Whether vacationing in a luxury villa rental in St. Tropez or Miami these trends will serve you well this summer

Planning a summer vacation can be daunting enough–where to go, what to do, where to stay–but once that’s all settled, what remains is what to pack, which can be equally problematic. Depending on your destination and the duration of your stay, you may require quite a few outfit changes for any one luxury vacation. If you’re undecided about accommodation in the South of France or Miami this summer, we’d definitely suggest the privacy and exclusivity of a luxury villa rental. If what to bring is more the problem then we think a mix of the following trends will hit just the right note no matter what your vacation plans.

BIG, BOLD PRINTS – Nothing says vacation like a loud Hawaiian patterned shirt, right? Well, not exactly, although high end designers from New York to Milan have embraced the graphic nature of Hawaiian and floral prints and modernized them for 2012.

Net-a-porter.com calls the look “techno tropics” and relates how this season from “graphic Hawaiian florals at Altuzarra to Peter Pilotto’s hothouse stems, kaleidoscopic prints reign supreme…[these] blown up florals and oceanic motifs mean instant drama.”

Brightly hued and bold prints will serve you well from day (like the Alberta Ferretti shorts seen above) to night (when you can make good use of Matthew Williamson’s easy breezy belted kimono-style maxidress). A look like Roberto Cavalli’s floaty red and white maxi is a perfect vacation piece, because it can do double duty between day and night depending on your choice of accessories.

JET SET GYPSY - Boho is a trend that never really goes away, but every so often more than just the usual designers like Cavalli and Pucci’s Peter Dundas revisit the style. This season flowing skirts, lace, wedges and chunky statement jewelry are perfect pieces to pack to complete that luxe boho look.

Cavalli, Pucci, Dolce and Gabbana, and Missoni and Versace, as seen above, seem to do the luxe gypsy style particularly well. Perhaps it’s something about the romance of the Mediterranean that inspires these designers, either way these items are perfect for any luxury getaway. Missoni’s cobalt silk-chiffon Haydee skirt or Versace’s printed chiffon top are just two great options for incorporating the gypsy look into your vacation wardrobe.

PRETTY PASTELS - This spring there’s a little bit of dichotomy when it comes to color. On the one hand soft and feminine pastels were all over the runways, on the other the trend of bold colorblocking and neon brights (we’ll get to that next) seems to be hanging around for the foreseeable future. One look at the pastels designers are churning out and it’s easy to see why these pieces could easily become vacation staples.

A cropped skinny jean in a cotton candy shade, like the apricot pair from MiH seen above, is one of the must-have items this summer (add a pair of red and white pants to the mix and you’re half way to being vacation ready), one that can easily be accessorized from totally casual to acceptable for balmy evenings eating al fresco. Mixing different shades of pastels is also a great way to add visual interest to a softly feminine outfit. Of course, you’ll never go wrong packing a classic shift dress like the lavender Jil Sander seen here, which is made uber feminine by adding the floral bag from Reed Krakoff.

BLOCK IT OUT – Nothing says summer like bright hues, which is why colourblocking is one of those trends that just seems to work best with bright summer days and long summer nights. During your luxury villa rental vacation do as net-a-porter suggests and “pep up your palette with bold primary colors” like “fuchsia, mint, emerald and orange – electric block color is so bright now!”

Emilio Pucci’s colorblock sweater looks so chic paired with skinny white pants, perfect for a daytime stroll or some time on a yacht. Gucci’s colorblock silk crepe de chine top looks fabulous with their purple pants and nude heels, a versatile look that can easily take you from day to night.

GO SHORT - It seems like a no brainer when heading on vacation to a sunny and hot destination, but this summer shorts really are all the rage. From denim cut offs to smart and preppy printed versions we recommend packing at least a few to get you through the hot days and warm nights.

Reminiscent of a deck chair, Stella McCartney’s cotton and silk-blend shorts pretty much scream vacation, while who wouldn’t love Yves Sant Laurent’s red shorts paired with their lively floral blouse (you can also get shorts in the same floral print)? Meanwhile, Michael Kors’ leopard print short shorts are glamorous and exotic.

Where accessories are concerned, think about a Two Part Bag, which will work for both day and night. This printed canvas and leather clutch from Proenza Schouler comes in both a clutch and a tote, the smaller of which can easily be slipped into the larger when traveling.

As for shoes, wedge sandals are uber hot at the moment, but don’t forget a pair or two of what net-a-porter is calling the “ready to wear heel” (like Brian Atwood’s Claudia embroidered suede pumps above), which will instantly become the focus of any outfit. Of course, another option is to embrace the flat-for-night trend by choosing a pair or two of embellished flats that are easily packed and perfect for your vacation evenings.

