L'Officiel Austria Spring 2023 English language version

N°17 – Spring 2023 – 7,90 € – WWW.LOFFICIEL.AT
Meredith
Mickelson
PHOTOGRAPHED BY
ELISABETH GATTERBURG
Sustainable
Spring
17
9 120129 150026
MEREDITH IS WEARING A FULL LOOK BY
MARC CAIN.

EDITORIAL
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
Spring is a time for re-birth, resurrection and rejuvenation.
In the luxury and fashion world it is the season
best attributed to sustainability and a more mindful
approach to our planet and its resources. With this in
mind, we have dedicated our spring issue to the topic of
sustainability. What is being done in the world of luxury
and fashion to ensure for a more mindful approach and
which fashion brand can be seen as being most sustainable?
We take a closer look at Stella McCartney in our
“Brand to Watch” segment – a brand that has been often
voted as being one of the most sustainable in the industry.
In our sustainability story, we journey through the most
relevant issues relating to sustainability and relay how
some of the world‘s largest fashion and luxury brands are
restructuring their daily businesses in favour of a more
sustainable approach. In our lady’s watch editorial, we
have paired our choice of the most coveted timepieces
with a clothing collection that uses embellishments derived
from fully recycled materials. Colour also goes hand
in hand with spring, and we therefore hope you will
love our cover shoot with the beautiful and charming
Meredith Mickelson. Colour also played a central role
in Giambattista Valli‘s Paris Couture Week show, and
we have included him, amongst other designers, within
our “Paris Couture Fashion Week Report”. Our
readers will also find a brand new segment dedicated
to “Home and Interiors” in this issue, which we
have packed with exciting news and beautiful stories
from the world of interior design. Last but
not least – in light of the recent, devastating
events in Turkey: our hearts go out to the
Turkish people who are in our thoughts
and prayers. We wish you a plentiful
and colourful spring season and, as
always, an enjoyable reading
experience!
Image provided by: © Luiza Lamtiuga
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GLOBAL
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GRAPHIC TEAM
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EDITORIAL MANAGING TEAM
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EDITORIAL CONTENT AND ARCHIVES
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INTERNATIONAL AND MARKETING
DIRECTOR INTERNATIONAL LICENSES,
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
& BRAND MARKETING
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GLOBAL SALES
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N°17 – SPRING 2023
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Meredith is wearing
a full look by MARC CAIN
Meredith is wearing
a full look by MARC CAIN
Editor‘s Letter
PAGE 8
Imprint
PAGE 10
Contributors
PAGE 14
Favourite Runway Looks
PAGE 16
Anatomie d‘un Sac:
“Lady 95.22“ bag by Dior
PAGE 18
Brand to Watch:
Stella McCartney
as the Most Sustainable
Fashion Brand
PAGE 20
FASHION & STYLE
Fashion News
PAGE 24
High-End Meets
Sustainability
PAGE 28
The Emperor‘s
New Clothes
Haute Couture Report
PAGE 32
Ready for Some Sunrays?
Spring Looks
PAGE 38
Jane Seymour
is Unstoppable:
Interview with the Actress
and Designer
PAGE 42
Page 78
Cashmere Fashion:
Interview with Designer
Simone Bruns
PAGE 44
Editorial: Colour Burst
PAGE 46
ACCESSORIES &
ADORNMENTS
Bing!
Mules by Jimmy Choo
PAGE 57
Accessory News
PAGE 58
Longchamp:
Interview with Sophie
Delafontaine
PAGE 62
Steve Madden‘s
Spring/Summer 2023
Collection
PAGE 66
WATCHES &
JEWELLERY
Anatomie d‘une montre:
Big Bang Tourbillon
Automatic Yellow Neon
SAXEM by Hublot
PAGE 69
Clash of the Titans:
Cartier‘s Iconic
Collections
PAGE 70
Anatomie Bijoux:
“Together“ Collection
by Pomellato
PAGE 76
Editorial:
Time for Sustainability
Luxury Watches
PAGE 78
BEAUT Y &
WELLNESS
Beauty News
PAGE 92
Dr. Daniela Rieder
and Dr. Jennifer Kager:
Phenol Peeling
PAGE 96
On the Dotted Line:
New collaboration
between Louis Vuitton
and Yayoi Kusama
PAGE 100
5-Element Concept:
Interview with Deana
Wyland-Fries, founder
of ELEMENTALS
PAGE 102
ECO Loving:
Vegan Perfume Novelties
PAGE 104
The Fragrant Sound of
Art: Interview with Francis
Kurkdjian
PAGE 106
Images provided by: Covers © Elisabeth Gatterburg. Page 78 © Violetta König. Page 148 © Studio Julien Barbès/Gucci. Page 156 © Rosewood Vienna
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Page 156
The Scent –
an Unforgettable Aroma
PAGE 108
Spring Beauty Hair Guide
for a Healthy Scalp
PAGE 110
Nature in the City:
Cleansing Bath
Treatments
at the TAIGA Spa
PAGE 112
BUSINESS &
REAL ESTATE
Reel Queen:
Interview with
Hezal Helin Sahin
PAGE 116
Opera Diva meets
Fashion Diva:
Alexis F. Gonzalez
PAGE 118
Meet the Executive
Director of GOBI
Cashmere, Amarsaikhan
Baatarsaikhan
PAGE 120
Bright, Brighter, Sputnik!
Lobmeyr at the New York
Metropolitan Opera
PAGE 131
A Noble Nest:
At Home with
Princess Cleo zu
Oettingen-Spielberg
PAGE 132
Fredericia:
Incomparable High-
Quality Furniture for the
True Connoisseur
PAGE 136
Aqua Creations:
Environmentally
Conscious Design
PAGE 138
Nanimarquina:
a Treasure Amongst
Designer Rugs
PAGE 140
Interiors Trends:
Between East and West
Interview with Designer
Kristian Sofus Hansen,
NORR11
PAGE 142
ART & CULTURE
New Memories:
Special shopping days
at Peek & Cloppenburg
PAGE 147
Parts of a Whole:
Artist Andrew Moncrief
for Gucci
PAGE 148
Sustainability at the
Cannes Film Festival
PAGE 149
TR AVEL &
GOURMET
Maldives: Velaa Private
Island
PAGE 152
Page 148
Austria: Rosewood Vienna
PAGE 156
Austria: 25hours
Hotel Vienna at
MuseumsQuartier
PAGE 160
Austria: The Leo Grand
Hotel, Vienna
PAGE 162
Japan: Palace Hotel
Tokyo
PAGE 164
Dernier Cri
PAGE 166
HOME & INTERIORS
Home Away from Home:
Omar Zevallos-Orrillo
PAGE 124
New Works:
The Danish Furniture
Brand Transforming
Interiors
PAGE 144
Interior News
PAGE 128
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CONTRIBUTORS
PIA BERNJAK
Pia was born in Ljubljana in 2000 and started off as
a promising young volleyball player – yet she soon
traded the volleyball court for a spot in front of the
camera. Modeling quickly became a true passion for
Pia and she now stars in our watch editorial shot by
Violetta König! She tries to balance her busy schedule
between modeling jobs and law school by relaxing in
nature. Her motto in life is to begin and end the day
with a smile, which is exactly how our shoot with her
began and ended. It was a pleasure having Pia on board!
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RIMA AL KAISSI
Rima Al Kaissi is the founder of thesilknarratives.com,
a virtual space and podcast that profiles women of Middle
Eastern origin. She created this platform to inspire and break
away with existing stereotypes. On her platform, a space is
also dedicated to Vienna-based talents and personalities as
well as fashion trends. For this issue of L’Officiel Austria, the
London-born Iraqi Austrian, writes a home story that
combines her love for design and storytelling.
MEREDITH MICKELSON
Model and influencer Meredith Mickelson became
famous when she was 17, appearing on the cover of
Vogue magazine in 2016. She has been the face of
Khloe Kardashian’s Good American campaign and
has worked with renowned brands, like Maybelline
and Calvin Klein. Today, Meredith is the co-founder &
designer of the swimwear brand Molliebird and a social
media star with 2.6 million followers on Instagram.
She carries her love for fashion through her everyday
work and bestows many women with inspiration and
self-confidence.
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Images provided by: 1. Portrait of Pia Bernjak: © David Bellemere, 2. Portrait of Meredith Mickelson: © Tania Kezha, 3. Portrait of Rima Al Kaissi: © Kristina Kulakova
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CONTRIBUTORS
VIKA GORDIIENKO
Since childhood, Vika wanted to become a journalist.
Since the age of 10, she has been published in
newspapers and literary magazines. After graduating
from university, she worked on television and in
international women’s glossy magazines in Ukraine as
Editor-in-Chief. She also taught journalism at a private
Fashion school. In her work, Vika was convinced more
than once of the power of the printed word and the
magical possibilities of glossy magazines to make
the world a better place. Therefore, she joined the
L’Officiel Austria team with great joy and continues
to develop in her beloved profession.
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Images provided by: 4. Portarit of Vika Gordiienko: © Andrii Goncharenko, 5. Portait of Lisa Marie Oberndorfer: © Christoph M. Bieber,
6. Portrait of Marina Puchkov: © Aleksandra Prosekova Photography
LISA MARIE OBERNDORFER
Lisa Marie Oberndorfer is a 23-year-old personal
assistant and make-up artist from Vienna. As long as
she can remember, fashion and beauty play a major
role in her life. At the age of 14, she started working
in the fashion industry as a model, and continues to
do this successfully today. After graduating from high
school, she also started working behind the scenes as
a makeup artist to gain new perspectives. In her last job,
she acted as a personal assistant for a fashion-conscious
private person in Vienna and learned to combine her
organizational skills in fashion and business.
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MARINA PUCHKOV
The perception of aesthetics Marina Puchkov, curator of the
L’Officiel Austria Instagram account, brought up in herself
at an early age, having been born in the beautiful city of
St. Petersburg and attending an art school there, and then in
Bavarian Munich. A graduate of Media Design University
Munich with experience at renowned publishing houses
such as “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, she brings all her experience
in story-telling, content creation and graphic design to the
table and is an asset to the L’Officiel team.
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ENTRÉE
1
2
Free
FLOW
Comfort, quality and subdued tones stand
at the forefront this season. After all,
what is more sustainable than a look that
can be worn for every occassion?
L’Officiel Austria has forayed through
the catwalks and look-books of the most
renowned brands to present you with
our choice of favourite looks.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY

ENTRÉE
Images provided by: 1. & 2. © Max Mara, 3. & 4. © Brunello Cucinelli, 5. © Loro Piana
We have to admit, that many of the
looks shown by our favourite designers
on the runway are not exactly fit for
every day wear. This season, we decided
to focus on pieces that bring us comfort,
quality and are fit for the exploration of
our daily business and lives.
Exploration stood at the forefront of
Brunello Cucinelli’s Spring/Summer
2023 collection. Its muse: the female
explorer. The collection’s intention was
to create a new equilibrium between the
practical and the imaginative, the comforting
and the inventive. As always, the
highest-quality fabrics, workmanship,
and Brunello Cucinelli’s signature refined,
elegant, opulent, and understated
design, reinterpret practical elements
and take inspiration from uniforms
worn by explorers and sailors. Reference
coordinates that infuse each element
with delicate subtleties and understated
luxury are provided by the principles of
authenticity, uniqueness, and longevity.
At Max Mara, each item
is made “to be lived in, as
well as worn” this spring/
summer season. The collection
offers a selection of
complete ensembles in “lino
greggio” – an undyed linen
that resembles burlap and
occasionally has raw fringed
hems and is also perfect for
warmer weather conditions,
of course. Additionally, the
timeless architectural coats by
Max Mara acquire the gentle
charm of sun-bleached beach
robes. Selected pieces from
the collection offer accents in
a special, heart-stirring shade
of ink-Mediterranean blue,
a beautiful, soft pastel hue,
fitting for any occasion.
Comfort stands at the forefront
of Loro Piana’s Spring/
Summer collection too, aptly
3
carrying the name “Cocooning”, as the
pieces are designated to be worn at home.
Subtle elegance due to their velvety
smooth fabrics and large, unstructured
forms, combined with pastel colours to
highlight their coziness and easy practicality.
The long-sleeved dress with soft,
pure silk bouclé knit that falls straight
through the waist and has a tiny flare at
the bottom (pictured below) – a sublime,
comfortable touch to home life that only
the maison’s savoir faire could offer.
5
1. & 2. Based on the timeless style of the French
Riviera and timeless femininity, MAX MARA.
3. & 4. The collection develops in a versatile, relaxed
and easy-going manner, centred on the idea of “fluid
tailoring”, even for the most important occasions,
BRUNELLO CUCINELLI.
5. A wardrobe that is all about new ways to enjoy
being at home, far from the outside world the place
where the authentic, unguarded private side comes
out, where every moment can be relaxing and comfortable,
LORO PIANA.
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ENTRÉE
Reinvented Icon
The Lady 95.22 bag was unveiled at Dior’s autumn-winter 2022–2023 ready-to-wear
show. It revisits the house’s distinctive past, yet reinvents the iconic, Lady Dior bag’s
lines as an ode to the relationship between the past and present. Its name, alludes to the icon’s
founding year, 1995, and to the year of its new revival, 2022.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
The new Lady 95.22 bag is available in
three sizes: extra-large, medium and small.
An ultra-modern, softly curved shape creates both a fashion statement as well as an elegant appearance. Created
by the master craftsmen at the Dior ateliers, it is the result of a mixture between the iconic macrocannage pattern
and a fresh, graphic maxicannage design, which combine to emphasise its architectural form. The two handles
are dressed in leather and metal and accentuated with the iconic, “Dior” lucky charms, adding a final touch
that evokes Monsieur Dior’s grigris. The Lady 95.22 is a brand-new essential embodying the Dior aesthetic.
It comes in three exquisite sizes (small, medium, and extra-large) and two classic colour variations (black and
latte), boasting rich ruthenium or pale gold finishes. As of January 12th, 2023, this reinvented icon will debut
at selected Dior boutiques – and we can’t wait to get our hands on it!
The Lady 95.22, DIOR
Image provided by: © Dior
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BRAND TO WATCH
Closing
THE LOOP
At Stella McCartney, “closing the loop”,
refers to a sustainable garment that can
be disassembled and almost completely
transformed into new materials.
Such a garment is now part of her
current Spring 2023 collection.
Yet when it comes to sustainability,
there is a lot more to report from the
British designer. L’Officiel Austria on why
Stella McCartney has become known
as being one of fashion’s
most sustainable luxury brands.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
In 2022, Stella McCartney was voted and rated by numerous luxury
fashion blogs and platforms as being one of the most sustainable
luxury brands in the fashion industry. Conscientious consumers
take a plethora of points into account when considering the sustainability
of a fashion brand. These are used to rate the sustainability
of a brand and usually include considerations such as how the
production of its clothing affects the environment, the treatment
of the people whose labour is used during the production process
and how and if animals are affected.
When it comes to materials, Stella McCartney has always been a
leader in the quest for sustainability. Her use of recycled materials
is exemplary: a parka from the designer’s most current collection, is
created wholly from regenerated and regenerable nylon, also known
as ECONYL®. Additionally, for every parka purchased, the brand
will be planting a mangrove tree in collaboration with Sustainable
Surf’s SeaTrees initiative. Cashmere, which is the material with
the highest environmental impact, is used only in its recycled form
Re.Verso cashmere with an environmental impact seven times
lower than that of normal cashmere. As early as 2001, McCartney
presented a collection that was crafted from 80 % environmentally
Images provided by: Portrait of Stella McCartney © Mary McCartney, other images © Stella McCartney
20

BRAND TO WATCH
45 % of the brand’s operations are
run on 100 % renewable energy.
For Spring 2023, the brand continues
its commitment
to never using leather, feathers,
fur or skins, with 85 % of
the ready-to-wear collection
crafted from conscious materials.
Innovations have been elevated
with this ECONYL®
regenerated nylon parka
that can be taken back and
recycled at the end of its
life, making it fully circular.
friendly materials – a huge feat for any fashion brand at the time. Fast
forward in time, and now her most current 2023 Spring collection is
made from 85 % conscious materials such as forest friendly viscose,
organic cotton, regenerated nylon, recycled polyester, linen, Refibra
cotton and Humana denim made from textile waste, regenerated
cashmere, Sorona recyclable and partly plant-based quilting, regenerative
and RWS wool from traceable sources.
Furthermore, the propagation of animal welfare has always been
at the forefront of the brand’s efforts. Banning leather, furs and
feathers, the brand uses vegan leather and even mushroom leather
instead.
The second pillar of her leading role when it comes to sustainability
is based on the many sustainable campaigns and collaborations the
brand has supported and realised since its launch in 2001. These
include, but are not limited to, her 2017 collaboration with environmental
organization Parley for the Oceans in creating products
made out of ocean plastic debris, and in 2021, a Stella x Greenpeace
collection in support of Greenpeace’s initiative to stop Amazon
deforestation that featured messages like “Save the Planet” and
“Save the Amazon” and was made of organic cotton.
More recently, Stella McCartney held a discussion at her 23 Old
Bond Street flagship in London that was influenced by the ideas
of rewilding and rechilding, both of which are also leading themes
from her most current Spring 2023 collection. Derek Gow, a wellknown
British ecologist who Stella has been working with directly
to rewild her own farm, environmentalist Ben Goldsmith, ornithologist
and young activist Mya-Rose Craig (also known as Birdgirll),
and Hans Schutten, the program director at Wetland International,
were among the speakers who lead discussions about preserving
the natural world and reawakening our inner children. Rewilding
is a conservation approach that involves returning extinct species
and restoring natural processes so that ecosystems can rebalance
themselves without human interference.
Stella McCartney is without doubt, a pioneer when it comes to
sustainability in fashion. From her sustainable business practises to
her awareness raising methods on all things sustainable – we can’t
wait to see what Stella has in store for us next!
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FASHION
“Fashion changes,
but style endures.”
COCO CHANEL
& Style

1

NEWS
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
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1. FORWARD TO THE 90S!
Calvin Klein 1996 is a new collection
of underwear and loungewear
inspired by 90s design. Neon
colours, high-contrast graphics and
warped logo prints channel youthful
confidence for a fresh, energetic
selection of essentials. Calvin
Klein 1996 Cotton updates classic
women’s Underwear styles with an
exciting new colour palette, refreshed
silhouettes and stretch fabric
for comfort, CALVIN KLEIN.
1
2. DO NOT MISS!
Karl Lagerfeld has partnered with
The Walt Disney Company to release
a 100th anniversary capsule collection.
All products and accessories feature the
iconic sketch of Donald Duck, drawn
by Karl Lagerfeld himself in the early
2000s. Playfully printed casual wear and
accessories are available at karl.com and
select retailers around the world,
KARL LAGERFELD X DISNEY.
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3. EVERY BODY IN...
The uniqueness of Skiny Micro
Essentials underwear lies in
the beautiful microfiber fabric
that fits like a second skin,
and thanks to the wavy edges,
nothing is visible even under
tight-fitting clothing. This
ensures maximum skin-to-skin
contact. The bright colours of
the bodysuit, and other products
of the spring-summer collection,
delight both the body and the
eyes, SKINY.
Images provided by: 1. © Calvin Klein, 2. © Karl Lagerfeld x Disney, 3. © Skiny
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FASHION
4. THE ENERGY OF MOVEMENT
The smoothness of forms, the density of textures, the lightness of
colours – this is how Loro Piana sees this spring. The Italian brand’s
new collection features impeccably tailored suits and airy dresses
paired with bouclé coats, knitted jumpers and other iconic pieces
in a palette of earthy tones, LORO PIANA.
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5. PASTEL SPRING
The mid-season jackets from the Colmar
Originals Spring-Summer 2023 collection
are the perfect companions for the changeable
spring weather. Functional cuts and
fabrics allow you to wear these products
both in the city and in nature. The jackets’
pastel colours will emphasize your
femininity and elegance, COLMAR.
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6. LUXURY IN ONE CLICK
Founded in 2009, The Outnet
has established itself as the
benchmark for luxury discount
stores with more than 350
fashion brands at exceptional
prices. This online-shop is also
known for exclusive limited collections
created in collaboration
with worlwide famous designers.
You can find everything here:
from Desmond & Dempsey
pyjamas to sexy Lise Charmel
lingerie, THEOUTNET.COM.
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Images provided by: 4. © Loro Piana, 5. © Colmar, 6. © THEOUTNET.COM

