MAR-APR 2026 | THE FASHION ISSUE

California Lifestyle Collection

1 BLANDING LANE

vaulted ceilings.

The heart of the home is a stunning great room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a dramatic stone terrace. The outdoor living space features a 46-foot infinity edge pool, fully appointed pool house with wet bar and appliances, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen—ideal for entertaining against a backdrop of endless water views.

Inside, a chef’s kitchen awaits with Italian marble, custom oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a six-burner Miele range, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. The luxurious primary suite boasts breathtaking views and a spa-inspired bathroom with steam shower, marble soaking tub, and a custom walk-in closet.

Additional en-suite bedrooms o er private terraces and panoramic views, creating a resort-like experience for family and guests. Every level of the home is connected to outdoor space, maximizing natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Set on a 0.38-acre lot surrounded by open space and lush trees, this private retreat is just minutes from Tiburon’s vibrant downtown, two prestigious yacht clubs, ferry service to San Francisco and Angel Island, and scenic bayfront paths.

With top-rated schools, world-class amenities, and limited access to Belvedere Island, this is one of the most exclusive and desirable addresses in California.

California Lifestyle Collection

1 BLANDING LANE

4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3 HALF-BATHS | ±4,996 SQ. FT

$24,900,000

Discover a newly constructed coastal estate where world-class design meets the most iconic views in the Bay Area. Perched on the coveted tip of Belvedere Island, this 5,000± sq. ft. residence—formerly known as 465 Belvedere Avenue—o ers an unmatched vantage point with sweeping panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Bay Bridge, Angel Island, and the East Bay.

Designed by acclaimed architect David Kotzebue, the home reflects a perfect balance of modern elegance and timeless sophistication. Every element has been thoughtfully considered—from handcrafted white oak finishes and cedar ceilings to Spanish stone accents and soaring 18-foot vaulted ceilings.

The heart of the home is a stunning great room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a dramatic stone terrace. The outdoor living space features a 46-foot infinity edge pool, fully appointed pool house with wet bar and appliances, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen—ideal for entertaining against a backdrop of endless water views.

Inside, a chef’s kitchen awaits with Italian marble, custom oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a six-burner Miele range, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. The luxurious primary suite boasts breathtaking views and a spa-inspired bathroom with steam shower, marble soaking tub, and a custom walk-in closet.

Additional en-suite bedrooms o er private terraces and panoramic views, creating a resort-like experience for family and guests. Every level of the home is connected to outdoor space, maximizing natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Set on a 0.38-acre lot surrounded by open space and lush trees, this private retreat is just minutes from Tiburon’s vibrant downtown, two prestigious yacht clubs, ferry service to San Francisco and Angel Island, and scenic bayfront paths.

With top-rated schools, world-class amenities, and limited access to Belvedere Island, this is one of the most exclusive and desirable addresses in California.

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

1 BLANDING LANE

California Lifestyle Collection

4 BEDS | 4 BATHS |

$24,900,000

Discover a newly constructed coastal estate where world-class design meets the most iconic views in the Bay Area. Perched on the coveted tip of Belvedere Island, this 5,000± sq. ft. residence—formerly known as 465 Belvedere Avenue—o ers an unmatched vantage point with sweeping panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Bay Bridge, Angel Island, and the East Bay.

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 2 HALF-BATHS | ±8,131 SQ. FT.

$22,888,000

Designed by acclaimed architect David Kotzebue, the home reflects a perfect balance of modern elegance and timeless sophistication. Every element has been thoughtfully considered—from handcrafted white oak finishes and cedar ceilings to Spanish stone accents and soaring 18-foot vaulted ceilings.

$22,888,000

The heart of the home is a stunning great room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a dramatic stone terrace. The outdoor living space features a 46-foot infinity edge pool, fully appointed pool house with wet bar and appliances, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen—ideal for entertaining against a backdrop of endless water views.

Inside, a chef’s kitchen awaits with Italian marble, custom oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a six-burner Miele range, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. The luxurious primary suite boasts breathtaking views and a spa-inspired bathroom with steam shower, marble soaking tub, and a custom walk-in closet.

Additional en-suite bedrooms o er private terraces and panoramic views, creating a resort-like experience for family and guests. Every level of the home is connected to outdoor space, maximizing natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Set on a 0.38-acre lot surrounded by open space and lush trees, this private retreat is just minutes from Tiburon’s vibrant downtown, two prestigious yacht clubs, ferry service to San Francisco and Angel Island, and scenic bayfront paths.

Featured in Architectural Digest, this world-class residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the skyline of San Francisco and Sausalito. This magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting on the most prestigious location is comprised of a ±8,131 sq .ft. home on a ±0.67 acre lot, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. This architectural work of art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, with spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive 4-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this home takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a 3-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one bedroom, one bath guesthouse and a spacious wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house are situated between two large retaining walls, which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outwards towards the Bay. The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular stair winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s massing. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects towards the Bay to extend the space into the landscape. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a study and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool, whose “infinity edge” of water establishes a poetic connection to the Bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide plank Bubinga wood and cabinets are lightly stained maple. The exterior is clad in gray stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige/gray flamed limestone pavers and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco. This is one of the very rare large size newer contemporary homes on Belvedere Island on south and west facing waterfront.

Featured in Architectural Digest, this world-class residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the skyline of San Francisco and Sausalito. This magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting on the most prestigious location is comprised of a ±8,131 sq .ft. home on a ±0.67 acre lot, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. This architectural work of art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, with spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive 4-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this home takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a 3-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one bedroom, one bath guesthouse and a spacious wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house are situated between two large retaining walls, which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outwards towards the Bay. The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular stair winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s massing. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects towards the Bay to extend the space into the landscape. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a study and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool, whose “infinity edge” of water establishes a poetic connection to the Bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide plank Bubinga wood and cabinets are lightly stained maple. The exterior is clad in gray stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige/gray flamed limestone pavers and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco. This is one of the very rare large size newer contemporary homes on Belvedere Island on south and west facing waterfront.

With top-rated schools, world-class amenities, and limited access to Belvedere Island, this is one of the most exclusive and desirable addresses in California.

California Lifestyle Collection

445 BELVEDERE AVENUE

1 BLANDING LANE

BELVEDERE

4,996

Discover a newly constructed coastal estate where world-class design meets the most iconic views in the Bay Area. Perched on the coveted tip formerly known as 465 Belvedere Avenue panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Bay Bridge, Angel Island, and the East Bay.

Designed by acclaimed architect David Kotzebue, the home reflects a perfect balance of modern elegance and timeless sophistication. Every element has been thoughtfully considered—from handcrafted white oak finishes and cedar ceilings to Spanish stone accents and soaring 18-foot

Featured in Architectural Digest, this world-class residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the skyline of San Francisco and Sausalito. This magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting on the most prestigious location is comprised of a 0.67 acre lot, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. This architectural work of art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, with spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive 4-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this home takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a 3-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one bedroom, one bath guesthouse and a spacious wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house are situated between two large retaining walls, which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outwards towards the Bay. The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular stair winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s massing. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects towards the Bay to extend the space into the landscape. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a study and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool, whose “infinity edge” of water establishes a poetic connection to the Bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide plank Bubinga wood and cabinets are lightly stained maple. The exterior is clad in gray stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige/gray flamed limestone pavers and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco. This is one of the very rare large size newer contemporary homes on Belvedere Island on south and west facing waterfront.

The heart of the home is a stunning great room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a dramatic stone terrace. The outdoor living space features a 46-foot infinity edge pool, fully appointed pool house with wet bar and appliances, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen—ideal for

Inside, a chef’s kitchen awaits with Italian marble, custom oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a six-burner Miele range, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. The luxurious primary suite boasts breathtaking views and a spa-inspired bathroom with steam shower, marble soaking tub, and a custom walk-in

Additional en-suite bedrooms o er private terraces and panoramic views, creating a resort-like experience for family and guests. Every level of the home is connected to outdoor space, maximizing natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Set on a 0.38-acre lot surrounded by open space and lush trees, this private retreat is just minutes from Tiburon’s vibrant downtown, two prestigious yacht clubs, ferry service to San Francisco and Angel Island, and scenic bayfront paths. With top-rated schools, world-class amenities, and limited access to Belvedere Island, this is one of the most

THE FASHION ISSUE

HAUTE HOTEL

42 Sausalito’s Cavallo Point offers a serene Bay Area escape blending history, luxury, wellness, and iconic Golden Gate views.

12 HAUTE CALENDAR

This year’s spring season delivers beloved spectacles.

16 COVER STORY

A dazzling look inside the 2026 Grammy Awards, where couture fashion, iconic artists, and historic wins collide on music’s most glamorous night.

24 FEATURE

The remarkable story of Miist, Grammy artist, survivor, and creator of The Love Project, turning music into a global kindness movement.

HAUTE FASHION

26 Jonathan Anderson begins a new era at Dior, blending fresh imagination with the house’s heritage.

34 Stick & Ball, Mill Valley–based luxury brand, blends equestrian heritage, sustainable craftsmanship, and quiet California elegance into timeless lifestyle designs.

36 Fashion and luxury hotels collide as brands transform stays through collaborations, wardrobes, and design.

40 HAUTE PROFILE

Niccolò Ricci discusses Stefano Ricci’s global growth, American expansion, Explorer Project, and preserving Florentine craftsmanship while defining luxury.

44 Relais & Châteaux refinement meets culinary excellence at L’Auberge Carmel, where intimate luxury, impeccable service, and Justin Cogley’s Aubergine define the experience.

46 Perched above Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn redefines luxury through nature, architecture, cuisine, wellness, and soulful experiences at California’s edge.

HAUTE TRAVEL

50 Standout new luxury hotel debuts and the year’s most anticipated openings.

56 A yacht journey along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, where ancient ruins, family adventures, and Mare Nostrum’s hospitality unfold.

60 A private Galápagos charter becomes a journey through evolution, family, and wonder—seen through a father’s lens and his daughter’s eyes.

HAUTE CUISINE

62 Crustacean’s move to Pine Street blends iconic dishes, refined design, and family legacy into a Financial District destination.

66 Thrive City emerges as San Francisco’s new cultural hub, uniting dining, entertainment, public spaces, and community energy yearround for locals.

68 Luxury fashion dining rises as maisons host celebrity chefs, spotlighting Monsieur Dior by Dominique Crenn and immersive retail gastronomy worldwide.

OF

82 HAUTE TIME

MEET THE NEW FLAGBEARERS OF AUDEMARS PIGUET

DIOR: A NEW DAWN

HAUTE WINE & SPIRITS

70 A Montecito homecoming at Rosewood Miramar Beach, where coastal nostalgia, refined luxury, and Santa Barbara’s vibrant wine culture meet.

72 Polo meets Napa Valley elegance as beginners discover the thrill of the “Sport of Kings,” paired with wine, horses, and vineyard luxury.

73 HAUTE WELLNESS

Inside San Francisco’s Metropolitan Club, a historic women’s institution welcoming a new generation of ambitious leaders, culture, connection, and modern influence.

73 HAUTE SHOPPING

A thoughtful Mother’s Day gift guide inspired by Maya Angelou, celebrating love, gratitude, and meaningful gestures moms cherish most always.

HAUTE AUTO

76 Ferrari revives the Testarossa name for a 1,050 cv hybrid apex, uniting racing bloodline, innovation, legacy, and emotion.

78 Formula 1’s 2026 reset ushers sustainability, new technology, fierce team reshuffles, and champion Lando Norris navigating motorsport’s boldest transformation yet.

80 A whirlwind Las Vegas weekend: McLaren track thrills, Rolls-Royce desert drifting, dazzling concours cars, and unforgettable dining at Wynn resort.

Audemars Piguet previews Watches and Wonders with daring novelties: jumping-hour debut, 47-function pocket watch, refreshed Code 11.59 and Royal Oak.

84 HAUTE FINANCE

At J.P. Morgan’s Pine Street Financial Center, Irina Evans delivers personalized, holistic wealth planning tailored to San Francisco families’ futures.

HAUTE EVENT

86 Festival Napa Valley marks twenty years with landmark performances, new opera premieres, philanthropy, and immersive cultural experiences across iconic vineyards.

98 Festival Napa Valley celebrates Lunar New Year with Yang Bao’s immersive music, art, and hospitality at The St. Regis San Francisco.

100 San Francisco Symphony’s Lunar New Year gala honors Year of the Red Horse with music, philanthropy, and civic celebration traditions.

102 Opera Aloha launches its 2026 tour at Grace Cathedral, blending opera, Pacific song, and hula in a vibrant multicultural celebration.

104 San Francisco’s cultural elite gathered at ODC/Dance’s annual gala for an elegant evening of contemporary performance, philanthropy, and celebration.

106 Jameson Humane’s 13th WineaPAWlooza returns to Napa Valley with elite vintners, acclaimed chefs, music, and philanthropy supporting animal welfare.

108 HAUTE RESIDENCE

Architectural Digest–featured Charles Gwathmey masterpiece on Belvedere Island offers panoramic San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge views waterfront residence.

HAUTE AMBASSADOR

112 A closer look at non-toxic undergarments, organic fibers, hidden chemicals, and smarter foundational choices for a healthier, sustainable wardrobe.

114 Aubrey’s San Francisco childhood inspires an elegant Lunar New Year fête honoring Chinese tradition, friendship, cuisine, symbolism, and joyful celebration.

118 Five digital sommeliers redefine wine authority, replacing scores with authenticity as their voices guide discovery via social media.

120 When gifting appreciated assets can backfire: how capital gains taxes and basis step-ups may outweigh estate tax savings for heirs.

SAN FRANCISCO OPERA GUILD and NEIMAN MARCUS present

The Art of Fashion Runway Show and Luncheon

Showcasing the latest trends in luxury fashion while supporting the future of music education in our community

Special appearance by Chloe King Director of Fashion and Lifestyle at Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

11:00 a.m. Champagne Reception

12:00 p.m. The Art of Fashion Runway Show and Luncheon

NEIMAN MARCUS SAN FRANCISCO

Event Co-Chairs: Teresa Medearis and Pam Preston

Tickets and Information

www.sfopera.com/fashionshow (415) 565-3204 • sfoguild@sfopera.com

EVENTS CALENDAR

CURRENT

THROUGH MARCH 22

A.C.T. |

Extended dates for this original story based on Paramount Pictures’ terrifying film franchise. Plus Christian Cagigal’s Witching Hour, (spine-tingling illusions, mind-bending magic, and ghostly tales) in a limited engagement on March 6-7, in the Garrett. Toni Rembe Theater, 415 Geary St. act-sf.org

THROUGH MAY 2

San Francisco Playhouse |

It’s 1997, and a high school girls’ basketball team must navigate the pressures of being young, Black, and female in the rural South. 450 Post St. sfplayhouse.org

THROUGH MAY 3

SFMOMA } KAWS: FAMILY

Explore the playful and poignant artistic universe created by KAWS in the first major museum exhibition on the West Coast. See beloved characters COMPANION, BFF, and CHUM grouped as an intimate family unit. 151 Third St. sfmoma.org

THROUGH AUG. 2

Legion of Honor | Drawn to Venice

Spanning the Renaissance to the Rococo period, this exhibition celebrates the vitality and originality of the arts in Venice and the Veneto region through more than 30 drawings and prints. Lincoln Park, 100 34th Avenue. famsf.org

MARCH

MARCH 3 - 8

What’s old is new again. Holding emotional sway as one of the city’s iconic landmarks, the 104-year-old Castro Theatre is back after a two-year, $41 million renovation. San Francisco Ballet Orchestra hits its 50th year milestone. The 175th St. Patrick’s Day Parade marches along Market Street while the Golden State Warriors keep the ball bouncing with 10 home games this spring. And making everything beautiful and fresh, the well-loved Bouquets to Art returns to the de Young for its 42nd season. Happy Easter!

BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

MARCH 4 - 8

Celebration of Women in Wine

Curated by Tish Wiggins of Tish Around Town, the all-inclusive Napa event is an interactive, educational experience including a signature grand tasting at CIA at Copia and more. celebrationofwomeninwine.com/events

MARCH 5

San Francisco Symphony | Itzhak Perlman

Violinist Itzhak Perlman returns to Davies Symphony Hall in his 80th birthday season to conduct and play a one-night-only concert featuring J.S. Bach’s Violin Concerto No. 1, Brahms’s Academic Festival Overture, and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8. sfsymphony.org

de Young | 42nd Annual Bouquets to Art

One hundred Bay Area floral designers bring spring early in a favorite annual event of fresh displays inspired by the permanent collection. Evening hours added for the first time. Opening night is March 2. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. famsf.org

MARCH 3 - 22

After galloping onto Broadway, the original production was nominated for 14 Tony Awards and won three, including Best Musical. Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor St. us.atgtickets.com

MARCH 8

San Francisco Ballet Orchestra 50th Anniversary Concert

Shelby and Frederick Gans Music Director & Principal Conductor Martin West have curated a one-night-only concert highlighting the breadth and talent of the orchestra. Fundraising dinner in the Green Room. Herbst Theater, 401 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org/productions/orchestra-concert

MARCH 12

San Francisco Performances | Lise de la Salle

The internationally acclaimed pianist presents a program of works by Chopin and Liszt. Herbst Theater, 401 Van Ness Ave. sfperformances.org

MARCH 12 - 22

Oakland Restaurant Week

Named #1 Best Food City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler in 2024 and 2025, Oakland’s feast of global flavors has 140+ participating restaurants, from food trucks to Bib Gourmand standouts and Michelin stars. visitoakland.com

MARCH 14

175th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Hosted by the United Irish Societies, one of the city’s most popular parades. Kickoff is Market and 2nd streets at 11:30 a.m. to Civic Center Plaza for live music and more from 2 p.m. uissf.org/stpatricks-day-parade

MARCH 15

Olivia Decker Power of Music Series

Festival Napa Valley presents an intimate evening of solo violin at The Duckhorn Collection at Paraduxx. Internationally acclaimed violinist Nancy Zhou offers a program spanning Baroque elegance to modern virtuosity, revealing the full expressive power of the instrument. 7257 Silverado Trail, Napa. festivalnapavalley.org/ programs/olivia-decker-power-of-music-series

MARCH 15

Chase Center | Nine Inch Nails

Grammy-award winning band and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Nine Inch Nails is bringing their Peel It Back Tour 2026. 1 Warriors Way. chasecenter.com

MARCH 19 - 29

San Francisco Ballet |

Drawing from Cervantes’ beloved literary masterpiece, this vibrant production brings together dazzling artistry, captivating characters, and an enchanting tale of love that radiates joy from every turn. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

MARCH 20

SFJAZZ | Sketches of Miles Davis

This night is inspired by Miles Davis’s landmark late 50s and early 60s large group collaboration with arranger Gil Evans yielding jazz classics: Sketches of Spain, Porgy & Bess, Miles Ahead, and Quiet Nights. SFJAZZ Center, 201 Franklin St. sfjazz.org

MARCH 20 - 21

Pigs & Pinot

One of Sonoma County’s most celebrated food and wine weekends is hosted by Chef Charlie Palmer. Now in its 19th year in a new location at Appellation Healdsburg. 101 Dovetail Lane, Healdsburg. pigsandpinot.com

MARCH 20 - 22

20th Annual California Artisan Cheese Festival

Say cheese! Three days of tasting, education, and celebration bringing together farmers, cheesemakers, chefs, brewers, winemakers, distillers and cheese enthusiasts. Various locations in Sonoma County. artisancheesefestival.com

MARCH 21

31st Annual American Red Cross Gala

In support of its humanitarian mission, a volunteerled black tie benefit evening for this year’s signature fundraiser. The Conservatory at One Sansome. redcross.org/redcrossgalasf

MARCH 21

San Francisco Tulip Day 2026

A massive, colorful one-day popup garden of 80,000 bright tulips, all for the taking. Union Square Alliance. visitunionsquaresf.com

MARCH 21

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus | Totally 80s Bigger hair, bigger voices. Protest anthems, power ballads, and dance-floor faves in a nostalgic night of anthems that defined the decade. Two shows. Curran Theatre, 445 Geary St. us.atgtickets.com

MARCH 21 - JULY 26

de Young | Monet and Venice

Experience Monet’s vision of the famed Italian city, which he visited only once. Organized with the Brooklyn Museum, the first show dedicated to Monet’s Venetian cityscapes since their debut over a century ago. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. famsf.org

MARCH 24 - APRIL 5

Multiple Tony Award-winning musical delivers a rare look at the creative mind that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. us.atgtickets.com

MARCH 25 - 29

29th Sonoma International Film Festival

The best in film, food, wine, and fun. The nonprofit event is dedicated to promoting independent film, supporting filmmakers around the world, and inspiring film lovers. sonomafilmfest.org

MARCH 29

National Kidney Foundation | 37th Annual Authors Luncheon

Acclaimed authors and powerful storytelling supporting efforts to advance kidney health. This year’s honoree is Neil R. Powe, MD, Chief of Medicine, ZSFG. Hyatt Regency Embarcadero. bit. ly/4tviKt1

APRIL

APRIL 7 - 12

Cal Performances | Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Returning for its annual weeklong Berkeley residency, the first campus performances under new artistic director Alicia Graf Mack. Zellerbach Hall at UC Berkeley. calperformances.org

APRIL 9 - 11

San Francisco Symphony | Bach’s Oratorio

Canadian maestro Bernard Labadie conducts the first-ever SF Symphony performances of a spectacular celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Inside Music Talk is onstage one hour prior. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave. sfsymphony.org

APRIL 9 - 12

Pebble Beach Food & Wine

One of the nation’s premier culinary experiences is a four-day epicurean experience to celebrate food, wine, and craftsmanship. Guided by visionaries from kitchens and vineyards featuring 150 wineries and 150 distinguished chefs. pebblebeachfoodandwine.com

APRIL 10 - 12

23rd Annual International Ocean Film Festival

Making waves at the world’s largest oceanthemed film festival. Groundbreaking films, mingling with filmmakers and ocean experts. Cowell Theater, Fort Mason. intloceanfilmfest.org

APRIL 10 - 16

San Francisco Ballet |

A classic Scottish tale captivates audiences with themes of forbidden love, nature versus civilization, and human longing for meaning—as relevant today as 200 years ago. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

APRIL 11 - 12 AND 18 - 19

59th Annual Northern California

Cherry Blossom Festival

Since 1968, Japantown has been the place to be on two weekends in April. One of California’s most prominent celebrations of Asian traditions and the West Coast’s largest Cherry Blossom Festival. sfcherryblossom.org

APRIL 13

Chase Center | Bruce Springsteen

The legendary Springsteen and E Street Band brings Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour to town for one night only. 1 Warriors Way. chasecenter.com

APRIL 16

Fine Art Museums Annual Gala 2026

Black tie affair: seated dinner, honoree program, playful pop-up experiences, headline musical performance, and exhibition preview of “Monet and Venice.” Late Night after-party gives full access to galleries. de Young, Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. famsf.org

APRIL 17

Cal Performances Gala

Spring gala is opening night for The Joffrey Ballet performing Alexander Ekman’s creatively bold Midsummer Night’s Dream (through April 19).

An elegant onstage dinner by Foreign Cinema. Zellerbach Hall and Playhouse at UC Berkeley. calperformances.org

APRIL 18

20th Anniversary Dress for Success Gala

This year’s theme is Disco Ball for the charity that has provided resources and support to more than 11,000 women as they move through their professional journeys.Terra Gallery, 511 Harrison St. sfdress.org

APRIL 21 - 26

Intertwining two mythic tales, a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. us.atgtickets.com

Dress For Success

Ray Chen

APRIL 24 - MAY 3

San Francisco Ballet | Mere Mortals

Exploring eternal philosophical questions through the timely subject of artificial intelligence, this ballet examines the promises and perils of forging new paths in unknown territory. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

APRIL 25

Olivia Decker Power of Music Series

Festival Napa Valley and Olivia Decker present an exclusive private performance by global superstar violinist Ray Chen. A wine reception is included. Palace Hotel, 2 New Montgomery St. festivalnapavalley.org/programs/olivia-deckerpower-of-music-series

APRIL 25 - MAY 25

47th Annual San Francisco Decorator Showcase

An extraordinary Queen Anne-style Victorian residence at 2315 Broadway in Pacific Heights is transformed by top interior and landscape designers. Built in 1897, the home spans nearly 10,000 square feet. Benefiting San Francisco University High School Financial Aid Program. decoratorshowcase.org

APRIL 29

SFMOMA | Art Bash

The museum’s signature fundraiser kicks off with cocktails, dinner, and an art auction. All seven floors of the museum provide surprising encounters, musical performances, and immersive art experiences until 1 a.m. 151 Third St. sfmoma. org/event/series/artbash

The 2026 Grammy Awards

A Starry Evening

OF HIGH FASHION AND MUSIC

Before the first award is announced, the Grammy Awards open with one of fashion’s most anticipated spectacles. The red carpet becomes a global runway where music’s biggest stars reveal bold couture and unforgettable style.

BY OLIVIA DECKER

THE GRAMMY AWARDS RED CARPET IS NOT SIMPLY an arrival line — it is one of the most exciting fashion runways in the world. For one extraordinary evening each year, music’s biggest stars transform into couture icons, blending personal style, theatrical glamour, and artistic identity. Attending the 2026 Grammy Awards for the first time felt like stepping directly into that world of fashion fantasy.

As I prepare Haute Living magazine’s annual March–April Fashion Issue, the timing could not have been more perfect. Over the years I have featured New York Fashion Week in past issues, but the Grammys red carpet offers something entirely different — a place where fashion and music collide in the most creative ways, and this year, the stars delivered.

Lady Gaga arrived in a dramatic black couture gown accented with feathers and a sweeping train, channeling the avant-garde glamour that has long defined her red-carpet presence. Gaga continues to treat the red carpet like performance art.

Bad Bunny, never afraid to redefine menswear, stepped out in a sharply tailored couture tuxedo with a sculpted waist and corsetinspired detailing. A bold reinterpretation of classic black tie.

Sabrina Carpenter embraced romantic elegance in a delicately embellished Valentino couture gown featuring soft layers of sheer tulle. Ethereal and timeless — a modern princess moment.

Chappell Roan made one of the night’s most daring statements in a sculptural archival Mugler look inspired by late-1990s couture. A dramatic nod to fashion history with unmistakable theatrical flair.

