The Deux Luxe

Coming Fall 2010!!!

2010-06-23T14:43:00.000-04:00

Calling all famished foodies.... It's baaaack...

Gourmet magazine will be back in digital form this fall! I will be in "elated" form when I see the output! Now if only Domino magazine would come back digitally.... even though I do love Lonnymag!
Cheers! BH

http://live.gourmet.com/

Beauty at The Breakers!

2010-04-23T16:44:00.002-04:00

While at lunch today at the glorious Breakers in Palm Beach, I couldn't resist plunging nose first into the entry arrangement of coral and pink roses (along w/hydrangeas, etc) and smelling their glorious fragrance! Furthermore, my handy dandy small camera is being borrowed at the moment so I had to snap a pic with my iphone. Not too shabby. These beauties must be changed out weekly ... I wish I had their floral budget for my own home! Simply stunning! Have a beautiful weekend! -BH

Restoration Chic!

2010-04-19T18:01:00.002-04:00

I am loving the new French inspired furnishings and accessories at Restoration Hardware these days! I've comprised a collage of some of my musings! Check out the site and look at the design galleries as well as the accessories and other objets d'art! Creating a fantastic tablescape is oftentimes overlooked by many people because it seems like a daunting task or people just don't know how to "accessorize". Well, look no further because RH has some amazing tabletop, shelf, and wall decor to give any interior a much more refined, sophisticated look. And please, don't call accessories "knick knacks", "chotchkies", "bric-a-brac"or any other trite word that may sound like some cheap find at a garage sale. Thank you. -BH

Collage: Clockwise - Marseilles Chair, Versailles Domed Chair, Vintage French Globe, Florentine Carved Wood Candlesticks, Dressmaker's Form, Vintage French Round Armchair

Accessories: From top - Woven Rattan Bowl, Fishing Weights, Crystal Ball Bookends, 1930s Solid Wood Airplane Propeller, Leather Bucket and Tote, Solid Wood Spheres

all at http://www.restorationhardware.com

Jonathan Adler Goes Junior!

2010-04-13T21:11:00.000-04:00

Finally Jonathan Adler is bringing his playful, cheeky whimsy to baby's room! The full line of goods should be online this month! Check out some of the letter pillows in alpaca or the ceramic menagerie. The piggy banks are particularly charming!

http://www.jonathanadler.com/

Armani Casa Easter

2010-04-02T08:19:00.000-04:00

Now we know how the other half lives during the Easter holiday.... Bespoke white, milk, and dark chocolate eggs will probably be at each of the Armani's place settings on Easter Sunday. You can buy your own at the Armani Casa Flagship store on Fifth Avenue until the end of May. Talk about one tres chic Easter basket! -BH

Shoe Heaven

2010-03-17T16:38:00.000-04:00

No this isn't my catalogued photo shoot of shoes in my closet, though I wish it were! These are what's on display at the Webster in Miami! Either the luck of the Irish brought you a pot of gold to go spend on some shoes or you'll just have to wait and see what the Easter Bunny stashes in your basket! Hopefully it's something that puts a little pep in your very chic step! -BH

The Webster

1220 Collins Ave

Miami Beach, FL 33139

www.thewebstermiami.com

305.674.7899

You Go Girl!

2010-03-15T08:37:00.002-04:00

How many times have you slipped a black dress over your head only to find a series of white horizontal streaks around your waist/hips/back created by your deodorant residue? You frantically get a damp washcloth and start scrubbing away, right? Well unless you have a good friend that tells you a little trick that the foam off dry cleaning hangers is a great way to remove said deodorant, think of Shop Go Girl as your new best friend with lots of useful girly supplies for all your daily beauty battles. And if you've purged all your pedestrian wire hangers, invest in the Smudge Sponge which removes stains from clothing.

We all know about nipple concealers, double sided tape and facial oil blotters.... But I am particularly fond of the Lint-On-The-Go-Sheets! I have a hairy dog that sheds and a mane of my own that likes to leave blonde strands serpentining down my back so when I leave the house, I feel like I am pristine until I get into the light of day and see I look like a beast of burden. I keep lint rollers in my car, kitchen and purse. But not anymore. These lint sheets are light weight, portable and with a few swipes, you're back to black with no more lint on your rack!

