Battle Holiday Market: Union Square v. Bryant Park

As the shopping frenzy escalates during the last few weeks of the holiday season, we may only have time to hit a few more destinations. When deciding which holiday market reigns supreme, consider the following:

	Union Square	Bryant Park
Décor	Ramshackle candy cane old-world charm	Manicured (sometimes heated) glass-enclosed mini-shops
Ambience	Crowded…but surrounding neighborhoods not as crowded as midtown	Crowded…free ice-skating on hand
Environs	Downtown, more locals congregating nearby	Midtown Christmas-land, more tourists touring
Merchandise Selection	Better and more interesting merchandise, including: glass ornaments and a variety of jewelry	More generic merchandise, with a wider variety of clothing and more big names food-wise

And the champion is

Union Square

What gives

Union Square

the edge? Their locally sourced interesting gift offerings set in an adorably confusing labyrinth of stalls that, just for the moment, transports you to a European market on a balmy winter’s day...Happy Holidays!!

Flowers, Feathers, and Faux Pas - New York Botanical Garden Winter Wonderland Ball

Vintage dresses, with the cream-colored gown dating from the 1950s.

Designer Chris Benz in the center.

Feathers!!

Beautiful beading

Last night we attended a New York high Society fête at the New York Botanical Garden's Winter Wonderland Ball. The pastoral setting sparkled, as did many of the guests. With the dress code being "winter white and black," we were intrigued to see if this look (particularly the white) could be succesfully accomplished. Oh we of little faith! With a few exceptions, most gowns were Cinderella-worthy. As seen above, feathers and fur were the among the themes of the evening, which seemed appropriate, the ladies like elegant doves and minks of the garden.

Unlike those mingling and laughing throughout the gardens, StyleShifter and StyleShifter Junior lack years of training amongst the elite, meaning that the evening was spotted with both triumphs and a few gaffs. Luckily, the only  memorable faux pas were cleverly timed with one at the start and the other towards the end. Early on in the event, as StyleShifter posed for some photogs, the renowned Bill Cunningham of the New York Times approached with his camera! StyleShifter forgot her sultry smolder, and grinned widely, striking pose after pose enthusiastically. Mr. Cunningham took two steps forward with his notepad, and turned to the entirely unaware duo sipping cocktails to StyleShifter's right, asking them for their names! A dream delayed, but no matter, we bravely soldiered on, achieving a small success when Mr. Cunningham snapped a candid of StyleShifter Junior later in the evening (now we await tomorrow's paper to check if it made it into his montage).  As the night drew near to its end, we were presented with an entree surrounded by a red sauce. Seems like someone in the kitchen has a sense of humor given the many signature cocktails served by this point and the abundant white garb! Naturally, there came a point when red sauce united with white outfit, although we shall spare you all the gory details. After shimmying on the dance floor with some socialites, it was time to bid farewell before our carriage turned into a pumpkin.

For more info, see http://www.nybg.org/ - annual holiday train show running until mid-January.

Letters to Haiti - An evening to benefit LakayPAM

           

          Some of the models in attendance, including Coco, Behati,

           Karlie, and Hilary Rhoda.

                                                                                                                                            

Fashionable luminaries convened last night at Milk Gallery for an evening hosted by Coco Rocha to Benefit LakayPAM. At every turn, the whitewashed gallery walls were offset by the glow of groups of models interspersed with designers. Coco herself seemed to emanate light as she floated throughout the room, pleasantly chatting with guests (with her mom looking on with pride). The definitive sign that Coco had achieved her goal occurred moments before the premiere of her husband James Conran’s “Letters to Haiti.” With the lights dimming, Karlie Kloss stepped her elegant foot into the lobby, greeting some expectant attendees at the foot of the lobby stairs. In the well-founded fear that the movie might begin before Karlie entered, posed for the press, and joined Coco in the front row, a fellow guest hissed to those in earshot “Will Karlie get in here, can’t she see Coco’s trying to save the world?!” Well done Coco, Mission Accomplished.

The movie itself was moving, with heart-swelling instrumentals accompanying scenes of devastation and vibrant orphans (all of which are up for adoption) sent to the mountains of Haiti. These feelings were mirrored in the photos up for auction, taken by Behati Prinsloo on her trip to Haiti with Coco, which is the subject of “Letters to Haiti.” LakayPAM (“my home” in Creole) is a non-profit that help poor abandoned and orphaned children, ranging from newborn to 10 years old. For more information, check out http://www.lakaypam.org.

