La Perla Fashion Feature written for FINE Magazine
La Perla
If you know who the fictional character of Becky Bloomwood from Sophie Kinsella’s “Confession’s of a Shopaholic Series,” there’s a good chance that you may know that the Italian brand La Perla can only be found in San Diego at Neiman Marcus at the Fashion Valley Mall. Like most high end shoppers, this fictional character treasured her La Perla lingerie almost as much as her Denny & George green scarf. Think tight corsets, satin and velvet for lingerie and sexy summer prints for swimwear or sumptuous scents that capture the hot hazy afternoons in Southern California. If you are looking to dazzle this summer, Le Perla will entice you to squeeze your bank account for that must have Italian designer fashion for your wardrobe this summer.
The name La Perla was inspired by the red velvet lined cases, in which the first shipments were transported to the exclusive wealthy clients in Italy. The history on this infamous Italian designer dates back to 1954, when Ada Mascotti established this Iconic principal fashion house in Bologna, Italy. Using only the finest quality of fabrics, La Perla designs were originally exclusive corset pieces and underwear garments made for the upper echelon of rich women in Europe. Mascotti’s understanding of femininity and the female body shape marked the beginning of this luxurious line to be enjoyed by men and women for many years to come.
Over the next few decades, La Perla added other lines like petticoats, chemises and negligees, including separates. During the 80’s, La Perla launched a swimwear and perfume line, diversifying the company and expanding its appeal. Today, La Perla is found is the most revered department stores all over the world, including the world famous Harrods in London, Bergdoff Goodman in New York, Saks and Neiman Marcus.
If you would like to shop for the must have La Perla summer items, Neiman Marcus in Fashion Island is your only local source in San Diego. One of the department sales associates, Christine, gave some inside details for shoppers in San Diego. “There’s not a specific age range with this brand. It appeals to young and more sophisticated. We only carry certain pieces here of La Perla in Fashion Valley. The La Perla location in Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive carries a larger selection, or you can go online to their website.”
If you are interested in wearing La Perla swimwear for this summer you must buy it on-line here locally. Recently featured in the Sports Illustrated 2011, model Kate Upton was featured wearing a multi-colored teal print in this latest issue. On the cover of April’s Marie Claire, Icon Katy Perry was featured wearing La Perla’s Jean Paul Gautlier Collection Createur. One Gaultier bra La Perla was also featured that month. From Vogue to FINE Magazine, La Perla is showcased as a ‘must have’ designer around the world.
Maybe there is a bit of Sophie Kinsella’s Becky Bloomwood in all us this summer. When you’re heart is telling you that you must be stylish under the sun here in California, listen to that inner voice and shop luxuriously. Remember La Perla was made especially for women to feel sensual and soft by its sheer feminine designs. And, gentlemen, don’t feel left out. There are shirts and underwear by Le Perla for men now, too. For more information here in San Diego call 619-692-9100 at Neiman Marcus in Fashion Valley Mall look on-line for the latest swimwear line at www.laperla.com. Remember to think satin, silky and sexy for that perfect day under the sun.
This story originally appeared in FINE Magazine, June 2011 issue as a cover featured fashion story written by Machel. She has been writing for FINE Magazine for three years.
http://www.finehomesandliving.com/view-magazine-june/
Lilly Pulitzer feature for FINE
FINE MAGAZINE FEATURE on Lilly Pulitzer
With the arrival of spring, so orchestrates the season’s fashion palate feting the designs of floral prints and bright colors – inspired, of course, by nature’s ability to simply rejuvenate and renew. Embracing this very notion, Lilly Pulitzer has for more than 50 years delighted 
wardrobes and fashion-minded clients with her bold, effervescent prints and fashion sense. The iconic brand has since expanded its clothing collections for women, men and children, to also include personal accessories, furniture and bedding, stationary and gifts, fragrances, as well as the recent launch of a preppy bridal selection.
