Sean Borg Goes LA! » Zeta Graff

Diamonds Are Simon’s Best Friend. Zeta Graff Canoodles with Cowell…

SBGLA — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:10:39 +0000

Simon Cowell added a touch of sparkle to his sunshine break in the Caribbean yesterday, in the shape of Greek jewelry designer Zeta Graff.

The X Factor boss, 52, enjoyed a cozy laugh and a joke with the 39-year-old Los Angeles based owner of luxury brand ZG Jewelry, aboard a 30 million pound yacht off the island of St Barts.

Graff and Cowell spent a few hours sunbathing on the deck lounging around on a cream leather sofa, drinking iced mineral water as they covered themselves in tanning lotion.

They set tongues a-wagging when they would occasionally lean up close to one another whispering in each others ears, suggesting there was a little more going on than ‘just friends’.

One close source said: “Simon has known Zeta for many years and the pair have remained in touch, they are very close.”

Another source added: “Zeta fits in really well with his gang and she makes him laugh. They have a real giggle together.”

Joining them on board the luxury Slipstream yacht was Cowell’s ex-girlfriend Sinitta, Lauren Silverman and her husband Andrew Silverman.

Zeta, who starred in The Fifth Element – has a 19-year-old son Laurence with diamond heir husband Francois Graff, whom she divorced in 2003 and won a £10m settlement in the split.

She has been linked to a host of Hollywood stars since, including Paris Hilton’s ex-boyfriend Paris Latsis and actor Val Kilmer.

The holiday continues…

Daphne and Zeta are Bag ladies! (Er, Jimmy Choo bag ladies, darling!)

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:18:38 +0000

In celebs-ville you’re no one until you’ve had a high fashwan handbag named after you – just look at the lovely Jane and her Birkin and that Chung kid and her Mulberry ‘Alexa’ – so congratulations Daphne Guinness (left) and Zeta Graff (right), you have officially made it!

Jimmy Choo’s Tamara Mellon has named two of her coveted arm candies after the socialites – a gorgeous silver clutch after Zeta and a fashtastic neon and leopard print number after Daphne – and I have just two words: I WANT.

Jimmy Choo never fails when it comes to accessories and I’m sure the brand’s countless A-list fans like Kylie, SJP and Keira would agree.

Now what do I have to do to get a bag named after little old me? The ‘Helen’ has a nice ring to it…

Cat Deeley: “I Haven’t Got The X Factor”

Sean Borg — Mon, 10 May 2010 14:57:41 +0000

Dear ol’ Cat Deeley answered the question on everybody’s lips on Saturday night, as she revealed she didn’t have a job (as yet) judging the X Factor when it starts here in America next year.

The stunning telly host arrived at an event in Hollywood to celebrate her good friend Matthew Williamson, who was being named ‘Designer Of The Year’, as part of BritWeek.

All sorts of rumors have been flying around since Simon Cowell announced he was quitting American Idol to launch X Factor in the US, with former Girls Aloud singer Cheryl Cole apparently being one of Si’s favorites.

But singer Sinitta let slip recently that Cowell was considering a number of big names, including Mariah Carey. She said: “It’s amazing that so many people want to do it… it’s huge. Everybody is up for it, Mariah… ok I’m not saying anymore!”

But Cat certainly didn’t rule out the possibility of being part of the new show, she said: “You never know, providing I’m not chatting to someone else.” Oo-er, what could she mean by that?

Well, I think Cat DOES have the ‘X Factor ‘ and would make a great judge, but when you think that she’s up against the likes of Mariah, Gaga and even Madonna’s name has been whispered in my ear a few times, you can see why she might have her doubts…

However, Tinseltown has been kind to Deeley so far, so you NEVER know!

Other guests included, Jewelry designer Zeta Graff, Lord Frederick Windsor and Lady Sophia Windsor, actress Jacqueline Bisset… Oh, and me…

BritWeek is an annual celebration of British people and business’ contribution to the Californian economy.

Elton’s Oscar Bash Raises Tons of Cash!

Sean Borg — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:58:25 +0000

How quickly Oscars came around this year. It seemed I’d only just taken off my tuxedo in 2009, then BAM! It was back on again in 2010 for the best party in town – Elton John’s AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Party held at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood.

This year the event raised a staggering $3.9 Million for the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Presented by Chopard, Jo and Raffy Manoukian and Neuro Drinks, the EJAF Viewing Party continues to be the leading fundraiser on Oscar night in Hollywood.

