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Andrés Anza Wins the 2024 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize
Mexican-born Andrés Anza has been announced as the 2024 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize winner. Anza was chosen from a selection of 30 finalists for his 2023 piece “I only know what I have seen”. The decision was made by a jury of leading figures including Magdalene Odundo, Minsuk Cho, Olivier Gabet and Abraham Thomas — who each come from various industries including design, architecture, journalism, and museum curatorship. This year’s LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize presented a selection of works that featured organic and biomorphic forms that “push materials to their physical limits”. This saw many of the works crafted from repurposed and recycled materials with a focus on the “elevation” and “transformation” of the everyday.
Why did Andrés Anza Win?
“I only know what I have seen” is a life-size ceramic sculpture. The display’s anthropomorphic form is comprised of thousands of individual ceramic protrusions or tiny spikes that make up five puzzle pieces, which have been assembled with an almost architectural intention and precision. Described as an “arresting and almost human presence in the exhibition,” the jury noted that Anza’s work “defies time and cultural context”, drawing upon ancient, archaeological forms but also tracing a post-digital aesthetic that sees ceramics absorbing the most defining influences of our time.
Who is Andrés Anza?
33-year-old Andrés Anza received a BA from the University of Monterrey in 2014. He then went on to present solo exhibitions at Rome’s Galería Anna Marra; San Pedro’s Galería Casa Gotxikoa and Centro Cultural Plaza Fátima, and Mexico City’s Galería Obra Negra. Anza has also participated in group exhibitions across Mexico, Italy, Denmark and the United States. His ceramic work was included in the 2015 Emerging Art Biennial in Monterrey, where he won the “Encouragement to Create” award. In 2016, he also received an honourable mention for his contribution to the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Biennial.
Special Mentions & Craft Contributions
Three special mentions were also awarded to Japan’s Miki Asai for “Still Life”, France’s emmanuel boos for “Coffee Table ‘Comme un lego’” and Republic of Korea’s Heechan Kim for “#16”. “Still Life” is a piece formed by three sculptural rings made using lacquer and eggshell techniques which the jury described as an unexpected combination of intricacy and monumentality. “Coffee Table ‘Comme un lego’” is a coffee table, crafted using 98 hollow porcelain bricks that aimed to disrupt expectations around utilitarian objects. “#16” saw Heechan Kim use a traditional boat-making technique, with ash and copper wire to create an architectural design that allows the viewer’s gaze to travel through the inner and outer space of the vessel’s chamber.
The shortlisted artists also get special recognition for their important contributions to the development of contemporary craft which spans across ceramics, jewellery, textiles, woodwork, glass, metalwork, furniture, papercraft and lacquer, something the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize 2024 recognises. The 30 finalists were selected in February 2024 and represent 16 countries and regions from around the world and their entries were chosen from more than 3,900 submissions by artisans representing 124 countries and regions. The Prize functions as a multigenerational snapshot of the utmost excellence in craft today.
What is the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize?
Conceived by LOEWE creative director Jonathan Anderson in 2016, the international annual LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize showcases and celebrates newness, excellence and artistic merit in modern craftsmanship. The Prize functions as a multigenerational snapshot of the “utmost excellence in craft today” and aims to acknowledge working artisans whose talent and vision set a standard for the future of craftsmanship. The incentive for the prize was inspired by LOEWE’s beginnings as a collective craft workshop in 1846, reflecting fashion’s vital link to culture and the importance of advanced, specialised knowledge to the field. Art, craft and design remain fundamental cornerstones to the house’s present chapter.
For art enthusiasts — any professional artisan aged over 18 can apply for the award, with the sole requirement that the submitted work combines an innovative application of its craft with an original artistic concept.
All 30 of the finalists’ works will be exhibited at Palais de Tokyo in Paris from 15 May until 9 June 2024.
For more on the latest in art news and stories, click here.
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11 Ways to Create a Peaceful Living Space
The home should be a place of refuge, with interiors and furnishings that provide a tranquil ambiance that rejuvenate the occupants who live within the space. For many, home forms a safe retreat from the stresses of work and the bustling worries of life but yet it is at times disregarded, which results in an area that, if not furnished with care, might only exacerbate the tensions instead of providing a place of reinvigoration. Regardless of one’s lifestyle, creating a peaceful home begins with easy, focused activities. While some may provide faster “payoffs” than others, investing in your own sanctuary may be worth the effort.
