Thursday, December 9, 2010

Luxe File ♥s...Powered by Action

Thursday, December 9, 5:30-7:30PM
Powered by Action's Launch Reception
G.R. N'Namdi Gallery
110 N. Peoria

After nearly eighteen months of preparation, and just in time for the holiday gift-giving season, Powered by Action is hosting its first fundraiser and launch party at G.R. N'Namdi. The new non-profit, powered and promoted by an elite team of dedicated Chicago business leaders and philanthropists whose time and services are provided pro bono, offers a personal and customized approach to the art of do-gooding. Whether it's donating time, monies or resources, donors form an intimate and impenetrable bond with the distressed and developing communities they help to become economically sustainable and sufficient.

The event will feature passed cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and the opportunity to meet and mingle with some of the organization's executive team including Powered by Action's founder and Chief Executive Officer, Andre Hughes.

Tickets cost $100 per person and may be purchased online: http://poweredbyactionlaunch.eventbrite.com/ or at the door.

To learn more about Powered by Action, please visit: www.poweredbyaction.org or contact Director of Public Relations, Carolynn D’Antino at (312) 925-9375 or carolynn.dantino@poweredbyaction.org.

Powered by Action's Andre Hughes and Carolynn D'Antino

Friday, December 3, 2010

Luxe File ♥s...

Tied Up and Tousled's Bardow headband

My colorist and I are in love. I love him for keeping my golden tresses runway-ready and he loves me for putting his child through Harvard. So keeping my luxe locks looking their non-brassy best, stylish accessories that add glamour, whimsy or a touch of sparkle are a must. Enter Tied Up and Tousled's Kate Rutter, whose vintage-inspired line of delicate headbands will channel your inner sexy-hippie-cum-silverscreen-siren and are perfect for any occasion - a black-tie gala, mukluk-shopping or long, lazy weekends at the lake house. They also make lovely gifts for your well-groomed girlfriends.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Luxe File ♥s...


7 For All Mankind designed these dark denims specifically for stylist extraordinaire, Rachel Zoe. Pair them with your sexiest, sky-high heels for a look that is tres bananas!


Posted by Kerry Shorr

Monday, November 29, 2010

Fêtes & Fashion - Week of November 29


Tuesday, November 30, 7:00-10:00PM
An Exclusive Evening with Johnnie Walker
Le Passage
937 N. Rush Street
Whether you take its "Water of Life" translation literally, really believe you are a "cutty above" or just drink it because there's no beer left in the house, Scotch whisky has enjoyed a long, happy history as one of the world's most ardent spirits. On Nov 30, Johnnie Walker and UrbanDaddy invite you to sample the full JW whisky collection - red, black, blue, green and gold - and specialty cocktails and sumptuous hors d'oeuvres.
RSVP: rsvp@urbandaddy.com

Thursday, December 2, 6:00-9:00PM
Angels: Female Philanthropists
JBAR
610 N. Rush Street
This special evening, hosted by Maven along with Today's Chicago Woman and The Apareció Foundation, spotlights the outstanding "wonder women" who have made philanthropy their personal or professional crusade. Guests will have the unique opportunity to meet and mingle with the philanthropistas, learn more about the organizations or causes they support, and enjoy special discounts on cocktails and cuisine.
RSVP: sarah@maven-chicago.com

Friday, December 3, 6:00-10:00PM
First Fridays at the MCA
220 E. Chicago Avenue
Hosted the first Friday of every month, and sponsored by CS Magazine, the MCA's popular social mixer masterfully melds contemporary art with cocktails, cuisine, music and themed activities. Appropriately named "Holidaze", this month's shindig will feature complimentary mini-manicures and Paraffin hand treatments for men (just for the guys? really?), Wolfgang Puck hors d'oeuvres and dessert from Francesca's on Chestnut, a cash bar featuring beer, wine and specialty cocktails, musical entertainment by DJs Duke Shin and Nate Manic, and the iMac G5 digital dating station. First 200 guests will also receive gifts bags stuffed with goodies from Links of London, Andy's frozen custard, Yogahouse, Francesca's on Chestnut, Halo Men's Salon and more.

