The Black Dress Traveler

Black Dress, Big City: Carmen Marc Valvo Rocks the Runway at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

It would take more than a little snow to keep this dressaholic away from  the presentation of designer Carmen Marc Valvo's Fall 2013 collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Adored by red-carpet royalty like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Vanessa Williams, Queen Latifah, and Kate Winslet; Valvo is a master at creating dresses that work with a woman's curves. Inspired by Edgar Allen Poe with a hint of rock & roll, Valvo's new collection was a stunning display of dramatic and edgy elegance. Although there were bold splashes of color in rich shades of merlot and port, I was delighted by CMV's gorgeous interpretations of the classic black dress. Which is your favorite? I want them all!
Click here to learn more about Carmen Marc Valvo and to view additional images from his Fall 2013 collection.

In the Bag: Black Leather, Bold Lips & Glowing Skin

Whether you are traveling across the pond or commuting to work, autumn is the ideal time to rev up your look. An edgy black leather dress, a bold black cherry lip, glowing skin, and a stand-out bag will put you in the spotlight this season!

Alexander Wang Leather Trim Wrap Dress made with imported Italian fabric
$765 at SAKS

Thanks to the recent Arts & Tannery show I've become obsessed with getting a leather dress this season. Arts & Tannery featured luxurious samples of supple Italian leather in every conceivable color and pattern. I'm still not sure why Italian leather is so buttery soft - are the cows massaged with extra virgin olive oil while they are serenaded with Puccini? Whatever the reason, Italian leather IS super luxurious and a favorite material of top designers from around the world. I would love to add this gorgeous Alexander Wang dress to my wardrobe. The leather bodice adds some sassy edge to this classic silhouette. 

Transitioning your skincare regimen from summer to fall can be tricky and one of the biggest challenges is erasing hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure and blemish scars. And, if your skin is sensitive like mine, you have to be extra cautious about what you apply to fade dark spots. I've been using Osmotics Cosmeceuticals Lighten FX Serious Brightening Solution ($62) for about 10 days and really love the results. Non-oily, it absorbs quickly, gently fades dark spots and leaves my skin with a  healthy glow. And, unlike other brightening products I've tried, Osmotics does not cause breakouts - yay! The triple action formula features a new patented molecule to visibly lighten the skin and prevent UV damage, Niacinamide to brighten, moisturize and smooth and Alpha Arbutin to target melanin production and prevent future discoloration. Use it on your face, hands, or body. This has definitely earned a space in my Ziplock bag on my next trip!



I love a bold lip in the fall and one of my favorite shades is Espionage Full Finish Lipstick by Benefit ($18) - I always get compliments in this shade and something about it brings out the flirt in me! It is a bold black cherry red that will compliment many skin tones from alabaster to mahogany.


Of course, every jetsetter needs an amazing bag. Look no further than this regal purple Piper Tote ($478) by the Italian luxury brand Furla - simple, roomy, and so very chic!

I'll Take the Dresses AND the Cookies!

  Nanette Lepore Chica Linda Dress ($328) and Carousel Dress ($278)

Did you know that Nanette Lepore is one of the few major designers to still manufacture the vast majority (85%) of her clothes in New York City? For a feminine and unforgettable frock that is Big Apple beautiful, you can't go wrong with Ms. Lepore. Black & white stripes never go out of style and I love how Lepore has presented two interpretations of this timeless look. So chic!

P.S.These yummy dresses reminded me of a classic NYC black & white cookie. Get your sugar fix at Upper East Side bakery William Greenberg Desserts.

 

 

 

 

 

A Tisket A Tasket - A Chic Tracy Reese Clos du Bois Picnic Basket

Make your next picnic a truly special event and sashay into the park with this lovely limited edition Chic Picnique basket created by fashion designer Tracy Reese for the California winery Clos du Bois. Lined in a signature Tracy Reese floral pattern, the wicker basket includes 2 wine glasses, napkins, bottle stopper, corkscrew, a bottle of  2009 Clos du Bois Cabernet Sauvignon North Coast, and their 2010 Chardonnay North Coast. ($135, shipping included)

PS. Of course, I would pair this pretty basket with one of Tracy Reese's fantastic frocks. I think this Watercolor Floral Flounced Slip dress ($248) from her plenty collection is picnic perfect.