 

Designer Zac Posen

Dolce Vista - Falling into Winter

Farewell fall.

If today's gloomy weather has you bemoaning winter's looming onset, take a moment to reminisce about the sunny day of old (a/k/a Sunday). Behold above the last fall garb shot of the season - an homage to headwear, our favorite fall trend. We admire the stylishly simple combination of maxi skirt and casually knotted denim button down. The best part, though, is the mixture of cowboy hat and fedora, lending a surprisingly feminine flair to two typically masculine accessories. And with that, we are off in search of something glittery to buy for a lucky girl's stocking!

Avoiding a Blue Christmas by Glamming up for the Holidays

Once again, the season is upon us for holiday parties galore. What to wear, you inquire? We’re glad you asked…

Color. We love to shake up the monotony with a wildly bright frock in the dead of winter. See Timo Weiland’s silk blue creations dotted with yellow and red for inspiration.

Sequins and sparkle. This is ideal for the inevitable party where you will run into an ex, at which time, should others selfishly fail to do so, you can and must triumphantly proclaim that you are “en fuego.” => Foley & Corinna version

Taffeta + Red

= the red taffeta party dress. Ideal for a 5 year old, you say? Indeed not, when paired with heels, patterned stockings, or some carefully curated bling. Also, you can shift this style based upon your mood to create a totally new look, while wearing the same dress to multiple events. => Foley & Corinna version

Winter floral + Velvet

= the dark velvet floral dress...just in case the other options are a bit too flashy for your taste. We are not normally a fan of the winter floral, but throw it on some velvet and we suddenly find our rose-covered arm reaching for the eggnog. Just make sure you are wearing a suitably dark color (preferably navy blue or hunter green).

The gist of the story is - have fun! This is the one time of year when you can get away with the most over the top looks, whatever that means for you - whether it is huge costume jewelry and glitter-covered pumps or a simple black dress with bright red lipstick.

The Art of the Sample Sale...Ten Tips to Live by while Sample Sale-ing This Holiday Season

                                            

Pictured above: Rebecca Minkoff Affair bag - purchased after the

rare and wonderful convergence of the following principles.

1.       For those most coveted and rare items, be the first to arrive on the first  day. Wait on line. Bring a sleeping bag. Whatever it takes. Recommended for: Hermès sale.

2.       For well-stocked sales, on the other hand, prepare your strategy in advance (i.e. glean the layout of the room, merchandise available, and pricing from recaps online). Recommended for: Hanky Panky sale.

3.       Wear comfortable shoes – you never know whether you will have to climb three flights of stairs in a shady Lower East Side building (true story), dash across the room in a mad race to the last pair of Louboutins, or weather the elements in an unexpectedly long line. Recommended for: everywhere except the David Yurman sale.

4.       Prepare to strip without shame in order to try on clothes…in the aisles, along the walls, anywhere you can precariously balance your wares. Alternatively, wear leggings and a camisole over which you can pull on items. Recommended for: Foley & Corinna sale (should, if the heavens so ordain, they have another).

5.       If you like it…correction: if you think you might possibly ever maybe kind of like it –grab it. You can always discard something, but you can’t always find it. Recommended for: everywhere.

6.       Stalk others in order to snatch up their cast-offs if you must. Be persistently shadow-like while maintaining a semblance of dignity. Recommended for: Dolce Vita sale.

7.       Always ask about the man behind the curtain. No, the unlabeled box you spy is not simply the droopy makings of a future cardboard fort, but instead usually contains a treasure trove of extra merchandise. Recommended for: Andrew Marc sale.

8.       Know your brands. As with Fashion Week, the original and best concept of the sample sale is to sell one season ahead – beware and shun those crafty brands disposing of sometimes seasons-old material.  Recommend for: well, you know who you are.

9.       Try to refrain from physical violence. Recommended for: Barney’s Warehouse Sale.

10.   Bring a friend...but make it a good friend who, like a spouse, swears to stand by you for better or worse, for we all know the emotional rollercoaster involved. Recommended for: everywhere.

Post-sale protocol: When gifting items purchased at sample sales to others, do not…DO NOT…announce its origin. Rather, bask in the ever-so-chic glow behind your Tom Fords.

Follow these rules and you will achieve our gift to you – it is that zen-like quality, that Nirvana, that sudden clarity, that secretly gloating grin – it is…the Shopper’s High.

