Switzerland – Chopard launches jewellery on Net-a-Porter

Another luxury brand joins the e-commerce bandwagon. Today, on October 11th, the luxury jeweller and watchmaker Chopard will launch on Net-a-Porter, the global luxury online retailer.

NET-A-PORTER is to launch timeless creations from Chopard’s iconic Happy Diamonds collection. This will comprise jewellery ranging from 18ct rose and white gold pieces including the must-have Happy Hearts collection. The online retailer will also propose the Happy Dreams collection. Inspired by clouds and born upon the gentle wings of fanciful reveries. Also included is the iconic Happy Sport watch, one of the best sellers of Chopard. This model combines steel and moving diamonds in a modern and elegant design.

“We are delighted and excited to be partnering with NET-A-PORTER. Chopard is proud to work alongside such an influential retailer and looks forward to what will no doubt be a great success!” Caroline Scheufele, Co-President Chopard.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/switzerland-chopard-launches-jewellery-on-net-a-porter

India/Switzerland – Favre-Leuba launches iconic Raider Bivouac 9000 in India

Switzerland’s second oldest watch brand, Favre-Leuba celebrated its 280^th anniversary in India with the launch of its iconic timepiece – the Raider Bivouac 9000 on the 12^th October, 2017 at the Trident Hotel, BKC in Mumbai. The Raider Bivouac 9000 is indeed the ultimate instrument for all altitudes. It is the first mechanical wristwatch capable of measuring altitudes of upto 9000 meters above sea level. Until recently, this was thought to be technically impossible.

In 1962, when Favre-Leuba launched the world’s first mechanical wristwatch capable of measuring air pressure and altitudes of upto 3000 meters above sea level, the reliability and precision of this watch, and the fact that it was easy to use and read, quickly made it popular with mountain climbers, pilots, explorers. The Raider Bivouac 9000 is an homage to its legendary 1962 namesake, and still measures altitude with the aid of an aneroid barometer.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/favre-leuba-launches-iconic-raider

India – Top7 gifts to give this festive season

Much of the joy of the festival flows from exchanging beautiful gifts. Here are a few great special packages for the Diwali season from these mega brands.

Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old limited edition pack

A great gift for the spirited season is the Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old.Carefully matured in the finest American oak and European oak sherry casks for at least 12 years, it is mellowed in oak marrying tuns to create its sweet and subtle oak flavours. With a unique freshness from the same Highland spring water used since 1887, its distinctive fruitiness comes from the high cut point William Grant always insisted upon. Creamy with a long, smooth and mellow finish, 12-Year-Old is the perfect example of Glenfiddich’s unique Speyside style and is widely proclaimed the best dram in the valley.When it comes to finding the perfect gift, there’s nothing better than bonding over a bottle of Glenfiddich 12-year-old, the world’s most awarded single malt!

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/top-7-gifts-to-give-this-festive-season

India/Italy –‘Garini Immagina’ showcases Italian lux weddings at Vivanta by Taj Ambassador

Italy is the ultimate wedding destination, and Indians are more ready than ever to get married in romantic Italian vistas. In a bid to inform the denizens of Delhi about how it could be done, Angelo Garini, a bespoke wedding planner, travelled all the way from Milan to New Delhi. At an event organized by Madhavi Advani for ‘Garini Immagina’ at the Vivanta by Taj-Ambassador, New Delhi, Angelo met with the members of the Indian wedding industry and some media.. In keeping with the adage of ‘When in Rome’, Angelo showed up elegantly dressed in Kurta and Pajama, looking every bit an Indian.

He interacted with the audience, and gave a detailed presentation about the logistics of hosting high-end weddings efficiently. Angelo has organized several prestigious events too for celebrities like David Guetta, Naomi Cambell, Duchess of York and more. The videos of past wedding events organized by ‘Garini Immagina’ were truly impressive.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/gariniimmagina-showcases-italian-lux-weddings-at-vivanta-by-taj

Italy – Fendi celebrates its bond with Cinema with exhibition FENDI STUDIO in Rome

Italian fashion house Fendi, which is internationally known for its fur, ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, fragrances, eyewear, timepieces  et al, has decided to celebrate its long-lasting bond with the world of Cinema through an exhibition which explores in a digitally and immersive way the relationship between FENDI and the Cinema. Entitled FENDI STUDIOS, the exhibition will be held at Fendi’s new headquarters in Rome, Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana. The exhibition will be open to the public with free admission from 27 October 2017 to 25 March 2018.

