Alice Hampton

WHO: ALICE HAMPTON
WHAT: COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER ESTEE LAUDER & TOM FORD BEAUTY
WHERE: SYDNEY
VISIT: www.esteelauder.com.au

FFF LOVES… her style know-how. When Alice recommends we listen! A true globe-trotter she is glamour on Balmain-clad legs. Oh and what we wouldn’t do for a peep into her makeup case.

SLEEP: Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico. The service is so good, you will literally have your every wish granted…

EAT: Aria Sydney, for sublime food overlooking Sydney harbour, this is the perfect place to take friends from out of town

SLEEP: Il San Pietro, Positano for the ultimate Amalfi experience

SHOP: Performance Ski, Aspen (408 South Hunter Street Aspen, CO 81611 970-925-8657) for the coolest ski gear in the world

SLEEP: Park Hyatt, Tokyo for a “Lost In Translation” moment

EAT: George XV (Four Seasons), Paris for the most memorable degustation you will ever have

SLEEP: The Arabelle, Vail for the most luxurious way to do apres

EAT: The Plaza, New York for the most indulgent, decadent high tea

SLEEP: Shutters, Santa Monica, LA for a ‘Hamptons meets Hollywood’ feeling

SLEEP: Six Senses, Koh Samui, Thailand for the ultimate in R&R…

About Alice Hampton:
As the Communications Manager for Estee Lauder and Tom Ford Beauty Australia since 2007, Alice began her passion for PR in 1999 when she began working for De Beers Diamonds in the coveted PR Department whilst completing a Communications degree, majoring in PR & Journalism, at UWS.

Shortly following De Beers, Alice spent two years working at boutique beauty & fashion PR agency Lynne Phillips & Associates before accepting a position as Account Manager at Drysdale Communications where she looked after premium lifestyle and luxury brands including the Hardy Bros Melbourne Cup, the Champagne Information Centre and the launch of Giorgio Armani Cosmetics in Australia.

In 2003, Alice accepted the role of Public Relations Manager for Cosmax Prestige Brands, an Australian owned fragrance distributor housing over thirty prestige brands including Burberry, Bvlgari, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci.

Today, as the Communications Manager for Estee Lauder and Tom Ford Beauty, Alice has the enviable role of working on two of the world’s premium beauty brands that has seen her achieve the coveted Beauty Directory Star Award for Best PR Launch in the Luxe Category for the 2008 launch of Advanced Night Repair.

Alice has exceptional people skills and is well respected by the Australian media, retail partners and with all of her colleagues within the Estee Lauder global family.

Paige Novick

WHO: PAIGE NOVICK
WHAT: JEWELLERY DESIGNER
WHERE: NEW YORK
VISIT: www.paigenovick.com

FFF LOVES… Her extremely beautiful Broken Glass collection (below), her inspiring mantra of “quiet beauty, steadfastness and self-assurance,” and her fabulous food blog The Ingredients.

SHOP: Vanve Flea Market, Paris (avenue Georges Lafenestre & avenue Marc Sangnier, 75014 Paris)

EAT: BLUE HILL AT STONE BARNS Sourcing from the surrounding fields and pasture, as well as other local farms, Blue Hill at Stone Barns highlights the abundant resources of the Hudson Valley. There are no menus at Blue Hill at Stone Barns. Instead, guests are presented with a list of over a hundred ingredients, updated daily, which contains the best offerings from the field and market

FFF Notes: In spring of 2004, Blue Hill at Stone Barns opened within the Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills, New York. The Barbers helped create the philosophical and practical framework for Stone Barns Center, a working four-season farm and educational center just 30 miles north of New York City, and continue to help guide it in its mission to create a consciousness about the effect of everyday food choices.

SLEEP: Esperanza Resort, Cabos, San Lucas

SHOP: Trosman — Buenos Aires, Miami

EAT: The City Bakery, New York

SHOP: Maxfield, Los Angeles

SHOP: The Design District, Miami

SLEEP: Blakes Hotel, London

SHOP: Topsshop, New York

EAT: Brunch at The Breslin, New York

About Paige Novick:
Although Paige Novick officially launched her luxury accessories company in 2008, she is no stranger to the fashion industry. From 1993-2008 Paige was the owner and creative director of “Frou’ by Paige Novick, the contemporary handbag—and later clothing—brand that was carried by specialty and department stores in the US, Japan and Europe.

A proclaimed Francophile, Paige continuously draws inspiration from having lived and studied in Paris for several years. While studying art history at the Sorbonne, she interned at Chanel and worked directly with Karl Lagerfeld. She was immediately stirred by his passion and dedication to his art. This gave paige the impetus to pave a career in fashion upon returning to New York.

Her jewelery reflects her personal style: effortless yet chic. One of the hallmark designs is her use of contrasting elements—masculine and feminine, organic and synthetic, rough and refined. Asymmetrical details, worn finishes, and a luxuriously casual vibe give Paige’s collection a feminine and sexy appeal.

Many of her pieces are discreetly adorned with a silver or gold snail. Paige chose this symbol as her icon because of the mollusk’s quiet beauty and self-assurance. The snail’s understated grace and steadfast determination in the face of uncertainty echoes Paige’s unwavering spirit and consistent approach to design. She has managed to create an aura of accessibility and genuine playfulness under an emotive, elegant, luxury halo.

Ennio Capasa

WHO: ENNIO CAPASA
WHAT: FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
CoSTUME NATIONAL
WHERE: MILAN
VISIT: www.costumenational.com

FFF LOVES… His innate ability to create iconic, edgy looks and die if we don’t have them pieces. A true master.

“Capasa inspired and revolutionized 90s fashion as much as Giorgio Armani did in the 80s.”
The New York Times, Amy M. Spindler 17-12-1996

I cannot avoid to talk about Lecce, my own town…

EAT: La Brisa Via Brisa, (15 20123 Milano (Lombardia), Italy ph: 02 8645 0521) for a revisited but traditional Italian dinner.

SHOP: Supporti Fonografici, a tiny music store located in the Navigli district, that has an amazing music archive and where also you can order everything you want.

RELAX: Cruising in the Dodecanese Islands in Greece.

VISIT: When I’m in New York I used to stop by the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery, always a great source of inspiration.

VISIT: Shibuya District in Tokyo.

VISIT: The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul.

VISIT: Djemaa el Fna square in Marrakech.

VISIT: Plastic in Milan, a historic nightclub where Keith Haring and many other artists used to hang out.

EAT: Cibus Italian restaurant (5 Rue Molière 75001 Paris, France Ph: 01 42 61 50 19)

About Ennio Capasa:
Ennio Capasa is the designer behind the label Costume National. Founded in 1986 with his brother Carlo, Costume National is one of Italy’s fashion powerhouses.

