Newport Beach Magazine: October/November 2018
Travel: Palm Springs
Desert Oasis
Exciting things are popping up in downtown Palm Springs—perfect for a weekend getaway filled with exploring, shopping, dining and more.
Photo by VisitPalmSprings.com
Palm Springs has been known as a celebrity stomping ground since the early 1900s, but it isn’t solely the Hollywood elite who are drawn to this iconic destination and its midcentury modern architecture. Over the last several years, the city’s downtown area has been under redevelopment to make for the ultimate, luxurious escape. From upscale accommodations and mouthwatering dining options to trendy retail spaces, there’s something new on virtually every corner and for any type of vacation, with plenty more to come. Here, we highlight some of the current offerings for an idyllic jaunt to this desert oasis located just two hours from Orange County.
An aerial view of Kimpton The Rowan Palm Springs
Alluring Accommodations
After opening last November, Kimpton The Rowan Palm Springs quickly became a focal point of these new offerings, which is fitting when you consider its location in the heart of downtown. As the city’s first full-scale, built-from-the-ground-up hotel in decades, these accommodations pay homage to its beautifully rugged locale and emphasize the contemporary aspects of midcentury modern aesthetics. With the first and only rooftop pool in the area, gorgeous views of Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains, as well as two chef-driven restaurants, there is much to explore simply within the walls of this boutique property.
The lobby is designed to make you feel right at home with a living room vibe complete with a fireplace, floor-to-ceiling bookcases, an elegant bar that offers craft cocktails and light bites, plus incredible decor like a 16-foot macrame owl adorning the wall behind the front desk.
From there, guests can take the grand staircase (or elevator) to one of 153 rooms and suites, featuring expansive windows or private terraces, spa-style bathrooms complete with a sleek barn door as well as a glass wall between the shower and bedroom, and geometric designs in a calming color palette. These elements all make for a peaceful environment, perfect for one of the resort’s in-room spa services, which include revitalizing massages and soothing body wraps.
The rooftop offers six lavish cabanas to relax poolside as well as plenty of lounge chairs and daybeds that are all ideal for soaking up the sun. Grab a drink at the High Bar, such as the Highway 111, an Old-Fashioned that incorporates bourbon, bitters, Demerara sugar and a quintessential ingredient for which the region is known: roasted dates.
Avocado flatbread at Juniper Table
Pristine Cuisine
Also located on Kimpton The Rowan Palm Springs’ rooftop is 4 Saints, an intimate Mediterranean restaurant that features globally inspired cuisine and is helmed by Executive Chef Stephen Wambach. Choose between dining by candlelight on the outdoor patio or inside under the Moroccan-inspired ceiling lamps, both of which create a romantic setting. Must-try dishes include the melt-in-your-mouth hamachi crudo with citrus flavors; an artichoke salad featuring sunchoke, black truffles and miso that is simultaneously rich, earthy and sharp; and a smoke-infused kampachi dish for a multisensory experience.
Just off of the hotel’s lobby is Juniper Table, a fast-casual cafe (also overseen by Wambach) that’s open for brunch and dinner with an exquisite coffee program, cold-pressed juice and alcoholic beverages. All-day offerings include the avocado flatbread that incorporates turmeric, hazelnut and serrano chile; the Broccoli Date Crunch salad; burgers, sandwiches and wraps; and a seasonal tart for dessert.
For even more exceptional coffee, right next door is Starbucks Reserve where you can choose your brewing method, from a traditional coffee press or Clover brew to more trendy options such as a pour-over, Chemex or siphon. Taste exclusive, small-lot coffees from worldly locations like Rwanda, Bolivia and Ethiopia—the latter of which features a flavor profile of jasmine, orange peel and ginger. This location serves both the special menu as well as regular offerings, which you can enjoy in the lounge area, at the coffee bar or out on the patio.
Bacon-wrapped dates at Moxie Palm Springs
Take a five-minute walk down the road to Moxie Palm Springs, which has a dance floor and live music for a nightclub experience as well as an indoor-outdoor lounge area with tabletop games for those simply looking to unwind for the evening. Another nod to the surrounding area comes in the form of bacon-wrapped medjool dates with a drizzle of raspberry sauce, as well as ahi nachos and shrimp tacos in a jicama shell. Creative cocktails include the Kula Koollin’ made with Roca Patrón Silver tequila, tropical juices, pineapple and chile salt; pop-tails that are garnished with flavored ice pops; and much more.
Head in the opposite direction to find Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar, the first California location of the island lifestyle brand’s new dining concept, where orders are placed at a counter and then delivered to your table by a server. An umbrella-clad patio allows for an alfresco meal of favorites like the coconut shrimp, lump blue crab salad, guava-glazed ribs and much more. The restaurant and bar is located within a retail store that showcases the relaxed yet high-end activewear, swimwear, accessories as well as home decor for which this company is known.
Endless Entertainment
While Palm Springs has many standout restaurants to choose from, the city is truly a shopping paradise, with new retail spaces by popular companies including clothing by Free People, cosmetics by MAC, skin care products by Kiehl’s as well as home furnishings and decor by West Elm.