The couple’s bash has become a staple for all those without an invite to the ceremony itself and this year’s guest list read like a ‘who’s who’ to the entertainment world’s biggest names, and one of the best parties thrown by the EJAF so far (still no goodie bag however, but you can’t have everything I suppose, eh David!)

I arrived with my trademark date, the stunning diamond beauty, Zeta Graff, and the evening began with a cocktail reception, dinner and viewing of the 82nd Annual Academy Awards, followed by a very exciting live auction and a high voltage performance by the iconic Grace Jones.

“I’m so blown away this year, it’s fantastic,” Elton said. “It’s our stable fundraiser for the whole year, this is by far the most important, it gets us the most publicity and it raises the most money.

“It’s hard work because you have to walk around shaking hands with everyone but when we go home and it’s all finished we’ve met people and we’ve seen great entertainment close up.”

Drawing out quite a few of our favorite celebrities, Victoria Beckham and Heidi Klum were spotted looking as elegant as ever – even Victoria (who I often label Vic-bore-ria) was far from boring when she grabbed me and gave a big hug as she exited the ladies loos, “Sean!” she yelled… “How are you? I’m a bit drunk so no photos!” OK, so Posh is back in my good books!

Not far behind the beautiful models were “Glee” co-stars Lea Michele and Cory Monteith, followed by a brunette Hayden Panettiere.

Representing the Brits this year were the likes of recently engaged Simon Cowell who was glued to his foxy fiancé Mezhgan Hussainy all night, Mel B, fashion designer Julia Clancey, Amanda Holden, Michelle Collins, Katie Price, and Sharon and Kelly Osbourne who stopped to have her picture taken with me. Kelly was one of my favorites of the evening to be honest, beaming from cheek to cheek. She told me that she was feeling on top of the world, and who could blame her, you only have to look at the transformation she has undergone – quite unbelievable.

Nicole Richie made her way into the swanky party along with Kimora Lee, Christina Hendricks, Michelle Rodriguez and the very lovely Jennifer Hudson who also stopped to chat to me, Jennifer told me she happy when she heard Simon [Cowell] was engaged: “I am so happy he is finally settling down,” she told me.

Miley Cyrus also hit the party with Liam Hemsworth. Cyrus finally confirmed what we already knew, that Liam was her official boyfriend, and Miley told the press at the event, “I think we’re both deeper than normal people—what they think and how they feel. He’s very grateful for what he has, but he doesn’t let it go to his head. I’m like that too.” How sweet!

It was a long day! Fabulous food, lots of chocolates and wall-to-wall celebs… I could have stayed all night and kipped (slang word for slept) in the corner till morning, but thankfully sometime just after midnight I was rescued by dear friends, British actor Craig Young and Michael Di Girolamo who dragged me into their chauffeured limo!

What fun was had, my gorgeous ‘Graff’ date, my photo with Elton, Kelly Osborne’s super-slim waist, Posh and Price all smiles, Godiva chocolates, and nearly $4 mil’ raised for charity… Ah, now I can rest my weary head, it was a night well worth it, roll-on next year!

Bling it on, Zeta!

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 21:47:11 +0000

The new decade is already off to a glittering start for Hollywood-based gem designer Zeta Graff, who has celebs clamoring to borrow diamonds from her for the upcoming Golden Globes ceremony. Come January 17th stars will be dripping with Bobby Dazzlers on the red carpet and Zeta’s pieces are already in high demand.

The Greek-born Brit’s ZG line has been tipped as a serious up-and-comer in the jewellery world for 2010 and has already been spotted on Hollywood hotties like supermodel, Hilary Rhoda and Meg Ryan as well as the gorgeous Mila Kunis who appears in ZG’s ad campaign. If that wasn’t enough Zeta’s A-list friends have come out to support her and I’ve heard whispers that Brett Ratner – the heavyweight behind the X-Men trilogy (thank you Brett for discovering Hugh Jackman’s inner Wolverine!) – will shoot an ad campaign.

However, one thing Zeta – already a familiar name to most diamond fans as the ex-wife of Francios Graff, is quick to point out, she is no threat to the billion dollar Graff diamond dynasty she was once part of. She says, “My former father-in-law is one of the biggest jewellers in the world. He doesn’t worry about my company,” she laughs.

And to prove it even further, she’s deliberately avoided bringing her famous surname into her branding because she doesn’t want to capitalise on the Graff reputation. “The pieces speak for themselves,” she told me, “I want the focus to be on design and quality.” And may we say her hot and hip line is a triumph.

