By Allison Mitchell By Allison Mitchell | March 23, 2022 | Lifestyle,
Spring is in full swing, and these are the openings and launches that have O.C. abuzz.
Alain Godon, “Wood Land 1/8” (2013, sculpture), 16.5 inches by 29.5 inches by 16.9 inches PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS
SUNNY STATE OF MIND
French sculptor and painter Alain Godon will take center stage at Laguna Niguel’s Markowicz Fine Art for the gallery’s spring exhibition showcase. Titled California Dreaming, the exhibit will highlight more than 20 original works by Godon, ranging from works on paper to Calicool sculptures depicting iconic landmarks like the Hollywood sign. “After representing Alain Godon in the United States for more than 12 years, I’m excited to introduce his work to the savvy art collectors and art enthusiasts of Orange County,” says gallery owner Bernard Markowicz. “Alain has been embraced by critics and art lovers alike, all who have had the opportunity to experience his work in galleries around the world. We anticipate the same caliber of reception here on the West Coast.” Stop by April 9 from 6 to 8PM for the display’s opening reception. markowiczfineart.com
Each piece in the Compass collection is made from natural leather vachetta, including Esquivel’s beloved Chelsea boots, which undergo a 100-step process to create. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS
RIGHT ON TIME
Southern California shoe designer George Esquivel continues to step up his game thanks to his latest collaboration with storied German watch brand Tutima. Enter Compass, a capsule collection limited to just 25 sets featuring a bespoke edition of Tutima’s Patria Dual Time watch teamed with a watch holder, Chelsea boots and an overnight duffle designed by Esquivel and crafted right here in SoCal. “Tutima holds a special place in my heart. When I was first able to finally afford real luxury mechanical watches, Tutima was one of the first pieces I purchased,” says Esquivel. “As a seasoned traveler, it was a great experience to use everything I’ve learned to design a collection of essential travel pieces with Tutima that speaks to our sense of adventure.” Stop by Gary’s at Fashion Island to shop the collection in person. Ready, jet, go! esquivelshoes.com; tutima.com
PHOTO: BY FRANK OUDEMAN
SEA AND BE SEEN
Following its opening in summer 2021, Old Towne Orange’s O SEA has shifted away from its fast-casual roots to become a sit-down, full-service restaurant. “Our No. 1 priority is to best serve our guests—period,” says Michael Flynn, O SEA’s founder and general manager. “This transition feels natural... and has been received with overwhelming positivity from our team and guests alike.” With that comes the appointment of Carla Ace to executive chef and the arrival of new dishes like a grilled whole branzino; grilled Spanish octopus with roasted sweet potato mole; and wild Fijian albacore tuna poke with blood orange ponzu, shaved fennel and cucumber, shown here. Adds Flynn, “Our deep passion for responsible coastal cuisine will only get stronger as we make seafood approachable, contemporary and exciting for our guests.” Go ahead, dive in. eatosea.com
The Odessa emerald cut and the Vivienne Navette. PHOTO: COURTESY OF O SEA
TAKING THE REINS
In an effort to marry its renowned French heritage with the breezy sensibility of the West Coast, Hermès debuted a new boutique at South Coast Plaza in early March, a replacement of its previous store within the iconic shopping center. Clocking in at 7,100 square feet, the stunning space features three entrances and dedicated salons highlighting its iconic silk scarves, jewelry, shoes, ready-to-wear apparel and, of course, its coveted handbags. A coastal color palette of ethereal blues and warm terra cotta tones has been utilized throughout its design, led by Parisian architecture agency RDAI. Stroll across its mother-of-pearl and red marble floors—highlighted by an Hermès Faubourg-patterned stone mosaic overlay—and let the retail therapy begin. Hermès USA President and CEO Robert B. Chavez says it best: “2022 marks our 25th year in South Coast Plaza and we cannot think of a better way to celebrate this moment than by moving into a new home.” Welcome to the neighborhood! hermes.com; southcoastplaza.com
Marrow Fine’s new engagement rings include the Old Euro diamond cluster PHOTO: BY SARA REY JEWELRY PHOTOGRAPHY
PUT A RING ON IT
With boutiques at Del Mar’s One Paseo and Newport Beach’s Lido Marina Village, Marrow Fine continues to establish itself as a go-to brand for stunning engagement rings, wedding bands and more. Founded in Solana Beach by Jillian Sassone in 2015, the company—which Sassone co-owns with husband Tim—is brightening jewelry boxes this spring with new collections of engagement rings and wedding bands for brides-to-be. Styles range from solitaire diamond cuts, like The Odessa emerald-cut ring, to showstopping statements, like the blinged-out Vivienne Navette ring. Stackable styles are also aplenty and Marrow’s latest bands have been designed to perfectly complement its gorgeous engagement rings. Let forever begin. marrowfine.com
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