Bring on summer with stylish white outfits

by citychickstyle // June 9, 2017 // 463 Comments

I crave summer weather. Summer dresses make me happy and one of my favorite colors to wear all season long is white. It’s a color that’s classy, polished, and matches with so many things. You just can’t go wrong with white styles. If you’re looking for playful, chic go-to styles in this color, here are two looks by TOBI that would work perfectly.

My first look, the Kate Boss Flare Dress, is a creative mix of a traditional style with a playful twist. I love how it has 8 buttons at the top that you can mess around with, for either a subtle or more striking baby-doll type style. The mini skater skirt is cute and flattering without being too short. It’s designed from a very lightweight cotton fabric and goes well with a black cross-body bag. It also pairs perfectly with crystal earrings and rose gold bracelets. White wedge sandals also go nicely with this look. This dress is perfect for brunch or a rooftop soiree.

Dress: TOBI, Purse: Gigi New York, Shoes: VIONIC, Jewelry: Swarovski, 7 Charming Sisters, and Shore Projects, Sunglasses: OAKLEY

My second look, the Got My Attention Midi Dress, is a sexy style with just the right amount of cut-outs. I like how it slightly shows off the midriff and has a high slit for an eye-catching style. It also has a partially open back and flatters your curves. The dress goes perfectly with crystal hoop earrings and a bright clutch (I went with an orange one and then a green one). It also pairs nicely with white heeled sandals for an elegant touch and to make you look taller.

I’ll definitely be wearing these dresses all throughout the summer season. They’re fun, flirty, and stylish. What will your go-to styles be for summertime? Let me know!

Dress: TOBI, Clutch: Rosetti (Orange) Brahmin (Green), Shoes: Aerosoles, Jewelry: 7 Charming Sisters and Shore Projects, Sunglasses: Salvatore Ferragamo

All photos by Shawn Punch

*This post is sponsored by TOBI. Thanks to the brand for sending me these fabulous dresses!

Lovage Rooftop NYC: A unparalleled rooftop experience

by citychickstyle // June 5, 2017 // 206 Comments

The nightlife scene in NYC has a classy newcomer! It’s called Lovage Rooftop NYC, a 37 stories high rooftop bar and lounge in Midtown West. It has 360 degree views of the city, covering Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Freedom Tower, the Hudson River, and the Empire Stare Building. I went there recently for cocktails and dinner, and loved it. The waitresses are attentive and friendly, and the venue itself is quite spacious. The glass roof, the comfortable couches, and the classy lighting are impressive. The venue also plays a lively mix of current Top 40 tunes. It’s a great place to start and end the evening.
An evening always starts off well with a nice lineup of cocktails. No problem with that at Lovage Rooftop NYC! We ordered the Kiwi Kolada, the Caribbean Cosmo, the Hula Hurricane, the Havana Daiquiri, the Mahalo, and the Cancun Swizzle. The first 3 cocktails are sweet and light while the last 3 are more robust and smoky. The cocktail menu is certainly innovative and offers something for everyone.
Next up, we ordered small plates from the venue’s newly launch food menu. We started off with a tomato flatbread and french fries. Both dishes tasted so fresh and flavorful. Then, we ordered chicken bites and oxtail tacos. They packed the perfect mix of crunch and meat. Michelin-famed Chef Alex Wise has done an incredible job with this eclectic menu!
Lovage Rooftop NYC is located at 350 West 40th Street and is open Sunday-Wednesday from 5PM-2AM and Thursday-Saturday from 5PM-4AM. This is one rooftop that should definitely be on your radar!

Staycation at DoubleTree by Hilton Times Square West

by citychickstyle // June 1, 2017 // 213 Comments

Recently, I did a staycation at DoubleTree by Hilton Times Square West. Located at 350 West 40th Street, it’s the perfect hotel for proximity to Times Square and Hell’s Kitchen. The lobby has a very art deco feel with theater-inspired artwork and lighting. The 37-story hotel has 612 rooms along with a state-of the art fitness center, meeting and banquet facilities, and a business center.