Like I said, we all need a little help from our friends. -BH

Shop www.shopgogirl.com and receive 10% off your purchase when you mention 'DeuxLuxe' in the coupon code. Free shipping over orders of $75!

Room With a View II

2010-03-12T06:53:00.002-05:00

I'll definitely be checking out one of the latest tomes, "Room With AView" by Assouline (www.assouline.com) as Conde Nast Traveler documents some of the most splendid hotel rooms with magnificent views to match! I wonder if any of my travels made the cut! Hmmm... doubtful...but I am sure they came close! (Wink!). Enjoy your weekend!~ BH

From top: The Gstaad Palace, Gstaad, Switzerland; La Londra Palace, Venice, Italy; The Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, Japan; The Four Seasons Hotel Wailea, Maui, Hawaii; The St. Regis Hotel, Bora Bora, Tahiti.

Photos: Brandie Herbst

Sugar and Spice

2010-03-10T08:47:00.000-05:00

We have a baby on (story)board here at the Deux Luxe....due in July! This is what has been inspiring me and making me daydream lately, hence my lack of posts. I have been a little distracted by learning about strollers, selecting wallpaper, and learning about BPA free baby bottles that I have lost touch with chic hotels, esoteric cooking, or the latest Louboutins. Not to worry, this isn't love's labor's lost, more like found luxe labor...which I'll be birthing a whole new meaning to the term yummy mummy in no time! Complete with Gucci diaper bag and stilettos! Stick with me through the process.

PS - I will have pictures of a "before and after" of a client's condo I am currently working on and is almost complete. I can't wait to share the details! xo BH

Tap That

2010-03-01T08:45:00.000-05:00

Probably one of the coolest beer taps I have ever seen is by Magic Hat Brewing Co. for Single Chair Ale. Since the Winter Olympics are over, I thought I'd bid adieu to the frozen sports by featuring this image along with the link to more information on this brew among others. Cheers! BH
http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/case-study-single-chair-ale/?ref=food

The 411 on T.S.A.'s 3-1-1

2010-02-21T22:15:00.000-05:00

To all the travelers flying the friendly skies, you'll be pleased to know there is a website that specializes in travel size products from shampoo to shaving cream to face lotion that meet T.S.A.'s meager requirements! I've wept many times over my Kerastase shampoo and conditioner leaking in the Ziploc or the geyser of Murad moisturizer that comes oozing out of it's tube due to altitude. Again, another expensive waste of precious product! Well fear no more....http://www.3floz.com stocks all categories of products by brands such as Ole Henriksen, Philip B, Dr. Hauschka, Ahava and more! Gone are the days when you have to settle on the hotel standard of Gilchrist and Soames products ....unless you're lucky enough to stay in a chic place where Bliss or Acqua di Parma products are sitting pretty on your vanity! Then you can just add those products to your 3-1-1 stash! Happy travels! - BH

Image courtesy of www.3floz.com

Fun Find....Affordable Art!

2010-02-17T08:42:00.001-05:00

Alot of times, just by reading other blogs, I get inspired or learn something new about a product, environment, or person of interest. Recently, I was reading the incredibly mind-nourishing, design-oriented blog, Remodelista Daily. I stumbled upon some eye-catching collages that made me do a double take and click on the link! I had to share my find as I am obsessed with interior design drawings (the book, Jeremiah has amazing watercolors, btw!) and other artworks that portray interiors and the living environment. Stephanie Levy is an American artist living in Germany and has created one of a kind pieces or prints for sale, $65 and $28 respectively. Her works are inspired by her travels and other places she'd love to go one day. I say, keep dreaming and keep creating because these prints are just too darling to go unrecognized. They would make a great ensemble in a kitchen or whimsically hung in a powder room. You can find her eclectic collages at http://www.etsy.com/shop/stephanielevy . -BH

(From top to bottom: Green Dream II, Paris, Copenhagen, and Nice)

