Cannes International Film Festival

The Cannes International Film Festival is known as a prominent showcase for many European films. The festival occurs annually in Cannes, France, and serves as the ultimate preview of all film genres from all countries. The invite-only festival was founded in 1946 and is held at Palais des Festivals et de Congrès, usually in May. Attendees flock to the festival in hopes of their films being award the ultra coveted, Palme d’Or, created in 1955, is which is the highest honor to be achieved at the festival.

This year, the festival will take place between the days of May 13th and May 24th, under the leadership of Pierre Lescure, the new President of the festival. A number of feature films, as well as short films, will be debuted, either to compete for the various awards up for grabs, or to simply gain international recognition.

The films are split into different categories of the festival: The Official Selection, Parallel Selections and Other Selections. The Official Selection is the main event of the festival, and includes the subcategories In Competition, Un Certain Regard, Out of Competition, Special Screenings, Cinéfondation and Short Films. This year, this category will debut 53 features in total, with 19 each in Competition and Un Certain Regard. The screening committee has opted to include many new faces to the competition for the Palme, while keeping the familiar faces in the non-competing positions. Some notable features that will be shown as part of The Official Selection are Michael Franco’s Chronic and Guillaume Nicloux’s Valley of Love, both of which have a chance of winning the Palme d’Or. A midnight screening of Gaspar Noe’s Love will be shown and the Un Certain Regard selection will be opened by Naomi Kawase’s Sweet Red Bean Paste.

Parallel Selections are non-competitive selections included to enhancing festival-goers appreciation for other aspects of cinema, and are comprised of Cannes Classics, Tous les Cinémas de Monde, Caméra d’Or, and Cinéma de la Plage. Unfortunately, these lineups have yet to be released, but will no doubt come soon, as the majority of the festival has been announced.

Other Selections are produced by organizations outside of the Cannes Film Festival itself, and include Directors’ Fortnight, International Critics Week, and Association for Independent Cinema and Distribution (ACID). The Directors’ Fortnight, or the Quinzainze des Réalisateurs, will be very broad and open to interpretation at this year’s festival. The line-up is significantly European, with four French films and a three part Portuguese film. This is mostly due to the fact that the directors of these films are reacting to what is happening in their countries. The Fortnight’s director, Edouard Waintrop, viewed over 1,600 films and chose the final films from all over, not just from a specific area. There are none from the United Kingdom this year, which is unusual, but there are several from the United States, including two produced by Forrest Whittaker, including Dope, a coming of age movie set in California, and Songs My Brothers Taught Me, a movie about how living the “American Dream” is related to living on a Native American reservation. The International Critics Week will begin with Elie Wajeman’s The Anarchist and close with Mathieu Vadepied’s Learn by Heart. South Korean film Coin Locker Girl, directed by Jun-hee and French film Les Deux Amis, directed by Louis Garrel are also on the lineup for special screenings.

For many, this year will be their first trip to The Cannes International Film Festival. For others, their presence at the festival has become almost automatic, and they will be second, third, or fourth time attendees, if not more so. It’s elegance, felt and seen both on the red carpet, in the hotels, and of course, on screen, is world renowned and talked about for months following. A invitation to the festival is highly desired by industry members and civilians alike, not just anyone can attend; the festival is considered so elite because it is treated as such. Cinema moguls request a place in the festival for their films, and themselves. Cannes itself is one of the most beautiful, upscale places in the world, from the Palais des Festivals et de Congrès to the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. 

A long, pristine red carpet, stunning architecture, and spacious, magnificent interiors are what can be expected from this fete. Celebrities walk the red carpet in virtually every designer imaginable, posing for photographs that will be highlighted on every “best dressed” list of the year. Producers, directors, actresses, and actors from all over the world mingle casually, the weight of competition and critical reception seemingly far away from their minds. From the moment the festival begins, a new energy arrives in the city of Cannes, and remains vibrant until the conclusion of the festival, with the Palais des Festivals et de Congrès at the center of this incredible spirit.

