Chicago

As a world of consumers easily distracted by glittery things, it’s no wonder my attention instantly shifted once receiving word of the latest gem unveiled by the House of Chopard. Weighing in at a whopping 85-carats, the emerald-cut diamond marked by purity and great whiteness is rivaled only by some of the world’s biggest diamonds: the legendary Koh-I-Noor, the 105.6-carat Golconda diamond set on the crown of England, or the Regent, formerly worn by Queen Marie-Antoinette and currently preserved in the Louvre Museum.

The Elysian's new series of culturally-inspired treatments will take guests on a global spa journey through the Pacific Islands, Thailand, India and back home to Chicago. Opportunities to experience each destination’s healing properties will be achieved as The Elysian staff is trained by top practitioners around the world.

Even though Bears fans are still a little salty with who ended up in the Superbowl, we can still do what Midwesterners do best- drink. Because let’s be honest, if we wanted winning sports teams, we probably wouldn’t live in Chicago. So here are your best bets for places to grub and talk smack or if you’re not in to that, watch the commercials on a really big screen.

You’ve heard of the hall of fame for athletes. And maybe even restaurants. But concierges? By official proclamation from Mayor Richard M. Daley, the City of Chicago celebrated its first-ever “Concierge Day in Chicago” on January 27, 2011.

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.

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.

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.

So it’s the year of the Rabbit, which brings ambition, tenacity and luck. Let’s ring in the Chinese New Year with a celebration of epic proportions- dim sum, dragons and dressed to kill.

Lagasse’s Stadium at the Palazzo Las Vegas is the supreme fan haven for catching all of your favorite sports teams go head to head. It is a quintessential sports bar, however its added appeal comes from the fact that at its helm is the legendary celebrity chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse. The unique 24,000-square-foot space features a multi-level theater and dining room with stadium-style seating and cocktail tables. All high-profile sporting events are projected on their 9 by 16-foot floor-to-ceiling video wall above the sports book betting counter. There are also 109 high definition TV screens throughout including two 103-inch plasma screens. Plus, there’s even an outdoor Patio with high-def TVs that offers street-level access from Las Vegas Boulevard.

This Sunday, February 6, Chicagoans are invited to join the former 1985 Chicago Bears Champions and Otis Wilson and Friends in the support of the Otis Wilson Foundation for The Big Game Celebration. In addition to giving guests the chance to watch The Big Game and celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Chicago’s 1985 Big Win alongside current Bears players, celebrities, athletes and other guests, the event will also raise funds for the Otis Wilson Foundation (OWF).

With V-day fast approaching and your man scrambling to stock up on the chocolates, flowers and rose petals, why not surprise him with a little somethin’ somethin’? There’s nothing spicier than lace, leather or negligees whether you’re looking to make it a racy, classy or spicy night.

Want to go the extra mile for Valentine’s Day? Give the gf or bf the royal (or saintly) treatment? These once in a lifetime packages, weekends, and specials will make your sweetie swoon. And we mean completely over the top, in the unforgettable sort of way.