As we approach the halfway mark of 2024, it is a time to do some self-reflection and as they say, change starts at home. The month of May is “Mental Health Awareness” month and Vesak day falls on 22 May this year. In light of these two annual occurrences, LUXUO highlights a few ways to recharge, bring in positivity and and channel new energy to the rest of the year ahead.
“Designing a peaceful home is the art of prioritising harmony and guiding every element to create serene sanctuaries within homes. It’s about crafting spaces that embrace calmness, nurturing well-being effortlessly,” emphasises Russell Chin, founder and managing director of Inspire ID Group.
Clear The Clutter
A lifestyle that ignores continual clutter could negatively impact your mental health, regardless of whether you’re a devoted maximalist or a fan of the KonMari approach. Untidy stacks of papers and a work desk in disarray could impact productivity and result in more than just that extra twenty minutes spent looking for those elusive car keys before leaving the house. Spend a weekend going through your old letter and the clothing in your wardrobe that you have not seen since 2023. Letting go of what you no longer need is an art in itself. Make space for new things to enter your life as you discard those unnecessary clutter.
Exploring Colour
Any area can feel completely different by adding a statement piece of art or paiting vibrant wall. Silky curtains in white fabrics can provide refinement and tranquillity to a room. At the same time, a family living room may benefit from a pop of yellow as the psychology of the colour is said to represent happiness and is associated with optimisim. Choosing the ideal colour scheme might be challenging, so try out several hues and combinations to see how they affect the atmosphere of your room.
Experiment with cooler shades to create a soothing space. Shades of beige, off-white, camel, nude, and eggshell are trending hues for a relaxing interior theme. “This yellow room isn’t neutral or blue, but by using the same colour in various tones and adding textures for interest, it feels very calming,” says designer Sara Hillery.
Lighting Is Key
Beyond having windows that allow for natural sunlight in the room, Chin, founder and managing director of Inspire ID Group, also explains, “create a serene ambience with gentle lighting and open spaces.” He suggests you opt for soft, warm lighting to illuminate rooms without being too harsh. “Bedrooms should be calming when you come back after a hard day’s work,” he says.
Embrace Biophilia
There is a reason why individuals enjoy walking in a park, venturing to the closest botanical garden or embarking on hiking trail to escape the week’s stresses and unwind in the outdoors. Why not bring nature’s healing properties indoors? In addition to giving your design scheme a lush pop, NASA research shows that plants remove toxins from indoor spaces and re-oxygenate the house, according. At a time of increased outdoor pollutants and harmful gasses, this could provide one solution to creating a healtier home. If you’re not much of a gardener, try minimal-maintenance species of plants like snake plants or parlour palms for maximum calming effects at a low price.
Read More: These Architectural Wonders Are the Antithesis to the “Greenhouse” Effect
Bedroom Bliss
The bedroom — one of the most private spaces in your house — should be a sophisticated haven where you can retreat from your hectic schedule. “It’s always your goal to enter a bedroom and be amazed,” says decorator Miles Redd of New York. However, it must also be a location to unwind and settle in. Whether you like muted hues or gorgeous pastels, use colours that speak to you and make you want to be in the space. Additionally, since aloe vera plants and calming weeping figs release more oxygen at night, you should forego installing that television in favour of these plants.
Spatial Harmony
The Chinese feng shui tradition emphasises the balance of opposing yet connected forces or yin and yang. The basic idea of the ancient practice embodies countless aspects and approaches to decorating. From creating complete symmetry in a dining room to playing with dark and light pieces, look for ways to find complete harmony in your space.
Let The Sun In
There is nothing like a burst of natural light to bring clarity and accentuate the delicate features of a room’s design. More than an artificially lighted space, a naturally illuminated area increases productivity, elevates mood, and fosters a calm attitude overall. Consider adding reflective surfaces to your home if you live in an apartment with few or no windows. The amount of natural light will instantly quadruple by enabling sunshine to reflect off of properly placed huge mirrors or lacquered items.