A graduate of the Milan Academy of Fine Arts, Ennio Capasa worked for Yohji Yamamoto in Tokyo. When he returned to Italy, the Capasa brothers launched Costume National, a fashion house about “French uniform” The company presented their first collection in 1987.

Mixing the influences of the east and the west, Ennio Capasa’s designs are innovative and challenged the status quo of the fashion design industry. Contemporary styles balanced by sartorial elegance with emphasis on lifestyle defined Ennio Capasa’s creations.

About source: fashionwindows.com

Lyn Balzer and Tony Perkins

WHO: LYN BALZER & TONY PERKINS
WHAT: PHOTOGRAPHERS, COLLECTORS & JEWELLERY DESIGNERS FOR 2 BY LYN & TONY
WHERE: SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
VISIT: www.lynandtony.com & www.2lynandtony.com 

FFF loves… their sheer creativity and ability to dream up and handmake jewellery pieces which are so darkly beautiful and unique. We covet every single piece.

EAT: Adriano Zumbo. As we have a serious addiction to patisserie, extensive “research” has assured us that this place, in Balmain, Sydney, is up there with the best in the world. The flavours these guys come up with are insane! 

EAT: Byron Beach Cafe. Perched on the dunes of Cape Byron, looking out to the deep blue sea, this has to be one of the best places for breakfast anywhere. Match the view with strong coffee & warm muffins and what more could you want. 

SHOP: Poepke. Combining the best of innovative, international fashion (think Demeulemeester, Bernhard Willhelm etc), with the friendliest staff around, Poepke is a beautiful boutique shopping experience. 

SHOP: Assin. The only place for menswear in Sydney!  A tranquil white shop space seduces with racks draped in Rick Owens, Lanvin, Margiela etc 

SLEEP: Hotel Bourg Tibourg. With rich, neo-gothic interiors by Jacques Garcia, a stay in this small hotel in the Marais district of Paris, is a wonderful escape into another time. Transformed from an Edwardian townhouse, in one of the quieter streets of this historic quarter, Hotel Bourg Tibourg combines wonderful service with secret, romantic luxury.  

DRINK: Hotel Coste Bar. For a decadent start to an evening in Paris, it is difficult to resist the opulently, discreet Hotel Costes bar.  

SHOP: Kokon To Zai (8 rue Tiquetonne, 75002 Paris France). This little oasis of the “new” in the  conventionally conservative Paris fashion world, showcases unique creations from inspirational designers such as Marjan Pejoski, Gaspard Yurkievich and Jeremy Scott. Kokon To Zai is the place to discover what is really going on in Paris. 

EAT: ROBERT et LOUISE (64 rue Vielle-du-Temple. 75003 Paris France). A charming bistro in the heart of the Marais, Robert et Louise have been grilling simple but delicious cotes de boeuf over an open fire in the back of their tiny restaurant since the 1960s. Sharing our bench table with a side of beef, Robert et Louise was a uniquely french dining experience. 

SHOP: Deyrolle. Stepping into this amazing Aladdins’ cave of scientific specimens, is like visiting a wonderful Natural History museum except at Deyrolle, it’s all for sale. Stocking everything from shells & insects to birds and bears, Deyrolle have been supplying museums and nature lovers since 1831, with the principle of protecting nature through education and enlightenment.  

SHOP: Bless Shop Berlin. Hidden in the Mitte district of Berlin, the girls from Bless, Ines Kaag & Desiree Heiss, have created a unique showcase for their challenging & thoughtful creations. Their simple, sparse space stocks the latest from their wearable collection as well intriguing interior objects. 

About Lyn & Tony:
Although based in Sydney, their work is strongly influenced by growing up in the idyllic landscapes around Byron Bay. Their photography has been commissioned by international clients such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Georg Jensen as well as prominent Australian clients such as Ksubi & The Presets. Their art photography, which embraces strong colour and light, regularly explores the beauty and extremes of the harsh Australian landscape. Lyn & Tonys’ images have been exhibited & published around the world. 

Having collaborated as photographers for many years, Lyn and Tony have recently evolved into creating short films, installations and a range of limited edition hand made accessories.

Aurelio Costarello

WHO: AURELIO COSTARELLA
WHAT: FASHION DESIGNER
WHERE: PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
VISIT: www.aureliocostarella.com

FFF LOVES… his immaculately constructed evening gowns and exquisitely tailored jackets. FFF believes the addition of at least several of his pieces would cheer up our wardrobes no end.

EAT: Il Bucco, New York, one of my fave Italian restaurants, honest Itailan fare in dishevelled eclectic surroundings… some great nights had here.

EAT: Cream (2/11 Regal Place East Perth WA, Ph 08 9221 0404). Always consistently fabulous food and fun staff. Chef John Meade always delivers.

EAT: Matsuri, New York  for sensational Japanese, Love the black cod and the eight grain rice ball.

EAT: Veritas (484 Beaufort St, Highgate, Perth WA, Ph: 08 92279745). Beautiful fresh, clean food. A local within easy walking distance from home.

EAT: Rose Bakery (46 rue des Martyrs, 75009 Paris, Ph: 01 42 82 12 80). A gorgeous little organic bakery with wholesome salads and sweet delights with an English twist.

EAT: Bambini Trust, Sydney – exceptional food, wonderful wine selection – a taste sensation.

EAT: Bar Pitti (268 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10014-4721, Ph: +1 212-982-3300). Fast turnaround of tables, fast talking waiters and fabulous fare. It’s ‘the’ neighbourhood haunt filled with fashionable locals.

EAT: Lincolns (104 Lincoln Street, Highgate, Perth WA Ph: 08 9228 1759). A converted corner deli serving great breakfast and coffee and Jack Russell friendly.

STAY/VISIT: Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. It’s the wondrous setting not the food that entertains, definitely the spot for celebrity watching.

EAT: Becco, Melbourne, Glorious Italian food… never fails to please.

About Aurelio Costarella…
For over twenty years Aurelio (Ray) Costarella has been creating exquisite women’s wear. His designs have been admired and worn by a plethora of international stars and local heroines including Rihanna, Eva Mendes, Dannii Minogue, Rosie Perez, Tina Arena, Mia Maestro, Melissa George, Leelee Sobieski, Dita Von Teese and Sharon Stone. The creative behind Aurelio Costarella (ready-to-wear) and Aurelio Costarella Couture, has always been based in Western Australia and is earning a formidable reputation internationally as he turns his local company into an international luxury brand. He represented Western Australia at G’Day LA last year and showed his collections at New York Fashion Week in 2007 and 2008.