For the occasion of the exhibition, the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana will be turned into different cinema studios composed by a series of interactive movie stages including also a real cinema. Speaking on the occasion Silvia Venturini Fendi, Creative Director for Accessories, Menswear and Kidswear at FENDI said, “Cinema has always been an important part of our family life and of our brand. Indeed, FENDI has always had a deep bond with Cinecittà. As part of the creative and artistic side of Rome, the Fendi sisters have been involved in collaborations which today can be considered groundbreaking. Approached by world famous costume designers, such as Piero Tosi and Milena Canonero, they created furs and costumes for memorable cinema productions. We have worked alongside the greatest directors of yesterday and today, from Luchino Visconti to Wes Anderson, from Martin Scorsese to Giuseppe Tornatore, and we still continue to do so. This exhibition is a way of celebrating in a very innovative way a relationship based on affinities and nourished by the desire to experiment, to tell stories and to make dreams come true.”

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/fendi-celebrates-its-bond-with-cinema-with-exhibition

Myanmar – Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon destroyed by fire

The luxury hotel Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon was engulfed in flames in the wee hours on 19^th October. The cause of the fire is being attributed to electrical sparks. As per reports, one person was killed and several injured.

The beautiful Kandawgyi Palace Hotel, located on the banks of the Kandawgyi Lake in Myanmar, was previously the site of the Rangoon Rowing Club. Having lived out its various avataars, in 1993 it was designed in the spirit of golden-teak Thai architecture. It is being operated by Htoo Group of Companies. Burmese business tycoon TayZa is the Chairman of Htoo Group of Companies, Myanmar.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/kandawgyi-palace-hotel-in-yangon-destroyed-by-fire

India – PVR Cinema’s launch PVR PRIVELGE

The film exhibition company PVR Cinemas is celebrating its 20^th year in business by introducing a digital loyalty program, PVR Privilege. The plan was unveiled at PVR Director’s Cut at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj in New Delhi. At present PVR Cinemas dominates the movie hall segment with a user base of 75 million, at its 600 screens in 131 properties across India. Under this loyalty program, members earn an array of first class redemption opportunities and enhanced benefits. To support the launch of PVR Privilege, PVR is offering Food & Beverage vouchers of the same value as the activation fee, so that the membership is at zero cost to new members pan India.

The PVR Privilege program is supposedly India’s first fully digital cinema loyalty program and offers the following consumer privileges and benefits:

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/pvr-cinemas-launch-pvr-privelge

KHEER - at Roseate House, Aerocity

By Neelima Agrawal with Keerat Bawa

“Food, glorious Food” is the ditty playing in one’s head at Kheer, the newly opened Indian fine-dining restaurant at Roseate House in Aerocity. Good wholesome fare, served in ample portions sans mist and fog and whistles. We were happy to note that the Chefs at Kheer have steered clear of the current fad of artistic gastronomy, designed to entertain the visual rather than feed a hungry diner. Kheer offers north Indian cuisines, including popular street food from around Delhi.

The interiors of Kheer are strikingly beautiful, with stone carved geometric and floral panels on walls. Ankur Bhatia commissioned the well-known Japanese designer Noriyoshi Muramatsu, founder of Studio Glitt to do up the interiors for this new fine dining destination. Muramatsu has also designed the beautiful interiors of Zuma in New York and all its nine international locations. The large spaces in Kheer can accommodate 224 seats, which are divided in three distinctive areas, separate private dining area and a live kitchen. Suitably bedazzled by the décor, we looked forward to experiencing what the chef had to offer. And happily, were not disappointed at all. There is something really comforting about having a meal that flows with the clarity of the familiar, yet tantalizing in that it notches up the flavors to perfection. This was all about something as simple as mixing great food with great service, which often gets entangled in other parameters and misses the bus – so to speak...

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/kheer-roseate-house

Taj Palace Hotel now renamed as Taj Diplomatic Enclave

As part of the initiative to refresh the  brand architecture for Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris, the Taj Palace, New Delhi will now be rechristened as Taj Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi. This change became effective from 1st September, 2017.

The hotel has undergone a huge renovation exercise and renewed not just its name but also, the rooms and suites that reflect the ageless elegance of Lutyens. Expect to find authentic and exciting food concepts served at the Spicy Duck and the nostalgic flavors of Capital Kitchen.

