil. The collection is available in White Tea Aloe, Green Tea Grapefruit, and Chamomile Lavender. Prices range from $12 to $18.

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Westin At Home Adds A Blanket For The Road originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> heavenly bed HeavenlyBed holiday gifts HolidayGifts westin westin at home WestinAtHome Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Henry Dunay Designs Closing]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=5f1d51f7772b62c86b50df2a92128611 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/henry-dunay-designs-closing/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/henry-dunay-designs-closing/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/henry-dunay-designs-closing/#comments Sad news for fans of jeweler Henry Dunay. Over the summer Henry Dunay Designs filed Chapter 11. Now it has been announced that the brand is officially over. An auction of the company's inventory is scheduled for December 16. Dunay told National Jeweler that he is not giving up the jewelry business completely and that he will still be doing special orders and custom pieces. As he puts it, "they're not getting rid of me yet." Good news for anyone who is a fan of Dunay's unique wearable works of art. He can be reached for special orders by calling the numbers used for Henry Dunay Designs: (800) 888-2525 or (212) 768-9700. For more information on the Dec. 16 auction, contact Jay Silverberg, Dunay's attorney from the New York office of Sils, Cummis and Gross, PC, at (212) 500-1587.


Gallery: Henry Dunay Designs

Ruby NecklaceDiamond MaskBird of Peace

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Henry Dunay Designs Closing originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bankruptcy henry dunay HenryDunay jeweler jewelry Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[The Fashion Statement: What Do You Do, Roopal Patel?]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=30828c8d32115def17c20ef195050cfc http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/the-fashion-statement-what-do-you-do-roopal-patel/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/the-fashion-statement-what-do-you-do-roopal-patel/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/the-fashion-statement-what-do-you-do-roopal-patel/#comments

As Fashion Editor at Neiman Marcus, Roopal Patel has one of the coolest jobs on the planet. I asked the fashion insider about the biggest fashion mistake people make and what she thinks are the hottest upcoming trends.

Q. What does a fashion editor for a major departments store do?

A. I scout up and coming talent and designers for the store, provide trend direction for the season and help translate that vision into our merchandise assortments with our buyers. It is important for the store to have one consistent message.

Q. What are the most popular trends for resort and spring 2010?

A. Not to give away the highly-coveted list that Senior VP/Fashion Director Ken Downing issues at the beginning of every season but ...blue is the color for both resort and spring. Neiman Marcus is embracing all shades of blue for every category. Tribal fusion was on every runway this season. Look to Givenchy for some of the must-have tribal print wedges and platforms of the season. The nude shoe is the new neutral of the season. The Fendi platform sandal [pictured above] is a must on our list.

Q. What is the most unusual fashion item you've seen in your career?

A. I am always amazed at how high the heel heights are at runway shows and how they get higher with every season. The models make it look so easy. The shoes at Alexander McQueen spring 2010 were over the top!

Q. Has Neiman Marcus changed in response to the economic climate? If so, how?

A. For the holidays, we have our "Little Gems" shop that features presents and gifts for under $100. There are also great [inexpensive] items in many of our designer collections. I found a silver stud pyramid ring from Stephen Webster for $275 and a great David Yurman silver infinity ring at $275.

Q. What is your favorite item in The Christmas Book?

A. I cannot help but to smile when I see the customized cupcake car. It's so original and unique. I also cannot wait to get my hands on the sequined leggings from La Rok and the John Hardy cuff bracelet for evening holiday sparkle.

Q. What is the one thing that makes a look?

A. The right accessory. The perfect handbag or shoes can change your look in seconds.

Q. What is the one common fashion mistake people make?

A. The only mistake one can make is not having fun with your wardrobe. Enjoy and translate the trends that work best for you.

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The Fashion Statement: What Do You Do, Roopal Patel? originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Alexander McQueen AlexanderMcqueen David Yurman DavidYurman Fendi Givenchy Neiman Marcus NeimanMarcus Stephen Webster StephenWebster The Christmas Book TheChristmasBook Kristin Young Thu, 26 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Hunter's Oak Golf Club For Sale]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=52ab01d8078e8f7a89fabba5483b3caa http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/hunters-oak-golf-club-for-sale/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/hunters-oak-golf-club-for-sale/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/hunters-oak-golf-club-for-sale/#comments
Ever wanted to own your own golf club? If you've got $12 million to spend, Hunter's Oak can be yours. This club is located on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay along the banks of the Wye River. This property in Queenstown, Maryland is on approximately 250 acres that include sa golf course, lakes, ponds and scenic natural beauty all around. The 18-hole, par 72 course offers Scottish Links authenticity. There is also a nine-hole Parkland course. The private clubhouse has a Scottish pub and grille as well as a pro shop and has had hosted many a wedding.

Gallery: Hunter's Oak

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Hunter's Oak Golf Club For Sale originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> golf club for sale GolfClubForSale hunters oak HuntersOak maryland Deidre Woollard Thu, 26 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Majestic Star Casinos Files For Bankruptcy]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=9308b4a6e07fb806979465ef122a4cef http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/majestic-star-casinos-files-for-bankruptcy/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/majestic-star-casinos-files-for-bankruptcy/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/majestic-star-casinos-files-for-bankruptcy/#comments The tough times for casinos continue. Casino operator Majestic Star Casino LLC filed for bankruptcy this week. The move was an a last ditch move after months of talks to restructure debt failed. Majestic Star owns casinos in Indiana, Mississippi and Colorado. The Majestic's parent, Barden Development Inc, is not part of the bankruptcy. Court documents show that the Majestic Star and its affiliates have assets of $402.1 million and liabilities of $771.1 million as of October 31.

