Okay, so perhaps not with the “real” Joan Rivers herself. But the wise women behind The Career Wardrobe are holding a costume and cocktail event this Thursday, December 2, at The Wardrobe Boutique, and who better to “host” an eventing of fun, fashion and a few frills than the outspoken chief diva herself?

The Career Wardrobe is the nation’s largest community-based non-profit dedicated to helping women with the difficult transition into the workplace, and it’s located right here in Philadelphia. Programs include job skills training and networking, plus work-appropriate attire such as suits and pumps collected through the generous donations of the city’s professionals. The Wardrobe Boutique is another place for donations — perhaps those better suited for hot evenings or cozy weekends. Vintage to couture, these items are sold in the boutique, and all proceeds go back to help run The Career Wardrobe’s mission.

Thursday’s party celebrates one of the most fashionably minded women out there. Guests are encouraged to dress in their most Joan-worthy attire (there will be prizes for both the best male and female ensembles, so get creative!), Joan-inspired cocktails will be on hand and those who indulge in a little shopping while attending will also be treated to a gift of Joan Rivers Jewelry.

Even Joan would find it hard to harshly critique this charitable event, so continue the season of giving and swing on by for a spell.

The event will be held Thursday, December 2, from 6 – 9 p.m. The Wardrobe Boutique is located at 1822 Spring Garden St., 215.568.2660, www.careerwardrobe.org and www.wardbrobeboutique.org.

Occupying legendary Chicago architect Daniel Burnham’s historic Continental & Commercial National Bank Building in Chicago’s bustling financial district, the JW Marriott Chicago opened last weekend and features exquisite neoclassical design. Throughout the new property, staff will provide every convenience guests desire. Whether it is room service after a late flight, catering in a meeting room, the use of the 24-hour executive business and fitness centers, laundry and dry cleaning services seven days a week or housekeeping always being on call—the hotel offers the highest level of personal service that guests deserve.

All 610 guest rooms have 10-foot ceilings with handcrafted crown molding and spacious bathrooms clad in Italian marble, featuring stand alone tubs; separate marble showers; expansive mirrors; terry bathrobes and world class toiletries.

VALEO, the 20,000-square-foot spa is a first-of-its-kind wellness center combining fitness facilities, traditional and non-traditional spa services and myriad personal care options to both guests and Chicagoans alike. VALEO—the Latin meaning ‘to be strong, powerful, well, influential’— reflects not only the name but the entire purpose behind the space and will focus on lifestyle portability. The  Clarity Chamber™is a modern approach to the ancient Greek and Roman bathing rituals or Turkish baths—inside the stone-appointed space, guests enter an atmosphere of complete warmth, where heat radiates through a working fireplace, warm benches and a central marble “belly” stone.
The Florentine, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant is the newest concept from internationally acclaimed BLT Restaurant Group, offers a seasonal and substantial menu of Italian-American fare with a distinct Chicago sensibility. Corporate Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot and Executive Chef Todd Stein, of Sunda and mk fame respectively, showcase the top imported Italian pastas, cheeses, salts and meats as well as ingredients from local and organic farms.

151 W. Adams. 312.660.8200. http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/chijw-jw-marriott-chicago/

Looking for something to do on a Monday night? Now you can join some of New York’s finest at The Oak Room at The Plaza Hotel for their new Monday Night Supper Club Series.

Each week, enjoy a delicious three-course tasting dinner from Chef Eric Hara followed by a special musical performance. Kicking off the series on Nov. 29 will be Broadway star Jarrod Spector of “Jersey Boys,” who will perform pieces from his hit new Broadway show “Minor Fall, Major Lift.”

Dinner begins at 8 p.m, performance at 9:30 p.m. For reservations, send an email to derek@dualgroupe.com or call 212.201.1222 for more information.

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Hirsh Bedner Associates, the world-renowned hospitality design firm, came to New York City to accept their Golden Key Award for Best Spa, honoring their design for the Four Seasons Seychelles in Mahe, Seychelles. But it’s not the first award for the design firm, which has won countless others including the 2010 Hospitality Design Awards.

We caught up with CEO Michael Bedner while he was in New York to accept the award.

Haute Living: Congrats on the Golden Key Award first of all! How are you feeling about that?
Michael Bedner: Even after 46 years, it never gets old. It’s an honor for our projects to simply be selected out of several hundred entries by our own peers. As you know, we are each others’ toughest critics! It keeps all 550 of our designers inspired and driven to do even better the next year.

HL: Tell us a little about HBA.
MB: HBA is people. Five hundred and fifty of the world’s most talented designers show up to work every day to do what they love best: design. From 13 studios worldwide, our designers blend incomparable industry experience with a passion for artistic exploration and a philosophical approach to each project as a discovery opportunity. By expanding the aesthetic envelope, we develop strong, inspired identities that set new standards for luxury and comfort. With a 46-year history of developed best practices, we aim to create inspired, brand-defining design experiences that evoke a distinct sense of place, while delighting the world’s most discriminating travelers. Our portfolio spans more than 80 countries and encompasses the planet’s finest nameplates.

