Meet Executive Chef Shawn Calley of Amuse, the main restaurant at The Essex Resort & Spa in Burlington, Vermont. Before he won over the hearts and appetites of Vermonters, Shawn studied interpersonal communications as an undergraduate in Michigan. Two years in, he made a bold career move to attend culinary school in Pittsburgh, and, as he says, “Haven’t looked back since.” With a passion for flavor and farm-to-table cooking, Shawn strives to bring innovation to every dish. Here, he gives Rue La La an inside look at the limitless opportunities in the life of a head chef, his thoughts on cooking locally, and the trick to the perfect risotto.

Rue La La: What do you consider your specialty?
Chef Shawn Calley: I love heavy classic French with a modern twist. Taking an old dish and rediscovering the flavors in a new way.

RLL: Is Amuse a French restaurant?
CSC: I wouldn’t call it a French restaurant, but it’s based on classic French style. I like pushing the edge, getting people to try new things. I’m passionate about the local movement. We use as many local proteins as possible. We make all of the sausage and charcuterie in-house.

RLL: Do you work with farmers directly?
CSC: Yes, I deal with about 20 different farmers. For instance, our maple syrup, beef, and the majority of our vegetables are from local Vermont farms. Unfortunately, having cold climates, we can’t be 100% local.

Continue reading “Interview with an Executive Chef: Shawn Calley from Amuse” »

Fact: Breathing is one of the most natural, subconscious things our bodies do. But when it comes to meditation, focusing on every inhale and exhale can be a powerful technique – one that keeps you from getting distracted by nagging thoughts and the stress, anxiety, and frustration that accompany them.

To find out just how mindful breathing works, we asked the wellness experts at Canyon Ranch® to give us a few tips.

Find a Comfortable Spot
“It doesn’t matter if you are in a chair, on the couch, or on the floor. Sit wherever you feel the most comfortable. Aim to keep your back as straight as possible; it’s not necessary to sit frozen like a statue, but try not to slouch either. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your neck long and straight.”

Narrow Your Focus
“Mindful breathing is less about altering breath pattern and more about tuning into each inhalation and exhalation as it happens naturally. Once you’re in a comfortable position, close your eyes and inhale. Notice how the oxygen flows into your nose, down your windpipe, and into your lungs, expanding your belly. Observe the slight pause your body takes when you’ve breathed in as much air as you can. Next, focus on your exhale. Notice the warm air as it slowly leaves your lungs through your mouth, and feel your body relax and your abdomen deflate.”

Allow Your Thoughts to Drift Past You
“One of the most difficult parts of meditation is sitting still – both in the body and mind. Distractions are a normal part of the process. When you feel your mind start to wander, refocus attention on breathing. Acknowledge the distraction and then make a conscious effort to let the thought drift away. Visualize stray thoughts as clouds in the sky – you can watch them slowly float by, but don’t reach out and grab them. They are simply there for you to observe.”

Stick with It
“When you first begin a mindfulness meditation practice, try it for short periods of time – between three to five minutes a few times a day. Once you begin to feel more comfortable with the practice, you can adjust the time and frequency to whatever feels right to you.”

Our Canyon Ranch Boutique opens Wednesday, March 6, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Visiting the deserts in Sante Fe? Vacationing in the Vineyard? These sandals have your feet covered. From glam wedges perfect for the glitzy Hamptons to boho flats that match L.A.’s free-spirited mindset, it’s time to pack up that suitcase. With these vacation-ready shoes, you’ll fit right in – no matter your destination.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA
Step onto the Kennedy Compound with perfectly preppy, iconic whipstitching that would make even Jackie O proud.

The Hamptons, NY
With metallic leather, this wedge has just enough elevated glamour for those chic Hamptons pool parties.

Palm Beach, FL
What better place to wear a sweet pink version of the Navajo sandal than the home of the original?

Santa Fe, NM
In vibrant orange, the signature rondelles on this flat sandal nail Sante Fe’s Southwestern style.

Los Angeles, CA
This buttery-yet-simple leather sandal is made for laid-back Cali days – just add cutoffs and a carefree attitude.

Seattle, WA
In sunny yellow, this buttery leather moccasin is the perfect way to brighten up daytime in cloudy Seattle.

Our Jack Rogers Boutique opens Friday, February 15, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.
Continue reading “6 Jack Rogers Shoes for 6 American Hot Spots” »

According to the groundhog and the ticking months, ski and boarding season is nearing its end… though you’d never know it if you’re in Boston, where we were just gifted about two feet of snow. So let’s make the most out of these last few months of carving powder – here are a few ideas to get you started.

Hit the mountain solo: It doesn’t sound like a big deal, but it’s hugely relaxing. Forget about waiting for skiers or riders who aren’t at your pace and don’t worry about keeping up if you’re prone to a more leisurely glide.

Ski from sunup to sundown: Trust me – it’s a really long day. But it makes you feel seriously accomplished to say you rode both the first and last lifts of the day when you’re mingling over beers at the lodge.

