Wine With Wanda

Really, I Don't Always Wear Black: Fab Frocks in Juicy Spring Colors

On the days that I'm not wearing a black dress, people tend to comment. Some jokingly scold me like I'm a schoolgirl out of uniform and others look a little disappointed. Don't get me wrong,  I love my little black dresses but the truth is I'm a dresshaholic who adores frocks of ALL colors. (That's me in New Orleans in my favorite little royal blue Nicole Miller dress!)

For me, the little black dress is a metaphor to live life with elegance and confidence - and no single color has a monopoly on fostering that state of being. Spring and summer are my favorite seasons because colorful dresses are blooming everywhere. I always pack colorful sundresses when I travel to beachy places and they even make the concrete jungle of NYC feel a little more tropical. Here are a few vibrant frocks that I would love to add to my wardrobe - these bold hues will lift your mood and enhance your look - that's what I call retail therapy.

Lilly Pulitzer
Ditra Dress ($218)

Lilly Pulitzer is the queen of preppy chic. Not only do I love the ocean blue pattern but this versatile silhouette can be dressed up with a heel for summer cocktails or paired up with flipflops for a clambake.

BCBG
Pernilla Sleeveless Maxi ($188)


This bright strawberry dress perfectly balances coverage and exposure. The comfortable maxi length gets a touch of va va voom from the slit on the left side. Sexy and classy!

J. Crew
Big Apple Tunic Dress ($150)

This terrific tunic will take you from the city to the shore.

Victoria's Secret
Daytime Jersey Sleeveless Wrap Dress ($49.50)


I'm a bit of a wrap dress addict. They flatter every figure and just look so fabulous. This great frock is an affordable option that skims the figure without being skintight. Also available in black (and other colors too!)

My NYC: Follow My Big Apple Map on urbantag

As a native New Yorker, I love sharing my favorite hometown places with the world, so I was thrilled when the newly launched website urbantag invited me be a Tastemaker and to compile a map of my New York. Follow my map, and you'll see where I go in NYC when my sweet tooth is craving a French macaron, where my wanderlust guides me when I need the perfect travel themed book, or how I take my tastebuds on a trip to Spain with a savory bocadillo! Once you follow my map, you can also access it on the go by downloading the free iPhone app (Android coming soon). Check it out and let me know what kind of maps you would like me to create in the future.

And, I would love to know about your favorite places - urbantag gives you a single platform to share places with people you trust, ensuring your favorites are always available, social and fresh.  It is free to join urbantag and to build a map - so go for it - tag, you're it!

For more information, visit www.urbantag.com.

 

Traveling Pretty: Norma Kamali Kulture, Fraas Scarves & Frye Sandals

Looking to add a few new pieces to your spring wardrobe? Start with a frisky little frock from Norma Kamali and punch it up with a Fraas scarf and a pair of Frye sandals. These sassy staples will look great wherever you travel!

Norma Kamali Kulture
Sleeveless Shirred Waist Dress ($74)


A Norma Kamali garment for under $100? No, that isn't a typo - every item in the Kamali Kulture collection will cost you less than a Benjamin. One of my favorite pieces in the collection is this versatile LBD (also available in red). With the right accessories, this travel friendly frock can go from the office to cocktails. Simply chic!

Fraas
Contemporary Leopard Print Scarf
$40


(Dahlings, isn't this the perfect look for dodging paparazzi in the airport or cruising down the highway in a convertible!)
I love adding a pop of fierceness to a basic black dress with a bold animal print. Fraas sent me a sample of their new leopard print scarf and it is a winner. The pattern is bold but not garish and the fabric (washable acrylic) is ultra lightweight and soft. It is large enough to wear as a wrap and can be folded into a scarf - a great travel-friendly accessory. Fraas scarves are available at specialty stores throughout the country and select styles are offered online at Fraas and Amazon. (The model number for the leopard print scarf is 393085.)



Frye
Ramsey Woven Peep
$228



Until my visit last week to the Frye showroom, I had no idea that they made anything other than their iconic boots. Gee, was I wrong - Frye's women's collection also includes sandals, heels, flats, and handbags. I think their Ramsey Woven Peep is a great option for the spring/summer season. Available in 5 colors, the airy but structured construction boasts thin strips of handwoven leather and a solid yet lightweight bamboo heel. A classic shoe with a little edge.

What's New: Paris, New York, Napa Valley & Vermont

New York: Once is the Broadway musical that I can't wait to see. Based on the wonderful Academy Award winning movie of the same name, Once is the captivating love story of an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant in Dublin that form a complicated romantic bond through their shared love of music. And, the music in the movie was simply beautiful - I played the Oscar winning song Falling Slowly over and over again. The actors in the Broadway show also play instruments on stage and critics have been giving the show rave reviews.