Rosé stunned in Giambattista Valli couture, pairing a sleek velvet mini dress with a sweeping ivory drape that created a striking silhouette. Effortlessly balancing minimalism with drama.

Addison Rae channeled old Hollywood glamour in a custom Alaïa gown with a plunging neckline and sculptural tailoring Classic starlet elegance with a modern edge.

The red carpet continued to dazzle with appearances from Billie Eilish, Kehlani, FKA Twigs, Doechii, Miley Cyrus, Laufey, Brandi

Carlile, Pharrell Williams, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Teyana Taylor, Jon Batiste, Olivia Dean, Katseye, Zara Larsson, and Justin Bieber, among many others.

Each artist brought their own perspective to fashion — from bold experimental silhouettes to minimalist tailoring and vintageinspired glamour. For me and for our readers, the Grammys red carpet was truly a celebration of style at its most imaginative.

Yet beyond the extraordinary fashion, the evening was also deeply meaningful on a personal level. I have been a music fan all my life and have had the privilege of funding the Olivia Decker Power of Music Series with Festival Napa Valley since 2021, presenting monthly concerts at iconic venues with world-class performers alongside talented young musicians. Still, this year marked my first time attending the Grammy Awards.

Singer, pianist, and composer Miist — a voting member of the Recording Academy — invited me to attend with her on February 1, when music’s biggest night returned to the Peacock Theater and the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Comedian Trevor Noah hosted the ceremony for the sixth time.

Not only was I able to experience music performed at the highest level, but the evening also revealed the extraordinary diversity and creativity shaping today’s global music industry.

The Grammy Premiere Ceremony took place earlier in the day at the Peacock Theater, adjacent to the Crypto.com Arena, from noon to 3 p.m. Hosted by Darren Criss, the ceremony opened with welcome remarks from Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. and Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Chelsey Green.

The celebration began with an energetic performance of “Shining Star” by Earth, Wind & Fire before presenters awarded winners across 95 categories. Music producer and music director Cheche Alara led the ceremony’s musical direction, with executive producer Greg V. Fera overseeing the production.

This page: Babyface in Balmain with Rika Tischendorf, Jamie Foxx in Unique Threads with Annalise Bishop and Corinne Foxx. Opposite page: Top row, left to right: Darren Criss in Tanner Fletcher with Mia Swier in Pamela Roland, David “DLO” Outing in Louis Vuitton and NovaMen with Bionca Outing, and Ejae in Dior by Jonathan Anderson; Center row, left to right: Jeff Goldblum and Emilie Livingston in Maison Valentino, Jon Batiste in Eleven Sixteen by Ugo Mozie, and FKA Twigs in Paolo Carzana; Bottom row, left to right: Pink Pantheress in Vivienne Westwood, Chrissy Teigen in Caroline’s Couture with John Legend in Louis Vuitton, and Joy Villa in a custom ensemble.

The Recording Academy also welcomed more than 3,800 new members in 2026. Of those invited, 50 percent were age 39 or younger, 58 percent were people of color, and 35 percent identified as women — reflecting the Academy’s continuing efforts to broaden its membership.

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards honored the best recordings, compositions, and artists released between August 31, 2024, and August 30, 2025, as selected by members of the Recording Academy.

The main ceremony took place from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Crypto. com Arena and was broadcast on CBS, with streaming available on Paramount+. The event marked the Grammys’ 23rd year at the arena and the final ceremony held there since the show first moved to the venue in 1973. Beginning in 2027, the Grammys will move to ABC and stream on Hulu and Disney+ under a new ten-year agreement.

Kendrick Lamar was the night’s biggest winner for the second consecutive year, earning five awards, including Record of the Year for “Luther.” With wins across the rap categories, including Best Rap Album for GNX, Lamar celebrated his fourth five-win Grammy night and surpassed Jay-Z to become the most-awarded hip-hop artist in Grammy history.

Bad Bunny followed with three wins, including Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos, making it the first Spanish-language album to receive the award and only the third Latino artist to achieve the honor.

Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas won Song of the Year for “Wildflower,” becoming the most-awarded artists in the category in Grammy history with three wins each. Their victory also tied them with Adele, Bruno Mars, and Paul Simon for the most wins in the Grammys’ General Field categories, with seven each.

British singer Olivia Dean was named Best New Artist, becoming the ninth woman in a row to win the award and the first British recipient since Dua Lipa in 2019.

Bruno Mars performs onstage at the 68th Grammy Awards

Rosé and Bruno Mars perform onstage during the 68th Grammy Awards

Reba McEntire, Brandy Clark, and Lukas Nelson delivered a moving In Memoriam performance of Trailblazer

Other notable moments included Tyler, the Creator’s Chromakopia winning the inaugural Best Album Cover, while Zach Top’s Ain’t in It for My Health received the first Best Traditional Country Album award. Meanwhile, the song “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters won Best Song Written for Visual Media, becoming the first K-pop song to win a Grammy in any category.

Another historic milestone came when Steven Spielberg won Best Music Film for producing Music by John Williams, achieving the rare EGOT distinction.

As the evening unfolded between the Peacock Theater and the Crypto.com Arena, it became clear that the Grammys are about far more than awards. They represent a rare intersection of music, fashion, and cultural expression.

For someone who has spent years supporting live music through the Power of Music Series, attending the Grammys was already meaningful. Experiencing it while preparing our annual fashion issue made the night even more special.

The Grammys once again proved that while the awards celebrate musical excellence, the red carpet tells another story — one where creativity, individuality, and style shine just as brightly as the music itself.

For me, and for our readers, it was truly a night of fashion fantasy.

Miist and The Love Project

A Life Built Around Meaningful Connection

BY OLIVIA DECKER

I ATTENDED GRAMMY AWARDS AS GUEST OF THE BAY AREA singer/composer and Grammy Member Miist and got to know her fascinating life. Before she began writing songs, she had already lived several lifetimes’ worth of experience. Abandoned at age five and survived a terminal cancer in her late twenties, she spent much of her life navigating uncertainty, loss, and the quiet questions that come with them. Music did not enter her world early, nor did she follow a traditional artistic path. Instead, songwriting arrived unexpectedly in her thirties, without formal training, at a moment when she was searching for language that could hold what she had lived through.What followed was not a sudden pivot toward fame, but a gradual, deliberate building of a creative life rooted in meaning.

Today, Miist is a Billboard-charting, multilingual recording artist whose work spans music, podcasting, nonprofit initiatives, and publishing, creating space for reflection, connection, and small, intentional actions that can change how we relate to ourselves and each other. That philosophy now comes into full view with T he Love Project , her defining creative chapter for 2026. Miist first captured international attention in 2025 with T he Smile Project , a concept born from a deeply human story, she wrote “Could You Lend Me a Smile” as both a song and a call to action. What followed exceeded conventional expectations of how music travels. T he

Love Project expanded into 16 language versions across five continents, involving artists whose collective credits include more than 60 GRAMMY wins and nominations. It earned multiple world records and reached millions of viewers, not because it followed trends, but because it asked something simple and universal: to notice one another.

The experience reshaped Miist’s understanding of her work. Rather than treating music as a standalone product, she began to see it as one piece of a larger ecosystem that could invite participation, empathy, and presence. That evolution now continues with The Love Project. At the center of this new chapter is “Love Will Show Us the Way,” a song co-written with legendary Italian producer and songwriter Mauro Malavasi, best known for his work on Andrea Bocelli’s Romanza The collaboration came together organically after Malavasi connected with Miist’s message during the filming of a prior project in Italy. For Miist, the song reflects a conviction shaped by lived experience: that love, expressed in everyday choices, remains one of the few stabilizing forces in a world marked by loneliness, disconnection and fear. The Love Project is designed as an arc rather than a single release. Writing across genres, Miist continues to return to what she calls “meaningful songs for a difficult world,” addressing uncomfortable truths while leaving room for hope and possibility.

Around this year’s GRAMMY Awards, Miist continued a personal tradition that reflects her values. For the second year in a row, she invited two fans to attend the ceremony as her guests after hearing their personal stories and what the experience would mean to them. Rather than framing the moment around celebrity access, she used GRAMMY weekend to spotlight everyday people and the power of human connection. For Miist, the gesture is intentionally modest by design, reinforcing her belief that recognition matters most when it brings people closer together, rather than placing distance between those onstage and those listening. The upcoming music video for “Love Will Show Us the Way” follows the same principle. Rather than placing herself at the center, Miist has invited fans around the world to submit short clips capturing everyday acts of kindness: helping a stranger, hugging a friend, offering a smile, showing up when it counts. Selected moments will be woven into the final release, transforming the video into a shared, global portrait of humanity in motion.

Underlying all of Miist’s work is a deceptively simple framework she refers to as “15-second actions.” The idea grew from a desire to counter overwhelm. Faced with global challenges that feel vast and unsolvable, Miist began focusing on what remains within immediate reach: small gestures that take seconds, yet ripple outward. A smile. A kind word. A moment of patience. An act of attention. This philosophy anchors her acclaimed podcast, Make Me Smile with Miist, now ranked among the Top 10 mental health podcasts in the United States. Each episode blends personal storytelling and original music, then closes with a small, practical action

listeners can take immediately. Topics range from gratitude and resentment to fear, comparison, curiosity, and the human need to be seen and remembered. The podcast is not prescriptive or performative. Instead, it feels conversational, reflective, and grounded in lived experience, offering listeners tools that fit into real life rather than aspirational perfection. Building on the podcast’s success, Miist is preparing to release Make Me Smile with Miist, a forthcoming self-help and mental health book that translates these ideas into short, approachable chapters. Her work also extends into nonprofit impact through the World Smile Initiative dedicated to combating loneliness and social disconnection through accessible tools. Miist’s rise challenges conventional narratives about artistic success. She did not emerge from a system designed to produce stars, nor did she chase virality. Instead, she built something deliberately, later in life, guided by intuition and purpose. Over the past few years, she has written more than 100 songs and collaborated with some of the world’s most respected producers and musicians. Her work now spans music releases, podcast storytelling, nonprofit initiatives, a forthcoming book, and community-driven projects that invite participation rather than consumption. In an era often defined by speed and spectacle, Miist is cultivating something slower and more enduring: a life and body of work shaped by attention, empathy, and choice. As The Love Project unfolds, it offers a reminder that transformation does not always arrive through sweeping gestures. Sometimes it begins with a single act of care and sometimes, that is enough to change everything. Please visit Miist music and projects on: https://www. miistthesinger.com/

A new dawn

WITH JONATHAN ANDERSON NOW AT THE HELM OF DIOR AS THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR, THE HOUSE OF DIOR IS USHERING IN A NEW ERA — INVITING US TO DREAM BEYOND THE ORDINARY. ANDERSON PUTS THE MAISON IN FRESH BLOOM WHILE MAINTAINING DIOR'S DEEP ROOTS.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

Stick & Ball

A West Coast Equestrian Heritage Brand

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

TUCKED BETWEEN SAN FRANCISCO AND NORTHERN California’s wine country, in the storied town of Mill Valley, is a boutique lifestyle brand born in the saddle and defined by quiet luxury. Stick & Ball, a phrase polo players use to describe the informal practice of knocking the ball downfield from horseback, became the fitting name for a company rooted in equestrian heritage, sporting tradition, and understated refinement.

Founded in 2011 on the sidelines of the Cerro Pampa Polo Club in Petaluma, Stick & Ball was established by Elizabeth Goodwin Welborn, an entrepreneur whose life has long been shaped by horses, sport, and a deep respect for the environment and natural materials. With a background informed by international living and travel, equestrian culture, and an appreciation for slow food and slow fashion, Welborn envisioned a lifestyle brand that would unite community, heritage, sustainability, and the elegance of the sporting life. Her philosophy is both simple and exacting: to create beautiful designs that are as purposeful and inspiring as they are enduring.

Welborn’s personal aesthetic, refined yet relaxed, polished but never ostentatious, forms the backbone of the company. She brings a discerning designer’s eye to every collection, ensuring that each piece reflects authenticity and timelessness rather than trend.

At its core, Stick & Ball is a luxury lifestyle brand specializing in sustainably crafted textiles, apparel, and accessories inspired by

the equestrian and sporting world. The company is particularly known for its hand-crafted Italian vegetable-tanned leather goods, sumptuous alpaca and merino knitwear and ponchos, and heirloom-quality blankets and home décor. These pieces transition seamlessly from town to country, equally at ease at the barn, layered into a sophisticated yet relaxed work wardrobe, or draped across a thoughtfully designed living room.

Clean lines, heritage motifs, and restrained and natural color palettes define the collections. The aesthetic of its knits, ponchos, leather and home goods draws from polo fields and open pastures throughout the Americas, as well as the quiet elegance of country estates, while remaining effortlessly at home in the city. The brand is especially recognized for its signature motifs inspired by equine and sporting iconography, rendered with a fine art lens.

What distinguishes Stick & Ball is its disciplined commitment to quality. Materials are selected for sustainability, durability and tactile richness; production partners are chosen for their craftsmanship and ethical standards. The result is a portfolio of products that feel both grounded and elevated- objects meant to be used, loved, and passed down. Certified as a B Corp, the company will celebrate 15 years in 2026 as a sustainable Bay Area brand.

Based in California, the brand reflects the spirit of its surroundings. The West Coast’s blend of relaxed sophistication and outdoor culture provides fertile ground for a company rooted in the sporting lifestyle. From coastal ranches to wine country estates, the environment mirrors Stick & Ball’s balance of rugged authenticity and refined design. While its physical roots are distinctly Californian, this boutique brand’s reach and community is across the world. The brand began authentically with the small niche, luxury sport of polo, a sport that has a storied history across continents but continues to attract customers who value craftsmanship and quiet distinction.

At its heart, Stick & Ball is guided by the belief that luxury should be intentional. In Welborn’s view, true luxury lies not in excess but in integrity—of materials, of design, and of story. Each product carries a narrative of heritage sport, artisanal skill, and respect for the natural world.

In a marketplace saturated with flashy logos and fleeting trends, Stick & Ball offers something rarer: authenticity and permanence. Its designs do not clamor for attention; they endure. For those who value craftsmanship, heritage, and the quiet confidence of beautifully made objects, Stick & Ball represents a return to essentials- elevated, refined, and unmistakably timeless.

Checked In, Dressed Up: Fashion’s Takeover of Luxury Hotels

BY BECCA HENSLEY

LEGENDARY HOTELS, WITH THEIR SEE-AND-BE-SEEN common spaces, have long functioned as metaphorical catwalks, where both guests and staff (through uniforms) flaunt designer garb and creative wear. Over time, hotel gift shops and boutiques joined in the stylish fun, offering wardrobes suited to their destinations— caftans and swimsuits at the beach, sweaters in the mountains. Swag soon became omnipresent, with hotel shops selling branded merchandise from hats to golf shirts, encouraging guests to don these accessories long after their holiday ended. These items confer bragging rights and prestige, while serving as soft advertising for the hotel name boldly etched on each piece.

Today, fashion houses of all types—up-and-coming designers and established icons alike—are partnering with hotels in a powerful symbiosis of message and identity that strengthens both brands. These collaborations cue would-be travelers to the essence of a hotel, hinting at its mood, design patina, or the uniqueness of its clientele. Below are some of the most compelling fashion–hotel partnerships unfolding this year at some of the world’s finest properties, from The

Ritz-Carlton’s alliances with luxury accessories brand Kilometre Paris to Sofitel’s newly launched global wardrobe program, Le Vestiaire.

RITZ-CARLTON HOTELS X Kilometre Paris

Head to a medley of top-tier Ritz-Carlton properties along the coast to experience the hotel group’s partnership with travel-centric, folkculture-infused Kilometre Paris, best known for its hand-embroidered, map-themed shirts. Guests can browse handcrafted bucket bags, beach totes, bandanas, and more from this limited-edition capsule collection. Inspired by Ritz-Carlton locations in Laguna Niguel, Bacara Santa Barbara, Amelia Island, and Key Biscayne, the initiative also benefits local charitable organizations tied to each participating resort.

RITZ PARIS

For decades the home of Coco Chanel, Ritz Paris has been fueled by fashion as a core part of its identity. Its collaboration with FRAME, established in 2021, helped pioneer the now-burgeoning fashion–hotel trend. Now in its fifth drop, the collection includes coveted pieces such as silk scarves, mesh bodysuits, and pajamas.

FAIRMONT CENTURY PLAZA

At this Los Angeles landmark, guests booking Fairmont Gold rooms gain access to the hotel’s Canada Goose Lending Program. Along with enjoying the lounge’s exclusive offerings, guests may borrow signature Canada Goose outerwear to explore the city in style during their stay.

SOFITEL HOTELS

With properties spanning the globe, Sofitel has introduced Le Vestiaire, a unified global wardrobe inspired by Parisian elegance. Designed by French creative Cordelia de Castellane, the collection blends wearability with couture flair for all hotel team members—from front office to housekeeping—ensuring a consistent yet expressive French aesthetic across Sofitel’s 120 properties in 50 countries.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BOSTON

Fashion-forward guests can indulge in the Alice + Olivia Style and Stay experience at this Back Bay favorite. The partnership with Alice + Olivia offers access to a stylist-curated wardrobe—perfect for exploring Boston’s historic streets in polished, playful style.

THE WILLIAM VALE

Rising above Williamsburg with sartorial flair, The William Vale partners with Vivrelle to offer guests access to a rotating selection of designer jewelry, handbags, and accessories. Pieces can be worn throughout the stay, whether out in the city or at the hotel’s own 22nd-floor hotspot, Westlight.

HOTEL JEROME, AUBERGE COLLECTION

A longtime reflection of Ralph Lauren’s Western sensibility, Hotel Jerome in Aspen integrates the designer’s influence throughout the property—from staff uniforms to decorative accents. Recently, the hotel hosted a Ralph Lauren activation celebrating the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

BACCARAT

HOTEL NEW YORK

Forgot your diamond necklace? Guests at Baccarat Hotel New York may borrow bespoke diamond jewelry curated exclusively for the

property. Selected pieces are thoughtfully arranged in-room during overnight stays, offering an extra layer of glamour at one of the city’s most opulent sanctuaries.

HÔTEL SWEXAN

Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Hôtel Swexan blends bold Texan character with Swiss-influenced design. In a nod to one of Texas’s most iconic souvenirs, the hotel offers a Cowboy Concierge experience with Miron Crosby, guiding guests through a custom boot-making process that results in a truly memorable keepsake.

ONE&ONLY HOTELS

One&Only has recruited Los Angeles-based handbag designer Tyler Ellis for a limited-edition capsule collection. Reimagining her signature silhouettes, the exclusive Victoria bag is offered in bespoke colorways inspired by each resort’s architecture and setting, with pieces available on property at select One&Only destinations.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE

Design-minded travelers can shop the Late Checkout capsule collection at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Featuring cozy knits and refined rugby polos designed for elevated lounging, the collection blends pajama-level comfort with polished resort style.

LE TOINY ST BARTH

French swimwear brand Vilebrequin has teamed up with Le Toiny to create a swim short collection inspired by the island’s charm. Featuring a custom print of the hotel’s iconic Land Rover Defender, the navy-and-white designs offer a playful yet elegant keepsake.

NAPLES BEACH CLUB, A FOUR SEASONS RESORT

Seeking fresh resort wear? This newly opened Gulf Coast hideaway offers on-property-only merchandise designed by Los Angeles artist Michael McGregor. Inspired by Florida’s coastal palette, the collection blends bold color with minimalist design, creating irresistible mementos of a sun-soaked stay.

Concierge

A FLORENTINE VISION of LUXURY

STEFANO RICCI CEO NICCOLÒ RICCI DISCUSSES HERITAGE OVER HYPE, THE DISCIPLINE OF CRAFTSMANSHIP, AND GUIDING A FAMILY-FOUNDED LUXURY HOUSE INTO THE FUTURE WITHOUT LOSING SIGHT OF ITS PAST.

BY LAURA SCHREFFLER

Few luxury brands are as synonymous with modern Italian excellence as Stefano Ricci — a Florentine house built on uncompromising craftsmanship, rare materials, and a deeply ingrained sense of heritage. Founded in Tuscany and still rooted there today, the brand has long represented a very particular vision of luxury: one that values discretion over logos, savoirfaire over spectacle, and continuity over trend. At the helm is Niccolò Ricci, the brand’s CEO since 2007 and a second-generation steward of the family business. Born in Florence and trained in business administration, Ricci’s path into leadership was deliberate and international in scope — beginning with formative experience in the United States before returning to Italy to guide Stefano Ricci’s global expansion and retail strategy. Under his leadership, the brand has strengthened its presence worldwide while remaining fiercely committed to Italian production and artisanal integrity. Beyond Stefano Ricci, Niccolò Ricci plays an influential role in shaping the broader landscape of Italian menswear and luxury. He serves on the boards of Pitti Immagine, one of the world’s most important menswear platforms, and has recently been nominated president of Polimoda, Florence’s internationally recognized fashion school, reinforcing his commitment to both heritage and the future of the industry. In this conversation, Ricci reflects on leadership, legacy, and what it means to guide a luxury house forward without losing sight of where it began.

It's been a lot of growth for Stefano Ricci in recent months, especially in the States. What continues to foster and grow the brand in America?

America today is around 20 percent of our business. I always say that when you're successful in the States, you're successful everywhere — and it's true. At the moment, we have our shops in Beverly Hills, Miami, Houston, Vegas, and New York. Washington is about to come. 2025 was a great year — double-digit growth for us.

What do you think resonates most with Americans in relation to the brand? I think the fact that we are loyal to our DNA — we have not done secondary lines, we've not done discounts within the stores, we keep the image always extremely high. The kind of communication we have done through the last years with the Explorer Project elevates the perception that the American consumer has towards our brand. We never compromise.

Do you feel each of the different cities represents the brand differently? I think there is a different clientele. Of course, it's obvious that New York is more sartorial — shirts and ties. Even though previously Miami was more associated with sportswear, we can see that now a lot of businessmen have transferred to Miami, so there is a swap between them. Beverly Hills, of course, is a lot of casualwear. Washington, we're going to have a nice selection of sartorial. Depending on the city, there is a different edge between more casualwear and more sartorial. And this is how we address the consumer and its location.

Let's talk about Casa Stefano Ricci in Singapore. I hear there are some extremely unique offerings there.

When I first entered the company, the main target was to be perceived as a 360-degree lifestyle brand. And in that sense, Casa Stefano Ricci is the essence of our DNA. We found this amazing location on Orchard Road, a unique building where we've been able to offer a cigar lounge using the finest materials — our own walnut and marble. And then we've [erected] an installation made by Mellini, an artisan that decorates glasses and crystal. You really experience our world: fabrics by Antico Setificio Fiorentino, a mill we own that was founded in 1786. There is the crystal engraving workshop that we acquired last summer, Moleria Locchi. And together with that, we have all the silverware pieces that we produce internally in our facility in Florence. Besides this, over the last few years we also opened two suites — one in Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte in Viareggio and the other one in Castelfalfi, which is the first Italian resort managed by Discovery Land Company, the company that manages Yellowstone Club and other locations around North America.

I want to talk a little bit about the Explorer Project and why it's so important. Through the years, we went from national geometry to the beauty of art, making comparisons with our collection and art. We went then into Italian beauties. Our last project is the Explorer Project. I think that the most important aspect of our lives is having the time and the freedom to discover the world and travel through its most unique places, like Luxor, Iceland, Galapagos, Mongolia, Cambodia, Peru, India, and Patagonia. It's something that is very personal to me and my brother, Filippo. It really helps us to, first of all, discover the world. Second is having this amazing, unique background to show our collection, which is present but not the protagonist. The protagonist is the beauty of the places that we visit, that we explore, and that we

tell the world stories about. And of course, wherever we go, we always try to leave a concrete, real sign of our support to these unique locations, supporting NGOs that could go from supporting wildlife to the artisan heritage like we've done in Peru.

How do these campaigns influence how the company thinks about sustainability and legacy?

I think that the real sustainability to our world is done by creating and passing down the heritage of the know-how of our workers to the next generation. We have an internal school where we can really hand down what our master artisans know. Besides that, we do everything possible to sustain our ecosystem by trying to reduce the pollution that our suppliers may create within the fabric; we always work with a supply chain that is totally certified.

Stefano Ricci is the antithesis to the world of fast fashion. What does true craftsmanship mean to you today?

True craftsmanship is something where you don't look at the clock. Meaning: if something has to be done properly, it has to be done properly. There's not somebody looking at the watch saying, 'You have to do it faster.' Quality is when you produce something that doesn't 100 percent fit the quality requested, you start again. You throw it away. You need to be able to deliver the most unique products with the best quality and the best workmanship. There are people who look at minutes, and we don't even look at hours. I think this is the difference.

Looking ahead, how do you feel that the brand will continue to define the concept of luxury?

Your need to share a very long-term vision with your team, and you don't have to compromise. You have to follow your path. You have to keep opening shops in great locations that embrace your DNA. You should always research finer fabrics, finer threads, finer ways of tanning the skins. A couple of years ago, we discovered Alpha Yarn, the thinnest cashmere thread in the world. We still keep on searching. You never stop. Luxury is surprising high-end consumers with something new that gives them some good energy, good vibes, and makes them smile and think, 'Oh, this is new. I've never heard about it. I love it. I need it.'

What to you is the greatest luxury in life and why?

The greatest luxury in life is having time to travel — and travel in the right way, a luxurious way. Exploring isn't just about nature, but about food; exploring different types of cuisine with local chefs, which for me ranges from three Michelin star [fare] to street food.

Any last thoughts?

We are looking at new locations. I think our idea would be to open one or two boutiques in the U.S. over the next three years.

Sausalito’s Cavallo Point Is a Bay Area Treasure

The Lodge at the Golden Gate

BY FRAN MILLER

CAVALLO POINT, THE LODGE AT THE GOLDEN GATE, HAS always provided a reminder that proximity and escape are not mutually exclusive. The resort sits at the edge of Sausalito, where the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline drift into view across the water. Sunrise softens the bay to silver, and evenings bring a gentle glow, sometimes accompanied by curling fog over the bridge. The City’s vibrancy is within sight, and combined with a pace slowed by salt air and open space, the atmosphere is wholly unique to the Bay Area. Even though I live less than an hour away, arrival here always feels like stepping into a different world. For my husband, who grew up just across the bridge, the resort carries a layer of reassuring familiarity. The muted call of the foghorns and the scent of eucalyptus deliver a comfort shaped by memory.

