cooks tools

Continuing with my cooking recommendations theme, we move along cooks' tools. With the right implements, instruction, and inspiration, any recipe is possible. Here are a few I'm loving: 

I can't say enough good things about All-Clad.  I love when tools are functional and beautiful, and the All-Clad Cook and Serve set is exactly that. The heavy-grade 18/10 stainless steel construction makes for durable function and easy cleaning (dishwasher safe, too!) behind the scenes, while the mirrored finish adds a dash of style and class for the table.  Comes as a set of six that includes a fork, ladle, spoon, slotted spoon, tongs and storage caddy.  For an added bonus: the caddy can be monogrammed. 

Silicon spoonulas are the perfect mix of spatulas and spoons. I'm notorious for leaving the spatula in the pan or on hot surfaces, so I'm comforted knowing these brilliant bits are heat-resistant to 600ºF, dishwasher safe, and won't chip or crack. They're super handy and come in a variety of colors and sizes each season. I prefer the wooden handle options, because the silicon portion is removable, but the stainless steel options are nice as well. In my opinion, you can't have enough. 

Favored by bartenders and restaurateurs since 1882, Bar Keepers Friend is a premium cleanser and polish makes household surfaces shine like new. They’re the ideal kitchen cleaners-- for countertops, sinks, cooktops, appliances, cookware and more. Working without harmful chlorine bleach, this magical mix removes rust, lime, and hard water stains, as well as tarnish from copper and brass. With a little BKF and a lot of elbow-grease, everything will be sparkling clean. (Side note: BKF works great cleaning the bathtub and shower, too!)

I've sung the praises of the garlic peeler on multiple occasions, and must recommend again. Don't underestimate this peculiar piece - one use and you'll see how easily this floppy tube peels a clove of garlic. Simply insert whole unpeeled cloves, press down firmly, and briskly roll back and forth for a few seconds, until you hear the peel snap. Each week I'll peel and mince 3-4 heads in less than 5 minutes. 

This is a definite luxury, and I absolutely love it. Beautiful and practical, this box keeps up to 8 oz. of cooking salt within close reach. Handcrafted by Bérard of richly grained olive wood with an oil finish, it has a swiveling magnetic lid for easy one-handed access. Makes an incredible gift for house warnings, hostesses and thank yous, and anyone who loves to cook or appreciates great spices. 

I absolutely love cooking, and might have an arsenal full of goodies. These are just a few of the many I love. What tools do you use in your kitchen? 

best Fathers, best faces

In the United States, Father's Day is this Sunday. Help Dad put his best face forward with an upgrade to his everyday skincare routine. These products are straightforward, easy to use, and incredibly effective. The sheet mask from Farmacy Beauty is incredible! And since its pre measured and packs the best that Mother Nature has to offer, it'll help maintain his healthy, radiant skin all summer long without requiring multiple toners, tonics, potions, or lotions. Same goes for Dr. Gross's supercharged exfoliating wipes. They're perfect for Dad's travel back or gym bag, beyond easy to use, and make such a positive result. The Art of Shaving's shaving cream makes for the most luxurious, comfortable shave and only takes the tiniest dollop. The rejuvenating serum from Tom Ford is simply beyond - a few tiny drops melt into the skin and are literally the fountain of you. And help Dad protect his investment and live longer with Lancôme's fabulous sunscreen for face. It's water resistant for 80 minutes, so he won't need to reapply while out for a summertime splash or fun in the sun. Finish it all off with a new razor handle and pack of refill cartridges. Voila: instant upgrade of the best things he'll actually use. 

(Clockwise, from bottom left)

The Art of Shaving Ocean Kelp Shaving Cream, US$25. 

The Ocean Kelp Shaving Cream generates a rich and foamy lather that helps protect the skin from irritation by improving razor glide. It softens the beard for a close and comfortable shave. The Shaving Cream hydrates your hair for shaving and leaves your skin feeling smooth. It can be used with or without a shaving brush.

Features:

Coconut Acid, Essential Oils and Extracts from natural origin. Contains a high concentration of Glycerin.  Free from synthetic dyes and alcohol

Tom Ford for Men Skin Revitalizing Concentrate, US$150. 

