In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news around the world. This week’s highlights: Butcher’s Block joins the Dom Pérignon Society, Giorgio Armani celebrates a birthday, and Dior Forever makes skin perfect
Belmond launches Mondo
This is Mondo, Belmond’s new monthly newsletter and digital sibling to its in-house publication, Mondes. Read about a region’s finest producers or watch a passionate artisan at work—Mondo will be your guide to inspiring stories, cultural encounters and insider tips. Edited by former global editor-in-chief of Condé Nast Traveller, Melinda Stevens, the latest edition explores local perspectives, emerging talent and expert opinions on food, craft, marine conservation and more. Expect articles on indigenous ingredients, age-old rituals in Siena and a new wave of winemaking in the Old World.
NH Collection debuts in Finland
The latest addition to the NH Collection portfolio officially opened on 16 May 2024. As the first in Finland and the second in the Nordics (NH Collection Copenhagen), the NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa combines two historically significant buildings—the Art Nouveau-style New Student House and Seurahuone, Helsinki’s oldest operated hotel. Nestled within its storied walls, the hotel is home to 224 guest rooms and suites, including a 160-square-metre presidential suite. It is also located on one of the city’s busiest shopping streets, making it a stone’s throw away from art museums, great restaurants and The Central Railway Station, which will easily connect guests to the airport.
NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa
IWC Schaffhausen will star in an Apple Original Films racing feature
IWC Schaffhausen is partnering Apple Original Films on a Formula One racing feature, directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Plan B Entertainment and Lewis Hamilton’s Dawn Apollo Films. Starring Brad Pitt as a former driver who returns to Formula One, alongside Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem and Tobias Menzies, the film will feature IWC as a sponsor of the fictional APX GP team, with models from the Pilot’s Watches collections spotted throughout. The film is expected to be released on 25 June 2025.
Butcher’s Block joins the Dom Pérignon Society
The induction of Butcher’s Block into the by-invite-only Dom Pérignon Society celebrates the union of fine dining and exceptional champagne—a testament to the unwavering commitment to excellence shared by both entities. As a Dom Pérignon Society member, Butcher’s Block will offer exclusive experiences, including rare vintages and new releases. Collaborations with global Dom Pérignon Society chefs will further elevate the dining experience.
The upcoming Summer IMUA Menu, a tribute to Hawaiian tradition and innovation, will showcase select Dom Pérignon vintages, crafting a timeless culinary journey. Chef Jordan Keao, alongside resident sommelier Sam Lim, will meticulously pair Dom Pérignon champagnes with a menu that includes Wagyu Beef Pipikaula, Ahi Tuna Poke, and Lomi Lomi.
Giorgio Armani celebrates a birthday and plenty more
Giorgio Armani will turn 90 on 11 July 2024, and like his vision of fashion and style, he’s looking as good as ever. Born in 1934, King Giorgio Armani (as he is known in this world) is who he is today because of humility, discretion and determination. The designer and entrepreneur quit medical school for fashion, making his debut as a designer in 1974 at Palazzo Pitti. He then founded Giorgio Armani SpA in 1975, expanding to Emporio Armani in 1981 and Armani Privé in 2005. In celebration of his 90th birthday, the Milano Fashion Library will dedicate an entire week to him, with over 100 Armani books, magazines and videos available online. From 11 to 19 July 2024, there will also be an exhibition open to the public at the Armani headquarters, where publications dedicated to him will be displayed and available for purchase.
Dior Forever makes skin perfect
Reduce imperfections easily with a single stroke of Dior Forever Skin Perfect, a multi-use stick foundation with a matte blurring effect. It is the perfect base for contouring, enhancing volume and highlighting the cheekbones, while at the same time, ensuring quenched skin from morning till night. Available in 12 key shades to suit various skin tones. Yours for S$99.
In case you missed it:
Dior Spa takes to the rails
The Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train, unveils the first-ever Dior Spa in Southeast Asia, marking a new chapter in the illustrious journey of the train, which resumed its voyages in February.
This new Continental GT Speed is Bentley’s most powerful road car yet
With a 21-year legacy of its definitive grand tourer, Bentley Motors ups its game with the all-new Continental GT Speed. Here’s what we know so far.
Montblanc adds to their Writers Edition with a collection of Jane Austen inspired pens
Jane Austen is the latest author to be honoured by the annual Montblanc Writers Edition.