Since opening in 2008 on the former Fort Baker military base, Cavallo Point has struck a careful balance of history, design, and luxurious hospitality. Within Golden Gate National Recreation Area land, the resort blends environmental awareness with a relaxed sophistication that has earned two Michelin Keys, LEED Gold certification, and a place among Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Yet the accolades never feel like the point. Here, fleece is standard attire, and cozy blankets are always proffered. Comfort and restorative quiet are the real priorities. Adirondack chairs dot the property, angled just so to catch morning and evening light. Wide wooden decks along the

historic buildings are lined with rocking chairs and are the perfect spot for complimentary wine in the evening, and complimentary coffee and house-made pastries in the morning. Foghorns are simply part of the rhythm of the bay, and earplugs at each bedside let you decide how much of the soundscape you want to experience.

ROOMS: HISTORIC AND CONTEMPORARY

The resort’s 24 Colonial Revival buildings were constructed between 1901 and 1915 as officers’ quarters, and even then, contractors knew the value of a bay view. Each is oriented to capture scenic panoramas. Today, these historic buildings house the resort’s original rooms and suites, along with restaurants, meeting spaces, and public areas. The recently renovated historic guestrooms and suites maintain their historic character with high ceilings, expansive foyers, fireplaces, and front porches. They are welcoming, with a warmth that encourages you to stay awhile.

The contemporary rooms and suites sit slightly uphill, offering large picture windows that frame the bridge, bay, and skyline. Sustainable materials and organic linens contribute to the resort’s LEED Gold certification. Thoughtful touches extend throughout every guestroom: complimentary snacks, beverages, coffee, and deep soaking tubs with bath salts. You can also order an in-room crafted cocktail package — a 200ml bottle of your selected spirit, served with fresh ingredients.

DINING WITH A VIEW

Even though you’re downtown Sausalito-adjacent, with a number of celebrated restaurants within easy reach, it’s worth staying put to enjoy a meal at Farley or Sula. Casual and convivial, Farley is where the crowd gathers for televised local sporting events. Here, you’ll find American-inspired small plates alongside cocktails infused with local botanicals. Terrace seating is ideal for sunsets, with views of the bridge reflected in the water.

Sula, the resort’s signature restaurant, is led by Executive Chef Michael Garcia, whose philosophy balances Mediterranean inspiration with Northern California’s seasonal bounty. Spring brings tender vegetable ragouts; summer showcases coastal fish; autumn emphasizes heritage meats and roasted roots; winter highlights earthy, warming preparations. Each plate is visually appealing and flavorforward, paired with thoughtfully selected wines and microbrews.

WELLNESS, EXPLORATION, AND THE ARTS

Wellness is built into the property. The Healing Arts Center & Spa is a eucalyptus-scented retreat, offering holistic treatments, meditation spaces, and a heated outdoor pool. You’re invited to take part in daily yoga, hike miles of nearby trails, and kayak along the shoreline. The resort’s fleet of super-cool Vintage Electric Café bikes provides an effortless (and Instagram-worthy) way to explore.

Art is omnipresent. Guest rooms, dining spaces, and public areas showcase dramatic works by local photographers and artists; each piece harmonizes with the surrounding landscape. The on-site gallery rotates exhibitions seasonally, continuing Sausalito’s long-standing creative tradition.

The Mercantile feels like a local insider’s find rather than a conventional resort shop. Curated with great care, it features accessories, jewelry, clothing, and artwork crafted by Bay Area artists. It’s a great spot to shop for sense-of-place gifts or keepsakes that reflect this stunning locale. Families can walk to the nearby Bay Area Discovery Museum, and nature enthusiasts can visit the Marine Mammal Center. Quiet walks along the old bunkers, just beyond the parade ground lawn, provide space to reflect. If the urge to further explore strikes, take a shuttle into downtown Sausalito for access to galleries, shops, and restaurants. But between the resort’s views, dining, wellness, art, and thoughtful amenities, few feel the need to leave the property.

A BAY AREA TREASURE

Time just seems to move differently here. A brief overnight often feels like a true getaway, and returning guests discover new moments: a sunlit Adirondack, a seasonal dish, a bold photograph in a quiet corner. Cavallo Point blends seamlessly with its surroundings, honors its history, and provides relaxed comfort. For my husband and for me, it’s a place where fog, bridge, and salt air create a lovely familiarity that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere. Cavallo Point is proof that even an hour from home, you can arrive somewhere entirely apart from the everyday.

Relais & Châteaux Refinement at L’Auberge Carmel

This historic property remains one of the village’s most refined addresses

BY FRAN MILLER

L’AUBERGE CARMEL HAS ALWAYS FELT INTRINSICALLY TIED TO the village around it. It’s close enough to step out and be immersed in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea’s galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, yet removed from the bustle once you pass through its arched doorway. Set within a charming 1929 building that once housed artists and writers, this Relais & Châteaux property remains the village’s most refined address, offering a level of service and culinary depth that continues to distinguish it in a town with plenty of hospitality power.

STORYBOOK EXTERIOR, POLISHED INTERIOR

The building’s white stucco exterior, mullioned windows, and flowerfilled boxes echo Carmel’s storybook aesthetic, but the experience inside is decidedly polished. With just 20 rooms arranged around an enchanting central courtyard, the inn feels intimate without being too precious. The service here is impeccable—attentive yet unobtrusive. And in these increasingly casual times, the appearance of coat-andtie-bedecked waitstaff is refreshing, heralding that this is someplace special. And indeed it is.

JUSTIN COGLEY AND THE HEART OF AUBERGINE

Culinary excellence is at the heart of the property, led by Chef Justin Cogley, whose tenure at the on-site two-Michelin-starred Aubergine has firmly positioned the restaurant among California’s most respected fine-dining destinations. Cogley has earned a Michelin star for Aubergine for multiple consecutive years, recognition of a kitchen defined by discipline, creativity, and deep respect for seasonal ingredients. In a significant evolution for the property, Cogley is now the owner of L’Auberge Carmel in its entirety, uniting the hotel and restaurant under a singular vision that places hospitality and cuisine on equal footing.

Dinner at Aubergine is an essential part of the stay. The tasting menu evolves constantly, reflecting both the day’s best ingredients and Cogley’s seasonal, ingredient-driven approach. Dishes arrive thoughtfully composed, often with subtle touches of whimsy, yet never lose sight of flavor or balance. (I keep a “best things I’ve ever tasted” list, and to this day, Cogley’s lobster bites served in an ethereal shiro dashi butter with house-made brioche buns top my list.)

If indulging in dinner, make sure to splurge and go all the way with wine pairings. The restaurant’s 3,000-bottle cellar, located below the inn’s courtyard, yields surprises from around the world, with a particular spotlight on selections from Monterey County and France. Knowledgeable sommeliers select just the right varietal and vintage to complement each dish.

Mornings unfold with a lovely included breakfast, served with the same attention to detail as dinner. On sunny days, the greenery-filled patio offers a peaceful place to relax with coffee and the paper, while the small, fire-lit lounge near the bar becomes a natural gathering point in the evening—ideal for a carefully crafted cocktail before dinner or a nightcap afterward.

ROOMS THAT OOZE CHARM

The guest rooms strike a graceful balance between English charm and modern comfort. Soft textiles, antique furnishings, and courtyard views create a sense of warmth and continuity with the building’s history. In my room, small details made a lasting impression: Nespresso coffee, heated bathroom floors, a deep soaking tub with bath salts, and thoughtful welcome amenities, including complimentary caramels and a house-made nut mix. These are the kinds of small touches that leave an impression. And the chocolate chip cookies proffered at turndown are enough to make a devoted fan of just about anyone.

THE PERFECT CARMEL BASE

Location remains another advantage. From L’Auberge Carmel, nearly everything that defines Carmel-by-the-Sea—its beaches, galleries, restaurants, and boutiques—is within easy walking distance. It’s a rare luxury to arrive, settle in, and realize the car won’t be needed again until departure.

SMALL INDULGENCES, BIG IMPACT

Patio sun in the morning, a fire-lit corner by the bar in the evening, chocolate chip cookies at turndown, and bath salts waiting in a deep soaking tub—these are the little things that make a stay at L’Auberge Carmel feel so indulgent. This is a hotel that makes each visit feel both familiar and special, and a place to return to again and again.

Under any definition of luxury, Post Ranch Inn checks all the boxes

Post Ranch Inn: Luxury at the Edge of Big Sur

What makes Post Ranch Inn so unique? It starts, as with most things in real estate, with location, location, location.

BY FRAN MILLER

AS A LUXURY TRAVEL WRITER, PEOPLE OFTEN ASK ME,

“What’s the most luxurious hotel you’ve experienced?” Until recently, my standard response was, “That depends on how you define luxury and what you’re looking for.”

My answer now: “Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California.”

Simply put, under any definition of luxury, Post Ranch Inn checks all the boxes. The result of a stay here is a feeling of tranquility and bliss that makes this truly unique property a must-experience at least once in a lifetime.

SPECTACULAR LOCATION

What makes Post Ranch Inn so unique? It starts, as with most things in real estate, with location, location, location. The Inn occupies one of the most extraordinary private settings in California, perched high on the cliffs of Big Sur, 1,200 feet above endless views of the Pacific Ocean. The property unfolds across wild, protected land, where ocean, forest, open meadow, and a quiet, reflective pond coexist in harmony.

Looking west, the view features sheer cliffs, crashing surf, and a horizon that dissolves into sky. To the east, the picturesque Santa Lucia Mountains create a stunning backdrop. The air is cleaner here, the silence more profound—broken only by waves, wind, and the occasional call of a hawk overhead. It’s a location that radiates calm.

EXCEPTIONAL HOSPITALITY

At Post Ranch Inn, the staff raise hospitality to an art form. Many have been here since the Inn’s earliest days; some grew up on or just beyond this land, giving their connection to the property an authenticity that can’t be taught. They greet every guest personally, take the time to learn preferences, and anticipate needs with an ease that feels genuine rather than rehearsed.

The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed—polished without pretense—creating the sense that you’re not just visiting a remarkable place, but being welcomed into a community that truly cares.

Managing Partner Mike Freed fosters this familial atmosphere while honoring the Post family legacy; the property dates back to the 1860s,

when it was the Post family’s working cattle ranch. Photographs throughout the rooms and common areas connect guests to the property’s rich history.

HEAVENLY SPACES

The Inn’s architect, Mickey Muennig, was far ahead of his time. In 1987, he designed structures that seamlessly blend into the landscape. Wood, glass, and stone serve not just as materials, but as extensions of the cliffs, trees, and sky. Each suite draws the outdoors in: floorto-ceiling windows dissolve the boundary between inside and out, while fireplaces add warmth when cooling sea breezes drift in. Every structure mirrors the land’s contours, making each space feel deeply connected to its surroundings.

My room clung to the cliff’s edge, suspended above the Pacific, its curved wood ceiling and water-facing orientation creating the uncanny sensation of sailing into the horizon. Mornings began with a dip in my private outdoor hot tub, followed by a Nespresso coffee enjoyed as the ocean revealed itself below.

Inside, a deep soaking jetted bathtub, a wood-burning fireplace, plush terrycloth robes, luxurious natural bedding, nature-inspired artwork, and generous leather seating invited unhurried hours of retreat. Each day, the room was thoughtfully refreshed with a complimentary, fully stocked minibar featuring snacks and beverages—homemade chocolate chip cookies, granola bars, nuts, crackers, cheeses, and a selection of drinks. At night, the dark sky lit up like a private observatory, affirming my desire to maximize every moment in this sublime sanctuary.

ELEVATED CUISINE—LITERALLY

Sierra Mar, the Inn’s cliffside restaurant, is a destination in its own right. With walls of glass and thoughtfully positioned seating, dining here feels like hovering 1,200 feet above the Pacific. The views alone sharpen the appetite, making every dish taste somehow more vivid.

Led by Culinary Director Reylon Agustin and Executive Chef Il Hoon Kang, the kitchen crafts menus that evolve with the seasons, drawing inspiration from Big Sur’s land and sea. Breakfast, included for guests, becomes a daily ritual—one where the panoramas transform even a simple bowl of yogurt and granola into something unforgettable

Lunch and dinner feature satisfying dishes such as a fresh daily catch from local waters, roasted lion’s mane mushrooms, or the Inn’s signature Post Ranch burger served with garden greens and house-made sauces. Dinner options include a nightly tasting menu or à la carte selections. Each course is thoughtfully paired with selections from a cellar so distinguished it has earned Wine Spectator’s Grand Award.

BESPOKE EXPERIENCES

Despite the gravitational pull of the 40 guest rooms, private houses, and restaurant, the Inn encourages exploration of its 100 acres. Step outside and you’ll discover experiences that reveal Big Sur in every dimension. Hiking enthusiasts will find three miles of trails winding through redwood groves and verdant pastures, where grazing deer appear and birds and frogs provide a natural soundtrack. Afterward, guests can relax in one of several communal infinity-edge pools that appear to spill directly into the ocean.

More curated experiences include sunrise yoga, forest meditation and bathing, sound journeys, edible garden tours, guided sustainability walks, and spiritual shamanic journeys with resident shaman Rob Somers.

I was fortunate to take part in one of the Inn’s most exhilarating offerings: the Falconry Program with expert falconer Antonio Balestreri. With deft hands and compelling storytelling, Balestreri revealed the delicate balance between wildlife and the environment, impressing upon our small group the urgency of protecting both. He introduced five birds of prey and allowed me to nuzzle a great horned owl—often called the “Tiger of the Skies” for its fierce hunting prowess. The experience culminated with one of Balestreri’s falcons swooping across the sky onto my outstretched fist, a moment both thrilling and humbling. It is not to be missed.

At night, guests gather for stargazing guided by Sergio Esparza, a 33-year veteran of the Inn. Using his super-powered Celestron

telescope, Sergio revealed Saturn’s rings, the moon’s craters, and the swirling splendor of Orion’s Nebula. He even programmed guests’ mobile phones to capture images through the telescope. Having taken astronomy classes specifically to share the heavens with visitors, Sergio’s patience and depth of knowledge make each constellation, planet, and star feel within reach.

WELLNESS AND THE SPA

The Inn’s spa, under the guidance of wellness veteran Monika Jalovec, adds another layer of restorative care. Currently operating out of a luxurious on-site home, it offers organic treatments drawing on local ingredients and wellness traditions. This spring, the spa will unveil a stunning new structure featuring thalassotherapy pools and an infrared sauna, expanding the Inn’s focus on full-body rejuvenation.

IT’S NOT JUST ME

My admiration for Post Ranch Inn is far from singular. The property’s reputation for luxury and sustainability has been affirmed repeatedly by the world’s most discerning travel authorities, including the MICHELIN Guide, which awarded the Inn its coveted Three Key distinction—placing it among the most exceptional hotels on the planet. It has also earned top honors from Andrew Harper, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure, frequently appearing on lists of the world’s greatest hotels and most extraordinary hideaways

These accolades simply confirm what becomes immediately apparent upon arrival: Post Ranch Inn operates on a level few properties ever reach.

By the time I departed, I understood why so many travelers hold this place in quiet reverence. Post Ranch Inn delivers a rare blend of luxury, intimacy, and awe. It is not simply a destination—it is a direct encounter with nature, and one that leaves you keenly aware of the privilege of having experienced it.

HAUTE SPOTS

HAUTE LIVING ’S CURATED SELECTION OF THE BEST NEW HOTELS, FROM RECENT DEBUTS TO THE MOST ANTICIPATED OPENINGS OF THE YEAR.

BY LAURA SCHREFFLER

NEWLY OPENED

FAENA NEW YORK

Faena New York steps onto the stage. Opened along the High Line in Manhattan, the hotel brings Faena’s unmistakable world-building to New York, where art, performance, dining, and design are treated not as amenities but as the experience itself. Conceived by founder Alan Faena, the property feels intentionally cinematic, unfolding as a series of richly layered spaces that reward curiosity and movement. Interiors, developed in collaboration with Peter Mikic, channel old New York glamour through Faena’s maximalist lens, while a monumental mural by Argentine artist Diego Gravinese anchors the soaring lobby. 500A W 18th St, New York, NY 10011

THE ST. REGIS ARUBA RESORT

In a destination known for ease and familiarity, The St. Regis Aruba introduces something more composed — a polished addition to the area that feels refreshingly intentional. Opened along the island’s most coveted stretch of sand, the resort brings the brand’s signature sense of ceremony to the Caribbean without overpowering its setting. Designed by Hirsch Bender Associates, the architecture and interiors take cues from Aruba’s Dutch-Caribbean heritage and natural landscape: softened palettes, breezeways, and generous terraces that keep the focus on light, sea, and horizon. The 252 guest rooms and suites feel tailored rather than grand, balancing resort comfort with genuine privacy. Dining plays a central role, led by the rooftop outpost of Akira Back, where Japanese- and Korean-influenced menus meet panoramic ocean views, alongside more relaxed beachside and Caribbean-forward concepts that suit the rhythm of the island. Six pools, a full-service spa, and the brand’s attentive butler service reinforce the feeling of considered luxury, while signature rituals — like the house Bon Bini Mary — nod quietly to local culture. Rather than reinventing the island, The St. Regis Aruba elevates the experience, offering a refined, unhurried alternative that feels in step with Aruba’s natural grace.

J.E. Irausquin Blvd 75 E, Noord, Aruba

AMAN NAI LERT BANGKOK

Bangkok pulses with movement. Yet, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok is designed around stillness. Opened within the green expanse of Nai Lert Park, the property introduces Aman’s signature sense of sanctuary to central Bangkok, offering a rare buffer of nature amid the city’s density. Designed by longtime Aman collaborator Denniston Architects, the hotel draws deeply from Thai heritage and the legacy of Nai Lert, one of Bangkok’s most influential cultural figures, translating tradition through a contemporary, rigorously restrained lens. Interiors emphasize toneon-tone palettes, bespoke furnishings crafted by local artisans, and a thoughtful dialogue between light, space, and material. The suites, arranged around soaring atriums with reflective pools and garden motifs, feel inward-looking and contemplative, reinforcing privacy over panorama. Dining unfolds across multiple levels, from Arva — Aman’s refined Italian concept — to Japanese omakase experiences reserved for Aman Club members, positioning gastronomy as an extension of place rather than a standalone attraction. Wellness anchors the experience through a flagship Aman Spa & Wellness center that merges traditional Thai healing practices with advanced medical and performancedriven treatments. The hotel offers a counterbalance to the city’s energy — an urban retreat that feels deeply grounded, culturally fluent, and unmistakably Aman. 1 Soi Somkid, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

THE CHANCERY ROSEWOOD

Some hotels arrive with fanfare; The Chancery Rosewood arrives with authority. Set within London’s former U.S. Embassy on Grosvenor Square, the all-suite property reclaims a midcentury landmark and reframes it as a new focal point for modern Mayfair. Architect Sir David Chipperfield’s restoration preserves the building’s original gravitas, while interiors by Joseph Dirand introduce a quieter, more residential sensibility — one defined by restraint, proportion, and texture rather than excess. With 144 suites, the hotel prioritizes space and composure, offering a sense of calm that feels increasingly rare in central London. Dining and social life are integral to the experience, with eight restaurants and bars — including the first European outpost of Carbone — while the rooftop Eagle Bar, crowned by the building’s restored golden eagle, feels poised to become a destination in its own right.

30 Grosvenor Sq, London W1K 9AN, United Kingdom

BRACH MADRID

Brach Madrid reveals itself over time. Now open on Gran Vía, the five-star property marks Evok Collection’s first foray into Spain, bringing its signature blend of design, intimacy, and cultural fluency to the Spanish capital. Housed in a 1920s building, the hotel has been reimagined by Philippe Starck, whose “modern nostalgic” approach layers Madrid’s past and present into a space that feels both theatrical and personal. With just 57 rooms, the hotel favors atmosphere over scale, each room designed to feel like a lived-in private residence — warm woods, softened jewel tones, and subtle details that suggest memory rather than decoration. Dining anchors the experience, with a Mediterranean-leaning restaurant centered on open-fire cooking and seasonal Spanish ingredients, an intimate bar that nods to neighborhood cafés, and a pâtisserie that bridges Parisian technique with local flavors. Gran Vía, 20, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain

COLLEGIO ALLA QUERCE, AUBERGE COLLECTION

High above Florence’s UNESCO-listed Centro Storico, Collegio alla Querce offers a vantage point that feels both literal and philosophical. Named for the ancient oaks that shade its terraced gardens, the 16th-century former academic institution has been reimagined as an 83-room hotel that balances Renaissance gravitas with contemporary ease. Once a center of learning where scholars moved between library, chapel, and theater, the property has been thoughtfully restored under the vision of Leeu Collection founder Analjit Singh, with architecture by Esteva i Esteva and interiors by ArchFlorence preserving its original soul. The setting is its quiet triumph: cascading Medici-era gardens lead to a pool and oak-fringed bar, while rooms and suites frame sweeping views over terracotta rooftops toward the Duomo. Via delle Forbici, 21B, 50133 Firenze FI, Italy

PARK HYATT CABO DEL SOL

At Park Hyatt Cabo del Sol, luxury is expressed through space, light, and restraint rather than excess. Opened along a quiet stretch of Baja coastline within the private Cabo del Sol community, the resort marks the Park Hyatt brand’s debut in Mexico, and it arrives with a clear sense of place. Architecture by Sordo Madaleno is grounded and low-slung, allowing the Sea of Cortez to remain the focal point, while the concept design by the likes of designers like Yabu Pushelberg bring warmth and refinement through natural materials and soft, coastal tones. The property hosts many ocean-view rooms and suites, along with villas and residences, are designed to feel expansive and unhurried, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living. Dining follows the same understated philosophy, with a Levantine-leaning signature restaurant, a Mexican concept, and a beach club that keeps the mood relaxed and unfussy. Carr.

Transpeninsular KM 10.3, Tourist Corridor, DEL SOL, 23410

THE RED SEA EDITION

Few hotel openings carry the weight of being first. Set along the white sands of Shura Island on Saudi Arabia’s western coastline, The Red Sea EDITION manages to do just that, debuting as the inaugural hotel on the pristine island, positioning itself at the center of the country’s most ambitious luxury and regenerative tourism project to date. Stretched across a half mile of private beachfront, the resort unfolds as a series of low-profile stone and wood pavilions with uninterrupted views over the Red Sea’s turquoise waters and the lush fairways of Shura Links, the kingdom’s first island golf course. Designed by Rockwell Group, the architecture and interiors draw directly from the surrounding landscape — earth walls, coral stone floors, natural oak, and softened textiles echoing desert canyons, coral reefs, and wind-shaped dunes — while maintaining EDITION’s signature restraint and residential ease. The 240 rooms and suites feel calm and inward-looking, many opening onto terraces or plunge pools that blur the line between indoors and shoreline.

Shura Island, Hanak 48313, Saudi Arabia

1 HOTEL TOKYO

1 Hotel Tokyo has arrived in Japan with a distinct point of view and unmistakable sense of place. Set high within the Akasaka Trust Tower, part of Mori Trust’s ambitious Tokyo World Gate Akasaka development, the hotel rises above the city as a biophilic sanctuary, merging nature, design, and sustainability in one of the world’s most forward-thinking capitals. The property reflects Mori Trust’s shared vision for future-facing luxury — rooted in environmental responsibility without sacrificing beauty or soul. From the moment guests arrive, nature is woven into the experience, from preserved greenery and sculptural stone to organic textures that reference Japan’s wabi-sabi philosophy. Located on the tower’s upper floors, the hotel offers sweeping views of the Imperial Palace gardens, Tokyo Tower, and the ever-shifting skyline beyond.

2 Chome-17-22 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan

COMING SOON

A new generation of hotels is quietly reshaping the global travel map, with openings that lean less on spectacle and more on provenance, design intelligence, and a sense of cultural continuity. In Venice, Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli (Fondamenta Trapolin, 2291, 30121 Venice, Italy) marks a significant evolution for the storied brand, opening this spring inside a historic palazzo that reconnects the romance of rail travel with the city that once served as Europe’s gateway to the East. Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman and her studio Culture in Architecture, the 47-room hotel draws deeply from Venice’s layered past, overlooking canals and gardens, and centers its social life around spaces like the frescoed Piano Nobile ballroom, an intimate fine-dining restaurant with private boat access, and the Wagon Bar, a refined nod to the golden age of travel; its connection to La Dolce Vita Orient Express allows guests to arrive seamlessly by foot or water directly from Santa Lucia Station.

Far south, along the unspoiled East Cape of Baja California Sur, Amanvari (23570 East Cape, B.C.S., Mexico) introduces Aman’s singular vision to a region defined by raw beauty, with a resort, private residences, multiple dining venues, an Aman Spa, and a pristine stretch of white sand beach — its name derived from the Sanskrit words for “peace” and “water,” underscoring the brand’s focus on elemental calm.

In Italy, Six Senses Milan (Via Brera, 19, 20121 Milano MI, Italy) opens as both urban sanctuary and creative hub within the Brera district, facing the Pinacoteca, just steps from the Duomo. Interiors celebrate Milanese craftsmanship through arabescato marble, antique brass, handmade glass, and mosaic detailing, while 16 suites and 69 guestrooms, a hidden courtyard, rooftop and lobby bars, and a deeply immersive Six Senses Spa reinforce the brand’s commitment to wellbeing and sustainability, anchored by its signature Earth Lab.

In Bali’s lush Payangan region, JW Marriott Bali Ubud Resort & Spa (Jalan Raya Payangan Kintamani, Semaon, Puhu, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia 80572), slated to open early this year, brings a new dimension of mindful luxury to Ubud’s jungle edge, with approximately 100 rooms, suites, and villas set across forested hillsides, multiple dining venues, a spa and wellness focus, and a firstof-its-kind Sunset Jungle Club designed to frame evenings against the canopy.

Looking ahead to spring 2026, Capella Kyoto (130 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, Japan) claims one of the city’s most meaningful addresses in Miyagawa-cho, opposite Kenninji temple and near the historic Kamo River, within the district where Kabuki theater originated. Designed by Kengo Kuma, the low-rise hotel reinterprets the traditional machiya townhouse as a contemplative journey through Kyoto’s living traditions, with 89 rooms, private onsen suites, an Auriga Spa, and an open-air courtyard and performance atrium that honor the site’s cultural legacy.

