In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news from around the world. This week’s highlights: Boutique Group preserves Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage with a suite of ultra-luxury hotels, Aston Martin’s new Vantage comes with enhanced power and modern upgrades, and more.
Boutique Group Preserves Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Heritage With A Suite Of Ultra-Luxury Hotels
A unique hospitality company, Boutique Group, was launched last year by his Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman the Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia. Owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the company is tasked with reviving and reconstructing historical and cultural palaces into ultra-luxury boutique hotels. Three palaces are in the midst of development, which includes the AlHamra Palace, the Red Palace and the Tuwaiq Palace, with more to come. Like living museums, these palaces will unveil the glory of all the historical events, legends and heroes in Saudi Arabia, where each room and wall has a story of its own.
Aston Martin’s New Vantage Comes With Enhanced Power And Modern Upgrades
The new Aston Martin Vantage (from RM2.37 million) is technically a facelift, updating the model that was first unveiled in 2017, but it packs some significant upgrades. Not only does it have a revamped infotainment system, with a proprietary OS and up-to-date lifestyle features such as wireless Apple Carplay, but it also has received a big power boost as well as a refreshed external appearance that is wider and thus seemingly lower and meaner. Its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine has been re-engineered for some 30 per cent more output. This gives it a mighty 656bhp, with 800Nm of torque to go with it, and a 0-100km/h time of 3.4 seconds—and a top speed of 325km/h.
Girard-Perregaux’s Latest Laureato Shines With Two Pink Gold Additions
Girard-Perregaux introduces two new additions to its Laureato collection, with encased 42mm pink gold that upholds the Laureato tradition of merging contrasting shapes and finishes. The dials of these new timepieces feature a Clous de Paris motif, which lends the watches a mesmerising three-dimensional depth. Crafted through a meticulous process involving more than 50 steps, the textured dial exhibits a nuanced play of green and blue hues—revealing a different shade from every angle. The self-winding manufacture calibre GP01800 comprises 191 components, touching on circular graining, bevelling, mirror polishing, satin finish, and intricate engravings. Additionally, the movement has a power reserve of at least 54 hours. The Laureato 42mm Pink Gold Bracelet is priced at RM239,000, while the Laureato 42mm Pink Gold Alligator Strap reatils at RM163,200. Both versions are now available worldwide in all Girard-Perregaux retailers.
Get Resort Ready With Gucci’s New Italian Escape Collection, Gucci Lido
Gucci recently launched its new Gucci Lido collection, inspired by the charm of Italy’s coastal beach clubs. Under the creative direction of Sabato De Sarno, the campaign captures the essence of escapism and the joy of summer. Highlights in this collection include swimwear and resort wear, reimagined versions of the classic Gucci Jackie and GG Marmont handbags, as well as GG canvas accessories such as the Gucci Luce and Moon Side bags. To spotlight some of Gucci Lido’s pieces, a series of in-store pop-ups is being showcased at some of the world’s signature resort destinations such as Porto Cervo, Capri, the Hamptons, and Saint-Tropez. Complementing the Gucci Lido experience, the house is inviting guests to a private event at Hotel II Pellicano, an exclusive hideaway tucked away on the Tuscan coast (24 to 26 May 2024).
Zipangu By Nadaman Collaborates With A Teppanyaki Maestro
From 18 to 30 May, the acclaimed Japanese restaurant in Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Zipangu by Nadaman, welcomes guest chef Akutsu Yoshiya, the chief head chef from Nadaman Tokyo. A renowned Teppanyaki maestro with more than forty years of experience, Chef Akutzu will showcase some of his signature creations, including the tantalising Teppanyaki Lobster with Sea Urchin Sauce served with fresh Sea Urchin and Truffle as well as rich flavours of Teppanyaki A5 Japanese Black Wagyu Sirloin and Tenderloin. On 24 and 25 May, there will also be a special four-hands collaboration by Chef Akutzu and Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur’s very own Zipangu Head Chef Takizawa, accompanied by Sake Sommelier Danny Leong (RM740 for dinner; RM920 with Sake pairing).
For reservations and enquiries, contact +603 2786 2378 or email dining.kl@shangri-la.com.
TROVE’s Flagship Boutique Debuts At The Exchange TRX
This flagship boutique embodies a modern interpretation of a cavern brimming with avant-garde fragrances and rejuvenating elixirs. The newest boutique, spanning 1,600 square feet, marks one of three stores in Malaysia that unfolds in a beautifully curated concept of a treasure trove hidden beneath the ocean. TROVE also houses unique offerings, ranging from premium hair care products to exquisite glassware. Beyond the elegant façade, esteemed VIP customers will be most delighted to find a VIP lounge for an elevated shopping experience.
EssilorLuxottica Reveals What’s Stylish In The Eyewear World This Season
Essilor and Luxottica have joined forces to give eyewear enthusiasts the best in optical eyeglasses and stylish sunglasses. House brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley and Vogue have launched a full collection of futuristic sunglasses that’s suitable for sportsmen, people who love wild adventures and, of course, fashion lovers. At the EssilorLuxottica press day, a lot of rectangular and wide, oval-shaped frames were spotted from brands such as Coach, Giorgio Armani, Burberry, and Prada. The rectangular-shaped frames possessed a more masculine vibe, perfect for the stylish gentleman, while the oval-shaped frames leaned more towards the feminine side. Stylish optical glasses are also available, and EssilorLuxottica provides a full service of checking and developing them. Visit the showroom and get your vision checked at Imazium, Damansara Utama.