Paris: If you don't speak French, finding your way around Paris just got a little easier with the launch of the Time Out Paris listings in English. Features include listings of the sexiest hotels, unmissable museums, and where to eat, drink, and party!

Woodstock, Vermont: The Woodstock Inn & Resort presents their inaugural Women's Wellness Weekend on April 27-29. From the secrets of the Mediterranean diet, shared by Dr. Oz frequent guest Dr. Will Clower to the advantages of sleep, guests will learn how to take an holistic approach to health care goals. The package includes two nights deluxe accommodations, a welcome reception with wine tastings and hors d’oeuvres, all meals on Saturday and brunch on Sunday, exercise classes and all scheduled seminars. Participants will also have unlimited use of the resort’s Racquet & Fitness Club, including complimentary fitness classes, and a $75.00 credit to The Spa per person. Package rates start at $645 per person based on double occupancy for two nights.

Napa Valley: PRESS restaurant in St. Helena, California has unveiled the largest restaurant collection of Napa Valley wines anywhere - including vintages dating back to the 60's and 70's. Designed by renowned architect Howard Backen, the PRESS cellar can house up to 10,000 delicious bottles.

Dresses, Drinks & Destinations: The Spring Fling Edition

You know spring fever is in the air when a senior citizen slows down his Jazzy scooter to say, "Hello, Foxy." Hey, a compliment is a compliment! This little encounter actually made me smile because it was a reminder that spring brings out everyone's playful side. As we shed winter clothes, our inhibitions also slip away and the desire to connect with other people increases. Travel also has the same effect. Spring break is just around the corner so I'm dreaming of the perfect warm weather dress, thirst quenching cocktail, and exotic getaway. And, a little romance wouldn't be so bad!

The Dress: Velma Cotton Sequin Dress by CALYPSO St. Barth
$195

Easy, breezy, beautiful- this cotton gauze dress by CALYPSO St. Barth is sweet and sexy. Truly, a perfect frock for seaside strolls or al fresco cocktails.

The Drink: Hemingway Daquiri
Keep those neon colored concoctions churning around in a machine far away from me - I want a real daquiri. The kind that Hemingway drank in Cuba - a perfect balance of rum, citrus, and sugar. Here is a recipe for a classic Hemingway Daquiri from award winning Master Mixologist Dale DeGroff aka King Cocktail.

HEMINGWAY DAIQUIRI  (Floridita Bar, Havana C.1921)
1 oz. White Rum
1/4 oz. Maraschino Liqueur
1/2 oz. Grapefruit Juice
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
Shake ingredients and strain into small cocktail glass.

The Destination: W Retreat & Spa, Vieques Island (Puerto Rico)
This secluded Carribbean sanctuary has received top reviews in Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler. Bask in the bioluminescent bay, go horsesback riding in the mountains, get pampered in the spa, and indulge in cuisine by legendary Chef Alain Ducasse. Sounds like the ideal setting for a romantic getaway. Me gusta!

PS. And, since this is a wish list, let's add a dash of Antonio Banderas!

 

Chic & Sweet: Today is Macaron Day in NYC!

Merci to my friend Marissa Ain, founder of Plate + Decanter, for sharing the sweet news about Macaron Day NYC 2012. If you are in NYC today, drop by Francois Payard Bakery, Bouchon Bakery, La Maison du Chocolat, Epicerie Boulud, and other participating bakeries for a free macaron while quantities last. And, if you buy macarons, several of the locations will donate a portion of your purchase to City Harvest - a wonderful charity that feeds hungry New Yorkers.

Often dubbed the new cupcake, macarons are a French confection created with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites. The end result is an airy round shell that is both crunchy and silky that surrounds a smooth ganache. Macarons come in a wide variety of traditional and exotic flavors. And, what a beautiful array of colors. So chic and sweet!

Let the Good Times Roll at FestiGals in New Orleans

New Orleans has probably appeared on The Black Dress Traveler nearly as often as my hometown of New York City. What can I say - I have a massive crush on the Big Easy!

One of my most memorable trips to NOLA happened last year when I attended the first annual FestiGals Women's Weekend. The legendary Hotel Monteleone (be sure to have a cocktail at their revolving Carousel Bar) in the French Quarter is the host hotel but the FestiGals wave their pink boas all over town!

The second annual FestiGals is scheduled for the weekend of June 22-24, 2012 and highlights include:


 Bodacious Bras for a Cause Luncheon with keynote speaker Hoda Kotb (co-host of the The Today Show). Elaborately decorated one-of-a-kind bras will be auctioned off to benefit the Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans.



