Bono and his wife Ali Hewson take centerstage for Louis Vuitton’s latest Core Values ad campaign. The campaign was photographed by Annie Leibovitz and features designs by Edun, which is Ali Hewson’s ethical fashion line.

The ad — which reads “Every Journey Begins in Africa” — features the humanitarian duo arriving in African grassland. The ad coincides with Paris Fashion Week’s Africa Rising Exhibition, where contemporary African art will be sold alongside Edun’s spring collection.

Bono and Hewson donated their appearance fee to charity organizations that promote growth in developing countries. A portion of the profits from the new co-designed handbag collaboration between Edun and Louis Vuitton will also go to charity. The French luxury goods brand debuts its first made in Africa handbag in the ad, seen worn by Ali Hewson.

We file this one under: LUX-Fashion!

Source: PopCrunch

World renowned whisky maker, Highland Park of Scotland has launched the third in a series of three distinct vintage whiskies, The Orcadian Series 1970 Vintage. Last autumn the company officially launched the series with the release of the 1964 and later the 1968 vintages.

The premium 1970 Vintage whisky was created from seven refill casks to produce a total of 1,800 bottles at natural cask strength. Highland’s expert whisky maker described the process, “The refill casks used to create this Vintage have allowed the quality and delicate fragrance of the original new make spirit to shine through without being dominated by the wood notes.”

The high-quality whisky comes packaged in a beautiful jet back glass bottle adorned with silver decorative accents and the exquisite bottle is complemented by a naturally colored oak wooden box. The Highland Park 1970 Vintage will be available for purchase in the UK from independent whisky retailers, going for £2,250.

We file this one under: LUX-Wine Champagne & Spirits!

Source: Whisky Intelligence

Hip Hop Statesmen: A suited up Kanye West pictured with hip hop's top earner, Jay-Z

Kanye West is on a mission to make sophistication and refinement a top priority in the world of hip hop. The rapper/producer who is well known for his over-the-top abrasive antics is calling the new lifestyle initiative the Rosewood Movement, named after the Rosewood Civil Rights Movement.

Kanye’s new attitude is more than about fashion. West described in interviews, he wants to lead by example and influence his rap/hip hop cohorts to be on their best behavior as upstanding citizens by supporting good manners, no use of profanity in public, “calling your grandmother” and “taking care of your kids”. There is nothing more stylish than that.

Kanye West's Rosewood Movement - A lesson in sophistication

In cleaning up his act, the outspoken rapper is adopting a bit more savoir faire. The hip hop trendsetter has been spotted donning matching Dior Homme suits at recent appearances around NYC with the entire entourage from his G.O.O.D. music distribution company, which includes singer John Legend. Other noteworthy brands Kanye and crew have suited up in include Lanvin and Club Monaco.

In the coming months you can expect to see more high-fashion luxury brands make their way into Kanye West’s debonair dress code and more than likely his peers will be inspired to follow suit.

We file this one under: Celebrity Luxury News!

Inspired by one of the world’s tallest buildings, Taipei 101 located in Taiwan, Chanel pays homage to the skyscraper by releasing the limited edition Chanel J12 Taipei 101 timepiece. In keeping with the limited edition theme, only 101 units of the exquisite timepiece will be available for purchase exclusively from the Chanel boutique at Taipei 101 tower.

The Chanel J12 Taipei 101 timepiece costs approximately £4,000 ($5000 US) and comes equipped with the same classic features as the standard Chanel J12. Dressed in polished black ceramic and showcasing the number 101 marked in red on the stylish bezel, the limited edition timepiece makes a statement of superior quality and fine taste.

We file this one under: Luxury Timepiece

The new BRABUS iBusiness package for Mercedes-Benz S600 is essentially a well-equipped mobile office that allows you to take care of all of your business and entertainment needs on the road. Boasting two iPads, an iPod touch and three displays (including a 15.2-inch flip-down LCD and a Mac mini) for the rear-seat passenger’s enjoyment. See more spectacular images after the jump!

The eye-popping interior features two-tone custom made BRABUS leather complete with high-tech power-operated drapes and color-changing LED lighting as well as an iPad nook. As for connectivity, the car’s systems are all linked via the luxury auto’s own network which comes complete with a UMTS/HSPA cellular data connection and a USB 2.0 hub for plugging in peripherals.