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FASHION
High-End
MEETS
SUSTAINABILITY
A promising reality or just illusion? From the complex relationship between
ethical aspirations of the fashion world, innovative ideas and the success or
failure in each specific project’s implementation – L’Officiel Austria embarks
on a search for interconnection between fashion and sustainability, illuminates
positive progress and problem areas and introduces you to current concepts
of fashion and jewellery brands that work in accordance with the spirit of our
planet – environmentally conscious and for the future.
By STEFANIE LANG
“One day we’ll wake up and Green will not be the new black, it
will be the new invisible. Meaning, no longer will sustainable be
the exception or something that’s considered as courant; instead, it
will be a matter of course – something that all designers incorporate
into their design ethos.”
– Summer Rayne Oakes, world’s first eco-model and serial
ecopreneur (from her book “Style, Naturally”)
The luxury industry has long ago ceased to be what it once
was: once a niche market with a clearly identified target group,
it is now one of the most important markets in the entire
fashion and lifestyle world. Although the luxury market,
because of its decadence and superficiality, is constantly
under the scrutiny of critics, it is often considered to be not so
harmful to the environment due to its concept of longevity,
exclusivity and faster saturation of the market. But what is
behind this assumption? Since the focus is usually on highquality
materials, luxury products are designed to last longer
than average so that eventually they cause less incineration
and textile waste. In addition, luxury brands place emphasis
on the exclusivity and rarity of the products they sell, and by
deliberately saturating the market with a limited number of
products, they can adhere to the “less-is-more” policy without
putting their brand image at risk. Despite all this, it’s no
secret that the fashion industry is still responsible for around
5 % of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, generates 20
% of industrial wastewater, and discharges half a tonne of
microscopic plastic particles into the ocean every year.
Whether it is luxury or fast fashion, it is repeatedly stated
that fashion is not sustainable, and it never will be.
The situation is different with the interest and demand of the
clientele, which has definitely increased a lot in recent years.
According to the McKinsey study, 26 % of all purchases
in the luxury sector in 2019 were made from sustainable
items, and the trend is rising. 20 % of respondents also cited
sustainability as a reason for their purchase decision. This
leads to the conclusion: The interest is there, but how are
brands responding?
Ecoalf is considered to be a company that, since its foundation,
has been firmly integrating sustainability into its business
concept, and has definitely earned a place among the top most
sustainable fashion labels of our time. The brand has always
Images provided by: 1. © Breitling, 2. © Shutterstock
28

1
focused on solutions that have the least possible impact on the
environment, without compromising on design.
In production, the emphasis is entirely on recycled materials
to reduce waste and protect natural resources. In addition,
Ecoalf is opening its first CO2-neutral store in Madrid,
whose 149 m 2 premises not only feature wooden beams from
Spanish forests and furniture made from local wood, but also
includes fabrics for pillowcases, furniture and curtains made
from 100 % recycled PET bottles. Each year, 15 solar panels
on the roof of the store prevent the release of 2.95 tonnes of
CO2 into the environment as a result of a reduction in fossil
fuel heating. And last but not least: the unique concept of the
store allows it to become a meeting point for professionals,
experts and interested people. ACT NOW! Such events will
provide an opportunity to discuss sustainability issues and to
stimulate changes within society.
2
Alpha Tauri is regarded as a label that constantly strives for
innovation and thus permanently incorporates sustainability.
Attention is paid to detail, whether in individual materials,
design process or manufacturing. It is important to mention
the so-called Mobile Innovation Lab, a 60 m 2 “zero-inventory”
29

FASHION
3
SOME BRANDS HAVE the
bandwidth TO CONTRIBUTE
GENUINELY TO A CIRCULAR
ECONOMY, and where this is
possible, MANY BRANDS ARE
ALREADY BEHAVING a lot
better and more correctly.
pop-up system that can be set up on site by employees in less
than 20 minutes. This concept offers an innovative retail
experience that creates exclusive added value and, through
holistic, physical and digital experiences, provides visitors with
a service that inspires in a sustainable and modern way.
Another exciting concept can be found in H&M’s SS23 Studio
Collection, which features buttons made from recycled plastic
collected by waste pickers in Bengaluru, India – an initiative
that improves the lives of the most vulnerable people in society
and helps create a circular economy. Thanks to H&M x Button,
plastic becomes a valuable resource for the fashion industry,
providing economic benefits to waste pickers in Bengaluru
and bringing them closer to the formal economy. The question
arises: can a button really bring about change? H&M is certain:
little things often make the biggest difference.
4
Whatever is true for fashion, is also true for the watch and
jewellery world. The Breitling watch and jewellery brand
has long been pursuing a mission: to do better. Together
with the Solar Impulse Foundation, Breitling promotes
the implementation of profitable solutions to protect the
environment. Its new watch box made from upcycled materials
has been awarded the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label
as a sustainable reinterpretation of the traditional watch box.
In addition, it supports various organisations and projects,
including the Ocean Conservancy initiative, and thus plays
an active role in protecting marine health and ensuring wastefree
oceans. Moreover, Breitling’s “Super Chronomat Origins”
watch model is referred to as “probably the most sustainable
watch in the world”. All the gold in the “Origins” watch is
extracted from Colombia’s Touchstone mine about 150 km
northeast of Medellín. The entire collection will not only
use carbon-neutral and lab-grown diamonds by 2024, but it
is working towards having all of its gold traceable to specific
artisanal mines by 2025. One thing is guaranteed: Breitling is
setting new standards for traceable materials in watchmaking.
5
It is still unclear at what point fashion can officially be
described as “conscious”. The positive aspect is that there
is less and less ignorance about sustainability, and the
manufacturers and customers are definitely willing to
produce and buy more consciously. There are brands that have
the bandwidth to contribute genuinely to a circular economy,
and where this is possible, many brands re already behaving
a lot better and more correctly. So, if you are always on the
look out for the best way to consume sustainable luxury, you
should definitely look for the remaining and best-preserved
vintage luxury treasures, which are not only automatically
and ethically acceptable second-hand goods, but also have a
particularly unique story to tell.
Images provided by: 3., 5. © Breitling, 4. © H&M
30

1

Image provided by: © Christina Fragkou
Credits
32

FASHION
The
Emperor’s
NEW
CLOTHES
Paris Couture Fashion Week is the
stage upon which designers are able to
showcase their artistic talent: to step
outside the box and to present their
clothing as more than just an everyday
necessity. L’Officiel Austria on
the controversies and show-stoppers
of this season’s shows.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
Show-stopping, out of this world
gowns are Giambattista Valli’s
specialty. His aim is to bring
happiness to the world
of fashion.
33

FASHION
3
4
5
1
The most talked-about presentation of this
year’s couture week was undoubtedly that of
Schiaparelli. Controversy, even if negative, is a
catalyst when it comes to branding. Images of
Kyle Jenner wearing the lion-head dress were
the talk of the town on social media: memes
showcasing lion’s wearing Kylie Jenner’s head
were going viral overnight. Yet – was the
controversy warranted? The collection was
based on Dante’s “Inferno, Purgatorio, and
Paradiso” and accordingly, “along with a nod
to Dante’s sense of organization (three looks
for each of the nine circles of hell), I also took
direct inspiration from some of his most arresting
images. The leopard, the lion, and the
she-wolf – represents lust, pride, and avarice,
respectively,” stated Roseberry. He goes on to
underline that these central, animalistic representations
“find form here in spectacular fauxtaxidermy
creations, constructed entirely by
hand, from foam, resin, and other manmade
materials”. As Elsa Schiaparelli often drew her
inspiration from the world of surrealism, critics’
arguments that the pieces adorned with animal
heads were a senseless glorification of poaching
are a blunt misunderstanding of the inspiration
behind the collection. Even more so considering
that all materials used were faux.
2
Metallics are quite the trend this season
– especially evident in the collection
shown by Kim Jones for Fendi, who describes
his collection as “underwear becoming
eveningwear” and his garments as “light” and
“fluid”. Luminosity, lucidity, and “ease for the
wearer” also stand at the forefront of this collection
that features predominantly pastel colours
and metallic tones such as rose, beige, silver,
white, lilac and champagne. As couture week
is also an opportunity for designers to showcase
their know-how and artisanal handicraft
when it comes to materials and tailoring, the
incorporation of complicated techniques such
as the incorporation of metallic leather lace into
6
Images provided by: 1., 2. © Chanel, 3., 4., 5., 6. © Fendi
34

7
8
9
pieces in this collection, ought to be underlined.
Exceptionally soft and flexible leather is
created with lace-like cut-outs and inset with
lace intarsias, at times giving the appearance of
chainmail. Moreover, the world’s finest gauge
yarn, Fuuga, a particularly delicate Japanese
mohair, was worked onto a frame to achieve
the pinnacle of crochet.
10
Images provided by: 7., 8. © Dior, 9., 10. © Schiaparelli
While metallics were also central to Churi’s
couture collection for Dior this season, her collaboration
for the show’s set design with emblematic
African-American artist Mickalene
Thomas, definitely stole the show. Her decor,
created especially for this Dior show, represents
a new pantheon of women that emerged
from a “discussion on the significance of black
and mixed-race female role models who have
excelled by choosing to think and behave differently”.
The setting of the show is taken over
by enormous pictures of a number of notable
public people that have been created with needlework
designed by the Chanakya ateliers and
Chanakya School of Craft on a printed textile
background. These included portraits of Joséphine
Baker and Nina Simone, Dorothy Dandridge,
the first African-American woman
to be nominated for a Best Actress Oscar,
and Hazel Scott, the first African-American
woman to have her television show.
Alongside metallics, “lightness” was another
recurring theme at this year’s couture presentations.
Similar to Fendi, Viard’s vision for

FASHION
11
12
13
14
15
Giorgio Armani Prive
presents a dreamlike dance
made up of delicately vibrating
lines, light, and colours
that appear to have been
refracted by a prism. Sheath
dresses with long skirts
ensure for sexual silhouettes
as do jewelled jackets with
colourful geometric patterns
in royal blue, emerald green,
peony pink, and turquoise.
Chanel this season, inspired by “the mythical
animal sculptures inside Gabrielle Chanel’s
apartment at 31, rue Cambon, in Paris”, came
in the form of embroideries of “exquisite lightness”.
Animal sculptures (which were carted
onto the runway at the beginning of the show)
functioned as the housing from which the
models emerged. Unlike Schiaparelli’s collection,
the couture at Chanel this season was not
at all fantasy-like but designed for real woman
and real life. The pieces also seemed inspired
by circus ringleaders and majorettes and even
featured a white, military style jacket as well
as trapeze hats, worn by many of the models.
Pomp and splendor, in the form of show-stopping
gowns, wowed the audience at Giambattista
Valli this season – a true depiction of
everything haute couture should be and what
it is truly renowned for. A flurry of taffeta,
tulle, silk and organza in pastel hues such as
pink (Valli pink, which, is the designer’s specific,
go-to hue of pink), green, yellow and blue,
radiated sunshine and light. Volume could be
seen in every piece: trains, poufs, bows and
drapes as far as the eye can see. We are delighted
to spot Valli’s signature rose placed in small
and large variants on many of the pieces. The
collection, inspired by Valli’s recent stay at the
Beverly Hills Hotel, aptly ensured a glimpse of
the legs, the stomach and the décolleté as not
to completely overbear the body with sheer
volume in material used for the gowns. A fan
of escapism, Valli truly enables an escape into
a better, happier world with this recent collection.
A standing ovation is in order!
Images provided by: 11., 12., 13. © Christina Fragkou, 14., 15. © Giorgio Armani
36

1

Ready for
Spring, the most hopeful and optimistic
season of the year, is just around the
corner, and we are ready to replace our
dark down jackets and boots with some
cool colourful trench coats and heels!
From classic-chic to modern and fancy:
L’Officiel Austria introduces our favourite
looks for spring!
FASHION
SOME SUNRAYS?
1
2
By STEFANIE LANG
3
4
EVERYDAY-CHIC!
This look is composed of timeless
classics, which, nevertheless, could
not be more modern thanks to slight
trendy colour and cut variations. The
deep blue of the denim trench coat
is ideally combined with the bright
orange of the COS sweater and can be
perfectly complemented with a slim
scarf by Tory Burch and suit trousers.
As a highlight of this look, the shoes
and bag have to be mentioned, which
are not only a special must-have for
diverse, timeless and stylish combination
options, but also represent two
absolute gems in the closet!
1. Trench coat in blue-washed denim jeans, COS
2. Asymmetrical gold earrings with pearls, COS
3. Blue scarf with a tie-look, TORY BURCH
4. Orange sweater, COS
5. Beige-grey suit pants, COS
6. Brown leather low heels, TORY BURCH
7. Brown leather handbag, TORY BURCH
5
6
7
Images provided by: 1., 2., 4., 5. © COS, 3., 6., 7. © Tory Burch
38

FASHION
2
3
1
DEPARTURE TIME
If you are secretly looking for your
own personal runway at the airport,
you are certainly aware of the problem
of having to find an outfit that
is stylish and fashionable and, at the
same time, practical and comfortable.
This look combines these two criteria
and promises an impressive boarding
appearance with subsequent comfort
during the flight. The eye-catcher of
the outfit is the lightning-blue Furla
handbag, which in combination with
the suitcase, not only provides a lot of
coolness and liveliness, but also makes
you long for the sun and warm temperatures
– for all those who still want to
travel in spring!
4
1. White and coral striped shirt, COS
2. Grey coat, COS
3. Silver hoop earrings, COS
4. Blue denim jeans, COS
5. White and blue sneakers, TORY BURCH
6. Handbag in lightning blue, FURLA
7. Travel carry-on suitcase in coral, TUM
6
7
Images provided by: 1., 2., 3., 4. © COS, 5. © Tory Burch, 6. © Furla, 7. © TUM
5
39

FASHION
2
1
3
4
5
6
7
8
SPRING BLOSSOM
Whether it is for a Sunday brunch in
Vienna’s city center or a spring walk in
the Palace Gardens, which are blooming
anew with fulsome beauty – this
look cries out for sun, warm weather
and new ideas and brings everything
you need for a spring spirit!
The combination of denim jeans with
yellow tones creates a gorgeous bright
interplay of colours, helping you to
stay in a good mood and bringing
positive energy for the whole day.
The shoes from Tory Burch, matched
with the bag, scarf and sunglasses, dd
a unique touch to the outfit, so that
nothing stands in the way of a warm
spring day!
1. Blue sunglasses, FURLA
2. Yellow scarf, TORY BURCH
3. Denim top with collar, TORY BURCH
4. Silver and gold earrings, COS
5. Midi skirt in pastel yellow, TORY BURCH
6. Denim blazer in dark blue, COS
7. Handbag in yellow, TORY BURCH
8. Multicolour sandals, TORY BURCH
Images provided by: 1. © Furla, 2., 3., 5., 7., 8. © Tory Burch, 4., 6. © COS
40

windsor. Store Salzburg Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse 9 | 5020 Salzburg
windsor. Store Wien Seilergasse 6 | 1010 Wien

FASHION
AT 71, JANE SEYMOUR
IS UNSTOPPABLE
It was in Monte-Carlo when English
actress Jane Seymour graced
the principality and turned heads
as she revealed her busy agenda.
Seymour, who is widely known for
her lead role in “Dr. Quinn, Medicine
Woman”, talked about her artistic facet
and passion for design.
By VICTOR GEE
Jane, when did your fashion venture begin?
I lost all of my money to an ex-husband and I was devastated.
My mother had always told me, when life is hard
you have to accept it, open your heart and reach out to
help someone else. When you do that, you have a purpose,
and when you have a purpose love comes into your life.
So, I imagined the Open Hearts brand, which is a symbol
found in most of my jewellery.
And why Open Hearts?
It represents two hearts that are open and that interconnect,
a tribute to my mother. I first wore it on Dancing With The
Stars, and the biggest jewellers in America signed a deal with
me. I accepted with the condition that some of the proceeds go
to charity. And hence I opened the Open Hearts Foundation.
The jewellery sold over a million dollars in retail.
42

FASHION
What about your latest scarves collection?
My idea of fun is to paint and design. I have my watercolours
with me all the time. I am also a painter, I have more than 4.000
original pieces and 125 sculpturers exhibited around the world.
I love the idea of wearing my art and carrying it with me, which
is why I launched a scarves line. You can roll it up in your hand
luggage and it adds a special touch to your outfit.
You mentioned “Dancing With The Stars” and wanting to be
a professional dancer…
I took ballet lessons when I was young and actually that’s
what I imagined myself to be. But I got injured at the age of
17 at a ballet school in England so I couldn’t do it anymore.
At my school, I had drama and theatre classes which shifted
my career and helped me gain confidence.
And what do you like about acting?
I actually like anything creative. Even making things happen
in the non-profit world. But when it comes to acting, I like the
freedom of allowing myself to be someone else. Someone with
flaws and situations I haven’t experienced. I have an unbelievable
opportunity to be able to feel extraordinary things like playing
Marie-Antoinette in her Palace of Versailles.
You recently said you feel lucky to be active at your age. Do you feel
that we still suffer from age-discrimination in the show business
industry?
Absolutely! It is changing though thanks to the streaming
platforms. In the past, networks wanted a younger generation
to sell to a broader audience. We don’t have to worry
about advertising anymore, nor about what to say or show.
It’s becoming more authentic and we are fortunate to have
this. I recently turned 71 and many exciting proposals have
started coming my way.
Images provided by: © Jane Seymour
After all these years, which project has a special place in your
heart?
I think because I spent so much doing it, it has to be
Dr. Quinn, it’s a timeless entertainment that will never feel
out of date. And believe it or not, few people thought it
would be successful. I also loved making people laugh on
“Wedding Crashers”. But I have many films to look forward
to as well.
And what about your upcoming projects?
I am currently producing a movie and I have been just asked
to star in a major film with a bunch of big celebrities, so it’s
all in the works after my appearance at the Monte-Carlo
TV festival.
43

FASHION
Cashmere Fashion:
INTERVIEW WITH
SIMONE BRUNS
Year after year, high-quality cashmere is one of the cosiest winter
trends. Moving away from the conventional cashmere image,
Simone Bruns designs urban, contemporary collections that are
luxurious and high-quality. Under her self-titled label, which was
founded in 2015, the Hamburg-based designer creates precious
cashmere pieces of timeless elegance.
We find out everything about this fashion trend
in the conversation with Simone Bruns.
By KATERINA LEROY
How did the idea of the foundation of your
label come about?
It was always clear that I wanted to be
an entrepreneur, free and independent.
And it was also always clear to me that
I wanted to manufacture in beautiful
faraway countries where I could travel.
But above all, it was always clear
that I wanted to develop a beautiful,
high-quality, excellently crafted, nicely
packaged, and sustainably produced
product. No one should be exploited in
this value chain – this is the top priority:
neither the cashmere goats in the
mountains of the Himalayas nor the
workers on the site in Nepal or India.
Simone Bruns is a talented fashion designer.
Her unique label combines luxurious femininity with
a subtle, hip 70s touch.
Fair treatment of animals, above-average
wages, and an excellent social
environment for local workers are priorities
for my label.
Moving from mass consumption to the
favourite piece should take a special
place in the closet for life.
A simple cashmere poncho in my closet,
which I really love and which has
accompanied me on all my travels for
many years, was the starting point for
my own cashmere collection.
What is your biggest source of inspiration?
I collect my inspiration during my
travels. The more distant and unfamiliar
the country, the more inspiring
it becomes to me. Asia is particularly
a great source of inspiration for me.
What trends await us in the current
Spring/Summer collection of 2023?
Images provided by: © Simone Bruns
44

FASHION
FOR ME,
ESTABLISHING
AN international luxury
BRAND GOES
HAND IN HAND
with social
COMMITMENTS.
machine on the wool cycle at 30 degrees.
It is particularly important to use a regreasing
detergent for cashmere.
How can you prevent the annoying pilling?
Generally, this cannot be avoided with
a natural cashmere product. However,
the more expensive the product, the
higher the quality of the yarn, and the
longer the cashmere hairs, the less pilling
the product will have. Brushing
with a cashmere comb and subsequent
washing will reduce pilling over the
years.
Soft pink mixed with a red and green
run through my summer collection this
year.
You work primarily with cashmere, and
you design very versatile garments. What
particularly appeals to you about this
material?
With the proper care, you can enjoy
a beautiful cashmere piece for a lifetime,
and there truly is no more excellent feeling
than pure cashmere on your bare
skin. It is easy to handle.
The material requires special care. How to
wash your favourite pieces properly?
The best way is to wash in the washing
What is your personal favourite look?
It’s very simple. White plain sneakers,
tight black high waist skinny jeans and
my favourite 22 thread count thick
cashmere sweater “Gabrielle” in dark
blue. This is how I feel most comfortably
dressed.
Can you tell us what projects you are
planning for the coming year?
For me, establishing an international
luxury brand goes hand in hand with
social commitments. I plan to find an
orphanage for girls in Nepal and have
looked at various houses. This is my
most fervent wish, and I hope I will be
able to start working on it this year.
45