In the Greek islands, Four Seasons Resort Mykonos (Karapetis, 84600 Mykonos), opening mid-2026, brings the brand’s refined sensibility to a dramatic cliffside above Kalo Livadi Bay, offering sea-view accommodations, private plunge pools, multiple dining venues, a hillside spa, infinity pools, and direct beach access that balance privacy with the island’s unmistakable energy.

In the Maldives, Bvlgari Resort Ranfushi (Raa Atoll) arrives as the tenth jewel in the Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts collection, set across two-and-a-half acres of natural beauty with beach and overwater villas, four signature dining concepts, and the brand’s iconic spa, bar, boutique, and La Galleria executed under stringent sustainability standards.

Finally, Baccarat extends its crystalline vision to Italy with Baccarat Hotel Rome (Via Vittorio Veneto 50, Rome, Italy 00187), reimagining the historic Hotel Majestic as a glamorous social and cultural hub, while Baccarat Hotel Florence takes shape within the 14th-century Villa Camerata on the city’s northern edge, blending regal history with contemporary interiors, generous suites, and garden-driven dining.

Together, these forthcoming openings signal a shift toward hotels that value context over trend, craftsmanship over excess, and experiences rooted in place — inviting travelers not just to arrive, but to belong.

Yachting the Turquoise CoasT

Ancient Harbors, Beach Clubs, and a Gentle Breeze

BY KEVIN O’CONNOR

THERE ARE VACATIONS YOU ENJOY IN THE MOMENT, AND THEN there are journeys that stay with you long after you unpack. For me, the Turkish Turquoise Coast has become that kind of place: a stretch of shoreline where the Mediterranean feels impossibly blue, where ancient civilizations rise out of the mountains like memories carved in stone, and where days can swing effortlessly from Roman theaters and cliffside tombs to beach clubs, late dinners, and moonlit swims.

But what makes this coastline truly unforgettable isn’t just the scenery. It’s the way it accommodates every version of travel we live through,family trips with kids and close friends, grown-up trips with the volume turned up, and those rare hybrid journeys where you can somehow do both. I’ve done it with my daughter, and I’ve done it with friends and their kids, where the itinerary is shaped by naps, snacks, and the pure joy of discovery. Here, you don’t chase an itinerary,you surrender to it, letting the direction of the wind quietly guide you toward the next hidden bay, the next glowing harbor, the next unforgettable sunset. In fact, sometimes the best plan is no plan at all,just letting the wind take the helm and the Mediterranean decide where you’ll wake up next.

The Turkish coast doesn’t force you to pick a lane. It invites you to live it your way. And in my experience, there is no better way to explore it than by yacht,especially with a charter team that understands luxury as something deeper than polished hardware and perfect angles. Luxury is ease. Luxury is time. Luxury is the freedom to drift toward what feels right in the moment, without stress running quietly in the background.

Because true luxury isn’t about showing off; it’s about being genuinely cared for. It’s the rare gift of having every detail handled so seamlessly that all you have to do is settle in and enjoy the sea, the people you’re with, and the beauty unfolding around you. And of course, it’s also about the food,fresh, beautifully prepared, and unforgettable in its own right,meals that become part of the journey instead of something you squeeze in between plans. The greatest charter experiences make guests feel as though the entire voyage was designed just for them: effortless, intimate, and impossible to forget.

That is exactly what Mare Nostrum Yachts delivers,a seamless blend of comfort, exceptional cuisine, heritage, and high-touch hospitality that transforms a stunning route into something deeply personal…and the kind of experience you’ll still be talking about at dinner parties years later.

MARE NOSTRUM: A YACHT WITH SOUL

Mare Nostrum isn’t just a name; it’s a promise. Rooted in Türkiye and shaped by a family legacy that began in Marmaris, the brand carries an authenticity that feels increasingly rare in the luxury travel world. This isn’t a generic charter experience. It’s a tradition built by people who understand what this coastline means,and how unforgettable it can be when done properly.

At the center of it all is Galip Turan, the owner and operator behind Mare Nostrum,someone who doesn’t simply run a charter company, but curates a complete experience. Galip brings a personal pride to the operation that guests feel immediately: an attention to detail, a commitment to hospitality, and a genuine desire to make every voyage exceptional. He understands that no two groups travel the same way, and the best luxury isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s tailored.

That philosophy is reflected in Mare Nostrum’s fleet, which includes three stunning yachts in three different sizes, intentionally designed to accommodate a wide range of group dynamics, travel styles, and dream wish lists. Whether you’re planning a refined couples’ escape, a family trip with kids and multi-generational comfort needs, or a high-energy friends’ charter filled with beach clubs and late-night harbor dinners, Mare Nostrum offers the yacht to make anything happen.

The moment you step onboard, the difference is clear. The design is warm and refined,teak decks, rich wood finishes, open-air spaces that invite you to live outside, and cabins that feel like boutique hotel suites that just happen to float. Everything is finished with care, but nothing feels stiff. It’s elegant, but livable.

And the real luxury isn’t even the yacht itself,it’s the atmosphere the crew creates. The best crews don’t just provide service; they set a tone. They anticipate the day and adjust to the mood of the group, constantly watching and responding. They understand when you want privacy and when you want energy. They make everything feel seamless without ever feeling formal. That’s how you know you’re in the right hands.

Mare Nostrum’s fleet includes three stunning Turkish gulets in three different sizes, allowing the experience to be tailored to every kind of group dynamic, from intimate couples’ escapes to multi-family trips and larger celebrations. Each yacht was beautifully refitted last season, blending classic craftsmanship with refreshed modern comfort. These are the iconic Turkish gulets that turn heads in every harbor,timeless, elegant, and unmistakably the envy of the seas.

WHY THE TURQUOISE COAST WAS MADE FOR YACHTING

The first thing you realize when you travel the Turquoise Coast by sea is that the coastline itself is the destination. You aren’t moving between “points on a map”; you’re moving through a living landscape of hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, pine-covered hills, and water so clear it feels like someone turned up the color saturation.

There’s also a practical truth that becomes obvious immediately: yachting removes friction. No daily repacking. No long drives. No check-in times. No fighting the clock because you’re stuck in traffic between cities. Your room doesn’t change. Your view does.

And when you bring the kids, that matters more than you think. It’s the difference between a trip that becomes a logistical project and one that actually feels like a vacation. On a yacht, kids don’t just come along,they thrive. They wake up excited because the day is already an adventure before anyone even leaves their cabin. There’s a freedom that’s almost impossible to recreate on land: the ability to swim whenever they want, jump off the back deck, paddleboard, jet ski, snorkel, explore a new cove, or simply disappear into laughter and saltwater for hours.

On our family trips, the rhythm has been simple in the best way: breakfast on deck, an easy swim stop in a calm bay, lunch, a short excursion to somewhere ancient and unforgettable, snacks waiting when we return, then a quiet afternoon anchored somewhere impossibly beautiful. The kids are entertained because the sea itself is the playground. The adults are relaxed because everything is contained, safe, and effortless.

On adult trips, yachting becomes something else entirely,freedom with style. A lazy lunch can turn into a sunset cocktail hour without anyone worrying about driving, reservations, or timing. You return to your yacht after dinner and, if you want, jump off the back deck for a midnight swim like you’re living in a movie.

The Best Plan: Embark Bodrum or Marmaris, Disembark in Göcek If you want the perfect combination of beauty, variety, and logistics, I recommend embarking in Bodrum or Marmaris and disembarking in Göcek.

Bodrum has a kind of magnetism,chic and social, with great shopping, but never overly polished. It’s glamorous without trying too hard, and that’s exactly what makes it such an ideal starting point. One of my favorite Bodrum memories is anchoring offshore and spending the day at Maça Kızı, a super-chic spot to spend the day or night. It’s not just a beach club; it’s a scene.

Marmaris, on the other hand, feels like beginning your journey at the source. As the home port of the Mare Nostrum fleet, it brings an added layer of authenticity and ease. At night, Marmaris surprises you with excellent dining and a lively but manageable nightlife. The food is fabulous,my favorite spot is Gusta, where hours slip by over great food, Efes, Whispering Angel, and laughter.

TURKISH DELIGHT ALONG THE TURQUOISE COAST

D’Maris Bay – A Riviera hideaway tucked into a bay of turquoise grottos

Manos Beach Club – Amazing Beach Club. Come just after Sunrise and stay well past Sunset!

Fethiye – Harbor charm and a gateway to adventure

Antalya – Grand history meets modern Riviera energy

Myra (Demre) – Take a step back into ancient times at the Lycian rockcut tombs carved into stone cliffs

Aspendos Theater – Roman life in full scale and alure.

GRECIAN FORMULA: THE IONIAN ISLANDS

Symi – Romance and charm in pastel form

Rhodes – Medieval grandeur, Castles and harbor hi-life

Kos – Breezy, balanced, and perfect for mixed groups

GÖCEK: TIME TO DISEMBARK

If Bodrum is glamour, Göcek is serenity,the kind of quiet luxury that feels like a reward at the end of a perfect voyage. With protected waters, pine-lined shores, and effortless access to Dalaman Airport, it’s the ideal ending: peaceful, practical, and deeply satisfying.

Because in the end, this isn’t just about seeing Turkey and Greece,it’s about truly feeling them, one anchorage, one sunset, and one ancient stone stairway at a time.

Interested in chartering Mare Nostrum and designing your own Turquoise Coast itinerary?

Discover more at marenostrumyachting.com and begin planning a private journey across the sea where legends were born.

The Enchanted Islands

A Private Galápagos Charter, Evolution in Motion, and Seeing the World Through My Daughter’s Eyes

BY KEVIN O’CONNOR

SOME DESTINATIONS ARE BEAUTIFUL. OTHERS ARE FORMATIVE.

The Galápagos Islands belong firmly in the latter category—a place that doesn’t simply impress, but quietly reshapes how you see the world.

For me, the Galápagos had existed as a lifelong promise. As a child, I sat transfixed in front of the television watching Jacques Cousteau glide through what he famously called the Enchanted Islands. Even more enduring than Cousteau was the presence of Charles Darwin, whose observations here would forever alter humanity’s understanding of life itself. The Galápagos wasn’t just a place; it was the birthplace of an idea—evolution made visible.

Decades later, I found myself standing on a white-sand beach in the Galápagos, camera in hand, face-to-face with a sea lion dusted in sand, its whiskers twitching, utterly unconcerned by my presence. Just down the beach was my daughter, Averie, wading in the surf as sea turtles swam before her. In that instant, time collapsed. I was both the child who once dreamed of this place and the parent now sharing it.

This was not a conventional luxury cruise, but a private expedition—an entire charter yacht for a small group of family and close friends. Averie traveled with her schoolmate Arianna Khokha, alongside families who have shared years of history together. It wasn’t simply a guest list; it was a living illustration of evolution itself— relationships shaped by adaptation, trust, and love, gathering in one of the most extraordinary ecosystems on Earth.

ARRIVAL THROUGH QUITO

We routed through Quito rather than Guayaquil, a choice I strongly recommend. Quito’s high-altitude setting, layered history, and sense of place make it a grounding gateway to the Galápagos. Arriving at roughly 9,350 feet required recalibration—breath shortened, movements

slowed—but acclimatization became part of the experience, a reminder that travel, like evolution, demands adjustment.

From the city, we took the TelefériQo to Cruz Loma, rising swiftly into the Andean landscape. Standing there, lungs working harder, the metaphor became clear. Just as our bodies adjusted to altitude, so too had our families and friendships evolved over time. By the time we reached the islands, we weren’t just prepared geographically—we were attuned to one another.

From Quito, we flew to the islands and boarded our expedition yacht, Evolve, chartered through Ecoventura Expeditions. Chartering the entire vessel changed everything. Without strangers, the yacht became a floating home. Mornings unfolded slowly over coffee and salt air; children drifted easily among adults; conversations deepened without effort. Luxury here wasn’t excess—it was access, privacy, and time.

EVOLUTION AT EYE LEVEL

The Galápagos makes its expectations clear immediately: this is not a destination curated for human spectacle. Each day followed a ritual of snorkeling, hiking lava fields, and observing wildlife under the guidance of expert naturalists whose instruction ensured exploration without intrusion.

Darwin famously noted that animals here showed no instinctive fear of humans. Standing there, close enough to hear a sea lion’s breathing, it was impossible not to feel the weight of that realization. This wasn’t wildlife staged for viewing. This was life continuing on its own terms.

One young sea lion pup edged closer to me while his mother watched nearby, unbothered. It felt less like permission than recognition—until my naturalist gently reminded me to maintain distance. Even so, the moment remained magical: coexistence, guided by restraint and respect.

DAYS SHAPED BY WATER AND LAVA

Our days unfolded in rhythm with the islands themselves—zodiac rides along volcanic coastlines, snorkeling among rays and fish, sea lions darting past with playful ease. Then came moments no itinerary can promise. One afternoon, dolphins appeared off the bow, racing alongside us in perfect synchrony. We watched in silence as they rode the pressure wave, choosing briefly to travel with us. It was pure, quiet magic.

Photography became a way to slow down and truly see. One image stays with me: a sea lion resting fully on its side, face pressed into the sand, utterly at peace. No spectacle. Just stillness. That stillness is the Galápagos’ greatest gift. It recalibrates.

SEEING THE ISLANDS THROUGH HER EYES

Watching Averie experience the Galápagos was the most profound part of the journey. She moved through each day with curiosity and confidence, noticing details I might have missed. Snorkeling side by side, walking beaches where animals rested unconcerned by our presence, I felt overwhelming gratitude—not just for the destination, but for the moment we were sharing.

Traveling with her doesn’t recreate my youth; it expands it. Seeing the world through her eyes renews a sense of wonder that feels both immediate and enduring. It also brought me back to trips I once took with my own father, when I first learned to see the planet as vast, interconnected, and worthy of care.

NIGHTS UNDER AN UNFILTERED SKY

Evenings unfolded gently beneath skies brushed with gold and violet. Lava rock glowed at sunset; stars arrived without competition from artificial light. We traveled during Thanksgiving week, and it became the most meaningful holiday I’ve experienced. Gratitude didn’t need to be spoken; it lived in every shared pause.

ENDING IN STILLNESS: PAPALLACTA

After the islands, we returned to the highlands, ending our journey immersed in thermal springs surrounded by mist and páramo. Floating in warm mineral water, muscles finally releasing, the experience felt restorative not just in body, but in perspective—a reminder of how delicately the planet’s systems are balanced.

Here, the journey shifted from observation to integration. The Galápagos sharpened our awareness; Papallacta allowed it to settle. Floating side by side, Averie and I shared a quiet understanding. Travel often pushes us forward; this moment allowed us to arrive.

THE CIRCLE CLOSED

The Galápagos was never just a destination. It was where Darwin changed how we understand life—and where, generations later, we can still feel that revelation unfold quietly.

For me, it was a promise made long ago and fulfilled in ways I never imagined—surrounded by family, friendship, dolphins racing our bow, and a daughter who transformed a childhood dream into something infinitely richer.

The dream, it turns out, was never simply reaching the Enchanted Islands.

The dream was sharing them.

Crustacean on Pine

A Classic, Recentered

BY FRAN MILLER

THE FINANCIAL DISTRICT, LONG WRITTEN OFF AS SLEEPY AFTER five o’clock, is alive again. Offices are full, reservations are harder to secure, and a fresh sense of momentum moves through downtown— fueled by the tech world’s latest ventures and renewed confidence. At 195 Pine Street, Crustacean steps squarely into this resurgence, offering an elegant, see-and-be-seen dining environment that feels fully aligned with the city’s current energy.

For more than three decades, Crustacean thrived on Polk Street, building a devoted following drawn to its iconic garlic noodles, roasted Dungeness crab, and inventive fusion cuisine. As the restaurant’s popularity grew, the intimate Polk Street location became increasingly constrained, prompting the family to envision a space that could accommodate larger gatherings while maintaining the warmth and energy that made the restaurant beloved. The move to 195 Pine Street allowed Crustacean to expand its footprint, offering an elegant, light-filled environment designed for celebration and conversation while preserving the culinary traditions that earned it legendary status.

ELEGANT INTERIORS, THOUGHTFUL DESIGN

The bar anchors the space, a gleaming focal point framed by rose-gold accents. Whether for a celebratory dinner, a post-work wind-down, or an elegant afternoon aperitif, it is emerging as one of San Francisco’s most exciting new drinking destinations. The cocktail program blends Vietnamese flavor profiles with artisanal spirits to craft drinks that are refreshing and rich with story. Highlights include the Saigon 75, a twist on the French 75 with floral gin and lemongrass syrup accented by a phoenix-shaped lemon peel, and the Oa-Hội-cAn Negroni, a lemongrass-infused mezcal riff on the classic Negroni, balanced with gentian amaro, vermouth, and a ruby-red grapefruit peel. Both are perfectly suited to the restaurant’s signature dishes.

Beyond the bar, the dining room unfolds into a generous, open space defined by soaring ceilings and abundant natural light. Set within a historic Financial District building, the restaurant balances modern Asian sophistication with Vietnamese architectural influence. The layout honors feng shui principles, emphasizing openness, flow, and light. Antique carved wood doors, custom

furnishings crafted from exotic woods, and warm amber lighting add depth. Cranes—symbols of longevity and harmony—hover above the kitchen stations, while bamboo textures, rose-gold metal latticework, and layered materials create visual interest. The result is both contemporary and cultural.

THE DISHES THAT BUILT A LEGACY

Our evening unfolded with intention. The staff prepared a welcome menu featuring the restaurant’s greatest hits, beginning with the Tuna Cigar. Presented in a smoking cigar box, the service is theatrical and playful, yet the flavor is anything but frivolous: fresh tuna, avocado silk, and tobiko caviar rolled delicately within rice paper. Next came the dumplings—delicate yet substantial shrimp and lobster, followed by those filled with rich, indulgent Bo Cho Wagyu.

A crisp and refreshing kohlrabi Caesar followed, acting as a palate cleanser before the iconic AN’s Famous Garlic Roasted Dungeness Crab™ and the legendary Garlic Noodles® arrived. The flavors were so comforting and enchanting that we fell silent for a moment, savoring each bite. Served alongside crispy branzino, the dishes created a harmonious balance of textures and richness, each plate complementing the next. A Coconut Tapioca Chè dessert closed the evening, a restrained finish perfectly in keeping with the flow of the meal.

A FAMILY STORY, TOLD THROUGH THE FOOD

Behind Crustacean is the An family, whose influence on San Francisco dining runs deep. Master Chef Helene An—celebrated as the Mother of Fusion Cuisine—helped introduce Vietnamese flavors to mainstream America through instinct, adaptation, and heart. Her work reshaped expectations, earning recognition from the Smithsonian Institution and a 2024 induction into the California Hall of Fame.

The journey began when Helene purchased a modest 24seat Italian deli in San Francisco. Its homey charm and inventive recipes quickly drew a devoted following, laying the foundation for her first restaurant. As the deli’s popularity surged, it became clear that a larger space was needed to fully realize her culinary vision—momentum that eventually led to the opening of the Polk Street location, where her fusion of Vietnamese, French, and Italian influences found a receptive audience and established the legacy that continues today.

That legacy now continues under the leadership of her daughter, Monique An, and son-in-law, Ken Lew. Central to the experience is the Secret Kitchen®, a private, family-only space where the An family prepares its most treasured and iconic recipes. While diners never see it, the dishes that emerge from the Secret Kitchen® carry the family’s unmistakable touch, ensuring that each plate reflects Helene’s original vision and the culinary traditions that made Crustacean legendary.

A RESTAURANT THAT MATCHES THE MOMENT

Crustacean has always stood for more than a meal. It represents family and resilience. At 195 Pine Street, that philosophy feels especially timely. As San Francisco embraces its next chapter, Crustacean offers a place to gather, connect, and celebrate the city’s renewed sense of possibility.

Old Fort Bay, Nassau

Beachfront | 6 BR | 7/5 BA | 15,675 sf | $56,000,000

Blue Palms is a 6-BR beachfront estate with full gym, spa, sauna and steam room plus 4-BR staff quarters. Exclusive Gated Community. Property ID 567ZRL nick.damianos@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.376.1841

Harbour Island, Eleuthera

100' Pink Sands Beach | 5 BR | 5,438 sf | $15,450,000

Seafair. Oceanfront Estate on the famous Pink Sands Beach. 5 BR, 6/1 BA, 5,438 sf, 0.46 Acre. Heated Pool, Stunning Views, Direct Beach Access. Property ID 65133 colleen.carey@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.818.6038

Lyford Cay

160' Canal Frontage | 11 BR | 11/2 BA | Price upon request Goldfinch. Private, multi-generational family retreat set along 160 feet of deep-water canal frontage within the gated enclave of Lyford Cay. Property ID M6KMV8 nick.damianos@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.376.1841

Lyford Cay, Nassau

1.64 Acres | 10 BR | 12,000 sf | $14,500,000

Bali Cinq. Refined sanctuary, main house, cottage, resort-style pool. Gated. Property ID 64499 christina.cunningham@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.376.0101 george.damianos@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.424.9699

The Rise of Thrive City

Mission Bay’s New Dining Epicenter

BY FRAN MILLER

BEFORE THE GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS ARRIVED, THIS stretch of Mission Bay was largely an afterthought. It was a broad expanse of concrete and underused land that few San Franciscans sought out unless they had a specific reason to be there. While established destinations like the popular Mission Rock Resort and the UCSF medical campus had already laid some groundwork, the area lacked cohesion, energy, and a sense of momentum. The Warriors’ decision to plant their future here reshaped that narrative entirely.

With Chase Center as its anchor—and Thrive City conceived as a true destination rather than merely a standalone arena complex— the Warriors helped catalyze one of the city’s most meaningful transformations in recent memory. What emerged is a district designed for daily life as much as for marquee moments. It’s a place that invites people to arrive early, stay late, and return even when there’s no game or concert on the calendar.

Today, Mission Bay stands as one of San Francisco’s most vibrant and visually compelling areas. It is sunlit, waterfrontadjacent, and animated by a steady mix of residents, workers, and visitors. Pedestrian promenades, bay views, and Thrive City’s curated collection of restaurants create an atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

The result is a destination that hums throughout the week. Locals stop in for lunch, families gather in the early evenings, and fans make a night of it well before and after tip-off or curtain call. Anchored by a dining lineup that spans burgers, dumplings, barbecue, Burmese and Indonesian cuisine, as well as destination-worthy steak and cocktails, Thrive City offers something for every taste. It’s a compelling reason to visit this once-overlooked part of San Francisco.

THE RESTAURANTS OF THRIVE CITY

Gott’s

Roadside

A familiar favorite, Gott’s Roadside delivers exactly what you want before a game or after a long walk along the waterfront: juicy burgers, crisp salads, and golden fries made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients.

Dumpling Time

Bright, bustling, and consistently satisfying, Dumpling Time is one of Thrive City’s most popular spots. Offering dumplings, handmade noodles, and crowd-pleasing sides, it’s an excellent choice when dining with a group whose tastes and cravings run the gamut.

Harmonic Brewing

Born in San Francisco, Harmonic Brewing offers craft beers and an easygoing atmosphere. It’s a natural gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, reinforcing that Thrive City is as much about everyday life as it is about marquee moments.

Philz Coffee

For many locals, Philz is a daily ritual, and its Thrive City location fuels morning walkers, remote workers, and anyone in need of a midday reset. It’s a reminder that Thrive City isn’t just activated at night—it’s alive from morning onward.

Splash at Thrive City

With an 840-square-foot curved LED video wall and a constellation of screens broadcasting virtually every sporting event imaginable, Splash is as close as San Francisco comes to a Vegas-style sportsbook experience. Game days are electric, but Splash shines just as brightly on non-event nights, when locals settle in for karaoke and simulated golf.

Miller & Lux

Chef Tyler Florence’s modern American steakhouse brings polish and gravitas to Thrive City’s dining lineup. Offering pristine cuts of beef, seasonal sides, and a dining room that feels special, it’s equally suited for milestone dinners or leisurely weekend meals.

Che Fico Pizzeria

This Thrive City outpost distills everything fans love about the brand. Pizza is the star, but the menu also branches into salads, sandwiches, and soft-serve gelato. It’s a casual option that fits seamlessly into a day spent exploring the neighborhood.

Kayah by Burma Love

Kayah brings the bold, nuanced flavors of Burmese cuisine to Thrive City. The menu highlights Southeast Asian street food traditions with dishes that are layered, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

The Baked Bear

Custom ice cream sandwiches—built with a choice of cookies, brownies, and ice cream—make The Baked Bear a natural magnet on warm days and event nights. It’s playful, indulgent, and perfectly suited to Thrive City’s lively, all-ages atmosphere.

Cupcakin’ Bake Shop

Cheerful and unapologetically indulgent, Cupcakin’ Bake Shop delivers small moments of joy in cupcake form, from classic red velvet to the signature key lime pie flavor. It’s a sweet stop for anyone with a weakness for dessert.

Señor Sisig

Few brands capture Bay Area flavor quite like Señor Sisig. This Thrive City location reflects the concept’s roots in food, music, and local sports culture, serving Filipino-American fusion that feels right at home in the neighborhood.

Fikscue Craft Barbecue

One of Thrive City’s most sought-after spots, Fikscue Craft Barbecue was founded by husband-and-wife team Fik and Reka Saleh. The concept blends halal Texas-style barbecue with Indonesian flavors. Most days, the Salehs are on-site, working the smoker, overseeing the kitchen, and engaging with guests. Their slow-smoked brisket, deeply seasoned meats, and standout accompaniments draw diners well beyond game and concert nights, underscoring Thrive City’s ability to support restaurants on merit alone.

WHY THRIVE CITY THRIVES

Ultimately, what makes Thrive City compelling is its versatility. It’s a place to gather for major moments, but just as inviting on an ordinary afternoon. With its blend of global flavors and neighborhood favorites, it reflects the evolving character of Mission Bay—dynamic, community-driven, and increasingly picturesque. For diners, sports fans, and explorers alike, Thrive City isn’t just thriving. It’s defining the neighborhood.