Natural Textures
There is an inate tendency is to recognise and be drawn to the alluring beauty of the natural world. Although not everyone enjoys the company of houseplants, natural materials and textures convey a similar sense of calm and help to anchor a room’s overall tone. There are several methods to use earthy elements, such as original woodwork or the addition of a woven side table, to promote inner serenity. Try to lean on softer materials such as rugs on floors and layering textures to create depth and interest in creating a serene environment.
Scents and Sense-ibility
Candles are a relatively little home addition, but they can produce a warm, inviting glow and add a lovely perfume to an entire area. Scent recall is an effective technique for taking individuals to joyful or idyllic locations. Look for a candle that makes you think of your most beloved vacation spots, or get one with a eucalyptus aroma and relaxing spa-like properties. Not a fan of lighting candles? An excellent substitute is essential oil diffusers, which let you create your custom fragrance combination.
Wellness Spaces
During the pandemic, our houses have evolved into places for restoration and work. Consider setting aside certain areas where you may retreat for quiet times and give your mental health first priority to help establish a sense of separation between life and work. This does not imply that you must turn that extra bedroom into a stationary yoga studio or spa. A good interior designer can turn a spare area of your house into a comfortable haven filled with lots of soft furnishings where you can unwind or practice meditation, yoga, or some beneficial body stretches.
Water Sanctuary
If you have space for a bath in your bathroom, you can relax after a hard day’s work. Enjoying a soak in a bathtub can reduce stress and cortisol levels.
If you’re looking for a bathtub, check out German bath brand Kaldewei, stocked at W. Atelier. The brand has over 100 years of industrial manufacturing experience producing sustainable products. Its latest collaboration is with the German furniture brand e15. Launched during Milan Design Week 2024, the e15 + Kaldewei collection is a line of bathroom furniture and accessories created by Munich-based industrial designer Stefan Diez and produced and manufactured by e15 in collaboration with German heritage company Kaldewei.
Solid European wood is the foundation material for the e15 + Kaldewei line. The line includes various multipurpose pieces, including an oiled oak bathtub bridge, footboard, seat, and stools of varying heights, which are accessorised with plush leather.
For more on the latest decor reads, click here.
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Thursday, May 16, 2024
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Oscar De La Hoya Lists “Knockout” Las Vegas Mansion
At a price tag of USD 20 million, former professional boxer Oscar De La Hoya is looking for more than a quick knockout win for the Henderson, Nevada super-contemporary home he bought when it was under construction. Located just a few miles from Las Vegas, Oscar moved to The Neon City last year into the almost 9,000-square-foot home with postcard views of the Las Vegas Strip.
The privately gated property on a cul-de-sac set in the foothills of the McCullough Mountains has everything a retired 11-time world boxing champion could want, including a gym, trophy room, golf simulator, wine room, wet bar, hair salon, butler’s kitchen and huge sliding glass walls adding mountain and city views to the Strip views.
There are a total of five bedrooms, seven full baths and three fireplaces. The home’s exterior measures at a total of 2,409 square feet, with water features that rival some of the Las Vegas casinos, an infinity pool and lap pool, an outdoor living room and kitchen, fire lounges, spa bath, an outdoor shower and a private garden lanai.
Born and raised in East Los Angeles, Oscar’s parents moved from Mexico to the United States before Oscar was born in 1973. A child of a longtime boxing family including his grandfather, father and brother, Oscar began boxing at age six, won a national Junior Olympic title at age 15, Golden Gloves title in 1990, and an Olympic gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona just a few months after he graduated from high school.
After he turned pro, Oscar’s outgoing personality and 11 world boxing titles in six weight classes earned him the nickname “Golden Boy.” A few years before he retired, De La Hoya founded Golden Boy Productions, which became one of the world’s most successful sports promotion companies. He has a net worth of about USD 200 million.
Las Vegas has become the hotspot home for many celebrities and athletes, including Celine Dion, Mark Wahlberg, David Copperfield, Steve Wynn, Wayne Newton, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Mike Tyson.
The home’s listing is under the Zar Zanganeh of The Agency Las Vegas and the image credits courtesy of Theo Ayala with Indigo Marketing. For more celebrity home news and celebrity home video tours, head to TopTenRealEstateDeals.com.