When I checked in, I received a warm DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookie, a signature element for the hotel brand, along with a candy tray as a special welcome. My room included a king-size bed, a small sofa, a closet, a work station, a flat screen TV, and a modern bathroom with Crabtree & Evelyn products. It also had theater-inspired photographs on the wall and a coffee maker. It’s certainly a comfortable setup. I love how new the furniture and decor looks. The hotel just joined the Times Square area in February 2017.

Additionally, the staff is attentive, both at the front desk and in the housekeeping area. Everyone is helpful and ready to assist you with any questions or needs that you might have. It’s a nice addition to the Times Square area for tourists and locals alike. My weekend staycation experience was definitely enjoyable!

Ecco Domani celebrates summer with artistic flare

by citychickstyle // May 31, 2017 // 130 Comments

Ecco Domani is kicking off summer in classy style! The brand, known for its line of high quality wines, has a new limited edition designer label for its Pinot Grigio. It partnered with Christian Siriano to create a fun, chic label. I attended the launch event at The Pavilion in Union Square where the label was unveiled. The label features a beautiful palm-leaf design decked out in bright pink and green. Christian drew inspiration from Palm Springs glamour in the 1960s and he even used these colors in his 2016 resort collection. The design is innovative, contemporary, and embodies a summer spirit.

As a way of embracing that summer essence, guests enjoyed some fun components at the event. We got to try the brand’s Pinot Grigio in a refreshing cocktail called The Palm Spring Spritz (featuring Cappelletti, orange bitters, sparkling water and an orchid garnish). We also got to enjoy photo opps in front of a lush floral wall, inspired by Palm Spring soirees. Lastly, Christian Siriano surprised us with a colorful fashion show that he put together. Models playfully walked through the venue wearing styles from Siriano’s Resort 2016 collection, fanning themselves and holding Ecco Domani bottles. I loved the show- the clothes tied in nicely with the spirit of the designer label. Summer vibes were in full force throughout the room!

Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio Summer 2017 Designer Label will be available in stores June 2017. Be sure to pick up this refreshing, beautifully designed Pinot Grigio bottle for your next summer soiree!

Champagne celebrations with G.H. Mumm

by citychickstyle // May 22, 2017 // 572 Comments

A few weeks ago, I was invited to enjoy champagne G.H Mumm’s Kentucky Derby Celebration. It was an incredible soiree hosted by Usain Bolt, the brand’s new Chief Entertainment Officer. Other guests included Nina Agdal, Mario Cantone, Sean Kilpatrick, and Chanel Iman (I had so much fun taking selfies with her!) Chelsea Leyland was the DJ at the event- always a pleasure seeing her. Everyone enjoyed glasses of G.H. Mumm as well as specialty cocktails called the G.H. Mumm Trifecta, the G.H. Mumm Julep, and the G.H. Mumm Fruit Cup. We even got to witness Usain Bolt kicking off the festivities with a champagne fountain pour.

Bolt showed a kind and positive spirit at the event. He took photos with everyone who wanted to do so and danced the night away at the DJ booth. Usain has an impressive perseverance and unconventional nature that ties in well with the G.H. Mumm brand. He conveyed a lot of excitement for the Derby race as well.

We all watched the race with anxious anticipation- some rooting for Always Dreaming, others rooting for McCraken and Classic Empire. Although we chose different horses and Always Dreaming was the winner, there were two things everyone could agree on: G.H. Mumm holds prestige in the champagne category and knows how to throw a party. What an invigorating celebration!

A showcase of travel trends at DoubleTree by Hilton Times Square West

by citychickstyle // May 12, 2017 // 119 Comments

DoubleTree by Hilton Times Square West is a great new venue for hosting events. The newly opened hotel recently hosted a travel press event for media outlets to discover what’s hot in travel wear and gear from premier brands. I got to check out products from French Sole, Karen Neuburger, Columbia, Under Armour, Ladaska Mechelle, Bogobrush, and JLEW Bags. The hotel’s downstairs meeting space was perfect for the event with its spaciousness and ample lighting.

