Your Go-To Guide For Awards Season In Los Angeles

Planning, precision and posture. That’s what it takes to really make it work in January and February in Los Angeles. Yes, for this city, the holidays aren’t the most wonderful time of the year—awards season is. This is when things really get cooking as the Golden Globes, The Grammys and of course, the biggie— the Academy Awards, bring on a slew of parties both pre and post. One gown will not suffice. it’s like high school. who wants to be seen —let alone photographed—in the same outfit twice? Consider this your go-to guide for the best of the best in town—from the facialists to the jewelers—for the next two months of red carpet mayhem.

Put Your Best Face Forward

Sure you want people to check out your décolletage but it all starts with your face, and during award season, that’s where the cameras are going to start. It’s imperative you look your best, your skin, your makeup, and those fine lines—at least momentarily—need to disappear. Here are a few ladies to help you in that oh so important department.

JAMIE SHERRILL/BEAUTY PARK

Jamie Sherrill decided early on that she’d rather be in Santa Monica as opposed to Beverly Hills in setting up her uber popular locale, Beauty Park Spa on Montana. “I like seeing people strolling by in their yoga pants, and the feel of the ocean air,” mentions the RN (whose roster of clients has included the faces of Kirsten Dunst, Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie-Madden, and Jennifer Love Hewitt). In addition to a not-so-expected locale, Sherrill’s technique is not so predictable either: You come in, she assesses and then tells you what she thinks you need—not the other way around. “I had someone in here who wanted me to make her look like a wax figure – she’d already had too many injectable treatments, and I had to turn her away; I just can’t do that because you want me to. I have scruples.”

Her favorite these days? Lasers. “A facial these days costs about $200 and for a little bit more, you can get something better, that’ll last a lot longer, too.”

Furthermore, she suggests injectables, which she says are now more preventative maintenance as opposed to sheer enhancements, should be done at least a week prior to your blessed red carpet event.

Beauty Park, 1511 Montana Ave.
Santa Monica, 310.587.3502
www.beautyparkspa.com

NERIDA JOY SALON

Jennifer Garner, Reese Witherspoon, Kate Beckinsale, and Courteney Cox are just a few of the celebrities in Los Angeles who swear by facialist Nerida Joy. Joy has worked with some of the most famous faces in the world, who depend on her to give them the 411 on their skin up front because let’s face it, their face is their fortune in this town. Both Elle and Self magazines have proclaimed Nerida to be one of the top 15 facialists in the country. And when we see these ladies—and the faces of Hilary Swank, Amy Adams and Isla Fisher—you know that Nerida’s programs are definitely working. Nerida’s biggest advice? Well, it’s just like your Mom always told you. “Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. And ALWAYS wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF over your daytime moisturizer to keep the skin tone even and healthy.”

Nerida Joy, 416 N Bedford Drive, # 306 Beverly Hills, 310.777.8897
www.neridajoyskincare.com

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION:

Dr. Lisa Chipps: There’s always going to be something new and cutting edge in skin rejuvenation and right now, it’s Pelleve. This wrinkle reduction system goes after those nasty little wrinkles with virtually no pain, no downtime, and needs no anesthesia. After just one hour treatment, you’ll see firmer, tighter skin, which will last you not only for award season, but up to the next six months. Currently, Dr. Chipps is one of only two doctors in Los Angeles where you can get this procedure done.

Dr. Lisa K. Chipps, 421 N. Rodeo Drive Terrace level, 310.274.5372
www.chippsderm.com

Body Mechanics

It doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, you still want to look good—and feel good—when you walk the red carpet. Here are a few ideas on how to keep it looking taut. Which one you choose depends on your willpower situation…or lack thereof.

KRISTIN ANDERSON

Los Angeles trainer Kristin Anderson is here to help. She’ll listen, and you’ll learn. A former figure skater, she adheres to a very straight forward exercise regimen: work out, eat right, and you get fit. First and foremost though, Anderson is the pinnacle of discretion—she has to be, as her clients include Academy Award winners and some of the biggest moguls in town.