The company has said that increased competition and the ongoing recession are to blame for the company's woes. The two casinos and hotel along Lake Michigan in Gary, a casino-hotel in Tunica County, Mississipi, and a casino in Black Hawk, Colorado are all still open for business.

The company operates two casino boats on Lake Michigan in Gary, Indiana and has been working on getting a land-based casino in Gary. Last summer, Indiana lawmakers voted down a measure to allow this. The Majestic Star owes the city of Gary $7.4 million but the mayor of Gary, Rudy Clay has said he still plans to work with casino owner Don Barden to change Indiana law to allow a land-based casino in the city.

Majestic Star Casinos Files For Bankruptcy originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bankruptcy casinos majestic star casinos MajesticStarCasinos michigan Deidre Woollard Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Outrageous Neiman Marcus Black Friday Sale, 9-Noon]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=ea7bf15f0c3b5d8b66807124e05f8b38 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/outrageous-neiman-marcus-black-friday-sale-9-noon/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/outrageous-neiman-marcus-black-friday-sale-9-noon/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/outrageous-neiman-marcus-black-friday-sale-9-noon/#comments If there's a Neiman Marcus in your town, get up bright and early on Friday, November 27 -- all Neiman Marcus stores nationwide are participating in an amazing deal: If you spend $100 or more, you'll get a $50 gift certificate. That's essentially a 50% off deal, if you happen to be spending right around $100.

This is only taking place for three hours: 9:00 am to noon on Friday, November 27. The news was just released today, so there's a good chance that not many people have heard about it.

A couple $100 items: Electronic Wine Chiller, Food Steamer , and the "Clef du Vin" Wine Aging Tester (I didn't even know that existed). The Lamina Small Footed Bowl above is $125. The deal is only in stores and only while supplies last (so if they're out of the item you want, unfortunately, you won't get the deal).

Also, the gift certificate must be used by December 6 -- but for the savvy holiday shopper, that should be no problem. Some exclusions may apply, so see a sales associate for details.

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Outrageous Neiman Marcus Black Friday Sale, 9-Noon originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> black friday black friday deals BlackFriday BlackFridayDeals neiman marcus NeimanMarcus sale Annie Scott Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Topshop Rents Out Celebrity Dresses For Good Causes]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=aba969fea69adb1851bdc141ef7d399f http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/topshop-rents-out-celebrity-dresses-for-good-causes/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/topshop-rents-out-celebrity-dresses-for-good-causes/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/topshop-rents-out-celebrity-dresses-for-good-causes/#comments London fashionistas will have a chance to wear a celebrity's designer gown courtesy of Topshop. The brand has created the Dress Me Up Campaign which features designer dresses owned by stars like Kate Moss, Freida Pinto, Scarlett Johansson, Naomi Campbell and Dita Von Teese. Later dresses will be auctioned off with all proceeds from the rental fee and the auction going to Topshop's chosen charities Age Concern and Help the Aged.

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Topshop Rents Out Celebrity Dresses For Good Causes originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> dress me up dress rental DressMeUp DressRental holiday dresses HolidayDresses kate moss KateMoss topshop Deidre Woollard Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Lotus Arts de Vivre Palm Stick Bag, Handbag of the Day]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=ba8f745f32700cb1c11b1d1840263a7a http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/lotus-arts-de-vivre-palm-stick-bag-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/lotus-arts-de-vivre-palm-stick-bag-handbag-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/lotus-arts-de-vivre-palm-stick-bag-handbag-of-the-day/#comments The Lotus Arts de Vivre Palm Stick Bag is an unexpected delight from the amazing collection at CoutureLab.com.

Where to begin? It's a bunch of sticks! Sort of. It's a handmade bag, lovingly constructed with real palm sticks, silk, diamonds, and gold. The palm sticks are harvested from bunches of coconuts, then cut in half and lacquered, and sewn to the shell of the bag. The edges are embellished with elegant gold leaf, and the bag is crowned with a multi-diamond encrusted bauble.

This striking bag would be hard to match perfectly to the right outfit; it would take a dress of character to stand up to the nature-meets-opulence of this design. Frankly, it might be best carried with jeans -- denim looks great with natural elements -- but to honor this museum-worthy creation, we'd hope they'd be nice jeans.

The Lotus Arts de Vivre Palm Stick Bag is available from CoutureLab for approximately $5,768.00.

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Lotus Arts de Vivre Palm Stick Bag, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> clutch couturelab handbag of the day HandbagOfTheDay Lotus Arts de Vivre LotusArtsDeVivre palm sticks PalmSticks purse Annie Scott Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Griffin & Threadless Team Up For Fashion Forward iPhone Cases]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=976b601e88c5f543fc33e3f40a2de9a5 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/griffin-and-threadless-team-up-for-fashion-forward-iphone-cases/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/griffin-and-threadless-team-up-for-fashion-forward-iphone-cases/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/griffin-and-threadless-team-up-for-fashion-forward-iphone-cases/#comments
It is not always the case that iPhone cases must only be used to protect your iPhone. They can also help make a statement about you. This concept has been clear to many, which is why the business of selling iPhone cases is probably as big as that of selling the phones. Unless you are serial butter fingers and need a heavy duty two inch thick rubber case to keep your iPhone out of the "dead gadget bin" you'll want something thin enough to not detract from your enjoyment of the phone, as well as something that makes a more individualized statement about you than "I am among the millions of people who have this Apple product." To help solve this problem Griffin Technology and the UGC (user generated content) trendy shirt maker Threadless have teamed up to offer two special iPhone cases based on popular shirts - and you can get the matching shirts too. Plus, you can download a matching wallpaper for your iPhone. They have really thought this all out. Now your iPhone will actually match your attire.

