Confidential: SHEIN files for London IPO

Welcome to the 43rd edition of Maximalist! Dive into the ultimate guide, filled with insider insights into the world of fashion, art, real estate, travel, jewelry, and horology.

The world of luxury is never boring, and this week is no exception. Let’s dive in!

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On this week’s agenda:

1. MICHELIN Guide Announces Top U.S. Hotels for 2024

2. Vogue World 2024: A Parisian Spectacle of Fashion and Sports

3. Loro Piana's Luxurious Aspen Adventure

4. Confidential: SHEIN files for London IPO

5. Dries Van Noten Bids Farewell to Fashion at Paris Men’s Fashion Week

6. Ralph Lauren Unveils Team USA's Paris 2024 Olympic Uniforms

MICHELIN Guide Announces Top U.S. Hotels for 2024

The MICHELIN Guide has unveiled its inaugural list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels across the United States, marking a significant expansion of its renowned rating system to include hotels. This prestigious selection highlights exceptional accommodations in several major U.S. cities, including Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC.

The MICHELIN Key ratings, analogous to the Guide's star system for restaurants, were introduced after a detailed review process covering architecture, service quality, personality, value, and guest experience contributions. The newly rated hotels range from luxurious city landmarks to serene coastal retreats, each standing out for its unique qualities and excellent hospitality.

The top honors include 11 Three Key hotels, recognized for their ultimate luxury and exceptional design. Among these, New York City boasts four such establishments, including the glamorous Aman New York and Casa Cipriani. California is notable for its numerous Three Key hotels, like Post Ranch Inn and SingleThread Inn, which showcase the state's rich variety, from scenic coastal spots to lush wine country locales.

The list also features 33 Two Key hotels and 80 One Key hotels. These properties offer a variety of experiences, from the historic charm of the Chicago Athletic Association to the contemporary luxury of The Battery in San Francisco. Each hotel has been selected for its ability to provide more than just a stay but a remarkable experience that enhances any trip.

This announcement not only celebrates the excellence of these establishments but also underscores the MICHELIN Guide's commitment to enhancing travel experiences by recognizing outstanding hospitality alongside gastronomic achievements. The full list of MICHELIN Key hotels is available on the Guide's website, providing travelers with a trusted source for finding exceptional accommodations across the United States.

Find the full list HERE.

Vogue World 2024: A Parisian Spectacle of Fashion and Sports

On June 23, 2024, the iconic fashion event Vogue World took place in Paris, stepping up as the year's must-see fashion spectacle. The event was set against the backdrop of Place Vendôme, a location revered in both the fashion and jewelry industries and the muse for countless artistic endeavors.

This year's Vogue World in Paris aimed to eclipse its predecessors by integrating a mix of fashion, sports, and culture. The event was creatively directed by notable figures such as Carine Roitfeld and Ib Kamara, alongside Pat McGrath who led the makeup direction. Parris Goebel, renowned for her choreography at Rihanna's Super Bowl halftime show, also brought her dynamic vision to the event's artistic direction.

The fashion showcased at Vogue World Paris highlighted a century of French style, starting in the 1920s, paired with a diverse range of sports, including cycling, gymnastics, and tennis. The event featured performances and cameos by global stars like Ciara, Maluma, and Bad Bunny, adding a layer of glamour and excitement.

For those unable to attend in person, Vogue World Paris was accessible via a livestream hosted by model and actor Cara Delevingne, who guided viewers through the festivities. The broadcast, directed by Sam Wrench, known for his work on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour film, provided a front-row experience to the global audience.

Anna Wintour, Vogue Global Editorial Director, described the event as a celebration that blends 100 years of fashion with the world of sports, highlighting Paris's iconic status in the global fashion landscape. The event also supported local talent and organizations, with a portion of the proceeds going to Secours Populaire to help young athletes in France.

Vogue World Paris was not just a display of fashion but an emblematic event celebrating the deep ties between athleticism and fashion, underscored by spectacular live performances and the scenic grandeur of Paris. For more highlights and exclusive content from Vogue World 2024, enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the online platforms where the magic of the event continues to resonate.

Loro Piana's Luxurious Aspen Adventure

Loro Piana just introduced its innovative "Into the Wild" capsule collection, designed to seamlessly combine the elegance of high fashion with the practicality of outdoor gear. This unique collection includes finely crafted weather-proof bomber jackets, trousers, and parkas, along with cashmere-blend knits, all tailored for the adventurous spirit.

To celebrate this innovative merger of style and function, Loro Piana hosted an exclusive three-day event in the picturesque setting of Aspen, Colorado. The festivities kicked off at Loro Piana’s boutique, located beneath the Silver Queen gondola in Aspen. Here, a special "pop-in" shop featured the new collection, where celebrities like Liya Kebede, Edie Campbell, and Leon Dame were among the first to experience the collection's blend of luxury and utility.

Throughout the event, guests embarked on scenic hikes around Aspen's stunning landscapes, including the historic ghost town of Ashcroft and the iconic Maroon Bells—reputed to be the most photographed mountains in North America. These excursions were not only to appreciate the beauty of Aspen but also to put the "Into the Wild" apparel to the test in true outdoor conditions. The collection’s standout item, the Loro Piana x Roa Katharina hiking boots, priced at $1,650, proved essential for navigating the rugged terrain.

