For some time, now I’ve been shopping the chic workout gear at Pure Barre Sarasota, ducking and running when co-owners Sara Ferguson and Melissa DeMore offer a free class. But the offers also came from a few of my favorite friends who’ve attended for years, saying I should try it.  However, I’ve just never been that girl who joins in a group class, aside from my must-have yoga, mainly because I consider myself uncoordinated that way. The last time I took a group class was in the ’90s, when Jane Fonda’s Step workout was hot. I was so embarrassed that I swore to Buddha I’d never attempt a class like that again.

Here’s the sea change: I was up for taking my fitness to a new level; challenging myself to stretch my exercise limits. Then, I learned my good friend Lisa Marx (who’s like-minded in exercise interest) had joined Pure Barre.  Curses! Now I had to go.

This class is my toughest workout ever, barre none. I liken it to ballet boot camp. Here’s the kicker, though:  I saw results in 3 classes!  I’m actually going to put this out on the Internet: My butt was different. Seriously. I wouldn’t believe this unless it was my own gluteus maximus.  And it’s not just me – ask anyone of those in the cult following.

“Pure Barre gives me an incredible sense of accomplishment.  Afterwards, I feel stronger, more focused and…happy!”  –Lisa Marx

So, where did my aversion to group classes go? Well, funny thing is that Pure Barre-ists are too busy monitoring their form and getting it right to notice what anyone else is doing, including me. And you get unspoken points just for showing up, which in my opinion is the hardest part.  To be frank, I mentally curse myself, frequently, while doing the 55-minute class. I have a love/hate relationship with it, but I’m addicted to the results, no doubt.

Side note: During this time, I opted to do Ani Phyo’s 15-Day Fat Blast to really kick myself into shape, and I lost 7.4lbs and more than two inches. Read more about that here.

And while I’m telling the truth, on my drive home from class I find a sense of pride and accomplishment, thinking, “Did I actually just do that?!” There’s something to be said for stretching beyond your limits.

During a moment of powering through, I decided to share my experience with you and chat up my instructor for insight. Sarasota native Chaz Glunk is comfortable in a dance studio–and he’s been in one for more than 17 years. Within his first five years of training, he was accepted into the prestigious Ballet school of Harid Conservatory, he danced with Sarasota Ballet for four years, Charleston Ballet Theater for three years and Las Vegas Contemporary Dance for two years, At 34 years old, he’s proving if you do what you love, the rest will follow. Now, Chaz channels his well-rounded dance training and pedigree to his classes at Pure Barre, a perfect fit.

Let’s talk Pure Barre….what got you into it?

Ballet is about more than just movement.  A dancer is required to have a strong core for balance and stability.  So, when I started hearing rumors about an amazing workout that focuses on these same principles, I was drawn to it like a fish to water. A student of mine asked me to come take a class with her in March of 2012.  Honestly, I walked in thinking, “Oh, this is going to be easy. I know my body and these muscles… piece of cake.” Needless to say, after a single class, I was sore for several days.  Within my first five classes, I was finding muscles I didn’t even know I had.

How many classes have you taught to this point?

In less than a year, I have taught more than 600 classes. I average about 14-15 classes a week.  My earliest class starts at 6 a.m., for my early workout warriors.  My latest class, for those who want a great night’s sleep and that sense of accomplishment after a long day of work, starts at 6:35 p.m.

How would you describe a Pure Barre workout?

I would describe it as a fast-paced workout that gets the heart pumping and the blood boiling. It targets the inner and outer thighs, tapers and lifts the seat, sculpts the arms, and strengthens the core. Every moment of the 55-minute workout is engineered to create a streamlined dancer’s body without the wear and tear.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who wants to know – how did I see amazing results so quickly?

You know that “shaking” and “trembling” that you experienced throughout class?  Well, that is really key.  We drive the muscles for an extended amount of time, focusing on small isometric movements for a few minutes at a time. This complete muscle fatigue ensures that they are pressed to the limit.  Adding a stretch after every major working point of class allows increased blood flow to heal the muscles faster.  This also helps eliminate the bulking that can occur in other workouts.  It’s a balance that comes down to muscle confusion, constant exertion, and taking proper care of your body.

Pure Barre reminds me of yoga in the way that students of varying levels can co-exist in a class–how is that effective?

I’ve heard it said by many in the Pure Barre community that if you can hold onto a barre, you can do Pure Barre. People of all ages, shapes, and sizes are welcome in every class. You work at your own level.  As teachers, it’s our job to help guide Pure Barre clients into that “shaking” zone.  I have had people in their 70s working out next to people in their 20s. Each person can take the workout to their own fatigue point.

What advice would you give a new student?

Hang in there! It really is a process.  It’s going to be a challenge.  The lingo and the flow of class will eventually become second nature, but I have yet to find anyone who “gets” Pure Barre in their first class. It is a technique that has to be honed over time. Athletes of all levels still have something to learn.  As you get better, you learn to push yourself harder.