Blue Logan Exhibition Takes Flight at Improvd

Over the past few months, Improvd glammed up their Meatpacking flagship with sketches by UK fashion illustrator Blue Logan (centerpiece pictured above). The exhibition concluded last week. In an homage to self, Improvd exhibited pieces inspired by their striking SS 2012 presentation. 

While enjoying free cocktails, we browsed through Improvd’s latest offerings, which include some of the most interesting and understated sparkle of the season (i.e.  black glittering hip-skimming cardigans and gold jumpsuits). The brand’s designer, Valentino Vettori, was also present, mingling in his characteristically charming and unassuming way.

The ladies of Improvd

We were tipped off to an upcoming Gilt City event that is taking place on November 30^th. Among the goodies offered will be a 20% discount on in-store purchases.  After recovering from Thanksgiving’s glut of canned cranberries, discounts on already “affordable avant garde couture” sound like the perfect way to kick off a happy holiday!

StyleShifter's coverage of Improvd’s SS 2012 presentation here and here. 

Gotham Beauty

Natural embellishment.

Deep fried turkeys aside, we're increasingly reaping the benefits of putting organic and healthy food into our bodies. On that note, why not do the same on our bodies?

That's where Gotham Beauty comes in. They are a recently launched online retailer offering exclusively natural products. Currently, they offer selected products from 8 brands, with an expert team vetting each line. At the moment we are trying out the Suki jump-start kit, and can already feel the difference. Instead of harsh chemicals on the skin, the products include ingredients such as organic lemon, vitamin C, and sage extract. We will update with the progess of the regimen after another week or so. 

After all, with sparkles and glitter galore trending for this holiday season's party apparel, we want our skin to be as radiant as our attire! 

For more info - http://www.gotham-beauty.com/

Dealalert:

Creative Time's Flaming Youth Fall Ball

In a whirlwind of Bohemian opulence, Creative Time's "Flaming Youth" fall ball took place last night. Here is a sampling of the stylish crowd:

Lovely combination of two fall trends - black and white polka dots and hats!

 

Turbans!

k2o by Karen Ko spiked anklets, worn as bracelets here!



Vintage red beaded dress from Daha Vintage on Orchard Street.

Dolce Vista - Ombre Obsessed

Ombre obsessed.

Skinny jeans, step aside. Wide leg pants are in vogue this season, although our obsession with headwear seems to be more widely shared. Still, wide leg pants are a stylish (and comfortable) option for both casual and dressy occasions. We love the elongated effect created by this high-waisted patterned version paired with the platformed heels. The colors in the pants are also a cute complementary nod to ombre hair. We're pairing some simple taupe Halston Heritage wide leg pants with a crop sweater, stepping into platform wedges, and hitting the town!

k2o by Karen Ko - All that Sparkles

With the holiday season upon us, we crave all that sparkles! And that leads us to k2o by Karen Ko, a jewelry line featuring expertly crafted statement pieces. As we toured the showroom, loving everything, it was like Christmas had come early! Perhaps a custom design is in order...Karen Ko, the charming designer, will work with you to create an individualized piece if you so choose. Here is a taste of what you will find:

We love k2o's versatility! Worn as an armband above, the Avant Rock spike set can also be worn as an anklet, automatically glamourizing any footwear (see below). We are also more than slightly obsessed with the Avant Rock harness, which can be worn in a variety of ways.

The Diag Armor line includes more statement pieces, with necklaces draping down both front and back. 

 

The Mod Ball rings are the perfect holiday accessory with their sparkling mass of handwoven Swarovski crystals!

 

For those looking for elegant earrings to cascade down, brushing your shoulders, the Disco Fringe earrings are a great option.

Info:

http://www.k2obykarenko.com/

 info@k2obykarenko.com

...or find k20 on Facebook and Twitter!

Gagosian Gallery - The Private Collection of Robert Rauschenberg

To those on a quest for fresh sartorial inspiration, we recommend a trip to the Gagosian Gallery.  At last night's opening reception for the Private Collection of Robert Rauschenberg, our senses were delightfully assailed by creative genius from the moment we entered the first of three floors encompassed by this exhibition.

We literally stood transfixed for an undetermined period of time before one wall, eyes shifting from James Rosenquist's winding Spaghetti to John Chamberlain's Untitled bright twisting steel, finally resting upon Andy Warhol's Gem, which gently sparkles with diamond dust. (Yes - diamond dust! Can we get Formichetti to use diamond dust on something please?!)

