Sophisticated Spectra

Become James Bond with the New Playmobil Aston Martin DB5 for Just $55

July 25, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Charlotte Sinclair

Playmobil's New Aston Martin DB5: A Must-Have for Every James Bond Fan

Kiyomi, the Japanese Artist Breathing Life into Vintage Miniatures

July 26, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

Japanese artist Kiyomi is reshaping the landscape of miniature art with her meticulously crafted vintage-style dollhouse roomboxes and accessories. This isn't your typical dollhouse furniture assembly – Kiyomi's creations are bursting with personality, rich detail, and an almost tangible sense of history.

Notre-Dame de Paris Gets a Makeover by French Designer Guillaume Bardet

July 30, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

The Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the world's most iconic cathedrals, is slated for a major restoration, set to be completed by the end of 2024. The restoration will incorporate a new design by French designer Guillaume Bardet, who has created a cohesive ensemble of interior elements that includes an altar, cathedra, seats, baptistery, and tabernacle.

Gaetano Bellei: The Grandparents and the Fine Art of Emotional Portraiture

Aug. 3, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

Gaetano Bellei (1857-1922), an Italian genre and portrait painter, is renowned for his distinctive style, bringing subjects to life with a finesse that made his works exceptionally vibrant and evocative. One of his compelling works, 'The Grandparents', stands as a testament to his ability to delve into the human psyche and present it masterfully on canvas.

Marie Lecluze Designs a Farmhouse with Iconic Belgian Style

Aug. 10, 2023 in Design & Décor by Charlotte Sinclair

Renowned designer Marie Lecluze has recently taken on a project that epitomizes Belgian design, transforming an 1800s farmhouse into a contemporary marvel. By using decorative plaster to add texture and depth to the walls and maximizing natural light with expansive windows, she has created a space that is both elegant and inviting.

Vanishing Legacy: The Unique Soviet Mosaics

Aug. 15, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

In the heart of the former Soviet Union, colossal art pieces adorning building facades and metro stations whisper tales of a bygone era. These are the Soviet mosaics, monumental artworks that once shimmered with pride, illustrating the ethos and ideals of a powerful nation.

Fore-edge Painting: The Hidden Art of Book Decoration

Aug. 17, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

The Allure of Hidden Beauty: Fore-edge Painting

KAWS' Largest Creation Yet: A Giant Pink Bunny in Indonesia's Prambanan

Aug. 20, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

Internationally celebrated artist, KAWS, known for his larger-than-life sculptures and iconic characters, has marked his latest stop in Indonesia. The chosen venue is nothing short of iconic – the Prambanan Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Nolinkski Hotel Opens in Venice's Historic Stock Exchange Building

Aug. 21, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Nestled in the heart of Venice, in the historic stock exchange building erected in 1929, the latest offering from French luxury brand Nolinkski has opened its doors. The building, now a designated historical monument, is reimagined as a hotel radiating the opulence and elegance of a bygone era.

Rome Cavalieri: A Blend of Nostalgic Grandeur and Modern Art

Aug. 23, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Let's chat about the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Once known as the Hilton, this iconic spot might not scream "modern luxury" to every traveler, and its late modernist façade might not make every architecture enthusiast's heart race. But there's one undeniable charm: its breathtaking view of the Eternal City from atop the Monte Mario hill. A throwback to the unapologetic, old-school opulence of the mid-20th century, it's a trip down luxury lane.

Lili St. Cyr: The Queen of Burlesque

Aug. 24, 2023 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

Lili St. Cyr was a prominent American burlesque stripteaser and actress, born Marie Frances Van Schaack on June 3, 1918, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, becoming one of the highest-paid performers of her time. She was a trailblazer, turning the art of striptease into a more refined and theatrical endeavor. She was often seen as a "classier" alternative to her more flamboyant contemporaries like Gypsy Rose Lee and Sally Rand.

Lancôme Unveils Luxurious Louvre-Inspired Beauty Collection for 2023

Aug. 28, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Charlotte Sinclair

If you've been waiting for a beauty collaboration that fuses art, history, and luxury, then Lancôme has something extraordinary in store for you. The iconic beauty brand has partnered with none other than the Louvre Museum for a Renaissance-inspired collection that promises to take your beauty game to new artistic heights.

Santiago Calatrava’s St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Illuminates New York City

Sept. 1, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

In an incredible oversight, many might have missed the opening of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church near the World Trade Center in New York City last December. Designed by celebrated architect Santiago Calatrava, this remarkable edifice stands as an aesthetic and spiritual marvel in the heart of the city. As they say, better late than never, and the architectural wonder is definitely worth the attention.

Martinelli Luce Releases Limited Edition Iconic Pipistrello Lamp

Sept. 22, 2023 in Design & Décor by Julian Everett

Martinelli Luce has launched a limited edition of the iconic Pipistrello lamp, originally designed by Gaë Aulenti in 1965. 💛

Ann Miller: Tapping Through the Golden Age of Hollywood

Nov. 6, 2023 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

Ann Miller, born Johnnie Lucille Collier on April 12, 1923, in Chireno, Texas, was a whirlwind of talent and an indelible part of the Hollywood pantheon. Known for her machine-gun tap dancing, she embodied the glitz and glamour of the Golden Age of cinema. With raven hair often crowned with extravagant hats and a smile that lit up theaters, Miller left an indelible mark on the silver screen.

🌟 Marisa Allasio: The Glamorous Italian Siren of the 50s and 60s

Nov. 11, 2023 in Models & Actresses Photos by Julian Everett

Born Maria Luisa Lucia Allasio on July 14, 1936, in Turin, Italy, Marisa Allasio was the epitome of Italian glamour. Picture this: a brunette bombshell, stepping onto the cinematic scene with her radiant smile and enchanting presence - that's Marisa for you!

20 QUESTIONS: RON HOWARD

Feb. 15, 2024 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

Litle Opie has grown up and become a hotshot film director. Apparently, goin' fishin' with Andy and hanging out with the Fonz paid off. Not to mention an assortment of serious TV-film roles, a lead in "American Graffiti" and an apprenticeship ("Grand Theft Auto") in the Roger Corman school for budding directors. To Ron Howard's recent big-screen credit are "Night Shift" and "Splash." We asked Contributing Editor David Rensin to meet with Howard in Hollywood as he was putting the finishing touches on "Cocoon," just released. Says Rensin, "Ron Howard does not look dumb in a mustache. Aunt Bee would be mighty proud."

Debbie Reynolds: Hollywood's Unsinkable Star

Feb. 19, 2024 in Models & Actresses Photos by Julian Everett

Debbie Reynolds, born Mary Frances Reynolds, was not just a fixture in the Golden Age of Hollywood; she was its beating heart. With a career spanning over six decades, Reynolds was an emblem of vivacity and perseverance, a testament to the glitter and grit of show business.

The Shapely Miss Staley: A Channel Charmer in Compatible Color

Feb. 26, 2024 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

Television tidbit, Joan Staley, pauses for a windblown moment outside CBS. At left, she digs for directorial data, above.

Rita Hayworth: The Silver Screen's Enchantress and Her Unforgettable Escapades

March 14, 2024 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

In the pantheon of Hollywood's golden age, few stars shine as brightly as Rita Hayworth. Known for her fiery red hair, striking beauty, and magnetic screen presence, Hayworth became an emblem of 1940s glamour. But beyond her memorable roles in classics like "Gilda" and "The Lady from Shanghai," Rita's life was a tapestry of fascinating anecdotes, some heartwarming, others bittersweet, all contributing to her enduring legacy.

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