Habitually Chic™

The September Issue

2009-07-20T21:20:00.001-04:00

I'm going to blog about Vogue all week! Just kidding! But I was talking to a friend earlier about the release of the documentary, The September Issue and came home to read on Fashion Week Daily that editor in chief Anna Wintour will host the premier on August 19th! I hope someone invites me...hint hint! If not, I will be first in line at the theatre on August 28th when it's released in Manhattan. Then I'm going to come home and do arm exercises with the actual September issue which should weigh about 5 pounds. It's the perfect complement to shopping which is my cardio!

The World in Vogue

2009-07-20T08:34:00.003-04:00

I have been reading Vogue since I was 12 and one of my favorite features have always been the photos of the chic socialites and It girls. I like to see how real women dress and put things together, albeit fabulously wealthy women, but inspiring nonetheless. I wish they had more of them in the magazine today but I think the The World in Vogue: People, Parties, Places might fill the void! I can't wait to see this book but I am even more excited for all the uber chic parties that will thrown to celebrate it's release! I owe a big thank you to Summer if a Verb for alerting me to this exciting news! I can't wait for November!

Art Lovers and other things...

2009-07-19T20:00:00.000-04:00

First, I want to thank interior designer Phoebe Howard for mentioning Habitually Chic as one of her favorite design blogs in a recent Washington Post article! It still amazes me when I hear that people whom I admire read my blog. Second, I really enjoyed reading the story about how she came to design. She is really another one of those inspiring women who confirm that it's never too late to find your passion or start a new venture. Phoebe Howard was 38 when she suggested to her husband who was a designer that they open a store to showcase his design work which then led to her design career. One of her projects that caught my eye is titled Art Lovers seen here that showcases a client's art collection in a colorful setting that is subtle and sophisticated. Enjoy!

Fashionably Chic

2009-07-19T16:12:00.004-04:00

I just found out that Habitually Chic was named one of StyleClone's Top 100 Fashion Blogs! As a fashion obsessed New Yorker, I find this quite exciting and I am thrilled to be ranked number 52! Of course, this isn't as fabulous as Sea of Shoes blogger Jane Aldridge and her mother Judy's spread in the back of the August 2009 issue of Vogue. (Click here to see.) But I'll take what I can get and keep dreaming of Vogue. Maybe I should stop eating now just in case!

Georgia Tapert House Tour

2009-07-17T10:55:00.002-04:00

You might remember that I profiled Georgia Tapert and her lovely home and store a few months ago. Well, now you can see more photos and read more about her interesting life on New York Social Diary. I love Georgia's home because it is uniquely personal and filled with items she found on her travels and pieces given to her by her mother that are now mixed with her fiance's furniture. Definitely check out the story and her fabulous shop Georgia Tapert Living the next time you are in Soho!

Don't judge a book by its cover...

2009-07-16T21:00:00.002-04:00

A few of you out there who will be happy to know that Kelly Wearstler has shot a new cover for her upcoming book Hue. Personally, I don't really care what she wears on the outside because I know the book will be chock full of her inspiring interiors. And isn't it what's on the inside that really matters in life?!

In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.
- Coco Chanel

In Memoriam: Julius Shulman (1910-2009)

2009-07-16T16:49:00.013-04:00

The photography world lost a legend yesterday with the passing of Julius Shulman. His images of modern architecture and in particular, California Modernism, are iconic and will stand the test of time, even if the buildings don't. I can't imagine a Richard Neutra house without visualizing it as Julius Shulman shot it. The Smithsonian conducted a lovely interview with Julius Shulman in 1990 which is worth checking out to learn more about his life and career. Julius Shulman was the Avedon of architecture and will be greatly missed.

J.Crew Fall 2009

2009-07-16T12:23:00.000-04:00

The weather in New York has has been feeling a little like Fall lately which makes me think about what I will be wearing soon. Jenna Lyons was interviewed by the Los Angeles Times recently about the success and popularity of J.Crew and also her inspirations. For Fall 2009, she imagined what it would be like if opera star Maria Callas, model Lauren Hutton and socialite Slim Keith shared one closet. The resulting collection is a mix of glamour pieces and sportswear made up of denim, lace, feathers, cashmere and jewels. I know which items I'm eyeing but the bigger question is which ones the first lady will be wearing this fall! Better get there before she does and they all sell out! Happy Shopping!