From splashes of hot pinks, greens and blues, to smashing floral patterns and lace overlays, Lilly Pulitzer celebrates life as art with audacious and forward-thinking designs; as a result, she challenges us not only to be bold in our attire, but to savor the everyday joys and comforts of living. Maybe that is why her story feels so much like a movie, discovering not only her early beginnings in the fashion industry, but the very passion and energy that has remained at the forefront of the brand’s forward motion. An inspiring tale worth sharing, one might be surprised by this inside look at Lilly Pulitzer’s life in review.
A socialite from New York, it is only befitting that Lilly Lee — her nickname — was destined to become an icon in the industry. In 1951, Lilly eloped and headed south to Palm Beach, Florida with her husband, Peter Pulitzer – the grandson of Joseph Pulitzer Publishing. Owning several orange grove stands, Lilly rightfully opened a juice stand on Via Mizner, now considered historic Palm Beach. While fresh squeezed juice seemed like a natural fit, it was the orange juice stains in her clothing that sparked an idea; a sleeveless dress with bright colorful patterns to conceal the stains was thus created. What turned out to be a temporary fix to ‘orange juiced’ clothing resulted in the beginnings of Lilly Pulitzer’s first fashion design, the “Classic Shift Dress.” As the legend goes, Lilly’s juice clientele took notice of her new prints, complimenting and inquiring about her daily attire; and after selling a few dresses, her juice-making days soon came to an end. Lilly then began focusing on designing and selling her bold, beautiful clothing line to the public.
Jackie Kennedy wearing Lilly Pulitzer
Featured in Life Magazine, First Lady Jackie Kennedy – a former classmate of Lilly’s – was one of the first celebrities to wear the ‘Classic Shift Dress’; the very dress that had originally concealed orange juice stains, had become a fashion sensation. While our muse can sometimes be hidden by circumstance and time, Lilly had the fortitude and creativity to make her mark, without wavering or compromising her bold colorful designs.
Over the course of the next three decades, Lilly Pulitzer’s popularity and repertoire within the industry was on the rise; even noted in the 1980 “Official Preppy Handbook,” featuring a “Lilly Dress” as a must-have. One can only imagine how clients and the world of fashion reacted when Lilly Pulitzer decided to retire and shut down her entire clothing operation in 1984. After years of cheering closets and inspiring us with color, the fashion icon was ready for a Florida retreat in Palm Beach with her family. But the story doesn’t end there.
Lucky for us, Lilly decided to sell her trademark in 1993; and at a trade-show, two businessmen from Pennsylvania — Scott Beaumont and James Bradbeer Jr. — said they had that “A-ha! Moment,” when they saw the trademark for sale. They decided to branch off from their current venture with another retail store and re-launch the famous clothing line on their own; currently accounting for more than 75 Signature stores nationwide. Lilly Pulitzer has remained a brand consultant to this today.
No one combines flowers, fashion, and the Florida lifestyle better than Lilly Pulitzer. This spring, the blossoming icon continues a yearlong celebration of ‘Lilly Loves the Arts’; after all, Lilly Pulitzer’s hand-designed prints are themselves works of art. But this season, the print team comprised of Lilly artists gives a nod of appreciation to various forms of fine art. The results are a beautiful array of vibrant colorful prints reflecting influence from pop art to impressionism, and even block printing.
A sun-kissed moment can happen for all of us, just as it did for Lilly Pulitzer. If it seems too dreamy for this day and age, Southern California residents can at least benefit by wearing her classic designs year-round – a perfect compliment to our casual coastal lifestyle and eternal sunshine.
Your idyllic colors leave us feeling lovely in the Golden State – Thanks, Lilly Pulitzer.
Lilly Pulitzer lillypulitzer.com
Check out orginal story linked on FINE’s website: http://www.finehomesandliving.com/March-2011/FINE-Fashion-by-Lilly-Pultizer/
7007 Friars Road, Suite 343, San Diego 619.491.0050
This article appeared in the March 2011 issue of FINE Magazine, written by Southern Californian writer, Machel Penn Shull
Coffee or Tea? by Machel Penn Shull~ FINE Magazine, January 2012
- FINE Magazine January 2012, “Tea Time in San Diego” by Machel Penn Shull
Coffee or Tea? That lately seems to be the question for many. If you are a lover of both like me than the idea is to choose when and where for your daily ritual for one or for both. Coffee is the way I start of my day, but tea is my afternoon delight.