Photo 1 – www.stylesizzle.com
All looks from net-a-porter-.com

Skiing, shopping and eating are three of the main draws for the throngs that convene on Aspen every year. And while people often associate the snowy slopes of Aspen with winter vacations, don’t be fooled into thinking this striking village has nothing to offer in the warmer months. On the contrary, if you’ve missed out on booking a luxury villa rental in Aspen for your winter getaway think about reserving now for the months to come. There are several great, not-to-be-missed events taking place in Aspen in the coming months, among them the Food & Wine Classic at Aspen (June 15-17) and the Aspen Film Festival (October 1-7), which you may want to consider penciling in to your vacation itinerary.

Rob Reiner and Kathy Bates at the Aspen Film Festival Photo via filmfestivalworld.com

If you love great food and wonderful wine then you’ll likely be enthralled with an event hosted by Food & Wine magazine. The now legendary event may have started as a gathering of winemakers, chefs and aficionados of both, but thirty years later it has evolved into one of the United States’ foremost culinary festivals. The 30th anniversary of the festival will be held in Aspen this year from June 15 to the 17th, and participating chefs include Mario Batali, Jacques Pépin, Giada DiLaurentiis, Grant Achatz, and Tom Coliccio, not to mention the internationally celebrated winemakers, brewmasters, mixologists and sommeliers who will also be convening on the resort town for the event. The festival includes tastings, panel discussions, classes, demonstrations and seminars, and 300 exhibitors showing in the Grand Tasting Pavilion. You can choose between such events as Ming Tsai’s Asian BBQ, Swill for the Grill by Danny Meyer and Undiscovered Grapes of Spain by Steve Olson.

VillaHotel Rose

If you’re interested in the Food & Wine event then 2012 is the perfect year to attend, because in addition to the usual draws there are also several special 30th anniversary events on the schedule. These include an anniversary party, an after-hours dessert soiree and a 5 kilometre charity run. Tickets are currently selling for $1,225 (with 2% of the net proceeds being donated to Grow for Good by Food & Wine) and going quickly, so if you’re looking to attend snap up your tickets now! You may also want to consider booking a gorgeous luxury villa rental in Aspen while you’re at it, a perfect way to complete the entire culinary experience. (Our “V” Villas and VillaHotels also offer state of the art kitchens if you’d like to try out some of your new skills once the food weekend is over).

VillaHotel Chantal

Aspen doesn’t just hold draws for skiiers or food lovers, either, if you love movies then think about penciling in the Aspen Film Festival as well. Being held in October this film festival has steadily been coming into its own as one that’s not to miss, especially for those interested in unique features and documentaries. “Intimate in scale and celebratory in tone, Filmfest offers new features and documentaries, as well as unique presentations, special events, and family films,” explains the fest’s website. ”Special programs include tributes to distinguished artists. Past honorees include such luminaries as Julie Christie, Harrison Ford, Rob Reiner, Sydney Pollack, Bob Rafelson, Michael Douglas, Anjelica Huston and William H. Macy, and such notable new talents as Jason Reitman, Paula Patton and Anton Yelchen.” Films featured at the 2011 festival included Jonathan Levine’s 50/50 (voted the audience’s favorite feature), The Women on the 6th Floor, Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey and Wild Horse, Wild Rise directed by Constance Marks.

VillaHotel Pamela

If visiting Aspen in the spring, or as the leaves change color in the fall, seems like an exciting proposition then we’d advise taking a look at the gorgeous and unique luxury villa rentals offered by Villazzo. A wonderful alternative to any five-star hotel these “V” Villas and VillaHotels offer amazing amenities, luxurious accommodation and privacy that no hotel can deliver.

Photo via tuyomiami.com

If you’ve booked your luxury villa rental vacation in Miami this winter you’re likely gearing up for a getaway filled with sun and sand, food and vibrant company, as well as some world class cuisine. One option if you’re on the lookout for something new to try on the Miami restaurant scene is Tuyo, the new restaurant from Norman Van Aken that is located about the Miami Dade College’s Culinary Institute. The view from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the rooftop restaurant is worth the price of admission alone, but, thankfully, not the only reason to try out Tuyo (“yours” in Spanish). Executive chef Van Aken, officially the Director of Restaurants at MCI, is joined in this endeavour by Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Brana and Sous Chef Travis Starwalt.