Photos from J.CrewAholics and Glamour.com

Habitually Chic Boutique: Etos

2009-07-15T15:15:00.000-04:00

I have been joking lately that once you're done visiting the ridiculously expensive shops on East 11th Street, pop into Etos where you can actually afford to buy something! I finally had the pleasure of checking out this chic shop and I'm so glad that I did because not only did I find things for my clients but I got to meet the fabulous owners! At first, I thought they were siblings but then found out that Italian born Mercedes Desio and Colombian born Alberto Villalobos met while at the New York School of Interior design and got along so well that they decided to go into business together. In addition to running their store, they also have a thriving interior design practice (hear that magazines)! They really are the nicest (and cutest!) shopkeepers in New York and what's even more exciting is that they will be in Paris at the same time as me and Stefan! Their trip to Versailles last November was a rainy mess so they might also accompany us to the chic chateau! Until then, make sure you stop in and visit them (and their little dog too!) the next time you're downtown! You won't be disappointed!

Etos

67 East 11th Street

New York, NY 10003

212-673-3056

www.etosnyc.com

Vive la France!

2009-07-13T22:00:00.001-04:00

I couldn't think of a better day to announce that Stefan Hurray of Architect Design and I are going to Paris than Bastille Day! Neither of us have ever visited Versailles which prompted the initial discussion. Then I happened to mention to Charlotte Moss that we were thinking of going and she insisted that we must go since it would inspire us for years and who we were to quibble with the doyenne of design. Dates were bandied about and flights were booked and this September we will be enjoying the city of lights just like Audrey and Fred! I don't think any singing and dancing will be involved but you never know! We're keeping the exact details of our trip mum for a little while longer but I can tell you that many exciting people and places will be involved with our little sojourn. Until then, enjoy Bastille Day and Vive la France!

Back in the High Line Again

2009-07-12T16:43:00.000-04:00

I had a meeting with my website designer this week at Pastis so I thought it was the perfect time to visit the new High Line park and I'm so glad that I did! I live uptown with all of Central Park as my backyard so I really had no idea what to expect from a park on an old elevated railway downtown but I was blown away by it's thoughtful design.

The High Line was originally constructed in the 1930's to elevate dangerous freight trains that served the warehouses in the area off the streets of Manhattan. It was used up until 1980 and thereafter fell into a state of disrepair with weeds growing up through the old rails. It wasn't until 1999 that redevelopment was suggested. In 2004 the fund were allotted and finally in June 2009 part of the new High Line park was opened.

The High Line park will eventually run from Ganesvoort Street in the Meatpacking District all the way to 34th Street between 10th and 11th Avenues. Right now, it is only open from Ganesvoort Street to 20th Street from 7:00am to 10:00pm. I've joked before that 10th Avenue is no man's land. The only things over there in addition to the chic galleries are gas stations, garages and parking lots, things associated with cars since you need one to get there so the High Line park is a welcome addition to the neighborhood.

The High Line was led by James Corner Field Operations with Diller Scofidio + Renfro who did an amazing job combining the old elements with the new. The wildflowers and plantings mimic the types of plants that would have grown up on the derelict railway.

The plantings look pretty now in the summer and will look even more beautiful next spring!

The grooved areas are meant to look like the rails that still remain in some other areas.

I really loved the benches and wood areas. I'm not easily impressed but I was very impressed by the overall design of the park. I also love that it changes from area to area but is still cohesive.

The views from the elevated park are the best part.

Here you can see how the park still meanders through the old warehouses that have probably been converted to offices and galleries.

The juxtaposition of the new walkways and benches with the old railings and wildflowers is a lovely combination.

Except for the buildings in the background, it's easy to forget that you are in the middle of a bustling city!

