CH Carolina Herrera Unveils Summertime Essentials Collection for 2025

CH Carolina Herrera has unveiled its Summer 2025 collection, presenting a curated selection of seasonal staples designed to bring style, comfort, and vitality to the warmer months.

The collection highlights the art of summer dressing, featuring breezy silhouettes, breathable fabrics, and a sophisticated colour palette.

 It includes a variety of garments such as elegant linen separates and airy dresses, alongside a range of refined accessories.

 Each piece is designed to reflect the brand’s signature timeless style while embracing the ease of the season.

Among the standout items are the brand’s accessories, which subtly nod to the sea breeze of summer. 

The Initials Insignia bucket bag is made from woven fabric in natural fibres, crafted by the brand’s artisans in its atelier in Spain. 

The Capazo bag, handcrafted in braided raffia, is unique in each iteration due to its artisanal production process.

Additionally, the Vendôme and Initials Insignia bags are both crafted from seagrass using traditional weaving techniques. 

These pieces feature contrasting flaps made of Baobab leather, combining natural materials with artisanal expertise. 

The iconic Doma bag is also featured in new colours and shapes, continuing to interpret the brand’s philosophy of Alegría de Vivir, or ‘joy of living’.

The collection is available now.

carolinaherrera.com

Loro Piana Announces Summer Takeovers in Forte dei Marmi and Saint Tropez

Loro Piana has announced a series of exclusive summer takeovers in Forte dei Marmi, Italy, and Saint Tropez, France, celebrating the brand’s Italian heritage and craftsmanship.

The Maison will again transform Il Fioraio, a flower kiosk in Forte dei Marmi, offering a space inspired by Mediterranean aesthetics.

The kiosk’s design includes clay-finish ivory walls, oak and chestnut wood fixtures, and striped deck chairs, creating a relaxed, holiday-inspired setting. A curated selection of flowers will be available for sale, chosen to enhance summer retreats and mark special occasions.

As part of the experience, visitors can explore the Blooming Clay Ceramics collection, co-created with French artist and ceramist Karim Rahman and the Barlet Soeurs. Rahman’s ceramic pieces reflect Loro Piana’s signature textures and movement, evoking draped cashmeres and fine wools. The collection features vases, centrepieces, and other pieces, crafted with a sandy touch and finished with a creamy white marble-effect glaze. Rahman has also developed a palette of kummel and malachite green hues, inspired by Loro Piana’s codes.

The collaboration with Anne-Sophie and Bénédicte Barlet, known as Barlet Soeurs, presents a series of three cylindrical vases. These feature hand-painted patterns in warm earthy tones and whites inspired by the marbles of Carrara, reflecting the local flora and the spirit of Tuscan life by the shore.

Meanwhile, for the third year in a row, Loro Piana will take over La Réserve à La Plage on Pampelonne Beach in Saint Tropez. The brand’s signature white and kummel colours will decorate the venue’s furniture, umbrellas, sunbeds, and cushions, creating a cohesive and refined atmosphere.

A pop-up boutique will offer a curated selection of garments and accessories from the Resort 2025 collection.

Inspired by the Venetian Lagoon and the pastel hues of the island of Burano, the boutique will feature multicoloured ropes forming the iconic Suitcase stripe motif.

loropiana.com

Dior Unveils Cruise 2026 Collection in Rome’s Historic Villa Albani Torlonia

Dior presented its Cruise 2026 collection yesterday evening in the gardens of the Villa Albani Torlonia, Rome.

The show, directed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, Creative Director of Dior’s women’s lines, combined haute couture and ready-to-wear pieces, paying homage to the Eternal City’s cultural and artistic history.

The collection draws inspiration from the life of Mimì Pecci-Blunt, a prominent 20th-century figure in Rome, Paris, and New York. Chiuri reactivated Mimì’s world through a concept called Bal de l’Imagination, inspired by the opulent events she once hosted. This approach sought to create a synthesis of the arts and explore the blurred boundaries between reality and fantasy, with elements of both poetic intuition and magical realism.

The designs showcased a blend of historical fashion references and contemporary styles. Vests borrowed from men’s tailoring, often detailed with lapels, were paired with long, full skirts and tailcoats. Dresses featured fine lace or were contrasted with bas-relief patterns. Military-style jackets with black edges and buttons were incorporated into the collection, alongside dresses reminiscent of chasubles.

Short dresses in black and red velvet punctuated the predominantly white colour palette, a nod to the Fontana sisters, famed for dressing Anita Ekberg in La Dolce Vita. A golden velvet dress added a striking highlight to the runway.

The collection’s central theme revolved around white, expressed through a variety of materials ranging from dense fabrics to lighter textiles. Each design contributed to a choreographed visual narrative, likened to a farandole where elements existed both individually and collectively.

Production and direction for the event were managed by Bureau BETAK, with a film by Matteo Garrone titled Les Fantômes du Cinéma complementing the show. Music direction was handled by Michel Gaubert and Oliver Coates, performed by the Roma Sinfonietta orchestra. The creative team included choreographers Imre and Marne Van Opstal, and artwork was provided by Pietro Ruffo.

Actor costumes were created by Tirelli Trappetti, with shoes by Christian Dior and hats by Stephen Jones. Make-up was by Peter Philips for Dior, and hair styling was by Guido Palau. Casting was led by Michelle Lee, with styling by Yann Steiner and lighting by Philippe Cerceau. The event video was produced by Tender Night.

Dior’s Cruise 2026 collection reinterpreted Rome’s historical and cultural narratives through a contemporary lens, blending fashion, art, and performance into a cohesive presentation.

dior.com

Tashas Group Unveils Major Expansion with Eight New Locations Across MENA

Tashas Group, the South African-founded hospitality brand led by CEO Natasha Sideris, has announced plans to open eight new locations across the Middle East and Africa, marking a significant shift from its traditionally measured growth strategy.

The expansion includes establishing Tasha-branded cafés in previously untapped markets within the United Arab Emirates, such as Ras Al Khaimah, Nad Al Sheba, Al Ain, and Sharjah. Additionally, the group plans to introduce Arlecchino by Tashas, an Italian-inspired licensed concept, in Cape Town.

 The upscale beach dining concept Bungalo34 is set to open in Ras Al Khaimah, while Avli by Tasha’s will debut in Bahrain. South Africa will also see five new locations, further solidifying the brand’s presence in its home country.

A notable addition to the group’s portfolio is Café Sofi, named in honor of Sideris’s late mother. 

This expansion comes amid increasing competition in Dubai’s upscale casual dining sector. With these developments, Tasha’s Group is poised to enhance its footprint across the region, bringing its distinctive blend of quality dining and stylish ambience to a broader audience.

tashasgroup.com

Brunello Cucinelli Unveils 2025 High Summer Capsule Collection

Brunello Cucinelli has introduced its High Summer 2025 Capsule Collection, inspired by the open water and coastal landscapes.