Here are highlights from the travel press event. French Sole NY has a great assortment of comfortable flats in beautiful prints and vibrant colors. Karen Neuburger carries soft, stylish sleepwear and loungewear. Columbia has a great lineup of outerwear and activewear. Under Armour features an impressive collection of sunglasses that are modern and durable. Ladaska Mechelle carries luxury swimwear that’s customizable for various body types. Bogobrush is a biodegradable toothbrush with a one for one model. JLEW carries versatile bags that effortlessly go from work bags to gym bags. Such a fascinating and functional lineup of brands!

DoubleTree by Hilton Times Square West will continue to host fun activations throughout the year. Coming up on May 15, for National Cookie Day, the, the hotel will be handing out their famous warm DoubleTree Cookies in their outdoor atrium located at 350 West 40th Street hotel between 2PM and 4PM. Everyone is welcome! If you attend, you’ll have a chance to guess at how many chocolate chips are in their cookie jar… The person with the closest guess will get a complimentary 1 night stay and a copy of DoubleTree’s Cookie Cookbook “We Have Cookies: Taste the World of DoubleTree by Hilton.” Don’t miss out!

Art and fashion: Showcasing the ‘Art of the In-Between’

by citychickstyle // May 12, 2017 // 416 Comments

Art and fashion have always had a fascinating dynamic. Rei Kawakubo, Creative Director of Comme des Garçons (“Like some boys”) enjoys playing with this concept. Her collections go beyond conventional realms and embrace an innovative, artistic vision that’s unparalleled. At the press preview for her latest exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between, this vision shined. The exhibit looks at abstract, hybrid, and ambiguous concepts within the multi-layered world of fashion. Nine dual spaces appear in this exhibit: absence/presence; design/ not design; fashion/anti-fashion; model/multiple; high/low, then/now; self/other; object/subject; and clothes/not clothes. Rei aims to connect these “in-between” spaces and develop new possibilities.

The press preview’s speakers examined this connectivity and limitlessness:

Kawakubo “pushes the boundaries of design to create a new aesthetic vocabulary.”- Thomas P. Campbell, Director of The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Rei excels at “celebrating playfulness within a rigid formality.” -Caroline Kennedy, Former US Ambassador to Japan

She believes that “the body has no bounds and that the potential of clothing is limitless.”-Andrew Bolton, Head Curator of The Costume Institute

Their praise and passion for Rei’s work is impressive. They understand and look up to her creative genius, her ability to work with art and fashion, and her talent at breaking barriers.

Her exhibit is truly unlike any other I’ve even seen. It’s divided up into well-lit spaces where you can get up close to the designs. You get to interact with them. I like how the clothes are ambiguous and unusual yet beautiful and captivating in such an impactful way. They have the power of changing or expanding your perspective on fashion and its intersection with art.

Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between is on view at the museum until September 4. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Macy’s Summer 2017: Sizzling fashion and entertaining ideas

by citychickstyle // May 7, 2017 // 441 Comments

Macy’s is certainly heating things up for the summer! I checked out some of the brand’s offerings for the upcoming season and love how there’s something for everyone! For women, there a number of great designer collections such as INC Popsicle with an assortment of tops, pants, and dresses. There’s also a 40-piece capsule collection called CR by Cynthia Rowley. It just dropped on the Macy’s app on May 1, has started to trickle online, and will be available at 149 stores on May 15. I’m excited about the floral, off-the shoulder, color pop, pom-pom, and bomber jacket trends.

For men, there are a lot of vibrant prints from Tommy Hilfiger, Tommy Bahama, and Polo Ralph Lauren, among many other brands. This trend carries through polos, shorts, and swimwear. I love how you can mix the prints with something solid for a perfect summer look. Men’s shoes are polished with a nice selection of moccasins and loafers from brands such as Alfani, Calvin Klein, and Kenneth Cole Reaction. You’ll also be seeing a great selection of watches, jewelry, and other accessories.