A version of this article was first seen on TopTenRealEstateDeals.com
For more on the latest in luxury property listings and reads, click here.
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The Conrad Dublin Provides Luxury Accommodations Amidst the City’s Vibrant Culture
Stepping into Conrad Dublin is akin to embarking on a journey through Dublin’s rich cultural tapestry, where the sense of sound reigns supreme as the city’s beating heart. As you traverse the threshold, the lobby welcomes you with a symphony of bustling activity, the harmonious blend of languages and accents echoing off the polished marble floors. It’s a vibrant overture that sets the stage for the sensory feast that awaits.
Venturing into the heart of the hotel, guests are greeted by the tantalising aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the mellifluous strains of live music drifting from nearby Grafton Street.
Here, talented buskers and seasoned performers transform the bustling thoroughfare into a stage, their voices and instruments weaving together to create a captivating melody that fills the air with an irresistible energy. It’s a testament to the city’s storied musical legacy, where the streets themselves come alive with the rhythm of life.
Walking along the famed street, you’re enveloped in melodic sounds. The talented singers, their voices like honeyed velvet—well most of them anyway, weave through the bustling street, filling the air with songs. Each note resonates with the heartbeat of the city, echoing off the cobblestones and mingling with the chatter of passersby. The harmonies swell and fade like waves crashing against the shore, drawing you in with their raw emotion and soulful expression.
If Dublin were an orchestra, it would be a grand symphony of diverse instruments and influences. The deep thrum of the double bass would evoke the city’s love for music, while the lilting melodies of the flute would capture its lively spirit. The rolling timpani drums would mirror the pulse of the bustling streets, while the soaring fiddles would echo the passion and resilience of its people. Together, these elements would blend into a majestic composition, reflecting Dublin’s unique charm and vibrant energy.
Just steps away from the hotel’s doorstep lies the verdant oasis of St. Stephen’s Green, a tranquil haven amidst the bustling cityscape. Here, the symphony of nature takes center stage, as the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze and the rhythmic lapping of water in the pond create a symphony of tranquility. But it’s the chorus of birdsong that truly steals the show, their melodious trills and chirps blending seamlessly with the ambient sounds of the park. Perched on branches and flitting between the trees, they add a whimsical charm to the scene, their vibrant plumage a kaleidoscope of color against the lush green backdrop.
At the heart of St. Stephen’s Green, the majestic swans glide gracefully across the shimmering waters, their movements as elegant as a ballet. With each graceful stroke of their wings and every gentle ripple they create, they contribute to the symphony of the park, their occasional honks and splashes adding depth and texture to the composition. It’s a scene straight out of a fairytale, where every detail is imbued with a sense of wonder and magic.
Back at the hotel, the sense of harmony and elegance continues to resonate through every corner. The soft chime of the bell at the concierge and front desk, the melodious clinking of silverware at breakfast, and the hushed whispers of guests as they pass by—all contribute to the intricate composition that is the Conrad experience.
Throughout your stay, whether you’re exploring the city’s historic landmarks or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the Irish capital, the rich and dynamic symphony of life surrounds you, a constant reminder of this city’s timeless allure.
At Conrad Dublin, it’s not just about providing luxurious accommodations; it’s about immersing yourself in the rich true stories of Dublin’s culture, where every moment is a vibration waiting to be experienced.
For more on the latest luxury hotel and travel reads, click here.
The post The Conrad Dublin Provides Luxury Accommodations Amidst the City’s Vibrant Culture appeared first on LUXUO.
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Wednesday, May 15, 2024
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Securing Luxury Smart Homes: The Essential Guide to VPNs
Luxury smart homes combine high-end architecture with advanced technology, making everyday tasks more accessible and efficient. In 2021, 43 percent of U.S. households reported owning a smart home device, emphasizing the rapid adoption of this technology.
As you enjoy the seamless convenience of these devices, it’s crucial to prioritize your privacy and security. The incorporation of smart technology in luxury homes is on the rise. It brings state-of-the-art amenities and the need for vigilant protection of your personal information.
The Appeal of Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology offers unmatched convenience and efficiency, transforming daily life. Imagine controlling your home’s climate, lighting, and security systems with your smartphone or voice commands. This technology saves you time and can significantly reduce energy use, optimizing the functionality of your home without sacrificing comfort.