Fleur-de-lis

2010-02-09T10:12:00.000-05:00

The fleur-de-lis symbol is one that we'll be seeing quite a bit of now since the New Orleans Saints achieved a marvelous victory Sunday night over the Indianapolis Colts. Being more of a francophile than a football fanatic, I have always been enchanted by this decorative symbol that literally means "lily flower" and is commonly seen associated with the French monarchy, flags, coats of arms and other dynastic emblems. I am pretty sure all of New Orleans and many in Miami were heralding the Saints' triumph and will continue to take pride in this iconic symbol. -BH

(image courtesy of www.heraldica.org)

Les Fidéles De Chanel

2010-01-29T08:25:00.002-05:00

I have found what could possibly be the chicest title ever created. Who needs an actually crown or tiara to be granted royalty. Welcome to the world of Coco, introducing Les Fidéles De Chanel.

Coco Chanel was a famously unique woman with her own visionary lifestyle and aesthetic. The iconic house of Chanel has always celebrated women of her likeness, with strong personal styles and engaging histories. In 2009, Chanel selected five women to be ambassadresses of the brand, known as "Les Fidéles De Chanel". They are:

Jen Brill - Photo Agent; Caroline Sieber - Stylist/Brand Consultant; Vanessa Traina - Stylist/Brand Consultant; Leigh Lezark - Headliner of the Misshapes; Poppy Delevingne - Model/Actress

Post House of Lavande Event

2010-01-27T22:55:00.011-05:00

There were indeed lots of luxe looks, pick your purple manicures, smuldering smokey eyes and aplenty of jewels, gems and all things that sparkle at House Of Lavande's Ultimate Styling Event. I had the pleasure of styling a few day-to-night looks with clothing provided by Gypsy and gems provided by House of Lavande. The styling event was centered around the idea on how to go from casual luxe by day, to glammed-up fabulous by night, in just a quick snap with a few amazing adornment add-ons. Here are a few of my styled luxe looks that were on display. - KL

This lady-like look is all about being chic yet trend-on. By day opt for a few simple pearl strands and layer with varying lengths. By night kick-it up a notch with an additional statement pendent or nix the lace blouse for a simple tank and pair up with an amazing statement necklace, think big and fabulous.
Skirt and blouse by 3.1 Phillip Lim

I love this look for day. Ok, maybe not all these jewels all at once, but a little glitz during the day is a great way to mix up your look. For a more casual look go with bold silver cuffs, either by stacking or wearing one on each wrist. For night, glam up the look with either a necklace or amazing earrings in the same color way as your embellished top, yet in a different texture, material or finish.
Jacket by Stella McCartney, Embellished tunic by Givenchy

A great pop of color is an easy way to go from day to night. Add a chic fitted blazer for day hours, a bold belt and 1 fabulous necklace. For night leave the jacket and belt at home and sexy it up with layers of chain necklaces or an amazing chandelier earring with burst of color.
Dress and jacket by Stella McCartney

If you have a great dress that already has great detailing, select 1 main statement piece. Here I'm loving a bib necklace with just the right hint of color to add that extra je ne sais quoi needed for any fashionista.
Dress by Lanvin

For post event party coverage check out the {House Of Lavande blog}
All clothing by {Gypsy, Palm Beach} - All jewelry by {House of Lavande}

Ultimate Styling Event

2010-01-25T22:41:00.006-05:00

Must-attend event - Jan 26th, 6pm - 9pm

{House of Lavande} is hosting an Ultimate Styling Event so make sure you stop by. "Pick Your Purple" manicures, Laura Mercier makeup demos and lavender martinis, what's not to love about that! Oh, and did I mention I'll be in the house showcasing how to take a luxe look from day to night! Hope to see you there. - KL

Please RSVP to 561-802-3737 or info@houseoflavande.com

A Single Man

2010-01-21T15:15:00.007-05:00

Love this sneak peak of Tom Ford's newest ad campaign for Spring '10 featuring A Single Man star Nicholas Hoult posing alongside Carolyn Murphy. Ford directed Hoult, a definite upcoming talent, in his first film, a definite must-see, which he not only directed but also co-wrote and co-produced. Oh, and did I mention the ad campaign was also shot by Ford too. What can't this chic man do? - KL

Color of the Year!