Thursday, December 2, 6:00-10:00PM
World of Chocolate
Hilton Chicago
720 S. Michigan Avenue
Studies show that consuming dark chocolate can lower high blood pressure, decrease chances of stroke and make you appear younger. OK, even if that last part isn't true, satisfy your sweet tooth at this year's decadent World of Chocolate, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago's annual holiday fundraiser. Sample chocolate delicacies from more than thirty of the city's finest chocolatiers, restaurants and caterers, an open bar, buffet, raffle and musical entertainment.

Tuesday, December 7, 5:00-9:00PM
Shop In Chicago
Drake Hotel
140 E. Walton Place
Chicago's favorite fashion duo, Cece Gonzalez and Melinda Joseph of Raymi Productions, invite you to their annual shopping extravaganza, Shop In Chicago. This complimentary fête features one-of-a-kind accessories and style essentials of dozens of the city's top fashion and accessory designers. Guests will receive special discounts and complimentary Dior samples and services.To RSVP for the event, go to: http://raymiproductions.wufoo.com/forms/shop-in-chicago-rsvp-12710/

Thursday, December 9, 5:30-7:30PM
Powered By Action's Launch Reception
G.R. N'Namdi Gallery
110 N. Peoria
Founded by Andre Hughes, this Chicago-based organization and its growing network of volunteers, corporations, organizations and governmental agencies, share a powerful goal: provide emerging or struggling villages around the world with the tools and resources needed to become economically-empowered and sustainable communities.
To learn more about Powered by Action, please visit: http://www.poweredbyaction.org

Thursday, December 9, 6:00-9:00PM
Maven's Holiday Mixer
Red Canary
695 N. Milwaukee Avenue
On Dec 9, you're invited to one of the holiday season's "must attend" events - Maven's Holiday MIxer. This festive soiree features nips and nibbles and the opportunity to make merry with the city's top influencers and your favorite Divas and Divos from past to present.
RSVP: sarah@maven-chicago.com

Friday, December 10, 10:00PM-12:00AM
Little Red Dress Cocktail Party
Crescendo
222 W. Ontario
You needn't be Hester Prynne to know that scarlet is one of fashion's hottest hues. On Dec 10, Crescendo and Akira beckon all scarlet-clad sirens to its Little Red Dress holiday celebration. From 10-11:30PM, enjoy complimentary holiday-inspired Belvedere cocktails, champagne and decadent, hand-dipped chocolate strawberries. Ladies dressed in red will receive VIP access before 12AM.
RSVP: rsvp@soundbargroup.com

Monday, November 22, 2010

Femme Philanthropistas


On Thursday, December 2, Maven along with Today's Chicago Woman and The Apareció Foundation will host "Angels: Female Philanthropists", the latest installment of the ever-popular "Diva Series" at JBar, 610 N. Rush, 6-9PM. This special evening will spotlight some of Chicago's philanthropic "wonder women" who, by raising money and awareness, help others to survive and succeed. Modern day Picassos, these women have turned "giving back" into a veritable art form.

