In Style Fashion Director Hal Rubenstein

Los Angeles, CA-  Members of The Costume Council of LACMA gathered together last week for afternoon tea and a conversation with InStyle Magazine's Hal Rubenstein.  LA Times Fashion Critic Booth Moore moderated the talk while images from the book were projected onto a large screen in the museum's Bing Theatre.  Highly animated, Rubenstein entertained guests as he recounted behind the scene tales of the world's most celebrated dresses.  Included among the famous dresses were Marilyn Monroe's JFK birthday party dress, Halle Barry's Elie Saab Oscar dress, J.Lo's Grammy Versace, Michelle Obama's Inaugural Jason Wu gown and The Duchess of Cambridge's Alexander McQueen wedding dress.

Booth Moore, Erin Weinger, Elizabeth Matthews,

and Wanda Albano Ahmadi

A memorable story recounted by Rubenstein was that of Audrey Hepburn's long-standing relationship with couturier Givenchy.  Ms. Hepburn commissioned Givenchy to costume her for Roman Holiday, though credit was notoriously taken by Edith Head. To show her loyalty and gratitude to Givenchy, Ms. Hepburn insisted that he be her clothier for all of her films and appearances.

Leandra McPartlan Karol and Ali Kahn

After the presentation, Rubenstein signed copies of his book while Costume Council members and their guests were treated to an informal tea of sandwiches, pastries, lemonade, tea and coffee.  Perhaps in homage to the event's subject matter, the majority of women were decked out in impressive attire, befitting of a Hollywood starlet.

Carin von Berg

Upcoming Costume Council of LACMA events to look forward to are a talk with Dilys Blum, Curator of Costume and Textiles at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and author of Shocking! The Art and Fashion of Elsa Schiaparelli on May 30 and a rooftop luncheon at the Montage of Beverly Hills for Fashion Circle Members for the unveiling of Lalique's new jewelry collection- Sacred Fire Odyssey on May 31.

Dixie Towers, Students of the Art Institute of OC

-All Images are courtesy of Andreas Branch for Patrick McMullan

www.costumecouncil.org

Carin von Berg

Beverly Hills, CA-  A great time was to be had by all on a gloriously sunny day at The Thompson Hotel this past Saturday.  Celebrity guests, invited friends and their mothers were treated to beauty lessons, makeup application and manicures by NYX, hair styling by Andy Lecompte's George Papanikolas,Hunger Games' colorist Cherry Petenbrink, and Gavert Atelier's Mika Fowler using Joico Haircare and treats by Swurlz Cupcakes and Sweet Lollicakes.  Cooling Bloody Marys and Pink Lemonade were provided by Voli Light Vodka, the beach body friendly vodka.

The Bachelor's Ben Flajnik arrived with his mom, sister and fiancée Courtney Robertson.  Ben and Courtney enjoyed the Voli Vodka bar before having their hair styled by Joico stylists Mika Fowler and George Papanikolas.

Lisa Rinna arrived with daughter Amelia Frey and enjoyed hair styling while Amelia played in the Cuddle Covers lounge.  Later, mother and daughter made bracelets in the Blessed Charms lounge as did Mario Lopez's fiancée Courtney Mazza and their daughter Gia.

Other celebrities in attendance were The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' Taylor Armstrong and Camille Grammer, E! Entertainment's Ashlan Gorse, and actress Estella Warren.  The successful event was put on by Live Loyal PR.

Carin von Berg

Los Angeles, CA-  Raised by vegetarian parents, the LuxLady briefly returned to her roots with a recent visit to family owned Café Gratitude.  The all organic and completely vegan restaurant did not disappoint with its dizzying array of soups, salads, juices, smoothies, sandwiches and more in both raw and cooked form.

I Am Comforted

The LuxLady was blown away by the explosive taste that emitied from simple ingredients such as yams, brussel sprouts, maple syrup, and cashews.  Two must try dishes that are great for sharing are I Am Comforted which consisted of rosemary tinged, oven roasted yams and a ridiculously addictive spicy, cashew based nacho "cheese" and I Am Ecstatic which is a surprisingly yummy combination of roasted brussel sprouts and an organic miso-maple glaze.  Who knew brussel sprouts could taste so good?

I Am Ecstatic

There are many Mexican and Asian based specialties to be found among the entrees: I Am Transformed is made from two corn tacos with brown rice, black beans, guacamole, salsa and cashew nacho cheese; I Am Trusting consists of a zucchini-mushroom tamale with black beans and salsa verde; and I Am Terrific has Pad Thai noodles, red bell peppers, carrots, kale, basil, mint and scallions topped with crumpled teriyaki almonds and sunflower sprouts. I Am Grateful is a community supported grain bowl of shredded kale, quinoa, black beans and garlic-tahini sauce and has a suggested value of $7. Café Gratitude is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

I

I Am Transformed

Cafe Gratitude

639 Larchmont

Los Angeles, CA 90004

323-580-6383

www.cafegratitudela.com

Los Angeles, CA- Finally, Bagatelle LA is all set to get it poppin' this Saturday, May 12, with the launch of Brunch.  Co-owners Remi Laba and Aymeric Clemente have decided that Angelenos are ready for their world-renowned, champagne and rosé fuled "Le Brunch," which has been inspired by St. Tropez's daytime party scene and made popular by Bagatelle of New York.