The super-luxurious office on wheels is also equipped with a Bluetooth Apple Keyboard, a Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad complete with their own storage slots. If that isn’t enough, BRABUS takes it a step further by completely integrating the iPads with the Mercedes-Benz S600’s COMAND system which is responsible for the car’s climate control, phone, A/V and navigation.

So far, there is no word on pricing for this amazing mobile office center made-to-order for the Mercedes-Benz S600 but you can surely expect to drop a load of cash for the privilege of rolling like a VIP.

Check out the complete Image Gallery below!

BRABUS Mercedes-Benz S600 iBusiness Image Gallery

We file this one under: LUX-Auto!

Source: Slashgear / Bornrich

Gisele Bundchen sets it off amidst the drama of the elements in the ad campaign for Roberto Cavalli Fall 2010. The supermodel is draped in fur, bold animal print and dramatic flowy garments, as seen here striking a very fierce pose. See additional images after the jump!

We file this one under: LUX-Fashion!

Singer Beyonce and husband Jay-Z are spending quality time on holiday aboard the Italian-made Benetti yacht, The Altitude. Hip Hop and pop music’s top earning couple have been enjoying the Mediterranean for the past couple of weeks on the 180-foot luxury vessel which reportedly costs over $300,000 per week to rent.

The superstar pair is lounging in the lap of luxury aboard the spectacular Altitude yacht which boasts six luxurious cabins, a Jacuzzi and a gym. Making stops in the northern Italian resort town of Portofino before moving on to Cannes and St Tropez, the millionaire couple is soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves in high style.

Beyonce lounges aboard The Altitude luxury yacht

Beyonce makes waves in the Mediterranean on one of the Altitude's Yamaha waverunners

We file this one under: Celebrity Luxury News!

Source: DailyMail

Traveling by train brings forth a certain sense of nostalgia, we think back to a time filled with sophistication, elegance and glamour. The Royal Scotsman reminds us of that bygone era, as it’s the most luxurious way to travel by rail and take in the best of Scotland.

This unforgettable journey by train is limited to only 36 guests in 16 twin and four single cabins, allowing passengers the intimate and relaxing luxury vacation experience reserved for the discerning traveler.

Guests will enjoy the awe-inspiring scenic views of Scotland’s beautiful landscape while comfortably traveling through the heart of the Highlands on this very exclusive train ride. See additional images of the Royal Scotsman after the jump..

Aboard the Royal Scotsman, guests are served the finest wines and spirits while receiving top-notch service from its hospitable staff. The well-equipped accommodations feature comfortable beds and private facilities, ensuring a restful stay.

When your splendid train ride on the Royal Scotsman comes to an end, there is no doubt in our minds; you’ll want to book this amazing trip again and again.

We file this one under: LUX-Travel!

Source: Royal Scotsman

The Conde Naste award-winning Hotel Hassler, located in the center of the romantic city of Rome, has been recognized for years as one of the best luxury boutique hotels in Europe. The property which boasts 82 breath-taking rooms and 13 suites, 3 of which are Presidential Suites, represents the ultimate in refinement and elegant taste.

The well appointed guestrooms and suites showcase sweeping views of the Eternal City and feature 18^th century Louis XV style furnishings, antique accents and original paintings by Titan and Tintoretto schools as well as spacious bathrooms finished in precious Italian marble with 23-carat gold plated faucets.

The old world charm on display in the beautifully decorated super-luxury hotel is easily balanced by modern luxuries, such as the 3^rd floor Amorvero SPA where guests are invited to relax and enjoy being pampered with the best beauty and wellness treatments.

Dining options on the extremely luxurious property include the recently renovated panoramic Imago restaurant, featuring fine Italian cuisine, located on the 6^th floor. The Hassler also features the Salone Eva Restaurant & Bar and the Palm Court Garden Restaurant & Bar which are open during warm weather seasons.

 See complete image gallery below!

Hotel Hassler – Rome, Italy Image Gallery

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We file this one under: LUX-Hotels & Resorts!

Source: Hotel Hassler / FiveStarAlliance

 These super-luxury private jet interiors depict the affluent lifestyle of the privileged class and were captured on film by expert photographer Nick Gleis.

Although Gleis remains mum when it comes to dropping names, it is clear he has photographed some very extravagant private jets belonging to the world’s rich and/or famous VIP’s.

Be sure to check out more fascinating images of the unabashedly grandiose aircraft interiors that give a whole new meaning to luxury in flight. Take a closer look after the jump.

We file this one under: Luxury Aircraft & Private Jets

Source: NicksPhoto / Trendhunter