Angels include:
¤Bunmi Akinnusotu - Blogger, Urban Philanthopic Rock Stars and Corporate Development Officer, United Way Metropolitan Chicago
¤Bianca Alexander - Co-CEO, Conscious Planet Media and Emmy Award-winning advocate and correspondent
¤Laura Beres - President, The Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and President, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
¤Karyn Brianne - Creator, TheFabulousGiver.com and Co-Founder of The Red Pump Project
¤Rynell Cook - Connections Manager, Imerman Angels
¤Lisa Cristia - Connections Specialist, Imerman Angels
¤Carolynn D'Antino - Philanthropist/Civic Leader
¤Jessica George – Executive Director and Founder, The Apareció Foundation
¤Contessa Gibson - Member, YWCA Future Leaders Council
¤Jill Glaser - Owner, Makeup First School and Make-Up Artist, Flashes of Hope
¤Carrie Grippe Gowans – Chicago Chapter Director, Flashes of Hope
¤Robin Harriett-Remele – Volunteer, AmeriFace
¤Jeannette Kravitz - Executive Director, PeaceJourney.com's ECOChallenge2020.org
¤Kate Levin - Director of Events, Imerman Angels
¤Jenaeth Markaj – Development Associate, One Hope United
¤Kat Nichols - Director of Imerman Active, Imerman Angels
¤Kelly O’Brien - Vice President, Corporate Partnerships and Marketing, United Way of Metropolitan Chicago
¤Megan Richards Martin - Social Stimulus Club
¤Estrella Rosenberg – Executive Director and Founder, Big Love Little Hearts and 501 Mission Place
¤Kati Scronce - Assistant Director of Events, Imerman Angels
¤Melinda Simon
¤Nadia Wetzel - Social Stimulus Club

Guests will have the unique opportunity to meet and mingle with the philanthropistas, learn more about the organizations or causes they support, and enjoy special discounts on cocktails and cuisine.
RSVP: sarah@maven-chicago.com

DON'T MISS: On December 9, kick off the holiday party season with Maven's Holiday Mixer at the Red Canary, 695 N. Milwaukee Avenue, 6-9PM. This festive soiree features nips and nibbles and the opportunity to make merry with the city's top influencers and your favorite Divas and Divos from past to present.
RSVP: sarah@maven-chicago.com

Friday, November 19, 2010

Shopping with Cece & Melinda


On December 7, 5:00-9:00PM, Chicago's favorite fashion duo, Cece Gonzalez and Melinda Joseph of Raymi Productions, invite you to attend their annual shopping extravaganza, Shop In Chicago, at the Drake Hotel. This complimentary fête features one-of-a-kind accessories and style essentials of dozens of the city's top fashion and accessory designers. Guests will enjoy special discounts and complimentary Dior samples and services. To RSVP for the event, go to: http://raymiproductions.wufoo.com/forms/shop-in-chicago-rsvp-12710/

Luxe File ♥s...

Gap Nylon puffer tote (silver)

Gap Nylon Puffer Tote (Silver)

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Moncler Store Opening Party


Thursday, November 18, 6:30-8:30PM
Moncler, the world's famed retailer for ski wear and Alps-inspired outerwear, celebrates the official opening of its new store at 33 E. Oak Street. Guests will get a "first look" at the boutique's luxe fashions as they enjoy passed cocktails, sumptuous hors d'oeuvres and creative entertainment. Co-hosted by Rich February, Chairman of Moncler, Remo Ruffini, is scheduled to make an appearance.
RSVP: moncler@brandlinkcommunications.com or call 312-278-0093

Photo courtesy of Jill Jellinek Katz/JKLS PR

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Fêtes & Fashion - Week of November 15


Tuesday, November 16, 6:30-8:30PM
Cocktails in Chicago hosted by mediabistro.com
404 Wine Bar
2882 N. Southport Avenue
Hosted by Rotary International's senior video producer Stuart Cleland and AnswersMedia's Jessica Mayberry includes complimentary cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and mingling with industry professionals.

Tuesday, November 16, 7:00-9:00PM
Cheeky Does Beer & BBQ
Lillie's Q
1856 W. North Avenue
Round-up all your fashion and food-lovin' friends and join Cheeky Chicago for an event that promises a little something for everyone - enjoy glasses of MGD 64, all-you-can-devour BBQ appetizers prepared by Lillie Q's chef/owner Charlie McKenna and trunk shows featuring a plethora of Bucktown's top designers and boutiques.
Tickets cost $25. RSVP: rsvp@cheekychicago.com

