Yesterday, I braved the sleet and hail for a slice of pop-up
heaven at Lion’esque Style (inspired by the great huntress of style!) located just under the Roger Smith Hotel on 47th
and Lexington (pop-ups are so hot right now!). I had been recently introduced
to its President and Founder, Melissa Gonzalez, and had the pleasure of her hands-on tour de force overview of
the entire store (which will definitely be here until the end of year so seize the
moment while you can!).
In many ways, I find Melissa inspiring, as she had spent
years of her life on Wall Street pitching investment deals and sales, and has since
then successfully forayed into the e-commerce, beauty, and fashion space. (This savvy chica bid adieu to the financial world post Lehman and Bear Stearns, and I don't blame her!). On many levels, I definitely identified with her,
and was further encouraged to learn the many ways Melissa had leveraged her finance skillset
into the world of emerging fashion.
Lion’esque is both a fashion and lifestyle brand, and sells a wide variety of goods, from of-the-moment accessories & cocktail
dresses, to beauty products, books, and kitchenware (color spatulas,
anyone?). What I like the most about
Melissa is her depth of knowledge for each and every one of her designers, and the unique
stories she told for each one. It is
clear that this fashionista possesses both a serious business sense and discerning taste. The best part? The items she carry in her store can be high-fashion but
also affordable, so that every maxinista can look fab this holiday season without
straying from his/her budget. You can’t
beat that!
Oooh… and did I mention, the kick-off for the store opening
is tomorrow evening (November 29th, 2012), from 6-8pm (details below), and it should be an awesome opportunity to
check out the goodies! So
if you’re in the neighborhood, I highly recommend that you swing by and snag some
of her awesome stuff either for yourself, or as holiday gifts. In my case, I scored a fabulous laptop bag
(functional and fun!) by Zara Terez – even hubby approved.
Fabulous art-deco earrings by Egotique (a brand from Milan)
As you know, I love artsy and edgy fashion, and I am all for
supporting independent emerging designers, some of whom have been featured on Rock
Shic. I believe that the fresh eye,
creativity, and sharp awareness these folks bring to both the fashion and art space
is what ultimately drives this ever-evolving and competitive industry. Maybe it’s the artist-daughter spirit in me,
but I’ve always had a strong penchant for small boutiques over large department
stores.
In any case, this is Rock Shic’s first international
collaboration to date, as it features a broad and unique spectrum of various designers – Jasper Garvida, Felicity Brown, Kinder Aggugini, Eudon Choi, and
Jean Theo, to list a few (all Brits, of course!). Fitting too – as hubby was also born in
England. As a matter of fact, I’ve
always looked upon the UK quite fondly… I’m not sure what it is (certainly not
the weather!). There is just something so
fundamentally chic and gritty about the pulse of the country, which definitely
sets it apart from its European counterparts. I believe this teaser video from @YBDfashion
says it all!
Over the years, I’ve also seen many good friends and
colleagues relocate to London, partially due to the weakening U.S. market, and
partly because… well it’s just so-darn convenient for the adventurous, jet-setting
crowd! Ryanair, anyone? There’s also a part of me that secretly believes
that one day, hubby and I will retire back in the UK (though he is still
lobbying pretty hard for New Zealand).
Me atop the London Eye -- visit here for more tips on my travel & packing style!
At the British Museum (2010), which has a special place in my heart, as that's also where daddy's work is collected!
A crisp, cool morning in London... wearing my Xmas colours.
These are some of my personal favs from London -- I look a bit bleary-eyed, as we've literarlly just landed. Hubby had to keep waking me up while we rode the tube!
202 Cafe in Notting Hill, one of my favorite spots!! The French toast with maple syrup and bacon is a signature dish.
Some of my readers have asked me to speak about my choice for nightlife spots. Well, I guess to start, a good place to go
would be a local speakeasy for some aperitif (or better yet a place with both drinks and grub so you can work your way straight through the evening!). These days, between all of my
commitments and the holidays, I
can’t really claim to have a super intense nightlife (I'm usually knackered
by midnight and I’m fairly certain that I only dance
at weddings... and carnival). However, when I do choose to go out, my general preference
is an elegant speakeasy or a bar with character (that, and perhaps a stylish pop-up here and there!). Basically, nothing too loud, fratty, or (gasp) bears a resemblance to a sports bar.
