Latest news with #Maison
France 24
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- France 24
Jules Verne: The 'Extraordinary Voyages' of a visionary French writer
France 12:14 Issued on: From the show This week we delve into the life of Jules Verne, one of the world's most widely translated writers. The French author's "Extraordinary Voyages" include "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea", "Around the World in Eighty Days" and "Journey to the Center of the Earth". They continue to inspire fans of adventure stories, 120 years after his death in 1905. Many consider Verne to be one of the founding fathers of science fiction, while others see him as a visionary. Those familiar with the man himself speak of a tireless worker, with an unparalleled gift for making his ideas accessible to all and, with the help of his publisher Pierre-Jules Hetzel, a creator of imaginary worlds that are still part of the cultural landscape today. We discuss Verne's life and legacy with Jean Verne, his great-grandson; Céline Giton, author of "Jules Verne: an Extraordinary Animal Anthology"; Agnès Marcetteau-Paul, author of "The very curious Jules Verne"; and Pierre Stépanoff, director of the Maison Jules Verne in Amiens.
Daily Mirror
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I found a £25 perfume at Boots that's like holiday in a bottle'
Ted Baker is best known for it's floral fashion designs and indulgent bathing products, but their latest launch is set to be a hit with fragrance fans I'm a frequent fragrance rotator, and I love to match my daily perfume pick to my mood, outfit, and the weather. As the temperature rises, I've found myself moving away from the light, soft and airy scents of spring and into more tropical aromas, with one £25 bottle fast becoming a go-to. Ted Baker's new fragrance Kasia has landed just in time for summer, and it's every bit the sunny, mood-boosting escape it promises to be. Inspired by 'golden hour warmth and carefree optimism', it delivers good vibes from the first spritz and is the ultimate 'holiday in a bottle' scent. It's a bright, breezy eau de toilette that brings together tropical fruit, creamy florals, and soft, woody notes, all while managing to stay refreshingly sophisticated. It opens up with juicy lychee bringing a slightly tart sweetness, giving way to a floral core of jasmine and pink hibiscus. But perhaps the most standout note is the creamy coconut, which manages to stay warm and comforting, without veering into sugary body spray territory. Further cementing its status as a mature and sophisticated scent, it's beautifully blended with soft vanilla, amber and sandalwood, which gives it a little bit of an edge. The perfume is powered by mood-boosting fragrance technology, meaning it really is 'joy in a bottle'. It's formulated using MoodScentz+ technology from Givaudan – a science-backed innovation proven to enhance feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Ted Baker isn't the only brand designing scents with specific emotions in mind, though. Charlotte Tilbury has a collection of six perfumes, each aiming to evoke a specific feeling, from Calm Bliss to Joyphoria. Charlotte's Collection of Emotions starts at £20 per bottle, although a full-sized bottle costs over £100. By comparison, Ted Baker's spritz is incredibly affordable, coming in at £25 for 50ml and £34 for 100ml. It may not have the longevity of a more concentrated eau de parfum, but it's a fantastic budget-friendly option and one you can afford to be more liberal with. Another popular option with a coconut-centric scent is the Maison Margiela Replica Beach Walk. It evokes the feeling of salty skin, sun lotion, and coastal breezes, with similar coconut-vanilla warmth for £60. Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 62, £38, is richer and sweeter than Kasia, with pistachio and caramel notes, but still in the same feel-good, vacation-ready family. And for many fragrance fans, Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess is considered the OG summer scent, with coconut milk, amber, and florals; a little more decadent but in the same golden, beachy lane. If you're looking for an affordable signature for the warmer months, Kasia is an easy yes. Whether you're tossing it into your beach bag or spritzing it before a summer coffee date, it's guaranteed to garner compliments.