The first design is called the "Birds of a Feather" and uses Griffin's ultra-thin soft blue rubberized exterior iPhone case with a design by Ross Zietz. Then you have "Clouds Within The Thunder" by Joe Van Wetering that is a stylized thunder bolt on a yellow version of the case. Each artistic iPhone case is $34.99. You can visit Threadless from links above to check the out more, where there are also links to get the matching shirts for $18 a piece. The cases are also available at select Apple store locations. These items are nifty, and it is smart to change your iPhone case once in a while to keep things fresh. Certainly a minor luxury to have art on anything functional - and that is why I like these particular iPhone accessories.

Gallery: Griffin Threadless iPhone case

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Griffin & Threadless Team Up For Fashion Forward iPhone Cases originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art birds of a feather BirdsOfAFeather case clouds within the thunder CloudsWithinTheThunder Griffin iPhone shirt Threadless Ariel Adams Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Hommage Men's Grooming Line]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=0b298724a62f6df1214e1a2e69f05dad http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/luxist-gift-guide-09-hommage-mens-grooming-line/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/luxist-gift-guide-09-hommage-mens-grooming-line/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/luxist-gift-guide-09-hommage-mens-grooming-line/#comments Hommage, the luxurious line behind the legendary $30,000 Damascene Razor, is back this season with an amazing new set of offerings. If your man secretly dips into your La Mer crème at night, we have just the gift for your significant other this holiday season. There's no shame in a man who likes his product, especially if it's as luxurious as the new Hommage line. The Achieve Face Mask ($75) is a charcoal peel-off mask made from bioactive fresh water silt and blue green algae. It's as much fun to put on as it is to take off, and will result in glowing skin and increased cell turnover, ultimately building the base for the smoothest shave ever.

The Awaken and Rejuvenate eye system ($100) is all you need to get rid of crows feet and other sun damage. Awaken, applied in the morning brightens and firms the skin around your eyes, while Rejuvenate works as you sleep to repair cellular damage.smooths out skin for a gorgeous close shave.

All Hommage products are scented with an amazingly sophisticated cologne. It's addictive. The products are available online at Hommage and Luxury4Him. Hommage was created specifically for men. But before you know it, he'll be catching you dipping into his Hommage.

Continue reading Luxist Gift Guide 09: Hommage Men's Grooming Line

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Luxist Gift Guide 09: Hommage Men's Grooming Line originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gifts for men GiftsForMen holiday gifts holiday gifts for men HolidayGifts HolidayGiftsForMen hommage mens grooming mens spa treatments MensGrooming MensSpaTreatments Ariston Anderson Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[JOCHEN70 Tailors Luggage from the Heyday of Lorenzo Bandini]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=85c0fa1aba296ffdd6ded470306f4efb http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/jochen70-tailors-luggage-from-the-heyday-of-lorenzo-bandini/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/jochen70-tailors-luggage-from-the-heyday-of-lorenzo-bandini/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/jochen70-tailors-luggage-from-the-heyday-of-lorenzo-bandini/#comments

In spite of their occasional dynamic faults, vintage sports cars had a number of things going for them: namely, they were dripping with beauty and they had a way of attracting beauty of the opposite sex -- of either sex. They could also be faulted for not having any seriously considered luggage space, but then again micro miniskirts and bikini brief swim trunks didn't take up that much space.

Austrian luggage couturier JOCHEN70 can help you put more junk in your trunk -- certainly one of the few times you'd be interested in that kind of help -- and do so gorgeously. There are eight bags in the company's J70 collection, each one featuring a hard back and ample capacity finished with synthetics, stitched leather, and a racing stripe in any color you choose. The bags are also "protected against battery acid, lubricants, petrol, gasoline, exhaust fumes and other hazards," because, you know, you're a dangerous man. Try the limited edition 1000Miglia if you want something even more period, or the custom line that was designed to fit in cars such as the Alfa Spider Duetto, Jaguar E-Type Coupé and Roadster, and Porsche 356.

Interestingly, the inspiration for Jochen's bags is derived from a source that long predates vintage cars: horses. Or, more specifically, saddlebags. By "crossing the travel bag with the suitcase," the hard back of a JOCHEN70 helps keep contents protected, while two bags attached to one handle (they flip out, like wings) makes for easier carrying and more efficient storage.

And even though JOCHEN70 can't match the finest thing to grace a vintage car -- that would be probably be Grace Kelly -- if you really want to get your weekend gear and her twelve changes of clothes to the Hamptons, it is certainly worth a look.

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JOCHEN70 Tailors Luggage from the Heyday of Lorenzo Bandini originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> jochen 70 Jochen70 luggage Jonathon Ramsey Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Villa Pelican, Estate of the Day ]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=a5e828f4c0345efea9ca323ae3ddeccd http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/villa-pelican-estate-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/villa-pelican-estate-of-the-day/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/villa-pelican-estate-of-the-day/#comments villa pelican
Today's estate in pricey Montecito, California could actually, even at the high price of $18.8 million practically be considered a deal. After all this beachside home was once listed at $34 million (I also spotted an old listing for $24.75 million). The home has views of the Santa Barbara coastline, mountains and Channel islands all from the privacy of a gated enclave. The property has a historic renovated Monterey Colonial main house with eight bedrooms and a three-car garage as well as a beach cabana, guest house and a fenced in beach area. A second parcel is also available for an additional cost and is home to a pool, patios, fountains and has permits for building a new four bedroom home. The main home is an odd mix, for the most part it has the casual look of a beach house but some rooms have a more formal and luxurious look. You can't beat the location, Fernald Cove is one of the most desired areas in this celebrity-filled town.