For menswear, the collection draws from the world of offshore sailing, using the J Class yacht as a central motif. 

The designs integrate fluid tailoring with technical materials and subtle maritime cues. The colour palette is divided into two themes: a classic navy inspired by nautical heritage, and a more expressive pairing of cherry and beige, creating contrast and vibrancy. 

Signature materials include abaca, a sustainable fibre sourced from the Musa textilis plant in the Philippines, which is blended with virgin wool and silk to produce a breathable fabric with a denim-like finish.

 Other fabrics include lightweight microfibre, bonded cotton, and techno-cotton gabardine. Nautical motifs, such as rope piping and embroidered sail silhouettes, appear across knitwear, tailoring, and outerwear. Accessories include washed suede espadrilles, woven leather belts, and canvas bags with buffalo leather trim.

In womenswear, the collection captures the breezy elegance of coastal living, focusing on natural textures and layered forms. The colour palette features neutrals and metallics like ivory, sand, and champagne for daytime glamour, alongside vibrant tangerine shades grounded by earthy accents. 

The materials include delicate cotton organza, lamé cotton gauze, striped organza, and netting crafted from airy cottons and jute yarns. Papyrus, stripes, and nets serve as key motifs, with papyrus reimagined as a soft foliage print on flowing caftans, trousers, and lightweight shirts. Accessories complement the collection with raffia textures, gathered leather bags, and earth-toned sandals.

Both collections are designed for warm weather, offering unstructured blazers, drawstring Bermudas, openwork knits, and twinwear sets. The women’s collection emphasises balance and dimension through mixed lengths and volumes, while the men’s collection highlights relaxed yet polished silhouettes suitable for summer’s rhythm.

brunellocucinelli.com

 

Cartier Unveils En Équilibre High Jewellery Collection

Cartier has revealed its latest high jewellery collection, ‘En Équilibre’. Balancing simplicity with extravagance, the collection showcases a seamless harmony between volumes, colours and space, underpinned by precision and restraint.

The collection’s concept revolves around equilibrium, with the juxtaposition of full and empty spaces, symmetry and asymmetry. Jacqueline Karachi, Director of High Jewellery Creation, described the approach as “the paradox of sophisticated simplicity,” highlighting Cartier’s dedication to balance and harmony.

Among the standout pieces is the Shito necklace, which features two 49.37-carat Zambian emerald drops, connected by curves of diamonds and an adjustable clasp. This design prioritises the stones, embodying Cartier’s vision of high jewellery with precision lines and minimal excess.

The Hyala necklace, crafted from rose gold, combines coloured sapphires and diamonds with delicate transparency, creating the illusion of stones set directly onto the neck. Its design, inspired by a spider’s web, includes a 5.71-carat oval-cut diamond suspended below a pear-shaped diamond.

Cartier’s signature Panthère Orbitale and Panthère Dentelée necklaces are also part of the collection. The Panthère Orbitale features a panther perched on a coral cabochon, with emerald eyes and a coat of diamonds and onyx. Coral and amethyst form a bold chromatic backdrop. In contrast, the Panthère Dentelée presents a lace-like panther adorned with diamonds, emeralds and onyx. The piece incorporates a cascade of faceted Colombian emerald beads, threaded with respect for the design’s curves and layering.

The Tsagaan necklace captures the elusive snow leopard’s essence through interwoven geometric motifs in white gold, onyx and diamonds, creating a trompe-l’œil effect where the animal’s head appears or disappears depending on the angle.

Another highlight, the Pavocelle necklace, is inspired by the peacock’s eye-spots, featuring a 58.08-carat Ceylon sapphire cabochon surrounded by openwork motifs reminiscent of a peacock’s tail. The design allows for transformation into a brooch, with a pear-shaped diamond from the clasp reattached as a pendant.

Finally, the Summae set focuses on essential design, using troïdia-cut diamonds, onyx and emerald beads in a chromatic trio of black, white and green. According to Alexa Abitbol, Director of the High Jewellery Workshops, nearly 100,000 hours of work have gone into creating this collection, which combines suppleness, lightness and clean lines to make the invisible as precious as the visible.

cartier.com

Giorgio Armani Mare Embarks on Global Journey for Summer 2025

Giorgio Armani Mare has announced its Spring/Summer 2025 collection, which will be showcased across some of the world’s most prominent summer destinations. 

The tour starts in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, from the 27th to the 31st of May, aligning with the fourth edition of the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta hosted by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. Sørvind by Giorgio Armani, the custom Giorgio Armani Mare boat, will compete for the first time as a tribute to the brand’s role as Title Sponsor.

A pop-up installation at Piazza Azzurra outside the Yacht Club will offer a comprehensive look at the Giorgio Armani summer experience. Following Porto Cervo, the collection will be presented from the 30th of May at the Armani/Caffè terrace in Cannes. The tour will then move to Capri, where a Giorgio Armani boutique opened in April on Via Camerelle. Throughout the season, the Giorgio Armani Mare concept will be showcased at Caffè Caso, situated in Capri’s iconic piazzetta, an area well known for its popularity among tourists and celebrities.

The final stop on the tour is Shelter Island in the Hamptons, where a pop-up and beach takeover are planned. Each destination will be transformed with tropical palm motifs in grey and turquoise against warm wood-toned floors, creating a distinctively summery atmosphere. Visitors can expect elements such as Armani/Dolci ice cream carts, life buoys, surfboards, table football and furnishings from Armani/Casa Outdoor, designed to evoke a sense of holiday leisure. The atmosphere will be accompanied by a Spotify playlist curated by DJ and producer Emmanuelle.

Giorgio Armani Mare will also be available throughout the season in resort boutiques in Capri, Porto Cervo, Forte dei Marmi, Saint-Tropez, Cannes and Puerto Banus, as well as selected Giorgio Armani boutiques worldwide.

The collection offers a selection for men and women, with light, flowing silhouettes in a colour palette of white, ecru and black. The Giorgio Armani Vela line for men, crafted from technical fabrics in an elegant sand tone, will be stocked in boutiques in Porto Cervo, Forte dei Marmi, Saint-Tropez and Cannes.

For the third consecutive year, Giorgio Armani is also supporting the One Ocean Foundation. The brand’s contribution will fund the ‘Blue Forest’ project, focused on protecting and restoring blue natural capital, particularly Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant known as the “lung” of the Mediterranean Sea due to its ecological significance.

giorgioarmani.com

Geneva Watch Days Announces Engaging Programme for 2025

Geneva Watch Days (GWD) is set to return from the 4th to the 7th of September 2025 for its sixth edition. 

Organisers promise fresh ideas, a record number of brands, and a more engaging programme than ever before.

Following the 2024 edition, which attracted over 13,800 visitors, 600 media representatives, and 250 retailers from across the globe, GWD organisers plan to reinforce their status as the essential summer meeting point for the watch industry.