Popular features like automated systems and interconnected devices elevate the living experience in luxury homes. Computerized systems can manage everything from window shades to home theaters, adapting environments to suit your mood or schedule. The trend toward tech-enhanced living spaces continues to grow as more homeowners are embracing technology for a smarter, more intuitive home environment.
Impact of AI on Smart Homes
Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolutionizes smart home technology by enhancing automation and efficiency, making your life simpler and more cost-effective. AI-driven systems in your home can intelligently manage electricity usage to reduce bills.
It also boosts energy efficiency, improving security through advanced surveillance and alert systems. The convenience of automated routines seamlessly integrates into your daily life, from adjusting lighting to preheating ovens.
However, these AI capabilities also bring challenges, particularly in privacy and security. Continuous monitoring and autonomous decision-making by devices could expose personal data or make unintended choices. By balancing these concerns with the benefits, AI presents obstacles and solutions to safeguarding your privacy and fortifying security in luxury smart homes.
Privacy Concerns in Smart Homes
Smart home devices collect data through sensors and user inputs to learn your habits and preferences, enhancing your home’s efficiency and responsiveness. This data automates tasks like adjusting your thermostat or setting your security alarms based on your schedule.
However, collecting such comprehensive data can also expose you to privacy risks. Potential vulnerabilities could lead to cyber attackers compromising your personal information. For instance, 41 percent of smart home users worry about password exploitation and 39 percent about identity theft.
Additionally, specific privacy concerns arise from surveillance and data-sharing practices, where malicious actors can access or share sensitive information without your consent. It underscores the necessity for stringent security measures and vigilant data management in your smart home setup.
Security Risks With Smart Technology
Common security threats in smart homes include hacking and unauthorized access, exposing your personal life and home security to significant risks. Hackers might target vulnerabilities in poorly secured devices to gain control of your home’s systems, including cameras, alarms, smart thermostats, and door locks.
This intrusion threatens your privacy and safety, making robust security protocols essential for any smart home technology. The stakes are high, as evidenced by over 422 million Americans who suffered from data breaches in 2022 alone. These breaches can lead to devastating outcomes, including identity theft, financial loss, and insecurity in what should be your safest place.
Understanding these risks is crucial, pushing you to implement and maintain strong security measures. It includes regular updates and using secure, unique passwords for your devices and networks.
Solutions and Best Practices
Consider integrating advanced protection methods such as Virtual Private Network (VPN) services to enhance your privacy and security in smart homes. Using a VPN on devices such as Fire TV ensures that your streaming and browsing activities are safe from prying eyes.
It is particularly effective in preventing unauthorized access to your internet traffic and securing data from potential cyber threats. IPVanish offers a Fire TV VPN service, providing a tailored solution that enhances your online privacy while allowing for safe and unrestricted access to content.
As a homeowner, adopting best practices is essential for maintaining a secure smart home environment. Ensure a secure home network with strong, unique passwords, and consider regular updates for all connected devices to protect against vulnerabilities.
Additionally, the role of technology providers is crucial. They implement robust security measures in their products and offer timely updates to address new threats. Staying informed and proactive significantly reduces the risk of security breaches and maintains a safe and private home environment.
The Future of Smart Home Technology
The landscape of smart home technology is rapidly evolving. About 15 billion devices are connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) as of 2023, which experts believe will double by 2030. This expansion brings challenges and opportunities in privacy and security.
Researchers continually develop innovations to enhance security measures without compromising the convenience you enjoy. For example, manufacturers integrate more sophisticated encryption techniques and smarter AI-driven security protocols into devices to protect your data and prevent unauthorized access. As technology advances, these improvements can address current privacy concerns effectively, ensuring that your smart home remains a safe and efficient haven.
Staying Secure in the Smart Home Era
Homeowners must stay aware and proactive in safeguarding their smart home against potential privacy and security risks. Stay updated about the latest security technologies and seek the most secure and reliable smart home solutions.
For more on the latest in homes and properties, click here.
The post Securing Luxury Smart Homes: The Essential Guide to VPNs appeared first on LUXUO.