Another really important tip is to listen carefully. Not all exercises are the same.  Furthermore, each instructor can offer unique, insightful pieces of information. Keep an open mind and you’ll be on the fast track to change.

Regarding those who have injuries, is Pure Barre a safe bet?

Pure Barre is designed to accommodate almost all types of injuries. Each exercise is designed to offer proper joint support.  Form is the most important aspect to safety.  Also, there is a modification for everything. If one doesn’t already exist, we will invent one for you. We have many clients who end up at Pure Barre because they can no longer do their other workouts because improper form and lack of guidance has led to injuries. Pure Barre is a better solution because we work with you, focusing on what you have to build up and balancing the muscles around the injury.

What’s a Pure Barre misperception?

The most common misperception is that Pure Barre is a ballet class. There is almost no dancing involved. While it involves all the coordination and stability that is required for beautiful movement, there really isn’t a performance element.  It is muscle-building and conditioning.  We work to enhance the client’s awareness of the body and all of the body’s working parts.  Don’t walk into a Pure Barre class expecting classical music and tutus.

Anythinge else you’d like to share?

I can honestly say that even through the rigorous process of training and dancing professionally, I didn’t see the same results that I am seeing now.  Teaching Pure Barre allows me share my background of classical ballet and modern dance through a workout technique that is easily grasped by anyone who is willing dedicate him or herself.  I can reach and change the lives and bodies of many more individuals who would be intimidated by the ballet environment.

Also, our clients build not only better bodies, but stronger minds as well.  There is a great deal of mental discipline required to focus on a single muscle group and get to the shaking zone that is required for change. Quite frankly, the results speak for themselves.  Our clients walk in one way and begin to change as they embrace the Pure Barre experience.

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And, some insight from dedicated Pure Barre-ists:

Elisabeth Waters

How long at Pure Barre: Since October 2011

How many times/week: Four times a week ,if possible.

Why Pure Barre?  It’s a great workout for every single muscle in your body. It defines your body like nothing else, and it is fun.

Erica Rell

How long at Pure Barre: I have been a Pure Barre addict since July of 2011

How many times/week:   I attend three classes a week and make no excuses, because it’s one hour for me where I know I’m going to lift, tone and burn my body to a healthier version after each class.

Why Pure Barre?  A long lean toned physique is what I was always after, and am happy to have that now thanks to Pure Barre and healthy eating. This workout is so enjoyable because of the camaraderie, confidence, and results it offers that makes this hard class fun.

Meg Wittmer

How long at Pure Barre: 18 months

How many times/week: Ideally, four classes per week; however, some weeks I may only make 2 or 3 classes.

Why Pure Barre?  For many years, I participated in high intensity cardio workouts including circuit training, running, kick boxing and TRX; now I have injuries as a consequence. I get a great workout at Pure Barre without the pain. I am toning and lengthening muscles in a way that I never dreamed was possible!  The principles surrounding the Pure Barre method are timeless; anyone can find success with this workout.

Click here to read about even more life-changing Sarasota workouts.

The post Pure Barre Sarasota: What You Need to Know appeared first on Fashion I.Q..

Seems you can’t swing a Manolo Blahnik these days without hitting one of the stylish set that’s talking about their favorite health trend.  Admittedly, I’m guilty of it myself. I’ve tried my share from the South Beach Diet to the Four Hour Body to juice cleanses, looking for the perfect fit for my lifestyle–couldn’t be too complicated, nor could it be without flexibility.

So, I’m what I like to call raw food curious.  I turned to raw food approximately six years ago hoping for insight on the two food groups I otherwise shunned: fruits and veggies. I figured the raw foodies would have the best take on flavors because a plain celery stick is just ridiculous to me.

It worked so well that I incorporated raw foods into my life 25 percent of the time. But I knew that wasn’t enough, I still felt out of balance. Then, I discovered Ani Phyo’s book the 15-Day Fat Blast:The Kick Ass Plan to Get Lighter, Tighter, and Sexier…Super Fast. Not only did I lose an easy 7.4 pounds and some inches, I learned a ton about everything from thermogenic (fat burning) foods to what to eat pre- and post-workout for recovery. Now, more than a year later, I’m at a solid 70-80 percent raw. It’s my eating baseline. I’m not sure I’ll ever be 100 percent, because I love food and I’m not up for restricting myself.

Now if you’re thinking that’s a lot of raw food to do, it’s really not–a nutrient-rich shake for breakfast with a protein/fiber-laden salad for lunch and you’re nearly there.

When discussing the idea of integrating raw food into my blog with my editor Pam Daniel, she called me “disciplined” for maintaining this lifestyle. It’s a word I’d love to own, but really, I can’t. I feel I’m more educated on what foods to eat and when. More than anything, I’ve discovered that eating well gives me sustained energy and I feel healthier. My big epiphany is that my health is a direct link to my happiness, something afternoon talk show hosts have been saying for decades. I’ve been wishing that French fries were the direct link all this time, but alas, they are not. Ironically, from one of those shows I learned that the No. 1 reason people stick with a healthy lifestyle is because they finally decided they were worth it. Powerful, right?