“When it comes to the red carpet and the camera, there are no free rides. Critics are going to have a field day with this red carpet season, no lump or sagging skin will be spared from their scrutinizing eyes.” That being said, Anderson feels to get the job done right, you need 8 weeks. But it’s not just working out; eating well is just as crucial. Calories should be in the ballpark of 1500. Her training is a combo platter: Pilates, cardio and weight training. According to Anderson, variety is the spice of life when it comes to working out her starlets, because it brings faster results and prevents boredom…just don’t ever ditch the consistency.

To sign up with Kristin, go to www.mydailytrainer.com

BODY BY KATE/MARY SAULNIER

Sometimes, despite our diligence in the gym, we need a little extra help. That’s where Mary “The Fat Whisperer” Saulnier comes in. Based out of Kate Somerville’s little slice of heaven on Melrose Place, Mary is in charge of your slim down which brings together three technologies in one to go after the ultimate villain of the red carpet, cellulite. While the technology is cutting edge, Mary is a soft spoken, nouveau bohemian with a healing touch and soulful detoxification information. She starts you off in an herbal wrap (made of her very own concoction which includes, coffee, sea clay, and Kate Somerville goodies) and then zips you up in a lymphatic massage suit. What happens next is pure bliss: As you lie on the table, wrapped, strapped and blanketed, her machine goes to work. Based on the principles of lymphatic drainage and venous circulation, the Presso Therapy applies a wave of pressure to the sub dermal tissue, from the base of the limbs upwards towards the body. The sensation is that of a relaxing massage, like a pair of hands moving gently up the limbs. Using Presso Therapy regularly may help to prevent the development of cellulitis, interrupt the accumulation of cellulite, aid in preventing varicose veins, reduce limb and body swelling, shape legs, arms, buttocks, and belly. It helps to improve circulation, digestion, lymphatic and muscular systems as well as tone. While reducing the body’s metabolic waste the lymphatic system is being re-educated to work more efficiently. To note: It will take more than one treatment, but in the end, you’ll feel beyond svelte and rejuvenated.

Body by Kate, Kate Somerville Salon
8428 Melrose Place, Los Angeles
323.655.7546
www.katesomerville.com

THE SPRING RESORT & SPA

Award season arrives right after the holidays when most of us have been not good like Santa wanted, but extra bad. Here’s where The Spring comes in. While the luxurious locale is definitely a nice getaway to refurbish your bod, the piece de resistance is Jan Minter’s special fasting and cleansing retreats. For five days, you have nothing but fab juices packed with nutrients while you get buffed, scrubbed, and of course, educated on how to eat better. Granted, most of us will go back to our bad ways eventually, but for a brief respite you can do your bod a favor and clean it out and get out of town without hopping on a plane; Desert Hot Springs is just far enough away but also, just close enough.

The Spring Resort and Spa
12699 Reposo Way
Desert Hot Springs, 760.251.6700
www.the-spring.com

SEBASTIEN LAGREE’S PILATES PLUS

In Hollywood, everything old is new again, including your bod, if you do it right. Much like the studios, Sebastien Lagree decided to take an old concept and give it a new spin with his chain of studios, Pilates Plus. You go, you sweat, you transform—but it ain’t easy. Brooke Burke, Courtney Love, and Ben Stiller are all disciples to his SPX Fitness ways. And while Lagree has locations (and does private training) all over town, our favorite location is West Hollywood, with instructors Piper Michelle and Leslie Karpman.