For home and entertaining, get ready to host soirees in style! Macy’s has an amazing selection of drinkware with a fruit theme. I also really like the chips and salsa bowls and ice cream accessories. Another one of my favorite entertaining items is the Martha Stewart Picnic Basket. Some other cool items include a Himalayan Salt Plate, a Grilled Cheese Basket, and a 4-Piece Marinade and Serving Tray Set.

Most of these items are already available online and in-store. The remaining items will be available by the end of the month. I’m ecstatic about all of these collections. Be sure to check them out!

International Vision Expo Press Preview: Impressive eyewear trends that pop

by citychickstyle // April 28, 2017 // 1424 Comments

I recently attended this year’s International Vision Expo Press Preview at The Crowne Plaza in Times Square, learning about so many cool trends in eyewear! Some key trends are angular frames, contemporary cateyes, ombre effects, heavy embellishments, frame cutouts, sharp geometric shapes, double outlines, and sporty colorful frames. The trends toward 90 minimalist looks and urban detailing are also having their moments. I’m really excited about oval-shaped and colorful, iridescent frames! I also love the shift to lightweight glasses that are easy to store on the go. Additionally, I’m impressed with the focus on detailing on the both the side arms and the end pieces of the glasses that are inspired by jewelry, fashion, and other style trends.

After learning about these key trends, I browsed and tried on these trending styles from a whole showcase of brands. These brands included TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear, Judith Leiber Couture, Marcolin Eyewear, Coco & Breezy Eyewear, MODO, Tura Eyewear, Jonathan Adler, Zylowear, and so many more. Check out the styles I liked the most from the International Vision Expo Press Preview down below!

Judith Leiber Couture Eyewear highlights rhinestone accents and cat eye frames.

Zylowear focuses on painted detailing, cateye frames, and geometric frames.

MODO showcases lightweight frames and the double outline feature.

TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear highlights the double outline, a play on colors, and cat eye frames.

Marcolin Eyewear manages a number of eyewear brands such as Guess, Moncler, Swarovski. There’s a focus on geometric frames, lightweight frames, and rounded frames.

De Rigo REM manages Jonathan Adler and John Varvatos, among a slew of other eyewear brands. Rounded frames, double outlines, side arm detailing take center stage.

Tura Eyewear focuses on painted detailing, rounded frames, and double outlines.

Coco Breezy Eyewear is all about vibrant colors, geometric frames, and rounded frames.

Mel’s Burger Bar: A neighborhood joint that delivers on brews and flavors

by citychickstyle // April 23, 2017 // 559 Comments

Looking for a great neighborhood joint? Then, Mel’s Burger Bar will be your new go-to spot. With a selection of over 50 beers, 18 burgers, and 18 non-alcoholic and alcoholic milkshakes, this neighborhood joint truly has something for everyone. There’s also a great mix of appetizers, sides, and vegetarian options. The decor is hip, casual, and inviting. You can’t miss the Mel’s sign in the back with its bright, Instagram-worthy lights.

I had a chance to check out Mel’s Burger Bar at an intimate press dinner last week. The venue doesn’t disappoint! We started out with Spinach Artichoke Dip, Loaded Nachos with Beef, and Mac ‘N Cheese Ballz. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and with just the right amount of gooeyness. Next, I had the Hot Mess Burger that comes with jalapeños, bacon crumbles, Monterey Jack, charred onion, lettuce, garlic sriracha mayo, all on a potato bun. The mix of ingredients is phenomenal- I loved the blend of spiciness, cheese, and seasoning. I paired this burger with the Parmesan Jalapeño Fries- clearly I like spicy eats! These fries had the perfect amount of cheese and jalapeños, and had a great Parmesan Marinara Sauce to dip them in. To finish off the meal, we got the Dessert Sampler: fried Oreos and and vanilla ice cream. It was such a chewy, delicious, finish!

The food alone is reason enough to visit Mel’s Burger Bar, but if you’re more about the beer, you’re in luck too. The venue has a program called Brew Crew, which has a number of cool perks and deals. After trying all of the beer choices over time, you’ll get beer baptized. You’ll also get invited to exclusive events. You can find Mel’s Burger Bar at 1450 2nd Ave and 2850 Broadway. Be sure to check out this alluring venue!