Along with the gorgeous space, Tuyo offers a seasonal menu of fresh farm-to-table options. The restaurant features a the $95 Voyager’s Menu, which includes a 5-course dinner (add $60 for wine pairing or “flight”). Of course, Tuyo also offers an extensive à la carte dinner menu that ranges from tapas to a wide variety of fish dishes prepared in a variety of ways (think black grouper served with Serrano ham and avocado or a thick, pan-basted Key West yellowtail snapper). Meats range from barbecued veal chops to pork Havana, and there are vegetarian options such as a well prepared paella. Tuyo is located at the Miami Culinary Institute, Miami Dade College (415 N.E. Second Avenue) – 305.237.3200

Pop-up shops have become de rigUeur in the fashion world, and now seem to be moving into the restaurant world as well. Chopped winner Giorgio Rapicavoli and business partner Alex Casanova are introducing a pop-up restaurant in Miami that they’ve named Eating House, slated to begin serving patrons in February through August. Located in the existing Cafe Ponce in Coral Gables, Eating House will be open 6pm to 1am, Tuesday to Sunday. According to Miami Eater, Rapicavoli’s publicist describes the venture as way to “turn the diner-style restaurant into a fun and funky, sort-of underground spot to grab delicious dinner and creative drinks.” The always-changing menu will only offer 20 items daily, while the drinks menu will extend to ”unique sodas, craft beers and innovative cocktails made with sakes, wines, Sherries and ports.” Eating House will be seating patrons on a first come, first serve basis. 804 Ponce de Leon Boulevard

As the winter high season in Miami heats up consider a luxury villa rental for your warm weather vacation. With more privacy than a hotel can offer and amenities that can rival any five-star resort, Villazzo’s villa rentals are the ultimate in vacation luxury.

Art Basel Miami 2011 – Photo by Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images via Yahoo

This month the who’s who of the modern art world, along with a horde of A-listers, jet setters, and famous faces, descended on Miami for the 10th anniversary of Art Basel. The art exhibition has gone a long way to re-energizing Miami’s international image, making the city the place to be in early December and kicking off the Miami high season with a bang. After a whirlwind of exhibits and parties talk is already turning to Art Basel 2012 (December 6 – 9), and now is the perfect time to pre-book your luxury villa rental if you’re planning to be in Miami this time next year.

The 2011 addition of Art Basel Miami was punctuated with a variety of exhibitions from newcomers to more established and well known artists, as well as a whirlwind of parties and promotional events. From November 30th to December 3rd, Miami was the place to be, showcasing work from 260 international galleries. With a reported 50,000 attending, a multitude of private jets touching down at Opa-Locka Airport and big names like the Yankee’s Alexander Rodriguez hosting VIP events it’s safe to say that Art Basel 2011 in Miami was nothing short of a whirlwind. As for the art, which for all intents and purposes is meant to be the real star of the show, reports are that even in this somewhat uncertain economic climate sales were brisk (the majority of the buyers were said to be American, a departure from recent years that saw many from Russia, Brazil and China).

Work from Primary Flight, Art Basel Miami 2011 – Photo via hedrew.blogspot.com

Parties centered around the art exhibition have become a big part of what Art Basel Miami is all about. Some of the most talked about included the shindig hosted by Ferrari at 1111 Lincoln Road and the party hosted by Aby Rosen at the Dutch. The relationship between art and business was a key element of the most recent Art Basel and it seemed that many eschewed the more controversial exhibitions and installations, preferring to stick with more commercial viable options. In a similar vein, many companies like Ferrari–who enlisted artist Marco Brambilla to create RPM, a 3-D film–promoted themselves using the art and artists surrounding the event. Other examples of this included Dior engaging Anselm Reyle to design a purse for them and the line of accessories designed by Liam Gillick for Pringle of Scotland.

Whatever your level of interest in art, commerce or parties it becomes clearer with each Art Basel that the event holds something for everyone. If you’re planning to attend the event next year we’d recommend getting a head start on accommodations now, as the influx of travellers makes high end options scarce. Villazzo offers a wide range of luxury villa rentals with options to rival any five-star hotel–like personal concierge services–and space and privacy that no hotel can match.