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty at the MET

 
Wow, wow, and more wow! I FINALLY made it to the blockbuster exhibition, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. If your summer travel plans include New York City, you must add this to your itinerary - the MET will be displaying McQueen's breathtaking, jaw-dropping, technically perfect, and emotionally-charged couture through August 7, 2011.

 

Savage Beauty brilliantly displays McQueen's genius not just for creating avant-garde clothes but his amazing talent for building a narrative with fashion - his Scottish heritage, the Victorian Gothic, and even Jack the Ripper influenced his designs. The fashion world truly lost a genius when McQueen committed suicide in 2010 but his relevance has not diminished.  After all, Catherine Middleton opted to wear a "Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen" wedding gown on her walk down the aisle to Prince William.  As lovely as Middleton's dress was, and the form-fitting frock worn by her sister Pippa, I can't help but imagine what a wedding gown truly designed by McQueen himself would look like. Maybe some strategically placed feathers?

A few tips for visiting Savage Beauty: arrive at the MET really early (the museum opens at 9:30 AM) and save time by ordering your tickets online - this exhibition draws huge crowds. The suggested admission for adults is $20 and includes access to Savage Beauty, all museum galleries, and a same-day visit to The Cloisters Museum and Gardens. The audio guide is absolutely worth the extra $7 - it gives great background information and features interviews with McQueen collaborators/admirers such as Sarah Jessica Parker and  famed milliner Philip Treacy. Another option - pony up $50 for MET Mondays with McQueen and you can visit the exhibition on Monday, when the MET is normally closed (audio guide included, other galleries are closed).

I plan on visiting Savage Beauty again - it was truly exceptional!

Gallery photography by The Photograph Studio, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Shop for Solidarity: Small Gestures to Help Japan

It has been one month and a day since Japan was changed forever by the massive earthquake and tsunami that claimed so many lives. The news media may have lessened their coverage of this tragedy but I imagine that for the people of Japan this has been the longest month of their lives as they mourn, rebuild, and face each day feeling less certain about what the future holds. I confess to feeling helpless in the face of such epic disasters. I pray, I donate what funds I can, and pray some more. All of these are small gestures but small gestures by many can create a big change. The proceeds from the following items will benefit those in Japan that have been impacted by the disaster and send an important message of solidarity.

HOPE Japan bag by what'Surbag
$24.99 (also available in silver & gold)
This company launched with the HOPE bag to help the city of New Orleans recover after Hurricane Katrina - now what'Surbag is sharing the love with the people of Japan. 100% of the profits from the HOPE Japan bag will benefit the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Fund. These  bags are made of a super stretchy fabric called its-LAS-tik that can hold up to 45 pounds and take the shape of the contents inside. In addition to the HOPE Japan and HOPE NOLA styles, what'Surbag offers a wide selection of colors and sizes that are perfect for travel and everyday use.

Anna Sui Charity T-Shirt for Japan
$20. Available in lavender & black. Ships April 15th.
Don't be shy about your feelings - designer Anna Sui's 100% cotton t-shirt printed with the message "Japan. We're All in This Together" sends a bold and sweet message. All proceeds will go to Japan disaster relief.



Tory Burch Japan Relief T-Shirt
$29. Available for pre-order.
Colorful tunics made her famous but Tory Burch hopes to make a difference with her limited edition t-shirt - 100% of the proceeds will go to the American Red Cross to benefit the Japan earthquake and Pacific tsunami relief efforts.

Freeman Vineyard & Winery 2007 Sonoma   Coast Pinot Noir
$125 for a Magnum (1.5 liters)
  One of California's most acclaimed small wineries, Freeman is donating 100% of the proceeds from select magnums to the Japan Society of Northern California Earthquake & Tsunami Relief Fund with Give2Asia. Their special effort to help the relief effort has already raised $25,000. Help them raise some more money by filing your glass with their 2007 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Supplies are limited.