Gallery: Villa Pelican

Continue reading Villa Pelican, Estate of the Day

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Villa Pelican, Estate of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> estate of the day EstateOfTheDay luxury real estate LuxuryRealEstate montecito villa pelican VillaPelican Deidre Woollard Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Franck Muller Conquistador Singapore Grand Prix Watch]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=c736514b0fbffd5343164e7397fc3607 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/franck-muller-conquistador-singapore-grand-prix-watch/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/franck-muller-conquistador-singapore-grand-prix-watch/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/franck-muller-conquistador-singapore-grand-prix-watch/#comments
I recently spoke about Arnold Schwarzenegger visiting a Franck Muller store. He might have gone in to check out a watch such as this. Right out of a financially troubled Franck Muller comes this beast of a luxury timepiece. I've never seen anything like it from the brand, and this Conquistador Singapore Grand Prix watch certainly is aimed at one of the few places right now where you can bet on luxury watch sales still taking place.

There are other versions of this new style Conquistador watch. The dramatic colors and design are what really get me. It is like Franck Muller is targeting Roger Dubuis in some odd manner it seems with these "talk to me designs." This particular watch looks like a perfect compliment to Batman's The Joker attire. Don't you think?

Case comes in two forms. Either titanium and ergal (a type of aluminum alloy - think the red color on the watch case) or titanium and 18k rose gold. Size is 48mm wide by 62mm tall, and 14mm thick. Front and rear crystal is sapphire, of course. Inside the "statement rich" timepiece is an automatic Franck Muller FM caliber 7000 chronograph movement. Notable is the high level of decoration and platinum automatic rotor in the movement. The watch is limited to 80 pieces in the titanium and ergal, and 80 pieces in the titanium and gold.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

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Franck Muller Conquistador Singapore Grand Prix Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> conquistabor franck muller FranckMuller grand prix GrandPrix limited edition LimitedEdition singapore watch watch of the day WatchOfTheDay Ariel Adams Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Custom Eyes Makes the Eyeglasses You've Always Dreamed Of]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=f84684b941f2ddc0f61f597d787424b3 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/custom-eyes-makes-the-eyeglasses-youve-always-dreamed-of/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/custom-eyes-makes-the-eyeglasses-youve-always-dreamed-of/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/custom-eyes-makes-the-eyeglasses-youve-always-dreamed-of/#comments

We bet you didn't even know you dreamed of eyeglasses, but this will help you catch up. Lorgnettes were all the rage in the 19th century, Roosevelt made pince-nez Presidential, and that guy in Los Feliz with the monocle is a sight to behold. Nevertheless, over-the-ear eyeglass still haven't had their golden age centuries after they were invented. Nader Zadi's Custom Eyes, in New York's Upper East Side, could put a change to that.

If Saville Row is where you get your suits, Custom Eyes is where you go for vintage and bespoke glasses. For the classicist Custom Eyes has rimless and semi-rimless antique frames and components in white and yellow gold, some of them 200 years old, and full frames from the early 19th century. Should you insist on the unique, after selecting your frame and bridge preferences Zadi will take your measurements and handcraft a set of eyewear -- even the lenses are ground and shaped by hand -- that would make both Ben Franklin and Jackie O. jealous.

Before it comes to all that, you need to make an appointment -- you know how the highest fashion rolls, darling. However, he will come to your office, hotel, or West Wing if that's how you roll. And if you really want to play the period game, Zadi will be happy to design a lorgnette or a set of opera glasses. We can't say they will make Strindberg's The Stronger any more comprehensible, but you'll look dashing and timeless while you try to figure it out.

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Custom Eyes Makes the Eyeglasses You've Always Dreamed Of originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> custom eyes CustomEyes eyeglasses eyewear sunglasses Jonathon Ramsey Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Dry Ice: A New Exhibit of Alaska Native Art in Soho]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=9d91f0e378a8bba6f481b54b1c72f7dd http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/dry-ice-a-new-exhibit-of-alaska-native-art-in-soho/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/dry-ice-a-new-exhibit-of-alaska-native-art-in-soho/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/dry-ice-a-new-exhibit-of-alaska-native-art-in-soho/#comments Photo of Shishmaref Alaska
With last week's publication of Sarah Palin's new book, Going Rogue, Alaska is once again in the headlines, so it's easy to forget that there's far more to our 49th state than its red-suited former governor. I've been working on a book project in the Bering Strait of Alaska sporadically for the past few years -- above is a photo from Shishmaref, Alaska. These are places where you really can see Russia. And while these locales aren't much for luxury in the traditional sense, they are the places where simply astonishing Alaska Native art is produced -- where artists utilize the landscape to create everything from delicately carved bracelets to bold mobiles, traditional masks to photographs, amber-jewel like kayaks to paintings.

Alaska's natural resources aren't just used for art, of course -- many Native Alaskans still live at least partially off the land and sea. In part, this is to preserve a traditional way of life, but it's also because the price of basic necessities is so high: a dozen eggs can cost as much as $22. In addition to the challenges of preserving tradition that are faced by native communities everywhere, the raw materials of life are in jeopardy because of global warming. This is the part of the United States that is the most dramatically affected by climate change: The state's wintertime climate has warmed by 40 degrees since 1950, sea ice has thinned by 60 percent since the 1960s.

Nine Native Alaskan artists have produced works in response to this fraught landscape, which opens at the Alaska House New York gallery in Soho on December 10th. Working in a variety of media, ranging from mask-making, to skin sewing, to photography, Brian Adams, Susie Bevins, Perry Eaton, Nicholas Galanin, Anna Hoover, Sonya Kelliher-Combs, Erica Lord, Da-ka-xeen Mehner, and Larry McNeil create works that capture this particularly delicate moment for Alaska -- and works that are certainly highly collectible. Check out the preview below to get just a sample of this extraordinary art.