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Giorgio Armani on why ‘Dubai is the cradle of a new concept of luxury'
Giorgio Armani's long and extraordinarily prolific career is characterised by stylistic coherence, which continues to distinguish itself in the field of fashion. It's as if even the passing of time cannot age the legendary designer's creativity. 'I don't think much about my age. In my mind, I am the same age I was when I started,' the Italian maestro told the New York Times a few years ago. KT LUXE catches up with the Milanese designer to ask about his inspiration, the anniversary of his Maison, and why he believes that Dubai is 'the cradle of a new concept of luxury'. The fashion superstar celebrated his 90th birthday last summer and brimmed with the desire to continue creating. He shows no signs of slowing down. 'Turning 90 was a very important milestone, but it also stimulates me because there are so many things I still want to accomplish and that spark my imagination,' says the designer in his Milan office, which is adorned with portraits. 'Passion motivates me, combined with a drive to continuously improve. There is also an aspect of discipline at play: the idea that you can always move the bar a little higher and that the next feat will be better than the one before. It's an endless path of improvement.' Now almost 91, Armani is focused on celebrating his fashion house's multiple anniversaries. His Maison, for instance, marks its 50th anniversary, while his haute couture line Armani/Privé, which launched in Paris in 2005, has turned 20. After a gorgeous celebration in the French capital last January, an exclusive exhibition titled Giorgio Armani Privè 2005-2025 is currently underway in Milan at Armani Silos, an open-to-the public space at Via Bergognone 40 that was inaugurated exactly 10 years ago to illustrate the designer's professional experience. Up for display until the end of the year are 150 dream outfits meticulously sewn by hand; this is Armani's most experimental expression of luxury. Recalling the Maison's debut on July 24, 1975, he says: 'That particular show was memorable because it allowed me to showcase my idea of modern tailoring ― soft, comfortable, body-conscious, rather than stiff and restrictive. It was a men's show, but the combination of elegant style with modern comfort set the template for my womenswear, too.' His aesthetic has remained aspirational, with some turning into collector's items over the years. It is, he suggests, the best proof of creating something timeless. He says: 'I take great pride in the new generation's interest in vintage Armani. If young people find affinity with my work, it's probably because I've always stayed true to my vision, simply offering my point of view. If what I created 20 or 30 years ago can resonate with an audience that may not even have been born then, that's the ultimate reward and confirmation for my constant pursuit of a timeless style.' So, how and with what events will Armani celebrate its golden anniversary? 'I'm still thinking about the 50th anniversary [of the Maison]. But it is too soon to reveal any details,' he remarks. 'This year also marks 10 years since the opening of Armani/Silos and 20 years since the launch of Giorgio Armani Privé, my haute couture line. So, I felt it was the right moment to bring these wonderful creations to Milan for the first time and the Silos is the perfect setting to present them to a wider audience.' I take great pride in the new generation's interest in vintage Armani. If young people find affinity with my work, it's probably because I've always stayed true to my vision, simply offering my point of view. If what I created 20 or 30 years ago can resonate with an audience that may not even have been born then, that's the ultimate reward and confirmation for my constant pursuit of a timeless style" Armani enchanted Paris at Palazzo Armani at 21 rue François Premier last January, when a grand fashion show celebrated 20 years of creativity, refinement, and art of Armani Privé. Those creations were made by the expert hands of his seamstresses, who worked in the historic building at Via Borgonuovo 11 in Milan. 'Having created a style that everybody immediately identifies as mine is certainly an accomplishment, and something that makes me extremely proud,' he says. 'I have worked hard all my life to build something true, substantial, and enduring. Palazzo Armani represents a new milestone in my dialogue with the French capital. My decision to come to Paris to show Armani/Privé, a choice I made at the very beginning of this project when I decided to launch the collection, was partly motivated by a desire to show respect for the history of couture and its home, a city that I have always loved.' But he also wanted to demonstrate to the world that 'Italian craftsmanship is more than equal to the task of creating wonderful couture pieces. I am, after all, a proud Italian', he says with a smile. This year also marks the 25th anniversary of Armani/Casa. Its interior design collections combine Western tradition with Eastern inspiration, and the Middle East has also been a source of ideas. 'Indeed, I am often inspired by other cultures and places I have visited. The East, in general, had a significant impact on my design aesthetic,' he points out. 'I am interested in the colours and fabrics associated with the Middle East, particularly the use of geometry in ancient and modern art. In general, I like to create something distinctive by combining the creative spirit of my homeland with other influences.' Armani has a strong work ethic. In his autobiography Per Amore, published by Rizzoli New York, he writes: 'I have never taken drugs, I have never even fallen into the trap of smoking. But I am a human being, not a Zen monk. I have never sought artificial pleasure. For me, the adrenaline of work is better than any hallucination or induced daze'. It has to do with one's nature. Let's call it, 'character', a term whose etymology is related to the Greek verb 'charasso', meaning 'to imprint, to mould, to engrave'. Each character has an outfit that distinguishes one from another. But between Giorgio Armani the man and Giorgio Armani the iconic couturier, where is this invisible line drawn? 