At night, attendees and honorees retire to the most luxurious of hotels, the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. For years, cinematic geniuses have unwound after a long day at Cannes at this very hotel. The hotel prides itself on the combination of “18th century elegance and 21st century luxury.” With 117 rooms, suites, and villas in all parts of the hotel (the main Hotel du Cap, the original Villa Soleil, and Les Deux Fontaines Residence) all overlook the private parkland and Azure sea; it is no wonder this iconic hotel is a favorite for visitors to The Cannes International Film Festival.

What’s Trending in Interior Design for 2015

This year, classic luxury is being re-imagined in interior design trends. Gone are the days of crisp white walls, sleek modern lines, chipper patterns and bright colors. While design professionals have hailed these timeless looks for quite some time, the tides are turning this year. 2015 promises to be a new era in interior design, featuring trends that are lavish and dramatic without being overstated—the perfect balance of fresh design and timeless luxury. These eye-catching new looks are extremely versatile and can be incorporated into a space in a variety of different ways, no matter your personal aesthetic may be; these exclusive looks can easily find a niche in your home.

What’s trending in color? Pantone announced their 2015 Color of the Year, Marsala, a rich brick red color reminiscent of autumn. While this may seen like a rather uncharacteristic choice, this rusty reddish brown is popping up everywhere, from fashion to beauty to home décor. It’s an attention-grabbing hue that works perfectly as a subtle accent color or even the main focus of a space, and its richness perfectly complements other moody colors that are trending this year. 

While Marsala may hold Pantone’s coveted title, the true color of the moment in interior design is Indigo. This shade is lush, royal, and celebrated for its versatility: Los Angeles designer Sasha Emerson declares, “It plays so well with other colors, such as pink, cream, gray, coral and sage.” If you’re a fan of bold, colorful spaces, try refreshing your kitchen with Indigo-painted cabinets like the ones pictured below, or accent with bold blues in the living room. 

In the photo below, designer SuzAnn Klein has paired a navy accent wall with rich indigo textures in the furnishings. While these daring dyes dominate the space, they are delicately balanced with neutral hues on the surrounding walls and playful gold-framed mirrors to offset the richness of the color. 

Susana Simonpietri, Creative Director of Brooklyn-based design company Chango & Co, has the perfect recommendation for those who may not want to overwhelm a space with too much color. Rather than painting an entire wall, she recommends placing the focus on a smaller area, such as the back of a bookshelf, or accenting neutral-toned walls with indigo frames and accessories. Enhancing a room with small doses of this gorgeous color will be sure to revitalize your space and impress guests, sparking conversation.

Another trend that’s particularly popular right now is the incorporation of mixed metals, particularly in modern kitchen and bathroom designs. While mixing warm and cool tones may seem risky, Los Angeles designer Jamie Bush described matching metals as “too staged,” encouraging the more stylish option of mixing tones. Warm, glowing shades of copper and rose gold pair effortlessly with cooler, sleeker tones of silver; polished nickel shines against oil-rubbed bronze. Rachel Grace, blogger and Houzz contributor, recommends pairing stainless steel appliances with oil-rubbed bronze cabinet hardware for a modern yet elegant look. Copper adds a richer, warmer touch, and works particularly well on lighting fixtures. Kitchen that infused mixed metals have both the timeless air of tradition and an imaginative contemporary touch thanks to the creative mix of textures and finishes.

In the world of patterns and prints, geometric shapes are ruling the room—but if you’re looking to incorporate this playful trend, be particularly careful to avoid certain passé looks, such as ombre and chevron. Simon Rawlings, creative director of David Collins Studio in London, advises ditching the overused chevron pattern in favor of more modern, ethnic-style designs that are presently en vogue. One geometric look that’s chic and playful without looking juvenile? Encaustic tiles.

Encaustic tiles are having their moment, effortlessly adding colorful, rustic charm to any space. Classic encaustic tiles reflect an elegant European look and feature intricate designs, but as the trend has expanded, many of these tiles feature more contemporary patterns, making them a dynamic element that works in a variety of styles and spaces. The black and white bathroom tile pictured below is appealing without being too retro, and sits on the fence between chic and playful—a perfectly balanced look that any minimalist can appreciate. 