I’m not getting away from my love of style and fashion–in fact, I feel that eating healthy is stylish and you’ll look and feel better in your clothes. Just thought I’d introduce you to another interest of mine. In the future I’ll be peppering my insights and discoveries into this blog as I get deeper into the fascinatingly delicious world of raw foods, which is often misunderstood. I promise you, it doesn’t taste like dirt or bark. And it’s not just for hippies anymore.

To get you started, here’s my favorite pre-workout shake from Ani Phyo’s fabulous 15 Day Fat Blast–it powers me through a strong yoga class and Pure Barre, which I’ll talk more about next week. Don’t let the spinach deter you here – the only thing you’ll taste is chocolate.

BANANA, SPINACH, CHOCOLATE POWER SMOOTHIE

2 cups  bananas

1 cup spinach

¼ cup almond butter, raw

1 Tbsp. cacao powder

1 tsp. spirulina powder

3 cups Thai baby coconut water, or filtered water

Add ice to taste and mix everything in a high-speed blender.

Rather have someone make a raw food dish for you instead?  Check out Ionie’s Raw Food Café at 1241 Fruitville Road in Sarasota, 941-955-4599.

Know of another raw food café?  Tell us about it in the comments below!  Or, send your favorite Raw Food pix to my Instagram, Facebook or Twitter accounts…

Click here to read Heather’s Fashion I.Q. in our May “Best of Sarasota” issue.

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You can often find Kyle Battie in downtown Sarasota, whether it’s making you feel welcome at State Street Eating House or sussing out the best in local jazz. But no matter where he is, he’s purposefully pulled together with haberdashery styling choices that are all polished but worn with ease.  And, he always sports a clever fashion accoutrement that adds character to his individual style, like his rakishly worn driving cap or the pop-of-color pocket square and bow tie.

Name/Age:  Kyle Scott Battie, 45

About Me:  I’ve been around fashion my whole life. My father owns and operates Cravat’s Custom Shirts and Clothiers here in downtown Sarasota. My mother played a huge role with her own sense of style and grace and, along with my father, made me pay attention to my appearance as it would serve how I represented myself. Both my parents would say, “Man makes the clothes, clothes don’t make the man!” You can also catch me shopping at Goodwill, which I got from my mother as well. You are your own best advertisement and how you dress says a lot about you.

For more than 10 years I modeled in South Beach and NYC for designers like Tommy Hilfiger, being around such people and being involved in those situations you get a good sense of fashion and how to dress. And, back in the day, I hosted a recurring segment on Good Morning America called The Regular Guy, I reported on fashions and Oscar nominations, among other things.

What I Do: I work as a manager at State Street Eating House downtown. I’m most likely the first person to greet you at the door, so that means that I have to dress the part and also represent State Street. As the saying goes, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

“Once I asked Tommy Hilfiger when was the best time to wear an ascot and he said, ‘Unless you’re in Europe, Kyle, never!’” But I beg to differ. Wear whatever makes you feel good and comfortable. And if you’re going to wear it, wear it!  Not so much with attitude but with confidence.”

What I’m Wearing:

Bowtie: Cravat’s Custom Shirts and Clothiers

Shirt: Cravat’s Custom Shirts and Clothing

Jacket: Gap

Pants: Banana Republic

Belt: Goodwill

Cap: Goodwill

Glasses: Ray-Ban

Pocket square: Cravat’s Custom Shirts and Clothing

For more What I Wear to Work posts, click here.

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Flights of Fancy

I could not take my eyes of this lovely, artful toque with its feathery friends. Debbie Maltese placed a custom order with Ignatius Hats especially for Pique-Nique to match her springy canary-yellow dress. I was completely taken aback when I learned this was not a vintage piece, the plait is the work of expert milliners, no doubt.  Which begs the question, what price chic?

Photo by Rebecca Baxter.

Mod Redux

As Deborah Blue always says, “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing!”  She was saturated in ’60s mod mode this week for Pique-Nique. Everything she donned was vintage (except for those fab bubble-gum pink patent Manolo Blahniks), from her three-quarter sleeved Pucci-esque print to her Cutler and Gross pink cat-eye sunnies to her Lucite confetti bag to her Courrèges-like hat (reminiscent of the one Audrey Hepburn wore in Two for the Road), which was her mother’s and still in the original hatbox. Mon dieu!

Photo by Rebecca Baxter.

• Chicly Feminine

I truly believe that Ashley Kozel could be glamorous at a moment’s notice.  And, she has a very chic habit of accessorizing in a perfectly understated manner.  Here, her feminine Peter Bettly London molded hat complements the structured and stamped raspberry-colored fabric of her divine strapless, above-the-knee Chanel dress.  And, how fun is the pop of color on her tri-colored Louboutin mules?

Photo by Rebecca Baxter.