Burst
COLOUR
Spring equals colour. Everything begins to blossom again and nature
exudes its colourful splendour once again. Accordingly, we too wanted
to convey this time of colourful diversity as well as to encourage
our readers towards a more colourful ensemble. Our star: the charming
top model, Meredith Mickelson – soon to be seen on the big screen!
Talent MEREDITH MICKELSON
Photography ELISABETH GATTERBURG
Producer ANNA ZNAMENSKY
Styling MIO PATERNOSS
Make-up & Hair NIEVES ELORDUY
Fashion Assistant SABRINA SATZINGER
46

47
Tweed blazer and skirt,
silver visor cap, MARC CAIN

Black crop top with bows, H&M
Lace skirt with fringes, MAJE,
available at STEFFL
Orange leather jacket, MADELEINE
Sunglasses, GUCCI, available at MISTER SPEX
Yellow vegan leather bag, SABORKA
Heeled sandals, JIMMY CHOO
Ring with diamonds in white gold, HELDWEIN
JEWELLERY
Necklace, BOOPS JEWELLERY
48

49
Yellow tweed ensemble
and pink plaid top, MARC CAIN

Scoop-neck blouse and palazzo pants, MARC CAIN
50

Cardigan, SANDRO, available at STEFFL
Animal print blouse, RALPH LAUREN
available at PEEK & CLOPPENBURG
Lilac trousers, COS
Bag, JULIA SKERGETH
White leather sandals, CHLOÉ
Sunglasses, BALENCIAGA,
available at MISTER SPEX
Earrings, OLE LYNGGAARD,
available at SELECT THE CONCEPT STUDIO

52
Patterned T-shirt, JAKE*S, available at PEEK & CLOPPENBURG
White leather skirt, ATTICO, available at AMICIS
Lilac tights, FALKE
Coat, ALPHA TAURI
Loafers, POÉ, available at HUMANIC
Earrings, HELDWEIN JEWELLERY
Bracelets and rings from
the “Together Collection”, POMELLATO

53
Blouse, MAX MARA,
available at PEEK & CLOPPENBURG
Pink mini skirt, GIVENCHY, available at AMICIS
Overknees, JIMMY CHOO

Bandana top, VALENTINO, available at AMICIS
Patterned palazzo trousers, BOSS,
available at PEEK & CLOPPENBURG
Bandana top, VALENTINO, available at AMICIS
Fedora hat, ZY HATS
Mules, THEA MIKA, available at HUMANIC
Chain “Mon Jeu”, HELDWEIN JEWELLERY

55
Leather Bermuda shorts, MADELEINE
Lace bra, INTIMISSIMI
Green coat, AKRIS
Platform shoes, STUART WEITZMAN,
available at STEFFL THE DEPARTMENTSTORE
Necklace and ring, BULGARI

Accessories
&
“Accessories are like
vitamins to fashion.”
ANNA DELLA RUSSO
ADORNMENTS

ACCESSORIES
Bing!
In tune with our everlasting love for pastel
colours, L’Officiel Austria presents our
shoe of the season – a true classic:
the unmistakable BING mule by Jimmy Choo.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
The Spring 2023 collection
consists of a feminine prism
of pastel colours, including
wisteria, smoky chambray
blue, and latte, jolted by laser
flashes of neon green and
ultraviolet, while occasionally
gleaming with Jimmy Choo’s
recognizable pavé of crystal.
Image provided by: © Jimmy Choo
For the Spring 2023 collection, Jimmy Choo’s creative director, Sandra
Choi has focused on superheroines and was inspired by Mangas
and anime fiction. A dynamic new power is discovered when it
is surrounded by the stereotypically feminine elements like heels,
jewels, crystals, and a palette of soft sorbet colours. Delicacy can
signify strength, and what is frequently seen as being delicate can
actually be tough. The diamond, which is both the world’s hardest
material and a symbol of fragility, captures the heart of this idea
and is a signature of Jimmy Choo and the collection’s leitmotif. The
faceted, fractured diamond chain is incorporated into the shoes.
“Femininity now means power. The Jimmy Choo woman is a powerhouse
– never underestimate her,” states Sandra Choi.
Bing 100 Patent Leather Wisteria Aurora, JIMMY CHOO

NEWS
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
1
1. SUBLIME EFFECT
Inspired by superheroines and the
transformative power of fashion, the
Summer 2023 collection channels
exaggerated proportions and feminine
design codes to sublime effect:
from the statuesque platforms on the
heeled Tilda 140 loafer to the neon
green Neoma 110 sandals. Denim is
also a key focus of the collection and
highlights Y2K nostalgia. Refined yet
raw denim hallmarked by the brand’s
JC Monogram, decorates the Avenue
Quad handbag and Talura 100 heels –
complete with the new Diamond
Chain. This signature hardware also
plays out across new handbags including
the luxe Diamond Frame Clutch,-
JIMMY CHOO.
3
3. MODERN CLASSIC
For sunglasses, check out the Mister Spex stores, where you will
find a new collection of accessories from the Warsaw-based designer
Magda Butrym. All models have a minimalistic and extravagant look
and the rectangular lenses have a solid acetate frame and translucent
glazing, MAGDA BUTRYM.
2
2. REBELLIOUS AND ASPIRING
Continuing the journey into the
virtual world, this spring MCM
presents a collection that quotes and
reinterprets the natural world with
a cyberpunk aesthetic in three different
capsules: Meta Safari, Cyberpunk
and Meta Ocean. The famous
German brand addresses the generation
of global nomads of the 21st
century – dreamers, creatives and
digital natives – the Millennials and
Generation Z are genderless, ageless,
self-confident and do not let rules and
boundaries limit them, MCM.
Images provided by: 1. © Jimmy Choo, 2. © MCM, 3. © Mister Spex x Magda Butrym
58

1

ACCESSORIES
4. SACRAL THINGS
A breath of fresh air in jewellery art can be found
in the “Sacra” collection, created by Rita Sabo.
Each piece is timeless, futuristic, mystical and
sensual. “Patterns, shapes, and symbols play a central
role in my work. My approach to them is spiritual:
I want them to work subconsciously and have
meaningful messages,” says the designer about her
creations. Rita Sabo presents the key pieces of the
collection in an understated style with exciting
new combinations: layering, asymmetric style and
a combination of 18K yellow gold, 18K white gold
and fair-trade diamonds, SABOTEUR.
4
5
5. GREETINGS FROM...
Under this motto, the Swedish label
combines the best of travel in its
Spring/Summer 2023 collection: souvenirs,
travel, ice cream and even the
typical plastic bags with the inscription
“Have a beautiful day”.
The Hysteria “Hello from ... Riviera”
collection will delight every fashionista
with classic models, delicately
woven floral wreaths, embroidered
citrus fruits, and icons of ancient
Rome. The design and materials are
made with special attention to detail,
HAPPY SOCKS.
6
6. FOR SOPHISTICATED
The iconic luxury nappa bubble bags
return in Spring/Summer 2023 featuring
an explosion of strong vivid hues
radiating positive energy. The collection,
as the designer Tissa Fontaneda
explains, is inspired by “new beginnings”
after the dark years of the pandemic
– a return to living life to the
fullest. The signature Tissa Fontaneda
styles, now available in new colours
such as Capri Blue, Citrus Green,
Pink Punch and Pineapple, continues
to captivate the chicest shoppers
worldwide, giving fashionistas and
luxury connoisseurs a whole new reason
to fall in love with a handbag by
TISSA FONTANEDA.
Images provided by: 4. © Saboteur, 5. © Happy Socks, 6. © Tissa Fontaneda
60

1

Again
IN VIENNA
L’Officiel Austria sat down with Sophie Delafontaine, Longchamp’s
creative director, to talk about the family company’s legacy and the opening
of a revamped Longchamp boutique in Vienna.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
Images provided by: © Longchamp

ACCESSORIES
Sophie, Longchamp’s existence dates
back to 1948, when your grandfather,
who founded Longchamp, began selling
leather-covered pipes to Allied soldiers
after the liberation of Paris. Tell us a
little bit about the company’s evolution.
How did Longchamp go from producing
leather-covered pipes to fashion goods?
Everything has progressed gradually
on my father’s, Philippe Cassegrain,
initiative. He’s developed the
man universe, office supplies, small
leather goods and luggage. At the
end of the 70’s and into the early
80’s, my father had the idea to add
a strap to a vanity case to turn it into
a women’s shoulder bag. From the
transformation of our luggage in the
70’s to the birth of our iconic Le Pliage
bag in 1993, we continue to grow
the lifestyle universe of Maison and
the ready-to-wear, shoes and fashion
accessory categories with my
brother Jean Cassegrain (Longchamp
CEO).
Longchamp features a personalisation
option for their handbags on their
website. Is this also available in-store?
We offer the possibility to engrave
your initials on the leather flap of
the Le Pliage bags in our Longchamp
boutiques. Also, you can personalise
the bags of the My Pliage
Signature and My Pliage Club collections
thanks to the tablets for self
design available in our Longchamp
boutiques.
When was the turning point that
made you decide to leave your job at
Bonpoint and join the family business?
Working for Bonpoint taught me
a lot! I’ve learned how to tell stories
based on colours, fabrics, proportions
and details. In 1995 I’ve
decided to join Maison Longchamp
to extend its activity beyond the
luggage and leather goods in order
to raise its profile to that of a desired
international fashion company.
What is your favorite item from the
house of Longchamp?
Our iconic bag Le Pliage! It embodies
both the creativity and the ingenuity
of my father who designed it.
This bag is universal and worldwide.
It’s an item that one generation
passed down to the other all around
the world. Also, a leather jacket from
one of the first ready-to-wear Longchamp
collections. It represents
the Longchamp woman, a townie
woman, energetic and elegant with
character. She loves beautiful things
and appreciates the craftmanship and
the quality of the products she wears.
What are your hopes and plans for
Longchamp’s future?
Now that the company has entered
its fourth generation, with the
appointment of my brother’s Jean
Cassegrain sons, Adrien Cassegrain
(Director of transformation)
and Hector Cassegrain (Managing
Director of UK & Ireland), Longchamp
is currently going through
something of a transition, by continuing
to grow and keep its savoirfaire
alive with renewed creations.
You recently launched a line of shoes for
the very first time. Why did you feel
that shoes were an important extension
of the existing product range?
The shoe collection was introduced
in 2008, as we considered their
addition to be an essential element
to our accessory range.
Why was opening a store in Vienna
relevant for Longchamp?
La boutique Longchamp de Vienne
existe depuis Mai 2015. We reopened
the Vienna boutique January the 26th
2023. Vienna is an important international
city with an amazing energy
and is steeped in history. This city is
a beautiful window for our Maison
and its energy is amazing. Which is
why we want to offer a real experience
to all our customers in this boutique.
As in a Parisian flat, the collections
of leather goods, accessories, luggage,
and ready-to-wear shoes are mixed
with the furniture and books as decorative
objects. To name a few the
Pierre Paulin sofa, the designer Pierre
Renart “wave” wooden table and the
colorful rugs by Pierre Frey. We commissioned
the young Japanese artist
Aya Kawato to create a work of art
especially for the Vienna boutique.
For this installation, the artist was
inspired by the color palette of the
iconic Viennese artist Gustav Klimt.
63
Sophie Delafontaine,
Longchamp’s creative
director since 1995.

C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
1

TETIÈRE
credit photo
2

ACCESSORIES
STEVE MADDEN’S UNIQUE
SPRING/SUMMER 2023
COLLECTION
PERFECTLY MIRRORS
THE VIBES OF THE SEASON
The Spring/Summer season is just around the corner.
It’s time to start looking for novelty and shine. At this time,
it is especially important to update our wardrobe and choose
quality clothes that make us feel special, stylish and unique.
L’Officiel Austria presents Steve Madden designer clothes –
clothes for strong personalities.
By ANNA KAFKA
Steve Madden is a renowned brand that
was founded in 1990. This successful
brand has conquered fashionistas’ closets
in a short time. Moreover, this is
an inspiring story of a talented entrepreneur,
Steve Madden, who started his
business with only 1.100 US dollars. By
selling shoes from the trunk of his car
to stores in Manhattan, Steve has come
a long and successful way to become
one of the most famous designers in the
world. The unique designer has made
it his goal to revolutionise footwear
with iconic and creative designs.
Today, Steve Madden has millions of
customers around the world. They are
different, but one thing unites them:
an endless love for unique shoes and
clothes.
The new collection “The Bold Type”
takes us back to the early ‘00s.
Steve Madden’s collection allows us to
completely change the look, giving it a
unique touch through bright and rich
colours. Plateaus, rhinestone tops, eyecatching
denim bags, stylish overknee
boots and the iconic Steve Madden
pumps – all in the newest hues of the
season – highlight the bright, unforgettable
look.
Images provided by: © Steve Madden
66

TIME FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Steve Madden cannot remain indifferent
to the world around him. His
brand contributes to environmental
protection due to sustainable materials.
By switching to sustainability, Steve
Madden gives style-conscious people
a perfect opportunity to express their
individuality and respect for the future
of our planet.
GLAMOUR AS A NEW REALITY
In Spring/Summer 2023, the extraordinary
is the new ordinary. With the
“Euphoria” collection, we can enjoy
life every day. Colorful bags, shoes and
dresses with bright vinyl and sparkling
rhinestones fill everyday life with ease
and shine. Get ready to enjoy life!
THE REBELLIOUS 00S
The new collection “The Bold Type”
takes us back to the early 00s. The
motto of the collection – rebellion,
revolt and protest – perfectly fits Steve
Madden. A striking style, rich colours,
edginess and strength are reflected in
the double plateaus with flame prints in
bright pop colours on pink dresses and
EDITOR’S CHOICE
3
1
4
1. Illumine-R Sandal Hot Pink
2. Revert Sandal Silver
3. Jetsetter Sandal Rose Gold
4. Entice-R Sandal
With the “Euphoria” collection,
we can enjoy life every day.
67
2
neon yellow bags, not to mention the
bright men’s sneakers. This collection at
Steve Maden leaves no one indifferent.
FAVOURITE CULT CLASSIC
Something that never goes out of
fashion – the famous classic from Steve
Madden! The timeless Match sneakers,
elegant Vala pumps and flawless Zarnia
sandals in the latest trendy colours
of fuchsia, lavender and lime, make
the day perfect. In addition, the Steve
Madden Kids collection (sizes 31-35) is
happy to transform our mini-mes into
connoisseurs of the classics.
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DAY OF YOUR LIFE
There is simply no better bridal shoe
than one from Steve Madden. The
exquisite Bridal Collection is a perfect
fit for the happy bride, bridesmaids,
and all connoisseurs of radiant beauty.
Shoes come in silver, rose gold, white
and nude colours crafted with leather,
rhinestone and satin materials – everything
you need for the most beautiful
day of your life.
THE BEST MEN’S TRENDS
A perfect combination of premium
quality, comfort and must-have essentials
for men who know what they want.
Steve Madden’s new Spring/Summer
2023 collection offers a wide selection
of B-Ball and Dressed Casual sneakers,
high-top lace-up sneakers and exceptional
loafers and sandals for every man.

Watches
&
“People will stare,
make it worth
their while.”
HARRY WINSTON
JEWELLERY

JEWELLERY & WATCHES
Blinded by the Lights
Nothing is a truer symbol of spring than a neon yellow Tourbillon
whose color, developed after years of research, proves once again that
the boundaries of what is technically and aesthetically possible can be
pushed again and therefore redefined.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
Made of SAXEM, a material often used in satellites and laser technology, the Big Bang
demonstrates that the Manufacture has succeeded in creating completely new translucent
shades, one of which is the yellow neon colour.
Image provided by: © HUBLOT
The Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Yellow Neon SAXEM is powered by the
HUB6035 self-winding Manufacture calibre. Hublot has chosen the most difficult
technical path using a self-winding micro-rotor – the only way to avoid concealing
the back of the movement, as it would have been the case with a conventional rotor.
In addition, the Manufacture has chosen to skeletonise the entire calibre – a horological
tour de force which pushes openworked materials to the limits of their functional
resistance. As always, this innovation from the house of HUBLOT is nothing
but modern, revolutionary and brilliant.
Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Yellow Neon SAXEM, HUBLOT
69

Images provided by: © Cartier

JEWELLERY & WATCHES
CLASH
Titans
OF THE
L’Officiel Austria sends two of Cartier’s most iconic
collections into the boxing ring. In one corner, we find
Clash de Cartier, with Lily Collins as its brand ambassador.
In the other corner, stands the venerable Panthère de
Cartier – a collection that has stood
the test of time. A battle of the titans ensues
on the following pages.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY

JEWELLERY & WATCHES
1
3
2
1. Clash de Cartier necklace, flexible
large model, rose gold, onyx, diamonds.
2. Clash de Cartier ring, double-row
model, rose gold. 3. Clash de Cartier
ring, small model, rose gold, Clash de
Cartier ring, double-row model, Clash
de Cartier bracelet, small model, rose
gold. 4. Clash de Cartier Earrings,
double-row model, rose gold, CARTIER.
4
Let us firstly take a short look at the origins of this collection:
The love of geometry and Cartier’s penchant for beads and studs,
both of which are evident in prior collections, served as inspiration
(the very first Clash collection was launched back in 2019).
Further additions followed in 2021 including pieces with rose
gold with Onyx and in white gold with Tahitian pearls.
Clash is the maison’s most punk-inspired look to date – especially
poignant due to its stud-like appearance. The collection’s
greatest feat, is its clous carrés, or little domes, which, while
they are fixed into place, are mobile and move in unison with
the wearer.
Clash de Cartier is a collection symbolised by its contrasts and
oppositions. The clash between clean lines and exaggerated proportions
in the most recent Clash de Cartier jewellery designs
emphasizes the maison’s recognizable codes: the rings, earrings,
necklaces, and bracelets all include spheres and picots as distinctive
signatures. Rings, bangles, pendants, and creoles made of
rose gold are highlighted on the inside by unusual shapes. Unique
sensory impressions are made when the onyx or rose gold spheres
contact the skin. The collection’s jewellery creations can be worn
in various ways, either alone or in combination with other pieces:
the onyx creoles or the cuff earrings with Tahitian pearls can be
worn on the earlobe or directly on the ear.
As sustainability is the focus of this issue, it is also important
to shed light on the maison’s efforts in this regard. Cartier is
dedicated to responsible and sustainable procurement of materials
as a global brand.
This dedication is especially evident in the utilisation of
recycled gold to lessen its impact on the environment. When
it comes to the mining of gemstones, Cartier only collaborates
with small artisanal mines that have received certification
from the Responsible Jewellery Council. In terms of the use of
chemicals and observance of human rights, this organization
establishes norms for responsible behaviour.
Images provided by: © Cartier
72

5
5. Panthère de Cartier bracelet in white gold 750/1000, set with 4 emerald eyes, 80 sapphire spots, 2 onyx noses,
and 957 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 10.81 carats, CARTIER.
The Panther has been on a foray through Cartier’s collections
for more than a century and has evolved into an iconic, stylistic
element. The Maison originally unveiled a timepiece with
a speckled pattern in 1914. Subsequently, it posed between
two cypress trees on a necessaire that Louis Cartier gave to
Jeanne Toussaint in 1917. It was the start of an extraordinary
symbiosis: Jeanne Toussaint gave the animal her very unique
signature and made it her own. By 1919, she had a necessaire
made of gold and black Canton enamel, on which a panther
sat enthroned, and finally, in 1948, the extravagant visionary
depicted the panther in its current, three-dimensional
representation.
73