If Dry Ice inspires you to travel to the places where these works are created, Alaska House New York (which is as much of an "embassy" for Alaska as it is an art gallery) has many resources to guide you through the parts of the state that you're unlikely to see on your own. And if you're more of an armchair traveler, check out this thoughtfully curated selection of books about Alaska -- a good place to start is 50 Miles from Tomorrow, by William L. Iggiagruk Hensley. You'll also find a list of online resources, including the very entertaining online newspaper, Alaska Dispatch.

Gallery: Dry Ice: Art Exhibit at Alaska House New York

Ice, by Brian Adams Winter in Juneau, By Larry McNeil Skin of the Earth, By Anna Hoover Welcome, By Nicholas Galanin Inert, By Nicholas Galanin

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Dry Ice: A New Exhibit of Alaska Native Art in Soho originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> alaska art native americans NativeAmericans soho Alison Wellner Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Nantucket Island's Christmas Stroll ]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=0aafd45c0d81155f2a89c900c8237a6b http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/nantucket-islands-christmas-stroll/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/nantucket-islands-christmas-stroll/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/nantucket-islands-christmas-stroll/#comments
One of the best kept holiday secrets on the East coast is the annual Christmas Stroll on Nantucket Island. The island located off the coast of Massachusetts, has long been famous as a summer destination for the wealthy and occasional celebrity or well known politician. It is also renown for maintaining its charm and old fashioned feel, accomplished through strict development and zoning laws that regulate what can be built.

The holiday season begins the first Friday after Thanksgiving when the Chamber of Commerce sponsors an Annual Tree Lighting and Community Caroling event. Nothing could be more picturesque that the antique cobblestone filled town illuminated by over 150 Christmas trees while sounds of the carolers fill the air. The 36th annual Christmas Stroll is held over the weekend of December 4th-6th as part of the month long Nantucket Noel Celebration.

Some of the highlights include a Main Street parade featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive by Coast Guard vessel rather than sleigh and ride up Main Street in a horse drawn carriage accompanied by the town crier, carolers in Victorian costumes and a Magical Talking Tree to entertain the little ones. The shops and restaurants are all open and feature holiday themed window decorations and often offer hot toddies and cookies to visitors. A charming way to experience a little bit of an old-fashioned Christmas as well as get some early shopping accomplished.

There are many lodging options available for the special weekend. The Chatfield-Taylor Real Estate company has set up a special website for homes to rent for the Christmas stroll weekend. Many are quite conveniently located either in town or with in a short walking distance of the festivities and come in all sizes in case you'd like to bring the extended family or just want a romantic couples retreat. There are numerous Inns and Bed & Breakfast in town as well as the famous The Wauwinet a Relais & Chateau property located on the beach.

Gallery: Nantucket Stroll

Town CrierBell Ringers

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]]> Christmas for dogs christmas shopping ChristmasForDogs ChristmasShopping holiday shopping HolidayShopping nantucket RelaisChateaux wauwinet Deb West Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA['62 Ferrari Stars in New Monaco Auto Auction]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=cafd9f3059cd4815a72b5aebc9273554 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/62-ferrari-stars-in-new-monaco-auto-auction/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/62-ferrari-stars-in-new-monaco-auto-auction/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/62-ferrari-stars-in-new-monaco-auto-auction/#comments
On May 1st RM Auctions will inaugurate a new annual sale in Monaco headlined by a rare Ferrari expected to fetch up to $3.5 million. The Sporting Classics of Monaco event will be held at the Grimaldi Forum during the same weekend as the 7th Grand Prix Historique de Monaco. 80 of the world's finest motor cars will be on offer, headlined by a stunning 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet Pininfarina (above). One of only six short wheelbase examples bodied by Pininfarina, the Ferrari, chassis no. 3309SA was the last example built, and displayed as a factory show car at the Geneva and New York Auto Shows in 1962. The car, which recently underwent a no-expense spared, nut and bolt restoration by top tier marque specialists, won an award at this year's famed Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Widely regarded as more exclusive, powerful and luxurious than the SWB California Spider, its offering is set to garner significant attention from collectors around the world.

[via JustLuxe]

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'62 Ferrari Stars in New Monaco Auto Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> classic cars ClassicCars Ferrari Monaco Pininfarina RM Auctions RmAuctions Jared Paul Stern Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Art Market Confidence Is Up, Sales Come Next]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=78a078f6c4a2f650806bbc4cd4c2de44 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/art-market-confidence-is-up-sales-come-next/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/art-market-confidence-is-up-sales-come-next/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/art-market-confidence-is-up-sales-come-next/#comments The hint of a recovery we got in the first half of 2009 has fallen off a bit,according to Art Price's Art Market Confidence Index. The latest report suggests that art prices have dropped 37 percent since January 1, 2008, when the art market first showed signs of weakness. But, there are some indications that it's headed in the right direction over all. Art Price does state that the third quarter is almost always weak. Only 12 percent of auction lots sold during all third quarters over the past decade, and low sales volumes tend to mean low prices.

The art market appears to have hit its worst point in the first quarter of this year, when art prices were down 38 percent over the previous 15 months. Values plunged to 2004 levels, and spectators figured that conditions would only get worse. Prices edged up 1.2 percent after the first quarter, but a slow summer didn't yield any real progress.

Art Price sees the November results as promising, with seasonally adjusted growth for the Post-War period up 2.1 percent since March and the Old Masters picking up 4.5 percent. And, for the past two quarters, only 38 percent of lots failed to sell, and it looks like October and November will stay consistent with that result.

