The new Cubitus: playing safe or slow innovation?

2024 has been a strong year for horological evolution. Between watches & wonders and Baselworld, many new timepieces have been unveiled.

Patek Philippe in particular has always followed its own parth in releasing new watches. Even now, the timeline is quintessentially Patek: in autumn, not usually a period of watch release sas is Spring, the Stern family, proprietary of the Patek mark, has taken the world by storm with its first new line release in over 25 years, since the birth of the Aquanaut in 1997. What’s good, what’s not and what’s ugly about the new Cubitus?

Designwise, new is not the right word, evolutionary is more than adequate. 45 millimiter squarecase, integrated bracelet, deployant buckle and a stripe dial usual of Patek’s purebread, the Nautilus.

Nautilus it resembles indeed, with sharper lines and larger proportions but the design language issimilar: brushed and shiny steel bracelet, 3-o-clock date, sweep seconds and (for the platinum) big date at twelve-o-clock configuration, everything seems familiar to me.

Let’s look at the influence other watches had on this releaase, because it seems that more than a watch was taken as inspiration.

Many compare it to the Cartier Santos but it seems a more than superficial comparison to me. Santos is an icon, as much as the Nautilus is and it stands in its own league.

I think that with these exaggerated, a bit nostalgic proportions, Patek paid homage to its ownheritage and also knocking on its nearest neighbour’s door.

Two watches come to mind: Patek’s Cioccolatone line and the Vacheron Constantin 222 with the square dial.

The Cubitus exudes a kind of seventies nostalgia (when the square and “TV” shapes were the hottest trends) and embodies the language of the Cioccolatone with the proportions of the 222.

Nevertheless, it represents the needs of Patek in the 2020s where they need a new entry model to lay under the Nautilius itself, with its long and strict waiting lists and buying policies.

Pricing is more than up to date, with the steel green dial with bracelet starting at more than 41000 dollars. Steel and rose gold with blue dial and bracelet is the mid-range at around 60000 dollars and the top of the line platinum with big date on strap retailing for over 80000.

With these attributes and at this price point, the Cubitus aims to compete directly with variousupscale sports watches from other renowned houses like the Overseas from Vacheron Constantin, the Tonda from Parmigiani Fleurier and the Marine from Breguet.

Horological gurus are all expressing their opinions and concerns, wheter it is a safe bet or something plainly lazy. One thing is for sure: we all need to get used to it. The larger proportionswant to attract a younger, sportier clientelle, that love and respect the brand and eventually in the future will become Nautilus owners, staying true to Patek’s leitmotif “You never merely own a Patek, you keep it and pass it onto the next generation”.

Luxury and Champagne’s return in the fast lane

As Formula 1® prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2025, it was announced today that LVMH will become a Global Partner starting in 2025 under a new 10-year agreement. As part of the deal, several of LVMH’s iconic Maisons will be involved in the partnership, including Louis Vuitton, Moët Hennessy, and TAG Heuer. However, the LVMH partnership has also sparked conversation around the end of another major alliance –  Rolex’s departure as F1’s official timekeeper. This unexpected exit has left many wondering if Formula 1’s shift from a niche sport to a global entertainment phenomenon might be at odds with Rolex’s values, despite the brand’s decade-long role at the heart of F1.

The groundbreaking partnership between the world leader in luxury and the pinnacle of motorsport will commence at the beginning of the next season, at the height of the sport’s popularity. This agreement represents a huge stage for the LVMH brand and its Maisons, as Formula 1 drew 6 million live spectators and a cumulative TV audience of 1.5 billion in last year’s 24 races. The average audience per race is around 70 million, while it can reach peaks of 100 million during the most coveted races. F1’s social media fans reflect similar engagement, with the competition boasting a whopping 60 million followers across all its platforms. 