Her capsule collection is priced between $2000 and $100,000 and exclusive available at Maxfield in West Hollywood and let’s face it, who wouldn’t love to find one of her baubles under the Chrissy tree this year? Her signature piece is an uber-glam disco ball covered in white, grey and black diamonds, which would make any bling lover very happy this festive season. Yes boyfriends, that’s a hint on behalf of your ladies!

The ZG collection is available exclusively at Maxfield 8825 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (310) 274-8800.

Holmes Is Where The Yang Is!

Sean Borg — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:41:05 +0000

OK, So now I am an official member of the Katie Holmes fan club…

Last night I attended the launch party for Holmes & Yang where the 30-year-old actress along with her co-designer – celebrity stylist Jeanne Yang, presented their “premium designer” line that goes on sale exclusively at Maxfield in Los Angeles this fall.

Katie’s other half Tom Cruise’s was a no-show at the event due to work commitments, but that certainly didn’t dampen the night, giving Holmes a chance to shine alone.

I managed to grab a few minutes with the utterly charming actress who told me that she has always had a passion for fashion. She said, “Suri was my inspiration, she loves dressing up so I decided to launch this exciting venture with Jeanne Yang.”

Holmes & Yang dazzled Tinseltown’s fashionistas and the and the duo were congratulated by the likes of Nip Tuck’s Sanaa Lathan, singer Alanis Morissette and diamond designer Zeta Graff – who’s stunning jewelry also happens to be on sale exclusively at the high-end store.

Katie’s style evolution is largely thanks to Yang, and the pair are clearly taking their working relationship to the next level. Holmes told guests, “After watching Suri playing “dress-up” I approached Yang with the idea to launch a collection.”

Though the events attendees were kitted out in the highest of fashion themselves, Katie decided to dress down for the event. As celebrities and socialites paraded around the store clutching their Channel bags, decked out in top-notch designer labels, Katie, though still looking sophisticated, opted for a more casual look dressed in trendy black leggings and an ivory chiffon-style blouse from her own collection, but she still managed to out-sparkle most of her guests.

Holmes & Yang’s stunning collection, are a mix of cream, dark blue and black crepe and silk dresses, minimalist jumpsuits and elegant bomber jackets. Katie added, “Some of the clothes are made to order in versions which I hope will suit the individuals lifestyle.”

I absolutely love their taste and reckon Holmes & Yang are sure to make their mark in the world of fashion, however, Katie was quick to point out to me that this project won’t be clashing with her first love – acting, she said, “I’ve just finished a movie this summer which I am as proud of as I am this collection”.

The highlight of the night for me of course was at the end, as I sauntered over to Katie to say my goodbyes and to wish her luck with her new venture, she politely responded, “Thanks Sean, Thank you for coming.”

Wow, she remembered my name, now that girl definitely has class!

The Holmes & Yang collection is available exclusively at Maxfield 8825 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (310) 274-8800‎

The Oscars: Sir Elton John’s Goodie Bag’s GONE!

Sean Borg — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 04:24:07 +0000

Sir Elton John and David Furnish hosted their annual extravagant Oscar party with a glittering guest list of Brit’ stars who turned up in their finery, including Kate Beckinsale, Zeta Graff, Simon Cowell, Terri Seymour, Gordon Ramsay, Katie Price, Victoria Beckham, oh and me…

Elton’s bashes have become legendary over the years, and this one was no exception, as he arrived at the soirée, Sir Elton said there was “no way” he worried about paring down the party in light of global economic woes. He told reporters, “We give them the best that they can possibly afford.” And yes, the tickets for this lavish ‘do’ are a little bit on the pricey side at $3,500-dollars (that’s £2,400) but there were no visible signs of the credit crunch attacking this fancy fund-raiser held at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, well apart from not having the usual ‘packed to the brim’ goodie bag to take home at end of the night that is, but all in all spirits were high and this 2009 Oscars celebration was as chic and as star-studded as always.

While they watched the televised Oscars ceremony guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and a five-course dinner prepared by Los Angeles chef Wayne Elias, which kicked off with a seasonal salad with smoked scamorza, pomegranate reduction and tarragon vinaigrette. Fiery chef, Gordon Ramsay when asked if he would be checking out the food, Ramsay joked: “You really don’t come here to eat, do you.”

Out of all the stars in attendance I was particularly happy to see model Katie Price, aka Jordan with her ‘hot’ pop star husband Peter Andre in tow, the sexy star appeared looking gorgeous wearing in a long, black Lloyd Klein gown and completely upstaging her nemisis, the pathetically skinny and miserable faced Victoria Beckham.