Pretty as a Pirate: Hayden-Harnett Creates Haute Collection for Pirates of the Caribbean

I know more than one lady who watched Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean films only to gaze at Johnny Depp in his portrayal of the charmingly wicked Captain Jack Sparrow. A rogue with a serious fashion sense, Captain Sparrow, and virtually all of the film's characters, have a flamboyant sense of style characterized by rich colors and opulent fabrics. If  you want to add a dash of swashbuckler to your swagger, Hayden-Harnett's new collection will give you the pirate panache that you crave.

 

Galleon Scarf, Scarlett
$98
Perk up your little black dress with this scarlet silk-satin scarf featuring Hayden-Harnett's custom "Galleon" ship print. Measuring a generous 40" x 40", the large dimensions make this a very versatile accessory.

Inspired by the upcoming 3D movie, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, this high-end collection features richly printed silk and chiffon scarves, detailed leather cuffs and fine leather handbags that retail from $78 to $498.  If you see something  you like, don't delay because each item is limited edition and only 50 pieces of each style will be sold. All items are available for pre-order at www.haydenharnett.com. The delivery for the collection is May 1st and all items will be available at the Hayden-Harnett flagship store/studio in Brooklyn and with selected retailers.  As you will see, this line may be inspired by a Disney movie but these luxurious treasures aren't for the kiddies!

 Galleon Satchel, Whiskey
$498
I love to carry a big purse everyday but especially when I travel so that I can tote all of my goodies with ease (travel documents, makeup, reading materials, snacks etc).  Not only is this bag luxurious bag, it makes it easy to stay organized - it  has four exterior pockets, one front fliplock closure pocket, two side gusset pockets and a large rear slip pocket. The interior also has several slip pockets. 


Queen Anne Carryall
$148
A versatile little bag that works well as a clutch or makeup pouch, this leather carryall features Hayden-Harnett's signature Spanish inspired antique brass logo plate and studded leather tassel zipper

  Barbossa Indexer
$168
Keep your dollars, Euros, doubloons and ducats safe and secure in this elegant leather wallet.

To view the entire Hayden-Harnett collection inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean, visit their website.

Fab Frock Friday: Little Black Dress by Halston Heritage

Looking for the perfect little black dress for your next night out or getaway? Each Friday, The Black Dress Traveler showcases a fabulous frock. Wishing you a weekend full of little black dresses and big adventures!

Halston Heritage Long Halter Gown
$455 at Bergdorf Goodman
In honor of the upcoming Academy Awards (Sunday, February 27), I wanted to showcase a dramatic dress with red carpet swagger AND an accessible price point. Modern style icon and Hollywood darling Sarah Jessica Parker is Chief Creative Officer of the Halston Heritage line, which has introduced Roy Halston Frowick's sexy, sophisticated 70's chic to a whole new generation. This gown's halter top, tie-waist, and flowing A-line skirt make it flattering on many different body types. If your travels include a red carpet bash, rock this dress and be prepared to turn heads.

Fab Frock Friday: Little Black Dress by Alexander Wang

Looking for the perfect little black dress for your next night out or getaway? Each Friday, The Black Dress Traveler showcases a fabulous frock. Wishing you a weekend full of little black dresses and big adventures!

T by Alexander Wang
Classic Jersey Tank Dress
$105 at Net-a-Porter
Fashion wunderkind Alexander Wang launched his women's collection in 2007 and in 2008 he was honored with the prestigious Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund award. Not too shabby.

This sexy little black dress is from Wang's less expensive T line. Made of hand washable rayon, this travel friendly frock is a perfect example of casual chic. The sleek design makes it a great vacation dress that can take you through a day of sightseeing to evening cocktails.

Fab Frock Friday: $25 off at the Little Black Dress Empire

Looking for the perfect little black dress for your next night out or getaway? Each Friday, The Black Dress Traveler showcases a fabulous frock. Today, I'm shining the spotlight on a few different dresses from my glamorous friends at The Little Black Dress Empire. I absolutely have a crush on their website because they have curated a sensational selection of delicious little black dresses. And, if you sign up for the free premium membership, you can save $25 on each purchase until May 14th. Wishing you a weekend full of little black dresses and big adventures!