2010-01-08T07:28:00.001-05:00

Southwestern jewelry....south pacific tropical paradise...healing powers...calming effects...are all words to describe the Pantone color of the year for 2010: Turquoise. Color trends are said to market more to the masses as opposed to following high fashion or design, but I think this is one color we will see in more ways than Martha Stewart bath towels. Turquoise and other shades of blue and green tend to evoke images of seaside living, fantasy vacations and bold gems. Turquoise is one of those colors that can be reminiscent of the 80's when not used appropriately. I suggest pairing it with neutrals and browns, reds, corals, and layering with blues, greens and yellows. If you're too hesitant to commit to a lacquered screen or vibrant chair, opt for a punch of this "it" color via accessories like lamps or decorative plates (as shown hung on the brightly colored ceiling below). Remember, turquoise represents "escape"...so why not find a sense of escapism in your living environment if Bora Bora isn't in the budget! -BH

Aerial view of St. Regis Resort in Bora Bora, Tahiti (BH's bragging rights)

Lacquered screen provides a bold backdrop to an otherwise serene environment.

Grand, luxe, superb use of turquoise!

Accent chairs offer a bold statement without committing to too much color

The safest approach is to accent with touches of turquoise to add visual interest and color

Collections in many hues add spontaneity as well as break up a solid color that may get tiresome after a while.

This David Hicks room combines grass green, sky blue, and cerulean to create a rich, layered look.

Sneak Peak

2010-01-05T20:51:00.006-05:00

Kelly Wearstler's latest chic creation, the luxe lobby at the Viceroy in Anguilla. Love the glam meets organic touches for an island getaway. Can't wait to see more. -KL

Jetset + Gypsy

2010-01-04T19:58:00.014-05:00

Jetset + Gypsy = Gypset Style
A timeless bohemian allure, think Talitha Getty on a Morroccan roof and Jade Jagger sunning on the shores of Ibiza

After a most glorious holiday and a week away from work, it's time to get back into the swing of things and get re-focused and re-inspired. And what can lift those back-to-work spirits more then gifting oneself with a new tome? Don't get me wrong all my fine friends and family out there who recently so graciously gifted me with a new book, I greatly adore them all. In my thoughts a girl can never have too many things to read and right now I'm feeling rather like a bon vivant, full of fancy-free attitude and boho luxe style. As my grandmother always says Che Sera Sera! So in the next few days I'll eagerly be anticipating the arrival of my latest purchase, Gypset Style by Julia Chaplin. My stylish Deux Luxe partner BH posted about this treasure of a tome back when it first launched, and now that I'll have a copy of my own I'm envisioning some friendly gypset inspiration between her and I. Wonder who'll be the more daring one to adventure a turban? Here are a few pictorial excerpts from the book and a few added inspirations to help hold us over until the real deal arrives. -KL

Photos from Gypset Style

Consuelo Castiglioni, designer of Marni, featured with her family in Gypset Style

Two boho luxe looks from the Marni S/S 2010 collection

These vintage Kenneth Jay Lane earrings from House of Lavande are the perfect ensemble add-on's for any bohemian look - www.houseoflavande.com

Gypset hotel of the moment, La Mamounia in Marrakech, Morocco

This iconic hotel featured in the December issue of Town & Country magazine recently celebrated a reopening highlighting its newly crafted Morroccan boho luxe style
www.mamounia.com

Model Daria Werbowy and designer Matthew Williamson at the star-studded reopening bash showcasing their own unique gypset styles

Here are a few examples of my own styled gypset looks created for Palm Beach Illustrated Magazine

Photos By Bell Soto featured in the May 2008 issue of Palm Beach Illustrated

Photos by Robert Adamo featured in the May 2009 issue of Palm Beach Illustrated
www.palmbeachillustrated.com

HAPPY 2010!

2010-01-01T11:41:00.003-05:00

Cheers to a new beginning, a new year, new resolutions and new Deux Luxe offerings for a well lived 2010! xo BH

picture courtesy of Interiors Magazine

Ottoman Empire!