Arianne Drambois

WHO: ARIANNE DRAMBOIS
WHAT: MAKEUP ARTIST, TOO FACED COSMETICS
WHERE: SAN FRANCISCO
VISIT: www.toofaced.com

FFF LOVES… Too Faced Cosmetic’s too fabulous take on makeup. We want Arianne’s job!

VISIT: I have traveled quite extensively but have not found anything like my home state of San Francisco California when it comes to fine dining. I have been thoroughly spoiled by the restaurants, menu selections, the best seafood and fresh organic produce.

SHOP: New York and Paris are my favorite shopping cities. They always have the latest upcoming trends. Make sure you explore the Soho district in New York, it has such unique shopping, boutiques and café’s. Paris not only has uber chic shops and boutiques but also has amazing flea markets! I love to people watch in these cities to see how they are pulling their looks together. Very inspiring.

VISIT: Chicago has an amazing Jazz Festival that is in the beginning of September with big name musicians you would never expect to see. It’s a great weekend getaway, the artists play all day and into the night. I accidentally found it when I was in town on business. Wow what a find! September is a great time to be in Chicago because the weather is ideal! I also enjoy walking around at Millennium Park. A big park that has a huge outdoor performance theatre with amazing acoustics. There are always wonderful big scale artistic exhibits to walk around and look at.

STAY: I really prefer to stay in boutique hotels. They have wonderful extra touches you don’t find in some of the bigger hotels. I love the specialty amenities like L’Occitane, shampoos, conditioners and body lotions, or Kiehl’s. Can you say luxury? I most recently stayed at the Empire Hotel in New York. It has a wonderful chic lounge area that even had a dj spinning. The rooftop bar is a celebrity hang out, you never know who you will run into!

FLY: If I am going to be delayed at an airport, I enjoy it happening at San Francisco international, Denver international or JFK International airport. All have great food, shopping and services like massages or manicures. Its important for me to make delay time work in my favor and this way the time just flies by and I’m off to my next destination relaxed and ready.

EAT: When in London you have to have to treat yourself to tea time! Chocolate lovers make sure you go to Max Brenner in NYC. It’s a restaurant that specializes in chocolate everything from omelettes to coffee. You wont be sorry.

SHOP: When in Los Angeles you must visit Fred Segal, it is the coolest shopping spot that has an open sales floor and the trendiest selections of clothes, fragrances and specialty items. You are also practically guaranteed to run into a celebrity here.

RELAX: My favorite hangout when at home is the 5 star Montage Hotel, Spa and Resort, in Laguna Beach, California nestled back on a cliff overlooking the majestic sea, you will indulge your senses with the most over the top spa services and food. I end my day with a cocktail in the piano bar overlooking the ocean.

VISIT: The Louvre in Paris is one of my favorite museums, I’ve been there two times and I still have not seen it all. I also love to go to Ladurée on the Champs-Élysées and treat myself to coffee and one of their famous macaroons either before or after.

About Arianne Drambois:
Beauty artist extraordinaire, Arianne Damboise, is a veteran of the cosmetics biz with a long list of style accolades. From the runways of New York Fashion Week, to Hollywood’s most glamorous faces and socialites, Arianne has worked her magic as a skillful aesthetician and true makeup maven for almost 20 years.

Arianne’s natural creative instinct started long before she picked up her first makeup brush. Since she was a little girl, Arianne has been drawn to the world of cosmetics. Arianne recalls watching her mother with adoration as she applied her makeup in the mirror, fascinated at how she made her hazel eyes pop with a stroke here and a little color there.

“Makeup runs through my veins! When I look at someone’s skin, I just know what it needs,” says Arianne. “Men usually prefer women who wear little to no makeup…that’s usually because women don’t know how to put it on,” explains Arianne. “I teach women how to apply makeup aesthetically, to compliment their personality and lifestyle.”

While makeup artistry comes naturally to Arianne, she knows not everyone has the talent - or time - to spend in front of the mirror. Sharing her skills with women the majority of her career, she truly enjoys passing her years of experience on to her clients. Never one to conform, Arianne believes in a more unique approach than the typical, radical makeover. She prefers showing women how to “play up” their best feature with her signature “mini lessons” that empower women to invent their own style and glamour easily at home.

Too Faced founder and creator Jerrod Blandino gushes, “We are so excited to be working with Ari! She has such a creative spirit and an impeccable artistic eye. We are truly luck to have her on our team!”

Today, as Too Faced Cosmetics’ Global Makeup Artist, there is no question that Arianne’s childhood adoration has blossomed into a remarkable artistic flare. Her love of cosmetics and commitment to clients makes Arianne a phenomenal teacher, extraordinary artist and an extreme benefit to the Too Faced team working alongside Jerrod Blandino.

“I just love Too Faced Cosmetics! The truth is, I’m a too faced girl…always have been and always will be!,” quips Arianne.

Gabi Perezutti-Isacson

WHO: GABI PEREZUTTI-ISACSON
WHERE: NEW YORK
WHAT: DESIGNER FOR CANDELA
VISIT: www.candelanyc.com

FFF LOVES… Candela’s South American style with a generous dash of NYC cool thrown in to spice things up.

EAT: Gardiner, Buenos Aires (infogardiner@arnet.com.ar). Anything that you order in this restaurant is delicious. I have been going there for meals for more than 13 years. Just their complementary bread basket and spreads while you wait for the food makes a 12 hour flight worth it but their provoletas and tiras de asado can make you cry for Argentina.

EAT: Sant Ambroeus - West Village. Our favourite Italian.

STAY: Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is the best hotel experience I had ever had and to that add the dramatic Tokyo views.

STAY: Parteno in Naples. With just seven rooms but stunning views of the Mediterranean on a clear day you can see Capri.

EAT: Per Se in New York. If you are a foodie, it is a must.

EAT: Kawa Sushi in West Village (24 8th Avenue, Store 1, New York, 10014, tel: 212 36 66888. Nobu has nothing on this tiny affordable sushi joint

EAT: Daisy May BBQ in New York. Ribs and more ribs!

EAT: Joe’s Pizza on the corner of bleecker & Sixth Avenue

FIX: Joe The Art of Coffee on 23rds Street. My one and only addiction best coffee in town.

STAY: La Posada de Piedra. Punta Del Este. This tiny 6 room’s hotel will always be dear as we hosted our wedding there. Magical.