Disclaimer: I do go to sports bars, but it's
usually to watch a rugby game or two with hubby. I like to think of it as team-building exercise!
Or paying it forward, perhaps?
Nevertheless, this past weekend we met up with
some friends at the recently opened
Proletariat (great name!) in the heart of the East Village (102 St. Marks), occupying what used
to be Jane’s Sweet Buns. Apart
from being intimate and well-designed, they also boast a killer selection of beers (great
draw for the men!). You can even indulge in a glass of Frost Cider (or
two), if beer happens to be not your thing.
My favorite piece was the endless wall art, all decorated in tiny little bespoke frames – definitely infuses
a bit of that cool, grungy vibe which so defines the neighborhood.
This is a great place to immerse yourself in some
lively conversation amongst the company of good friends… or alternatively, a
spot where you can impress your date. Cheers to that!
I’ve been really into all things sparkly and shiny lately (chalk
it up to a case of holiday cheers, I suppose).
However, I would definitely say that I found a perfect match today at
Yumi Kim, as part of the Asian Women in Business benefit in the Lowest East
Side (more on that later!).
For now, let us sit back and admire this little ivory shift
dress! Traditionally known for her
beautiful silk patterns, Kim has recently forayed into the beading space both
in her design and form, and Rock Shic loves!!! This cocktail dress (part of the
Yumi Kim Holiday Collection) would be a fantastic addition to your party wardrobe
this season… and in fact, Kate here intends to make it her go-to New Years Eve
dress! “I had my eyes on it ever since she designed it,” she said as she winked
at me. Killer!
P.S. This Bianca Beaded number may be sold out on-line, but
you can still find some at the Yumi Kim flagship store on 105 Stanton
Street. Mention AWIB (Asian Women in
Business) and you’ll receive 25% off storewide! Xo.
Another manic Monday,
and another Fashion blogger (aka Fresh Squeezed) featured on Rock Shic! I had first heard about this
chica via the social media sphere back in October. A graphic designer by trade – I love her
energetic style (she ranks fashion, puppy, and food amongst her top passions,
nice!) and no-nonsense approach towards life and style. She doesn’t try to be anything other than
herself, which is totally refreshing and sweet.
Read on to learn more about Christa!
RockShic: How long
have you been blogging?
Christa:
I started blogging in 2010 as a side project on Posterous, then started Fresh
Squeezed in July 2011!
RockShic: What inspired you to begin blogging in the first place? How do
you tie it to art and how has it helped you with your artistic creations?
Christa:
I had a growing love of fashion and style (thanks to my younger sister) and had
nowhere to really discuss it, so I started the small Posterous blog, thinking
that I would just post once in a while whenever I felt like it. Things started
taking off after that and I found that I really loved it, so I started Fresh
Squeezed as a more permanent home for my fashion ramblings.
I’m a graphic designer, and I try to draw
inspiration for my work from every aspect of my life. Aside from creating all
custom banners, ads, collages, etc. for Fresh Squeezed, I get inspiration for
my work from the colors and patterns that I see walk down the runway.
RockShic: In a nutshell: how would you summarize the objective/purpose of your
blog?
Christa:
The purpose of Fresh Squeezed is to create dialogue and discussion about
fashion and beauty. I want the posts to encourage two way conversation, which
is why I try to write about more than just my outfits.
RockShic: Who do you envision as the ideal audience for your blog?
Christa:
My current readers are pretty ideal for my blog, honestly!
RockShic: How would you describe your own personal style?
Christa:
Modern and classic. I love classic pieces and shapes that are reinvented and
redesigned with different materials, colors and patterns. I would say that 99%
of my closet is from the clearance rack of Lord & Taylor. I also love J.