  Evelyn Dress by Master/Slave
$811.38
A classic silhouette with a dash of va va voom, this LBD by acclaimed Australian fashion house Master/Slave is available exclusively at The Little Black Dress Empire. Made with raw silk and gradient dyed tassels, it can be ordered in knee length or above the knee. I say this dress is sexy any way you measure it!

 


5th Avenue Black Dress by Pizzuto
$144.52
This flirty little cocktail dress has ruffle detailing at the hem and plenty of personality.



Stella Dress by Hailwood
$174.93
Sophisticated simplicity never goes out of style - this is one of those timeless little black dresses that you can never have too many of!
 

Fab Frock Friday: Little Black Dress by Carmen Marc Valvo

Looking for the perfect little black dress for your next night out or getaway? Each Friday, The Black Dress Traveler showcases a fabulous frock. Wishing you a weekend full of little black dresses and big adventures!

Carmen Marc Valvo
One-Shoulder Cover Up Dress
$139 at Neiman Marcus

Carmen Marc Valvo is known for sophisticated glamour and many celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, Kate Winslet, Beyonce Knowles, and Catherine Zeta-Jones have sparkled when wearing  his elegant designs on the red carpet. I have a few Carmen Marc Valvo dresses and not only do I love the style but the fit is superb - he really knows how to cut for a women's body. Whether you are tall and willowy or short and curvy, a Carmen Marc Valvo dress fits in all the right places.

Carmen Marc Valvo also designs swimwear and since this brutal New York City winter has me daydreaming about a tropical getaway, I could not resist showcasing his very stylish swimsuit cover up dress - it has such an elegant silhouette that I would absolutely rock it as a little black dress.

Made of nylon/spandex, it features a self tie waist, dangling tassels with silvertone hardware and a ruched skirt with faux-wrap front. And, you can't go wrong with the sexy one-shoulder neckline. Go ahead and make the beach your red carpet!

Fab Frock Friday: Little Black Dress by Nicole Miller

Looking for the perfect little black dress for your next night out or getaway? Each Friday, The Black Dress Traveler showcases a fabulous frock. Wishing you a weekend full of little black dresses and big adventures!

Nicole Miller
Stretchy Matte Jersey Dress
$220
This sophisticated little black dress by Nicole Miller will never go out of style. Form fitting but still elegant, this is the frock to rock when you want to look fabulous with very little effort. I love the way the square neck accentuates the collarbone - very sexy.

I actually had the pleasure of meeting Nicole Miller last year and she is one cool lady. Confession:  I'm such a fan that when I heard that we would be at the same event, I decided to wear a Nicole Miller design with the hope of meeting her. The dress was several years old but Ms. Miller immediately recognized it and said I looked great. Thank you Nicole Miller! xoxo



 

Bonita, Bold & Beautiful: Balenciaga at the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute

Photo Credit: Photography by Kenny Komer

Just a whisper of the name Balenciaga makes fashionistas weak in the knees. Surely, being surrounded by his creations at the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute must have  lovers of couture close to fainting! Conceived by designer Oscar de la Renta and curated by Hamish Bowles (Vogue's European Editor-at-Large), Balenciaga: Spanish Master showcases more than 70 items of Cristobal Balenciaga's eternally elegant and stunning clothing and accessories.


Photo Credit: Photography by Kenny Komer

Born in Spain, Cristobal Balenciaga (1895-1972) was a highly acclaimed designer in his native country. However, the Spanish Civil War forced him to close his stores and he moved to Paris and opened his fashion house there in 1937. Balenciaga may have left Spain but his culture very much influenced Balenciaga's designs. The great late fashion editor Diana Vreeland said that his "inspiration came from the bullrings, the flamenco dancers, the loose blouses the fishermen wear, the cool of the cloisters." Not just a master of haute couture, in 1968 Balenciaga designed the flight attendant uniforms for Air France.

Balenciaga: Spanish Master will be open for viewing at the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute in New York City (684 Park Avenue) until February 26, 2011. Timed tickets are required for admission ($15) and reservations can be made by calling 212-628-0420 or visiting the website.