The upcoming edition will see a record 66 brands, from established names to inventive independents, displaying the diversity and creativity of contemporary watchmaking. Participants include Akhor, Alpina, Bvlgari, Breitling, De Bethune, MB&F, Ulysse Nardin, Zenith, and many others, all united by a vision of a vibrant, open industry focused on the future.

Among the highlights for 2025 are two new Swiss media partners, Radio Lac and Carac TV, which will broadcast interviews, segments, and live reports from the GlassBox studio at the heart of the GWD village. The event will also debut Calibership, a competition dedicated to the art of fine adjustment. Forty aspiring regulators, guided by Geneva Watchmaking School students, will test their skills on Sellita movements before final scrutiny from COSC.

The central Pavilion, inspired by the successful “By the sea, by the lake” concept, returns with a larger footprint and a summery, relaxed atmosphere. Nearly 150 exceptional timepieces will be displayed in an open-access exhibition designed to attract professionals, collectors, and the public. The Pavilion’s refreshed design includes an overhead canopy of sails and striped deck chairs.

GWD’s digital and visitor experience is also set to improve, with a redesigned website offering a more intuitive interface. A dedicated Culture Club space will host curated programming with partners including the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, the Geneva Watchmaking School, and the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.

Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bulgari Group and President of Geneva Watch Days, commented: “Open up! Dare! Innovate! That’s what Geneva Watch Days is all about: creating a moment that’s spontaneous, relaxed, and free of pretence — one that resonates with the media, with retailers, and above all, with those who matter most to us: our clients.”

Additionally, the charitable auction in partnership with Phillips and Bacs & Russo has raised over CHF 200,000 since its inception in 2023, supporting aspiring watchmakers through the Pierre Amstutz Fund.

Launched in 2020 by eight pioneering brands, Geneva Watch Days now operates independently, supported by local and industry organisations including the State and City of Geneva, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, and the GPHG.

gva-watch-days.com

Lando Norris Secures Victory at 2025 Monaco Grand Prix

Lando Norris delivered a commanding performance to win the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, marking his second victory of the season and narrowing the gap to his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri in the Drivers’ Championship to just three points this weekend.

The winning trophy, which Norris was awarded at the closing ceremony, was encased in a specially designed Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk. It marks the ninth time this season that Louis Vuitton has collaborated with Formula 1 for the presentation ceremony.

Starting from pole position, Norris maintained his lead throughout the 78-lap race on the challenging Monte Carlo street circuit. Despite a significant lock-up at the first corner, he managed to fend off persistent pressure from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished second, and Piastri, who secured third place.

This victory marks McLaren’s first win at Monaco since 2008 and adds to Norris’s earlier triumph at the Australian Grand Prix this season. With this result, the Drivers’ Championship standings are now led by Piastri with 161 points, followed closely by Norris with 158 points, and Verstappen with 136 points. 

The race was not without incident; Alpine’s Pierre Gasly experienced brake failure after a collision, leading to a dangerous situation in the pit lane. Additionally, Fernando Alonso retired on lap 39 due to mechanical issues. 

Norris’s victory in Monaco is a significant milestone in his career and intensifies the competition within the McLaren team as the season progresses. The next race in the calendar is the Spanish Grand Prix, where both Norris and Piastri will continue their pursuit of the championship title.

formula1.com

The French Open Pays Tribute to Rafael Nadal’s Incredible Tennis Career

This weekend, Roland Garros paid tribute to Rafael Nadal, marking his unparalleled legacy at the French Open. 

The ceremony, held on Court Philippe-Chatrier, honoured the 14-time champion who retired from professional tennis in November 2024.

The crowd, including players Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek, donned ‘Merci Rafa’ shirts. A video montage showcased Nadal’s career highlights. Nadal’s long-time rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murra,y joined him on court. In a pre-recorded message, they stated, “Hi Rafa, after all these years and all these fights, we couldn’t let you leave like that.” 

Nadal addressed the audience in French, English, and Spanish, expressing gratitude to the French Tennis Federation, his family, and especially his uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal. He reflected on his journey, recalling his debut in 2005 and the challenges he faced. He acknowledged his rivals, stating that their competition pushed him to improve daily.

The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of a plaque featuring Nadal’s footprint, his name, and an image of the Coupe des Mousquetaires trophy. The permanent tribute is now located at net height on Court Philippe-Chatrier. 

Nadal’s record at Roland Garros stands at 112 wins and 4 losses, with titles spanning from 2005 to 2022. His farewell ceremony coincided with the opening day of the 2025 French Open, which runs until the 8th of June.

rolandgarros.com

Beirut’s Iconic Saint Georges Hotel Reopens Once Again

After many decades of closure, the legendary Saint Georges Hotel in Beirut has officially reopened, marking a significant milestone for the city.

Established in 1934, the Saint Georges Hotel quickly became a symbol of Beirut’s golden age, attracting celebrities, royalty, and political figures. 

Notable guests included King Hussein of Jordan, Brigitte Bardot, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The hotel’s bar was also renowned as a hub for international intrigue during the Cold War era.

The hotel suffered significant damage during the Lebanese Civil War, particularly during the “Battle of the Hotels” in the mid-1970s.

Following the damage and later legal challenges, the hotel is now once again poised to revive its former glory. The hotel’s management expressed optimism about the future, stating that the reopening is a testament to Beirut’s resilience and the enduring legacy of the Saint Georges.

The reopening of the Saint Georges Hotel is a poignant symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

instagram.com/saintgeorgeshotelbeirut

 

J.P. Morgan Unveils Most Expansive Summer Reading List in Firm’s History

J.P. Morgan has announced its most comprehensive Summer Reading List to date, marking the 26th year of the programme. This year’s collection comprises 16 titles, offering a range of topics from personal fulfilment to global technological shifts. According to the firm, the list aims to inspire curiosity and forward-thinking.

Darin Oduyoye, Chief Communications Officer of J.P. Morgan Asset & Wealth Management, described the selections as “a celebration of curiosity’s boundless power,” with subjects covering artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and the wonders of the universe.

A highlight of this year’s list is the introduction of the firm’s first Economic Spotlight. Authored by Harvard professor and former IMF Chief Economist Kenneth Rogoff, Our Dollar, Your Problem examines the U.S. dollar’s historic dominance in global finance and its uncertain future amid rising challenges such as cryptocurrencies and geopolitical tensions.

The reading list also features titles like Life in Three Dimensions by psychologist Shigehiro Oishi, which explores the concept of psychological richness in life; Becoming You by Suzy Welch, offering a guide to authentic living and career-building; and Inevitable by Mike Colias, which delves into the rapid transformation of the automotive industry toward electric vehicles.

Continuing from last November’s launch, the 2025 NextList spotlights innovative experiences shaping culture and technology. This includes DATALAND, the world’s first museum dedicated to AI arts and digital ecosystems, set to open in Los Angeles. Also featured is the Tony-nominated musical Maybe Happy Ending in New York, which tells the story of service robots questioning their existence. The list further highlights Napa Valley’s Hill Family Estate winery and the high-speed global sailing championship SailGP.