About Candela: 
South American duo Natalia Kuks-Jacobs and Gabriela Perezutti-Isacson created the first Candela collection in 2004. The label took off when they pioneered the bohemian look that was taken from their ranching background in Argentina and Uruguay. From leathers and chunky knits manufactured in Argentina to cotton voiles, silks, and embroideries produced in India, Candela’s pieces are feminine, without being over the top. Ornamented with occasional bows, ruffles, lace, and creative pops of color, Candela combines wistful, natural looks with fashion-forward city style. In less than a year Candela found itself selling to more than 200 hundred stores worldwide, including Harrod’s, Beams, Henri Bendel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Intermix, Scoop, Fred Segal, Kitson, and many more. In Spring 2006 the first Candela shoe collection was born and has become an integral part of their collection, making up about 65% of their business today.

With Candela’s continued success and growth, the brand is looking to launch an e-commerce site in early 2010, with plans of opening a Candela retail store shortly thereafter. Candela NYC is currently sold at Saks Direct, ShopBop, Calypso, Urban Outfitters, and will be in Neiman Marcus Direct for Resort/Cruise. 

Celebrity fans include Lindsay Lohan, Lauren Conrad, Kate Hudson, Fergie, and Ciara.

Megan Park

WHO: MEGAN PARK
WHAT: DESIGNER & OWNER, MEGAN PARK
WHERE: LONDON
VISIT: www.meganpark.co.uk

FFF LOVES… her exquisitely crafted fabrics. We want to hide ourselves in their luxurious folds and never come out.

EAT: CUMULUS INC – My favorite casual dinner out In Melbourne. Flash fried prawns, followed by 12 hour roast pork (served with poached lemon and cabbage salad) and finishing off with a glass of La Fee Absinthe leaves one feeling too satisfied.

SHOP: 10 Corso Como – The most beautiful store in the world, this Milanese fashion concept store showcases ‘to die for’ product, whether It be a fabulous pair of Comme Des Garcon trousers, a Galliano gown or a rare photographic journal you just want everything.

EAT: Ladurée – One of Paris’ most elegant patisserie’s where you sit beneath the most decadent chandeliers eating their famous macaroons and sipping on pale French style thé.

SHOP: Liberty of London – It is no secret but it is a favourite that never disappoints. This jewel of London makes shopping complete pleasure rather than the shopping mall expanse of the larger department stores.

STAY: Amandari – For a luxurious getaway, I love this most serene and purely indulgent resort tucked away in Ubud, Bali. Spa treatments, flower baths whilst looking onto the most beautiful nature that surrounds.

STAY: Neemrana Fort-Palace – Two hours drive from New Delhi this is my city escape when in India. An old fort which has been converted into a hotel, I choose to stay in Sheesh Mahal – ‘the mirror room’ – which is adorned by tiny decaying mirrors that cover all walls. Magical…

SHOP: Clignancourt – My favourite flea market of all time, one day is never enough. Pass the first section of the market towards Marche Biron and then get lost in amongst the most divine antiquities and antique textiles and clothing. I have come back buying a bathroom sink, a 2x2 Florentine hand painted mirror and a German deco chandelier to name on a few finds!

SHOP: New York Flea Markets – On 6th Ave between 24th and 27th Streets. On the weekend these car parks are turned over to street vendors selling their wares. Vintage clothing and accessories and what I particularly love to hunt out, though there is also fabulous furniture and home wares from past decades.

EAT: Hakkasan – For yum cha and to escape the hustle of Oxford St, this is one of my favourite eateries in London. You feel completely cocooned in this warm and tranquil space. Avoid the noisy dinner hour but arrive early for yum cha, this is the place to be.

EAT: Circa – This is my favourite for a romantic dinner in Melbourne. The food is divine and the service is impeccable.

About Megan Park:
Renowned for her artisan’s touch, Megan Park creates a collection that mixes the ancient traditions and craft of hand embroidery with the cuts, shapes and fabrics of today to create heirlooms of the future. 

Australian-born Megan Park studied fashion design at RMIT, and upon leaving college began work as a textile designer in Melbourne. In 1993 she moved to London, and began designing textiles for a well respected agency whose clients include Givenchy, Dries van Noten and Kenzo. In 1997, Megan launched her own label from London with an eponymous collection of evening bags and scarves, which has now grown to womenswear, home and accessories collections, as well as Megan Park Girl (for girls aged 1-6). Megan Park’s international success continues to grow, with her ready to wear and accessories collections sold in approximately 130 stores worldwide including Harvey Nichols, Liberty, Browns, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales. Megan’s label has been worn by style leaders like Kirsten Dunst, Claudia Schiffer, Helen Christensen, Claudia Karvan and Uma Thurman.

A Megan Park creation is unique yet instantly recognisable. Intricate embroidery and pattern work has become signature to her name, synonymous with quality, longevity and timeless design. Megan’s travels provide endless sources of inspiration from Paris to the markets of Old Delhi. Bound to no single source, these overlapping influences are what generate such classic collections. From a Megan Park hand beaded dress to a silk-linen cushion, all care is taken to ensure that a Megan Park creation is a piece for life.

Linlee Allen

WHO: LINLEE ALLEN
WHAT: WRITER/PHOTOJOURNALIST/
TREND FORECASTER/CREATIVE CONSULTANT
WHERE: LOS ANGELES
VISIT: linleeloves.blogspot.com

FFF LOVES… Everything about Linlee! We want to meet her in LA for a cool cocktail and hot news… she is our go to girl for the West Coast and more!

STAY: The Parker, Palm Springs. There’s nothing quite like Palm Springs at any time of the year and The Parker is hands down, the best place to stay with its funky retro-decor by Jonathan Adler and luscious grounds filled with exotic flora and fauna, hammocks and fireplaces (for those who love to gaze at endless amounts of shooting stars).

RELAX: 60 Thompson Rooftop Pool, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Quite simply the coolest, most discreet poolside ambience in the city of angels complete with a salt water, Swarovski-lined swimming pool and frequent visits by celebs including Benecio Del Toro, among others.

EAT: South Food and Wine Bar, San Francisco. Aussie culinary king Luke Mangan serves up the finest food ever. The service is impeccable and the experimental nature of the recipes are a total hit: don’t miss the Licorice Parfait with Lime for dessert.

SHOP: American Rag, La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles. Because in my mid-30s I’m less inclined to search for amazing vintage dresses in flea markets opting in turn for dry-cleaned, unique finds sitting pretty on a rack. And boy do I find them here. I adore the French-inspired homeware section next door too.

EAT: Axe, Venice Beach, Los Angeles. The mouthwatering Salmon and Brown Rice Bowl and the Seven Grain Pancakes with Berries are right up there with the a-grade star-spotting. Think Ben Harper, Lisa Bonet, Raymond Pettibon, Rosario Dawson and more.   