Well-Paired

Chip Gaylor and Jody Fountain had the menopoly on the modern prepster short-suiting look with their perfect head-to-toe pairing of the hottest colors of the season. Extra points for anchoring their looks with a pop of color at the kicks level–nectarine loafers on Chip and orchid and scarlet wingtips on Jody.  So fresh!

Photo by Rebecca Baxter.

Step Aside

When considering her outfit for Pique-Nique, a girl has to take extra care in choosing her shoes for the grassy courtyard terrain. Liebe Smith Gamble tapped into the heart of her feminine, edgy style and rocked these gold Giuseppe Zanotti sculpted wedges.

Photo by Rebecca Baxter.

Modern Equestrian

Lauren Ann Walsh had a Downton Abbey fashion moment, from her Smythe blazer to the French jodhpurs by Vertigo to the Gucci boots that pulled it all together. Especially love the “Sparkle Beauty” Chanel bag tucked nicely under her arm.

Who was your favorite?  Tag Sarasota Magazine in a Facebook post to let us know!

To see even more pictures from this year’s Pique-Nique, visit our Limelight gallery. 

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Some historians argue it was Lilly Pulitzer who introduced the iconic shift dress into pop culture, but it was the Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, Kennedy and Whitney families that popularized the brand in a major way, making it a must-have for resort jetsetters. You may be surprised to know that these internationally recognized cheerful prints have humble beginnings – Lilly Pulitzer’s juice stand off Worth Avenue in Palm Beach.

Of course, that was simply the beginning.  Beyond that, former Town & Country executive editor Kathryn Livingston, who boasts a 20-year editorial career with Hearst Magazines, chronicled behind-the-scenes details of the life of the very private Pulitzer in: Lilly: Palm Beach, Tropical Glamour, and the Birth of a Fashion Legend.

It’s the epitome of the historical society read, with fascinating stories of bold-faced names ranging from the Guests to the Phipps. Livingston’s book offers a rare glimpse into the scandals and indulgences of the Palm Beach doyennes and walks us through how Pulitzer earned her fashion stripes. Remarkably, her highly recognizable clothes still continue to trend strong today, especially with her prepster cult followers.

Here, enjoy a fun prelude to the book via this interview with Livingston.

Kathryn Livingston

However did a woman who seemed diametrically opposed to high society become a cultural influence on the civilized set?

Lilly Pulitzer was a rebellious young barefoot boho, a rule breaker who liked to walk around the exclusive, perfectly manicured streets of Palm Beach with a pet monkey on her shoulder at the time she started her fashion business. She was so different from the more formal, bejeweled, grand society leaders of America’s reigning resort of the era, like Mrs. Merriwhether Post or Mary Sanford, who glittered at all the glamorous charity events and ruled all the ball committees.

But Lilly was born into the highest of high society, and like many of the fourth generation of some of America’s East Coast families who made their colossal fortunes in such companies as Standard Oil and U.S. Steel, she was a former debutante and preppie turned rich hippie of the Sixties. Good-looking, hard-working college dropouts both, she and her handsome husband Peter Pulitzer were pioneering an alternative lifestyle, more casual and close to the land, staying year-round in the tropics.

Somewhat modestly, Lilly attributes her almost instant success as a designer by saying: “It was the time, the place and the name.” The time was the dawn of an international youthquake. After the restraint of the post-war years, the late 1950s and early 1960s were the start of a more uninhibited, more sensuous approach to life, music and way of dressing. In Europe, Emilio Pucci was introducing never-before-seen color combinations in brazen geometric prints of clingy, body-hugging silk jersey. “Swinging London” had the Beatles and miniskirts. Suddenly there was a bursting forth of color everywhere: more Technicolor movies, more color pages in fashion magazines, new breakthroughs in the quality of dyes and fabrics that were better at accepting brilliant prints. Then came the name. “Pulitzer” was sort of a household word, associated with the prestigious prizes in journalism and the arts and the fountain in front of New York’s Plaza Hotel. The place, of course, was Palm Beach, where the media blitz had arrived in 1960 with the youthful and stylish newly elected occupants of the White House, Jack and Jackie Kennedy, who frequently vacationed there.

Tell us, how did the brand change after Jackie Kennedy was photographed in a Lilly Pulitzer for Life magazine?

This photo, taken by Cecil Staughton, now in the Kennedy Presidential Library, literally catapulted Lilly’s fashion brand to national fame. Until then, Lilly was mainly known only in Florida–Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Sarasota, places where she would eventually open her first boutiques. And although The Lilly, as her earliest cotton shifts were called, had already been photographed on prominent women like Dina Merrill, Candice Bergen and Happy Rockefeller in the tropics, it was not until that remarkable 1962 photo of Jackie–in her red-and-white gingham Lilly shift, with her tanned bare legs dangling from beneath the high-slit hem–shown relaxing with the leader of the free world and their two adorable children on a white Hyannis Port porch against the sparkling blue Atlantic Ocean, that pace-setting women from Nantucket to Grosse Pointe and Santa Barbara took notice of the label. The image was as American as apple pie and the Fourth of July.  But it also gave the country a glimpse of leisure at its civilized, upper-crust best. Jackie ultimately became one of the 20^th century’s greatest style icons

What do you think it is about the Lilly Pulitzer design that’s loved by mothers, daughters and granddaughters?

