LOUIS VUITTON SS2015 @ “Series 2” Ad Campaign

LOUIS VUITTON SS2015 “Series 2” ad campaign is an echo of “Series 1”, the first fashion campaign initiated by Nicolas Ghesquière for the Maison Louis Vuitton. “Series 1”, a groundbreaking triptych in which three photographers - Annie Leibovitz, Juergen Teller and Bruce Weber interpreted Nicolas Ghesquière’s vision of the FW2014/15 collection, recently won the British Fashion Award for best advertising campaign.

“Series 2” is more than sequel, it continues these three masters’ visual exploration for the Spring-Summer 2015 campaign. Building on the original idea of staging a confrontation between Leibovitz’s, Teller’s and Weber’s vocabularies, this polymorphic fresco illustrates an international vision of fashion through its locales and the personal reflection of each artist.

“Series 2” evokes the impression of proximity shown from a different angle. Annie Leibovitz photographed Freja Beha atop three buildings in New York that are still under construction. The original perspective over Central Park is like a response to a collection that oscillates between the familiarity of a wardrobe and the innovative character created by savoir-faire.

  

Juergen Teller shot Jean Campbell, Rianne Von Rompaey, Daphne Simons and Marte Mei van Haaster in a private Parisian townhouse that has all the characteristics of a classic, aristocratic French interior decor. Shadowy lighting, reinforced by the room’s black paneling, creates a visual dissonance between what we think we know and what is uncustomary.

Bruce Weber is in Miami with Jennifer Connelly, caught up in a graphic play of shadow and light in which the actress melds with lines and curves to become a defining element of the composition.

More than a campaign, with this new triptych the Maison Louis Vuitton continues to push further the idea that fashion is a vast subject of observation to which each player the designer, photographer, model or artisan brings his or her own response and contributes to the richness of its history.

  

With the publication of this new campaign, Louis Vuitton is proud to announce that Jennifer Connelly is the Maison’s new heroine. The new Louis Vuitton fashion SS 15 advertising campaign will break in the February 2015 issues of magazines worldwide.

Vilebrequin @ The Sapphire Blue Lagoon

VILEBREQUIN has invented a precious swim suit with turtle motifs embroidered in 24-carat gold thread and lending the ultimate touch of sophistication. The blue of a sapphire sets off the gold ingot glimmer of each aglet. Our environment is fragile and we need to learn how to enjoy it respectfully, to make it that bit more beautiful each day, to weave it with gold threads and precious gems making each escape a unique moment.

This dedication to quality is highlighted by the brand today in the design of this precious collection. Every year, a unique and surprising material is introduced in a limited edition.

Julianne Moore in Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci @ The 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

Givenchy dressed Julianne Moore in a custom made Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci  green tank evening dress all over embroidered with emerald green crystals and crystal fringes, worn with green satin platform shark-lock sandals and matching satin minaudière  outfit to the 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles recently.

DOLCE&GABBANA SS2015 Men Ad Campaign @ The Spanish Influence in The Sicilian Tradition

DOLCE&GABBANA SS2015 Ad Campaign inspiration comes from the Spanish influence on the Sicilian traditions. The SS2015 advertising campaign featuring the collections designed by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. Traditional Italian and Spanish elements combine together to give the images a touch of Mediterranean sensuality.

Photographer:

Domenico Dolce

Artistic Director:

Stefano Gabbana

Featuring:

José Maria Manzanares

28 years old Spanish bullfighter. At age 12 he faced his first bull. He inherited his skills from his father and grandfather and made his debut on the arena before the age 20. Today he’s one of the most talented bullfighters in the world.

Woman:

Bianca Balti

Vittoria Ceretti

Irina Sharipova

Blanca Padilla

Man:

Travis Cannata

Xavier Serrano

Misa Patinsky

Hair:

Oribe Canales

Make Up:

Pat McGrath

TIM COPPENS @ SS2015 Jungle Sunrise Collection

TIM COPPENS SS2015 Jungle Sunrise collection draws from disruptive behaviour, melancholy romantics with a healthy dose of arrogance; Hooligans concealed in elegant design. When you halo slips for good, you'll have to wear your hood. Significant focus on fabric and technical development is evident throughout each piece. Materials were developed with both form and function in mind. Papery and crinkle cotton/nylon blends allow for sharp form that still moves with ease and remains light on the body. Trench coats are redeveloped with shoulder construction moving into layered pockets., Outerwear goes unlined or half constructed, changing nothing to the appearance, yet offering a lighter more fluid garment with a nod to the darker slightly deconstructed side of the wearer. Engineered knitwear, using nylon and ultrafine merino wool, maintains shape and form of whilst allowing freedom of movement.

