Transition to Spring

As the season sloooowly crawls in, here is a cute way to transition when you are tired of wearing wool and other heavy fabrics. In order to do this, layering is key because you will freeze if you don' t. This cool girl (who I spotted in the village) wears a  short summer dress with black tights, black boots and a pea coat. She manages to step a way from heavier fabrics while not sacrificing warmth because of the layering. Write in and let me know how you transition your spring looks while it is freezing outside:)

Cabana Nights

Now that the seasons are changing and warm nights are ahead, you should be out enjoying yourself and visiting fine and fun eateries throughout the city.  One of my favorite places to dine (that is not too expensive) while still offering you a decadent view of lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, is Cabana. Overlooking the South Street Seaport, this place is a real treat! Cabana offers good Salsa music, a handsome waiting staff, and delicious food.  It’s a wonderful place to meet an eclectic group of people, from the Wall Street Crowd to artists and musicians. One of my favorite things about Cabana is the amazing pitcher of white sangria, which is reasonably priced for a sizable amount.  Especially on a summer night, it quenches your thirst while giving you a blast of flavor from the fresh fruit.  For aperitivos or appetizers, I always get the Frituras de Camaron which are shrimp fritters.  You get about 8 of them and they are so good! The La Playa salad is also really good and refreshing; it’s large enough to share with two or even three people. For dinner I opt for the Paella Valenciana which is rich with layers of flavor from the shrimp, lobster, clams…its amazing and filling.  So… if you are around the South Street Seaport area, head to Cabana for a great time!

Cabana

89 South Street
Pier 17
New York, NY 10038

Telephone: (212) 406-1155

The Wonders of Thrift Store Shopping

Article first published as <a href='http://technorati.com/lifestyle/article/the-wonders-of-thift-store-shopping/'>The Wonders of Thift Store Shopping</a> on Technorati.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the idea of sifting through a crowded thrift store then these simple tips may settle your confusion.

First, reduce your load ladies! Most ladies in New York are infamous for carrying obscene amounts of bags. Not only do we carry a lot of them, but they are also quite large. However, to navigate the narrow aisles in a thrift store, I advise that you carry a small purse that you can cross over your body. This will free up your hands and make it easier to bend and look through the racks.

Secondly, know your closet! Before you go, have an idea of what you are looking to find or what you are looking to add to your wardrobe. If you are in need of accessories to add to your staples, than by simply knowing this will definitely narrow your search and reduce frustration. Knowing what you need or want will help you significantly.

The Three Bs! If you are relatively new to the thrift scene than I advise beginning with bags, blazers, and belts. These three types of items are relatively easy to find and if you know your taste you will instantly discover something that appeals to your fashion palette. If you have more of a vintage style you will definitely find cute bags to mix and max with modern pieces. Blazers from the 70s, 80s, and 90s are definitely making a come back so it will be no problem to find this piece and pair it with skinny jeans or leggings, which you probably already have at home. Also, because spring is coming, try pairing the blazer with a cute summer dress.  Belts instantly finish a look and make whatever you are wearing more polished and put together. Also, they define your waist line.

As you endeavor Gotham City for thrift finds, take these easy tips along with you.  Here are a few thrift store locations that may interest you.  Happy Thrift Shopping!

 

Monk Vintage Thrift Shop @ 75 MacDougal Street New York, NY 10011: This place is great for blazers, coats, and jackets for both women and men.  

Allan & Suzi @ 416 Amsterdam Ave (at corner of 80^th Street), New York, NY 10024: This store is for the glamorous at heart. Ladies, if you are looking for real and faux fur with a mix of sequin alla Diana Ross then you should stop in this store.

Cobblestones @ 314 E. 9th St., New York, NY, 10003: Hands down my favorite vintage shop in NYC. The customer service is amazing and the store is full of unusual finds to appease almost any genre of style. It’s a bit crowded inside but you are sure to walk away with an amazing find.

Family Jewels Vintage Clothing @130 W 23rd St # 1, New York, NY 10011: This store carries everything, from suits to beaded dresses, to Navajo earrings to an assortment of glamorous jewels. It could take a significant amount of time to go through the racks and the displays because this store carries so much. Also, it can be a bit pricey as well but they offer sales at certain times of the year and the discount is considerable.