A few floors below, Mario Schifano's Untitled works put us in mind of color palettes to use in creating a fun mod outfit.

Robert Whitman's Shower drew the biggest crowd, as we spied a film of a woman showering, which played behind the wavy translucent plastic curtain of a running shower.

Styling Caveat: To those aspiring to join the artistic elite, it appears that capes (albeit of varying shapes and colors) are the outerwear of choice at the moment.

For more info:

The Private Collection of Robert Rauschenberg

November 3 - December 23, 2011

980 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10075
T. 212.744.2313 F. 212.710.3825
newyork@gagosian.com
Hours: Tue–Sat 10–6

  http://www.gagosian.com/exhibitions/2011-11-03_the-private-collection-of-robert-rauschenberg/

To contact the gallery at newyork@gagosian.com or at +212.744.2313.

Halloween...

Belles of the Ball.

There is no better way to commence Halloween festivities than with a masquerade! Our friend above is masked perfection. Her feathered headpiece complements the rather Venetian H&M (H&M always surprises us with hidden gems!) dress. The best part, though, are the vintage black gloves!

This coquette-tress is dashing in a white dress made and designed by her own hand! If the sultry corseted top is any sign of the corsetry at Sin & Satin, where Jasmine (pictured above) is a couturier, then we want some!

Dolce Vista - Serendipitous Spikes

Serendipitous spikes.

While we enjoy the simple black ensemble paired with a mustard cap, we really stopped this innocent pedestrian because of the accessory. Is there anything better than a purple bag? Yes - and that would be a purple bag with squishy purple spikes. We were informed that the bag came from a children's store in Williamsburg. A few days later, as if the heavens had ordained that we too obtain this bag (and perhaps they had), we walked by Babesta in Tribeca and spotted it in the window!

Madame Matovu - West Village Vintage

On a mid-afternoon stroll through our much-beloved West Village, we stumbled upon Madame Matovu, a vintage boutique nestled into West 10th Street (in other words - bliss within bliss). We were greeted warmly by the owner, Rosemary, who adds to the charm of the place. Among the exceptional selection were Dior and Hermes scarves, '80s bombers, and a gold YSL top. Surrounded by the elegant artwork on the walls and the clothing and accessories draped throughout the store, one feels as if she is happily browsing through the closet of an elegant lady.

In the photo of the storefront, we see a portrait of the lady who represents Madame Matovu. Rosemary first eyed this portrait on a postcard that she picked up in France. She saved the postcard, with the dream that she would use it if she ever opened her own business.

Well, as we learned in Cinderella, the dream that you wish for can come true...

Madame Matovu
240 West 10th Street
212-255-2811

Dolce Vista - Sydney Style

Sydney Style.

We move from the funfetti explosion to a more subdued yet casually stylish ensemble. Immediately we were drawn to the unique take on headwear with the fedora-cowboy hat offspring. It all made sense when we learned that our subject is a Sydney resident visiting New York City. Also, it appears red jeans are trending, perhaps it is time to pick some up from Kate Middleton's denim company of choice, J Brand.

Dolce Vista - I scream, you scream, we all scream for clothing!

Two scoops of funfetti explosion, please.

We transition from Sunday's vibrant shout-out to summer to an impish wink its way. Our ice-cream toting subject makes every part of this look her own. Perhaps the only thing better than a Power Rangers tee would be Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles...but we digress. The skirt is H&M, but the lace was added personally by the lady behind the mysterious butterfly shades. And we certainly can't leave you without a mental high five for the gold Nike kicks - perfect for trekking about the city.

Dolce Vista - Bowlers and Bobs

Bowlers and bobs.

Well hello again summer, at least for one beautiful October weekend. The city was abuzz this weekend as we all soaked in the unseasonably warm rays. This meant, of course, that we were spoilt for street style choice, all of which will be posted throughout the upcoming week. We start the week with an appropriately vibrant shout-out to summer.

Where to begin? We love this from head to toe. We could wax lyrical about this pink button down paired with the shorts/tights combo, but it really stands firmly and wonderfully on its own. Most exciting are the complement of the pale pink sunglasses. And, while we were already in search of headwear, bowler is now officially added to the list. May we all look so effortlessly Euro-New York City-chic!