PS. The exhibition will be expanded for presentation as Balenciaga and Spain at the de Young Museum in San Francisco from March 26-July 4, 2011

Very Hollywood, Very Chic, Very Michael Kors

In a world obsessed with Kardashians and Hiltons, a girl could be fooled into thinking that bad behaviour is the only way to get noticed. Am I the only one who reminisces for the days of old Hollywood where celebrities had real talent and weren't just savvy self-promoters? Dorothy Dandridge, Ava Gardner, Bette Davis  - those ladies had style, grace and class.

Maybe a trip to La La Land isn't on your agenda, but designer Michael Kors makes it easy to add a dash of Hollywood glamour to your everyday life. The reigning king of classic American style (and the most lovable of the Project Runway judges), Kors specializes in easy sophistication.  Here are six fabulous finds from Michael Kors that will make you feel like a star of the silver screen no matter where you are!

 Michael Kors Very Hollywood Eau de Parfum ($45-$85) - This sultry scent is a classy composition of iced bergamot, mandarin and gardenia. My beau could care less about what is in the perfume but he did say that Very Hollywood  was very seductive. I call that a five star review!

MICHAEL by Michael Kors Studded Yoke Dress ($120-$130) - The gunmetal studded yoke at the neckline gives this little black dress a modern edge on a classic silhouette.

Michael Kors Tortoise Double Wrap Watch ($180) - Don't keep your fans waiting! It's easy to be fashionably on time for your next appointment or flight with this timepiece surrounded by golden metal and a tortoise double wrap chain. A very elegant bracelet & watch all-in one!

Michael Kors Rehearsal Sunglasses ($350) - Oversized sunglasses are a Hollywood must and the perfect solution for jet lagged eyes.

 
  MICHAEL by Michael Kors Heidi Clutch, Dark Sand Python ($198) - This python print clutch is timeless and perfect for an evening out. I often use a clutch when I'm traveling to stylishly carry my passport and other travel documents - just insert the clutch inside your larger purse or tote.

Limited Edition Hollywood Signature Pen ($25) - Even in a high tech world, an old-fashioned pen is a must - you can't sign an autograph with a Blackberry! Write with this pen and your postcard from Hollywood will make them swoon -  the ink is scented with the Very Hollywood Michael Kors fragrance.

Little Black Dresses Make a Big Difference: Swarovski & Designers Unite to Fight Cancer

As you've guessed by the title of this website, yours truly is a devotee of the little black dress. Always in fashion and universally flattering, the little black dress is a versatile garment that can take you from the boardroom to the ballroom without skipping a beat.

In recognition of the LBD's timeless allure and power, design icons including Donna Karan, Fendi, Armani, Diane von Furstenberg, Vivienne Westwood, and Catharine Malandrino have designed 22 custom little black dresses adorned with sparkling SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS for a campaign called 22 Ways to Say Black. More than just fancy frocks, these one-of-a-kind dresses are being used to help find a cure for cancer and will be auctioned at a gala event in New York City at Philips de Pury on Monday, September 20th. 100% of the proceeds from the event (and the accompanying catalog ) will benefit the American Cancer Society and La Ligue Contre le Cancer in France. The hope is that each of the dresses represents 22 ways to find a cure.  

Prior to the gala and auction, the dresses of 22 Ways to Say Black will be on display to the public on 9/20 from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. Philips de Pury is located at 450 West 15th Street. Watch the video to learn more.

PS - On a personal note, cancer has taken the lives some of the most important people in my life, including my father Glenn. One thing I've learned is that cancer does not discriminate - it doesn't care if you're a fashionista or a pauper.  At the end of the day, choosing the right dress to wear is not a matter of life and death but I applaud these designers for joining together to fight this horrific disease.

Sickly Chic in Cleveland: Diane von Furstenberg Hospital Gowns

I pray that you never land in the hospital when traveling, but if you do, the Cleveland Clinic has a designer hospital robe waiting for you. The diva of dresses, the legendary Diane von Furstenberg, has created a gown for the Ohio hospital that mimics her iconic wrap dress. Von Furstenberg's design has side ties that eliminate the dreaded peek-a-booty. Finally!

Click here for more information.

