Norton Museum of Art Presents: Annie Leibovitz

Every so often something incredible hits our little speck of the world here in Palm Beach, and beginning on January 17th, just that is happening. The exhibition of 39 of Annie Leibovitz's photographs will be on display at the Norton Museum of Art, through June 9th. A special selection of photos will be on display, and in some ways these photos may be even more alluring, profound and captivating than some of the photographs we have all come to love over the years (John and Yoko, Demi, etc.). This is a body of work that sheds light on pieces that should definitely not be overlooked. 

Kicking off this spectacular event is the Annie Leibovitz Exhibition Gala on January 16th. 

Guests are invited to attend the cocktail premiere of  the exhibition from 6 to 8pm. Tickets are $250 and support the education and public programs of the Norton Museum. Directly following the cocktail reception, gala sponsors are invited to attend and exclusive dinner with Annie Leibovitz. 

Contact Rebecca Levine for ticketing information at 561.832.5196 x 1121

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Cafe Boulud: Author Breakfast Series

Today kicks off the ninth annual Brazilian Court Author breakfast series in the Ballroom at Cafe Boulud. Guests have the opportunity to meet, and speak with award winning authors in an intimate setting, while enjoying breakfast at one of Palm Beach's most iconic hotels.

Today: Michael Connelly, author of The Lincoln Lawyer discusses his newest installment in the Harry Bosch crime fiction series, The Black Box.  After discovering a bullet from an unsolved crime in 1992, Bosch searches for the missing links that will bring his case to a close after nearly 20 years. 

January 25th: Alex Witchel, creator of the New York Times column "Feed Me", will speak about her new book, All Gone: A Memoir of My Mother's Dementia: With Refreshments. Witchel recounts her inability to fix her mother's diagnosis of dementia, and her unconventional way of coping. By retreating into the kitchen, and cooking her family recipe's from childhood, she found a way to reclaim her mother, and the loss she was facing. Described as a frank, bittersweet, and surprisingly funny book, this is sure to be a great book, as well as a wonderful breakfast series session. 

Breakfast begins at 8:45, and will conclude at 10:00am. Reservations are required, and tickets are $100 plus tax per guest. Cost includes breakfast, valet parking, and a copy of the featured book. 

For reservations and information please call Sandra Rodriguez at (561) 366-4301 or email SRodriguez@BrazilianCourt.com

For more about the series please visit Events at the Brazilian Court

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Day to Night: Spring

Spring is right around the corner, and we are really feeling the pastel love right now. The House of Lavande Spring '13 Warrior necklace is the perfect accessory to take you from day to night. A strong, statement piece with muted gold and light stones, is a great balance to ladylike colors and cuts. 

American Vintage V neck sweater

Armani Aviators

Banana Republic Lola cross body

Meredith Wendall belt 

Aldo loafers

House of Lavande Vintage ring

House of Lavande Channel Set Bracelet 

Ferragamo silk dress

Casadei Heels

Envelope clutch

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Designer Spotlight: Trifari

Trifari, created by Gustavo Trifari in 1918, has become a very popular name in the jewelry business. Known for it's exquisite designs and perfect stones, one of the special things about Trifari is that since 1937 they marked every single piece they made. They are the only major jeweler who did so as far as we know. 

Purchase the pieces above at www.shop.houseoflavande.com

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Moodboard: Victorian Elegance

The latest season of Downtown Abbey has officially begun here stateside! We can't get enough of the victorian elegance, and ladylike details that come along with the fabulous ladies of Downton. 

Elie Saab gown

House of Lavande Vinatge Cameo earrings

House of Lavande Vintage Victorian revival necklace

House of Lavande Vintage carved victorian bracelet

House of Lavande Vintage comb

House of Lavande Vintage Civtorian cuff

Valentino lace handbag

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Food for Thought: Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta

Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta

If you love Italian food then this is a deluxe meal you will most definitely want to try this delicious grilled chicken caprese pasta. With it's melted cheese and juicy tomatoes, you get everything that’s on your average Caprese Chicken and so much more.