More than anything else, the numbers suggest that confidence is increasing -- which is the first step in a recovery.

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Art Market Confidence Is Up, Sales Come Next originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art art auction art auctions art market art sales ArtAuction ArtAuctions ArtMarket ArtSales artwork contemporary art ContemporaryArt Old Masters OldMasters PostwarArt Tom Johansmeyer Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Michelle Obama's Naeem Khan Gown]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=07211394217bf9ce3057782964c5ddd7 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/michelle-obamas-naeem-khan-gown/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/michelle-obamas-naeem-khan-gown/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/michelle-obamas-naeem-khan-gown/#comments
Michelle Obama wowed the crowd at the first official Obama administration state dinner last night. To welcome Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, and his wife, Gursharan Kaur the first lady wore a gown by Indian-American designer Naeem Khan. The strapless gown was decorated with sterling silver sequins in a floral pattern on a nude silk chiffon dress. The Mrs. O website reports that it took three weeks of work by 40 people to create the dress. The work was done in Naeem Khan's family workshop in India. Mrs. Obama accessorized the dress with drop earrings and gold and diamond bangle bracelets.

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Michelle Obama's Naeem Khan Gown originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 04:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Michelle Obama Michelle Obama Fashion michelle obama style MichelleObama MichelleObamaFashion MichelleObamaStyle Deidre Woollard Wed, 25 Nov 2009 04:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[BMW Launches All-New 5 Series Luxury Sedan]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=05ef44e6c9405833066e71a3a8691782 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/bmw-launches-all-new-5-series-luxury-sedan/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/bmw-launches-all-new-5-series-luxury-sedan/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/bmw-launches-all-new-5-series-luxury-sedan/#comments

BMW has finally taken the wraps off its brand-new 5 Series sedan, culminating months of anticipation for the Bavarian automaker's mid-range luxury saloon. The styling takes its cues from the new 7 Series and the recently launched 5 Series Gran Turismo, ending years of controversial styling ad replacing it with a more dynamic shape.

The new 5 is being offered in the North American market with a choice of two turbocharged engines: an all-new 300-horsepower twin-scroll 3.5-liter inline six for the 535i, and a 400hp twin-turbo direct-injection V8 in the 550i. Both are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and benefit from F1-derived regenerative braking for improved economy and optional four-wheel active steering. Additional engines - including diesels and more compact gasoline engines - are also available in overseas markets, with more powertrain options expected to join in the future, including hybrids and a new M5 performance model.

It's a pivotal product for BMW, and features a state-of-the-art cabin with all the luxury amenities you could expect from a luxury sedan. Browse through our high-resolution gallery below for a closer look, or follow the link to our sister-site Autoblog for a more in-depth analysis.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series

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BMW Launches All-New 5 Series Luxury Sedan originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 03:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> 5 series 5-series 5Series bmw bmw 5 series bmw 5-series bmw 535i bmw 550i Bmw5-series Bmw535i Bmw550i Bmw5Series Noah Joseph Wed, 25 Nov 2009 03:02:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Big Diamonds Bring Big Prices at Christie's]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=02fdc502a0671354ea8f20fd20f6600c http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/big-diamonds-bring-big-prices-at-christies/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/big-diamonds-bring-big-prices-at-christies/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/big-diamonds-bring-big-prices-at-christies/#comments More big diamonds and big prices were seen at the Christie's Geneva auction on November 18. A 62.30-carat, D flawless diamond sold for $8.051 million amid a sale which sold 82 percent by lot and 93 percent by value. Aleks Paul of Essex Global Trading in New York paid $130,000 per carat for the 62.3-carat, Type IIa flawless diamond. Paul was on a buying spree, he also submitted the top bids for two natural color diamonds, bidding $2.68 million for a diamond ring by Wolfers that paired a 3.30-carat, rectangular-cut, fancy intense blue diamond with a 3.90-carat E, VS2 diamond estimated at $580,000 to $740,000. He also spent nearly another $2.68 million on a fancy vivid, fancy intense and fancy blue diamond clasp, circa 1950, which had been estimated at $500,000 to $650,000. He has a history of buying or trying to buy important stones. Last year he was the underbidder against Laurence Graff for the Wittelsbach diamond.

In the same sale a 65.20-carat fancy intense yellow, cushion-shaped diamond pendant sold for nearly $1.04 million and a 4.42-carat fancy intense, square-cut green diamond ring sold for $783,000. The largest recorded fancy grayish-yellowish-green "chameleon" diamond in the world, cut into a 19.13 carat briolette and mounted as a pendant, sold for $987,000, setting a new world record price for a chameleon diamond.

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Big Diamonds Bring Big Prices at Christie's originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> auction christies diamond diamonds geneva jewels Deidre Woollard Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[BMW Reportedly Defrauded in Formula One Sale]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=ef18735e4ad66d07eb2c0bab0a781fce http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/bmw-reportedly-defrauded-in-formula-one-sale/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/bmw-reportedly-defrauded-in-formula-one-sale/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/bmw-reportedly-defrauded-in-formula-one-sale/#comments

Back in 2005, BMW shocked the Formula One racing world by announcing it would leave its longtime partner Williams F1 in order to acquire its rival Sauber. But after four years of racing, the economy tanked and the coffers ran dry. BMW announced it would withdraw from the sport, leaving Sauber to look for a new investor.

A new investor was found, but reports now indicate that the deal could have been an elaborate fraud. The buyer was identified as Qadbak Investments, a mysterious Swiss firm that had recently acquired a football club in England and which was supposedly backed by wealthy Middle Eastern investors who preferred to keep a low profile. After an exhaustive chase of paper trails and dummy companies, it now appears that Qadbak is nothing but a front for one Russell King, a British national based in Dubai previously convicted of fraud.

