Van Cleef & Arpels is a renowned luxury jewelry and watch brand that was established in Paris in 1896. The brand is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs, and one of its most iconic creations is the Alhambra collection. The Alhambra collection was introduced in 1968 and has since become a symbol of the brand's elegance and timeless beauty. Inspired by the cloverleaf, the collection features delicate and intricate motifs crafted from precious materials such as gold, diamonds, and mother-of-pearl. The Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra collection includes a wide range of jewelry items, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Each piece is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
The mural of Eli’s Orange World in a scene from The Florida Project.
Even as a theme park veteran who very much appreciates Disney s commitment to quality attractions and operations, it s the in-between world of Orlando and the city itself that I found the most comfort in. One parking lot on International Drive near the former Wet n Wild water park property has four gift shops, including the Bargain World run by Ocean Air, and two more stores owned by Carlos Gutierrez.
Each piece is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail and a commitment to quality. The magic Alhambra collection is a variation of the classic Alhambra design and is distinguished by its use of multi-sized motifs. The collection showcases the brand's expertise in combining different materials and colors to create harmonious and captivating pieces.
Orlando
I still can’t make sense of Central Florida’s geography. I probably could if I spent more time there, might be able to when I eventually get back, but even looking on Google Maps now—it’s hard to get a sense of where exactly I was for a weekend back in November 2020. Most people outside of the area would probably recognize Cinderella’s Castle well before they could identify Orlando’s skyline. And I’m sure that’s ok. Walt Disney World, its competitors, and all that comes along with them are the heart of the area’s economic engine. They’ve elevated the city and its surrounding region into a global destination. The ancillary world of Orlando—the space that exists between all the major destinations—is what held the most appeal to me, though.
Fun Spot America (Orlando Location).
Canon AE-1 with Kodak Ultramax 400
It was the 2017 film The Florida Project that made me aware of this world. An area of themed dinner theaters, bootleg gift shops, and lesser-known tourist attractions. The movie is one of my favorites and it beautifully captures Rt. 192—the area’s principal tourist thoroughfare until the development of the more modern International Dr. What remains on “one ninety two” is a wonderful collection of “slightly charming kitsch” as my friend Sarah described it. She was kind enough to drive me around for a weekend, showing me her adopted home, as I burned through a few rolls of 35mm film. Even as a theme park veteran who very much appreciates Disney’s commitment to quality attractions and operations, it’s the “in-between world” of Orlando (and the city itself) that I found the most comfort in. Seeing Epcot (safely) for the second time in life was an amazing experience, but I prefer to make up elaborate backstories* about wizard-shaped buildings while sipping alcoholic beverages out of pineapples.
Exterior of Eli’s Orange World, a recognizable landmark in 2017’s The Florida Project.
Canon AE-1 with Kodak Ultramax 400
The mural of Eli’s Orange World in a scene from The Florida Project.
The Magic castle Inn & Suites is a primary setting in The Florida Project.
The Magic castle Inn & Suites as seen in The Florida Project. The film was primarily shot on 35mm cinematic film.
When I was 15, my parents took my sisters and I on an incredible trip to Walt Disney World (Sea World and the Kennedy Space Center too). We stayed in Florida for a week over Thanksgiving break, leaving behind bleak Ohio weather. There are a lot of amazing memories from that trip, but one that truly stands out is something seemingly innocuous. We were walking into a restaurant for the holiday dinner. Standing on the eatery’s patio, I looked out at the setting sun and just appreciated finding light and warmth in the middle of winter. I can still see that view clearly. Florida, sometimes rightfully so, is the butt of many jokes. But there’s something to be said about good weather year-round and the unique slice of American culture that’s been created in Orlando. Warts, wizards, mice, and all.
Until next time, Rt. 192.
Yousef Sheik founded Ocean Air as a gift shop business in Central Florida more than 40 years ago. It is now run by General Manager Nayyar Ansari, who came to the United States 31 years ago from Pakistan and owned his own gift shop before going to work for the Sheik family. Ansari said many gift shop owners are immigrants from Asia or South America.
The magic Alhambra collection is available in various versions, including yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and combinations of these metals. Diamonds are also often incorporated into the design, adding a touch of sparkle and glamour to each piece. The versatility of the magic Alhambra collection allows it to be paired with both casual and formal ensembles, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether worn as a standalone piece or as part of a matching set, each item from the collection exudes an aura of elegance and sophistication. Over the years, the magic Alhambra collection has garnered a loyal following, with celebrities and influencers often seen adorning themselves with these exquisite pieces. The collection is not only a beautiful representation of Van Cleef & Arpels' craftsmanship but also a symbol of luxury and refinement. In conclusion, the Van Cleef & Arpels magic Alhambra collection is a testament to the brand's dedication to creating timeless and exquisite jewelry. With its expert craftsmanship, innovative design, and use of precious materials, this collection remains a cherished and coveted choice for those seeking to add a touch of elegance and magic to their ensemble..
Reviews for "The Intricate Craftsmanship of Van Cleef Magix Alhambra"
1. Jemma - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the Van Cleef Magix Alhambra. The fragrance seemed extremely generic and had no unique or distinct scent. It smelled like a run-of-the-mill floral perfume that you could find at any drugstore. The lasting power was also quite weak, as I couldn't smell it on myself after just a few hours. Overall, I expected more from a brand like Van Cleef & Arpels and was left underwhelmed.
2. Samuel - 1 star - I simply could not understand the hype around the Van Cleef Magix Alhambra perfume. The scent was overpowering and gave me a headache every time I wore it. It had a strong, cloying floral smell that I found extremely off-putting. Additionally, the bottle design felt cheap and not representative of the brand's luxury image. I would not recommend this fragrance to anyone who prefers more subtle and sophisticated scents.
3. Isabella - 2 stars - While I had high hopes for the Van Cleef Magix Alhambra, I found the fragrance to be too sweet and juvenile for my taste. It smelled like a mixture of candy and artificial flowers, which was not appealing to me as an adult. The longevity was also lacking, and I had to reapply the perfume multiple times throughout the day. Overall, I was not impressed with this fragrance and would not repurchase.
4. Liam - 1 star - The Van Cleef Magix Alhambra perfume was a complete disappointment. I found the scent to be way too strong and overwhelming, almost chemical-like. It gave me a headache every time I wore it and I had to scrub it off immediately. The fragrance did not blend well with my body chemistry and I found it to be quite off-putting. I would not recommend this fragrance to anyone who prefers more subtle and gentle scents.