Wednesday, November 17, 5:30-7:30PM
Fashion at the Block featuring Project Runway's Austin & Santino
Fashion Block
108 N. State Street
Join Project Runway's Austin & Santino, stars of "On the Road with Austin and Santino", for Fashion at the Block at Block 37 Shops with a formal runway show showcasing fashons from Block 37 Shops. Register to win a $1,000 fashion shopping spree.
For more information, go to: http://www.facebook.com/Block37Shops

Thursday, November 18, 6:00-9:00PM
Veruca Salt Anniversary Party
530 N. Kingsbury
River North boutique celebrates anniversary event with complimentary cocktails, music, free goodies and 30% discount on all in-store merchandise. Shop online at http://www.shopverucasalt.com/ and enter "ANNIV2010" to receive discount (discounts apply on Nov 18 only).
RSVP: retail@shopverucasalt.com

Thursday, November 18, 6:30-8:30PM
Moncler Store Opening Party
33 E. Oak Street
The world's famed retailer for ski wear and Alps-inspired outerwear and Oak Street's new resident, Moncler gives the city's well-clad citizens another reason look wonderful this winter. Opening event will feature hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, entertainment. Moncler Chairman, Remo Ruffini, will also join the celebration.
RSVP: moncler@brandlinkcommunications.com or call 312-278-0093

Friday, November 19, 6:00-9:00PM
Una Mae's Online Launch
1528 N. Milwaukee Avenue, at Honore Street
The popular Wicker Park boutique, known for its eclectic mix of vintage and urbane fashions and accessories, hosts an in-store celebration to mark the launch of its new website, www.unamaeschicago.com. Enjoy specialty cocktails from Through The Looking Glass, entertainment by Reckless Records and 15% off purchases.
For more information, call 773-276-7002

Friday, November 19, 10:00PM
Paul Oakenfold
House of Blues Chicago
329 N. Dearborn
Paul Oakenfold, DJ/remixer/producer extraordinaire, hits Chicago for a one night-only, Starry Eyed Surprise smackdown. Additional DJ talent includes Roger Sanchez, Chuckie, Nervo and Sidney Samson.
To purchase tickets, go to: http://www.houseofblues.com

Friday, November 19, 6:30-8:00PM
Chicago Chefs Live!
The Chicago Cultural Center
77 E. Randolph Street
New York Times magazine writer and former Times restaurant critic Frank Bruni moderates this lively panel featuring Chicago's food royalty - Rick Bayless (Frontera Grill, Topolobampo), Art Smith (Art and Soul, Table Fifty-Two), Charlie Trotter (Charlie Trotter’s) and Lee Schrager (creator of Food Network South Beach and New York City Wine & Food Festivals and cookbook author). Tickets cost $25.
To purchase tickets, call: 888-698-1870

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Candace Jordan: Playmate Perfection


The Glamazon

Sitting at a private table in Nookies in Lincoln Park, a woman with an extreme coif and feline-shaped eyes is speaking excitedly into her cell phone about a theater script she’s been asked to write for Victory Gardens Theatre. Dressed minimalistically in head-to-toe black with an exquisitely-cut Lester Lampert diamond ring winking from one manicured finger, it is easy to understand why Candace Jordan is considered one of Chicago’s most glamorous socialites.

When Luxe File Chicago first approached Jordan for an interview, we imagined a meeting spot that would effortlessly combine her ultra-sophisticated, jet-setting lifestyle and her Playboy centerfold past. Agent Provocateur? La Perla, perhaps? However, when Jordan suggested the popular breakfast spot, the idea of munching on fluffy omelletes and pancakes sounded a lot more delicious than modeling sexy lingerie with the former Playmate.

In between coffee refills and a steady stream of calls and text messages, Luxe File Chicago learned why she’s so sweet on 50 Cent, her non-sexual fascination with Sandra Bullock and what really keeps her 20-year marriage to Chuck Jordan on the steamy side.