SHOP: Olvera Street Village, Downtown Los Angeles. My one-stop shopping arcade for flamenco dresses, Mexican embroidered cravats (worn as head pieces), and Frida Kahlo-esque accessories at affordable prices.

 RELAX: Le Meurice Spa, Hotel Meurice, Paris. There’s nothing quite like having this entire Spa all to yourself (it stays open until 10pm every night for guests of the Hotel). One of my must-have indulgences post-Paris Fashion Week: imagine a giant, fluffy monogrammed robe ready and waiting for you as you exit the Jacuzzi/Hammam and scoop up a handful of fresh Moroccan figs and apricots, only to down them with a freshly made, especially for you, exotic Green Tea. Bliss.

Egon Schiele, Wally in a Red Blouse with Raised Knees, 1913SEE: Neue Gallerie, NYC. A definite must-see every time I visit New York as this gallery specializes in German and Austrian Art (a personal fave). The jaw-dropping works pieces by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner are incredible, as are the decor pieces in the vintage furniture room, alongside original sketches by Egon Schiele (right). 

SIP: Sunset Towers Bar, Los Angeles. Because the Chateau Marmont is SO over. Here, expect the ultimate class as Dimitri (the host du jour) succumbs to your every whim and the martini’s are the best you will find in Los Angeles. Oh yeah, the star-spotting is epic as well (no wonder this place hosts the Vanity Fair Oscar party every year).

STAY: Hotel Ermitage, St Tropez. Graffiti king of Paris Andre Saraiva follows up his nightclub reign of Le Baron, Le Montana Bar, Le Paris Paris and The Beatrice Inn with this hotspot accommodation of choice in the coolest part of the coastline. Kate Moss, Lily Allen and Snoop Dogg are regulars.

About Linlee:
Linlee Allen spent several years working in public relations for Colette in Paris before relocating to Los Angeles in 2007 where she has since worked as a writer/photojournalist for The New York Times, Harper’s Bazaar, www.style.com, Grazia, V, Paper magazine, i-D, Purple Diary, LOVE and assorted other international titles. In addition to consulting for select brands she also works as a US trend forecaster for international design companies, extending upon fashion, art, cinema and assorted other genre’s, all of which are captured on her blog at linleeloves.blogspot.com

At 34 years of age, the Aussie ex-pat is currently in the process of writing her first book, “Linleelife”, an autobiographical tale of her transition from Paris to L.A, due out in 2010. 

Elizabeth Harrison

WHO: ELIZABETH HARRISON
WHAT: LUXURY, FASHION & LIFESTYLE EXPERT AND CO-FOUNDER OF HARRISON & SHRIFTMAN
WHERE: NEW YORK
VISIT: www.hs-pr.com

FFF LOVES… The essential ‘Party Confidential’ series by Elizabeth and her business partner Lara Shriftman. Don’t plan anything until you have read these bibles!

EAT: The Webster in South Beach Miami – Caviar Kaspia; straight from Paris and yummy caviar.

SHOP: Bergdorf Goodman for the best and most luxurious shopping.

EAT: The Waverly Inn & Garden (16 Bank St. Waverly Pl.) Manhattan, NY 10014) for the best gourmet Mac & Cheese.

SCENE: The Jane Hotel for the coolest downtown DJ and bar scene, NYC.

EAT: W South Beach Hotel – Solea for the best Mediterranean food.

About Elizabeth Harrison:
Luxury, fashion and lifestyle expert Elizabeth Harrison co-founded Harrison & Shriftman in 1995. The agency specializes in public relations, marketing and events for high-profile luxury brands. Harrison & Shriftman currently has 50 employees spanning three offices in New York, Los Angeles and Miami.

Over the years, Elizabeth has assisted in building world-class brands that include Juicy, Jimmy Choo, W Hotels, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Las Vegas and Grey Goose. Harrison & Shriftman’s impressive client list continues to expand its reach within the global market.

A 2002 top entrepreneurial leader in Inc. magazine’s list of 500 fastest growing private companies, Harrison & Shriftman joined Omnicom Group, the world’s largest communication company in 2003.

Prior to co-founding Harrison & Shriftman, Elizabeth, a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College, studied abroad in Paris with the College’s prestigious Reid Hall program. After a year of extensive travel abroad, Elizabeth began her career in editorial. Working at publications that included Elle and Worth, Elizabeth gained extensive experience across all aspects of the industry.

Following a position as an Assistant Location Manager on the Oscar Award-Winning film Forrest Gump, Elizabeth began her storied career in public relations. She landed a coveted position with Peggy Siegal, where she played an integral part in creating and executing exclusive, star-studded events surrounding theatrical releases.

After executing numerous noteworthy events with Harrison & Shriftman, Elizabeth and Lara parlayed their entertaining expertise into co-authoring several books. Their four successful books have garnered press in notable media outlets such as Departures, Glamour, The New York Post and The Today Show. A line of Party Confidential products was launched on HSN in September, 2007.

Elizabeth is an active supporter of numerous charitable organizations. She has served on the board of Love Heals the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education for over ten years, and has continued her involvement with the Step Up Network as part of the organization’s Luminary Circle.

Elizabeth is often invited to share her luxury branding insights at high-profile conferences and summits. In April of 2008, Elizabeth lent her expertise in luxury as a panelist at Harvard Business School’s Retail & Luxury Goods conference. She has also served as a panelist for Step Up Women’s Network’s “View from the Top” seminar and was invited to Harvard’s Dynamic Women in Business conference to speak on an entrepreneurship panel. Recent conference highlights include speaking at Columbia’s Women in Business conference, Wall Street Journal’s Insight Exchange Panels in Washington D.C. and Las Vegas and Mercedes- Benz Fashion Festival “Fashion Forum” in Brisbane Australia.

Elizabeth currently resides in New York with her real estate developer husband Keith Schwebel and their two young daughters Charlotte and Georgia.

Kristy Hinze

Stylist: Elizabeth Clarke. Photo: Russell Shakespeare/QWeekendWHO:KRISTY HINZE
WHAT: MODEL, TV HOST, ENTREPRENUR & BRAND AMBASSADOR
WHERE: NEW YORK AND MIAMI, US
VISIT: www.viviensmodels.com.au

FFF LOVES… her natural beauty, entrepreneurial spirit and down-to-earth attitude.

STAY: Qualia Hamilton Island is the best hotel I have ever stayed in.

SHOP: Colette in Paris is fantastic.

STAY: Sirenuse, Positano. The owner is a good friend of ours. I love the amazing views.

EAT: Veritas, New York serves French-American style food. It’s just fabulous.

RELAX: Exhale Spa in New York is my regular.