Dining in Dior

The New Era of Luxury Retail Indulgence

BY BECCA HENSLEY

SHOPPING CAN MAKE PEOPLE PECKISH, SO IT’S LITTLE WONDER that haute retailers figured out that providing an eatery within their store might sustain their clientele for a few more hours of shopping— if not offer a place to celebrate after the purchases of their dreams. The trend may seem new. Indeed, the past few years have seen unabated first-time partnerships between the fashion and culinary worlds’ biggest stars. Shoppers have been agog to sup and be seen at fashion-house-laid tables in sublime places like Tokyo, Beverly Hills, Singapore, Florence, and New York—among others. Whether in a Coach café, a Ralph Lauren bar, or a prettified Massimo Bottura osteria, the food and drink served at these en-maison restaurants almost rivals the fashion on display. Most of the time, the menus evoke the spiritus mundi of the fashion houses themselves, so the experience feels like an immersion of the senses.

Maybe it’s not so new. Heyday upscale department stores— such as Harrods in London, Neiman Marcus in Dallas, and Le Bon Marché in Paris—have vaunted tea rooms and gourmet noshing nooks dating back generations. Fashion retailers have always had a penchant for offering pampering as a lure for shoppers. But these newest boutique- and maison-housed restaurants take things up a

notch with bona fide celebrity chefs at the helm. More than a flashy place for a cappuccino or light lunch, fashion-house restaurants invite guests to step inside the brand.

In that mode, Monsieur Dior by Dominique Crenn opened in late October 2025 on Rodeo Drive. Crenn, the French-born culinary queen behind the exalted Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, reigns as the first female chef in the U.S. to garner three Michelin stars. In Beverly Hills, this culinary master brings her story-driven food perspective in partnership with Dior. With last year’s Café Dior by Dominique Crenn in Dallas’ Highland Park Village already drawing hordes of gourmet-inclined shoppers, Crenn has layered onto that venue’s successful paradigm. She takes it further here, adding dinner service at the new Beverly Hills sanctum.

Located on the store’s third floor, the restaurant can be reached up an attention-grabbing staircase or via a separate entrance. Airy and elegant, with a French savoir-faire-meets–Southern California vibe, Monsieur Dior brings an on-the-catwalk spotlight and illumination to its interiors through floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s both a bar and a main dining area, as well as an al fresco dining option on a chic terrace edged by palm trees.

Designed by architect Peter Marino, the restaurant space flaunts sculptural, Dior-like silhouettes in its furnishings, with accents, art, and shapes awash in floral motifs. A curvaceous onyx-and-ebony bar serves up creative cocktails (order the Miss Dior: salted grapefruit, lemon, and Campari). Fashionistas can gaze at themselves as they sip, thanks to an assemblage artwork of mirrored panels behind the bar. Perched atop lofty stools, they can nibble small bites—onion or uni tarts, for example.

In the main dining room, anchored by Nicole Wittenberg’s flower-centric, full-wall canvas, guests—seated in blossom-hued chairs—can linger over a sumptuous caviar service or order other starters and main dishes, each playfully executed to evoke Dior’s undisputed fashion flair. Guinea Hen Rodeo (said to be inspired by a bygone Dior gold lamé sheath, and also a reprise of Crenn’s signature San Francisco dish) has been a hit. Desserts by Crenn’s executive pastry chef and partner, Juan Contreras—who also co-developed the restaurant’s menu at large—include pièce-de-résistance–level delights. Say yes to Coconut Rosé, a dreamscape coconut cream tart with raspberries and pistachio.

In a further marriage of gastronomy and couture, guests dine on Dior tableware and sip from its glassware. Those who fall in love with the crystal-cut plates can purchase them at the Maison. Between courses, diners can wander the curated nooks of the maison or gaze down at the store’s various levels of glam from their tables. Palpable, Dior’s graceful poshness and artful ambiance affect all who enter. Ready to snag a table at Monsieur Dior? It’s worth the trip to Beverly Hills both for the meal and to see how harmoniously fashion and gastronomy can reflect the best in one another. Plan to stay at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel—an icon deeply entrenched in the world of fashion and located just steps away at the acclaimed intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive. Last thoughts? Bring an empty suitcase.

A Sense of Place at Rosewood Miramar Beach

BY Claudia Ross

RETURNING TO MONTECITO AS A UCSB GRADUATE FEELS LESS like a vacation and more like a homecoming—albeit one with a significant aesthetic upgrade. In my university days, “beachfront living” meant squeezing five girlfriends into a single Del Playa room with the salt air as our only luxury. Returning to the Rosewood Miramar Beach, that same Pacific breeze remains, but the vantage point has shifted.

This time, home was a masterfully appointed garden bungalow, shared not with a sorority, but with my Black Labrador, Coal, who promptly took to the “VIP” (Very Important Pup) lifestyle with a custom plush bed and artisanal treats. The Miramar—meaning “to behold the sea”—is California’s only true beachfront retreat where the rooms rest directly on the sand, framed by the undulating Santa Ynez Mountains.

The beauty of the Miramar is its ability to feel like a private sanctuary that simultaneously sits at the heart of the community. While walking Coal along the shoreline—mornings here are best spent barefoot—the world felt serendipitously small. We ran into old friends from our college days, the Biles family, and shared a nostalgic moment on the sand with fellow UCSB alumni Steve and

Denise Henry. It is this “Miramar state of mind” that defines the stay: unhurried days set to the rhythm of the waves, where the elegance of chandeliers and checkerboard floors meets the effortless warmth of a West Coast meeting place.

The heartbeat of the Miramar experience is found at Caruso’s, where the concept of “Sense of Place” is a culinary mandate rather than a mere tagline. Our evening was steered by Rob Smits, whose passion for the region’s viticultural identity turned dinner into a masterclass on the breathtaking maturity of the Santa Barbara wine scene. Having found its stride in the 1970s with “OG” pioneers like Zaca Mesa and Ken Brown, the region now rivals the greatest terroirs of France. Smits highlighted the unique geography of our “transverse” mountain range, which pulls a cooling marine fog layer through the Santa Maria and Sta. Rita Hills. This natural air conditioning, combined with a seabed of porous, fossilized limestone, creates the holy grail of growing conditions. As Smits noted, “Limestone forces the vines to struggle for water, creating character. The cool climate extends the maturation, allowing the grapes to linger on the vine and develop a complexity you simply can’t rush.”

The wine program itself—curated by Paul and his team, is less a list and more a testament to intention. They don’t simply pour wine; they connect with the soul of a dish, matching Chef Edgar’s seasonally driven, hyper-local menu with a precision that feels like alchemy. We began with the waxy, honeyed depth of older Marsanne and Roussanne vintages from Bob Lindquist, which provided a structural gravity to the seafood, a stark contrast to the vibrant “New Classics” from Gavin Chanin and Justin Willet of Tyler. The selection even showcased Santa Barbara’s magnetic pull for international talent, featuring the ethereal Racines, a project where Burgundy’s own Etienne de Montille trades French limestone for our local coastal soils. The highlight was a “crunchy,” dynamic Amevive Syrah by Allison Toeffer, perfectly encapsulating the savory, cool-climate character that has become the region’s sophisticated calling card.

This commitment to the land extends beyond the cellar and into the very dirt of the White Buffalo Land Trust. Through the Bounty Dinner Series, the Miramar fosters a deeper, regenerative connection to the community that feels both organic and urgent. These intimate, 24-guest gatherings move away from the white tablecloths of the formal dining room and toward a communal, “live-cooking” experience. Under a canopy of stars, guests and locals alike celebrate the true stars of Montecito: the Hass avocado, the Oxnard strawberry, and the Eureka lemon. It is a reminder that in Santa Barbara, luxury is most potent when it is rooted in sustainability, focused on identity, and shared at a common table.

Whether you are catching the Miramar Jolly to the beach bar or sipping a rare Chablis at Caruso’s, this isn’t just a hotel. It is a curated lens through which to view the very best of California. A sense of place that I like to call home.

Polo & Pinot

An Invitation to the “Sport of Kings” in Wine Country

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

NEVER WOULD I HAVE THOUGHT THAT PLAYING POLO was an attainable sport. My first introduction to the “Sport of Kings” was cinematic: Pretty Woman. Then came the Royal brothers; who could forget how handsome those boys looked galloping across a manicured field? It felt like a world reserved for movie sets and palaces.

Now, nearly 35 years later, I have finally picked up the mallet myself. If you’ve ever ridden a horse, hit a ball with a racquet, or swung a hockey stick, you can begin to imagine the sensation. It’s a combination of the two—sort of. I was introduced to Vladimir Rivkin, owner of Stone Tree Ranch, a polo farm in Calistoga, by my friend and vintner Jennifer Waitte. She and her husband Barry own Tamber Bey Winery, maintain a polo team of their own, and have a deep history in endurance horse racing. “Take a few lessons with a pro and you’ll get hooked,” Jenn promised.

Never one to back down from a challenge, I set up my first appointment with an Argentinian polo pro named Manuel “Manu” Crespo. The learning curve is steep but exhilarating. Manu is incredibly patient, explaining that the foundation of the game is the “art of the ride.” Here is the reality: you race up and down a 10-acre field holding on to the horse with only your knees—and I mean

really squeezing—with the reins and whip in your left hand. The right hand is reserved for the mallet. Sorry, lefties: in polo, the mallet is strictly right-handed for safety reasons. You also rotate through several “ponies” per lesson. Don’t let the name fool you; they aren’t young horses, just smaller in stature. As the pros say: the taller the horse, the farther you are from the ball.

One of the many luxuries of Stone Tree Ranch is that you don’t tack your own horse. That is handled by a groom. As Manu says, “Your job is to play polo, not expend energy tacking horses.” This allows you to save every ounce of strength for the chukker.

A chukker is a seven-minute period of play. It sounds short until you’re in it. In my first chukker, I found myself glancing at the clock after only three minutes, winded and exhausted. It is high-speed chess played at a gallop. The game is measured in these bursts to protect the horses. These athletes put in so much heart—sprinting, pivoting, and jostling—that they are swapped out frequently to rest. At Stone Tree Ranch, the welfare of the horse is as paramount as the skill of the rider.

Stone Tree Ranch is the brainchild of Vladi Rivkin, who discovered his passion at the Menlo Circus Club. After launching PoloSF and the Horses and Horsepower Polo Tournament, Vladi established Stone Tree in 2020 as Napa Valley’s first arena and field polo club. Partnering with Manu Crespo, an Argentine professional known for his world-class horsemanship and breeding expertise, Vladi has created a bridge between Northern California and the polo mecca of Pilar. Together, they offer everything from professional lessons and boarding to full-service patron packages. You simply show up and play.

At Stone Tree Ranch, nestled in the rolling hills of Calistoga, the art of watching the game has become just as alluring as playing it. This is where ‘Pinot meets Polo’—a pairing so natural to wine country that the two have become synonymous. While riders battle on the field, guests relax under elegant tents at sophisticated, sundrenched tables, sipping world-class Cabernet as the thundering hooves go by. This seamless blend of viticulture and horsemanship is perhaps best personified by Tamber Bey Winery. Named after vintner Barry Waitte’s first two Arabian horses, Tamborina and Beyamo, the winery serves as a sanctuary for 18 horses and a tribute to their grace. Even the wine portfolio honors this dual passion; their Bordeaux blends bear fanciful names like Sabino, Tovero, and Rabicano—all inspired by the intricate coat patterns of the very animals galloping past the sidelines.

Whether you are swinging a mallet or raising a glass, Stone Tree Ranch has brought the magic of the “Sport of Kings” to the Napa Valley soil—making it more attainable, and more delicious, than ever before.

The New Guard of San Francisco

Inside the Metropolitan Club

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

IN A WORLD WHERE EXCLUSIVITY AND ACCESS ARE paramount, San Francisco has always been a city of hushed hallways and heavy doors. But nestled at 640 Sutter Street, just steps from the pulse of Union Square, you will find a gem that is rewriting the rules of the private club circuit: The Metropolitan Club.

I was reintroduced to the club’s vibrant spirit through Donna Davidson. I had the pleasure of meeting Donna at Ross Ranch during a wine tasting celebrating her birthday. As we enjoyed our wines and got to know each other over a few glasses, she extended an invitation that piqued my curiosity: lunch at “the Met.”

Stepping into the clubhouse is like walking into a Renaissance palazzo—a stunning architectural feat by Bliss & Faville that has stood as a cornerstone of the city since 1915. It is famously known as “The House That Women Built,” and while the history is palpable, the energy inside is undeniably fresh. As a writer and Wine Country Ambassador for Haute Living, I’ve seen my share of storied institutions. Often, they can feel like museums—beautiful, but static, or far too trendy for my personal taste.

However, as I sat for lunch, I was struck by the demographic shift. The air was buzzing with the ambition of younger members. In a city built on tradition, this club is turning the page for the next generation of female leaders. It isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a sanctuary for women shaping the future of San Francisco and beyond.

I must admit, the experience left such an impression that I am thrilled to be embarking on the journey toward membership. There is a certain electricity in finding a community that mirrors the balance of professional drive and personal grace. Living in the far northern part of Wine Country, I have been searching for that perfect urban anchor—a place that feels like a home away from home when I trade the vineyard for the city. The prospect of joining this storied lineage of women isn’t just about access; it’s about belonging to a legacy that continues to evolve.

The Metropolitan Club offers a premier experience for outstanding women of all ages, blending athletic, cultural, and educational pursuits into a seamless lifestyle. During my visit, I learned about the breadth of opportunities available. Whether it’s honing your game on the city’s first indoor tennis court, diving into the pool, or engaging in wellness programs, the athletic legacy founded by Elizabeth Pillsbury remains strong.

But for the Haute Living woman and reader, it’s the social and cultural access that truly shines. The calendar is a curated tapestry of high-society highlights. Think Lunar New Year dinners with culinary icons like Kathy Fang, intimate performances from Music @ Menlo, and the ever-popular “Miss Met” happy hours where the city’s rising stars meet and mingle.

The staff is another standout—courteous, well trained, and genuinely invested in the member experience. It creates a gracious, collaborative environment that feels both professional and personal. It’s no wonder the club is thriving in 2026; it is managed with a forward-looking vision that keeps it strong and financially sound without losing its soul.

Beyond the local perks, the Metropolitan Club opens doors globally. Opportunities to visit reciprocal clubs worldwide provide a level of connectivity essential for the modern, mobile woman. Whether you are seeking a quiet guest room for a staycation or a vibrant forum for a Town Hall dinner, the Met provides the setting.

The Metropolitan Club is more than a historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places; it is a catalyst for empowerment. It is where history meets a modern vision. For the woman who demands excellence, community, and a bit of that San Francisco magic, the Met represents the future. I, for one, cannot wait to call it home.

Right: As a child, you loved to sneak into her room and play with her aromatic perfume collection. Add to her flacons with one of Memo Paris’ newest olfactory sensations, each an ode to travel. We love Odéon ($340) for its woody, floral notes, evocative of her favorite district in Paris and a nod

Right: If she’s still reminiscing about her trip to Lake Como last summer, turn to Sense of Lake, a digital marketplace created by Lake Como hotelier Valentina DeSantis, whose properties, such as Grand Hotel Tremezzo, never cease to turn heads. A curation of Italian artisans who emanate Como chic, the site offers keepsake items .Choose this Classic Carrè GHT Special Edition Scarf by Mantero 1902 ($228).

M O M FO R

THIS MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE IS SURE TO PLEASE

BY BECCA HENSLEY

Poet Maya Angelou wrote: ”To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.” A gift will never repay our mothers for their beautiful wisdom, comforting arms in troubling times, calm amid the storm or tenacious love. But, wrapping something up that you think she’ll like is the least we can do. Sure, no object says it all, but whatever you choose will make her smile. After all, she just wants you to be happy. We’ve gathered a few gift ideas sure to please. (Pro tip: add a handwritten, illustrated card instead of a bow, like you did as a child. )

Left: Your mama always loved vintage era Louis Vuitton. Surprise her with the Alma BB, retro-inspired to celebrate 130 years of the Louis Vuitton Monogram. Trimmed with smooth cowhide, lined with striped fabric, it comes in three colors. She’ll be thrilled with the signature padlock and anniversary address tag. ($2,540) A perfect compliment to the Alma BB, the Silver Lockit Exclusive Gold Edition Pendant in yellow gold will make her shine on her special day. ($3,050.00)

Above: For mom’s with a penchant for a contemporary twist on classic Cartier, the newest Clash de Cartier collection does a modern rift this year with colored stones, onyx, XL and modular wearing options. Choose these Clash de Cartier earring with 18k rose gold and chalcedony ($9,450.) or opt for this Clash de Cartier ring with 18k rose gold and agate ($6,400).Available at Cartier boutiques nationwide. www.cartier.com

Left: Your mother is beautiful inside and out. But, she’s also a multi-tasker who likes to combine her beauty rituals with other important daily tasks. EnterTimeSavvy Sealing in Moisture Mask, a new generation of Korean sheet mask. Game-changing, this no-slip, no-drip, cream-based mask stays perfectly in place fighting wrinkles, while she goes about her business. $54 Available on amazon.

Right: For the mother who never has a hair out of place and obsesses over styling gadgets, this brand new Aire 360 Air Styler Blowout kit makes the grade. With superior airflow and extra-long ceramic curling attachments, it delivers fastyet-gentle drying and stellar curl smoothing technology. It promises low curls that defy gravity and big body with shine. ($349)

Below: She’s got a pair in every room and two on top of her head as we speak. Give her some reading glasses she wouldn’t think of losing. Upscale Eyebobs offers eccentric, creative frames as youthful as her spirit. Want some for yourself? Check out their virtual try-on try on feature.$100

Left: For oenophiles, the fruit of the vine tops a box of chocolates any day. Gift her one she wouldn’t by for herself, then help her drink it. If she swoons over reds, wrap up Oleandri 2023 Georges III Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon ($200), a breathtaking creation with a berry and caramel nose, and melting dark fruits on the palette. Alternatively, pop a cork. Billecart’s Le Rosé ($110) is a well choreographed ballet of delicate

and

Right: Tea parties have been integral to your relationship as long as you can remember. To honor that tradition, treat your tea loving mommy to a Mamounia Royal Teapot, a stunning silver metal creation, available from La Mamounia. your favorite Moroccan hotel. Hand-engraved with oriental motifs, sculpturally exotic, the teapot has been crafted by local artisans ($280).

Left: Everybody looks like a celebrity wearing American Optical, the creators of the original aviator sunglasses. This year, they’ve released three new styles with equally riveting glitterati appeal. We think she’ll swoon over Thatcher ($230), unisex frames inspired by the geometric shape trends of the 1940s.

TESTAROSSA, AGAIN

BY KEVIN O’CONNOR

SOME NAMES ARE JUST LABELS. TESTAROSSA ISN’T. IT’S A WORD with heat in it, “red head,” literally: testa for head, rossa for red. For me, it has always carried a double meaning: Ferrari history, yes, but also family. My mother’s nickname was “TR,” partly because she was a redhead with presence, and partly because she was a dynamo, the kind who enters a room and the room changes its mind about what matters. So every time I hear “Testarossa,” it lands like memory and myth at once.

The name Testa Rossa began not as marketing but as description, Ferrari’s red cam-covered racing engines of the 1950s. It first appeared on the 500 TR before evolving into the legendary 250 Testa Rossa, one of endurance racing’s most dominant machines. Driven by icons including Juan Manuel Fangio, Phil Hill, and Olivier Gendebien, the 250 TR secured victories at Le Mans, Sebring, and across the World Sports Car Championship. Its most iconic 1958 “pontoon-fender” form became so revered that examples later sold for over $40 million, cementing Testarossa as a sacred Ferrari name long before it reached the road.

Then came the car that made the name global: the 1984 Testarossa, wide, dramatic, and unapologetic, its side strakes as iconic as its confidence. I lived with that car in two dimensions for years, staring at a poster like a promise. The first one I ever saw in real life wasn’t on the Riviera, but in San Francisco, owned by Willie Brown, before

he was mayor. It didn’t just confirm the car existed; it confirmed the dream was allowed to exist.

So when Ferrari unveils the 849 Testarossa, not as nostalgia, but as a new apex, it needs no convincing. I’m tifoso, allegiance in the chest, not the head. And this Testarossa speaks fluent modern Ferrari while carrying that old red-headed pulse.

At its core is a plug-in hybrid berlinetta replacing the SF90 Stradale at the top of the range: a mid-rear twin-turbo V8 paired with three electric motors for a staggering 1,050 cv, an absolute production record for Ferrari. The revised V8 alone delivers 830 cv through extensive engineering changes aimed not just at power, but response and connection.

The electric system, two motors at the front for torque vectoring and a Formula 1–derived rear MGU-K, adds intelligence and control. Ferrari focuses obsessively on transitions, pedal feel, and repeatability, making hybrid performance feel unmistakably Ferrari.

Control defines the car. New ABS Evo and the FIVE digital estimator integrate braking, traction, and vehicle dynamics into a single real-time system designed to inspire confidence at the limit. Aerodynamics follow function: 415 kg of downforce at 250 km/h, improved cooling, and a prototype-inspired twin-tail rear with an active spoiler contributing up to 100 kg in highdownforce mode.

Even materials matter. Recycled aluminum reduces emissions without diluting intent. And the sound, essential to Ferrari’s identity, has been recalibrated to be louder, richer, and more emotionally present, ensuring the car feels alive, not merely fast.

For collectors, the 849 Testarossa is a hinge car. Ferrari rarely resurrects historic names unless it intends to anchor an era. The 1950s Testa Rossa defined Ferrari’s competition DNA. The 1984 Testarossa defined cultural dominance. The 849 Testarossa defines Ferrari’s hybrid future, without compromise.

It is the ultimate expression of Ferrari’s V8 lineage, a nameplate car replacing the SF90 Stradale outright, and a deliberate bridge between racing heritage and advanced hybrid technology. More importantly, it captures a moment, proof that electrification did not dilute Ferrari’s soul.

Cars like this don’t appreciate solely because they’re rare. They appreciate because they anchor memory. The 849 Testarossa does exactly that. It isn’t a museum label. It’s a bloodline.

For me, it’s also TR, my mother’s nickname, proof that certain names don’t fade. They return. The 849 Testarossa isn’t just Ferrari going forward. It’s Ferrari remembering who it is, at high voltage.

F1 2026: A New Champion in a New Era

BY KEVIN O’CONNOR

AS THE LIGHTS GO OUT FOR THE 2026 FORMULA 1

World Championship, Grand Prix racing enters its most radical transformation in a generation. This season is not merely a new chapter, it is a rewrite. Sweeping regulations aimed at sustainability, spectacle, and driver engagement have produced the most significant reset since 2014 and 2022.

Teams face a fundamentally altered rulebook. Ferrari is rumored to have gained early efficiency in hybrid harvesting, Mercedes appears confident in its power unit architecture, and Red Bull, despite vocal criticism, remains formidable in aerodynamic interpretation. Regulation revolutions are Formula 1’s great equalizer, and 2026 may reward clarity of concept over sheer budget.

At the center of this reset stands a new World Champion: Lando Norris. His 2025 title symbolized a generational shift, earned through consistency and composure rather than dominance. Now carrying the No. 1 into Formula 1’s most ambitious technical overhaul, Norris represents both continuity and change.

THE BIGGEST TECHNICAL RESET IN A GENERATION

The familiar DRS system is gone. In its place: Overtake Mode, Boost Mode, active aerodynamics, and expanded energy recovery. Performance is no longer unlocked by detection zones alone but by strategy, timing, and energy management.

Drivers must balance electric deployment, aerodynamic configuration, and tire preservation lap by lap. Overuse of Boost Mode can leave vulnerabilities later in a stint; poor active-aero management risks accelerated tire wear. The new cars punish impulsiveness and reward intelligence.

The Teams

McLaren enters 2026 as the reigning Constructors’ Champion, appearing operationally settled rather than complacent. Under Zak Brown and Andrea Stella, the team’s resurgence has been defined by infrastructure investment, cultural renewal, and technical clarity. McLaren does not dominate, it outworks. That discipline may be decisive in a season where adaptation matters more than brute force.

For Mercedes, the reset presents opportunity. The removal of the MGU-H and increased emphasis on electrical deployment align with Brackley’s hybrid expertise. Toto Wolff’s leadership favors long-term leverage over short-term noise, and regulation resets have historically been moments of strength for the silver arrows.

Red Bull enters unfamiliar territory without Christian Horner and Dr. Helmut Marko. While Max Verstappen remains a generational constant, instinctive, adaptive, relentless, the question is whether the organization can maintain cohesion under new leadership when margins tighten.

Among the midfield, Haas may benefit from a formula emphasizing efficiency and clarity over scale, while Williams, backed by Dorilton Capital and modern technology partners, seeks relevance through hybrid intelligence and renewed ambition.

NEW ENTRANTS: AUDI AND CADILLAC

Two factory teams join the grid. Cadillac, Formula 1’s 11th team, arrives with strategic discipline rather than spectacle. Running Ferrari power initially, the American manufacturer has paired veteran experience, Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez, with measured expectations. Their goal is foundation-building, not instant glory.

2025 World Champion Lando Norris showers last year’s champ Max Verstappen basking in the glow of victory after a tightly contested season divided by a mere 2 points between being World Champion and second place, otherwise cruelly referred to as the first loser.

Audi’s entry is structural and deliberate. Having acquired Sauber, Audi launches a full works effort with facilities in Hinwil, Neuburg, and Britain’s Motorsport Valley. Leadership under Jonathan Wheatley and Mattia Binotto reflects pragmatism, while a balanced driver lineup emphasizes development. Championship contention by 2030 is ambitious, but credible.

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CORE

The 2026 regulations push Formula 1 toward its Net Zero 2030 commitment. Cars will run on 100% advanced sustainable fuels, designed as drop-in solutions with potential real-world applications. While the cars themselves are a small fraction of F1’s carbon footprint, factories, logistics, and travel emissions have already been significantly reduced through renewable energy, sustainable aviation fuel, and calendar restructuring. Sustainability is no longer peripheral. It is embedded.

PRE-SEASON TESTING: SIGNALS, NOT CONCLUSIONS

Testing revealed contrast more than clarity. Ferrari showed creative active-aero interpretation, Mercedes emphasized long-run efficiency, McLaren focused on refinement, and Red Bull remained characteristically opaque. Aston Martin struggled with balance, while Haas and Williams showed flashes of progress. Testing rarely crowns champions, but it reveals temperament. In 2026, that may matter as much as pace.