This area is the Chelsea Market Art Passage/Public Art Program and also serves as a shady area to escape the sunshine.

I had no idea that the colored panes in this space which was the former Nabisco Factory were an art piece until I read the accompanying sign. "The River that Flows Both Way" was created by artist Spencer Finch and consists of panes of colored glass whose color was derived from 700 photographs that he took of the Hudson River's surface. The color of each pane was based on a single pixel point in each photograph and arranged chronologically in the tunnel's existing steel mullions. The title of the piece is a translation of the the Native American name of the Hudson that refers to the river's natural flow in two directions.

The result is even more amazing in real life and reminds me of the stained glass windows in the finest cathedrals!

Another amazing view from the High Line!

The Sundeck area and it's fabulous lounge chairs is one of the most popular areas as I can personally attest! I took a little break to enjoy the sun and watch all the passersby.

The High Line is a very popular place for all the neighborhood gallery girls and guys to eat their lunch!

The Meatpacking District is still a little gritty despite the fancy shops so the park is a nice respite from the concrete jungle. I was surprised how peaceful it is when you are up there. You really can't hear the usual sounds of the city such as car horns or sirens.

Here you can see how the rails become part of the design.

The elevated park gives you an amazing view of the city including 14th Street here.

Here the planting sprout up in the middle of the walkway underneath the new Standard Hotel.

It was funny to see beautiful flowers above while men were loading trucks in the Meatpacking District below!

It will be interesting to see how the look of the park changes from season to season!

More views of the tracks and wooden "ties".

Even a roof below has gotten into the act and is covered with flowers!

The Standard Hotel looks really amazing when seen from below. If you stay there, you really do need to close the shades if you don't want to be seen!

The High Line park is a great place to read a book!

Another view of an inspired bench design!

From this photo, you would never know you were on an old elevated railway!

The best part is that when you get hungry, you can pop down to Pastis for a gourmet lunch and possibly a celebrity sighting! Oh, and there is a Christian Louboutin store over on Hudson Street but you didn't hear that from me!

When I was trying to come up with a witty name for this post, I kept coming back to the old Steve Winwood song, Back in the High Life. It's amazing how the lyrics are perfect for this park in the sky that I hope everyone will make a point to see!

It used to seem to me

That my life ran on to fast

And I had to take it slowly

Just to make the good parts last

But when you're born to run

It's hard to just slow down

So don't be surprised to see me

Back in that bright part of town.

I'll be back in the high life again,

All the doors I closed one time will open up again.

I'll be back in the high life again,

All the eyes that watched me one will smile and take me in.

And I'll drink and dance with one hand free

Let the world back into me

And on I'll be a sight to see

Back in the high life again.

Triple Threat Miles Fisher

2009-07-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

Dark haired preppy boys are my kryptonite. But in the case of Miles Fisher, he's as easy on the ears as he is the eyes. Not content with acting alone, he's also releasing a album of melodious music. Did I also mention he's also Harvard educated? Why should all rock stars be grungy bad boys who look like they need a long hot shower. If more musicians went to Harvard like Miles Fisher and Chester French, maybe they wouldn't end up loosing all their money or appearing on cheesy reality shows on VH1. Note to Pharrell Williams, you better scoop up this pretty prepster before someone else beats you to it. He looks and sounds like the next big triple threat. Which is why I may have to talk to my friend Jessica's husband about putting him in his next movie. I also definitely see a Ralph Lauren modeling contract in his future. I'm off now to discuss my agent commission with Miles. The rest of you can thank me for the photos later!

Blog Anniversary!

2009-07-11T10:00:00.000-04:00

I was at House Beautiful party at Knollwood Antiques Thursday night and quite a few people asked me when I began my blog. Funny enough I told them, my two year blog anniversary was the next day! (I had planned to write about this yesterday but my computer had other ideas. I think a new laptop will be my anniversary gift to myself!) Sometimes it seems like I have been blogging for 10 years and others times it feels like started just yesterday! I had no idea what I was getting into when I began and I definitely had no idea what it would turn into but I am so glad that created Habitually Chic! I really enjoying writing it and I always say that the best part has been all the wonderful people I have met! It's a lot of work but it's also great fun but the encouragement and support I receive from all of you is what keeps me going! Now I look forward to seeing what the future holds! Thanks again to everyone who stops by everyday! I'll be having a piece of cake in your honor!