Kiehl’s recently opened a new location in downtown Palm Springs | Photo by Deja’s View Photography
Travelers looking to peruse the works of various vendors should check out VillageFest, held every Thursday night on Palm Canyon Drive. This street fair has something for everyone: jewelry and clothing, organic food, creative artwork, activities and much more. Local businesses include the likes of Antique Galleries of Palm Springs, which sells vintage jewelry and other collectables; Jerky Galore, specializing in unique beef jerky; and Palm Springs Motorsports, offering all-things motorcycles; as well as Elena Bulatova Fine Art, which also has a gallery in Laguna Beach.
For more art pieces, the nearby Palm Springs Art Museum (which offers free admission on Thursday evenings) has rotating exhibitions, with current ones like “Lines in the Sand,” which examines the desert’s history with an emphasis on human connection to the environment and community, and “Scraps: Fashion, Textiles, and Creative Reuse,” about the melding of recycling and fashion design, which is on display in the Architecture and Design Center.
This fall, be sure to check out a preview of Modernism Week, which celebrates the integration of midcentury architecture and design for which Palm Springs is known, from Oct. 18-21 with the third annual Palm Springs Modernism Show & Sale featuring 40 renowned dealers of fine art, furniture and decor. Then, from Nov. 23-25, spend Thanksgiving weekend at the Desert Art Festival for numerous original works, including paintings, photography and sculptures, all available for purchase.
An aerial view of the PGA West Stadium Course
And to see the city from an entirely different perspective, take an aerial escapade with Joiride (formerly Big Blue Air Helicopters), which has options for out-of-town adventures to Big Bear and Joshua Tree, charters to and from John Wayne Airport in OC, and local tours like City Lights for nighttime, bird’s-eye views of the city; Mountain Climber, which goes through the local windmills to the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and then through Tahquitz and Indian canyons; and Goldchella, which takes you over Palm Springs as well as 80 percent of Coachella Valley to see celebrity homes, incredible golf courses and the recently built Zenyara estate in the Coachella area.
These incredible and inspiring views are a picturesque way to end a lovely weekend getaway in Palm Springs this fall.
Fashion Special Section
New to You
Local consignment stores offer shoppers high-end labels for a fraction of the price.
Whether you’re a socialite with a slew of formal events in your calendar, a businesswoman preparing to impress potential clients or simply a fashionista with exceptional taste, you’re likely on a continuous hunt for new pieces that make a statement. Sporting high-end labels will certainly help you stand out, but you don’t have to let your shopping ventures break the bank. Turn to the various consignment stores in Corona del Mar to find on-trend styles to fill your closet or even sell some of your own items to make room for the new. From formal clothing and shoes to jewelry and handbags, these stores are a one-stop shop for all things designer.
Photo by Dondee Quincena
Bellissima Couture Consignment Boutique
Founded 20 years ago, this resale boutique serves clientele of all ages looking for vintage and modern designer pieces. Owner Adriana Spitzer previously worked as a production coordinator at St. John Knits and she brings her expertise on the brand to her consignment shop with the entire back section of the store dedicated to pieces by the luxury fashion house. The selections are separated by type and designer, so it’s easy to find exactly what you’re looking for, whether it be a Roberto Cavalli dress, Dolce & Gabbana pants, Escada jacket or, of course, a collection of St. John pieces. Shoppers can also find an assortment of fine jewelry, classy footwear and gorgeous handbags, including various items by Louis Vuitton. You can also shop with the knowledge that you’re helping to give back, as the store supports charities such as the American Cancer Society and Irvine-based Human Options, which is working to end domestic violence in Orange County and aid survivors. (949-718-0476; bellissimaconsignmentonline.com)
Mannequin styled by Ashley Probst and Kirsten Prosser | Photo by Dondee Quincena
On Que Style
For contemporary and vintage pieces from casual outfits to party dresses and business attire, plus plenty of accessories, On Que Style is brimming with upscale fashion. But, as store owner Kirsten Prosser says, “You don’t have to pay retail to be stylish.” The store is organized by designer, allowing shoppers to scope out their favorite brands, with the likes of Gucci, Versace, Christian Louboutin (featuring his iconic red-bottom heels) gracing the racks, and the opportunity to discover some new names along the way. An entire corner of the space is a dedicated sale section, as prices are lowered by 25 percent after an item has been in the store for two months, then gets discounted up to 75 percent after about four months—like a Russian nesting doll of sales. A private room in the back of the store houses fine jewelry and Hermès handbags, also serving as a secure space for those looking to buy and sell coveted high-end pieces. (949-717-7795; onquestyle.com)
Photo by Dondee Quincena
Recycled Rags
Coming up on a big anniversary next year, Recycled Rags opened 49 years ago this October. Everything in this quaint and classy store is consigned with an exception for its hats, which are purchased new and make for the perfect accessory whether you’re going to the beach or the horse races. These racks are filled with dresses ideal for business or pleasure, as well as dress pants, outerwear and some casual pieces, as well. Display cases show off designer handbags, shoes and other accessories by Tiffany & Co., Michael Kors, Bottega Veneta and more. This shop also has an enclosed section for its vintage items, which includes a 30-year-old Hermès blouse with a detachable scarf and various other unique finds. (949-675-5553; recycledrags.com)
Sara Aplanalp shows me pieces she curated from Rebecca Taylor | Photo by Dondee Quincena
Retail Therapy
The complimentary personal shopping service at Fashion Island creates an experience tailor-made for your style.