THE SEASON AHEAD

Sprint races expand to seven events, adding pressure and experimentation to selected weekends. Energy strategy, adaptability, and execution will define success.

As the season opens, uncertainty reigns. Regulation resets are treacherous for champions, and development curves will diverge quickly. One truth remains: Formula 1 has never been more ambitious, faster, greener, smarter, and more unpredictable.

The question is not whether 2026 will be different. It is who will master the difference first. And for now, that man wears No. 1 on a McLaren.

ROLLS-ROYCE AND McLAREN FOR THE WYNN

Wherein your faithful servant partakes of some of the finer things in Las Vegas.

BY TIM LAPPEN

LAS VEGAS IS A PLACE OF MANY OPTIONS, BUT THE ONES OFFERED to me recently really were too good to pass up:

• Seat time with three different Rolls-Royces — the Spectre, Ghost and Cullinan — on long stretches of desert highways, across hills and valleys, and drifting on a dry lake bed outside of town

• Track time with the McLaren 750S Artura, and the Artura GT race car on the Dream Racing track at Las Vegas Speedway

• The Sunset GT event of the season on the roof of the Wynn parking lot on Friday night

• Dinner Friday night with McLaren at SW Steakhouse at the Wynn

• Saturday on the golf course for the Las Vegas Concours at Wynn, with a field so disparate that vintage classics shared the turf with Rolls-Royce and McLaren celebrating the unveiling of some new members of their respective families, various high-performance and luxury models, plus what was reportedly the largest collection of Paganis and Bugattis at one place at the same time

• Dinner Saturday night with Rolls-Royce at Mizumi Japanese restaurant at the Wynn

• Sunday drive on the sweeping highways out of town to a dry lake bed for some handling and drifting experiences Choices, choices, choices! Luckily, the planning gods made it work so that I was able to enjoy them all, seriatim, with no overlaps to fret about.

McLaren Track Day: Channeling My Inner Lando Norris

Shortly after arriving at the Wynn, we were whisked away to the Las Vegas Speedway for the McLaren performance experiences. We were offered a bevy of 750S and Artura models, each with a professional driver as a co-pilot, to channel our inner Lando Norris (who, not incidentally, was the Formula 1 Driver of the Year for 2025, which he achieved driving for Team McLaren). I am pleased to report that the 750S and the Artura were able to take me as fast as my skill would allow (insert selfdeprecating snide remark here), well past 125 mph on the front stretch.

I then was provided a thrill ride par excellence in an Artura GT race car. Blistering acceleration, jarring braking and being whipped into the corners which at times sent my helmeted head careening like a pinball in an arcade game. How the drivers do that for lap after lap is a testament to their grit and neck muscles. What an awesome machine, clearly purpose-built for on-track performance.

Sunset GT: A Billion-Dollar Parking Lot

Next on my dance card was the Sunset GT event of the season, located on the roof of the Wynn parking lot on Friday night. It was far different from the local cars-and-coffee events held every week in many American towns. McLarens, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Paganis, Astons — oh my! — each one more special than the last. To give you an idea of the blingification level, it's the only time I've ever seen an Aston Martin Valkyrie Spider (a $3.5 million rarity in its own right) covered in a reputed 300,000 crystals. Now that's a stand-out in any crowd.

SW Steakhouse: A Dinner Par Excellence

After having our need to view automotive splendor sated, it was time for dinner at SW Steakhouse. If this were a food-focused article, there would be a lot more meat here, but suffice to say that it was a delicious dinner in an elegant setting, and I will gladly return here on my next trip to Vegas. Thank you, McLaren, for the day's amazing confluence of activities, including that wonderful meal.

The Las Vegas Concours: Where Legends Gather Saturday morning and afternoon we had free time to visit the annual Concours at Wynn Las Vegas on the resort's adjacent golf course. This was my second visit to this stellar event, and it was bigger and better than ever. To give proof of the stature of this show, it hosted the first showing of the "McLaren Project: Endurance and Project Viva." The ringmaster for those unveilings was racing legend Derek Bell, who piloted McLarens and other marques in Formula 1 and Le Mans events, and who has been described as "one of the most liked drivers of his generation."

The show also was highlighted by Rolls-Royce's reveal of the "Phantom Centenary Private Collection," a limited-edition series of just 25 bespoke Phantom sedans created to celebrate the model's heritage, each featuring a unique solid-gold Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament.

Also receiving a warm welcome at the show were Christian von Koenigsegg and his wife, Halldora, who personally unveiled the new track-focused Jesko Absolut. Horacio Pagani also was there to reveal the new Huayra Codalunga Speedster. Both designers were treated like rock stars, with a bevy of faithful followers vying for time to visit with them following the introductions of their newest models.

The show also brought the world's largest assemblage of Bugattis (close to 50 Veyrons, Chirons, Divos, and others were shown as Bugatti celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Veyron!) and Paganis (over 40 were on display). Frankly the show was a lot to take in. No wonder one report stated that the event brought together over $1 billion worth of cars.

Mizumi: A Feast for All the Senses

Rolls-Royce's dinner that night at Mizumi in the Wynn was simply sublime. The setting — a patio alongside a large natural pool with a huge waterfall on which are projected breathtaking scenes and animated activities — was by itself worth the price of admission. The sushi and other dishes were incredible, so Mizumi now is at the top of the list of must-dos in Las Vegas.

Desert Drifting in a Rolls-Royce: The Ultimate Juxtaposition Cool, clear blue skies welcomed us to Sunday morning's Rolls-Royce event, a drive about an hour outside of town into the desert landscape and a sojourn to a dry lake bed.

We arrived at the turn-off for our day's activities, a nondescript dirt road which likely had not seen any Rolls-Royces up to that point. At the dry lakebed, we saw other enthusiasts, but the area was big enough for us all. We partook of some straight-line acceleration runs and then got into the drifting part of the program. What a surreal experience: encased in a climate-controlled, high-powered module, hurtling along at speed and then sliding into the turns, all while comfortably ensconced in an air-conditioned and air-purified environment. The fact that the Rolls-Royces performed with both great alacrity and wonderful aplomb was yet another testament to the engineering and performance of these awesome machines.

In Summation

It was a full weekend indeed, with a thrilling McLaren track day, incredible show cars, unbelievable meals, and topped off by being able to put the Rolls models through their paces heretofore unseen (at least by me), all while enjoying the creature comforts and the magnificent meals at the Wynn Las Vegas. Although I have been a fan of both automotive brands for years, the McLaren event provided even greater appreciation for the racing chops of the marque, and the Rolls event showed the inconceivable range of abilities of their cars. Having the companies jointly sponsor the weekend and scheduling it the same time as the Las Vegas Concours was truly inspired, and resulted in a very memorable event.

Meet the New Flagbearers of Audemars Piguet

New Royal Oak Chronographs, Perpetual Calendars, Offshore Divers, a New Jumping Hours Model, a 30-Complication Pocket Watch, and more.

BY ANDRE FROIS

AHEAD OF WATCHES AND WONDERS 2026, AUDEMARS PIGUET

surprised us with an array of remarkable offerings. While recent years’ novelties have focused on reinterpretations of the Royal Oak and Code 11.59, the timepieces launched this week include a new jumping hour model and a pocket watch with 47 functions.

Neo Frame Jumping Hour

Audemars Piguet introduced a sleek and sophisticated 34.6mm by 34mm (47.1mm lug-to-lug) 18K pink gold timepiece to the rapidly expanding market of jumping-hour watches. The Neo Frame Jumping Hour sets itself apart with exquisite details, such as a black PVD-treated sapphire dial and gold-toned microblasted apertures.

Its titanium hour disc has been finished by hand, as have its plates and bridges, which are adorned with traditional decorative techniques and can be viewed through its sapphire caseback. Themed on the Pre-Model 1271 from the year 1929, it features the Caliber 7122, which is the Le Brassus manufacture’s first self-winding jumping hour movement and is based on the Royal Oak Jumbo’s Caliber 7121.

150 Heritage Pocket Watch

Limited to just two examples, the 150 Heritage Pocket Watch is driven by the new Caliber 1150, which features 47 functions, including 30 complications. These include a grande and petite sonnerie, supersonnerie, minute repeater, flying tourbillon, semi-Gregorian perpetual calendar, flyback chronograph, and split-seconds. Based on Caliber 1000 of the RD#4, the 1150 movement incorporates the supersonnerie technology of the RD#1, the ultra-thin construction of the RD#2, and the high-amplitude oscillator of the RD#3.

Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding 38mm With Silver-Toned or Black Dial

The eye-catching hand-guilloche dial Yann von Kaenel created for Audemars Piguet in 2023 has returned in black- and silver-toned variants. Housed in 38mm pink gold cases, these two newest iterations of the Code 11.59

are complemented by pink gold indices and hands.

The black dial version arrives on an alligator strap, while the silver-toned variant comes with a brown calfskin strap with white stitching. Both are powered by the Caliber 5900, best known as the workhorse movement that debuted in 2022’s 37mm Royal Oak.

Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon With White Gold-and-Black Ceramic Case

The memorable 41mm Code 11.59 Flying Tourbillon, which Audemars Piguet first unveiled in 2018 as part of the Royal Oak Concept collection, returned with an ivory-toned dial and 18K pink gold accents. It relies on the Caliber 2950, which powers several iconic Royal Oak flying tourbillon timepieces.

Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Openworked and Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Openworked

Both 41mm in diameter, this pair of QPs are driven by the new Caliber 7139 that has succeeded the Caliber 5135, which was discontinued last year. It is bolstered by the impressive crown correction system that first appeared in last year’s Caliber 7138, and also leverages the extensive research and development that went into 2018’s RD#2 and its 5133 movement.

The former is the first Code 11.59 timepiece to feature an openworked perpetual calendar, and is housed within an 18K white gold bezel and black ceramic case middle, while its Royal Oak counterpart is enthroned in a titanium case, with a bezel that has been toughened by the Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) hardening process.

Both showcase calendar details “European style,” with the month at 3 o’clock, the day at 9 o’clock, and the date at 12 o’clock, and like any perpetual calendar worth its salt, will be accurate till the year 2100, which is not a leap year because it is divisible by 100 but not by 400. This is a lesser-known rule of the Gregorian calendar designed by 16th-century Italian astronomer Aloysius Lilius.

Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar With “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” Ceramic Case

Speaking of the new standard-bearer QP movement, the Caliber 7138 it has returned in a 41mm “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic case. This rich shade of blue was specially developed to commemorate Audemars Piguet’s 150th anniversary last year. This hue also adorns the Grand Tapisserie dial of this ravishing timepiece, juxtaposed with 18K white gold hour markers and hands.

Royal Oak Offshore Flyback Chronograph in Ceramic or Titanium Case

The bold 43mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph returned in two renditions.

One reference features a “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic case with titanium accents, beige Méga Tapisserie dial with “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” accents, and textured calfskin leather strap in the same trademark hue.

The second sports a titanium case with a black ceramic bezel and pushers, smoked green PVD Méga Tapisserie dial, and grey-green rubber strap. These leather and rubber straps are easily interchangeable. Both timepieces are powered by the Caliber 4401, which has been a mainstay in the Royal Oak collection since 2021.

Royal Oak Offshore Diver in Pink, Turquoise And Deep Teal

The 42mm Royal Oak Offshore Diver, first released in 2021, returned in three scintillating colors. Powered by the Caliber 4308, this 300m dive watch is distinguished by its two black ceramic crowns and features a date window at 3 o’clock as well as 18K gold pointers and indices.

Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin Openworked

Powered by the Caliber 7124, this new-generation Jumbo is housed in a 39mm titanium case with BMG bezel. Its rhodium-toned openworked dial is complemented by sloping 18K gold hour markers and a silver-graytoned inner bezel. Its bracelet, too, is made of titanium with GMB studs.

Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked

The highly sought-after 37mm Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked has been reimagined in 18K yellow gold. Its 3132 movement features its namesake double balance wheel mechanism, which increases rotational inertia for stability — two sets of balances and hairsprings

working in opposite directions help cancel out any errors. Similar to the new 39mm Jumbo, this timepiece is accentuated by rectangular 18K gold hour markers and a gold-toned inner bezel.

Royal Oak Selfwinding Malachite Dial

Available in 37mm and 41mm case sizes, these yellow gold novelties are beautifully contrasted by malachite dials. Like the dials of their turquoise predecessors of 2023, these precious stone dials are adorned by natural patterns that make each dial unique. The 37mm model sports the Caliber 5909, while the 41mm reference is equipped with the Caliber 4309.

Royal Oak Mini

These 23mm quartz timepieces were first released in 2024 and have returned with one version featuring a mirror-polished black onyx dial and brilliant-cut diamond markers, and another with an extra-white mother-of-pearl dial and 18K pink gold markers and pointers. While their predecessors sported frosted appearances, these renditions have been endowed with the maison’s acclaimed alternate finishing.

Irina Evans, J.P. Morgan Senior Private Client Banker

Supporting San Francisco’s Financial Futures: Irina Evans on Personalized Wealth Planning

Helping individuals and families build, protect and plan for lasting legacies at the Pine Street J.P. Morgan Financial Center

WHAT IF YOUR FINANCIAL JOURNEY BEGAN WITH SOMEONE who truly listened? At the new J.P. Morgan Financial Center on Pine Street, Senior Private Client Banker Irina Evans is redefining what it means to put clients first. Her approach goes beyond numbers—she crafts financial strategies shaped by your story, your priorities and your vision for the future.

A

PERSONAL TOUCH TO HOLISTIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

With more than 15 years of experience in financial services and over a decade at JPMorganChase, Irina’s guiding philosophy centers on understanding that each person’s financial journey is unique. She believes effective planning goes far beyond numbers and products. By working closely with investment advisors, estate planners, accountants and other specialists, Irina ensures every detail aligns with her clients’ distinct goals and lifestyle.

“Financial planning isn’t static,” Irina explains. “Markets change, tax considerations shift and life doesn’t stand still. I believe in a people-first approach—getting to know my clients, understanding what matters most to them and building plans that can grow and adapt with their lives.

Personalization lets us anticipate what’s ahead and adjust thoughtfully, rather than react after the fact.”

This mindset is especially important in San Francisco, where clients often face concentrated equity, complex tax considerations and the need to plan for generations to come.

GLOBAL RESOURCES, LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

As a Senior Private Client Banker, Irina serves as a central point of contact, connecting clients to JPMorganChase’s global capabilities in banking, investing and lending while keeping the experience highly personal. She works closely with specialized teams across the firm to ensure your investments and overall financial plan are in sync.

“Our scale gives clients stability and peace of mind,” Irina says. “But scale alone isn’t enough. The real value comes from translating those resources into strategies that feel intentional and aligned with what clients want to achieve.”

Clients benefit from proactive planning designed to preserve and grow wealth, manage risk and navigate evolving markets for longterm success.

DEEP SAN FRANCISCO ROOTS AND FORWARD-THINKING VISION

When clients step inside the Financial Center, they immediately sense something different: a space designed not just for banking, but for them. Here, every detail reflects a commitment to personalized services. Irina is known for her thoughtful, people-first approach to managing finances—she listens, learns and builds strategies as unique as each client’s story.

“The building itself reflects confidence in San Francisco’s future,” Irina shares. “It’s a place where conversations happen—about markets, planning and what comes next.”

RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST

Irina’s approach is all about partnership. She views financial planning as an ongoing relationship—built on trust, transparency and a shared commitment to your long-term goals.

“The most rewarding part of my work is helping clients feel confident about their decisions,” she says. “When people know their plan truly fits their life, it changes how they move forward.”

If you’d like to connect with Irina and her team of J.P. Morgan Private Client financial experts to learn more, stop by the San Francisco Financial Center.

Festival Napa Valley at 20 : A Legacy of Artistry, Innovation, and Place

BY OLIVIA DECKER

THIS JULY, FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY CELEBRATES ITS 20TH Anniversary Summer Season, marking two decades of artistic excellence in one of the world’s most celebrated cultural destinations. Founded in 2006, the Festival has grown into a signature summer gathering that brings together music, dance, visual arts, wellness, and culinary experiences, set against Napa Valley’s iconic vineyards, wineries, and private estates.

“For many of our guests, Festival Napa Valley has become an annual summertime tradition,” said Rick Walker, President and CEO. “There is something deeply meaningful about seeing familiar faces return year after year, while welcoming new audiences to discover the Festival for the first time.”

Looking back over two decades reveals a constellation of moments that have come to define the Festival’s singular spirit. Among them: the Russian National Orchestra continuing to play from memory in complete darkness during a power failure at the Lincoln Theater in one of the Festival’s first seasons; conductor Stéphane Denève celebrating his wedding at Bouchaine Vineyards in 2007; Opening Night in 2013, which

brought Broadway superstar Audra McDonald to the Festival stage; Renée Fleming delivering a luminous performance at Castello di Amorosa; and the 2014 tribute honoring Sophia Loren at Far Niente Winery in celebration of her 80th birthday. These are among the countless performances that remain etched in audience memory.

The 2009 performance by 14-year-old violinist Chad Hoopes, a Bouchaine Young Artist, was a powerful testament to the Festival’s commitment to discovering and nurturing extraordinary young talent. Hoopes performed Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, with narration by Robert Redford. Over the years, Festival audiences have formed enduring connections with artists such as Joshua Bell and Jean-Yves Thibaudet, both of whom have returned more than ten times, highlighting the deep bond between Festival artists and audiences.

The annual Arts for All Gala has also become a cornerstone of the Summer Season, seamlessly blending artistry and philanthropy. With a live auction offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences ranging from intimate private concerts to exclusive travel adventures, the Gala is instrumental in advancing the Festival’s mission. To date, it has raised more than $33 million to support education and the arts, with stars such as Jon Batiste, Diana Ross, Kristin Chenoweth, Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Jennifer Hudson contributing their talents in support of this important cause.

The 20th Anniversary Summer Season, running from July 4 through July 19, 2026, honors a remarkable legacy while embracing bold new artistic visions. Featuring more than 60 music and dance performances, alongside visual arts, wellness programs, and gourmet food and wine experiences, the season

offers an immersive cultural journey across vineyards, luxury resorts, and private estates. Patron Pass holders enjoy exclusive access to elegant Vintner’s Luncheons and Patron Dinners, supporting the Festival’s mission to enrich lives through the arts.

At the heart of the anniversary season is the world premiere of The Judgment of Paris, a new opera by composer Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer, commissioned by Festival Napa Valley. Inspired by the legendary 1976 blind tasting that elevated Napa Valley wines to global prominence, the opera reimagines this pivotal moment as a mythic, operatic tale in which tradition and innovation collide on equal ground. The production stars opera luminaries Danielle de Niese, Quinn Kelsey, Nicholas Phan, Simone McIntosh, and Brenda Rae, alongside Fellows of the Manetti Shrem Opera Program.

“This opera captures the essence of Napa Valley—curiosity, courage, and the joy of discovery,” said Charles Letourneau, Vice President and Director of Artistic Planning. “It brings together history, artistry, and innovation in a way that feels both timely and timeless.”

Additional highlights of the anniversary season include Renée Fleming’s return as both keynote speaker for the Music and Wellness Summit and performer in her orchestral program Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene; Opening Night with Time for Three and the Young People’s Chorus of New York City; A Night at the Ballet: From Swan Lake to The Stones; Opera Scenes with the Manetti Shrem Opera Fellows; and a special screening of The Wizard of Oz with live orchestra.

Taste of Napa at The Meritage Resort and Spa is another cornerstone of the Summer Season, featuring tastings from more

than 100 wineries, restaurants, and culinary artisans, along with craft beverages and a Reserve Tasting Salon for an elevated experience.

The summer’s apogee remains the Arts for All Gala, held at the Oakville estate of Nickel & Nickel, part of Far Niente Wine Estates. Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis headlines the anniversary celebration, complemented by a multi-course dinner by chef Dustin Valette, exceptional wines from Far Niente Wine Estates, and a live auction led by celebrity auctioneer Lydia Fenet. At 20 years, Festival Napa Valley stands as a singular fusion of culture, hospitality, and philanthropy—delivering exceptional artistic experiences while making a lasting impact on education and the arts, and nurturing a vibrant, connected community. For full details, please visit the 2026 Summer Season Schedule.

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

408 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE

BELVEDERE

rooms open onto a spacious 1,000+ square foot waterfront deck for gracious outdoor entertaining. The full floor luxurious master suite upstairs includes a fireplace, 2 walk-in closets, an o ce area with huge view window, and a terrace overlooking the Bay. Wide plank French light oak floors are throughout the entire home. Almost every room enjoys spectacular views of the Bay, San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Mount Tam, and beyond.

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ±4,890 SQ. FT $28,000/month

Luxury Fully Furnished Rental with Pool

There is a gated garden and a 2-car garage plus ample street parking. Belvedere is recognized as the safest community in the Bay Area, and West Shore Road is a wide flat street for ample space for biking, walking, and parking. It is also the best yachting location on San Francisco Bay, with easy access to Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club. Belvedere Park and downtown Tiburon are just a short distance away, where you can catch ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, and enjoy a dozen great restaurants including Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Malibu Farm and Le Petite Left Bank bistro. For details and pictures please visit www.55WestShore.com.

Spectacular contemporary style home designed by renowned architect Daniel Hunter AIA, built in 2003 and renovated in 2014. This unique home with view of downtown Tiburon, Corinthian Island, two yacht clubs, Belvedere Cove, and Angel Island features lush tropical gardens, a dramatic entry bridge, foyer with living room, an o ce, and staircase with curved glass walls descends to huge open-floor plan dining/family room/kitchen with high ceilings and wall to wall glass doors on both sides. Luxurious primary suite, two en-suite bedrooms, sitting room, and media room with full bathrooms can serve as a bedroom. O pool level, there is a detached guest quarter with a full bathroom, a beautiful pool with a huge lounging terrace for outdoor entertaining, and a level turf athletic green lawn. Amazing turnkey home for Belvedere on the best block at the end of Golden Gate Avenue. Also o ered for fully furnished rental at $28,000 per month.

Festival Napa Valley Olivia Decker Power of Music Lunar New Year Celebratory Concert at The St. Regis San Francisco

BY OLIVIA DECKER

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID ORTEGA

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY RANG IN THE YEAR OF THE HORSE with an intimate evening of music, art, and hospitality at The St. Regis San Francisco. The celebration featured pianist, composer, and installation artist Yang Bao, marking the launch of his PENTATONE album, MADLANDS. Bao was joined by violinist Nancy Zhou and the Alora Quartet for a program reflecting the spirit of the Lunar New Year—renewal, connection, and good fortune.

Based in New York, Yang Bao is renowned for his large-scale stainless steel sound sculptures and Infinity Music compositions. Bao transforms landscapes and architecture into monumental superinstruments. His site-specific works harness time and chance to create evolving, multidimensional visual soundscapes, reimagining sound as a tangible force that reshapes our perception of space and time. Through a minimalist approach, he visualizes sound as physical form, creating an experiential synthesis of the arts.

His groundbreaking sound sculpture complex, HYPERSPACE, permanently collected and exhibited at The Donum Estate in California, stands among the world’s largest sculpture collections.

This dynamic installation blends Infinity Music with natural elements such as wind, sunlight, and rain, merging sound and visuals into a fluid, living experience. Bao has been awarded the Maria Manetti Shrem Composer Prize, Forbes China’s Most Influential Young Artists, and Robb Report’s Young Artist of the Year. His artworks are in the permanent collection of the Long Museum and have been commissioned by Dior, Louis XIII, and Devialet. Bao’s solo exhibitions include MADLANDS (Long Museum, Shanghai, 2024), Hear a Century Ahead (Former British Consulate, Shanghai, 2021), and Late Night Savage (Cc Foundation, Shanghai, 2021). A Juilliard- and New England Conservatory–trained classical pianist, Bao studied under Wha-Kyung Byun and Bruce Brubaker and has performed with prestigious orchestras worldwide, merging classical mastery with his original compositions. He recently premiered First Day on Mars: Piano Fantasie at Carnegie Hall in New York and his orchestral work Sol: Piano Concerto at Festival Napa Valley in California. He has also performed Rachmaninoff: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini with Maestro Long Yu and

the China Philharmonic Orchestra at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing.

Part of the Festival’s Olivia Decker Power of Music Series, this concert marked the third annual event at The St. Regis’ renowned address. Imbued with art and style, the evening included an elegant reception featuring exceptional wines from Napa Valley’s Domaine Carneros and themed hors d’oeuvres from the St. Regis culinary team. Festive activations invited guests to create personal floral arrangements with Bouquet Box Flower Bar and take home custom calligraphy notes of good fortune by Jojo’s Calligraphy.

Following the celebratory gathering in the stunning foyer of The St. Regis San Francisco and the remarkable concert, many guests chose to continue the evening with dinner at the property’s signature restaurant, Astra, setting the tone for a new year of abundance and connection. Festival Napa Valley President Rick Walker also hosted a birthday dinner for Olivia Decker in the private dining room adjacent to Astra.

Hosted by Festival Executive Producer Sienna Peck, notable attendees included Barbara Wolfe, Romana Bracco, Karen Kubin, Remi Cohen, Olivia Decker, Thao and Jerry Dodson, Bobbi Dunphy, Joel Goodrich, Zhang Jianmin, Roger Snow, Robert Beadle, Heide Betz, Janet and Francis Wong, Thuy Vu, Christine Yu, and Head of the Culture Section Consul David Wang, along with Zhang Jianmin from the Chinese Consulate General’s office in San Francisco. For past and upcoming Power of Music concerts, please visit: www. festivalnapavalley.org/programs/olivia-decker-power-of-music-series.

The San Francisco Symphony Rings in the Year of the Horse

Honoring heritage through music

BY FRAN MILLER

PHOTOGRAPHY DREW ALTIZER

FOR 26 YEARS, THE SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY’S LUNAR

New Year Celebration has served as one of the Bay Area’s most meaningful intersections of culture and philanthropy. On Saturday, February 28, the tradition continued at Davies Symphony Hall with a vibrant tribute to the very special Year of the Red Horse which only comes once every 60 years. It was an evening defined by artistry, generosity, and a room full of familiar faces from San Francisco’s philanthropic and cultural circles.