Be prepared to cancel your Saturday night plans as this high energy brunch may get you a little wet as you rub shoulders with celebrities, tastemakers, jetsetters and VIP's while being entertained by a series of international DJs and culinary masterpieces from Executive Chef Scott Quinn.

Not your speed?  Not to fear as Sunday brunch at Bagatelle will be much more subdued but promises to deliver the same impeccable service, cuisine and ambiance.

Carin von Berg

Bagatelle

755 N. La Cienega Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA  90069

310-659-3900

Artist Gary "GD" Garner wtih A.N.T. Farm's Carlon Jeffery

Hollywood, CA-  This past Thursday, author and artist extraodinaire Gary "GD" Garner held a popup exhibit at Voda Spa in Hollywood.  Proceeds from the exhibit benefited the charity Voices of African Mothers, whose aim is to provide food, shelter, clothing and education for Africa's neediest families.

Garner's book Through the Eyes of Madness

Copies of Garner's book, Through The Eyes of Madness, were available for sale in addition to his amazing and inspiring artwork.  The book chronicles his extraordinary expedition which spanned five years and seven continents and can be found on Amazon.  Lucky guests were also treated to Garner's never-before-shared journals which document his travels around the world, from the heights of Mt. Everest to the lows of death valley and many places in between.

Garner's Journals

Though Voda Spa may seem like an unconvential place to hold an art exhibit, the spa's natural tones and soothing decor actually blended beautifully with the artists' works.  Many celebs were in attendance as Garner has created works for Justin Timberlake, Jimmy Kimmel, Cedric the Entertainer, Will. I. AM, and George Lopez to name a few.

Shah's of Sunset Star Asa Soltan Rahmati

The artist had many of his "touchable" artwork displayed that was just too irresitable to bypass.  With the touch of a secret button, select areas of the art would light up.  In addition to an open bar and a VIP section, there were a bevy of beauties on hand to give guests guided tours.

Author Carin von Berg

For a biography of the artist go to http://gdgarner.tumblr.com/

Greystone Mansion

Beverly Hills, CA-  The Beverly Hills Bar Association Barristers and Foundation presents the 24th Annual Vintage Bouquet next Sunday, April 29 from noon to 4pm at the historic Greystone Mansion.  With such a magnificent location, city views, gorgeous weather and a plethora of wineries and restaurants, this event is not to be missed.  Additionally, there will be a live and silent auction of unique food, wine and travel packages and special musical entertainment.

Live Jazz Band

The Beverly Hills Bar Association, founded in 1931, is the sixth largest bar association in California, with 5,000 members.  Its mission is to serve its members, to lead the legal profession and to advocate for justice in the community. Proceeds from this year's fundraiser benefit the Beverly Hills Bar Foundation’s pro bono legal services, including Public Counsel, the nation’s largest pro bono law firm and free wills for firefighters and emergency responders.

Peju Napa Valley

This year some participating wineries are Grich Hills Estate, Cielo Farms, Moreno BHLV, Diablo Beverages, Faust, Peju Napa Valley, Wicker Vineyards and many more.  Additionally, food is being provided by Hansen Cakes, Napa Valley Grille, Palomino Restaurant, STK, Taberna Mexicana, and The Palm just to name a few.

Hansen Cakes

Tickets to the 24th Annual Vintage Bouquet are $125 per person if purchased in advance and $150 per person on the day of the event.  A limited number of VIP tickets ($175) are also available and include entree to a private martini bar. Greystone Mansion is located at 905 Loma Vista Drive in Beverly Hills, CA 90210. To purchase tickets, contact Knock Out Productionsat 818-610-0300 or go to www.vintagebouquet.com.

Carin von Berg

Los Angeles, CA-  Finally, visitors to The Grove and Original Farmer's Market now have more sophisticated choices when it comes to dining thanks to the addition of Planet Dailies and Mixology 101. What's unique about Planet Dailies and Mixology 101 is their second story location:  you feel removed from the chaos below yet still a part of the action thanks to the open and spacious interiors. Speaking of action, both establishments have plenty of hi-definition televisions so you can stay up on your sport of choice.  If you're like The LuxLady, your “sport" of choice is drinking and with two bars to choose from you won't go thirsty.

Planet Dailies Interior

Offering casual California Cuisine, Planet Dailies has much to choose from.  For starters, a must-try are the tangy and crunchy Fish Tacos and the refreshing Watermelon and Feta salad with tomatoes and lemon dressing.  Both items are perfect for the upcoming summer months.  Additional stand-outs are the Crab and Lobster Cakes and the Kobe Beef Sliders.