I spotted the (in my opinion) talentless ‘former’ Spice Girl running around with her ‘lap dog’ minder and I couldn’t resist asking him why his boss needed a security guard at an event such as this, it was a charity do after all and not open to general public, full of respectable people most of which have more money [and class] than Victoria Beckham. Yet there she was swanning around like she was Hollywood royalty with her ‘pug’ nose in air ignoring all reporters – did she even know what this event actually stood for? I wonder! At one point I was so tempted to say “Honey just drop the act and be nice it doesn’t take much!”, but I didn’t and besides I was enjoying Jordan and Peter’s company way too much to be ‘bothered with Beckham’, Jordan and Peter are a much more fun and down to earth couple who I think totally deserve a break in Hollywood and something tells me it could well be on its way.

Simon Cowell’s ex-girlfried, the very tasty Terri Seymour and actress Zeta Graff were deciding whether or not to spend their millions at the auction on two tickets to the Vanity Fair party later that night, the exotic beauties have become best chums of late, or so I’m told and have been spotted out on the town at quite a few parties during Oscar week, I even caught Simon’s suspicious eye scanning the room a few times, wondering where Terri was at, perhaps? Thankfully however, the girls were outbid by a more eager guest, so they didn’t get to waste their hard earned cash on a couple of silly party tickets, I mean, they were already at the best one, how much more could those girls want!

Well I am sure we all agree that Elton John certainly knows how to throw a party, this being my FIFTH ‘EJAF’ event and one in particular that raises awareness for a cause very close to my heart, which is why I like this one more than all the others and I have to say [for me] it was the best I had attended so far.

Elton told me he hoped this year’s would be as successful. He said: “We need that money because we have to give it to people who desperately need it.”

I’m told last year this event raised a record 5.1 million dollars (£3.5 million) and this year wasn’t far behind as David Furnish tells his friends on FACEBOOK he is “absolutely over the moon that we managed to raise $4 million last night!!”.

Well, this event had a fantastic energy so I’m not surprised they did so well, everywhere you looked there was a smile on someone’s face – maybe it had something with Hugh Jackman’s remarkable presentaion at the Oscars or that Sean Penn had won in the ‘Best Actor’ catagory for MILK, but whatever it was this felt like it was somewhere you just wanted to be, even though I was looking forward to the goodie bag and my Elton John candle the end – but then you can’t have everything I suppose, can ya’ loves!

Berggruen’s Blowout Bash!

Sean Borg — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:45:42 +0000

Nicolas Berggruen, is a 46 year-old ‘homeless’ billionaire (or so the story goes) and a familiar figure in New York, Paris, and London society.

Berggruen hosts this particular lavish ‘blowout bash’ annually. He has his own billion-dollar business called Berggruen Holdings and is a son of the late Heinz Berggruen, one of the most successful international art dealers of the 20th century.

So there I was another night at another party, however I was rather looking forward to this one as it was actually tipped to be one of the best in town, but Er… sadly it was not, well, not this year anyway…

The party was held at one of my favorite spots in town, the legendary Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, inviting over 500. His guest list is considered one of the great mixes for Hollywood – pretty people, celebrities, sexy girls, power players ‘forward slash’, Er… lots of old men.

“This one isn’t as good as last years,” were the words spouting from one guests mouth, “it looks more like a brothel tonight with lots of trashy woman and old men, very odd.” Another was overheard saying, “What a very strange crowd indeed. A lot of extremely rich, short men and lots of young girls in very short dresses, wannabe actresses perhaps?” Well come on this is Hollywood after all, though I have to agree the celeb count this year was rather low, though I thought I saw that scruffy little actor, Jared Leto running around somewhere, but that was about it.

I did however spy two very classy ladies, diamond divas Zeta Graff and Loree Rodkin who were parked in a cozy corner avoiding the pushy overcrowded walkways. Rodkin told me how thrilled see was that Michelle Obama had worn her jewelry at the president’s inauguration day, she said, “I am going down in history, the jewelry will be on show at the Smithsonian [Institution].”

Zeta also has a few things to look forward to, the model/actress tells me she is in the planning stages of launching her very own jewelry collection later this year and she was just happening to be wearing some her stunning ‘bling’, waving her wrist at me with a $100,000 bracelet on it, she said, “I designed this, do you like it!” Admittedly it was a beautiful piece, but then Graff always had taste so I have no doubt in my mind that Zeta has finally found her calling, good luck ‘ZG’!

Time to grab my carriage I think, I’d had enough by midnight… The smell of cigarette smoke in the air and the taste of champagne were finally getting to me. Reports in tell me the party went on just past 2am – quite late for L.A really, but I have to say, this party was not one of my favorites - then there’s always next year, eh Mr. Berggruen!