THE WATTIS ROOM: CAVIAR, SPARKLING WINE, AND CITY INSIDERS

The festivities began with a VIP reception in the Wattis Room, where guests gathered beneath soft lighting and amongst offerings from event sponsors. The Caviar Co. presented pristine pearls layered onto crisps, while Iron Horse Vineyards poured its sparkling wine. Nearby, Hotaling & Co. introduced guests to a curated selection of their fine represented whiskeys. The fashion leaned festive: lacquered reds, gold accents, silk textures, and classic black tie. Conversations underscored a shared commitment to the Symphony’s community programs, which benefit from the evening’s proceeds.

A PROGRAM ROOTED IN HERITAGE AND ENERGY

At 5:15 p.m., the concert commenced under the baton of Taiwanese American conductor Mei-Ann Chen. An internationally respected presence on the podium (she is music director of the Chicago Sinfonietta and a frequent guest with orchestras from Vienna to Seoul) Chen brought vitality and a bit of comedy to a program that honored Asian composers and traditional works.

The orchestra opened with Huan-Zhi Li’s Spring Festival Overture, followed by a sweeping and thoughtfully curated selection including Wishing You Prosperity, Liu Chia-Chang’s Alone Ascending the West Chamber, Che-Yi Lee’s Music from Dancing Strings, Tyzen Hsiao’s The Angel from Formosa, Huang Ruo’s Flower Drum Song from Feng Yang, An-Lun Huang’s Saibei Dance, and Chen Gexin’s jubilant Gong Xi Gong Xi, for which Conductor Chen encouraged the audience’s vocal participation.

Overhead, artful projections of San Francisco scenes intermingled with striking imagery of horses in motion, reinforcing the symbolism of the year: strength, drive, and forward momentum.

A highlight of the evening was erhu virtuoso George Gao, who performed Capriccio No. 6, Shaoyin. Gao, recognized globally for expanding the expressive possibilities of the erhu—including his development of the electric shaoqin erhu—brought beautiful technique and emotional depth to the stage with his contemporary, improvisational, and fast-paced virtuoso techniques. His résumé includes collaborations with major orchestras across North America, Europe, and Asia, and his presence added international distinction to the celebration.

Equally compelling was Yuhsin Galaxy Su, who joined the Symphony as Second Clarinet at the start of the 2024–25 season and made her solo clarinet debut with the orchestra during this Lunar New Year program. A Curtis Institute of Music and Colburn School alumna, Su delivered a poised and expressive performance. She is clearly a rising star at home on the Davies stage.

AN AUSPICIOUS FEAST

Following the final ovation, guests transitioned to the elegant VIP banquet, where round tables for ten were arranged beneath purplehued lighting and adorned with ornate floral arrangements in yellow, orange, and pink. A multi-course feast of Chinese delicacies and auspicious Lunar New Year dishes from around the world unfolded as toasts were raised to health, prosperity, and the Symphony’s enduring commitment to cultural programming.

In a final flourish, Yuhsin Galaxy Su returned, not with her clarinet, but at the piano, offering a luminous rendition of Clair de Lune. The performance added an intimate close to an evening that had already showcased her range and artistry.

A TRADITION THAT CONTINUES TO GROW

The Symphony’s Lunar New Year Celebration remains a fixture on the city’s social and cultural calendar. It is at once a concert, a gathering of civic leadership, and a philanthropic engine supporting community programs throughout the Bay Area. The Year of the Horse felt particularly fitting, an emblem of endurance and momentum. As guests filtered back into the Civic Center night, it was clear that this longstanding tradition continues to evolve while maintaining its purpose: honoring heritage through music and bringing San Francisco together in the process.

Producer Ronny Michael Greenberg with Opera Aloha Performers.

Opera Aloha Opened 2026 Tours with a smashing concert at Grace Cathedral

BY OLIVIA DECKER

OPERA ALOHA OPENED ITS 2026 TOUR AT A SOLD-OUT Grace Cathedral in San Francisco with a program that revealed the project’s distinctive vision, a meeting point between the operatic canon and the musical traditions of the Pacific. Created by pianist and producer Ronny Michael Greenberg through the nonprofit Taste of Talent, the concert brought together international opera singers, Hawaiian music, and hula in a format that felt both thoughtful and personal. Each artist presented an operatic aria paired with a song of personal significance, creating a direct connection with the audience.

Tenor Christopher Oglesby began with Puccini’s Recondita armonia from Tosca, a work that felt naturally at home in the cathedral’s acoustics, before turning to the Appalachian ballad The Soldier by Jean Ritchie, whose solemn lines echoed deeply through the space. Soprano Aivale Cole followed with a commanding and virtuosic Aria: Ernani, involami by Verdi, then shifted to Jerome Grey’s We Are Samoa, a tribute to her heritage and to the Samoan community of San Francisco present that evening. Bass Morgan Andrew King brought another deeply personal moment with the Māori song Te Oohaakii a Tūranga, written by his father, delivering it with intimacy and direct storytelling.

The evening’s visual centerpiece came in the Taste of Hawai’i set, where kumu hula Patrick Makuakāne and his acclaimed company Nā Lei Hulu I Ka Wēkiu transformed the music into movement, bringing the stories of the islands to life through hula. With ukulele artist Lenny San Jose joining the ensemble and Greenberg guiding the program from the piano, Opera Aloha presented a cultural dialogue linking opera, Pacific heritage, and contemporary performance.

Another highlight of the evening was the Hawaiian Plate set, conceived as a musical reflection of the islands’ rich cultural diversity. Just as a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch brings together flavors from many cultures, the musical Hawaiian Plate presented songs from across the Pacific and beyond, including Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Portuguese repertoire. The result was a vivid portrait of Hawai’i’s multicultural heritage, expressed not through food but through song, illustrating the many communities whose traditions have shaped the sound and identity of the islands. The concert ended with the sold-out audience’s standing ovation and sing-along with the performers.

Following this San Francisco opening, Opera Aloha now continues its 2026 journey across the Hawaiian Islands, bringing this program of opera, Pacific song, and hula to audiences in Kaua’i, Maui, and Hawai’i Island.

Inside ODC’s Dance Downtown Gala: A Night Celebrating Contemporary Dance in San Francisco

BY KRISHA CHHAGANLAL

SAN FRANCISCO’S CULTURAL CALENDAR REACHED an elegant crescendo on Friday, March 6, as the annual Dance Downtown Gala hosted by ODC brought together patrons, artists, and cultural leaders for an evening celebrating the transformative power of contemporary dance.

Held at the Blue Shield of California Theater at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the evening unfolded as one of the city’s most anticipated arts fundraisers, supporting ODC’s expansive artistic and educational programs. Serving as honorary chair was Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. In a surprise announcement, ODC Co-Artistic Directors Brenda Way and Mia J. Chong joined Pelosi on stage to declare the renaming of ODC’s numerous health initiatives as the Nancy Pelosi Healthy Dancers Program at ODC, an honor recognizing Pelosi’s

extraordinary advocacy for both the arts and health care, two pillars of ODC’s mission. The sold-out evening welcomed approximately 410 guests and raised more than $800,000 in support of ODC’s artistic and community programs.

The event drew a distinguished crowd of arts patrons, philanthropists, and Bay Area leaders, including Brenda Way and Henry Erlich, Navid and Bill Armstrong, Sean Dowdall and David Landis, Kathy Fang, Bernice Glenn Kissinger and Bill Kissinger, Cynthia Schroeder, David Steinberg and Elizabeth Mekker, Peter Bransten on behalf of Leela de Souza Bransten, and Lisa Feintech and Lynn Feintech and Tony Bernhardt. The gala was made possible through the generosity of individual supporters including Ron and Gayle Conway and the Sakana Foundation, and corporate sponsors Cleary

Navid

Gottlieb, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Relation Insurance Services, Saint Laurent, United Airlines, and W San Francisco. Guests gathered for a cocktail reception followed by a seated gala dinner before taking their seats at the Blue Shield of California Theater for a special performance as part of ODC’s Dance Downtown season. The program reflected both the legacy and the future of the company.

Heather Holt Kian

Kaialoa Kristin

Sorensen Kari

Lincks Coomans

Joel Goodrich and Alexander Nourafshan

Sally Yu Alexander Nourafshan and Lilian Tsa

A highlight of the evening was the world premiere of “After the Deluge,” a powerful new work choreographed by ODC founder Brenda Way. Created to mark the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the piece reflects on themes of resilience, loss, and rebuilding, expressed through ODC’s signature blend of athleticism and emotional depth.

The gala program also featured Way’s celebrated work “Investigating Grace,” previously recognized as an American Masterpiece by the National Endowment for the Arts. The choreography’s expressive movement and layered storytelling remain a defining example of ODC’s artistic voice.

Following the performance, guests crossed the street to the W San Francisco, where the celebration continued with an energetic after-party featuring cocktails, music, and dancing. In true gala fashion, dancers, choreographers, and supporters mingled late into the night, celebrating the creative spirit that has defined ODC for more than five decades.

Founded in 1971 and long regarded as one of the most influential contemporary dance companies in the United States, ODC continues to push the boundaries of movement while nurturing the next generation of artists.

For San Francisco’s arts community, the Dance Downtown Gala once again served as a powerful reminder of the role the arts play in shaping the city’s cultural identity.

Sip, Savor and Save Lives at WineaPAWloozA

BY JENNIFER BODEN

THE 13TH ANNUAL WINEAPAWLOOZA RETURNS FOR an unforgettable two-night celebration on Friday and Saturday, June 19–20, 2026. This extraordinary event is the signature fundraiser of Jameson Humane, a Napa Valley animal rescue and welfare organization.

WineaPAWlooza brings together world-class Napa Valley vintners and winemakers, French Laundry Alum chefs and so much more. “One of this year’s highlights is Max Alexander, a child prodigy who has become a celebrated fashion designer,” said Monica Stevens, President and Founder of Jameson Humane. Friday, June 19, will kick off at Vice Versa’s new state of the art winery in Calistoga, hosted by vintner-owners Patrice & Samantha Breton, featuring a ToKalon vineyard discussion with legendary grape grower Andy Beckstoffer, Patrice Breton and other leading Napa vintners and winemakers. The evening includes a musical performance by WRISTROCKET, and culinary delights from Napa Valley Chef Itamar Abramovitch, Blossom Catering.

Saturday, June 20, moves to the breathtaking Castellucci Estate in Oakville, where 60 of Napa Valley’s glitterati vintners and winemakers will pour their exceptional wines. The evening honors Vintners William and Ginger Nemerever, Nemerever Vineyards, recipients of the Jameson Humane Philanthropic Hero Award; and features a culinary experience by Chefs Daniel Gomez Sanchez, owner of DGS Culinary in Napa, and Elliot Bell, owner of Charlie’s in St Helena--both alumni of The French Laundry. Guests will also enjoy bidding on the incredible auction lots, including a real-time creation by Max Alexander. The evening will continue with beats from DJ Kirill. “It’s an honor to host this year’s WineaPAlooza at our Castellucci Estate as this event so beautifully unites Napa Valley’s generosity with purpose,” said Maria Castellucci, Proprietor of Castellucci Napa Valley. “WineaPAWlooza embodies the best of the valley’s philanthropic spirit — where a shared love of wine, food, and fellowship transforms into tangible impact for the animals and the communities Jameson Humane serves.”

Get Tickets by emailing monica@jamesonrescueranch.org

BELVEDERE

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

408 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ±4,890 SQ. FT

$28,000/month

Luxury Fully Furnished Rental with Pool Spectacular contemporary style home designed by renowned architect Daniel Hunter AIA, built in 2003 and renovated in 2014. This unique home with view of downtown Tiburon, Corinthian Island, two yacht clubs, Belvedere Cove, and Angel Island features tropical gardens, a dramatic entry bridge, foyer with living room, an o ce, and staircase with curved glass walls descends to huge open-floor plan dining/family room/kitchen with high ceilings and wall to wall glass doors on both sides. Luxurious primary suite, two en-suite bedrooms, sitting room, and media room with full bathrooms can serve as a bedroom. O pool level, there is a detached guest quarter with a full bathroom, a beautiful pool with a huge lounging terrace for outdoor entertaining, and a level turf athletic green lawn. Amazing turnkey home for Belvedere on the best block at the end of Golden Gate Avenue. Also o ered for fully furnished rental at $28,000 per month.

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ±4,890 SQ. FT $28,000/month

Spectacular contemporary style home designed by renowned architect Daniel Hunter AIA, built in 2003 and renovated in 2014. This unique home with view of downtown Tiburon, Corinthian Island, two yacht clubs, Belvedere Cove, and Angel Island features lush tropical gardens, a dramatic entry bridge, foyer with living room, an o ce, and staircase with curved glass walls descends to huge open-floor plan dining/family room/kitchen with high ceilings and wall to wall glass doors on both sides. Luxurious primary suite, two en-suite bedrooms, sitting room, and media room with full bathrooms can serve as a bedroom. O pool level, there is a detached guest quarter with a full bathroom, a beautiful pool with a huge lounging terrace for outdoor entertaining, and a level turf athletic green lawn. Amazing turnkey home for Belvedere on the best block at the end of Golden Gate Avenue. Also o ered for fully furnished rental at $28,000 per month.

Luxury Fully Furnished Rental with Pool

Spectacular contemporary style home designed by renowned architect Daniel Hunter AIA, built in 2003 and renovated in 2014. This unique home with view of downtown Tiburon, Corinthian Island, two yacht clubs, Belvedere Cove, and Angel Island features lush tropical gardens, a dramatic entry bridge, foyer with living room, an o ce, and staircase with curved glass walls descends to huge open-floor plan dining/family room/kitchen with high ceilings and wall to wall glass doors on both sides. Luxurious primary suite, two en-suite bedrooms, sitting room, and media room with full bathrooms can serve as a bedroom. O pool level, there is a detached guest quarter with a full bathroom, a beautiful pool with a huge lounging terrace for outdoor entertaining, and a level turf athletic green lawn. Amazing turnkey home for Belvedere on the best block at the end of Golden Gate Avenue. Also o ered for fully furnished rental at $28,000 per month.

Magnificent Belvedere Residence on San Francisco Bay

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER

FEATURED IN ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST , THIS WORLD CLASS residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the entire city skyline of San Francisco, the Bay Bridge, and Sausalito. It’s a magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting in the most prestigious location and comprises a ±8,131-square-foot home on a ±0.67-acre waterfront lot on the San Francisco Bay. It features four bedrooms with five full baths and two half-baths.

This work of architectural art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey. It has spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive four-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this house takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a three-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one-bedroom and one-bath guesthouse, and a wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house

are situated between two large retaining walls which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outward toward the bay.

The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular staircase winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s mass. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects toward the bay to extend the space into the landscape. Three bedrooms, three baths, a study, and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, and a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool. The pool’s “infinity edge” establishes a poetic connection to the bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide wood planks of bubinga wood. The cabinets are lightly stained maple.

The exterior is clad in gray-stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige-and-gray flamed limestone pavers, and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco.

The unique location near the tip of Belvedere Island provides privacy and security while enjoying the stunning, world class views. Within a short walking distance are the Corinthian Yacht Club, San Francisco Yacht Club, and Tiburon’s downtown with its charming boutiques and a dozen culinary restaurants, such as Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, the Malibu Farm, Servino’s, Luna Bleu, Le Pattie Left Bank Bistro, Salt & Pepper, and the iconic Sam’s Café. There are ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, bayside parks and biking path, plus hundreds of acres of vast open space for hiking and family picnics. Also, Tiburon-Belvedere is known for the best school district in California and the fog-less weather.

Built in 2000 and extensively renovated by current owner, this state-of-art residence has extreme high quality and craftsmanship at a cost above the current offering price of $22,888,000. Details on 445BelvedereAve.com

Lydia Graham is a passionate advocate of healthy living. She has launched and positioned health and wellness-related companies, products, technologies, and organizations receiving more than 100 awards nationally and internationally. Her focus in the health sector is specifically on healthy living, aging, and longevity. She is a partner and investor in several nationally recognized brands. Graham envisions the possibility people can enjoy life at 95 as much as at 25 and that the steps we take each day matter on our heallh journey.

Undergarments: Why Foundational Pieces Matter

How to Make Smart Choices

BY LYDIA GRAHAM

THIS ISSUE IS ABOUT FASHION, SO LET US CONSIDER THE wardrobe layers most people do not see—the ones we wear most and think about the least: our underwear. Just like building a solid foundation for your home, selecting non-toxic undergarments can be the first step in transitioning to and creating a healthy wardrobe. This is the layer closest to your most intimate areas and therefore may be the most important. It is also the easiest layer in which to make changes, as pieces are relatively inexpensive, allowing for experimentation. Several new companies are filling this unmet need, which was previously largely absent in the fashion industry, making it easier for us to make healthier choices.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

Let us start with the clothing fibers in your undergarments. Today, almost 70 percent of our clothes are made of polyester and other synthetics derived from petroleum. They do not biodegrade (even recycled polyester) and constantly leach harmful chemicals and microfibers into our air and water—and onto our bodies. Eventually, these clothes wind up in landfills.

One of the biggest culprits is microplastics (particles below five millimeters), also known as microfibers (a plastic-based thread thinner than a human hair). Microfibers are found in polyester, nylon, polyamide, and acrylic. When these textiles are manufactured, washed, worn, or dried, they continually release or shed these tiny plastic fibers.

As quoted on the U.K. site Friends of the Earth: “One washing load of clothes could be shedding up to 17 million tiny plastic fibers.”

You have probably heard about the impact of microplastics in our oceans (the textile industry is the largest contributor), but consider this: they are also lurking in your home’s air and in the clothes touching your skin. According to PlasticSoupFoundation.org, “Of all the floating dust in a household, 33% of it is microplastics from textiles.” The bad news: we breathe and ingest these particles daily, not to mention they contribute to polluting outdoor air across the globe.

What makes our clothes stretchier today is spandex, also known as elastane. It, too, is a petroleum-based fiber sourced from polyurethane. You will find it on most undergarment labels today. If a garment is smooth, tight, and clingy, it probably contains spandex.

We should also be concerned about hidden toxic chemicals and dyes applied to fabrics—even natural ones. More than 8,000 synthetic chemicals are used in textile manufacturing. Some of the most harmful are polyfluorinated substances, or PFAS (frequently used for stain- and water-resistance). You have also heard them referred to as “forever chemicals.” EWG states that PFAS are “a large family of thousands of fluorinated chemicals, linked to a higher risk of cancer, reproductive harm, immune system damage, and other serious health problems.” These chemicals are so pervasive in our environment that, according to the CDC, “their presence in human blood is a nearuniversal phenomenon in the United States.”

Ninety percent of our clothes are dyed synthetically—even those made from natural fibers. Azo dyes are used in 60 to 70 percent of fabric colors, particularly vivid colors as well as black and brown. (Some of these dyes can break down into aromatic amines that may come off fabrics and are carcinogenic at high levels.) It may surprise you that even whites and bright whites are frequently dyed. According to the ACCC (Australian Competition & Consumer Commission), “Aromatic amines can migrate from clothing and leather articles and be absorbed through the skin where there is direct and prolonged contact. The number of aromatic amines released can increase with body heat, sweat, and saliva.” Additionally, heavy metals such as lead and chromium are often used in the dyeing process, especially to achieve vivid colors.

Volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde can be used to make clothes wrinkle-resistant. Phthalates, recognized as endocrine disruptors, are often used in the decorative printing process. Chlorine bleach may be used to prep natural fibers and polyester for dyeing.

So, why not just wash your underwear after purchase? Washing before first wear may address some chemicals used in shipping and storage, such as biocides and fungicides applied to control pests and mold in transit. But washing will not address chemicals like azo dyes. The ACCC found: “Washing the item may not decrease the concentration of hazardous aromatic amines. Pre- and post-wash test results commissioned by the ACCC did not indicate a consistent decrease in the concentrations of hazardous aromatic amines after a single wash. In some cases, the results after a single wash were slightly higher than the prewash test results.” And synthetic microfibers never stop shedding.

SELECT NATURAL FIBERS, PREFERABLY ORGANIC

Natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk come from plants or animals. They are breathable—allowing air to pass through—biodegradable (unlike synthetics), and generally more skin-friendly, especially for reactive or postpartum skin.

While natural fibers are better than synthetic ones, selecting organic natural fibers is the optimal and healthiest choice.

“Not all cotton is the same,” says Ally Carroll, a Marin resident and cofounder of Netherlin, along with Kelsey Anderson. “When it comes to what touches your skin every day, understanding the difference between regular and organic cotton can help you make more thoughtful, healthier choices.”

UNDERSTANDING CERTIFICATIONS

There are certifying organizations, but remember that participation in these programs by brands is voluntary. Also, just because certain products are certified does not mean all products by that brand meet the same criteria. With these disclaimers, here are some organizations and certifications Alden Wicker cites in her book To Dye For that may help when evaluating products and reading labels or brand websites:

‘• Oeko-Tex, a German nonprofit certifies brands, suppliers, and their products.

• bluesign®, a Swiss company provides chemical management training to brands and manufacturers.

• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), is the highest standard for organic fibers.

• Cradle to Cradle, focuses on recycling and biodegradability.

• Scivera, a service that provides full toxicology reports to brands on ingredients in chemical or fashion products.

• California Prop 65 requires warning labels on products containing formaldehyde, lead, cadmium, certain phthalates, and BPA.’

However, these certifications are not foolproof. For example, “the EPA has identified more than twelve thousand PFAS and Oeko-Tex only tests for four dozen,” Wicker notes. Joe Rinkevich, founder of Scivera, told Wicker, “Formulators are smart. They know the list just as well as Oeko-Tex does. And they will find a molecule that performs the exact same way as a restricted substance. It has the same carcinogenic properties or whatever the problem is.”

Additionally, just because an item is good for the environment does not necessarily mean it is good for you. Many “recycled” synthetics labeled eco-friendly are still plastic.

SO, WHAT ARE OUR CHOICES?

Here are a few companies offering healthier selections:

Netherlin, The Cotton Collection (netherlin.com)

Started by two Marin residents in their 30s, Netherlin’s Organic Cotton Collection is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic Pima cotton with no added spandex or synthetic fibers. This certification ensures every stage of production—from raw fiber to finished product—meets rigorous environmental and social criteria. Netherlin does not use harmful pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, harsh dyes, or GMOs.

Their level of purity is rare in the market, as most cotton underwear blends in synthetics for stretch. Because of this, garments may appear slightly more relaxed in shape than a typical pair—a reflection of their natural fiber content and uncompromised composition.

Netherlin’s threads, trims, and labels are OEKO-TEX® certified, meaning they are free from harmful substances and safe for even the most sensitive skin. Their Peru-based fabric mill is B Corp and Fair Trade certified. Additionally, the Peru-based factory is WRAP Gold certified, the highest international standard for responsible production.

The Big Favorite (thebigfavorite.com)

Originally established in the 1930s as a destination for reliable cotton workwear, The Big Favorite today features foundational pieces for men and women. The company focuses on healing the planet by addressing textile waste and promoting plastic-free ecosystems within our bodies, while emphasizing specialization, comfort, quality, and fit. It is committed to ethical production, fair wages, safe working conditions, fair trade, and chemical testing.

The Big Favorite offers 100% Pima cotton basics for women and men— underwear, bras, and layering tops—pre-shrunk using the Sanforized™ production method (a controlled compressive process meeting specific standards of washing shrinkage). They carry organic basics, along with naturally dyed and undyed items.

Net Positive (wearnetpositive.com)

Net Positive features a wide selection of women’s undergarments made primarily from organic Egyptian cotton (with 5% elastane), representing a high standard of quality and sustainability. They also offer an organic cotton and hemp line. Their cotton is grown using biodynamic agriculture, a holistic and sustainable approach in which animals, crops, and soil function together as one living ecosystem—completely free from external fertilizers. Each cotton farm is certified to meet the rigorous Demeter International biodynamic standard.

Q for Quinn (qforquinn.com)

Quinn’s line features organic cotton and merino wool basics for the whole family, with 95% to 100% natural fiber content. The 5% or less synthetic content in some products (such as elastics used for waistbands and cuffs) is OEKO-TEX certified to ensure it is free from harmful chemicals and approved by GOTS. Every Quinn piece is made in family-owned factories in Portugal and India, where workers are treated with dignity and paid fair wages.

The Very Good Bra (theverygoodbra.com)

Full-breasted women seeking natural and organic bras that offer support often find limited options, as many alternatives are bralettes better suited for lounging or for smaller busts. This company features several 100% plastic-free bras made with organic cotton—no synthetics, no spandex, no compromises—using only fibers grown without pesticides or harmful chemicals. My favorite: The Very Good Bra.

CONCLUSION

Undergarments are a very personal choice. Have fun and experiment to find healthier options that work best for you.

Note: Nothing in this article constitutes medical advice. Please consult your physician if you have questions before undertaking any physical activity or dietary changes.

Aubrey Brewster, a bon vivant and man-about-town, is a. product of his environment. His affinity for cooking, fashion, and entertaining was inherited from summer vacations shared in Charleston, West Virginia with his southern belle model-turned-hostess grandmother. It should come with no surprise that Brewster followed in his grandmother’s footsteps, with an inherent talent for hosting legendary parties. He is often listed among San Francisco’s best dressed. Aubrey is a San Francisco native, traveler, and food and lifestyle blogger (aubreyabouttown.com). He resides in San Francisco with his husband, Edward. Aubrey can be found enjoying afternoons lunching with friends at Neiman Marcus and some of San Francisco’s favorite haunts when not hosting or attending events.

Aubrey About Town

The Kuàilè MA Luncheon ( – Happy Horse)

BY AUBREY BREWSTER

AS A NATIVE SAN FRANCISCAN, MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH CHINESE CULTURE began early — it feels like it’s woven right into my DNA. Summers meant wandering the vibrant streets of Chinatown, wide-eyed and curious, with a crinkly bag of White Rabbit vanilla taffy in one hand and salty-sweet preserved plum Chan Pui Mui candies in the other. A warm char siu bao and a Portuguese egg custard tart from Mong Kok Bakery on Stockton Street was all I needed to fuel an entire afternoon of adventure.

After school, you could usually find me perched in a friend’s kitchen, happily lingering while his mother and aunties cooked and chatted. I’d listen closely to their stories of childhoods in mainland China — tales rich with tradition, resilience, and flavor. I soaked up every word, every recipe, every bit of meaning stirred into the pot.

