Haute and the City

Due to the overwhelming popularity of the Haute and the City “How To Dress Like a Tourist” guide, we’ve decided to help you summer travelers out with a handy list of pointers for style while visiting New York this summer.

Traveling in the massively uncomfortable heat of summer can be particularly brutal in NY, so please enjoy the following list of summer fashion essentials you’ll need in NYC:

Running Shoe

There’s no denying it: New York City requires a lot of walking. So why not equip your feet with the best money can buy? Plus, you can use them for your marathon training.

OR…

Crocs!

Although we wouldn’t know, apparently these things shoes are extremely comfortable. As you can see, they have randomly placed holes, apparently designed for ventilation in those hot summer months. Jazz it up while you’re in NY, though; go for a splash of color like you see above.

Unnecessarily Long Socks

We  never really understood the trend of shorts and long socks. If you’re wearing shorts, certainly it’s hot enough to keep your ankles warm?

Cargo Shorts

Like the fanny pack, the large pockets on cargo shorts come in handy for the storage of tourism-friendly nick-knacks. Camo appears to be very ‘in’ right now.

Your Brand New ‘I [Heart] NY’ T-Shirt

New Yorkers are very impressed by I Love NY t-shirts. That’s why we wear them to the gym. These are best paired with foam Statue of Liberty crowns.

A Paparazzi-Style Camera

Nothing says, “Rob me! I’m slightly lost and outside my comfort zone!” like a several-thousand dollar camera hanging around your neck.

A Sensible Hat

For the sun. Ideally, choose a style and color that doesn’t match anything you’re wearing.

CROAKIES!

You never know when one of us psycho New Yorkers will make a snatch at your new Chinatown sunglasses, so secure them with ultra-cute croakies, “eyewear retainers” designed for skiers.

Please note: We have nothing but love and respect for the tourists who bring millions of dollars of business to NYC each year. This post is intended as good-natured humor, just like how tourists poke fun at us for cursing you out for getting in the way as you admire our landmarks (you do find that endearing, right??).

Check out our last post, Luxury + Glamour + Danger = k2o by Karen Ko.

fanny pack

In a city full of people, it’s not uncommon to find yourself with a weekend full of birthday parties to attend. On one particularly busy weekend of birthday bashes, I attended the birthday fiesta for entertainment and fashion maven Misti Schindele (editor in chief of Entertainista and contributor at KENTON Magazine).

Misti’s celebration was hosted by SoHo lounge and restaurant, Lair. Lair’s excellent location (201 Lafayette Street at Kenmare Street), elegant décor and strong cocktails make it an ideal spot for drinks and a bite to eat without being too over the top.

Although I arrived to the celebration on a full stomach, I couldn’t help indulge in a nibble or two of Lair’s dry aged black angus beef dumplings and splashes of Maid In The Cave (Hibiki 12-year whiskey, ginger-infused agave, muddled cucumbers & club soda), both of which are beyond delicious.

If Sex & the City were still being filmed today, there’s no doubt Samantha would throw a drink in someone’s face or the four girls would gab over Cosmos at Lair.

I didn’t sample the bone marrow dish, but I heard it was to die for!

If you are in need of a new spot to have a nice drink before hitting the town or need a good post-work place, check out Lair!

Disclosure: the food and drinks were provided free of charge for the purposes of review.

cocktail dress

I’ve loved candles for as long as I can remember.

A long time ago, I appreciated candles for their soft light and subtle fragrances. Lately, I’ve found a sense of comfort in lighting candles and curling up with a good book or a candle-lit shower at the end of the day.

If you haven’t gotten to enjoy NEST Fragrances yet, you are missing out on a premium luxury experience. Here are three must-have candles from NEST Fragrances to check out:

Bamboo

I keep this light and fresh-smelling candle in my bathroom for candle-lit showers at the end of the day. It contains essence of bamboo, white florals, sparkling citrus and fresh green accords (I have no idea what any of that means, but trust me, it smells good). Red wine + this candle’s soothing light + shower = anti-stress win for this busy publicist. Available at Bloomingdale’s.

Wild Oats + Bourbon

Scents of wild oats, mandarin orange and bourbon were combine to make this candle’s fragrance, which is by far my favorite from NEST. The exotic combination of fragrances in this candle evoke a sense of comfort (which is why I keep it in my living room).

Moroccan Amber

Moroccan Amber is the perfect candle for summer nights. The scents involved in this guy include moroccan amber, sweet patchouli, heliotrope, bergamot accented and a hint of eucalyptus (a scent known for it’s relaxation properties). I highly recommend burning this candle before bed!