JEWELLERY & WATCHES
2
1., 2. & 4. Ella Balinska wears a Panthère de Cartier
necklace, in 18 carat white gold, with onyx, set with
4 emeralds and 1478 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling
10.53 carats, a Panthère de Cartier ring in white gold, with
onyx, set with 4 emeralds and 298 brilliant-cut diamonds
totalling 1.82 carats, and a Panthère de Cartier bracelet in
white gold, set with onyx, 4 emeralds and 485 brilliantcut
diamonds totalling 6.25 carats. 3. Panthère de Cartier
bangle, 18 carat yellow gold, with onyx set with 2 tsavorite
garnets. 5. Panthère de Cartier bangle, pink gold, with
onyx and black lacquer, set with 2 tsavorite garnets and
Panthère de Cartier ring, pink gold, with onyx, set with
2 tsavorite garnets, CARTIER.
1
3
4
No matter how the panther appears: with every new design it underlines
its seemingly endless versatility, and with each collection its
sculptural form continues to evolve. In this way, the panther breathes
new life into the jewellery creations of the Maison, giving them movement,
strength and their unmistakable and easily recognisable nature.
The most recent Panthère de Cartier collection shines with inventiveness
and grace, much like its predecessors. Whichever pieces from the
collection you choose, they all expertly mimic the panther’s gliding
motions and, in turn, underline Cartier’s cultivation of the art of high
jewellery.
74
5
Images provided by: © Cartier

1

JEWELLERY & WATCHES
Oh
OhBABY!
Benedetta Porcaroli, Generation Z’s star idol who climbed to fame
following her leading role in Netflix’s Italian drama, “BABY”, is also
a friend of Italian fashion fine jeweller, Pomellato. Amongst other
friends of the brand, she presents pieces from the brand’s new
“Together” collection, photographed by Lapo Quagli.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
The “Together” collection was crafted by Pomellato’s
creative director, Vincenzo Castaldo
“to capture the beauty of togetherness in a
very Pomellato way that is essential, inclusive
and refined, inspired by Milanese design”. Its
pieces are meant to depict the ties that unite
us, whether they are bonds of love, friendship,
sisterhood, familial ties, or any other kind of
relationship between people who value one
another. With this in mind, the jewellery is
made up of two double bands of gleaming
gold linked together and adorned with diamonds
and precious stones. The simple contours
of the rings make them gender-neutral
and their unmistakable appeal is immediately
apparent, whether worn with the bond on display
or hidden. Elegant, simple, yet eternally
refined: very Pomellato!
Bracelets and rings in gold with diamonds from the new “Together” collection, POMELLATO
Image provided by: © Pomellato
76

1

Time
Sustainability
FOR
Shot by Violetta König, this spring editorial focuses on this season’s
most current timepieces for ladies and stars the beautiful, Pia
Bernjak. For a good measure of sustainability, we have matched these
timepieces with exclusive clothing from H&M’s latest collection from
the Innovation Stories series, a Sixties-tinged line that focuses on
more sustainable embellishments. Hand-worked mini dresses and
co-ordinated sets sparkle thanks to 100 % recycled-content sequins,
rhinestones, and beads. What a perfect match!
Photos VIOLETTA KÖNIG
Production ANNA ZNAMENSKY
Make-up & Hair NIEVES ELORDUY
Talent PIA BERNJAK

Bustier dress, rhinestones 100 % rec.,H&M
Watch “Nautilus” in rose gold, PATEK PHILIPPE
Bracelet in yellow gold 18K with 18x rhodolite
74.32 ct, 12x mandarin garnet 2.17 ct and
2x brilliant-cut diamonds 0.05 ct,
ATELIER HELDWEIN
Ring, “1902” collection, in rose gold 18K with
a royal purple garnet 2.17 ct and brilliant-cut
diamonds 0.15 ct, ATELIER HELDWEIN

Jacquard bralette & A-line skirt,
rhinestones 100 % rec., H&M
Watch “L’Heure du Diamant” in rose gold with
56x emeralds 0.14 ct, 26x diamonds 5.58 ct,
16x diamonds 1.36 ct, CHOPARD
80

Tank-top with white beads 100 % rec., H&M
Watch “Navitimer Automatic 35” in blue colour,
case from stainless steel and red gold 18K,
with pearl bezel, BREITLING

Embellished trouser set,
beads 100 % rec.,sequins 100 % rec., H&M
Watch “L’Heure du Diamant” with ethical rose
gold 18K and white diamonds 4.44 ct, CHOPARD
83

A-line dress, rhinestones 100 % rec., H&M
Watch 34 mm in stainless steel with diamonds
and a Tiffany Blue® dial, TIFFANY & CO.
84

Slip dress with frill, beads and
rhinestones 100 % rec., H&M
Watch “Tank Française” with
quartz movement.
Case and faceted crown in
yellow gold 750/1000 set with
23 brilliant-cut diamonds
0.78 ct, CARTIER
Bracelet and ring “Clash
de Cartier” in rose gold
750/1000, CARTIER
85

Long jersey dress, beads
100 % rec.,H&M
On the right hand:
Watch “Classic Fusion Original
Yellow Gold”, 38 mm, HUBLOT
On the left hand:
Watch “Classic Fusion Original
Black Magic”,
38 mm, HUBLOT
86

Long jersey dress, beads 100 % rec.,H&M
On the right hand:
Watch “Classic Fusion Original Yellow Gold”,
38 mm, HUBLOT
On the left hand:
Watch “Classic Fusion Original Black Magic”,
38 mm, HUBLOT
88

Jacquard bralette, rhinestones 100 % rec., H&M
Watch “L’Heure du Diamant” in rose gold with
56x emeralds 0.14 ct, 26x diamonds 5.58 ct,
16x diamonds 1.36 ct, CHOPARD
89

“The most beautiful makeup of
a woman is passion. But cosmetics
are easier to buy.”
WELLNESS
YVES SAINT LAURENT
&
Beauty

1

NEWS
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
1
2
2. COLOUR AND SHINE
Rouge à Lèvres Voile impresses with its
feather-light formulation, which provides
the necessary moisture and brings a touch
of colour with a radiant shine to the lips.
The creamy texture adheres perfectly to
the lips and offers maximum comfort.
Selected oils give a wonderful feeling of
smoothness and suppleness, GUCCI.
1. #PERFECTASIAM
Perfect Intense Eau de Parfum is
a radiant ode to individuality,
self-acceptance, and self-love in
a playful bottle. Can the ideal
be even better? It can, says Marc
Jacobs, if you add depth and
gold to the original Perfect perfume.
The enchanting composition
of Perfect Intense opens with
vibrant narcissus and night-time
jasmine fragrances. At its heart
is the creamy sweetness of
roasted almonds, harmoniously
combined with a rich sandalwood
accord, MARC JACOBS.
3. ODE TO THE ROSE
Eau Rose Eau de Parfum exudes
the whole personality of Eau Rose,
enriched with new, unexpected
facets. In the new composition, delicate
fruity notes of artichoke and
lychee intertwine with the sweetness
of chamomile, creating a rich
floral interpretation. Eau Rose Eau
de Parfum is also available in a 30 ml
bottle, ideal for travel, DIPTYQUE.
3
Images provided by: 1. © Marc Jacobs, 2. © Gucci, 3. © Diptyque
92

1

BEAUTY
4
5. LIGHT LOOK
ULTIMUNE EYE Power Infusing
Eye Concentrate activates the
skin’s defences. Using this remedy,
you will notice the following
effects: within 24 hours, the eyes’
contours are intensely moisturized;
after 1-week, dark circles under
the eyes, puffiness and wrinkles
are visibly reduced, and the skin
looks more even and smooth. After
1 month, the area around the eyes
becomes more elastic and youthful.
Over time, the skin is strengthened
against damaging factors such as
stress, and lack of sleep, SHISEIDO.
5
4. ECOSYSTEM
Over forty years of research have
allowed a French cosmetic company
to create an emulsion that
restores the skin’s ecosystem and
strengthens its immunity.
The Ecological Compound is based on
a synergistic combination of plants
– Centella Asiatica, ginseng, rosemary,
hops, and horsetail. Daily
use of the emulsion maintains the
necessary level of hydration and
helps the skin fight environmental
stress, including cigarette smoke.
Its fluid, non-greasy texture leaves
skin matte. The product is suitable
for all skin types, SISLEY.
6
6. OPEN YOUR EYES
Abeille Royale Double R Renew &
Repair Eye Serum combines two
exclusive technologies to brighten,
renew and reshape the area
around the eyes. The result, which
can be observed after a month of
using this product, is smooth and
radiant skin, without puffiness or
dark circles under the eyes. The
serum also makes eyelashes thicker.
It is formulated with white
honey concentrate to restore
radiance, fragmented hyaluronic
acid to promote dermal renewal,
and other active ingredients developed
by GUERLAIN.
Images provided by: 4. © Sisley, 5. © Shiseido, 6. © Guerlain
94

1

BEAUTY
Dr. Jennifer Kager is
a renowned specialist
in the field of breast
surgery. In addition, she
has specialised in the
fields of vein and intimate
surgery. Her primary goal
is to preserve the natural
beauty of her patients and
thus to bring out the best
of them.
AT
Best ITS
What
The high demand for aesthetic treatments
continues to grow. However, the current beauty
trend is increasingly moving away from fillers,
Botox and the like. Peelings have become a new
“MUST” in beauty aesthetics. The two doctors
Dr. Daniela Rieder and Dr. Jennifer Kager have
recently introduced a new treatment method to
Vienna. In an interview with the two doctors,
L’Officiel Austria brings to light, why this novel
treatment is so “phenol-menal”.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
exactly is phenol, and why does it
work better than other peels?
Phenol peels are chemical peels that are
specially suited for reducing wrinkles
on the face. This peel can help reduce
deep wrinkles and fine lines, in particular
around the mouth, eyes, and in
the cheek area. The phenol peeling we
use differs from other chemical peels
because it is many times more efficient
and can penetrate into deeper layers of
the skin. Phenol peeling causes a targeted
inflammation, which triggers a wound
reaction, thus renewing and smoothing
the skin. Due to a special composition
of phenol and croton oil, it penetrates
deep into the skin layers, causing tissue
regeneration. This can also reduce
96

BEAUTY
Dr. Daniela Rieder is a specialist in plastic,
aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. Her
expertise includes facial and breast surgery,
body contouring, and intimate surgery,
with the main focus being placed
on improvement, not change.
Images provided by: © Rieder Kager
hyperpigmentation, such as age spots or
sun spots. The result is a fresh and significantly
rejuvenated appearance with
a velvety and regularly textured skin.
To whom would you recommend this treatment?
Is there an age group for which it
works particularly well?
Deep peels, such as the phenol peel,
are particularly efficient for mature
skin. However, hormonal pigmentary
changes or acne scars in younger patients
can also be treated very successfully.
The product‘s special feature is its
ability to renew deep elastic and collagen
fibers, as a result of which the skin
gains significant improvement in all its
functions. It can therefore, almost completely
eliminate, not only fine superficial
wrinkles, but even deep wrinkles.
Your patients stay overnight at the Park
Hyatt after the treatment. Could you tell us
more about the treatment process?
Our patients enjoy the comfort of the
overnight stay under the medical supervision
of our specially trained staff. Patients
who undergo a full facial peel with the
aim of creating an even complexion and
to reduce wrinkles should stay with us
for one night. In this case, a room will
be reserved for them at the Park Hyatt
Hotel, across the street from our office.
Patients who need only partial peelings
can be treated on an outpatient basis.
How long does the recovery time after the
treatment last?
The time required for the skin to recover
after the phenol peel depends on the depth
of the peel, the scope of the treatment and
each patient’s individual healing process.
It is recommended that patients take at
least two weeks off from work and other
activities after a phenol peel. This allows
the skin to properly recover. After about
10-14 days, all the old skin remnants will
peel away, and the fresh skin will be only
slightly red. From this point on, makeup
can already be worn, and the patients
can return to their normal everyday life.
What are the costs?
The price can vary depending on
the type and scope of treatment.
If only partial areas such as eyes or mouth
are treated, prices start at 1.500 euros.
If the entire face is treated, the cost of
the peel will start from 4.000 euros.
What results can be expected from this
procedure?
Thanks to its high efficiency, phenol peeling
treatment ideally fulfils the desires of
many patients for extensive rejuvenation
of their appearance. Phenol peeling can
achieve outstanding results that would
not be possible even with a surgical facelift.
In most cases, a phenol peel only has
It’s not only Hollywood,
but also the two doctors
– Dr. Daniela
Rieder and Dr. Jennifer
Kager who believe in
it. With “phenol-menal”
Rieder Kager has now
brought this innovative
treatment method to
Vienna.
to be done once in a lifetime. If you take
good care of your skin after the treatment,
you won’t have deep wrinkles for decades.
What is important to pay attention to after
the treatment?
After a phenol peel it is important to
follow our instructions to ensure proper
healing and to minimise any risks of
complications.
Why did you decide to offer this treatment?
We are absolutely convinced of the
results. No other treatment known in the
field of aesthetic medicine can achieve
such a great and long-lasting effect. We
have studied this method and its alternatives
for a long time, and we are so
enthusiastic about the results that we
cannot imagine our portfolio without it.
In all our treatments, the most important
thing for us is to achieve a natural result
that emphasises the unique character of
our patients. By combining phenol peel
with surgical treatments, such as eyelid
correction, we were able to produce such
great natural results that we would never
want to do without it.
97

TETIÈRE
C
M
Y
CM
MY
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CMY
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TETIÈRE
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2

BEAUTY
ON
THE
Dotted
Line
Brought to life in 2012,
the partnership between
the luxury clothing and
accessories giant Louis
Vuitton and Japanese art
icon Yayoi Kusama is now
being taken to the next
level. L’Officiel Austria
on Louis Vuitton’s three
iconic fragrances, newly
reinterpreted by the
contemporary artist.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
For the artistically illiterate, we must first
and foremost turn our attention to Yayoi
Kusama, an artist undoubtedly most
renowned and recognized for her polka
dot pattern, in order to cohesively explore
the collaboration on hand.
Yayoi Kusama expresses her conceptual
art in many forms including installations,
sculpture, painting and fashion,
amongst others. Her art explores topics
such as feminism, sexuality and psychology.
Interestingly, many of her works are
of an autobiographical nature and also
deal with her obsessive-compulsive neurosis
which she claims is the perpetrator
behind her most famous artistic manifestation:
that of the polka dot. The artist,
who refers to herself as “obsessional”, sees
the polka dot as her attempt to predict
and measure the infinity of the universe
with dots. It is rumored
that Kusama resides in
a mental facility: she has
always been very open about
the struggles she has experienced
when it comes to her
mental health, stating that art
is what allows her to find relief
from her acute, daily experiences
with anxiety, fear and pain.
In the new stage of their collaboration,
Kusama’s artistic obsessions now
grace the bottles, packaging and Travel
Cases of the Maison’s three iconic
100
Images provided by: © Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama

BEAUTY
fragrances: Attrape-Rêves, Spell On You
and L’Immensité.
Created by the Maison’s master perfumer,
Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, the three fragrances
are described as having the following
notes: Attrape-Rêves, a bouquet
of peonies mingles with raw cocoa powder,
and a hint of patchouli heart is enlivened
by the fresh and sparkling notes of
lychees. Spell On You, a sensual tension
thanks to precious iris pallida blended
with sophisticated rose, as a love potion
for the senses. L’Immensité, a concentrate
of freshness, pairing the crackle of ginger
extracted with carbon dioxide with the
bitterness of grapefruit.
For example, Attrape-Rêves and its canvas
Monogram Travel Case are covered
in green, yellow, red, blue, and white
dots, while the men’s scent L’Immensité
is accented with a gradation of black,
silver, grey, and white dots. The artist
also adds a variation to the original
Monogram Flaconnier by dotting it with
vibrant paint. The Flaconnier is a priceless
and vibrantly unique trunk that protects
the Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama
scents whilst they are travelling.
The manifestation of the long-term
partnership between Louis Vuitton and
Kusama is also being celebrated by installations
in the Maison’s boutique worldwide.
Most notably is the current installation
on the facade of luxury retailer Harrod’s
which is being used as a giant canvas that
showcases the artist’s work.
101

BEAUTY
5-ELEMENT CONCEPT
In this interview, creator Deana Wyland-Fries, the founder
of ELEMENTALS, talks to L’Officiel Austria about her brand
and her vision of the perfume industry.
By KATERINA LEROY
ELEMENTALS Fragrance creates innovative
fragrances that combine the wisdom of nature
and the art of perfumery. They enhance personal
energy with the help of carefully selected essential
oils. At the forefront of the creation of these
fragrances are the five elements: Water, Wood,
Fire, Earth and Metal. The founder of ELE-
MENTALS, Deana Wyland-Fries, is convinced
that perfumes can heal and restore balance. That
is why there is a sophisticated concept behind
each fragrance she creates.
Deana, how did you decide to become a perfumer?
It was actually a pure coincidence! I took aromatherapy
training during my studies of anatomy and
physiology. The healing power of scents has always
fascinated me. So I massaged my children every night with relaxing
aroma blends and made blends for my fengshui clients.
One day in my garden in Dubai, I had just eaten a tangerine and,
absorbed in reflection, picked a kumquat flower. I pressed the two
together. At that moment, I realised I had just created a “wood
essence” in its most basic, olfactory form! Suddenly, it occurred to
me that I could use the power of olfaction to balance the elemental
constellations of a horoscope. This was the first step of a fascinating
new journey.
For over 15 years, Deana Wyland-Fries
has been working as a holistic Feng Shui
consultant, teacher and life coach
for individuals and corporate clients
around the world.
I had already put a lot of work into custom-made
perfumes years before. The challenge with ELE-
MENTALS was to design my fragrances so that
everyone would instinctively find the element they
needed without prior knowledge of the Five Elements
theory. This experience took another five
years until I finally had the formulas to make the
concept work.
Can you give us three keywords for each of the fragrances
of ELEMENTALS that, in your opinion, describe the
scent?
Water: tranquility, courage, freshness.
Wood: inspiration, focus, creativity.
Fire: zest for life, sensuality, warmth.
Earth: confidence, security, love.
Metal: intuition, determination, elegance.
QIAN: Frugality, humbleness, love.
TONG REN: harmony, healing, hope.
Which of the fragrances was particularly challenging for you in terms
of development?
That was ELEMENTALS Earth because earth contains all treasures
of the other elements. So I had to combine all five elements in
one perfume but focus on the emotional needs of the person who
needs earth.
I started by creating custom-made perfumes for my clients. They
encouraged me to start a brand to share my knowledge with a wider
audience. Thus, ELEMENTALS was born out of the conviction
that perfume can be more than a simple accessory. For this reason, I
spent another five years researching, investigating and collaborating
with perfumers in Grasse and TCM experts. My goal was to create
fragrances that combine the ancient theory of the five elements with
aromatherapy and the traditions of haute perfumery. This makes
ELEMENTALS an elixir of life. In 2019, I registered and launched
the lifestyle brand ELEMENTALS with 5 + 1 fragrances
collection.
What was the first fragrance you created?
I created the first custom-made perfume 13 years ago for a Saudi
Arabian customer. She still wears it! It is her signature scent and is
made for her every year.
How long have you been working on the ELEMENTALS collection
altogether?
What do you think makes the fragrances of ELEMENTALS unique?
ELEMENTALS are much more than just perfume. They are the
quintessence of my many years of experience. I created them to give
people strength, harmony and energy. When you find your ELE-
MENTALS, you find yourself.
Is there a substance, an extract, that you would like to use but which doesn‘t
exist?
I can’t think of anything right now because, thanks to today’s
technologies, such as the headspace process, it is possible to create
fragrances that would have only been dreamt of a few years ago.
Headspace is used to create a molecular, odorous fingerprint of
objects. This makes it possible to produce fragrances that cannot
be obtained via conventional methods. For example, asphalt,
leather, stone, or earth have a typical inherent odor but do not
have essential oils that can be extracted. Headspace technology
makes it easy to imitate their scents in the lab. It depends entirely
on the imagination and creativity of the perfumer – which
fragrance to create.
Images provided by: © ELEMENTALS
102

ELEMENTALS is an elixir of
life. Each perfume in this
collection embodies one
of the five elements of traditional
Chinese medicine
as well as the tradition of
high perfumery.