Yet this partnership goes far beyond mere sponsorship; it is a true convergence of values. At the crossroads of the LVMH Group’s values of creativity and excellence with Formula 1’s innovation and high-performance, the partnership will bring together the best of these two worlds and provide unparalleled experiences, combining thrilling sport and elegant “art de vivre,” wheel-to-wheel racing, and time-tested craftsmanship for enthusiasts, fans, and clients. This collaboration also aligns with F1’s objective of providing a more luxurious experience for its hospitality customers. Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, emphasized this shared vision, stating, “The people, the quest for excellence and the passion for innovation are at the heart of the activity of our Maisons and Formula 1. In motorsport as in fashion, watchmaking or wines and spirits, every detail counts on the path to success. Both in our workshops and on circuits around the world, it is this incessant search to break boundaries that inspires our vision, and this is the meaning that we want to bring to this great and unique partnership between Formula 1 and our Group.” This sentiment mirrors F1’s quest for excellence, making the partnership more of a collaboration of values than merely a branding opportunity. 

@f1 and @lvmh

Moët & Chandon is also set to make a return to Formula 1. The brand was the official champagne for the competition from 1966 to 1999, and again briefly from 2019 to 2021, before stepping aside for Ferrari Trento’s Italian sparkling wine. This partnership could bring back the iconic image of Moët & Chandon at the F1 podium celebrations, reconnecting fans with a historic brand that has long been part of the sport’s tradition.

TAG Heuer has long been a familiar presence in Formula 1, initially partnering with McLaren and later serving as the official timekeeper for Red Bull Racing since 2016. With their contract with Red Bull set to expire at the end of this year, the timing is perfect for the brand’s upgrade to official timekeeper for Formula 1 itself. This shift reinforces TAG Heuer’s deep commitment to the sport and marks a new chapter in their F1 legacy. The signing of this contract has confirmed speculations on the end of Rolex’s and Formula 1’s partnership. This comes as a surprise to many, since the Swiss watchmaker has been the official timekeeper of some of the most exclusive global sporting events. Speculations claim, even though the details are not official yet, that TAG Heuer will be paying $150 million per year to replace Rolex, almost three times the amount paid by the latter, underscoring Formula 1’s transformation from a niche sport to a global mainstream event. This shift could potentially be linked to Rolex’s decision to end its long-standing relationship with F1.

@tagheur 

The ties between Rolex and Formula 1 run considerably deep. Since 1968, the brand has been associated with Sir Jackie Stewart, three-time FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion, who said, “I think I still want to be a champion at whatever I do – and that’s still a challenge. When I look at my Rolex watch today, I see all of that.” In 2013, Rolex became the Official Timekeeper and Global Partner of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s longstanding involvement in motorsport. Formula 1 represents the highest level of automotive engineering, technological advancement, and competitive spirit; values that align perfectly with Rolex’s brand ethos of precision, excellence, and innovation. As the Official Timekeeper, Rolex was responsible for measuring and broadcasting the critical moments that define the sport, where mere thousandths of a second can separate victory from defeat. 

@mercedesamgf1

LVMH has stated that the details of the contract will be released in 2025, but one thing is certain: Rolex will end its partnership with Formula 1. The question remains –  was it merely a matter of money, or something more? Many speculate that the real reason Rolex interrupted its partnership with the competition is because the values represented by Formula 1 have shifted too far from their origin. Perhaps Liberty Media’s vision for the Formula 1 brand no longer aligns with Rolex’s commitment to prestigious partnerships with sports that truly represent the passion for perfection and exclusivity that Rolex embodies. 

@scuderiaferrari

Boucheron 5D Memory Capsule Ring

Celebrating its 20-year anniversary is Boucheron’s collection “Quatre.” Boucheron recently released the new 5D Memory Capsule Ring. Before exploring this new addition, it’s essential to understand this historic and iconic collection in more depth.

There are four main attributes to this collection, each representing one of its codes. The first is “Grosgrain,” which represents a ribbed silk fabric used to create ribbons. This code was inspired by Boucheron’s father, a drapery merchant, emphasizing the light and supple qualities of the fabric. The second code is the Diamond, seen in the second line of the stack—iconic and classic. Here, diamonds symbolize “eternity,” as they are nearly indestructible and have been a staple of the Maison since 1892. Originating from Paris, the third code is an icon of the city’s streets, “Clou de Paris.” Specifically, it evokes the cobblestones found in Paris, particularly in Place Vendôme. Frédéric Boucheron was the first of the contemporary jewelers to set up shop there, at the Maison’s iconic address: 26 Place Vendôme. Lastly, the fourth code, “Double Godron,” is inspired by architecture and resembles a groove, symbolizing the bond between two loved ones. Over the years, Boucheron has expanded on these codes with innovative capsule editions, featuring materials such as aluminum, cofalit, holographic glass, and denim.