HL: What are some of the most luxurious projects you’ve done?
MB: All the Wynn properties we’ve had the honor to work on have been super luxe and glamorous: Okada at Wynn Las Vegas, Encore Las Vegas and Wynn Macau. Take, for instance, the restaurant Wing Lei at the Wynn Macau. The main art feature is a 10-foot crystal dragon that hangs over the main banquettes on the back wall of the restaurant. It’s just opulent, lavish and über luxe. We go from designing some of the largest luxury casinos in the world to the tiniest dining room in the world for Mont Blanc. The space is chic, luxurious and no cost was spared to emulate the Mont Blanc philosophies into the space. The dining room is housed in London’s members only Mossimens club; it seats two and just dazzles in a delicate ensemble of fine materials. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the St. Regis Grand Rome, originally built in 1894 as the first deluxe hotel in Rome, after an extensive restoration and renovation, the hotel reclaimed its status as the finest hotel in Rome and one of the best in the world.

HL: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
MB: The elements that we draw inspiration from are the space itself, most importantly the location, and the possibilities we have within each project to create a space where people gather, play, work, love and sleep. Subtly, each project needs to be contextual to where it is located. I like the word a client of mine used: “glocal” meaning going global but staying local. People want the experience of travel but still want to feel at home, they need to escape but feel connected. I try and design in a whisper of each location, or else design the building so we frame the views of where the building is located, I also try to use local materials but in a new, innovative and unexpected way. We design with a timeless sensibility. Take for instance Coco Chanel; she designed beautiful clothing that is perfectly timeless. We aim to design timeless interior spaces using exquisite materials and details.

HL: We love the lobbies here in New York that you’ve designed. Do you have a favorite?
MB: That’s like asking which of your children is your favorite! Each of our New York properties have something unique and special that makes each different from the rest. Take, for example, the Mandarin Oriental lobby in the sky providing respite from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, the lobby is stylish, elegant and sleek with lines that echo the profile of New York’s skyline — long, lean and drop-dead gorgeous. If you take a short walk down the south edge of Central Park, you’ll hit another HBA property, the Jumeirah Essex House, which takes you back to the glamorous Art Deco era of New York City.  It has a 75-year heritage and is a hotel that cannot exist anywhere else in the world. The Peninsula lobby, we’ve all spent a great deal of time in. It’s a unique, intimate space tailored for exclusivity, privacy, and gatherings. Design aside, the Peninsula is one of our favorite places in New York to meet friends for high tea or a classic drink.

For more information on HBA, visit www.hba.com.

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Within the symbolic setting of Meilenwerk, a former railway freight station in Dusseldorf, Germany, reconverted into an exhibition facility for classic cars, Audemars Piguet CEO Philippe Merk officially welcomed racing legend Michael Schumacher into the AP family. The German driver just became the new icon for the luxury watch brand. An authentic living legend with his seven world championship titles, Schumacher holds the most prestigious records in motor racing. His 68 pole positions, 91 victories and 154 podium finishes on all the world’s major tracks make him the greatest racing driver of all time. After his return to competition in 2010, he competes in the 18th world championship in his career next year.

Schumacher caught the racing bug early on in life. His father Rolf worked on the go-kart track in Kerpen and his mother Elisabeth ran the brasserie.“Schumi,” as his fans call him, hit the track on his own, competing in his first race at age 4. His very first press clipping dating from 1973 refers to him as “small but fast.” In 1983, he earned his German go-kart racing license and the adventure began. After winning the German junior championship in 1984 and 1985, he came in third in the European go-kart championships in 1986, and then won both the German and European championship titles in 1987.

In 1988, he made his debut in single-seater racing, competing with the Eufra team in the Formula Ford 1600 championship. At the same time, he took part in the German Formula König circuit, winning nine out of 10 races. That same year, Schumacher had a chance to test drive a Formula 3 car for the WTS team, was runner-up in the German championship and won the title in 1990 with five wins to his credit. On Aug. 20, 1991, the door of the supreme motor-racing category swung open to admit the champion, who went on to an unbroken string of successes until the end of 2006, when he decided to quit.

After a three-year absence, his fierce determination drove the seven-time champion to resume competition and to vie once again with a field of sharp young contenders. On Dec. 23, 2009, Schumacher announced his return to the forefront at the wheel of the Mercedes GP Petronas Formula One Team alongside Ross Brawn with whom he had gained his seven world championship titles. After a tough start to the season, Schumacher and his team finished with respectable results that herald a promising 2011 season.