BEAUTY
ECO
LOVING
Perfume novelties this spring, confirm that seductive floral
and sensual amber fragrances are in trend.
L’Officiel Austria notes another essential trend – natural
ingredients from ethically collected raw materials and
environmentally friendly production of perfumes.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
1
1. Force of gravity The seductive amber-musky
fragrance BOSS The Scent Magnetic is designed
to make you trust your intuition and be the
master of your life in any situation. Delicate
ambrette seeds dominate the heart note. In the
base note – is white musk, HUGO BOSS.
2. Bouquet of roses Ginza Eau de Parfum
Intense is a floral amber fragrance. In its heart
is a bouquet of Damask roses. The natural
ingredients include ethically harvested roses,
Indonesian patchouli and Madagascar vanilla.
Synthetic organic ingredients – Ambroxan,
made from sugarcane to replace amber, and
Orbiton, made from pine for a woody note.
Ginza Eau de Parfum Intense is certified vegan
by SHISEIDO.
3
2
3. In unison with nature Eau d’Issey Pivoine is
an aquatic breeze infused with blooming peony,
pear, white raspberry and woody base notes.
A symbol of the return of sunny days, peonies
are the most radiant of all flowers. This perfume
bottle is made using 20 % recycled glass
and features a plastic-free cap made from wood
sourced from sustainably managed forests. This
fragrance is composed of 87 % of ingredients of
natural origin, ISSEY MIYAKE.
4. Goddess of flowers Ultra-feminine Olympéa
Flora was created by perfumers Fanny Bal and
Nelli Hachem as “an exuberant and inspiring
vision of the goddess Olympia”. To symbolise
the power and mystery of the goddess of
flowers, they conceived Olympéa as a fusion
of fruity, floral and woody notes. The fabulous
floral heart of Olympéa Flora is fresh pink roses
and peonies in full bloom. The natural ingredients
of Olympéa Flora come from sustainable
sources he fragrance is 100 % vegan and 87 % of
natural origin, PACO RABANNE.
4
Images provided by: 1. © Hugo Boss, 2. © Shiseido, 3. © Issey Miyake, 4. © Paco Rabanne
104

1

BEAUTY
THE
FRAGRANT
Sound of Art
Francis Kurkdjian is the man behind some of
the world’s most iconic scents. Amongst them
“Baccarat Rouge 540” and “Le Male”. In collaboration
with director Cyril Teste, he was asked to create
a scent for the premiere of Richard Strauss’ “Salome”
at the Vienna State Opera. L’Officiel Austria met
with the icon in Vienna to speak about his belief
in audacity, and discovered that the man with the
golden sense of smell does not wear perfume himself!
Francis Kurkdjian
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
What inspires you? Where do you draw your inspiration for your
creations from?
Ideas don’t appear out of nowhere. You have to look and search for
them – they don’t fall on your table from above. When I start a
project, someone usually approaches me asking to collaborate. This
happened with Cyril (Teste)when he approached me for Salome –
and then we started to work… I also like things to be meaningful,
it’s important to me. People have a very romantic vision of creation
which is totally false. I don’t know where they get it from. You need
to be open to it, like a sponge, to absorb things from the outside
for inspiration and open the doors to inspiration. You need to be
on the lookout for something. That is the beauty of inspiration and
creation: you never know when it will come. Finding inspiration
then becomes an obsession: finding the right idea and story to tell.
When it becomes obsessive you can’t see anything else – this is why
creative people seem to be in a bubble sometimes.
How did your collaboration with the Vienna State Opera come about?
Cyril Teste is the director of the piece and was commissioned by
the Vienna State Opera to create a new interpretation of Salome,
by Richard Strauss. I have a long professional relationship with
Cyril. He approached me and asked what I thought about scenting
the opera. I had not heard of Salome before. German Operas,
and as such Strauss, are not part of my usual library, with some
exceptions like Mozart’s Rosenkavalier.
You create scent compositions in collaboration with renowned artists
and prestigious locations. Do you have a dream collaboration in
mind that you would like to realise in the future? With whom and
why?
No, I do not. Dreams are meant to become true and to make
space for new dreams, otherwise they become rotten, old, and
obsolete, and there is nothing worse, in my opinion. What is
the point of having dreams you won’t achieve? I want to dream
about things that I can achieve. I also don’t have the time to
dream about things that may or may not be. I have projects
on new installations, projects that will come in 2024, 2025
and 2026. I keep myself busy with my jobs at Maison Francis
Kurkdjian, at Dior and with my personal life. That is enough.
I have a dream life, a privileged life. I live in a safe country,
I have food on my plate, a roof over my head, a warm bed,
my family is healthy and I love my job! I have great friends of
many years. I even have my name on my fragrance bottles, if
I want to feel egocentric (laughs).
Images provided by: © Maison Francis Kurkdjian, © Victoria Nazarova, © Michael Poehn/Wiener Staatsoper
106

Urban landscapes and
the architecture that
surrounds them have
influenced the graphic
aesthetic of 724 Eau
de Parfum. At the
heart of this fragrance
lies a floral bouquet
of Egyptian jasmine
absolute, sweet pea
and mock orange.
Your newest scent carries the name 724. What makes this new creation
special?
To me that’s no longer new and I usually don’t dwell in the past.
What excites me is the next scent, the one I don’t know about yet.
The unknown is exciting. But what makes 724 exciting for the
consumer is that it is unique, something never smelt before. It’s
long-lasting, and high quality and you will get many compliments
by wearing it – I have proof of this!
Baccarat Rouge 540 is one of the most iconic scents of all times. Looking
back on its creation process, did you have an inkling that this would be
the case? How much of its success would you attribute to coincidence/
chance/luck?
The goal of every scent is to be different, not better. But no, I did
not know that it would become a big success, even if I worked
very hard for it. It’s also better not to know, when something
will become a success. When I created it, I wanted a gourmand
perfume that would be different from anything else. This is the
very rational, yet very creative approach that I had. I wanted it to
carry the codes of today’s era. It needed to be sweet but unique.
I studied and smelt all the gourmand fragrances on the market,
with their specific pattern of perfume, and decided not to use
the common notes that linked them all by removing every single
note that had already been used. I used a specific and rigorous
method. When I sat in my office to create “Rouge 540”, my goal
In close collaboration
with director Cyril Teste,
Francis Kurkdjian created the
olfactory accompaniment
for “Salome”. A bespoke
fragrance was sprayed into
the auditorium during one of
the opera’s key scenes: the
“Dance of the Seven Veils”.
was to create something very commercial yet creative. What
would the best way to do this be? By studying what has been
done before. You can compare it to the keyboard on a piano: the
same keyboard was used by all the great composers who played
on the same notes but each one put them together differently.
So, I smelt all the most iconic perfumes and looked up what
they had in common. I then used the method of elimination to
eliminate all their common ingredients from my formula. This
meant that I couldn’t use patchouli, vanilla or powdery smells
such as almond.
As for chance, it doesn’t exist. Audacity exists. I am lucky for
the circumstances of where I was born, that I was able to survive
and to live in France and have had the parents that I had. That
is luck. But at some stage your life becomes your own, and from
that point on I believed in audacity!
107

ADVERTORIAL
BEAUTY
Der Duft –
AN AROMA,
THAT REMAINS
UNFORGETTABLE
Perfumes are an inseparable part
of our daily lives. They can help us
feel our best and can even help us
express our personality. In a world
full of brands and fragrances, it
can be difficult to find the perfect
scent. This is where DER DUFT
comes into play.
By KATERINA LEROY
Der Duft is a new brand that specialises in
the creation of unforgettable fragrances.Each
fragrance has been carefully created to have a
unique note and to convey a sense of luxurious
elegance. The notes range from sensual floral
aromas to warm, woody tones.
“PRIVILEGE” PERFUME
“Privilege” by DER DUFT is a refined fragrance
that offers a combination of fruity and floral notes.
The top notes consist of fresh citrus fruits, to be
followed by gentle vegetal notes such as galbanum,
carrot seed, black currant and rhubarb. Iris, cedarwood
and Paraguayan guaiac wood complete the
fragrance and give it a pleasant depth. “Privilege”
is the perfect fragrance for special occasions or for
everyday use when you want to feel particularly
classy and elegant.
“MATCH” PERFUME
“Match” by DER DUFT is a seductive and
appealing fragrance that beguiles the senses
with its combination of sensual notes. The
perfume notes consist of black pepper, cumin,
ginger, grapefruit, sandalwood, vetiver, cedarwood,
ambroxan, iris butter, carma wood and
suede. “Match” is the ideal fragrance for a
romantic night or a special occasion where you
want to feel confident and attractive.
Each scent by DER DUFT is encased in
an elegant bottle that perfectly captures the
aroma and makes it a luxurious accessory for
each and every day. The brand attaches great
importance to high-quality ingredients to
ensure that their fragrances last long and do
not irritate the skin. DER DUFT is a brand
to keep an eye on if you are looking for a new,
special fragrance. Each creation has been carefully
developed to have a unique touch and
give a sense of luxurious elegance.
Supply source: Lafferty’s, Hohegrabenweg 81a,
40667 Meerbusch, Germany
Images provided by; © DER DUFT
108

1

BEAUTY
Spring
HAIR
CARE
GUIDE
The spring season is the best
time to cleanse your body. It is
especially beneficial to detox
from the head down – beauty
experts recommend it. L’Officiel
Austria presents the journey to
a healthy scalp and hair.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
Images provided by: © Authentic Beauty Concept

BEAUTY
Sebaceous glands that secrete sebum can be found on the scalp,
as well as on the entire body. Depending on the time of year,
psychological state, health and temperature conditions, different
amounts of sweat and toxic substances are released along with fat.
All this accumulate on the scalp and hair, worsening the appearance
and causing irritation, dandruff, brittleness and loss. The
detox procedure allows you to remove deep impurities from the
scalp. It improves blood circulation and the nutrition of the hair
follicles. After such a procedure, the hair grows faster and becomes
thick and shiny. Thanks to modern formulas for hair care products,
deep cleansing can be made a regular procedure at home, turning
shampooing into a pleasant spa ritual. The Authentic Beauty Concept
series presents an integral array of hair care products for every step
of the way.
Step 1: Cleansing
The Detoxifying Scalp Mud, a mineral mud enriched with vitamin C
and ginger, has been developed for this step. In combination with
the Balancing potion, this product removes all impurities and stimulates
blood circulation, leaving the hair shiny and healthy.
The Bare Cleanser, a fragrance-free shampoo, contains Spirulina
extract to help hydrate damaged hair and sensitive scalp while
protecting the scalp‘s natural barrier function. This remedy does
not cause allergies and is suitable for all hair and scalp types.
1
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Unscented shampoo for all types of
hair and scalp. Thanks to spirulina
extract, it saturates damaged hair
and scalp with moisture. Harmless
for allergy sufferers, AUTHENTIC
BEAUTY CONCEPT BARE CLEANSER.
This formulation contains
a complex of rambutan and
balancing ginseng. It is free
from parabens and silicones.
Combined with detoxifying
Scalp Mud and massage,
it stimulates blood circulation
and promotes well-being,
AUTHENTIC BEAUTY CONCEPT
BALANCING POTION.
2
Step 2: Moisturize
The Hydrating Jelly Mask is an intensive mask with Spirulina and
Aloe vera. It provides the scalp and hair with intense hydration,
protects against external influences and restores hair shine. Also
ideal for setting curls on damp hair as a leave-in.
Step 3: Daily Care
The Enhancing Water is a moisturizing spray for hair and face. The
multitasking formula of this rambutan treatment is also perfect for
wetting hair for a quick makeover or a vegan blow-dry for natural
hair anytime.
4
3
it is a natural mineral mud with vitamin
C and invigorating ginger for dees
cleansing. Slightly scented with green
tea leaves. Free of parabens and
silicones, AUTHENTIC BEAUTY CONCEPT
DETOXIFYING SCALP MUD.
This formula with bakuchiol is
lightweight and has a “hard to see”
texture. It nourishes and protects skin
and hair, AUTHENTIC BEAUTY CONCEPT
HAND & HAIR LIGHT CREAM.
The weightless texture of the Hand & Hair Light Cream absorbs
quickly, leaving hair feeling smooth on wet or dry hair. It can also
be rubbed into the skin for a soothing hand massage.
5
Ecological Approach
All products contain carefully selected plants. To extract active
ingredients from them without losing their positive effect,
Authentic Beauty Concept uses a gentle extraction – the ecosound®
process. The creators of hair cosmetics took the conscious
decision not to use silicones, sulfates, parabens, mineral oils
and artificial colours in ABC products. 28 of their 31 recipes are
already vegan. Since 2017, Authentic Beauty Concept has been
supporting the Guar Sustainability Initiative. Through a transparent
value chain, this program improves the livelihoods of several
thousand small-scale guar bean growers in India.
It is perfect for wetting
hair for a quick
makeover and vegan
blow-dry, AUTHENTIC
BEAUTY CONCEPT
ENHANCING WATER.
6
This is a deep moisturizer
for hair and scalp. It is
also used to fix curls
as a leave-in agent,
AUTHENTIC BEAUTY
CONCEPT HYDRATING
JELLY MASK.
111

Nature in
THE CITY
In search of a new meaning in life,
a mental and physical reset, we
seek out a shelter where recovery is
possible. We browse through many
tourist offers, read hundreds of
reviews, believe, doubt and search
again, not knowing that places of
strength are nearby.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
Images provided by: © TAIGA Spa
112

BEAUTY
The tannins in oak
leaves have an antiinflammatory
and
astringent effect
on the skin.
In Vienna, TAIGA Spa is one of these unique places. The signature
services of this centre are spa treatments with gifts from the northern
forest. The taiga is a natural area dominated by coniferous forests,
predominantly spruce, fir, larch and pine. Today the taiga remains
an area of untouched nature. The plants growing there have medicinal
and ecologically safe properties.
TAIGA Spa offers unique authentic procedures using the herbs of
the taiga forest that eliminate fatigue, increase vitality, purify and
naturally rejuvenate the body. When you cross the threshold of this
centre, you will find yourself immersed in nature from the first few
seconds. You will be embraced by a fairy-tale feeling and the care
of an attentive staff.
At the spa, you can choose a treatment, such as an aromatherapy bath or
a body scrub with natural ingredients. It is also possible to undergo
a complex treatment programme that will leave feeling 100 %
rejuvenated in just 3 hours. Each programme is personalised to suit
the needs of the individual. For example, the “Taiga for You” programme
includes aroma steaming, a foot bath with fir, salt rolling,
an aromatic bath with pine, warming with brooms made of oak
leaves, an ice pool, and resting on a swing under a cosy plaid. Each
of these stages makes a difference.
Aroma steaming is a gentle warming of the body with steam saturated
with herbal extracts. The treatment has a powerful inhalation effect
and is an effective prophylactic for diseases of the bronchopulmonary
system.
The foot bath with fir relieves leg fatigue and muscle tension and has
a beneficial effect on the heart and blood vessels. It is most useful
after the first heating in the steam room.
After warming up the body, salt is applied to well-heated skin and
rubbed in slow and steady movements. Rolling massage with salt
is a ritual that cleanses the epidermis and human energy channels.
The pine bath has several objectives – to relieve muscular tension,
relax, soothe, harmonise sleep and strengthen the body.
Warming with oak leaf brooms helps to reduce blood pressure. The
tannins in oak leaves have an anti-inflammatory and astringent
effect on the skin. The treatment opens pores and allows beneficial
substances to penetrate deep into the skin. After heating with an
oak broom, the skin becomes firmer and more elastic. Also, the
pleasant aroma of a steamed oak broom soothes the nervous system
and relieves headaches.
The pouring of cold water after a steam bath is one of Russia’s bathing
traditions. The contrast between hot and cold has many positive
effects: it improves blood circulation, helps break down fat, speeds
up metabolism, strengthens the immune system, and increases the
body’s resistance to infection. After such a cooling effect a pleasant
feeling of warmth is felt in the body. Physical and emotional wellbeing
is greatly improved.
The cycle of these cleansing procedures ends with a rest on a suspended
swing and a tea ceremony with tea from taiga herbs and
berries.
Another procedure that women should pay attention to is peeling
with a cedar scrub with honey. The master applies warm honey with
crushed pine nut shells to the pre-steamed skin. The degree of grinding
of pine nut shells is selected individually according to the needs
and wishes of the guest. Honey gently absorbs toxins and impurities,
while tiny cedarwood particles gently remove dead skin cells. This
gentle, warming and amazingly delicious treatment will fill your
skin with health and the power of nature.
TAIGA Spa is the perfect place for a relaxing retreat, as well as
a spa bachelorette party or a spa retreat with loved ones. For group
visits, the programme “The Lord of the Taiga” is provided. Here
everything is created so that life continues in harmony with yourself
and the world around you.
113

&
“I like my money right where I can see it…
hanging in my closet.”
CARRIE BRADSHAW
REAL ESTATE
Business

1

BUSINESS
Reel
QUEEN
Hezal Helin Sahin is a multi-talent
when it comes to video productions.
Whether Instagram reels, video
advertising or designing entire brand
identities – L’Officiel Austria in
a conversation with the all-rounder.
By ANNA ZNAMESKY
Helin, you are a videographer, agency owner
and a “Reel Queen”. How have you made your
passion into your profession?
I already knew after my graduation from
the High School of Graphic Arts that a
9/5 job would not satisfy me. During my
studies until my master‘s degree, I worked
for five years in various advertising agencies.
When I realised that there was no
agency that I wanted to work for, I decided
to start my own company.
REFLECTION is a team dedicated to
developing social media channels that will
be supported by an effective strategy. We
work with founders from the coaching,
content creation, beauty and lifestyle and
fashion sectors to create bold brand identities
that stand out from the competition.
What distinguishes us as an agency is our
unique, quirky and creative flair of different
individualities, and our passion and
ability to connect and of course my sense
for individual trends: I prefer to consciously
swim against the stream to be different.
That is why I also use the opportunity
as a videographer to take storytelling to
a new level.
I am convinced that a brand or a company
should not be interested in following the
masses. Courageous brands speak with
determination. They show themselves as
a leading figure in their field. They come
out with opinions that challenge the status
quo and they are willing to stand by
their ideas, which is exactly what I stand
for at REFLECTION, which also reflects
my slogan “GO YOUR OWN
DIRECTION”.
What was your most exciting assignment so
far and why?
My most exciting assignment was in
Dubai for a German influencer – for her
new children’s collection. I was responsible
for developing the brand identity and was
in charge of a big campaign shoot with 13
children aged 2-14. The job required five
weeks of advance planning. Especially
when travelling abroad, you have to think
about a lot of things that end consumers
are not even aware of. This includes creative
direction, storyboarding, callsheets,
filming permits, assistants, styling &
MUA and much more. The biggest challenge
was that it was my first time working
with children.
It is important to adapt the project to the
customer‘s wishes, and many meetings are
held to define the right KPIs. I produced
over 15 videos in two days, which of course
also had to be edited and delivered on site.
What is your professional goal for the future?
My goal is not only to encourage others or
beginners to follow their creativity, which
knows no boundaries, but also to support
brands and companies to express their own
individuality. If you work really hard, and
stay true to yourself even when you fail, if
you keep believing in your dreams, then
they really will come true! Above all, I
have always had in mind that “no” is not an
answer. I had to overcome many hurdles
and had to establish myself in this profession
in order to be able to do what I enjoy
doing today. My goal is to offer training
and mentoring programmes by the end
of 2023 to make it easier for others to get
started in the social media business. This
applies to creative individuals, companies
and brands who want to gain a foothold in
the digital world.
What does your creative process look like –
from shooting, to editing and to the final
video/reel? Do you always have a vision of
the end result in mind?
Inspired by the fear of being average, I am
constantly exploring all facets of my creativity.
Creativity is both my passion and my
hobby. When I’m not working on my next
project, I enjoy storyboarding, reading &
learning a new skill. I try to constantly be
inspired by my surroundings and enjoy
interacting with other creatives, brands
and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Of course, every creative process is project-based
and client-dependent. If I am
given an opportunity to let my creativity
run free, I usually, already know which
direction it should take already after the
first concept meeting. Depending on the
project, I also like to get inspired on set or
on cut. In most cases, I can actually see the
final cut and the finished video before the
shot has even taken place. This is probably
my biggest advantage in my profession, as
my ideas are constantly unfolding and I
don‘t set myself any limits in this process.
Images provided by: © Hezal Helin Sahin/REFLECTION THE AGENCY
116