The signature "Jungle Sunrise" print, in two color-ways, is used across the collection for both men and women. Blurred Neon's are collection highlights, shown in prints and solid form. This season Tim Coppens continues his exploration of womens' wear with a developed and larger set of looks on offer; available to buyers for the first time. For women, pleating is used to re-interpret fabric and shape. Icon pieces such as the Time Coppens parka are re-developed, slightly elongated and playing with proportions. Layering and cut out works in partnership with the tailored finished and performance accents synonymous with Tim Coppens designs.

Tim Coppens continues his partnership with Masterpieces for backpacks. Specialized collection fabrics of nylon/cotton blends are mixed with silk mesh for both design and functional in form. The color palette of navy, black, white and red welcome the SS2015 Jungle Sunrise print set background for technical zippers, bold pockets and body strapping, balanced with concealed drawstrings. Tim Coppens for Common Projects footwear, for men and women, reveals news styles and an interpretation of classic track shoes with detailing in the lacing.

Celebrities in PRADA

Jennifer Lawrence dressed in Prada ivory multilayered silk organza gown, embellished by a stone and crystal embroidery recalling a honeycomb motif and a Prada golden laminate sandals while attending the Annual Producers Guild of America Awards in Los Angeles recently.

Eddie Redmayne in Prada black Tuxedo suit while attending the 21st annual Screen Guild Awards in Los Angeles recently.

Justin Bieber @ New Face For Calvin Klein Spring 2015 Underwear Ad Campaign

Calvin Klein announced Justin Bieber featuring alongside with Dutch supermodel Lara Stone in the Spring 2015 Calvin Klein Jeans and Calvin Klein Underwear global multi-media advertising campaign. Shot by fashion photographers Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott in New York City, the brand’s latest campaign features Bieber with Stone in key jeans and underwear styles of the season, furthering the iconic brands’ longstanding legacy of bringing fashion and music together. Campaign imagery and videos are now available at calvinklein.com/justin

 “Justin joins a long list of musicians, models, celebrities and fashion icons that have been featured in our global advertising campaigns,” said Melisa Goldie, Chief Marketing Officer of Calvin Klein, Inc. “Justin’s global recognition, expressed affinity for the brand, and powerful persona bring a compelling energy to our jeans and underwear brands.” 

“Calvin Klein is such an iconic brand and I am excited and honored to become a part of the Calvin Klein brand legacy with this campaign. I have been a longtime fan of the brand and have worn their jeans and underwear for a while, so this is kind of a dream come true,” said Bieber. “This is the beginning of an exciting new year for me, personally and professionally, and being a part of this campaign has been a fantastic opportunity and experience.”

The campaign, which was announced globally via social media yesterday, will roll out worldwide in 20 countries spanning digital, outdoor and print advertising, as well as exciting experiential components, timed to coincide with March 2015 magazine issues. This season will represent the brands’ most digitally-focused campaign to date with an increased social presence to amplify and create conversation around the campaign, engaging both Calvin Klein’s and Bieber’s fans and followers. The campaign will also feature the #mycalvins call to action that the brand initiated in February, which invites fans of the brand to participate in the social media campaign by posting a selfie of themselves wearing Calvin Klein.

COACH SS2015 Eyewear Collection

COACH presents a stunning SS2015 new collection of sunwear and optical styles that combine vintage inspiration and custom craftsmanship with trend-right modern design and authentic New York style. Each pair is distinguished by its elegantly crafted signature detailing from the delicate Coach Kissing Cs logo to the iconic Horse and Carriage motif. These striking designs are complemented by a rich, playful color palette also available in soft milky tones for a uniquely chic look.

Lupita Nyong'o in ELIE SAAB

Lupita Nyong'o in ELIE SAAB Pre Fall 2015 multicolor printed long-sleeved gown with plunging neckline while attending the 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. Later in the evening, Lupita changed to ELIE SAAB Pre Fall 2015 multicolor printed sleeves cocktail dress while attending The Weinstein Company & Netflix's 2015 SAG after party.

Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur @ The Luxury In The Heart of Kuala Lumpur City Centre

The Mandarin Oriental Group is very choosy about where they open hotels and the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur is no exception, as it has a prime location next to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers at Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC),  overlooking the lush expanse of KLCC park is a stunning view to have and to access so readily. While it is not a new hotel, it is a ‘grande dame’ in the city and offers that heightened level of luxury those other luxury hotels sometimes miss, as it is all in the details. mylifestylenews writes……

The location is all, although the KL traffic can be frustrating at times and makes you wonder when you will actually get there, but once the car alights at the entrance, your MO experience begins. The external appearance is looking a little tired, but, as it happens, it will get a makeover in early 2015, along with a renovation of all the guest rooms including the suites, some public areas like the infinity pool and spa that with associated amenities (saunas, steam rooms and recreation areas) will have a brand new facelift. Competition is heating up with some new luxury brands entering the market in the next few years, so this 30-storey hotel opened in October 1998 is ready to take things to the next level now.