All drivers share a determination to beat time because, as Schumacher points out, “Two minutes are an eternity for those of us who are accustomed to fighting for tenths of a second.” He is fascinated by watchmaking and an acknowledged connoisseur who has been collecting timepieces for a number of years. “My friend Jean Todt introduced me to fine mechanical watches from Audemars Piguet, which I like to compare with racing cars because of their numerous common denominators including high-tech materials, cutting-edge R&D developments, and optimized mechanical performance. I admire the incredible work of the teams in Le Brassus and Le Locle who give shape to magnificent watches featuring ingenious technology and daring designs, yet without ever losing sight of horological traditions.”

Above and beyond a passion for watchmaking craftsmanship and expertise, Audemars Piguet and Schumacher also uphold the same values — a commitment to charity work and to supporting major endeavors. In 1992, Audemars Piguet created a foundation dedicated to preserving forest areas around the world, as well as to raising awareness among upcoming generations regarding the importance of their conservation, and consistently donates part of the proceeds from its sales to funding various environmental projects.

Schumacher also supports a number of associations. He has his own foundation through which he has been able to provide aid to victims of the floods in East Germany or the Tsunami. In 1996, he became a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for the Education of Children in Need. Strongly involved in his mission, he has funded and organized a number of events for underprivileged children. As a benefactor of the ICM Brain and Spinal Cord institute for several years now, he uses his image to benefit this internationally reputed research center. “Those who are privileged in life owe it to themselves to help those who are less fortunate, and particularly those who suffer.” In fact, all his participations at the Race of Champions are for the benefit of ICM and he proudly wears the logo on his racing suit. This particular commitment is shared by Audemars Piguet which, at the 2009 Gstaad Classic, auctioned watch N°1 of the limited series specially created for this occasion and donated the entire proceeds from this sale to ICM.

For Audemars Piguet, the world of motor sports is well-known territory. The brand has been involved for several years in historical car rallies such as the National Classic Tour in Belgium, the Gstaad Classic in Switzerland and the Tour Auto in France. The watch manufacturer’s ambassadors also include three other racing drivers: Rubens Barrichello, Jarno Trulli and Sébastien Buemi.

Thrilled to reinforce the Audemars Piguet presence in the motorsports world, CEO Philippe Merk emphasized the qualities of this exceptionally popular and talented athlete. “Michael Schumacher is not only the greatest racing driver of all time, he is also a big-hearted, discreet and altruistic individual who dedicates his reputation to great causes. An iconic figure, he embodies strength, determination, as well as a passion for challenges and for competition. It is with a blend of elegance and humility that he will wear our Royal Oak Offshore, the undisputed reference model in the field of prestige sports.”

Find all the latest news on Michael Schumacher on his Web site: http://michael-schumacher.de/ and watch the press conference on the following link: www.audemarspiguet.com/live/.

JWoww and Roger Mathrews inside Studio 54.

Las Vegas was fist-pumping last night as “Jersey Shore” bombshell Jenni “JWoww” Farley hosted a party at the legendary Studio 54 inside the MGM Grand. The crowd around Studio 54 was electric and bouncing with anticipation for the arrival of everyone’s favorite Jersey girl.

JWoww took to the red carpet shortly after midnight. Fans crowded there, eager to get a picture of the reality star beauty. Known for her sexy style, JWoww did not disappoint her fans as she wore a tight black mini dress with the sides cutout, revealing her toned physique and dragon tattoo. She matched her outfit with studded stilettos, feathered earrings and a small gray clutch, which only enhanced the star’s appeal.

JWoww was all smiles as she arrived because she was joined by her new beau, Roger Mathews. Looking like a follower of the famed GTL routine, Mathews wore jeans with an Extreme Couture sports jacket. Once inside Studio 54, it was T-shirt time when Mathews removed the jacket to showcase a black T-shirt stretched across his muscular frame.

After the red carpet, JWoww and Mathews made their way to the VIP area overlooking the dance floor. Once there, the romantic couple shared a few embraces before JWoww sent out a picture of the legendary nightclub to her Twitter followers. Fans crowded around the area, trying to get a glimpse and photo with the accommodating reality star.

Even with music provided by the L.A. Lakers’ deejay Kid Jay,  JWoww was notably not fist-pumping, the dance move made famous in MTV’s “Jersey Shore.” When approached, JWoww shockingly revealed “girls don’t fist-pump.” Regardless of the style of dance, JWoww and Mathrews were clearly having a great time as they partied through the night at Las Vegas’ iconic Studio 54.

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The new Pullman Hotel at the Mall of the Emirates just opened their rooftop luxury spa this week. Located on the 24th floor overlooking the Dubai skyline, the Sanctuary Spa is grand in every way. From its spacious interiors to its majestic finishing this new haven for beauty and wellness creates an abode of calm and relaxation.