Pilates Plus, 8500 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, 310.358.9491
www.pilatespluswesthollywood.com

Gorgeous Head to Toe

Cameron Silver has been at the epicenter of the fashion world as the go to guy for all things stylish; but in L.A. he is especially beloved as the owner of his fashion trilogy of stores: Decades, for vintage couture, Decadestwo (pre-owned and unworn designer jewelry, bags, shoes and clothes), and his newest addition, Decades Denim. In his previous life, Silver served as an official ambassador for Pringle and Boucheron as well as a creative consultant for Azzaro. This year, Silver kindly agreed to give Haute Living his take on the red carpet.

Haute Living: What do you think we’ll see on the red carpet this year?

Cameron Silver: It’s always the same thing: Lots of color and dramatic volume. The only thing that could possibly look fresh is a woman in a minimal black gown with an outstanding piece of jewelry. But everyone seems to prefer to dress like Cinderella in borrowed haute couture and bling.

HL Are there certain actresses whom you look forward to seeing on the red carpet?

CS I am behind on movies this year but I have heard a lot about Jennifer Lawrence in Winter’s Bone. Natalie Portman is a beautiful woman to dress, as is her Black Swan co-star Mila Kunis. I am usually more intrigued by the established actresses of a certain age—women who are not fashion darlings but extraordinary talents like Annette Bening and Melissa Leo. These two women are riveting on screen and it is always interesting how the non fashionista thespian steps onto the red carpet and remains authentic as well as stylish. It’s easy to dress a 20 year old ingénue, but it is also wonderful when you see someone who doesn’t normally grace the cover of the weekly mags, but shows up and looks divine.

HL Name a couple of your favorite local designers.

CS Naturally Decades since we have an amazing selection of 20th century vintage couture and we have been dressing celebs and civilians for the red carpet since 1997. Decadestwo is also a fantastic source for 21st century pre-owned and loved designer clothing, and one can find a great gown for a delicious price. Monique Lhuillier really does fantastic, amazing gowns. There is a fabulous, not to mention big, selection at her magnificent flagship store right on Melrose Place. JC Obando is a Los Angeles based designer with an atelier that can make a custom gown, but also sells at Barneys. I love his work and it’s great to support new local talent!

Decades, 8214 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, 323.655.0223
www.decadesinc.com

Monique Lhuillier, 8485 Melrose Place Los Angeles, 323.655.1088
www.moniquelhuillier.com

Juan Carlos Obando can be found in the Personal Shopping Department of Barneys.

The Piece de Resistance: The Jewels

Haute couture wouldn’t look half as haute without the proper accoutrements, and three prominent jewelry purveyors are pulling out the stops for this year’s red carpet. What to expect:

HARRY WINSTON

According to Sandrine de Laage, Winston’s Art Director, “The Oscars are a time to celebrate the extraordinary—extraordinary actresses, extraordinary performances, and of course, extraordinary jewels.” This year, Harry Winston traveled back in time for inspiration, to a time of 100 percent pure Hollywood glamour, akin to the ‘40s and with icons like Rita Hayworth and Ava Gardner, with beautiful pieces like their iconic Winston Cluster Earrings. Winston’s creative force also foretells we will see color: “[It’s] also about embracing the individuality of the wearer, through one of a kind pieces, such as bright, colorful cocktail rings and dramatic cascading necklaces.”

Harry Winston,
310 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills
310.271.8554
www.harrywinston.com

CHOPARD

According to Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Chopard Co-President, the red carpet—despite the frenetic pace—is something she always looks forward to.

“For many years I have been entrenched in the frenzy surrounding occasions such as the Oscars and the Cannes Film Festival, and I know that the red carpet is a place where anything can happen,” says Gruosi-Scheufele. “Having established acquaintances and often friendships with many glamorous luminaries, I realize how important this moment is to them and therefore the type of jewelry they dream of. That is why I design such resolutely original pieces, all very different from each other, in order that each star can find the adornment perfectly suited to her personality and best able to exalt her beauty. I am truly inspired by the infinitely varied nature of the stars themselves, therefore my high jewelry designs reflect a broad spectrum of tastes and expectations where nothing is imposed and nothing is forbidden except complete freedom.”