Fish Tacos

In addition to numerous salads and a variety of pizzas such as the popular Ham and Fig flatbread, there are Asian inspired dishes like the Mongolian Beef, vegetarian options such as vegetable Fajitas and Szechuan Eggplant, and burgers and pasta galore.  The portions are hearty so come hungry.

Teriyaki Salmon

Though Mixology 101 is focused primarily on cocktails with a menu boasting 40+ cocktails divided into eight sections: Champagne Cocktails, Classics, Pre-Dinner, Martinis, Short & Sublime, Long & Luscious, Non-Alcoholic, you can stay put and order appetizers from Planet Dailies vast menu. Planet Dailies has an ample cocktail menu as well, with two of The LuxLady's favorites:  The Dark and Stormy made from Gosling's Black Seal rum, fresh squeezed lime juice and ginger beer and the refreshingly crisp Moscow Mule of Stolichnaya Vodka, fresh squeezed lime juice and ginger beer.

Mixology 101 Bar Area

Moscow Mule and Dark and Stormy

Carin von Berg

Planet Dailies and Mixology 101

6333 W. 3rd Street

Los Angeles, CA  90036

www.planetdailies.com

Hollywood, CA-  This week, Sadie launches her new spring inspired menu that sees three additions to the already amazing cocktail offerings and a whole slew of tempting food choices.  The Temperado of cachaça, tequila, fresh squeezed lime juice, cilantro and jalapeño was just what the doctor ordered, as the LuxLady was hankering for something with a little heat to it.  Cachaça AND tequila together sounds like it could be lethal but Sadie's expert Spirits Director, Giovanni Martinez knows exactly what he's doing.  The Friar Fresh of Plymouth Gin, Velvet Falernum, fresh lemon juice, honey, and fresh grapefruit juice and the Pisotéca of Italian Pisco, homegrown mint, ginger-honey syrup, fresh lime juice and Yuzu Bitters also made their debut on the new Spring Menu.

Temporado

Next up were the elegantly presented Little Gem of zippy green garlic and crispy ham and An Organic Egg bathed in a savory broth and sprinkled with peas.  Both dishes go nicely with the Pisotéca.

The true show-stoppers of the night, however,  were the Glazed Pei Mussels with potato mousseline, chorizo, and smoked almond, the Pork Belly with Yuzu Kosho and spring onion, and the succulent and hearty Lamb Meatballs with whipped sheep milk yogurt which literally disappeared before my eyes!  These dishes went beautifully with a creamy Heffeweizen brew.

An Organic Egg, Representing "Spring" (top) and a Little Gem (bottom)

Even if you're not a Linguini and Clams fan, you just might be after you try Sadie's sinfully, delicious version. Forever the pescatarian, the LuxLady opted for the Wild Alaskan Halibut, which was succulent and bursting with flavor as it was in a broth of bacon and onion relish and served with grilled asparagus.  If you have a heartier appetite, go for the comforting Organic Rocky Chicken or the Prime Rib Eye “Cap" which is paired with the Oaxacan Through Italy.  Enchanting name for a cocktail, isn't it?  If you want to know if it tastes as interesting as it sounds I guess you'll just have to pop over to Sadie's to see for yourself but HURRY because the Spring Menu will be available for a limited time.

Wild Alaskan Halibut

Carin von Berg

Sadie
1638 N. Las Palmas Ave.
Hollywood, CA  90028
323-467-0200
www.sadiela.com

Main Dining Room

Los Angeles, CA-  Read the LuxLady's profile of Bagatelle, LA's newest hot spot click to read.

755 N. La Cienega Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA  90069

310-659-3900

Beverly Hills, CA- Seafood lovers throughout Southern California can soon rejoice with the debut of Chaya of Beverly Hills' new “Alaskan Wild Fish Fair,” featuring a limited-engagement menu of seafood appetizers and entrées specially prepared by Executive Chef Shigefumi Tachibe. For those of you with an eco-conscience, not to fear...CHAYA sources all of its seafood from purveyors committed to eco-friendly fishing practices, such as monitoring harvests to ensure that quotas are not exceeded and returning the smaller catch back to the sea.

The Alaskan Wild Fish Fair menu will feature starters such as Alaskan Halibut Sashimi with arugula pesto vinaigrette and shaved spring root vegetables ($14); Citrus Sweet Miso Alaskan King Salmon Mi-cuit served with housemade market pickled vegetables ($15); and a savory Alaskan King Crab & Uni Tart with creamed mushrooms and hollandaise ($13). Main entrées include Pan Roasted Alaskan King Salmon over artichoke purée with olive oil fried artichoke and a lavender pinot noir sauce ($36); Oja (Seafood Hot Pot) filled with a medley of Halibut cheek, calamari,  shrimp, langoustines, black mussels, and clams ($32); an Olive Oil Parched Halibut with a short rib sheet, meyer lemon gremolata and fresh spring vegetables ($34); and Baked Black Cod in a Summer Black Truffle Soy Glaze with a Hijiki brown rice risotto and pea tendrils ($31).

CHAYA Brasserie

8741 Alden Drive

Los Angeles, CA 90048

310.859.8833

www.thechaya.com