On June 7, 2025, Portofino’s crown jewel, Splendido, a Belmond Hotel, made a dazzling return with a visionary transformation by the internationally acclaimed Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS). Perched above the harbor in a former 16th-century Benedictine monastery, the iconic property has been exquisitely reimagined as more than a renovation—it’s a full sensory journey that pays elegant tribute to Ligurian heritage while embracing the spirit of modern La Dolce Vita.

A Storied Past, A Sensual Present

For decades, Splendido has captured the imaginations of royalty, artists, writers, and stars of the silver screen. Its romantic setting, winding gardens, and cinematic views of the Gulf of Tigullio made it a favorite of Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and countless others. Now, under Belmond's careful stewardship, the hotel has been reborn — its legacy preserved, its soul renewed.

The Couture-Inspired, Ultra-Rare Spirit Honors the Brand's Legacy of Black Excellence, and Will Be Exclusively Auctioned Via Sotheby's to Benefit Native Son

Stitzel-Weller Distillery introduces the rarest expression in I.W. Harper’s 150-year legacy: the I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Aged for over three decades in just four original barrels filled in 1989, this exceptional release was matured entirely at the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery. Presented in collaboration with two-time Oscar-nominated actor, director, and activist Colman Domingo, the release marks a striking fusion of heritage, artistry, and cultural purpose. 

Limited to only 11 bottles worldwide, with just 5 offered for sale via Sotheby’s New York, the auction proceeds will benefit Native Son, a platform uplifting and empowering Black queer men. More than a collector’s item, this release is a bold tribute to personal identity, intentional storytelling, and timeless style, setting a new precedent in how ultra-aged bourbon intersects with social impact and legacy.

Tucked along the sun-drenched coastline of the Mexican Pacific, just minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s creative pulse and cultural allure, a new beacon of luxury has emerged along the Mexican Pacific. Introducing UNICO 20°105° Hotel Riviera Nayarit, the latest jewel from AIC Hotel Group’s celebrated UNICO Hotel Collection. This adults-only retreat redefines what it means to escape—with an effortless blend of serenity, elevated service, and soulful connection to place.

Following the award-winning legacy of its sister property, UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya, this west coast expansion brings with it the same ethos of authenticity, artistry, and personalized experience. Interiors are thoughtfully curated, featuring warm textures and handcrafted details, with original works by renowned Mexican artists, including Fidencio Benítez, Ismael Vargas, Sergio Bustamante, as well as Wixárika artisans. The result is a sanctuary that feels rooted in the land while opening up to the infinite horizon.

GUESS JEANS^® has officially landed in Tokyo, unveiling its first-ever flagship store in Asia—a striking four-story space in the heart of the vibrant Jingūmae neighborhood. Spearheaded by Chief New Business Development Officer Nicolai Marciano, the launch signals a bold new phase for the brand’s global expansion, powered by influential partnerships with cultural figures like South Korean rapper, singer, and producer Zico, who fronts GUESS JEANS^®’ latest campaign.

Designed by Hiroshi Fujiwara of Fragment Design and brought to life by ASA Architecture Firm under Nicolai Marciano’s creative direction, the GUESS JEANS^® Tokyo flagship bridges Japanese and Californian craftsmanship and architectural sensibilities in striking harmony. Nestled just steps from Omotesando Hills and tucked off the iconic Cat Street, this four-story landmark embodies the brand’s forward-looking vision for its next chapter in Asia and sets a new standard for immersive, culturally connected retail spaces worldwide.

YAMAGATA, Japan — July 8, 2025 — At the intersection of haute couture and biomaterial innovation, Japanese biotech venture Spiber, a pioneer in man-made protein fibers, has partnered with celebrated Dutch designer Iris van Herpen to unveil one of her two striking bridal looks during Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025. The collaboration embodies a compelling dialogue between science and art—two trailblazing forces united by a shared vision to reshape the future of fashion.

Van Herpen’s SS26 couture collection spotlights a wedding dress crafted using Spiber’s groundbreaking man-made protein fiber, pushing the boundaries of what sustainable luxury can look and feel like. Both Spiber and Iris van Herpen, founded in 2007, have charted parallel paths of radical experimentation: Spiber in the field of biomaterial engineering, Van Herpen in avant-garde couture that fuses technology and nature-inspired design.