J.P. Morgan’s selection process involved the review of hundreds of submissions from Client Advisors around the world. The chosen titles were evaluated for their timeliness, quality and appeal to a global audience.

The full reading list and more information can be found at jpmorgan.com/readinglist

Rabanne Unveils High Summer 2025 Collection in Rio-Inspired Campaign

Rabanne has unveiled its High Summer 2025 collection with a new campaign inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s funk culture and nightlife.

Directed by Emmanuel Cossu and photographed by Rio-born visual artist Melissa de Oliveira, the campaign draws on the vibrancy of funk carioca and the resilience of the favela communities.

The campaign, described by Rabanne as a tribute to “Rio’s funk, its people, and the power of the Baile,” references the brand’s historical connection to funk and soul music. In the 1980s, founder Paco Rabanne established the record label Paco Rabanne Design and opened the Black Sugar club in Paris, dedicated to funk and Afro-Caribbean sounds. This latest campaign is a modern interpretation of that legacy, seen through the lens of Rio’s baile funk culture.

Melissa de Oliveira, who grew up in Morro do Dendê and has exhibited internationally, captures Rio’s urban life with a focus on local codes of style and gesture. Her work for Rabanne’s campaign features over seventy individuals from the community, including twenty dancers from movements such as Passinho, including talents like Hiltinho Fantastico and the Oz Crias collective. DJs and artists such as DJ Guiguinho, Aisha, and Yaminah Mello are also included, alongside fifty participants from Rocinha’s bailes.

The images depict scenes ranging from the preparation of partygoers to motorbike riders navigating the early morning light. The musical backdrop includes tracks from artists such as MC Neguinho Popotão Grandão, MC Marlon, MC Hollywood, and Luiz Bonfá.

Styling was led by Flavia Lafer, with fashion film styling by Claudia Kopke and Marina Franco. The campaign’s soundtrack underscores the frenetic energy of funk carioca, particularly its modern 150 BPM ritmo louco style, described by Rabanne as music made for packed dance floors and battles between speakers.

Cossu, known for his acclaimed music videos and commercials, expressed that the project was “not just inspiring, it was transformative,” capturing the pulse of Rocinha’s baile funk scene.

Rabanne’s creative direction for the campaign was led by Julien Dossena, with the creative concept by Sunbelt, a studio dedicated to stories rooted in lived experiences. The campaign reflects Sunbelt’s ethos of collaboration and authenticity, described as “fashion as a reflection of life, not an escape from it.”

According to the house, the project was realised with the support of the Rocinha community and stands as a celebration of cultural resilience and artistic expression.

rabanne.com

 

ZENITH Releases Its New Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar With Lapis Lazuli Dial

ZENITH has announced the release of the CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli, an update to the brand’s renowned CHRONOMASTER line.

 The new model was first introduced following the presentation of the G.F.J. and the 160th anniversary blue ceramic trilogy at Watches and Wonders 2025.

The new iteration features a lapis lazuli dial, characterised by a deep blue colour with shimmering, gold-coloured pyrite inclusions. Each dial is unique due to the natural variations of the stone. The three counters and the 1/10th of a second chapter ring are rendered in a refined silver tone, enhancing legibility against the blue background.

The timepiece displays the hours, day, date, month, and moon phase, with the indicators arranged for intuitive reading. The day and month are positioned at 11 o’clock and 2 o’clock, while the date is at 4:30. The moon phase display is integrated into the chronograph minute counter at 6 o’clock.

The 38mm round case, crafted from stainless steel, draws design inspiration from the 1969 A386 model, with pump-style pushers, tapered lugs, and a raised box-shaped sapphire crystal. The watch is powered by the El Primero 3610 automatic calibre, which operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour and includes a stop-seconds mechanism. The chronograph’s central seconds hand completes a full rotation of the dial every 10 seconds, marking 1/10th of a second on the chapter ring. The movement provides a 60-hour power reserve.

A sapphire display case back reveals the blue column wheel and an openworked rotor engraved with the ZENITH five-pointed star. The watch is offered with a blue calfskin leather strap with a stainless steel folding clasp, as well as an additional matching steel bracelet.

The CHRONOMASTER Original Triple Calendar Lapis Lazuli is priced at 22,700 USD. It is available at ZENITH boutiques, authorised retailers, and on the brand’s official website.

zenith-watches.com

Miu Miu Launches Upcycled Collection with Catherine Martin

Miu Miu has unveiled a new upcycled collection designed in collaboration with four-time Academy Award-winning designer Catherine Martin.

This collection also marks Martin’s directorial debut with the short film Grande Envie, accompanied by a campaign photographed by Michella Bredahl.

The Miu Miu Upcycled project, launched in 2020, centres on reimagining vintage pieces sourced from specialist stores and markets worldwide. The initiative, grounded in circular fashion, transforms pre-owned and pre-loved clothing into contemporary, sustainable designs.

Martin’s Grande Envie is a ghost love-triangle story set in the late 1920s and early 1930s South of France. It features Callina Liang, Daisy Ridley, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Diana Silvers, Eliot Sumner, and a special appearance by Willem Dafoe. The film is set in an opulent chateau, where a widowed count (Dafoe) encounters three strangers, while the deceased countess (Ridley) haunts her husband through a camera lens. Martin describes the setting as “a dynamic, in-between period, between the world wars, where great clashes and contrasts in style were taking place.”

The collection draws inspiration from this era and from the photography of Jacques Henri Lartigue. Martin’s designs juxtapose elements that might not typically align, such as lingerie with striped t-shirts, denim with eveningwear, and rowing blazers. The garments embody a blend of the pretty and the vulgar, reflecting the contrasts of the 1920s and 30s. Highlights include bias-cut gowns made from t-shirts, denim jeans transformed into wide beach trousers, and vintage scarves reworked into foulard halter tops. Martin cites the photographs of the period’s hedonistic beach culture as a key influence.

Bredahl’s campaign photography captures the mood of the collection with images of models and actors haunting bedrooms, stairwells, and gardens of the chateau in the late afternoon sun. The visuals convey a sense of youth seeking encounters, blurring the lines between past, present, and future.

Martin’s collaboration with Miuccia Prada spans three decades. She describes the collection as a reinterpretation of the past that transforms the meaning of clothing through storytelling.

The collection will debut exclusively at Miu Miu’s New Bond Street store in London on the 7th of June and will be available there for two weeks before a broader release on the 21st of June in selected stores worldwide.

miumiu.com

TAG Heuer Unveils Trio of Monaco Timepieces to Celebrate New F1 Partnership

Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer has introduced three new Monaco chronograph models to coincide with its debut as the first-ever title partner of the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco. 

Each timepiece draws from the brand’s longstanding connection to motorsport and reflects a unique aspect of its horological innovation.

The Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch is a tribute to vintage Heuer stopwatches of the 1960s and 70s. Designed with legibility and performance in mind, it features a black DLC-coated titanium case, a silver opaline dial with red accents, and the Calibre 11 automatic movement. Its limited run of 970 pieces references the brand’s formative racing decade. Retailing at 9,600 CHF, the model is available from May 2025.

The Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph

TAG Heuer also introduced the Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph, marking a leap in material science and complexity. Crafted from TH-Titanium (a proprietary, texturised titanium alloy developed in-house) the watch is powered by the lightweight Calibre TH81-00 movement. Weighing just 86 grams including the strap, the timepiece offers a “rattrapante” function capable of measuring two intervals simultaneously. It includes a sapphire dial and bezel, lime green chronograph highlights, and a sapphire caseback displaying its intricate mechanics. This model retails for 145,000 CHF.

The Monaco Chronograph x Gulf

Completing the trio is the Monaco Chronograph x Gulf, featuring the iconic Gulf racing colours. This edition maintains the square case and left-side crown of the original Monaco but adds a modern twist with a sunray brushed blue dial, rhodium-plated indexes, and light blue and orange highlights. The colour scheme is continued in the calfskin strap, and the watch is powered by the Calibre Heuer 02 movement with an 80-hour power reserve. It is also available from May 2025.

tagheuer.com

 

Tod’s Recognised with Two Major International Fashion Awards

Tod’s has received two significant accolades in the global luxury fashion sector, highlighting the Italian brand’s enduring influence and commitment to craftsmanship.

Diego Della Valle, President of Tod’s Group, was presented with the Changemaker Award for Craftsmanship at the third edition of the Changemakers in Luxury Fashion event. 

Organised by Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, the award celebrates Della Valle’s dedication to product quality, artisanal excellence and the preservation of traditional skills. It also recognises his efforts in passing on this expertise to future generations, particularly through the Bottega dei Mestieri initiative.

The award citation credited Della Valle’s vision of “Artisanal Intelligence”, which integrates human skill, cultural heritage and innovative creativity. His leadership has helped reinforce Made in Italy as a globally respected benchmark for sustainable luxury.

In response, Della Valle said: “Craftsmanship is the true essence of Italian luxury: a heritage made of hands, time and knowledge that cannot be replicated. It is a national value for Italy and must be protected and enhanced through concrete investments, starting with the training of young people.”

He added that the Bottega dei Mestieri programme aims to instil not only professional competence but also a culture of care and passion in craft. “Being an artisan is something noble and we must make this profession desirable and promote it,” he said.

Separately, Tod’s was named International Brand of the Year at the WWD x Saudi Fashion Awards in Riyadh. The event, hosted by the Saudi Fashion Commission in collaboration with WWD, acknowledged the continued global expansion and esteem of the Tod’s brand as a representative of Made in Italy.

The recognition was part of the WWD Global Fashion & Beauty Summit, which brought together key figures from across the fashion and beauty industries. Tod’s Creative Director Matteo Tamburini was among those participating in the summit.

tods.com

Louis Vuitton Examines the Intersection of Art and Fashion for Cruise 2026

Louis Vuitton unveiled its Cruise 2026 collection at the iconic Cour d’Honneur within Avignon’s Palais des Papes yesterday evening.

Under the direction of Nicolas Ghesquière, the latest collection from Louis Vuitton delves into the emotional and expressive nature of clothing. 

The house tackled an ambitious question through the staging and execution of the show: Is clothing confined to the realms of function and decoration, or can it possess an inherent artistic value that speaks to identity and experience?

Arguably, the Cour d’Honneur at the heart of the Palais des Papes was a smart choice for the location of this presentation. A revered space steeped in nearly a thousand years of history, which the house itself describes as a “cultural laboratory.”

On the runway, the intersection of art, identity and fashion was explored through sumptuous, rich fabrics and bold silhouettes, across ultra-structured mini shift dresses, micro shorts and wool cape coats.

Of course, as is de rigueur with LV, there were nods to the historic setting too – floral patterns inspired by medieval manuscripts and colour-blocked shapes resembling suits of armour. 

Ultimately, the latest offering from Ghesquière was a celebration of the fact that when we embrace ideas – fashion, identity and art – through a prism rather than monolithic thinking, we are usually rewarded with something even better. 

Highlights from the show: 

The set at the Cour d’Honneur, Palais des Papes in Avignon, France

louisvuitton.com

Hublot Launches First Square Bang Tourbillon with 4-Day Power Reserve

Hublot has unveiled its first Square Bang model featuring a tourbillon and 4-day power reserve, introducing a number of technical and design firsts for the Swiss watchmaker.

The Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve is the latest addition to the Square Bang line, which joined the Big Bang family in 2022. It marks a significant departure from traditional watchmaking norms by presenting a completely right-angled movement architecture within a square 42mm case.

The manual-winding MHUB6023 movement, developed entirely in-house, comprises 174 components and 25 jewels. It operates at a frequency of 3Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour) and delivers a minimum 96-hour power reserve. All bridges in the calibre are square or rectangular, contributing to a fully geometric visual aesthetic. Surfaces combine matte and satin finishes to enhance depth perception across the openwork design.

The layout of key components reinforces this structure: the winding mechanism is positioned on the right, the power reserve indicator on the left, the barrel at the top, and the tourbillon at the bottom. A skeletonised dial offers unobstructed views of the mechanism, including the silicon escapement, which improves resistance to magnetic interference and temperature variation.

Julien Tornare, CEO of Hublot, stated: “Until now, advances in square watches have been rather timid, usually confined to the case alone. With the Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve, we wanted to take the exercise to its logical conclusion, by designing a movement whose architecture is also fully right-angled.”

The watch’s exterior features a new 3D carbon fibre case and bezel, reinforced with six H-shaped titanium screws. The carbon is woven into a vertical and horizontal pattern, in line with the square motif of the case. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment protects both the front and back. The strap is made from black structured rubber, echoing the square pattern, and is secured by a black ceramic and black-plated titanium deployant clasp.

Priced at 105,000 USD, the Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve represents a blend of form and function, and marks a new chapter in Hublot’s pursuit of unconventional horological design.

www.hublot.com.

Aman Essentials Launches Aman Tennis Club

Aman Essentials has announced the launch of the Aman Tennis Club, a new lifestyle concept designed to reflect the brand’s approach to wellness, elegance and sport. The initiative continues Aman’s expansion into performance-led, luxury consumer goods.

The Aman Tennis Club is described as a members’ club reimagined through Aman’s minimalist design and wellness-focused philosophy. It is intended to appeal to a global audience of tennis enthusiasts who align with the brand’s values of refined living and wellbeing.

The new concept is led by Kristina Romanova, CEO of Aman Essentials. Romanova stated that the Aman Tennis Club will offer a blend of performance and style through exclusive collections, collaborations and sporting events. These will be accompanied by an online community platform.