Coronado & Bid Time Return
"Bid Time Return" & "Somewhere in Time"
Did you know you can elope on Coronado Island for less than $1500.00? This includes the backdrop of the world famous Hotel Del in the background, along with rose petals sprinkled across the sand. Can you see it? The bride and groom, white wedding dress, black tux, saying “I do,” in one of the most romantic destinations just on the other side of the Coronado Bridge.
Sometimes we forget the best escapes are only a car ride away. This one, however, happens to be local. North County residents can become submerged in the “wealth triangle,” you know, La Jolla, Del Mar, and Rancho Santa Fe, while overlooking one of the finest jewels in the most southern point of California.
If you were to ask the residents of this quant sophisticated beach town with rich history and small town values if they felt left out, there would probably be a resounding sigh of relief that their prestigious community is still truly is a world unto itself. The late, great novelist, Richard Matheson, knew this more than anyone when he chose the Hotel Del Coronado to reside in, while he penned one of the most beloved love stories, “Bid Time Return.”
This tragic love story is about a man that falls in love with a photograph of famous actress in the late 1800’s. He then manages against all odds to travels back in time, to whisper the words, “Is it you?” If this sounds eerily familiar, it’s because this book’s title when adapted into a screenplay was changed to “Somewhere in Time.” The movie starred Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves. Many do not know that Coronado Island’s timeless energy laid forth the foundation of this classic love story. There are sacred stories like this one scattered across the sands of Coronado Island.
When searching for the answers, always seek the best. That’s exactly what Fine Magazine did when choosing Ruth Ann Fisher as the feature for Coronado’s quick Q. & A. Q. When did you start Selling Real Estate in Coronado?
A. I started selling real estate in 2000 after my husband was transferred here with the Navy. I had previously worked in Florida with a mortgage bank handling their foreclosures and REO’s.
Q. How has last year’s recession affected the housing market on Coronado ? A. The prices have obviously gone down but not to the extent of other communities. Coronado has unique qualities that have helped us weather this economic storm. With limited boundaries, great schools and a Mayberry charm, Coronado will always draw homeowners, second home buyers and investors.
Q. What are the benefits to living on Coronado Island as apposed to San Diego ? A. Besides what was written above, an incredible low crime rate.
Q. What encouraging words do you have for home buyers that are looking to invest in Coronado Island ? A. If you have been considering a purchase in Coronado or have been waiting for the right time, Buy Now! Prices are lower than they have been in many years. There is a good selection of homes available however, many of the buyers who have been on the fence have started to make moves since the first of the year and our inventory is starting to go down.
Q. What would you say to entice a buyer to choose Coronado over let’s say Rancho Santa Fe or La Jolla ?
A. Coronado is a lifestyle choice. It is a charming smaller coastal town just over the bridge from a metropolitan city with all it has to offer. For commuters, we are 15 minutes, from the airport and a ferry ride from the train station. Our family has even taken our bikes on the ferry and then caught the train to Santa Barbara for the weekend. We also have parades on the 4th of July and at Christmas and we have concerts in the park each Sunday during the summer where everyone comes out and enjoys their picnic dinner with family, friends and neighbors. To quote from the Wizard of Oz, “There’s no place like home”. And, there’s no place like Coronado .