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Vintage Vibes Delivered By The LEGO ICONS Retro Radio Kit
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Tips for Selling Your Luxurious Home
Selling your luxurious home requires a lot of consideration. Unlike regular properties, the market for luxurious homes is limited to those who can afford them. Nonetheless, homeowners looking to sell their homes on a deadline can seek the help of cash buyers. This method gives you more control over the selling process and eliminates commission fees. Below are a few tips for selling your luxurious home:
Set the Right Price
Setting the price is overly important when selling your luxurious property. The selling price directly affects the success and probability of making the sale. Unlike standard properties, luxury homes have unique features and amenities that affect the overall price.
You should use various approaches to determine the perfect price. Start by conducting a market analysis to determine the price of similar units in your region. Check recent sales data of other luxury properties in your area. However, you should consider other factors like square footage and extra amenities when making the comparison.
You should also consider your property’s unique features when setting the price. If this proves challenging, opt for professional appraisals for insights. Pricing your luxury home too low is a loss while overpricing will turn off potential cash buyers.
Market Your Property Effectively
You should also market your luxurious home effectively to attract qualified buyers. Unlike regular properties, luxury homes require a targeted approach to get in front of the few buyers who appreciate the fine details of properties.
The major selling point of your luxurious home is its unique features. You should invest in professional photography and videography to highlight these features. You should also make virtual tours possible. Quality pictures highlight the architectural design and luxurious finishes in your home. These are powerful marketing tools that entice potential buyers.
Visuals aside, you should attach compelling property descriptions and captions to the pictures. Use words to convey the exclusivity of your property to potential buyers. Your marketing description should focus on key selling points like custom craftsmanship or its prestigious location.
Similarly, use multiple marketing channels to ensure it gets to the right audience. Upload the property to luxury real estate websites and social platforms, and run targeted adverts to reach potential New England Home Buyers.
Highlight Unique Features
Luxury homeowners should also highlight the unique features of the property they are selling. This differentiates your property from others on the market. Luxury homes typically boast various distinctive features that contribute to their exclusivity and desirability. You should make these features known to potential buyers.
The best place to begin is to focus on your property’s architectural design. Be it a historic mansion or a custom-built home, showcase your home’s unique architectural style. Luxury homes also have plenty of amenities and luxury finishes that elevate the living experience. Make these lavish fixtures and materials apparent to potential buyers.
Endnote
Selling your luxury home requires a strategic approach. You should focus on the property’s unique aspects while accommodating the preferences of the buyers. Set the right price and emphasize its unique features to attract potential buyers.
For more on the latest in property and luxury home reads, click here.
The post Tips for Selling Your Luxurious Home appeared first on LUXUO.
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Tuesday, May 14, 2024
The TEKTO F2 Bravo Ensures Smooth And Rapid Blade Control
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Luxury Fashion Maisons’ Expression of Craftsmanship & Quality
The devil’s in the details but what defines the perimeters of quality, calibre, and craftsmanship? One interpretation could be obvious design details, signature motifs or hours of work put in from highly-trained ateliers. Or perhaps the visual details that go into a piece — be it the fabrics, stitching, prints or manipulation of leather. The other is a bespoke, one-of-a-kind quality that is not only individual to the Maison but hard to replicate. In fashion terms, this is referred to as the “savoir-faire” or the technical know-how that goes into the creative process of crafting bespoke pieces. LUXUO examines different variations of craftsmanship and calibre through a range of latest offerings from luxury’s biggest fashion houses.
Louis Vuitton The GO-14 Bag
The GO-14 is the culmination of design prowess and artisanal ingenuity. An iteration of one of Nicolas Ghesquière’s first designs — hence its coded name: Ghesquière October 2014 — the bag made its debut at Ghesquière’s first collection as women’s artistic director at Louis Vuitton. The malletage motif brings in the spirit of the Maison’s history for trunk-making, referencing the crisscrossing pattern pads on the inside of trunks.