The new 5D Memory Capsule Ring focuses on the sound of ocean waves, symbolizing eternity. By using 5D data storage technology and collaborating with IRCAM at Centre Pompidou, the sound waves are directly embedded into the ring’s material through nano-structuring, intended to preserve them for billions of years. This innovation aims to make it a timeless piece that will last for five billion years, merging physical beauty with intangible sentiment. By encapsulating the calming sounds of waves, it seeks to bring a sense of peace and unity.

The ring itself includes materials such as diamonds, white gold, crystal, and silica glass (Glassomer). Its primary innovation is the creation of the sound of water. Laser-engraved into the ring using binary code, the soundtrack is physically stored within the ring, and the Glassomer material provides a protective layer for the audio memory. These aspects make the ring a timeless and unique addition to luxury jewelry. However, it will not be available for purchase, as it represents the Maison’s continuous commitment to innovation. First presented in New York upon the opening of Boucheron’s boutique, this piece will remain there. This unique creation reflects Boucheron’s dedication to innovation in high jewelry, merging traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and creativity.



Could the Future of Champagne … be British?!

“Remember gentlemen, it’s not just France we are fighting for, it’s Champagne!” Winston Churchill’s famous words echo through time, capturing the essence of France’s luxurious, world-renowned sparkling wine. But over a century later, his declaration might take on a startling new meaning. Could the prestigious drink soon find its home not in the hills of Champagne, but across the Channel in England?

As climate change reshapes global agriculture, predictions are becoming more concerning for wine enthusiasts and producers alike. According to climate AI projections, by 2050, a staggering 85% of the champagne’s current vineyards could become unsuitable for grape growing due to the rising temperatures.

The production of champagne is highly sensitive to even the slightest shifts in weather. The three key grape varieties used in champagne—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—are particularly vulnerable. These delicate vines thrive in specific temperature ranges, and any fluctuations can dramatically affect the quality and character of the final product. This poses a dire threat to the future of champagne production in its birthplace, where temperatures are rising faster than ever before.

Perhaps the most shocking twist in this story is that the very conditions threatening French vineyards could soon be ideal for winemaking in England. Southern England, a region not exactly known for its wine culture, has quietly become the next frontier in sparkling wine production. Currently, English vineyards have the same climate conditions that made Champagne so successful in the mid-20th century. And if you think this is just speculation, some of the most prestigious names in French champagne have already taken action.

Enter Pommery, the legendary champagne house that has always had an eye for innovation. In 1874, Madame Louise Pommery transformed the industry when she introduced the first brut-style champagne, a dryer version that is now the dominant style worldwide. Continuing this legacy of foresight, Pommery made a bold move in 2014 by purchasing land in southern England—a decision that shocked many in the wine world. They weren’t alone in their vision; in 2015, another historic French house, Taittinger, followed suit and bought land in Kent.

Fast forward to 2023, and Pommery has already produced 70,000 bottles of English sparkling wine. Taittinger is hot on their heels, planning to release its first batches by March 2025. But the question remains: Can British fizz really compete with the original?

While England may not have a centuries-old winemaking tradition like France, it has two secret weapons: soil and temperature. The southern part of England shares the same free-draining limestone chalk soils as the Champagne region, a geological feature essential to growing the grapes used in sparkling wine. These soils, paired with carefully chosen south-facing vineyard sites, create the perfect environment for cultivating the same grapes that have long been the backbone of French champagne.

Yet, the idea of “British champagne” is still hard to accept. The French wine industry has cultivated an aura of exclusivity and superiority for centuries. As a logical consequence, many of the other legendary houses remain fiercely committed to France and its winemaking heritage. Houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Bollinger are doubling down on their French roots. Rather than seeking refuge in foreign soils, they are determined to adapt by employing cutting-edge technologies such as drought-resistant vine varieties, advanced irrigation systems, and eco-friendly farming techniques. Their stance is clear: Champagne is intrinsically linked to France, and any move to England would dilute the very essence of what makes champagne, well, champagne. 