When your skin is depleted of dry, adding a multifunctional tray ending oil into your regimen before moisturizing is one of the simplest ways to energize and regenerate it. This concentrate contains the highest concentration of the atom Ford skin calming and infusing complexes, plus essential oils and other enriching natural ingredients. It deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin and it conditions it before shaving and soothes it afterwards. Your skin has fewer fine lines and greater resilience against damage. 

Farmacy Beauty Hydrating Coconut Gel Mask - Oil Control, US$24 for 3 masks. 

What it is: 
A supercharged oil-control solution for oily, problematic skin. 

What it is formulated to do: 
Carrot extract contains lycopene, which is believed to control the over-production of sebum, helping normalize the elements that contribute to oily, problematic skin. It is also a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes harmful free radicals. The formula also contains Echinacea GreenEnvy™, a unique, patent-protected variant of echinacea purpurea that contains the highest known concentration of cichoric acid. This acid helps protect the skin by supporting collagen and promotes a more evenly toned complexion. Coconut gel provides intensive hydration and restores the skin’s balance, while the bio-cellulose sheet releases the complex of components to provide the skin’s surface layers with a penetrating surge of active ingredients. 

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Ferulic + Retinol Wrinkle Recovery Peel, US$88 for 16 treatments. 

This pro-strength ferulic and retinol peel rapidly retextures the appearance of skin and supports natural repair for your best complexion ever, while a replenishing moisture complex keeps skin in perfect balance. Multitasking while you sleep, this advanced treatment supports collagen production, reduces the look of wrinkles, and restores the feel of firmness so you can wake up to a remarkably smoother, firmer, and radiant complexion. 

Clinique for Men Charcoal Face Wash, US$20. 

What it is:
A detoxifying charcoal gel wash for men that delivers a deep-pore clean. 

What it is formulated to do:
Charcoal Face Wash contains natural charcoal to draw out the dirt and excess oil that can clog pores. The soothing, non-drying lather gently foams away impurities, detoxifies, and purifies—leaving all skin types feeling fresh and comfortable. 

Lancôme Bienfait UV 50+ Super Fluid Facial Sunscreen, US$39. 

What it is: 
A fast-absorbing, oil-free facial sunscreen that delivers SPF 50+ protection to shield the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays that may contribute to skin damage and premature skin aging. 

What it is formulated to do: 
This high-performing facial sunscreen protects from harmful rays to sustain a guilt-free day in the sun. The lightweight formula is perfect to wear daily over your moisturizer (or under makeup) and even alone. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, this super fluid sunscreen is ideal for all skin types, even sensitive skin, and is dermatologist-tested for safety.  

Farmacy New Day Gentle Exfoliating Grains, US$30.  

What it is: 
A potent, all-inclusive skin care treatment with innovative grains that transform into a gentle, foaming exfoliating cream with the addition of water. 

What it is formulated to do: 
This gentle cleanser contains unique grains to cleanse, exfoliate, and clarify in one step for fresh, clear skin. Natural cranberry seeds provide a deep clean to lift away surface debris and promote skin clarity, while rice bran powder loosens dry skin cells and absorbs excess oils and surface impurities. A complex of white willow bark, carrot, green tea, and marshmallow soothe, protect, and calm the skin. The formula also contains Farmacy’s Echinacea GreenEnvy™, a unique, patent-protected variant of echinacea purpurea that contains the highest known concentration of cichoric acid, which helps protect the skin by supporting natural collagen.

built to love, built to be loud, built to last

I just realized I've had the same headphones for 10 years.  Ten years of travel, ten years of sweaty exercise, ten years of movies and music, and ten years of pure enjoyment.  When I originally purchased them, I knew they weren't cheap, but trusted B&O's sound and engineering quality.  And after a decade, I still stand by their superior craftsmanship and enjoyment.  I don't know if mine are the original model, but the only improvements I would make have already been added to the current version (a microphone and audio controls on the decide).  Other than that - I love them. 

Technically, the headphone dimensions are 35 mm x 59 mm x 14 mm, have a weight of 22 g, consist of an electro-dynamic intra concha earphone, have a 1.2 m cord, and have a frequency range of 50 - 20,000 Hz.
Anders Hermansen designed them specifically for maximum comfort as well, leaving each piece maneuverable up or down and side to side.  Headphones include a 2-year warranty and free shipping online at B&O.  US$199.  