Makoto Miami - Photo: billwisserphoto.com

With the vacation season in Miami about to kick into high gear we’re sure many heading South are already considering the age old question of where to eat after a day spent basking in the sun or touring Art Basel. Sure, if you’ve managed to secure an opulent and private luxury villa rental, there’s definitely the option of staying in, but even those with their own butlers and fully stocked kitchens will likely also want to sample some of Miami’s restaurant scene. Here are some suggestions for your days and nights out:

The Dutch – Chef Andrea Carmellini has always drawn on his roots as the son of Italian-Americans when creating his restaurants (like the lauded Locana Verde in Manhattan) and his dishes (Locana specializes in uncomplicated Italian fare). Carmellini’s The Dutch, which first opened in SoHo and is now debuting in Miami, is a little more Americana, a little more comfort food than the chef’s previous ventures. Fans of the original The Dutch will find that the hotly anticipated, now open Miami version incorporates a Southern spin, which includes dishes like oyster sliders and an abundance of pies. 2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, 305-938-3000

Makoto – Many looking for a good meal in the Bal Harbour Shops now have another alternative, the refreshing Japanese menu put forth by chef Makoto Okuwa at his eponymous restaurant. Okuwa has taken advantage of the fresh seafood available in Miami by presenting an interesting mix of sushi and sashimi options, along with grilled meats and innovative noodle and rice dishes. Adventurous? Try the “hotate” (live scallops). 9700 Collins Avenue, 305-864-8600

New Look: Morgans on the Beach - Photo via Miami NewTimes

Morgans on the Beach – Joe Allen’s was a Miami lunch staple and when many regulars found out it was being replaced by Morgans on the Beach they were quite upset, even demanding that certain dishes be kept on the menu (the kitchen staff has largely remained the same). This second outpost for Morgans has proven to be successful–breathing new life and decor into an iconic restaurant. Along with the old favorites, chef Paul Suriel has added new dishes to the menu included pulled pork sliders, mac and cheese, and pizzas. The restaurant also has a respectable cocktail menu that includes a lemon basil margarita. 1787 Purdy Avenue

De Rodriguez Cuba – The newest offering from Douglas Rodriguez, one of the forefathers of New Latin cuisine, De Rodriguez Cuba’s menu is heavily influenced by the fresh seafood available in the ocean nearby. A vacation in Miami isn’t complete without some Latin flavor and Rodriguez’s new offering is definitely gourmet with selections like oxtail in a spicy red wine sauce and chocolate cigars. 101 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, 305-672-6624

Pastry Chef Hedy Goldsmith – Photo via Ocean Drive

The Villa by Barton G. – If you want a special occasion restaurant in a gorgeously opulent setting, in this case the luxe mansion of the late Gianni Versace, then The Villa is a great choice. It may be difficult for food to stand out amidst such gorgeous surroundings, but the cuisine served up by Jeff O’Neill–including the foie gras ambrosia–certainly manages. 1116 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, 305-576-8003

Thinking of dessert? Try Hedy Goldsmith’s delicious creations at Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink (130 NE 40th Street), which include gourmet versions of childhood faves like Oreos and Pop-Tarts, or try Buttercream in Coral Gables (1411 Sunset Drive), where many Floridians flock for the cupcakes.

If you’re thinking of a vacation in Miami this winter consider the gorgeous luxury villa rentals offered by Villazzo — privacy, beauty and five-star service to rival any hotel.

"V" Villa Silvia - Exterior

Amidst the many lodge-style Aspen luxury villas, “V” Villa Silvia features an Asian design sensibility that makes it stand apart from traditional Aspen aesthetics.

When it comes to luxury destinations like Saint Tropez, Miami Beach, and Aspen, there is usually one architectural and design motif that dominates the luxury villa market there. The “luxury look” of an Aspen villa has always been a rustic charm: stone, wood, exposed beans, vaulted ceilings, and large hearths with roaring fires.

Every once in a while, however, a luxury villa comes along that sheds some new light on traditional designs. In Aspen, that luxury villa is “V” Villa Silvia.

Unlike the many lodge-inspired Aspen luxury villas out there, “V” Villa Silvia features an Asian-inspired look both inside and out that is hard to miss. It’s layout evokes the look of a symmetrical, Japanese-styled furoba, with two large wings on each of the house. Unlike most Aspen villas, which feature a predominance of stone face, “V” Villa Silvia utilizes a predominance of rich, cedar siding, with a flagstone base that completes a wide terrace overlooking the rugged vistas of Aspen.

But while the exterior of “V” Villa Silvia still evokes the general trappings of an Aspen luxury villa, it is the interior that truly departs from the “Aspen ordinary.”

"V" Villa Silvia -- Living Room

From the onset of entering Silvia’s entryway, you are met with creamy, bright earth tones, modern furniture, and Asian art prints around every turn. The living room, a complete deconstruction of the traditional Aspen “great room,” trades in a stone hearth and exposed wooden beans in a vaulted ceiling for a modular look that incorporates marble, wood, and large floor-to-ceiling windows that let in the splendor of Aspen’s landscape.