The launch includes the Aman Tennis Club Collection, comprising on-court and off-court pieces. These include unisex garments, accessories and equipment designed for functionality and aesthetic consistency. The collection features lightweight and breathable fabrics, engineered for ease of movement and high-performance wear. Key items include tennis polos, skirts, dresses, shorts and warm-up sets, all designed with subtle, natural tones and discreet branding in line with Aman’s visual identity.

In addition to the collection, the Aman Tennis Club will support a programme of experiences and community engagement initiatives. These will include curated events in Aman destinations and beyond, offering members access to exclusive tournaments, private coaching sessions and wellness activities connected to tennis culture.

This is the latest addition to Aman Essentials’ expanding portfolio, which includes skincare, fragrances, spa products, ready-to-wear and leather accessories. The Aman Tennis Club builds on the brand’s ambition to create a lifestyle ecosystem centred around its core principles of harmony, exclusivity and experience.

Products from the Aman Tennis Club Collection are now available online at shop.aman.com.

 

IWC Schaffhausen Unveils Two New ‘Le Petit Prince’ Pilot’s Watches

IWC Schaffhausen has announced the release of two new Pilot’s Watches honouring Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s celebrated novella The Little Prince

The models are the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Le Petit Prince (Ref. IW504901) and the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince (Ref. IW329501), each showcasing a high complication in tribute to the enduring legacy of the French author and aviator.

The Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Le Petit Prince marks the brand’s first use of blue ceramic in a ‘Le Petit Prince’ edition. Limited to 100 pieces, the timepiece features a 46.5 mm blue ceramic case, matched with a blue dial and rubber strap. It includes an 18-carat 5N gold crown and case back ring. Gold-plated hands and appliques with Super-LumiNova ensure readability. The watch combines a perpetual calendar with a flying minute tourbillon at 12 o’clock, both driven by the IWC-manufactured 51950 calibre. The perpetual calendar, developed by IWC’s Kurt Klaus in the 1980s, displays date, day, month, year and moon phase, and is accurate for 577.5 years. A four-digit year display and single-crown adjustment underline its technical sophistication.

The tourbillon, consisting of 82 parts and weighing just 0.635 grams, compensates for gravity’s effects on accuracy. Its rotor, visible through the sapphire glass back, is crafted in solid gold and depicts the Little Prince on asteroid B612, consistent with the watch’s thematic dedication.

The second release, the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince, is limited to 150 pieces and features a 43 mm platinum case and a sunray-finished deep blue dial. Rhodium-plated hands and numerals filled with Super-LumiNova enhance visibility. Powered by the IWC-manufactured 82905 calibre, the watch integrates a flying minute tourbillon at 6 o’clock, also weighing 0.635 grams. Diamond Shell® technology improves energy efficiency and supports an 80-hour power reserve. The rotor, again shaped as the Little Prince, reflects IWC’s attention to storytelling detail.

IWC has partnered with the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation since 2006. The organisation supports educational, cultural and social initiatives for young people, aligned with the values expressed in Saint-Exupéry’s work.

iwc.com

BMW Saudi Arabia Leads Design Dialogue at Inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors (MYNM), the official importer of BMW in Saudi Arabia, has announced its role as Premier Sponsor of the first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh. The event, taking place until the 23rd of May at JAX District, marks the Kingdom’s debut of a high-quality design fair, bringing together international brands and local creative talent.

As part of its sponsorship, BMW Saudi Arabia has unveiled the BMW Lounge, designed by Saudi designer Amani Al-Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director at Kristina Zanic Consultants. The lounge serves as the main hospitality hub of the event, welcoming VIPs from the worlds of architecture, design and culture.

The BMW Lounge reflects the luxury brand’s design ethos and sustainability values. Drawing inspiration from the BMW i7’s interior and the natural contours of Saudi Arabia’s Mount Tuwaiq, the installation integrates local design motifs with sustainable materials such as Econyl. Its curved surfaces, ambient lighting, and a sculptural ceiling rooted in Najdi heritage exemplify BMW’s vision of “Forwardism” — a design philosophy that balances heritage with innovation.

David McGoldrick, Managing Director of MYNM, described the initiative as “a celebration of cultural expression through design,” and emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering Saudi talent in line with Vision 2030.

Designer Amani Al-Ibrahim commented on the local inspiration behind the project: “For The BMW Lounge, we drew inspiration from our regional landscape, particularly the contours and elevations of the Tuwaiq Mountains, which hold deep cultural significance.” Her concept, titled Woven Landscape, aims to foster connection through a serene and welcoming space.

Downtown Design Riyadh, held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, offers a curated platform to connect Saudi Arabia’s creative sector with global design leaders. The event supports the Kingdom’s cultural development strategy by facilitating collaboration and dialogue in the design industry.

bmw.com

Rolls-Royce Expands Apiary Initiative Across the UAE

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has expanded its Apiary Programme across the United Arab Emirates in celebration of World Bee Day, launching new beekeeping projects in both Ajman and Abu Dhabi.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai has unveiled six new beehives at Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman. The site, surrounded by mangroves and natural landscape, reflects the original apiary located at the company’s global headquarters in Goodwood, England. Four of the hives are named after the marque’s iconic models — Cullinan, Ghost, Phantom, and Spectre. Another bears the name Spirit of Ecstasy, and the final hive honours the company’s co-founder, Sir Henry Royce.

The Ajman installation has already hosted its first educational sessions, engaging more than 35 students from one school and one university. These workshops are designed to enhance understanding of bees’ essential role in pollination, biodiversity, and food security, while also encouraging environmental responsibility among young people.

Meanwhile, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi has launched its own apiary at Erth Hotel in the UAE capital. This site comprises three hives, constructed with the same materials and craftsmanship standards used at Goodwood. Home to around 60,000 bees, including three native Emirati queen bees, the initiative highlights a blend of environmental stewardship and national pride.

The Abu Dhabi site also contributes to local bird conservation, creating a green refuge that supports avian migration and biodiversity. It reflects the wider aim of the programme: to protect pollinators, raise environmental awareness, and strengthen community engagement through education-led initiatives.

The Apiary Programme, originally launched in England, forms part of Rolls-Royce’s broader approach to sustainability, combining local community involvement with global environmental goals. With these new projects in Ajman and Abu Dhabi, the marque continues to blend tradition with innovation in support of biodiversity.

rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Harrods Renews Fashion Trust Arabia Partnership to Champion Emerging MENA Designers

Harrods and the Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) have announced that they have renewed their partnership. 

The collaboration, first launched to elevate regional talent, continues to provide FTA Prize winners with a prominent platform in the global fashion market. 

Starting July 2025, the collections of four 2024 FTA Prize winners will be available both in-store and online at Harrods. 

Yasmin Mansour

The featured designers include Yasmin Mansour (Qatar), Nadine Mosallam (Egypt/UK), RAMLA (Egypt), and APOA (Saudi Arabia), each recognised for distinctive contributions to their respective categories of eveningwear, ready-to-wear, accessories, and jewellery.

