According to David Lauren, Moscow is the new Hansel:
"It's the hottest place in the world right now"

For the busy professionals in Moscow who read Russia Blog (and quite a few do, judging by the bump in our weekday traffic during lunchtime in the city), here's another video to watch while you sip your $8 café au lait at Coffee Haus.

Vogue TV recently covered Ralph Lauren personally opening two new stores in Moscow, including one location featuring 8,000 square feet of merchandise and the largest accessory department in the entire chain. A reception for the venerable fashion designer and his hundred person entourage was held at the American Ambassador's residence.

Moscow has yet to claim the top spot for IPOs worldwide (London still ranks first in this category), but it is making a strong push for becoming a global center of bling-bling and outrageous parties. Think of it as L.A., but with worse traffic jams, convenient access to skiing in the winter and even more expensive real estate.