Dining under the open sky was central to the experience. Renowned chefs Yann Nury and Barclay Dodge crafted exquisite, multi-course meals that were enjoyed amidst the natural grandeur of Aspen. One of the highlights was a gourmet lunch at a private cabin with views over the mountains, enhancing the connection between luxury dining and the raw beauty of the wilderness.

The culminating event of the retreat was an elegant evening at the scenic lakehouse on Kevin Costner’s Dunbar Family Ranch. Here, Loro Piana’s CEO of North America, Matthieu Garnier, reflected on the essence of the collection and the luxury of disconnecting from the world in such a tranquil setting. The evening included a bear sighting, followed by a tranquil night of stargazing and enjoying s'mores by the lakeside, wrapped up in the brand’s cashmere blankets.

The "Into the Wild" collection, embodying the spirit of adventure with the sophistication of Loro Piana, is now available for purchase online and at selected retail locations, inviting fashion and nature enthusiasts to embrace the call of the wild in unparalleled style.

Confidential: SHEIN files for London IPO

hein, the China-based fast-fashion giant, has made a strategic move by confidentially filing for an initial public offering (IPO) in London, as reported by Reuters on June 24, 2024. This decision marks a significant pivot from its previous plans to launch an IPO in the United States.

In early June, Shein approached Britain’s markets regulator to explore a potential listing on the London Stock Exchange. The company, valued at $66 billion following a fundraising round last year, is aiming for what could be one of the largest global IPOs this year. The specifics of the IPO launch date remain undisclosed.

This move comes after Shein faced challenges with its initial US IPO plan. The company had confidentially filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission in November but encountered regulatory hurdles. The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) earlier advised against a US IPO, citing concerns over Shein's supply chain issues.

Shein has officially updated China’s securities regulator about its change of listing venue to London, though it is still awaiting final approval. The decision to file in London could potentially open new avenues for the retailer known for its affordably priced apparel.

The London IPO could signify a new phase for Shein, which has recently increased its prices, possibly in preparation for the public offering. This pricing strategy adjustment sets Shein apart from competitors like H&M and Zara, positioning it for a potentially stronger financial standing post-IPO.

Dries Van Noten Bids Farewell to Fashion at Paris Men’s Fashion Week

Belgian designer Dries Van Noten presented his final collection at Paris Fashion Week, marking the end of his illustrious career in the fashion industry. Known for his distinctive use of prints and textures, Van Noten has been a prominent figure since he emerged in the 1980s as part of the Antwerp Six.

The Spring/Summer 2025 Men’s show was a vibrant display of Van Noten’s artistry, featuring a mix of bold color clashes and sophisticated prints that have defined his style. The collection drew on various elements from his previous works, including gold embroidery similar to his Fall/Winter 2016 and a unique take on suiting from Fall/Winter 2019. This final show not only showcased his signature aesthetic but also his ability to evolve and reflect contemporary trends.

Showing the industry’s deep respect and admiration for Van Noten, the audience was an array of fashion luminaries, including Diane von Furstenberg, Thom Browne, and Pierpaolo Piccioli. The setting of the show featured a catwalk adorned with silver leaf, echoing the designer's first collection, which used gold leaf, creating a reflective and luminous finale.

Dries Van Noten’s farewell was a grand affair with over 125 looks, concluding a career that has significantly impacted the fashion world. His departure signifies a pivotal moment, as he steps back to make room for new talents to continue the legacy of innovation and elegance he has upheld for nearly five decades.

Ralph Lauren Unveils Team USA's Paris 2024 Olympic Uniforms

As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, Ralph Lauren has once again stepped up as the official outfitter for Team USA, continuing a partnership that dates back to 2008. This year’s uniform reveal combines classic Americana with a fresh, modern aesthetic and a strong commitment to sustainable fashion.

For the opening ceremony on July 26, Team USA athletes will showcase timeless elegance in a single-breasted navy wool blazer with red and white accents reflecting the national colors. This is paired with a blue-and-white striped oxford shirt and tapered jeans, creating a look that balances traditional prep style with modernity. The ensemble is completed with classic suede buck shoes, emphasizing comfort without sacrificing style.

The closing ceremony outfits, to be worn on August 11, take on a more contemporary and bold approach. Athletes will sport a moto-style jacket with multiple patches, paired with white jeans and a striped Polo shirt. This combination has been described by Paralympic swimmer Jamal Hill as a blend between a "cowboy tuxedo" and Formula 1 gear.

Additionally, the uniforms for flag bearers will feature distinctive alternate colorways to ensure these key athletes stand out during the ceremonies, symbolizing leadership and national pride.

Beyond the main ceremonies, Ralph Lauren has also designed a "Villagewear" collection that includes varsity jackets, rugby shirts, color-blocked tees, and an American flag sweater. This casual collection is intended for use within the Olympic Village, providing athletes with stylish yet comfortable options for their downtime.

In keeping with a growing environmental consciousness, the Paris 2024 collection makes significant use of sustainable materials, such as recycled polyester and wool certified by the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). This initiative is part of Ralph Lauren’s broader commitment to integrating eco-friendly practices into their production processes, reflecting a shift towards sustainability in the fashion industry at large.

These uniforms not only serve to outfit Team USA but also stand as a testament to Ralph Lauren's ongoing commitment to blending style with sustainable innovation.

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