1

ADVERTORIAL
Opera Diva
Fashion MEETS
Diva
118

BUSINESS
Anyone who works with fashion today, as I do, cannot do without testimonials, bloggers
and influencers. Many have turned their social media appearances into a profession.
Some of them seem to make a pretty good living from it, if we can trust media reports.
Big brands are facing the question: how can they involve influencers and bloggers
into their communication about their fashion?
ADVERTORIAL
By ALEXIS F. GONZALEZ
Images courtesy of: Right side, portrait of Alexis Fernandez Gonzalez: © Prisma Design, left side © Luiza Lamtiuga
Everything looks good on a
photograph, and the world of haute
couture is presented as shiny and perfect
– and so are the elite, the artists or the
rich and beautiful stars.
How does one engage with social
media and with those who engage
with it – especially when one does not
really have control over the image?
Following on from this, and of equal
importance, is the further question of
how I can credibly convey the quality
of my product to customers on social
media?
Here, I introduce a great artist who is
also brilliantly successful on the international
stage: Zoryana Kusphler –
a sought-after opera diva with a large
repertoire, known in this country as
a long-standing ensemble member of
the Vienna State Opera. She is not
only an ambassador for the music of
her Ukrainian homeland, but also promotes
new talents with her big heart.
Zoryana is not only an outstanding
artist, but she also possesses a taste for
fashion that is as critical as it is assured.
She appreciates beauty, style and has
high standards – especially in terms of
quality and design.
Someone like Zoryana, with her great
international career, is therefore credible,
or, as I would like to call it, a real influencer.
In her particular case, you can be
assured that she carefully checks that the
quality of the fashion she associates with
her name, is of a high standard.
It made perfect sense for me to instigate
a collaboration with Zoryana and
Alexis Fernandez Gonzalez is the owner of Viennese
boutique RUNWAY, where he presents couture fashion by
local designers as well as from international brands. He
is now also the proud owner of his own couture atelier,
located in the former Wiener Werkstätten building.
to integrate her into my brand as a brand
ambassador, and I was overjoyed when
she accepted. It is a very special and great
honour for me to be able to use her name
for my brand.
Even more so, due to our, further, joint
collaboration with the great jewellery
designer and retailer, ALMAZ.
To me as a designer, Zoryana‘s acceptance
and cooperation is a confirmation
of the quality of my product, but above
all, the message to my customers is clear.
It confirms that my fashion meets highquality
standards, and that my designs
correspond to Zoryana’s expectations as
those of a great influencer (if I may call
her that).
Our photo shoot with Zoryana in cooperation
with ALMAZ was superb. The
resulting pictures speak for themselves.
They are not just beautiful in a superficial
sense and are not just videos and
photos that shine bright on social media.
They convey that someone is putting
their own experience and their name
behind a product and thereby vouching
for its quality.
At the end of our shoot, I was able to
ask Zoryana three questions, which she
kindly answered for me.
What are your criteria when it comes to
recommending a product or brand?
Zoryana: The model, of course! I am also
interested in the quality of the fabric and
how everything is processed, and then,
of course, in how wearable it is. If all of
these factors coincide, I am very happy
to recommend the product to others, be
it a face cream, shoes or a dress!
Why did you decide to work with me?
Zoryana: I met a friend at a ball who was
wearing a very beautiful dress. I asked
who the designer was and they mentioned
your name. I met you in person
a little later and our energies synergized
very well with one another! Then
you invited me to your photo shoot and
I have to admit that it was one of the
best photo shoots of my life – and I have
done God knows how many! Your dresses
make me feel absolutely royal!
What is couture to you?
Zoryana: Couture is tailoring in the true
sense of the word! To me, it is definitely
an art form!
I am very grateful that a big star such
as Zoryana agreed to work with me and
I hope there will be many more collaborations
between us!

MEET THE
EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR OF GOBI
CASHMERE,
Amarsaikhan
Baatarsaikhan
GOBI Cashmere is an internationally renowned fashion and lifestyle brand that has been
providing pure Mongolian cashmere to its beloved customers for over 40 years. Today,
Gobi is continuing to produce the sustainable and traceable high-end fibre.
L’Officiel Austria interviews Amarsaikhan Baatarsaikhan, the Executive Director
of GOBI Cashmere, sharing his workflow insights and revealing how GOBI has
succeeded in being the beloved choice of ethically-minded consumers across the globe.
By KATERINA LEROY
120

BUSINESS
Images provided by: © GOBI Cashmere
How would you define the style of your new collection and how does it
differ from other well-known cashmere luxury brands?
Our “GOBI Organic” collection uses no dyes or colouring chemicals,
this allows us to save on average 20 % more water, electricity
and energy while manufacturing these products because skipping
the dyeing process allows us to be more sustainable and responsible.
Moreover, the organic collection allows us to highlight the four
natural and original colours of Mongolian cashmere, the colours
are the results and byproduct of our preservation of traditional
Nomadic herder lifestyles, because, without the herders and their
goats, we would not have our organic collection.
What skills according to you are necessary for a successful entrepreneur?
I believe that the following skills are necessary to be a successful
entrepreneur:
1. Vision & ambition: a certain dream and desire to accomplish
something. My wish at GOBI is for us to make cashmere a lifestyle
by making high-quality and responsible cashmere more
accessible to everyone who wants it.
2. Teamwork & leadership: I believe that “none of us is smarter
than all of us combined”, hence bringing in great people and
building a culture where everyone can thrive and work towards
a common goal.
3. Hard work: nothing can be achieved without hard work and
effort, so this is a must.
4. Growth & improvement: you want to be able to answer a bold
“yes” to the question “are you better today than you were yesterday”.
No matter by how much, did
you improve today?
5. Consistent excellence: “Excellence
is therefore not an act, but
a habit” – Aristotle, how can we show
excellence in every word, action and
behaviour?
Do you have any favourites in your
cashmere collection?
I have my favourites for each season.
Winter: I love warm thick socks, big
jumpers and cardigans that keep me
warm and jolly while working from
home or out at a local market. Summer:
I love our blankets for summer
naps or picnics, our thin polos
are great for summer, but I always,
always keep one sweater in my car if
it gets colder at night when I’m out
and about through the city. Spring
and Fall: I love our coats, the doublebreasted
is the one for me.
Describe a day in the life of a master
fashion designer when working on your
new collection.
Our fashion designer’s day is filled
with creativity, inspiration, and excitement!
Starting the morning with
a cup of coffee, they start sketching
new designs, selecting colours and
choosing fabrics – all while listening
to their favourite music. After that,
Organic colour
Chunky Cable
Cardigan
100 % CASHMERE
Flared skirt
in blue colour,
Spring 2023
collection
Sweater with print,
Spring 2023
collection
they review their work with the pattern makers to ensure quality
and fit. As the day winds down, they begin to look beyond the new
collection and start envisioning their next collection, allowing for an
evening of planning and reflection. In this field, people never stop
thinking about new things.
What does your schedule look like?
Work is 24/7 for me, and I love it. I prefer to divide my work into
two parts. Focused work: where I’m in the office having talks and
discussions with my colleagues and team, preparing files and presentations
with clear goals and agendas. I like to have this done in the
morning and afternoon from 7 am until 4 pm. Flexible work: this
is where I like to let loose and allo my creativity to run free without
any objective. I find that the following activities create a friendly
environment to be more creative; reading a book, going to a museum
or gallery, meeting different people from different fields and areas,
exercising and hiking, meditating and just doing nothing, having a
nice drink (tea/coffee/beer) while relaxing.
Amarsaikhan, how has the digital age influenced your business?
The digital age has opened a door for us to realise our vision of
making cashmere a lifestyle a reality. In 2016 we started our global
expansion to get one step closer to our customers around the world.
However, we did so through traditional bricks and mortar, which
meant that the process was really slow and time-consuming, so in
2019 we shifted our strategy to e-commerce and online stores, www.
gobicashmere.com.
Who were the designers that spoke to you
the most at that time?
The designers who spoke to me the
most were those who demonstrated
the power of creative thinking and
innovation – creatives who showed
a genuine passion for their craft and
had the drive to push the boundaries
of what was possible. They inspired me
to think more deeply about the design
process and to continue striving for
excellence in my work. Our designers’
mantra was: “nothing is impossible,
and no challenge is too great.”
GOBI cashmere pieces have unique
designs. How do you get inspired?
Our inspiration comes from our customers
because we envision that everyone
can enrich their wardrobe by
adding a cashmere product to whatever
they are looking for, which is
why we have expanded our product
selection and mix from basic sweaters,
cardigans and accessories such as hats
and scarves to add coats, jackets, suits,
patterned shawls, blankets and etc. We
would like to provide our customers
and the world with all the options that
cashmere can offer, which is why we
are planning to launch cashmere sneakers,
more baby and kids products, and
home items in the future.
121

Home
&
“The best rooms have something
to say about the people
who live in them.”
DAVID HICKS
INTERIORS

1

124
The apartment is plastic-free
and adorned almost exclusively
with hand-made items and
relics that carry both history
and meaning.

HOME & INTERIORS
Home
AWAY
Home
FROM
Omar Zevallos-Orrillo opens the doors of his newly renovated
apartment in Wieden to L’Officiel Austria. The Peruvian
born owner and designer of this enchanting place shares
some insider tips on how to carve out an individual space
that feels like home.
By RIMA AL KAISSI
Located in Vienna’s vibrant fourth district,
known for its mostly edgy crowd and baroque
architecture, Omar Zevallos-Orrillo’s home feels
almost like his very own secret garden. Rarely
has a space felt so in sync with its owner’s personal
history and differing tastes. “I bought this
place four years ago, to me it was like a blank
canvas that I turned into my very own masterpiece.
Every corner of this place is a reflection
of who I am”. The 42-year-old shares a separate
apartment with his partner of 20 years, Helmut
Brath. “I will never have the heart to rent or sell
this place. I come here when I need some alone
time or to entertain friends and host soirées.”
Eclectic with classical and contemporary
influences, it is almost impossible to define his
space to be within a specific style. It is an undeniable
ode to its owner’s boundless imagination,
his unique attention to detail and unrelenting
pursuit of beauty. Tirelessly treasure-hunting,
Omar who is also an art collector confides that
every piece was carefully hand-picked at local
auctions and flea markets or at his beloved
antique shop Die Glasfabrik.
Images provided by: © Jakob Resch
Every piece here was carefully
hand-picked at local auctions,
antique shops or flea markets.
He proudly boasts that his apartment is plastic
free and adorned almost exclusively with handmade
items and relics that carry both history
and meaning. Nostalgic nods to his native Peru
joyfully pop up here and there like the intricate
wall art of wildlife in the guestroom, hand painted
by his close friend Marie Hartig. He clarifies
that despite his love for his home country, Vienna
is the only place he has ever truly felt at home. “It
125

HOME & INTERIORS
“Nature is perfect with its asymmetry
and imperfections, and an
interior should mimic that”, says
the owner of this house.
took me exactly three hours to feel at home when
I landed here 20 years ago”. The city’s artistic
richness is to blame, “it’s like a public museum
with free entry”. More surprisingly, he cites the
demureness of the Viennese as an additional perk
“I can relate to their initial reservedness. I need
time to warm up to people and maybe that’s why
I feel like I belong here”.
When I ask him about his golden rules for creating
a beautiful home, he recommends breaking
symmetry with asymmetry, subtly pointing to
his mid-century Chinese carpet with its asymmetric
pattern and a chandelier that unabashedly
hangs in the corner of his living room instead of
its center. “Nature is perfect with its asymmetry
and imperfections, and an interior should mimic
that.” When I ask him about his most prized
possession, he points to the teapot on the coffee
table, which itself is adorned with faint markings,
that are the prerogative of items that have
been loved for decades “I have a long-standing
love story with porcelain. In fact, I studied porcelain.
You will find them everywhere here and
they bring back fond memories of my childhood
in Peru, when as a kid I was fascinated with my
mother’s collection of porcelain tableware. I have
managed to bring a piece of my family into this
space thanks to these items that remind me of
I BOUGHT THIS
PLACE FOUR YEARS
AGO, to me, IT WAS LIKE
A BLANK CANVAS that
I turned INTO MY VERY
OWN MASTERPIECE.
Every corner OF THIS
PLACE IS A REFLECTION
of who I am.
them and make me feel at home.” He adds that no home is complete
without objects that are reminiscent of one’s family and roots.
I couldn’t’ possibly leave without asking my host about the abundant
stuccos and frescos that crown his walls and ceilings. For that, he had
to delegate the realisation of his own vision to local artists, an incredible
act of trust and letting go on his part. Not least for the surreal
fresco on his bathroom ceiling, courtesy of artist Thean Chie Chan,
who also happens to be his friend. Pointing to the vivid blue tempera
curves that adorn it, he adds “You see that shade of blue? That’s the
exact same blue you find in Yves Saint Laurent’s Jardin Majorelle in
Marrakech. I bought the powder for the colour from a street market
on a trip I took there long before I found this place. I knew I would
use it someday, so I bought a kilo of it.”
126
Images provided by: © Jakob Resch

127
The surreal mural on the ceiling
of the bathroom was created by
the artist Tean Chi Chan, who is
also a friend of Omar.

NEWS
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
1
1. NATURE SOURCES OF LIGHT
The Cicla series has been enriched by
the addition of a new table lamp with
a blown glass diffuser and a cylindrical
base made of Vicenza stone: a
warm coloured rock with fossil sediments,
giving it a textural, grainy and
faceted surface. The base has vertical
grooves, reminiscent of Greek and
Roman columns, which hide the integrated
LED source within. The light
filters through the diffuser, a ringshaped
element in transparent blown
glass, processed using the traditional
Muranese Ballotton technique. The
cross-relief pattern, like a jet of water,
radiates from the centre of the element
to its edge, expanding as the volume of
the diffuser becomes larger, ITALAMP.
2
3. LET’S PLAY!
Each of Ralph Lauren’s products has
a recognizable style – concise, stylish
and with a playful design. Many of its
decor items are handmade. For example,
the Garrett decanter and glasses from the
Entertaining collection are made from
hand-cut lead crystal with sandblasted
images of polo players. The board of the
Fowler Chess Set is handcrafted and its
details are hand-sewn for a unique artisanal
effect, RALPH LAUREN HOME.
3
2. AROMA AURA
British fragrance maker Molton
Brown is launching a new home collection
that includes scented candles
and Aroma Reeds. The home fragrances
are based on the compositions
of the brand’s most popular perfumes,
but carefully reformulated to create
an uplifting, refreshing or relaxing
atmosphere. For example, the iconic
Re-charge Black Pepper fragrance
adds a woody-citrus sophistication,
MOLTON BROWN.
Images provided by: 1. © Italamp, 2. © Molton Brown, 3. © Ralph Lauren Home
128

1

4. GENTLE HINT
Transparent, refined and graceful
vases made of lead-free crystal
are an exquisite decoration for
any interior. You can create floral
arrangements by playing with
the size of such vases. Models
BV39, designed by Stefan Ralph
in 1952, have become classics in
collections from LOBMEYR.
4
5. ROYAL TABLE
Emperor Franz Joseph I was especially fond of
crusty rolls. This beautiful Viennese white pastry
was distributed around all cities on his birthday
on August 18th. Crusty rolls and other porcelain
pastries were considered whimsical decorations
for the imperial table. Vienna Porcelain Manufactory
has revived this tradition and included the
deceptively real Kaisersemmel in a can in its range,
AUGARTEN.
6
6. MOOD BOARD
Wallpaper from the Refined Structures 3 collection has a vinyl support that
recreates the three-dimensional texture and rich effects such as shantung silk
undulations, more finishes, plant elements, or a vintage aesthetic. A good example
from the collection is the Nikko wallpaper, which depicts bamboo canes
sketched onto canvas, evocative of the Japanese environment. This print helps
to create a calming atmosphere as part of any interior design, ARMANI CASA.
5
Images provided by: 4. © Mark Glassner/Lobmeyr, 5. © Augarten, 6. © Armani Casa
130

HOME & INTERIORS
Bright,
BRIGHTER,
SPUTNIK!
Futuristic and spectacular –
the Metropolitan Chandelier
from glass and chandelier manufacturer
J. & L. LOBMEYR,
still shines bright today within
the New York Metropolitan Opera.
With its timeless elegance and
fascinating beauty, it has been
delighting audiences time and
again since its opening in
September 1966.
By STEFANIE LANG
The modular construction
allows the light to be
scaled to any size and
thus perfectly adapted to
the respective room. For
50 years, this functional
element of the design has
been Lobmeyr’s undisputed
bestseller worldwide.
Images provided by: © Lobmeyr
The first scientific photographs of distant galaxies were the inspiration
for the design of the Met series. Hans Harald Rath, the fourth
generation owner of the traditional Viennese company and manufacture,
developed the first version of the famous crystal chandelier.
He was inspired by a book written by a French astronomer, which
was given to him by the architect of the Met, Edward K. Harrisson.
According to the family myth, a potato with toothpicks was used as
the first “prototype” to represent the model.As part of the European
Recovery Programme after the Second World War, the extensive
chandelier series was finally presented to the United States of America
as a gift from the Republic of Austria. The largest “Starburst” in
the foyer of the Opera House measures 6 meters and has become
a style icon of the 20th century, representing a design masterpiece.
As a former supplier to the Imperial and Royal Court, Lobmeyr
represents the finest craftsmanship using traditional techniques.
This year, the traditional company celebrates its 200th anniversary.
131

“We really enjoy not
having to climb so many
stairs...”, says princess
Cleo about life in the
new house.
132

HOME & INTERIORS
A Noble Nest
FIT FOR A PRINCESS
More than one year ago, model and actress
Cleo zu Oettingen-Spielberg moved with her husband,
Crown Prince Franz Albrecht zu Oettingen-Spielberg,
and their children, to live in a suburb of Madrid. Together
with Westwing L’Officiel Austria takes a tour of their
interiors and explores how the aristocratic family has
settled into their new home.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
Why did you choose this house in this location?
We bought a country house outside of
Madrid so that we can spend more time
outdoors and also so that the children can
learn Spanish. Puerta de Hierro is a very
quiet and safe area where you can find
houses with gardens, which we consider to
be important, especially for children and
dogs. We are only 15 minutes away from
the city centre. We also chose this area
because we already had good friends here.
To what extent is your lifestyle different here
compared to Germany?
It is definitely easier to live in a house than
in a castle. We really enjoy not having to
climb so many stairs and having easy
access to the garden.
What makes your new home special? What do
you particularly like?
There are spacious rooms that can be
connected. There is only one big staircase
and although everything is easy to reach,
you have the option to retreat. My husband’s
office is a cosy retreat and with the
great weather we spend a lot of time on
the terrace too.
What is your heart beating for when it comes
to the interior?
I love fabrics, colours, wallpaper...
What is the best way to combine heirlooms or
antiques with new things in the interior?
It’s always a matter of taste. I’m definitely
a fan of combining antique and modern.
Design, decoration, new furnishing ideas,
who takes over what exactly?
I would say it’s great fun for both of us and
we have very similar tastes which of course
makes it easier. My husband is definitely
more talented when it comes to room
layout and where the furniture fits best.
What is your favourite interior memento?
My grandmother’s porcelain.
What should you definitely treat yourself to
when setting up?
Good beds and good sofas. There is always
something new that we discover and add
to the decor. We have to be rather careful
that the house doesn’t get too full. I like
everything to be tidy, but I am not the
tidiest person.
After a glamorous event, actress and model Cleo zu Oettingen-
Spielberg returns to her home in the countryside of Spain, which
she furnished together with her husband. Within their cosy interior,
the aristocratic couple have combined modern and vintage pieces.
WESTWING
Decorative side table
in metal, DUCK
Wine glass with textured
pattern, COLORADO
Statuette Dancer
in vintage style,
JOTEX
Images provided by: © Westwing
Book, “Homes for Our Time.
Contemporary Houses
around the World”, TASCHEN
Porcelain vase
with a lid, ELLA
Solid colour velvet cushion
cover in rust red, DANA
133