Play hooky: Don’t tell anyone I encouraged this, but skip school or work one day after it snows to plow through the fresh powder. You’ll feel like a rebel and get some midweek exercise in.

Burn the midnight oil: Night skiing is a very different experience from day skiing, so make sure to give it a try before the season ends. Though the trails are well-lit and fully functional, the missing crowds and peaceful atmosphere make you feel like you’re on your very own mountain.

Now that your list is started, finish it off and hit the slopes. Or, you can always go heli-skiing, too. Our For the Last Run: Ski Jackets & Snow Gear for Women, Men, and Kids Boutiques open Thursday, February 14, at 11AM.

By Abigail Kuzia, Editor

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Come mid-February, I’m in dire need of a vacation – with a to-do list that includes enough time to relax, de-stress, and learn something new. Luckily, Lake Austin Spa Resort has more than enough to get my rejuvenation going without abandoning my New Year’s resolutions. Besides the extensive list of mind-body classes, there are spa treatments, cooking demos (I need to work on my pasta-making), and discovery classes (think astronomy and Tarot card reading) to keep me blissfully unaware of the outside world. Now all I need is more time in a week….

Our Lake Austin Spa Resort – Austin, TX Boutique opens Wednesday, February 6, at 11AM ET.

By Melissa Mann, Staff Writer

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Awards season is officially here, and after last night’s Golden Globes, it’s safe to say it started with a bang. While the night’s top moments belonged to Les Misérables, Ben Affleck’s Argo, and one very glittery Jodie Foster, let’s be honest – the red carpet was the real star of the show. Here are some of my favorite looks:

Claire Danes: The Homeland star looked gorgeous in a bold red Versace gown. Totally flattering and structured in just the right places, this gown made the brand new mom one of the best-dressed of the night. (And yes, you heard right – she’s just a month removed from giving birth.)

Anne Hathaway: Before picking up the Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture award, the Les Misérables star arrived in a sparkling white Chanel gown. The sleek, slim-cut shape was femme without frills – a perfect counterpoint to her pixie cut.

Jessica Alba: Perhaps one of the forgotten best-dressed of the night, Jessica Alba showed up in a strapless coral number and a blingy statement necklace. I loved the coloring – with her complexion, she pulled off that coral easily.

Kerry Washington: It’s not hard to make the Django Unchained star look beautiful, and when she opted for a neutral Miu Miu & Chopard gown, she reminded us that sometimes simpler is in fact better. Shimmery embellishments and some saucy sheer accents upgraded the straight shape, making the simple gown into something eye-catching.

Some other favorites: Taylor Swift looked surprisingly grown-up in a purple Donna Karan Atelier gown, Olivia Munn aimed for understated in a Giorgio Armani number, and Julianne Hough went all-out with cascading gold studs. After an ultra glamorous night like this, there’s only one thing to say – awards season, I missed you. (Only 41 days until the Oscars!)

By Anna Kuchinsky, Staff Writer

What were your favorite red carpet looks from last night’s show? Share them in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

The Vanderbilt Grace Hotel in Newport, Rhode Island, has luxurious living down pat. And the historic mansion’s new culinary experience, Muse by Jonathan Cartwright, is a reason to visit in itself, featuring international food and wine with a decidedly New England flair. Here, I caught up with Chef Jonathan on all things Thanksgiving – from cooking the perfect turkey to preparing for the big meal (and even got a recipe for a downright delicious pumpkin soup).

Instructions

1. In a thick-bottomed pot, cook the pumpkin, carrot, apple, onion, garlic, and thyme in the butter for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the white wine and cook until it has all evaporated.
2. Add the chicken stock and simmer until all the vegetables are soft, approximately 30 minutes. Blend the soup and strain it. Add the cream and season to taste with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Sear the seasoned scallops in hot olive oil on both sides until golden.
4. Place the seared diver-harvested scallops in a soup plate, cover with the velvety soup.
5. Garnish the soup with some whipped cream, flavored with a little five-spice powder.
6. Sprinkle the top of the soup with some crisp fried ginger strips.

Rue La La: Let’s talk side dishes. What’s your personal favorite holiday dish?
Jonathan Cartwright: Brussels sprouts blanched then cooked with shallots and butter.

Rue La La:  Sounds delicious! You cook for lots of people all the time. What’s the trick to cooking for a big bunch?
Jonathan Cartwright: It helps to be organized and do the preparations in advance.  Also teach your children to help and ask family to make sides or dessert!

Continue reading “Meet the Chef: Jonathan Cartwright of Vanderbilt Grace Hotel” »

You booked the resort and snagged seats in coach. All that’s left between you and miles upon miles of white sand beach? That darned empty suitcase. Fill it up – without a fret – with help from these handy packing tips.

Don’t want to plan outfits in advance? Pick an outfit base color: black, brown, white, or navy – and pack only things that match it. For beach escapes, I love packing things in shades of white, navy, and tan – with pops of coral and turquoise to keep things lively.