It remains to be seen whether Pommery’s and Taittinger’s English venture will truly pay off. Over the next decade, we may witness champagne itself becoming so scarce that its status as a luxury good is elevated even further, making it a privilege reserved for only the wealthiest of connoisseurs. On the other hand, English sparkling wine could rise to rival the finest French champagnes in both taste and quality, though whether it will ever be embraced as the new icon of luxury and celebration is still uncertain.

One thing is clear: for true champagne enthusiasts, now may be the perfect time to start collecting vintage bottles. These treasures could one day be relics of a bygone era, cherished not just for their flavor but for the rarity and history they encapsulate.

An inside look at Milano Watch Week

It’s official! The first edition of Milano Watch Week is over. With over 3,000 visitors, the 21 participating watch brands welcomed enthusiasts and collectors from 31 different countries. Held at the prestigious Terrazza Martini in Milan, Milano Watch Week offered collectors and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to engage with the highly exclusive world of timepieces while enjoying the breathtaking view of Italy’s fashion capital.

When the elevator doors opened on the 15th floor, I was instantly struck by excitement seeing all these prestigious independent brands gathered in one place. It is a very rare treat, so I tried to make the best out of it. Thanks to the excellent organization, every collector and enthusiast could personally handle and even try on these pieces. Here are the three brands and timepieces that stood out to me during the fair.

MB&F

Maximilian Büsser’s journey into high-end independent watchmaking began in the late 1990s, when he was the General Manager at Harry Winston Timepieces. In 2005, he ventured out to establish his own brand, MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends). The “friends” were experts from the Swiss watch industry whom he had worked with over the years, handpicked to collaborate on specific projects. Unlike the traditional secrecy of the watchmaking world, Büsser made sure to publicly credit these collaborators for their contributions. His vision was to bring innovation to every aspect of watchmaking. Starting with the watches themselves, he broke boundaries by experimenting with unconventional shapes, materials, and complications in ways no one had before.

In 2011, Büsser launched the Legacy Machines series, reimagining what MB&F might have created in the 19th century, the golden age of watchmaking. This was no small task, as it involved working within centuries of horological tradition while also incorporating modern innovation. The result was a striking blend of classic complications and aesthetics, combined with MB&F’s signature inventive flair.

 

On the left-hand side is the LM Perpetual, an innovative reimagining of the traditional perpetual calendar by Stephen McDonnell, designed with a fully integrated 581-component movement. Its standout feature is a visually stunning “suspended” balance wheel and open dial, which showcases the intricate mechanisms beneath.

In the middle is the LM FlyingT, a stunning creation designed specifically for women, featuring a bold, domed sapphire crystal and a captivating, vertically mounted flying tourbillon at its center. Its elegant design is enhanced by a subtle off-center dial positioned at 7 o’clock, while the case and movement showcase MB&F’s signature avant-garde aesthetics and mechanical excellence.

Finally, on the right-hand side, one of my favourite watches of all time, the LM101. With a stunning purple baseplate, this timepiece is a tribute to classic horology with a modern, avant-garde approach, featuring a large, suspended balance wheel at the centre of the dial that draws immediate attention. A key highlight of the LM101 is the movement, which was designed in collaboration with legendary independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen, renowned for his mastery of traditional finishing techniques.

L’Épée 1839

Located in Delémont, in the heart of the Swiss Jura, L’Épée 1839 has been carrying forward its remarkable watchmaking tradition for 185 years, with all its creations designed, developed, and produced in-house. Now specializing in clocks, the company is renowned for its unmatched craftsmanship and distinctive creative vision, seamlessly blending form and function.

Each clock is a true technical achievement, featuring complex horological elements such as perpetual calendars, tourbillons, and retrograde hands. L’Épée 1839’s signature feature is its impressive power reserves, lasting up to 8,760 hours (a full year), alongside its unique designs that often carry a poetic or whimsical touch. Every mechanical and aesthetic detail serves as both a functional timepiece and an artistic masterpiece, showcasing the brand’s superior expertise.

To mark its 185th anniversary, L’Épée 1839 introduced the T35, paying homage to the Bugatti Type 35, considered one of the greatest race cars of all time. subtly showcases the hours and minutes along the side of its sleek chassis, combining sophisticated design with playful functionality. The miniature driver, seated in the cockpit beneath a glass dome, draws attention to the escapement while adding a charming, artistic touch to this imaginative timepiece. One of the T35’s most unique features is the functional handbrake on the side of the chassis. When pulled, it activates the engine and reveals a hidden lighter, blending craftsmanship with a fun, unexpected twist. This inventive fusion of technical expertise and creativity makes the T35 more than just a clock, it’s a truly engaging work of art.