As expected, the lobby is an oasis of luxury and granduer for most Mandarin Oriental hotels as well as in other part of the world. It is an opulent destination and done it an understated elegant way that was completely renovated in 2013. Hence, it has a very fresh new look.

The columns are clad in Selangor Pewter which adds that local Malaysian artisanal touch. We arrived at peak Sunday check-out time, we were quickly directed to the lifts to travel up to the Club Lounge for our check-in, with a more tranquil feel and very welcoming staff to assist us, followed by an escort to our room, where everything was explained, in details.

We were allocated to a 40sqm deluxe city view corner club room, which was more than spacious enough and had windows on two sides, affording us a view partly of the twin towers, which is still a wonderful vista. All amenities are provided as one would expect, but the heavenly bed experience was a standout – what a sleep to remember! The bathroom is done in a classic way, although a little tired looking, but all necessary updates will be addressed in this year’s renovation. At least the branded SENSES Pure Botanical toiletries is a plus, such distinctive quality that was a pleasure to use.

The main focus of our stay, however, was the Club Lounge, it surely has the WOW factor once you stepped in to the 24^th floor. The city largest club lounge offers privacy, exclusivity and convenience boasts breathtaking views, includes a reading room, executive boardrooms and business centre. 

A 270 degree uninterrupted three different amazing views of the city with the stunning Petronas Twin Tower right on your face. They are so close and you feel like you can almost touch them (they are next door after all). The layout of the lounge is very residential and extensive,  the clever use of speace in the Lounge has divided the area into small, cosy and intimate corners. Every visit you really want to try to sit at a different section to enjoy a different city’s impressive skyline.

The food and beverage selection is incredibly extensive and varied, with a definite emphasis on Asian menu items, but Western palates are well taken care of too. They also have a daily rotation, so there is always some new items of interest daily, there is a chef at the live cooking station every breakfast and cocktail hours. 

On our first night, Chinese/Asian food was on the menu and the following night switched to an Indian focus, the contrasts were nice and flavours distinctly different on the palate. It is almost a private full buffet spread for all Club lounge guests. While the other daily meal period offerings are what you would expect in such a luxury hotel, the Mandarin Oriental just takes it to a new level and everything is a lot more extensive from our perspective. What is the standout from a normal hotel practice in town.

Breakfast in Mosaic - a all day dining concept restaurant is also worth trying, lavish buffet spread with different stations presenting various local delicacies from different cultures.  Besides, the feature of the interior of this outlet is the gorgeous lighting design covering most of the ceiling adding the Peranakan mood well best suit the ambience.

Giant Peranakan paintings are found in the Mosiac all day dining

It is no doubt a popular outlet especially for the first meal of your day not to mention that the kitchen is certified Halal in accordance to required standard.

Adjacent to the Mosaic is Lounge on the Park which serves the most luscious afternoon tea with freshly baked cakes, breads, macaroons and chocolates.

Lounge on the park interior

Enjoying the Lush by sitting outside of the Lounge on the Park.

The Mandarin Grill lead by the Chef de Cuisine, Benjamin Halat is another signature outlet for the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur. An exclusive and contemporary grill restaurant beautifully designed with elegant modern touches complete with inbuilt fireplace and glass wine cellar serves the finest cut of meat and a range of classic dishes with modern twist.

Halat aims to satisfy both local and international food connoisseurs with a range of classic French cuisine. We were invited for the express lunch semi-buffet. We chose the Angus Rib-Eye steak and a Veal Stroganoff for our mains and they could not be faulted, not to mention a great wine list of various international selection.

We changed our Chardonnay from the lighter crisps to a more buttery, smokey and creamy flavor with excellent recommendations from the sommelier. This is how a good fine dining restaurant shall have in term of presentation on food, quality and service.

The scenic infinity-edged swimming pool is quite spacious, and with indoor and outdoor whirlpools facilities. On busy days, it can be over-crowded with no spare sun lounges, but this will be addressed early this year’s planned renovation, a larger pool and pool deck in promise.

Knowing that the hotel is about to be upgraded to strengthen the bran presence and maintain its reputation as the finest hotel in Kuala Lumpur adds to the excitement of wanting to return, but we still very much enjoyed the hotel.

 From the staff service in the Club Lounge and Mandarin Grill, to the relaxing and unfussy atmosphere that you experience, we truly felt we could relax and do things without feeling as if you were imposing on the hotel and the location is perfect. You could wait until the renovation to complete, or book yourself to the Club floors for the one-of-a kind gracious experience that will be one to remember in this deluxe urban resort in the heart of the city, the choice is yours to make!

Tried & Tested:

Location: 5/5
Ambience: 4/5
Design & Decor: 4.5/5

Housekeeping: 4/5

Service: 3.5/5

Highlights:
Executive Floor Club Lounge

Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel: +6 032380 8888