Encaustic tiles are perfect for anyone who enjoys global influences in their homes, as they come in a diverse assortment of patterns that reflect various styles from around the world—encaustic tiles effortlessly fit into Spanish, Mediterranean, Moroccan, and classical European themes. Geometric patterns are the perfect way to add visual interest to a room without adding weighted textures, giving them a subtle yet powerful appeal.

Texture is another element that is slowly sneaking its way back into home décor styles, contrasting with the sleek, modern lines that have ruled interior design for the past several years. Warm woods, furs, embroidery, textured wallpapers, and intricate ethnic textiles are stealing the spotlight in 2015, so don’t be afraid to integrate a mixture of textures into your space this year. Textures are also a perfect complement to the rich, dark colors and sophisticated patterns that are the current mood of the moment; they contribute a chic charm and organic feel to any space.  

Add a dash of indigo, a touch of warm copper, or an elegant pattern to your space to discover an invigorating new look. This year’s home décor trends are the absolute essence of luxury interior design—they embody the perfect balance of drama and subtlety, and can transform any space from contrived and outdated to attractive and effortless. 

Springtime Elegance

Notions of old world romance and sophisticated elegance are the delightful jewelry trends of Spring 2015. The Fashion Week runways have set the precedent with colorful jewels, dreamy touches and streamlined shapes to complement the springtime looks. There are several refreshingly luxurious collections to keep an eye out for as we dive into the new season, as well as straight from the runway styles perfect for those seeking cutting-edge trends.

2015 Runway Trends

Nostalgic romance and modern elegance were the prevailing accessory trends on the catwalks of Fashion Week 2015. Exquisite attention to detail was found in every collections’ careful styling and every jewel was perfectly placed.

Estate earrings, seen on the runways of Prada and Dolce & Gabanna, are the perfect addition to any romantic springtime ensemble. Their delicate antique charm is the perfect addition to floral prints, pastels and soft silhouettes, all necessary spring staples. These charming floral earrings from Bottega Veneta are the perfect subtle feminine touch, including a pure turquoise pistil and chrysoprase-accented petals framed in handcrafted oxidized silver. Bottega Veneta’s latest collection includes a handful of delightfully enchanting springtime pieces that feature light colors and whimsical designs. Their headbands and necklaces embrace a distinctive approach to floral designs, with stunning arrays of aquamarine gemstones framed in oxidized silver. These springtime pieces are imaginative and versatile, offering their own re-imagined take on a classic floral look. 

Love was in the air on the Dolce & Gabbana runway this season, which featured romantic pieces nuanced by colorful jewels mixed with pearls for an old-world charm. The pieces featured on the runway were just gaudy enough to suit a couture show, but Dolce & Gabbana’s Collection Seven offers a more gracefully wearable look. Below are some featured earrings from their latest collection; this delicate arrangement includes 14 oval and round rubies and 12 baroque freshwater pearls cascading down an elegant 18-carat gold setting. The rest of Dolce & Gabbana’s Collection Seven has a particularly poised aesthetic, with rubies, pearls, and red gold as the standout features that add to the collection’s gorgeous romance. The collection is indulgent and lavish without being overstated, and each piece is exceptionally elegant.

Sophisticated Springtime Collections

For those looking for something less trendy and more wearable, there is an array of recent luxurious collections offering pieces that range from smartly modern to opulently chic, fit for a diverse range of personal styles.