A new Tajness ritual has been introduced alongside, which we are yet to discover.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/taj-palace-hotel-now-renamed-as-taj-diplomatic-enclave

Carl F. Bucherer Opens its First Boutique in home town Lucerne

The town of Lucerne was abuzz with much fanfare when the global watch brand Carl F. Bucherer decided to honour its roots, and open its first T Boutique here. It was in Lucerne that the founder Carl Friedrich Bucherer first set up shop in 1888, nearly 130 years ago. The interior exudes understated luxury, accentuated by the golden elements of the brand logo, launched in 2016, and the brand imagery that also reflects the cosmopolitan nature of the city of Lucerne.

The new boutique is located in one of Lucerne’s historic buildings. At the inauguration of the boutique, just for one night the traditional facade was transformed into a vertical stage for the opening ceremony. The building was draped in golden curtains, concealing it from view, until a group of musicians, also positioned behind the curtains on the balcony, began playing the opening notes of a classical score. The musicians’ increasing fanfare was the cue for the curtains to be drawn back, revealing the boutique in all its glory. Owner Jörg G. Bucherer,representing the third generation of the Bucherer family at the helm of the company, CEO Sascha Moeri and Global Ambassador Li Bingbing then stepped forward to cut the ribbon and declare the boutique officially open.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/carl-f-bucherer-opens-its-first-boutique

France –Maison Hennessy anoints Renaud Fillioux De Gironde as 8th Master Blender

The Cognac house Jas Hennessy & Co, which is based in Cognac in France,marked an important milestone in its history. Its 7th Master Blender, Yann Fillioux, has passed the torch of know-how and cognac creation to his nephew, Renaud Fillioux de Gironde, the 8th generation in a lineage that has remained unbroken for more than two centuries.

A 39 year-old Cognac native, Renaud Fillioux de Gironde has already completed a comprehensive journey at Hennessy. Previously the Winegrower Relations Manager, a key position for ensuring raw material supply, he has been groomed for the role of Master Blender by his uncle for more than fifteen years.

Chairman and CEO of Hennessy Bernard Peillon said, “As CEO and President of Hennessy, my obsession is to guarantee the excellence of Hennessy cognacs just as my predecessors have done. After 15 years of preparation, Renaud, with the support of the experts of the Tasting Committee, is now a part of the Maison Hennessy’s future.” 

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/maison-hennessy-anoints-renaud-fillioux-de-gironde-as-8th-master-blender

Wendell Rodricks Lakme Fashion Week(LFW)

It takes a lot of creativity to stay in the fashion business for nearly three decades and keep designing collections that are not only hot sellers but are different each season with a new angle and interesting inspirations. Wendell Rodricks who started his career in 1988 has made media headlines every time he has sent a collection out on the ramp. The reason being – he designs with great thought and care keeping the man and woman who is his buyer in mind and has always aimed to present timeless garments that can be in fashion season after season.

I have a garment designed by him in 2001 and when I wear it in 2017 it looks just right for the season and the year.  But Wendell is a very democratic designer. He may dress the reed thin models on the ramp but he has made his buyers who could be teens, their mothers/fathers, and even senior citizens all suddenly turn into fashionistas when they step into Wendell’s garments.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/a-plus-for-wendell-rodricks

London – Harrods’ show windows to display Gucci’s enchanted garden through August

The Italian fashion house Gucci and the iconic London store Harrods, have entered into a collaboration, where through the entire month of August, Gucci will bring its botanical bounty to Harrods, taking over windows, display areas and digital channels.

The brand partnership will be evident both inside and outside the store. The sixteen windows facing the Brompton Road, as well as interior installations, will bring two exclusive Gucci stories to life – the launch of the first fragrance under the new creative direction, Gucci Bloom, and the arrival of the innovative House DIY programme. Visually, the window displays will be connected through the memorable motifs associated with the Gucci Garden.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/harrods-show-windows-to-display-guccis-enchanted

Rich Heritage of Silver Filigree & Depleting Craftsman Count

‘To harness a silvery moonbeam and weave it into a delicate lace of intricate patterns’ – comes close to describing the beauty of a filigree artifact. Created with only the purest silver or gold, the magician is the craftsman, whose nimble fingers, guided by his heritage handed down father to son, brings to life ethereal creations coveted by the kings and nobility.