According to the report, King was planning on using Sauber as a means to tap into the revenue sharing scheme in Formula One, worth tens of millions of euros.

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BMW Reportedly Defrauded in Formula One Sale originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bmw bmw sauber BmwSauber f1 formula 1 formula one Formula1 FormulaOne qadbak qadbak investments QadbakInvestments russell king RussellKing sauber Noah Joseph Wed, 25 Nov 2009 01:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Rolls-Royce and Bentley Reportedly Preparing New Luxury Crossovers]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=db2c634c87c4f195431746bf88a86f0d http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/rolls-royce-and-bentley-reportedly-preparing-new-luxury-crossove/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/rolls-royce-and-bentley-reportedly-preparing-new-luxury-crossove/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/rolls-royce-and-bentley-reportedly-preparing-new-luxury-crossove/#comments

With a shrinking economy and rising environmental conscience worldwide, the era of Bigger is Better in automobiles is coming to an end. In its place, customers are demanding more compact automobiles, even in the upper echelons of the market, and it now appears that both Bentley and Rolls-Royce are preparing to meet demand with smaller, more versatile products.

Bentley's plans are coming into focus with reports of a new range to be positioned below the existing Continental and Mulsanne. Sources suggest that the project tentatively known as the New Compact Bentley (NCB) could breed a three-door "shooting brake" (think a sportier take on the estate wagon) and a crossover. Both would sell in the $110-130k range, powered by a 4.5-liter twin-turbo V8 driving 550 horsepower to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Rolls-Royce's plans are a little less clear at this point. The most esteemed of luxury marques recently went down-market with the new Ghost, and is tipped to begin outfitting luxury Minis, but is also said to be working on a new compact crossover of its own. Code-named SHRIMP (for Short High Rugged International Metropolitan Project), the new Rolls would be positioned below its current offerings and take the brand into new territory.

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Rolls-Royce and Bentley Reportedly Preparing New Luxury Crossovers originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bentley ncb new compact bentley NewCompactBentley rolls-royce rolls-royce shrimp Rolls-royceShrimp short rugged international metropolitan project ShortRuggedInternationalMetropolitanProject shrimp Noah Joseph Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz Acquires World Champion Brawn GP Team]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=0f462bd976b4746b7528a82cc8692d8f http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/mercedes-benz-acquires-world-champion-brawn-gp-team/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/mercedes-benz-acquires-world-champion-brawn-gp-team/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/mercedes-benz-acquires-world-champion-brawn-gp-team/#comments

Mercedes-Benz has a long history in grand prix racing. In the inter-war period, it competed with the famous Silver Arrows. After the war, the German automaker returned briefly, only to withdraw again after just one year. It wouldn't be until decades later that they'd come back to the scene, supplying engines first to the Sauber team (later acquired by arch-rival BMW) and then to McLaren, the championship team with which Mercedes has been tied - including a part-ownership and collaboration on the SLR McLaren supercar - since 1995. McLaren and Mercedes won several world championships throughout their fourteen-year history together, but now the two companies have gone their own separate ways. McLaren is building their own supercar - the MP4-12C - and Mercedes the SLS AMG, and now the two have announced a separation on the race track as well.

Although Mercedes will continue to provide McLaren with engines, the automaker has sold its stake back to the racing team. In its place, Benz has acquired a 75% stake in the Brawn GP team - which was previously Honda's, which in turn took over from British American Racing and Tyrrell before that. In its inaugural season, Brawn won both the constructors' title and the drivers' title, and will now be rebranded as Mercedes Grand Prix for the upcoming season. Eager to demonstrate German talent, the new Mercedes team has already signed Nico Rosberg - one of the youngest and most promising talents on the grid - and is preparing to announce its second driver shortly before returning for the 2010 championship in an effort to repeat this year's success.

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Mercedes-Benz Acquires World Champion Brawn GP Team originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> f1 formula 1 formula one Formula1 FormulaOne mclaren mercedes mercedes grand prix mercedes-benz MercedesGrandPrix silver arrows SilverArrows Noah Joseph Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Shaquille O'Neal, Art Curator]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=f1cbb166055d6fa0c741da4dbbba1860 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/shaquille-oneal-art-curator/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/shaquille-oneal-art-curator/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/shaquille-oneal-art-curator/#comments shaquille o'nealBasketball player Shaquille O'Neal likes to wear a lot of hats. Actor, musician, sheriff, Twitter star and now art curator? O'Neal is curating a gallery show for New York's Flag Art Foundation titled "Size DOES Matter." The exhibit ponders the question of idea of scale in contemporary art and features some big names in the art world including Chuck Close, Jeff Koons, Andreas Gursky, Kehinde Wiley and many more. The show is scheduled to open in February at the Flag Art Foundation's exhibition space in the Chelsea neighborhood.

O'Neal told Bloomberg News that his turn as curator was "a little harder than I thought it would be." The exhibition will feature 52 artworks, five are special commissions, many others are loans from private collections and museums. The choice of Shaquille O'Neal as curator should attract additional attention for the show. Writer James Frey, famous and also infamous for his bestselling book "A Million Little Pieces" is writing an essay for the exhibition catalog.