Pack three pairs of sandals: basic flip-flops, nicer flats, and a pair of espadrilles. One you’ll wear to the beach or pool, the second you’ll wear during the day, the third you’ll wear while sipping coconutty drinks under that gorgeous island starlight.

“If you go, take a sweater.” My mom says this so often, it’s become a running family joke. But goodness, is it true. I promise, there’s nothing worse than arriving on vacation and realizing that you haven’t packed anything warm. So please, take her advice – pack a sweater (or two)!

Don’t forget sun protection. Pack that hat (a floppy one looks chic), remember those aviators, and take the whole arsenal of sunscreen (these towelettes make toting a cinch). Wouldn’t want to spend the vacation red as a beet, would we?

Want a full packing list? Peep this one for ideas.

Find all you need for that resort getaway – and more – in our Time to Get Away: Resort-Ready Picks Boutique, opening Tuesday, November 12, at 3PM ET.

By Joanna Berliner, Editor

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

With my crazy fall agenda well underway, dreams of a blissful vacay have been creeping into my train of thought. Lucky for me, our Canyon Ranch Boutique is making my “to go, or not to go?” vacation debate a total “go.” From East Coast to West Coast and warm climates to brisk ones, there is a rejuvenating experience waiting in four equally gorgeous locations. How can all of this be yours, you ask? Just enter the sweeps online to win a three-night stay at the Tucson, AZ location, and read on for top picks.

Canyon Ranch, Lenox: Fitness Pick
Located in the heart of New England, this resort offers an exceptional amount of room for outdoor exploration among the firey fall landscape. But, the real winner? The 100,000-square foot Spa complex complete with cardio and weight rooms, dance and yoga studios, indoor tennis courts and a running track, pools, saunas, and more. Now this is a fitness haven if I ever did see one.

Canyon Ranch, Tucson: Adventure Pick
The beautiful, picturesque region of Southern Arizona is the perfect playground for outdoor adventure. From hiking and biking to the High Ropes Challenge Course, Aerial Adventure, and the Climbing Wall, this particular resort is the perfect spot to take in the fresh air while getting a workout. And the beautiful vistas aren’t bad exercise inspiration either.

Canyon Ranch, Miami: Dining Pick
Known for its Latin influences and flavors, Miami just seems like the perfect place to indulge. Dine beside the surf with sweeping ocean views at Canyon Ranch Grill™ or at the Carillon Café for casual meals and tapas, or to enjoy cocktails and attend wine or tea tastings. Visit the Cabana where you can enjoy a light, healthy meal, refreshing fruit juices, cooling smoothies, and organic mixed drinks.

Canyon Ranch SpaClub® in Las Vegas: Spa Pick
An obvious choice for spa bliss, the award-winning Canyon Ranch SpaClub® at The Venetian® and The Palazzo® provides the perfect atmosphere for unwinding in ultimate luxury. The expansive 134,000-square-foot spa features more than 120 services and activities.

Our Canyon Ranch Boutique opens Tuesday, October 9, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Continue reading “Canyon Ranch: Discover Bliss, Four Ways” »

For my husband, delving into a museum is a travel must. For me, it’s more about delving into a latte and an artfully curated Boutique. But on a recent trip to Florence, we found a way for our worlds to (stylishly) collide: fashion museums.

Florence’s Gucci museum is only a year old, and it shows in the slick design and experience – a cool contrast with the 14th-century Piazza della Signoria building it’s housed in. When you arrive, you get a paper passport. Every section of the museum has a theme, from the iconic elements of the Gucci brand (bamboo, flora) to its historic and modern applications (luggage, sporting equipment). A smartly designed postcard for each section tells its story and fits neatly into the passport.

The tricked-out vintage Gucci Cadillac was a highlight. So was the slick café outside where I’ll cop to stealing the Gucci logo sugar cubes. Sadly, with my appetite whetted, there was only minimal opportunity to shop – a few Gucci pieces specially made for the museum.

The Ferragamo museum also lives in a historic building – the Palazzo Spini Feroni, a medieval palace built in the 13th century. However, rather than having a permanent exhibit like Gucci, the Ferragamo museum’s centerpiece is a changing exhibition – in this case all about Marilyn Monroe. While I’m no Marilyn aficionado, I did get a kick out of seeing her Ferragamo order slips.

But what I loved most about the museum were the more permanent elements – the historic shoes encased in glass and spotlighted around the periphery. I always associate Ferragamo with its classical appeal (bow ballets, anyone?). Until I saw these masterworks, I didn’t truly understand how innovative the brand is. Think elements like the cork heel (which Ferragamo actually created), artful cutouts, colorful satin linings, curved heels, and fishing line used for invisible suspension effects. Shoes on display from decades ago looked utterly current (and lust worthy) right now.

Best of all, the Ferragamo flagship is in the very same Palazzo as the museum, so you can dip right in while your heart is still beating wildly. Mine still is.

Our Salvatore Ferragamo Boutique opens on Monday, September 24, at 11AM ET.

By Rachel Solomon, Associate Creative Director

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.