EAT: Pure Food and Wine in Greenwich Village, New York is my favourite restaurant to go to. The food is all raw and Vegan but you would never know it.  So amazing.

SHOP: Intermix, New York. It is a one-stop shop with a great mix of brands to choose from.  If I need a great outfit, I just head straight there.

RELAX: I love The Lyall Spa in Melbourne.

SIP: The best coffee in New York is at Ninth Street Espresso and Cafe Grumpy in Soho.  

RELAX: COMO Shambhala Uma Ubud in Indonesia is a favourite. You can take Yoga classes there and the spa is amazing.

STAY: The Setai Hotel in Miami is fantastic.

About Kristy Hinze:
Discovered at the age of 14, Kristy had lived all her life on a farm in Queensland, her main love being horse-riding and jumping. Kristy was not only the youngest, but the first, Australian model to land a one year exclusive contract with VOGUE Australia. Since then, her star has continued to rise shooting campaigns for Berlei, Diesel, Sisley, Declour, and Givenchy body cream. Kristy has graced the covers of magazines including Vogue, Cleo, Cosmopolitan, New Woman, GQ, Australian Sports Illustrated, Woman’s Weekly and The Australian Way and was the second Australian woman to appear on the cover of the international Sports Illustrated Calendar. She has done runway shows for designers including Halston, Bob Mackie and Marc Bouwer and shot with photographers including Marc Baptiste, Terry Richardson and Patrick Demarchelier as well as a shoot for Victoria’s Secret in the Bahamas. Kristy has appeared in movies including ‘Boys and Girls’ with Jason Biggs, Jerry Bruckheimer’s “Without Charlie”, “The Look’ and “The Extra” with Jimoein. Currently Kristy is the presenter of Foxtel’s Project Runway and ambassador for iconic Australian fashion brand Sportscraft.

Kenneth Stoddart

WHO: KENNETH STODDART
WHAT: HAIR SESSION STYLIST FOR STYLE BIBLES & STYLISH STARS
WHERE: SYDNEY
VISIT: www.artist-group.net

FFF LOVES… his chic, polished style and wishes he could do our hair every morning.

KENNETH’S LIST:
EAT: Being Scottish I would have to make a visit to a gorgeous little restaurant in Glasgow called Café Gandolfi. It has been around since 1979. The food is quintessentially comforting and warming. I always have to have the Cullen Skink (thick Scottish soup made of smoked Finnan haddie, potatoes and onions) and Stornoway Black Pudding (rich with a good crumbly texture). Exquisite.

EAT: When in Paris I head to L’Entrecote, an institution in Paris. It hasn’t changed since the 1920s, with the waitresses wearing aprons and pushing trolleys around serving steak and pomme frittes topped with the most amazing sauce. There is no menu, just steak, chips and salad. You need only know three things; how you like your steak cooked, what type of wine you wish to drink and your choice of dessert. Get there as early as you can. You can’t make a booking and the queue is endless.

EAT: Another favourite food joint is Brown Sugar Nights in Bondi, Sydney. It‘s a small hole in the wall serving up great value for money meals. Always busy and non-pretentious. The house special is the fish pie – delicious and well worth the 30 minute wait. It’s the kind of place you could take your parents.

EAT: I stumbled across Naughty Nuri’s in Bali. Situated out of town and opposite the famous Neka Museum in Ubud, people come in droves for what this smoky old warung is famous for; pork spareribs and great martinis. Some say they are the best in Bali and others say the world! Either way, they are well worth making an excuse to visit Bali for!

P.S The home made sambal (a spicy condiment made from hot peppers) is incredibly good too.

FFF note: Nuri says her ribs marinade recipe is deceptively simple – sweet soy sauce “only ABC brand,” garlic, red onions and a dash of salt and pepper; from there, it’s all in the cooking. The secret to their martinis is the chilling of the Gordons Gin, which is kept on ice and shaken, NOT stirred before serving. Expect to find yourself sitting next to the likes of Donna Karan and New York foodie and author of Kitchen Confidential, Anthony Bodain.

SHOP: One of my favourite places to shop is Printemps in Paris. As I visit Paris twice a year I always have to visit the Printemps department store. All the best things under one roof and beautifully merchandised. Of course it houses a Dior Homme store which is a place I can’t walk past without having a sticky beak.

SHOP: I found a great little vintage store in Paris called So You Think You Are A V.I.P? It is in Rue De Lancry in the 12th arrondisement and stocks lots of gems such as YSL, Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Lanvin etc. It’s very well laid out and the stock is updated regularly.

SHOP: For anyone who has a vintage sunglass fetish I found an amazing optical shop in Milan called Foto Veneta Ottica (Via Torino, 57, 20123 Milano Lombardie, Italy). The owner doesn’t speak much English but he has drawers full of vintage optical frames and sunglasses. It’s an optical goldmine! If he really likes you and thinks you are seriously into his wares he will share his secret drawers with you. An offer you can’t refuse!

STAY: One of the best kept secrets is New Caledonia. It’s only 2 ½ hrs from Sydney and you feel like you are in the middle of France. The water is aqua blue and the beauty is breathtaking. I would recommend Le Meridian on the Isles des pins. Sublime! You have to speak French though which is why most tourists are either from France or Canada. I stayed at the Drehu Village Resort on Lifou which was very laid back and the food and wine were excellent.

STAY: There’s a hotel I always stay at when I visit Paris called Hotel du Nord. It’s on 47 Rue Albert Thomas in the 10th arrondissement. It has 20 or so rooms and each one has its own décor (and bicycle). The rooms are clean, quiet and small but for around 67 euros per night it’s a bargain. I can walk to the Marais in five minutes. The owner Laurent and his dog Pluto make you feel like one of the family.

STAY: Finally I can’t go past a visit to Hawaii. I always stay in Waikiki at the Park Shore Waikiki. The rooms look over the ocean and up to Diamond Head. Just a small stroll away is a little Japanese restaurant called Irifunes (563 Kapahulu Avenue Honolulu, Hawaii). This is a bit of an institution with the locals. You put your name down in the book and they will call you when the table is available. I will say this; Irifunes maintains a sense of integrity in their service, prices and food. Try the Garlic ‘ahi with sashimi (soft-textured, garlicky flash-fried sashimi). For dessert, you must try their Apple Banana Crepe topped with a delicate sweet yogurt sauce. It is the “coup de grace” for Oahu.