'It is very, very difficult to define where Armani the man ends and where the brand begins, because the two are intrinsically and inextricably linked,' he affirms. 'They are connected by my taste, a very intimate and personal quality, and my vision, from which all I do stems.' What then grows a genius with a love for fashion, style, and beauty? Is it a parent's loving hand? And for Armani, was it the social, political, and cultural reality he had to contend with during the Second World War? 'Having grown up in post-war Italy, the emergence from the dark years created a widespread hunger for beauty,' he says. 'I had a simple life, filled with a boy's dreams and ambitions. In that climate, my mother was the cornerstone, conveying a strong sense of rigour and dignity, values that undoubtedly influenced me later in work and life. After the war, the city of Milan has always been a source of inspiration ever since my first job at La Rinascente department store [where Armani worked in display], and Milan was where I founded my company with my early business partner Sergio Galeotti, who had faith in me and pushed me to forge ahead.' He says: 'Creativity is what I enjoy most in life. And for me, every day is an opportunity to exercise it. I have a very active imagination, and creativity comes naturally to me. I find inspiration everywhere — in films I watch, conversations I have, and travels I make. My first and greatest inspiration comes from the world and observing people.' So driven is he in his need to create things of beauty that he's never had a creative block. 'The urge to create for me is innate, and I must confess I have hardly ever experienced a creative block,' he says. 'What I like best about my job is seeing the results of my creativity — seeing my ideas take shape and become reality. And reality is my primary source of inspiration.' At a certain point, Armani enthuses about Dubai and the Middle East. 'The cradle of a new concept of luxury, a place capable of drawing from its rich culture and transmitting a new, creative energy,' he calls the region. The influential designer credited with pioneering red-carpet fashion treats fame not as a goal but as a byproduct of doing what he loves. In his autobiography, Per Amore, he writes: 'I have always accepted fame as an obligation, as the consequence of a great commitment... I have always been too pragmatic to pursue it as a trinket or to display it as a glittering jewel.' Still, when you are on the journey of spotlights and runways, how do you digest success while not letting it go to your head? 'Not becoming complacent can be challenging when you have experienced success,' he admits. 'The answer can be found in self-discipline. My personality is pragmatic and reserved, and I prefer that people focus on my actions rather than my public profile. Ultimately, my work speaks for itself, which is the best thing for me.' And it is with this pragmatism that he dishes out advice for young talent. 'Have your own distinctive vision, believe in it, pursue it with diligence and passion, work hard, and be true to yourself. Listen to others, but in the end, make your own decisions. I believe any designer, young or otherwise, must follow their path.' However, he continues, 'You need a point of view that you really believe in. The past inspires me, and there are periods in history that hold a particular fascination for me. But I have always been someone who looks forward and is committed to evolving, developing new techniques and technologies, and constantly asking myself what my customers want today. And tomorrow. That is how you stay relevant as a designer.' Style revolutions like the one he spearheaded do not come out of a vacuum. Young people have to find a way to do it themselves, taking into account the history of fashion. Every brilliant designer leaves his mark on a silhouette. In Armani's case, the aim was to make the male figure less severe and rigid and the female figure less mannered, while maintaining the elegant tone that would force others to sit up and take note. Living one's golden years is bound to tease out threads of nostalgia with coarse knots of regret. But, says Armani, 'I don't really suffer regret. If there is something I wish to do, I set about making it happen. I am happy with how things have turned out, and if I had the option to travel back in time, I would start and do it all over again.' Running a hotel there for a decade has been a remarkable experience. I am proud of how it has fully integrated into the city that houses it.' At the end of our chat, Armani returns to his special bond with Dubai. The world's first Armani Hotel is in the city, in the soaring Burj Khalifa. 'Running a hotel there for a decade has been a remarkable experience,' he nods. 'I am proud of how it has fully integrated into the city that houses it.' But is the success enough to lure him back, to take on new projects? 'The Armani Beach Residences Palm Jumeirah project is the continuation of this journey,' he replies. 'I never know where I will turn to next until the inspiration takes me.' Every time he visits Dubai, he finds a warm environment — festive yet focused. 'Dubai is an exciting modern city, having grown rapidly into a global metropolis over recent years,' he says. 'I like that it has roots as an 18th-century fishing village. I am fascinated by how it embraces its visitors and leaves them with memories of energy and life.' It's almost like Armani has found a kindred spirit in the dynamic city. 'Every time, I am impressed by how much it changes and rapidly develops. Dubai is an extraordinary place, and it is a look to the future. There is also a pragmatism to Dubai. It's a city that likes to get things done in a straightforward way. I appreciate that in a place.' Of course he does – it's a reminder of what it takes to stay relevant, in vogue, and in the spotlight. 'It keeps me coming back.'