Crew and LOFT, especially for work clothes.
RockShic: Can you tell us some of your favorite wardrobe pieces for this
season? What are you go-to transition pieces?
Christa:
A few of my favorite pieces for this season are leather leggings and brocade
skirts. As for transition pieces, I love capes! I think they are the perfect
for transitioning from fall to winter.
RockShic: Who (or what) are some of your favorite art/fashion inspirations?
Christa:
My favorite fashion inspiration is the Duchess of Cambridge. I think she always
nails it! She does a great job of blending her own sense of style and making it
appropriate for her position in the Royal Family.
RockShic: You say that Paris is your favorite city to travel to by far – can
you tell us a bit more about your most beloved spots in Paris?
Christa:
Oh man, what’s not to love? There’s this cool store called Colette near the
Louvre with really interesting clothing and other things. The Avenue de
Champs-Élysées is like Paris’ Fifth Avenue: everything from Zara, Louis Vuitton
(flagship), H&M, Cartier, and more! Also on the Avenue de Champs-Élysées is
Ladurée, which is a beautiful restaurant with delicious food and macaroons. The
Marais district has amazing shopping as well and great falafel!
RockShic: How would you describe your go-to travel style?
Christa:
Easy and comfortable. Regardless of what time of year it is, I usually wear
leggings and bring a sweater with me for the plane. Depending on the time of
year, I will either wear sandals or boots. I try to stay hydrated and
moisturized, since that pressurized cabin air is no good for your skin!
RockShic: What are some of your favorite places for travel? On your lust list?
Christa:
I love traveling to Europe. So far, I’ve been to Italy, Germany, Austria and
England. I absolutely love immersing myself in new cultures, languages, food
and fashion. I hope that my next traveling adventure is in Barcelona, Spain. I
would also love to go to Thailand, Russia, Morocco, and Greece.
RockShic: I love your “how do I wear this” section – do you feature these
results on your blog? Or are they just communications between you and
your readers?
Christa:
I do! I haven’t had a submission in a while but when I get them, I do post the
question and my answers.
RockShic: What are some of your favorite blogs? (And why?)
Christa: I love Pretty & Fun because it’s very
visual. Cait updates her blog like I do-
meaning that she does more than personal style posts. I also love Cupcakes and
Cashmere (who doesn’t?) because of Emily’s entertaining tips and recipes. My
favorite style blogs are Saucy Glossie and Atlantic-Pacific. I think Lindsay and
Blair have AMAZING style!
Yesterday, I spent a lazy boozy
Sunday brunch (the best kind!) catching up with an old friend at Marea on Central Park South.
It's been one of my favorite spots, ever since my first encounter back in 2009. Nobody whips
together delicious, sophisticated,
and thoughtfully executed modern Italian fare quite like the masterminds
Michael White and Ahmass Fakahany (he of the late Merrill Lynch). They also run Ai Fiori at the Setai Fifth Avenue, equally exquisite and delicious.
In my view, Marea's brunch menu is one of the
better deals in town, as you can
do a full course primo plus secondo combo for $45, with access to the
unabashedly opulent restaurant's full menu.
I opted for the divine Astice Nova Scotia lobster burrata and their famed
fusilli with red wine braised octopus and bone marrow. Cooked to perfection!
My girlfriend had the same for her main, and
raised the octopus bar with a little Polipo starter as well (Marea is known for
its seafood, afterall!). What a fabulous
afternoon, bottoms-up Bellini!
The bar is actually one of my favorite spots to dine at Marea, it's got quite a nice relaxed attitude -- with a lovely view of Central Park!
Jacket: Talula (her
sister's!) | Scarf: Vintage | Shoes: Frye (last featured here) | Bag: Zara (from
Spain) | Lace Shirt: Free People
I caught up with this chica on my way to brunch yesterday. Her fashionable and functional street look was what caught my eye, as I did a double take. But of course! Olive, black and white... it's such a great weekend-chic formula, everybody should have it in their repertoire (with some killer accents of course).