Tiffany & Co. has always been heralded for their timeless heirloom gems, such as their diamond engagement rings, elegant heart bracelets and necklaces, and delicate pendants. Recently, new Creative Director Francesca Amfitheatrof debuted the striking Tiffany T Collection, a bold and modern assortment of streamlined pieces smartly branded with the Tiffany “T.” The collection is the epitome of modern elegance; its architectural designs are stated yet streamlined enough to give the pieces a refined grace. The simplicity of the pieces gives them a versatile wearability; they flow seamlessly from day to night and from casual to black tie. One of the staples of the collection, the Tiffany T square bracelet is a simple yet sophisticated piece that complements almost any outfit. Worn alone, it adds a polished touch; layered with others, it effortlessly makes a statement. Other standout pieces in this collection include the strikingly modern cutout cuffs, chic chain necklaces perfect for layering, and diamond-studded wire bracelets—all branded, of course, with the classic Tiffany “T.” The pieces from Tiffany’s T collection feel equally fitting in the office, out on the town, or for a special event and will be sure to garner more than a second glance.

Another remarkably fabulous collection worth a glance is Harry Winston’s Secrets Collection, which debuted several months ago. All of Harry Winston’s pieces are notably luxurious, but his Secrets collection is especially alluring and perfect for a more indulgent springtime look. The Secret Cluster pieces feature the finest diamonds entwined in surprising ways, giving them effortless, unparalleled style. The necklaces are exceptionally captivating, and are designed so that they can be worn in a variety of configurations; their unique versatility sets them apart from other timeless classics. The Secret Wonder Earrings are a stylish enchantment, featuring reversible starburst drops studded with a medley of diamonds on one side and a hidden array of sapphires, diamonds and aquamarines on the other side. The frosting on the extravagant cake? The entire collection is beautifully set in platinum.

Cartier’s most recent selection for the 2015 Winter Collection also feature several exceptional one-of-a-kind pieces that are essential for a modern, tasteful spring look. The Paris Nouvelle Vague necklace  is one of the collection’s most wistful pieces, with a particular French allure embodied by 18-carat pink gold set with 49 diamonds, cascading into hanging charm reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower. 

The Amulette de Cartier necklace and bracelet offer a more contemporary option. Inspired by exotic talismans, these pieces offer both imagination and simplicity, refined by polished curves and a focused silhouette. The necklace is 18-carat yellow gold set with 178 diamonds, offset with touches of onyx and black lacquer (the bracelet is the same, with the exception of ten extra diamonds). All of Cartier’s latest pieces are defined by a distinguished extravagance that is guaranteed to steal the show.

Whether you’re looking for this season’s latest runway fashions or something a bit more ready-to-wear, these collections are the perfect representations of the simple sophistication and romantic glamour that are the highlights of this year’s spring season. 

Milan Fashion Week

The Contemporary Woman Reinvented at Milan Fashion Week 2015

As the runways of New York, Paris and London have come to a close, all eyes are fixed on Milan this week, where highly anticipated Autumn/Winter collections are unfolding at Fashion Week. Designers this season have rejected the notion of chasing a particular mood; rather, they are seeking to define the contemporary woman in their own words. Feminine lines and frilly touches were second place this week, with edgier, masculine tailoring, structured pantsuits and intensified geometric lines being the popular themes in the standout collections. Some shows still embraced the whimsical appeal of softness, deconstructed silhouettes and neutral shades but were not as well received. Highlights from the week include MaxMara’s homage to old Hollywood, surprising twists from the sugary sweet Prada show, and perhaps the most highly anticipated was Alessandro Michele’s debut as Gucci’s new creative director.

Up–and-coming supermodel Gigi Hadid channeled a contemporary Marilyn Monroe on the MaxMara runway, with tousled blonde waves and understated makeup that paired effortlessly with her cocoon-like camel coat. The rest of MaxMara’s collection followed suit, featuring unstructured mink-lined soft coats, mohair sweaters and satin bustiers, swathed in neutral shades of camel, cream, and sand. The collection had all the restrained glamour and sensuality of a classic Hollywood love affair, defined by supple lines and a calming color palette.

While MaxMara’s show time-traveled to the past, Fendi’s collection teleported to the future with a dignified aura of modernity, introducing geometric prints and hard lines inspired by the abstractionist work of Sophie Taeber-Arp. Fendi designer Karl Lagerfeld’s story was told in the slender, structured lines that dominated his runway, with high-necked white leather columns, empire waisted dresses that featured geometric prints and leather paneling on skirts and jersey dresses. Kendall Jenner graced the Fendi runway in a dark plaid puffy coat paired with furry ankle booties for an amusing, modish winter look. Fendi’s futuristic charms kept the masculine tone that has pervaded the Milan runways.