Thank-you Ruth, for sharing your thoughts with Fine Magazine. Just remember the next time you might need a ‘great romantic escape’ is only a skyline and a bridge away. To quote Richard Matheson, “Ah; a bridge ahead, “I’ll take it. I don’t care where it leads so long as it is away from this. Coronado says the sign. Driving straight into the sun…”
Originally published in FINE Magazine, November 2009
Rancho Santa Fe News, “Machel’s Ranch” -Blessed to Live in America
the first time in years during this particular weekend. I spent my holiday back
in Spirit Lake, Iowa with my family. I know what you are thinking — rows of
corn, flat fields and a fly over state. However, this local town in northern
Iowa is a wonderful resort area that is as picturesque as a Norman Rockwell
painting. Watching the fireworks from my parents’ boat at night on Lake Okoboji
rates up there as one of the best patriotic exhibits I have ever witnessed. The
evening felt magical. For more information onvacation spot, click this link:
Tracy G Howard and Micky K. Penn, Machel's sister and mother on holiday
On a side note, have you noticed the July 4 weekend
is one of the happiest holidays during the year? As I was traveling back to the
Midwest, travelers seemed more relaxed and less frazzled than other holidays.
Maybe it’s the long weekend, or the fact most employees enjoy a paid vacation.
Or could it be that most Americans truly are patriotic and care about this
country? I think so. Anyway, I hope you had an excellent weekend, too. I hope
your heart was filled with inspiration and pride for living in the best country
in the world. We are all so very blessed.
Out of Town
On July 1, I ventured to downtown Spirit Lake with my sister and mom to this wonderful
place called The Market. If you are looking for a health food store like a
Jimbos in a small town, you will probably be out of luck. Not so for the
residents in this small town. This quaint restaurant, attached to the
mini-market of the health food store, is painted in bright yellow with the most
gorgeous tiled floor. You can enjoy organic dishes; order sparkling Perrier and
other healthy drinks, while relaxing at your table. This outing happened to be
my favorite moment of each day. Featured here, is my sister Tracy with our
mother, Micky Kay Penn. I have also included one photo of Hill Street where The
Market is located. Here is also a link to their website: http://http://www.themarketcoop.com/about.html.
On July 4, my sister and I headed to the YMCA for our
daily workout. Right beside the gym was the cutest teenage girl selling corn
under an umbrella. Yes, I confess, there is corn in Iowa. And guess what? It’s
known as “Candy Corn,” instead of sweet corn, which I found interesting. My
sister kept saying, “Let’s buy some candy corn,” and I kept looking for the
kettle corn booth like you see at the fair (silly me). Here is a fun shot of
Tracy standing with a local resident that day. Yes, there are pretty girls in
Iowa.
Later that night we watched the fireworks on the lake with hundreds
of other residents and boaters scattered in the darkness. This evening almost
felt magical to me. My son ran back to me at the end of the boat and said, “See,
mom, told you it was way better than you thought.” He also let me know that he
would be moving to Spirit Lake when he was an adult, which I found rather sweet.
Of course, I am hoping this inclination fades and he stays in California! I
would share a photo, but I’m not sure it will really turn out well in print in
the newspaper.
On July 5, I left Spirit Lake and descended at LAX
Airport. What’s wonderful about getting away on a vacation is that it truly
makes you appreciate your own life and schedule. That old adage, “You can never
go home, again,” is absolutely true. Though we may miss our childhood and our
immediate family, age and time will manage to prevent you from truly returning.
And, I must add, for the first time in my life I understand that saying. Let’s
just say, driving back to San Diego, while the ocean glimmered to the west of
the freeway, I was one enthusiastic girl to return home to
California.
Around Town
On July 2, Rancho Santa Fe’s piano man
Randy Beecher celebrated his birthday at Mille Fleurs with fans and local
residents. Hope it was a wonderful day, Randy! Thanks for adding so many
wonderful memories to my life as well. Also, just in case you haven’t heard,
Mille Fleurs is launching a “Singles Night” on the first Thursday of each month.
So if you are single and you are looking to mingle, this is the place to
be in Rancho Santa Fe on the first Thursday of each month. If you would like
more information regarding this event, visit: http://http://www.bestpianobar.com/.
In town on July 3, The Pan American Cup Finals were held at the San Diego Polo field.
The weekend event included a featured band, the “classic divot stomp” like in
the movie, “Pretty Woman,” and prizes for guests. Featured here in the winner
photo are Krista Bonaguidi, Chris Collins, Mariano Fassetta, and Alvaro Tadeo
(holding his daughter, Valentina).