There is a giddy, euphoric quality to Lilly prints. Cartoon crocodiles, giant hibiscus flowers, tilted martini glasses–they have paradoxically both a childlike innocence and grownup sophistication. Their pared-down, easy skim over the figure fit many female shapes. Their prices are relatively affordable.

Do you have a favorite Lilly piece or fond memory of an afternoon in one?

Yes: A flared, perfectly lined, lace-hemmed Sea Island cotton skirt that is at least thirty years old. It is predominantly blue and yellow, swirling with butterflies and blossoms. This skirt now belongs to my daughter. She asked me for it.

Photo by Stefan Svensson

If we popped by her Palm Beach estate unexpectedly, do you think we’d find Lilly in Lilly?

Yes. But probably not a shift dress. More likely a Lilly tunic over white pants.

What would we be surprised to know about this iconic woman?

Her incredibly funny and totally original one-liners. Even though she is a revered fashion legend and made millions of dollars herself, she is very polite and down-to-earth, loves to garden and dig into the earth, and is not afraid to dirty her hands chopping and cooking for her large family of children, step-children, their exes and her grandchildren or even clean the oven afterwards herself.

And for fun, what’s your fashion philosophy?

Know your body and what colors flatter your face. Do study the pages of fashion magazines for the latest silhouettes, the unusual signature touch that say “this year”–even it is just a belt or the way a scarf is tied or the manner in which the sleeves are cut, shoulders are shaped and the length at which a jacket is cropped over a skirt or pants.  Build a wardrobe of classics, such as cashmere sweaters, quality T-shirts, practical and wearable trousers. Be careful about overly trendy footwear, over-designed handbags and overpowering jewelry.

Tell us your favorite quote.

“Gather ye rosebuds while ye may / Old Time is still a-flying…” by Robert Herrick

Reading any books you can’t put down?

I’ve been recently into three of W.G, Sebald’s books: The Emigrants, Vertigo and Austerlitz; am about to start A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty by the Southern novelist Joshilyn Jackson, author of Gods in Alabama.

Have a spring style tip?

The really novel windowpane checks and plaids from Chanel in pink-and-white and from Marni in brown-and-beige look fresh and prophetic to me; so do the small-waisted bell-sleeved and bell-skirted dresses by Jil Sander. Tiny graphic black and white prints everywhere and big blocks of various colors partitioning crisply tailored, more boxy coats in off-beat ways are riveting.

Click here to read Heather’s Fashion I.Q. in our April issue.

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Guy Bedarida, creative director and head designer of the John Hardy brand, joined the company in the 1990s after receiving a call from Mr. John Hardy himself. Since then, he’s worked synergistically with the team, taking it to new heights with an eye on sustainability and social responsibility.

Guy’s passion for craftsmanship can be found in his joaillerie history, which includes the likes of Van Cleef & Arpels. Today he works closely with hundreds of artisan masters to create intensely coveted jewelry with a Balinese pedigree.  Here we get to know the talented man behind the brand before his personal visit to Sarasota’s Saks Fifth Avenue on April 16 from 1-4 p.m., where where he’ll be signing pieces from his new spring 2013 collection.  Interested?  RSVP to (941) 364-5318.  Or enjoy the John Hardy trunk show from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. that same day.

If you were to style your own editorial for the current John Hardy collection, what would it look like?

My editorial would be all about colorblocking–after all, spring is in the air! I would show my new chain collection in all of the beautiful colors that make you think of spring. I’d group pinks and purples together, blues and greens together….it makes you ready for the warmer weather!

What is the relationship between designing and creating the piece for you?

The relationship is very meaningful.  The process begins with what I am inspired by–whether it be nature, culture, etc.–in Bali or throughout my travels.  The artisans and I work closely together to make this vision come to life.  The sketches lead to wax carvings, which eventually leads to handcrafted jewelry.

Are there more challenges in designing jewelry for women or men?

I would say designing the men’s line is a bit more challenging because the men’s customer base is much smaller.  Though men’s style is evolving and becoming more and more diverse, I still find it difficult to capture that niche.

How has your French and Italian lineage influenced your work?

It has influenced me immensely!  Both cultures are so rich in history, art and beauty that they have given me the foundation to apply past experiences to the techniques of the Balinese artisans.  I always try to incorporate the beauty I see in the world I see to the jewelry.

Where is your favorite place to discover gemstones?

North of Thailand and Vietnam have some incredible gemstones – it’s truly a tremendous source of inspiration.

Who is your design icon?

Frederic Boucheron. I have an incredible amount of respect for the house he built and all he accomplished.  I had a mentor at Boucheron who was very influential in teaching me my craft.

Since you travel extensively, tell us about a unique place you recently visited and why the culture inspired you.