Indian’s wealth lies in its rich heritage of crafts that rests in the hands of the few who inherited the secrets and techniques whispered into their ears even before they left the cradle.
http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/rich-heritage-of-silver

Rich Heritage of Silver Filigree & Depleting Craftsman Count

‘To harness a silvery moonbeam and weave it into a delicate lace of intricate patterns’ – comes close to describing the beauty of a filigree artifact. Created with only the purest silver or gold, the magician is the craftsman, whose nimble fingers, guided by his heritage handed down father to son, brings to life ethereal creations coveted by the kings and nobility.

Indian’s wealth lies in its rich heritage of crafts that rests in the hands of the few who inherited the secrets and techniques whispered into their ears even before they left the cradle.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/rich-heritage-of-silver

Ferns N Petals opens its first exclusive wedding hotel UDMAN

The premium Indian florist brand of yore, Ferns N Petals (FNP), has launched its first wedding hotel and retreat complex UDMAN. Located on NH-8, the 14 acre property has taken into account the requirements of a traditional Indian wedding. Spacious and well-appointed zones for each ceremony, such as air-conditioned banquet hall, a poolside lawn, a glass-house with a distinct European feel, well landscaped exterior facade give a one-stop solution. The F & B solutions are provided by the Seasons Group, who has aligned with the wedding hotel.

A grand launch was organized at the venue, where the UDMAN presented its classic-royal-vintage theme wedding ambiance and glamour, along with the catering by Season’s Group.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/ferns-n-petals-opens-its-first-exclusive-wedding

The Oberoi, New Delhi to open ahead of schedule in January 2018

Much awaited and much missed, The Oberoi, New Delhi, which had closed down for renovation in April, 2016, is ready to open its doors to public in January 2018, a full three months ahead of schedule. In a statement made at the 67^th Annual General Meeting of EIH Limited (the flagship Company of The Oberoi Group) held in Kolkata on 2^nd August, 2017, Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi, the Executive Chairman said, “The Oberoi, New Delhi was originally scheduled to open in early April, 2018 after complete renovation. The progress on site has been very satisfactory and the new hotel is likely to open in January, 2018.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/oberoi-new-delhi-to-open-ahead-of-schedule-in-january 

ANAHATA - Bringing the Sheen Back to Filigree

It seems a wonder that something as beautiful as a Filigree object d’ art or jewelry should have faded from the collective psyche of the connoisseurs. It is a rare craft,honed and refined for millennia by a tribe of craftsman, who generations after generation have been doing nothing else but just this. The outcome is this beautiful dancing peacock, every single feather of its tail detailed in delicate silver wires of different thickness, curled and twisted in perfect symmetry, the wings and torso, the long neck covered in a lattice of leaves, floral motifs. This heirloom may belie its age, for it is not from the collection of a Royal of yore. This work of fine craftsmanship is from Anahata’s eclectic filigree offerings.

In a bid to revive the ancient heritage and its keepers, the craftsman, Anahata has brought the spot light back on filigree. Positioned as an ubér luxury brand,Anahata is bringing back the excellence in design and finish, so that the end product is of the same standard and beauty as that which was once coveted by kings and Nizams. For instance the Silver and Gold Ladies Clutch, with its expansive latticework, took 112 hours to finish. Two master artisans worked relentlessly to create this beautiful design and lace in silver and gold.

to view full news : http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/anahata

India – YFLO hosts interactive session with actor Jackie Shroff at The Lalit New Delhi

The Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO) organized a very entertaining afternoon with the Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff at The Lalit New Delhi.The interactive session, ‘Up, Close and Personal’ was very capably anchored by Aanchal Sethi, Chairperson of YFLO, who was in her elements as she engaged in easy banter and next asked penetrating questions, ending it up with a rapid fire round.

Actor Jackie Shroff, aka Jai KishanShroff, has a career span of over three decades, with a repertoire of 207 films. Watching the man in action up close, we are not surprised that he has continued to remain the heart-throb and continues to have a huge fan following. The most endearing feature of any well-known person who has tasted success and wealth, is his humility, and never forgetting his roots.MrShroff won more hearts when he got off the dais to go up to a member of the audience who was not audible enough.  He spoke at length about his journey from his humble beginnings at Teen Batti to the heights of stardom, his mother, his wife, his star son Tiger Shroff and more.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/yflo-hosts-interactive-session-with-jackie-shrof

Rich Heritage of Silver Filigree

&

Depleting Craftsman Count

‘To harness a silvery moonbeam and weave it into a delicate lace of intricate patterns’ – comes close to describing the beauty of a filigree artifact. Created with only the purest silver or gold, the magician is the craftsman, whose nimble fingers, guided by his heritage handed down father to son, brings to life ethereal creations coveted by the kings and nobility.

