Dana Ricciardi, owner of Dana Ricciardi Designs, is the result of a childhood fascination, innate talent, training and education. This Chicago-based interior designer first got her start when she was young, experimenting with her own bedroom. As she matured, she earned a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Art History from the University of Wisconsin and later received a post-graduate degree in design from Harrington College of Design. Ricciardi whose style integrates both traditional and modern influences knows what it takes to create stunning rooms that can stand the test of time and speak to the desires of her clients. Haute Living caught up with her to figure out exactly how she does it.

Get pampered while going green. The Spa at the Four Seasons in Palm Beach just introduced a new all organic green luxury brand called Amala, or “most pure.” The line is 100-percent natural and free of both synthetics and chemical preservatives. None of the products have ever been tested on animals and meet all the U.S. and European organic certification standards.

For the person who has everything–designer shoes, handbags, watches and clothes–picking just a few things to bring can be daunting. But NYLA STAR makes it ten times easier. Instead of bringing along your finest jewelry and worrying about its whereabouts the entire trip, you can opt for NYLA STAR’s chic, more practical jewelry designs instead. For the person who has everything -- designer shoes, handbags, watches and clothes -- picking just a few things to bring can be daunting. But NYLA Star makes it ten times easier.

On Feb. 24th, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts will play host to a German quartet that's been described as blazing with light and energy. And though the Samueli Theater is more like a cabaret theater or a nightclub that just happens to be staging a German quartet, you can be sure that the Mandelring Quartet's set will be intimate and close, meaning that you'll be awash in that light and energy from start to finish.

The Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons, a non-profit organization focusing on the rescue efforts of wild animals as a result of human invasion on their habitats, recently hosted a winter soiree celebration that honored their 10th anniversary on Tuesday, February 1st.

Miami chef Myles Chefetz continues to dominate the South Florida restaurant industry as his restaurants are consistently picked as local favorites and award nominees.

This year, Mercedes-Benz will be one of the companies advertising during Super bowl XLV, a first for the luxury car brand. The commercial, which will be aired during the fourth quarter, will serve as the world debut of two of their new models.

The girls just wanted to have fun last night Thursday, February 3rd, at Bergdorf Goodman on 5th Avenue in New York. Michelle Smith, the creative mind behind the young-luxury brand Milly, and The Society of MSKCC Associates Council Luncheon Hosts celebrated the launch of the Milly accessories collection for spring 2011 at the lavish boutique. Guest walked into Bergdorf Goodman and were immersed in the world of Milly. The hipe line includes handbags and jewelry, signature ready-to-wear swimwear, and newly introduced children’s line, Milly Minis.

Buffalo chicken wings and mini hot dogs fare well during game day, but sometimes us food sophisticates need something a little bit more, well, fancy and sophisticated to go with our sparkling wine and imported beer. Good thing some of LA's most notable chefs are on the same page, including Jordan Kahn of Red Medicine.

The Super Bowl is the biggest event in American sports. It seems to generate more excitement than the Olympics (it definitely spawns more bar fights.). So where will you be watching the action?

A few days ago, I gave a list of places to watch the Super Bowl in Miami. Here are some more suggestions!

Are you lonely? Need some love? Why don’t you open your heart up this 2011 Valentine’s Day with Brett Ratner? On Monday, February 14th at the Bev Hills Hotel, the Sheila Kar Health Foundation will honor Ratner, Dr. P.K. Shah, and Dr. Dean Ornish with entertainment from Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles, and hosted […]

It’s that time of year again, when every company is unveiling their latest luxury gift, gadget, car or must have fashion staple. I have narrowed down the list to the most unique and lavish toys out there.

Some of the greatest moments throughout fashion history have been accompanied by Van Cleef and Arpels. The one hundred-plus age old jewelry powerhouse has graced some of the most iconic celebrities in the past few decades such as Grace Kelly, Marlene Dietrech, Jackie Kennedy, Julia Roberts, and a slew of others. Now, there's an opportunity to bask in the beauty firsthand. For a few months, Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum will showcase diamonds one can only dream of or see in picture books from the archives of the luxe brand from February 18th to June 5th.

Designers have got the blues this spring. Denim has been revamped and reworked for everything from shirts and skirts to even handbags. Gucci, Prada, Lanvin - all have stocked their shelves with denim handbags.

Insider’s Guide to Los Angeles Name: Hermann W. Elger The Stats: Born in Mexico City, has been living in LA for the past three months, but has visited the city ever since he could remember. Currently, lives in Beverly Hills. He is embracing his new position as General Manager at Montage Beverly Hills. Why he loves LA: “The incredible cultural variety.” Hermann Elger was born in Mexico City, and received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Hotel Management at the University of Denver. He started his luxury hotel career in 1993 where he joined The Ritz Carlton team in Aspen, Colorado, and has since held various positions in the hospitality industry. After four years in the position of Hotel Manager at the Ritz Carlton in Cancun, Mexico, Elger was appointed the position of General Manager at the five diamond oceanfront resort. Today Mr. Elger is the General Manager at Montage Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, right in the heart of Beverly Hills known worldwide for its luxury retailers and extraordinary restaurants. Montage Beverly Hills features 201 well-appointed guestrooms, including 55 suites, all paying tribute to both old Hollywood glamour and modern day luxury. Its design is inspired by the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and Mediterranean styling, and furnished with classic elegant pieces reminiscent of the Golden Age of California. Elger has more than 18 years in the luxury hotel business.