Morocco!  The spice markets really take over all of your senses. The colors, the energy and the scent…it really inspired my fall collection, “Fall for Morocco.”

What do you always pack?

Apart from the essentials, a light cashmere sweater since it can be chilly sometimes on a flight and a Balinese silk scarf. They are hand made in beautiful colors and patterns…I just love them.

 What’s your in-flight ritual?

A glass of Champagne, and I always have my iPod. I love to listen to classical and opera music while drinking a little bit of Champagne. It helps me unwind and get into the mood to sketch.

Where is your favorite market in the world?

The Porte de Clignancourt in Paris.  It has more than 3,000 shops and vendors full of artifacts from the 17^th century through the ’70s. It’s fantastic! I also love the JJ market in Bangkok.

Click here to read Heather Dunhill’s Fashion I.Q. in our March issue.

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According to his Neatly Collected blog‘s home page, Jordon Stone is a “sartorial enthusiast, maker, writer and style liker.”  All of which is right on, in my opinion, along with a bit of Les Misérables’ Eddie Redmayne thrown in for good measure. Jordon’s a guy who pays attention to detail and has the ability to wear clothes and not let them wear him.  He’s perfect for the modern skinny suiting and style that’s clean-lined and well-fitted.  And he’s overall a tailored, dapper, young man of our time, with a hip personality to match his look.  I have a feeling you’re going to enjoy getting to know him.

Name/age:   Jordon Stone, 21

About Me:  “I just love doing sh*t. Between wearing a suit at ritzy events in Sarasota and being covered in mud and shocked with live wires at the last two Florida Tough Mudder events, I find a way to fill up my time somehow. I am a media fanatic, and huge movie, comic book, and music trivia geek. I love riding bikes, running, cardio-kickboxing, and listening to ’80s hardcore punk rock and classic jazz.  As a Ringling College of Art and Design senior, I have gotten to learn with and work with some of the coolest people around. I also run a men’s style blog and I pretty much just talk about PR, Batman and occasionally rap music on my Twitter.”

What I Do:   “When I am not donning a cape and mask for late night vigilantism, I work in the PR department at Ringling College. I work with the press, help organize events, and represent the school. Like I said, I get to work with the coolest artists and businesspeople, and for the last two years I helped with the Illest of Illustration, Trustee Scholars, and TedxSarasota events. I also spend my time doing freelance social media consulting and styling for photo shoots.”

What I’m Wearing:

Pants: Joseph Abboud

Shoes: Aldo

Shirt: Suit Supply

Broken button on shirt: Courtesy of my dry cleaner

Jacket: Levi’s

Belt: Express

Pocket Square: Century 21

Glasses: Ray Ban Erickas

Beard: Years of red meat consumption.

Want to see more What I Wear to Work? Click here to browse the archives.

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If you take your workout seriously, then you’re gonna love being on the cutting edge with the hottest athletic gear out there. It’s called HPE (Human Performance Engineering) and founder Nick Harris has been at the forefront of the science of human performance since the ’90s. Nick’s even worked with our own Brian Johnson of AC/DC during the band’s world tour. And, HPE is gaining ground overseas in a major way. In fact, the line is launching in Harrods this June.

Intrigued?  I was.  As you can imagine, being exposed to a cool product has become an occupational hazard. But the gear delivers more than it promises; I already feel the difference in recovery time after a serious yoga class. And, wait till you read what Nick says below about how HPE will be your new go-to travel gear, especially in the battle against jet lag.

Tell us more about your background.

I’m an exercise physiologist, which ultimately means I look at total body function to increase performance. I’ve worked with more than 40 world-class athletes and champions, from grand slam winners to Olympic gold medalists to Formula One Champions to Majors-winning golfers.

What prompted you to launch HPE?

Your body is the greatest thing you’ll ever own. My goal is to push the physical boundaries of human performance and recovery to its limit. Launching HPE allowed me to use science and technology to achieve this.

Give us some insight on the silver technology…

Firstly, you should know that silver technology is set to be huge in the next decade. All of our clothes are embedded with antimicrobial silver particles–this is because silver has antibacterial qualities.

Gyms have bacteria everywhere; in the rooms, on the floor where people stretch. So when you’ve done a hard session, your immune system is lower, therefore, you’re more susceptible to infection. By wearing clothes that resist bacteria, you’re helping yourself eliminate potential risks to your health that may go on to affect your fitness regime or general sports performance. When we tested our clothes in the lab, we found that pretty much no bacteria can grow on it. Impressive, right?!

Tell us how does HPE differ from other sports gear?

We combine stylish design, optimal comfort and advanced fabric technology–these are certainly our winning USPs! More specifically, you can differentiate HPE from other sports wear brands from the functionality of our clothes. I’ve incorporated graded compression to support muscles, reduce injury and increase recovery, FRESHFIT® fabric with silver technology to resist bacterial build up and a moisture-management system to reduce fluid loss and maintain body temperature. These winning elements will help ensure our clothes work as hard as you do in the gym–all while looking great. Not many other brands have incorporated all of these elements.