About Kenneth:
Kenneth Stoddart began his apprenticeship in Cheynes UK. Travelling to Australia he began a four year education programme at Shibui, Melbourne. Returning to Cheynes for a further six years and with his education complete, he returned to Australia once again to begin his career as a session stylist. Here, Kenneth was an instant favourite with the top editorial titles including Allure, Paris Vogue and Harpers Bazaar, celebrities including Cate Blanchett and Brooke Shields, designers and product companies, leading to his role as a spokesperson for L’Oreal Ready to Wear 2002/03/04 MAFW and L’Oreal Professional Brand 2003/04/05.

Charlie Watkins

WHO: CHARLIE WATKINS
WHAT: OWNER, BLONDIES & BROWNIES
WHERE: LONDON, UK
VISIT: www.blondiesandbrownies.co.uk

FFF LOVES… Charlie’s devilish take on these delicious morsels. With names like The Airhead, The Brazilian, The Dirty Blonde and The Hot Blonde, we want them all and we want them now!

CHARLIE’S LIST:
EAT: My own brownies!

EAT & STAY: At The Kingham Plough in Oxfordshire.

SHOP: Food markets, anywhere in the world.

SHOP: Austique, London.

STAY: At the Farinet, Verbier.

SHOP: At Antiquarius market, London

EAT: Lobster at Shell Bay Café, Dorset

EAT: Crab curry at Hermione’s, Bangkok

STAY: The Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Rwanda

SHOP: Hatchards Bookshop, London

About Charlie:
Charlie Watkins makes wickedly delicious blondies and brownies that are the talk of London!

Akira Isogawa

WHO: AKIRA ISOGAWA
WHAT: FASHION DESIGNER
WHERE: SYDNEY
VISIT: www.akira.com.au

FFF LOVES… his simplistic and unique approach to design. His pieces are modern, must-have classics.

AKIRA’S LIST:
EAT: Sean’s Panarama, Sydney. Best known for his fresh and organic dishes.

EAT: Tetsuyas, Sydney. Fine Japanese dining.

EAT: Kunitoraya, Paris for its Tempura Udon.

EAT: Angelina, 226, Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, tel +33 1 42 60 82 00.  For sweets.

PAMPER: Hammam de la Mosquée, Paris.

(FFF note: The Hammam de la Mosquée features traditional Hammam steam baths for soothing and relaxation … perfect pick-me-up for post plane jet lag. If you become so relaxed you can’t possibly face moving, slink into the restaurant or Salon de thé to continue your Orient experience).

SHOP: Comme des Garçons, Aoyama 5-2-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku. Tokyo 107-0062.

SHOP: Le Claireur, Paris.

SHOP: Tenjin-San: Flea-market in Kyoto.

STAY: Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel, Mumbai.

About Akira:
Akira Isogawa is one of Australia’s most celebrated designers. He has achieved international recognition for his much-sought after contemporary designs. Since 1998, Akira has shown his collections in Paris, where he presents Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter collections to international buyers each year. Akira continues to maintain a strong presence in Sydney, where he has shown collections at Mercedes Australian Fashion Week every year since 1996. For the past decade the Akira boutique in Sydney has built a strong clientele spanning Australia’s most successful and beautiful women. In 1999, Akira was named Designer of the Year and Womenswear Designer of the Year at the Australian Fashion Industry Awards. In 2005 he was honoured by Australia Post and named an Australian Legend – his image appearing on a commemorative postage stamp. Also in 2005 he was awarded Prix De Marie Claire Best Australian Designer. In 2006 Akira received the Award for Fashion Excellence at the National Retail Association Fashion Design Awards. Akira’s work has been fondly embraced by the Australian arts sector. In 2004/05 Akira Isogawa: Printemps Été opened at the National Gallery of Victoria – the first solo fashion and textiles exhibition by an Australian fashion designer to be presented at a major national or state institution (and still currently on tour in Asia). In 2003 Sydney Festival staged an exhibition of his garment construction techniques at Object Gallery, creating the most successful show in the gallery’s history. Akira has also been invited to exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art and twice has been included in the Powerhouse Museum’s Fashion of the Year retrospective.

Madeleine Thompson

WHO: MADELEINE THOMPSON
WHAT: CASHMERE QUEEN
WHERE: LONDON
VISIT: www.madeleine-thompson.com

FFF LOVES… Madeleine’s cool, chic and contemporary take on fashion’s most luxurious fibre.

MADELEINE’S LIST:
EAT: Cafe Ino in Greenwich Village, New York. It’s a tiny little place similar to an Italian wine bar. Serves great panini and Italian sandwiches. Go for brunch and try the truffled egg toast.

FFF note: The truffled egg toast sounds positively perfect! For more mouthwatering information, read New York Magazine’s review of Cafe Ino.

STAY: The Mandarin Oriental Hotels are the ultimate in style and luxury. They serve the most DELICIOUS food, taking it to a whole different level. My favourite is the Mandarin in Hong Kong. It is totally unique.

EAT: Shui Hu Ju is a beautifully decorated restaurant in a great location in Hong Kong’s Soho (68 Peel Street SoHo, Western, Hong Kong,+2869-6927). It’s so chic and the northern Chinese food is quite extraordinary in that it is so delicate and ever-surprising. I can’t recommend it enough. It’s great to get a private room there and have a party as it has an amazing atmosphere!

Agyness Deyn (L) and Sienna Miller (R) wearing pieces by Madeleine ThompsonSHOP: Lane Crawford in Hong Kong is the best department store in the world. I absolutely love it.

EAT: Borough Market, London’s oldest food market, is ‘foodie’s’ heaven! The stalls sell everything you can possibly imagine and there is a great restaurant there called Roast.

SHOP: Matches boutique in London is so directional in terms of it’s stock and how they merchandise it. I trust them implicitly. Their staff are the ultimate in cool as well as being amazingly friendly.

GRAZE: Tendido Cero serves up the best tapas in London. If you go during Wimbledon you will definitely see Rafael Nadal there!

EAT: Chi’en Men 23 is the former American Embassy from the early 20^th Century. It’s punky bars and great restaurants in these amazing colonial buildings. It is such a juxtaposition with the rest of modern Beijing.

STAY: The Opposite House is the new Swire Hotel in Beijing. It’s designed by Kengo Kuma and is a combination of the five Chinese elements with a modern design. It’s pretty spectacular.

WINDOW SHOP: The Harrods Food Hall is one of my favourite places. Not only can you buy every type of delicious food you can think of, it’s actually just fun to wander around and ‘window shop’. Just try not to go when you are too hungry!

SHOP: I love the Bluebird Shop on the King’s Road in London. The space is so cavernous and chic and they pick the most amazing pieces. It’s almost impossible to leave without buying anything – be warned!