The living room flows effortlessly into a comfortable dining room and gourmet kitchen, which is perfect for serving guests at a dinner party as well as a simple, intimate dinner at night. A roomy, well-appointed office rounds out the lower level, offering an incredibly professional workspace for executives who are looking to have a “working vacation” while in Aspen.Upstairs, “V” Villa Silvia delivers on it’s Asian vibe once again, with five cozy bedrooms, each with ultra-modern, spa-inspired en suite bathrooms. Unlike the rustic approach of many Aspen luxury villas‘ bedrooms and bathrooms, the bright, airy bedroom decor in Silvia maximizes the bright, sunny days of Aspen, and lends a unique warmth to even the coldest, snowiest days in winter.

Not everyone who visits Aspen comes for the snow and skiing. In recent decades, Aspen has become a true cultural mecca for the culinary arts, shopping, nightlife, and health. If you’re coming for any of these other diversions, then “V” Villa Silvia may be the perfect choice for you.

Thanks for reading our article! Would you like to read and see more about “V” Villa Silvia? Click here to find out about all of its amenities, prices, and booking availability. Take a look now!

Photo via inhabit.com

“’Hermes’ commitment to build a flagship store in the Miami Design District will further solidify the neighborhood’s position as an international destination for fashion, art, food and design,’ said Craig Robins, whose company Dacra owns about 60 percent of the Design District.’This commitment, coupled with the recent announcement by Louis Vuitton, begins to give us the critical mass of the world’s most important fashion brands.’” Dozens of exclusive, international brands are expected to open locations in the Design District by 2014.

Of course, Miami is not only home to great shops, but also world renowned dining, nightlife, art and culture. If you’re looking to book a Miami getaway this winter, consider the advantages of a private luxury villa rental rather than a traditional hotel. Not only do Villazzo’s VillaHotels offer the same amenities as a five-star hotel, but they also provide a level of luxury and privacy that no hotel could hope to duplicate. Take the VillaHotel Stella for instance, a five-bedroom, five-bathroom Mediterranean-style VillaHotel located on exclusive Palm Island. The luxury villa rental is not only spacious and beautiful, but also features modern amenities like a teak-accented kitchen, and gorgeous outdoor grounds filled with terraces, a pool and Jacuzzi. The perfect spot for a Miami luxury vacation this winter.

The Iconic VIP Room Nightclub in St. Tropez Photo via worlds-luxury-guide.com

St. Tropez’s bustling nightlife is one of the key reasons that people are drawn to the classic vacation spot again and again. Even as the summer season is drawing to a close, and the well heeled and the famous are departing from their luxury villa rentals and their yachts, we’re reminded that some of the biggest names in the world, who could vacation anywhere they choose, consistently return to St. Tropez. Just take the outspoken Karl Lagerfeld who has made his love for St. Tropez known on countless occasions. Not only does the designer vacation in the town, but has also used it as the site of Chanel Resort fashion shows and videos he’s directed to promote the iconic brand. Now, appearing in a video for the famous St. Tropez nightclub VIP, Lagerfeld once again reaffirms his love for St. Tropez.

Views from Villazzo’s VillaHotel Jabari

When asked if the rumors of a VIP video, also featuring rapper Snoop Dogg, were true, Lagerfeld confirmed his cameo. “It’s about St. Tropez,” the Chanel and Fendi designer explained to Andrea Mandell of USA Today. “It starts with me, I’m all in white, it’s like being in heaven. And Jean-Roch arrives and says to me, ‘But this is paradise?’ And I say ‘Jean, you didn’t know that St. Tropez is paradise?’ And suddenly you see a famous café behind us and you see St. Tropez.”

Charmingly Rustic Exterior of Villazzo’s Villa Crystal

Of course, Jean-Roch and Lagerfeld are not the only well travelled personalities who find that St. Tropez is “paradise.” Even with summer drawing to a close you can still enjoy the particular charms of this jewel of town with your very own luxury villa rental. While the high season travelers are packing their bags you’ll be able to revel in St. Tropez without all the mad rush of summer. Beautiful weather, the upcoming regatta (Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is being held from September 24 to October 2, 2011), great shopping, delicious restaurants and a host of nightclubs, like the VIP Room, to choose from. Of course, you can also opt to stay in at your own luxury villa rental, enjoying your surroundings with family and friends.
If you’re looking to spend time in Karl Lagerfeld’s version of paradise, then Villazzo has countless options to make your vacation accommodation special. Villazzo’s luxury villa rentals offer services and amenities that compete with any five-star hotel, as well as privacy and space that no hotel can provide. From the five-bedroom VillaHotel Jabari, with it’s gorgeous pool and stunning views of the rolling hills below, to the V Villa Crystal, with it’s rustic looking exterior and modern interior amenities.