Letter from the Editor

When Marilyn Monroe declared that “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” most of us didn’t put up a fuss. Madonna called herself a “Material Girl” and we sang right along, and we’ve been “Ballin’,” “Big Pimpin’” and so on ever since. But we shouldn’t be mad at the music. The values espoused in the art are merely a reflection of our culture.

In a world where net worth and self worth often seem synonymous, is it possible to appreciate the finer things in life without being considered shallow or elitist? I’m gonna go out on a platinum-plated limb and say “yes” – and here’s why.

The difference between the Mona Lisa and a chalkboard stick-figure drawing isn’t just the price tag – it’s the artisanship. In my opinion, the cost and value of a piece of fine art, gourmet food or a limited edition automobile says much more about the craftsman who created the object than it does about the patron who purchased it. The finer things in life don’t come cheap – and deservedly so.

With that said, we’re proud to present our April “Finer Things” issue – an aspirational celebration of some of the very best things that life has to offer!

Our signature “Finer Things” features will give you insight into the world’s most luxurious cars and handbags, as well as expert advice on how to transform your living space into a chic destination worthy of a black tie affair!

Our “Fashion & Beauty” section will give you an inside look at some of Los Angeles’ most stunning couture as recently featured on the runways of LA Style Week and LA Fashion Weekend. And our “Purse Strings” feature will offer some insider tips on how you can build the wealth you’ve always wanted.

This month’s cover story is a salute to the reigning queens of country music and includes an exciting playlist of some of their current hits. Carrie Underwood, Martina McBride, Miranda Lambert and more will share the spotlight at this month’s Country Music Awards, so it only makes sense that they’d share the cover of Wiles, as well!

The late great Margaret Thatcher once said, “It is not the creation of wealth that is wrong, but the love of money for its own sake.”  The aspiring-to-be-great Teryl Warren agrees, by saying, “There’s nothing wrong with wanting to own nice things.  The trick is not letting those nice things own you.”