San Francisco is pure magic that way — a tapestry of cultures, histories, and neighborhoods just waiting to be explored. Here, the world feels both expansive and wonderfully intimate, and there’s always something new (and delicious) to discover.

Because Lunar New Year always twirls in right between the holiday fête frenzy and my own birthday extravaganza, it somehow gets caught in the most glamorous scheduling squeeze of the year! With so much fabulous party planning in motion, it’s been ages since I’ve hosted a proper celebration to honor the auspicious occasion.

We used to throw a poolside Lunar New Year buffet on the 21st floor — and what a scene it was! With a dazzling bird’s-eye view of the San Francisco Chinese New Year Parade route, we felt like we had front-row seats in the sky. Lanterns, laughter, delicious bites — it was festive perfection… in theory. In reality? The wind had other plans. That rooftop breeze does not come to play. One particularly dramatic gust whipped away tablecloths

and sent a centerpiece crashing to the ground — and just like that, our high-rise Lunar New Year tradition blew away with it!

But wait… perhaps a chic change of venue is in order! After all, there’s absolutely no wind strong enough to topple a centerpiece in the elegant comfort of Neiman Marcus. Now that sounds like a celebration worthy of good fortune, great style, and zero flying florals.

As I’ve always said, inspiration for a party can strike at the most unexpected moments. My Purely Paradise tropical luncheon bloomed from a darling pineapple-shaped salt and pepper set. Kaiseki Bloom was sparked by a delicate origami crane I quite literally found on the street. It’s proof that the smallest details can whisper the grandest ideas.

When envisioning the inspiration for my Kuàilè de Mǎ luncheon (which means “Happy Horse” in Mandarin), a few meaningful muses galloped to the forefront. First and foremost, I wanted to host one final, fabulous fête with two culinary stars I adore: Katrina Parlato, the beloved general manager of The Rotunda Restaurant at Neiman Marcus, and Executive Chef Erik Harrelson.

Both are embarking on dazzling new chapters — Katrina stepping into an exciting leadership role at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City, and Erik trotting into a dream position as private chef for the San Francisco Giants. I’ve had the joy of collaborating with them on some of my most memorable soirées, and while I’ll miss them dearly, what better excuse for one last celebratory send-off?

The second spark? A stunning Chinese zodiac–patterned porcelain dinner plate that practically demanded a party of its own.

With heartfelt inspiration, a touch of serendipity, and a theme that felt both symbolic and chic, I was officially off to the races — planning my very first fête of 2026 in elegant, joyful style.

It was deeply important to me that every detail of the Kuàilè de Mǎ luncheon felt authentic—thoughtfully curated not only to delight my guests, but to honor Chinese traditions with grace and reverence. This luncheon wasn’t simply about gathering around a beautiful table; it was about celebrating the spirit of Lunar New Year in a way that felt elegant, meaningful, and joyfully precise. From décor to presentation to cuisine, each element was intentionally chosen to symbolize prosperity, health, wealth, abundance, and the many blessings that accompany the New Year.

The table design began with a striking green and gold foundation—a nod to auspicious feng shui believed to attract vitality and wealth. When I couldn’t find the perfect tablecloth, I created it myself: a 28-foot sweep of willow green, lovingly finished with a gold tassel trim I hand-stitched over three devoted days. A true labor of love. The florals were equally intentional. Antique Chinese jade green crackedice glaze porcelain vases held blooms rich in symbolism: narcissus for good fortune, plum blossoms for love and renewal, orange chrysanthemums for longevity, and peonies for beauty, romance, and prosperity. The peony is also the national flower of China. Conical topiaries of fragrant mandarin oranges—perched atop Jadeite milk glass cake stands—added vibrant dimension while bestowing wishes of abundance.

For a touch of whimsy, blue antique porcelain pagodas danced along the Kuàilè de Mǎ table, echoing the navy borders of the Chinese zodiac plates, each featuring a proud horse at its center. Blue porcelain chopsticks rested elegantly on gold stands, while green bamboo-motif water glasses completed the place settings with polish and harmony. To add further luck and protection, six 72-inch-long vivid serpentine reddish-gold and golden-blue dragons were playfully hung from the

ceiling to immolate playing in the sky, flying over guests’ heads –whimsically hung by the Neiman Marcus visual department team, adding to the elegant afternoon.

And because no celebration is complete without a bit of nostalgia and playfulness, each guest discovered a red silk sachet tied with a gold cord—filled with the classic candies of my childhood: Chan Pui Mui dried plum sweets, creamy Chun Guang coconut candy, Haw Flakes hawthorn berry candy, sesame-honey crunch, chocolate gold coins, and of course, beloved White Rabbit vanilla taffy.

Tucked in for good measure? A crisp two-dollar bill slipped inside a traditional horse-themed hung bao (red envelope)—for luck, prosperity, and a little extra sparkle to carry into the year ahead.

And in the same spirit of honoring tradition with grace and authenticity, the luncheon simply wouldn’t have been complete without the beloved dishes that define Chinese Lunar New Year. I thoughtfully curated a menu that celebrated time-honored symbolism while also making things seamless for Erik Harrelson, the (now former) executive chef of the Rotunda.

The timing was bittersweet — the luncheon took place during Chef Erik’s final week at The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus, just days before the whirlwind of the annual J.P. Morgan conference, one of the Rotunda’s busiest stretches of the year. With so much on Erik’s plate, I wanted the experience to feel joyful and effortless behind the scenes — without sacrificing a single ounce of elegance.

And really, when one is in San Francisco — home to some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the world — why not embrace it?

Let the festivities begin! Completely unbeknownst to our guests and to the absolute delight of the patrons and staff of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus—we kicked off the Kuàilè de Mǎ (happy horse) luncheon and ushered in the Chinese New Year season in the most spectacular way.

Just as anticipation filled the air, the rhythmic beat of drums echoed through the restaurant, and in swept Lion Dance Me (liondanceme. com), San Francisco’s renowned lion dance troupe, for a dazzling 15-minute surprise performance. Two magnificent lions pranced and twirled their way through the entire iconic Rotunda dining room, drums beating away, enchanting everyone in their path and transforming an elegant afternoon into a full celebration.

The lions ultimately made their grand entrance into our private dining room, where they delighted my guests with the beloved “Drunken Lion” ( ) routine—a playful yet highly skilled performance traditionally presented during the Chinese Lunar New Year (and other) festivities. With theatrical charm, the lions discovered a barrel of wine, indulged a bit too enthusiastically, and soon began wobbling, swaying, and stumbling in the most endearing humorous display of tipsy mischief.

Following the Lion Dancers, lunch was served. We began with honey-glazed char siu bao (barbecued pork buns) and golden crab claw dim sum from one of my longtime favorites from the iconic City View Restaurant now at their new location at 33 Walter U. Lum Place in Chinatown. A delicious and nostalgic start.

The celebration continued with a family-style feast brimming with symbolism and flavor. Changshou Mian — Longevity Noodles tossed with scallions, shiitake mushrooms, and sesame — offered wishes for a long, happy, and healthy life. Steamed bok choy with oyster sauce and crispy garlic represented growth and prosperity. A whole fried sweetand-sour branzino, served alongside fragrant jasmine rice, symbolized abundance for the year ahead.

For prosperity and family unity, we served glorious Peking duck — arguably one of the best in the city — from the renowned Cheung Hing restaurant in San Francisco, accompanied by soft lotus buns, hoisin sauce, crisp cucumber, and scallions. Crunchy, golden vegetable spring rolls (another beloved selection from City View) shimmered like edible gold bars, representing wealth and good fortune.

And to conclude the auspicious feast on a chic and modern note, Chef Erik’s personal favorite: chilled mango panna cotta, delicately paired with Chinese almond cookies and presented in elegant brass coupes I picked up from CB2.com just for chef Harrelson’s delight — a sweet, sunny finale!

Guests reveled the afternoon away sipping on French champagne and libations from our full bar, including specialty lychee martinis and Shanghai cocktails and surprise tableside shots of very potent 20-yearold Fen Chiew Baijiu, a traditional Chinese distilled spirit made from fermented sorghum. Party revelers sipped and shot Baijiu from adorable jade porcelain shot glasses.

Amongst the thirty illustrious guests were hosts Aubrey Brewster and Edward Winger, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, SF Assistant District Attorney (retired) Don du Bain, socialite Tracy Chen and her husband CEO of Diagnostics at Tempus AI Tom Schoenherr, U.S. Dept. of Justice Annemarie Conroy, KTVU Fox2 reporter/ anchorperson Betty Yu, ABC7 anchorperson (retired) Carolyn Tyler and her partner Gary Love, reigning 2025 Miss Chinatown Hanna Chea, socialite Farah Makras and her husband, real estate mogul Victor Makras, Haute Living SF magazine’s publisher/owner Olivia Decker, SF Rivian’s Bacca DaSilva, restaurateur Kathy Fang, Cartier San Francisco general manager Ian Raz, Neiman Marcus vice president/market manager Anna Chung, SF Union Square Alliance president Marisa Rodriguez and her husband Sean Peak, socialite Navid Armstrong, filmmaker Antonio Contreras, and socialite Mary Beth Shimmon and former Haute Living SF ambassador Sharon Seto.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

The Happy Body

The New Set of Sommeliers: How Influencers are Re-corking the Wine Industry

Embracing The Happy Body: A journey to wellness and strength.

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

Couture & Caviar: A Tale of Opulence and Sustainability

THERE WAS A TIME, NOT SO LONG AGO, WHEN THE WINE world was governed by a handful of palates and a rigid scoring system. But the ivory tower has been breached. A new elite has emerged—not from the hushed cellars of Bordeaux, but from the dynamic, interconnected world of social media.

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

A TALE OF TWO VALLEYs

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

As a vintner and the Wine Country Ambassador for Haute Living, I’ve watched this shift with fascination. These aren’t just “influencers” chasing an aesthetic; they are the new authorities. Their power lies in a potent blend of technical expertise and radical authenticity. To understand why your next favorite bottle will likely come from a smartphone recommendation, you have to look at the five voices currently redefining the digital cellar.

FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS, I HAVE BEEN ON A TRANSFORMATIVE journey with The Happy Body program, a holistic approach to fitness that not only reshaped my body but also revitalized my spirit. My path to discovering this life-changing exercise regimen was not straightforward. After suffering a debilitating back injury from a car accident 25 years ago and battling with my (ideal) weight for years, I was desperate for a solution that would not only alleviate my pain but also help me regain control over my health.

AS

A

WINEGROWER

For Lexi Stephens (@lexiswinelist), expertise is a tool for connection, not exclusion. With a WSET Level 3 certification and nearly a decade in the trenches—from distribution to consulting for top L.A. restaurants—she has the “chops” to talk terroir for hours. Yet, her 52,000 followers aren’t looking for a lecture.

“Selecting a wine is not about its rarity,” Lexi tells me. “It’s about what will resonate. Quality is a requirement, whether it’s a $100 grower champagne or a $20 weeknight wine from Trader Joe’s.” Her process is methodical: she tastes, researches the brand, and then lets

it sit to reflect before filming. In an industry that is often “behind” on digital engagement, Lexi is the bridge to a newer generation that values a diverse winemaker story as much as a high score.

If Lexi is the bridge, Hayden Stewart (@the_angry_somm) is the wrecking ball. Stewart has “almost filled out the wine industry bingo card,” having worked in vineyards, managed tasting rooms, and directed F&B programs. His pseudonym isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a response to the “hollow buzzwords” of marketing.

HAUTE COUTURE AND CAVIAR MAY SEEM LIKE UNLIKELY companions, but they share striking similarities going beyond their association with luxury. Just as haute couture represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry in the fashion world, caviar embodies the epitome of culinary refinement. Both are synonymous with elegance, exclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Few delicacies evoke the same level of opulence and fascination as caviar. From the shimmering pearls to the delicate burst of flavor, caviar has long been hailed as the epitome of culinary refinement and luxury. Among the esteemed purveyors of this exquisite delight, Haute Caviar Company stands out as a champion of ethical sourcing, sustainability, and uncompromising quality. Just as haute couture represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry in the fashion

“Rarity, prestige, and heritage have lost their meaning,” Hayden argues. He’s the critic who will tell you that just because a wine is popular doesn’t make it good. He’s been known to describe a Riesling as smelling like “a box of Legos from childhood” to make the point that wine shouldn’t be aristocratic—it should be cultural. He turns down over 97% of paid partnerships, choosing instead to focus on “subliminal education” that pushes his audience to care about the “why” behind the bottle.

It was a friend who first introduced me to The Happy Body, passionately sharing her experience and the profound impact it had on her life. Skeptical yet intrigued, I decided to take the plunge. I drove 60 miles three times a week for eight weeks to Palo Alto, where I had the opportunity to learn from the master himself, Jerzy Gregorek, creator of The Happy Body program. That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life—one filled with strength, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. At its core, The Happy Body is more than just a workout; it is a lifestyle that emphasizes the importance of balance, strength, and overall well-being. The program combines elements of strength training, flexibility, and mindfulness, creating a

comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and mental health. The philosophy promotes the idea that true fitness is achieved when one aligns one’s body and mind, fostering a sense of harmony that extends beyond the gym.

Jerzy Gregorek emphasizes the importance of functional movement: exercises that mimic everyday activities, allowing the body to perform optimally in daily life. This approach resonated with me, especially as someone who had endured chronic back pain. The exercises were designed not just to build muscle but also to enhance mobility and stability, ultimately leading to a stronger, more resilient body.

Brooke Martin (@Thebrookeblend) represents the intersection of luxury and labor. A WSET Diploma candidate and wine broker, Brooke has spent her fair share of time in the cellar during harvest, “experiencing the decisions around picking dates, fermentation, and blending.” This “boots-on-the-ground” reality informs her curation

finer things in life, are we now seeing caviar on so many not just for special occasions? “When enjoying caviar, you meant to be a special occasion,” says Suppes. Like couture, wearing the absolute best, and with caviar, it sets the tone Most recently on a lunch date with her son, Michael Suppes, The Village Pub, they dined on caviar and champagne. collectors’ thing, it’s a mindset of wanting to indulge in no matter one’s age.

As I embarked on my journey with The Happy Body, I was initially overwhelmed by the variety of movements and techniques. However, under Gregorek’s expert guidance, I learned to embrace the process. Each session was tailored to my individual needs, allowing me to progress at my own pace while ensuring that I was safe and supported.

The program’s emphasis on mindfulness transformed my relationship with exercise. I learned to listen to my body, recognizing its signals and respecting its limits. This newfound

To deliver the very best, Lisa Simon, a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for the finer things in life, founded the Haute Company which has become synonymous with excellence industry. Simon’s journey began as a young restaurateur York, managing two of the largest champagne and caviar

At Solage in Calistoga, that guests travel from

AND WINEMAKER MYSELF IN KNIGHTS Valley, Sonoma County, I am always looking to support local wineries when dining out. Whether in Silicon Valley or Napa Valley, I do my best to select unique, exceptional wines to support my wine community. When I travel abroad, it’s all about the local fare. When in Italy, I look for the best Barolo; in Spain, a Rioja Gran Reserva; and my opinion, I have I can bring an extraordinary Kelly. At Protégé where Kelly is always there don’t love expensive At Montage in his wines by telling be found first locally. and local clientele, James Beard Award robust and different opinions and flavor ‘house palate’ and approaches.” For their most treasured wines the power of relationships. has potential to be more value in using our guests that can When talking to wines have become overall consensus overdeliver, and when not want a Napa Cabernet do not have enough which doesn’t pair and spirits buyer down to personal

for her 117,000 followers. “I’m drawn to wines that reflect intention,” Brooke explains. She understands that wine is rarely consumed in isolation—it’s part of a dinner party, a ski trip, or a date night. While she has the technical depth to go “into the weeds,” she chooses to lead with lifestyle to remove the intimidation factor. “Most people don’t need a deep dive into malolactic conversion to enjoy a glass; they just want to understand what they’re tasting,” she says. For Brooke, the digital space is about building a sustained presence of trust.

Raquel Royers, known as Watch Me Sip, is a Sonoma County based wine professional, content creator, and influencer redefining how consumers connect with wine. As a WSET Diploma and Certified Specialist of Wine and Spirits holder, she blends approachable wine education with compelling storytelling and a fresh digital-first perspective, bridging the gap between consumers and the wine world. With a focus on relatability, travel, and immersive experiences, her audience of more than 85,000 continues to grow.

“Wine is about experience - about memory, people, place, and how it makes you feel. By sharing those moments, I invite people to define that connection for themselves, whether it’s discovering a new bottle or exploring a small region in Italy for the first time,” Royers said.

With over a decade of experience working across some of the worlds leading wine and spirits brands, Royers now creates content full-time with a clear mission: to make wine more approachable, more engaging, and ultimately, more fun.

Finally, there is Rachel Dickinson (@rachels_stylishlife), who brings a sophisticated, “Eat, Sip & Stay” perspective to her 35,000 followers. Like her peers, she is a WSET Level 3 trained sommelier, but her lens is focused on the artistry of the experience. She seeks out wines with “soul and stories that linger long after the last sip,” whether from a legendary estate or a boutique producer far from the spotlight.

For Rachel, wine is about context and mood. “A simple sip can be transformed by the setting or a perfectly paired dish,” she explains. Her creative process involves immersing herself in the environment of a winery to capture its “originality, depth, and purpose.” By bridging the gap between the industry and the audience through curated experiences and storytelling, she ensures that wine remains a natural extension of a stylish, well-lived life.

The common thread among these five is a fierce protection of their editorial voice. Whether it’s Hayden’s snarky disruption, Brooke’s boutique focus, or the soulful storytelling of the Dickinsons and Stephens, they all agree on one thing: Authenticity is the only currency that matters.

They are the filter through which the next generation will view the luxury wine market. They aren’t just telling us what to drink; they are teaching us how to connect with what’s in the glass. In an oversaturated market, these are the voices cutting through the noise, one bottle at a time.

Charles R. Johnson, Wealth Director, is responsible for developing investment and trust relationships with families and organizations. He works closely with the trust and tax planning group to help clients determine optimal asset allocation and transfer strategies. Before joining Fiduciary Trust, he worked for Rockefeller Capital Management, an independent financial services firm offering global family office, asset management, and strategic advisory services to ultra-high net worth families, institutions, and corporations. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Southern California. He works closely with the Addiction Education Society nonprofit.

Capital gains taxes apply when assets are sold. The tax is based on the difference between the sale price and the asset’s tax cost basis (typically, what the owner originally paid for it). For long-held assets, this appreciation can be substantial.

The key point is that these two tax systems interact—and often pull planning decisions in opposite directions.

GIFTING APPRECIATED ASSETS: THE CAPITAL GAINS AND STEP-UP IN BASIS TRADE-OFF

When assets are gifted during life, the original purchase price—or cost basis—transfers with them. If the recipient later sells the assets, capital gains tax is owed on the difference between the sale price and the original purchase price.

Assets held until death are treated very differently. In most cases, they receive a full “step-up” in basis to fair market value at the date of death. This permanently eliminates capital gains tax on all appreciation that occurred during the owner’s lifetime.

As a result, holding assets until death may eliminate capital gains taxes altogether on those assets. However, the asset’s full value may then be included in the donor’s taxable estate, and, to the extent it exceeds the available $15 million exemption, estate taxes could be incurred or increased. The key is understanding how these two taxes interact and which one has the greater impact on your situation.

Estate tax vs. capital gains tax: When gifting assets may cost more than it saves

EXAMPLE: GIFTING APPRECIATED ASSETS VS HOLDING FOR A STEP-UP IN BASIS

BY CHARLES R. JOHNSON, WEALTH DIRECTOR, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL AND ED MOONEY, DIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL PLANNING, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL

ESTATE PLANNING DISCUSSIONS OFTEN BEGIN WITH a simple idea: gift assets during life to reduce estate taxes. While that idea is intuitive, it is also incomplete. The real objective of estate planning is not to minimize a single tax, but to maximize how much wealth ultimately reaches the next generation after all taxes are paid.

For families with significant wealth, particularly wealth concentrated in highly appreciated assets such as stocks or real estate, focusing solely on estate taxes can lead to decisions that look effective on paper but reduce overall family wealth in practice. This is because estate taxes are only one part of the equation. Income taxes, especially capital gains taxes, often play an equally important role.

The key is to consider estate and income taxes together to understand when gifting during life leads to a better outcome or when it may be better to leave assets at death to heirs in an inheritance.

ESTATE TAX AND CAPITAL GAINS TAX: TWO SYSTEMS, ONE ASSET

Estate and gift taxes apply when wealth is transferred. When assets are gifted during life or transferred after death, their value is measured against the individual’s available federal estate and gift tax exemption, which is $15 million per individual in 2026. Amounts transferred above that exemption to a recipient other than a spouse are generally subject to a federal estate tax rate of up to 40%.

Let’s assume an individual owns shares of a stock worth $15 million that they originally purchased for $1 million. If the shares are gifted, the original $1 million cost basis will carry over with them. After ten years of growth at 7% per year, the stock would be worth approximately $30 million. If the heirs sell the shares at that time, they would recognize roughly $29 million in gain, resulting in approximately $6.9 million in capital gains tax (assuming current tax rates).

Now assume those same shares were not gifted but instead held by the individual until their death 10 years later. The shares would grow to the same $30 million value, but no capital gains tax would be owed by the heirs due to the step-up in basis at death. Instead, they may be subject to a 40% estate tax for the value that exceeds the federal estate tax exemption (assumed to be about $19 million at that time). That leaves roughly $11 million subject to estate tax, resulting in a tax of approximately $4.4 million.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

At first glance, gifting may seem attractive because if the estate is projected to exceed the federal estate tax exemption, removing the $15 million asset today could prevent both its current value and its future growth from being subject to estate tax of up to 40%. However, that view only considers estate tax. When both estate and capital gains taxes are evaluated together, the outcome changes.

Gift strategy: About $6.9 million in capital gains tax

Hold strategy: About $4.4 million in estate tax and no capital gains tax

In this example, holding the asset until death results in lower total taxes and ultimately leaves more wealth to heirs.

GIFT VS. HOLD STRATEGY COMPARISON (10-YEAR VIEW)

10-Year Comparison: Gift Today vs. Hold Until Death

Even with a full exemption available, holding the highly appreciated asset until death rather than gifting during life results in about $2.5 million more for heirs.

HOW TIME HORIZON AFFECTS GIFTING APPRECIATED ASSETS

How long you expect to hold an asset can significantly affect whether gifting makes sense. The step-up in cost basis at death can be especially valuable when:

The asset was purchased long ago at a much lower price

Heirs are likely to sell the asset

The expected timeframe is relatively short Gifting removes future growth from your estate, but that benefit builds slowly over time. By contrast, giving up the step-up in basis can create a large capital gains tax bill if the asset is later sold.

When the timeframe is shorter, the potential capital gains tax savings from holding the asset may outweigh the estate tax savings from gifting.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ASSETS TO GIFT: BASIS, GROWTH, AND TRUST CONSIDERATIONS

Which assets should be gifted, and which should be retained? In many cases, low basis assets that are likely to be sold benefit from being held until death. Assets with higher cost basis, assets subject to potential valuation discounts (e.g., lack of control, lack of marketability), or assets with long-term growth potential are often better candidates for gifting.

Many gifts are made to trusts for asset protection, control or long-term planning purposes. While trusts can be powerful tools, they reach the highest income tax rates very quickly.

When low basis or income-producing assets are placed into trusts designed to accumulate wealth, income taxes can accumulate over time. This ongoing tax drag may reduce the overall benefit of an otherwise sound estate plan and should be considered during the planning process.

WHEN GIFTING LOW-BASIS ASSETS CAN STILL WORK

Low-basis assets are not automatically poor gifting candidates. When transferred to flexible grantor trusts, they may later be exchanged for higher-basis assets, preserving the opportunity for basis step-up while shifting future appreciation out of the estate.

Similarly, discounted interests in closely held businesses or investment partnerships can allow more economic value to be transferred using less of the donor’s lifetime exemption, making them particularly efficient assets to gift. The key insight is simple: asset selection matters just as much as structure.

WHAT SUCCESSFUL PLANNING REALLY LOOKS LIKE

Effective planning rarely relies on a single strategy. It often involves a combination of approaches: retaining certain assets to capture basis stepup, selectively gifting assets where the economics clearly favor transfer, and planning for income taxes alongside estate taxes. Lifetime gifting remains a powerful planning tool, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

For families with highly appreciated assets, particularly those with very low cost basis, the value of basis step-up can exceed the estate tax savings of early gifting. The right question is not simply whether to gift, but what to gift, when, and under what structure.

Charles R. Johnson, Wealth Director, Fiduciary Trust International is responsible for developing investment and trust relationships with families and organizations. He works closely with the tax, investment and planning teams to help clients determine optimal asset allocation and transfer strategies.

Ed Mooney, Director of Financial Planning, Fiduciary Trust International, provides goal-based financial strategies for the tax efficient and successful transfer of family wealth, planning for retirement, the sale and succession of business interests and achievement of philanthropic goals.

Illustrative assumptions: The $15 million asset is assumed to grow at 7% annually over ten years, resulting in an approximate future value of $30 million. Capital gains tax of approximately $6.9 million reflects a 23.8% tax rate applied to the $29 million of appreciation above the $1 million original cost basis. The federal estate tax exemption is assumed to be $15 million today and to grow at 2.5% annually to approximately $19 million over ten years, with estate tax applied at a 40% rate to amounts above the exemption. State income and estate taxes may apply. Figures are rounded and simplified for illustrative purposes.

Important Disclosure: This communication is intended solely to provide general information. The information and opinions stated may change without notice. The information and opinions do not represent a complete analysis of every material fact regarding any market, industry, sector or security. Statements of fact have been obtained from sources deemed reliable, but no representation is made as to their completeness or accuracy. The opinions expressed are not intended as individual investment, tax or estate planning advice or as a recommendation of any particular security, strategy or investment product. Please consult your personal advisor to determine whether this information may be appropriate for you. This information is provided solely for insight into our general management philosophy and process. Historical performance does not guarantee future results and results may differ over future time periods.

IRS Circular 230 Notice: Pursuant to relevant U.S. Treasury regulations, we inform you that any tax advice contained in this communication is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting

Charles R. Johnson

Wealth Director | 628 286 8403

charles.r.johnson@ftci.com

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