Gone Shoppin'

2009-07-09T22:38:00.003-04:00

I know my posts this week have been short and I apologize. I was joking with friends tonight that I was going to hang a sign on the blog that said Gone Shoppin' since I've been taking advantage of many of the great sales going on in the city this week. Hence the new Roger Vivier sandals. (Sorry Stefan!) I've also been running around for work and enjoying the beautiful sunny weather. I promise that things will be back to normal next week and possibly better since I have a great announcement and some fabulous people, places and things to profile! Bon Weekend!

Summer Reading List

2009-07-08T09:27:00.002-04:00

I'm more than halfway through My Life in France and I am already starting to think about what I'm going to read after I'm finished. Vogue.com has a list of their Top 10 Summer Books that I am going to check out but I'd like to know what you're reading. You all had some great suggestions for me last year when I asked so I thought I would try it again. What should I read next???

Photo by Liam Goodman for Vogue.com

Tips for a Stylish Summer...

2009-07-07T10:19:00.004-04:00

A big thank you goes out to Charlotte Moss for including me in her Dispatches from the Blogosphere: Tips for a Stylish Summer post on her blog Tete-a-Tete! Check it out and you can read what I'm wearing, reading, eating and doing this summer! Oh, and those are my photos from the Hamptons. Wish I was there right now!

Bon Appetit!

2009-07-06T18:38:00.002-04:00

A very sweet article about Julia Child in the new August issue of Vanity Fair inspired me to reread her wonderful book, My Life in France, which she wrote with her grand-nephew Alex Prud'homme. The book is really a love story...the love of her husband, food, cooking and France! It's also very inspiring. I mentioned before that Julia Child didn't even start cooking until she was 37 and her first book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, which she co-authored was published in 1961 when she was 49 years old and her television show, The French Chef, debuted on PBS the following year. She also inspired author Julie Powell to start cooking which she chronicled in her blog that later became a book and movie staring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams which will be released August 7th. I don't think I'll be mastering any French cooking any time soon but I can't wait to pick up some of her cookbooks next and see the film. Julia Child always reminds me that it's never too late to start something new! Bon Appetit!

Back to Work

2009-07-05T19:42:00.005-04:00

It was a gloriously beautiful weekend in New York! The sun actually shone so I spent most of it out of doors and away from my computer. I also got to see my friend and designer Grant K. Gibson who was in town for a wedding. But now it's back to work.

Usually, I am the one answering design questions but today I have a question for you. One of my clients loves the look of the wall covering in the above photo and wants to use it in their entry. It's a metallic tea paper that was available at the Roger Arlington showroom which unfortunately has gone out of business. I've been to many places and have found papers that look similar but so far nothing exactly the same. Someone suggested Donghia which I plan to check out on Monday but if anyone has any other suggestions, please let me know. Merci!

UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who left suggestions and advice today! I found out that although the Roger Arlington showroom has closed at the D&D building, the company is still in business. They also have a website, www.rogerarlington.com which doesn't come up on Google searches for some reason. You can call them in New York at 718-273-4500. What I like about their paper compared to the others I checked out today is the asymmetrical squares and multi-tonal quality. You can see the brochure on it here which shows all the sizes. Once I receive my sample, I can show you the difference of all the papers. Thanks again!

Happy 4th of July Weekend!

2009-07-02T18:47:00.006-04:00

I hope all my American readers enjoy the long 4th of July holiday weekend. Oh, and let's keep our fingers crossed that it doesn't rain!

Photo from Markham Roberts

Weekend Chic

2009-07-01T19:50:00.001-04:00

While I was looking through designer Meg Braff's portfolio, I came across the most perfect East Hampton home. I love the patterns and shades of blue she used throughout all the spaces. The mudroom is my favorite room and pretty much sums up the feeling of this chic weekend home. I can also imagine how much fun the family who owns it will probably have over the long holiday weekend. I hope all of you l have a wonderful Independence Day no matter where you spend it!