Stiletto Stroll - ladies only second line parade. Marching in a New Orleans second line parade was high on my travel wish list and I will be forever grateful to the FestiGals for making that dream come true last year.





 FestiGals also features Diva Discussion Workshops with empowering female speakers, Food & Entertainment, Spa Specials at the Hotel Monteleone's Spa Aria, exclusive receptions & tours, and much more.

Take advantage of the early bird registration and book your FestiGals Ultimate package by May 1 for the best rates ($247.50 for the Ultimate Package and also reduced pricing on a la carte events.) Go ahead chère, gather together your fave girlfriends and let the good times roll at FestiGals!

A New York Minute: Spring Escape Package at The Sanctuary Hotel

Fabulous things are blooming in the Big Apple at springtime, including this great deal at the Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Starting at $339 per night, the Spring Escape Package includes a $100 gift certificate and guaranteed reservations at the iconic Boat House in Central Park where you will be delivered in style by their dedicated Bentley car service. See some famous cinematic sites, and even a few celebrity homes, during a 3 ½ hour Movie Walking Tour of NYC. Also, upon arrival at the hotel, your thirst will be quenched with a refreshing Spring Blossom cocktail (a fresh mix of Grey Goose La Poire, apple liqueur, muddled cucumber and kiwi with a fresh cherry).

Awarded The Hotel of the Year Award at The 2011 European Hospitality Awards, the Sanctuary Hotel combines European-inspired hospitality with hip Manhattan living. The rooms are designed with crystal chandeliers, peek-a-boo showers and elegant leather-printed wall tiles. 


The Spring Escape Package can be booked between March 20th - May 21st. A two-night stay is required and there is a 1-week cancellation period. This package is subject to availability and does not reflect taxes. Gratuity not included. For more details, visit their website.

FlipFlops Gone Fancy: FlipOut Sandals

If your travel plans include a tropical getaway - don't forget to pack a pair of FlipOut flip flops or jellies. One pair of FlipOuts delivers endless looks because the shoes can be customized with interchangeable shoe jewelry to match all of your fabulous frocks! Prices start at $24.99.

Travel Friendly Fashions: The Spring Fever Edition

Could this be the most wonderful time of the year? The temperature is rising, sunlight lingers into the early evening, and the stores are full of flirty fashions. I'm so ready to come out of hibernation and sashay in some fabulous new looks. Here are a few travel friendly finds that will keep you in style wherever you are.

Striped Maxi Dress by White House Black Market ($128)

Black & white stripes always look so chic and every lady should have a great maxi dress. Made of washable knit jersey, this dress is very figure flattering. Pair it with a red cardigan for a pop of color.

Lexi Cotton Tunic by Sulu Collection ($308)

Jeans can go from plain to pretty spectacular when paired with this black and turquoise hand embroidered tunic from the Sulu Collection. In addition to Halle Berry, Katie Couric and Stacy Keibler have also been spotted wearing these great tunics inspired by traditional Indian fashion.

Robe Toga Dress by Agnes B. ($365)

Be a ray of sunshine wherever you go in this elegant yellow linen dress by French designer Agnes B. This is a perfect dress to wear for a day of gallery hopping followed by a leisurely lunch.

KARIA Dress by BCBG ($228)


Tangerine is the hot color this season and this simple dress packs a vibrant punch. The elastic waist will come in handy if you overindulge during your travels!

 

A New York Minute: Cecil Beaton Exhibition at MCNY

If your travels bring you to NYC, be sure to pop by the Museum of the City of New York and explore the exhibition Cecil Beaton: The New York Years.  Along with this gorgeous photo of Marilyn Monroe, the exhibition includes images of Greta Garbo, Marlon Brando, Queen Elizabeth, Mick Jagger, Audrey Hepburn, and other legends. Drawings and costumes are also showcased. (Did you know that Beaton designed the costumes for the film My Fair Lady?) Photographer, designer, writer - Beaton was truly multi-talented, a tad scandalous, and quite the bon vivant. The exhibition runs through April 22.

Another interesting exhibition currently on view at MCNY is The Greatest Grid: The Master Plan of Manhattan 1811-2011 (through July 15). It celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Commissioners’ Plan of 1811, the foundational document that established Manhattan’s famous street grid. And, since this native New Yorker still gets lost when I am downtown and off the grid, I am most appreciative of the commissioner's vision!

PS. The Museum of the City of New York is one of my favorite museums in the Big Apple. It is small enough so that you can see everything in one visit but large enough to offer an eclectically curated and satisfying experience. And, the location on Fifth Avenue, just across the street from Central Park on 103rd Street, is very convenient. After your museum visit, you can stroll in the park, head uptown and see more of Harlem, or meander south and browse the boutiques in Carnegie Hill.

