New York, New York. So good, Frank Sinatra had to sing it twice. The ultra fashionable concrete jungle is home to many a icon – which is why we have asked some key tastemakers and those in the know for their top tips on how to get the most out of the city. Prepare yourself for your city break to the big smoke with our New York Edit.
From where to eat, what to see and of course, where to shop, with our chosen experts to offer you some inspiring tips whatever you’re in town for. You can also find everything you need for a stylish city break by reading our London, Paris, Milan and Tokyo blogs.
Donna Karan is designer of her self titled fashion house, DKNY. She tells us why she loves her city so much…
Which restaurant do you make sure you regularly go to?
First and foremost, Tutto Il Giorno in Sag Harbor, owned by daughter and son-in-law Gianpaolo de Felice. They’re opening one in the city, and I can’t wait! I also love Nobu and Bar Pitti.
What’s New York’s best kept secret?
Central Park. Tourists don’t always think to go there, but it’s this amazing oasis in the middle of the city with so much to do. Highline Park is another great outdoor space to explore.
Where do you go to escape the crowds?
The wrap around terrace on my apartment overlooking The Park. Or I go downtown to Urban Zen, my husband’s art studio in the Village, which is now the center of my Foundation. The roof garden my husband created is magical.
Where’s the best place for a date?
Dinner at an outdoor café and a long walk afterwards.
Where do you head to for the best views?
The Standard Hotel’s Boom Boom room has amazing views.
What do you do to relax in New York at the weekends??
I love to walk or ride my bike in the Park.
What’s your signature style when you’re at home?
I practice yoga every day, so it always starts with a bodysuit and layer it up from there – cargo pants, a jumpsuit, an easy dress or skirt.
What’s your top insider tip for new visitors?
Walk the streets. There’s so much to see, and NYC has the best people watching in the world
What’s the best way to get around in New York?
Subway, foot or taxi.
Where’s best for culture vultures?
I love the MOMA, the Guggenheim and Lincoln Center. The art in NYC is extraordinary.
For people travelling to New York, what is the style essential?
Cashmere scarf, flat shoes, and a tote to stash it all in.
Where do you go to shop?
I love to discover things. I love the Pier Antique Shows, the 26th Flea Market, and little unknown stores on side streets. You never know what you’ll stumble on.
What’s New York’s signature dish?
There is no one dish, that’s the beauty of NYC. It’s the melting pot of the world, with an authentic cuisine from every ethnicity imaginable – Chinatown, Little Italy and on and on. We’ve got it all.
What’s the best thing you can do for free?
There’s so much, and it’s always changing. Concerts in the Park. Fireworks. Exhibits. The trick is to stay plugged in and find out what’s going on when you’re here.
Sum up the city’s sense of style in 3 words
Chic. Eclectic. Individual.
What are the top 3 things to do?
1) See the skyline from above, whether from a plane or as you’re making your way over the bridge from the airport. It still takes my breath away.
2) Walk all the neighbourhoods and take in the sights: Downtown – SoHo and Greenwich Village…Midtown – Rockefeller Center & the Empire State Building…. and Uptown – Madison Ave, the Park, the museums.
3) Take a ride on the Circle Line and see the city from the water.
Fashion Getaways: New York – Donna Karan, Designer is a post from: House of Fraser