Bob Collins at Todd Romano

2009-06-30T19:30:00.003-04:00

It's funny when an answer to one of your questions falls in your lap. I've been trying to find out who represents Bob Collins & Sons in New York and just I found out that Todd Romano has recently started carrying the line of fabulous fabrics and wallpapers. You might not know the name Bob Collins but I can bet you've seen the wallpapers used in rooms by the some of the top interior designers as seen below. It was so much fun to be able to check out all the patterns in person and even though none of them seem right for any of my current projects I will definitely be filing them away for a future project! They are really fabulous and you should check them out too!

Bamboo Birds as used by Albert Hadley

Bamboo Birds as used by Kelly Wearstler

Chinese Lattice as used by Kelly Wearstler

Chinese Lattice as used by Meg Braff

Chinese Lattice as used by Kelly Wearstler

Antony Todd on Sale

2009-06-29T20:30:00.001-04:00

Antony Todd has exquisite taste and now that eponymous shop is having a sale, you may actually be able to afford a few of his impeccable choices. Items that are 25-40% off are marked with a tag. Everything else is regular price. Don't forget to peek downstairs. You won't see Antony since he's in Europe but you will find more of his treasures. Bonne Chance!

Antony Todd

44 East 11th Street

New York, NY 10013

212-529-3252

www.antonytodd.com

Photos by Heather Clawson

At Home in Argentina

2009-06-29T08:56:00.014-04:00

I received a lot of responses to the post on Etiqueta Negra store post. Seems many of you have been to the store in Buenos Aires and really loved it. You may also enjoy a peek inside the Buenos Aires country home of the owners Paula Cahen D'Anvers and Federico Alvarez Castillo that was published in the January 2005 issue of World of Interiors. What I love is the down to earth realness of the interiors. It's not over done or fancy. It looks like a truly relaxing weekend country home full of treasures found at "flea markets, antique shops and junk shops." The article mentions that the family has a saying, "a happy man's home is never finished." I think that all of us collectors can relate to. Enjoy!

Photos by Ricardo Labougle

Habitually Chic Boutique: Etiqueta Negra

2009-06-28T19:34:00.001-04:00

I'm in love....with a boutique...and you will be too when you see it! The popular Argentinian brand Etiqueta Negra quietly opened on Lafayette Street this winter without the fanfare that it clearly deserves. The clothing that can be described as classic is made from the finest fabrics and is of the highest quality which makes me think of it as the South American version Brooks Brothers but with definitely more sex appeal! The dark and moody decor may make it appear at first glance to be just for the boys but they also sell beautiful women's clothing and accessories for day and night at a pretty reasonable price point.

Founder Federico Alvarez Castillo and his wife, Paula Cahen D'Anvers, who designs the women's line, are an even more interesting aspect to the story. The polo playing and team owning, classic car driving and collecting creator reminds me a lot of Ralph Lauren as does the lifestyle brand he has created. Federico's love of design also extends beyond fashion to architecture and interior design. He has designed a loft project and polo and country club in Uruguay. Check back later for a look at just one of their personal homes as well!

I'm hoping the Soho store is just the first of many planned for the US. The men here could some sartorial advice from South America!

Photos by Heather Clawson and from Etiqueta Negra

Castle Crush

2009-06-26T09:50:00.000-04:00

After seeing photos of Wijlre Castle in the Netherlands, I'm going to have to add a castle to my dream list of homes. The grounds are breathtakingly beautiful and very inspiring! The owners are avid art collectors and I'm sure it's no coincidence that they made their home 12 miles outside of Maastricht, the site of the leading art and antiques fair TEFAF. The gardens incorporate many modern and contemporary sculptures and the couple have also built a gallery on the property where they hold exhibitions. Sounds like a dream life to go with a dream home!

Photos by Herman Wouters for The New York Times and Conari Album on Webshots