With Father's Day less than a week away, here are a few gift suggestions beyond the common (and quite tired) tie/shirt combo:

1. The new Lytro camera is more than a marvel; it's revolutionary. It truly takes the guesswork out of photography for the average man. Unlike any other camera, it allows you to focus an image AFTER you've taken it. No more blurry or missed shots because you were still trying to focus long after the action stopped. For the neophyte or the professional, this camera is a must have. Even though I'm not a father yet, I'd gladly welcome this as a Father-to-be gift.  ($399-$499)

2. Any man worth his wears a belt, so why not make it this elegant Engine-turned Slide Belt Buckle, in Sterling Silver, from Tiffany & Co?
Throw in a reversible black/brown leather belt and he's more than good to go. ($225.00)

3. This Gucci checkers set is definitely for the father who has everything. The buttery-soft brown leather would be a beautiful addition to any library.  ($4,350.00) 

4. L.L. Bean's Hunter Tote Bag (Zippered or Open-Top) is the perfect accessory for the father looking to upgrade his style, but doesn't care for the messenger bag/murse look. Manly and rugged, it can take him from a camping trip (it has a water resistant lining) to the gym to an overnight stay at a friend's house.  ($25-$39)

5. Sure you good buy that special man in your life a classic wooden case to hold his cufflinks and watches, but why? This Faux Zebra Box (Cowhide)  from Mecox is surely more sophisticated and stylish and a welcome addition to any gentleman's bedroom dresser. ($360-$440)

Years ago, a dear friend Patty Maloney, an associate at Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills, invited me and my date, Jacqueline, to an Isaac Mizrahi fashion show at the Hotel Bel-Air.  It was my first visit to the world-famous hotel, (which was opened in 1946 by Alphonzo Bell), and boy was it a treat. Living in Southern California, there is so much history and culture, albeit laid-back, at our fingertips. I'm convinced that we miss out on so many things around town because of the distance and driving involved.  Well, seeing as how I have over 431K miles on my car, (yes 431K- that’s not a typo) I obviously enjoy exploring sun-drenched California. 

A friend and I were coming from Santa Monica and at the last minute decided to stop by this recently renovated icon of a hotel for drinks (an early birthday treat for me), that is until we realized that valet parking itself was nearly $40! We decided otherwise.

After a two year renovation, this pink Spanish Colonial, home-away-from-home retreat for much of Hollywood, old and new, (Elizabeth Taylor once honeymooned here) re-opened last December. While most of the world famous hotel has been updated and re-imagined by designer Alexandra Champalimaud and Rockwell Group it’s good to know that the full-time residents, Chloe, Athena and Hercules (the swans) remain.

With rooms ranging from $565-13,500/night, at this point in life, I’d have a better chance of trying the new restaurant, Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air or the La Prairie Spa (one of only four in the world). Hopefully, Chloe, Athena and Hercules will still be there when I can afford to make it back.  In the meantime, here are some pictures I found on Architectural Digest.com

My excitement level has been at fever pitch for the last few days. A friend and his wife had planned for a weekend respite at the Maision 140 Beverly Hills Hotel, but, due to last many changes, they won't be able to make it. Well, guess to whom they've decided to give their reservation?

I've heard a great deal about this 43 room French and Fear-East inspired hotel, which was recently redesigned by Kelly Wearstler. I actually prefer staying at smaller hotels like this because, while you know you're on holiday you don't feel lost like you can at a larger hotel.  (The Plaza, excepted). Now, if I can only find a last minute date to join me.

Maison 140 Beverly Hills
140 Lasky Drive
Beverly Hills, CA  90212
310-281-4000 (Direct)
800-670-6182 (Reservations)
www.maison140beverlyhills.com

Rates: $155-$275 per night