Chopard, 328 North Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills, 310.550.7220
www.chopard.com

VRAM FOR GRAY

Vram’s the new kid on the block—well, not really new, per se—just in a new space. Vram at Gray Gallery on Melrose takes an unconventional approach to his designs. “They are nouveau with a vintage twist,” says the designer. And his favorite part to decorate—the hand. Furthermore, at Gray he has surrounded himself with other designers, and sees it not as competition, but complimentary to his line. Case in point? The pieces acquired by Ineke Peskin, the Dutch born estate jewelry dealer, which include Gucci, Boucheron, Fred Leighton and Jean Mahle. Together Peskin and Vram make a unique—albeit extensive—collaboration. What’s hot in his mind? Vram sees the trends for the upcoming award season to be large colored stone rings and big statement earrings with vintage stackable bracelets.

Gray Gallery: www.graygallery.com

Coif and Circumstance (Hair and Makeup)

Sure, you can have a fab physique, a magnificent gown and all the right jewels, but you will always need to top it off with the perfect hair to make it all come together. Here are two of L.A.’s top stylists—one, a traditionalist and one a little left of center—with their forecasts on haute red carpet hair.

HANNAH KNOWLTON/SERGE NORMANT AT JOHN FRIEDA SALON

Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon has definitely coiffed a few the biggest names in Hollywood, like Julia Roberts, Charlize Theron, and Chloe Sevigny. Frieda is known for its outside the box hairstyles, and two years ago brought in Hannah Knowlton. Knowlton began her career at Fred Segal Beauty in Santa Monica, but was eventually wooed to the Frieda salon. She quickly built a high-profile clientele of industry executives and Hollywood celebrities. When it comes to her styling, Hannah likes to put her own spin on each individual. “I like to find something unique and extraordinary in someone’s features and find a way to accentuate it.” For the 2011 season, she anticipates a rather unusual trend —braids. “The runways have been showing us a lot of free-form textures, unkempt waves, and pleated looks for hair. I’m anticipating this translating into soft, romantic hairstyles on the red carpet. We’re going to see a lot of braids… and a lot of loose, wavy updos.”

Serge Normant Salon at John Frieda
8440 Melrose Place, 323.653.4040

HERVE ONOSSIAN/CRISTOPHE SALON

Cristophe Salon on Beverly Drive is a bit of an institution. Having been around for nearly twenty years, many a famous face has graced its hallowed halls, like Nicole Kidman, Cameron Diaz, Goldie Hawn, and Denise Richards. Originally from Paris, where he started his career, Herve Onossian has been with the salon for about ten years: “We’re entering—at least I’m hoping—simplicity. If you look at the style the last two years it’s very complicated. Sophistication is a very simple principle; it’s like art—the simpler, the better. My point of view is sleek and simple. Others can have a different point of view. Up or down, not over the top. We’re coming into something more and more simple. I’m putting my energy toward that.”

Cristophe Salon, 348 North Beverly Drive
310.274.0851

STEVI CHRISTINE/KATE SOMERVILLE

Stevi is a makeup maven for many a pretty face in Hollywood. “90210’s” foxy Jessica Lowndes, Rebecca Gayheart and Molly Sims all count on Christine to give them a gorgeous glow that captures their natural beauty, but also their va va voom. For years, Stevi has been a mainstay on the red carpet as well as a widely respected doyenne of all things makeup for a number of magazines. No matter what the event, Stevi will create the perfect look and hopefully in doing so, a lot of photo opps.

Kate Somerville Salon, 8428 Melrose Place Los Angeles, 323.655.7546
www.stevichristine.com

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION:

Whitney Olson, at Warren Tricomi Salon. Up do’s, extensions, or just a styling, Olson will not only make you look magnifique, she’ll keep you laughing all the way through.

Warren Tricomi
8327 Melrose Ave.
323.651.4545
www.warrentricomi.com