By showcasing these designers, Harrods said that it aims to provide critical visibility and commercial access. “Our partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia represents an ideal convergence of emerging talent and established figures in the luxury industry,” said Simon Longland, Director of Buying – Fashion at Harrods.

Yasmin Mansour

Tania Fares, Co-Chair of Fashion Trust Arabia, highlighted the significance of the renewed partnership. “At FTA, our mission has always been to champion designers from the MENA region by opening doors to meaningful opportunities. Harrods’ continued support goes beyond retail—it’s a powerful endorsement that gives our winners global visibility, commercial access, and a platform to grow sustainably.”

The 2024 FTA Prize winners bring a range of influences and approaches. Yasmin Mansour blends conceptual design with ethical craftsmanship in her avant-garde eveningwear. Nadine Mosallam draws on Egyptian heritage to create distinctive ready-to-wear pieces. RAMLA presents sustainable accessories rooted in artisanal traditions, while APOA produces sculptural jewellery designed in Riyadh and crafted in Italy.

fashiontrustarabia.com

 

QASIMI Launches SS25 Collection in Collaboration with Artist Kambui Olujimi

QASIMI has launched its Spring/Summer 2025 campaign.

This season, the brand collaborates with New York-based artist Kambui Olujimi, whose work plays a central role in shaping the collection’s themes and design language.

According to the house, the collaboration with Olujimi reflects a shared commitment to addressing identity, history, and sociopolitical narratives through creative expression.

The collection draws significant inspiration from Olujimi’s “When Monuments Fall” series, a body of work examining the societal roles of monuments and the power dynamics they represent. According to Al Qasimi, “Our work with Olujimi allowed us to delve deep into these themes, aligning perfectly with QASIMI’s ethos of cultural dialogue and storytelling.”

A key concept in the SS25 line is “spolia,” the practice of repurposing elements from older structures into new ones. This approach informs both the visual and structural elements of the garments, reinterpreting past influences within a contemporary context. The result is a collection that merges fluidity and structure, symbolising the evolving significance of monuments over time.

The collection features a range of fabrics, including medium-weight silk twill, sheer cotton voile, and a silk-wool blend. Techniques such as digital printing, image granulation, and fading are used to express temporal shifts and reinterpret historical references. The garments balance sculptural form with softness, reinforcing the tension between permanence and change.

Olujimi praised the collaboration, stating, “I was thrilled to work with QASIMI because of their history of international collaborations and their eagerness for experimentation.”

QASIMI’s partnership with Olujimi continues the brand’s longstanding relationship with the arts. By incorporating fine art into its design process, the SS25 collection stands as a testament to the label’s ongoing interest in cross-disciplinary creativity and critical engagement.

qasimi.com

Bell&Ross Marks Two Decades of Iconic Design with “20 Years of Boldness” Campaign

Bell & Ross is marking a major milestone in 2025 with the launch of its “20 Years of Boldness” campaign, celebrating two decades since the debut of its flagship BR-01 model.

Introduced in 2005, the BR-01 revolutionised the watch industry with a square case inspired by aviation cockpit instruments. The 46mm timepiece, featuring four visible screws and a clear, functional dial, established Bell & Ross as a distinct force in professional-grade watchmaking.

Just a year later, the brand responded to market demand with the BR-03, a more compact 42mm version that retained the core aesthetic of the BR-01 while offering improved wearability. The BR-03 has since undergone various iterations, including an updated 41mm case in 2023, subtly refining its form to meet contemporary preferences without compromising its original identity.

Over the past two decades, Bell & Ross has continually expanded the BR range with bold, experimental designs and technical innovations. In 2009, it introduced the BR-01 Skull, bringing the skull motif to haute horlogerie. This evolved into the futuristic Cyber Skull in 2020. Other highlights include the BR-03 Phantom (2007), BR 03-92 Heritage (2009), and the Flight Instruments collection launched in 2010, which translated cockpit indicators into wristwatches.

The brand has also demonstrated its technical prowess through models like the BR-X1 Chrono Tourbillon (2015) and BR-X2 Tourbillon (2017). The use of advanced materials such as ceramic, bronze and carbon fibre, as well as enduring features like Super-Luminova®, have reinforced the brand’s reputation for combining durability with legibility.

Bell & Ross’s reach has extended beyond aviation, embracing land and sea with the BR-03 94 AeroGT (2016), inspired by a concept car, and the BR-03 92 Diver (2017), a square-case diving watch that challenged conventional design norms. Collaborations with military and elite units, including RAID, have further underscored the professional focus of the brand.

In 2025, the launch of the BR-03 Skeleton completes the BR-03 range with three new models: Black Ceramic, Grey Steel, and Lum Ceramic. Each features a skeleton movement developed exclusively for Bell & Ross, showcasing both transparency and precision.

bellross.com

Berluti Launches Monthly Podcast Series Exploring Personal Journeys and Craftsmanship

Berluti has launched a new monthly podcast titled Dans les Pas de…, spotlighting men whose personal and professional journeys have brought them into contact with the Parisian Maison.

The series aims to highlight the diverse traits of the Berluti man, including passion, creativity and a commitment to craft.

The first three guests in the series are actor Victor Belmondo, composer Clément Ducol and Paralympic athlete Arnaud Assoumani. Each episode presents a one-on-one conversation that explores the guest’s background and insights, linking their individual path to Berluti’s heritage of artisanal excellence.

Hosted by content creator and UCL graduate Madie Poullet, the podcast seeks to foster candid and meaningful dialogue. Known online as @Madie, she brings a following of 469,000 on Instagram and 1.3 million on TikTok. Her approach encourages the guests to share unexpected details of their lives in a format that blends personal narrative with the story of the Maison.

Victor Belmondo

The inaugural episode features Victor Belmondo, who discusses his acting career, Franco-Italian heritage and admiration for craftsmanship. The conversation takes place in Berluti’s Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré store, moving between the boxing ring and the patina bar. The episode also includes a moment with Luigi, who presents the wooden lasts used to create shoes for Belmondo’s grandfather, offering a tangible connection between the family and the brand.

This debut sets the tone for the series, described by Berluti as both emotionally resonant and informative. New episodes will be released monthly.

Dans les Pas de… is available from today, the 20th May, on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music and Deezer, as well as on YouTube and Berluti.com.

www.berluti.com

Ferrari 296 Speciale Arrives in Middle East

Ferrari has officially launched its latest special series model, the 296 Speciale, in the Middle East during a private event in Dubai. 

The reveal comes shortly after the vehicle’s global debut in Maranello and places the model firmly within Ferrari’s exclusive lineage of high-performance berlinettas.

Positioned as the successor to the Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale and 488 Pista, the 296 Speciale is designed to redefine driving engagement across both Ferrari’s production line and the wider performance segment.