Offering a range of innovative spa treatments such as the relaxing “Light Legs” treatment which consists of a 45-minute leg massage involving enriching and calming oils. A beautiful infinity pool as well as a state-of-the-art gym also compliments this new Dubai spa.

The Pullman Hotel is located in the Mall of the Emirates complex conveniently allowing access to one of the world’s premier shopping destinations. The Sanctuary Spa provides you with a retreat from the busy world outside into an envelope of serenity.

www.pullmanhotels.com

On December 5th, food and wine enthusiasts will gather at the Malibu Bluffs to celebrate the Malibu Food and Wine Festival. Guests will sample unlimited tastings of fine wine and delectable cuisine from local chefs and restaurants.  Proceeds from this memorable afternoon will go to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and The Blue Project of Malibu.

Participants include over 100 wineries, spirits, and more than 30 of the best local restaurants such as:

Art+Farm Wine, Cielo Malibu Estate, Dierberg Vineyard, Dutcher Crossing, Four Brix Winery, Gerard Bertrand, Grizzly Wine Studio, Hall Vineyards, Herzog Wine Cellars, Hidden Ridge Vineyard, Hunt Cellars, Hundred Acre, Kiamie Wine Cellars, Kimmel Vineyards, Ladera Winery, Lodi Vineyards, Michael David Wine, Oak Ridge Winery, Peter Paul Wines, Pride Mountain, Terlato Wines, Bui Sushi, Café Habana, Charlie’s Malibu, Chart House, Dukes Malibu, Gladstones, La Cachette Bistro, Lilly’s French Cafe & Bar, Maddy’s Organic Market, Malibu Kitchen & Gourmet, Moonshadows, Saddle Peak Lodge, Simon/LA, Stonefire Grill, Taste of the Palisades, Terra Restaurant, The Sunset Malibu and Tra di Noi. 

VIP Tickets grant access to Malibu Food & Wine and the VIP Tent, featuring “An Evening at the Bluffs” from 5:00pm-8:00pm. The VIP Tent will also host scheduled events throughout the day:

1:30-2:15pm: Meet the Chef & Wine Pairings:
Chefs Marius Blin and Francesco Valesco will offer a presentation and prepare an amuse-bouche for all VIP Guests.

5:30pm  VIP Reception & Live Auction:
Savory four course meal prepared by Francesco Valesco and Marius Blin, Martini Lounge open.

3:00-4:30pm  VeeV Cocktail Lounge:    

Appetizers served by Terra Restaurant and Cocktails by VeeV Spirits.

To purchase tickets visit: www.malibufoodwinefestival.com

Bon Appétit!

For centuries gold has been a principal ingredient in many beauty regimes. The past few years have seen a renaissance in the approach to using gold in skincare. As luxurious as a beauty treatment can be, gold is now incorporated by many professionals to promote young, radiate and healthy skin.

Biolite Skin Clinic in Dubai has been chosen as the exclusive beauty partner for the Dubai Film Festival taking place at the Madinat Jumeirah from 11-18 December. The clinic is a luxury medical spa established by the renowned medical aesthetician Mona Syed-Mirza who is a specialist in IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).

At the Dubai Film Festival VIPs and stars can try the 24-Karat Gold Leaf Facial. The facial is full of the natural healing properties found in gold which slows down the collagen depletion and breakdown of elastin thus lifting and firming the skin.

Certainly the epitome of a luxury facial, get your VIP pass and experience the health benefits of gold.

www.biolitedubai.com

Renowned shoemaker Christian Louboutin has created a special limited edition “Peace of Shoe” to benefit microfinance. Louboutin was inspired by “Creating a World Without Poverty”, a book written by Nobel Peace Prize winner and founder of Grameen Bank and the Grameen Foundation which provides the poor, especially women, with access to small loans to start their own business. The new limited edition shoe will debut this month in two U.S. Louboutin boutiques.

“When I read the book, I fell in love with this wonderful man- his ideas and his ideals!” said Louboutin of Yunas’ book. The “Peace of Shoe” aims to create a fashionable inspiration for peace. The shoe is a classic peep-toe platform covered in beautiful silk satin and trimmed with hand-stitched embroidered Indian ribbon. There are only 33 pairs produced worldwide and each is numbered and signed by Christian Louboutin. The shoes are available in champagne and pink in the LA boutique and champagne and lavender in the Miami boutique. Each pair retails at $1,495 with 100% of the proceeds going to the support of microfinance.

Wear your gracious “Peace of Shoe” and feel confident that you have purchased something beautiful, unique and inspirational for the betterment of mankind.

For more information contact RR & Co. Bespoke Luxury Management Laura Gatsos laura@rrandco.com

Participating U.S. boutiques are:

Christian Louboutin, 155 NE 40th Street Miami, FL (305)576-6820

Christian Louboutin, 650 North Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069 (301)247-9300