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Shaquille O'Neal, Art Curator originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> art exhibit ArtExhibit flag art foundation FlagArtFoundation shaquille oneal ShaquilleOneal Deidre Woollard Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[BMW Marches on Hollywood with Propaganda GEM]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=c357ef111d9d1ac17edd85f1819438ea http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/bmw-marches-on-hollywood-with-propaganda-gem/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/bmw-marches-on-hollywood-with-propaganda-gem/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/bmw-marches-on-hollywood-with-propaganda-gem/#comments


Expect to see a lot more BMWs, Rolls-Royces and Minis in Hollywood as the German automaker has signed a new deal with one of the world's leading product placement agencies. The firm, Propaganda GEM, represents such brands as Panasonic, Bang & Olufsen and Nokia, to name just a few, but is ending its 13-year tie-in with Audi - which placed its vehicles in such hit films as Iron Man and I, Robot - in favor of a new one with the BMW Group.

BMW is certainly no stranger to product placement, having launched both the Z3 and Z8 roadsters in the Piece Brosnan-era 007 films. The Bavarian automaker also launched a highly successful short-film series called The Hire in 2001 that attracted several guest directors and starred Clive Owen. But now that BMW has pulled out of Formula One, Propaganda plans on using some of the newly-available marketing funds to place BMW products - including the cars and motorcycles as well as Minis and Rolls-Royces - in more films, TV shows, music videos and video games, in addition to sponsoring events like the upcoming 2012 Olympic Games in London.

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BMW Marches on Hollywood with Propaganda GEM originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bmw product placement ProductPlacement propaganda propaganda gem PropagandaGem Noah Joseph Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Will Carl Icahn Rescue The Fontainebleau?]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=ef51f099d18df7b1b9afaf29fc176677 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/will-carl-icahn-rescue-the-fontainebleau/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/will-carl-icahn-rescue-the-fontainebleau/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/will-carl-icahn-rescue-the-fontainebleau/#comments
I've been following the fate of the Fontainebleau Las Vegas casino resort for a while now. It looks like the stalled project may have a new savior in the form of billionaire investor Carl Icahn. Icahn's Icahn Nevada Gaming LLC will be the opening or 'stalking horse' bidder in an auction of the resort after Penn National Gaming Inc. dropped out. Bloomberg News reports on the bidding war in court which led to Icahn offering $105 million, plus $51.5 million in debtor-in-possession financing besting Penn's offer of a total of $145 million. This means that the Icahn bid will be the one to beat.

The planned complex on the Las Vegas Strip is about 70 percent complete. It filed for bankruptcy in June and may cost around $1.5 billion to finish. Fontainebleau's sellers have asked U.S. Bankruptcy Judge A. Jay Cristol in Miami to auction the casino on January 21. Penn National Gaming had planned to finish Fontainebleau with an unidentified partner and to use the company's database of casino customers to help fill the casino with consumers. Icahn has a history of buying bankrupt casinos (including the Stratosphere in Las Vegas) and selling them for big profits. His entry into the fray may increase interest in the January auction and help ensure that someone eventually buys the casino and finishes the project.

Will Carl Icahn Rescue The Fontainebleau? originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> carl icahn CarlIcahn casino fontainebleau las vegas las vegas strip LasVegas LasVegasStrip Deidre Woollard Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[New Zealand Yachts In Receivership]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=0b3492ab7a0a9cd91bfde7b8bcd57662 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/new-zealand-yachts-in-receivership/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/new-zealand-yachts-in-receivership/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/new-zealand-yachts-in-receivership/#comments
Hard times continue to hit the yacht industry. New Zealand Yachts located in Whangarei, New Zealand recently went into receivership. The yacht company came to Whangarei in 2001 and promised to create 1000 jobs. The company did a lot of refits on existing yachts but hadn't ramped up into much production of new yachts. The New Zealand Yachts website includes renderings of many planned yachts including the Wavepiercer shown above.

New Zealand businessman Allen Jones, who had built a large car-washing business in the United States, founded the company, but later returned to the US. HIs son, Damon Jones, was the company's marketing and sales manager. The receiver said the company still operates a first-class refit yard and has the potential to attract yacht work from around the world.

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New Zealand Yachts In Receivership originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> new zealand new zealand yachts NewZealand NewZealandYachts receivership whangarei Deidre Woollard Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:04:00 EST Luxist <![CDATA[Is There a $100,000 Book on Your Shelf?]]> http://feeds.luxist.com/click.phdo?i=1871421b95b7f6b784124c345f2e2bb6 http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/is-there-a-100-000-book-on-your-shelf/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/is-there-a-100-000-book-on-your-shelf/ http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/24/is-there-a-100-000-book-on-your-shelf/#comments One lucky British family happened to see a photo of the spine of a first edition of "On the Origin of Species" by Charles Darwin. Don't we have that at home?, they thought.

They did. According to Reuters, the book was purchased for "a few shillings" in the 60s or 70s and has been sitting on the shelf, undiscovered, until now. Tuesday marks the edition's 150 year anniversary, and it will be auctioned off at Christie's. It is estimated that the book is worth £40,000 - £60,000 ($66,000 - $100,000).

If you've got a first edition or a very old book on your shelf, if might be worth searching it on abebooks.com and alibris.com to see if it's commanding a high price. The price of your book will be affected by the rarity of the edition, condition, and things like typos or signatures. Empty Mirror Books offers more insight here.

**Update 9:20 PM, 11/24/2009**
Guess what it fetched at London's Christie's? Including the buyer's premium, it sold for £103,250 -- about $172,000 -- almost twice the maximum estimated price. The AP reports that the shelf it was sitting on was a "toilet bookshelf." If you've got Darwin in your collection, you might want to note that British authorities are reportedly "searching for a leather-bound notebook Charles Darwin used in developing his theory of natural selection."

[via Reuters]

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Is There a $100,000 Book on Your Shelf? originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> book Charles Darwin CharlesDarwin first edition FirstEdition Annie Scott Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST Luxist