1

TETIÈRE
credit photo
credit photo
2

ADVERTORIAL
HOME & INTERIORS
Fredericia –
INCOMPARABLE
HIGH-QUALITY
FURNITURE FOR THE
TRUE CONNOISSEUR
It is difficult to overestimate the great importance of high-quality furniture
in creating an authentic atmosphere of beauty, comfort, and cosiness.
Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to the quality and design
of furniture, which advantageously emphasises individuality. Together with
L’Officiel Austria, you will get to know the perfect Fredericia – high-quality
furniture for real connoisseurs.
By ANNA KAFKA
Fredericia Furniture was founded in 1911. Based in the Danish
city of the same name, this unique family-owned company
has been producing furniture of exceptional quality for over
100 years. Many of their products have become icons of Danish
design. Fredericia Furniture is best known for its unique
wood and leather furniture, the high-quality originality of its
products, and its rich history.
This successful design company was originally created under
the name of Fredericia Stolefabrik (Fredericia Chair Factory)
by entrepreneur NP Ravnsø and in 1955 the company was
acquired by the visionary manufacturer Andreas Graversen
and renamed Fredericia Furniture. It quickly gained fame
thanks to its high-quality furniture, high level of craftsmanship,
and unique design. Andreas Graversen worked closely
with the incredibly talented designer Børge Mogensen whose
keen sense, unique vision, and deep understanding of his craft
led him to create several world-class iconic works that are still
highly valued by designers, architects, and collectors around
the world.
Since then, the combination of classic high-quality furniture
and modern design has become the hallmark of Fredericia
Furniture. Thus, famous personalities such as Nanna Ditzel,
the first lady of Danish design, designed a range of avantgarde
furniture especially for Fredericia.
The brand is constantly evolving and improving: in 2020,
Fredericia Furniture acquired Erik Jørgensen Møbelfabrik.
Two of Denmark’s most traditional furniture manufacturers,
Fredericia Furniture, together with Erik Jørgensen, represent
a rich, iconic, and contemporary portfolio of Danish
design heritage.
“The two brands make a wonderful match. Fredericia Furniture
and Erik Jørgensen have both grown out of a strong
design heri-tage. We have the same values, and we are both
family-owned. Most importantly, we share the same passion
for design and craftsmanship and desire to create sustainable
products with a long lifespan,” says Kaja Møller, CEO of
Fredericia Furniture.
Thus, Fredericia Furniture and Erik Jørgensen, while still
two separate brands, leverage the successful synergy of both
brands based on the common culture of a unified company.
Børge Mogensen’s Spanish Chair and Ox Chair, Erik Jørgensen’s
handcrafted sofas, and Nanna Ditzel’s Trinidad
Chair are perfect examples of some iconic, timeless Danish
furniture designs from the premium brand focusing on creating
furniture crafted to last for generations.
Fredericia Furniture’s honest values of producing high quality,
sustainable products, together with artistic expression,
deep material expertise, integrity of design, and expert
knowledge of the industry, allow for the development of
unique furniture that is hard to beat. Sustainable furniture
that exquisitely enhances your individuality, authenticity,
and beauty – wherever you live, work, and relax.
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Images provided by: © Fredericia

ADVERTORIAL
Fredericia Furniture is best known for
its unique wood and leather furniture,
and the high-quality originality of its products.
The creation process of the iconic
Ox Chair, which was designed
by Hans J. Wegner.
137

The Lotus Lake explores the play
of light and colour through its silk
shades which can move individually
from each other, while the mirrored
stainless steel structure evokes
the presence of water.
Aqua Creations –
ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSCIOUS DESIGN
L’Officiel Austria spoke
with Albi Serfaty,
founder and creative
director of lighting
design studio
Aqua Creations,
who – through his
work – aims to bring
environmental awareness
to the design world.
By KIM REEN
The Lake Chad Mobile 3 is part of the Lakes
Collection, designed by Albi Serfaty to shine
a light on the dire state of freshwater lakes
around the world.
The playful design of the Lake
Chad Table Lamp allows to
rotate the shade and move
the legs to adjust the height
of the lamp.
138

HOME & INTERIORS
Images provided by: © Aqua Gallery
Tell us about your recent works and the
studio’s noteworthy mission.
I am really excited about our latest
works as we have started communicating
about issues that go beyond
design and that are important. Last
December, we had our debut at Design
Miami with an installation titled
“Light On Water”, which goal was
to shine a light on the alarming state
of freshwater imbalance around the
world. We presented a lighting collection
that draws inspiration from the
shape and particular alarming state
of freshwater lakes around the world,
such as lake Chad (located in Chad,
Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger) which
shrank by as much as 95 % in its history,
and lake Doiran (in Greece and
North Macedonia) that is on the verge
of an ecological disaster after drought
and excessive use of its water.
The centerpiece symbolized a utopic lake which we named
“Lotus Lake”, it offered a dreamy emotional three meter
diameter kinetic light sculpture which allows the viewer to
change the composition of the “water” from harmonious to
restless.
Thanks to a new technology which we developed in-house;
ultra-thin shades covered with the studio’s signature silk;
these lamps can illuminate the space without revealing the
light source. The shades can feature a different silk color
on each side and emit radiance by creating its own background
color. The collection ranges from table lamps to larger
mobiles. Each lamp functions as a luminous artwork,
containing the distinct characteristics of The Lakes; moving
silk shades that use the wall as their backdrop for their luminous
glow.
Specifically for Design Miami, we chose to present these
works because we knew this is a strong platform that would
reach many influential people and make ‘waves’ throughout
the design world.
How did you arrive to the concept of combining design and social
issues?
I have always been drawn to the hypnotic nature of light
and my work has always been strongly influenced by nature.
A snorkeling trip in the Red Sea in Egypt was the inspiration
for the first designs of Aqua Creations, which I cofounded
in 1992; even our name derives from it.
For almost 30 years, light has been a powerful medium at our
studio to evoke emotions. Now, we are using our emotional
CREATING AWARENESS
with The Lakes collection
IS THE STUDIO’S
FIRST STEP TOWARDS
making an impact.
design language to understand the relationships with our
surroundings and the world around us. Our works create
awareness by starting a conversation about the importance
of preserving and protecting these vital resources.
What more can we expect from the studio and its future
endeavors?
We want to strengthen people’s connection to nature by
spreading the word about our mission and by involving the
right people. Besides creating awareness, we are also focusing
on other ways of how we can “give something back” to
nature.
With our latest project, “Reef Protectors”, we are working
to set up a structure to protect the coral reefs in the Red
Sea, Egypt. In particular, the coral reefs in the same area
as where Aqua Creations was “born” during that snorkeling
trip almost 30 years ago. We assembled a team with people
both from our studio as well as locals. Together, we work on
educating the locals and tourists how to treat the coral reefs
in order to protect this delicate ecosystem for future generations
to enjoy. Creating awareness with The Lakes collection
is the studio’s first step towards making an impact. For more
information, you can visit www.aquagallery.com.
139

HOME & INTERIORS
Nanimarquina is one of
the most famous brands
of designer rugs. Unique
vision, innovation and
the finest combination
of craftsmanship and
tradition determine values
of this brand. L’Officiel
Austria reports on this
treasure among designer
rugs and its talented
founder Nani Marquina.
By ANNA KAFKA
Nanimarquina –
A TREASURE AMONG
DESIGNER RUGS
The company was founded more than
three decades ago by industrial designer
Nani Marquina. Despite competition
in the male dominated world of industrial
design at the time, Nani managed
to make nanimarquina one of the most
famous companies.
In 1993, production was moved to
northern India, and in 2002 the second
generation of the company was established.
This brought international recognition
to nanimarquina. The brand’s
numerous awards include the National
Design Award, the Premis Cambra
a la Gestió Empresarial, the 2007
FIDEM Award for Entrepreneurial
Woman of the Year and other awards
and nominations.
Furthermore, from the very beginning,
Nani Marquina has been committed to
sustainable development. The company
is undertaking many necessary steps
that make its attitude to sustainability
clear. On the occasion of its 35th anniversary,
this climate-neutral company
has committed itself to achieving net
zero emissions by the end of 2023.
That is why nanimarquina is proud to
present RE-RUG – the brand’s very first
circular rug collection. The unique collection
is made of 50 % virgin wool and
50 % processed wool remnants.
“All my creativity comes from observing
beauty. Nature has been my source of
inspiration since I started designing, and
my desire to preserve it is one of my greatest
obsessions,” says Nani Marquina.
Thanks to its constant development
and the most innovative materials and
techniques, nanimarquina occupies an
honorable place in the field of designer
carpets. In 2022, Nani Marquina presented
a fabulous new collection – Tones
with Clàudia Valsells – a Catalan artist
who designed this artful, aesthetic collection.
It consists of four rugs in which
colour plays a central role. The Tones
collection shows the interplay of timeless
musical harmony combined with the
immense splendor of colour variations.
The nanimarquina rugs are a skillful
combination of innovative, modern,
handmade design with high quality and
uniqueness. They bring well-being, harmony
and comfort to any living space.
Images provided by: © Nanimarquina
140

1

HOME & INTERIORS
Interiors Trends:
BETWEEN EAST AND WEST
NORR11 is a Danish design brand founded in 2011 with
a vision to continuously create design that sparks curiosity.
The company is driven by the desire to challenge boundaries
and connections between different design directions, time
periods, cultures and materials. Each piece is produced with
high quality premium suppliers and build to last.
By KATERINA LEROY
Kristian Sofus Hansen is one of the talented
designers of NORR11 who aims to combine
Japanese aesthetics with Danish Design, to
achieve a characteristic twist to simplicity
itself. He is mostly searching for the small,
new, and original details, which lift the
design, by adding a specific signature. By
working with arts and sculptures, the process
expands in new and exciting ways, with
the goal of creating characteristic, functional
and timeless designs. L’Officiel Austria
talked to Kristian Sofus Hansen about how
he got his start, what he says you should
think about before you buy your next piece
of furniture and much more.
In the back of your mind were you always
considering a career in furniture design?
I grew up on the Island of Funen next door
to a Danish artist. He had also been living
in Japan and used Japanese influence in his
artistic work with paintings and sculptures.
I think my interest for working creatively
and my passion for Japanese design started
in his atelier.
I began studying architecture at The Royal
Danish Academy of Fine Arts. However it
was always the interiors and smaller building
details that caught my attention. I could
spend hours refining the smallest building
details. Later I switched over to focus primarily
on furniture and product design.
Since you lived and studied in Japan, how did
this experience influence your creative vision
and your career?
I think the attention to details made a
big impact on me. Visiting old temples
and modern architecture, the details
were at a significantly higher and more
refined level. The overall aesthetics were
minimalistic. But always with a few
refined details to add a certain signature.
This has been a big influence in my
own practice, where I spent a lot of time
searching for the small and original detail
to add a certain twist to each design.
I love minimalism and simplicity. But for
me it becomes much more interesting if
you can find a small detail to really lift the
design to a new level.
What prompted you to start your career at
NORR11?
Actually, it was by coincidence that I
found NORR11 in 2014. I didn’t know
the brand at that time, but I immediately
fell in love with it when I first visited the
old showroom in central Copenhagen.
There was something recognisable about
the aesthetics. Classic and timeless, but in
a new and interesting way I hadn’t seen
from any other brands.
I started as an intern and got in contact with
the founder Tommy Hyldahl. We shared
the same passion for Japanese design, especially
the Japanese simplicity and Wabi-Sabi
thought. When I came back from Japan in
2015, Tommy reached out to me, and we
started designing furniture for NORR11.
Tell us more about NORR11...
NORR11 is one of the younger Danish
furniture brands. But having said that,
we are not afraid of challenging boundaries
and move outside of what is considered
typical Danish Design. We strive
to create a unique identity and we have
a very international approach to design
and seek inspiration from all over the
world. We are known for our high quality
furniture, working with a carefully
selected range of suppliers and craftsmen
primarily from Denmark and Italy.
142
Do you have a favorite piece?
The Studio Sofa has become my favorite
piece. I like the simplicity of the design.
It is such a simple concept with endless
possibilities to suit all kinds of interiors.
And the multifunctional cushion, shaped
perfectly to fit the fluted upholstery,
adds a certain lightness and playfulness
to the design.
What’s the best part about your job?
I love to see my drawings and concepts
come to life. The journey from the firsthand
sketches to the final product can
sometimes be a very long process, with
many rejected prototypes along the way.
But when you finally achieve the intended
result, whether it’s a specific shape, material
or surface, it is always very satisfying.
What inspires you creatively when developing
new pieces for NORR11?
Danish Design has a long and rich history,
which is always a big inspiration. But for
me it’s also very interesting how we can
move on from that history in new ways.
A lot of my inspiration is found within
different historical design periods.
I search for details and references and put
them together in new and unconventional
ways to create original design concepts.
Recently I’ve found a lot of inspiration
in 80s design, which I’m trying to use in
a new and more contemporary way.
Do you have any tips for people when they’re
buying furniture?
Make sure to buy furniture with long lasting
personal value and something made
of good quality. Furniture that can be
passed on for generations is much more
sustainable.

A distinctive feature of NORR11 furniture is its unique minimalist
design. This brand is driven by a vision to bring new perspectives
to modern interiors across furniture and lighting.
Kristian Sofus Hansen’s traditional
design methods merge with
innovative production techniques
to create high-quality furniture.
Images provided by: © Morten Bentzon/NORR11
143

New Works:
THE DANISH FURNITURE
BRAND TRANSFORMING
INTERIORS

HOME & INTERIORS
Our homes are our sanctuaries, the places where we seek refuge from the hustle
and bustle of the outside world. That’s why it’s essential to create a space that
reflects our personalities, suits our needs, and offers us comfort and relaxation.
It can transform a space from a mundane place to an inviting and inspiring one.
That’s where the furniture brand New Works comes in, providing contemporary
furniture with a unique twist that elevates any home’s aesthetic.
By JULIA AIRICH
New Works is a Danish furniture brand founded in 2015 by
Knut Bendik Humlevik and Nikolaj Meier. Their philosophy
revolves around creating timeless pieces with a modern touch
that blend functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. They believe in
quality materials, skilled craftsmanship, and innovative design
that challenge traditional concepts and push boundaries. Their
collection includes furniture, lighting, and accessories that cater
to different styles and preferences. From the organic shapes of
the Covent Lounge Chair to the contrasting design of the Kizu
Table Lamp, New Works’ pieces capture a sense of sophistication
and elegance that adds character to any room.
The Tense Pendant Lamp is a stunning example of the innovative
and contemporary design that New Works is renowned for.
Created by Swiss studio Panter&Tourron, the Tense Pendant
Lamp embodies the brand’s philosophy of combining functionality
with aesthetics.
With a cloud-like appearance, the Tense Pendant Lamp
consists of a light shade made of the material Tyvek, which is
both durable and soft, whilst being 100 % recyclable. The flexibility
of this paper-like diffuser allows its slim frame to accentuate
the cloudy properties of the lamp. It is available in three
sizes: 70 cm, 90 cm, and 120 cm, making this lamp a versatile
addition to any space. The smallest size is perfect for creating
an intimate and cozy ambiance in a bedroom or reading nook,
while the larger size can make a statement in a living room or
dining area. Combining all three different sizes allows you to
create sculptural lighting over your dining table, kitchen, or
high-ceilinged room.
The shade of the Kizu Table Lamp is made of white acrylic. The
bottom is made of marble, forming a stable base for shade, as a
means of balancing. Each of the Kizu models is a work of design
art. For example, the new models with bases in Rosso Levanto
marble and Breccia Pernice marble give the luminaire a solid,
luxurious look that is eye-catching, utterly understated, and stylish.
In addition, this table lamp is rechargeable and dimmable,
ideal for use anywhere in the house at any time.
Each New Works product is poetry dressed in a material form
that can be touched literally. Natural and innovative materials,
play on contrast, functional design, and unique technical solutions
reflect the brand’s philosophy. New Works’ values are
based on four postulates: Natural, Experimental, Tactility, and
Craftsmanship.
New Works’ pieces are perfect for you if you’re looking to add
a touch of contemporary elegance to your home.
Stretching to over one metre in
length, the Tense Pendant Lamp
appears like a soft cloud has floated
in. A truly modern construction,
its soft Tyvek diffuser represents
a material both durable and soft –
whilst being 100 % recyclable.
Composed of two bold sculptural
forms, the Kizu Table Lamp displays
a weightless balancing act.
Images provided by: © New Works
145

“Fashion is art and
you are the canvas.”
VELVET PAPER
ART&
Culture

ART & CULTURE
Collect New
MEMORIES
L’Officiel Austria announces events to take note of
in the coming months. Mark March 11th and 25th on your calendar.
The destination: Peek & Cloppenburg in Vienna. A shopping
experience to exceed all expectations.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
Image provided by: © Peek & Cloppenburg
The first ball, the first date, a new job… What do you think
about first in these crucial moments of your life? Of course,
about how to look and what to wear. You choose your clothing
very carefully and take memorable photos. But your
personal wardrobe journey does not end there: looking and
feeling irresistible every day and, most importantly, feeling
comfortable and confident is of utmost importance. Clothing
creates a feeling of comfort and “psychological” support –
your daily armour in which you face the world.
International department store chain, Peek & Cloppenburg
offers a wide range of styles, models and brands. Here, you
can find the perfect piece for that special day in order to
define your style, as well as greeting each new fashion season.
As part of the “Dress for New Memories” campaign, selected
Peek & Cloppenburg stores in Vienna will host a series of
special events, including drinks, trendy DJ music, flowers,
beauty salons, photo zones and personalized promotions, all
of which will guarantee an unforgettable
shopping experience!
The event schedule:
March 11 – Mariahilferstrasse, 26-30, 1070 Vienna
March 25 – Kärntnerstrasse, 29, 1010 Vienna
147

ART & CULTURE
PARTS OF A WHOLE
The trend of collaboration between fashion houses and prominent representatives
of other creative industries is gaining momentum. A sensation among such creative
collaborations last year was the exhibition of paintings by Andrew Moncrief in the Gucci
boutique during the men’s fashion shows in Paris.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
On his canvases, Andrew Moncrief depicts male bodies. This topic is not accidental
in his life. Art helped and continues to help him in self-knowledge,
which over the years has turned into self-acceptance. Now the artist realizes
his works in archival images, particularly from vintage men’s magazines, which
provide him with a repertoire of shapes and bodies later reinterpreted in his
collages and then paintings.
For the House of Gucci, in collaboration with photographer Julien Barbès, he
created a fashion series about five queer Berlin personalities wearing pieces
from the Gucci Love Parade collection and offering a diversity of approaches to
masculinity. These images, in which bodies move in a soft and sensual choreography,
served as source material for collages in preparation for the paintings.
“To compose my collage-like paintings, I usually use existing nude images, but
here, everything was built from fashion photos made for the occasion. I am
sensitive to clothed bodies, classical drapery and Renaissance painting. Clothes
generate tension and folds, as a metaphor for the body and the tensions it is
capable of feeling,” says Andrew Moncrief about this work.
After graduating in 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in
Painting & Drawing from Concordia University in Montreal,
Andrew Moncrief has since presented his work from the United States
to Europe where he is now based.
In the paintings of Andrew Moncrief, the male body seems to be in an eternal
metamorphosis. Displaced and intertwined, it dissolves into its surroundings
and engages in a dialogue with other bodies as well as with colours, textures
and clothing. The fluid and hybrid body thus avoids all the categories and
norms that society imposes on it. The artist’s painting is an act of freedom, and
canvases are a safe space where any relationship and representation becomes
possible.
Following the exhibition, Moncrief’s paintings were acquired by Gucci and are
now part of the brand’s art collection.
Images provided by: © Studio Julien Barbès/Gucci
148

Cannes Film Festival
The 76th Cannes International Film Festival will take
place from 16 to 27 May 2023. This will be the first
festival led by a female president, Iris Knobloch.
By VIKA GORDIIENKO
Since its inception, the Cannes Film Festival has
always remained true to its core mission of discovering
and presenting films that contribute to
the evolution of cinema and the development of
the global film industry and celebrating the art of
cinema worldwide.
In addition to holding significant events for the
development of world cinema, the Cannes Film
Festival participates in several environmental
initiatives. For example, each festival participant
must pay an environmental fee of 20 euros. Over
the past two years, over 1.340.000 euros have
been raised and entirely donated through these
contributions to 10 ecological projects with local,
national and international impact.
To turn the event and its structure into an active
environmental process that is both realistic and
sustainable, the Cannes Film Festival is implementing
a strategy based on two priority issues:
CO2 emissions and waste management.
Images provided by: © Shutterstock
Since 2022, 100 % of the festival’s official car fleet
has consisted of electric and hybrid cars.
The Red Carpet Emblem of the festival was also
a shining example of a zero-waste approach to
reducing, reusing and recycling. The red-carpet
replacement rate has been halved since 2021,
saving about 1.400 kg of material per run – just
59 % of the traditional volume of carpet used.
The Red Carpet, the festival’s
emblem, was also
a shining example of
a zero-waste approach
to reducing, reusing
and recycling.
149