Little Black Travel Diary: Fashion Designer Abby Z

 

www.abbyz.com

Fashion designer Abby Z is on a mission to make sure that women feel sexy at every size! Her elegant and sexy designs have been a long time favorite of celebrities like Rosario Dawson and Camryn Manheim. And, I am proud to say that I have a few fabulous Abby Z garments in my closet!

Now fashionistas everywhere can experience the magic of Abby Z when she makes her debut on the Home Shopping Network on Friday, September 18. Available in sizes 2-24 and nicely priced from $40-$90, Abby Z's designs fill a void in the retail market for fashion-forward apparel that will accommodate all women! In addition to being a talented designer, the vibrant Abby Z also loves to travel. Let's take a peek inside Abby Z's Little Black Travel Diary!  

My first memory of traveling is taking my horse when I was 6 years old to Texas.

I never travel without my pillow and my camera.

My favorite destination is recently, Brazil.

The taste of chocolate reminds me of birthday parties.

My favorite traveling companion is my mom.

Traveling alone inspires me for my next collection.

I dream of visiting Africa and going on a safari.

A film, book, or song that awakens my wanderlustis Wycliff and Shakira's song, "My Hips Don't Lie"; it makes me want to get up and dance.

My favorite traveling outfit is my maxi dress and open-toe sandals.

My most unforgettable traveling experience is when I was in the Amazon in Brazil sleeping in a tree house.

When I have been away from home for a long time, the thing I miss the most is New York City.

If I could travel back in time, I would love to meet my grandpa, Albert and tell Versace thank you for making women look sexy.

My must have beauty product when traveling is my Kiehl’s face cream, my Bad Girl mascara, and my Laura Mercier

My words of travel wisdom are make a copy of your passport and give it to two different people, travel as much as you can in your life, and welcome new experiences wherever you go.

Click here to read the Little Black Travel Diaries of other fabulous women!

Shop Macy's.com with the Black Dress Traveler

One of the best parts of the summer season is the virtually endless opportunity to wear a variety of great dresses. I spent a few minutes browsing Macys.com to check out the latest deals on frocks. My picks include dresses from Calvin Klein, INC, London Times, and Alfani. Every dress pictured is on sale (price range is $33.99 - $151.99). Click on each image for more details. Happy shopping!

Black Dress Beauty: Natalie Portman

One could have easily confused the red carpet at this year's White House Correspondents' Association Dinner for a major Hollywood awards show extravaganza. (Hmm, maybe Joan and Melissa Rivers can do commentary next year?) Mingling with the politicos and beltway regulars were many of the biggest names in film, television and music. However, one black dress beauty stole the show: actress Natalie Portman was elegance personified in this long and sexy Balenciaga halter dress. If fashion were a political party, Ms. Portman would win the nomination in a silky landslide!

 

Little Black Travel Diary: Maria Pinto (Fashion Designer)

Maria Pinto

 

www.mariapinto.com

Chances are that if you've gazed longingly at an ensemble worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Brooke Shields or Susan Sarandon and said, "I want that NOW", it was designed by Maria Pinto. Known for her unique ability to meld artisanal textiles from around the world with modern American design, Maria's designs are wearable classics with an edge that exude confidence and sophistication.  Not just for celebrities, Maria creates tailored silhouettes that fit into a variety of lifestyles. Maria Pinto's collections have been featured in Vogue, Elle, InStyle, Harper's Bazaar, Town & Country and many other prominent fashion publications.

An alumna of Chicago’s School of the Art Institute, Pinto also attended New York's Parson’s School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology. Soon after graduation she landed a coveted position working for legendary designer Geoffrey Beene. Maria has received many prestigious design and fashion accolades throughout her career, including the Best of Fashion Award from Chicago Magazine (2000); and the Gold Coast Fashion Award, previously won by Anne Klein, Donna Karan and Bill Blass (1998).  In 2009, Maria Pinto will receive the Legend of Fashion Award from the School of the Art Institute. The Maria Pinto Collection is available at her flagship store in Chicago, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s New York, Takashimaya and other fine boutiques across the country. 

Let's peek inside the Little Black Travel Diary of Maria Pinto!

 

My first memory of traveling is with my first great love Bill.

I never travel without a candle, the scent reminds me of home.

My favorite destination is Bali.