Over the years, I’ve accumulated an extensive collection of clothing. In fact, my closet holds the majority of my personal belongings and is, in turn, the most cluttered part of my home. Filled with a mixture of high-end pieces, secondhand items from thrift stores and, regrettably, some tops that I’ve had since high school, it is certainly an eclectic conglomeration.
As a young professional who is just starting my career, I have established a goal to update my wardrobe in order to dress the part for this important stage in life—and to hopefully stop being mistaken for an 18-year-old now that I’m approaching my mid-20s. So, when I discovered the complimentary personal shopping experience at Fashion Island, I jumped at the opportunity to receive expert style advice and have pieces hand-selected for my taste.
Prior to my appointment, Sara Aplanalp, the lead personal shopping stylist at Fashion Island, reached out to inquire about my fashion preferences in order to create a one-of-a-kind experience based on my style, clothing sizes and budget as well as my favorite stores and brands.
An outfit from Rebecca Taylor that I never would have picked for myself, but I absolutely loved | Photo by Dondee Quincena
I explained that I was hoping to find both casual and business attire with an emphasis on staple pieces that could be worn for a variety of occasions. To give her an idea of my style, I gave examples of trends that I currently adore—this included the beachy, boho chic look as well as anything with pops of color and fun patterns—plus my go-to outfits that I wear on a day-to-day basis. Aplanalp then devised a plan for the stores we would visit on the day of my appointment, which included Rebecca Taylor for jackets and other coordinating pieces ideal for a work environment; Joie for a breezy, boho feel; and, finally, Gorjana to accessorize.
Before I went in for the fittings, Aplanalp visited each storefront, pulled pieces that she knew would be to my liking and placed them in a dressing room so they were ready upon my arrival. I stepped straight in and eagerly tried on each outfit she had curated just for me.
At Rebecca Taylor, these included a professional yet casual combination of a floral top with wide-leg pants, a leather jacket and embellished mule heels; a silk, paisley dress paired with a velvet moto jacket and another mule shoe; as well as velveteen, curve-hugging jeans that I’m planning to go back and purchase because they were so flattering and comfortable.
A casual yet upscale outfit from Joie that had me feeling girly | Photo by Dondee Quincena
Next was Joie for elevated, relaxed wear like a yoke-cut blouse with ruffled sleeves, flared leather skirt, studded and fur-lined slip-on loafers, and a checkered wrap sweater for those chilly fall nights; a flowy, asymmetrical dress layered over a 1980s-inspired sweater and paired with suede ankle boots; and a laid-back outfit consisting of an ultrasoft T-shirt, Native American-esque cardigan, lightly studded olive pants and studded booties to match.
The final stop of the day was to peruse the jewelry at Gorjana, where Aplanalp had chosen the Laguna adjustable necklace as well as the Lola ring and cuff, all in gold. These simple and elegant pieces could tie any outfit together, adding a bit of shine to round it all out. In the end, I took home a piece from the brand’s power gemstones collection: an adjustable gold bracelet adorned with aventurine, a stone that symbolizes luck—not that I needed much with Aplanalp on my side.
Having a personal shopper tending to your needs will have you feeling like an A-list celebrity, but that isn’t even the best part. Not only is the service itself completely free, there is also no obligation to buy, though it’s hard to resist. And, since the experience is solely for you, don’t be afraid to speak up if something the stylist has picked isn’t quite your style: They’ll find a replacement item that you’re guaranteed to love.
A leather jacket paired with pants that have a metallic undertone, ideal for work or play | Photo by Dondee Quincena
Fashion Statement
These expert shopping tips will help you stand out as the seasons change.
When it comes to staying on-trend this fall, Fashion Island’s lead personal shopping stylist Sara Aplanalp has a few tips for any budding fashionmonger. Layering is ever important to stay warm as the weather cools down, and Aplanalp suggests finding pieces with lots of texture as well as high-shine fabrics like metallics and sequins.
“Colors to incorporate into your wardrobe this season are rich bronze and rust brown,” Aplanalp says, noting that hues of orange and red can add a bold pop to any outfit. And one of her go-to fabrics is black leather, as you can incorporate it in almost any ensemble. “… If I can make one suggestion, [it] is to invest in a great leather piece like a jacket or skirt,” she adds.
Don’t be afraid to mix those new, designer items with some less expensive, seasonal ones. “I always say to invest in key pieces you’ll wear time and time again: A great handbag or a statement coat, for example,” Aplanalp explains. “The uber-trendy items you want to try for a season, go ahead and save because you never know if you’re going to wear it again.” But, of course, if you find a trend that you truly love, there’s nothing better than splurging on something that will allow you to stand out, and may even turn into one of your own key pieces year-round.