Ingredients

• 2 medium chicken breast halves, grilled and diced into strips*
• 9 oz Rigatoni or Penne pasta
• 2 cups fire roasted tomato pasta sauce (I used Classico)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup finely grated Romano Cheese
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• red pepper flakes, to taste (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, diced into halves
• 12 oz fresh mozzarella, grated**
• 16 fresh Basil leaves, chopped chiffonade style (mine were fairly small)

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook pasta to al dente according to directions listed on package. While pasta is boiling, in a separate medium saucepan over medium low heat, heat tomato pasta sauce, heavy cream, Romano cheese, garlic, optional red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring frequently, until cheese melts.
• Drain cooked pasta well, return pasta to pot. Add in grilled diced chicken, grape tomatoes, half of the mozzarella and half of the basil ribbons, then pour warm sauce over mixture. Toss to evenly coat. Pour mixture into a greased casserole or baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and cook pasta uncovered for about 20 - 25 minutes until cheese is golden. Serve warm.
• Recipe Source: adapted slightly from How Sweet It Is

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Jewelry Trend: The Little Things

Everyone loves a great necklace or a fabulous pair of earrings, but what about the rings and brooches? Vintage rings and brooches can add just as much sparkle and shine as a necklace, bracelet or earrings and can even outshine them because of their unexpectedness. Why not try one of our favorite pieces on your next night out?

Rings:

House of Lavande Original Collection gold and crystal large cocktail ring

(Available for order: info@houseoflavande.com)

1950's Panetta green crystal cocktail ring

Unsigned purple crystal flower ring

Victorian Intaglio brown and gold ring

1950's Jomaz black and diamante rhinestone ring

Jomaz coral and diamante rhinestone ring

Brooches:

1950's Panetta purple and gold brooch

1950's Panetta blue and gold brooch

1950's Sherman red and aurora borealis, rare brooch

Jomaz turquoise, blue and diamante rhinestone brooch

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Hair Trends: 2013

This year the hair trends are all about texture and braiding. Two things that are easily done with just a little bit of practice. Try some of these styles out for change from the daily hair routine!

1. Braided updo: Texture and hanging pieces around the face are key parts of this style

2. Voluminous straight hair: Back comb hair on each side of the part for extra volume

3. Rounded bangs: blow-dry with a round brush for the perfect fringe

4. Hairline braid: Braided and tucked behind the ear. Topped off with waves for a boho look

5. Hidden braid: An unexpected detail to a straight hairstyle 

6. Messy bun + headband: Textured hair and a headband set 2 inches from hairline give this look a messy yet put together edge.

7. Braided Chignon: Inside our french braid tucked inside a textured chignon is perfect for a special night out

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Woman of Style: Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly, Her Serene Highness The Princess of Monaco

Oscar-winning actress, fashion icon and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, has since been an icon in many woman's eyes. Her beauty and poise has influenced designer houses such as Hermes and Tommy Hilfiger while her always up-to-date fashion sense has influenced styles and trends around the world. Here we've put together some of our favorite looks from the Princess.

Photos:

1/2/3/4/5/6

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Happy New Year!

This year has been another fun filled adventure here at House of Lavande! There have been many highlights, from the launch of our original collection, to many beautiful celebrity and editorial placements throughout the year. We are happy to be ringing in the new year among family and friends and wish everyone a very wonderful 2013!

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Moodboard: Winter White

Celebrate 2013 in style this New Year's Eve with luxurious winter whites. A trend for Spring '13, delicate whites are feminine and understated in a way that makes a bold impression. 

Derek Lam Fall '12 runway

Alessandra Rich lace dress

Michael Kors Tonne leather clutch

Alexander McQueen Intarsia knit dress

House of Lavande Harbour Collection loop necklace

(info@houseoflavande.com)

Esteban Cortazar Metal ankle-cuff sandals 

House of Lavande Sunset Collection tassel earrings

(info@houseoflavande.com)

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MoMa: Inventing Abstraction

In 1912 a new form of expression was revealed to the world in the form of abstract art. A handful of artists debuted their new and exciting artwork across several european cities. On December 23rd the exhibition Inventing Abstraction began at the MoMa, in New York City. Running until April 15th this is an in depth look at the beginning years of abstract art and the wildly important transitional years that follow. There are over 350 pieces of art on display, including illustrated books, sculpture, choreography, painting, stained glass, needlepoint, and film. The definition of abstract may seem elusive to some, but this is a collection that will shed a great light on the collective beginnings of the movement.

     

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Get the Look: New Year's Eve

Christmas may have passed but there is still one more holiday you need to look your best for: New Year's Eve! Don't be caught without some sparkle and shine. Here are some of our favorite picks that will help you be the center of attention (and get that midnight kiss!)