THE INTERVIEW

Luxe File Chicago: You have worn many interesting hats in your life – model, actress, wife, blogger, philanthropist, society maven. What other goals would you still like to achieve?

Candace Jordan: I have accomplished a lot of things in my life and I’ve realized it is so important to be open to new things and ideas. Sometimes it amazes me the wonderful opportunities that fall into my lap, especially when they're from unexpected sources. Recently, Lucinda Hahn (Chicago Magazine) called to tell me the editor thought I would make a great subject and wanted her to write a profile about me (“Belle of the Blog”, March 2010 issue). And I just received a call from Victory Gardens – they invited me to write a short play which will be featured in this year’s “Chicago Stories”. I certainly never thought I would ever be a playwright!

"Belle of the Blog"

LFC: Describe what a typical day for you is like? Is your calendar filled with fabulous fêtes, photoshoots and philanthropy?

CJ: There are no typical days, which is good because I get bored easily. This morning, I attended a philanthropic grant meeting and will spend the rest of the afternoon working on my blog and editing pictures from a party I attended last night. Yesterday was completely Joffrey Ballet-related, from dawn to dusk. At night, I go to a lot of events. I love to do that.

LFC: How does your husband, Chuck Jordan, handle your hectic lifestyle? He seems like the perfect partner-in-crime.

CJ: (Smiling) He is the perfect partner! I couldn’t do this without him. He is the most supportive person. Some events he attends only to be supportive but mostly he goes to the ones he knows will be fun for him.

LFC: How did you meet your husband and what is the secret to your marital bliss?

CJ: Chuck and I met through a mutual friend. We got married six months after we met at the Drake Hotel and honeymooned in Paris. Our secret is that we communicate a lot and we know everything there is to know about each other. I admire him to no end. He is the kindest person I have ever met.

Candace and Chuck - how love looks after 20 years!

LFC: What social boards, charities and organizations are you a member?

CJ: I am on the Women’s Board of the Joffrey Ballet Company, the Board of Directors of Common Threads, the Service Club Board of Managers, Parkways Foundations, PAWS Development Board and the Costume Council.

LFC: What Chicago woman do you most admire?

CJ: While I couldn’t name just one, I can say that Chicago is well-known for its common sense and hard work ethic. A woman who has both is the perfect person. I know a lot of women like that.

LFC: Who is your favorite Chicago guy?

CJ: (Laughing) My husband, Chuck! I love Mayor Daley, too. I think what he’s done to Chicago is nothing short of a miracle. He’s made us into a world-class city.

Candace with Mayor Richard Daley

LFC: What are some of your favorite things about Chicago?

CJ: The lakefront. There’s no other city I know of that has a beautiful lakefront with a beach.

LFC: Tell us about Playboy! What was it like to be a Playboy Bunny and centerfold?

CJ: When I was 19, I was hired as a Bunny at the Playboy Club in St. Louis. Then I moved to Chicago to work and lived in the Playboy Mansion. I was more a service kind of Bunny. I greeted people at the front door so I was the first face people saw when they came in. That’s how the art directors came to know me. I was also very photogenic and they requested me for ads including the life-sized posters that they displayed at the Playboy Clubs. Then they asked if I would like to test for Playmate. I agreed. I really knew these guys and it felt comfortable. I did the test and it was accepted. That’s how I became a Playboy Magazine centerfold in the December 1979 issue. It was such an incredible experience.

Playboy Magazine - February 1979

Note: In addition to being a centerfold, Candace Jordan shot seven covers for Playboy Magazine and was named Chicago’s “Playboy Bunny of the Year” in 1976.

Playboy Magazine - February 1980

Playboy Magazine (Spanish) - September 1986

Playboy's "Bunny of the Year" - Chicago, 1976

LFC: What is Hugh Hefner really like?

CJ: He is a very sentimental, old-world gentleman with wonderful values. I think that is why all these young girls are so attracted to him!

Then: Candace with Hugh Hefner

Now: Candace with Hugh Hefner at the Playboy Mansion

LFC: You lived in the Playboy Mansion. Any interesting stories you can share?