Andersen Genève

Svend Andersen, born in Denmark in 1942, embarked on his horological journey after earning his watchmaking credentials in Denmark. In 1963, he moved to Switzerland to deepen his expertise, starting his career at Gübelin Lucerne’s after-sales service. 

In 1969, Andersen gained widespread recognition with the creation of his unique Bottle Clock, which was showcased at the “Montres et Bijoux” exhibition. This inventive timepiece caught the attention of many, including Patek Philippe, who soon brought him on board to work in their prestigious Atelier des Grandes Complications. After nine years crafting intricate complications for the famous brand, Andersen set out on his own as an independent watchmaker.

At the bottom left, two of his watches have been entered into the prestigious GPHG (Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève), a yearly reward promoting the world’s most remarkable creations. 

The one on the left is the Jumping Hours Black Jade Stone, a sophisticated timepiece that combines the rare “jumping hours” complication with a striking black jade stone dial. The deep, rich hue of the jade adds elegance, and its unique natural veining ensures each dial is one of a kind. Housed in a polished case, the watch showcases Andersen Genève’s mastery of blending luxury materials with intricate horological craftsmanship, making it both a visually stunning and mechanically refined creation.

The one on the right is the Celestial Voyager Sakura, made in collaboration with Benjamin Chee Haute Horlogerie (BCHH). It is a stunning world-time watch that blends technical sophistication with exquisite artistry. Its dial features a delicate enamel depiction of cherry blossoms while offering a world-time function, allowing the wearer to track multiple time zones, showcasing Andersen’s expertise in complex complications. The inspiration taken from Patek Phillipe’s World Time is evident, yet Andersen has infused the Celestial Voyager Sakura with its own unique artistry and craftsmanship.

 

This event was far more than just a showcase of timepieces, it was a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and the shared passion that drives both watchmakers and collectors. Each display offered a glimpse into the creativity and technical mastery behind these extraordinary creations, drawing people from across the world. The excitement among attendees and reactions to the incredible timepieces were clear signs of Milano Watch Week’s success. As this exhilarating and emotional first edition comes to a close, all that remains is the anticipation for the next Milano Watch Week, where I hope to see even more brands, creativity, and unforgettable experiences!

The LVMH Prize: A History of Emerging Designers and Success Stories

The history of awards in the fashion world is filled with moments that have marked the beginning of acclaimed careers and characters.

An emblematic example is 1954, the year in which the promising and young Karl Lagerfeld received a prize – today known as the Woolmark Prize – for the innovative design of his coats. This award not only brought him the attention of the fashion world but also opened the doors to his career, leading him to be hired as an assistant to Pierre Balmain (judge of the contest).

Over the years, awards have changed, adapting to the needs of a sector in continuous revolution. Among these, the LVMH prize for Young Fashion Designers is renowned as one of the most prestigious initiatives. It was launched in 2013 by LVMH with the ambition to discover, recognize, and support emerging talents. This competition, which now stands out as a benchmark for creativity and innovation, owes its prestige not only to the importance of the promoting company but also to the caliber of its judges, including Lagerfeld himself, witnesses of the excellence and vision that the prize expresses.

The prize is open to fashion designers with 18 to 40 years old, and coming from all over the world. The only requirement is for them to have created at least two collections of either women, men, or genderless clothing. The contest includes different prizes: the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers and the Karl Lagerfeld Prize, aimed to recognize the creativity of young brands. Moreover, on the occasion of the prize’s 11th edition, Delphine Arnault declared “The Prize is launching its 11th edition and this year I am delighted to honor our attachment to a core value of creation, savoir-faire. The LVMH Savoir-Faire Prize celebrates excellence in craftsmanship, innovation in design and production, and a more sustainable approach to fashion”. Each prize provides the endowment of a significant amount (200,000 to 400,000 euros) and no less than a personalized mentorship from the LVMH teams, which enables them to accurately investigate aspects of the fashion business.

