Falling Into Fashion

 Ruben Toledo scarf, blouse by Marc by Marc Jacobs, vintage belt, Forever 21 bodycon skirt.

When questioned about the long process it takes to create one of Isabel Toledo’s masterpieces she said “fast fashion is like fast food. It doesn’t leave you with a good feeling in your stomach.” This quote demonstrates the quirky yet unanimously kindhearted spirit of the Toledos. I got to witness it firsthand at an event honoring Isabel Toledo this afternoon at Barney’s. Isabel’s designs capture elegance and simplicity yet are spiced with her eccentric details. My favorite pieces were a gray tank dress with cutouts on each hip and the black dress fashioned with vibrant colored guitars.

Me and André Leon Talley discussing fashion journalism.

The guest list included Simon Doonan, André Leon Talley, and of course, the lovely Isabel and her husband, Ruben. What I love about Isabel's designs the most is that they were crafted by the dynamic duo who truly complement eachother; they constantly playing off what another does. Isabel came over to me because she noticed that I was wearing a red silk scarf with fashion sketches designed by Ruben.

Isabel Toledo and me at Barney's.

When I asked her to take a picture, she said “were you sitting there waiting to for a picture? You could have just asked.” This was my first taste of her wonderful modest nature. When I told her I hoped to become a fashion editor, she led me by the hand to André Leon Talley himself. I was completely star struck. André generously took the time to converse with me, and I was in heaven. The event concluded with a Q&A with Isabel led by Simon Doonan, during which she spoke about a number of subjects including how she chooses the day’s outfit from the shoes up, her design process, and her democratic dictatorial work room style. My day couldn’t have ended on a better note :)

Court Street Temptations

I always find it funny how on Gossip Girl they depict Brooklyn as if it’s seconds away from Manhattan. I took the train to meet up with my family in Brooklyn, and even using the fastest form of transportation, I still didn’t feel teleported like the protagonists of GG seem to be. My family and I ate a splendid light lunch at Frankie’s 457 Spuntino at 457 Court Street. I opted for the watercress and peach salad, perfectly fit for summer.

It was a hard choice to pick a dessert destination; across the street from each other are Sweet Melissa’s (276 Court Street) and the Chocolate Room (269 Court Street), both strong competitors. Sweet Melissa’s is composed of two shops next to each other. One is a takeout pastry shop where you can buy tasty marshmallows, tarts, etc. While Melissa's next door creamery has a cute backyard garden and a menu to match. Not only will you find delicious soups and atmosphere, but gigantic sundaes like the “camp sundae” with smores, yum-o. I know all of this seems hard to turn down, but I had never been to the Chocolate Room, and I’m always open to trying new things.

The Chocolate Room getting our "stamp of approval."

Our table chose the “Not Hot Hot Chocolate”, some sort a mint soda float, butterscotch custard on top of dark chocolate with loads of whipped cream, and a gooey chocolate cupcake (I highly recommend it!) for my aunt’s birthday. The size of my drink was quite large and yet I managed to finish each and every drop. The Chocolate Room was calm with chocolates tones spread throughout the establishment.

Futuristic Aspirations

Today I dabbled in fashion illustration. Through my fashion program, we got the chance to meet Marika, a fashion illustrator who knew more than a thing or two about that side of the industry. I had literally never drawn figures before, so it was a little unnatural, but in an exciting way. I made a 4-piece collection for which I was inspired by the Medieval armor in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Ninja Turtles. My idea was that the clothes were intended for the futuristic woman braving economic struggles. The city is now no longer a safe place to meander through because of the effects of the recession; she must protect herself with her hard exterior. The shoulders of the outfits are to be constructed from shards of metal, to give that rough, edgy look.

Sugar and Spice

Red Velvet & Coconut cupcakes

I had seen the Cupcake Truck around the city for weeks now, but never had it crossed my path at a convenient time when I was actually craving the little gems. Last night on 14th and 5th Avenue I finally spotted the truck and knew I had to try one. The cupcakes were puny, much like Baked by Melissa’s, but oh so cute.

Shoes by Jeffrey Campbell, bodycon skirt from Forever21, purse by Coach Legacy, sweater Eileen Fisher, scarf by Jennifer George, vintage sunglasses, tank by Nightcap.

In an open space within the Chelsea Market, a Privé sample sale was booming so I went to check 50-80 percent off Kritik, Free People, Iisli and tons more. While at the market I learned that Fat Witch sells their brownies for half price between the hours of 5-7. To understate it, I LOVE THE CHELSEA MARKET!!!!!!! 

I have a list of places that I have been waiting to visit but haven’t yet, on a post-it note on my computer. Reservations were finally made for one of the places at the top of the list, Spice Market in the Meat Packing District. The place itself is an adventure to be had; once inside, you’re flown into a South-East Asian island and mesmerized by the atmosphere. Sides of the restaurant are open, beckoning the district’s chic bystanders to flood in. The food is crafted by Jean Georges, who creates unique dishes entangled with décor. I suggest the crunchy squid salad or the charred chicken with kumquat.

I just couldn't resist.

Ovaltine kulfi, caramelized banana, and spiced milk chocolate sauce, topped with kettle corn.