No language barrier here
Super friendly Nadia Dorsey of Spectrum Languages offers private
foreign language sessions and weekend adult seminars. The language
and culture institute also offers elementary and high school
tutoring, after-school programs, adult intensive learning sessions,
travel language and business language programs. Business owner Phil
Willms of Wet Okole in Costa Mesa says he’s very impressed by
Spectrum Languages. “My Spanish is coming along great,” Willms says.
“She’s teaching me ways to learn Spanish that I would never even
think about.” An intensive Spanish Weekend Language Special teaches
the basics of Spanish in one weekend. It’s $250 per person (normally
$400), with a three-person minimum. Language sessions are offered at
your home, office, school or the location of your choice. Lessons are
personalized to fit your goal and level. Language classes offered
include English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, Mandarin,
Japanese and Latin. (949) 706-2661. www.spectrumlanguages.com.
ALL ABOUT MEN
Avventura has the most men’s shoes, belts and jackets of any
boutiques at South Coast Plaza. Most of the shoes are designed
exclusively for Avventura. European designer brands include Mezlan,
Lorenzo Banfi, Donald J. Pliner, Moreschi, Pacco Bucci and Aldobrue,
as well as the Avventura brand. The recently launched Via Spiga line
is available here. Matching belts for almost every shoe, and a large
selection of exotic belts. Size 14 and up available. Jackets are made
in Italy. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Level One, near Saks Fifth
Avenue. (714) 979-9900. www.avventura.com.
A DATE FOR DESIGNING
Designer Dana Buchman will be at Neiman Marcus on Thursday to show
her latest line featuring interchangeable pieces in beautiful
fabrics, tailored with special attention to detail. Modeling,
refreshments, music and more. Neiman Marcus is at Fashion Island in
Newport Beach. To RSVP, call (949) 759-1900, ext. 2375.
BETTER THAN BOTOX
Macy’s South Coast Plaza has new anti-aging alternatives to Botox
and Collagen from Shiseido, Lancome and Biotherm. From Shiseido, a
Total Revitalizing Cream (1.8 ounces/$220) claims to visibly reduce
fine lines and wrinkles, while the face regains a firmed appearance.
Resolution D-Contraxol from Lancome is an intensive anti-wrinkle
treatment created to hydrate and soften skin. Resolution is supposed
to work on skin cells that manufacture collagen and elastin. Lancome
scientists claim that within four weeks the number, depth and size of
wrinkles will be significantly reduced. (1.7 ounces/$68.00)
Biotherm’s Densitelift -- a three-product care line -- contains
Purified Yeast Extract that claims to help the surface skin’s
pressure system by improving skin’s moisture level for renewed
density and plumped wrinkles. (Serum/$42, Eye cream/$30,
Moisturizer/$39) (714) 556-0611 ext. 4135.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
Mikimoto is known for offering the highest-quality cultured pearls
since 1893. Fine jewelry and home accessories start at $95. Two new
collections were recently introduced: Pearls in Motion and Milano.
Pearls in Motion are white Japanese and black Tahitian cultured
pearls that glide along an 18-karat white gold chain. The wearer can
move and reposition the pearls, to create an infinite number of
looks. This collection ranges in price from $1,900 to $3,400. The
Milano Collection a contemporary line. All pieces are hand made in
Italy. It features Mikimoto South Sea and Japanese Akoya pearls.
Prices range from $590 to $13,000. (714) 424-5440. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6:30
p.m. Sunday. Level One, Nordstrom wing at South Coast Plaza. (714)
424-5440.
THE FEEL OF CLASS
Loro Piana is an Italian textile company, mostly known for its
cashmere and fine wools. Luxury collections for men, women and
children include knitwear, sportswear, accessories, bags and small
leather accessories. Custom tailored clothing available. Styles are
classic and timeless. Only colors change from season to season. Loro
Piana cashmere robes at nearly $2,000 are one of their most popular
sellers, along with outerwear for the entire family and throws.
Classic v-neck cashmere sweaters for men and women start at $495. No
sales. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Level Two, at South Coast
Plaza. (714) 432-1301.
* BEST BUYS appears Mondays and Fridays. Send information to
Greer Wylder at greerwylder@yahoo.com; at 330 W. Bay St., Costa Mesa,
CA 92627; or by fax at (949) 646-4170.
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