Since it was first established, the LVMH Prize has recognized growing success each year, with 3,000+ designers participating from 102 countries at the 2024 edition – a record number – and the prizes have grown accordingly. The visibility and opportunities offered to the participants, and not only the finalists, have been enormous; this enables them to present their works to the jury and take advantage of the competition’s media coverage. LVMH and its maisons provide an exceptional network of contacts and prospects, being a springboard for new talents while bringing them to the attention of local and international people.

 

Success Stories

What makes the renew of the LVMH Prize is definitely its ability to “create” the next generation of world-famous designers every year. And very surprisingly, the candidates that then go on with a long and successful career are not always the ones that win or even make it to the finals, just as if taking part in this contest was already enough to prove your talent.

Simon Porte Jacquemus

At only 19, Jacquemus created his brand animated by the desire to innovate in fashion but also by his mom’s death. In nine collections, it grew from 12 items per collection to 106 while keeping his prices low.

Simon won the special prize of the year 2015 which was at that point the only outside investment he had.

Marine Serre

After working for important names in the world of luxury (Margiela and Dior), the now famous designer had the chance to launch her label by winning the prize in 2016. Indeed, she used the money to rent her first studio and employ a small starting team that helped her create her first collection. Eight months later, she had a full line of accessories sold by several international retailers.

“It wasn’t something I was planning to do. I wanted to have a brand but I didn’t think it would happen tomorrow.”

Marine Serre

Nensi Dojaka

Even if she was slowly becoming famous already before taking part in the Prize,the 31-year-old Albanian designer definitely benefited from winning the Prize in 2021.

“I think we all saw a young brand with real potential to grow. These first ideas are very clear, and we feel she can pull on that thread to broaden out and develop her product offering to have even more creative and commercial potential to a wider audience.”

Delphine Arnault

In fact, Dojaka was already attracting very famous customers such as Bella Hadid, Kaia Gerber or Emily Ratajkowski but she needed help to expand internationally and build a bigger team that would allow the brand to stabilize.

Virgil Abloh

In 2015, Virgil Abloh figured among the finalists of the LVMH Prize. He had previously worked as a creative director for Kanye West and created his own label, Off-White. However, the Prize boosted his career and eventually led him to become the artistic director of Louis Vuitton men in 2018. The designer sadly passed away in november 2021 and was paid honor by Delphine Arnault during the ceremony of the following Prize.

Demna Gvasalia

Before launching his own label in 2014, the Georgian designer started his career in 2009 at Maison Margiela then moving to Louis Vuitton in 2013. After producing 3 collections for Vêtements, his brand, he was nominated with his brother for the Young Fashion Designer Prize. One year later, he was nominated creative director of Balenciaga and walked the stairs of the Met Gala in 2021 with Kim Kardashian fully dressed in Balenciaga.

 

In conclusion, the LVMH Prize is not simply an award for talents but also a manifestation of LVMH’s dedication to creativity, sustainability, and outstanding design. Every season adds another page at the annals of style, motivating future designers and shaping the growth of the sector. LVMH nurtures this promise annually by providing the best emerging fashion designers from all over the world with a chance to showcase their skills thus consolidating its place as an industry leader.

#WeAreBack

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The Luxury Bocconi Student Society is happy to announce that it has been renewed as an official Bocconi student association for the A.Y. 2024-2025. We are very excited for this upcoming year and we cannot wait to meet you all in September. Until then, follow us on our social media platforms for updates and stay tuned for luxury.

Method Dressing: Acting on the Red Carpet

In today’s world, stars choreograph their appearance on the red carpet with the precision of an actor taking on a role for a movie. However, instead of embodying a character through dialogue or action, fashion plays the lead. This technique, known as “method dressing”, allows each item to narrate a story not just on fashion but on the wearer itself. From the choice of fabric to the silhouette, every detail is carefully designed to evoke a specific emotion.

Although it is tough to pinpoint the exact moment when method dressing took off in our generation, it can be approximated to Blake Lively’s 2018 press tour for her then-latest film: “A Simple Favour”. Playing a chic character known for her love of suits, Lively promoted the movie by wearing a series of stylish suits around New York City. This captured the attention of many, marking a significant moment in the rise of method dressing in celebrity culture.