You can find NEST Fragrances (which includes a variety of products, including candles, reed diffusers, soaps, etc.) at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and several online boutiques. I also highly recommend following the super fun and chatty NEST Fragrances Twitter account!

NEST Fragrances

As busy publicist and blogger, things like staying organized sometimes evade my grasp.

To the point of this disaster:

Look at how horrified puppy Nathan is. He’s even confiscated a few escaped socks.

This disaster zone includes: Marc by Marc Jacobs wallet, Bridesmaids movie ticket, charity raffle ticket, Ben Sherman tie, Urban Outfitters hat and hoodie, H+M and American Apparel shirts, college hat, Coach wallet, laptop case strap, deodorant, three tote bags (two from fashion week), VIP card to the Kim Crawford bar at NYFW, various business cards, bag of fragrance samples from MiN New York, Voss glass full of change, three CHRISHABANA necklaces and 13 pairs of sunglasses.

With a delayed onset of spring cleaning inspiration, I went to work.

Want to see how I fared?

A bit more organized, no?

We’re left with a just a few items, including leather flowers by Brahmin and a ‘Moroccan Amber’ candle by Nest Fragrances.

John Derian soap dish, CHRISHABANA necklace, Kilian ‘Back to Black’ fragrance + keys.

If you keep your place organized, you’ll find a lot of other things in your life seem to fall into place!

Disclosure: certain items were given to me for the purposes of review and/or coverage. These items include fragrances from MiN New York, candle from Nest Fragrances, Brahmin leather flowers via the Vogue Influencers Network and John Derian soap dish via Ink + Roses. AND I LOVE THEM ALL.

It. Is. Hot.

Like, really hot. So-hot-I-can’t-believe-I-have-to-wear-clothes hot.

You catch my drift. But seriously, anyone who has experienced the baking heat of a NYC summer knows that it is an (uncomfortably sweaty) mess like no other.

So, it’s no wonder that you can’t throw a stone in NYC after June 1st without hitting five guys in tank tops. Instead of getting jealous of their breezy attire (or getting Botox under your arms to prevent sweat, let me guide you with these great options for a cooler summer wardrobe:

ASOS Racerback Dropped Armhole Tank (Blue)

This tank top is a perfect pick for the really hot summer days (i.e. the entirety of August). With the curved racer back, dropped armholes and relaxed fit, it’s ideal for letting the rare breeze hit you. Plus, I really like this color.

Zanerobe ‘Fleet’ Trim Fit Tank

If you’re adding tank tops to your wardrobe, light stripes are a staple.

DRKSHDW By Rick Owens Basic Tank

Need something a little more off-the-beaten-path? Rick Owens is the man for you boys who demand high fashion, even in the sweltering weather of summer. TIP: Save your dark-colored tank tops for the clubs. You’ll cook wearing black during the day.

MARC BY MARC JACOBS ‘Bernie’ Trim Fit Tank

Nautical stripes seem to be an essential of summer, even in the city. Instead of going with a traditional nautical theme, try something a bit more fun, like this multi-color Marc Jacobs option.

On a budget? Fear not, friends!

Another major trend for the summer tank is the DIY tank. I recently tried to do this and failed miserably, so I will leave you with this YouTube tank-cutting expert to explain:

tank top

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love sunglasses. At last count, there were somewhere around 20 pairs of sunglasses in my collection.

With summer around the corner, I’m itching for a new pair of sunglasses.

I know, I know. I have a problem.

Here are some of my top picks for a new pair of sunglasses:

Ray-Ban Aviator Large Metal

A gold spin on the classic.

Tom Ford Martine

I. love. Tom. Ford.

Ray-Ban Club Masters

Ok, so I already own these. But they’re hot.

Ray-Ban Limited Edition Wayfarers

One of the most beloved sunglasses styles in history, remixed.

Prada Caravan Sunglasses

I’ve wanted these for years.

Sunglasses, the beach, margaritas… What are you guys looking forward to this summer?

sunglasses

Still on a gift guide hangover from the Haute and the City Holiday Gift Guide, I decided to consult my friend, Doug Mayorga, for some suggestions. Definitely some fun stuff in here if you’re strapped for V-Day ideas!

Girls

Calvin Klein Envy with a Twist Fire Red Tailored Demi Bra

Calvin Klein Envy with a Twist Fire Red Lace Thong

Tyler: Fun, festive and sexy, this Calvin Klein bra and thong set are sure to get your hearts pumping this Valentine’s Day!

