Archive for the ‘NYC’ Category

Vivienne Tam’s F/W ’11 collection mixed Ancient Chinese influence with modern detailing. Boxy tweed outerwear paired with full A-line skirts opened the show, boasting stark, sculptured shoulder and collar detail against dark charcoal grey and navy colors. Flowy, drop-waist dresses reminiscent of 1920s flapper style were rich with accents, from elaborate applique and long fringe to huge crochet knits and Asian-inspired designs.

Ever the tech maven, Tam included a “Double Happiness” Square with each line sheet. In a partnership with Twitter founder Jack Dorsey, Tam designed these Squares in hopes of encouraging entrepreneurship in women. Squares are nifty little devices that plug into iPhones, iPads and Droids; allowing users to make credit card transactions through their mobile device. 

This post was contributed by Jess Estrada of FreshJess and Banyan Branch.

Photos courtesy of Vivienne Tam

I take photos of everything…sometimes even hundreds per week. I probably only share about 5% here, if that, which seems like a waste if this is supposed to be a creative outlet of self expression, right? Okay, not all of my photos are necessarily blog-worthy…as much as you might love seeing photos of my chihuahuas, I’m guessing that’s not why you visit my site. So…here’s something new; a peek inside my growing appreciation for New York City through the miscellaneous photos I capture on my phone.

FYI – some photos have been “apped” for fun viewing effect. They consist of a walk down the west side to Chelsea Market, the West Village and Highline Park. View the full set after the jump!

Above: Upside down Christmas tree in bakery window display in Chelsea Market

Above: Hearty door handles at Moschino in Meatpacking District

Above: Truffle tater tots at Mercury Bar, with Cholula of course

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Having spent most of my life in the Seattle area, you’d think I have rain gear down. Not the case. I don’t know where the rumors about Seattle being the rainiest city, but that’s another story. New York City beats Seattle by a long shot and when it rains, it pours. I purchased what I thought was a rain coat from American Apparel last year – $100 and leakage through the seams in the chest area made me look…well, like a mom who just finished nursing (no offense moms out there…I’m just not near ready for that). What a waste, right?

A few weeks ago I was on one of my favorite weekend walks along the Upper Westside and made a stop in Lululemon. I wasn’t looking for a rain coat, but $178 later walked out with the most amazing rain and wind resistant, knee length hooded jacket! It’s called the Everyday Yoga Jacket, which doesn’t do it any justice. I purchased the slate grey, but it also comes in black and light grey. It sort of reminds me of The North Face all weather apex jackets, just a little more stylish and flattering. I wore it outside in the rain for several hours last week for a work event and I’m probably the only person on my team who isn’t getting sick. It’s probably not the jacket, but I’d of course, like to think it had something to do with my smart purchase. Anyway, check it out when you get a chance. I’m usually a small or extra small in coats and purchased a size 4 in this one.

It’d be a great thing to add to your holiday wishlist too!

I started a new job almost two months ago, hence my inconsistent posting schedule…but what’s new? I’m a horrible blogger…I know. Thanks for coming back despite all of that. I’m just finishing work for the day and a few minutes ago noticed the amazing view from desk. It took my breath away and gave me NYC butterflies. So…I thought I’d share the photo and encourage anyone who reads this to take a breather…step away from your computer and do something that makes you happy…even if only “looking out your window.”

File under cheesy, sappy, etc.

My geeky background in gagdet obsessions often leads to exciting opportunities to work with technology brands. I also USED to work in consumer tech PR, which has helped feed said obsessions. As I’ve noted time and time again, I’m not an expert, just an enthusiast. With that…today has been awesome! I just dropped by a little meetup for the official launch of Windows Phone 7 availablility and they sent me home with a T-Mobile HTC HD7 to test out including a Zune Pass, a month of mobile service from T-Mobile and a gift card to purchase Windows Phone 7 apps! Here’s a first look…isn’t it pretty!? It even comes with a little kick stand!

More to come in an experiential review…Tonight, courtesy of Windows Phone 7, I’m going to check out a concert by Katy Perry in NYC. They are also doing one in San Francisco with Maroon 5. They have a bunch of cool things going on for the campaign and are also working with Minka Kelly and Rob Dyrdek on a “Really Rally Road Trip.” Check out the videos after the jump! Read the rest of this entry »