The taste of Jasmine tea reminds me of Bangkok.

My favorite traveling companion is my best friend, Mr. Coe.

Traveling alone can be very inspirational, but choosing the right destination is key. It can create many opportunities for self discovery.

I dream of visiting India.

A film, book, or song that awakens my wanderlust is my favorite film, In The Mood For Love, by Wong Kar Wai.

My favorite traveling outfit is depending on the weather and the destination (usually Chicago to New York) my black Morgan leather coat with a cashmere wrap from my own collection, and a pair of jeans.

My most unforgettable traveling experience was after a struggle to get there, waking up Sunday morning in Hong Kong and experiencing the scent of incense throughout the city.

When I have been away from home for a long time, the thing I miss the most is my two adorable cats.

If I could travel back in time, I would go to Egypt and watch the pyramids being built.

My travel icon is Karen Blixen.

My must have beauty product when traveling is Smith’s Rosebud Salve, I can’t live without it.

 

My words of travel wisdom are always be prepared, for anything! Even if it sometimes leads to perpetual over packing. But you never know when your casual weekend trip might turn dressy!

Click here to read the Little Black Travel Diaries of other dynamic women!

Better Off Red: Serious Shopping in Red Bank, New Jersey

Movie buffs may know Red Bank as the slacker chic setting for several of Kevin Smith's films (Dogma, Chasing Amy) but this Jersey Shore jewel has much more to offer. Fabulous boutiques, top-notch accommodations and simply beautiful surroundings make Red Bank a perfect choice for a blissful escape and some serious retail therapy.  

Getting There

Red Bank is a hop, skip and train ride away from New York City. Just catch New Jersey Transit at Penn Station directly to Red Bank. Travel time on the train is between 72-89 minutes depending on the time of day. An off-peak round trip ticket is $20. 

However, to really get into a vacation state of mind, the SeaStreak is the best way to travel. Skip the chaos of Penn Station and catch the SeaStreak Ferry at Pier 11/ Wall Street or at 35th Street and the East River. Why feel cooped up in a train car when you can cruise along the water and enjoy the view of the city slipping away.  And, did I mention that they sell cold beers and snacks on board? At $40 for an adult round trip ticket, the SeaStreak is a bit more expensive than the train. However, the ferry is faster and much more fun! When you get off the SeaStreak at Atlantic Highlands, you will feel like you've landed in a small New England town. 

 

Travel in style with 33 London Taxi.

Call ahead to let 33 London Taxi know when your ferry arrives and the world's most charming taxi driver, Mario Patino, will be waiting for you at the end of the dock with a smile and an open door to his very chic London style black cab. Of course, Mario can't be everywhere, and he has other delightful drivers to transport passengers around in cars from 33 London's fleet of black and silver taxis.  You'll feel a bit like an Austin Powers' femme-bot being driven around town in this spacious taxi that comfortably seats five plus luggage. Yeah baby! 

Where to Stay

 

Room at the Oyster Point Hotel.

The Navesink River is one of Red Bank's most charming attributes so a room with a view is a must.  The Oyster Point Hotel and Molly Pitcher Inn are two very different but equally excellent options. Both properties are owned by the JP Barry Hospitality Group, a family run business. Built in 1928, the Molly Pitcher Inn is a stately brick building with national landmark status and a Five Star Diamond Award recipient. Exuding old world charm, the Molly Pitcher Inn has first class amenities including a mahogany bar that is reminiscent of the bar at the St. Regis in NYC with the breathtaking bonus of a river view.  Since 1996, the Inn's Sunday brunch has won the Reader's Choice Award for Best Brunch. 

Offering the same top-of-the line service as the Molly Pitcher Inn but in a more contemporary setting, the Oyster Point Hotel was my home away from home in Red Bank.  Manhattan was out of sight and out of mind during my stay. Modern but cozy, the Oyster Point has been extensively redesigned with upscale contemporary furnishings and other refurbishments. Their new atrium is the perfect spot to enjoy sunset cocktails and a tasty bite to eat.

Retail Therapy

 

Chic and Sexy Coco Pari Boutique.