Virgin Atlantic Unveils Swanky New Clubhouse at JFK

Things just got very posh for Upper Class Virgin Atlantic travelers departing from JFK. Inspired by the theme "Understatedly Uptown, Unmistakeably New York", the new 10,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse offers some pretty fantastic amenities, including the very first Clubhouse Spa outside of London. Virgin Atlantic has partnered with renowned NYC hair salon Bumble + Bumble to offer the only hair service available at any business class lounge in the United States. The spa also offers a unique collaboration with Dr. Hauschka Skin Care.

Since all Virgin Atlantic flights from JFK depart in the evening, the heart of the new lounge is a sultry cocktail bar where resident mixologists prepare signature & classic cocktails and serve New York microbrewery ales. Passengers can order food anywhere in the Clubhouse and there is also a more formal dining experience in the brasserie area.

 

In a quiet corner of the Clubhouse, wool-lined and person-sized round cavities with intimate lighting have been created in the walls for passengers who want to retreat to their own private place. Finally, passengers can slip into a sleep suit in the Clubhouse, and they’ll be given a hanger and suit cover ready to hang up on board.

My last trip to London was at least 5 years ago but the allure of the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse may inspire me to cross the pond sooner rather than later!

 

Bye Bye Blah! Hello Ooh La La: Perk Up Your Look with a Pop of Vibrant Spring Color

Yes, I love my little black dresses but I'm also a big fan of vibrant color. Spring is in the air - the perfect time to accessorize your LBD with bold pops of color. Here are a few affordable and colorful options that will have you walking on sunshine in an instant!


Aerosoles - At First Plush Wedge ($69)


Nothing says spring time like a colorful sandal. Liberate your feet from bulky boots with this stylish yet comfy 3" leather covered wedge from Aerosoles. You gotta love a fashionable shoe that doesn't break the bank or leave you in pain!


Sonia Kashuk Nail Color ($4.99 each)

 
Perk up your nails with a pop of color. Sonia Kashuk has an amazing array of colors at a great price and I was really impressed at the staying power of this polish. Sonia's perfect for spring shades include, I Dream of Genie (vibrant pink) and Hot Pursuit (fiery orange red).

Bright Yellow Theodora Lattice Fringe Scarf ($88)


Why not wear a little sunshine? This bright yellow scarf is an instant mood enhancer. A blend of linen and viscose, this versatile beauty from Theodora & Callum is hand washable.

J. Crew Carnation Bracelet ($68)



Carnations get a bad rap but I love their simple beauty. J. Crew has captured the loveliness of the carnation in this intricately detailed vintage inspired bracelet. The petals are tipped with tiny beads for extra flair.

 

A Nice Price for Paradise: 7 Nights for the Price of 6 at Namale Resort & Spa (Fiji)

Sometimes I hear about a place that sounds so wonderful that I don't want to blog about it - I just want to be there! Located on the edge of the Koro Sea in Savusavu, Fiji, Namale Resort & Spa has been named among the best hotels in the world in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice awards for the second year in a row. A favorite holiday getaway for celebs such as Donna Karan, Namale was founded and is owned by self-help and inspirational leader Tony Robbins.

What makes Namale so special? An all-inclusive five star resort & spa, Namale offers 19 unique villas and bures (bure is the Fijian word for home) spread over 525 acres and the expansive property has a staff of 120 catering up to to 44 people at a time. The spa is built on 10,000 square feet of volcanic uplifts and was named #1 in Fiji by Luxury Spa Finder Magazine. And, Namale has received countless praise for being one of the most romantic places on the planet.

Book to stay now through May 31, 2012, and Namale will offer you seven nights for the price of six. All-inclusive prices are $975-$2300 per night (based on double occupancy) and all meals, snacks, beverages, and much more are included.

Pretty Practical: Sonia Kashuk Luxe Collection Ooh La La Valet

One of the challenges of packing is finding practical pieces with panache. Recently, I had a chance to visit cosmetics icon Sonia Kashuk's Manhattan studio and, in addition to her keen eye for color, Sonia is a lady who really understands women on the go. I imagine that part of it comes her experience traveling as a celebrity makeup artist, but each season Sonia offers a great selection of travel friendly makeup and cases. One bag that I will definitely be purchasing for my next trip is the Ooh La La Valet from her Luxe Collection. Portable, pretty, and priced at only $24.99, the Ooh La La Valet packs plenty of storage in a stylish case. Made of sleek and easy to clean black ballistic nylon, the Ooh La La Valet features two removable pouches that velcro in and out, a zippered pocket, sections to store makeup brushes, a fold down shelf, and a swivel hanger.  And, I'm crazy about those silver studs on the front - a very chic, very Sonia detail! Available at Target.