About Madeleine Thompson…
Inspired by her birthplace, Hong Kong and her formative years spent in England, 28-year-old designer Madeleine Thompson blends her love for eastern tradition with a cool western eye. After graduating London’s Durham University with a law degree in 2002, she returned to Hong Kong where she worked as a buyer for one of the world’s most prestigious retailers, Lane Crawford. Always creative and often complimented on the jewellery she made for herself, Madeleine couldn’t resist starting her own jewellery collection in 2004. In 2007, Madeleine branched into knitwear and cashmere clothing. Her cashmere beanie became the ‘must have’ of the season. Fall/Winter 2009 marked the launch of her collection in the US, which now includes a chic button-less cardigan, a wrap around shawl and thick chunky knit scarf. The pieces complement each other well in the same muted tones and high finish. Kate Moss and Renee Zellweger are fans of her jewellery while Agyness Deyn and Sienna Miller (pictured), Poppy Delevigne and Lily Donaldson have bagged cashmere beanies. She has recently added an interiors line to the Madeleine Thompson collection which includes beautifully indulgent throws offset by luxurious cable knit cushion covers.

Jemma Kidd

WHO: JEMMA KIDD
WHAT: MAKEUP ARTIST AND FOUNDER OF
JEMMA KIDD MAKEUP SCHOOL
WHERE: LONDON
VISIT: www.jemmakidd.com

FFF LOVES… her Mannequin Skin Complexion Enhancer brimming with multi-reflective pearl brighteners for an uber-flawless finish.

JEMMA’S LIST:
EAT: Papillon Restaurant in Chelsea, London. They serve up classic French cuisine in a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

DRINK: Daphne’s Bar, Barbados (Bay, St. James, Barbados, West Indies 246 432 2731). Drink rum punches whilst watching the sunset.

SHOP: Ledbury Road, West London. A treasure trove of one-off boutiques and designer stores, and so close to the office!

RELAX: Space NK Spa (127 – 131 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London W2 Bookings 020 7727 8002, enquiries@spa-nk.com ), with a Hot Stone Massage.

STAY: Le Sirenuse in Positano, Italy. It is a small boutique hotel with breathtaking views.

STAY: The Beverly Hills Hotel in LA – it’s so old school and has great room service.

RELAX: Vanda Serrador (Threading and Skin Care Expert). An amazing facialist.

SHOP: Liza Bruce, Chelsea for stunning, intricate swimwear and kaftans.

EAT: HUGOS, (1/33 Bayswater Rd Kings Cross Sydney + 61 2 9357 4411). I love their great gourmet pizzas.

About Jemma:
Jemma’s interest in makeup stems from her work as a model and stylist. As Mary Greenwell’s assistant for 5 years, working alongside her at the Paris, Milan and London shows, she was spotted by Premier Hair & Makeup Agency, one of England’s top agencies and was signed to their books in 1999. Jemma was signed by makeup giant Max Factor in 2000 as their U.K spokesperson and for Rimmel London in 2004. Jemma’s first advertising campaign was for Gianfranco Ferre with Peter Lindbergh. She has since worked with photographers including David Bailey, Arthur Elgort and Bryan Adams and on titles including Italian Vogue, US Vogue, Vanity Fair, W, Biba, Nylon and ID. The Jemma Kidd Makeup School was founded in 2002 to provide budding makeup artists with the skills required by the modern professional, including training in creative design, digital media, business management and self representation. Jemma’s own makeup brand, Jemma Kidd Makeup School, is stocked all around the globe. She has recently collaborated with Target on a diffusion line, The JK Collection.

Poppy King

WHO: POPPY KING
WHAT: THE LIPSTICK QUEEN
WHERE: NEW YORK
VISIT: www.lipstickqueen.com

FFF LOVES… Lipstick Queen’s super-sexy Chinatown Glossy Pencil. Her autobiography Lessons of a Lipstick Queen is a fabulous and fascinating read too.

POPPY’S LIST:
SHOP: Lyell, a tiny boutique clothes store on Elizabeth Street in New York for wonderful pieces.

FFF notes: fabulous vintage as well as Lyell’s own exquisite pieces including silk dresses, hand embroidered knitted sweaters, sweet silk velvet shrugs, tailored trousers and lace blouses.

SHOP: Alfies in London for vintage finds.

SHOP: Fred Segals in LA for just about everything.

SHOP: Camberwell Market in Melbourne for trash and treasure.

SHOP: Joyce boutique in Hong Kong for edgy upscale fashion.

SHOP: Kirna Zabete store in SoHo, NY for designer and fashion cravings.

FFF notes: we love it for a good selection of Balenciaga, Balmain, Giambattista Valli, Givenchy, Alexander Wang and Thakoon.

SHOP: Azzedine Alaia sale shop (18 rue de la Verrerie, 4e, + 33 1 4272 1919), behind the full price boutique in the Marais in Paris.

FFF notes: stock up on last year’s leftovers including leather trench coats, cigarette pants and accessories…fantastique!

STAY: Montefiore Hotel in Tel Aviv for a chic experience.

SHOP/VISIT: Marion Goodman Gallery in New York for art lust.

EAT: Freemans Restaurant for cool New York dining.

FFF notes: the place to go for classic, old world American fare and great cocktails.

About Poppy King (in her own delightful words!):
“I started my own lipstick brand in 1992 in Melbourne Australia when I was about 6 months out of high school and had just turned 18. I did this not because I was a chemist, a make up artist, a designer or anything else (I was barely an adult and sometimes wonder if I am one yet!) I did this because I couldn’t find any lipsticks I liked. They were all thin, slimy and too greasy feeling. Plus there were no deep colors or browns and most reds went pink. I wanted lipsticks that gave me the look of the 1940’s. Rich, opaque and filled with pigment. So… On a whim I found manufactures to mix up some lipsticks, a business partner and the nerve to approach a few stores. It became a runaway success! For 12 years I had a brand called Poppy that specialized in all sorts of lipsticks and lip glosses (I am obsessed with the lips and every possible color, texture, finish and technology there is to make your lips look amazing). During those 12 years I experienced many of the ups and downs involved in running a business so when I was approached in 2002 to move to New York and join a large cosmetic company I decided it was time for me to try something new.

Which I did… However my fascination, obsession and borderline insanity regarding specialized lipsticks and lip products would not leave me. So last year I decided once again to return to having my own business and the obsession that has been with me since my school days. The obsession for designing unusual lipsticks infused with all the glamour, the fun, the style and the cheekiness that is inherent in being female. Lipstick Queen is not your average brand…. Everything you see, feel, touch and experience with it comes directly from me to you. I am still not a chemist, make up artist or anything else. I am just like you… I am a customer and as a customer I want something truly special… So that is what I put into every shade, texture and finish. A very special eye and a very committed soul!”