Did you find any design challenges?

Being a perfectionist, I want to make my gear 100 percent, so that everyone will smile the minute they try something on… that’s the challenge.

Do you have a favorite HPE piece?

As far as a female piece goes, the compression leggings. I think they’re absolutely a must-have. And, the transition hoodie is fantastic. Everyone loves the fabric and how it makes them feel–especially the length of body and sleeve. It has a nice, high zip and deep collar. It’s almost like a blanket, but stylish and sexy. In my opinion, every woman needs a good pair of leggings and hoodie in her wardrobe. She shouldn’t leave home without them.  And I’m proud to say both featured in British Vogue last month.

How often do you release new collections [ranges]?

We create two new ranges per year. This year in June, we’ll launch two new lines for Harrods, both with the silver technology and moisture wicking. One is the Air range, which is super light-weight fabric, and the other is UV Stretch, which is ultraviolet protected.

How do you combat jet lag?

The most important point is that the food clock overrides the sleeping clock–fast for the flight, then have the appropriate meal for the time of your arrival.

For instance, if you leave London in the morning for L.A., have breakfast at the airport; remain hydrated during flight and snack on fruits or snack bars. When you land, have lunch if it’s early afternoon or dinner if evening. Your body will be tricked into thinking it’s that time of day.

Also, it is important to wear compression clothing when you fly, because cabin pressure exposure on body is greatest on the arms and legs. The blood pressure increases in both, causing swelling. Increased pressure on the extremities creates lower pressure in core around the kidneys, liver and affecting the digestive system. Wearing compression clothing regulates blood flow and pressure. In fact, we designed compression clothing for Asia’s largest airline for the crew. It has made a significant difference to the work place energy levels and recovery from travel.

And for fun…what inspires you?

I’m inspired to make my family proud of me. My mum is no longer with us, but her favorite store in the whole world was Harrods, so to clinch that deal was obviously a very personal moment for all of us in my family.

I also want to make a difference by making people happy wearing my clothing.

What’s the last great art show you’ve seen?

I went to Rome in January for the world premier of Django Unchained as a guest of the cast. We were given a daylong personal tour with a 95-year-old Roman archaeologist, who literally knew everything about everything. He took us through the major sites and ruins like the Colosseum. But I was disappointed not to fight lions in the Colessuem!

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Courageous is the word that comes to mind when one thinks of Clint Hill.  Maybe you don’t recognize the name right off – but it’s certain you know the man. Hill was the Secret Service agent who leaped onto the back of President and Mrs. Kennedy’s motorcade on that fateful November day in Dallas, 1963.  He’s a memorable figure of bravery during a time of great grief.

Clint Hill, referred to by Mrs. Kennedy as “Mr. Hill,” was the Secret Service agent assigned to Jackie as she entered the White House as First Lady. In his memoir Mrs. Kennedy and Me, co-written with Lisa McCubbin, he recounts the days of Camelot and his role as one of her knights in shinning armor.

I caught up with Clint–or rather, Mr. Hill–for a brief Q&A just before he and co-author Lisa McCubbin make their way to Sarasota for Designing Women Boutique Ambassador’s Guild’s “Out to Lunch“ event on March 5. The luncheon is at 11:30 a.m. in Sarasota’s newest ballroom venue The Francis, 1289 N. Palm Avenue; Sarasota Magazine is a proud sponsor. Ticket pricing begins at $95/per person, call (941) 366-5293.

Tell us something we might not know about the woman behind the style icon, Jackie Kennedy? 

I do not believe that people really know what a hands-on mother Mrs. Kennedy was. Yes, they had a nanny; however, Mrs. Kennedy directed everything the children did. She spent as much time as possible with Caroline and John.  I also do not believe people realize how dedicated she was to her husband.  She made every effort to give the President the opportunity to relax and spend some time away from the stress and strains of the office. For instance, arranging small, intimate dinner parties with close friends.

On a lighter style note, as her Secret Service agent I imagine you accompanied her to a store or two – share with us her favorite spots to shop.

Although she enjoyed going to antique stores in New York and clothing stores in Palm Beach, it became impossible to do so because of the crowds that gathered when she appeared.  It became necessary to have vendors come to her.  And I, on occasion, shopped for her myself.

Many photos were taken of the First Lady with you within a polite distance – do you have a favorite?

Yes, at the airport in Rome, where she is trying to decide about a gift to bring home to the President and is asking my advice.  This photo is on the back cover of the book.

Do you have a favorite tender moment memory of Mrs. Kennedy with her children?

She loved to ride horses and shared that passion with John and Caroline.  In Middleburg, she would ride her horse, holding John, while Caroline rode her pony, Macaroni, alongside them.

Where did she seem most at home?

She seemed to be at home whenever she and the children were together with the President—whether that was Hyannis Port, Palm Beach or Middleburg.

It’s clear in this memoir that you admire Mrs. Kennedy a great deal – what do you respect most about her?

Her determination to raise her children as unspoiled as possible, knowing that the entire world was, and always would be, watching.