Vera Anderson

Today, however, we witness another approach to this technique. Enter Zendaya:

With help from her stylish Law Roach, Zendaya is quickly becoming a fashion icon. She doesn’t just wear clothes; she becomes the character she portrays.

As she embarks on the press tour for her latest film “Challengers”, Zendaya’s adoption of method dressing adds another dimension to her promotional strategy. Drawing inspiration from her role as the tennis champion Tashi Duncan, Zendaya incorporates elements of Tashi’s wardrobe into her own, bringing the character’s vibrant persona to life. From serving looks with tennis whites to incorporating pops of green, such as her custom Loewe gown, every outfit she wears is a tribute to Tashi’s journey. However, it was her distinctive shoes in Rome that were the true eye-catcher. Custom designed by Loewe, the white stilettos – each punctured by a tennis ball – were a standout feature showcasing her skill in transforming simple outfits into statements.

Zendaya’s Challengers press tour.

It is, therefore, reasonable to assume that method dressing is here to stay. After all, its significance extends beyond the aesthetics of it all, serving as a wider promotional strategy. Maybe blurring the lines between fiction and reality on the red carpet should be the way to go, it seems to be working for Zendaya.

LBSSHomes – Where Art and Real Estate Meet

Villas at Amanyara

From waterfront villas cradled by the whispers of the ocean to breathtaking penthouses perched high above the chaotic world below, humans have always sought sanctuaries that fulfill their deepest artistic cravings. These spaces are in fact more than mere shelters: they are reflections of our most inner desires for peace and comfort, nestling us in environments that meet our unique aesthetic sensibilities.

Luxury real estate, as previously explored with the first element of this series, goes well beyond the realm of simple property transactions. It is a lifestyle: a deliberate choice to navigate the intricate journey that we call life with grace, seeking peace and comfort within the very walls we call home. But the quest for such havens is not that alien to the pursuit of a masterpiece: every brushstroke or architectural note is a step closer to creating our own personal utopia, an imaginary world where the need for every detail to be in line with our most intimate thoughts is stronger than ever.

One cannot help but look with marvel at the dance between art and real estate, two entities that glide alongside each other, flowing in the wind with an elegance second only to leaves falling from the same tree on a quiet autumn afternoon. They are ancient siblings born from the same godly parent, drifting together like ethereal laughing spirits carried by the breeze. As Michael Moses observed, “Art and real estate are very similar in that they have to be analyzed in the same fashion; no two pieces of real estate are the same, and no two pieces of art are the same.”

This intricate intertwining of art and architecture forms the foundation that visionary architects and developers across the globe are looking for when reflecting on building their masterpieces. They approach each project with a mindset that embraces the duality that art-architecture is as a powerful competitive advantage, blending art and structure to craft spaces tailored to the most diverse clients. From the bustling metropolises of Asia to the historic cities of Europe, professionals in the industry are embarking on a marathon of creativity, exploring new territories while being supported by the rapid rise of technology and innovation.

Through this harmonious union of art and architecture, luxury real estate has gone beyond the conventional boundaries of castles and manors, leaving its mark on the most disparate of landscapes. Each property, infused with artistic elements, becomes a living canvas, narrating a story of innovation, vision, and timeless craftsmanship. These are not just homes; they are narratives whispering life into stone and glass, where the echoes of the past meet the songs of the future. As we rediscover the comfort of tradition, art ensures that we remain grounded in our roots while simultaneously propelling us toward new horizons.

Luxury real estate, then, is far more than the simple exchange of properties; it is a delicate game of personality and individuality, an exploration of identity through the spaces we inhabit. What began as an elitist market, accessible only to a select few, has now evolved into a significant force within the global economy; with revenues reaching several billions this year alone, the luxury real estate market is poised for robust growth in the years to come.

As Oscar Wilde once said, “One should either be a work of art, or wear a work of art.” In the realm of luxury real estate, we do both. We inhabit works of art, creating and curating spaces that not only reflect

our identities but also elevate our very existence. The union of art and real estate is not merely a trend, but rather much the embodiment of a timeless and essential truth: that beauty, in all its forms, is essential to the human experience. And in this pursuit of beauty, we find not just homes, but rescues that sing in unison with the deepest chords of our souls.