Read More: Fashion’s Flaunting of Flamboyance & Luxury Has Evolved
Today, the GO-14 comes in the form of a padded lambskin bag, covered in soft malletage with overstitching highlighting the design’s curves and “cushiony” feel. The GO-14 is a feat of skill and is a testament to the brand’s thriving heritage. The creative process requires more than 20 different steps, including the utmost meticulousness on the patina to ensure a satin or toasted finish and to perfect the colour’s subtle gradations. A highly precise technique for depositing the 17-metre-long trim is also needed for the rounded malletage of each GO-14. A more complex savoir-faire is required as compared to traditional quilting. The creation of the GO-14 requires the best of Louis Vuitton’s ateliers’ expertise.
Read More: Glorious Absurdity and Extreme Embellishments Dominate Couture Fashion Week
Valentino Altorilievo
Valentino clues us into their extraordinary savoir-faire of Italian craftsmanship with the unveiling of the Valentino Altorilievo. Altorilievo is a new technique named by Valentino that sees fabric sculpted into three-dimensional creations creating naturalistic forms like Baroque foliage, fruit, flowers and animals that frame the body. The technique is a form of honouring women — built around the body, the wearer becomes an active participant in its design.
Prints executed in grisaille echo these forms as fabrics are sliced away to reveal skin. Throughout the collection, prints of pomegranates, pineapples and flowers usher in a “contemporary renaissance”. On other looks, mythological elements like gryphons and sirens offer a new perspective, while their classic geometrical shapes transform into all-over patterns.
Dior Gravity
Conceived by Kim Jones, Dior Gravity leather features the emblematic Dior Oblique motif. The fruit of excellent savoir-faire, this exceptional material sublimates a selection of models from the Dior Fall 2024 collection, such as the Messenger and the Weekender, as well as a belt and a cardholder.
These graphics are also sketched onto a number of refined shoes, including the B33 and B27 sneakers.
Gucci Horsebit 1953 Loafer
Originally presented in 1953, the Horsebit loafer embodies the essence of equestrian-inspired sophistication. Under Sabato De Sarno’s vision, the Horsebit 1953 loafer emerges as a testament to Gucci’s commitment to reimagining elegance for the modern era. The shoe seamlessly weaves together the past and present, showcasing the loafer’s evolution as a symbol of sporty, casual, and sensual elegance. The double ring and bar, first introduced during the late 1940s as a decorative emblem in Gucci’s collections, draws inspiration from the world of equestrianism — a beloved pursuit among the House’s discerning clientele.
Read More: The Evolution of Haute Couture In The Modern Age
Ralph Lauren RL 888 Bag
Ralph Lauren’s RL 888 collection was named in honour of the brand’s flagship store at 888 Madison Avenue in New York City. The RL 888 Top Handle is inspired by the architecture of Ralph Lauren’s birthplace. Featuring a dual-compartment interior, a top handle, and a removable, adjustable crossbody strap accented by two polished keepers, each bag is exquisitely made by hand and individually constructed in Italy with the highest-quality materials.
Thirty-six pristine pieces of the finest Italian box calfskin are skillfully selected and hand-cut by Florentine artisans to create the body — its aniline finish and firm hand feel aids in the bag’s structured profile —while nappa lambskin serves as the lining. Embodying graceful function with luxurious form, the signature “RL” monogram is reimagined as a sculptural push-lock closure offered in palladium, brass, or champagne finishes. Additional touches, including subtle bombé filling at the flap and hand-painted edges, showcase Ralph Lauren’s commitment to fine details.
Giorgio Armani Bespoke Italian Tailoring
Giorgio Armani’s Made to Measure suits are a study in the fine art of tailoring, combining the world-famous Armani spirit with the exceptional quality of made-to-measure craftsmanship. “I realised that some of my clients wanted a unique product made especially for them. I decided to create a made-to-measure service that offers all the benefits of a tailor-made garment — unique fit, fabric, lining, buttons, and details. The service blends tradition and modernity, combining the art of tailoring with the innovation of a contemporary design studio”, explains the designer. Since its launch, Giorgio Armani Made to Measure has attracted a growing clientele.
Originally only available in a select number of stores around the world, the service can now be found in almost every Giorgio Armani boutique, run by highly specialised dedicated staff. Every element of a suit is meticulously designed from the the lining and style of button to specific silhouette, the type of lapel, pocket positions, single or double-breasted fastening, and the option of a pleated or non-pleated trousers. The final garment is an exclusive suit customised to the customer’s specifications.
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