Indian’s wealth lies in its rich heritage of crafts that rests in the hands of the few who inherited the secrets and techniques whispered into their ears even before they left the cradle.

ANTIQUITY

Historians have attributed the advancement and mastery of the filigree craft to Egyptians, Greeks and Etruscans around 6 BC to 3 BC. In Mesopotamia, filigree workmanship in silver and gold, is prevalent to day and their ‘Telkari’ jewellery is known for its delicate designs.

However, archaeologists have dug up interesting evidence of a highly evolved filigree making technique dating 2 BC to 2 AD, from Peddabunkur, Kotlingala, Dhulikata and Kondapur in Andhra Pradesh. Over the years, outside influences played into the designs. The Portuguese, who produce fine filigree objects d’ art, may have swapped ideas, and exchanged influences with the Karimnagar craftsmen. The silver filigree work of Cuttack in Orissa is known as ‘Tarakashi’, and shares similarities with Indonesian silver art. The early trade links between the regions could have led to the swap in ideas. South Indonesia’s Kandari Filigree is likely to have been influenced by the Arab, Persian and Indian traders sailing into the ports. It’s a round world...

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/rich-heritage-of-silver

India – Lower Taxes to Bolster Growth, says Mercedes-Benz

New Delhi: July 23rd, 2017 Articulating the long standing concerns of the luxury auto segment in India, German Auto Giant Mercedes Benz made a call for lower taxation rates, stressing on the dual benefits of job creation and higher tax collections from the segment, should such a move be implemented. In conversation with PTI, Mercedes Benz India Managing Director and CEO Roland Folger

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/lower-taxes-to-bolster-growth

India – Shantanu & Nikhil’s A/W 17 Couture line inspired by Military regalia

The Delhi based designers Shantanu & Nikhil presented their Autumn/Winter 2017 collection at The Imperial New Delhi on the 15th of July, in association with Swarovski. Inspired by the vintage regalia of the military uniform, the collection was titled ‘The Regiment’.

Men in uniform always look dashing, and the effect was suitably achieved even as the men’s wear line complimented the women’s wear with equal élan. With a dramatic underplay of colonial regime, and the valorous soldiers of the INA, the headgear was a constant, adorned as it was with Swarovski crystal studded broaches and chains on berets, caps, turbans. The Chinese collar and Bandgalaa jackets dominated the look. Smart single-breast pea jacket, a fur bolero, majorette inspired tops and bodices over gowns and skirts, uneven hems, layering, a return of the churidaar after a long gap, leather belts, boots, embroideries in thread and wire. Was it zardozi, couldn’t tell, even from the close quarters of the front row.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/shantanu-nikhils-aw-17-couture-line-inspired-by-military-regalia

India – Lite Bite Food opens Punjab Grill Tappa in Cyber Hub Gurugram

Dining out has become the most popular activity, and the new kid on the block, Punjab Grill Tappa, has already created a buzz with its arrival at Cyber Hub in Gurgaon. This is a peppier and trendier version of the Punjab Grill, targeted at the millennial. In synch with the current trends for experiential dining, the Punjab Grill Tappa has an in-house tapas bar, classic dishes paired with eclectic salads and innovative side dishes and novel concepts like ‘salsa on dhol’ nights.

The newest addition by Lite Bite Foods, Punjab Grill Tappa stands offers classy exteriors and a comfortable outdoor seating, a long bar and ‘achaar tapas’ space which runs along the length of the interiors and is done in stylish geometric black and white setting. The décor marries a lot of old school and modern elements and draws inspiration from global trends.

Punjab Grill Tappais offering North Indian cuisine with an innovative, contemporary flair and a healthy twist. The starters menu under ‘Rock and Dhol Chaalats’ feature signature items such as Watermelon Slider with Crisp Palak and Local Sprouts, Almond & Cucumber Koshimbirand Shrimp &PameloChaat with Ginger and AmbiPanna Glaze. The appetizers also feature some unusual dishes such as Aampapad with Lettuce wrapped Kurkuri, Tandoori Norwegian Salmon and a healthy version of ChikkenTikka marinated with non-dairy green herb. Pair the Rum-soaked raisin & palak churchurnaan with some Indian classics like Punjab Grill Dal Makhni or stick with the guilt-free healthy 5 Grain Roti, there is ample choice.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/lite-bite-food-opens-punjab-grill-tappa-in-cyber-hub-gurugram

India – Korean Cuisine at Hahn’s Kitchen in Gurgaon

Iki Tada visited the Korean restaurant, Hahn’s Kitchen, located in One Horizon Centre in Gurgaon. Part of the Lite Bite Foodsbouquet, the restaurant is run by the charming couple Hyong Yung Cho and her husband Patrick Hahn. Ms Tada returned a little more informed about the Korean Food Culture in India.

