Power 30 Essentials

Power 30 essentials are those items a mastermind must have to look the part. They don’t necessary deem one powerful, but they definitely show the level of access one has achieved on their climb to bigger, bolder and better things. Here are a few classic items that top our list for summer 2009.

The Watch

Beyond the cars of the future and the bodyguards, one must be at the top of their clothing game and it all starts with the wrist paraphernalia. For the men, the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Steel watches are heavy hitters. If color is on your radar, the 18kt yellow gold case will beam beyond the sun, an added value for engaging steady onlookers.

For the ladies, timepiece selections often cost more, especially when considering the Hublot Big Bang watch, which features 114 diamonds in rose gold casing. ...Time never looked so good.

The Gear

This summer top-notch personal attire begins with classic fit polos from Ralph Lauren in an array of colors. Start off with the best, the cotton mesh flag polo in dark blue, black or yellow. Add collegiate-style cardigans or Black Label blazers atop to add the precision necessary for a total polished look. Fellas shouldn’t shy away from chinos in white or khaki by Lauren or Joseph Abboud, or a crisp suit from Ozwald Boateng. But be sure to finish the look with leather or alligator skin belts in 2009.

A woman of power can rest easy in Ralph Lauren Blue Label dresses such as the Rosa Chambray or Rachel Poplin shirt-dresses. They offer sophisticated simplicity with no need to go overboard. Dip out in other designer pieces as well, like DKNY’s twill corset or chiffon sleeveless dress. For a more sleek approach, try on Costume Nationale’s white, low cut dress that you can wear for a midsummer gathering in the Hamptons, or on a yacht getaway to the Isles of Scilly.

The Whip

When arriving on time is the only option, the premier vehicle worthy of trust is the zero to sixty miles per hour (under 4 seconds) roadster, the Ferrari California. With its 7-speed dual clutch transmission and folding metal roof, this unreleased masterpiece will serve its purpose well and in style. But you must leave the entourage behind for this 2-seater gem.

The Private Plane

One can’t fathom making big moves without a proper mode of transportation from here to there. How about an all-weather, high-speed aircraft powered by two Rolls Royce turbo fan engines? Yes, a private jet is a luxury that key power players often seek, but only a few of the heavyweights can actually afford. Try reaching this summit if you can.

The Yacht

And what about those days when land and air are just not suitable? Try the 115’ Pershing luxury yacht. With two sundecks, a master cabin suite, plus six guest cabins, a media room, a dinette and a private study/lounge, one can invite a few other power couples (fits up to 22 people total) to join in on the adventure out on the deep blue sea. But aside from being spacious, this award-winning water cruiser is ultra modern and looks smooth when you’re trying to skate from the paparrazi.

The Shoes

Even if stepping out on a boat is not in the forecast, being prepared is the key to the success of your shoe game. And the only shoes fit for any classic occasion are… the Gucci leather loafers, which seem to never go out of style. Choose according to your level of comfort: Guccisima for suits and the Horsebit for walks along the boardwalk.

But, if laid back is more your speed, try the special edition Sperry Topsiders boat shoes, which now even come in suede. Sneaker pimps should go Ye all day, either the Louis Vuitton X Kanye West Velcro kicks or the new edition Air Yeezys.

Ladies, this summer’s power essentials may not be made for walking because it’s all about Louis. From the Spicy sandal in red all the way to the slider — think the LV Oxford shoe, Louis Vuitton will keep your feet pampered. But don't sleep on Chanel’s cowboy boot, it may soon take over the gladiator lane come fall.

The Shades

Whether or not you’re on the guest list for the next Russell Simmons' charity event, stunner shades are the ultimate power essential. And you can rock a different pair each day! For the classic quirky look, go hard for Ray Ban’s classic Wayfarer or the Oakley Gascan. If you want to go for classic cool with a supreme touch of bling, try the Louis Vuitton’s Millionaire sunglasses, specifically the 2005 or 2007 editions custom designed by Pharrell Williams (and not the Rick Ross kind). Ladies can go incognito with the Burberry Crystal Grey, the oversized Dior Diorissima or the Roberto Cavalli oversized iconic circular Logo shades. But the hottest stunners of them all are the unisex Rex Shield shades in gold by Tom Ford. Priceless. —— Melissa Enaje