Milan Fashion Week, Prada Spring/Summer 2012 - Fashion Inferno!

Flaming footwear lit up the runway at Prada's Spring/Summer 2012 show, dubbed Donna e Motori (Women and Cars). With the standout collection still on our mind, we happened upon this blown glass goblet at the New York Museum of Arts and Design. It seemed particularly fitting to be reminded of Prada by a blown glass work, since both are two areas of Italian craftmanship. As always, we adore the convergence of fashion and art!   

Amor, ch'a nullo amato amar perdona,
mi prese del costui piacer sì forte,
che, come vedi, ancor non m'abbandona.

                                                       

                                   -Dante's Inferno

Dolce Vista - West Village Mona Lisa

West Village Mona Lisa.

Although this outfit is (literally) beige, there is a certain je ne sais quoi about it creating that heady rush of inspiration sought by creatives everywhere.

Perhaps it is the wink at a cape. Perhaps it is the headwear, which we all know is the accoutrement of the moment. Then again, perhaps it is the attitude, a much more elusive accessory...

An Evening at L.E.S. Runway

In a cozy space on Norfolk street, we nestled into our seats and eagerly anticipated the night's show. Last night, L.E.S. Runway staged Best in Show, featuring the work of New Form Perspective and Visantine Collective. L.E.S. Runway presented a fun concept over the past few weeks, hosting fashion shows by night and selling the work of these designers by day in a pop-up shop at the very same space. We enjoyed the presentations from these emerging designers, and hope to see them return next fall!

 

New Form Perspective at L.E.S. Runway. Models trod barefoot down the intimate runway while demonstrating the various ways to wear this versatile knitwear.

 

Visantine Collective at L.E.S. Runway

Cheryl Carr-Maleh, our lovely host for the evening

Dolce Vista on the Lower East Side

Equestrian chic.

On an ambiguously misty day in September, one hardly knows what to wear. That is, of course, unless it is a loose-fitting sweatshirt-tee hybrid paired with sandy-colored skinny jeans. Knee high boots befit the occasion as well, although perhaps more so had they been color-coordinated with the purse. An even more intriguing option would be to ditch the bag and take this look from equestrian chic to downtown cool with a dash of color from a bright neon Cambridge Satchel.

Dolce Vista in Nolita

Bonnie and Clyde à la mode.

We met this fashionable couple during a weekend jaunt to Nolita. Our red-haired Lolita perfectly rebels from the deceptively sweet vintage floral by boldly donning a studded black bag. Of couse, we need to give a shout-out to her arm candy also, who looks far too cool for school with his expertly-chosen shades and modified members only jacket.

Dolce Vista at Rebecca Taylor

Fashion at the feast.

In a pleasantly uncomfortable state after one too many zeppole at the San Gennaro Festival, we took a break from the feast to pop into the nearby Rebecca Taylor shop. Among the reasons that we count this designer among our much-beloved are her classic silhouettes with a flirty feminine twist. Above we see the lovely ladies of Rebecca Taylor in her designs - thanks to these girls for always making an alreday fun shopping experience even more enjoyable! Well, we're off to throw on our new "Runway Colorblock Coat," featuring tweed to the waist and fur below! 

Rebecca Taylor
260 Mott St. (and various other locations)

Dolce Vista by meg shops

Self-expression at St. Marks Square.

Spotted outside meg's 9th St. store on this balmy Monday afternoon. We were taken by the Lennon-esque sunglasses and general nonchalance. There seems to be a case of the forgotten pants, though.

Cuore Di Moda presents...meg

 individuality

understated feminine allure

                                               clean

timeless



quality 

On a jaunt to one of meg's shops, you are likely to come upon eponymous owner Meghan Kinney. The East Village store was her literally her first home base, where she both lived and designed. As the brand grew, though, meg expanded to Williamsburg and to her native Canada. A visitor to the shop is guaranteed personal attention in choosing a unique piece that she can wear for years. In fact, meg or one of her few trusted assistants will tailor the clothes on site. When we last visited, Maria made the final measurements for a customer on a smoky blue one-shouldered dress to wear to a wedding in Nice. We were equally covetous of both the dress and the event! These feelings were soon happily assuaged when we walked out with our own meg ensemble.

meg

www.megshops.com

312 E. 9th St (between 1st and 2nd Avenues) - Manhattan

54 N. 6th St. - Williamsburg

849 Queens Street West - Toronto