Elsewhere, Jil Sander designer Rodolfo Paglialungia unveiled a solid follow-up to his debut collection last season. His womenswear collection gave a nostalgic touch to the long lines and patterns that ruled Milan this week, with long coats featuring slim 70’s lapels, wide-legged trousers, and colorful linear patterns. Despite his definite allusion to characteristic 70’s fashion, Pagialungia’s collection was both edgy and elegant; retro and relevant. His impeccable attention to detail was evident in the collection’s subtleties: lightweight colored cashmere coats, long, patterned sweater dresses neatly belted at the waist and smart black sleeveless dresses. The Jil Sander runway harnessed the defining, minimalist touch that stood out amongst the louder shows.

It was all business on the Armani and Versace runways; classic pantsuits, dark pinstripes and symmetrical silhouettes were focal points. Armani’s trousers featured full waists paired with wide, cropped legs that showcased the ankle. Versace’s usual standout sex appeal was replaced this season with something slighter: barebacked models strutted in playful suits, patterned gowns and loud colors. Minidresses adorned in glitzy geometric shapes and a loud font (which included a hashtag in a clever effort to stay relevant) brought a hot, fun moment that amped up the otherwise sleek show.

While Versace dialed down its typical sex appeal, Roberto Cavalli’s collection was brazenly flirty. Printed mini-dresses were paired with fur coats, feminine blouses with ruffled sleeves nodded to a 70’s vibe and bohemian prints and geometric necklaces added to the show’s bold and colorful ambiance. His daring collection comes during the final stages of the sale of a majority stake in his brand, so it’s unclear what the future holds for Cavalli’s company, a timeless favorite of many Hollywood starlets.

Perhaps the brightest spotlight of the week fell on Alessandro Michele, the new creative director of Gucci. Patrons and critics alike were eager to see where Michele would steer the brand after taking over for his predecessor Frida Giannini. The show, entitled “The Contemporary is the Untimely” (after a quote from French philosopher Roland Barthes) was staged on an industrial metal catwalk that set the tone for Gucci’s intriguing new beginning.

Michele’s debut collection was an unequivocally innovative direction for the brand, whose long-standing tradition of trendy, alluring and luxurious was replaced by a stylish sensibility. Female models wore nerdy-chic eyeglasses and pleated below-the-knee skirts; floral print suits and dresses, Lurex sweater vests, and neutral colored dresses with ruffled prints, while male models sported women’s blouses and suits and gave the show its androgynous air. The show’s title was certainly appropriate; Michele’s collection offered a unique, intelligent vision of the contemporary woman.

While Alessandro Michele set a new agenda for the Gucci runway, Prada set a new agenda for the entirety of fall and winter fashion this season. While most major designers sought to re-imagine the modern feminine woman as audacious and strong, Prada’s collection was exceptionally feminine in every classic sense of the word. Models pranced in a rainbow of saturated hues, from pastels to off tones and even hints of neon, which were also evident in the impeccable styling. There was a thought behind every accessory, from the glitzy brooches to the bright plastic hair barrettes and bows that sat daintily on empire line dresses.

The sugary show was not without its surprises: Models sported colored leather gloves that reached all the way up the arm and Grace Kelly-esque high ponytails that gave an air of exaggerated girlishness, juxtaposed with contrasting color combinations and a very strange shoe selection—two-tone Mary Jane sandals and rubbery knee-high boots were among some of the more unconventional choices. These twists were typical though, not lacking in Prada’s usual exquisite innovation.

Designers this season are continuing to pursue the reinvention of the contemporary woman, and Milan leaves us asking, who is the contemporary woman? With so many diverse fashion niches to choose from this season, Milan has made it evident that the contemporary woman is whomever she chooses to define herself as.