New York, New York. So good, Frank Sinatra had to sing it twice.
From where to eat, what to see and of course, where to shop, all week we will be sharing our conversations 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 shopping our New York Edit.
Bobbi Brown, cosmetic queen, let us in on why she loves New York so much…
Which restaurant do you make sure you have reservations at?
Balthazar is one of my favourite restaurants, and it just happens to be located two blocks from my office. The food is always fresh and delicious. Plus it’s the only place where I will treat myself to french fries – they’re perfectly crispy and seasoned just right.
What’s New York’s best kept secret?
One of my favourite hidden gems of downtown New York is Chinatown’s Pearl River Mart. They sell an eclectic array of items, from teapots to beautiful Asian-inspired dinnerware. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon browsing.
Where’s the best place for a date?
Freemans Alley is a cosy restaurant right off the Bowery – a little bit off the beaten path. They have the best Bloody Mary’s there. A perfect place to spend the evening with friends.
Where do you head to for the best views?
I love the Manhattan skyline – it still takes my breath away.
Which hotel do you call home when you’re in New York?
I love staying in chic but comfortable hotels. My favourites are Four Seasons and W hotels.
What’s your signature style when you’re in New York?
In New York, women tend to favor a more effortless yet polished makeup look. New Yorkers are always tight on time – so they want a clean, polished look that only takes a few minutes to achieve.
J. Crew is my favourite place to shop for clothes because it’s so classic. Their clothing is comfortable and casual with a sophisticated edge. They have something for every occasion, whether it’s lounging around the house or a night out on the town.
I also love Converse sneakers in a variety of fun colors. At their flagship store on SoHo you can customize your shoes with cool designs. These one-of-a-kind sneakers make great presents.
What’s your top insider tip for new visitors?
Shop local. I love small family-owned stores that sell jewelry, clothing or trinkets that are authentic. I’ve gained a lot of inspiration for my seasonal collections this way. For some great shopping, I would suggest a stroll through Soho, and shopping in the East Village and Chinatown where you’ll find plenty of small boutiques. There’s nothing like the cool, laid-back vibe of downtown New York.
Do you speak the lingo or struggle with hand signals?
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What’s the one thing you always pick up when you’re in New York?
Coffee and tea from Dean & Deluca
What stylish essential can you not live without in New York?
A chunky cocktail necklace from J. Crew
Where do you go to shop?
I love Madewell because their clothing is comfortable and casual with a sophisticated edge. They have something for every occasion, whether it’s lounging around the house or a night out on the town.
Browsing at Calypso is like eye candy for me. They carry warm-weather clothing and accessories in vibrant hues and beautiful fabrics –and their cashmere cable sweaters are super cozy.
I go to Brooks Brothers for their men’s pajamas and button-down shirts. Their no-iron fitted button-down in white is the epitome of casual chic and goes with just about everything.
Ted Muehling has beautiful jewelry and designed objects that always inspire me. His stunning pearl drop earrings make perfect gifts – it’s my go-to place when I have a friend or family member with a birthday coming up.
What’s your top tip when flying?
Multi-use products are perfect for travel because they are practical and make packing less of a hassle. My essential products for travel are concealer, foundation stick, and a good moisturizing balm for the plane, which I use on my face, lips, cuticles, and even my heels. Cabin air can be very dehydrating, so it’s important to stay well-moisturized. Best of all, none of these products will ever break or spill in my luggage.
Fashion Getaways: New York – Bobbi Brown, Creator of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics is a post from: House of Fraser