Hype Malaysia
21-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Hype Malaysia
2 New Drops From Piaget & Cartier Are 2 Sides Of The Same Bougie Coin
Watch design trends frequently oscillate like a pendulum, with minimalist styles intended to blend in with your wrist at one extreme, and designs intended to elevate your look and captivate at the other. From a slim, elegant creation to a bold, unmistakable classic, here are two contrasting timepiece drops united by their extreme luxuriousness. Piaget Polo 79 The Piaget Polo represents a period of innovation and growth for the company. The piece was an ode to sport when it was first introduced in 1979. Now, more than 40 years after the model's original release, Piaget revives the classic for fresh audiences with relevant updates. The gleaming 18-carat gold icon endures despite technical changes. Unexpected trends that pushed the boundaries of fashion took over the scene in the 1980s. This led to a broader cultural change and the blending of fashion and sports. Sports like polo gained popularity, and consumers started to notice casual athleisure. As its market continued to expand, Piaget introduced a design that would appeal to consumers seeking dress watch options with practical features like shockproof and waterproof capabilities. The Maison aimed to demonstrate that elegance can coexist with sport, despite the fact that many sports-oriented timepieces adopt more functional, occasionally large, aesthetics. None other than the Polo 79 was the outcome. Other watchmakers had just begun to experiment with sports watches made of steel, but they all didn't look like the Polo 79, which doubles as a stylish bracelet and a timepiece. The piece also comes in full gold, which adds a striking touch to any formal or casual ensemble. Being an equestrian, Yves Piaget, who led the company when it introduced the Polo, infused his passion for the sport into the design; the silhouette could be worn to a polo club and effortlessly incorporated into elegant evening wear. Certain design elements used throughout the watch convey a subtle elegance. The watch's brushed block and gadroon links alternate and run continuously from the dial to the case to the bracelet. This gives it the appearance of being carved from a single piece of gold. Additionally, it retains the elegant features of all other Piaget products despite being shockproof and water resistant. In terms of mechanical updates, the new features include an expanded 38mm crystal case and an upgraded 1200P1 in-house, self-winding calibre. Over time, this has changed because Piaget introduced the renowned 7P ultra-thin movement in 1976, which drove all of the early Polo models. Newer models by the 1980s featured thinner, updated 8P and 9P systems. Due to the popularity of the silhouette, Piaget began producing a variety of colourways and variations, including round, square, and gem-set. To give customers more options, a leather strap was even added to the Polo. Although the style is timeless at its core, these iterations brought it into the modern era and reshaped it to fit in with current trends. The Piaget Polo 79 is available in White Gold and Yellow Gold variations, retailing for €92,000 (~RM445,194) and €83,500 (~RM404,062), respectively. For more information, visit Piaget's official website. Santos de Cartier One of Cartier's iconic designs, the Santos de Cartier watch, is always changing. The company has unveiled a compact model that is 27 mm wide in the case and 34.5 mm tall, which are similar to the watch's earlier iterations. The innovative spirit of Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, for whom Cartier originally designed the Santos de Cartier watch, is embodied in this small-scale model. Its round form and exposed screws became a defining feature of the collection. The basic design elements of larger Santos de Cartier watches, such as crisp lines, precise shapes, and exquisite details, are still present in the small model. These components also stand in stark contrast to the visible screws' industrial look. The sunray-effect dial and a high-autonomy quartz movement that has been specially modified to fit the new case are among its new features. With metal bracelets and calf leather strap options, this new small model offers the same interchangeability as its larger versions and comes in steel and yellow gold. The all-gold model has an alligator strap, while the non-precious models have a smooth calfskin strap. The ardillon buckle on both leather strap options complements the case's elegant design. Visit the brand's official website to learn more about the price and availability of the miniature Santos de Cartier watch.
Web Release
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
MESSIKA UNVEILS A NEW VISION OF FEMININITY WITH EZRA PETRONIO'S LATEST CAMPAIGN
For 2025, Messika presents a bold and powerful campaign, symbolizing a new era for the Maison. Three powerful faces bring this vision to life: Bibi Breslin, a magnetic muse with raw beauty; Rosalieke Fuchs, with her captivating presence; and Fei Fei Sun, an iconic model with international allure. All were selected for their aura and unique presence. The Parisian jewellery house reaffirms its spirit of boldness and innovation by partnering with one of fashion's most striking visual voices: Ezra Petronio. A legendary figure in fashion imagery and a renowned Art Director and Photographer, Petronio deliver s a powerful artistic shift with this portrait series. At the heart of the campaign is Move, the Maison's signature collection. Whether in the Move XL Haute Joaillerie pieces or the newly introduced for 2025, Move Noa cuffs in sculpted gold, Move remains a statement of elegance in motion. The chiseled effect introduces a new texture, a new brilliance — each groove hand-carved, each surface shaped to catch the light. 'This campaign marks a new chapter for the Maison alongside Ezra Petronio. His perspective beautifully reveals the alchemy between style, femininity, and Messika jewellery. A pursuit of essence and power that so perfectly defines our creations.'