Also featured from that day are the
publishers of FINE Magazine, Heather and John Winfield.It looks like
that was an amazing event for the locals here in San Diego. For more information
on that particular event, here is the link:
sandiegopolo.wordpress.com/2011/07/06/pan-american-cup-finals-4th-of-july-celebration/.
Rancho Santa Fe Majors team-The White Sox win The Coast Cities Tournament.
On
July 6, I received some wonderful news from my favorite bed and breakfast in the San Diego area, Jamul Haven. If you are looking for a “Stay-cation,” this is a
five-star International B&B you must check out.
The owners, William Roetzheimand Marianne are wonderful, inviting and really take amazing care of their guests. Right now they are offering a promotion: buy two-week nights and receive one free until the end of the year. Here is their website: http://http://www.jamulhaven.com/.
I stayed with them for my 39th birthday last year and since thenI receive their monthly newsletters, which I just love reading.
Also, on Aug. 6, Jamul Haven B&B will be hosting a reading by James Reynolds, “The
Shakespeare You Never Knew,” a parody. For more information visit the website listed above. Here is an excerpt from a column I wrote in 2010 regarding my stay at Jumal Haven:
(The following excerpt is from the B&B Journal I wrote in while I stayed at Jamul Haven).
February 20th, 2010
Dear Bill and Mariann,
Machel at Jamal Haven for her birthday in 2010
I am sitting in the white furry bathrobe I found hanging in the closet. I am reading your magazines on Victorian homes and relaxing, while my husband is having the most peaceful sleep. For a bit, I hung out in the Angel House kitchen and ate the delicious snacks I found in the refrigerator. I drank the milk and ate the banana. Then I called my mother and told her I was having the best birthday of my life. We haven’t even left the Peacock Room because we love it so much. We had forgone dinner in town because this time is too precious at your beautiful B&B and I don’t want to waste it by eating at a typical restaurant. My heart is quieted by the stillness and history of this room. Time feels trapped here and I am so glad to have found “Jamul Haven.”
“Sometimes dreams do come true,” is what I said to my husband tonight. Thank you for having us stay here this weekend. You deserve more blessings because you have blessed others by restoring such a wonderful historic landmark. God Bless you Always.
Sincerely, Machel Penn Shull and Robin
This was my entry the weekend of my birthday at a Bed and Breakfast I had found on the Internet. Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you. You don’t realize there is an ache in your heart until something reminds you it’s still there. That’s what happened to me at this quaint B&B. I found pieces of my childhood inside the walls in Angel House. I sat there on the wraparound porch and watched the clouds drift across this hills. I listened to the birds sing that weekend I turned 39. I reminisced about what I still miss, which is the farm I raised on in Missouri.
What I want to focus on here now with you is what I discovered that weekend. I unearthed the most amazing getaway that is like something out of a Jane Austin novel. We’re talking history and romance restored inside a ranch that was established by Charles Gifford in 1890. He was the first person to can olives successfully for commercial sale in America.
The owners today — Marianne and William Roetzheim — took three years to restore this historic landmark into an already internationally recognized B&B. The Ila-chateau.com, which is an exclusive group of independently owned hotels in Europe, USA, Canada and Southern Africa, rate list only five B&B’s in America and Jamul Haven is one of them.
What you must know is there is a place within reach where you can escape for one or two days. You can find the relaxation you need and pampering in one of the finest B&Bs. You can drive to Jamul, which only 40 minutes to from Del Mar. There you can find reprieve in a forgotten time you cannot find here in San Diego.
Perched up on a hill, above the gated communities near the golf course there, Bill and Marianne have created a retreat where you feel safe from worries in the real world. Their caring nature and their suburb manor as the hosts of Jamul Haven, reassures you that good down to earth people do exist.
After one of the best breakfasts I have had in years — I had frittata, ham, fruit, homemade coffee cake, plus more — you simply don’t want to leave. What I discovered there was a little piece of my soul that still misses the red earth in Missouri. Thank you Bill and Marianne for letting me go home, albeit if only in my dreams.