Here’s her report – I found myself learning how to make Gimjang or Kimjang, aKorean pickled vegetable dish made in winter. It involved digging up cabbages, which are then stored in an unheated shack, to be cut, brined and seasoned as part of this autumnal ritual. This ritualistic act is akin to making kimchi the very old-fashioned way. Insane quantities of chives, shredded daikon radish, green onions and a broth made from Kombu, dried Pollock and anchovies are mixed with the pungent sauce of fermented shrimp, fish sauce, salt and a crimson Korean red pepper called Gochugaru.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/korean-cuisine-at-hahns-kitchen-in-gurgaon

India – Plaza Premium Lounge celebrates festive tradition of Cake Mixing Ceremony for Christmas

Reporting from the Plaza Premium Lounge located deep inside the T3 terminal of Indira Gandihi International Airport, which marked the beginning of Christmas festivities with the age old traditional ‘Cake mixing ceremony’ across all its India locations. Chopped dried fruit, nuts and spices are mixed together with a heady combination of wine and drinks.

The festivity at the Delhi Airport Lounge was led by Chef Ankit Mangla, Executive Chef for Plaza Premium Lounge India.  The Chef along with his team and members of the Premium Plaza Lounge was joined by  Mohan Limbu, Country Manager, Plaza Premium Lounge, India who lend a helping hand in mixing the cake to kick start the happiness for the coming festive season. The occasion was also graced by team members from various Airlines at the airport.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/india-plaza-premium-lounge-celebrates-festive-tradition-of-cake-mixing-ceremony-for-christmas

Italy – Canali SS’18 Collection for men inspire by impeccable traveler

The news from Milan is that the Italian luxury menswear brand Canali has revealed the look of its Spring-Summer 2018 line. The theme is dedicated to the Impeccable Traveler, and appropriate for business, also befitting those pleasure activities that demand a dress-code of ‘smart casual’.

The apparel is made of a fabric created exclusively for Canali, Impeccabile 2.0, a fabric created exclusively for Canali. Soft and responsive, Impeccabile 2.0 is made from an ultra-fine wool whose fibers measure a mere 17.5 microns and are twisted twice as many times as traditional threads, creating an unprecedented level of elasticity that is also completely natural. The fineness of the weave creates micro-spaces that render the material exceptionally lightweight and breathable. Lastly, a special finishing makes the textile resistant to water and stains while any eventual creases are evened out by the wearer’s natural body warmth. This innovative material is found in suits, blazers and formal pants in addition to sportswear styles, which, thanks to internal membranes, become completely water-proof and insulated.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/canali-ss18-collection-for-men

2017 Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge Mediterranean Circuit

Blue skies, reflected on the flat sea of the Mediterranean, a steady breeze filling up the sails at 20 knots – against this backdrop, the 13^th edition of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge Mediterranean Circuit hit a high note at the charming French Riviera town of Antibes, where the first of the four events that make up this circuit, Les Voiles d’ Antibes took place from 31^st May to 4^th June 2017.This was followed by the Argentario Sailing Week, which took place in Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany from 14^th to 18^th June 2017.

The entire calendar of the Mediterranean Circuit of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge (PCYC) wraps up by end September, and takes place in Italy, France and Spain.

The dates of the four events are as follows.

• Les Voiles d’Antibes 31 May – 4 June 2017
• Argentario Sailing Week 14 – 18 June 2017
• Mahon, XIV Copa del Rey de Barcos de Epoca 29 August – 2 September 2017
• RégatesRoyales, Cannes September 26 – 30 September 2017

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/panerai-classic-yachts-challenge

India – FDCI’s 10th India Couture Week 2017 to take place from July 24-30 in Delhi

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) has announced the dates for its 10^th India Couture Week 2017, which will be held over 7 days, from 24^th to 30^th July, 2017, at Taj Palace Hotel. Some of the designers may show at offsite locations across Delhi. The names of 14 participating designers who will showcase their lines are –