Hanky Panky Metallic Zebra Midrise Thong

Tyler: Red not your thing? Hanky Panky provides this lacy little number for those ladies who like to look sexy in black.

Belstaff® leather bomber jacket

Doug: This jacket has a crazy sexy silhouette and with its cropped body, it feels more playful and slightly elevated. She can dress this up with a nice cocktail dress and heels, or she can dress it down with jeans and leather boots and a tee. The options are limitless, but the buttery soft leather gets even softer over time with each wearing. Belstaff was founded in Staffordshire England in 1924 and has been in the weatherproofing industry ever since. They are responsible for some incredibly amazing jacket styles for both men and women that have lasted the test of time and trend alike. The Phoenix emblem symbolizes the company’s rise from its own ashes as new management took over, which means they are heavily invested in their heritage and history and you-the customer.

ZEFFIRA “Heart” Natural Horn Pendant Blonde And Swarovski Necklace

Tyler: Ok, so I may be biased here (ZEFFIRA is one of my clients), but come one, this necklace is gorgeous. Handmade from blond buffalo horn and perfectly-set Swarovski crystals, this heart is a one-of-a-kind piece that she’ll love for years.

Christian Louboutin Glittered Latticework Platform

Tyler: Men know that nothing is sexier than seeing his lady rock some heels. While you can almost never go wrong with that brown Louboutin box, these glittery heels are especially fun, given the light-hearted nature of the holiday.

Dior J’Adore Pret-A-Porte Gift Set

Doug: You know the commercials: the sexy and sultry Charlize Theron has got her cat- and power-walk on, stripping off the jewels, her ethereal gown and declaring this as her scent. This is a nice balance of scents that is sure to tantalize your sniffer and be a tease! Remember there are key points to apply (wrists and collarbone ladies nothing else), plus it means ‘I love’-and who doesn’t wanna smell like love?!

Guys

Alexander McQueen Catacomb Boxer

Tyler: I know ladies love to see their men in Calvin Klein boxers, but maybe compromise with your guy and give him something a bit more bad-ass. Plus, you’ll still love seeing him wear it.

2xist Valentine Contour Pouch Brief

Tyler: If you want to keep it festive with black and red, try these Valentine’s briefs from our friends at 2(x)ist.

Chrishabana Silver And Gunmetal Triangle Necklace

Tyler: Honestly, just because Valentine’s Day is pretty much all about women’s jewelry, men deserve some bling, too!

Art of Shaving Power Shave Set

Doug: Nothing is quite like a good morning shave, and what better then with a real big boy set of shaving utensils! It’s high time that men got back in to the habit of grooming themselves!  This is a nice compact set that has everything including an authentic badger hair brush for the old school cool guy inside each of us!

Supercar Driving Tour

Doug: You can register for your own private day driving five of the worlds most exotic super cars–from Ferarri to Lamborghini.  This gift is definitely for lovers-since you would have to love someone to spend this much money on them! For a mere $1,695 you get to spend 20-30 minutes behind the wheel of each car, touring a planned track where you switch cars at certain check points. You get trained in driving from world class drivers from each company. This is just seriously the most amazing thing in the world if you ask me! This would win me over in a heartbeat (paying attention suitors?!).

Doug Mayorga is a 23-year-old Bostonian currently working towards becoming the next thing in fashion. His interests include his friends, family, cars (in case you didn’t notice!), fashion and dissecting the sartorial conundrums that plague our modern society.

With office dress codes becoming more and more flexible as time goes on, the temptation to opt for more comfortable (aka “less professional”) attire becomes even more tantalizing.

While I’m sure you feel wonderful in your high-waisted baggy jeans, over-sized cotton button-up and Nikes, it’s time to get it together.

If not for you, then for your career.

Let’s start by incorporating these five elements into your professional wardrobe so you look less like an office drone with no personality and more like the cut-throat, merciless businessperson we all know you are.

Office-Appropriate Jeans

Prada dark blue button fly slim leg jeans

With jeans running amuck, “Casual Friday” can turn into the most horrifying thing that happens to your eyes all week. It’s time to slim it down – so get a pair of dark, slim-fit jeans. What do you need all that extra space for anyway? Are you storing office supplies in there?

A Grey Cardigan

ROBERTO COLLINA Cardigan

Grey is probably the most awesome color there is. It matches pretty much everything, can be casual or formal and looks good on most people. So get into it.