No sales tax on clothing makes New Jersey a shopper's delight and Red Bank's great selection of stores is retail heaven. From high end couture to funky and affordable, just stroll along Broad Street for an impressive and eclectic collection of shops.  Major retailers Tiffany & Co and Duxiana have a presence in Red Bank, and the town even has their own department store - Garmany. However, the smaller boutiques really make Red Bank shopping something special.  

A super sexy shoe from selve.

selve: Why buy shoes off the rack? At Selve you can treat your tootsies to a made-to-measure pair of bespoke footwear. Your feet are scanned to make sure you get the proper fit because, more likely than not, your left and right foot differ slightly in size. They can even measure your calves for a perfect fitting pair of boots. Once the scanning is done the fun begins! You can go as conservative or as crazy as you want when choosing the color of the leather and heel height.  You can even customize a matching handbag. Men's shoes are also available. Headquartered in Munich with a second store in London, the Red Bank store is Selve's first location in the U.S. Further proof of Red Bank's position as a major fashion player.

Coco Pari: If you love your big labels, Coco Pari is the store for you. Recently Voted Best Boutique in New Jersey (New Jersey Monthly Magazine), this is a must visit destination for an impressive selection of designers including Jimmy Choo, Versace, Diane von Furstenberg, Christian Louboutin, and Roberto Cavalli. Of course, these big names come with a big price tag but Coco Pari offers some amazing deals in their sales basement. Need a last minute dress for a night out on the town? Coco Pari is open until 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Wisteria: Located in the same space as Coco Pari, Wisteria is an oasis for high end skin care, fragrance, cosmetics and accessories.  Laura Mercier, La Mer, Creed, Natura Bisse, Sonya Dakar, Chantecaille and Nars are all sold at Wisteria.  As hard as I tried, I was too weak to walk away from a cute Kooba clutch at 20% off.

The Bee's Knees: Unassuming from the outside, The Bee's Knees surprised me with their selection of quality labels and pretty frocks. Trina Turk, Tibi, Tory Burch and Lilly Pulitzer aplenty filled the racks at this charming little store.  The 50% off rack had some great designer finds.

4B:  Owned by a former Los Angeles stylist, 4B is a small space with big style. Cynthia Vincent and Tory Burch filled the racks along with stylish handbags, colorful scarves and statement making jewelry.

Everything you need to make your place look great at Space Interiors.

Space Interiors: Looking to spruce up your home? Space offers interior design services and sells a modern and elegant array of furnishings and home accessories - including some really amazing pillows. In fact, SPACE worked with the Oyster Point Hotel on their new interiors.

Funk & Standard Variety Store:  The self-proclaimed "most bad ass store in town", Funk & Standard is the place to go for affordable bohemian chic dresses, retro t-shirts, and tchotchkes.

Jack's Music Shoppe: An old fashioned music store like Jack's is a breath of fresh air. The hours can slip by browsing through their racks of CD's and even vinyl. The latest new releases in all genres can be found at Jack's along with a bounty of used cd's. Sheet music and instruments are also available. Locals tell me that everyone's favorite Jersey boy, Bruce Springsteen, often shops here. Born to run and born to shop!

Jay and Silent Bob's Secret Stash: You can't mention Red Bank without mentioning Jay and Silent Bob. This is the place to shop for comics and merchandise from Kevin Smith's films. Doesn't everyone need a set of Mallrats "inaction" figures?

Ginger's Salon and Day Spa: End your day of shopping with some pampering at Red Bank's first day spa. Facials, manicures, pedicures, massages, hair styling and everything you need to feel refreshed and rejuvenated are offered at Ginger's. 

Beyond Shopping

 

Sunrise over the Navesink River from my room at the Oyster Point Hotel.

Of course, there is much more to Red Bank than clothing boutiques. The town has numerous art galleries, antique shops, and eateries. The recently renovated Count Basie Theater consistently draws some of the biggest acts in music and I will be heading back to Red Bank in a few weeks to see jazz musician Chris Botti perform. However, I know that even the gorgeous and talented Mr. Botti can't compete with the simple beauty of waking up early and watching the sun rise over the Navesink River.

To learn more about all there is to eat, see and do in Red Bank, New Jersey visit www.onlyoneredbank.com.