What headphones do you love?

haute heritage, haute history

When accessories, clothes, and the like are handcrafted, expertly designed, and made of the most incredible materials, coupled with a real history of elegance and heritage, you instantly see the artistic among the value.

It is these long-established codes, the elements created, curated, and loved by Monsieur Dior himself that continue to guide the designs of the House.   Modern.  Classic.  Strong.  Delicate.  Sophisticated.  And oh so feminine. 



Haute heritage.  Hot history.  Haute Couture.  Christian Dior. 

A partnership and lava-like hotness

  

"The citrus notes have more "sizzle" thanks to the grapefruit accord on top.  The original spices have been given an unexpected twist with refined cardamom, nutmeg, and a hint of black pepper for a modern, masculine finish."

-- Elsa Chabert, Fragrance Essentielles

Since 1973, London's Molton Brown have made some of the most incredible bath, body, and home fragrance products.  They're expertly blended with exotic ingredients for a truly unique experience for both men and women, while being socially responsible and environmentally friendly.  I've used a number of their products over the years in both hotels and my home, and really enjoy how each product seems to out perform expectations.  With Molton Brown, you'll use much less product than anticipated while having a luxurious, spa-like experience in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

I'm really excited for their newest collection, Recharge Black Pepper Sport.  Each summer, I find myself attracted to the same types of scents - either citrus or aquatic.  But I'm always looking for something new, something not everyone else will be wearing.  This year I'm looking forward to incorporating a bit of this new range from Molton Brown.  And I haven't even smelled it yet!  When I do, you can be sure I'll post a note or two.  

I'm also very interested in various watch collections by Tiffany & Co.  If you haven't noticed, the luxury watch segment is incredibly saturated, with malls and shopping centers dominated by both storefronts and advertisements of each mark's latest watch model or yet another celebrity pushing yet another timepiece.  With the younger generation of luxury shoppers, a brand's heritage and history isn't enough to warrant a sale; quality, service, and experience must also be a priority.  I love how Tiffany & Co. have added a modern twist to their own watch history.  Did you know that the brand's innovative founder Charles Lewis Tiffany installed a clock outside of the flagship boutique in 1853, long before public clocks became commonplace?  Or that in 1868 Mr. Tiffany introduced the first stopwatch in America, called the Tiffany Timer?  And it was a handshake between Charles Lewis Tiffany and famed ultra-luxe watch producer Antoine Norbert de Patek in 1851 that began a partnership committed to unparalleled integrity and excellence. 

I'm kind of obsessed with the Patek Philippe + Tiffany & Co. Aquanaut men's watch.  Reference 5167A in stainless steel with an embossed black dial and a black composite hypoallergenic strap. 40 mm case, automatic movement, water resistant to 120 meters/394 feet, Swiss-made. For more information, phone +1.212.605.4036 to speak with a Patek Philippe specialist from the Tiffany & Co. New York flagship store. 

The citrus notes have more "sizzle" thanks to the grapefruit accord on top. The original spices have been given an unexpected twist with refined cardamom, nutmeg and a hint of black pepper for a modern, masculine finish.
Elsa Chabert,Fragrances Essentielles

- See more at: http://www.moltonbrown.com/store/behind-the-blend/black-pepper-sport/#sthash.rxurltjc.d

The citrus notes have more "sizzle" thanks to the grapefruit accord on top. The original spices have been given an unexpected twist with refined cardamom, nutmeg and a hint of black pepper for a modern, masculine finish.
Elsa Chabert,Fragrances Essentielles

- See more at: http://www.moltonbrown.com/store/behind-the-blend/black-pepper-sport/#sthash.rxurltjc.dpuf

The citrus notes have more "sizzle" thanks to the grapefruit accord on top. The original spices have been given an unexpected twist with refined cardamom, nutmeg and a hint of black pepper for a modern, masculine finish.
Elsa Chabert,Fragrances Essentielles

- See more at: http://www.moltonbrown.com/store/behind-the-blend/black-pepper-sport/#sthash.rxurltjc.dpuf

The citrus notes have more "sizzle" thanks to the grapefruit accord on top. The original spices have been given an unexpected twist with refined cardamom, nutmeg and a hint of black pepper for a modern, masculine finish.
Elsa Chabert,Fragrances Essentielles

- See more at: http://www.moltonbrown.com/store/behind-the-blend/black-pepper-sport/#sthash.rxurltjc.dpuf