Mrs. Kennedy was a tremendously high-profile figure, so much so that while in Paris in 1961, President Kennedy remarked that he would be remembered as “the man who accompanied Jackie Kennedy to Paris.”  What was it like protecting a woman of such popularity?

Like all protective assignments, the more popular the figure, the more difficult the job. Her desire for privacy and her continued spontaneity required me to be very creative.

During your four years as her Secret Service agent I’m sure you encountered some incredibly notable world influencers and celebrities – anyone that you remember fondly?

Gianni Agnelli, president of Fiat Corporation, and Princess Irena Galitzine, noted designer—both of whom I met in Italy.

In the book, you have many anecdotes about the family – would you share one with us here?

Some of my fondest memories are of being with Mrs. Kennedy, the President, and the children, while they enjoyed their deep love of the water activities off the coast of Cape Cod: sailing, water skiing, and swimming.

What’s next for you, Mr. Hill?

This process of writing and promoting Mrs. Kennedy and Me with Lisa McCubbin has been so enjoyable and beneficial to me, that we are now working on another project together—a new book, that is anticipated to be released in November 2013.

Read Heather Dunhill’s “Fashion I.Q.” in our March issue by clicking here.

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You never know who a celeb will be when they step off the screen and into your day. I’ve often been surprised, and not always in a good way. But lovely and soft-spoken Southern belle Andie MacDowell was warm and gracious when we sat down for a one-on-one chat while she was here for the Ringling College of Art and Design’s Digital Filmmaking Studio Lab. Frankly, Andie seemed more like she was making new friends in Sarasota rather acting like than the accomplished actress she is – remember sex, lies and videotape, Four Weddings and a Funeral and Ground Hog Day, which just celebrated its 20th anniversary?

Andie MacDowell // Town & Country, October 2012 // Photographed by Art Streiber

What I found the most attractive about Andie is that she’s a very real woman who’s comfortable in her own skin–not to gloss over the fact that she’s 54 years old and fit into fashion designer sample sizes for this October 2012 spread in Town & Country with her daughters, Margaret and Rainey Qualley.

Margaret and Rainey Qualley // Town & Country, October 2012 // Photographed by Art Streiber

We talked everything from fashion to philanthropy, beauty to social media. Hope you find her as lovely as I did.

“Beauty is an action. It’s how you treat people and how you create your life. A creative energy, that’s what beauty is. You can paint yourself, do your hair or wear great clothes but if you’re not a beautiful person, you’re just not beautiful.” – Andie MacDowell

Congratulations on 25 years with L’Oreal. You’ve aged so gracefully. What’s the key to beauty after 50?
Every age is beautiful; I don’t think there’s a time limit on beauty. After doing research on health, I discovered that negative talk is one of the most detrimental things that people can do to their own well-being. Also, it’s revered in different cultures to age, [but] in our culture there’s this fear of getting older. I don’t have a fear of getting older, unless I don’t have my health. Being healthy is beautiful.

While we’re discussing L’Oreal, what are you favorite products?
Revitalift and Invisible Lift foundation; the foundation is great for your skin and makes you look really healthy. And they have a new hair product called Kérastase Masque Intense Oléo-Curl – it’s changed my hair cuticles. Each strand is thicker and healthier. They just did it for me at The Ritz; it’s really wonderful.

If you could go back in time and pull clothes from any era, which would it be?
Well, it wouldn’t be the Victorian times, those poor things! Can you imagine having to put on those horrible corsets?! I think the ’20s are the most original.

In terms of beauty, what should those of us in our 40s be doing now?
It don’t think there’s any difference in age, it’s all the same thing really. My goal for my kids is to break the mold of thinking that getting old is bad. If we can get out of those Victorian corsets, then lets break out of the confinement that only the young are revered. What about finding something beautiful about a woman in her 80s or 90s? Everyone’s beautiful in their own way.

What do you like to do when you travel?
I like to go to museums and walk. I especially love Musée de l’Orangerie, the Louvre, Rodin’s garden…

So clearly, you’ve been to Paris–was it a memorable city for you?
I lived in Paris when I was young. It was pretty amazing for a kid who grew up in the tiny little town of Gaffney, South Carolina. It’s really where I got my education about the world. I learned to eat by myself and discovered Hemingway. I would take his books to a café and read; it was very romantic, really. A Moveable Feast was my favorite. It was about how life was good when it was simple while living in Paris. I was living pretty simple then, in a fifth-floor walk up, so I felt a kinship with Hemingway’s memoir of his time there.

What social media are you currently obsessed with?
I should probably be obsessed with more; I’m not doing enough. Recently my daughters introduced me to Pinterest – there are some inspirational ideas there.

What is your all time favorite movie?
That changes all the time but I really like Annie Hall.

And in closing, how about a goodwill shameless plug for your favorite charities?
I’ve worked closely with L’Oreal’s charity the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and the women who’ve been diagnosed. I also admire Habitat for Humanity and I love anything pertaining to environmental issues and preserving land.

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