Travel
&
“To travel is to live”
HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN
G OURMET

1

152
Images provided by: © Velaa Private Island, Maldives

TRAVEL
The Best
KEPT SECRET
If there is a place on earth that can be referred to as paradise, then Velaa Private Island is it.
The only depictions that do its flora and fauna justice are those from Disney’s blockbuster
movie, Avatar. Not an exaggeration, but an indulgence that comes with a hefty price tag.
On the coming pages, L’Officiel Austria, together with general manager Wayne Milgate,
gives our readers an insight into the many facets that have made this island the vacation
resort of choice for high-net-worth individuals all over the globe, year after year after year.
By ANNA ZNAMENSKY
What is your personally favourite place on the island and why?
Personally, I have many favourite spots on the island however
the one that evokes the most emotion and tantalizes the
senses is the outdoor dining deck at the Aragu Restaurant.
This is a remarkable spot where you are looking back into
the restaurant at the beautiful décor of flying fish, a backlit
onyx bar and a working kitchen. In addition, you are surrounded
by the ocean lapping around the restaurant whilst
listening to our pianist Maxime play wonderful tunes. This
spot for me creates an amazing atmosphere in so many ways.
A private, Velaa branded sea-plane, two yachts available for
charter, a private, state of the art golf-course and a private wine
cellar with the largest private collection of Romanee Conti vintages
in the region. Is there another large-scale acquisition for the island
on your wish-list? What would this be and why?
We are always looking for that “New” offering and having
just opened our wellness restaurant – Faiy, yoga pavilion and
airconditioned Pilates studio in our Wellbeing Village, which
looks out over our lush golf course, I am eagerly anticipating
the completion of the final piece to this puzzle, Eveylaa
Wellbeing which will house luxury treatment rooms where
will we combine Eastern and Western medicine, in what will
be a completely new experience for the Maldives.
153

Velaa boasts an over-water spa complete with a snow
room, and offers its guests a Cloud 9 experience.
It is also one of the few resorts in the Maldives with
its very own golf course, boasting some of the most
expensive grass in the world to ensure its perfect
condition within this climate zone.
Velaa has hosted a number of prominent guests over the years. What
has been the most extravagant request you have received from a guest
and were you able to fulfill it?
We do host many prominent and UHNWI on Velaa, however
their requests may not be as exotic as we tend to believe, most
want to unwind in the luxurious surroundings of our private
island with their families and friends. They are generally seeking
to try to slowdown time as this is the most precious of
luxuries for them and something they lack in their busy lives.
Velaa creates many Private Moments for every guest during
their stay, anticipating their needs and those of their families.
Tell us the story behind Velaa’s origins – how was the island founded?
When Czech businessman Jiří Šmejc and his wife, Radka, first
came to the Maldives, they were searching for a home away
from home, a secluded place to bring their family to celebrate
life together and enjoy a respite from the intense demands of
their public life. They were immediately captivated by both
the natural beauty of the islands and the humble, fun-loving
nature of the people who lived there. They vowed to buy an
island as a gift for their family, but the idea quickly grew from
a single home to a private resort to share with friends, relatives
and others, including the wonderful Maldivian people they had
come to know.
That promise became Velaa, a home away from home offering
the total comfort, freedom and seclusion of a private island,
married to the delights and amenities of a world class resort – a
sensuous spa, exhilarating sports and activities, exquisite fine
dining, and the Maldives’ most exclusive wine collection, all
provided by a highly refined, butler style of service.
At the heart of Velaa is its handpicked team who are more than
staff, they are an extended family who are passionate about the
island and delighted to share the warm spirit of majaa – Maldivian
for enjoyment – with all who arrive. Velaa is truly special. It
is the passion of a couple to create the world’s most unique celebration
of life, love and family. Whether you come to celebrate
in private or participate in one of our occasional festive events,
our promise is that you will be guaranteed absolute privacy and
touched by an experience unlike any on earth.
The resort has a 1 Million USD “tree” budget at its disposal and
employs a full time landscaping architect – why is so much attention
attributed to this aspect of the resort?
Velaa’s gardens and grounds are the most verdant on any resort
island I have ever seen. We appreciate the luxurious feel and
natural privacy that an amazing landscape design can create.
It allows guests on the island to experience another natural
dimension away from the sand and sea. We also recognize the
health benefits that the lush tropical landscape can provide.
Our gardens and grounds offer many layers of experiences for
our guests, from the lush jungle feel, to a carefully created and
Images provided by: © Velaa Private Island, Maldives
154

Aragu is Velaa’s fine dining restaurant offering
a twist on Modern European cuisine. In addition,
the ivory-white Tavaru Tower hosts Velaa’s extensive
wine cellar: a true delight for wine enthusiasts.
beautifully lit night time escape.
What would you say sets Velaa apart from all the other resorts on
the Maldives?
This question is best answered by our guests, and the most common
compliment we get from our guests who are either here for the first
time or have visited on multiple occasions is, our staff. We have
created a culture over time on Velaa, which is to look after the staff
(the Velaa family), and this is reflected in the interaction and genuine
warmth provided by our service to our guests.
We are very fortunate to have a very low turnover of staff which
allows us to develop a service culture on the island, however, this
is not enough. What Velaa has developed that I have not seen
in other resorts is a “Soul”. This is the feeling that you get when
you arrive, during your stay and on departure. The majority of
our guests almost expect to see the same smiling faces on each
visit, as they have, over time, developed relationships with many
of our staff which are more than a guest/staff member relationship.
Most of our guests take a genuine interest in the staff and
their families and create a connection that is not from a service
culture, but as I described, from the “Soul” created within these
interactions.
What is your personal definition of luxury?
This question is always one that comes up and I really don’t have a
definitive answer. Luxury for me are moments in time spent with
those who you care about, it can be family, friends or work colleagues.
Time is not infinite for any of us and the way we use it to
connect with our family and friends can be critical to your wellbeing,
and this is a luxury we all need.
155

TRAVEL
Luxury
HAS A NEW HOME

Images provided by: © Rosewood Vienna
First-class brasserie cuisine and afternoon tea served on the skyline of the Tuchlauben in
the artistically unique setting of the Salon Aurelie. We take you on a journey through the
picturesque setting of the Rosewood Hotel at the heart of Vienna and relay the story
of modern luxury in one of Europe’s most historic locations.
By STEFANIE LANG
157

The Rosewood Hotel in Vienna’s first district stands for
historic charm, modern sophistication and the finest European
architecture. Where once the former headquarters of
the renowned financial institution Erste Group stood,
a landmark dating back to the 19th century, there now stands
a unique hotel, equipped with 99 spacious guest rooms, 28
suites and the 178-square-metre Hoffmann House Suite.
The Salon Aurelie is a jewel in the hotel’s crown: anyone
in the mood for a cosy and cinematically glamorous coffee
get-together will find the perfect retreat there. With murals
by the Austrian painter Marie Hartig, the salon transports
its guests into an enchanting world of floristry, which, within
the interplay of the natural colours and materials of
the interior, makes the connection to nature holistically
tangible and visible. Coffee, tea or champagne are served
there, along with a selection of artfully presented sweets
and savory dishes. As a highlight, since February 2023, the
Lobby Lounge also offers the traditional Afternoon Tea
experience. The menu includes scones, a selection of savory
sandwiches and canapés as well as a choice of sweet pastries.
This experience is available from 75 euros or from 125 euros
per person inclusive of champagne – ideal and unique for
Images provided by: © Rosewood Vienna
158

TRAVEL
your authentic, highly personal “Bridgerton” moment.
Other areas include an event pavilion, a spa area and an
entire culinary floor serving Austrian and European specialties.
An adjacent terrace, garden oasis and rooftop bar
with fancy cocktails and breathtaking views, complete the
experience. Cosmopolitan and exclusive – such is the “Neue
Hoheit” brasserie located on the top floor of the building,
which enriches the culinary offer of the hotel. The “Neue
Hoheit” brasserie consists of a show kitchen area, an elegant
dining room with a terrace and the private dining room,
called the “Garden Room” – with an idyllic Secret Garden
and incomparable views over Vienna’s most beautiful rooftops.
The menu features exquisite dishes from oysters and
Alpine caviar to fillet of beef from the Josper Grill and a
delicious Kaiserschmarrn for dessert. In close cooperation
with Austrian farms and artisans, guests are always offered
first-class local and regional products that allow gourmets
to get their full money’s worth. The interaction between
the personnel, cuisine and guests, which is paramount for
the Rosewood Hotel, and makes chatting at the counter
in a casual atmosphere a habit, is especially and positively
praised.
Seasonal, regional and high-quality
brasserie cuisine and excellent bar
culture with a fruity character: such
are the specialties with which the
“NEUE HOHEIT” welcomes its guests.
The private dining room, called the
“Garden Room”, located on the
sixth floor of Rosewood Vienna,
is ideal for private events.
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Sustainable
Chick
AND
25hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier
ANDChick
By ANASTASIJA GORBUNOVA
We commonly associate Vienna with its historic heart, a
fusion of splendour and elegance: the Hofburg, St. Stephen’s
Cathedral, coffeehouses, noble boutiques, and the legacy of
Mozart. Whether MuseumsQuarter or Prater, Life Ball,
Opera Ball, or one of the many music venues, Vienna has
always stood for sensation and show. But tourists of the
Danube metropolis who venture to the fringes, break away
from the beaten tracks, and explore the unknown get different
impressions even in beautiful hotels. Would you like to
spend a few days in Vienna? Here you are in the right place.
Located next to the MuseumsQuartier, it rises, radiant blue
above the green treetops, the 25hours Hotel at Museums-
Quartier. With a modern interior and a central location in
the 7th district of the Austrian capital, the 25hours Hotel
at MuseumsQuartier plays on dreams and sensations of the
circus world. The hotel is an allegory of the rich in tradition
institution of circus. Here, a surreal and exquisite ambience
surrounds you. The place captures you with fantasy and exotics,
so that the boundaries between imagination, reality,
space and time are blurred.
The hotel is perfectly suitable for young singles and couples
who value creativity, esprit as well as comfort, and who want
to explore Vienna on foot. The charming city hotel is distinguished
by its unusual interiors, which combine antique
pieces with modern furniture. The design is inspired by the
golden age of circus at the beginning of the 20th century:
Images provided by: © PR, 25h Hotels
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TRAVEL
In the 25hours Hotel at
MuseumsQuartier, guests
immerse themselves in the
colourful world of the circus.
Rooms
in the Gigantic
Panorama
category have
42–54 m 2 of open
living space.
THE 25HOURS
HOTEL AT
MuseumsQuartier
HAS ITS OWN
wellness area. IT
IS EQUIPPED
WITH A sauna
AND a steam bath.
circus requisites and circus flair merge with contemporary
lifestyle.
Facilities at the 25hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier
include also a lobby with a kiosk and a living room,
the RIBELLI Restaurant with 120 seats, a rooftop
bar above the roofs of Vienna, a small attic as an event
room and a conference area with a terrace for up to 200
people. There are a total of 217 rooms in the 25hours
Hotel in Vienna, including 34 rooms with a kitchenette,
all of which are individually furnished and promise restful
nights with their comfortable beds. Be pleasantly
surprised by one of the 12 Gigantic Panorama rooms,
42-54 m 2 , with king-size beds, floor-to-ceiling windows,
and a breathtaking view of the park. These suites
are perfect for a romantic getaway.
In the RIBELLI, antipasti from the
in-house salumeria as well as
Neapolitan pizzas and oven dishes
alla mamma are served.
Wellness helps to reduce stress and ensures relaxation.
When it’s cold and uncomfortable outside, you can
relax inside with a massage or a visit to the sauna. The
25hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier has its own wellness
area. It is equipped with a sauna and a steam bath.
Here, after long days of exciting sightseeing or cultural
activities, hotel guests can relax and do something good
for their body, soul and blood circulation.
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TRAVEL
THE LEO GRAND:
MORE THAN A HOTEL
THE LEO GRAND effortlessly maintains the perfect balance
when it comes to experiencing luxury set amidst iconic historic
sights combined with selected works of art and first-class
amenities. Rich in history, the hotel in Vienna’s city center opened
its doors in April 2022 and has become a hotspot for international
and domestic guests.
By ANASTASIJA GORBUNOVA
Images provided by: © Werner Streitfelder, Christoph Panzer/THE LEO GRAND

TRAVEL
THE LEO GRAND is located just a few steps away from
the Vienna St. Stephen’s Cathedral and is “More than
a hotel”. This is a motto that has really been taken to heart
here. It is an oasis in the heart of Vienna, a retreat and at the
same time a place for travelers and Viennese, a true “synthesis
of the arts”. History comes alive here, carefully chosen
works of art transform the hotel corridors into a small private
art gallery, as guests enjoy a stay in 76 colourfully and
richly detailed rooms and suites with breathtaking views of
the historic sights of Vienna’s city center.
The stylishly furnished rooms impress with history and
a sophisticated mix of bespoke items, spectacular design and
a daring use of colour. In this way, the hotel deliberately
sets itself apart from its competitors and is now making its
own history.
The hotel is named after none other than Emperor Leopold I
himself, who appears on the wallpaper and as the hotel’s
host. Gabriele Lenikus, the chief designer of the LENIKUS
Group, is responsible for the creative and colourful design.
With a lot of courage for the unusual, but always with an
eye on the history of the house, she has transformed THE
LEO GRAND into an extraordinary object. Here, baroque
meets the present and fuses into a Viennese waltz. With
foundations that date back to Roman times, the building
represents a genuine monument in the middle of the city.
From a spectacular roof truss (where the legendary Leopold
Suite is also located) to the amazing baroque facade, you can
feel the touch of history in every corner of this building.
The character of the hotel is reflected also in its gastronomy.
THE LEO GRAND managed to engage Martin
Ho’s group of companies as a food & beverage partner. In
the restaurant DOTS at THE LEO GRAND domestic and
international guests enjoy avant-garde Asian fusion cuisine
with Viennese and French influences. Among the absolute
classics on the menu are the different sushi variations (also
with truffles!) and the fried chicken with honey glaze. In
addition to the stylish and opulent courtyard with a unique
sun sail construction protecting from bad weather, guests
dine in three different dining rooms. Whether Asian, Oriental
or jungle-inspired, the design once again captivates
and transfers the guests into another world. Furthermore,
the private dining rooms offer more privacy for smaller
celebrations and business meetings. Another place worth
a visit: the in-house bar welcomes guests and night owls
alike and also pampers them during the day in the spacious
guest garden at St. Peter’s Square. This is an ideal
spot for delicious and creative dishes during the day and the
perfect place to enjoy an aperitif or an after-dinner drink,
www.theleogrand.com.
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Premier Suites with the picturesque
Marunouchi skyline.
Asian therapies set the stage for one
of Tokyo’s most refined spa areas.
164

TRAVEL
Palace Hotel Tokyo:
IMMERSION IN JAPANESE
CULTURE
Palace Hotel Tokyo – an unforgettable getaway.
L’Officiel Austria is excited to introduce an exquisite
5-star hotel that showcases the best of Japan in hospitality,
well-being and cuisine.
By JULIA AIRICH
Images provided by: © Palace Hotel Tokyo
Japan is one of the most innovative places in the
world, known for its futuristic design as well
as its rich historical heritage. In 2019, Japan
attracted 31.88 million international tourists,
having 21 World Heritage Sites. Famous for its
incredible cuisine, its shrines and temples and its
fashionable Harajuku district, Tokyo is an absolutely
desirable destination. If you’re looking for
inspiration on where to go and what to do for
a truly memorable Japan trip, we recommend
the remarkable place – Palace Hotel Tokyo.
The hotel’s singular moat-side setting across
from the Imperial Palace gardens delivers an
outstanding perspective on Tokyo’s much-loved
natural splendour and the surrounding city
skyline from every single guestroom, its spa and
most of its 10 restaurants and bars. Tantamount
to New York City’s Madison Avenue and London’s
Bond Street, the tree-lined Marunouchi
boulevard is an upscale dining and shopping
destination for tastemakers.
As heir to a legacy dating back more than half
a century, the hotel features 266 guestrooms
and 18 suites with six brand-new Premier Suites
having just been unveiled in 2022. With leafy
carpet motifs and earthy colour palettes throughout,
the hotel’s luxuriously cosy and contemporary
interiors invoke the beauty of their
natural surroundings. In addition to the usual
comforts, uniquely Japanese touches include
bath linens made in Imabari and high-quality
Jugetsudo brand teas by Maruyama Nori,
a venerable Japanese brand.
Japanese cuisine offers plenty of gastronomical
highlights with a boundless variety
of regional and seasonal dishes. With Executive
Chef Masatoshi Saito at the helm,
Palace Hotel Tokyo’s 10 restaurants & bars
are destinations in and of themselves in one
of the world’s most vibrant and sophisticated
culinary scenes. Contemporary French haute
cuisine is served at the one-Michelin-starred
restaurant Esterre while the hotel’s Japanese
165
offerings include kaiseki at Wadakura, teppanyaki
at GO, tempura at Tatsumi and sushi at
Sushi Kanesaka. Managed by Chugoku Hanten
Group, some of the city’s finest Chinese
dishes are served up in a refined setting at The
Amber Palace. The airy Grand Kitchen serves
as the hotel’s lively, all-day dining outpost. On
the main floor is Royal Bar, a classic setting.
From the floor through the cabinetry to the
ceiling, the bar’s rich easy leather chairs and
bar stools cultivate a conservative cool. In The
Palace Lounge, by day, kimono-clad staff
serve afternoon tea, an exquisite affair presented
on lacquerware “stones”. Sunset cues the
space’s nightly transformation into a live Jazz
lounge, perfect for champagne and cocktails.
Occupying 1.200 square meters of space on the
fifth floor of Palace Hotel Tokyo, evian SPA
TOKYO is the only evian-branded spa in Japan.
It offers an all-encompassing spa retreat that will
refresh both your body and mind, rejuvenating
with daily massages from a choice of signature
treatments. Tailored, one-on-one, private instruction
on stretching, training, swimming
and yoga can also be arranged. The spa area
encompasses five treatment rooms with French
savoir-faire and Asian therapies setting the stage
for one of Tokyo’s most refined spa experiences.
Regular exercise has many benefits, including
improving your overall health and fitness, and
reducing your risk for many chronic diseases.
Beyond the spa, a 127-square-meter fitness
centre with captivating, floor-to-ceiling views
of the Imperial Palace gardens is the premier
destination for fitness-conscious globetrotters.
Throughout the day, trained fitness experts are
available to assist as needed. The hotel’s indoor
swimming pool is framed on one side by wallto-wall
windows overlooking the picturesque
Marunouchi skyline.
Staying in Japan and enjoying everything the
country has to offer – from cuisine to cultural
sites that are known for their grandeur – is going
to be much more luxurious from 2023 onwards.

DERNIER CRI
By
VIKA GORDIIENKO
1
2
3
4
1. POP, ECLECTIC, LIFE! Sporty
and delicate, relaxed and
sophisticated – to achieve this
effect, designer Kim Jones used
smooth satin in combination
with cornflower-blue colour
and rubber platforms in the
SS23 collection, FENDI.
2. THE SIGNATURE: Victoire
de Castellane dreamed up the
Dioramour jewellery collection,
expressing a message of love.
Letters sewn with gold thread
and diamonds reflect the couture
heritage, DIOR.
3. SKIN CARE: Eudermine Activating
Essence activates the
skin’s first line of defense,
internal hydration, and epidermal
renewal, SHISEIDO.
4. TAKE IN HANDS: A quilted
leather Polo ID bag captures
the spirit of adventure and
romance. Its classic saddle-style
silhouette and dual adjustable
straps bring effortless equestrian
style, POLO RALPH LAUREN.
5. NEW VIEW: Two decades
later, the Swiss fashion house
is back on the runway with a
collection created by Ruigi Villaseñor.
All models, including
silk velvet suits with tiger print,
can become iconic, BALLY.
6. VIVA MAGENTA: The Pantone
Colour Institute named bright
crimson the Colour of the Year.
You can find attractive accessories
in this actual shade in the
SS23 collection of FURLA.
6
5
Images provided by: 1. © Fendi, 2. © Dior, 3. © Shiseido, 4. © Polo Ralph Lauren, 5. © Bally, 6. © Furla
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