I love this SF ex-consultant/ fashionista's olive jacket (a wear-with-anything shade as far as I'm concerned), plus those eye catching, gold studded shoes!!!! Definitely suitable for a relaxed walkabout just about anywere. The entire ensemble is fun, head-turning, without being pretentious or over the top, a total winner in my book! We shared a good laugh over Brazil, where this chica will be headed with her man... totally makes me sentimental about our recent trip to Rio!
Shirt: Zara (last featured here) | Skirt: Michael
Kors (similar one here) | Boots: Guess | Necklace: From The Market NYC on 159 Bleeker | Bag: Patricia Field (last featured here)
Last Saturday,
I attended a friend's bridal shower in DC (in one of the most beautiful apartments
I’ve seen, btw). For the occasion, I wanted something festive and sparkly (something
about the holiday season evokes that feel), but also classic and ladylike. I'm
in love with black and gold right now, which I view as a timeless combo. So I
opted for this sparkly, art-deco inspired sequin skirt by Michael Kors, which just
happens to go very well with the Monaco Hotel corridor, don’t you think?
The rest I wanted to keep minimal and simple, so a flowy white top and some
gold and silver plated embellishments did the trick. A fun extra? My studded
clutch from Patricia Field, which was a hit all weekend long!
Recently, I’ve been on the look-out for some bespoke, modern
menswear… could be that lots of my guy friends are on the hunt for the ultimate
winter-look (e.g., shirts, jackets, and suits).
I caught up with this cutie on the corner of Orchard and Rivington (on
my way to my tailor). I am in love with his
cool wool, shearling lined, buttoned-down winter coat (that collar!
Swoon). The pairing of the fitted, skinny pants also
lends a sense of sleekness to his entire silhouette. It’s all very Freemans Sporting Club.
We had a good laugh, as we seemed to have swapped spots (he recently
relocated to the UES from the LES). Though
never fear, as I have no doubt that young Dylan would be a discerning dresser
no matter where he goes!
As you know, last weekend I was in DC (seems like ages ago!). Friday night, upon arrival, I tagged along with a girlfriend to a corporate function held at the Newseum on 555 Pennsylvania Avenue. Would you judge me if I told you that, prior to the invitation, I hadn’t even heard of the Newseum…despite having lived in DC and being a frequent traveler to our nation’s capital for many years?
Oops.
A quick search on Tripadvisor informed me that this was third highest rankest spot amongst all attractions in DC! Third to only the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art. Now my interest has truly been piqued!
Though a bit shagged, I dragged myself to the event regardless (sans hubby), and had a blast! I always enjoy private events held at public forums (though I can’t say I’ve been to many of them). The very concept of having the museum all to yourself (or at least shut to the general public) holds a certain level of appeal for me. I can wander wherever my heart desires!!! Unrestricted access to museum’s interactive newsrooms! Plus catered popcorn and cupcakes? My inner nerd was doing flips as we speak.
My favorite part of the museum was the Pulitzer Prize Photography Gallery (enough said), a very well-done and dignified Journalist Memorial and the eight section wing of the original Berlin Wall, which, together with the three-story guard tower, stand as the largest reconstruction of the wall outside of Germany. Of course, at the end of the day, the museum boasts a total of six floors, and I can’t claim to have carefully scrutinized each of them.
Attention readers! As a perk for attending the event, I was given a handful of free admission tickets to the Newseum (normal ticket face value is $21.95 plus tax). In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’m giving it away on a first-come, first-serve basis. To get them, simply like RockShic on facebook, and contact me at rockshic@gmail.com. Thanks!
Based in Manhattan's Lower East Side, Rock Shic is an excerpt taken from my personal lookbook of real people around the world. It is a combination of aesthetics, fashion, lifestyle, and travel. I also offer personalized Lookbook Consulting and Styling upon request. Please contact me at rockshic (at) gmail (dot) com. Services include: Wardrobe Analysis, Closet Organization, and Personal Shopping.