A Tweed Jacket

Selected Tweed Jacket With Tartan Lining

Pair your new pair of dark, slim fit jeans with a slim-fit button-up shirt and a lovely tweed jacket, like the one seen above.

A Navy Slim Fit Jacket

Alfani RED Jacket, Navy Solid Slim Fit

Another professional wardrobe staple is the navy jacket. It will look lovely with your new jeans or a nice pair of slim wool pants.

A Classy Work Bag

Jack Spade York Tote

It’s time to carry your lunch and office papers in something a bit nicer than a grocery bag or a backpack. Keep it simple, sleek and not too flashy (you can never go wrong with Jack Spade).

Moral of the story: don’t get lazy at work.

There comes a time in every New Yorker’s life when a non-New Yorker comes to visit. Inevitably, the non-New Yorker will ask the question that all New Yorkers dread:

Do I look like a tourist?

Why do the New York tourists fear looking like a tourist so much? I mean, besides the fact that we judge them.

Really, I think it’s high time for tourists to embrace their touristy nature: walk slowly and not in straight lines during rush hour, frequent the “hip” boutiques (like the Ugg store) and, of course, dress the part!

The first thing you’ll need as a NYC tourist is:

A Good-Quality Running Shoe

Mizuno ‘Wave Inspire 7′ Running Shoe – Nordstrom

NYC requires a LOT of walking, so who cares what’s on your feet, as long as you’re cozy?! A nice running shoe looks amazing with jeans. Plus, you never know when you’ll need to sprint away from the homeless. This is NYC, after all.

Because it’s winter, you’ll also need to make sure you’re bundled up, so be sure to bring your:

Winter Coat Designed for the Arctic Tundra

Listen, those wind tunnels are nasty; you never know when you’ll be blown over by the breath of Father Christmas himself. [Editor's note: this coat is probably not good enough, so perhaps try layering two]

A Fake Designer Scarf You Just Bought in Chinatown

Since it’s cold, be sure to wrap up in a fancy(ish) new scarf that you got in the back room on Canal St. or from the nice black garbage bag of a friendly street vendor. Never mind that New Yorkers can smell a fake designer ANYTHING a mile away, a faux Burberry scarf is generally the way to go.

The Largest Backpack You Can Find

When you’re out all day in NYC, you never know what you’ll need, so better safe than sorry. A backpack the size of your grown child will certainly hold your tissues, emergency snacks, four changes of clothes, awesome NY memorabilia and the fake purse you got on Canal St. No need for pesky stops at the hotel!

And, of course (perhaps most importantly), do not forget your:

Fanny Pack

For your backpack overflow. Go with a fancier style; you’re in NYC.

Happy sight-seeing!

Please note: We have nothing but love and respect for the tourists who bring millions of dollars of business to NYC each year. This post is intended as good-natured humor, just like how tourists poke fun at us for being so bitchy and aggressive (you do find that endearing, right??).

It’s official: 2010 is over. Snooki didn’t drop in a ball like a hamster (too bad- we were looking forward to that one), but the year did indeed change.

In an homage to 2010 (Haute and the City‘s first year), check out the most popular Haute and the City posts of 2010!

10. Social Media Marketing Example: Chanel

I was glad to see one of my social media/public relations posts made it to the top! I will be finishing the series soon.

9. Giant Knitted Scarves

Hey, I’m glad you guys like them, too.

8. 6 Things I Learned from Anna Wintour in The September Issue

This was the very first post I wrote for Haute and the City, before it even launched. I remember going to Barnes & Noble and buying The September Issue the day it came out to write this post.

7. Wardrobe Watch: Kurt Hummel | ‘Theatricality’

We love Glee.

6. Christian Louboutin Men’s Fall/Winter 2010 Footwear Collection

Obviously.

5. Wardrobe Watch: Kurt Hummel | ‘Laryngitis’

So… more Glee posts?

4. Interview: Gregory Gorgeous

He was so fun. Also, someone lands on this interview after Googling “Where does Gregory Gorgeous live?” almost daily. Creepy.

3. Mercedes-Benz NY Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2011

Getting ready for our 2nd fashion week!!

2. Interview: Jason Scarlatti of 2(x)ist

This interview was great. Also, quasi-naked men seem to excite you little demons.

1. Lady Gaga’s Top Five Monster Ball Costumes

I almost didn’t write this post, but just did it for fun. Glad everyone liked it!

So, I’m curious, what was your favorite Haute and the City post of 2010???