• Anamika Khanna
• Anita Dongre
• Anju Modi
• Gaurav Gupta
• Manav Gangwani
• Manish Malhotra
• Monisha Jaising
• Rahul Mishra
• ReynuTaandon
• Rina Dhaka
• Rohit Bal
• Shyamal & Bhumika
• Tarun Tahiliani
• Varun Bahl

Sunil Sethi, President FDCI said, “This is a momentous year for us, 10 years of Couture Week has been an incredible journey, which has been the only event in the country to offer a prestigious platform to couturiers to showcase their talent in offering irrepressible indulgence. The journey would not have been possible without the support of board members and the FDCI team. We look forward to presenting many more editions of this magical event as we take it to a new high with seven days.”

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/fdci-india-couture-week-2017

Germany – IWC Schaffhausen opens second German boutique in the heart of Munich

The Swiss watchmaking company IWC Schaffhausen launched its second German boutique in Munich on 28 June 2017. The new boutique is located in the recently renovated building at Residenzstraße 13, close to Munich’s Opera House. The historic building underwent year-long construction and renovations prior to opening. The 226 square meter boutique is spread across two floors. The modern chic interiors display soft beige hues and dark wooden accents, and feature a bar, a corner fireplace, a relaxed seating area for lounging around at leisure.

To commemorate the occasion, IWC unveiled the special-edition Portugieser Chronograph Rattrapante Edition “Boutique Munich”. Limited to 250 watches, this exclusive timepiece will initially be available for purchase only at the Munich boutique. On the reverse side, the case of this watch is engraved with Munich’s Frauenkirche church. The blue and red colour scheme at the event was inspired by the blue dial and red hands of the commemorative watch. Each IWC watch has its own story – one that is deeply rooted in the company’s history that goes back almost 150 years. The watch makers sought their inspiration from the rich history and legendry figures, such as Leonardo da Vinci, history of early seafaring and flying, stories from diving or adventurous expeditions, keeping alive the storytelling tradition of IWC. Every individual who owns an IWC Schaffhausen watch will identify with this.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/iwc-schaffhausen-opens-second-german-boutique

Italy - Gucci announces its new limited-edition book, Hortus Sanitatis

The Italian luxury label Gucci has announced the launch of the latest in its occasional series of limited-edition publications titled Hortus Sanitatis (Latin for ‘The Garden of Health’). The name is inspired by the first natural history encyclopaedia that was published in 1948 in Mainz, Germany.Priced at £75, ¥12,500, $95 and € 85, the title will be sold as of 5th July, and will be launched at the Comme des Garçons Trading Museum at 54 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris with a book signing event that evening.

Predominantly a pictorial showcase of the Gucci pre-fall 2017 collection, it is shot by one of London’s most influential club and street photographers, Derek Ridgers. The book takes the form of a series of informal pictures of models accompanied by animals such as cats and snakes. The shooting took place in Rome, and its historical spaces that have remained untouched for centuries, such as the old apothecary Antica Spezieria di Santa Maria dellaScala; a beautiful library Biblioteca Angelica,which is filled with rare, ancient manuscripts, and Antica Libreria Cascianelli, a sprawling archive of books and pieces of art. 

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/gucci-announces-new-limited-edition-book-hortus-sanitatis

Switzerland – Chopard launches RIHANNA ♥ CHOPARD Joaillerie collection

The Barbadian pop-icon Rihana has expanded her talent showcase by collaborating with the Swiss luxury jewelry and watch Maison, Chopard to create the RIHANNA ♥ CHOPARD Joaillerie collection. Already well known globally in her various avatars as a Singer, songwriter, fashion designer, model and actress, Chopard found Rihana the right fit for their latest RIHANNA ♥ CHOPARD Joaillerie collection, which captures her unique vision and spirit.

Rihanna and Chopard Co-President and Creative Director, Caroline Scheufele, worked closely together to combine their creativity and passion to develop the RIHANNA ♥ CHOPARD Joaillerie collection. The outcome is a blend of both their personalities of urban chic with classic glamour.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/chopard-launches-rihanna-chopard-joaillerie-collection

Why is Wendell Sizing up Indians?

by Meher Castelino

Wendell Rodricks is doing what should have been undertaken by the leading Fashion bodies like FDCI or a Fashion Institute such as NIFT. And that is creating a size chart specific to Indian body type. We are already familiar with the problematic issues when buying a US or UK brand of clothing, where the Indian hip size or arm and collar sizes never sit perfectly in proportion.