Get the Look:

DAY Birger Et Mikkelsen Prestige Sequin Blazer

House of Lavande Original Collection Tassel Necklace

Alice + Olivia Leighton Aline Dress

Valentino RED Sequin Bow Clutch

House of Lavande Vintage Star Earrings 

Alexander McQueen Skull Metallic Chain Sandals

Marchesa Crystal Quartz Clutch

Tom Ford Beauty Gold Haze Nail Laquer 

House of Lavande Original Collection Crystal Ring

House of Lavande Original Collection can be ordered by calling 561.802.3737 or by visiting our store in Palm Beach!

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Holiday Jewelry Trend

Every year around this time, women ask the same question: "what am I going to wear?" Well, we've got you covered (at least in the jewelry department)

Don't be caught at your holiday parties without some fabulous jewels. Here are some of our favorite pieces that will get your through the holiday season in style.

Get the Look:

(from clockwise)

1950's Julianna gold earrings with red stones

Unsigned green rhinestone button earrings

DeLillo emerald earrings

1950's Panetta green ring

1955 Jomaz red bangle 

Miriam Haskell red earrings

1950's French red stone necklace

1950's Art Deco green pin

Panetta green and gold earrings

1950's Rare Sherman red flower pin

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House of Lavande Playlist: Holiday Favorites

We are feeling the Christmas spirit here in sunny South Florida! Enjoy our holiday playlist as you gather around with your family this week, wrap presents, or while perusing the lovely jewels here at House of Lavande. Happy Holidays everyone!

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Day to Night: Holiday Edition

This Christmas and holiday season, make sure you're city-chic (and keeping warm) with some of our favorite items, including this fabulous 1955 Jomaz garnet bracelet and a pair of green rhinestone button earrings. 

Featured Jewelry:

1955 Jomaz garnet bracelet

Unsigned green rhinestone earrings

Both available at House of Lavande

Day Look:

Joseph leather and gab trousers 

Plein Sud Jeanius knit cardigan with fur collar

Manolo Blahnik Bb suede pumps

Alexander McQueen suede tote

Night Look:

Valentino classic black dress

Dior 'Miss Dior' pump

Alexander McQueen Skull box clutch

Karen Miller faux pony blanket coat

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Food for Life: Savory Tarts

Broccolini and Feta Galette

Pies and tarts don't always have to be sweet. This savory rustic tart makes for a delicious meal wrapped in a pretty package that everyone will surely love. Make for a tasty appetizer or a main dish any time of the year!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, (spooned and leveled)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Coarse salt and ground pepper
• 2 bunches Broccolini (1 pound total)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 2/3 cup crumbled feta (3 ounces)
• 1/4 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/3 cup cold water. With a fork, stir to combine. Knead dough 1 minute. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees, with rack in lower third. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook Broccolini until bright green, 1 minute. With tongs, transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.
3. Roll out dough to a 14-inch round; transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle dough with Parmesan and top with Broccolini, leaving a 2 1/2-inch border. Top with feta and red-pepper flakes; season with salt and pepper. Fold dough border over filling and brush with egg. Bake until crust is golden brown, 35 to 40 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cook's Note

Swap It: Use broccoli florets instead of Broccolini. Goat cheese can replace the feta.

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Spring 2013 Style Trend: Sheer

Spring may seem like a distant glimmer on the horizon for most right now, but warmer weather will be here before you know it! Sheer, lightweight fabrics are a trend that we are loving for Spring 2013. Go bold, with a veiled midriff, like Haider Ackerman or keep it a bit more conservative as Donna Karen did on the Spring 13 runway. However you wear it, incorporating a sheer look into your wardrobe this spring is a must!

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Get the Look: Vintage Accessories

Vintage accessories are a great way to add a special addition to any outfit. Use a vintage purse to carry you necessities or an old cigarette case to carry your cards, money and lipstick. A great pair of cufflinks add an unexpected touch to any woman's outfit or can be a great gift for that man in your life. 

Get these items on House of Lavande

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Who's Wearing What

Olivia Wilde wearing a House of Lavande Vintage ring to the premiere of Django Unchained in New York City

Olivia Wilde in a House of Lavande Vintage ring to the 12.12.12 concert event to benefit Hurricane Sandy victims

 First Lady Michelle Obama wearing a House of Lavande Vintage belt for White House Christmas

Taylor Swift wearing a House of Lavande Vintage ring and channel set bracelet

Amy Poehler at the Trevor Project in House of Lavande Vintage

Emmy Rossum in House of Lavande Vintage diamante earrings

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