Tova's Hollywood gossip
With her handsome Hollywood actor husband on her arm, Tova Borgnine has graced the star-studded red carpets. Well known for her beauty range, she has just launched her own Diamonique jewellery collection. She tells us some of her own personal stories from Hollywood's most glamorous era, from dancing with Fred Astaire to a very special blind date, and chats to us about her new collection.
"I kept pinching myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming!"
What was your most memorable red carpet moment?
I have been so blessed to be on the red carpet of the Oscars and the Golden Globes several times. One of the most meaningful times was the year my husband Ernest presented one of the awards. Being a presenter or nominee makes you the centre of attention by the press and we were with Gregory Peck and his wife Veronique. Next to me was Oprah Winfrey and behind us were Kirk and Anne Douglas. I kept pinching myself to make sure that I wasn't dreaming.
'Fred Astaire asked me if I would like to dance...!'
Which celebrity has left you the most star struck?
Fred Astaire. It was the premiere of 'Towering Inferno' and for the gala dinner following the screening we were seated with the stars of the film. To my right was Bill Holden, and to my left were Fred Astaire, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward. Next to Ernie was Jennifer Jones. I felt as if I had gone to Hollywood heaven.
When the dancing began, Fred Astaire asked me if I would like to dance (can you imagine what was going through my mind)! My legs turned to rubber and before I knew it I was transported into every Astaire and Ginger Rogers film. I have this memory tucked away in my heart and I am still in awe of Fred Astaire.
'We knew something was about to happen...'
We heard that you met your husband Ernest Borgnine on a blind date. Tell us about it!
Ernie and I were a true blind date. He was going through a very rough divorce and I was completely immersed in my business. Neither of us wanted to get into a relationship. However, when we were introduced at the birthday party of the famous American comedian, Marty Allen, we knew something was about to happen.
He drove me back to my hotel and brought me to the elevator (this was still the time when great hotels had elevator operators). I was inside the elevator smiling as broadly as I could and Ernie was saying that he had a lovely evening, shaking my hand at the same time.
Naturally I did not want the operator woman to close the door of the elevator so I hinted to her by gently putting my heel over her shoe, never loosing eye contact with Ernie. With that, Ernie blurted out that he would love to see me again. The rest is history, so never look at a blind date as negative, you never know!
Tova has also just launched her new Diamonique jewellery collection, inspired by the romance of Hollywood. She tells us her inspiration behind her designs and what they can offer women who want to add a touch of Hollywood glamour to their everyday lives...
Describe your jewellery collection. What inspired you to design it?
From my early childhood I have been enthralled by all forms of jewellery. My inspiration comes from pieces that I have been fortunate enough to own. Some have been given to me by my mother and family and others from my travels around the world.
Whether it is a ring, pin, brooch or enhancer, the cut of the stone and the setting make all the difference; with Diamonique all this is possible. The clarity of the stones is the closest to a perfect diamond.
My collection can be worn by women that love to feel special, whether you are a woman that stays at home or are constantly on the run with work and play. This collection will get you compliments and most importantly 'you' will feel glamorous, beautiful and special.
Which items of jewellery could you not live without?
'The dimensional heart'
This timeless piece brings joy to me whenever I wear it. The central heart-shaped stone drops from the centre, giving a feeling of a perfect raindrop shining brightly. I recently wore this in my hair for a film festival in Italy and everyone wanted it.
'Mother's art deco bracelet'
This magnificent bracelet is full of glamour and timeless beauty. My father gave it to my mother on their wedding day and we have recreated it with all the beauty of her original; it looks just like an heirloom.
'The perfect ring'
I wanted to capture the first time I saw the blue grotto in Capri, (the island off the Amalfi coast of Italy). The icy blue colour of this ring reflects the blue of the grotto. This ring sits in a setting that is elevated in beautiful gold filigree with ruby Diamonique stones. I wear this ring now on my right hand almost everyday.