Olympic Games – The Beginning

Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics

This year, more than ever, the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games has been revolutionized. This is the moment when the Olympic Games are officially declared open. The Opening Ceremony, as well as the Closing Ceremony, follows a strict protocol codified in the Olympic Charter; however, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games have broken all conventions. Thinking outside the box while remaining accessible to a wide audience is the challenge taken up by Paris 2024.

Paris offered a bold and unique Opening Ceremony, bringing together the most memorable moments in Olympic history. For the first time in the history of the Summer Olympic Games, the ceremony did not take place in a stadium. Paris 2024 brought sport to the city, and the same will be true for the Olympics, which will be held in the heart of the city along the Seine.

Taking on a new guise, the athletes’ parade took place on the Seine, with 160 boats for a total of 206 delegations embarking and sailing down the river for over six kilometers from east to west. A total of 10,500 athletes crossed the center of Paris. The Seine, its bridges, and the symbolic monuments of the City of Light served as the backdrop to what turned out to be a breathtaking spectacle. But the most important novelty? Holding a ceremony open to a huge audience, with no admission fee. No ticket was needed to access the upper platforms scattered along the Seine. Eighty giant screens and strategically placed speakers allowed everyone to enjoy the magical atmosphere of this spectacle that reverberated throughout the French capital, the theater of these Olympic Games.

Of course, the athletes were the heart and soul of the ceremony. By opening with the delegations’ parade, Paris 2024 broke with tradition. The athletes were present on stage along with the artists, as part of Paris 2024’s constant goal of organizing Games created for and by athletes. Onboard, the athletes were able to admire some of the official sites of the Games, such as La Concorde, the Esplanade des Invalides, the Grand Palais, and finally the Iéna bridge, where the procession stopped in front of the Trocadéro for the final part of the ceremony.

But the most solemn and important moment of the entire Opening Ceremony was certainly the arrival of the Olympic torch and the lighting of the flame. Indeed, on July 26, 2024, in a moment that symbolizes unity and universality, Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton’s men’s creative director, carried the Paris 2024 Olympic Flame to the top of the Basilica of the Cathedral of Saint-Denis one last time before the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Games.

In front of a captivated audience, Pharrell Williams raised the Paris 2024 Olympic Flame, in homage to the values of excellence and universality that are transmitted through sport and that are dear to Louis Vuitton.

Along with Pharrell, three other Flame Bearers exited the main doors of the Basilica of the Cathedral of Saint-Denis with the unlit Olympic Flame. Together, they headed towards the Louis Vuitton Torch Trunk, specially designed to protect, transport, and present the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch. This was a moment that not only represented the end of the relay but was also a testimony of a mission accomplished collectively with honor and commitment.

All this highlights the Torch, a symbol of the Olympic spirit and its values of travel and excellence, an object that was finally enclosed inside the Louis Vuitton Torch Trunk, giving way to the Opening Ceremony. Conceived by French designer Mathieu Lehanneur, the Olympic torch passed through the hands of over 10,000 torchbearers, and the Paralympic torch will pass through the hands of 1,000 torchbearers. The torch trunks, designed by Louis Vuitton, are crafted to ensure a perfect location for the torches. But not only that, the trunks also transform into elegant presentation boxes. Like every piece crafted in the Asnières workshops since 1859, the Torch Trunks demonstrate an extraordinary mastery of execution.

Celebrating the premium partnership between LVMH and Paris 2024, Louis Vuitton embodies the bond that intertwines the worlds of fashion and sport, conveying the same values and pursuit of excellence as the inspiring athletes currently charting their course towards the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer. The Maison’s legacy and commitment to sport dates back to 1850, when Louis Vuitton himself revolutionized travel with protective trunks that combined elegance and practicality. This visionary spirit continues to manifest itself in all of its creations, including the Torch and Medals trunks for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

This partnership represents the largest financial commitment ever made by a company to support a sporting event or demonstration. The LVMH group will be the premium partner of the Paris Olympics, with a cash injection that, according to Bloomberg, is estimated to be 150 million euros. An agreement that will help strengthen France’s appeal in the world, as stated by Bernard Arnault, president and CEO of LVMH, in a note. There is, in fact, a commitment from three fashion houses: Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Berluti, to support athletes who will particularly distinguish themselves as “Artisans of all victories.”