The globetrotting designer who sits ensconced in Goa, hit the right note and for a first in India, has created the Indian Women’s Size Chart, which is being launched at the upcoming Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2016. In a Q & A exclusively with The Luxury Chronicle, Wendell Rodricks shares the details of his long years of research. (scroll down to see chart)

Please tell us when this idea occurred to you?I have had this concept in my head for decades. But it needed honing. When Lakmé agreed to spread the word, I went ahead this season

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/why-is-wendell-sizing-up-indians

IWC Schaffhausen’s ode to French pilot Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Let’s first talk about the IWC Schaffhausen’s tradition of watch families, such as the Pilot’s Watches, Portuguese, Ingenieur, Aquatimer, Da Vinci and Portofino. The latest addition to the Pilot’s watches family is the special edition watch to honour the French pilot and author Antoine de Saint- Exupery, a World War 2 veteran and the author of many books, who lived to for just 44 years and wrote the classic story ‘The Little Prince’.

The new pilot’s family watch has a tobacco brown dial and a brown calfskin strap with decorative white stitching: these are the most important distinguishing features of the watch. Now, two classics from the Pilot’s Watch family are available in the distinctive Saint Exupéry look for the first time: the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph and the Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII. IWC is also unveiling a new model of the Pilot’s Watch Automatic 36 with a brown dial.

Antoine de Saint- Exupery flights. The numerals and hands on the clearly structured dial feature luminous coatings to ensure good legibility, even at night-time. And with the second innovation, the Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII Edition “Antoine de Saint  Exupéry”, the Saint Exupéry family is gaining another new member in the form of the Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/schaffhausens-ode-to-french-pilot-antoine-de-saint-exupery

Anti-fit: The Hottest Silhouette trend on Runways

The silhouette that has been all the rage on fashion runways, this season and several previous seasons, is the anti-fit look. No marks for guessing why, particularly for the denizens of this warm sub-continent. A lose outfit that drapes gently, quietly accommodates the fluctuating sizes and bulges, has room for air to circulate and breath, sans the pinch and cinch of a fitted outfit, lends itself to be the hottest look of the season.

The history of fashion, as was recorded in Europe, never took into account the discomfort quotient. At the time when women chose to be smothered in impossible body crushing bodices and men wore tights in the pre-lycra era, traditional Indian apparel was all about anti-fit, with stylish drapes and breathable natural fabrics. The fashion scape globally is more mature now. Dress-to-please-yourself is the thing to be rather than the need to adhere to anything that is about body-shaming or that which is uncomfortable.We bring Meher Castelino’s pick of anti-fit designs from Lakme Fashion Week’s Spring-Summer 2017 and select looks from Amazon India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2017. Meher points out that in the 90’s the anti-fit wave was very strong in western fashion thanks to the rise of the Japanese designers who flooded the fashion world with their Zen like silhouettes but India did not follow them so strongly although a few designers like Wendell Rodricks moved into the anti-fit zone with his Goaninspired  resort wear, which suited this look.

Lakme Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2017

India – Lodi and Glenfiddich pair Walk-in-the-Park with Whisky Tastings

A whisky-walk sounds like a contradiction in terms that the propensity to walk the straight line is indirectly proportional to the quantum of Patiala pegs down the hatch. In sum, it was actually Walk first Whisky later kind of evening. Organized by India City Walks,it was first encounter for many in the group, with the heritage tombs of Muhammed Shah and Sikander Lodi in the beautiful namesake garden. A very engaging concept, where the first part was cut short in view of the late hours and dusk having descended a tad early.

The more relaxing segment dedicated to Glenfiddich single malts was led by Anchal Kaushal from Liquid Sunshine, who introduced the Glenfiddich 12-year old, 15-year old and 18-year old whisky. Lodi – The Garden Restaurant paired with a few rounds of canapés.

The interactive session had the audience paying more attention to the golden liquid than the conversation, which progressively got more animated. Anchal talked and quizzed, tasting notes, peaty? Woody? ‘Guess this scent’, clove? Fun. Last round of votes – my personal favourite was the Glenfiddich 18YO Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Full bodies, nutty, fruity, sherry aftertaste. Anchal recommended a splash of water to release the other more complex flavours. Hmm, I am happier without the H2O.

http://www.theluxurychronicle.com/lodi-and-glenfiddich-pair-walk-in-the-park-with-whisky-tastings