CJ: The Chicago Mansion was a lot of fun. Celebrities were always coming to visit. Hugh enjoyed throwing fun events and parties. I remember one, we each got a note under our door that read: “Mr. Hefner would like you to join him for his birthday for cake and ice cream tonight at 9:30 p.m.” Absolutely charming! There were other perks like ordering lobster at 3 a.m. or we would sunbathe on the roof and toss water balloons down on State Street. It was a riot.

Nobody "rolls" like Candace in purple skates!

LFC: Speaking of Playboy, have you seen the E! Channel’s hit reality TV show, “The Girls Next Door”?

CJ: I was on it! In one of “The Girls Next Door” episodes, Holly organized a luncheon for Hef with the Playboy Playmates from the 1970’s which included Patti Connors, Sondra Theodore, and myself. We were talking and reminiscing about our Playboy pasts. It was so cute because Hef sent us copies of the show.

LFC: What was your greatest model moment?

CJ: My JVC billboard in Times Square. I didn’t even get to see it so the art director sent me a Polaroid of it.

LFC: What were some of the best perks you enjoyed as a model?

CJ: They really took care of us. We were chauffered everywhere, went to the hippest clubs and dined at the best restaurants.

LFC: You have one of the chicest, most recognized coifes in Chicago. Who styles your hair?

CJ: Charles Ifergan has been cutting and styling my hair since he was a baby. I adore him. I style my hair this way because when I was modeling, they would always slick my hair back. Over the years, I kept cutting it shorter until I got it this way. It’s so liberating.

LFC: Favorite travel destination?

CJ: St. Tropez. We’ve been going for seventeen years and I celebrated my 50th birthday there. It’s the chicest place in the world and the people there are so gorgeous. Even the music is ground-breaking. It’s where I first heard “Candy Shop” by 50 Cent. At first, the lyrics made me want to scream but now it’s one of my all-time favorite songs!

LFC: Most romantic moment?

CJ: On one of my birthdays, I woke up in the morning and found a trail of paper my husband had left with little words of love that led down to our kitchen which he filled with balloons and pictures. I took photos which I keep in my dressing room at home to remind me of it. I feel so lucky to have a guy who thinks like that.

LFC: Most cherished possession?

CJ: My photos.

LFC: Favorite words of wisdom?

CJ: “When one door closes, another door opens wider”.

LFC: Favorite way you de-stress?

CJ: I love scented candles. I also like to sit in the atrium and watch the birds in our backyard. It’s so tranquil and idyllic. Sometimes Chuck and I sit in there in the evenings with our two chihuahuas, Mickey and Rooney, and drink wine and play music from the 1940s.

LFC: Who are you wearing right now?

CJ: Donna Karan cashmere sweater, black tights and a Lester Lampert diamond ring.

LFC: In Chicago, where is your favorite place to dine?

CJ: I love RL! It’s a wonderful restaurant for lunch or dinner. The staff is incredible.

LFC: Favorite place to shop?

CJ: My last shopping excursion was at Jolie Femme in Winnetka, Illinois. I love it because it’s very European, chic and affordable.

LFC: What advice would you give young people who’d wish to follow in your footsteps?

CJ: So many young people try to pattern themselves off of somebody else. Instead of looking outside for the answers, I would urge them to look inside to find out who they truly are.

LFC: If your life was made into a movie, what would the title be and who would play you?

CJ: “Accentuate the Positive, Eliminate the Negative” (a Johnny Mercer classic) and Sandra Bullock. Her spirit and compassion, not to mention her humor, inspire me.

Sandra Bullock - Candace's hot crush

LFC: Luxe File Chicago has dedicated its site to the "love of living luxuriously". Finish this sentence, "When it comes to living luxuriously, always..."

CJ: Be true to who you are.


Story by Sally & Kerry Shorr

Photos courtesy of Candace Jordan