amelie versus carrie

I feel obligated to take a break from my studies (finals week, ugh) to share Vahram Muratyan's blog, Paris vs. New York, with you.  The graphic designer presents what he describes as "a visual but friendly match between those two cities seen by a lover of Paris wandering through New York's infinite details, clichés and contradictions."  So clever!

hot wheels

This frigid weather makes me wish that I owned some form of stylish transportation that I could use to zip around the city and enjoy the holiday decorations.  I typically enjoy my thirty block walk to campus every morning, but it's losing its appeal now that I can see my breath.

images via The Sartorialist

for today....

I was awed by the simplicity of this statement (displayed at The Clerkenwell, which is easily one of my top five favorite pubs in NYC). Is it too early to be thinking about New Years resolutions?

high above the hustle and bustle

This past weekend's unusually warm weather called for an outdoor excursion to the High Line.  The elevated West Side park was originally built for freight trains to travel above the city, but is now home to movable seating, interactive art pieces, and amazing views.  I'm a believer that every New Yorker should visit the park at least once, even if it's only to witness the sun set over the Hudson.

four dimensions of excellence

I know I've applauded Ralph Lauren in the past, but I simply must share their newest digital advancement with you.  They presented their first ever 4D fashion show to celebrate ten years of digital innovation.  I was beyond impressed with the New York and London shows, but my real excitement was realized when I took a look "behind the scenes" (tech geek, I know).  Be sure to check it out!

"beer and wine...and cupcakes!"

After seeing the Chase commercial featuring Marlo Scott of Sweet Revenge, I knew how I wanted to spend my birthday afternoon.  I dragged a friend to the West Village to visit the only wine, beer and cupcake bar in New York City.  We sampled the Pure (Mexican Vanilla Cake with Mexican Vanilla Buttercream) and Fleur de Sel (Valrhona Chocolate Cake, Salted Caramel Center and Salted Caramel Buttercream with Pecans and Salted Caramel Drizzle) cupcakes, which were perfectly paired with liquor counterparts.  The cozy setting reminded me of an old French cafe, and my delight was only enhanced when Marlo Scott herself stopped by our table to say hello!  I plan on returning soon to try their artisan sandwiches, which look (and smell!) simply divine.

cheers to me

Birthday celebrations commence today. Photos and details to come soon!

Birthday outfit! Express dress, Christian Louboutin pumps, Elizabeth and James bracelet

a neighborhood find

Ork Posters' collection of neighborhood screen prints recently caught my eye in a Third Ave window display.  So fun! 

....and just because.

sittin' in a tree, k-i-s-s-i-n-g...

The topic of Disney's portrayal of women in their early movies was heavily discussed in my ethics class this past week.  My professor pointed out that some of our all-time favorites are based on the idea that women need a man to be happy (or awake from an endless sleep...or save her from an evil monster...) and that there are serious implications for girls who grow up with this subconscious belief.  I left the class feeling betrayed by my own childhood and thoroughly cynical towards the world.
  

My thoughts became even more jumbled when my friend forwarded me a link to Porter Hovey's blog, kissssing.  The quotes and pictures from classic love stories left me with a smile, but I couldn't help but wonder if this delight could be traced back to my childhood obsession with The Little Mermaid and Sleeping Beauty.  Nonetheless, Hovey's diverse compilation of quotes and snapshots will warm the hearts of even the most jaded, cynical, and "giving-up-on-love" New Yorkers.

 -

"Boys and girls in America have such a sad time together; sophistication demands that they submit to sex immediately without proper preliminary talk. Not courting talk- real straight talk about souls, for life is holy and every moment is precious.” 

-- Jack Kerouac, On the Road

quotes and images via kissssing

birthday wishes

I've been on the prowl for the perfect birthday dress (celebrations start in exactly one week!).  Helmut Lang was featured on Gilt Groupe yesterday and I was reminded of how much I truly love the brand's refined minimalism.  Perhaps it is time for a new investment....

 images via Gilt Groupe

Still don't have a membership to Gilt Groupe? Leave a comment and I will send you an invite!