Giorgio Turri, General Manager of Ferrari Middle East, said the launch was a landmark occasion for the region. “True to its name, this model is nothing short of extraordinary, blending cutting-edge innovation with Ferrari’s unmistakable DNA. With its supreme agility and dynamic finesse, heightened responsiveness and unmatched driving engagement, the 296 Speciale sets a new benchmark for performance and driving emotion behind the wheel.”

The 296 Speciale builds on the architecture of the 296 GTB, enhancing its agility and predictability while introducing several technical innovations. It features a rear-mid-mounted 120-degree V6 twin-turbo engine and electric motor, producing a combined 880 hp. This marks a 50 hp increase over the 296 GTB and the highest output for any rear-wheel-drive Ferrari to date.

Much of the development draws on Ferrari’s racing expertise, particularly the 296 Challenge. The V6 engine has been upgraded with titanium connecting rods, reinforced pistons, a lighter crankshaft and Formula 1-derived knock control. It now delivers 700 cv, 37 more than the GTB. Additionally, the electric motor generates 180 cv in extra boost mode, enhancing the shift strategy of the eight-speed DCT for quicker gear changes.

The car produces 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h, 20% more than its predecessor. Aerodynamic improvements include a front aero damper, rear vertical fins with new side wings and a reengineered rear spoiler. The spoiler now features a Medium Downforce setting and transitions between aerodynamic modes 50% faster.

Weight has also been a focus, with a reduction of 50 kg achieved through extensive use of carbon fibre and titanium. This contributes to a best-in-class weight-to-power ratio of 1.69 kg/cv. Further enhancements include revised suspension, a 5 mm lower ride height, and an updated ABS Evo system for improved braking precision.

Ferrari.com

Bvlgari Unveils Polychroma High-End Collection in Taormina, Sicily

Bvlgari has launched its latest high-end collection, Polychroma, with a major showcase in Taormina, presenting around 250 new creations as part of a wider exhibition featuring 600 high jewellery and high-end watch pieces.

Among them were 60 “millionaire” pieces – the highest number ever presented by the brand – and five milestone high jewellery designs.

The unveiling took place at Taormina’s ancient Greek Theatre, where the collection was revealed through a three-act performance inspired by Greek tragedy.

The show was choreographed by Sir Wayne McGregor, resident choreographer of The Royal Ballet. Models wearing bespoke Francesco Murano gowns and signature Polychroma pieces moved through a scenography of arches and veils, reflecting Bvlgari’s blend of ancient heritage and modern design.

Bvlgari global ambassadors Lisa Manobal, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Liu Yifei and Academy Award winner Viola Davis were among the high-profile guests at the event.

The evening began at the Grand Hotel Timeo with a gala dinner on its panoramic terrace. The setting combined Sicilian flair with the bold colours of the collection, incorporating local ceramics, neo-antique statues and arrangements of fruit to reflect the Polychroma theme.

The brand also introduced its most ambitious showroom to date at San Domenico Palace, a converted 15th-century convent. Inside, draped organza veils and sculptural displays by Ricardo Gatti and the design duo Malagioie showcased the collection. The Gallery of Wonders featured five standout millionaire pieces beneath jacquard textiles inspired by the digital artworks of Zach Lieberman and woven by Rubelli. A marble mosaic crafted in Ravenna and based on Roman tiles from Piazza Armerina was installed beneath the display.

Polychroma also featured several innovation experiences. A site-specific installation by Giuseppe Lo Schiavo projected colour and light onto a classical statue, immersing viewers in a three-dimensional journey. Apple Vision Pro headsets offered a mixed reality exploration of Bvlgari’s coloured stones. The brand also launched Connected Jewelry, a new concept that uses ultra-fine micro-engraving to embed a digital identity within each piece, offering access to detailed information via smartphone scan.

 

12 Iconic Balenciaga Looks at the 2025 Kering Women in Motion Awards in Cannes

Balenciaga took centre stage yesterday evening at the Cannes Film Festival.

A total of 12 celebrities and industry figures choose to wear the house for the 2025 Kering Women in Motion Awards and Cannes Film Festival Presidential Dinner, which took place at the Place de la Castre. Actress Nicole Kidman attended the event in LOOK 51 from Balenciaga’s 52nd Couture collection, wearing a high neck gown crafted in red guipure lace, complemented by red spandex Knife 110 mm pumps.

Kering chairman and CEO François-Henri Pinault wore a custom Balenciaga tuxedo. The ensemble featured a made-to-measure single breasted two-button jacket in black lightweight fine wool, with a black satin peak lapel, paired with matching straight leg trousers and a white popeline shirt. He completed the look with a black satin Balenciaga Couture bow tie and cummerbund, and black glazed leather Rim Derbies.

CEO François-Henri Pinault and Salma Heyak

Several celebrities wore pieces from Balenciaga’s Winter 25 and Summer 25 collections.

Mark Eydelshteyn was seen in a made-to-measure version of LOOK 3 from the Winter 25 collection, including a standard tailored jacket and trousers in dark navy fine wool pinstripe, a baby blue cotton poplin shirt, a bordeaux and navy dots jacquard silk tie, and black carrera lux calfskin Monsieur Derbies.

Mark Eydelshteyn

Patrick Schwarzenegger also opted for a Winter 25 look, choosing a made-to-measure version of LOOK 1. His outfit included a black escorial tailoring wool jacket, black stretch twill trousers, a white cotton poplin shirt, a black silk tie, and black carrera lux calfskin Monsieur Derbies.

Patrick Schwarzenegger

Charlotte Le Bon wore LOOK 2 from the Winter 25 collection, pairing a black escorial wool tailored jacket and black stretch twill trousers with a black soft jersey V-neck bodysuit and black suede Balenciaga Puma Speedcat trainers.

Charlotte Le Bon

Naomie Ackie appeared in a long-sleeved swimwear maxi dress made of black light matte swim jersey, paired with black patent calfskin Knife 110 mm pumps.

Naomie Ackie

Milena Smit wore a custom version of LOOK 65 from Winter 25: a red swim jersey open back dress paired with black calfskin Knife 110 mm pumps.

Milena Smit

Tessa Thompson wore LOOK 55 from Summer 25, consisting of a 3D printed top in black spandex and a back-draped black velvet skirt, with matching black spandex Knife pumps.

Tessa Thompson

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wore a custom version of LOOK 8 from Summer 25: a black milano jersey bustier dress with lace-up back, paired with black satin Knife pumps.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Helena Christensen wore a black velvet fitted gown with black satin Knife Bow 80 mm sandals.

Helena Christensen

Coralie Fargeat appeared in black barathea tailored trousers with a black soft jersey V-neck bodysuit and black patent Knife 110 mm pumps.

Coralie Fargeat

Iris Knobloch wore a turquoise polyester embroidered off-shoulder gown, a custom version of LOOK 3 from Winter 24.

Iris Knobloch

Balenciaga.com