2009-12-21T08:55:00.007-05:00

Right now I am currently on the hunt for ottomans for a client and what better way to add a splash of pattern or personality to a space without a lot of committment! Large cocktail ottomans are great for kicking your feet up, placing a tray upon, or setting other fabulous accessories to create excitement. But if you'd like to leave your options open and allow the fabrics to speak for themselves...these ottomans need little adornment but a perfect environment to be set! Here are a few of my latest obsessions...-BH

Altai Ottoman - crewel fabric w/turned wood legs!

http://www.anthropologie.com/
So chic! The Yves Ottoman in tufted leather and elegant french leg.
http://www.jaysonhomeandgarden.com/

A favorite among many these days...the Kilim Ottoman.

http://www.restorationhardware.com/

For the whimsical modernist - the Sheepskin pouf! I love sheepskin anything!

http://www.westelm.com/

When tight on space, joining two cubes, square tables, or stools is the perfect antidote to the traditional ottoman!

http://www.plantationdesign.com/

A Tisket, A Tasket, A Delicious Holiday Basket!

2009-12-16T06:03:00.001-05:00

http://www.zabars.com/

A NYC fave...great kosher baskets and MORE!

Time is running out to send last minute food baskets to loved ones during the holidays. Act fast...as many of my favorite websites are still offering free shipping depending on their ordering deadlines! These delicious ensembles are well worth putting it in "the basket"! Happy check out!
-BH

http://www.zingermans.com/

The weekender basket offers amazing variety!

http://www.manhattanfruitier.com/
For the fruit sophisticate

http://www.deandeluca.com/
The options are endless at this gourmet food emporium!

http://www.harryanddavid.com/

The simple and scrumptous old faithful! Can't go wrong here!

Sister Act

2009-12-13T22:15:00.011-05:00

Over the weekend here in Palm Beach I experienced a high school reunion of sorts. Fellow Bolles alums and sisters Danielle and Jodie Snyder, the designing duo behind the very hip collection {Dannijo} jewelry popped into town to set up shop at Eye of the Needle. Unfortunately Danielle and Jodie didn't make the trip, however the very chic Michelle Fawbush (yet another Bolles alum and Dannijo sales director) hosted the trunk show and graciously introduced me to the very trend-on collection. Danielle and Jodie who grew up in Jacksonville, got their design start early by teaching themselves wire work with their father's medical instruments. After a small boutique stint in Jax, college educations and a move to NYC, the sister's went at it again officially launching the company in Spring 2008. With a devoted fan base, celeb following and point of sales at major upscale boutiques and stores, these sisters are well on their way. What I love about the collection is the rough luxe aesthetic mixed with various elements of fancy. And you can practically pair up any piece with any element in your wardrobe creating various looks, whether it be rocker, dressy, classic, boho chic or everyday cool. These are definitely two girls to follow and a collection worth checking out. And I might add, perfect bauble pieces for holiday gifting. -KL

Jodie and Danielle Snyder featured in New York Magazine

Kelly Wearstler featured in Town & Country Jan 2010 wearing a Dannijo cuff

Michelle Fawbush rocking out a necklace, bracelets and ring from the collection

Mixing it up, various bracelets paired up to perfection

Thayer earrings, a personal fave of mine at the trunk show

Evelyn earrings, a perfect gift for any en vogue girl

Griffen necklace, think fashion forward, this statement necklace will be trend-on for spring. A great way to update your wardrobe now and carry on well into the summer

Check out the Dannijo website to view all collections. www.dannijo.com

A Single Man

2009-12-09T06:58:00.000-05:00

This December there are so many movies on my "Must See" list that I wonder when I will get around to seeing the limited release of designer-turned-filmmaker Tom Ford' s A Single Man. Set in Los Angeles, 1962, British college professor, George (Colin Firth) is torn over the death of his longterm lover and partner and struggles to find if there is meaning to his life after Jim's death. The movie takes place over the course of a day where several events unfold that keep George questioning his existence and searching for the meaning of his life. He seeks comfort from his dear friend, Charley (Julianne Moore), who is also pondering similar relevance to her life post divorce. The movie sounds deep but I am looking forward to seeing Colin Firth in Tom Ford suits and somewhat representing an autobiographical glimpse into Tom Ford's meticulous, perfect life. While George is falling apart on the inside but keeping it together from hat to polished shoe on the outside, there is hope and a profound understanding to cherish the important things in life sans materialism. Some stills from the movie... -BH